Comox Valley Echo, January 29, 2016 by Black Press Media Group

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Courtenay downtown property values down 7 per cent BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff Property assessments were mailed out earlier this month. The values reﬂect a stable market in the Comox Valley with increases mainly happening in the residential sector. In Courtenay, single family dwellings rose 3.5 per cent to $329,000 this year from $318,000 in 2015; however, strata condominiums went down 2.9 per cent from $123,600 to $120,000 this year. Mayor Larry Jangula said although they’ve had

pressure groups that have urged the city to build more density and multifamily units, it’s the market that dictates what people really want. “The reality is people still like to have their own home, even if it’s just a rancher on a small lot,” said Jangula. Courtenay has seen its property market bounce back from -1.7 per cent in 2014 to 1.9 percent this year. In the commercial sector, the trend is in the opposite direction. In the last three years, Courte-

nay experienced growth in 2012, peaking at almost three per cent in 2013 and slightly decreasing by 2.11 per cent in 2014. Over the last two years, the numbers went further down to -0.33 per cent in 2015 and -0.40 per cent in 2016. “Of signiﬁcance this year in the commercial in the assessment roll in Courtenay, is that not all neighbourhoods are the same,” Bill Dawson, Vancouver Island Regional Deputy Assessor, told the regional district board last week. “Most neighbourhoods didn’t change at

all.” Dawson indicated the Crown Isle area actually went up two per cent while the downtown core, after a number of years of going up, went down by seven per cent this year. “For the ﬁrst time we started to see owners asking less than the assessment roll or very close to the assessment roll,” said Dawson. “And we actually started to see sales occurring of commercial properties. There were about two to three sales of properties in the downtown core that were actually be-

low the 2015 assessments. While most people don’t believe me when I say we follow the market, we certainly do. We will increase assessments when they’re necessary and we will decrease assessments when they’re necessary.” This will mean some commercial areas in the city may experience tax increases while others may see their rates decrease. The non-market change for the 2016 roll in Courtenay, said Dawson is just under $50 million which he added is a lot better

than last year’s ﬁve-year low of around $27 million. In the Town of Comox, single family dwellings went up around 2.7 per cent to $332,000 from $323,900 last year. For strata condominiums, Dawson said, it’s very stable with values going down slightly to $242,900 in 2016 from $243,700. The town’s residential assessment value has gone up in the last two years 1.17 per cent after being preceded by two years of negatives. (Continued on page 4)

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removed. A two-wheel drive, metallic blue, extended cab Chevrolet pickup, believed to be 1990-1996 body type was observed in the area the morning the elk was killed. The truck also had a grey or lighter blue coloured 8-10 inch stripe along the bottom of the body. The COS is looking to identify and speak with the owner and occupants of the truck that may have been involved in the illegal killing of the large bull elk.

201

The Conservation Officer Service is seeking the public’s assistance in two cases involving the illegal harvest of two elks. The ﬁrst incident occurred early in the morning on January 10 sometime between 4 a.m. and 8 a.m. A large bull elk was illegally killed in a cut block off the Duncan Bay Mainline just south of Jackpot Main which is located between the Forbidden Plateau Rd and Strathcona Parkway, north of Courtenay. The antlers of the elk were originally left with the carcass, however sometime between 9 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. they were

U XL EA

In the commercial sector, the value has dropped 1.51 per cent this year from 1.05 per cent in 2015. The non-market change in Comox is just under $20 million which is a five year high. Of this total, $13 million is single family dwelling developments which is significantly higher than last year’s $5 million mark. The balance of the $20 million was associated with the completion and continuation of a couple of strata complexes in town. In the Village of Cumberland, the assessment roll went from $274,000 to $279,000 this year, an increase of 1.8 per cent. It’s the third straight year of growth in the village’s residential roll. It’s 1.33 per cent and although it’s lower than last year’s 4.23 per cent Dawson said it’s still positive. Commercially, the village has experienced a second year of decline in their roll following three years of increases. The market went down further by -2.10 per cent this year from -1.46 per cent in 2015. In Electoral Area A, there is an increase in the overall assessment roll of 2.52 per cent. For the first time the residential market in both waterfront and non-waterfront properties, has gone up 1.66 per cent after four successive years of being in the negatives. “It’s a considerable event and it’s common to other Gulf Islands as well,” said Dawson. In Electoral Area B, the overall assessment roll went up 4.11 per cent. The residential market went up 3.27 per cent this year from 1.25 per cent in 2015. However, commercially, it went down from a five year high 13.59 per cent to -1.93 per cent. The overall roll in Electoral Area C went up 2.42 per cent, most of which is from the residential sector which this year increased by 1.45 per cent after being in the negative in the last four years. Property owners who disagree with their property assessment can appeal their rates. They have to submit a Notice of Complaint by February 2 for an independent review by a Property Assessment Review Panel. In 2006, BC assessment dealt with 38,388 appeals which was around 2.2 per cent. In 2014, that number went down under 1 per cent for the first time which Dawson said was “a huge accomplishment.” Last year it was at 1.13 per cent. Dawson believes the decline is due to the availability of all pertinent data to the public that was used to base assessments at the BC Assessment website. “You can look at the assessment of your neighbours so you can make sure you contribute fairly,” said Dawson. “You can look at the sales in your neighbourhood which will hopefully demonstrate to you that your assessment is accurate in terms

Conservation office seeking help in illegal killing of two elks

of market value.” In the Comox Valley Regional District, Dawson said, they still have a number of outstanding appeals with the biggest ones being Walmart and Home Depot. Both were unsuccessful in their most recent appeals last December but are now taking their cases to the BC Supreme Court, which Dawson said, is their right. The Courtenay assessment office is located at 2488 Idiens Way, Courtenay. During the month of January, office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday. Property owners can contact BC Assessment toll-free at 1-866-valueBC (1-866-825-8322) or online by clicking “CONNECT” at www.bcassessment.ca. Visit www.bcassessment.ca for more information about the 2015 Assessment Roll including lists of 2015’s top 100 most valuable residential properties across the province. Of note, BC Assessment has launched a newlyenhanced version of its free e-valueBC service that allows the general public to search, check and compare properties online from across the province.

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After 20 years, CVRD changes insurance broker BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff

The Comox Valley Regional District is switching to a new insurance broker this year. For the past 20 years, the CVRD has used the Vancouver Island Insurance Centres for its needs. Last year, the CVRD requested quotations from two companies — the VIIC and Municipal Insurance Association of BC. After reviewing both policies, manager of financial planning, Wendy Byrne said MIA’s policies provided better options at a cheaper price. Byrne highlighted the benefits the CVRD will have with MIA to the committee of the whole. She pointed out that the CVRD, having been a member of MIA since 1988, will not be charged brokerage commissions. As well the terms of the MIA policy coverage had improved dramatically from the previous year and were comparable to the coverage provided by VIIC. MIA also includes access to appraisal services, which Byrne said in the past the CVRD contracted out to an appraisal firm to establish market replacement costs on all facility and plant values. They are performed every three to four years and cost the CVRD an additional $26,000. Other benefits of obtaining property insurance coverage from MIA include one-stop shopping for both liability and property insurance, knowledge of and focus on the coverage needs and risk exposures of local governments, owned and operated by local government through membership, and the possibility of future dividends returned to the membership as is the current practice with the MIA liability insurance program. Under VIIC, the CVRD’s cost would be $184,844. The coverage includes property policy including mobile equipment, crime policy, equipment breakdown. With MIA, the price is almost $13,000 lesser at $172,120. The coverage includes property policy including mobile equipment, crime policy, cyber liability and equipment breakdown. Also provides access to appraisal services. Staff indicated the MIA policy represents a significant cost savings for comparable coverage. CVRD committee of the whole approved the CVRD obtaining property insurance coverage through the MIABC’s Property Insurance Program commencing February 1, 2016.

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The second incident occurred on January 23 sometime before 11 a.m. on Highway 19 approximately ﬁve kilometers north of Roberts Lake, between Campbell River and Sayward. The COS received a report of a cow elk that had been killed and was laying in a cut block approximately a hundred meters from the highway. When the CO attended only the rear quarters had been removed and the rest of the

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The Village of Cumberland is giving its residents a chance to open up to council members. A village hall meeting will be held on Feb. 1 at 7 p.m. in council chambers located between the the Fire Hall and the Village office. The purpose is to give residents an opportunity to bring forward matters for discussion with council members. So if you have suggestions, concerns, complaints or appreciation, bring it to the Village Hall meeting. The Council does not make decisions or debate matters at Village Hall meetings.

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Public speaks out to save Garry Oak at Berwick expansion site in Comox BY MARY LEE Echo Staff

The expansion of the Berwick congregate care facility remains a hot topic of conversation among residents and organizations in the Comox Valley. In the centre of the discussion is a tree. Not just any tree, but a Garry Oak. This Garry Oak tree is subject to removal among the three currently on the property at 1666 Comox Avenue where an extension to the seniors care facility will be built onto. The argument as to whether it stays or goes could hinge on the age of the tree and the science that determines it. At the moment, there is a battle as to how old the Garry Oak really is. It will be up to Comox Councillors to accept science or reject it. According to an Arborist Report, dated September 7, 2015, prepared for the Berwick developer, Denford Construction Management Ltd., the tree is deﬁnitely the oldest of the three but not by much.

The three Garry Oak trees on the proposed Berwick expansion site The report concludes that the tree is approximately 70 years old while the other two are reported to be approximately 40 to 60 years old. That number has sounded alarm bells from conservationists and residents and many of those concerns were voiced

Wednesday at a Town of Comox Public Hearing on the Development Permit Application (DP 159) pertaining to Berwick Congregate Care at 1666 and 1700 Comox Avenue, which is the subject of the zoning amendment bylaw. It was a full house at the hearing held at d’Esterre,

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an opportunity for the public to present to Council concerns believed to be affected by the proposed bylaws. Misrepresentation of age and the need to preserve all three Garry Oaks was at the forefront of concerns expressed from those who spoke out at the hearing.

Concerns were expressed about reports given to the developer and Town planners that grossly underestimate the age of the tree, one member of the public claiming it is closer to 200 years of age and only five percent of these original trees are left - a northern remnant of a large Garry Oak ecosystem. Aaron Salt, arborist, is backing his findings stating that the tree, at most, is approximately 100 years old. “There’s a chance we missed a portion of the middle in the core sample and we are off by 20 to 30 years but by no more than that, confirmed Salt. “This is a fast growing tree.” Loys Maingon, Comox Valley Garry Oak Restoration Chair and member of the Garry Oak Ecosystem Recovery Team, argues the arborist’s science is flawed and shared his concerns with the Town of Comox immediately after media reported the age according to the arborist report that was presented to council in early December. “As it is I have contacted the arborist responsible who graciously acknowledged the limits of his knowledge and the

samples ﬂaws. I sent a lengthy letter/report to Comox council ...presenting the scientiﬁc evidence why this tree is probably between 125 and 225 years of age,” wrote Maingon. “The science is further supported by reports of 70 year old residents who recall that these were “substantial trees” when they were children.” Maingon, a registered professional biologist, claims that if the rate of growth is proven correct, it would set a species growth record. “A fast-growing Garry oak would be of enormous interest to meeting a 1.5C climate change target and adapting to climate change. If this tree were only 65 years old it would be a truly unique genetic specimen, and it would be imperative that Comox council save this tree, if only to meet the province’s climate objectives,” stressed Maignon. The position is supported in the Town’s Official Community Plan (OCP), “Ecosystems at the edges of their distribution typically contain high biodiversity and have important adaptive value in the face of climate change.”

(Continued on page 7)

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Courtenay pharmacy completes role in ﬁrst-of-its-kind genomics project

A Courtenay pharmacy has taken part in North America’s ﬁrst research project that ultimately aims to bring the science of pharmacogenomics to patients using their community pharmacy. Pharmacogenomics uses a person’s genetics to uncover which drugs and in what dosage work best for them. The project, called “Genomics for Precision Drug Therapy in the Community Pharmacy”, was funded by the BC Pharmacy Association (BCPhA) and Genome British Columbia (Genome BC) with research being done by a team at the University of British Columbia’s Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences. Across the province 33 community pharmacies recruited 200 volunteer patients to be part of the project. The project set out to position the pharmacist as the health-care provider through which patient genetic information can be acquired, assessed and used to guide drug therapy decisions. Until now, this work had been done almost exclu-

London Drigs Courtenay pharmacy manager Tara Oxford took part in project sively in cancer agencies or research labs. “My patients and I were more than happy to participate in this exciting new project,” said Tara Oxford, pharmacy manager at the London Drugs in Courtenay.

(Continued from page 6) Maingon met with Aaron Wurts, Grow Tree Care, whom Salt consulted with in preparing the arborist report and concluded the tree core sampling were ﬂawed but not intentionally. “As the technical literature points out, the hardness of oaks makes them particularly difficult to sample, and that makes sampling and interpretation error even more likely, wrote Maingon. “These problems in no way detract from the honesty of the effort made by Mr. Wurst, but reﬂect the difficulties posed that he was unaware of.” Maingon has pleaded with Mayor and Council to preserve the tree regardless if they accept the science to prove its age or not. “If Comox Town council accepts that the largest of the Berwick oaks

“This is a great opportunity to expand our scope of practice as pharmacists as we are already wellpositioned playing a vital role in the health and wellbeing of our patients.” The project focused on developing robust stan-

is at most 50- 65 years...it behooves [them] to preserve this absolutely unique genetic specimen, which could play an important role in carbon capture and climate change adaptation, as well as in the restoration of an endangered culturally signiﬁcant indigenous ecosystem, concludes Maignon. “On the other hand, if council feels that in keeping with data provided by current science, this tree is more likely to be between 125 and 250 years old ... then this tree is signiﬁcant heritage, and deserves special protection”. Speakers who voiced concerns over the removal of the tree at Wednesday’s public hearing share Maingon’s view that Berwick is an economical advantage to the community and that opportunity for the developer to work around the tree needs to be provided if the Town grants “all variances necessary to

dard operating procedures for the collection of patient saliva samples, processing and sequencing of DNA at UBC and the development of educational tools used by pharmacists for patient awareness. (Continued on page 8)

enable preservation.” “We have nothing against the expansion of Berwick,” expressed Chris Morrison representing the Garry Oak Preservation Committee. “We would like to see a little creativity about going around the tree instead of through it.” Maingon shares the view that urban planning is an area where architects can get really creative. “There’s no reason why this can’t be done if there’s a will.” A tree protection plan was identiﬁed as one of the Town’s priorities identiﬁed in the Strategic Plan 2015-2018 during January 13 Council meeting. A summary report on the Public Hearing and a planning report with recommendations for the Berwick expansion will go before Council on February 3.

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Winter Saver Any Time is PRIME Time Sunday to Thursday Only (Continued from page 7)

Shown from left to right are Comox Valley McDonald’s owners Jess and Stuart Aldred, presenting funds to Robyn Butler, CVRD’s marketing specialist.

Make it a family affair at free Swim and Skate

Family Day is Monday, February 8 and thanks to the support of the Comox Valley McDonald’s restaurants, families can enjoy a free everyone welcome swim and skate at the Comox Valley Regional District’s (CVRD) sports and aquatic centres.

The free swim runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the CVRD’s aquatic centre, 377 Lerwick Road in Courtenay. The free skate takes place from 1:15 to 3:15 p.m. at the CVRD’s sports centre, 3001 Vanier Drive in Courtenay.

“Family Day is a great opportunity to spend quality time with your loved ones, and why not make the time spent together doing something fun and active,” said CVRD’s recreation services manager Jennifer Zbinden. “We are thrilled to part-

ner with the local McDonald’s to be able to provide this opportunity.” Staff from the local McDonald’s will be generously providing light refreshments at both facilities. It’s recommended to come early as free skate rentals are limited.

Community pharmacists finished collecting all 200 saliva samples in late 2015, and UBC researchers finished sequencing samples on January 22. UBC researchers will do a retrospective analysis of DNA information to learn how genetics would have altered the drug dosage patients were prescribed. “One of the most immediate opportunities for genomics in health care is to guide treatment decisions and reduce the risk of adverse drug reactions. “This project is tackling just that by enabling pharmacists the insights needed to match the right medication, at the right dose, to the right patient,” said Dr. Catalina LopezCorrea, Vice President, Sectors and Chief Scientific Officer, Genome BC. “This work reflects Genome BC’s ambition to translate the value of genomics to end-users in BC and beyond.” In recent years, phar-

macogenomics, or using a person’s genetics to tailor their drug treatment, has only been used to treat cancer or rare diseases. However, there are more than 150 medications – ranging from mental health to heart disease to cancer drugs – that are impacted by a patient’s DNA. “We showed that pharmacy can be the gateway to personalized medication in our communities,” said Geraldine Vance, CEO of the BC Pharmacy Association. “Regardless of the location – urban or rural – patients had a consistent, quality experience with their community pharmacist as it relates to pharmacogenomics.” Other pharmacies that participated in the project were located in Armstrong, Burnaby, Chetwynd, Cranbrook, Enderby, Fort St. John, Hope, Houston, Kamloops, Kelowna, Keremeos, Penticton, Port Coquitlam, Port McNeill, Prince George, Surrey, Vancouver, Victoria.

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ECHO

OPINIONS

LETTERS

Let’s clean up the derelict boats As a year around boater, I am disgusted at seeing boats that are left to destruct and sink in local waters. There has been two boats recently down in the the area off Goose Spit. The owners should not only be embarrassed by their lack of care for the vessel but held accountable for their complete irresponsible behaviour in letting these crafts slowly rot and sink. No doubt there have been contaminats left on board, with oil in gear casings and sumps along with any sour fuel that has not been used over the years. I realize this comes under the Feds jurisdiction (Dept of Transportation) but is there any realistic way to track the owners down and fine them or make them pay for any removal and clean up? While under a different jurisdiction, the same should apply to the aquaculture whose plastic marine debris can be found on almost every area of Desolation sound, washed up on beaches or floating off shore. Yes, there is a possible $2000 fine for littering our highways, but you can contaminate this beautiful Pacific Ocean we call home, without a worry of getting fined for your careless indifference

to fouling the oceans we swim ﬁsh and recreate in and on. Shame on you!! Brian Street Area B

SORRY FOR BEHAVIOUR Below is a letter of apology resulting from a resolution conference held at the Community Justice Centre last month. Bruce Curtis Chief Administrator To the community of Comox Valley, I was recently on a flight from Edmonton home to the Comox airport. Prior to the flight in the Edmonton airport I had been drinking and I had exceeded my limit before boarding the plane. Seeing as I had been working for a month straight I would have been fine with having one or two drinks but I continued on and started to act foolishly. I continued to drink on the plane until I engaged in an argument with one of the crew members about how I was behaving. Under the influence of alcohol, I had stolen one of the small bottles of alcohol from the serving cart as it came down the aisle. When confronted by the crew I continued to deny doing this. Soon after landing, the police arrived and I was escorted off the plane

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and taken to the police station. The airline immediately banned me from flying with the airline for twelve months. As well as I was suspended from my current job. After my arrest, the police and the airline gave me the option of having the case referred to the Community Justice Centre for a Restorative Justice resolution conference. During that resolution conference the airline representative explained the many consequences of my actions for airline safety. I came to realize that this definitely had a negative effect on everyone aboard the plane that day, affecting the safety and the comfort of the other passengers, the risk to crew members, and the financial compensation the airline had to pay for some of the distressed passengers. I also realized how it would have impacted their friends ,families and members of the community. Flying can be stressful enough for most people without the added tension of seeing a potentially dangerous passenger-crew dispute while travelling. I now see the ripple effects of my behaviour and I am so very sorry for my actions. I would like to apologize to everyone aboard the plane that day and everyone else negatively impacted by these actions. As a result of my resolution conference, I am writing this apology to the whole community in the hopes that others will see how my thoughtless actions have impacted

so many others. I am so very sorry for this and you can be conﬁdent that this will never happen again. I hope others can learn from my mistakes and that air travel will continue to be safe for everyone.

WE CAN DO GE-FREE POLICY A GE Free (genetically engneer free) preferential procurement policy is being considered at Courtenay City Hall (Echo Oct 23,2015). It will appy to City Hall when it buys food for its own events or buys plants for city beautification. It will not affect anyone else’s purchasing decisions. (Just like a mother shopping for her own family). Some say that a GE Free procurement policy is impossible to implement? I think that it is not only possible, but easy to do and it is the way of the future. The label GMO is often used interchangeably with GE. GE ( Genetic engineering) is the technique whereas the product is often referred to as GMO (genetically modified organism.) The Market obeys consumers demand for healthier choices. Ten years ago it was hard to find organic/GMO free products in major grocery chains but now there is a Green aisle in Superstore, and organic chicken and fruits and veggies in Costco. It is becoming easier and easier to find GMO Free products. On Jan 8th 2016, the Globe and

Mail reported ‘that Campbell Soup Co said it will label all its U.S. products for the presence of ingredients derived from genetically modified organisms, becoming the first major food company to respond to growing calls for more transparency about contents in food.’ The NON-GMO label, a small colorful stamp of an orange butterfly against a blue sky, is found on many packaged goods such as potato chips, cookies, soya milk, canned soup etc. This label is a 3rd party certification that no genetically engineered ingredients were used to produce this product. The price of these products are similar to conventional brands. Since the Federal governments of US and Canada do not have a strong GMO labelling policy, this NonGMO Project, started in 2007, fills the gap to provide consumers with non gmo choices. There are no GE plants commercialised in Canada at this time. so a procurement policy in place now would ensure that GE plants like the GE apple tree would not reside on City streets in the future. As local caterers and restaurants vie to fulfil the demand of customers and increasingly promote organic content to attract clientele, it is obvious that a GE Free procurement is not only doable but desirable. Let Courtenay City Hall be among the leaders in this forward looking policy. Linda Cheu Courtenay

10 FRIDAY.JANUARY 29, 2016

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BEEFS & BOUQUETS MY FAITH IN HUMANITY has been resorted. Bouquets to the person that responded to my Craigslist “stolen wheelbarrow” ad, I am very thankful. Bouquets to the RCMP attending two times regarding the “wheelbarrow”, bouquets to the business that accepted

New Clothing Arrivals This Week! Neon Buddha, MIKO & Soya Concepts Shop our 50% off Winter Styles Rack Mon-Sat 8:30-5 Sundays 9:30-5 www.artknappcourtenay.ca their loss because of the “stolen wheelbarrow” and BEEF to the thief that caused our grief. YOU ARE DUNG!

YOU SHOULD GO to read and see the story of Anne Frank; a Jewish girl in Germany who had to go in hiding to escape the holocaust. It’s a heart wrenching story of how the Jewish people were persecuted and approximately 6 million were gassed by the Nazis, under Adolf Hitler. Imagine a young girl of 12 not coming out of her home for 2 years, for fear of being captured and taken away, like all the rest. The Anne Frank exhibit can been seen in the Comox Mall, in the Alberni Museum and will be travelling on to Manitoba the end of February. My heart went out to Ane Frank, her family and all the Jewish people and others after I saw the exhibit; as I was born in the early 1930’s and so I related well to Ann Frank. I encourage many other Vanc. Island people to go and see this exhibit. Your hearts will go out to all the victims of the holocaust; remember. ..

LAST WEEK the Comox Valley Branch of the Royal Canadian Naval Association held its

THE COMOX VALLEY’S FIRST AND BEST READER’S FORUM Email to: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com annual installation of executive luncheon at the Courtenay White Spot; great service as usual. The executive, members and spouses would like to offer a BRAVO ZULU (navy-speak for Well Done!) to the anonymous supporter for paying for our meal and beverages. Your unspoken support of naval veterans is greatly appreciated. You and other naval veterans can join us at our regular monthly meeting each third Wenesday at 1:00pm at 160 Comox Legion.

things, after living in a house with a smart meter, then you know something is wrong with the meters; especially if other provinces are removing them. I also would like to ask what happened to the savings that came from not having meter readers? We didn’t see the savings in our hydro bills; in fact, they were more, even if nothing was any

A BIG BEEF to the person or persons who decided to “borrow” the old traffic light from my carport, if you have a conscience it would be greatly appreciated if you returned it.

A BIG BOUQUET of sweet smelling roses to Leonard Ball, a local farmer from Tsolum, who donated over 600 lbs of squash to the Food Bank. This is his therapy for dealing with grief. What a wonderful surprise for us and what a beautiful variety of squash! TAKE BACK THE SMART METERS BC HYDRO! When a person in their early 20’s has trouble remembering

WE WERE A PARTY OF 20 at Locals at the Old House; the food was delicious and the service was ﬂawless. Thank you T’Ki and team Tristan, Ron and Cole for the wonderful meal. Thank you Rachel, Lena and Arwen for your professionalism and good cheer. It was a special night and you may it even more special. A sincere thank you. A BIG BEEF and hoping that karma bites you in the butt to the person that found my wallet in the Dollarama Store at the top of Ryan Road on Friday, January 22nd at approximately 8pm. If you needed the money or wanted the gift cards I would gladly have given them to you when you returned it to me. My credit cards have been cancelled and the RCMP have been notiﬁed. If/when this ever happens to you, you will know the panic and inconvenience involved in trying to replace all your id and ensure that your bank accounts and credit cards are secured. Yes it was my fault that it wasn’t put back in my purse but shame on you for not turning it in. If you have a conscience at all, please turn it in to the RCMP or the BC Government Access Center as they will be able to contact me through my driver licence information that is in the wallet.

SPECIAL THANKS to the Comox Valley Tourism Centre who generously provides visitor information pamphlets and brochures for local athletic tournament packages for visiting teams hosted by our high schools. Always helpful, usually on short or no notice, your positive enthusiasm is appreciated in spades. Great work done and makes one proud to be a member of our community!!

BRAVO BOUQUET to Strathcona Symphony Orchestra! Every year you keep getting better. Your concert at Native Sons Hall had many genuine delights. I had lots of smiles, even a tear in my eye. I went home appreciating all the musicians, the conductor, the Board, and the community businesses who keep SSO growing. I’m looking forward to your next concert in March.

different in usage! IT IS A WONDER why when North Island College teaches computer programmes they cannot seem to do a decent job for online registration. There is no online registration that is more complicated than theirs! Difficulties with elder college registration for the lecture series has many, many of us mad and shaking our heads. Perhaps they should stop doing it online altogether and stagger the days and times for registration at the college using the students taking the course to give them some hands on experience. Shame on the people who should have waited until Tuesday to

BOUQUETS AND GOOD KARMA to the very generous gentleman who paid for our breakfast at the Early Bird Caﬁ on Sunday. This was a special treat for us and our babies, we will be sure to pay it forward! DEAR COMOX VALLEY DRIVERS, When I look at you (the car approaching the crosswalk I’d like to use) and I stop, it’s not to “be nice” and “let you go ﬁrst”. It’s because I’m not stupid. It’s because odds are you haven’t noticed my existence or that you have and will keep going unless I jump out in front of your car because you’re in a hurry. I just want you to remember that I have

places to go too, and I am not as comfortable in my foot wear as you are in your car. I am cold, sometimes soaked in rain and wanting nothing more than to get home and ﬁnally take my shoes off. Besides the fact that you should yield to pedestrians because it’s the law, it’s also polite when you aknowledge my existence and eliminate the fear that I may get run over on my way to or from work. If you can safely stop at a cross walk, please do so because sometimes 3 or 4 cars pass me by before some one has the courtesy to stop. The cross walk in front of the Linc Youth Centre is one of the worst for this. Heaven forbid a child gets hit there for drivers to take these non light controlled crosswalks seriously. A BEEF to the door to door mail delivery person who tromps across our lawn Monday thru Friday en-route to the next house. Like most homeowners we work hard in an effort to maintain a healthy and happy lawn. Your disrespect of our property is disheartening—if we wanted a path on our lawn we would have put one there ourselves. There is a paved and clear driveway available—feel free to use it. On that note, a bouquet to the relief staff that thus far use the provided walkway—your consideration is noted and appreciated. A BRIGHT AND FESTIVE, and apologetically belated,

bouquet to the three truck drivers who drove their beautifully decorated and brightly lit rigs up our residential street (MacKenzie Avenue) in Comox in December (Tuesday Dec. 15th I think). You honked your horns, but I don’t move as fast as I used to otherwise you’d have seen me waving with gratitude as your convoy passed our house. In all my years of living here (decades) I don’t ever remember such a pleasant surprise. The work and creativity that went into decorating your trucks was outstanding. Thank you for doing what you did…your thoughtfulness deﬁnitely brightened the Christmas season for me. May you and yours have a prosperous and healthy New Year. A BEEF with the snowboarder who ran down an older skier and swore at her. There are drivers on our roads who speed and don’t care about others - be thankful that RCMP are present on our roads. BOUQUETS TO THE PROVINCE, for changing voting rules on CVRD matters. The city of Courtenay

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is now clearly in control of all decisions related to our water supply. No doubt that stage 3 will be recommended and brown lawns will be the agenda of CVRD staff in 2016, but Courtenay Directors Theos, Jangula, Erikssen, Wells will decide if we have another water crisis. Today BC Hydro is releasing enough water for 700,000 green lawns, from Comox Lake.

www.comoxvalleyecho.com

FRIDAY.JANUARY 29, 2016

BEEFS & BOUQUETS

A BIG THANK YOU to Kevin, Kelsey and Peter at Courtenay Motorsports for their great service. It seems hard to ﬁnd businesses these days that continue caring for their customers and standing by their product after the sale is complete.

BAD KARMA to the driver of the white gravel truck towing an empty heavy equipment trailer covered with gravel and rocks which was southbound on the Inland Highway between Piercy Rd. and Cumberland turnoffs at 9:40 am on

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the 15th of Jan. The blizzard of gravel and rocks that came off of that trailer was alarming. It resulted in a smashed windshield on my car and probably a lot of other vehicles as well. Your indifference or forgetfulness to your vocation is difficult to understand. Get with the program! TO THE YOUNG doctor and nurse who came to my rescue when I fell on Mission Hill. Thank you so much for your help and also to Joanne Mawhinney for use of her car while I was waiting for the paramedics. Thanks. I’m well on the road to recovery. THIS BOUQUET goes out to Bernadette, a very kind Black Creek lady, who on Dec. 23 certainly emulated the Christmas Spirit. I was waiting on the highway near the Discovery Food mall, for the bus going north to Port Hardy. The bus was at least 30 minutes late so I decided to walk

THE COMOX VALLEY’S FIRST AND BEST READER’S FORUM Email to: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com to the mall and use a landline phone to call the bus depot and ﬁnd out what was going on. Just then Bernadette drove up as she saw me standing in the drizzle, and asked if she could help me. I explained the situation and as I did, the bus drove by. As I was away from the road the driver did not see me and went on to Campbell River. Bernadette offered to drive me to the bus depot in Campbell River where they would have a 30 minute layover. And so I was able to spend Christmas with my daughter and son. Thank you so much Bernadette! BEEF TO ALL RAT LOVERS in Comox. Keep your outside bird feeders and plastic holders with suet hanging from your tree branches, ﬁlled. Climbing rats like leftovers. Keep feeding your domesticated wildlife deer … rats will love you. Do not forget your open compost container. Rat population is on the increase in the Comox Valley. Two kinds of rats. The climbing rats are most interesting. Keep retail stores and rats happy, so “rat lovers”, keep buying the stuff. You think: “If you don’t like rats, get a cat; works only if you are not allergic, or a rat trap. Special rat traps on batteries are sold out. It is all about choices. BOUQUETS to the Comox Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy for the special poem for senior citizens on the counter: My Pills A row of bottles of my shelf Caused me to analyze myself.

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One yellow pill I have to pop Goes to me heart so it won’t stop. A little white one that I take Goes to my hands so they won’t shake. The blue ones that I use a lot Tell me I’m happy when I’m not. The purple pill goes to my brain And tells me that I have no pain. The capsules tell me not to wheeze Or cough or choke or even sneeze. The red ones, smallest of them all Go to my blood so I won’t fall. The orange ones, very big and bright Prevent my leg cramps in the night. Such an array of brilliant pills Helping to cure all kinds of ills. But what I’d really like to know … Is what tells each one where to go!

NO, IT IS NOT JUST Croteau Beach residents who are against the proposed mega pump station at Macdonald Wood Park at a legal right of way. This is the most ignorant, disrespectful notion, that only adjoining residents oppose this site. There are many, many people of the Comox Valley using these woods and trails. It is a recreation area. Why would you destroy another green space when you already have two pump stations that eventually need to be enlarged. That is where you need to do your planning, not on yet another site where you destroy valuable greenspace so important to our health and wellbeing. You need to upgrade the pump stations at Jane Place and Field Sawmill site. Stay away from our Macdon-

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www.pacificsleep.ca ald Woods. TO THE Crown Isle composter – What are you doing anyway with ALL the coffee grounds from Starbucks … building an artiﬁcial ski hill or something? I mean, two-three trips a day! How about taking a break on the weekends so the rest of

THIS WEEK’S WINNER, DRAWN AT RANDOM FROM SUBMISSIONS RECEIVED UP TO TUESDAY, IS: June Rushton, of Comox Winner of two classic cheese baskets from Dairy Queen Winners, you may pick up your prize certiﬁcates at the front desk of the Echo, 407-D Fifth Street, during regular business hours. Thanks to everyone for the great submissions- keep ‘em coming!

us can get a few bags for our compost. Please and thank you! BOUQUETS to BC Hydro for their flood prevention efforts and water releases. It seems a near impossible job to predict inflows and they drained the lake too low in December causing generators to cut back in the rainy season. This is not a drought winter. So is it climate change, or forecasters, to blame - or has the watershed changed in the last few years? In any case, how do those wild salmon eggs survive those releases which are 20 times normal flows? Hopefully they will get the lake level figured out before summer. Can anyone recall so much trouble with Comox Lake water quantity and quality in the past 3-4 decades? WHILE SOME WILL BE HAPPY AND MELLOW with the Federal Liberal plan to legalize pot, those that drive our roads should be concerned about the increased numbers driving impaired by the drug. The RCMP Report in today’s paper is an indication of things to come, with 2 out of 3 impaired drivers selfmedicated with the drug. There are already far too many impaired drivers on the roads in the Comox Valley – driving impaired is one of the leading causes of fatal accidents. Our roads are no longer safe.

SHOUT OUT TO THE LADY who almost smoked me in her minivan this morning while I was walking across the CROSSWALK from Tim’s to the BC service office. As humans, we are fortunate to have

HERE’S HOW IT WORKS! Our weekly feature, Beefs and Bouquets, is intended to be a light-hearted forum for you, our readers, to express brief views on issues and events in your lives. It’s not intended to hurt people or make unsubstantiated and libelous comments. Names won’t be published with the beefs and bouquets; however, we do need your full name, mailing address and telephone number for verification purposes. Each week someone will win a 2 Classic Cheese Basket Meals from Dairy Queen. Have fun with this!

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these things called eyes that really aid in life’s daily circumstances. Have you ever heard of them?

L’ARCHE COMOX VALLEY would like to say THANK YOU to the many people of the Comox Valley who supported the IBelong! Christmas giving campaign with such generosity. Together, we are building a place where everyone belongs. A WAKE-UP BEEF to both Interpol and the Kurdistan government for their unwillingness to enforce the law re: Dr. S.A. who’s kidnapped his children and is keeping them in a prison-like guarded compound in the Middle East. I guess doctors in the Middle East are above the law and I only hope and pray that the children can escape from their captors and ﬁnd a way to return to safety since the authorities are doing nothing to free them from their prison.

TEXT YOUR TIP ANONYMOUSLY Text

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not who you are.

TBGF t TFDVSF t BOPOZNPVT www.comoxvalleycrimestoppers.bc.ca

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.COURTENAY,BC JANUARY 29, 2016

Police Blotter WANTED If you have any information about the whereabouts of either of these two people, call the Comox Valley RCMP Detachment at 338-1321, or Comox Valley Crimestoppers at 1-800-222TIPS (1-800-222-8477). You don’t have to give your name and you could be eligible for a cash reward.

www.comoxvalleycrimestoppers.bc.ca

Liisa Mae TRUESDELL

Brenden Owen Lee ANDERSON

DOB: 1963-02-21 175 cms, 58 kgs, Red hair, Blue eyes

DOB: 1991-07-18 170 cms, 63 kgs, Brown hair, Brown eyes

Warrants: Theft under $5000 Breach undertaking Comox Valley file # 20153307

Warrants:

Breach of Probation x2 Comox Valley file # 20154522 Comox Valley File #201515327

Comox Valley RCMP responded to the following incidents between Jan. 19 and 25: ■ While conducting a traffic stop in Courtenay, during the early morning hours on January 20th, the driver of a vehicle was determined to have consumed alcohol before driving. The driver was issued a 3 day driving prohibition and their vehicle was impounded for 3 days. (2016-722) ■ On January 20th, the Comox Valley RCMP responded to a 2 vehicle collision on the 4400 Block of Marsden Rd, in Courtenay. Investigation revealed that the driver of a Dodge pickup truck had pulled out of a driveway onto the path of a Mini Cooper. The Mini Cooper struck the Dodge in a manner that caused the pickup to roll over onto its side. It was believed, by the investigating officer, that the pickup driver had consumed alcohol before driving. A breath sample was refused; as such, the driver was served a 90 day Immediate Roadside prohibition, and the vehi-

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cle was impounded for 30 days. (2016-739) ■ Early in the morning hours of January 21st, a Constable of the Comox Valley RCMP attempted to conduct a traffic stop with a vehicle. The driver parked the vehicle and attempted to ﬂee. After a short foot pursuit, the driver was caught, arrested and lodged into the Comox Valley RCMP cells. The driver was held for a court appearance, later that day. Charges of Flight from police, Breach probation and drive while prohibited were recommended to Crown Counsel. (2016-753) ■ The evening of January 21st found three class 7 drivers driving contrary to their restrictions. In three separate traffic stops, the class 7 ‘N’ drivers had been found to be driving with alcohol in their system. All three drivers were issued 12 hour driving suspensions and violation tickets for ‘drive contrary to restrictions’. The Comox Valley RCMP would like to remind young drivers that having a driver’s license is a privilege and there is

zero tolerance with the restrictions imposed on class 7 L and N licenses. ■ While conducting speed enforcement on Hwy 19, near Cook Creek, on January 22nd, a vehicle was stopped for excessive speeding. The vehicle was found to have been travelling 140 km/h in a 90 km/h zone. The driver was issued an excessive speed violation ticket and the vehicle was impounded for 7 days. (2016-815) ■ On January 23rd, while conducting speed enforcement on Hwy 19, a motorcycle was found to have been travelling 180 km/h, near the Dove Creek Rd intersection. A second police unit north of the incident was advised and the motorcyclist was stopped. The rider was issued a violation ticket for excessive speed and the mo-

Congratulations to all nominees for the Comox Valley Chamber Annual Awards to be held this Saturday January 30.

torcycle was impounded. (2016-862) ■ Between midnight and 2:30 am, on January 24th, the Comox Valley RCMP were busy taking intoxicated drivers off the road. One driver was issued a 3 day immediate roadside prohibition, two drivers were issued 90 day immediate roadside prohibitions and the last driver refused to provide a breath sample, as such, also received a 90 day roadside prohibition. All vehicles were impounded as well. ■ During the early morning hours of January 25th, the Comox Valley RCMP were advised of an erratic driver in the Green Ave/Mcleod Rd area of Courtenay. The vehicle was located and the driver was found to have consumed alcohol. (Continued o page 15)

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MONEY MATTERS RPP, RRSP OR TFSA? WORKPLACE PENSIONS HAVE AN EFFECT ON SAVINGS By Evelyn Jacks The Knowledge Bureau Do Registered Pension Plans (RPPs) and Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) act as substitutes for one another in retirement savings patterns? At first glance, this appears to be so, based on a new study released recently by Statistics Canada. The big finding is that workers who are self-directed savers benefit less than their co-workers who don’t tend to save enough for retirement when RPP contributions automatically increase. As a result, pre-retirees and their tax and

financial advisors may wish to take a greater interest in changes to employersponsored pension plans, in measuring savings capacity for other vehicles such as RRSPs or TFSAs. Among workers with annual earnings near the Canadian average, a $1.00 automatic increase in Registered Pension Plan (RPP) contributions results in an average reduction in Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) contributions of $0.55. The net result is that the sum of RPP and RRSP contributions increased by an average of $0.45 across workers with different propensities to save.

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It can be concluded that assisted or compulsory retirement savings programs at work increase net savings for workers who save the least on their own. But for regular savers, increases in RPPs direct savings away from other vehicles; in other words, the extra money going into an employerassisted plan simply redirected money that would have gone to self-directed savings. The study did not comment on how an automatic increase in RPP savings affected other savings opportunities, like the TFSA. This is interesting financial behavior. Is there an actual cash-flow limit – when increased compulsory savings are implemented – that thwarts other savings opportunities which may have better benefited the client in the future – tax-free savings in a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA), for example? Tax and financial advisors and their clients who are concerned about the level of tax-free retirement savings their clients can accumulate for the future may want to take note of this in start-of-year investment and retirement planning. Averaging savings into and out of the right buckets – both before and after retirement – is the objective of astute long-term

retirement planning. The opportunity is to save with purchasing power – after taxes, inflation, and fees. A great relationship with the right questions to ask of tax and financial advisors, beginning with the annual tax filing routine that’s just around the corner. Engaging with a professional who has a designation in Real Wealth Management™ can embellish richly on those conversations.

Evelyn Jacks is the founder and President of Knowledge Bureau. This article originally appeared in her blog at www.evelynjacks.com and in the Knowledge Bureau Report, © 2015 The Knowledge Bureau, Inc. Reprinted with permission. All rights reserved. Follow Evelyn Jacks on Twitter at @EvelynJacks. Her latest book, Family Tax Essentials, is now available.Notes and Disclaimer © 2016 by The Fund Library. All rights reserved.

The foregoing is for general information purposes only and is the opinion of the writer. No guarantee of investment performance is made or implied. It is not intended to provide specific personalized advice including, without limitation, investment, financial, legal, accounting or tax advice.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 29, 2016

Police Blotter (Continued from page 12)

The driver was issued a 3 day immediate roadside prohibition and the vehicle was impounded for 3 days. The driver was also issued a violation ticket for no insurance, no drivers licence, wrong number plate and possess opened liquor in a motor vehicle. (2016-916) ■ A stolen vehicle was reported to the Comox Valley RCMP on January 25th. A pickup truck was taken from the 200 block of 8th Ave. The truck is described as a 1991, Green Ford F-150 pickup bearing British Columbia licence plates JL7632 and the truck has a camper in the box. If you have seen this vehicle, please contact the Comox Valley RCMP at 250-338-1321 or Comox Valley Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) (2016-920) ■ A mischief that occurred sometime over the weekend on the 700 block of Mcphee Ave, in Courtenay was reported on January 25th. An unknown person

threw a rock at a window, breaking the outer pane of glass. If you have any information regarding this mischief, please contact the Comox Valley RCMP at 250-338-1321 or Comox Valley Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) (2016-920) ■ As the weather warms up, and more bicyclists hit the road, the Comox Valley RCMP would like to remind riders of several things. As a cyclist you must wear a helmet and are to follow the same rules of the road as motor vehicles. Violation tickets may be issued for several offences, including, but not limited to, riding on a sidewalk (sec 183(2)(a) MVA---$109 fine), Cycle without required helmet (sec 184(1) MVA---$29 fine) and Fail to obey traffic control device (sec 125 MVA---$121). For more cycling regulations, restrictions and rules of the road, visit http://www2.gov.bc.ca/ gov/content/transportation/driving-and-cycling/ cycling/cycling-regulations-restrictions-rules.

A $500 cheque from Rotary Club of Cumberland President, John Jones is presented to Cumberland Fire Chief, Mike Williamson. This money will provide smoke detectors for those households who are not able to afford them.

Police seek info on suspicious occurrence The Comox Valley RCMP were advised of a suspicious occurrence that occurred after school on Thursday, January 21, at approximately 2:30 pm, at the corner of Mission Rd and Veterans Memorial Parkway, in Courtenay. As an 11- year old female was walking home from school. It was

reported that she was approached by an unknown male. The male put his arm around her and asked if she wanted to come to his car. The female ran home and reported the incident to her parent. The male is described as being around 6’1” tall, Caucasian, unshaven, with short facial hair and ap-

proximately 40-years old. The Comox Valley RCMP are requesting assistance in identifying this male. If you were in this area at this time and saw anything that could assist with this investigation, please contact the Comox Valley RCMP at 250-338-1321 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 29, 2016

THE 2015 COMMUNITY AWARD NOMINEES ARE: Business Leadership Award Sponsored by First Credit Union & Insurance • • • • •

Ramona Johnson – Finalist! Deana Simkin - Finalist! Carmen Wakeling - Finalist! Hans Peter Meyer Leah Taylor

Business of the Year Award Sponsored by MNP LLP • Comox Valley Funeral Home – Finalist! • Nelson Roofing – Finalist! • McElhanney Consulting- Finalist! • Long & McQuade Lesson Centre • Sea Breeze Lodge

Citizen of the Year (Lifetime Achievement) Sponsored by Canadian Tire • • • •

Ralph Shaw - Finalist! Audrey Craig - Finalist! Rod Hunter - Finalist! Frieda Home

Customer Service Award Sponsored by Axis Heating + Cooling • Shirley & Dave Harvey (Cape Lazo) - Finalist! • Lonnie Almgren (Cascadia Liquor Store) - Finalist! • Walter Levesque (Nissan) Finalist! • Adam Duncan (ADI Benefits) • Wanda Fuller (Wanda’s Ink in a Wink) • Eric Toneff (Toneff Funeral Services) • Wayne Ward (Grains Bakery) • Bill & Bonnie Moore (Moore’s Cleaning) • Rick Bossom (Bayfield Mortgage Professionals) • Janet Arthur (Success Weight Loss) • Brian Dawes (BD Auto & Diesel) • Jay Dzuba (Robbins & Company CPA’s) • Meredith Murray (Fabricland) • Bob Wells (My Tech Guys) Employee’s Choice Award Sponsored by the Comox Valley Child Development Association • West Coast Expeditions - Finalist! • Atlas Café - Finalist!

Food and Farm Business Award Sponsored by Local’s Restaurant • 40 Knots Winery - Finalist! • Tannadice Farms - Finalist! • Gunter Brothers Meat Co. Ltd. Finalist! • Blue Moon Farm, Winery & Ciderworx • The Guerrilla Food Company

Not for Profit Organization Award Sponsored by Pacific Sleep Care

Small Business of the Year Award Sponsored by Glacierview Financial

• Mountain Avian Rescue Society - Finalist! • Comox Valley Recovery Centre Finalist! • Today N Tomorrow Learning Society - Finalist! • Rotary Club of Comox • World Community Development Education Society • Immigrant Welcome Centre

• Axis Heating & Cooling - Finalist! • West Coast Expeditions - Finalist! • Rattan Plus Home and Patio Finalist! • Doggydo Kennel • CV Business Gazette • Triple Heat Dance Academy of Performing Arts • Arizona Gift Gallery • Moore’s Cleaning • Fitness Etc. • Your Island Mortgage Team • Success Weight Loss

Tech & Innovation Award Sponsored by OnDeck Systems • Gear Out Here - Finalist! • Woodland Flooring - Finalist! • Eatmore Sprouts & Greens Finalist! • RP Copywriting • Presley & Partners • Medium Rare Inc./Kitestrings

Young Entrepreneur Award Sponsored by Wedler Engineering • • • • • •

Joshua Greenwood - Finalist! James Flawith - Finalist! Haeley Campbell - Finalist! Daniel Kooman Brook Gronemeyer Nazaneen Dizai

Youth Leadership Award Sponsored by NIC School of Business • Jade Hansen - Finalist! • Katie Collinge - Finalist! • We the Voters - Finalist!

President’s Merit Award Sponsored by North Island College This award is given out by the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and is not open to Nominations.

Heritage Recognition Award Sponsored by Vancouver Island InsuranceCentres • Art Knapp - Finalist! • Lafarge Canada Inc., Courtenay Aggregates Division - Finalist! • Gunter Brothers Meat Co. Ltd. Finalist! • Sea Breeze Lodge

MAKE EVERY MEAL

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New Business of the Year Sponsored by Presley & Partners • Roam Media Inc - Finalist! • Cumberland Brewing Company - Finalist! • White Whale Pub - Finalist! • Sweet Surprise • Walker 24 Mens Wear • Child’s Play Physiotherapy • Cumberland Crate Company

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Comox Valley, Vancouver Island | 250.338.4860

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 29, 2016

City looks at oil spill response capacity BY DEBRA MARTIN Echo Staff

Is Courtenay prepared to handle oil spills in the Courtenay River estuary? Well, yes and maybe no. One thing local stakeholders think could be improved are the channels of local communication when spills happen. Representatives from Comox Valley Project Watershed appeared before Courtenay council last week to ask for improvements in how oil spills are handled and how the response is communicated. Jennifer Sutherst, Estuary Coordinator for Project Watershed, said several recent incidents highlighted the problem. Last November, when a small airplane crashed into the Courtenay River, emergency crews were on the scene immediately. While there was no impact from leaking fuel, she said, no boom was put around the plane as a precautionary measure. But near the end of October, a leaking heating oil tank caused much more

concern. Project Watershed was notified by a Mansfield Drive resident who didn’t know who to call about the oil leak. The city, though, was already responding to the incident, which involved heating oil leaking into the storm sewer, and hence into the estuary. Sutherst said the city only had short booms to employ around the spill, which were inadequate for the job. And the Canadian Wildlife Services weren’t notified, even though the estuary is designated as an international bird area. She said Project Watershed worked with K’omoks First Nation to check for dead birds in the estuary. Although a number were found, it was later determined they died from a fairly common avian virus and not from oil exposure. “We’d like to see fuel spill response information for the public. We feel there should be an emergency contact person,” she said. Courtenay CAO David Allen said the incidents have been a “learning op-

Submerged airplane in the estuary last year - no oil leaked (Photo: Dean Stoltz/CHEK News) portunity”. “It’s likely to happen again in the future,” he said. Trevor Kushner, Director of Public Works Services, said the city had indeed responded immediately to the complaint and had an operator on site within 15 minutes of receiving the call. Three booms were installed. Un-

Shoppe Talk January 2016 Travel

Even though winters on the west coast are milder than in the rest of Canada, many of us still yearn to fly away to sunnier climes at this time of year. As well as travel to the southern United States we are seeing more adventure and overseas travel. Travel, regardless of the destination can be exciting, educational and rewarding on many fronts. In order to get the most out of your travel it is a good idea to do some pre-trip preparation. We can help you prepare for your trip with respect to the following concerns. Malaria – is there malaria where you are going? We can make a recommendation on the medication that your doctor will need to prescribe for you. Traveler’s diarrhea – we can provide tips on avoiding or preventing this as well as making recommendations on the prescription your doctor can write to treat it should it develop. Vaccinations – are your vaccinations up to date? Are there vaccinations required for travel to your destination? Do you need coverage for Hepatitis A and or B? Flu shots are always a good idea and especially if travelling during flu season. We can recommend and administer most vaccines specific to your destination. Travel kit – we can supply you with a list of over the counter items that should be carried with you to treat problems should they arise when travelling. They may range from antihistamines and analgesics, to mosquito repellants and sunscreens. Your comfort en route may be enhanced by a neck pillow or sleep mask. Economy class syndrome –the term is controversial because the problem is not necessarily due to the class of seats on an airplane, but due to the fact that your legs are immobile for long periods of time. This does increase the chance of a DVT (deep venous thrombosis or blood clot). While the general overall risk of a DVT is low, for flights over 4 hours, wearing below knee compression stockings will not only further reduce that risk but prevent swelling in your legs and leave them feeling great after a flight. Let our trained fitters help you choose a pair of these. Your prescription medications. A medication review is a useful exercise to do if you take any prescription medications. This is a private one on one consultation with a pharmacist to go over your meds and provide you with an updated list of not only what you take but how you take them. Should a medical problem arise while you are away this would be a very useful document to have. In addition, if you are on 5 or more medications Pharmacare will pay for this service for you. An ounce of prevention equals a pound of cure. We are here to help you with your travel plans. If you need your own personal pharmacist to travel with you, I assure you we can pack light.

fortunately, the city was out of the larger sized booms but ordered them right away. He said his department is working on putting together a spill response trailer, with all the necessary equipment. Kushner said, though, that he understood the frustration with the communications process.

CAO Allen said that the Valley has “a lot of capacity” for dealing with oil spills, including the K’omoks First Nation’s Guardians program, the local ﬁre departments, Marine Search and Rescue, and more. Understanding where these resources are and the lines of communication to access those resources is one avenue to pursue, he said.

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 29, 2016

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ECHO

EXTRA PJ’s and Pearls girls’ night out *subject to $50,000 minimum

Club holds a fun Pajama Party to benefit local, and worldwide women and girls

Soroptimist International of Courtenay invites women to our fun event, which will beneﬁt women and girls in our community, through the donations of our SoroptiPaks, our signature project, Bursaries, Live Your Dream Awards, providing Education and Training for Women. Also “Dream It – Be It” Career Support for Girls, our mentoring day for secondary female students and MORE. Date: Feb 5, 2016 Time: Doors open at 19:00 pm till Midnight. Place: Florence Filberg Centre 411 Anderton Ave., Courtenay. Tickets are $50.00 each. Table of eight is $400.00. They are available at Margot Rutherford, Notary, at 981 Fitzgerald Ave. Courtenay, phone 250.338.6251 or Secret Drawers Lingerie, 5th Street, Courtenay. Ticket sales on line at the following links: On our Facebook Events Page https://www. facebook.com/events/603027533179167/ Directly on our picatic.com platform h t t p s : / / w w w. p i ca t i c.co m / P J S A N D PEARLS Entertainment is by: Lace Embrace Atelier – a humorous look at women’s fashions through the years by Melanie Talkington. Sassy dance routines by Danette Bell’s Love to Perform Theatre Arts. Catering by Tria Fine Catering and Gourmet Eats who will be serving their famous crepes, with a light breakfast in the evening, plus a chocolate fountain. No host bar. Silent Auction, “Boudoirish” Photo Shoot with Lisa Graham of Seadance Photography. Dance to the music with DJ Lori Ball from AudioXcellence DJ systems. Bring your Mom, your daughter, your girlfriend and join us for a wonderful evening and dance the night away in your PJ’s & pearls or your best outﬁt, for women and girls, whom we can help in the Comox Valley.

Soroptimists are ready to Party on Feb 5 at PJ”S & PEARLS GIRLS NIGHT OUT”. Left to right - Barbara Lewis, Ann Riley & Rosalie Crofford (Photo Credit - Seadance Photograph)

www.nic.bc.ca

NIC : Carpentry Apprenticeship Level 3 Advance your skills in the carpentry trade. Earn apprenticeship technical training credit towards Interprovincial (Red Seal) Certification. You may be eligible for up to $4,000 per period of technical training. Talk with an educational advisor about options and funding sources. Tuition: $535 approx plus fees Program run date: Feb 22 – Apr 8

1-800-715-0914 www.nic.bc.ca/trades

20 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.COURTENAY,BC JANUARY 29, 2016

Speaker Tony Reynolds

What does Truth and Reconciliation with indigenous peoples entail? Discuss at the next Philosophers Cafe on Feb. 3

Recently the Truth and Reconciliation Commission concluded its work by publishing a report which the authors believe reveals the truth about the residential school system and its impact on First Nations people and the broader society. It concludes with 94 calls to action which can act as a guide to healing the harm done and to transforming how indigenous and settler peoples relate to each other and how to live constructively together in this land. What, in practical terms does this mean? What is to be done? Why and how? Join us as Tony Reynolds leads us into this topic which will certainly have an impact on the social and economic relationships on the North Island. Tony served as Executive Director of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples that reported to Parliament in 1997. Once a month a speaker will introduce a theme to the Café, and then all who attend can join in respectful, non-partisan conversation, or just sit back and listen. As with each Café, Mr. Reynolds will have just 10 minutes to introduce the topic, and then the ﬂoor is open for 50 minutes of moderated discussion. When: Wednesday, February 3, 7:00-8:00PM Cost: Free Location: Berwick Comox Valley, community room 1700 Comox Ave, Comox, BC V9M 4H4 More Info: peter@peterschwarzhoff.ca

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 29, 2016

Dear Valued Customers,

This letter is to inform you that this is the final weekend of our January Inventory Clearance. The bosses of Island Home Furniture just got back from Las Vegas with 4 new containers of furniture and are in need to clear out All 2015 Inventory. You will find everything you need at Island Home Furniture. Ranging from Sofas, Mattresses, Dining Sets, Recliners, Lift Chairs and Much More! This final weekend we must blowout our entire stock, so everything is heavily discounted at Island Home Furniture.

Special financing is available during this INVENTORY CLEARANCE SALE! Take advantage of our 12 Months No Interest No payments, and Hugely Discounted Prices!

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.COURTENAY,BC JANUARY 29, 2016

Wrong sewer meter readings have directors raising a stink BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff Comox directors have raised some stink over the erroneous monthly ﬂow readings in their sewerage services last year. The incorrect recordings were uncovered after the yearly calibration and inspection of the meters were completed by the CVRD as required by Environment Canada. Caltest Services Ltd has been doing this work for quite some time but last year the task was awarded to SFE Global. In March last year, SFE Global reported that all pump stations were working within the set standard except for one, the Courtenay pump station. SFE discovered the ultrasonic level sensor was positioned 27 centimetres too close to the ﬂume throat and measuring

in the drawdown of the flume, registering around 15 to 20 per cent lower than the actual flow rates. The meter was calibrated in May with a new sensor to invert the distance. It confirmed the meter had been under-recording the flow depths by two centimeters. Since the repairs were done, Courtenay’s month-

ly ﬂow recording went up on average by 4.17 per cent, while Comox’s went down on average by 3.95 per cent. The prior year ﬂow measurements collected for Courtenay and Comox are used to calculate the requisition apportionment for the sewerage service. With the new data recorded in 2015, Courte-

nay’s requisition for this year will go up $175,502 while Comox faces a decrease of the same amount. For CFB Comox, the K’ómoks First Nation and septage an increase of 0.01 per cent, a decrease of 0.17 per cent and an increase of 0.006 per cent was noted respectively. To further authenticate SFE Global’s work, the CVRD hired Associated Engineering to perform a review on the Courtenay pump station flume and sensor. AE acknowledged that under the current configuration the flow readings are believed to be accurate but it could not fully certify due to lack of verification data. AE has been commissioned to conduct a three point verification and a manual flow metering process using a back-up area-velocity meter to ensure the flow meter calibration is correct within the acceptable five per cent range. The cost for this work is $5,075. Further calibration will be done using a dye test which has an accuracy of two to five per cent. The quoted cost for this is $6,925. The work is ex-

pected to be completed by late February. Comox director Ken Grant pointed out the false recordings may have been going on since they switched to a metering system in 2003. “There could be a significant amount of money here that our town has been paying,” said Grant. “How do we rectify that situation?” Manager of Wastewater Services Mike Imrie said he is not aware whether the original calibrations were not accurate. Comox director Mayor Paul Ives asked if the CVRD will take out the four months when the flow meter was not accurate in the 2015 requisition. “From Comox’s point of view, we should be given that consideration at the very least for the entire year of 2015 for my staff to take in those calculations based on the corrected rate,” said Ives. Imrie said they tried to calculate what the difference was for those four months but was unable to. “It was determined that we would do the requisition based on the flow data that we have through calibration work that we

had done in 2014 which would have included the beginning portion of 2015 and the new information after the veriﬁcation work was done,” said Imrie. Ives said in the interest of fairness, Comox wants to be billed the appropriate amount. “It should be based on the data for 2015, not taking into account the erroneous data but the accurate data and the adjustments for our rates going forward,” said Ives. “As far as previous years, that will be something we will have to take up with our staff as to whether they want to pursue that. I guess they can deal with that at the technical level. “From the fairness and accuracy point of view we should use the ﬁgures from 2015 that are true and correct, not the ones that are obviously wrong.” The City of Courtenay also did not support going back to the beginning of 2015.

Find us on Facebook facebook.com/ComoxValleyEcho

Is your house number visible? CV Monarch Lions Members at Central Builders this weekend to make 911 Reflective Address Signs

Have you ever noticed how few homes have their address numbers posted prominently so they are easily visible from the street? Why so few? Perhaps it is because home owners rarely stop to think about why it might be important for address numbers to be visible. After all, family and friends knows your address, who else needs to know? If your home catches ﬁre or a loved one has a heart attack, Emergency Response personnel need to be able to ﬁnd your home quickly. A missing or nearlyinvisible address number can cost precious time in the event of an emergency. It can literally mean the difference between life and death for you or your loved ones. Monarch Lions members will be at Central Builders (610 Anderton Ave, Courtenay) Friday, January 29 till the end of Saturday January 30 (8:00 am to 4:00 pm daily) to make, while you wait, the

and Comox Valley Regional District

FREE Family Day

Swim & Skate Monday,

February 8, 2016 is Family Day!

Photo of an example of a 911 Reflective Address Sign

blue 911 reﬂective address signs. They sell for $40.00 and 100% of the money raised from this proj-

ect goes directly back into the community. For more information visit www.911reflectivesign.ca or call 250-338-9602

Sports Centre, 3001 Vanier Drive, Courtenay

Aquatic Centre, 377 Lerwick Road, Courtenay

Free everyone welcome skate from 1:15-3:15pm

Free everyone welcome swim & lengths from 11:00am - 5:00pm

(Skate rentals are free) For more information: www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/rec or call 250-334-9622

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 29, 2016

Long-running dental operations move into new larger facility BY MARY LEE Echo Staff

Dr. Colleen Clancy has been practicing family dentistry in the Comox Valley since 1991. Her practice on Cliffe Avenue, which opened in 1996 will relocate to the Crown Isle Plaza. The same staff and exceptional care will continue in a larger facility that also offers room for future growth.

Dr. Colleen Clancy and her associates are moving their Courtenay dental location on Cliffe Avenue to the Crown Isle Plaza at Ryan Road and Lerwick. The dedicated, highly skilled team who have been providing dental health care for clients since 1996 will now be offering the same exceptional care and service in a newer, fresher facility that offers the dental practice room for future growth and expansion. The Crown Isle Dental Health Centre will open February 1. Dr. Clancy has held the philosophy that sharing ideas in the ﬁeld of dentistry allows her practice to stay on top of what is new and current. “I’ve always enjoyed ongoing continuing education and being involved in

The dental office of Dr. Colleen Clancy and Associates is moving to Crown Isle Plaza, right above Signature Oil & Vinegar and Suzanne & Jenny’s. The Crown Isle Dental Health Centre will open February 1. study clubs as many dentists are, bouncing ideas off each other about newer techniques and concepts and then bringing the progressive ideas that offer

beneﬁt to patients back to our own little practice,” shares Clancy. “This facility allows the opportunity to expand a little and certainly there will be room

Saltwater School open house

12331.32 16167.23 1116.30 0.7098 15.53 22.01 103.15 4.23 18.25 0.71% 1.26% 2.07% 2.80%

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1yr: 1.500% 3 yr: 1.860% 5 yr: 2.260%

8. Waldorf education is dedicated to nurturing the whole child with developmentally based curriculum rich in the arts, music, movement and contact with nature including festival celebrations. The preschool and kindergarten programs at Saltwater Waldorf School provide children with an abundant opportunity for free play and the exploration of the world around them, balanced by a healthy rhythm of group activities such as singing, movement, stories, artistic and practical work. This open house is part of a series of 4 open houses called Saltwater Saturdays. The next Saltwater Saturday open house will be on Saturday February 13th and will focus on the Waldorf Kindergarten. Two more open houses will happen on April 13th and April 30th. For more information about these open houses and about Saltwater Waldorf School, please visit our website at www.saltwaterschool.com

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WINTER PROMOTION

Door to Door...Town to Town

Saltwater Waldorf School will host an open house on Saturday, January 30th in its preschool classroom located at 2311 Rosewall Cres., Courtenay. This open house is free and open to all families in the Comox Valley wishing to gain a “sneak peek” into the early childhood classroom at the Saltwater Waldorf School. Parents are to attend with their children and no registration is necessary. The open house will offer parents and their children an opportunity to meet our specially trained preschool and kindergarten teachers and experience what makes Waldorf early childhood education uniquely suited to support a young child’s healthy growth and development. Activities to include free-play, outside time, circle time, story time or an artistic activity and there will be opportunities to have questions answered. Saltwater Waldorf School is an independent school in the Comox Valley providing Waldorf Education to children from preschool to grade

for growth and potentially bringing in additional like minded dentists, hygienists and certiﬁed dental assistants over time as well.” (Cont. on page 24)

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24 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.COURTENAY,BC JANUARY 29, 2016

Shopping at Trash & Treasures on Sunday

The Evergreen Club presents their next Trash & Treasures Sale. This huge multi-vendor sale will take place Sunday, January 31st from 9 am to 2 pm at Courtenay Recreation’s Florence Filberg Centre in the upper Conference Hall. This huge indoor sale is a great reason to take a break from your winter hibernation. Did we mention that it’s FREE? Why not grab a friend a make an outing of it? The location is perfect, one ﬂoor all under one roof, where you can get in from the chilly weather. The Evergreen Club Kitchen will be running a refreshment stand upstairs so you can order sandwiches, snacks, and hot or cold drinks (when

Wood stove exchange rebates

you need a break from your treasure hunting). Vendors will be there showcasing their handmade creations like jewellery, quilts, and baking. Interesting collectables like a coin dealer and vintage toy collector will be there in the mix too. Of course, we will have many ﬂea market tables that will

(Continued from page 23)

New and current in the Crown Isle facility is a fresh approach to customer care beginning with a bright, modern reception area equipped with a coffee and sugar-free cookie bar set next to a cozy ﬁreplace. The modern design carries on down the hallway with modern treatment areas to provide the same high level of care that Clancy uses in her current location. “The dentistry we’ve been providing over the years has always been modern and progressive and now the facility is, newer also as well as having some

allow you the ‘joy of the hunt.’ Organizations like Eastern Star will be there selling raffle tickets and the Canadian Daughters will be fundraising. Vendor spots are almost all sold out at a $20 deal per table. FMI call Courtenay Recreation’s Filberg office at 250-338-1000.

modern design ﬂare which is a little more fun for patients too.” Clancy currently works with an associate, Dr. Ann Lu, and acknowledges that the new facility with its larger footprint can potentially offer opportunity for more. “Dr. Ann Lu has been with me almost two years and is a great addition to the office. Clients really enjoy her,” remarks Clancy. “New to private practice she has dedication to excellent results for her clients as well as enthusiasm and great patient rapport.” Dr. Lu shares the same interests and values in dentistry as Clancy, continuing to expand

The Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) encourages qualifying homeowners to exchange their old woodstoves for high-efficiency, low-emission appliances that are Canadian Standard Association (CSA) or Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved. The wood stove exchange program will run from February 1 until April 30, 2016 with 40 $250 rebates being offered on a first-come, first-served basis. The rebates are available to registered owners of legal dwelling units throughout the Comox Valley who use wood for their primary heat source and who replace their old wood stove for a new CSA/EPA certified wood stove. The wood stove exchange rebate also applies to those exchanging an existing non-CSA/EPA certified wood stove for a pellet stove or energy efficient gas stove/ fireplace. Compared to old, inefficient stoves, new wood stoves burn one-third less wood, reduce the risk of chimney fires and reduce smoke emissions, including particulate matter, by up to 90 per cent. “The goal of this provincially funded program is to help reduce neighbourhood wood smoke,” said CVRD board of directors chair Bruce Jolliffe. “Over the last several years, the Ministry of Environment, in collaboration with the Vancouver Island Heath Authority, has issued multiple air quality advisories

her dental knowledge in general dentistry as well as in Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (previously known as TMJ) and balancing the bite. Dr. Clancy cut her teeth in dentistry with the Canadian Armed Forces after graduating with a Degree in Dental Medicine from the University of Manitoba in 1988. She has been practicing family dentistry in the Comox Valley since 1991. The combination of the two dentists allows the practice to offer a wide range of services, which includes general dentistry, implants and high end dental cosmetics for clients of all ages.

for this region. “This funding allows us the opportunity to reduce community air pollution, respond to citizens’ concerns, and support participating homeowners who will benefit through improved air quality and cost savings associated with a new, more efficient, appliance.” Two ways to apply for the wood stove rebate: The CVRD has partnered with three local heating appliance retailers: Bennett Sheet Metal and Heating, Comox Fireplace and Patio, and Rainforest Outdoor Living. These retailers will confirm your eligibility, provide a tracking number for your application, complete the installation, remove and decommission your old stove, and help complete your rebate application. Alternatively, if residents want to purchase the new appliance from another retailer, or want to personally handle the installation, contact the CVRD’s wood stove exchange program co-ordinator at 250-339-2241 or by email at wsrebate@ gmail.com to confirm eligibility, and get a tracking number and the rebate application form. For more information on the wood stove exchange program including details of upcoming smart burning workshops, visit www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/ woodstove .

All services are backed by the same set of values, personalized care that looks at the bigger picture of health and the oral health of the patient to deliver individualized treatment for optimal long-term beneﬁts. Clancy equates much of her and Dr. Lu’s approach to oral health to the balance of what is tried and true and has a long term success rate to rely on and the ever-changing shift in dentistry based on new technology and research. They purposely stay current on what the modern techniques materials and equipment in the ﬁeld have to offer.

“We are both on the same page and enjoy doing our product and market research,” explains Clancy. “We will bring in progressive changes [equipment] that makes sense to patients based on proven market results.” Clancy adds that her expansion is a slow approach to ensure they keep their same personal one-on-one experience with patients and in a friendly comfortable atmosphere. Dr. Colleen Clancy and Associates are open ﬁve days a week and on Tuesday evenings. Saturday appointments are available by prior arrangement.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 29, 2016

Bulk water rates to go up to pay for RD infrastructure projects

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff

The Comox Valley Water System is facing a myriad of major infrastructure capital projects it needs to achieve in order to comply with current drinking water policy. Strategic plan projects include implementation of asset management planning, continued sampling of source water in Comox Lake, the implementation of the watershed protection plan and a water treatment options study to identify treatment options to meet Island Health’s 4-3-2-1 compliance policy. These signiﬁcant capital spending will mean water

rates will go up this year. Staff proposed that the 2016-2020 financial plan reflect a bulk water rate hike from $0.64 cubic metres to $0.66/m3 in 2016 and a budgeted increase from $0.66/m3 to $0.68/ m3 in years 2018 to 2020. Revenue expected from bulk water sales for 2016 is $5,081,033. Staff presented this recommendation to the Comox Valley Water Committee on Tuesday. They indicated the anticipated hike will likely have an impact on user rates within the City of Courtenay, Town of Comox and the CVRD’s water service areas. The capital works in the 2016-2020 financial

plan will include an engineering study for VIHA 4-3-2-1 Water Treatment Options ($400,000), engineering design for water treatment ($500,000), Courtenay Pump Station upgrade ($150,000) and detailed engineering and construction of a water treatment plant ($64,096,000) which adds up to $65,146,000. The regional district manages and operates the CVWS, which provides safe drinking water to approximately 45,000 people. The system is regulated by Island Health who approves the CVRD’s operating permit. Last July, the CVRD’s water permit was amend-

ed last July due to extended boil water notices the occurred in late 2014 and January 2015. Conditions and timelines were imposed on the CVRD to meet Island Health’s 4-3-2-1 policy for drinking water treatment for surface water supplies. Among them is the installation of a ﬁltration plan by 2019. Other expenditures the CVWS expects in the next ﬁve years include pay increases to meet the CUPE agreement, the hiring of a new water technician in 2017 to accommodate growth and expansion of the CVRD water systems, advertising, education programs, and other professional fees.

Intense sewer capital projects lead to hike in municipal requisition BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff Sewer rates will likely go up this year. The Comox Valley Sewerage System has mounting key capital infrastructure projects it needs to install over the 2016-2020 proposed ﬁnancial plan to improve pumping capacity, reduce environmental risk, and enable community growth and to plan for future treatment plant capacity upgrades. For 2016, one of the priority projects of the CVRD is the controversial Comox No. 2 pump station it wants to build on a property in the Croteau Beach neighbourhood. Some people are opposing the selected site for the

pump station but CVRD are proceeding with the plan due to environmental risk posed by the exposed forcemain along Willemar Bluff due to coastal wave action. Engineering design work for the pump station is expected to happen this year. Other strategic plan projects slated for this year includes the completion of the centrifuge dewatering upgrade, funding for the new Hudson/ Greenwood trunk sewer, the bio-solids compost facility expansion project, the HMCS Quadra forcemain replacement and the A/B multi-zone cooling condenser at the treatment plant. In order to fund the sig-

niﬁcant capital expenditures, the Comox Valley Sewage Commission staff recommended the 20162020 proposed ﬁnancial plan include increases in the municipal requisition up to and including 2018. The sewage system provides secondary waste water treatment to approximately 38,000 residents in the City of Courtenay, Town of Comox, Department of National Defence and K’omoks First Nation, The municipal requisition is expected to go up 10 per cent from last year’s value. The expected revenue this year is $5,254,552 up from last year’s total of $4,776,865. It’s an increase of $477,687. This will likely affect user rates in Courtenay and Comox

The CVRD is not facing new debt requirements over the next ﬁve years for the planned capital projects. Staff indicated to supplement the capital revenue sources, they will make every effort to pursue grant funding opportunities to reduce future borrowing costs. The commission endorsed the proposed 2016-2020 ﬁnancial plan for the Comox Valley sewerage system service but it has yet to be approved by the CVRD board.

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Dec 18th – 24th Jan 29 – Feb 5th Metropolitan opera January 30, 10:00 am – Puccini’s Turandot Doors open at 9:30 Royal Ballet Rhapsody / The two pigeons 10:00am Doors open 9:30 CAPTIVIEW AVAILABLE IN THEATRE #1 & THEATRE #4 “Kung fu Panda 3D” G: In Theatre # 1 – Friday – Sunday Night’s: 2D 6:50 (8:35) & 3D 9:20 (11:05) In Theatre # 1– Monday – Thursday Night’s: 2D 5:50 (7:35) & 3D 8:20 (10:05) In Theatre # 1 – Saturday to Sunday Matinees: 3D 12:20 (2:05) & 2D 2:55 (4:40) “13 Hours” 14A: violence In Theatre # 2 – Friday – Sunday Night’s: 6:30 (9:05) & 9:40 (12:15) In Theatre # 2 – Monday – Thursday Night’s: 5:45 (8:25) & 8:55 (11:35) “Star Wars: The Force Awakens 3D” PG: Violence In Theatre #3 – Friday –Sunday Night’s: 2D 6:40 (9:05) & 3D 9:30 (11:55) In Theatre # 3 – Monday – Thursday Night’s: 2D 5:40 (8:05) & 3D 8:30 (10:55) In Theatre # 3 – Saturday & Sunday Matinees: 2D 12:30 (2:55) & 2D 3:25(5:50) “Norm of the north” G: In Theatre # 4 – Saturday Matinees: 2:05 (3:45) & 4:15 (5:55) In Theatre # 4 – Sunday Matinees: 1:30 (3:11) & 3:45 (3:25) “The Revenant” 14A: violence, nudity course language In Theatre # 4 – Friday - Sunday Night’s: 7:30 (10:15) In Theatre # 4 – Monday – Thursday Night’s: 6:30 (9:15) In Theatre # 2 – Saturday to Sunday Matinees: 11:55 (2:40) & 3:15 (6:00)

Box Office & Concession Hours Friday – Sunday: 6:00 – 10:00 • Monday – Thursday: 5:00 – 9:00 Saturday & Sunday Matinees: 11:30 – 4:30

It’s a good read. When crumpled and stuffed in your jacket, it’s a good insulator. That’s what Bethany had to do when she lived on the streets.

This toque. It helped Bethany find a better life. Buy yours at RaisingtheRoof. org or donate $5 by texting TOQUE to 45678. Help the homeless in your community.

Ask The Dentists! Drs. Manny Karamanis & Brett Burry

What Difference Can a Few Extra Teeth Make? Dear Doctors - I grew up in Quebec. When I went for a checkup recently and I was surprised at how much work this dentist wanted to do. In my small home town many people have false teeth and nobody thinks too much of it. What's the difference other than a few extra teeth? Answer - The difference may be more than you

imagine. An extensive study just completed in England regarding dental health and overall health. Statistically, they found that the poorest 20% of the population in their 70's had 8 fewer teeth than the wealthiest 20% of the population. This is a full ¼ of a set of teeth! Those with the lowest income, lower education, and lower employment occupations had a much higher level of gum disease, gaps in teeth, and tooth decay on top of just having fewer teeth left in their mouth. Most admitted their poor oral health caused them worry, and did in fact rate their oral health as bad. Many said it affected their day to day living in a detrimental sense. The Principal Investigator of this study – Dr. John Wildman (Professor of Health Economics at Newcastle University Business School) said “Inequalities in oral health have not received the attention that they deserve. Our study is an attempt to redress this balance. Oral health contributes hugely to everyday wellbeing and addressing these inequalities may result in considerable improvements in quality of life for large numbers of individuals.” Missing teeth is far beyond simply appearance. Many factors contribute to teeth failure. Smoking for example is one. Your home province (Quebec) has a slightly higher ratio of smokers per general population (21.4%) than Alberta (20.3%), but not by far. In northern Canada we see ratios of smokers as high as triple the number in western Canada. In B.C., only 16.2% of people smoke. In Nunavut, that number averages 59%! Coincidentally, the number with oral health issues follows suit. If you cannot chew properly, your choices of food are more limited. You don't need teeth to live. They are a lifestyle choice. We place an inordinate amount of importance on appearance, and for the entire cosmetics industry this equates to 'looking' our best. One common reaction our patients hear when they have extensive dental work completed revolves around their appearance. Their friends ask if they have 'lost weight', or had a face lift, for example. Much has to do with self-confidence and self-esteem. We're not making any kind of judgment call on that, but patients say they are more efficient in their work – look better (their opinion), and eat healthier as a result of better oral health. These might be some of the differences those additional teeth may influence! Call the Dental Hotline at 1-800-617-2936 and schedule a FREE implant information session.

Acreview Dental 750 Comox Road, Courtenay, BC

1-800-617-2936 (Dental Hotline) www.AcreviewDental.com Services are provided by General Dentists

26 FRIDAY.JANUARY 29, 2016

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FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

DEATHS

COMING EVENTS

INFORMATION

Melvin Napoleon Chartier

NORTON, Doreen 1943 -2016

August 3,1921 ~ December 28, 2015 Dad has gone home to the Lord; to meet up with his loving wife Edna, his much loved mother Eva Marie and his brother Albert. Born in Wakaw, Saskatchewan, Dad loved the North Country, doing commercial ice-ďŹ shing, trapping and as a guide and game warden; to hunt moose, ďŹ&#x201A;y his plane, paddle his canoe, or mush his dog team. Pre-deceased by his daughter June, survived by brother Raymond (Carol), daughters Winona (Don), Gail, Carol (Barrie), Joan (Eric) and son Melvin. Many nieces and nephews, grandchildren, greats and great-greats. Friends and family will remember all the wonderful stories. Thank you to all the thoughtful friends and caregivers over these many years of helping Dad, a super tribute to a man who helped so many in his lifetime. No service by request. â&#x20AC;&#x153; Always paddle your own canoeâ&#x20AC;?.

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Lyveda M. Foster July 15, 1932 - January 19, 2016

Dolly was married on the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Highway Of Lifeâ&#x20AC;? to Ray Norton, her best friend and husband of 42 years. She passed away peacefully at St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital in her 72nd year. She will be lovingly remembered by her husband Ray, daughter Kim (Dave), grandchildren Christopher, Cory, Colton and Chanelle, great granddaughter Ella, sister Susie Mohring and brother Sonny MacPherson (Fay). The family would like to thank Dr. Sandwith and the nurses on the 3rd ďŹ&#x201A;oor for all their help and compassion. In lieu of ďŹ&#x201A;owers, the family has asked for donations to please be made in Doreenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s memory to the SPCA.

Comox Valley F H UNERAL

OME

CREMATION AND RECEPTION CENTRE 1101 Ryan Road, Courtenay

250-334-0707

CALLING ALL SHOPPERS - HUGE FREE EVENT Sunday, January 31st, 9:00 am to 2:00 pm (Upper) Conference Hall at the Florence Filberg Centre Selling everything from: ďŹ&#x201A;ea market, collectibles, hand crafted items, jewelry, refreshments etc. Limited Tables left at $20!

FMI Call Filberg Centre OfďŹ ce at 250-338-1000

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DEATHS

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DEATHS

Funeral Services 250 338 4463 www.tonefffunerals.com

â&#x20AC;&#x153;where your family comes firstâ&#x20AC;?

Ruth Elspy Clark (Colburn) Passed away peacefully on December 23, 2015 at the Comox Valley Seniors Residence in Courtenay B.C. at the age of 96 years. She is survived by her nephews, James Parker (Audrey) of St. Catharines; Joseph Wright (Carol) of Gambier Island; Jay Colburn (Val) of Calgary, and Mark Clark of Kamloops; and nieces, Joanne Harburn (Keith) of Toronto and Carol Ladd of Winnipeg; and nephew-in-law, Bob Scace (Amber) of Calgary. She is also survived by numerous great, and great-great, nieces and nephews.

It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of Lyveda on January 19, 2016. Lyveda was a beautiful, witty, loving person. She was a proud and devoted mother to Vicki, Carol (Michael), and Shirley, and grandmother to Michael, Rachel, and Foster. She was predeceased by her husband Ted in August of 2005. Our family would like to thank the staff at Casa Loma, Comox Valley Seniors Village, and the 3rd floor staff at the Campbell River hospital for their compassionate care. A private family service will be held at a later date. Flowers gratefully declined. A donation may be made to the Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Society of Canada or the Canadian Cancer Society. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; 1 Corinthians 13:7

Evergreen Club â&#x20AC;&#x153;Trash & Treasures Saleâ&#x20AC;?

She was predeceased by her husband Art; her sisters Doris and Helen; her brother Robert; and her niece Margaret. Ruth was born on April 15, 1919 in Oxford, Nova Scotia and grew up in Three Hills, Alberta. Ruth graduated with her R.N. from the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Edmonton, Alberta in 1943 and worked at the Vancouver General Hospital in Labor and Delivery. Ruth married Arthur Clark in 1951 in Vancouver. They resided there until they moved to Vancouver Island-Bates Beach in 1971. She then worked in a medical clinic in Courtenay until her retirement. Ruth and Art loved to ďŹ sh and living near the beach. She took great pride in her nieces and nephews. One of her fondest memories was a train trip across Canada to visit with each of them. Her greatest love was for her dogs Missy and Cosmo. In 2006, Ruth moved into the Berwick Retirement Residence where she was loved by everyone. She loved to knit and was frequently helping others in the building. For the past 16 months she has been residing at the Comox Valley Seniors Residence. She is known for her kind, loving nature and was thus, blessed with many visitors. We would like to send special thanks to her dear friends Lynne Wellard and John and Wendy Waterman for their devoted friendship and assistance over the years. Cremation has already taken place. A memorial service will be held Saturday February 6 2016 at 3pm at the Berwick Retirement Village, 1700 Comox Ave, Comox. Interment will take place at a later date in Three Hills, Alberta.

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Margaret Chaney (Williams) Born Feb 2, 1929 Died peacefully of natural causes in The Views at St. Josephs hospital on Jan. 3, 2016. Born Margaret Rice to parents Jay Van Rice and Blanch Rice in Montebello California. She is survived by son Noel Chaney (Pam) grandchildren Silvia, Matt and Tim. Daughter Teresa Chaney (Mike Gilbert) of Courtenay BC. Also survived by Son-in-law Ron Cohn, Granddaughter Kimarie Hoard and great grandson William Hoard in California. She is pre-deceased by Husband William Chaney, second husband Charles Williams, oldest daughter Katherine Chaney (Cohn) and older sister Mary Annette Rice (Oswald). Margaret suffered the devastating loss of her two grandsons in a house ďŹ re in 1982 in Prince George BC. Brook Chaney and Bram Chaney were the loves of her life to which she was devoted Mom #2. Other survivors include niece and nephew Joanne Oswald (Jim Calloway) and Phil Oswald along with two generations of their extended families in Texas and Arizona. Margaret grew up in southern California during the depression and WWII when it was still a series of small communities. She graduated from Whittier Union High School in 1947 and married the father of her children in 1948. She loved being a mother and home maker and lived in Sacramento California from 1952-1969 where she also worked as a supply clerk for the State of California for 10 years. Margaret remarried in 1965 and moved, with here family, to northern BC in 1969. They bought 160 acre of undeveloped land, north of Prince George, and lived off grid for several years until power eventually came in, wells got dug and plumbing got built. Margaret loved her life in the bush learning to farm and raise livestock. She particularly loved her 5 horses, dogs, a three legged fox and way too many cats. Margaret went to work for BC Tel as a draftsman in 1970 in Prince George BC. She enjoyed her work and made many friends there until retirement in Abbotsford BC in 1994. She served as an FTW then TWU shop steward to Local 26 for many years. After retirement she moved to Cumberland BC to be near her family. She enjoyed her home and garden in Cumberland and being close to family through her retirement years. Margaret became a Canadian citizen in 1976 and was always quite proud of that. She made regular visits to California over the years to visit family but always treasured her home and life here in BC. Margaret will be missed but sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s busy catching up with her boys now. A wake will be held at Michaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s off Main on Tuesday, February 2nd from 4 to 7 PM.

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MUMFORD, MYRA MUMFORD, MYRA - passed away peacefully and without pain at St Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital, Comox, BC in the early hours of Thursday, January 21st, 2016. She is predeceased by both her parents and her son Stuart. She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Bill; her daughter, Sandra; her son-in-law, Tony and her grandson, Gareth; as well as many cherished friends and family members around the world. Myra was born in Saltcoats, Scotland on June 28th, 1939 and moved to Canada with Bill in 1962 to start their new life adventures. They were fortunate to have travelled the world, especially during their 20 years of retirement together and loved their annual camping summers spent at Miracle Beach and Salmon Point. An open house to celebrate her life will be held Saturday January 30th, 2016 ; 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5pm at Bill and Myraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home (860 Eastwicke Crescent, Comox, BC).

IN MEMORIAM

Jon North SEPT 10 1946 FEB 1 2015

We thought of you with love today but this is nothing new. We thought of you with love today and days before that too. We miss your kind and thoughtful ways Your teasing and your smile. What we would give to hold your hand and talk with you a while. One thing we have to tell you and of which there is no doubt You are so wonderful to remember and so hard to live without. The years may wipe out many things but this wipe never, the memory of those happy days when we were still together. We hold you tightly with in our hearts and there you will remain. Life has gone on without you but never will it be the same. We will always love and miss you. Love Walt (Waldtraut), Leah and the family

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ANTIQUE OAK draw leaf dining table 4/matching upholstered chairs $300. 2-antique side chairs, front casters, carved backs upholstered seats $50.each. 2-antique tub chairs, woven cane sides upholstered $50.each. Beige love seat $100. Oval mahogany coffee table w/2 matching end tables $150.set. Bedroom dresser-4 drawers $25. Small bookcase $25. Large well made wooden blanket box $75. Small wooden vanity, swivel mirror, matching stool $75. Brown hassock $20. Several small wooden side tables $20.each 4- twin sized beds $75.each. 250-335-1287.

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Regional Forestry Advisor Nanwakolas Council - Campbell River, BC Program: The Nanwakolas Council, which consists of a number of First Nations located on northern Vancouver Island and the adjacent mainland, is looking for a Regional Forestry Advisor who will be responsible for continued implementation of ecosystem based management (EBM) in the Nanwakolas First Nationsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; territories located in the Great Bear Rainforest. The work will primarily focus on ecological related aspects of EBM, but may also involve elements of the human wellbeing side of EBM. In carrying out this work the Regional Forestry Advisor will be required to engage with the individual member First Nations to receive information and input from them, engage and work with senior Nanwakolas Council representatives on related strategic and policy issues, and interact routinely with provincial government and stakeholder representatives. The Regional Forestry Advisor will report to the Nanwakolas Council Executive Director. The position will be based in Campbell River â&#x20AC;&#x201C; with frequent travel to other locations. Please visit www.nanwakolas.com to download a complete job posting for this position. Resumes will be accepted until 4:00 on February , 2016 and may be submitted to: Nanwakolas Council Email: info@nanwakolas.com Attention: Merv Child

28 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.COURTENAY,BC JANUARY 29, 2016

WHAT'SON In the Comox Valley 29 FRIDAY

Presentation of Colour to Princess Patricia 21 February 1919 ( Photo from private collection)

HUNT FOR HISTORY with JUDY HAGEN

Lt. Mortimer and his great honour

In the great times of history, small moments can be of remarkable significance to individuals. These are the stories that bring the human touch to make history real. Seldom is the story known of the insignificant person in the pictorial record of pomp and ceremony. There are only a few notable people who make the pages of history, but there are thousands of individuals behind the times of significance. Arthur Mortimer would always feel that he had been given a great honour at the end of the Great War, when he was asked to be the Colour Officer and to present the Regimental Colour to Princess Patricia, the Patron of the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI’s). When the Great War began in August 1914, Canada, as a Colony of Great Britain had no military force of her own but there were many men living in Canada who had previously served in the British Army. Mr. Andrew Hamilton Gault of Montreal, who had served in the Boer War, proposed to the Minister of the Militia that if the Government would equip the men, he would offer $100,000, (the equivalent today of about $2m) towards the cost of raising a Battalion. Under the Patronage of the daughter of the Governor-General, the Duke of Connaught, the new Regiment would be known as the Princess Patricia’s. Recruitment began on 11 August and within a week, 1,098 men had been selected out of the more than 3,000 that had applied. Every man had been trained though only about

450 had ever been in battle. This Regiment was ready for action and could immediately be sent overseas. This was in contrast to other Regiments such as the 102nd which trained in Comox, where few if, any men, had previous military service and would need intense training before going overseas. On 23 August at Lansdowne Park, the Regiment paraded before their patron who addressed them at she presented their Colour. Lady Patricia said, “I have great pleasure in presenting you with a Colour which I have worked myself. I hope they will be associated with what I believe will be a distinguished corps. I shall follow the future of you all with the deepest interest and heartily wish every man good luck and a safe return.” * The Colour of the Princess Pat’s was maroon with a central circle of dark blue with the letters VP surmounted by a coronet embroidered in gold thread. It became known affectionately as the “Ric-A-DunDoo”* which may be interpreted as “the cloth of our mother.”* The Regiment departed from Canada on 27 September. As the war progressed, men from across Canada listed and would later join the Regiment which was at the front by December. Arthur Norrie Bisset Mortimer joined on November 3rd. He had been born in Edinburgh and had previously served with the Territorial’s in Scotland. He was living in Calgary and was listed on his attestations papers as a “salesman” but he was, during football season, a member of the Calgary Stampeders. “Morty” would experience all the

battles of the PPCLI’s, distinguishing himself at Vimy Ridge where he earned a Military Cross when he led a party of men who destroyed an enemy dugout at Berkin crater. Lt. Mortimer was seriously wounded and temporarily blinded, but along with the other officers was able to successfully carry out the mission. At the end of the war, in preparation for demobilization, the Regiment was sent to Bramshott Camp in England where Princess Patricia would say good-by to her Regiment. At that time the Colour, carried by Lt. Mortimer was paraded before the Regiment and presented to the Princess who decorated the Colour with a wreath of laurel in silver gilt with the inscription “To the P.P.C.L.I. from the Colonel-inChief, PATRICIA, in recognition of their heroic services in the Great War, 1914-18”.* Mortimer returned to Canada with the rank of Captain and was recruited by the Canadian Collieries to play full-back for the Cumberland United Soccer Team which went on to play in the Canadian championship match in 1926. During the depression, teams were disbanded and he moved to Powell River working at the Pulp Mill. His ﬁrst wife, Pearl died, and unable to care for his three children, he sent them to his family in Scotland. In 1927, he remarried to Agnes Allan Baird and was able to bring two of his children, son Arthur and daughter Pearl back to Canada, the older daughter Patricia choosing to remain with her grandparents. (Continued on page 29)

FILM “FROM THE WASTE UP LIFE WITHOUT PLASTIC” • Comox United Church will present the film “From the Waste Up - Life Without Plastic” on Friday, January 29, 2016 at 7 pm. Admission is by donation. This film follows the lives of 19 people as they try to eliminate plastic from their lives for a year, and shows that change is possible. EVERGREEN CLUB FRIDAY NIGHT DANCE • Get off the couch and out the door! Enjoy the live music of REISS VINK in the Rotary Hall at Courtenay Recreation’s Filberg Centre. This dance happens Friday January 29th from 7:30 – 10:30 p.m. We will break at 9 pm for our coffee & cookie break. Non-members are welcome at $9 each; Evergreen Club members are $7 each. FMI call the Filberg office at 250-338-1000. COURTENAY LEGION • Meat draws every Friday, 5-7 pm. COMOX LEGION • Meat draws every Friday, 3 p.m. Open to all Legion members and signed in guests. Friday is still drop in darts night 7.30 pm toe line, $2.25 per person.

30 SATURDAY A DREAM COME TRUE • On Saturday, Jan. 30th at 1 p.m., Diana Stevan of Campbell River, will be signing her novel, A CRY FROM THE DEEP, at Laughing Oyster Bookstore in Courtenay. This romantic mystery has been a bestseller at Coho Books and Save-On in Campbell River. You can also visit Diana at http://www.dianastevan.com BOOK SIGNING • Join co-authors Judy Hagen and Catherine Siba as they sign copies of their new book, Watershed Moments: A Pictorial History of Courtenay and District (Harbour Publishing, $34.95; co-written with Christine Dickinson and Deborah Griffiths). The signing will take place at Courtenay Costco Wholesale (588 Crown Isle Blvd, Courtenay) on Saturday, January 30 from 1:00pm 3:00pm. COURTENAY LEGION • Meat draws every Saturday 2-5 p.m. in the lounge. COMOX LEGION • Meat draws are held every Saturday 3 p.m.

31 SUNDAY TRASH AND TREASURES • The Evergreen Club presents their next Trash & Treasures Sale. This huge multi-vendor sale will take place Sunday, January 31st from 9 am to 2 pm at Courtenay Recreation’s Florence Filberg Centre in the upper Conference Hall. FMI call Courtenay Recreation’s Filberg office at 250-3381000. BELLYFIT FOR FOREST • Studio

IPF: Inner Pursuit Fitness and event sponsor Finneron Hyundai are hosting another Bellyfit LIVE community fundraiser on Sunday January 31st. This time, they’ll be raising the roof of the Native Sons Hall in support of the Cumberland Community Forest Society. The event goes from 1:00-2:15pm. For more info, contact Leanne Zdebiak-Eni at Leanne@ studioipf.com or call 250703-2673.

1 MONDAY EVERGREEN CLUB WHIST • Grab your friends and your neighbours and try something new. Mark your calendar Monday February 1st. Whist starts at 7:30pm. 20 hands of play, door prizes, snacks and good fun! New players welcome. Come early to sign up. $2.00 per person, members only. PLEASE NOTE: Whist won’t run next Monday, Feb. 8th due to the Family Day holiday. LADIES AUXILIARY DROP-IN BINGO • Comox Legion Ladies Auxiliary Drop-in Bingo, upper hall. Doors open 6 pm, bingo 7 p.m. All money goes to charities. Free coffee and tea.

2 TUESDAY COMOX VALLEY WOOD CARVERS • If you are interested in any type of wood carving please join us at the Royston Community Hall every Tuesday from 9:30 AM to 3 PM for a day of carving and learning about carving. No experience necessary. FMI call Al at 250-331-0156 or Jim at 250-339-5350.

3 WEDNESDAY BINGO • Play and support the Cumberland Community Schools Society! Running every Wednesday at the Cumberland Legion with proceeds for CCSS. Doors open at 6:30. Game starts at 7. Beginners welcome!

4 THURSDAY LOST FAMILIES FOUND • Everyone welcome. Monthly Genealogy meeting Feb. 4th, 7-9 pm in the Maritime Heritage Centre. Coreen Clarkson will share stories and heirlooms from Annie Aitken, known by many as Granny Aitkin, the midwife who lived in the mining town of Bevan near Cumberland. Library open 6-7 before meeting. For info, call Janice 250 203-0585. Campbell River Genealogy Society.

5 FRIDAY PJ’S & PEARLS FUNDRAISER - A GIRLS NIGHT OUT FRIDAY • February 5 from 8pm to Midnight at the Florence Filberg Centre in Courtenay. For Tickets and info call 250 278 2277.

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 29, 2016

Taxing Writers: Tax tips with George Opacic presented by the Federation of BC Writers Navy vets Harold Smith, left, and Mike Kirkwood met by chance at the White Spot

A chance encounter of two WWII naval vets

Last week Mr. Harold Smith of Courtenay was celebrating his 95th birthday with his wife and family at the Courtenay White Spot. In the adjacent function room the members and spouses of the Comox Valley Branch of the Royal Canadian Naval Association were conducting the annual luncheon for the Installation of Branch Officers. As luck would have it the White Spot staff advised the naval veterans that Mr. Smith was nearby and that Mr. Smith was also a naval veteran. This was an ideal time for RCNA members to wish happy birthday to Mr. Smith and for two World War Two naval veterans to meet. During the Second World War Mr. Smith was a member of the Royal Canadian Navy Volunteer reserve and served in landing craft and participated in OPERATION TORCH, the landing in North

Africa, and OPERATION HUSKY, the landing on Sicily. Mr. Smith was later wounded while serving in Italy and was invalided back to Canada. Also present at the gathering was RNCA member Mr. Mike Kirkwood of Comox who was a young Royal Marine aboard HMS SYLLA at OPERATION OVERLORD, the D-Day invasion of France on 6 June 1944. Mr. Kirkwood celebrates his 90th birthday next month. The Royal Canadian Naval Association is made up of serving and former naval veterans and is formed into various branches across Canada. The Association also includes Coast Guard and Merchant Marine members and includes support of the Canadian Cadet Organization. The Comox Valley Branch meets at 1:00pm every third Wednesday at the meeting hall of Branch 160 of the Royal Canadian Legion, Comox.

Like all individuals, writers are asked by the CRA to pay income tax. You may be pleasantly surprised to learn that creative artists are given a break. They have access to tax deductions that most others don’t. “Taxing Writers” will show you how that works. During his writing career George Opacic has co-founded a magazine for builders of private aircraft, written numerous short stories and a dozen ﬁlm scripts. He is also a professional ghostwriter. His current projects are a novel called The Antichrist of Stanley Park, which takes place in Nunavut and Vancouver and a murder mystery script for a TV series. George teaches part time at Langara College in Vancouver. Please join us at the Courtenay Public Library from 5:30 to 7:30pm on Thursday, February 4th, to hear knowledgeable George Opacic give tax tips. See more about George at www.bcwriters.ca/opacic. This is a free public presentation. Please call the library to preregister 250-334-3369 x.4 (as space is limited)

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(Continued from page 28)

Then Arthur’s arm was injured in an industrial accident and he could no longer work at the mill. He was able to ﬁnd employment in Cumberland working in the Collieries office. At the outbreak of WWII, he was recalled by the PPCLI’s, given the rank of Major and sent overseas. His son Arthur joined the Canadian Air Force and while serving as a Flight Sergeant with the 97th Squadron he died when his plane was shot down on 20th December 1942. Both daughters, served

with the CWAC, Pearl as an officer and Patricia as Sergeant. For his work overseas during Second World War Major Mortimer was awarded the Medal of the British Empire for outstanding service to King and country. After the war, Arthur Mortimer became the administrator of the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation serving as the Construction manager of the Cumberland Veterans houses built on Maryport Avenue. He selected the 23 veterans who moved into the new homes. He later became secretary treasurer

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of School district 71. When Major Mortimer died in Cumberland in 1959 at age 68, he was buried with full military and Masonic Lodge honours. He was survived by his wife Agnes, ﬁve daughters and one son. A French proverb says “An honour won is a promise of more”. For all the rewards he earned, Major Mortimer considered having been able to serve in the Princess Pat’s one of his great honours. *from the history of the PPCLI’s 1914-1919. Ralph Hodder-Williams. Published 1923

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 29, 2016

North Island Festival of Performing Arts celebrates 40 years in Valley

After months of hard work, over 1,000 dedicated youth from all over Vancouver Island are converging in the Comox Valley to strut their stuff. The 40th Annual North Island Festival of Performing Arts (NIFPA) is a non-proﬁt society dedicated to providing a venue for students to perform before audiences and adjudicators. The performing arts disciplines represented include Music (strings, speech arts, ﬁddle, piano and vocal), & Dance (musical theatre, ballet, modern, stage & hip-hop). NIFPA begins February 4th with Music and Speech Arts performances at the Old Church Theatre and continues to February 17th. Musical Theatre and Dance performances will be held at the Sid Williams Theatre in Courtenay from February 18th to February 27th. The public are invited to watch the festival,

A performance at the Variety show last yeaer (Photo: Tim Penney)

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tainment value. The Dance Gala is specific to dance with adjudicator chosen performances also, creating a spectacular show for the public. Tickets are $20 and are available at the Sid Williams Box office or online at their website. Our newest addition is the Provincial Rep Showcase, on Saturday, March 5th at 1:00 pm at the Sid. The participants chosen to represent our local festival at Provincials will be presented, and their talents showcased. Admission is by donation. Last year’s inaugural debut of this show was a great success – be sure to see it this year. The fine arts flourish at the festival and NIFPA feels it is important to value and further develop our talented youth in their chosen discipline. The performances gather the various Vancouver Island communities together in celebration of the performing arts, and allow the public to embrace the amazing talent we have on our island.

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which occurs in sessions throughout the days and evenings. Potential audience members should keep in mind that these are adjudicated performances with pauses between performances. Admission is by donation (suggested minimum $2 per session). For a complete calendar of session dates and programs, please go to www.nifpa.org. This local festival is a member of Performing Arts BC where each year, chosen students are sent to Provincials where they get to perform in a similar process, on a more advanced scale. Last year’s Provincials were held in Powell River. The 2016 Provincials take place in Fort St. John. To wrap up festival, there are now three exciting and very entertaining shows scheduled. The Festival Variety Showcase (7:00 pm March 4th) and Dance Gala (7:00 pm March 5th) are familiar favourites. Friday night showcases a variety of all disciplines chosen by the adjudicators for their achievement and enter-

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32 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.COURTENAY,BC JANUARY 29, 2016

Rocking around the clock at Rotary’s Have a Heart fundraiser BY PHILIP ROUND Report and photos Special to the Echo A rollicking musical revue revolving around a malt shop’s juke box is the theme for this year’s ‘Have a Heart’ dinner-show being promoted by Strathcona Sunrise Rotary Club. ‘Meet Me At The Juke Box Diner’ will feature memorable songs spanning ﬁve decades as the story of Miss Molly’s Malt Shop Diner is performed on three successive nights from February 18-20. The annual fundraising event will feature around 40 popular tunes from rock and roll to gospel and from Broadway hits to the Beach Boys — and there will even be a surprise burst of opera at one point. The Beach Street Players provide the 21-strong cast, 17 of whom have singing roles in the show. Most of the performers have appeared in previous productions and are enthusiastic returnees, but there are four new voices for 2016: Eugene Hrushowy, Marni Fisher, Montana Pistell and Sha-

Musical director Gloria Herauf conducts as nine female singers rehearse one of the show’s big numbers - from the left, they are Laurel Erhart, Patty Forbes-King, Shaleena Faust, Marni Fisher, Montana Pistell, Dana Klassen, Carol Jennerman, Noreen Robertson and Valetta Nixon. leena Faust — the latter fresh from musical theatre school in Toronto. Musical director Gloria Herauf has scripted an original and amusing storyline that begins in the

1950s with Miss Molly (Patty Forbes-King), assisted by her soda jerk (Larry McDonald), running the diner where the juke box is as big a draw for customers as the food

Looks like there’s an Elton John number coming on when Erik Eriksson is on the keys, joined by (from the left) Ross Griffith-Cochrane, Bruce Walkey and Scott Agur.

and drink. “Each time the juke box is engaged by a customer, it lights up and looks very snazzy…but in our show, the tunes are not on vinyl discs, but performed live,”

Herauf explains. “Early in act one, we’re taken back to popular songs from the 50s. Expect to get a real nostalgia kick from tunes like Shake, Rattle & Roll, Good Golly

T U O D L SO

Miss Molly, Johnny B. Goode and Rock around the Clock.” But the era of malt shops eventually ends — exempliﬁed when a ﬂowers-in-her-hair hippie drops by singing ‘San Francisco’ just before the business closes for good. The scene changes for act two, as many years have past and the property stands vacant, although the old juke box remains on the premises, silent and forlorn. A prospective buyer of the building (played by Dale Erhart) meets the appropriately typecast Head of Real Estate (Marty Douglas - who really is a head of real estate locally) and together they conjure up the concept of creating a retro diner, complete with a refurbished juke box offering new tunes as well as old classics. “There is a huge amount of music for the cast to learn,” says Herauf, who notes rehearsals have been going on three days a week at the United Church in Comox since early January.

(Continued on page 33)

(Continued from page 32)

“There’s tremendous enthusiasm from everyone involved on and off stage. We’re all determined to put on a quality show to entertain everyone, and have a ton of fun doing it.” Herauf and her husband, Les, came to live in the Comox Valley from Saskatchewan in 2007. She was officially retiring after an award-winning career in musical education, theatre and composition, but was keen to pursue further musical interests here in the Valley. She quickly became involved with the United Church in Comox, where, in addition to playing the piano for services, she became musical director with the Beach Street

278 $64

Players, many of whom are church members. Seven years ago the players staged their ﬁrst public performance to raise money for a new piano, and the success of that venture led to a second production. For the past ﬁve years they have teamed up with the Strathcona Sunrise Rotary Club to present even more ambitious dinner-show productions that have gone on to raise thousands of dollars for local causes. Les Herauf has been involved behind the scenes — or, more correctly, creating the scenes — from the start. Using his double-garage as a workshop, this year he has been working with James Taylor to build sets for the production, including the illuminated juke box cen-

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Sharon Lalonde leading the volunteers; while Val Jeske and Sue Newman are standing by to manage the stage and scenery changes. Five musicians are also rehearsing to accompany the singers. Rotarian Richard Clarke is once again spearheading the Strathcona Sunrise club’s involvement in organizing the event, and is hoping this year’s Have a Heart production will raise at least $20,000. That would take the total to more than $100,000 over the ﬁve shows staged with Rotary’s involvement. Whatever money is raised this year will be distributed three ways - to help fund local projects being undertaken by the Rotary Club itself; to support community pro-

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 29, 2016

grams promoted by Comox United Church; and to make a major contribution to this year’s chosen good cause — the Comox Valley Therapeutic Riding Society. “Have a Heart has become a signature winter event for our club, and a really important contribution to fundraising for our community,” says Clarke. “Over the past ﬁve years we have built a wonderful working relationship with Gloria and the Beach Street Players, and the support we get from people in the Valley for this event is tremendous. A lot of people put in a lot of hard work to make it the best it can be, and have a lot of fun doing so. This year is no different.” (The show is now sold out).

34 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.COURTENAY,BC JANUARY 29, 2016

Authors of pictorial history of the Valley sign books at Costco

It was hot, hot, hot down at the WinterJAM skating rink There was a big crowd out on Sunday for the WinterJAM chili contest held at the outdoor rink in downtown Courtenay, The first place winner was Dan Dycke, left, of the Mad Chef Cafe; 2nd place went to Cardero’s while 3rd spot went to Union Street Grill. Other participating chefs came from Rawthentic, Billy D’s Pub and Bistro, and Great Island BBQ. WinterJAM festivities wrap up this weekend with Kitty’s ComedyJAM at Chances Friday, Jan. 20 and Saturday, Jan. 30 (bar stools still available), plus outdoor skating at the downtown rink. And don’t forget to grab a winterJAM special coffee at participating downtown Courtenay business and vote for your favourite. You could win a prize! Business iclude The Hub, Zocalo Cafe, the Broken Spoke, the Union Street Grotto, Games and Grounds, Cardero’s, Hot Chocolates and Mudsharks. (Photos courtesy Economic Development Society)

Join co-authors Judy Hagen and Catherine Siba as they sign copies of their new book, Watershed Moments: A Pictorial History of Courtenay and District (Harbour Publishing, $34.95; cowritten with Christine Dickinson and Deborah Griffiths). The signing will take place at Courtenay Costco Wholesale (588 Crown Isle Blvd, Courtenay) on Saturday, January 30 from 1:00pm - 3:00pm. The Comox Valley on Vancouver Island is home to a spectacular watershed: the culmination of snowcap and glacier-fed rivers that ﬂow into the Courtenay River and out onto one of the richest estuaries on the West Coast. Along with the long history of K’ómoks First Nation inhabitation, the community of Courtenay and the surrounding regions have been settled by a variety of people from different cultures

and nations. The watershed geography encapsulates these groups’ diverse relationships with the region, in industries such as ﬁshing, logging and canning, and in their traditions and everyday lives. In Watershed Moments, the Courtenay and District Museum opens its vast collection of historical photographs, glass plate negatives and other ephemera, much of which has never before been available to public viewing. Spanning from the late 1800s to the modern era, here are scenes of K’ómoks village life, boating parties, family celebrations, agricultural events and economic activities. This rich visual depiction of the region and its development is complemented by lively text, drawing heavily on the museum’s extensive holdings of primary source material.

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Greg Bush

Dream team combo this Saturday at Little Red Church for Bates jazz series

The Greg Bush Sextet is a “Musical Dream Team” featuring exceptional area musicians making their debut performance as a group, this Saturday Jan 30 at The Little Red Church. This finely tuned 6 piece combo promises to deliver an evening of musical excellence with high powered and audience friendly compositions. Leading the combo on Trumpet, Greg Bush is known locally for conducting the Georgia Strait Big Band. Greg is a Professor of Jazz studies at Vancouver Island University and holds a Masters degree in Jazz Performance from McGill University. On Alto Sax and Soprano Sax is Claudio Fontinato. A truly fine musician and exciting player, Claudio is an alumnus of the Berklee College of Music. On Tenor Sax is Dan Craven, recipient of the 2001 Prime Minsters award for teaching excellence. On Bass is John Hyde, an elite bassist and musician in every respect and first call session player. On Keyboard is Vagn Moore, currently in 3rd year Jazz studies at Vancouver Island Univesity and a fixture in the Nanaimo Jazz scene. Drummer Alicia Murray, has a music degree from Capilano University. The “Bates Beach Farm Music Series” is a family friendly venue and made possible by the generous financial support of the Obal Family (Grace, Mike & Ben), owners of the Bates Beach Farm. This year’s by-donation concession beneficiary is the Comox Valley Child Development Association. Sunwest RV matches all net profits raised at the concession. Doors open at 7:00 performance begins at 7:30. Tickets at the Door $12 with advance tickets $10 and available at Bop City Courtenay and Red Carpet Boutique in Comox.

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 29, 2016

Don’t miss the Best of the Fest After clocking hundreds of hours watching a variety of documentary films, the programmers for the 25th World Community Film Festival, held Feb. 5 and Feb. 6 in downtown Courtenay, have chosen a diverse and dynamic programme that is bound to provoke and inspire festival goers. Here are a few favourite picks from Saturday’s film line-up: A favourite film by programmer, Ardith Chambers, is Academy Award nominee, Facing Fear - the story of a neo-Nazi Texan skinhead who nearly killed a gay man. Twenty-six years later the two meet and go through a forgiveness process and eventually form a strong friendship. “I was moved by their transformation,” says Chambers, “And how they learned to view each other in a positive light.” 12:30pm, Florence Filberg Rotary Room. Janet Fairbanks favours

Billy Bragg in a scene from Following the Ninth: In the Footsteps of Beethoven’s Final Symphony

two ﬁlms about resilience. Circus Without Borders is the story of two friends and talented acrobats who bring hope and change to their struggling communities in the Canadian Arctic and in Guinea, West Africa through circus. 1:40pm Sid Williams Theatre. Lowdown Tracks cap-

tures the music and stories of ﬁve people who are homeless or living in the margins in Toronto. Fairbanks says “it’s no wonder this inspiring ﬁlm was one of the top audience choices at the Hot Docs Film Festival in 2015”. 4:20pm, Sid Williams Theatre. Programmer, Gordon

Darby, recommends Following the Ninth: In the Footsteps of Beethoven’s Final Symphony. Filmed on 5 continents and in 12 countries, Following The Ninth is the story of people whose lives have been transformed, repaired and healed by Beethoven’s ﬁnal symphony, Ode to Joy. Part road trip, part adven-

ture, Following The Ninth is a story about the power of music and human resilience. Filmmaker, Kerry Candaele, from Los Angeles will be in attendence. 1:10pm Sid Williams Theatre. In addition to these films, opening and closing night films are always programmer favourites. Plan your filmfest experience by reading the film schedule online: www.worldcommunity.ca Tickets are now on sale at the Sid Williams Theater Box Office. (250-3382430 or toll free 1-866898-8499) or order online www.sidwilliamstheatre. com Festival weekend pass is $35. Opening night Friday - $14, Saturday (including evening) - $25, Sat night $12, Youth under 20 - $3. Some low income passes are also available. The World Community Film Festival is a project of the World Community Development Education Society.

Larry Ayre brings his combo to the jazz society After four wonderful January concerts, the Georgia Straight Jazz Society continues with “The Larry Ayre Blues Trio +1” on Thursday, February 4th. Although Larry is no stranger to music aﬁcionados, musicians and his many students, this is his debut Jazz Society performance with his own ensemble at the Avalanche Bar and Grill, as part of the Thursday Night Jazz season. “Blues With A Feeling, That’s What I Have Today,” sang Walter Jacobs in his classic post-war Chicago blues song. “Little” Walter was arguably the best blues harmonica player of his era, and his innovative style is said to have developed from his efforts to copy the jazz saxophonists of the 1940s, like Lester Young, Ben Webster and Coleman Hawkins. Blues and Jazz styles are closely interwoven, and learning to play the blues form has always been an indispensable jumping off point to learn how to improvise. In many instances the two styles share a common melodic vocabulary, and they always have shared the same rhythms. That said, do not expect to hear a lot of slow moaning “My baby done left

Larry Ayre and his blues trio (+1) at the jazz society next week

Mystery book signing On Saturday, Jan. 30th at 1 p.m., Diana Stevan of Campbell River, will be signing her novel, A CRY FROM THE DEEP, at Laughing Oyster Bookstore in Courtenay. This romantic mystery has been a bestseller at Coho Books and Save-On in Campbell River. Diana has worked as a family therapist, teacher, writer broadcaster for CBC television’s Sports Journal, professional model, and actress, but her big dream was always to write a novel. The seed for A CRY

FROM THE DEEP was planted in 1999, when she and a fellow writer attempted to write a screenplay about a woman in the past connected to one in the present. Set in Provence, Manhattan, and Ireland, this romantic mystery and adventure exposes not only two women’s longings, but also the beauty of the deep, where buried treasures tempt salvagers to break the law. You can also visit Diana at http://www.dianastevan. com

me” blues songs from this group. While Duke Ellington’s “Mood Indigo” is on the set list, Larry Ayre has always favoured up tempo jump and swing tempos. The group will play numbers such as Louis Jordan’s “I Want you to be my Baby” and Louis Prima’s “Jump Jive and Wail”, as well as some humourous originals like “I Hear the Couch Calling Me”, an ode to napping written by Larry’s wife, award winning songwriter Marki Nickerson. Larry is an accomplished guitarist and music teacher who has been performing in the Comox Valley for over 25 years. Born in Montreal, he learned the basics of jazz guitar playing while attending the York University Jazz program in Toronto during the late 1970s. He lived in Vancouver for a decade, playing many gigs in different styles and honing his musical skills on guitar, bass and harmonica. Larry moved to the Comox Valley in 1990. He was leader of “The Larry Ho Blues Show” and then went

on to lead “Larry Ho’s Jive Five.” As “2Jive” Marki and Larry went on to produce an EP of original material. You can hear some of their songs on Larry’s website www.larryayreguitarist.com. Joining the Trio as a special guest for this gig is renowned saxman Darryl “Spider” Webb on tenor and alto horns. Darryl is another former Montrealer who played his ﬁrst gig there at the age of twelve. Since then he has enjoyed a long and successful career wailing on his saxophones at countless gigs in both Canada and the United States. Greg Hill on drums and John Hyde on bass will complete the rhythm section on this evening. Greg hosted a popular jazz jam in Campbell River at the Willows pub for many years, playing with “The Blue Monks.” John Hyde is an extremely accomplished acoustic bassist who needs little introduction to the Comox Valley jazz audience. Show time is 7:30 pm. Admission is $10 for members, $12 for non-members.

36 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 29, 2016

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