Comox Valley Echo, February 19, 2016

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VOL. 22, NO. 8

COMMUNITY

NEWS

44. Heritage

24. Wounded

Faire day in Cumberland

Warriors on the run next week

Pink Shirt Day Wednesday February 24

VI BIKE TRAIL READY TO GO.04

PAGE 7

PAGES 19-22

ON THE

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MONEY MATTERS PAGES 41 & 42

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.COURTENAY,BC FEBRUARY 19, 2016

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Comox Valley Weather Friday Rain. Windy.

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Courtenay Spring Social promises good fun for a cause

Judy and Bruce Wing will perform at the Spring Social

The Centennial year may be over, but Courtenay’s Centennial Committee is planning one more big bash – with fundraising going to a cause that will pay dividends to local youth projects for years to come.

The Courtenay Spring Social on Friday, March 18 takes place at the Florence Filberg Centre in the Upstairs Conference Hall.

Doors open at 6:30 pm, with a buffet-style chili dinner starting at 7:00 pm.

Tickets are $25, with proceeds going toward youth projects in the Comox Val-

ley through the Centennial Legacy Fund.

Centennial Committee member Rod Hunter said the event is expected to be popular.

“We’re bringing the concept of a ‘Manitoba Social’ to the Comox Valley,” said Hunter.

“It’s going to be a fun and casual get-together, with buffet style chili and buns.

We’ve been getting a huge response to this event already, with people wanting tickets, or to help out or donate prizes.

“The spirit of the Centen-

nial carries on, we’re really excited and it’s going to be a great event.”

The event will feature live performances by local favourites Bruce & Judy Wing and Reunion. Raffle prize draws will include a chance to win Westjet flights.

Tickets are now available at the Courtenay Recreation Florence Filberg Centre, Lewis Centre, Courtenay City Hall, and Billy D’s Pub. For more information, call City of Courtenay Recreation and Cultural Services at 250-334-4441 or visit www.courtenay.ca/100

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JFEBRUARY 19, 2016

Medical pot grows allowed on ALR land Courtenay has to change its bylaw to allow licensed marijuana grows

BY DEBRA MARTIN Echo Staff

You can protest all you want at a public hearing into allowing medical marijuana to be grown on Agricultural Land Reserve properties within Courtenay boundaries.

It just won’t do you any good.

The City has to allow federally licensed medical marijuana operations as a permitted grow use on ALR property.

They’re now trying to get their bylaw to conform to a directive from the provincial government.

The city had previously passed a bylaw to prohibit medical marijuana grow operations anywhere in the city. But there was a lack of clarity at that time concerning ALR uses.

That lack of clarity has now been resolved.

While the city has no say on the farm use, they do still have some regulatory powers, and will require a 30 metre setback of any building used for growing the pot.

Mayor Larry Jangula said sometimes the city’s

ALR land is interwoven closely with residential land.

Director of Development Services Ian Buck said the city hasn’t received any requests yet for these legal grow operations.

And, he noted, he had heard the large medical marijuana facility near Nanaimo was struggling financially.

The legislation concerning marijuana is still evolving, Buck said.

“Dispensaries are a continuing issue … Our position at this time is not to grant a business licence.”

City staff has spent considerable time consulting with staff from adjacent municipalities and regional districts as to appropriate and consistent land use bylaws to control these grow operations.

Hence the adoption of the 30-metre setback from property lines as recommended by the Ministry of Agriculture.

The ban still remains on medical marijuana being grown on non-ALR land.

While federal legislation authorizes such opera-

tions, local governments retain the power to prohibit them through zoning regulations.

Council gave first and second readings Monday night to the zoning amendment bylaw to al-

low the ALR use.

A public hearing was set for March 7 at 5 pm in city hall council chambers.

“I’ll be fascinated to see who shows up,” said Councillor Doug Hillian.

3

Cancer Society Open House will introduce new staff The Canadian Cancer Society is pleased to announce that Nicole Minions has joined their staff team working out of the Courtenay office at 1509 Cliffe Avenue. Nicole is the Annual Giving Coordinator for Comox Valley and the North Island.

On Saturday February 20th the local office will host an Open House and invites all community members and Canadian Cancer Society volunteers to drop in and meet Nicole. Tyler Voight, Executive Director of Comox Valley Volunteer Centre, will attend and speak to the important role volunteers play in strong communities.

Although new to the Coordinator role with the Canadian Cancer Society, Nicole is not new to Comox Valley as she currently resides in the community with her husband and two small boys.

Nicole comes with a ten year background in the financial and banking industry including marketing and community events, in fact she previously supported Cops for Cancer Tour de Val-

ley in a previous position with Coast Capitol Credit Union. Nicole brings a passion for non-profit work and volunteering.

Nicole notes “I took a two year sabbatical from banking to become the Executive Director of a non-profit organization that provides housing, counselling and education programs to foster children and their families.

I have also worked parttime at a women’s shelter and most recently with special needs youth.”

Please join us in welcoming Nicole to her new role.

In addition to the client services that the Canadian Cancer Society provides, the Society also offers its volunteers and community members the opportunity to learn and develop leadership skills through a Workforce Leadership program.

Information about this learning opportunity and upcoming sessions will be available at the Open House.

Door prizes and refreshments will be available.

Everyone is welcome.

For more information call 250-338-5454.

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$3,499 Trish Kostian, Martin Kostian and Leo Boon are among those lobbying for a dedicated off-highway cycle route from Mill Bay to Comox, showcasing Vancouver Island’s shoreline. (John McKinley)

Cycling groups hope Island route would draw more tourists

BY JOHN McKINLEY Black Press

In La Belle Province, it is known as La Route Verte — the Greenway.

It’s a sprawling 5,300-kilometre collection of designated roads, cycle paths and bike lanes that the National Post called a “cultural, historic, environmental, and artistic tribute to Quebec,” and National Geographic proclaimed the world’s best cycle route.

It is also an economic generator, pumping an estimated $95.4 million into the Quebec economy annually, while attracting cycle tourists from around the globe to stay in local inns, eat local food and sightsee at local attractions.

It’s a success story some Vancouver Island cyclists want to see repeated here.

Members of the Greater Nanaimo Cycling Coalition and the Comox Valley Cycling Coalition have spent months mapping a cycle route from Mill Bay to Comox. It is now their goal to lobby provincial and local government to adopt the project and provide the seed money to turn dream into reality.

Backed by the B.C. Cycling Coalition, the group’s mission statement spells out its goals clearly: “The Inside Passage Bike Route will enable cycling tourists to safely and conveniently access hotels, stores, bakeries, pubs, restaurants, farms, wineries and tourist attractions thereby greatly enhancing their vacation experience and benefiting local businesses, the economy and increasing tax revenue for the provincial and federal governments.”

“Most of it is ready to roll,” Greater Nanaimo Cycling Coalition chairman Leo Boon said.

According to Boon, the route — which is designed to keep riders away from the highway and near the Island’s more picturesque seashores and fields — needs very little infrastructure work. Signage, some safety work at certain awkward intersections and corners, and a bit more attention to regular street-sweeping is about it.

“If we were talking 50 kilometres (of upgrades), I’d say we have a big problem, but most of it can be easily done,” he said.

(Continued on page 5)

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(Continued from page 4)

“There is no budget set. We are at that point in the project.”

The proposed route wends its way from the Mill Bay ferry terminal, along the bucolic backroads of Cowichan, Crofton and Chemainus. After a brief skip onto the highway at Ladysmith, it then meanders through pastoral Cedar and urban Nanaimo, before following the oceanside vistas of the old Island Highway from Parksville to Comox, then finally concluding at the Powell River ferry terminal.

Boon foresees connections to cycle routes on the Sunshine Coast and the Saanich Peninsula as part of a greater “B.C. Greenway” that will allow users to experience Georgia Strait from both sides and link with cycle paths in Greater Victoria, the Lower Mainland and beyond.

The coalition’s next step is a push to market the idea to Vancouver Island communities.

With their support, Boon hopes to tap into funding available through economic development and cycling infrastructure grants in order to make the necessary route improvements.

The final step will be the marketing of the route through dedicated maps and various tourism information outlets.

More information is available at http:// www.bccc.bc.ca/inside_passage_bike_route. john.mckinley@blackpress.ca

Courtenay Mayor Larry Jangula thanks Comox Valley MLA Don McRae (right) for role in obtaining gas tax funding

City lands funding for ‘Complete Streets’

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff A Courtenay project has threaded a long and winding road but it did reach one of its goals today (Friday, Feb. 12).

A significant funding grant of $3.253 million was awarded to the City of Courtenay to construct a Complete Streets Pilot Project on a section of 5th Street, the western gateway to the city’s historic downtown core.

This has been a long-standing project that was initiated by the city’s former council.

Mayor Larry Jangula made the announcement on Friday morning at City Hall. He is excited to see the ambitious initiative finally coming into fruition.

“It is extremely significant,” said Jangula. “We have talked about it for a long time. Quite frankly there’s a lot of confusion in the minds of the public and other people and even some elec-

tive people on what a complete street actually looks like, how it functions and what will be different on this street from other streets. It will be great example to see how it will work and I know it will work.”

The project will include a substantial overhaul of above-ground and belowground infrastructure on 5th Street between Fitzgerald and Menzies Avenues.

(Continued on page 6)

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.COURTENAY,BC FEBRUARY 19, 2016

Police Blotter Comox Valley RCMP responded to the following incidents between Feb. 9 and Feb. 15:

Courtenay Fire Rescue had to cut one of the occupants out of this car which crashed into a metal utility pole on Lerwick Road on Thursday night last week. Both people in the car were taken to hospital. (Photo by Jay Harker)

(Continued from page 5)

Its completion will significantly improve walking and cycling routes, a key factor in encouraging alternate modes of transport in the city.

Along with new trees and other landscaping, other proposed improvements include innovative stormwater management through the installation of rain gardens throughout the corridor.

“This pilot project is going to be a showcase, not just for our community, but for any community looking to incorporate ‘complete street’ principles in their road construction projects,” said Jangula.

One hundred per cent of eligible costs will be covered by the federal Gas Tax Fund, under the local

roads, bridges and active transportation category.

Jangula said conceptual design work is underway and construction is estimated to be completed by September 2018.

This project is one of the 57 projects that are being funded through the Strategic Priorities Fund under the Federal Gas Tax Fund for 2016.

The Union of BC Municipalities administers the Federal Gas Tax Fund in British Columbia in partnership with the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia.

“This project will not only rehabilitate one of Courtenay’s main roads by adding new bike lanes and sidewalks to make it safer, but it will also encourage more residents to use active transportation and

reduce emissions,” said Comox Valley MLA, Don McRae, who was present during the announcement of the funding on Friday morning at City Hall.

Councillor David Frisch, who is a strong advocate of the establishment of bicycle lane infrastructure in the city, is looking forward to the completion of this project.

“I am really excited that when we’re building the street; we’re going to be looking at everyone from age 80t all the way down to age eight and make it complete for all of them and not just for people who own cars,” said Frisch. “We hope that when they see it, they will see the benefits of it.

“When more people are able to travel in different ways, it really does free up the streets so cars can

travel more freely. Also kids on bikes and seniors on scooters can travel freely, It’s all about that.”

■ While conducting patrols in Courtenay, during the early morning hours of February 9th, a Comox Valley RCMP constable conducted a traffic stop. It was determined the driver had consumed alcohol before driving. The driver was issued a 3-day immediate roadside prohibition and the vehicle was impounded for 3 days.

(2016-1482) ■ While conducting speed enforcement on Highway 19 near Piercy Rd, on February 9th, a vehicle was stopped for travelling 142 Km/h in the 90 km/h zone. The driver was found to be a prohibited driver and was arrested for driving while prohibited then released on court documents for a future court date. The driver was also issued an excessive speed violation ticket and the vehicle was impounded. (2016-1514) ■ On February 10th, the Comox Valley RCMP were advised of a business break, enter and theft on the 2700 block of Dun-

smuir Ave. Investigation revealed that an unknown person(s) had entered the business and damaged the till, taking change. If you have any information in regards to this break, enter and theft, please contact the Comox Valley RCMP at 250-338-1321 or Comox Valley Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222TIPS (8477) (2016-1536) ■ During the early morning hours of February 12th, a vehicle caught the attention of a Comox Valley RCMP Constable.

It was not the driving habits of the vehicle operator that brought this attention to the vehicle, rather the fact the vehicle was completely missing one rear tire. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver was found to have been operating the vehicle while under the influence of marijuana. The driver was issued a 24 hour driving prohibition and the vehicle was impounded.

(2016-1604) ■ The Comox Valley RCMP were advised of a hit and run collision on February 12th, in the early morning hours.

(Continued on page 8)

Comox Valley Open House Date: Saturday February 20th 2016 Address: 1509 Cliffe Ave, Courtenay Time: 9:30 am – 11:30 am Presentation: 10 am Join us in welcoming newest staff member Nicole Minions. Nicole lives in the Comox Valley with her husband and two small boys. She has worked in the financial industry for the past 10 years and is past executive director of a Vancouver charity. Nicole will work out of our Courtenay office as the North Island Community Giving Coordinator.

Tyler Voigt, Executive Director of Volunteer Comox Valley, will speak to the 2016 National Volunteer week theme ‘Volunteers are the Roots of Strong Communities’.

Learn about local volunteer opportunities with the Canadian Cancer Society in Comox Valley. Everyone is welcome!

Light refreshments will be provided

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 19, 2016

7

JOIN THE MOVEMENT AGAINST BULLYING ON FEBRUARY 24 RECOGNIZING CYBERBULLYING Before social media became so prevalent, instances of bullying were somewhat easy to recognize. However, with a good majority of children now engaged in digital networking and social media, bullying may not end with the ringing of the school bell, and evidence of bullying may not be so readily apparent.

According to Cyberbullying statistics from the i-SAFE foundation, more than half of adolescents and teens have been bullied online, and about the same number have engaged in cyberbullying. More than 80 percent of teens use a mobile phone regularly, making it the most popular form of technology and a common medium for r e p e a t e d cyberbullying.

Cyberbullying takes place through electronic technology and differs from traditional forms of bullying. Cyberbullying can occur via text messaging, blogging, updates to social media sites and/or phone conversations. What makes cyberbullying more difficult to detect and remedy than traditional bullying is that sometimes this type of bullying is veiled in secrecy.

Those who engage in cyberbullying can create aliases and accounts under false names, allowing them to covertly engage

in bullying behavior. As a result, tracking down bullies can be challenging.

Although cyberbullying is on the rise, there are some things that parents and children can do to help put a stop to such unfortunate instances. * Parents who feel their child is not emotionally ready for the responsibility of a digital device can hold back on purchasing a smartphone or choose one with very limited features. Some schools set strict limits on phone usage at school, and children who go only from school to home and vice versa may not have the need for an “emergency phone” that can open up a window for trouble. * Adolescents and teens should feel comfortable talking with their parents without the fear of reprimand. Otherwise, they may hide instances of cyberbullying or not know how to broach sensitive topics like bullying. Parents can engage in conversation with their children often and stress that the doors of communication are always open. * Teens should be made aware that cyberbullying is a very real occurrence and is not just other kids “having fun” or “joking.” If

Pink Shirt Day is Wednesday Feb 24th Please think about supporting Comox Valley Transition and Dawn to Dawn's "Coldest Night of the Year" walk this Saturday, February 20.

behavior is repetitive and hurtful, it should be made public and addressed. * Parents can monitor and limit their children’s personal accounts. Some smartphone and tablet applications can be mirrored on the main account, enabling parents to see incoming text or video messages. * A laptop or desktop computer should be placed in a shared space so that usage can be monitored. Parents can restrict tablet or smartphone usage to public areas. * When online, children should be advised not to share personal information. Social media sites may be used by bullies to gather sensitive information about a person that can be used against them at a later time.

Children should be urged to keep passwords secret and to never give information such as birthdays, phone numbers and addresses to people who aren’t close friends. Friend lists should be restricted to only those people students interact with frequently to minimize the chance for bullying or other inappropriate behavior. * Teens who have been bullied can keep evidence of the bullying and may benefit from talking with a counselor.

Cyberbullying is a growing concern for educators and parents and has far-reaching implications. Getting smart about this phenomenon can help staunch new cases of online bullying.

Adults should remain diligent in monitoring what kids are doing online.

Bullying can take place through digital devices, such as mobile phones.

Coldest Nite Walk Join your family, friends, co-workers in raising funds to end homelessness and provide much need supports to the homeless, hungry and hurting in our community by walking on Feb20th

To Register and pledge now at to https://coldestnightoftheyear.org/location/comoxvalley

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.COURTENAY,BC FEBRUARY 19, 2016

(Continued from page 6)

strictions. (2016-1684)

While parked on the 90th block of 5th St, in Courtenay, a vehicle, described as a black Chevy Pickup, had backed into a parked car. The driver did have a discussion with the car’s owner, but left without exchanging the appropriate information.

If you have any information regarding this hit and run, please contact the Comox Valley RCMP at 250-338-1321 or Comox Valley Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) (2016-1603)

■ On February 14th, the Comox Valley RCMP were called in regards to a family disturbance that occurred near the Mount Washington Lodge at approximately 3:50 pm. The Comox Valley RCMP are requesting that if anyone witnessed this event, and can provide any information, such as a vehicle plate number, vehicle description, or knows the identity of those involved, please contact Cst LAURIAULT at 250-338-1321, or, if you’d like to stay anonymous, call Comox Valley Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) and quote Comox Valley RCMP file number 2016-1700.

■ While investigating an occurrence in Black Creek, early in the morning of February 13th, a traffic stop was conducted on a vehicle. Investigation revealed that the driver had been operating the vehicle under the influence of alcohol. The driver was served with a 90-day Immediate Roadside Suspension and the vehicle was impounded for 30 days. (2016-1647) ■ While making patrols in Courtenay, on February 13th, a vehicle check was conducted by a Comox Valley RCMP Constable. It was determined that the driver had been operating the vehicle under the influence of alcohol. The driver was served a 90-day Immediate Roadside suspension and the vehicle was impounded for 30 days. (2016-1648)

A Buddy Bench ROYSTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL recently installed a buddy bench on behalf of their PAC and The Fetzner Family in memory of Ron Bannerman, retired principal of Royston Elementary. When a student sits on this bench it acts as a signal to other students to come over and ask the lone student to play with them. The concrete bench was constructed by students at the Sandwick Alternate School, School District #71. Pictured are retired principal, Pelka Wiltshire with Royston Elementary students.

■ A Comox Valley RCMP constable conducted a traffic stop in the early morning hours of February 14th. The traffic stop resulted in an impaired driving investigation. The driver refused to provide a breath sample; as such, the class 7 driver was served a 90-day Immediate Roadside Prohibition and the vehicle was impounded for 30 days. The driver was also issued a violation ticket for drive contrary to re-

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■ On the evening of February 15th, the Comox Valley RCMP were advised of a single vehicle motor vehicle collision on Highway 19A, near Graham road. An impaired driving investigation was conducted. The driver was issued a 90-day driving prohibition and the vehicle was impounded for 30 days, as the driver refused to provide a breath sample. (2016-1749)

■ The Comox Valley RCMP are still investigating a stolen vehicle that was reported on January 25th, and is requesting the public’s assistance. 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. It is believed that this vehicle may be parked in the Cumberland or Comox Lake area.

If you have seen where this vehicle is parked, please contact the Comox Valley RCMP at 250-338-1321 or Comox Valley Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) (2016-920)

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JFEBRUARY 19, 2016

Two non-profit groups to kick start homelessness initiative

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff

Two housing initiatives in the Comox Valley Coalition to End Homelessness’ five-year action plan will kick start the newly established Comox Valley homelessness support service.

The Comox Valley Transition Society and the Comox Valley Recovery Centre Society will be the first non-profit organizations to receive funding from the service that is geared towards addressing homelessness in the valley.

The CVTS will receive $80,000 to create two transitional housing units at its Amethyst House located at 280 2nd Street, Courtenay, while $70,000 will be allocated to the CVRC to establish four transitional housing spaces on its existing property at 641 Menzies Avenue, Courtenay.

The CVRD homelessness support service is fully funded by requisitions totaling $165,000 a year.

Around $73,972 is generated from electoral area participants and

$91,028 comes from ratepayers from the City of Courtenay and Village of Cumberland.

Comox Valley Transition Society is a non-profit society that operates a myriad of services that include the Lilli House, Amethyst House Substance Use Recovery Program for Women, Homelessness Prevention Program and many others.

The society has identified the need for a range of housing options such as transitional housing, supportive housing and affordable housing for single women and women with children.

The Lilli House it operates is for 30-day stays only. That has not been strictly adhered to. Most of the women that took refuge there stayed beyond 30 days to as much as over 80 days. The society indicated this is happening because there is nowhere else for them to go.

The CVTS, through its Homelessness Prevention Program, is also providing 16 women with rent supplements funded by BC Housing.

They are also supporting 47 other women at extreme risk of homeless-

ness.

The CVTS plans to use the homelessness funds to develop two independent living transitional housing units inside Amethyst House, which has unoccupied space available.

It’s an ideal location because there will be ample supervision and support for future occupants of the units as Amethyst is staffed 24 hours daily.

The potential residents of the two units, which will be separate from other programs in the building, will be obligated to pay rent and cover all other personal expenses. They will be working, at school or volunteering and accessing community supports that will help them live independently. The length of stay will be for a maximum of two years.

The housing units will feature living and sleeping space as well as be fully equipped with bathroom and kitchen amenities.

The Comox Valley Recovery Centre Society provides residential recovery and rehabilitation to chemically dependent adult men.

(Continued on page 10)

Dogwood Initiative would like a tougher tree bylaw with more ‘canopy’ in the city

BY DEBRA MARTIN Echo Staff The Dogwood Initiative, a Victoria-based environmental group, wants Courtenay to start tackling climate change.

David Mills, a Courtenay-based organizer with the group, brought a room full of supporters to city council Monday night to ask that action be taken on a revised tree bylaw.

That’s for starters. Later on the group would like to see property tax and bylaw changes that encourage new and support existing local food production, and the imposition of a carbon tax at the district level to fund non-motorized transportation networks.

Courtenay has had a tree bylaw

for many years. It’s already in the process of being reviewed.

One of the changes to the bylaw being looked at is a tree reserve fund. In cases where developers can’t possibly save a tree or trees, money could be paid instead into the fund to pay for tree planting elsewhere.

The Dogwood Initiative supporters would like to see the city’s tree “canopy” increased to 45 per cent from the current 37 per cent through an “aggressive” tree bylaw.

In fact, they’d like to see a 45 per cent canopy coverage for the entire region.

“We think it’s achievable,” said Mills.

Trees are considered a carbon sequestration project in that they

Open 11-3 Every Day • 250-337-1941

remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Mills said trees also slow down urban sprawl, and increase the livability factor of a municipality.

Councillor Manno Theos said the city already has a tree bylaw in place that “we’re very proud of … Courtenay has done a stand-up job in protecting trees.”

Mayor Larry Jangula noted that the city has “the most aggressive tree bylaw in the Valley” and it’s been done for many years.

“It’s not something new,” he said.

Director of Development Services Ian Buck said city staff are looking at all the options during the review of the tree bylaw. He expects some recommendations later this spring or by early summer.

General Manager Rod McLean, is pleased to announce that Graham Paul has been named Top Salesperson for the January.

His commitment to top-notch customer service, combined with his advanced product knowledge skills, places him in the top tier of his profession. Graham would like to thank his customers for making January such an outstanding month.

9

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Myths About Dental Implants Dear Doctors - I am considering dental implants. My existing denture wobbles, is embarrassing, and frankly I'm ready to take the plunge. My big concern is pain. I've always been frightened of any dental treatment, which is one reason I let my natural teeth go. I don't want to commit to something I can't handle.

Answer - There are many myths about dental

implants. The first one concerns pain. What is surprising to many patients is that dental implants are often no more uncomfortable or painful than any normal dental procedure such as extractions. We as a profession have had significant advances in both training and medications available. Most of our patients don't even use the painkillers we prescribe for them for the 'just in case' situation. At a course, we overheard a woman who had received 3 implants in one session speaking to her family outside the building and explaining how simple it was. Her husband actually said 'What do you mean – it doesn't hurt?' Her dentist had used oral sedation only – consisting of a pill the night before and one before the surgery to keep things comfortable. Every case is different, but this is not a unique situation. Some clinics may use IV Sedation instead. Pain is not something our patients tell us they experience, any more than any normal dental procedure.

Continuing with myths – one of the preconceptions we hear about often is that dental implants are expensive. One has to look at overall costs incurred for any procedure. Plus, the longevity of that procedure should be taken into consideration. Dental insurance plans frequently cover work that requires periodic replacement, such as bridges or dentures.

When you consider the cost of relining the dentures, or the cost of replacing bridges – the overall investment of dental implants makes a lot more sense.

You can have what is regarded as the highest standard of tooth replacement and literally pay no more for it in the long run.

We must state that dental implants are not the perfect option for every situation and it is possible for the odd implant to fail especially on patients with increased risk factors like smoking. Sometimes, and we see this most frequently with 'resort dentistry' – the implant is placed in insufficient bone. It's not unlike a fence post that is buried into the ground in too shallow a posthole. Proper anchoring is necessary, for both the fence as well as for dental implants. Although we perform implant dentistry often – our primary task is to analyze a prospective patient's mouth to determine carefully whether or not implants are right for them.

Rest assured that once you decide to go ahead with implants, pain should not be a major hurdle.

Call the Dental Hotline at 1-800-617-2936 and schedule a FREE implant information session.

Acreview Dental 750 Comox Road, Courtenay, BC Graham Paul

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

10

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.COURTENAY,BC FEBRUARY 19, 2016

Cost to prepare watershed protection plan for Comox Lake doubles

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff The Comox Valley Regional District watershed protection plan for Comox Lake is almost complete.

Marc Rutten, general manager of engineering services, said they will be presenting the final draft

with all its recommendation to the Comox Valley Water Committee some time next month.

This document has been developed since 2014. The CVRD hired Aqua-Tex Scientific Consulting to perform the task which at the time was estimated to cost around $74,460.

(Continued from page 9) It supports four community stabilization beds in partnership with St. Joseph’s Hospital and Island Health. It is staffed 24-hours daily and open 365 days per year.

The CVRC indicated that upon completion of its recovery programs, 65 per cent of its clients have no home to return to. It’s further impacted by the lack of a safe affordable rental pool in the community.

As well, 20 per cent are at risk of being homeless upon discharge because the homes they are returning to are unsafe due to residents using chemicals where they live.

The CVRC plans to provide after care housing based on a room and board model. The goal is to help clients establish a stable foundation that will lead to an independent lifestyle within the community.

The plan is to build a four bedroom modular unit at the centre’s eight acre property. It will feature two bathrooms, dining room, living room, kitchen and

Spin for a

During the course of the project, the scope of work changed drastically when Vancouver Island Health Authority rescinded the filtration deferral it granted the CVRD for the Comox Valley water system in 2014. The extended water boil advisories late that year and early 2015

laundry room.

Potential clients are expected to be clean and sober adult men 19 years and over. They must be employed, at school or doing volunteer work and have a desire to progress towards independent living. They will also pay rent.

There are no personnel costs associated with the new homelessness service but in its five-year financial plan, a repayment of around $5,000 has been included to pay for the referendum that was held to seek approval for the service.

A reserve fund has also been established and for 2016 will have savings of $6,296 for future expenditures.

Courtenay director Bob Wells is pleased to see the bulk of the funds go towards subsidizing the actual creation of much needed affordable housing.

“It’s quite exciting to see this getting its legs and moving forward,” said Wells.

“The other thing I’d like to highlight is those management costs, we’re talking about around $160,000 and only a few thousand dollars is really being used for management. So I am really excited and hopeful to see what happens from this.”

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due to high water turbidity was the main reason VIHA amended the conditions of the CVRD water permit.

The CVRD is now being required to install a filtration plant in order to control source water turbidity.

The change in the scope of work resulted in several additional watershed advisory group meetings to evaluate the impact on watershed protection planning. As well, meetings with primary land owners and supplementary risk

assessment revisions and review work were held.

The additional work load doubled the cost of the original contract for the WPP from $74,460 to $115,040. The CVRD delegation of purchasing authority bylaw requires that all purchases in excess of $100,000 must be authorized by the board.

Staff asked the Comox Valley Water Committee to endorse its recommendation to approve the additional costs for the preparation of the WPP.

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The WPP has been developed in a collaborative approach involving many stakeholders that have an interest in the watershed.

Comox director Ken Grant asked how in-depth the report is going to be.

“The Watershed Protection Plan itself is a very detailed report,” said Rutten. “In terms of implementing a turbidity monitoring program, the plan speaks to that in some pretty good detail.

(Continued on page 14)

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 19, 2016

11

ECHO

OPINIONS

LETTERS

Valley is divided and backward When will we learn?

Comox Valley is one of the most beautiful parts of the world and yet it remains divided and backward.

I remember with Pride when we passed the homeless plan as the first real regional effort where we would all work together. We approved 500,000 dollars , shared by everyone. Now we have still not accomplished much except to approve more money with no results!

I remember when we approved the discovery center to be built in Cumberland as a regional effort, making Cumberland a true partner in the valley , and now Cumberland is wanting to go their own way in economic development. We need to fix problems not abandon them.

I remember when we agreed to look at cooperation even if not amalgamation. We had an engineering plan created at some cost for one water system to serve the whole valley with safe drinking water for the long term.

I sadly also remember Cumberland Council removing me as Regional district chair because I “thought too regional”.

I worked on regional services which would make practical sense rather than the current multiple services such as water and sewer.

Now the RD is studying water provision again, Cumberland is studying water system again as they are determined to “ manage our own system as we have

for the past 60 years”.

The development approval process has all but ceased , so we do not create well paid jobs that pay mortgages and will be forever a retirement community where we raise children to grow up and move away for a job.

A healthy economy must have an injection of new money to be vibrant. We seem to ignore that the world is changing and the population growing. We must wake up and adapt to the changes around us.

We need to start with our tired infrastructure and act as one jurisdiction to seek Government assistance in rebuilding our sewer, water, roads, and other systems otherwise we will never compete with the larger centers for funding.

Fred Bates Cumberland

OFFENSIVE QUOTE Re: Courtenay Little Theatre features comedy reading.

Comedy or bad taste?

Woody Allen in “Play it Again Sam” wrote: “Dames are simple. I never met one who didn’t understand a slap in the mouth or a slug from a 45.” It is astounding that this repugnant material was chosen by the Little Theatre in the first place, and then that the papers should promote it.

When young men and boys see this sort of thing the violence is perpetuated. That attitude wasn’t funny in the 70s and to condone it in this day and age as an “entertaining eve-

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ning” is beyond belief.

On the opposite page you have a story about the murdered and abused women!

Greta Jansen Courtenay

SINCERE APOLOGY I am writing on behalf of Courtenay Little Theatre, in response to concerns expressed by people who took offence at the use of an admittedly poorly chosen quote in an article about the play reading of “Play It Again, Sam” which took place at our rehearsal space on Tues. Feb. 16th.

I was able to meet personally with Jennifer, Greta, Doreen, and Jack outside of the play reading as they were handing out copies of their letters to the editor to audience members.

I apologized for the insensitivity I showed toward women in the community who have suffered abuse by not editing out the quote which caused concern in the article.

I explained that the play itself, ironically, rejects the objectification of women by such Humphrey Bogart type stereotypical characters. It was a poorly chosen quote out of context of the play.

We chatted amicably for quite some time and I believe that my apology was accepted. T hey declined my invitation to attend the reading but showed interest attending the next reading on March 15th, “A Murder of Crows”, directed by Debra

Wiens.

I spoke before the play reading to the audience, apologized again for any hurt caused, and asked that anyone who experienced discomfort during the reading talk to a Board member immediately.

The cast who read the parts were mostly in their 60s and 70s and it was very well received, with no subsequent concerns raised by the audience members.

The freewill donations at the door, received from the 60 people who attended, are being donated to the Comox Valley Transition Society.

Courtenay Little Theatre in no way promotes or condones violence against women, children, or any members of society. I apologize to any member of the community who was offended by the quote.

Thanks to the support of Comox Valley audiences, CLT has been able to use our talents to make donations to such groups as the CV Food Bank, Dawn to Dawn Society, Christmas Hamper Drive, and Sid Williams Theatre Society, among others.

We are now pleased to be able to make a donation to the CV Transition Society as part of our commitment to speak out against violence against women.

There are not two sides to this issue: we are on the same side and are grateful that this oversight was brought to our attention so that we could clarify our

position on this important subject.

Val Macdonald President Courtenay Little Theatre

COMATOSE VALLEY Further to my Letter to Ed. “Water, Water Everywhere” last month: There’s another very disturbing cost to our current Provincial government having washed of its hands of any and all government oversight of the Private Managed? Forest Lands here above us in the Valley upon election back in 2003.

What with having to deal with flood warnings and boil water alerts each and every winter now, it’s not only our guaranteed access to good clean water that’s been flushed down the toilet.

Recently, as it happened, I had the opportunity to chat with a Professor Emeritus of Environmental Studies who spent most of his career studying ungulates throughout northern B.C. Having retired to central Vancouver Island where he too gets to look out his back window over the hills scalped bare of 2nd growth forest by that charming corporate entity, TimberWest, I put it to him what his thoughts were on what had all gone down and especially up along the drainages feeding Comox Lake. Yes, he was darn well apprised of it all, and came across as very disgusted and angry to say the least, what with the wholesale slaughter of

barely mature 2nd growth timberlands along the river bottoms and sidehills.

But he had more to add on how this blitzing of the forest landscape majorly impacted wildlife. He pointed out, that yes indeed I was absolutely correct; the deer population have had to migrate into urban areas all along east coast of Island since they were no longer able to get through winter by feeding on lichens that only grew in mature forests. But, he also pointed out, then there’s the once numerous blue grouse that have all but disappeared and, for the very same reason: there’s virtually no habitat left to sustain them through the winter.

The professor then put it back to me, had I heard anything about how all the wild huckleberry that once thrived in the hills above the Comox Valley might be fast disappearing too? And he was especially curious to know what are our local environmental groups and ecologists have to say about that and are doing?

“Well,” I responded, “as far as I can figure, nothing. Basically they just keep their heads down; pulling up invasive species down on the estuary as far as I can figure.” That’s disgusting!!”

He replied. “Well,” I responded, “you know, this is the Comatose Valley over here; so very conflict adverse.”

Rick James Courtenay

12 FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 19, 2016

www.comoxvalleyecho.com

BEEFS & BOUQUETS

TOP 10 TIPS FOR DRIVING IN THE COMOX VALLEY: 10) Ignore the big red octagons with white lettering. They’re just a suggestion.

9) Drive 40km/h EVERYWHERE: through the 50km/h zones, through the school zones, through the stop signs (see tip 10).

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8) Stop at every deer you see. If you have any food in your car, get out and feed it.

7) When driving the old highway, once the road straightens and a double lane opens up, make sure you speed up so that no one can pass you. Don’t forget to brake back down to 40 once the double lane becomes single again (see tip 9).

6) Stop at green lights to let pedestrians cross.

5) Tailgate EVERYONE. The closer the better.

4) Signal only after you have completed your turn.

3) Come to random stops for no reason. Do not signal when you do this (see tip 4).

2) Merge only at the last minute. No need to shoulder check, it’ll all be fine (again, see tip 4).

1) Never dim your high beams at night, EVER. Signed: Crash-andBurn A “SUDSY” BOUQUET for Daniel at Nissan Courtenay car wash who kindly washed, vacuumed, and even dusted the dash on my X Trail this week.

Lots of smiles too.Nissan certainly finds capable young people to do this fine service that I’ve appreciated for these last

THE COMOX VALLEY’S FIRST AND BEST READER’S FORUM Email to: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com several years. Thanks to all of you, - B.B. ALSO, A VOTE OF THANKS to the chaps at Emterra for their tidness on their Friday rounds! Bravo for work well done!

THIS IS A HUGE BOUQUET to all the children who participated in my Spectacular Valentines Day. And mainly to their teacher Charlotte who with the kids brought so much cheer and love to me.

Also so much fun from all the wavers, in cars, bikes and walkers. To the people who brought flowers and last but certainly not least the Barbershop Quartet who came into my home to serenade me.

A huge thank you to all, it is such a joy to know people care. - ‘The Waving Grannie Tinney” BIG BOUQUET of red roses to Quality Foods Comox, Dairyland Foods,DeLuca Veale Investments and McElhanney Consulting Services for their contributions to the Stikers U15 Girls Volleyball (white) fund raising efforts.

KUDOS to those who decorated Comox downtown with hearts balloons, love, Valentine’s cards!

A BEEF to Courtenay City Council. We have all received our property assessments. We all know that our property taxes will go up again as they do year after year. Maybe this year, you could give the taxpayers a break for a change? It’s time

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you cut back on your spending. For one thing, no more bicycle lanes.

License the riders to pay for the existing ones and issue tickets to all that do not obey traffic laws.

Next, no more deals like the Curling Club fiasco.

Strange that this was treated as an emergency and was pushed through, yet the homeless situation had to go to referen-

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dum. And no more than the mayor and maybe one council member attending out of town conferences. Why shouid the taxpayers fund business trips that turn into family vacations. I can’t afford a vacation after I pay my taxes.

I HAVE A BEEF with the City of Courtenay. Why are we not getting a refund on our water charges? These boil water advisories are getting out of hand. I don’t have time to boil water. I have to go out and buy it. I hate paying for a service I do not receive. When will I receive my cheque?

BEEF TO FARMERS who discourage Trumpeter Swans. Three years ago the “Farquaharson” fields were covered with swans, last year fewer, and this year only 30 - 50.

WONDERFUL TO SEE up to 25 Bald Eagles daily in the tree tops around the K’omoks First Nation. Waiting for the herring!

MUSIC FOR HER EARS.

Another glamorous photo op for our premier as she smooched with Michael Buble et al as she announced a few million dollars for funding music programs for the select few. Where is the funding to restore all of the wonderful school music programs she and her government have decimated since 2000? How does she expect children to take advantage of the high-end scholarship if they haven’t had a chance to learn basics in music?

GAS MASKS FOR CHILDREN as diesel pickups drive by.

While you diesel pickup drivers are at it, please pass out gas masks to all pedestrians and cyclists as you drive by, especially if you have a heavy foot.

Oh yeah, if anyone is in their back yard, toss a few there too; the stink permeates sometimes 50 meters away. Not only does it stink, it’s carcinogenic.

A PELTING OF SNOWBALLS to the new decision makers at Mt. Washington for the terrible grooming that has been the norm throughout this snow season on the Nordic trails. Sure the groomer has broken down but let’s scrap it and get a new one! We finally get a season with great snow and then we can’t safely ski because of the terrible grooming or lack thereof on the trails.

And why can’t we get a groomer over the trails during the day on heavy snowfall occasions. Other hills seem to be able to re groom as needed! Come on new owners, let’s get this fixed before we lose the whole season!

DOZENS AND DOZENS OF ROSES to the ladies at Xpressions Hair Studio on Comox Ave. All of you are warm and welcoming and Michelle and Rebekah take the time and have the skill to give my son, daughter and myself wonderful cuts every time! I walk out feeling like a million bucks!

Thank-you, I am so happy to have found you!

I COULDN’T BELIEVE MY good fortune when I returned to Walmart to see if my bag was left there, and it was! Some-

run over two elementary school students who were crossing on a crosswalk at a three-way stop near their school which was immediately followed by the next person in line rolling through the stop sign! It’s out of control.

People need to be aware

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one had handed it in, but without leaving a name, I cannot thank them.

Please - my angel - will you let me do that? My no. is 250 334 4275 or email jennydar@telus.net.

A GIANT BOUQUET and continuous “wheels in motion” to the Masonic Lodge who provide free door to door transportation with volunteer drivers to take Comox Valley and surrounding area residents to Victoria that require cancer treatment.

Thanks to the Canadian Cancer Society for arranging this service for patients.

THE DRIVERS IN THIS TOWN are atrocious to the point that it’s almost beyond the realm of comprehension. It seems to me that there are two types of bad drivers here; Those who drive 15-20 km under the speed limit and who make frequent and unnecessary stops in the middle of the lane/ parking lot and then there are those who drive way too fast and swerve in and out of lanes without signaling and who run red lights. In the last two days I have been cut-off by drivers who have run stop signs TWICE! One of the drivers was quite apologetic but the other seemed completely ignorant of the fact that he just about ran over two people who were pushing their bikes across the crosswalk while cutting me off and nearly getting t-boned in the process. Last week I saw a driver just about

that when they get behind the wheel, they are in control of a thousand lbs or more of rubber and metal that is incredibly dangerous to themselves and others if not handled correctly. The craziest part, to me, is that, since young drivers face such lengthy training time (six months from when they pass their road test until they get their New Drivers License as well as another year and a half until their restrictions are lifted) it seems to be those from the age of 35 onward who are often at fault. As a parent of school aged children, I’m afraid of the potential consequences of someone else not paying attention.

I shouldn’t have to fear for my childrens safety when I send them off to school in the morning. I should know for a fact that I live in a community where the average person (Continued on page 13)

www.comoxvalleyecho.com

FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 19, 2016

13

BEEFS & BOUQUETS (Continued from page 12) has enough respect and common sense to know better than to blow through stop signs in a school zone at 60 km per hour. It shouldn’t take someone being involved in an accident to learn their lesson. This is common sense. - An angry Comox driver

BOUQUETS to those who want to buy Maple Lake from the Hancock group of investors who own the land in our watershed.

As do Timberwest. Some Pensioners in the Comox Valley receive pension

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income from local logging and timber sales. It’s a good thing to employ local loggers. There is a balance, but it seem that investor profits take priority over Comox Lake water quality and quantity. Stage 3 and brown lawns are in our future.

Not many of us have Government fully indexed pensions to pay for CVRD water treatment plants.

BOUQUETS to the RCMP for taking 23 excessive speed speeders off high way 19 on Family day. Every day is excessive speed day, on highway 19-the 6th deadliest in BC. Time to bring back high speed cameras and save Families’ lives.

ONCE AGAIN, BC Hydro is struggling, but doing their best to adapt to our highly volatile watershed situation. Hydro slammed the brakes on water releases to raise up the lake level well above the desired 134, now they are releasing enough water for 12 million green lawns. It’s not climate change that it

THE COMOX VALLEY’S FIRST AND BEST READER’S FORUM Email to: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com is causing Comox Valley water problems –it’s clearly our water shed and the inability of BC Hydro to control our reservoir.

The CVRD is steaming ahead with a $60 million project and there won’t be enough water for green lawns!

BOUQUETS to letter writer Rob McCulloch who continues to question the process of decision making at the CVRD. Yes Rob, It is undemocratic and constituents are not permitted meaningful input. Yes Rob, most big decisions are made by the administration in consultation with their expensive consultants.

Yes Rob , the majority of our elected directors approve most projects in marathon meetings where they only hear the views of the CVRD staff and selected consultants. Yes Robb –it needs to change.

The management of Comox Lake water is an example, with stage 3 as a CVRD means to control consumption , when it is not necessary. The garbage dump liabilities have increased from less than $10 millions to over $60 million in just a few years.

Keep on writing letters Rob . Others will wake up when they get their tax and utility bills, and the Comox Valley goes brown, again.

BOUQUETS to our local School Board for an innovative solution to Comox Valley public school funding issues –A Family day every Friday.

Not that this matters much after the many BCTF strike days, NIDD days - but what about the kids who don’t have family home on Fridays? In the good old days we had 5 day schools and home work, discipline and ...we were a somewhat suc-

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Local police are number one in my book As an aging baby boomer who was once, and still is, one to “question authority” and who has a city council background in critical oversight of police. I write this letter in support of Corporal Andrew Waddell, the “bike cop” of the Comox Valley RCMP. Recently television stations broadcasted cell phone video of Corporal Waddell subduing a teenage boy amidst a few screaming bystanders convinced some terrible act of police brutality was being committed. Allegedly the youth had been riding his bicycle down the sidewalk, was without a helmet and became resistant and abusive with Corporal Waddell.

I have come to know Corporal Waddell and Inspector Tim Walton, the head of the Comox Valley RCMP detachment.

I have done so in regard to social disorder in the downtown and particularly in the library. With both

I always speak my mind without reservation and am always well received.

I watch very closely the policing methods used. I know what to watch for, both in terms of the police and the social disorder.

Without hesitation I say that Corporal Waddell dispenses his justice without fear or favour. He has made a point of protecting community safety with an emphasis on safe cycling and ticketing cell phone users behind the wheel of an automobile. A more patient and level headed police officer is hard to find.

With his endless patience and firm resolve I see him grant the most difficult and disenfranchised street people far more dignity, respect and compassion than do most social workers.

In his intelligent way he has brought a calm and order to 6th St and the library.

Also, since Inspector Tim Walton has focused

THIS WEEK’S WINNER, DRAWN AT RANDOM FROM SUBMISSIONS RECEIVED UP TO TUESDAY, IS: Christine Lutz, of Courtenay 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!

police attention on the difficulties in Courtenay’s downtown and around the library, I have observed a responsive and approachable style of policing here under the very capable and fair leadership of Inspector Walton.

He has taken the initiative to seek out and consult with local citizens, community leaders and social agencies. The citizens of Comox Valley are very fortunate.

I know this is the Age of Narcissism in which we all have rights, all our privileges are imagined to be rights and the concept of individual civic responsibility is an offensive one. So all you cyclists on sidewalks and complainers on the local “rants and raves” web site who get ticketed by the “bike cop”, you are far more dangerous than any police officer I have seen in the Comox Valley.

Donovan Carter Courtenay

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!

• Gutters • Dump Runs • Landscaping • Tree Removal • Power Washing • Decks, Sidewalks, Driveways

• Exposed Aggregate Free Estimates Call Brent H: 250-338-5069 m: 250-897-6994 drug folks are in every neighbourhood as are liquor outlets. Get a grip school board!

TWO THOUGHTS

Two brief commentaries on items appearing in the Echo 12 February.

First, David Diver writes in Letters that “Harper (turned his cabinet) into paltry yes-men”. I do not think so.

They were yes-men and -women long before ending up in the clutches of Harper. No self-respecting man or woman would allow being imposed upon to such a degree. Many Conservatives in that government proved insipid talking-pointers trotting close to the heels of their master, thus not losing stipends, per diems, limousines and other meaty bones.

Secondly, re Stop signs.

Respect for Stop signs is diminished with every abuse of authority to erect same. A number of Stop signs do not belong at all.

In other instances, a Yield sign would serve to much better purpose. Finally, some purely seasonal Stop signs remain unmasked when a simple bag would hide the no longer required summons.

Let me add that truly needed Stop signs are far too often hidden by branches and leaves upon the onset of Spring. That goes for Comox as well as Courtenay.

Surely, not only municipal Works and Grounds crews can see what I see or rather, do not - but any functionary of municipal government. Whose indifference allows the risk of accidents to persist.

Shame!

Finn Schultz-Lorentzen Courtenay

14

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.COURTENAY,BC FEBRUARY 19, 2016

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City wants fairness in police funding

BY DEBRA MARTIN Echo Staff

Courtenay’s going to take another shot at getting support for a fairer method to pay for RCMP services.

The city approved a resolution to present at the annual Association of Vancouver Island Coastal Communities convention in April at Nanaimo.

Mayor Larry Jangula said it would be a tough sell.

That’s because municipalities under 15,000 population pay much less than those with over 15,000 people.

And in the Comox Valley, with an “integrated” RCMP detachment, Comox, Cumberland and rural ratepayers are really off the hook compared to Courtenay taxpayers.

Jangula said policing services should be paid for the same as provincial health care and education – equally throughout the province.

“We’re not trying to download … we’re trying

Comox and the Province may advise that crime statistics do not support the addition of officers for their jurisdictions ... Crime incidents are recorded as a statistic in the community where they occur, and do not capture where the criminal resides.

Courtenay is the commercial hub in the Comox Valley, and criminal incidents ... are often perpetrated by offenders who live outside of the City.”

STAFF REPORT Backgrounder on AVICC resolution

to make it more equitable,” he said.

Jangula noted that many smaller communities end up with no police officers at all stationed in them because of the funding inequities.

“It’s a win-win to every-

body,” he said of the city’s resolution.

That reads as: “Whereas the Comox Valley is served by an Integrated Detachment of the RCMP and all the jurisdictions in the Comox Valley receive the same level of service from the RCMP regardless of financial commitment or funding contribution; “And whereas the City of Courtenay funds the greatest number of RCMP members in the Comox Valley and pays significantly higher police costs per capita; “And whereas the responsibility of the RCMP funding model for British Columbia rests with the Provincial Government; “Therefore be it resolved that the Provincial Government be requested to develop an equitable funding program for all B.C. municipalities and regional districts including those served by integrated detachments.”

Right now the City pays 90 per cent of the police contract costs; Comox

Upcoming frontline youth workers meeting at The LINC The LINC Youth Centre is inviting any interested agencies or individuals who work with youth in the Comox Valley to the upcoming Frontline Youth Workers meeting.

This group has been meeting bimonthly for a number of years and would love to continue to grow its interagency connectedness and collaboration.

“We are a dynamic group and represent a variety of youth-serving organizations and individuals in the Comox Valley – including, but not exclusively, frontline and outreach workers, program facilitators and coordinators, counsellors, youth & family workers, social workers, and even youth-librarians!” says Alexis Forbes, Youth Services Coordinator.

Each meeting, guests share trends they

see (in the youth population), upcoming programming/special events for youth, and any training or grant opportunities.

The meetings also provide professional development, through guest speakers and to collaborate on youth-events, like BC Youth Week (May 1-7) and Child & Mental Health Day (May 7).

If you work with youth, or are interested in networking with the youth-serving organizations and individuals in the Comox Valley, please join us Tuesday February 23, 2016 at 1pm at The LINC Youth Centre. The LINC is located at 300 Old Island Highway in Courtenay.

For more information, or to be added to the Frontline Youth Workers list, please call The LINC Youth Centre at 250-334-8138 ext. 223.

(Continued from page 10)

ward in a separate staff report,” said Rutten.

Comox director Barbara Price considers the WPP to be an important document once aspects of it become operational in the future.

“Comox Lake is our water supply for 40,000 people and protecting the watershed is of paramount importance,” she said.

“So it makes some detailed recommendations of what should be put in place to start monitoring turbidity at the source.”

The plan, said Rutten, does not focus on how to avoid boil water advisories between now and the time the filtration facility is built.

“That is something we will bring for-

pays 70 per cent; the province pays the RCMP 100 per cent of the contract cost in Cumberland and the rural areas, although they are taxed at approximately 50 per cent of the cost.

Courtenay pays for 30.4 police members or 824 per capita; Comox funds 11.6 members or 1,207 per capita; Cumberland rural areas fund 19 members, or 1,381 per capita.

The city shells out $4.562 million for police services, one of the biggest items on its annual budget, while Comox pays $1.363 million.

Jangula noted that Courtenay residents are paying about $200 per person for policing, compared to $90 in Comox.

Courtenay added four new RCMP members between 2008-2015 and

forecasts that aother two will need to be added over the next three years, while Comox has added one new member in the same time period and doesn’t foreseeing hiring any more.

“Comox and the Province may advise that crime statistics do not support the addition of additional officers for their jurisdictions. However, Courtenay points out that crime statistics are not completely accurate in their representation of who should be responsible.

“Crime incidents are recorded as a statistic in the community where they occur, and do not capture where the criminal resides. Courtenay is the commercial hub in the Comox Valley, and criminal incidents recorded as a Courtenay statistic are

often perpetrated by offenders who live outside of the City,” according to the background document included with the AVICC resolution.

“Additionally, crime statistics do not capture all of the work performed by the police and are not a true reflection of police effort in each jurisdiction.

For example, additional resources such as bike patrol and school liaison officers work in a preventative capacity, and the use of their time is not captured in the profile statistics reported for reach community.”

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JFEBRUARY 19, 2016

15

Parking kiosk to be set up deep inside aquatic centre CVRD anticipates parking problems once new hospital opens in 2017

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff The new Comox Valley Hospital won’t be completed until 2017 but the issue of parking is already a major concern.

That’s because Island Health is following other hospitals in the province and intends to charge for parking.

The Comox Valley Regional District, the City of Courtenay and North Island College are seriously concerned that this would place undue strain on parking lots located in the surrounding areas once the hospital opens.

In anticipation of this happening, the CVRD has already taken some measures at the Comox Valley Aquatic Centre. A parking lot kiosk will be

installed at the centre to restrict the parking to patrons using the facility, rather than NIC students, contractors, hospital staff, patients and visitors.

This has been included in the CV recreation complexes service 2016-2020 financial plan.

Comox director Barbara Price considered it a great idea but was curious how it would work.

Darcy Walters, senior manager of recreation facilities, explained that all the parking stalls at the aquatic centre will be numbered.

“You’ll come in as a patron and you’ll go in the aquatic centre,” said Walters. “This parking kiosk will be deep inside the aquatic centre so that someone won’t just be able to walk in and punch in the number of the stall

and walk off to college.”

Once you’ve punched in the stall number and your licensed plate, Walters said, the maximum length to park there for free will be two hours.

If a stall is being occupied and is not on the parking kiosk’s data base, then staff will deal with illegally parked vehicle.

Walters said they will be issued nonfinancial tickets to remind them that the parking lot is for aquatic centre users only.

Courtenay director Mayor Larry Jangula also commended the plan.

“If the hospital insist of pursuing paid parking, it’s going to cause all kinds of friction with their neighbours, the college and the businesses across the road,” said Jangula. “We certainly

debated that at the hospital board. This is one way to control that. It’s reasonable way and it makes sense.”

The new Comox Valley Hospital will have more than 700 stalls in parkade and surface parking. The parking fees will based on the parking rates now applied at the St. Joseph’s General Hospital. It will apply to all hospital staff, physicians, patients, visitors, students, contractors and service providers.

Committee agrees to refund MARS rezoning application fees

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff

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The Electoral Areas Services Committee voted in favour of refunding the fees already paid by Mountainaire Avian Rescue Society for a site-specific rezoning application.

The society is planning to build a wildlife rehabilitation and education centre at its four hectare property on 7350 Island Highway and 1331 Williams Beach Road situated in Merville within Electoral Area C but needs the land to be rezoned from Rural Eight to Rural Eight Exception 3.

The non-profit group already paid $2,000 for the rezoning application. Last month it asked the EASC if the money could be refunded.

MARS also requested future fees be waived associated with the application such as statutory public hearing fee of $1,500, the $300 aquatic and riparian habitat development permit and also building permit costs.

The committee agreed not to charge MARS the two future fees totalling $1,800 but it was unable to waive the building permit fees because they are still undetermined and are based on the value of the construction. So far MARS has not yet prepared construction drawings.

The committee will decide whether to forgo the building permit fees at a later date once all the costs have been fac-

tored and presented by staff.

Electoral Area A Director Bruce Jolliffe raised concerns about giving MARS a break as not all the cost data is available. He finds the procedure unusual.

“The challenge here is we do walk in on grey areas here,” said Jolliffe. “What we’re doing here is kind of a cross-subsidy which is an interesting exercise. We do have a grantsin-aid we can provide to Mountainaire and stuff. If we do this can we still continue to give grants in grants-in-aid to Mountainaire now because according to one interpretation giving it for one service subsidy and now trying to do it for a second service.”

Based on past practices, CAO Debra Oakman said the committee can refund MARS the money paid to the rezoning process and also waive the other determined cost for a total of $3,800.

CVRD staff informed the committee MARS’ request was not unusual and is not precedent setting.

From 2011 to 2014, the CVRD entertained refund requests from two corporations, one non-profit organization and one individual.

Three of them got their money back and the fourth one asked for reduction in future fees.

Staff are now developing a policy around the refunding and waiving of development fees.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.COURTENAY,BC FEBRUARY 19, 2016

Contaminated soil affects proposed Hard Surface Play Area Alternative plans call for integration of skatepark and bicycle jump park projects

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff

A recent geotechnical engineering studies unearthed non-native unconsolidated and contaminated soils at the proposed site for a new Cumberland skatepark and replacement basketball and tennis facilities in the Village Park on Dunsmuir Road.

The unfortunate discovery significantly impacted the overall cost of the Hard Surface Play Area project, increasing it to around $885,000.

Cumberland applied for funding from Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program for $412,500, but last December the village was informed its application was not approved.

In anticipation of this potential outcome, council directed staff in June last year to investigate alternative plans.

Staff presented a report to council on Tuesday night. Following the discovery of the contaminated fill, staff evaluated other land sites in both Village Park and around the community.

They identified the southwest corner of the Village Park on Sixth Street by the dog park, which was designated for

Draft proposal for Cumberland play area the proposed bicycle jump park, as an ideal alternative location to build a skatepark on.

And in doing so, they came up with a backup plan that calls for the integration of the skatepark and bicycle jump park projects. It will achieve two initiatives in the master plan at a cost that the village can afford.

Parks and Outdoor Recreation Coordinator Kevin McPhedran said this option have been verified to be technically feasible, will meet sound planning principles and has the support of community stakeholders.

However, some adjustments will have to be made to accommodate both projects at this

Comox residents may see tax rates go up 2.7 per cent

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff Comox residents are likely to face a 2.7 per cent increase in their property taxes this year.

The initial draft of the town’s 2016-202 financial plan was recently presented to council by director of finance Donald Jacquest. It reflects total expenditures of almost $26 million over five years that exceed revenues in all funds.

The figures are estimates as the final 2015 revenues and expenses are not available yet. Jacquest said there could be some changes.

However, Jacquest projects a similar pattern of 2.7 per cent tax increases over the next five years.

The anticipated tax hikes Jacquest attributed to increases to the town’s core services that include general government, police, fire, public works, garbage, planning, recreation, building maintenance, marina, culture and other protection.

This year the town is expecting to hire more staff, create new services, and make higher contributions to reserves such as General Capital

and Equipment Replacement. As well, the town will start to contribute to the Comox Valley Regional District’s homeless initiative in the amount of $30,000 annually, and also $250,000 to the public safety reserve.

Among the notable staff increases is in Public Works, which plans to hire an engineering tech to help with the town’s new storm drainage standards when North East Comox is developed, advance the GIS and asset management initiatives, and get ahead on engineering for future projects.

One positive note is that in 2018, the town will be debt-free as two major debt issues will mature – library in 2017 and the rec expansion in 2018. Following this Jacquest said the annual budget for these debts shifts to capital expenditures.

“A 2.7 per cent hike is higher than I like but I get it,” said Councillor KenGrant. “If we can find ways to reduce it, that would make me happy.” Councillor Barbara Price said she could live with 2.7 per cent.

A second draft of the town’s budget was to be presented at the next Committee of the Whole meeting.

in the original design will also have to be scaled back. The Cumberland Community Schools Society Skatepark Committee reviewed this option and responded favourably.

Because the new proposal may impact the jump park design, the United Riders of Cumberland were consulted as well. They endorsed the plan and support the concept.

Cost-savings and efficiencies can be realized by developing one infrastructure project such as site grading, drainage and landscaping. As well, excess soil dug from the skatepark construction can be used for the jump park.

Both facilities and landscaping could be completed for around $450,000, including planning and design.

Funds of around $304,000 and $41,000 are available in the skatepark and jump park reserves respectively, including UROC contributions for a total of $345,000.

Staff indicated it plans to request in-kind donations from local businesses for the integrated project to avoid both groups competing for similar resources and donations.

Having both facilities in one location will complement one another said McPhedran because both cater to youth and similar user groups. location. The size of the skatepark will have to be Councillor Gwyn Sproule said that over reduced to around 5,000 square foot. the years, residents have always preferred Spectrum Skateparks, who was hired to over- the site near Dunsmuir Road. She added see the project, indicated the reduced scope is that the Sixth Street site is not secure, more than adequate to serve the community.

Some of the features and elements included (Continued on page 17)

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Municipal Pension Plan retirees invited to next meeting March 2

Do you receive a pension from The Municipal Pension Plan?

The next North Island MPRA meeting will be: Mar. 2nd at 1:00, at the Comox Legion, 1825 Comox Ave. Our guest speaker is: A Johnson Insurance Rep, to speak on: - Medoc Travel insurance - Home insurance - Pet insurance - The focus will be on the Retiree Benefit Plan If you have any questions please contact Sandy (250-331-1048) or Iris (250-338-4969)

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JFEBRUARY 19, 2016

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(Continued from page 16) “We are looking at 12,15 year olds going there at night,” said Sproule. “It wouldn’t be acceptable.

That’s what I heard for all these years, it must be by the road well lit.”

Sproule also asked why the contaminated soil removal so expensive?

McPhedran said the soil is non-native fill so it’s not consolidated.

“Building anything on that, we have to have a high tolerance for risk for future cracking,” McPhedran explained. “(Skatepark) It’s a lot of concrete which requires a solid base.”

The second issue is the undetermined hazards that might be discovered when they start to dig into the soil.

“Inorder to develop the skatepark as planned, it requires digging down fairly deep and as soon as you start removing those materials, it triggers provincial regulation on how to deal with contaminated soils,” said McPhedran.

“Unfortunately, the only facility that would take them is Langford. So a lot of the cost would be in trucking. I don’t think there is anything around that.”

Councillor Jesse Ketler said since this is a major alteration to the village master plan, she suggested a open house be held to get community’s input.

Councillor Roger Kishi made a motion to direct staff to conduct further consultation on the proposed changes to the skatepark project. Council approved the recommendation.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.COURTENAY,BC FEBRUARY 19, 2016

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Sue Finneron, General Manager (centre) and Mike Finneron (left) proudly showcase their recent award “Top Hyundai Dealer in Canada for 2015” and their dedicated staff that made their accomplishment possible.

Valley dealership beats out big cities for top Hyundai award

By MARY LEE Echo Staff The country is about to embark on the busiest car selling season of the year and for the staff and owners of Finneron Hyundai, they are kicking it off with something worth celebrating.

Finneron took the top Hyundai Dealer for 2015 award beating out 14 other dealers in the running and surpassing its larger competitors from the big city centers across Canada.

Dealerships are ranked on customer satisfaction rating, market shares and in sales volume for a given year. In the previous year (2014), Finneron ranked within the top 15.

“It’s something you always work toward but never think will happen,” expressed Sue Finneron, General Manager. “We have a fantastic staff and everyone is so proud of the accomplishment.”

“We thank our customers,” adds her father Mike Finneron, Dealer Principal. “We don’t exist without them.”

The family owned and operated dealership credits their approach in customer care and satisfaction to its success, not only in winning the award but in its business longevity.

“This [award] reinforces the way we deal and

feel about our customers,” expressed Mike Finneron.

The Finneron team has been serving the Comox Valley for over 35 years.

Previously a General Motors dealer selling GMC and Pontiac vehicles, Mike and Sue and their team reinvented themselves over 6 years ago to become a Hyundai dealer when GMC went bankrupt and was forced to close 245 dealers nation-wide.

In just six years, Finneron has risen to the top among 220 dealers across Canada.

When the switch from General Motors to Hyundai occurred, both staff and customers remained loyal to Finneron with many clientele return-

ing for vehicle servicing and maintenance needs, and employees staying on throughout the transition.

Today, Finneron can proudly boast that staff dedication and continuity are also testament to their recent achievement.

Several staff have over 25 years with the company, including Sue Finneron, while some employees have 35 years at the Courtenay dealership.

“People are the reason for our success,” notes Sue Finneron. “Our staff are very good at what they do.”

The Finneron team are also quite excited about Hyundai’s recent title as Best Brand in the “Kelley Blue Book 5-Year Cost to

Own” awards program for North America.

Kelley Blue Book, founded in 1926, is the most trusted and relied upon vehicle valuation and information source by consumers and in the automotive industry. This title means that Hyundai brands have ranked best overall for its lowest projected ownership costs for the first five years.

Hyundai brands new to the Finneron lot this spring include the 2017 Elantra, the top selling car in the Comox Valley in 2015, and the 2017 Santa Fe. In the fourth quarter, Sue Finneron will welcome the arrival of the Iconiq, an electric car, a brand new model to Hyundai.

Upcoming film presentation at Comox United Church Comox United Church will present the film “The Price We Pay” on Friday, February 26, 2016 at 7 pm.

This film by Canadian director Harold Crooks shows how large multinational corporations avoid taxes by keeping profits in offshore tax havens, downloading national tax burdens onto the middle class and the poor. National infrastructure can’t be maintained if large multinational corporations don’t pay for the infrastructure they use.

Director Crooks was interviewed on the CBC’s The National when this film

debuted in 2015.

In the film, journalists and legislators, tax justice campaigners and former finance and technology insiders speak out about the trend in Europe and North America that minimizes tax for multinationals, leading to a sense of social injustice.

The presentation will be at 7 pm Friday, February 26, 2016 at Comox United Church, 250 Beach Drive in Comox.

There will be a discussion afterwards for those interested. Admission is by donation.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 19, 2016

Brain training system part of local chiropractor’s services for optimal health

By MARY LEE Echo Staff

In the weeks leading up to Valentine’s and in the days following, heart health is often on the mind. Yet, as important to maintaining good heart health is the brain and at all times of the year.

Imagine if you could reprogram your whole body, not just the heart, simply by retraining your brain.

Brain-based wellness is essentially the philosophy behind many forms of meditation but to master the discipline and reap the full benefits it could takes years if not a lifetime.

Comox Chiropractic Centre offers an effective method that answers to today’s busy lifestyles and addresses the complex stresses that western cultures are commonly exposed to.

It’s called the MindFit System and is a technology that uses the frequencies of light and sound to prolong and improve the quality of one’s life through neuroscience. Comox Chiropractic is the only centre in the Valley to offer this technology.

MindFit is a nuero-trainer, a technology created in part by Dr. Patrick Porter of PorterVision based in Atlanta.

The MindFit tool is an all-in-one visor and headset used to induce a state of relaxation and essentially retrain the brain during a session of approximately 20 minutes.

Dr. Doug Price, Clinical Director at Comox Chiropractic Centre, was introduced to this technology at a recent training program in Atlanta. He invested in the MindFit System in order to compliment his work in Neurological based Chiropractic.

Dr. Price explains that the function of the central nervous system is crucial to the health of the individual. MindFit works in conjunction with technology designed to measure and assess stress.

“This technology is called Neuroinfiniti and it used to produce a stress response evaluation,” explains Dr. Price. “The results from this evaluation can pinpoint areas of the nervous system that are out of balance. We can then focus on those areas through biofeedback, neurofeedback and/or MindFit technology.

Results are also giving direction as to the application of Dr. Price’s chiropractic technique.

With MindFit precisely tuned light frequencies are delivered through ears

Dr. Doug Price, Clinical Director at Comox Chiropractic Centre, has invested in a new and unique technology called the MindFit System that uses the frequencies of light and sound to compliment his work in Neurological based Chiropractic.

and eyes to calm the nervous system and essentially get the body to a near sleep state, the relaxation response, so that healing can begin.

Benefits of the relaxation response include slower heart rate, lower blood pressure, sleep and immune system improvements, increased sense of wellbeing, improved digestion, and more responsive brain wave patterns.

Light frequency is used to synchronize the brainwave frequencies to experience three primary brainwave patterns: beta,

19

alpha and theta.

Beta brainwave state is the reactionary mind also known as the awake state where senses are heightened. It is the only state in which pain is experienced.

By bringing the mind through alpha to theta the nervous system calms, opening up the mind to learning.

At the same time as the light frequencies are being emitted, lessons are being delivered through the earphones as a form of healing through visualization.

Lessons address a variety of topics from anxiety, weight-loss and overcoming smoking and other addictions, to mental preparedness and empowerment. There are over 800 lessons and more than 42 categories in the MindFit System.

“There’s a vast amount of evidence that heart disease, autoimmune problems and weight gain are issues related stress,” explains Dr. Price adding that the brain commonly recognizes internal stress, which alters breathing and heart rate compelling the body to stay at a heightened state, or beta, leading to imbalance of brain waves.

“MindFit is brain entrainment to help the brain recognize those patterns of relaxation again.”

Regular client Bev Lamouche has experienced the benefits of MindFit in as little as three weeks. The twice-weekly sessions have taken away her worries and she no longer suffers nervousness when driving as she did before.

“I really like it. It takes you to a special place where you really start to think deeply,” remarks Lamouche. “It’s helping my stress level calm down.”

To learn more about the MindFit System and its benefits in achieving optimum health, contact Comox Chiropractic at 250-339-4433 or go online at comoxchiropractic.com.

Improving heart health need not be difficult Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death across the globe.

According to the World Health Organization, ischaemic heart disease, in which blood supply to the heart is reduced, is the leading cause of death in middle- and high-income countries and the fourth-leading cause of death in low-income countries.

Perhaps the most troubling fact about the prevalence of heart disease is that it can be largely preventable. The

American Heart Association notes that there are several ways to easily improve heart health and avoid becoming one of the millions of people to succumb to heart disease. * Embrace aerobic exercise. Aerobic exercise is essential to cardiovascular health. Daily aerobic exercise, which can be as simple as walking around the neighborhood, can help men and women lower their blood pressure, maintain a healthy weight and lower their bad

cholesterol, which can circulate in the blood and cause blockages that can lead to heart attack. * Adopt a low-sodium diet that’s also low in cholesterol. Diet can be a friend or foe with regards to heart disease. A heart-friendly diet that’s low in sodium and cholesterol can help you maintain healthy cholesterol levels as well as a healthy blood pressure. * Monitor your blood pressure. A blood pressure reading is a staple of

many doctor visits, but men and women should monitor their blood pressure even when they aren’t visiting their physicians. High blood pressure does not always produce symptoms, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t potentially deadly.

High blood pressure is the leading cause of stroke and can contribute to heart and kidney disease. So be sure to monitor your blood pressure and discuss with your physician ways to lower high blood pressure.

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Your generosity can serve generations to come and help ensure there will always be outstanding health care for residents of the Comox Valley. Leaving a planned gift in your will is a simple process. Please consult your legal advisor, or call us, to ensure that your health care remains an important part of our community’s future.

St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation is able to accept bequests for both St. Joseph’s and the new Comox Valley Hospital.

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20 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 19, 2016

STROKE PREVENTION Dr. Deidre Macdonald, ND The Canadian Heart and Stroke Foundation has recently raised the alarm bell to warn that stroke is not only a significant problem for Canadians, but that many of us don’t know what to look for in order to detect a stroke, and seek crucial early treatment. You’ve likely seen their ad campaign, reminding Canadians of the signs of stroke: sudden numbness or paralysis of the face, arm, or leg, slurred speech, confusion, blurred vision, trouble walking and dizziness.

As a naturopathic physician, I feel it is also important to educate the public about what can be done to prevent strokes. Strokes are typically a symptom of underlying cardiovascular disease.

The main way to prevent cardiovascular disease is to live a lifestyle that promotes cardiovascular health. It is important to understand your risk factors and take steps to reduce them. A patient that I’ve worked with over the last year illustrates that journey.

Brent was a 54-year-old man who came to see me after his brother had a debilitating stroke at 57. As a father of

three teens, Brent didn’t want that fate for himself and his family. He came to me for an assessment and to get help changing the course of his health for the better. I found out that he had smoked for 30 years and his waist circumference was 44” – well above the recommended 40” for men. His LDL cholesterol was elevated, as were his triglycerides, and his blood sugar was borderline diabetic.

His blood pressure was above normal, at 147/90. Running his own business, he carried a significant stress load, which was taking its toll on his health.

I explained to him that he had multiple risk factors for cardiovascular disease that leave him at higher risk for stroke or heart attack than the average man his age. Genetics may be one risk factor, but the study of epigenetics has proven that our lifestyle affects our gene expression.

So even when there is a family history of a disease, lifestyle can determine whether an individual gets that disease.

The first priority was to help Brent quit smoking. Through a combination of laser acupuncture and herbal medicines to reduce cravings, stress-management and behavioral modification, Brent has been cigarette-free for almost a year now. It was important that he not gain weight after quitting smoking, so I coached him on a heart-healthy weight loss nutrition plan that has resulted in

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a 35 pound weight loss. Exercise was new territory for Brent, but he made it a family affair by getting out mountainbiking with his teenagers. As part of a stress management plan, he’s started a “gratitude check-in” at dinner with his family, where each person shares something they are grateful for from that day.

After a year of coaching and treatment, Brent’s blood sugar and blood pressure were back to normal. His cholesterol levels were lower, but not low enough. He had tried Statin drugs for cholesterol in the past, but suffered leg pain as a result. I recommended natural medicines that further lowered his cholesterol while also being easier for his body to tolerate. I also recommended fish oil, Coenzyme Q10 and other natural medicines to prevent damage to his cardiovascular system.

Brent looks and feels like a new man.

His children will likely have their Dad around for many years to come. Stroke awareness is important, but prevention is critical. We can all benefit from living a stroke prevention lifestyle.

Dr. Deidre Macdonald is a naturopathic physician who has been practicing in downtown Courtenay for 19 years. Her office can be reached at 250 897-0235 or via www.getwellhere.com.

ALZHEIMER’S RESEARCHERS HOPEFUL

Alzheimer’s disease has no cure, and its progression cannot be radically slowed. The Alzheimer’s Association reports that every 67 seconds someone in the United States develops Alzheimer’s, and around 5 million people in the country currently have the disease.

While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, researchers are continuing to work on both drug and nondrug treatments to combat both cognitive and behavioral symptoms. According to information from the 2015 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference, there is reason for optimism regarding Alzheimer’s treatments.

Researchers now have a better understanding of how the brain changes with Alzheimer’s and can fine tune medications to react with certain areas of the brain responsible for certain symptoms. For example, drug companies Eli Lilly and Biogen have been testing drugs that block beta amyloid, a protein that can cause toxic brain plaques in people, which are often associated with progressive brain disease.

Another abnormality associated with Alzheimer’s is caused when a protein called tau twists into microscopic tangles, says the Mayo Clinic.

Tangles collapse vital brain cell transport systems.

Researchers are looking into medicines that may prevent tau from forming tangles.

In addition, researchers continue to look at antiinflammatory drugs to help delay the progress of Alzheimer’s disease, as well as how other conditions and diseases, including high blood pressure or diabetes, may impact the risk of developing Alzheimer’s.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 19, 2016

21

Ginkgo Biloba - The Ageless Herb

By Debbie Bowman, RHN Registered Holistic Nutritionist for Edible Island Whole Foods Market One of the oldest surviving tree species on the planet, Ginkgo biloba is an extraordinarily hardy tree.

Growing to a height of over 120 feet, the ginkgo is resistant to disease, insects, fungus and modern day pollution. In fact, Charles Darwin called the Ginkgo tree a “living fossil”.

Though we never want to be called a fossil, we do want to be strong and hardy into old age - so it’s interesting to note that this long surviving herb has been effectively used as an anti-aging supplement for over four thousand years.

Chinese medicine doctors have used ginkgo through the ages to treat a wide range of ailments from lung issues to digestive problems. Today, European physicians prescribe Ginkgo more than any other herb or drug, mainly for circulatory and neurological problems.

Ginkgo is a vasodilator - meaning it increases the size of the vessels in the circulatory system. As a result, ginkgo facilitates improved blood flow throughout the entire body, particularly the brain. This is especially important as we age,

as restricted blood flow is extremely common among the elderly and is characterized by cognitive issues such as memory loss, decreased alertness, headaches and depression. When we increase blood flow to the brain we enhance oxygen levels, thereby improving memory and concentration. Gingko also increases the uptake of glucose to brain cells and improves the transmission of nerve signals.

Ginkgo also reduces blood viscosity, or stickiness. Some threads of evidence suggest that people with thicker (or more viscous) blood have higher chances of developing heart disease or having a heart attack or stroke. The theory is; the more viscous the blood, the harder the heart must work to move it around the body and the more likely it is to form clots inside arteries and veins.

Ginkgo is also rich in antioxidants. This is important, since aging is directly related to oxidative damage. Antioxidants neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, which can cause several serious or life-threatening diseases and health problems including heart disease, cancer, immune dysfunction, diabetes, and degenerative brain disorders (including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease).

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Harmful free radicals exist everywhere in our environment, but they are concentrated in pollution, chemicals, radiation, pesticides, alcohol, drugs, unhealthy food and even sunshine. Antioxidants like those found in ginkgo help to keep our cells healthy and youthful, which can prevent age-related illnesses, relieve stress and increase one’s lifespan.

Ginkgo is also beneficial to our eyes, especially for those who are battling age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma or cataracts.

Specifically, studies confirm gingko increases blood flow to the retina and can slow retinal damage which causes macular degeneration. Ginkgo also increase blood flow to the fine capillaries of the eye so it is also beneficial to those with glaucoma, as glaucoma is thought to be caused by decreased blood flow. Finally, studies also confirm ginkgo inhibits the enzymatic pathway that causes cataracts.

Ginkgo has been found to be very effective and free from most side effects at dosages between 120 mg and 600 mg per day. Since ginkgo has a blood thinning effect, be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist if taking any pharmaceuticals, particularly blood thinners.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 19, 2016

COMOX VALLEY SENIOR PEER SUPPORT NEEDS VOLUNTEERS

COMOX VALLEY SENIOR PEER SUPPORT is a well-established non-profit Society that has provided emotional support to vulnerable seniors for more than 30 years in the Comox Valley. The heart of the organization is the 60 plus volunteers, seniors themselves, who visit their client for an hour or so each week offering friendship, a compassionate ear, and their undivided attention.

It can be hard being older, particularly if unwanted social isolation is part of your reality. Research tells us that the social isolation of seniors is a big problem that can lead to increases in all kinds of health problems.

Senior Peer Support tries to help by being a constant, dependable, friendly presence.

A call or an email to the Society office expressing interest is all it takes to start the process of becoming a Senior Peer Support person. All volunteers undergo a four-session training as well as a criminal records screen. The next training is on March 14th, 15th, 21st, & 22nd from 9:30 – Noon. Please consider signing up – you are needed!

If you are a senior who would benefit from a Friendly Visitor, give us a call and we will do our best to help.

Comox Valley Senior Peer Support also provides support for Caregivers. We are currently running four support groups: three for female caregivers and one for male caregivers. Participants in the caregiver groups are often relieved to be in the company of others who really understand the challenges of the caregiving journey. If groups are not your thing, call us anyway.

Sometimes simply having someone to talk to can ease a heavy burden.

Contact Information: 491-B 4th Street, Courtenay; Phone: 250-871-5940; seniorpeercounselling@shaw.ca

Help for Disc Problems Dr. Deidre Macdonald, ND Back pain has been around for as long as we’ve been walking upright. The nature of the human spine makes it quite vulnerable to disc injury and degeneration, which is a significant cause of chronic back and neck pain. Many of my older patients suffer with the nerve pain that frequently accompanies disc injuries. Often they have been told, “You’ll have to live with it” or “You’re getting older and that is part of aging.” With new therapeutic advances, there can be help for disc pain.

The discs are the pads that separate the vertebrae. They are made of a jelly-like substance and provide important cushioning for our spine. Over the years, wear and tear can result in thinning of the discs, and injuries can cause discs to slip out of place or rupture.

When discs are damaged, pain in the spine can ensue. Nerve compression in the lumbar spine can

YIKES! Comox Valley Senior Peer Support has a wait list for service. WE NEED YOUR HELP. If you can spare an hour a week to visit a vulnerable, lonely senior – please call or email: 250-871-5940; seniorpeercounselling@shaw.ca We are looking for volunteers who are 50 plus.

Training is provided. Help make an elder’s life easier.

The next training is March 7,8,14,15: 9:30 – 12:00.

cause pain, numbness or tingling in the buttock, leg or even foot. In the neck, nerve compression can cause similar symptoms in the arms and hands. Often my patients report that their hands “fall asleep” in bed at night. These conditions can be acute or chronic, many lasting in excess of 20 years.

Low level laser therapy is a physical therapy method that has been shown to provide significant relief to people suffering with disc issues.

This safe and painless treatment utilizes therapeutic wavelengths of light that bathe the tissues. The laser beam allows that light to penetrate deeply into the body and can get right into the spine and thus affect the discs. The light stimulates healing in all human tissues, including disc tissue, muscles, nerves and more. Human clinical trials have demonstrated that laser therapy can significantly reduce the pain of disc problems.

A Japanese study found that patients treated with laser therapy had a 47% reduction in pain in just eight treatments.

A Canadian study found that 94% of patients with disc issues reported significant pain reduction after an average of

14 treatments. In a clinical study of laser therapy for disc pain, patients were given pre and post treatment MRI scans. There were significant reductions of size of the herniated discs on MRI after treatment.

Once disc damage has been reverse, then I recommend that my patients engage in therapeutic exercise and stretching to help prevent reoccurrences. By gradually building up the core abdominal muscles and the muscles of back extension, a protective shield can be built around the spine.

Stretching out the legs, buttocks, back and core muscles helps ensure proper mechanics in the spine. Postural correction is also very important as it relieves the stress that poor posture puts on the spine and muscles.

So don’t give up. There are ways to get back on your feet after disc disease.

Dr. Deidre Macdonald is a naturopathic physician who has practiced in downtown Courtenay for 19 years. For more information about laser therapy please contact her office at 250 897-0235 or via www.getwellhere.com.

Adult Programs 50 and over

Who are you when no one is looking?

Artist? Athlete? Dancer? Musician?

The possibilities are endless when you register for programs with Courtenay Recreation.

250-338-1000 or 250-338-5371

Add some splash to your workouts!

Try watLY Ä[ULss at the CVRD’s sports and aquatic centres Follow comoxvalleyrd

For schedules visit: www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/rec or in the Comox Valley Recreation Reporter or call 250-334-9622

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JFEBRUARY 19, 2016

First of its kind, purpose-built facility opens for sick and broken soldiers

BY MARY LEE Echo Staff

Integrated Personnel Support Centre (IPSC) is a one-stop shop for the ill and injured military personnel, serving or retired, their families and the family of those members who are deceased.

Now that shop is much more sophisticated thanks to the first ever state-ofthe-art, purpose-built facility for the Canadian Armed Forces.

Across the Forces there are 24 IPSCs and nine satellite locations, however, none quite like the newly built center at 19 Wing Comox.

On February 12, the air base cut the ribbon and opened the doors to the first sustainably designed, environmentally friendly facility intentionally built with the purpose of who it serves in mind.

Special guests attending the building inauguration ceremony included Mr. Jaime Pitfield, Assistant Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Environment, Maj.-Gen. Derek Joyce, Deputy Commander Military Personnel Command and representation from the three municipalities and the Komox First Nations.

“In poring over design plans and drawings, contracts and blueprints, we occasionally lift our heads and we remember that we are doing all of this for a larger purpose and these things are put in place to serve those who have served all of us,” shared Pitfield, as he addressed the more than 50 base personnel and guests attending the opening. “This center will be a source of healing and learning and inspiration.”

IPSCs are part of the Joint Personnel Support Unit (JPSU), an organization that stood up in 2009 to offer programs for physically and mentally injured troops in order to better assist them in resuming their military careers or to transition into civilian life.

These support centers and satellite locations provide one-on-one contact and support through the coordination and delivery of high quality medical care and administrative support.

Care and support can range from physical fit-

Elder Mary Everson (behind) and Andy Everson of the Komox First Nations give a traditional blessing for the opening 19 Wing Comox’s newly built Integrated Personnel Support Centre (IPSC), the first state-of-the-art facility of its kind in the Canadian

(Left to Right) Lt.-Cmdr. Judith Harlock, Officer Commanding Joint Personnel Support Unit Pacific, Maj.-Gen. Derek Joyce, Deputy Commander Military Personnel Command and Mr. Jaime Pitfield, Assistant Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Environment, join Col. Tom Dunne, 19 Wing Commander, to cut the ribbon and officially open the Integrated Personnel Support Centre.

23

ness programs and mobility assistance, to advocacy services to ensure appropriate receipt of support and benefits, and civilian employment facilitation and priority hiring.

IPSC Comox first stood up in Comox in 2011 and serves current and retired military members and families throughout the Valley and as far as Port Alberni.

Service partners in an IPSC are extensive and inclusive to all the needs that are required in the transition process such as Veterans Affairs Canada, Operational Stress Injury Social Support (OSISS), and a Family Liaison Officer (FLO) from the Director of Military Family Services.

“While the IPSC staff are the core, the heart of this unit, the partnerships that they have forged are key to the recovery of our members,” expressed Joyce. “The IPSC in Comox has worked hard to foster a collaborative relationship with these partners. This building here is more than just bricks and mortar. This is a visible sign of the commitment of the Canadian Armed Forces towards caring for our most vulnerable members.”

Capt. Carol Winter, Platoon Commander IPSC Comox (left), and Lt.-Cmdr. Judith Harlock, Officer Commanding Joint Personnel Support Unit Pacific, cut the cake during the official opening of the Integrated Personnel Support Centre located behind the Canex Retail Store on Military Row. Master Seaman Michelle Johnston, Chief Clerk, welcomes guests into the newly built Integrated Personnel Support Centre that officially opened Friday, February 12 at 19 Wing Comox.

www.comoxvalleyecho.com

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Third annual Wounded Warrior Run returns to Valley

BY MARY LEE Echo Staff

The 2016 Wounded Warrior Run BC team composed of six runners and a support staff begins February 22 in Port Hardy and ends in Victoria seven days and 600 km later. The relay-run is an event supported by Wounded Warriors Canada to raise awareness on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and occupational stress injuries. The team arrives in the Comox Valley February 25.

(Source: Wounded Warrior Run BC):

1025 Comox Road, Courtenay 250-338-7761, www.islandhonda.ca

When Allan Kobayashi runs long distances he listens to the heart pounding in his chest and the feet slapping the pavement to quieten his mind. Others tune into earbuds to get the noise out of their head that it’s too tough and to give up.

If that isn’t distracting enough, Kobayashi has to fight the other noise, his anxiety, a symptom he suffers regularly. Kobayashi is a victim of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a form of mental illness that he was diagnosed with in 2006.

For Kobayashi running is the calm, the peace and the serenity he so badly strives for.

“I use running to get out of my head,” shares Kobayashi.

He also uses running to build awareness for a very important cause and create an education piece around the stigma attached to mental illness.

Kobayashi is a co-founder of Wounded Warrior Run BC (WWRunBC), a Vancouver Island long distance running event that raises awareness and garners financial support for those affected by PTSD and occupational stress injuries.

Six members - serving or retired military - run relay-style a distance of 600 km stretching from Port Hardy to Victoria over seven days stopping along the route to connect with island residents and talk about mental illnesses.

“PTSD is not such a mystery now,” remarks Kobayashi.

(Continued on page 25)

*Limited time weekly lease offer and all other offers are from Honda Canada Finance Inc., on approved credit. #The weekly lease offer applies to a new 2016 Civic 4D LX 6MT model FC2E5GE for a 60-month period, for a total of 260 payments of $58.99 leased at 3.99% APR based on applying $211.20 “lease dollars” (which are deducted from the negotiated selling price after taxes). ‡Down payment of $0.00, first weekly payment and $0 security deposit due at lease inception. Total lease obligation is $15,337.40. Taxes, license, insurance and registration are extra. 120,000 kilometre allowance; charge of $0.12/km for excess kilometres. **MSRP is $20,485 including freight and PDI of $1,595. License, insurance, registration and taxes are extra and may be required at the time of purchase. */#/**Prices and/or payments shown do not include a PPSA lien registration fee of $30.31 and lien registering agent's fee of $5.25, tire/battery tax of $25, or air conditioning tax (where applicable) of $100, all of which are due at time of delivery. Additional charges for waste disposal fees, environmental fees and handling charges (all of which may vary by dealer and/or vehicle) may apply. Offers valid from February 2nd through February 29th, 2016 at participating Honda retailers.

Dealer may sell/lease for less. Dealer trade may be necessary on certain vehicles. Offers valid only for British Columbia residents at BC Honda Dealers locations.

Offers subject to change or cancellation without notice. Terms and conditions apply. Visit www.bchonda.com or see your Honda retailer for full details. £None of the features we describe are intended to replace the driver's responsibility to exercise due care while driving. Drivers should not use handheld devices or operate certain vehicle features unless it is safe and legal to do so. Some features have technological limitations. For additional feature information, limitations and restrictions, please visit www.honda.ca/disclaimers and refer to the vehicle's Owner's Manual. †Only compatible with certain devices and operating systems.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JFEBRUARY 19, 2016

“Just as we are dedicated to wellness in our practice we want to contribute to the wellness of our community, we feel our best resource is in our expertise and looked for an opportunity to incorporate that with giving,” explains Grant.

Spinal Wellness Education proved just such an opportunity. The Dr.’s regularly conduct complimentary spinal check-ups at various health expos in the Comox Valley. 100% of all fees collected for in-office check-ups that arise from these events are donated to YANA. “It is through these events, with the help of all our amazing patients, past and present, that we are able to make this donation.” Says Heinrich.

“We have seen many clients through our practice and have personal friends who have benefitted from the care of YANA and we felt it was a perfect fit for our support.”

Dr. Ken and Dr. Marnie love raising their two lovely daughters and working in the Comox Valley. They both enjoy an active lifestyle and much of their spare time is spent with their family in the outdoors.

WINTER PROMOTION

Local Chiropractors Give Back

(Continued from page 24)

“The run has been a huge part of that awareness.”

Now in its third year, the 2016 team will make their annual stop in Comox on February 25, stopping at the Courtney Legion and 888 Wing to meet with serving and retired military members, firefighters and the community.

It is those various stops in the communities that are so vital to the runners. The connections they offer are the most important part of the run says Kobayashi and in achieving their primary objective.

Six core runners share the day’s distance with two spare runners traveling as part of the support team. Physical stamina is important when choosing the team composition but not the only asset explains Kobayashi.

“It’s one thing to be physically capable and able to run. I’m always looking for empathetic runners. Those who understand mental illness and can advocate for the cause.”

Bernice Smith is one such runner. She was made honorary member of the team because of her supporting contributions in past years and for her advocacy in causes she believes in.

Smith will run this year and is the only civilian team member with no past military experience.

Kobayashi says that doesn’t matter.

“Smith is a wounded warrior because she represents all the values of WWRunBC.” The relay begins in Port Hardy. The team will depart at 10:00 am from Serious Coffee in Campbell River on day four (February 25) of the run, arriving in the Comox Valley via North Island Highway.

Their first stop is at the Courtenay Legion at 3:30 pm. The team will then travel along Ryan Road toward the air base and along Little River Road into 888 Wing for their final leg.

Live tracking will be available during the Run starting with the first leg departing Port Hardy on February 22. Visit woundedwarriorrunbc.com to follow or to learn more.

Door to Door...Town to Town

Dr.’s Marnie Grant and Ken Heinrich of Courtenay Family Chiropractic helped YANA start the New Year off in the right direction with a donation that they hope will help strengthen local families.

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Courtenay seeking input on food trucks Would you like to see more food trucks in Courtenay? The City of Courtenay is seeking feedback on potentially increasing opportunities for food trucks in the community.

A link to an online survey is posted at www.courtenay.ca/ foodtrucks . Hard copies of the survey are also available at Courtenay City Hall, or by request at courtenay@courtenay.ca “Our current Business Licence Bylaw has a number of restrictions for food trucks,” noted Director of Legislative Services/ Deputy CAO John Ward. “Food trucks are only permitted on private property for a maximum of 15 minutes, or at special events.

We’ve received feedback requesting that the city consider loosening these restrictions. This survey is a chance for the public, businesses, and any other interested parties to tell us what they

think.”

Other British Columbia communities regulate food trucks in different ways. Some have created specific food truck parking spots; others have permitted food trucks in select streets, parks, and open spaces. Still others allow them only on private property.

“There’s really no ‘one-sizefits-all’ when it comes to food truck regulations,” advised Ward.

“Everyone seems to handle it differently, and many other communities are either reviewing their food truck policies, or are considering reviewing them. We’re looking at what will be the best fit for the City of Courtenay, and for that to happen we need input from the community.”

Feedback will be accepted until Friday, March 11, 2016.

For more information, visit www.courtenay.ca/foodtrucks or

A ‘Kurdish Experience’ will help rescue a family!

From Mosul, an Iraqi city imprisoned by ISIS, to the Comox Valley, will be a journey to life and freedom for Saeed and Noor and their sons Bakar (6) and Ali (2).

Once again, a group of Valley citizens joins thousands of other Canadians giving survivors of the savage conflicts embroiling Syria and Iraq a chance to rebuild their lives.

Saeed and his wife, Noor, paid $2,000 to smugglers to get them and their sons out of Mosul two months ago. ISIS forbids anyone to leave the city it occupies.

But they were able to make their way in disguise to Kurdistan and then over the winter mountains to Turkey.

They were following in the footsteps of his mother, Ghania, who with her husband Najih, fled northern Iraq 26 years ago as clouds of Sadam Hussein’s chlorine gas settled on Kurdish communities.

Ghania and Najih with their Valley friends are hosting a festive “Kurdish Experience” at 6 pm, March 5th at the D’Esterre Centre on Beaufort Avenue to raise funds needed to bring and support her son and his family here.

Ghania and friends will prepare an exotic spread that will include dulma (meat and rice wrapped in grape leaves), Kurdish chicken curry (not too spicy), saffron rice, salad and delicious Kurdish sweets, kunafa and zalabey (similar to baklava).

Najih is an accomplished

singer and musician on the electric Sasz, a Middle Eastern cross between a guitar and a zither.

Dancing is a must to his brand of music and all will have the chance to learn Kurdish style.

We will then enjoy the sweet sounds of Classic Rock and Light Pop from the five talented members of the local Band Ezee who are generously donating their time.

Their versatile guitar licks and voices are spiced up by a harmonica and once in a while a banjo, and kept steady by a bass and the unique beat of a djembe or a cajon.

Bring your dancing shoes!

Tickets are $50 a person and can be purchased at Blue Heron Bookstore in Comox and The Laughing Oyster in Courtenay.

Najih and Ghania arrived in Saskatoon in the dead of winter in 1993 and lived there and then Calgary before coming to Comox a year ago with their three sons and one daughter, all born in Canada.

Najih was a long-distance truck driver and more recently has been employed by Comox Taxi.

Ghania will be meeting her son, Saeed, for the first time in 26 years.

She and Najih were away from her children when Saddam’s soldiers struck and Saeed and his young brother and sister were left in the care of their grandmother.

They tried to get the children out in the three years they spent in a Turk-

ish refugee camp, but to no avail. Saeed managed to finish school and find employment as a crane operator and a semi-trailer driver.

Noor finished school and went on to study busi-

ness at college.

If you are not able to come to the dinner and would like to donate to the family please go to our Facebook page, (Comox Valley Iraqi Kurdish Sponsorship Group) or

write a cheque to St. Peter’s Anglican Church and put Iraqi Refugee Fund on the Memo Line. A donation of $20 or more will receive an Income Tax Receipt from the Church.

Cheques may be de-

livered or mailed to St.Peter’s Anglican Church, 218 Church St., Comox, B.C., V9M2G3.

The Chair of the Committee is Neil Crouch and he can be reached at 250 9414066.

2016 bursaries offered by the Community Drug Strategy Committee

Saeed and Noor and their sons Bakar (6) and Ali (2) will be reunited with Saeed’s mother in Comox.

The Community Drug Strategy Committee, an initiative of the City of Courtenay is once again offering two bursaries of $500 each for two graduating students attending schools in the Comox Valley to be used for their post-secondary education.

The Smart Choices Bursary is for a graduating student who has remained substance free throughout high school.

The Courage to Come Back Bursary is for a student who has used substances but then had the courage to stop using and become substance free.

To apply for either bursary, each student will be required to fill out and submit an application form including providing two references, as well as to complete a brief, 1-page essay outlining their decisions to stay drug and alcohol free or to become drug and alcohol free.

The deadline for applications this year is Friday, April 1, 2016.

If students are interested in applying for the bursaries, an application form can be obtained from the student’s high school or they can contact the Community Drug Strategy Committee directly at drugstrategy@hotmail.com (attention: Karen).

FMI, Karen can be contacted at the same e-mail address or by phone at 250-339-3603.

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2016 Toyota Tacoma

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2016 Toyota Tacoma

The all-new 2016 Toyota Tacoma is the compact sports pick-up that's always on for adventure. With fresh styling, upgraded performance, segment-leading features and Toyota's reputation for engineering trucks that dominate any terrain or climate, the 2016 Tacoma is ready to dominate dirt, rocks or pavement, 24/7.

The new Tacoma represents tremendous choice, so Canadian truck-buyers can choose their perfect partner for fun and adventure. And with eight models, truck fans have a range of choices - two engine sizes, three transmissions, two drive trains, two cab configurations, two cargo bed lengths and twelve trim levels.

All Tacoma models are generously equipped with standard comfort, convenience and safety features that raise the bar in the compact pick-up truck segment.

New features standard for all 2016 models include: Toyota's latest Display Audio system, a new multi-information display with integrated outside temperature gauge, door scuff plates, fog lamps, poweradjustable heated exterior mirrors, and a

new reinforced locking and removable tailgate with Easy Lower function to highlight a few. Tacoma is also the first in its class to offer dual-zone automatic climate control, on select models.

In addition, the 2016 Tacoma becomes the first model in the segment to be factory equipped with a GoPro(r) camera mount on all models. Located near the rear view mirror, this mount allows any Tacoma owner with a GoPro(r) camera to capture every moment of their adventure.

Additional standard features on all models include but are not limited to power door locks with keyless entry, power windows, sliding rear window, cruise control, tachometer, two 12-volt DC accessory connectors, aluminum alloy wheels, rear step bumpers, double wall composite cargo beds with tie-downs and cleats, halogen headlamps, and variable intermittent wipers.

Available premium features include: the Qi wireless charging system, a power moonroof, Toyota's Smart Key with Push Button Start, and premium leather seats.

Toyota has become the only Full Line Automotive brand to offer Aeroplan miles.Aeroplan announced it has entered into a national multi-year partnership with Toyota Canada Inc., (TCI). In the coming months, this strategic alliance will enable Aeroplan Members to earn miles across the full automotive customer journey on all Toyota and Scion vehicles in Canada.

“We’re excited to partner with Toyota Canada to bring members an innova-tive program in automo-tive with one of the most well-known brands in the world,” said Kevin O’Brien, Chief Business Develop-ment Officer at Aimia in Canada. “This new partnership will further strengthen our program ffering and also enable members to earn miles during the entire owner-ship experience with Toyota and Scion includ-ing

test drives, purchase, vehicle servicing and upgrades.” “We are always looking for ways to add value and reward our customers,” said Larry Hutchinson, Vice President, Toyota Canada Inc. “We’re proud to be a part of this new partner-ship with Aeroplan which does exactly that. It demonstrates how making the entire ownership experience ever better for Canadians is a key commit-ment for us.”Highlights for Toyota clients and the AeroPlan program include: Test Drive: 250 Miles (max 1 per Month, 3 Test Drives per Year), Vehicle Purchase: 5,000 Miles, Service and Parts Department: 1 Mile/$2 spent.To Learn More about the Exclusive Partnership between Toyota Canada and AeroPlan come by Rice Toyota Scion and talk to a Product Advisor or the Service Department.

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Towable Towable RVs are another option and can be more affordable because they can be pulled behind your existing vehicle. · Travel trailers: Travel trailers look similar to traditional motorized RVs but without the driving cab. They can be hitched to the back of a vehicle.

Travel trailers are popular because of their versatility.

Travel trailers can be ideal for those with limited budgets but the desire to have a self-contained unit. · Pop-up: Folding camping trailers, or popup trailers, are inexpensive and lightweight. They provide many of the conveniences found in a basic travel trailer but in a smaller size. · Fifth-wheel: If you own a pickup truck, a fifthwheel trailer may be good for you. These hitch to the top of the pickup bed and have similar features to a traditional travel trailer.

RVs make great investments for men and women who love the open road.

They also are a great way to take the entire family on an affordable and memorable vacation.

B

Motorized Motorized RVs are broken down by class, includ-

ing class A, B and C. The distinction between the classes of RV is based on size. · Class A: This class of motor home is very large and offers all of the comforts you›d expect from home. Many people who purchase a class A RV plan to travel all year long.

Slide-outs can expand the living area when parked, and full bathrooms, complete kitchens and more are the norm. Because of their size, class A RVs tend to be the most expensive and may be more vehicle than many people can afford. Their large size (many look like a bus on the road) can make them difficult to navigate for novices. · Class B: Class B RVs are often referred to as «van conversions.» Class B are the smallest, fully enclosed campers available in the motorized category. Living space is limited in these RVs, but economy and versatility make them quite popular. Usually these campers can sleep between two and four people. · Class C: Class C RVs are a compromise between types A and B. Class C are mid-sized with a driver›s compartment similar to a van and a larger box in the back for the living area. Some come with a sleeping bunk above the cab. Depending on the floor plan, class C campers can sleep up to 10 people.

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Vacations are a great way to recharge and get some time away from the daily grind. While many working men and women take one or two vacations per year, recreational vehicle owners can travel more often without breaking the bank.

Recreational vehicles, or RVs, are often referred to as campers or motor homes. Equipped with many amenities, ranging from kitchens to multiple sleeping areas to entertainment spaces, RVs offer many of the comforts of home.

The Recreational Vehicle Industry Association says RV ownership is currently at an all-time high.

According to Dr. Richard Curtin, RV industry analyst and director of consumer surveys at the University of Michigan, 8.9 million households now own an RV. That’s up from 7.9 million in 2005.

Drivers considering buying an RV may have many questions about these increasingly popular vehicles. RVs come in two main types: motorized and towable. Understanding the differences between the two and the various subcategories of RV can help drivers make the most informed decisions when purchasing their RVs.

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2016 KIA OPTIMA AND SEDONA NAMED Courtenay Kia TO KELLEY BLUE BOOK’S KBB.COM 16 2015 KIA MODELS BEST FAMILY CARS FOR 2016 LIST Kia’s Obsessively Crafted Optima Sedan and Sedona Minivan Earn Critical Acclaim From The Trusted Resource®

• All-new Optima matures into an expertly crafted sedan with two turbo engine choices and five trim levels, including the U.S.-exclusive SXL • Sedona minivan sports CUVlike design and offers captivating technology and advanced safety features IRVINE, Calif., February 4, 2016 – Kia Motors America’s (KMA) all-new 2016 Optima midsize sedan and 2016 Sedona minivan were both named to Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com 16 Best Family Cars for 2016 list. The recent winner of KBB.com’s 2016 Best Buy Award, the Optima was touted by editors for being stylish, feature-packed and family friendly. Meanwhile, the Sedona minivan was praised for style and function, a modern interior, impressive available safety features and overall value.

“The all-new 2016 Optima has matured in all the right ways, from the European sport-sedan design to the premium interior materials to its vastly improved ride and handling and advanced safety features,” said Orth Hedrick, vice president, product planning KMA. “Similarly, Sedona was designed for today’s active lifestyles and families on the go with more power, a longer wheelbase for improved leg room and unique seating configurations combined with intuitive technology and safety. We’re honoured that Kelley Blue Book has named Optima and Sedona to the 16 Best Family Cars for 2016 list.”

With a specific focus on safety, comfort, convenience, spa-

ciousness for passengers and utility, and fit of various child safety car seats, the KBB. com editors created a list of the top 16 vehicles that best meet the needs of today’s modern families.

“During our extensive testing in real-world use, we found both the Kia Sedona minivan and Kia Optima sedan offered many of the virtues that family car purchasers love – a full list of features, a high level of build quality and low acquisition costs,” said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst of Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com.

“When looking at the car market through the family friendly lens, Kia vehicles deserve serious consideration.”

For more information on Kelley Blue Book’s 16 Best Family Cars for 2016, visit http://www. kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/best-family-cars-2016/.

About the 2016 Optima Conceived under the watchful eye of Kia’s president and chief design officer, Peter Schreyer, with modern and instantly recognizable design cues, the Optima maintains its athletic identity but rides on a chassis that is longer, wider and stiffer for improved ride and handling and a more spacious cabin. Available with three engine choices, including a new 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that’s mated to a seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), the Optima is more confident than ever on the road. The all-new Optima’s roomier, more luxurious cabin features an impressive level of craftsmanship that comes standard across five trim levels – LX, LX 1.6T, EX, SX and SXL. The all-new Optima is built at Kia’s plant in West Point, Georgia*.

About the 2016 Sedona Available in L, LX, EX, SX and SX Limited (SXL) trims and a choice of seven-passenger or eight-passenger seating

configurations, the 2016 Sedona has something for everyone.

The Sedona comes standard with Kia’s proven 3.3-liter V6 engine, which puts out 276 horsepower and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission routed to the front wheels. The Sedona sets itself apart in the segment as its wide stance exudes a modern, CUV-like appearance and cab-forward design.

Sedona offers a wide array of available driver-aid technology including Surround View Monitor1, Smart Cruise Control[i], Blind Spot Detection1 and Lane Departure Warning1. Inside the spacious cabin, Sedona combines generous use of soft-touch materials, premium amenities such as “First Class” lounge seating, and Kia’s UVO2 infotainment and telematics system.

About Kelley Blue Book Founded in 1926, Kelley Blue Book, The Trusted Resource®, is the only vehicle valuation and information source trusted and relied upon by both consumers and the automotive industry. Each week the company provides the most market-reflective values in the industry on its top-rated website KBB.com, including its famous Blue Book® Trade-In Values and Fair Purchase Price, which reports what others are paying for new and used cars this week. The company also provides vehicle pricing and values through various products and services available to car dealers, auto manufacturers, finance and insurance companies, and governmental agencies.

Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com ranked highest in its category for brand equity by the 2015 Harris Poll EquiTrend® study and has been named Online Auto Shopping Brand of the Year for four consecutive years. Kelley Blue Book Co., Inc. is a Cox Automotive company.

BLOWOUT SALE

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2016 Honda HR-V Achieves Highest Overall Score for Collision Safety from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Our newest star gets a 5 star rating.

MARKHAM, ON.– The stylish and versatile 2016 Honda HR-V (http://honda.ca/hrv) has received a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score, the top score available in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

“Using Honda’s packaging magic, powertrain innovation and safety engineering expertise, the HR-V delivers a high level of occupant safety protection along with top class fuel economy and interior space,” said Dave Gardner, senior vice president of operations, Honda Canada Inc. “True to Honda’s commitment to the safety of all road users, the HR-V is designed to make the vehicle more compatible with other vehicles and

to help to mitigate injuries to pedestrians in the event of a collision.”

Blending the styling of a coupe, and the space and utility of a SUV, the 2016 Honda HR-V utilizes the latest generation of Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure. The ACE™ body structure improves frontal crash energy management through a wider range of offset and oblique collision modes. In addition, other body reinforcements work in tandem with the strengthened body structure to better maintain the occupant compartment volume during frontal collisions by providing additional crash energy pathways to help mitigate the forces transmitted to the passenger compartment.

Key Safety and Driver-Assistive Features: In addition to the application of Honda’s ACE™ bodystructure, the 2016 HR-V features a host of standard active and passive safety features and offers many standard and available driver-assistive technologies, such as: • SmartVent® Front Side Airbags • Side Curtain Airbags with Rollover Sensor

• Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) • Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control • Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering (EPS) • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) • Honda LaneWatch® (EX, EX-L Navi) • Hill Start Assist (HSA) • Expanded View Driver’s Mirror • Multi-Angle Rearview

Camera with Guidelines • Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) (EX-L Navi)

Standard safety equipment on all 2015 Honda models includes ACE™ body structure, Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with traction control; an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS); side curtain airbags; dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags; and front side airbags.

1025 Comox Road, Courtenay 250-338-7761, www.islandhonda.ca

32

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FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 19, 2016

2016 Nissan TITAN XD

2016 NISSAN TITAN XD CREATES “NEW CLASS” OF FULL-SIZE PICKUP WITH COMMERCIAL STRENGTH COMPONENTS, 555 LB-FT CUMMINS 5.0L V8 TURBO DIESEL AND HEAVY-DUTY ATTITUDE • Nissan challenges full-size pickup segment with bold new design • Flagship TITAN XD model combines the capability of a heavy-duty hauler with the drivability and affordability of a light-duty pickup • TITAN’s legendary innovation leadership continues with cuttingedge towing, utility and driving aids • New TITAN positioned as a “powerful precision tool” for hard-working, hardplaying buyers

The 2016 Nissan TITAN XD, which made its world debut at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, is set to shake up the highly competitive full-size pickup segment when it goes on sale in the United States and Canada beginning in late 2015 – with a bold all-new design that stakes out a unique position in the segment between traditional heavy-duty and light-duty entries.

Called the “XD,” it offers the effortless towing and hauling of the larger, more expensive heavy-duty trucks – including an available maximum towing capacity of more than 12,000 pounds* and maximum payload capacity of 2,000 pounds* (when properly equipped) – yet has the fuel-efficiency* and affordability of a half-ton pickup.

The new TITAN XD Crew Cab, which was shown in Detroit with its powerful

• Night for 2 • Round of Golf with a power cart

Cummins® 5.0L V8 Turbo Diesel, is the first of three cab configurations, two frame sizes, three powertrain offerings and five grade levels to be available in the full TITAN lineup.

“The full-size truck market is the toughest market to crack in the entire industry, with so many outstanding products available,” said Fred Diaz, senior vice president, Nissan Sales & Marketing and Operations U.S., Nissan North America, Inc. “This new Nissan TITAN XD is designed to offer buyers something the others don’t – combining outstanding towing and hauling capabilities and exceptional towing and hauling fuel economy. It also offers excellent ride comfort and handling, and the features and amenities that real working truck owners want.»

The all-new TITAN XD, like the firstgeneration Titan, was developed with core Nissan planning, design, engineering and manufacturing teams The lead designer and nearly four-dozen engineers also worked on the original 2004 TITAN development.

BUILT FROM THE WORK JOB UP WITH COMMERCIAL STRENGTH While the original Nissan TITAN is known for its consumer-focused innovations such as the Wide-Open rear doors, bedside storage compartment, factory spray-on bedliner and Utilitrack™ Bed Channel System, the nextgeneration starts with a focus on

commercial strength components – from the radiator to the rear axle and everything in between.

CUMMINS 5.0L V8 TURBO DIESEL – POWER, DURABILITY AND MPG “A new class of truck also demands a new class of engine. Like the TITAN XD itself, the new Cummins 5.0L V8 Turbo Diesel fills the space between more expensive big bore diesels and less capable smaller displacement diesels,” said Diaz. “And more than just power and torque, this engine is refined, starts fast and is responsive and quiet. It’s also lightweight and offers clean emissions.”

TOWING AND HAULING – INFORMED AND IN CONTROL TITAN XD has a maximum payload of more than 2,000 pounds (when properly equipped) and a maximum towing rating of more than 12,000 pounds (when properly equipped). It is also snow plowcapable.

A BIG CABIN WITH A BOLD AND COMMANDING PRESENCE Trucks today are multi-functional, used as work and everyday vehicles – so the interior has to be multi-functional as well.

The designers focused on enhanced utility and on making the interior easy to use through improved layout of switched,

driver control and storage spaces.

DURABILITY, QUALITY AND RELIABILITY

The TITAN design and engineering teams also set one other bar extremely high, what they designated as “120 per cent DQR.” That meant infusing the vehicle with exceptional fit and finish, top quality components inside and out, and unrelenting attention to detail – in areas that can be seen and areas that are not.

The 2016 TITAN has undergone some of the most rigorous and extensive testing of any vehicle in company history, building on the foundation established for Nissan Commercial Vehicles extended durability evaluations.

“TITAN is about one thing – getting the job done,” concluded Diaz. “While dimensionally the TITAN XD will fit in most garages just like a light duty truck, it has the heart and soul of a heavy duty machine. Owners will never have to worry about having towing or hauling power in reserve – without having to pay the price in terms of drivability, fuel efficiency or affordability.”

The 2016 Nissan TITAN XD will be assembled in Canton, Mississippi, with engines assembled in Indiana and Tennessee (5.0L V8 Turbo Diesel and gasoline V8 and V6 respectively). Pricing and full specifications will be announced at a later date.

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Cumberland Briefs be known after tenders have been awarded.

Parker said they will be working with special event organizers to develop options once construction information is finalized.

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff

Request for Cumberland special events road closures postponed The Village of Cumberland has a number of major road and utility construction projects this year.

It will significantly improve the community’s road and underground sanitary sewer, storm sewer and water infrastructure.

The capital projects, which includes Dunsmuir Corridor reconstruction, Cumberland/ Bevan Road reconstruction, Egremont Road reconstruction and Sutton Road bike lane, are going to cost over $5 million.

Staff expects the construction works will cause some incovenience and disruption to the daily lives of residents and businesses, as well as impact special events in the village.

Deputy Corporate officer Rachel Parker recommended that council postpone consideration of temporary street closure or use request for special events in 2016 until construction dates and details have been finalized.

Parker explained special events coordinators can expect these construction projects to affect their activities particularly those using Dunsmuir Avenue, Village Park and Village Square.

Routes in and out of Cumberland will experience disruptions for event participants and spectators throughout the spring, summer and fall.

Parker will suggest coordinators to develop contingency plans for alternate venues, routes and schedules.

Detailed project dates will

Atmosphere Gathering receives noise bylaw exemptions Organizers of Atmosphere Gathering, a multi-stage festival with live music, received a noise bylaw exemption from Aug. 19 to 21.

The three-day event, a copresentation of Cumberland Village Works and Little Island Productions, is expected to attract up to 1,500 people and is also offering camping for up to around 500 people.

The noise exemptions are: from 11 a.m. on August 19 to 1 a.m. on August 20 from 10 a.m. on August 20 to 1 a.m. on August 21 from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on August 21 Although Atmosphere Gathering is a for-profit event and does not meet the criteria for noise exemption normally afforded to nonprofit outdoor events, the bylaw permits an organizer to apply for exemption.

Council acknowledged the organizers have addressed many of the issues that arose from the 2014 event.

They include stage locations, sound checks, music levels, using decibel metering tools, reducing decibel levels, placing bass-heavy equipment in the tent stage and closing the event by 11 p.m. on Sunday.

The complaints received by the village following those changes were reduced to two in 2015 from 16 in 2014.

CUMBERLAND CENTENNIAL ROTARY president, John Jones presenting a cheque for $500 to the Cumberland Bear Initiative (CBI) group providing seed money for CBI as they work with Village residents to increase understanding and support and for bear/human interactions in the Village and mitigate negative impacts to both. Pictured from left are Rotary President John Jones, CBI members: Leslie Baird, Paul Laronde, Carolyn Kirk-Albert, Caroline Bradfield and Margaret Neal.

Bingo returns to Cumberland Proceeds will help Community Schools Society run programs Cumberland Community Schools Society (CCSS) in partnership with the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #28 are excited to announce that Bingo is back in Cumberland!

Come and play bingo at the Cumberland Legion every Wednesday from 7-9:30pm in support of the Cumberland Community Schools Society. Doors open at 6:30pm. Beginners welcome!

CCSS is a registered charity that has been working in the Village of Cumberland for 16 years.

Working in partnership with the school, volunteers and community organizations, CCSS promotes lifelong learning, health and wellbeing by providing programs and services to all Cumberland residents.

CCSS currently offers a healthy lunch program at Cumberland Community School, free afterschool programs for students in grades K9, community programs for all ages and a drop in Youth Centre for Cumberland teens.

You can find out more at www. cumberlandcommunityschools. com .

“We hope that this will not only be an ongoing fundraiser for CCSS but that it will also be an awesome community social night,” said Sue Loveless, CCSS Executive Director.

CCSS is looking forward to hosting a fun night for new and seasoned bingo players alike.

60% of all revenue will be put towards prizes! Come and learn how to play bingo and have a fun evening.

“We are going to have themed nights, it is just going to be really entertaining! We are excited to bring this community event back to Cumberland. We hope that this will provide consistent funding for our programs and services and that as the event grows, we can have nights where the revenue goes to other local projects as well.

“For this pilot year, the funding will help to support our Youth Centre, after school programming and healthy lunch program.”

Kate Ashton, CCSS Program Coordinator.

For more information, to sponsor a theme night or to volunteer at this event, please contact Kate Ashton at 2506508305 or email ccss.youthcoordinator@gmail. com

Square dancers want RV parking back at Filberg

BY DEBRA MARTIN Echo Staff Older people attending special weekend gatherings at Courtenay’s Filberg Centre want to be able to park their RV’s right on site.

But a city policy that banned overnight RV parking there has posed many problems for the groups that either gave up on their weekend events, or have seen attendance decline considerably.

The Ocean Waves Square Dance Club has held a Corn Roast gathering over the Labour Day weekend for 26 years at the Filberg Centre.

But since the policy banning overnight RV parking there came into effect, “at-

tendance … dropped dramatically” wrote the club’s Anne Langdon and Marianne Hall to city council last week. (The letter was sent at the end of October, but there was no staff report on it until Feb. 9).

And, they noted, the North Island Hot Jazz Society had to give up completely on its annual jazz festival.

“This annual event, although well run and successful otherwise, had to close down, partly because of a drop in overall attendance when visitors were no longer able to park RV’s overnight at the Filberg,” they wrote.

The square dance club’s letter noted that out-oftown visitors who still came to the Corn Roast,

parked their RVs outside of town and spent their free time at those sites, rather than visiting the nearby downtown city stores and restaurants.

The city banned the parking of RVs at the Filberg Centre because of these negative effects: * The scale of some of the RVs made existing parking lot aisles excessively narrow and difficult to maneuvre around, affecting user, service and emergency vehicles from safely accessing the facility * The RVs occupied a disproportional amount of parking space in the lot, relative to the single room booking, making it unreasonable to book the remainder of the facility.

* RV operators would come early for the event to get a good parking spot, in some cases arriving the day before the event and camping on the road or in the park across the road. This added further congestion to the already taxed parking lots, which made parking difficult for other faciity users. * On some occasions, Anderton Road was heavily congested, limiting access to the building for emergency vehicles * Some RV owners began to plug their units into building power outlets, street pole outlets and water spouts on the side of the building. This led to additional and unauthorized utility usage, and a network of extension

cords and hoses across the parking lot.

When the city imposed the ban on RV parking at the Filberg, they advised the two user groups to tell their visitors to use the Puntledge RV Campground at the Condensory Bridge.

Mayor Larry Jangula noted that the Puntledge campground filled up quickly and many of the users were there for long periods.

“If we want to support and help our downtown,” Jangula said, “maybe we should try hard” to find other locations, adding that the city owned the old Courtenay Junior site near downtown.

And Councillors Manno Theos and Doug Hillian

suggested looking at everything from the Safeway parking lot to Simms Millennium Park to the Canadian Tire parking lot once the store relocates to the Driftwood Mall.

“Accommodation for RVs in the city is an issue,” said Hillian.

Councillor Erik Eriksson said, though, that what the square dancers really want is RV parking right at the Filberg Centre.

“All these other options, they know about … they want the Filberg,” he said.

City staff had recommended that the ban remain, but council chose to refer the item back to staff for further consideration and another report. ❑

34 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.COURTENAY,BC FEBRUARY 19, 2016

Committee wants program that identifies water turbidity source CVRD asked to approach province to create watershed management protection plan

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff The Comox Valley Conservation Strategy Steering Committee says there is a need to establish a source turbidity monitoring program in the Comox Lake watershed.

David Stapley expressed this point in a delegation to the Comox Valley Regional District’s Water Committee on Tuesday.

The committee is asking the CVRD to allocate funds in the 2016 budget for this purpose.

Stapley acknowledged the CVRD has done an excellent job in assuring the quality of the region’s drinking water is safe. Although staff can monitor the turbidity in the water, it is still unable to identify where it is coming from.

“We know that the turbidity testing so far shows that it’s inorganic sediments in the water which lets you know it’s coming from something like a creek bed or roadway or some source such as that,”

We don’t know whether all that turbidity coming from Perseverance Creek is just from that slide because we’re not doing source turbidity testing. If we do have the monitoring results of the source, then we can start to identify what are the major causes”.

DAVID STAPLEY Conservation Strategy

said Stapley. “Rather than organic which would be, say from a wetland, or a flushing out of the rivers in the first fall rains but we don’t really know what the sources are.”

Stapley produced photos of the Comox Lake following the Dec. 10, 2014 rainstorm that led to the prolonged 49-day boil water advisory in the region.

They highlighted heavy turbidity sediments that were visible high above at

the outlet of Comox Lake from tributatries such as Cruikshank River, at Perseverance Creek outlet and Beach Creek.

Although they can’t really pinpoint exactly where the turbidity originated, Stapley said they are aware there has been a bank failure at Perseverance Creek that has been established and reported.

“We don’t know whether all that turbidity coming from Perseverance Creek is just from that slide because we’re not doing source turbidity testing,” said Stapley. “If we do have the monitoring results of the source, then we can start to identify what are the major causes of the sources. Can they be fixed? Can there be restoration work done?”

There’s questions said Stapley that include past and current logging practices.

“How much do they contribute? Do they contribute to it,” said Stapley.

The natural process of erosion may also be an-

other cause.

“It happens to all watersheds whether they’re pristine or not,” said Stapley. “We also have climate change on top of that.”

Stapley said they all agreed that there has to be a system put in place that will allow the source of the turbidity to be established.

Stapley laid out the second request the committee is seeking from the CVRD. It wants the CVRD to ask the BC Ministry of Forest, Lands and Natural Resource Operations to initiate a watershed management protection plan under the Water Act. “Under this act, the issues in the watershed, can be looked at not just in terms of water quality but also in terms of water quantity,” said Stapley. “It can help resolve disputes and different conflicting interests. And once the watershed protection plan is put in place then the legislative power is there to make sure that various landowners or agencies

tary.”

Focus should also be placed on water quantity and how it’s going to be distributed over the long term.

“This is in fact a very important problem that isn’t really being looked at currently because it’s not a fire burning,” said Stapley. “But it will be a fire that’s burning very soon.

Our water storage capacity in the watershed is diminishing because it relies on the snowpack.”

Stapley said they flew over the glacier last September and its size has shrunk.

“That’s a much smaller glacier than the one I remember hiking on in 1995,” said Stapley. “It is rapidly shrinking. And the snow pack in the rest of the high areas in watershed historically are lower than they have been.”

Basically what the Watershed Management Protection Plan aims to do is deal with not only water quality but also water quantity.

Design review for leachate treatment system reveals cost-saving options CVRD cancels contract with firm, saves $350,000

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff

The United Riders of Cumberland (UROC) are holding their annual general meeting on February 28. The event is open to the public.

UROC AGM to kick off another exciting year of biking

Fresh off one of their most exciting years to date, the United Riders of Cumberland (UROC) are kicking off 2016 with its annual general meeting (AGM), which is open to the public on Sunday, February 28 at 8:00 p.m. at the Waverley Hotel.

Of particular interest to anyone who enjoys Cumberland’s vast trail network will be information on the new land access agreement between UROC, the Village of Cumberland, TimberWest Forest Company, and Comox Timber Ltd. This long-anticipated agreement formally allows nonmotorized recreation on the private lands

are required to take certain specific actions.”

The reason they’re asking this, said Stapley, is because there is a governance gap in the watershed.

“There’s not one authority that is in charge of making watershed decisions based on the overall health of the watershed,” said Stapley. “What the watershed management plan can do, it can’t completely close this gap, but it certainly can look at the overall health of the watershed, and require certain things to happen and put the rules in place so that they are required to happen.”

What they are proposing, said Stapley, will not compete with the Watershed Protection Plan that the CVRD has developed and is near completion.

“The Watershed Management Plan can build on and help enact the Watershed Protection Plan,” Stapley explained.

“So it’s not a competing thing. It’s complemen-

around the Village of Cumberland.

“We were thrilled to announce the signing of the land access agreement, which we’ve been working on for several years,” says UROC president Mike Manara.

“We’re incredibly excited about what it means for the future of mountain biking in Cumberland.”

The AGM will give UROC’s members a chance to vote in a new board of directors, learn the results of past events and find out what’s in store for 2016.

(Continued on page 35)

The Comox Vallery Regional District is canceling a contract with Tetra Tech EBA for detailed design of the leachate treatment facility to be installed at the proposed new engineered landfill.

The agreement, had it been maintained, would have cost the CVRD $495,003.

The facility is a requirement for the new landfill, which is a CVRD strategic priority.

Once the leachate system is established it will treat all water that comes into contact with the waste.

The rescinding of the contract that was awarded to EBA in November 6, 2014 but was not formalized stemmed from the recent re-evaluation done by Morrison Hershfield on the conceptual design work, which is 30 per cent complete.

The goal of Hersfield’s review was to determine the suitability of the EBA design, ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, identify errors or omissions, and highlight improvements and potential costsavings.

In its report last November, Hershfield identified opportunities that included further investigation for components of the expansion strat-

egy, the liner system, the leachate management and treatment system and the stormwater management system.

The review also recommended in order to reduce engineering services cost, a formal tendering exercise on a design-build basis be considered for the component of the work.

Going this route would provide the CVRD savings of around $350,000 without compromising the performance criteria for the new systems.

Based on Hershfield’s report, staff recommended to the Comox Strathcona Waste Management board the cancellation of the 2014 agreement and that the development of the leachate treatment system be undertaken on a design-build basis.

Staff also suggested EBA be directly awarded contract for the preparation of design specifications, a tender package for the leachate treatment system design-build contract, and selection of the successful vendor in an amount not to exceed $145,000 excluding applicable taxes.

The CVRD has included in the proposed 2016-2020 financial plan and has budgeted $21,675,000 for the construction costs, engineering services and other project expenditures.

The project will be fully funded by new debt.

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JFEBRUARY 19, 2016

35

Gospel and soul music in the film MAVIS! on Feb. 23

World Community invites you to celebrate Black History month and warm up to the soul-stirring music of Mavis Staples and her group, The Staples Singers, with the multi-award winning film, MAVIS! on Tuesday, February 23rd at 7 pm in the theatre at North Island College, Courtenay.

MAVIS! is the first feature documentary on gospel/soul music legend and civil rights icon Mavis Staples.

From the freedom songs of the ’60s and hits like “I’ll Take You There” in the ’70s, to funked-up collaborations with Prince and her recent albums with Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy, Mavis has stayed true to her roots, kept her family close, and inspired millions along the way.

Featuring powerful live performances, rare archival footage, and conversations

with friends and contemporaries including Bob Dylan, Prince, Bonnie Raitt, Levon Helm, Jeff Tweedy, Chuck D, and more, MAVIS! reveals the struggles, successes, and intimate stories of her journey.

At 75, she’s making the most vital music of her career, winning Grammy awards, and reaching a new generation of fans.

Her message of love and equality is needed now more than ever.

“Among a collection of stand-out biographies that premiered at South by Southwest Festival, MAVIS! was the feel-good star, a story of survival, family, change and adapting to it.” Billboard Check out the film trailer at www.worldcommunity.ca Admission is by donation. Everyone is welcome. FMI: 250 337 5412

Mavis Staples

Island Baroque Ensemble performs in Cumberland Cumberland United Church, with its much appreciated acoustics and its historic pipe organ, will be the setting for a concert of Baroque music featuring the Island Baroque Ensemble on Saturday February 20 at 7:30 pm.

This will be the second concert of the ensemble’s mid-island tour. Saturday afternoon they will perform in Qualicum Beach, Sunday afternoon in Nanoose Bay, and Sunday evening in Nanaimo.

“Our musicians are coming from Kelowna, Comox, and Parksville to perform a short tour of the mid-island. We look forward to again performing this wonderful music from the Renaissance and Baroque periods of musical history,” says leader Marjorie Cullerne.

Each performer brings something very special to the group.

Cuyler Page, on Recorder, is currently an exhibition designer at the Kelowna museum.

Helena Jung, from Comox, is a well-known cellist who has performed internationally, and has directed and played with her ensemble of five cellos.

John Nelson is an organist and teacher. He has directed and accompanied secular and religious choirs in the mid-island area.

Marjorie Cullerne, leader and violinist, has performed with the Vancouver Island Symphony since 1995.

“For this tour we are looking forward to seeing our friends in the audience, and making new ones. I am personally very pleased to be working with these wonderful musicians,” says Marjorie.

Tickets are $15, students $5. To reserve tickets, phone 250-400-7800.

Leave a voicemail with your name, phone number and the number of tickets you require. Receipt of your message will be confirmed by phone.

(Continued from page 34) Memberships will be available for trail enthusiasts who want to support the club’s activities and are not yet UROC members.

Attendees of the AGM will also find out about plans for the Cumberland mountain bike jump park, construction of which is expected to begin soon, and a lively after party will set the tone for a brand new year of high-octane activity.

“2015 was a groundbreaking year, and 2016 looks like it will pick up where 2015 left off,” says Manara. “If you’re at all interested in mountain biking in the Comox Valley, I highly encourage you to get involved. Being part of UROC is an excellent way to help shape the direction of the sport and the development of our trail network.”

Established in 2008, UROC’s mandate includes building and maintaining trail infrastructure, hosting races and group rides for all ages, facilitating access to trails and generally advocating for the sport of mountain biking.

To learn more and get involved, visit www.unitedridersofcumberland.com.

Comox Firefighters donate to YANA

Comox Firefighters continue their strong support to YANA (“You Are Not Alone”). Here Comox Firefighters present a cheque of $3408.00 to YANA. This is 100% of the funds raised from their annual Christmas Tree recycling project held January 2 + 3, 2016. Chief Gord Schreiner states: “I am so proud of our firefighters for everything they do. Not only do they respond to emergencies but they assist our community in so many other ways.” YANAs Kelly Rusk states: “The support from these firefighters in Comox has been awesome. They have been with us since our early beginnings.”

NIC Write Here Readers’ Series starts Thursday NIC’s Write Here Readers’ Series returns this February, with some of Canada’s most widely recognized and award-winning authors.

The winter 2016 series kicks off Thursday, February 25 with Jane Munro at NIC’s Comox Valley campus.

Munro will read from Blue Sonoma, the Canadian winner of the 2015 Griffin Poetry Prize, the world’s largest prize for a first edition single collection of English poetry.

Blue Sonoma, published by Brick Books, is Munro’s sixth collection of poetry.

The poetry was written while she was living on Vancouver Island and caring for her late husband suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.

It describes his crossing into Alzheimer’s with wit, wisdom and candour.

Author Anne Simpson, herself a

winner of the Griffin Poetry Prize, says, “Jane Munro’s new poems are open-hearted, yet quick and taut, with a playful – even biting – wit.

How can Blue Sonoma be so elegant, so apparently simple, when each poem is a tinderbox?”

Munro’s previous books include Active Pass (Pedlar Press) and Point No Point (McClelland & Stewart). Her work has received the Bliss Carman Poetry Award, the Macmillan Prize for Poetry, the Fred Cogswell Award for Excellence in Poetry (2nd place), was nominated for the Pat Lowther Award and is included in The Best Canadian Poetry 2013. She is a member of the collaborative poetry group Yoko’s Dogs whose first book, Whisk, was published by Pedlar Press. She lives in Vancouver. For more information on Jane Munro, visit www.janemunro.com Her reading takes place Feb. 25 in

NIC’s Tyee Hall Lounge, starting at 7 pm. Admission is free and everyone is welcome.

Literary journalist John Vaillant, best known for The Golden Spruce, The Tiger and his recent debut novel, The Jaguar’s Children, will be the next speaker in the series, which takes place at NIC’s Comox Valley campus March 1 and at Café Guido in Port Hardy on March 3.

NIC’s Write Here Readers’ Series showcases the richness of literary arts in our region, offering students and community members the opportunity to hear, meet and discuss ideas with some of Canada’s top writers.

It is made possible through North Island College and Canada Council of the Arts. All readings are free and open to the public. To find out more about the series and winter 2016 reading schedule, visit www. nic.bc.ca.

36 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.COURTENAY,BC FEBRUARY 19, 2016

Master plan for indoor rec facilities being considered

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff

The Comox Valley Regional District is developing a master plan for indoor recreation facilities.

This is a CVRD board priority in the 2015-2018 strategic plan and was approved last week. It included a $40,000 funding request to get the work done.

Ian Smith, General Manager of Community Services Branch, highlighted two key documents on which they based the proposal to conduct a master plan study.

One was a report by Jennifer Wilson called “Comox Valley Regional District – A Principlebased Framework for Funding Regional Recreation and Cultural Facilities.”

It recommended the CVRD develop a recreation facility master plan in order to define

vision, mission, role, outcomes, focus area (i.e. services, facilities, governance, partnerships, intergovernmental relationships, technology, policies and future priorities) and strategies.

Smith said the second document they looked at – sustainability strategy Objective 5.4.2 — also mentions doing a study similar to what they’re proposing.

It suggested undertaking a study on recreational needs of the future in the valley, addressing changes in demographics, sports, and others, and integrate the results of this study into recreational facility planning and economic development strategies. Ensure research into the recreational needs of non-urban areas is included in this study.

In the last three years, the board dealt with three major initiatives that included renovation upgrades to the Comox Val-

ley Sports Centre, the artificial turf field and the curling centre renovations. They cost around $5 million.

Smith said there are other projects in the wings that will be coming forward to the board for consideration for financing.

One of them is the proposed indoor tennis facility.

Based on the number of projects coming forward, Smith said, it’s difficult for staff to recommend to the board what is a recreation priority in the valley.

“I am hoping this recreation master plan will answer questions for myself and really for the board so that it provides them with future direction,” said Smith.

“We’re hoping the benefits of the plan will outline the preferred future, it will help us make good decisions and it will better coordinate our facility development. We all see those

as positives for our recreation master plan.”

In the CVRD’s sustainability strategy Objective 5.4.2, it states that public recreation facilities are a cornerstone of a good quality of life in the Comox Valley, especially for families.

Because each municipality has a constrained tax base and because all residents use facilities in each community, an overall strategy on how best to continue to enhance the recreational infrastructure of the region is important.

In creating the master plan, Smith said they are collaborating with City of Courtenay, Town of Comox, Village of Cumberland and the residents of Electoral Areas ‘A’, ‘B’ and ‘C’.

A draft scope of work was distributed to each participants.

Smith said the feedback received varied from supporting the proposed scope to increas-

Valley landfill expected to reach full capacity in 2017

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff

Randy Frank presents the talking stick he carved to Project Watershed Chair Paul Horgen and Estuary Working Group Chair Don Castleden. From left to right Guardian Watchman Tony Billie, EWG Chair Don Castleden, Project Watershed Chair Paul Horgen, Guardian Watchman Randy Frank, Guardian Watchman Supervisor Cory Frank. Photo by Jennifer Sutherst

K’omoks Guardians present talking stick The K’omoks First Nations Guardians attended Project Watershed’s Estuary Working Group (EWG) on the first Friday in February.

At the meeting Randy Frank, a Guardian Watchman Program

ing the scope to include indoor and outdoor recreation facilities.

In addition it is recommended that a staff steering committee from the Village of Cumberland, Town of Comox, City of Courtenay and the CVRD be used to assist and provide guidance during the master plan process.

Courtenay director, Mayor Larry Jangula was concerned about the $40,000 request. He finds it to be expensive.

Smith countered that the amount is cheap.

Based on similar consultant work he has done in the past, he said, “I am a little bit worried I think we’re a little bit tight to tell you the truth.”

The study will include surveys and meetings with various community groups and organizations.

“It’s time consuming,” said Smith.

member and local Carver, presented a First Nations “talking stick” that he had created, to Board Chair Paul Horgen and Estuary Working Group Chair Don Castleden.

In 2011 Project Watershed and

the K’omoks people signed a Memorandum of Agreement to work together to preserve, protect and restore the K’omoks Estuary.

(Continued on page 37)

The airspace capacity at the Comox Valley Waste Management Centre is filling up fast.

The latest report by Tetra Tech EBA Inc, which the Comox Valley Regional District hired to evaluate the capacity of the region’s landfill area, estimates as of October 2015, it will likely be filled to capacity between May 2017 to September 2017.

The current landfill is in the first phase of the closure process that was started in May 2015. It will eventually be replaced with a state-of-the-art engineered waste centre. It is now in the design stage. The final design for tendering is expected to be completed by May this year.

Construction of the new engineered landfill was

scheduled to start in 2017 but work on Cell 1 is set to happen late this year. TT EBA suggested that in order to have a minimum one month of overlap to allow waste selection, Cell 1 should be completed in April 2017.

To minimize work during the rainy season from November to February, TT EBA advised construction of the new landfill to start this coming August.

The consultants also recommended that the CVRD complete a waste survey every to two to three months to closely monitor the rate of airspace depletion and also re-evaluation the scheduled completion date for new cell.

This landfill project is one of the capital priorities included in the 2015 to 2018 strategic plans for the Comox Strathcona Waste Management Service

Take your sweetie to the Valentine-theme Contra Dance in Merville Hey, all you Comox Valley Romeos, romance is in the air at the Valentine’s Day Contra Dance at the Big Yellow Merville Hall.

On Saturday, February 20th, sport a red petunia and your prettiest wide brimmed bonnet and whoop it up to the Contra Dance tunes of the Funtime Fiddlers.

The coy fiddlers will have plenty of passion as they pluck the strings for your dancing pleasure while our dance caller, June Cannon, keeps the dancers organized and even brings the shy wallflowers onto the floor.

Generally there is a Contra Dance workshop right before the dance.

From 7:00 to 7:29, June will intro-

duce the swooning dancers to new moves as well as teach the basic moves.

At 7:30, on Cupid’s command, the Funtime Fiddlers blow kisses to the crowd, start the music and the gaiety begins.

Single dancers and families are very welcome. Singles can pair up with anyone during the Contras and our Contra sets last about 15 to 20 minutes.

In between the called Contra dances, we’ll play waltzes and reels; jigs and swing tunes, as well as line up some talented soloists for some Valentine variety. We know that the music will move everyone at this happy hoedown!

The hall is warm, the lighting subdued and the tables cleverly arranged to create a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

The aroma of chocolate and candied hearts will waft from the Contra canteen. Love will be in the air.

So Saturday, February 20th, pop into the Big Yellow Merville Dance Hall, right on the Old Island Highway, between Campbell River and Courtenay.

Doors open at 7:00, dance starts at 7:30pm.

Cost is $10.00/adults, $5.00/youth (6 and under free) and you can come as a family for $22.00. Free workshop starts at 7:00.

FMI: 339-4249

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JFEBRUARY 19, 2016

37

Downtown Courtenay BIA offers grants to improve facades

Following on the successes of previous grants to downtown properties, the Downtown Courtenay Business Improvement Association (DCBIA) is excited to offer its Façade Improvement Grant program with up to $10,000 in its 2016 budget, open to applications from all DCBIA members.

The grant encourages and assists commercial building owners and business owners with investing in façade renovations and storefront upgrades by providing matching grants, up to a maximum of $5,000, or $10,000 for a corner property, to cover a portion of renovation costs.

In 2015 the BIA directors granted $10,000 to support the façade renovations of the building at

the corner of Fitzgerald Ave. and 4th St. where The Broken Spoke, Primetek, Podlings and Cinnamon Salon reside.

“We were so pleased to receive the grant from the DCBIA to go towards this project,” says Phil Diede, property owner. “It means a lot to us as it was a comprehensive upgrade to the building, and the grant allowed us to go a little further with it than we would have otherwise.”

The Broken Spoke building is the latest to receive a grant since the program was introduced in 2013.

The building at the corner of England and 5th street where long-time business McConochies Furniture is and the Codes Country Lanes building at the corner of 6th and

(Continued from page 36)

“the group of seventeen really put the talking stick to work during this meeting.”

In consulting with Frank, it was decided to use two symbols at each end of the stick.

The Orca or Killer whale is said to be the guardian of the ocean. Frank used an orca at one end of the stick with its tail to let the stick stand upright and its dorsal fin as a kind of handle.

At the opposite end of the stick are two salmon, a male and female. The salmon symbolizes instinct, determination and persistence. The salmon is also a provider of life and a pair of salmon are good luck.

Salmon are also a symbol of abundance and the Estuary Working Group’s “keeping it living” theme is geared to a return of abundance.

The carver chose yellow cedar as a symbol of strength and revitalization.

“We are honoured and pleased to work with the new K’omoks First Nation Guardian Watchman program, and this partnership will really enhance our efforts to protect, preserve, and restore the estuary,” commented Jennifer Sutherst, Project Watershed Estuary Coordinator and Staff biologist.

“Their specific training will assist local communities with incidents such as the fuel spill that occurred in the estuary at the end of October last year,” said Technical Director Dan Bowen.

In addition to Randy, Guardian Tony Billie and Guardian Supervisor Cory Frank participated in the monthly meeting; which is open to all stakeholders with an interest in the estuary.

The three Guardian Watchmen have worked with Project Watershed on a number of restoration projects in the estuary, which is in their traditional territory, over the last year.

“We have an all volunteer board of seven Directors, and there were seventeen of us, including the Guardians, participating in the EWG meeting when the carving was presented. There is a lot of enthusiastic participation in this important Committee as well as the Project Watershed Board, which leads to spirited discussion.

“Keeping order can become a challenge as everyone tends to talk at the same time” says board Chair Paul Horgen.

In a traditional council circle, a talking stick is passed around from member to member allowing only the person holding the stick to speak. This enables all those present at a council meeting to be heard.

Consensus can force the stick to move along to assure that the “long winded” don’t dominate the discussion; and the person holding the stick may allow others to participate.

EWG Chair Don Castleden commented that

DCBIA President Deana Simkin with property owners Phillip Diede and Uthai Srilamai; pleased with the façade improvements to their building corner of Fitzgerald Ave. and 4th Street and the assistance of the DCBIA’s grant. Photo credit: Michael McGivern Duncan were the first recipients of the grant.

Since then, grants have been given to Ski Tak Hut towards a new sign and to Joe Formosa for upgrading the patio area for his building housing Mudsharks Coffee Shop and Gladstone Brewery.

“Providing an incentive to building improvements that make downtown

streets more interesting and attractive has become one of the big success stories for the DCBIA,” says Deana Simkin, President of the Downtown Courtenay BIA. “We think that the improvements accomplished since 2013 have proven how valuable the grant program is, and look forward to receiving this

year’s applications. It is making a big difference to the look and feel of downtown.”

Moneys for the grant come from the Downtown Courtenay BIA’s annual tax levy to property owners, administered by the City of Courtenay. The Façade Improvement Grant deadline for applications to be received by the BIA

for this year is April 30th, 2016.

For more information about the Façade Improvement Grant Program and the Downtown Courtenay BIA go to http://www. downtowncourtenay.com/ about/facade/ or contact the BIA Executive Director Kim Stubblefield 250703-3790, info@downtowncourtenay.com.

Candidates seek positions at Union Bay Bruce Livesey and Jim Elliott announced this week that they will seek election as Union Bay Improvement District Trustees at the Annual General Meeting on April 2, 2016.

In an announcement to the press the candidates thank their nominators and vow to work in the best interest of landowners to move forward with community infrastructure plans for fire and water.

“I am encouraged by the support the community has shown me during the past six years”, said Livesey, “and the endorsement we are receiving at the doorstep.”

Two Trustee positions become vacant on April 2nd with Elliott and Livesey the only declared candidates at this point.

Incumbent Trustee, Bruce Livesey, will be seeking re-election for another three year term with

Jim Elliott

Bruce Livesey

the UBID Board. Bruce has served as Chair of the Board, and Chair of the Finance and Capital Planning Committee.

He also volunteers on two CVRD sub-committees.

His experience brings continuity and leadership to the Board in its plans to move forward with the Public Works and Fire Departments reviews that have been undertaken.

“The Board has worked extremely hard over the

past five years preparing plans to bring quality drinking water and fire protection to Union Bay. With a strong community commitment we can make this happen”, said Livesey.

Jim Elliott is running for trustee on the Union Bay Improvement District Board because he wants to use his past work experience in local government to help the community deal with current issues in providing sustainable infrastructure; not only for

the well-being of the existing residents, but also for future development.

Elliott said, “I’m well aware of the challenges and the associated costs of providing services. As a long-time resident, I appreciate the mix of people that make Union Bay such a great community.

“As well, I understand the challenges we face in moving forward in a constructive way so that we won’t be burdened with unaffordable costs. If I am elected, I will work to achieve consensus on the best direction to achieve this goal.”

Elliott says that historically, the residents of Union Bay have demonstrated great interest in the public process by their overwhelming attendance at public meetings to express their views.

(Continued on page 43)

38 FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 19, 2016

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Wayne Thomas Virtue 1946-2016

Jarvis Alexander Simon

Brooks, Lillian Mary (nee David)

Jarvis passed away on February 4th, at St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital at Comox BC. Born in Sydney, Nova Scotia on October 15th, 1990.

We are extremely sad to announce the sudden passing of Jarvis Alexander Simon (Jarvie). Jarvis was a quiet compassionate young man, who chartered his own course through life. He expressed himself in many ways through his phenomenal writing, drawing and cooking. Jarvie was undecided in what he wanted to do with his life, but he wanted a career and not just a job. His favourite thing in life (besides gaming) was the Great Outdoors. He was an accomplished scout, and ďŹ restarter (he could make a ďŹ re in the pouring rain).

His loving nature came through in his relationships with his family, friends, and his pets. He will be sorely missed by all who knew Jarvis. His memory of his gentle ways, and beautiful smile will live forever strong in our hearts.

Predeceased by his grandmother Jean Simon, Sydney, NS. Survived by his loving parents James and Tammy, and Darlene and John, his siblings, Chester, Becky, Benjamin, Ruel-Dawn and Jade. His loving grandparents Billie and Josie. His uncles Troy-Darryl, Eugene, Aunt Tracey and his wonderful cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held on February 20th at 11am at the Halbe Hall. If you choose to donate, donations to the BC Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital would be appreciated.

Please join us in remembering Jarvie by visiting or memorial at www.piercysmtwashingtonfuneral.com.

1926-2016

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Lillian Mary Brooks passed away on 5 February 2016 in her 89th year.

Lillian was born in Lachine, Montreal, Quebec, Canada on 23 August 1926.

She moved with family from Quebec, where she was born to Huntsville, and then to Gorrie where she was married to Ronald Brooks in 1949.

She lived across Canada as Ronald was in the Air Force. They were last stationed in Lazo Air Force Base on Vancouver Island. Retiring in Courtenay BC and they enjoyed many good retirement years.

Predeceased by: Daughter Mary Curnew; Son David Brooks; Brothers: Bill, Frank, Harold, Bob and Eddy David; Sisters Dorothy Hackett and Florence Maxwell.

Beloved wife of the late Ronald George Brooks. Dear mother of Donna Mae Brooks (Nanaimo BC); Fred Brooks (Vancouver Island, BC); Willie Brooks (Merritt, BC): Bertha Lillian Brooks (Nanaimo, BC). Fondly remembered by 8 Grandchildren, 15 Great-Grand-children and 2 Great-Great Grandchildren.

Also, remembered by sisters: Ivy Monk (Durham, Ont) and Elsie Willert (Newstadt, Ont); brother Ernie David (Rodney, Ont) and Sister-in-law Doris Line (Winnipeg, Man).

A Memorial Service for Lillian will be held on Saturday February 27th, 2016 at 1:00pm at Piercyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Funeral Home, 440 England Ave, Courtenay, BC. Please join us in remembering Lillian by visiting our memorial at www.piercysmtwashingtonfuneral.com

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Wayne Thomas Virtue passed away on February 13, 2016 at St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital in Comox. He was born in Saskatchewan in 1946 but spent almost all his life on the west coast.

He was passionate about many things. When he lived in Powell River he was a volunteer ďŹ reďŹ ghter for over 20 years. He was the one who climbed in the cars to help people who were trapped. When he moved to Courtenay he became an avid motorcycle rider. At one time he had three motorcycles and took turns riding each of them. Most days he enjoyed going to the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dubâ&#x20AC;? to meet up with riding groups to talk mostly motorcycles. Wayne also worked hard for several years for the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ride for Dadâ&#x20AC;?. His dedication and good nature made him a great ambassador for the cause.

He was also a dedicated shopper for Compassionate Resource Warehouse and with his wife was able to send truckloads of goods to people in the world who have absolutely nothing. He loved to go to Texas to all the Harley dealerships, gun shows, comedy places and even to hockey and baseball games. He enjoyed the different things about Dallas and loved spending time with his adopted daughter.

He loved life and had an out-of-the-box sense of humour. We will all remember his contagious laugh, great smile, his compassion for others and his great love of the open road. Along with being a member of SCRC, he always supported other clubs in their charity causes. He will be missed by his family and all his riding brothers and sisters.

He is survived by his wife, Naida Panchishin, his son Matthew and daughter in law Alison, his youngest son, Stewart, daughter Laura-May, adopted daughter Stephanie Panchishin and brother, Gary and sister-in-law, Meridith.

A viewing will be at Piercyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Funeral Home, 440 England Ave on Saturday, February 20th from 3:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5:00pm.

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COOK, Warren Charles Gordon September 2, 1933 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; February 6, 2016

TRAVIS, Howard December 29, 1927 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; February 6, 2016

We are sad to announce the passing of Howard Travis on February 6, 2016 at St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital in Comox, B.C. Howard was predeceased by his brothers Warren Travis and Les Travis, his sister Shirley, and son Stuart. He is survived by his wife Jean Travis; sons Steve (Gita), Jeff (Brigitte) and Keith (Diana) as well as his daughterin-law Joy; grandchildren Sean, Chris, Scott, Steve, Michael and Jeff; great grandchildren James, Justin, Brandon and Tyler, brother Eric (Lorraine), sister Joan as well as many nieces and nephews.

Howard served with the Seaforth Cadets. His entire working career was spent as an electrician and he was a life long member of the I.B.E.W. He also belonged to the Vancouver Rowing Club and played soccer. In his leisure time he enjoyed square dancing, rowing and loved to fish. Howard was a strong, meticulous, lovable grampa who had many friends.

Amaryllis flowers gratefully accepted in his honour.

A celebration of Howardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life will be held on Saturday, February 27, 2016 from 1:00-3:00pm at Comox Valley Funeral Home, Cremation and Reception Centre, 1101 Ryan Road, Courtenay with a reception to follow.

Comox Valley F H

UNERAL OME CREMATION AND RECEPTION

CENTRE 1101 Ryan Road, Courtenay

250-334-0707

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father. Dad passed away peacefully at home with his daughters Kathlene and Christene by his side.

John â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jakeâ&#x20AC;? McLoughlin On July 28th in 1928 the world became a brighter place. On that day John â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jakeâ&#x20AC;? McLoughlin entered this world as the son of Margaret and John McLoughlin.

He was a descendant of the Comox Valley pioneering Grieve and Parkin families.

Jake spent his entire life in the Comox Valley working at various jobs most notably Seale and Thomson, Nib Johnson Motors and Barrs Mobile Homes.

Jake caught the eye of Christina Odebust. That gleam turned into a 59 year marriage resulting in 4 children Daryl, Leslie (Steve), Wayne (Michele) and Brad (Jen), 7 grandchildren Christopher (Kari), Tyler, Ashley, Austein, Tristan, Hilary and Lucas and 2 great-grandchildren, Tenley and Teegan who are now living in the Comox Valley, Willow Point, Winnipeg and Denman Island.

Jake loved to golf and was the captain of the Sunnydale Golf Course for many years. When health forced him to retire from golf Jake ramped up his hobby of baking bread and cinnamon buns with a passion. He was a man who loved to spend time with his family, had a big smile, great sense of humour and a huge heart that helped countless people throughout his life.

His departure from this world on February 10th has left a hole in the hearts of his family friends and neighbours that will be missed forever. Grandpa loved us all. The family wishes to thank Dr. Reggler as well as the South Team Home Care Nurses and Home Care assistants for their outstanding compassionate care. Cremation has taken place. Jake had requested that there not be a service.

We love you Dad and we hope that you are winning big time at the meat draw in the sky. In lieu of ďŹ&#x201A;owers please a donation to the charity of your choice would be appreciated.

Please join us in remembering Dad by visiting our memorial at www.piercysmtwashingtonfuneral.com

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Pop will be deeply missed by his children Kathlene (Greg) Beebe, Christene (Brian) Mackay, Steven Cook, Bruce (Melanie) Cook and by grandchildren Ellen, Wilson, Evan, Claire, Amanda, Montel, Amber and Emily.

Dad was born in Nanaimo, BC growing up there and on the family Farm in Deep Bay where his love and respect for the woods grew. As a young man he moved to Campbell River to work on the water pipeline and then as a papermaker. Becoming a wellrespected tour boss at Catalyst Paper. He raised four children as a single father, guiding us throughout our lives with wisdom, respect, fairness and great love. He was a man above all others and we will deeply miss his presence in our lives.

After a heart attack in 1991 dad decided to retire to Deep Bay, his heartâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s desire, and ďŹ lled his days doing what he loved most, working the beach growing and harvesting oysters or in the bush restoring the forest and streams on his property.

Dad received several awards for his stewardship of the environment, the Governor Generals Award of Canada, Private Forest Stewardship Award, awards from Ducks Unlimited among others.

The family wishes to express deep gratitude to the team that made it possible for dad to spend his ďŹ nal days at home.

In accordance with Dadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wishes there will be no service, but a private family interment will take place at a later date.

If desired donations may be made in Dadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name to Fanny Bay Salmonid Enhancement Society 8425 Berray Rd. Fanny Bay, BC V0R 1W0 or to the BC Heart and Stroke Foundation 200 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1212 West Broadway Vancouver, BC V6H 3V2

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FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 19, 2016

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Freda Marie Blackwell July 16, 1925 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; February 11, 2016

Freda Marie Blackwell passed away peacefully February 11th, 2016 where she resided in Mt St Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Care Home in Victoria, BC. Predeceased by her Mother & Father, 2 older sisters & a younger infant sister, Rosalyn Marie.

Survived by loving family: 1 son, David (Patrice) Blackwell & son Travis (Julia Goodall), granddaughter Bethany: son Garret (Candice) Blackwell; son Bryan (Linda) daughter Mercedez; 4 daughters: Marilee Ewan & son John (Celeste Bergeron) Ewan: Reagan & Talia Little; Bonnie (Marvin) McLachlan, Debbi & Tim (Cyrena) McLachlan: Davis & Josie; Shirley (Jim) Maguire: Bobbie Jo (Lance) Kennedy: Ashton, Aiden, Jazlyn & Tyra; Nolan daughter Amber Brunner; Yolanda (Layne) Wakefield daughter Alexis; Clayton; Natalie (Albert) Labossiere son David; and numerous cousins, nieces & nephews.

Freda was born July 16, 1925 at North Alton, Kings County, Nova Scotia to her Mother, Evorna Viola (English) Sanford & her Father, George Wilson Sanford and 2 older sisters Bonnie Jean and Dorothy Viola. Freda spent her childhood and early school years in that area attending Beaver Bank School where her mother taught and Truro Nova Scotia with a brief time also attending school in Boston. After High School Freda successfully completed her Stenographer Course at Halifax Commercial Academy and began her career there in Halifax during World War 2. This is where she met & married her husband Kenneth Roy Blackwell from Weyburn, Saskatchewan, June 14th, 1944, who was in the Royal Canadian Navy & stationed there during the War. Their first child Marilee Jane was born there in June 1945. After the War was over the little family moved back to Kenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s roots in the prairies, in Estevan where Bonnie Lee was born then settling in Regina where Shirley Ann, Natalie Gay and David Kenneth completed their loving family.

Freda made many beautiful quilts for family members as well as her doll making and collections. She was a Brownie leader for many years as well as sang in the church choir teaching Sunday School. She had an enormous love of reading and learning how to do new things! Freda was a wonderful Mother and also excelled at many creative pursuits like knitting & sewing. Kenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Career in Insurance took them to Prince Albert then to Saskatoon where their now grown family left the nest and started their own families. There were many happy years of expanding her handiwork into quilting while they built a new house in Hardisty, Alberta and travelled extensively through in their Retirement, New England, & visiting family in Nova Scotia. Also Alaska in their 5th Wheel, Cruises thru the Panama Canal & St. Lawrence River and touring Israel with their Church group as well as many excursions with Elder Hostel.

In later years Freda & Ken moved to milder climates on Vancouver Island, BC settling in Courtenay then Victoria also to be nearer family. Freda was predeceased by Ken in 2006 and after a full and happy life now leaves behind many loving family across the western provinces.

Flowers gratefully declined. Donation to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Society or charity of your choice would be much appreciated.

A celebration of Fredaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life will be held on Saturday, February 20th, 2016 at 11:00 am from Comox Valley Funeral Home, Cremation and Reception Centre, 1101 Ryan Road, Courtenay, B.C. with a reception to follow.

Comox Valley F H UNERAL

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Casswell Charles Jewell

September 20, 1919 ~ February 11, 2016 It is with sad hearts that we announce the passing of Casswell Charles Jewell. Cass passed away peacefully at his home on February 11 surrounded by his loving family.

Cass was a quiet, unassuming gentleman who dearly loved his family, his land & the Creator.

He was born in Perry Sound, Ontario, on September 20, 1919.

Cass had many talents and has had many jobs and roles throughout his life. Cass is predeceased by his sister Lena and sons Allan & Ivan and grand-daughter, Andrea. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Eileen, his children: Dave (Tina), Carolyn (Arne), Shelley (Errol) Grandchildren: Duane, Luke (Hilda), Jay (Lucy), Nicole (Heath), Clinton, Adrian (Kenya), Brandon (Amanda), Tiana, Levi, Savannah, Travis & Jesse, & many Great Grandchildren.

A Memorial will be held on Saturday, Feb 20, at 2:30 pm @ 1581 Dingwall Road, Courtenay, followed by a tea. We will miss your quiet strength. Morning coffee won't be the same without you!

Esther H. Hamling 1916 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2016

Our mother Esther Hamling passed away quietly at the Views on Sunday, February 7 at the age of 99 years and 57 days.

Mum was born on December 14, 1916 in Nanton, Alberta, the second of 6 children. In 1938 Esther married Jack Hamling and in 1940 they moved to Courtenay along with 2 Hamling brothers and one sister Frances Zimmer. She lived on Willemar Ave. for 64 years.

Esther was predeceased by her husband Jack and eldest daughter Laurel Maxwell. She is survived by son Dave (Gwen) of Campbell River, Marie (Tom) Miller of Courtenay, son â&#x20AC;&#x201C;in-law Gerald Maxwell of Port Alberni and Sister Mary McDermid of Kelowna. Also by 4 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren.

Our family wishes to thanks the staff and care givers of the Views for the wonderful care Mum received in the 1 ½ years she lived there.

A grave side service was held on Friday, February 12th at the Courtenay Civic Cemetery.

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LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! Located in desirable East Courtenay (Close to New Hospital, North Island College, Aquatic Centre, Schools & Shopping.) This double-wide modular home is on freehold land, located on a corner log on a quiet street. $209,900 $5,000 Cash Gift (or $5,000 off asking price)

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FOR EVERY PET A great read for any pet owner. â&#x20AC;˘ Tips on socialization and pet etiquette â&#x20AC;˘ Training tips, games and activities â&#x20AC;˘ Exercise ideas â&#x20AC;˘ Feeding, grooming, dental care, etc.

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19 FRIDAY LEARN HOW TO MEDITATE! â&#x20AC;˘ Take a free class at the Courtenay Library, 300 6th Street, on Friday February 19th from 11 to 12 noon. The simple and effective techniques of Sahaja Yoga Meditation will allow you to master stress, improve your health, face yourself, and achieve balance in every aspect of life. Ancient knowledge and practices are adapted to modern day needs of people of all ages and walks of life. For more information call us at (250) 954 5040 or visit our website at www.freemeditation. ca.

COURTENAY LEGION â&#x20AC;˘ Meat draws every Friday, 5-7 pm.

COMOX LEGION â&#x20AC;˘ 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.

20 SATURDAY COMOX VALLEY COLDEST NIGHT OF THE YEAR WALK â&#x20AC;˘ Saturday, February 20, 4pm-8pm A fun, family-friendly winter fundraising walk for Comox Valley Transition Society and Dawn to Dawn Action on Homelessness, we aim to attract 230 local walkers to help us raise money to support Comox Valleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s homeless, hungry and hurting. We are NOW recruiting walk teams and walk sponsors - get involved at: coldestnightoftheyear. org. Contact Eric Robertson at 250-3385080.

VEGAN DINEOUT â&#x20AC;˘ On Saturday Feb. 20th at 6:00 pm Zocalo Cafe at 208a 5th St. in Courtenay will host this monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Earthsave vegan dine out. Owner Catherine Bell with chef Peter have put together a two course full service menu.

The cost for the evening including coffee, tea, taxes and tips is $25 for adults and $15 for kids to age 12. The evening is by reservation only. To reserve call Bob at Earthsave, ph. 250338-0751.

ISLAND BAROQUE ENSEMBLE PERFORMS â&#x20AC;˘ Cumberland United Church, with its much appreciated acoustics and its historic pipe organ, will be the setting for a concert of Baroque music featuring the Island Baroque Ensemble on Saturday February 20 at 7:30 pm.

Tickets are $15, students $5. To reserve tickets, phone 250-400-7800. Leave a voicemail with your name, phone number and the number of tickets you require. Receipt of your message will be confirmed by phone.

COURTENAY LEGION â&#x20AC;˘ Meat draws every Saturday 2-5 p.m. in the lounge.

COMOX LEGION â&#x20AC;˘ Meat draws are held every Saturday 3 p.m.

22 MONDAY PLEASURE CRAFT THEATRE â&#x20AC;˘ presents a zany ongoing improvised play which is a satire of school themed storylines such as Archie, Footloose, Glee and Gossip Girl. Recurring characters and plots carry on throughout the six episodes of the show, which creates itself as it goes along, with on the fly lighting, music and direction. The show is suitable for all ages, costs only 5$ and runs every Monday night from Jan 18th to Feb 29th. Show starts at 7pm sharp! At the Cumberland Masonic Hall, 2687 Dunsmuir.

CRIBBAGE â&#x20AC;˘ Every Monday night, 7:00, at the Royston Hall, corner of Old Island Highway and Royston Road.

LADIES AUXILIARY DROP-IN BINGO â&#x20AC;˘ 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.

23 TUESDAY

PEARL ELLIS GALLERY IN COMOX â&#x20AC;˘ Presents: â&#x20AC;&#x153;PEARL ELLIS GALLERY MEMBERSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; SPRING SHOW & SALEâ&#x20AC;? from February 23rd â&#x20AC;&#x201C; March 13th . Open Tues â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sat from 10 am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4 pm, Sun 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4 pm, Closed Monday. Free Admission. Located at 1729 Comox Avenue. FMI and to see a virtual gallery of the current show go to www.pearlellisgallery.com COMOX VALLEY WOOD CARVERS â&#x20AC;˘ 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 250-3395350.

24 WEDNESDAY

OSTEOPOROSIS SUPPORT GROUP â&#x20AC;˘ Date: February 24 at 2 pm. Place: Comox Valley Nursing Centre, 615 Tenth St. Courtenay.

Guest Speaker: Kim Hamilton, Osteofit Instructor. Topic: Osteoporosis and Self Care BINGO â&#x20AC;˘ 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!

MINDS IN MOTION VOLUNTEERS NEEDED â&#x20AC;˘ WHEN: Wednesdays 12:30 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3:30 pm WHERE: Native Sonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hall. Minds in Motion is a program for people experiencing early stage memory loss and their carepartners. Volunteers are needed to assist in a 45 minute fitness class and then in 45 minutes of games and activities.For more information, contact Shanan (the Minds in Motion Coordinator) at 250 734 4170 or email: sstlouis@alzheimerbc.org. We look forward to hearing from you!

15 THURSDAY

THERAPEUTIC RELAXATION PROGRAM FOR PERSONS WITH CANCER IN THEIR LIVES â&#x20AC;˘ Thursdays, 3-4 p.m., Nursing Centre, 615 10th St., Courtenay. Free. Sponsored by BC Cancer Foundation, BC Cancer Agency, Pacific Therapy and Consulting.

FMI: Diane Davies 250-338-2700.

CUMBERLAND MUSEUM â&#x20AC;˘ Members and friends of the Cumberland Museum and Archives are invited to join us for our AGM, taking place Thursday, February 25th, 6:30pm, at the Cumberland Museum, 2680 Dunsmuir Avenue. If you would like to become a member of the Cumberland Museum and Archives, now is the time!

2016 membership forms are available online. CLICK HERE to view our membership benefits, and to join today!

For further information regarding the Annual General Meeting call 250 336 2445.

16 FRIDAY

PROSE AND POETRY READINGS â&#x20AC;˘ Comox Valley Writers Society and the Courtenay Library invite the public to our Monthly Reading Series. New and published writers will read their work at the Courtenay Library Events Room from 11 am to 12:30 pm on Friday, February 26th, 2016. FMI and to sign up to read please call 338-0965. Everyone is welcome.

Visit us online at www.comoxvalleyecho.com

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 19, 2016

41

MONEY MATTERS 5 TOP TIPS TO SECURITY IN A VOLATILE MARKET: 1. Pay back loans that were borrowed to invest.

the value of the account out of bonds and buy that 10% into equities.

This rebalancing equation should be reviewed again when the equities revalue. When equities make up 60% of the value of your portfolio, you would choose to sell 10% of the value of the portfolio from equities and repurchase bonds. Many balanced mutual funds and private pools of funds operate on this rebalancing scheme.

2. Trim your high risk investments, as well as any illiquid assets.

3. Asset diversification helps provide more stable returns.

How to Make the Best of Volatile Markets:

4. Consider diversifying globally.

5. Rebalance your assets regularly.

Volatility in the market has been created by a drop in oil prices and slower growth in China, as well as geopolitical unrest. But with every reason for a decline in the global market, there also comes hope for positive gains. Because the nature of the market is balanced, when markets are volatile and some investments begin to fall, there are often other investments that are going up. Our lower dollar boosts exports; falling oil prices have benefits for consumers and interest rate hikes ultimately signal a stronger economy and lower unemployment. Our strategy involves finding these positives and buying opportunities.

Volatility is an important part of investing and market declines have often been followed by greater recoveries. The willingness to endure volatility overtime has tended to reward the disciplined investor. To be better prepared, we

How should you rebalance your portfolio in order to protect your investments during volatile markets?

Rebalance your investment plans during volatile times. It is beneficial in the long run to operate your account much like a balanced mutual fund. Selling high and buying low creates wealth in the long-term. Imagine a balanced scale where 50% of your assets are in bonds and the other 50% is in stocks (equities). Since we have witnessed a devaluation of your holdings in equities, your current holdings are now out of balance and your portfolio is subsequently weighted 60% bonds and 40% equities. In order to rebalance, you will have to sell 10% of

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This article was prepared solely by Mark Nichol and Roy Collings, who are registered representatives of HollisWealth® (a division of Scotia Capital Inc., a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund and the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada). The views and opinions, including any recommendations, expressed in this article are those of Mark Nichol and Roy Collings alone and not those of HollisWealth. ® Registered trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia, used under licence.

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42 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 19, 2016

MONEY MATTERS KEEP YOUR MONEY – CUT YOUR TAX REFUND!

By Evelyn Jacks

Last year, Canadians both prepaid and overpaid their tax, and the amount was significant: $148 a month, or $1,780 for the year, according to taxation statistics to January 4, 2016. That’s money given to the government on an interest-free basis all year long &#8211; and it’s bad financial planning. Over a 40-year working life, a regular tax overpayment like that would be worth $71,200 in capital, which you would not have invested. Here’s a look at how you could you have made that money grow if you had paid only the correct amount of tax.

In a TFSA: Earnings on investments in a Tax-Free Savings Account are never taxed.

Each family member age 18 or over should maximize their investment in their TFSA. For taxpayers in the highest tax bracket, RRSPs may be more efficient.

In an RRSP: Registered Retirement Savings Plans offer two advantages. They shelter income until the funds are withdrawn, and they offer a tax deduction when the contribution is made. Because the income will be taxed as ordinary income on withdrawal, contributions should be made when taxable income is higher than the anticipated income level at withdrawal. Likewise, interest income is most efficient in an RRSP, whereas the benefits of reduced taxation of capital gains, and dividends are not available if the investments are held in an RRSP. In a non-registered account: In some provinces, for lower-income earners, dividend income earned in a non-registered account can actually reduce taxes on other income. However, for most taxpayers,

non-registered accounts are best used only after TFSA and RRSP contributions have been maximized. If investments are made in RRSPs, TFSAs, and non-registered accounts, be sure to keep investments that earn dividends or capital gains in your non-registered accounts as these will be taxed at lower rates.

Here’s how to put a stop to overpaying your taxes and reclaim your retirement freedom:

Announcement Alitis Investment Counsel is pleased to announce the addition of Todd Blaseckie, CFA, CFP to the Alitis team as Portfolio Manager and Business Development Manager.

1. Maximize your TFSA contribution for all eligible family members. This could result in a tax-free retirement!

2. Maximize RRSP contributions if your federal tax rate is 29% or more.

3. Be tax-efficient in non-registered accounts. Consider the income tax effect on investment return. Taxes on capital gains and dividends are lower than taxes on interest or rental income.

4. Adjust withholding tax. Ensure that your income tax withholding from your employer is no higher than required. Complete your TD1 and T1213 forms annually to claim every deduction you’re entitled to and thereby reduce your withholding tax.

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, © 2016 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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Todd Blaseckie, CFA, CFP Portfolio Manager Business Development Manager

He is a member of the Investment Committee and helps with investment due diligence, economic analysis and portfolio design. Todd shares responsibility for Alitis client management and he believes in a holistic view of client assets and takes great pride in helping clients achieve financial independence.

Todd’s qualifications include the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designations. He has completed numerous industry courses and has a Bachelor of Business Administration from Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, B.C. Alitis Investment Counsel is a new generation portfolio manager offering more diversified investment solutions, similar to many of the world’s top-performing pension and endowment funds. In addition to a solid foundation of traditional stock and bond-based investments, Alitis includes a meaningful allocation of Alternative Investments including private real estate, private mortgages, commercial loan pools, commodities and carefully selected hedge funds. This approach is designed to lower portfolio risk and produce consistent, solid returns.

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Todd has over 18 years’ experience in the financial services industry. Prior to joining Alitis, Todd worked at Qtrade Financial Group for 16 years. His roles and responsibilities during this tenure included; fixed income analysis, treasury management, account approval and compliance, discretionary investment management and advisory client management.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JFEBRUARY 19, 2016

43

Oyster River Fire Rescue hands out annual awards, certificates at banquet

Oyster River Volunteer Fire Rescue held their 2015 Annual Awards Banquet on Jan. 23, 2016.

This event was held to honour the members that have completed training and have excelled as firefighters.

The awards portion of the evening commenced with MLA Don McRae presenting Jim Doberstein with his Provincial Long Service Medal for 25 years of service.

Strathcona Regional District Area D director, Brenda Leigh was happy to present Firefighter Level 2 certificates to Dave Carmichael, Wil Baum, Jim Flohr and Lynne Fedorick.

Edwin Grieve, Area C director from the Comox Valley Regional District, was delighted to present Deputy Chief Chris Murray with his Fire Officer 2 certificate and Lieutenant Janet Marriot with her Fire Officer 1 certificate.

To conclude the awards portion of the evening, Deputy Chief Chris Murray presented firefighter Alana Alix with the Rookie of the Year award and Fire Chief Bruce Green and Mrs. Rose Carnie presented firefighter Ross Squire with the Bill Carnie Memorial Firefighter of the Year trophy.

Pictured is Deputy Chief Chris Murray presenting Alana Alix and her husband Dustin with the Rookie of the Year Award.

Pictured is Brenda Leigh presenting Jim Flohr and wife Edith, Lynn Fedorick, Will Baum and wife Brooke their Fire Fighter 2 certificates (missing is Dave Carmichael).

Pictured is Edwin Grieve presenting Deputy Chief Chris Murray and his wife Janine with his Fire Officer 2 certificate.

Pictured is Don McRae presenting Jim Doberstein and wife Sarah with his 25 year Long Service Medal.

Pictured are Chief Bruce Green and Mrs. Rose Carnie presenting Ross Squire and wife Carol with the Bill Carnie Memorial Fire Fighter of the Year Award.

(Continued from page 37) He believes factual information needs to be the basis for good decision making and the existing board has worked hard to get this information out to the public. He says, that using his extensive expertise, “I am confident that I can work well with the Board and the community. Together we will find the best possible

path forward.”

Both candidates urged landowners to get out and participate in the election, saying that rides will be provided for those who need transportation to the community hall.

The Union Bay Improvement District Annual General Meeting is on Saturday, April 2nd from 1:00-3:00 PM in the Union Bay Community Hall.

44 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.COURTENAY,BC FEBRUARY 19, 2016

Cumberland celebrates the extraordinary at Heritage Faire People from across the Comox Valley and beyond will come together Saturday, February 20th to share their culture, hobbies and collections at this year’s 12th annual Cumberland Heritage Faire.

Held at Cumberland Recreation, 2665 Dunsmuir Ave. from 10 am – 4 pm the Faire features a huge variety of displays created by individuals and organizations spotlighting the rich history of the community.

Heritage Canada’s theme for this year’s festivities is “Distinctive Destinations: Experience Historic Places”.

Cumberland is one of the few Island communities to celebrate the National Heritage Week and is a very distinctive destination.

Playing host to thousands of visitors yearly who come to appreciate the community’s diversity and incredible outdoor recreation opportunities.

Known for decades of

Loads of displays, demonstrations and more Saturday at annual Heritage Faire coal mining and famous for forging a fierce community spirit that is ri-

valled by small towns across the Island.

Cumberland’s heritage

is full of resourcefulness, pride, talented artisans, collectors and entertain-

ers.

The Heritage Fair promises to show-

Take in the Lantern Festival when you visit the Faire Bring out your noise makers and your lanterns, wear bright colours and come to this year’s Cumberland Lantern Festival on February 20th, the same day as the annual Heritage Faire at the CRI. “For the past few years the Taiwanese Lanterns lit the darkness for us at this time of year but they are no longer available to be shown here.

“Cumberland was such a multicultural society that an event in conjunction with the Heritage Faire seems more in keeping with

our history” says organizer Marianne Bell.

“There were Chinese and Japanese, Scottish, English, Italians, Austrians, Americans and even a Chilean. We are making this year a truly “Made in Cumberland” experience.”

Lantern festivals and Festivals of Light are held in almost every country.

In China the Lantern Festival this year is February 22.

Bright clothing and light from lanterns and fireworks are used to scare off the evil spirits and

to celebrate the coming of the light as days get longer in the approaching spring.

On February 15 at Fasnacht in Basel Switzerland lights are extinguished and a parade led by pipers and drummers precedes lanterns that light the way for paraders dressed in masks and costumes.

In several cities in Japan the public gardens and pathways are lit from days or weeks to the several months from November to March.

On February 20th there will be

an indoor labyrinth at the Cultural Centre from 10 am to 4pm, lantern making at the Cumberland Museum at 11 am, a parade at 6pm from the Village Square on 3rd St to the Village Park, and entertainment and sky lantern release afterward at the Village Park (weather permitting of course).

The Heritage Faire will also be from10am to 4pm at the CRI. The Lantern Festival Committee falls under the auspices of the Cumberland Empire Events Society. ❑

The Annual Herring Migration explained Comox Valley Nature hosts ‘Plankton, Herring and Sea Lions’ Comox Valley Nature is pleased to welcome Dr. John Tayless, who is well known in the valley as the founding president of North Island College.

Dr. John Tayless is a marine biologist who specialized in coral reef ecosystems. His talk will outline why the herring appear with such regularity in the waters of Comox Bay, Lambert Channel and Baynes Sound around the second week in March.

John will show how the herring, with the planktonic microcrustaceans “copepods,” are so important in the conversion of vegetable protein to animal protein in sustaining the populations of salmon, sea lions, orcas, eagles, gulls and the other higher vertebrates that make up the ecosystem of the Salish Sea.

The annual herring migration brings with it a cornucopia that enriches the food web just when the spring reproductive cycle of many species is getting underway and begs the question: “Should there be a herring fishery at all”?

John spent a total of seven years around the South China Sea based in Indo-China and Borneo.

He was Curator of the University of Hawaii’s Waikiki Aquarium, educated in the United Kingdom and immigrated to Canada in 1975.

North Island College brought him to the Comox Valley where he was the college’s founding Dean. He retired from the college in 1990, as President, to join the Common Wealth, taking up a post once again in South East Asia.

John was elected a fellow of the Linnean Society in 1968 and Fellow of the Zoological Society in 1970. He is now retired and with his wife Fiona, is enjoying the beauty of the Comox Valley and the valley life style.

John’s lecture, entitled: “Plankton, Herring and Sea Lions; The Annual Herring Migration Explained” will take place at the Florence Filberg Seniors Centre at 7pm (sharp) February 21, 2016.

Comox Valley Nature is a nonprofit society affiliated to BC Nature consisting only of unpaid volunteers. CVN fulfills its educational mandate by hosting monthly lectures, organizing free weekly guided hikes for members, and a free monthly walk open to the public. The society also undertakes a variety of environmen-

tal projects. Aside from its main activity as a non-profit, Comox Valley Nature also supports specialized groups (Birding, Botany, Conservation, Garry Oak Restoration, Wetland Restoration, Photography and Young Naturalists) all of which have separate monthly activities. Membership in BC Nature and Comox Valley Nature is $30 per adult and $40 for a family.

Founded in 1966, it is one of the oldest environmental societies on the North Island. Meetings and lectures of the Comox Valley Naturalists Society are held on the third Sunday of most months at the Florence Filberg Centre, 411 Anderton, Courtenay.

Information can be found at http://comoxvalleynaturalist . bc.ca/

case many of these local attributes and more!

Cumberland’s Heritage Faire was originally launched by a group of community volunteers in 2003 and was modelled on the folk festival that ran from 1949 to 1958 celebrating the diverse heritage of Cumberlanders.

Each year over 50 families, clubs and other organizations set up displays of antique tools, unique collections, photos and demonstrations of crafts and folklore from the early days of Cumberland and the Comox Valley.

The Heritage Faire Committee is careful to include exhibitors who are passionate and knowledgeable about their displays.

People who like to share their knowledge and welcome questions and conversation.

Many displays are interactive too. The Heritage Faire has evolved into a full day event that’s not to be missed.

This year’s displays will include the Gem and Mineral Club, Comox Air Force Museum, Number Six Mine, Comox Valley Medieval Club, Brazilian Embroiders, Alberni Museum Project, Comox Valley Camera Club and the Wool Gathers & Weavers to name a few.

“The Heritage Faire is an opportunity for everyone to share and discover the rich heritage we have in Cumberland and the Comox Valley,” said local business owner Kathryn Hird.

“I’m always impressed by the creativity and effort of the presenters, and I look forward to chatting with the curators of the exhibits again this year. My kids love how the presenters are keen to explain their collections and we have been attending for years.”

There will be musical entertainment for the entire family including performances by Andy Everson and the Kumugwe Dancers, the Comox Valley Ukrainian Dancers, Nick Sullivan, the Black Swan Fiddlers, and the Laurie Tinkler dancers.

Delicious food will be available for purchase from the concession too.

Admission to the Cumberland Heritage Faire is by donation and everyone is welcome.

For more information and a schedule of performers find the “Cumberland Heritage Faire” event on Facebook.

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Offers available from February 2 - 29, 2016. 5Payments cannot be made on a weekly basis, for advertising purposes only. +Offer is administered by Nissan Canada Extended Services Inc. (NCESI) and applies to any MY15 Micra/Sentra/Murano and MY16 Versa Note/Rogue/Pathfinder models (each, an “Eligible Model”) leased and registered through Nissan Canada Financial Services Inc., on approved credit, between Feb 12 – 22 from an authorized Nissan retailer in Canada. Eligible only on leases through NCF with subvented rates. Offer recipient will be entitled to receive a maximum of six (6) service visits (each, a “Service Visit”) for the Eligible Vehicle – where each Service Visit consists of one (1) oil change (using conventional 5W30 motor oil) and one (1) tire rotation service (each, an “Eligible Service”). All Eligible Services will be conducted in strict accordance with the Oil Change and Tire Rotation Plan outline in the Agreement Booklet for the Eligible Vehicle. The service period (“Service Period”) will commence on the purchase or lease transaction date (“Transaction Date”) and will expire on the earlier of: (i) the date on which the maximum number of Service Visits has been reached; (ii) 36 months from the Transaction Date; or (ii) when the Eligible Vehicle has reached 48,000 kilometers. All Eligible Services must be completed during the Service Period, otherwise they will be forfeited. The Offer may be upgraded to use premium oil at the recipient’s expense. The Eligible Services are not designed to meet all requirements and specifications necessary to maintain the Eligible Vehicle. To see the complete list of maintenance necessary, please refer to the Service Maintenance Guide. Any additional services required are not covered by the Offer and are the sole responsibility and cost of the recipient. Offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain offers NCESI reserves the right to amend or terminate this offer, in whole or in part, at any time without prior notice. Additional conditions and limitations apply. Ask your retailer for details. &Representative monthly lease offer based on a new 2016 Rogue S FWD CVT (Y6RG16 AA00)/2016 Rogue SV Special Edition FWD (Y6SG16 AA00).

1.49%/1.49% lease APR for a 60/60 month term equals monthly payments of $280/$308 with $750/$750 down payment, and $0 security deposit. First monthly payment, down payment and $0 security deposit are due at lease inception. Payments include freight and fees. Lease based on a maximum of 20,000 km/year with excess charged at $0.10/km. Total lease obligation is $17,393/$19,228. *Representative monthly lease offer based on a new 2016 Rogue S FWD CVT (Y6RG16 AA00). 0% lease APR for a 24 month term equals monthly payments of $433 with $0 down payment, and $0 security deposit. First monthly payment, down payment and $0 security deposit are due at lease inception. Payments include freight and fees. Lease based on a maximum of 20,000 km/year with excess charged at $0.10/km. Total lease obligation is $10,387. ‡$3,250/$5,500/$6,500 NCF standard finance cash available on new 2015 Micra 1.6 SR (S5SG55 AA00/AA10)/(S5SG75 AA00/AA10)/2015 Sentra 1.8 SL (C4LG55 AA00), 2015 Sentra SR Premium CVT (C4LG15 RP00)/2015 Altima 2.5 SL (T4LG15 AAOO)/(T4TG15 NV00)/(T4SG15 NV00) models when financing with NCF at standard rates. VModels shown $37,008/$25,998/$35,848 Selling price for a new 2016 Rogue SL AWD Premium (Y6DG16 BK00)/ 2015 Sentra 1.8 SL (C4TG15 AA00)/2015 Altima 3.5 SL (T4SG15 NV00). See your dealer or visit Nissan.ca/Loyalty. *X±&VFreight and PDE charges ($1,760/$1,600/$1,700) air-conditioning levy ($100) where applicable, applicable fees (all which may vary by region), manufacturer’s rebate and dealer participation where applicable are included. License, registration, insurance and applicable taxes are extra. Lease offers are available on approved credit through Nissan Canada Finance for a limited time, may change without notice and cannot be combined with any other offers except stackable trading dollars. Vehicles and accessories are for illustration purposes only. 2016 Rogue recognized as IIHS top safety picks when equipped with Forward Emergency Braking. For more information see www.IIHS.org. 1The Blind Spot Warning System is not a substitute for proper lane changing procedures. The system will not prevent contact with other vehicles or accidents. It may not detect every vehicle or object around you. 2Lane Departure Warning System operates only when the lane markings are clearly visible on the road. Speed limitations apply. See Owner’s Manuel for details. 3Parking aid/convenience feature.

Cannot completely eliminateblind spots. May not detect every object and does not warn of moving objects. Always check surroundings and turn to look behind you before moving vehicle. MOD operates at vehicle speed below 5 mph. The Nissan Sentra received the lowest number of problems per 100 vehicles among compact cars in the proprietary J.D. Power 2015 Initial Quality StudySM. Study based on responses from 84,367 new-vehicle owners, measuring 244 models and measures opinions after 90 days of ownership. Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of owners surveyed in February-May 2015. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com. See your participating Nissan retailer for complete details. ©2016 Nissan Canada Inc. and Nissan Canada Financial Services Inc. a division of Nissan Canada Inc.

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JFEBRUARY 19, 2016

45

Legion poster, literary winners

Each year in November Legion branches across Canada engage K-12 students in a poster and literary contest on the Remembrance theme in which cash prizes are awarded at the branch, zone, provincial and national levels. These winners from Valleyview Elementary School all advanced to the Central Vancouver Island Zone level, the results of which should be announced shortly.

Courtenay Legion Remembrance Day Poster / Literary contest winners from Valley View Elementary 2015 Top – Frank Burden, Courtenay Legion Middle L-R – Ally Gilmore, Chelsea Woods, Todd Jenkins, Kirsten Cook, Shayna Jewitt Bottom L-R – Lexi Monro, Avery Daugherty, Gracelyn Richards, Chloe Pritchard, Kiara Whitfield, Grace Klus, Rochelle Hopkins, Dalton Weaver

46 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 19, 2016

ROTARY CLUBS OF THE COMOX VALLEY Rotarians Reach Out to Cumberland Lodge The Rotary Club of Cumberland Centennial has a long history of support for Cumberland Lodge, the residential care facility at the former Cumberland Hospital. Every year some residents attend the Extravaganza Italiana as our guests.

For three years, we have held the monthly “Dining-In” event for residents who can go longer go on social outings. Members, volunteers and residents share a dinner in one of the separate dining rooms overlooking the garden area. The room is always decorated and fitting with some seasonal event. At Christmas, we enjoy singing carols with our Lodge friends.

We provided e-readers and a large flat screen TV with sound bar. Most recently we donated a new stove for the recreation room. We have developed the Lodge Library by donating a book on behalf of every guest speaker at our weekly Rotary meetings. A label in the book names the speaker and organisation so honoured. We hope in the near future to develop an audio library for those residents who no longer read. The possibilities are endless for enhancing the quality of the lives of our friends at Cumberland Lodge.

SPRING SALMON NUGGETS Wild, Smoked & Candied by Hardy Buoys , Frozen & Vacuum Sealed

$25/lb or 5lbs for $100.

For Kids Big and Small In 2013-14, the club partnered with the Village of Cumberland to fund the remake of the playground in Village Park with a contribution of $110,000 with the help of the Province of BC and Tire Stewardship BC. Cumberland children had the opportunity to help choose what elements would be featured in the new playground. They include traditional and innovative equipment, including a zip line, an OmniSpin spinner and saddle spinners, a four-person seesaw, swings, slides, monkey bars and many other favourite play features. The playground has become a great addition to the water park beside it and has drawn kids of all ages from far and wide. We welcome you to come and see what all the “fun” is about.

IMAGINATION LIBRARY

Rotary Celebrates 111 Years of Service

Launched by country music star Dolly Parton The Imagination Library provides pre-school aged children with a free hardcover book every month from birth to the age of five. Every month the children registered with the Rotary Club of Cumberland Centennial will receive a carefully selected book in the mail.

More than 1 Million books have been placed with children since

the program began. The Rotary Club of Cumberland embraced the idea of providing children with the opportunity to develop a love of reading and we now have over 100 children who reside in Cumberland reregistered in the pro-

gram. Funding for this program is provided by the club and generous, anonymous donors. Any child under 5 years of age living in Cumberland is welcome to register - contact the club for more information.

On February 23, 1905, Paul P. Harris and several colleagues founded the first Rotary club in Chicago. From this small beginning, Rotary has grown into the world’s largest service club with 1.2 million members in more than 34,000 clubs.

The motto of Rotary is Service above Self. The purpose of Rotary is to bring together business and professional leaders to provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations and to advance goodwill and peace around the world. The four Rotary clubs in the Comox Valley work very hard to raise funds to undertake our many local and international projects. The support of the community in these endeavours is greatly appreciated.

Available at Eby’s Business Services, 1994 Comox Ave. in Comox 8:45 am-5:15 pm Monday to Friday. Proceeds go towards international projects of the Rotary Club of Comox.

Extravaganza Italiana

Cumberland Rotary is well known for the Extravaganza Italiana that we run each fall. Cumberland has had an Italian community since the first immigrants arrived in the late 19th century. In the 1970s the matriarchs of the Italian Community in Cumberland offered home-cooked Italian buffets, often in support of a person or family in need, these events were a big hit with everyone and the reason the Rotary Club of Cumberland connected with the past to hold its annual Extravaganza Italiana starting in 2005.

In keeping with this tradition of supporting community, funds raised from the Extravaganza have been put to good use of the years and you can see evidence of that around the the village. The Rotary Club of Cumberland Centennial would like to thank the Comox Valley for your donations and continued support and we look forward to seeing you at our next Extravaganza on October 1st this year.

W H O A R E ROTA R I A N S ?

W H AT I S I N T E R AC T ?

We are 1.2 million neighbors, friends, and community leaders who come together to create positive, lasting change in our communities and around the world.

A service organization sponsored by Rotary clubs for young adults aged 12-18. There are more than 12,300 Interact clubs in 133 countries including three in the Comox Valley, one in each high school.

ST R AT H CO N A S U N R I S E www.rotarystrathconasunrise.org

CUMBERLAND CENTENNIAL www.rotarycc.org

CO U R T E N AY portal.clubrunner.ca/671

COMOX comoxrotary.ca

P R O U D S U P P O RT E R S O F R OTA R Y rickgibson.ca

T. Dale Roberts

personal real estate corporation

NOTARY PUBLIC

250-338-1723

Michelle Courtney

MODERN MORTGAGE GROUP

Victor Anasimiv • 250-338-3740

Personal Real Estate Corporation

In the Comox Valley

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 19, 2016

47

MADE FOR [ NEW BEGINNINGS ]

0

OFFER ENDS FEB 29

4 ,000 IN DISCOUNTS UP TO

%

+

FINANCING FOR UP TO

60 MONTHSĭ

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ON SELECT MODELS

DON'T PAY FOR 90 DAYS† ON ALL MODELS

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FINAL CLEAROUT! T! 2015

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2015 SORENTO “HIGHEST RANKED MIDSIZE SUV IN INITIAL QUALITY IN THE U.S.”

BY J.D. POWER

THE ALL-NEW 2016

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Sorento SX Turbo AWD shown‡

2.4L LX FWD

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135

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%

APR FOR 60 MONTHS &

INCLUDES $500 IN DISCOUNTS | PLUS $500 COMPETITIVE BONUS**

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&

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Offer(s) available on select new 2015/2016 models through participating dealers to qualified retail customers who take delivery from February 2 to 29, 2016. Dealers may sell or lease for less. Some conditions apply. See dealer for complete details. Vehicles shown may include optional accessories and upgrades available at extra cost. All offers are subject to change without notice. All pricing includes delivery and destination fees up to $1,725, $22 AMVIC, $100 A/C charge (where applicable). Excludes taxes, licensing, PPSA, registration, insurance, variable dealer administration fees, fuel-fill charges up to $100, and down payment (if applicable and unless otherwise specified). Other lease and financing options also available. ĭ0% financing for up to 60 months plus up to $4,000 discount available on select 2015/2016 models. Discount is deducted from the negotiated purchase/lease price before taxes. Certain conditions apply. See your dealer for complete details. Representative Financing Example: Financing offer available on approved credit (OAC), on a new 2015 Optima LX AT Sunroof (OP743F) with a selling price of $27,862 is based on monthly payments of $398 for 60 months at 0% with a $0 down payment and first monthly payment due at finance inception. Offer also includes $4,000 discount (loan credit). Other taxes, registration, insurance and licensing fees are excluded. †“Don’t Pay For 90 Days” on all models (90-day payment deferral) applies to purchase financing offers on all new 2015/2016 models on approved credit. No interest will accrue during the first 60 days of the finance contract.

After this period, interest starts to accrue and the purchaser will repay the principal interest monthly over the term of the contract. Offer ends February 29, 2016. &Representative Leasing Example: Lease offer available on approved credit (OAC), on the 2016 Sorento LX 2.4L FWD (SR75AG)/2016 Forte Sedan LX MT (FO741G) with a selling price of $29,342/$17,562 (including $500/$1,300 lease credit discounts) is based on a total number of 130 bi-weekly payments of $135/$66 for 60 months at 1.9%/0%, with $0 security deposit, $1,950/$975 down payment and first monthly payment due at lease inception. Total lease obligation $17,554/$8,622 with the option to purchase at the end of the term for $11,142/$6,665. Lease has 16,000 km/yr allowance (other packages available and $0.12/km for excess kilometres). **$500 Competitive Bonus offer available on the retail purchase/lease of any new 2016 Sportage, 2016 Sorento and 2016 Optima from participating dealers between February 2 to 29, 2016 upon proof of current ownership/lease of a select competitive vehicle. Competitive models include specific VW, Toyota, Nissan, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Hyundai, Honda, GM, Ford, Jeep, Pontiac, Suzuki, Saturn, Chrysler, Chevrolet, Subaru, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, Land Rover, Infiniti, Acura, Audi, Lincoln, Volvo and Buick vehicles. Some conditions apply. See your dealer or kia.ca for complete details. *Cash Purchase Price for the new 2015 Optima LX AT (OP742F) is $19,995 and includes $1,545 delivery and destination fee, $6 AMVIC fee and $16 tire tax. Includes a cash discount of $6,467. Includes $467 in dealer participation. °Additional discounts available at participating dealers only. Some conditions may apply. See dealers for details. Dealer may sell for less. Other taxes, registration, insurance and licensing fees are excluded. Cash discounts vary by model and trim and are deducted from the negotiated selling price before taxes. ‡Model shown Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price for 2016 Sorento SX Turbo AWD (SR75IG)/2015 Optima SX AT Turbo (OP748F)/2016 Forte SX AT (FO748G) is $42,095/$34,895/$26,695. The Bluetooth® wordmark and logo are registered trademarks and are owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. The 2015 Optima was awarded the 2015 Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for model year 2015. U.S. models tested. Visit www.iihs.org for full details. The Sorento received the lowest number of problems per 100 vehicles among midsize SUVs in the proprietary J.D. Power 2015 U.S. Initial Quality StudySM. Study based on responses from 84,367 U.S. new-vehicle owners, measuring 244 models and measures opinions after 90 days of ownership. Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of U.S. owners surveyed from February to May 2015. Your experiences may vary.

Visit jdpower.com. Government 5-Star Safety Ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA's) New Car Assessment Program (www.SaferCar.gov). Information in this advertisement is believed to be accurate at the time of printing. For more information on our 5-year warranty coverage, visit kia.ca or call us at 1-877-542-2886. Kia is a trademark of Kia Motors Corporation.

48 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 19, 2016

February Clearance Sale At G &H Furniture

OPEN SUNDAY NOON - 4:00

Fabric Sofa Set Reg. $2,499

$

999

Ottoman sold separately

Loveseatt $4 L 479 79

Brown Fabric Sofa Reg. $1,499 $499

ELRAN Medical Lift Chair Me Reg. $1,899

$

699

Recliner Sofa

998

$

Reg. $2,199

Recliner R ecline er Sofa R e g . $3,500 $

1499 1

Reg. $2499/$2349 Recliner 100% Italian Leather $ SALE - Sofa 999 Loveseat $949

Reclining Sofa Reg. $2,299

M ad

1199

$

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a

Sale

ad

100% Leather available in Brown & Beige

Fabric Sofa $798

Sectional Canadian Made right here in BC Light Grey

Recliner Sofa

Reg. $2,399

Sale

2199

$

3 Pc Brown Sectional Sale

Sale

$

899

Reg. $2499

$

1799 Reg. $4,200

Top Grain Leather Sofa Recliner Sofa

Fabric Sofa $799

Sale

Double Sofa Bed

899

$

Love Seat

Reg. $1,899

Sale

849

$

Sale $798

Fabric Sofa Sale Reg. $1,899

ELRAN Medical Lift Chair

Regular Price $1,899

SALE $699

Fabric Recliner

Red Leather Swivel Rocker Recliner

Fabric Rocker Recliner

SAVE

SALE $499

SALE $499

Rialto Reclina-Rocker®

Tufted Fabric Recliner

Regular Price $1,499

SALE $499

Fabric Chaise Recliner

SAVE

999

$

Ryan Reclina-Rocker®

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