Comox Valley Echo - May 23, 2014

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Volume 20, No. 41

Valley schools to be closed on May 29 because of teachers’ strike

By Michael Briones Echo Staff Students in the Comox Valley will get an unscheduled day off from school courtesy of the BC teachers’ rotating strikes that are set to start on Monday.

All schools in the valley will be behind the picket lines on Thursday, May 29 and will be closed for the day.

The BC Teachers Federation escalated its job action due to the provincial government and BC Public School

Employers’ Association’s unwillingness to offer any improvements to class size, class composition, and other important learning conditions for students, as well as the employer’s unfair wage demands.

The rotating strikes are part of a two-stage strike plan voted on by teachers in March. “It’s a sad day when we have to increase our job action,” said Steve Stanley, president of the Comox District Teachers Association. “It’s very regrettable. It’s something that could have been

avoided. We’ve been bargaining for 16 months, trying to reach an agreement. It has failed at this point. It’s not for lack of trying. We’ve been trying tooth and nail to get a deal, to be reasonable, to be open for new ideas and things and that doesn’t seem to come our way.”

School District 71 board chair, Peter Coleman, said that any missed day of school at this time of the year is always “bad news.”

“I don’t know how it was avoidable, unfortunately,” said Coleman.

“It seems to me both parties are pretty set in their positions. All we can do is just do our best to make sure that parents are alerted and nothing terrible happens as a consequence of the one-day closure.”

Contract negotiations appeared to have made some progress when the province withdrew its 10-year contract proposal for teachers and reduced it to six years. Stanley said they were encouraged by it but were upset a day later when the government threatened to roll back wages

by five per cent, going up to as much as 10 per cent, if job action doesn’t end.

“We’re asking the Labour Relations Board if it’s illegal for the government to do that,” said Stanley. “We’re still doing our job from 9 o’clock in the morning to till 3 o’clock in the afternoon, working with kids, meeting the parents, and doing report cards. How can they justify any kind of pay cut? It’s unheard of in any labour relations.

(Continued on page 2)

Courtenay council supports creation of new fire hall and training facility

By Michael Briones Echo Staff

Leader of the Opposition hauls in the harvest Thomas Mulcair, federal leader of the NDP, stopped off in Comox with his wife Catherine Pinhas on Wednesday afternoon to meet with K’ómoks First Nation officials and get a first-hand look at the band’s Pentlatch Seafood Ltd. operations.

Photo by Drew A. Penner/Echo Staff

Courtenay council has endorsed plans to construct, without delay, a fire training ground at Waters Place, to be followed immediately by the creation of a satellite fire hall that will begin serving the east side of the city in 2017.

The decision was made following the presentation made by councillor Jon Ambler, the chair of the select committee handling the project, that included results of two studies conducted by independent groups, the Fire Underwriters Survey and FireWise Consulting Ltd. Ambler said it’s important to immediately invest in a training facility in order to maintain a cost-effective volunteer force that is well trained and qualified for the task. The committee recommended building it this year and getting it ready for service in 2015.

Council also supported the recommendation to develop a practical fire officer training program as well as review Bylaw No. 2556 to ensure the fire department is granted authority

to provide specific services as mandated by council.

The committee, which also includes councillors Bill Anglin and Manno Theos, looked at other properties to build a new fire hall. A Ryan Road location was cited as ideal but it would cost the city over $1 million to purchase it and it needs more servicing. In the end, they determined, along with the conclusions of the FUS and FireWise that Waters Place was a better choice because of the city already owns the property, it is serviced and will be close to the location of the new hospital. This also has helps reduced the cost from its 2012 estimate of $9.6 million to $5.7 million.

The two independent studies, commissioned by the city, concluded that there is a need for an additional fire hall because at present the city has all their eggs in one basket. Being separated by a river, the reviews stated it creates a major safety and emergency response concerns especially when natural disaster strikes like a major earthquake.

(Continued on page 2)

Apartment housing project halted by developer Deflated builder puts 94-unit development on the chopping block

By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff Frustrated by the bureaucratic process involved in getting a much needed 94-unit Courtenay apartment block in the works the developer behind the Acadia on the Walk project says he’s had enough.

Brett Giese of Crowne Pacific Development Corp. says requirements brought to the table by the city’s engineering department that would result in tens of thousands of dollars beyond what he had expected being levied against him for the four-story buildings in South Courtenay were just too onerous.

“We’re definitely disappointed,” he

Crowne Pacific Development Corp. has been prepping the site across from Future Shop for rental units but has now pulled the plug. (Photo submitted) said, describing his emotions around pulling the plug on the rental units slated to go in across from Future Shop. “We were looking forward to getting going here this year.”

Giese feels deflated knowing that after already expecting to pay over a million dollars in development cost charges the engineering department now wants him to chip in an extra

$50,000 to fix a section of sewer a few blocks north of the development, and pay for upgrades to the intersection at Cliffe Avenue and Anfield Road.

Courtenay has said it will pay for the modeling to figure out what sewer renovations are necessary.

“If upgrades are necessary, the developer would also be eligible for a credit towards their sanitary sewer development cost charges,” said CAO David Allen. “City staff will continue to work with this developer and provide assistance where possible, as they address the outstanding issues on project.”

Allen says he’s aware of how important getting new rental units in the city is to residents.

“We do very much care about seeing the project move forward,” he said. “I think the issues is really that the engineering requirements are standard. They’re not a hardship on this particular development. Clearly

every developer has to do their due diligence. It’s not up to the city to do that work.”

But Giese describes the process behind trying to build these units as quite a laborious one.

“It hasn’t been on a standstill,” he said. “It’s been at a snail’s pace trying to worm around ever changing criteria with staff. Things have definitely come to a head here in the last two weeks.”

He’s annoyed that he is expected to pay for improvements to a section of pipe that is only at capacity because of recent growth such as the mall that includes Walmart and the Buckstone Investments Ltd. development.

“There’s a couple sections of sewer that are needing upgrade and they’ve been identified as needing upgrade for quite some time,” he said.

“They’ve chosen to spend the money elsewhere in the community.”

(Continued on page 2)

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A2 Comox Valley Echo Friday, May 23, 2014

News

Comox Valley Weather

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Friday, 23 May Cloudy with 60% chance of showers.

High 14°C.

Saturday, 24 May Cloudy.

Low 11°C. High 17°C.

Sunday, 25 May Cloudy.

Low 10°C. High 15°C.

Monday, 26 May Cloudy with 60% chance of showers.

Low 10°C. High 15°C.

Tuesday, 27 May A mix of sun and cloud.

Low 10°C. High 17°C.

1405 Carron Road, Courtenay May 17, 1-3pm

For the latest Comox Valley Weather visit: www.comoxvalleyecho.com

Council supports new fire hall (Continued from page 1)

The Courtenay Branch of St. John Ambulance bestowed a Life Saving Award during its annual general meeting last week .Brody Fullerton received the Award from Ben Douglas, Area Commissioner, in gratitude for his heroic efforts to rescue Molly Burton following a hit and run accident last fall on the Dyke Road. Brody received his award to a standing ovation from the crowd which included members of his family and Molly’s grateful parents.

Should the two access bridges that link the West and East side become compromised, an additional fire station in East Courtenay will ensure some degree of fire and rescue services for the area where currently more than 50 per cent of the city’s population reside.

Despite having a mutual aid agreement with other fire departments in the district, the study indicated it’s likely during a disaster they too would be overwhelmed by demands for service in their own immediate jurisdictions.

Ambler also explained that any incidents that may impede traffic flow on both bridges also delays the volunteer crews from reaching a fire scene or emergency.

The committee also compared the operations of the Courtenay Fire Department to other jurisdictions like Campbell River Fire Department.

Campbell River has two fire departments that serve a population of 31,000 people and has an operating budget of $3.83 million. Courtenay has a population of 38,000 people, has one fire hall that cost the city $1.72 million a year.

Ambler said in developing the plans

for a training centre, they consulted with the Town of Comox and the Comox Fire Department.

They accommodated them well, he said when the committee visited the centre and provided them with information they needed. He acknowledged that although they have an excellent individual skills training facility and that the Courtenay Fire Department will continue to train there, it has some limitations like no room to maneuver vehicles and has no ability to train incident commanders.

The proposed Courtenay fire-training centre will not duplicate the Comox facility said Ambler but will be geared towards complementing it. It will have the ability to train crew skills, maneuver vehicles, train incident commanders, provide regional training resource and also tailored to Courtenay buildings.

The committee will remain intact and will be reviewing all the plans before proceeding with any developments.

The public will be given the opportunity to give their input on the project at an open house that the city would be hosting.

Teachers’ rotating strike will hit Valley schools next Thursday (Continued from page 1) “We’re on job action so we’re allowed to do certain things.

We’re meeting the needs of the labour relations board. They

made a ruling of things that we can do. It’s just unreasonable for the government to do that.

Hopefully it’s an idle threat and they won’t do that. But we’ll have to cross that bridge when we get

Apartment project stopped (Continued from page 1) Giese also charges that Campbell River provides a much more developer-friendly environment.

“Campbell River’s done a good job in the last couple years at refining a development process,” he said, noting it took three weeks to line up a meeting with Courtenay staff.

“Campbell River’s not perfect we’ve had our battles,” he said. “But they’re listening. You see a response.”

One of those battles came in the form of a multi-family Dogwood Street and Merecroft Road project.

Campbell River had asked Giese to put hydro servicing underground, but he didn’t want to. Giese appealed to council for a variance and he was successful in his plea.

Ross Blackwell, Campbell River’s land use services department manager, says Campbell River has been working hard to reach out to the builders.

“We have launched a series of

short how-to media clips on our website,” he said. “Once we have established an official community plan through the input of the community and the community stakeholders then we view the development community as a partner.

“We work quite aggressively to assist development through these processes of transparence, transparency and consistency to make it as straightforward for the developer as possible.”

Allen acknowledges the quite developer-friendly atmosphere to the north but points out Campbell River hasn’t always been a hotbed of growth.

He adds that Courtenay is working hard to follow in their footsteps.

“In previous council meetings we talked about improving development procedures and also making developers responsible for their own applications such that they’re rewarded,” he said. “It’s not up to the city to act as quasi-consultants to developers. It’s up to them to hire their own consultants.”

UADRA

ISLAND GOLF

It’s in our nature.

to it.”

The province also offered all teachers a $1,200 bonus if a new collective bargaining agreement is reached with the BC Teachers’ Federation before the end of the school year. But Stanley said the deal has to be fair before they can endorse it.

The province offered a wage hike of 6.5 per cent over six years but the BCTF is proposing around 15.9 per cent over four years.

“They want us to agree with two more years of zero increase and that would make it four years of no increases,” said Stanley. “We will fall further behind. We’re looking for some kind of respect around that.

Other public sectors union had increases above what they’re offering us. We’re looking for at least equity with others. They’re not bringing that. It’s not a fair deal for us. So why would we sign a deal if it’s not good? They have to make it worth our while.”

The current contract negotiations are making some school

districts a bit more nervous, including the local School District 71, which is already facing a shortfall of just over $2 million next school year and has made plans to introduce staff reductions to balance its budget. Coleman said they simply do not have the financial resources to fund any more staff increases.

“Whether it’s what the government has offered or what the teachers are asking for or somewhere in between, the government has to fund the school districts for that raise,” said Coleman. “They must. I bet you there isn’t a chair or superintendent in the province that doesn’t believe the government must fund the salary increase.

“We’ve been very careful and managed to carry a little bit of reserve fund for emergencies. But now it’s gone. We’ve limited layoffs with whatever reserve we had.

Now we’re in the same boat as 90 per cent of the districts in the

province.”

Stanley understands the position of the school district and said it’s the province’s responsibility.

“It’s all about priorities,” said Stanley. “Any increase would have to be funded separately. It’s not fair to the school district. It’s not right that the government doesn’t fund public education properly. BC education is funded $1,000 less per student on average in Canada.

It’s getting harder and harder for the local school board which is cutting 23 teaching jobs and 20 educational assistants. They have to do that just to balance the books. More and more restraints and cuts are affecting kids.”

The teachers can move to a full strike if bargaining continues to stall.

Stanley said before that happens the teachers have to vote for it and present it to the Labour Relations Board. He is hoping that the rotating strike will help reach a settlement.

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Comox Valley Echo Friday, May 23, 2014 A3

News

North Island Hospitals Project deal gets first round of approval Doctors worried concerns not being heeded in haste of hammering out specifics

By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff The complex financial arrangement behind the hospital builds planned for northern Vancouver Island has already won a thumbs up from Island Health’s approval board and is now before the Ministry of Finance, although officials won’t say much about the decades-long ownership deal with Tandem Health Partners.

“We’re hoping to get a response back sometime in June,” said Chief Project Officer Tom Sparrow.

“In the meantime we’re finalizing our project agreement, working very closely with our Tandem Health Partners and our lawyers and financial people who ensure the documents are tight and continue to meet the needs of all parties.”

But as the government mulls the health care bill it will face under the Private Public Partnership (P3) construction of the North Island Hospitals Project, a doctor consulting on the new Campbell River and Comox Valley facilities says the input of frontline staff is being ignored.

In a report to the St. Joseph’s General Hospital board May 8 Dr. Phil Luke described a frenetic pace of meetings and discussions to make sure the fiscal side of the contracts agreed to will be able to support the life-saving work done within the 153-bed Courtenay and the 95-bed Campbell River buildings.

“Each subsection of the medical staff is flying off in many directions just to try to get what we think we want,” Luke said. “I’m not quite sure how it got that way, but that’s where we’re at.”

A fellow board member asked if he felt listened to.

“At this point no,” he said. “At this point in time we are given something, and it kind of has to be adapted. And that’s going to be an interesting process based on how it seems so far.”

A major concern relates to the physical size of the $600 million facilities, something that has emerged as an issue among hospital administrators in Surrey and Vancouver.

“A lot of these places have basically been overbuilt and they can’t service the areas that they’re given,” he said. “You bought a big new truck with a V8 and your gas budget can only run a four cylinder beater.”

Luke worries the NIHP emergency room designs, which are twice the size of the overcrowded one at St. Joseph’s, reveal a similar pattern.

Clinicians take part in a construction drawing-reading exercise May 5. (Photo by Island Health) capacity for possible population booms. That community is reaping the rewards of oil and gas industry activity and could blossom further if the controversial Site C dam or any of the proposed pipeline projects go forward.

“Demographics change. People come people go,” he said. “There’s a lot of work put into planning, but that doesn’t mean you planned it right.”

Because the NIHP buildings are going for a LEED environmental design certification the buildings will be much cheaper to operate than current facilities.

And as far as listening to medical experts, Sparrow notes the project group has already met with over 200 clinical and non-clinical staff who have been providing input at every step of

“Emerg has been an issue because of our sense that it’s too big, and we won’t have the operating budget to run it,” he said.

“We’ll see.”

Sparrow admits it can be a bit of a guessing game to pick a size that current budgets can support yet plans for inevitable development within the surrounding region.

“You can’t always blue-sky or envision what potentially is going to happen five or 10 years down the road because it might or might not happen,” Sparrow said. “A lot of times you are rolling the dice.

You do the very best you can.”

Having been involved in the construction of the Fort St. John hospital, which features operating rooms about the size of the ones to be built here, he’s acutely aware of the necessity of building in

the project.

The most recent example of outreach within the health care community was a kick-off event held in Merville May 5 where

clinical staff representing 17 different user groups got a look at plans in their current form, and met designers and engineers.

“We spent a full day going through where we’ve been and where we are now,” Sparrow said.

“It was very electric.”

As the project moves closer to reality more and more fears are dissipating, something he claims was in evidence at that meeting.

“I think the anxiety level has come down significantly,” he said.

“I think it was very satisfying.”

The general public will have a chance to get an update on the project during meetings in the Comox Valley Tuesday, May 27 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Stan Hagen Theatre, North Island College, 2300 Ryan Road, Courtenay and in Campbell River on Thursday, May 29 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Maritime Heritage Centre, 621 North Island Highway.

The actual nuts and bolts of what taxpayers will be on the hook for are still confidential and will not even be revealed at these meetings.

“What I can say is the interest rates that we’re getting are looking exceptionally good,” Sparrow said.

“I think that bodes well with our private sector partner who has been able to obtain those rates.

“We have to be very careful what we release until we reach financial close.”

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A4 Comox Valley Echo Friday, May 23, 2014

News

Seminar on digestion will benefit Transition Society

Cumberland Community Schools giant garage sale Cumberland Community Schools Society is hosting its 6th Annual HUGE Garage Sale on Sunday May 25th from 9 am to 3p m at the Cumberland Elementary Gym! This great event is a key fundraiser for the after school programs and hot lunch offered to students by the CCSS. Donations can be dropped off at the Cumberland Elementary Gym from 10 am to 4 pm on Saturday May 24th. Already there is a record amount of

stuff including tools, seasonal items, gardening supplies, books, furniture, clothes, baby items, toys, knick knacks and treasures. Everything for sale will be priced by donation so come out and support this HUGE fundraiser.For more information, please call Donna at 250-400-8086 or Sara at 250702-2169. Thanks for your support!!!

Are you interested in getting at the underlying cause of digestive problems and finding real and lasting solutions for your grumbling gut?

Local Naturopathic physician Dr. Deidre Macdonald’s upcoming seminar will guide you in the right direction.

“Improving Digestion Naturally” will be held on Wednesday, May 28 at 7:00 pm. at the Crown Isle Clubhouse.

Admission is by donation and 100% of the proceeds are being donated to the Comox Valley Transition Society, which provides programs and safe housing for women and children who have experienced domestic violence.

This seminar will introduce you to the powerful and proven strategies used by naturopathic physicians to treat digestive disorders naturally.

Conditions that will be addressed include acid reflux, constipation, chronic diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, colitis, ulcers, food allergies, gall bladder problems and more. The latest research on the human microbiome (normal intestinal bacteria) and how it relates to health will be presented.

Most conventional medicines focus on suppressing the symptoms of digestive disorders rather than treating the underlying causes of those disturbances. The approach in naturopathic medicine is quite different.

An extensive investigation is done to analyze a patient’s symptoms to get clues as to the underlying causes of any disorder. Eliminating stress factors on the system is essential to allow

the body to heal. For instance, food allergies can cause inflammation anywhere in the digestive tract and nutrient deficiencies can starve the tissues of essential tools for rebuilding.

Deficiencies in the secretions of the stomach, pancreas and liver can lead to imbalances in the digestive juices.

The result can be gas, bloating, acid reflux, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome and more.

Addressing these underlying issues, while using good nutrition and safe, natural medicines to build up the digestive organs, has proven to be very effective. Naturopathic medical approaches create real, lasting solutions to digestive problems.

Naturopathic physicians are licensed primary care physicians with eight to nine years of university training.

Dr. Macdonald is licensed to prescribe pharmaceutical drugs, do physical exams, and provide lab work.

The goal of naturopathic medical treatments is to utilize lifestyle change first, natural medicines second and pharmaceutical medicines only if necessary.

To learn more about how to improve digestion with naturopathic medicine, come to Crown Isle Clubhouse on Wednesday, May 28 at 7:00 pm for this informative presentation.

Donations to the Comox Valley Transition Society will be gratefully accepted.

Drop in or to reserve a seat contact Dr. Macdonald’s office at 897-0235 or via www.getwellhere.com.

Bike to Work Week kicks off with commuter challenge Organizers out to determine which is faster, traveling by car or bicycle

By Michael Briones Echo Staff Which is faster, commuting by bike or car?

That’s the question local organizers will be seeking to answer when Bike to Work Week begins on Monday.

It’s one of several events being organized by Active Comox Valley Coordinator Dawn Stevens, throughout the week from May 26 to June 1.

Stevens made a delegation to

Courtenay council to invite them to join them for a ride that would highlight the new Fitzgerald bike lane, as well as for a barbecue set for May 30.

“Comox Valley has particpated in Bike to Work Week as a community since 2008 and the numbers we’ve had, upwards of 800 cyclists that have participated in these events,” said Stevens. “That’s really a fabulous show for our community and shows how important cycling is here in the Comox Valley.”

The event is well supported in the community, which is important in making this event happen, Stevens says. It has 19 sponsors all the way from Black Creek, Comox, Courtenay and Cumberland.

“It’s really a fabulous event that brings everybody together,” said Stevens.

To kick off the week-long celebration, Stevens said they’re holding a

commuter challenge today. It’s going to feature transportation on a bike versus transportation on a car.

“It’s just a fun event that we’ve created with representatives from the CVRD, the City of Courtenay, and the Town of Comox,” said Stevens.

“We’re not using experienced cyclists.

We’re using amateur cyclists.”

Participants will travel from Driftwood Mall to Lewis Centre at 3:15. The first to reach the destination wins.

The cyclists will be allowed to travel on routes, paths and trails that are accessible to them. The car, on the other hand, will have to travel via Cliffe Avenue, over 17th Street Bridge, around to Ryan Road to reach Lewis Centre.

“It’s not the most direct route but very traffic laden on Friday afternoon,” said Stevens. “It’s a fun leadoff event.” On Monday, there will be

a “Ride with a Mayor” or elected officials event between 7 to 9 a.m.

“We thought if would be a great way to kick-off our week to have elected officials from all the municipalities, CVRD, SD71 come here for the Green Team celebrations at City Hall at 8:45 a.m. for a ride, if not a jaunt along the river trailway to 19th and connect to Fitzgerald bike lane,” said Stevens. “The reason behind this is two-fold. One is to kick off Bike to Work Week. We want to celebrate the collaboration and everything and all the people involved. But we also want to thank the City of Courtenay for making the bike lane happen. I know it’s been a long time coming and you guys all worked very, very hard in partnership with a lot of other people to make it happen. It’s a way of highlighting the Fitzgerald bike lane because you’re going to be taking it on the way back and get to

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see how it has changed commuting as more cyclists in the community.”

There will be several celebration stations that will be spread out all over the district during the week that you can visit, enjoy a snack and meet other cyclists in the community.

A list of the confirmed stations can be found on the Bike to Work website and in a special supplement in the Echo today.

The Comox Valley is one of 17 BC communities participating in 2014 Bike to Work Week through Bike to Work BC. Bike to Work BC is a non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging people to cycle to work for fun, health and to lessen our impact on the environment.

For more information, visit www. biketowork.ca/comox-valley or call Active Comox Valley at (250) 8909116.

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WHAT TO BRING:

Join hundreds of volunteers for Courtenay’s annual Mile of Flowers Plant-In. A Courtenay tradition since 1967!

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250-334-4441 • parks@courtenay.ca • www.courtenay.ca/mileof flowers.aspx

Comox Valley Echo Friday, May 23, 2014 A5

News

Youth in jail need to be close to family, Courtenay grandmother says Closing facility makes it harder for families to visit, discourages kids

By Louise Dickson and Lindsay Kines Special to the Echo

Cpl. Matthew Pidgeon is a member of the 12 Military Police Flight.

Three local police officers and a soldier to take part in Tour de Rock

By Michael Briones Echo Staff In this year’s Cops for Cancer Tour de Rock, the Comox Valley will be well represented.

Three police officers from the Comox Valley RCMP and a soldier from 19 Wing will be joining the14-day bike ride from Port Alice to Victoria slated to take place from Sept. 20 to Oct. 3.

The valley participants from the local detachment are constables Andrea Folk and Colleen Henry, as well as auxiliary constable Chris Kippel. The Canadian Forces representative from the Comox base is Cpl. Matthew Pidgeon, who is a member of the 12 Military Police Flight.

All three will be among the 20 cops and guest riders from across Vancouver Island who will cycle about 1,100 kilometres over two weeks, visiting 27 communities from Port Alice to Victoria.

The Tour De Rock plays a huge role in raising money for the Canadian Cancer Society, to fund research for childhood cancer and to send kids with cancer to Camp Goodtimes.

Since 1988, a total of 258 police officers and 31 other riders have helped the Cops for Cancer Tour de Rock raise more than $19 million.

The 2014 Cops for Cancer Tour de Rock riders: Aux. Const. Elizabeth Avis, North Cowichan/ Duncan RCMP Const. Ryan Blakey, Nanaimo RCMP Sgt. Jason Bland, Saanich police Aux. Const. Jordan Carrie, Oak Bay police Cpl. Adam Caruthers, CFB Esquimalt Katie DeRosa, Times Colonist (media rider) Const. Andrea Folk, Comox Valley RCMP Chandler Grieve, CTV (media rider) Aux. Const. Chris Kippel, Comox Valley RCMP Const. Ryan Koropatiniski, Victoria police Const. Colleen Henry, Comox Valley RCMP Const. Heather Hunter, Saanich police Carla Johnson, Island radio (media rider) Det. Const. Lori Lumley, Victoria police Cpl. (retired) Jack McClintock, Central Saanich police Const. George Minshull, Oceanside RCMP Dean Norris-Jones, Reynolds Secondary School (guest rider) Cpl. Matthew Pidgeon, CFB Comox Const. Jordan Reid, Oceanside RCMP Const. Tyson Richard, Port Hardy RCMP Const. Kyle Ushock, Campbell River RCMP Const. Justin Whittaker, Saanich police Staff Sgt. Steve Wright,West Shore RCMP Const. Jennifer Young, Victoria police

A Courtenay grandmother wants Premier Christy Clark to know that young people in custody need to be close to their families.

The 72-year-old was upset to learn her 16-yearold grandson will be transferred to Burnaby when the government closes the Victoria Youth Custody Centre this summer.

Her name cannot be published because her grandson’s identity is protected by the Youth Criminal Justice Act. “I think it’s important, especially with kids - and they’re still kids - to have families visit them in a place like that and to be encouraged by their families. Kids can really give up when nobody goes to visit them,” she said.

“It’s very, very important to my heart anyway. And that’s what I would say to her. They need family right now. If they don’t have that, then they give up and get into more trouble.”

On Wednesday last week, Clark said closing a facility is always difficult.

“It’s built for 60 and it holds about 15. The ministry is really clear that they can’t provide the depth or quality of programming that they need for such a small population. So it’s better for those inmates to serve their time in the Lower Mainland where they will be able to get the enriched programming,” she said.

The government’s efforts to reduce crime and to divert young people into restorative justice programs have worked, so fewer young people are committing crimes and ending up in jail, Clark said. “So I think that’s a pretty good news story.”

The Courtenay grandmother disagrees. She has driven to Victoria to visit her grandson and believes he is doing well. He likes the structure, the school work and talking to counsellors and pastors. He was happy and encouraged to see her, she said, but broke down and cried when she told him it wasn’t his fault his parents are divorcing.

“It would be a terrible shame for him to go to Burnaby because it would really be a hardship to go over there to visit him. There’s also a pecking order in jail. Some are really, really

rough. Going to Burnaby is a bigger city and it would be a bigger youth detention centre.”

The chances of visiting her grandson there are limited, she said. “I don’t know. I am in my 70s. I don’t think I’d be comfortable making the drive. You’d have to get the ferry over there and you’d probably have to stay overnight,” she said. “It was bad we had to go to Victoria.

Now we’ve heard about Burnaby, it’s even worse.”

Families of youth housed in Prince George or Burnaby for 30 days or longer can apply for money from the Family Visitation Financial Support Program to pay for hotels, airfare, ferry, train, bus, meals and gas up to a maximum of $1,000 per visit. The program accommodates a maximum of four visitors. Requests are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Also on Wednesday, Courtenay resident Alan Turner disputed a claim by Social Development Minister Don McRae that he had not been approached by constituents in the Comox Valley expressing concerns about the centre closing.

Turner said he went into McRae’s office on May 7 and spoke to McRae’s constituency assistant about his concerns with the impending closure.

“She took copious notes and said she would be seeing him Friday and would be sharing the whole thing with him. ... So for him to say his constituents haven’t expressed any concerns about the closure of the centre isn’t true,” said Turner.

On Wednesday, McRae said he was at the legislature last week. “I wasn’t aware that he was in there and my constituency staff work really well to make sure I’m aware of people who come into my office. But I represent 65,000 people and Mr. Turner, from what I understand, didn’t talk to me directly.

“By all means, it’s an important issue. ... I know, through talking to Minister [Stephanie] Cadieux in the past, that there are programs to make sure their parents have access wherever they are. ... So there’s still ways to make sure those connections are there.”

- Victoria Times Colonist

Residents want Morrison Creek bridge replaced soon School District hopes to start construction around June or July

By Michael Briones Echo Staff Residents are wondering when the popular footbridge over Morrison Creek at Ecole Puntledge Park Elementary School that was damaged when a tree fell on it in February is going to be replaced.

The bridge is well-used not only by students but also residents in the nearby area who go on hikes or walk their dogs.

“The thing about this bridge is it connects the whole Embleton Crescent neighbourhood to downtown Courtenay,” said Shirley Wade-Linton.

“We all use it. We walk into town, we bike into town, we push strollers and grocery carts back and forth. We walk small children. It is not just the kids that go to school that use it and it is not just the ones who go to Puntledge. The kids that go to Lake Trail cross the field, then the bridge and come home. The high school kids come home that way too.”

School District 71 owns the property and when it was damaged, maintenance crews dismantled for safety reasons and also because it was continuously being vandalized.

Since then residents have had to walk around and for some the distance is a bit far.

“It is over four blocks,” said WadeLinton. “It is out of the way, and it leads the very small children to walk along a busy road.”

Residents feel the bridge should be replaced but are getting frustrated that since February nothing has been done.

“Why is it taking so long to fix a simple foot bridge?,” Wade-Linton said. “It was February and there doesn’t seem to be any end in sight.”

Wade-Linton said she has talked to the school district’s director of operations Ian Heselgrave twice but

is disappointed as she has not received any definite answers.

“It’s not only me that’s complaining,” she said. “I know many neighbours who have also phoned him.

He tells us, ‘it is in progress.’ No more information other than that.”

Heselgrave said they are working on getting the bridge replaced.

However because it is located over a very sensitive stream and eco system, they had to acquire special permits from Department of Fisheries and Oceans to deconstruct the old structure, which was done about a month ago. The Morrison Creek Lamprey, an incredibly rare species is just one of other fishes that live and spawn in Morrison Creek.

An environmental review, design and tendering of the project was also completed. The tender closes on May 22 and will be awarded to the win-

ning bid within a week.

The bridge will be of steel construction as per current code and the steel will take about six weeks to be manufactured and galvanized.

Heselgrave said this lines up well with the allowable fisheries window for construction, which is June and July.

NOTICE OF INTENT RE: LIQUOR CONTROL AND LICENSING ACT APPLICATION FOR A LIQUOR PRIMARY LICENCE An application for a new liquor primary licence has been received by the Liquor Control and Licensing Branch from KJG Golf Services Inc. The proposed location for the licence is 2084 Saratoga Road, Black Creek.

Proposed licensed hours are between 9:00 AM to 12:00 Midnight from Monday to Sunday.

Person capacity will be limited to 38 persons inside and 100 persons on the patios.

Residents and owners of businesses located within a 0.5 mile (0.8 km) radius of the proposed site may comment on this proposal by

1) writing to: THE GENERAL MANAGER C/O Senior Licensing Analyst LIQUOR CONTROL AND LICENSING BRANCH PO BOX 9292 Victoria, BC V8W 9J8 2) by email: lclb.lclb@gov.bc.ca

PETITIONS AND FORM LETTERS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED To ensure the consideration of your views, your comments, name and address must be received on or before June 23, 2014.

Please note that your comments may be made available to the applicant or local government officials where disclosure is necessary to administer the licensing process.

A6 Comox Valley Echo Friday, May 23, 2014

News

Four citizens receive Rotary’s Paul Harris Award

By Michael Briones Echo Staff The Comox Rotary Club has honoured four outstanding citizens who exemplify the organization’s motto of “service above self.”

Paul Harris Community Service Award night was held recently at D’Esterre House in Comox.

Tom Grant, who made the first presentation, said this year was an exception as they honoured four local residents, who embody the humanitarian and educational objectives of Rotary, the Paul Harris Community Service Award.

The award recipients were: • Richard Clarke is the president of Dawn To Dawn: Action on Homelessness Society, a non-profit organization that is committed to ending homelessness in the Comox Valley. He is well connected with local and international issues. He is also a Rotarian, a member of the Strathcona Sunrise Club, the Rotary Foundation of Canada and a director of the Canadian Landmine Foundation.

• Ole Edliq is a life member of the Comox Valley Ground Search and Rescue and also the North Shore Rescue where he previously served for 23 years. He has devoted a lot of volunteer time in search and rescue operations, as well as enhancing his skills through education, training and experience. He has emerged as a tireless leader, who is determined,

The Comox Rotary Club honoured Saren Azer, Maggie Enwright, Richard Clarke and Ole Edliq with the Paul Harris Community

Service Award for their leadership and humanitarian objectives that epitomizes the objectives of Rotary.

established the non-profit International Society for Peace and Human Rights. He has completed voluntary medical missions to Northern Iraq since 2007 and since then has been committed to raising funds for basic supplies and medicines to help people at refugee

ways to make search and rescue efficient and effective.

• Dr. Saren Azer is an internal medicine specialist at St. Joseph’s Hospital and is the co-founder of the Medical Hope for Syria Campaign, which supplies medicine to refugee camps. He is also

dedicated and has detective-like tendencies. He’s taken a great interest in human tracking and has become very proficient. He is highly recognized for his aptitude in this particular area. He is committed to helping new members and is dedicated in pursuing innovative

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• Rev. Maggie Enwright is a minister at the Comox United Church. She has traveled to Nicaragua to work in a small community there and has also been involved with helping the homeless in East side of Vancouver. She provides pastoral care at St. Joseph’s, the Berwick, Comox Valley Seniors, Glacier View as well to people in private homes when requested. She’s also done volunteer work to help the homeless and is very active in various community events.

Colleen Howard, who introduced Enwright at the awards night said she came to know her when she was in need of a kidney.

Enwright without hesitation agreed to give her kidney. Howard said she was overwhelmed as Enwright went through a barrage of blood tests and medical appointments. Although Enwright ended up giving her kidney to someone else in Calgary, Howard said she ended up receiving a kidney from another donor, which she said was a “miracle.”

The award is named after Paul Harris, the founder of the Rotary, who established the first club back in 1907 with a true commitment and passion for service.

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Comox Valley Echo Friday, May 23, 2014 A7

News

First Nation preps for weeks-long ocean canoe trip

By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff On June 30 members of the K’ómoks First Nation will embark on a three week voyage, joining thousands of others in a 100 canoe tribal journey to Bella Bella. Dozens of band members, young and old, plan to make the trip to push for the protection of the Great Bear rainforest and celebrate the opening of a Big House for the Heiltsuk people.

“That’s how in the old days we got together,” said KFN communications officer Nicole Rempel of the exhausting foray ahead. “It’s an amazing cultural and spiritual event.”

The future ocean travellers have been getting ready to head to the Qatuwas “People Gathering Together” festival since last year, with organizers busy coordinating logistics and holding canoe practices frequently.

The Heiltsuk are expecting more than around 1000 canoe pullers and upwards of 5000 visitors.

First Nations from as far south as Quinault, Washington will begin paddling north, meeting up with bands from Vancouver Island, as they make their way along the eastern shores.

Following a stopover in the traditional K’ómoks territory the aboriginal groups will work their way past Campbell River, meeting up with First Nations from the West Coast of the Island further on.

KFN members expect to be gone from June 30 - July 19.

The Tribal Journey will serve as a powerful symbol of native unity, elders hope. The idea is for the extended trip to provide strength to

This was the Heiltsuk journey from Bella Bella 500km to Vancouver for Expo 86. This year KFN will head to Bella Bella. (Photo via Facebook)

Each canoe “family” is made up of 12 people, including a helmsman.

The band has been finalizing participant confirmations, and recently has been scrambling to find another helmsman, since one dropped out at the last minute.

She hopes the voyage will help connect local aboriginal youth to their own culture.

“We always like to be in touch with our culture and teach our youth about our heritage,” she said.

“Some of the youth they’re just coming into the reserve life. They haven’t grown up on the reserve.”

KFN is seeking monetary contributions and support boats to help with the trip.

“This is the first time that our canoes are going to go across the big open water,” Rempel said.

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Expanded residential recycling program starts in Courtenay Residential Blue Box recycling expanded this week in the City of Courtenay. Starting on Monday, May 19th, residents can put new items out for curbside pick up such as aerosol cans, hot and cold drink cups, plastic plant pots, and spiral wound containers for frozen juice, cookie dough and other products.

The expansion is part of the City’s transition of recycling services to Multi-Material BC (MMBC), which is assuming responsibility for recycling services in municipalities across the BC. In exchange for signing onto the program, Courtenay receives a financial incentive from MMBC which will be used to reduce garbage user fees charged to residents on annual property tax bills.

“We have been looking forward to starting this new service for residents of Courtenay,” said David Allen, Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Courtenay. “The service will continue to be provided by Emterra operating as part of the Green By Nature group, and pick up schedules will remain the same. The only change for residents is that more items can now go into Blue Boxes.”

Everything currently allowed, plus a number of new items, will continue to be picked up, except soft plastics which will change to depot drop off.

A full list of items that can be included is available online at www.courtenay.ca/recycling.aspx.

New recycling guides will be included in the city’s tax notices this month, notices have been running on local radio stations and newspapers, and reminder flyers will be dropped in residential Blue Boxes by the contractor in coming weeks.

Other areas participating in the MMBC curbside recycling program are Royston and Cumberland.

For information on recycling in these areas visit www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/royston and www.cumberland. ca.

Recycling depots in the Comox Valley will also expand under the new program. For the most up-todate list of CSWM depot locations and recyclable materials that they will accept, visit www.cswm.ca/ depots.

To help make this transition a success the City of Courtenay has set up a webpage with additional information and an e-mail and telephone hotline for questions. Visit www. courtenay.ca/recycling.aspx or call 250-703-4863 for more information.

aboriginal youth and present a healing experience for some.

Interacting directly with the awesome force of the open ocean is sure to inspire participants, organizers say.

At each stop along the way First Nations will share stories, dances, food and other elements of their history.

“It’s reconnecting with our culture and our ancestry,” Rempel said.

“I haven’t been on a Tribal Journey for a long time.”

The events represent a counterpoint to scars left by the banning of potlatches in Canada between 1885 and 1951.

Rempel took part in a Tribal Journeys paddle back in 1994 and says this year even her 13-year-old son will take part.

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A8 Comox Valley Echo Friday, May 23, 2014

News

Sprockids practice in the days leading up to Bike to School Week

By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff The sun beams 25 degree heat down as a group of about 30 kids gather around on mountain bikes in a grassy field behind Highland Secondary School on a weekday evening.

Amongst the youth aged 6-12 Monique Robertson, the leader of the Sprockids bike course, addresses the crowd of excited eyes.

“Alright Sprockids, how’s your week going?” she asks. “Does everyone have water with them?”

This is week five of eight of the skills training program and the progress among the youth is undeniable.

“Today we’re going to do something special,” she said, revealing the small jump they would be allowed to try this time, adding, “It’s okay to ride in your abilities.”

Organizers are hoping to instill not only a love of biking but also of healthy activity among the kids. That’s the impetus behind next week’s big Bike to School Week activities, as well. The pilot project at Ecole Robb Road, Ecole Puntledge and Huband Park Elementary harnesses community support from May 26 - 30 to celebrate the two-wheeled pursuit and build safety training into the hearts and minds of youngsters over the course of a week of fun activities.

Salinas LaPerriere, Sprockids group leader, says initiatives like Bike to School Week and the Sprockids training program really help achieve these goals.

The community really pulled together to make Sprockids happen. Insurance Centres donated insurance and Valley Care Medical sends a physician, and plenty of volunteers donated their time.

“It’s a really community oriented program. It’s all about getting the kids biking,” LaPerriere said, pointing to the teeter-totters, and ramps the youth use in the program. “A bunch of the kids hadn’t really biked before. Especially living here it’s almost a necessity.”

Getting kids biking through such events is crucial to having a healthy society in a video game age, she added.

“If anything this is a video game but real life,” she said. “It’s just so special.”

Efforts to promote biking have been ongoing.

Every Wednesday at Ecole Puntledge during the warmer parts of the year they shut down the parking lot and allow kids to bike around before the bell rings.

This has been going on for three years now.

“We have stunts there too,” she said. “We have a race track set up.”

The idea is to make biking just part of the life of kids.

Tanya Archambault, the mom of six-year-old Pepper Hedquist, watches from the sideline, glad her daughter will soon be able to ride with her and her partner.

“I want her to be able to bike with us,” she said. “Her dad and myself mountain bike.”

Elliott Hill, 5, goes for the big jump - with a little help from the spotters.

“That was the first time I did it,” he said. “I made it over it.”

Parents and supporters are hoping the community will make it

over the hump of bike awareness and incorporate the healthy activity into their daily life, starting at a young age. But listen to some of the kids describe their love of twowheeled pursuits and you might not be too worried about the impact of the next generation.

Coady Frich, 6, who likes riding over big roots, puts it this way.

Sprockids practice their biking skills over obstacles and other challenges.

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“It’s healthy,” he said, adding more kids should bike to school. “It’s not polluting the Earth. It’s not doing damage to the air.”

For Seela Lapp, 11, it’s all about the personal achievements involved.

“It challenges me when I get nervous,” she said, adding it’s fun to just flow.

“I feel kind of free. It’s nice to feel the wind in your face.

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Comox Valley Echo Friday, May 23, 2014 A9

News

It’s time to plant The Mile of Flowers Volunteers of all ages needed for community planting event Bring out family, friends, or clubs and work together to brighten Cliffe Avenue in Courtenay!

The annual Mile of Flowers Plant-In happens Tuesday, May 27 starting at 5:00 pm. Hundreds of volunteers are needed to fill both sides of Cliffe Avenue with summer blooms.

New this year; all community youth groups who plant will be entered in a draw to win a pool party at the Courtenay and District Outdoor Pool at Lewis Park.

Randy Wiwchar, the City’s director of community services, said the plant-in has many benefits.

“It’s great to see many people working together at this event,” noted Wiwchar. “The best part is seeing the flowers you planted bloom for the summer and knowing you’ve been part of making that positive impact on the community.”

Anyone can volunteer; just find an empty spot on Cliffe Avenue between 8th and 21st Streets, and start planting. The City recommends bringing a trowel or spoon for digging, as well as gloves.

City parks staff will lay out all the flower trays ahead of time, and they’ll be on-hand to answer questions and keep the event running smoothly.

Participants are advised to stay off the road and plant safely on the sidewalk. Depending on the number of volunteers, the Plant-In can take as little as one hour.

The Mile of Flowers Plant-In will be followed by a free barbeque at Standard Park, courtesy of the City of Courtenay and the Courtenay Rotary Club. Standard Park is located on Cliffe Avenue at 14th Street.

The Plant-In is a Comox Valley tradition dating back to 1967, when Kathleen Kirk set out to commemorate Canada’s centennial year. That year she planted 7,800 seedlings as a welcome to tourists. What began as the initiative of one woman now involves hundreds of volunteers and 35,000 flowers.

For more information, please contact the City of Courtenay Community Services Department at 250-3344441, email parks@courtenay.ca or visit www.courtenay.ca/mileofflowers.aspx

Volunteer next Tuesday night to help plant Courtenay’s Mile of flowers (Sarah Kerr photo)

AUTHOR DES KENNEDY SPEAKING ABOUT ‘HEART AND SOIL’ TO GARDEN CLUB The Comox Valley Horticultural Club is delighted to welcome Des Kennedy as the guest speaker at their May 26, 2014 meeting.

Des Kennedy is an award winning journalist, broadcaster, author and environmental activist. He is the author of four books of essays including a memoir, The Passionate Gardener and three novels including Climbing Patrick’s Mountain. Noted as one of the most influential personalities on the Canadian gardening scene, Kennedy writes a regular column for B.C. Living magazine and has been a

columnist for the Globe and Mail and many other publications. He lives on Denman Island, B.C. Des’ topic for the evening is “Heart and Soil”. This is sure to be an engaging evening.

He will share from his writings some of his favourite and sometimes outrageous experiences.

Des will have copies of his new book, Heart and Soil: The Revolutionary Good of Gardens will be available at the meeting for (a cost of) $25. The Comox Valley Horticultural Society

welcomes members and the public to arrive early to have their copies signed. Previous book releases will also be available at a cost of $20 each.

The doors of the Florence Filberg Centre Conference Hall will be open at 6:15 p.m. on May 26th when the Plant Sale begins. Des’ presentation will begin at 8 p.m. after a short business meeting. Non members are welcome to attend; the fee is $5. FMI about the CV Hort Society call Leslie at 250 337 8051 or visit our website at www.comoxvalleyhortsociety.ca

Please participate in our ongoing consultation to discuss the future of the Riverview Lands.

To join the conversation online, please visit our website www.renewingriverview.com where you can participate in our online open house starting May 25, 2014.

Two Open Houses have been scheduled.

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Wednesday, May 28, 2014

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Saturday, May 24, 2014

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Time:

2:00pm – 6:00pm (Drop-In)

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A10 Comox Valley Echo Friday, May 23, 2014

News

Students honoured at Aboriginal Grad

By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff It was a time to look back and a moment to gaze forward.

About 100 aboriginal graduates were honoured in a recognition and graduation ceremony held at the Florence Filberg Centre in Courtenay May 14 that also applauded the achievements of dozens of younger students.

Following a traditional welcome from the K’ómoks First Nation Kumugwe Dancers elementary students from across School District 71 were called up to commend each for their scholastic achievements this year.

A reception was held with refreshments and a chance for students and their loved ones to mill about and connect with classmates.

“I think that education is so important, especially for First Nations, not just in the Comox Valley but in British Columbia and across the country,” said Rob Everson, elected chief of the K’ómoks First Nation, addressing the packed crowd and ushering in the secondary students. “We educate our kids for the future because they are our future leaders. They’re the ones we’re going to rely on as we move forward.”

These youth were applauded not just for getting top marks, but also for significant individual accomplishments, such as mark improvement and leadership.

A total of 57 Grades 7-11 students were honoured by teachers, staff and principals before 98 graduates were called up to the stage one by one from Cumberland Jr. Secondary, G.P. Vanier, Glacier View Secondary Centre, Highland, Lake Trail, Mark R. Isfeld and the Nala’atsi Alternate Program.

Later a presentation of Métis sashes took place before the microphone was opened up for graduates to speak publicly about their experiences or pass on thank-yous.

School District 71 has been rolling out programming for years based on collaborative partnership with local aboriginal

communities and the Ministry of Education through an Aboriginal Education Enhancement Agreement (AEEA).

The foundation of this pact has to do with respecting aboriginal cultural diversity while striving for unity of one voice and promoting cultural diversity.

Many of the graduates at Wednesday’s ceremony revealed plans to attend college locally, head to university or work in the oil patch.

Smiles and tears were anything but few and far between.

with director Karla Mundy and over 130 singers from all over Vancouver Island! presents

Sunday, June 8, 2014 2:30pm The Port Theatre

with guests Dawn Pemberton & Patrick Courtin Trio PLUS

NanGo Grannies and Oceanside Grandmothers to Grandmothers will be selling crafts in the theatre lobby, in support of the Stephen Lewis Foundation.

Tickets (reserved seating) Adults $22.50 | Children 12 and under $5 | eyeGO $5

Find us on Facebook facebook.com/ComoxValleyEcho

available through

The Port Theatre Ticket Centre 250-754-8550 www.porttheatre.com

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Aboriginal students were recognized in a special ceremony May 14 at the Florence Filberg Centre. (Drew A. Penner photos/Echo Staff)

Comox Valley Echo Friday, May 23, 2014 A11

Business News

Union Street Grill earns Certificate of Excellence Courtenay’s Union Street Grill & Grotto announced this week that it has received a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence award.

The accolade, which honours hospitality excellence, is given only to establishments that consistently achieve outstanding traveller reviews on TripAdvisor, and is extended to qualifying businesses worldwide.

Establishments awarded the Certificate of Excellence are located all over the world and represent the upper echelon of businesses listed on the website.

When selecting Certificate of Excellence winners, TripAdvisor uses a proprietary algorithm to determine the honorees that takes into account reviews ratings. Businesses must maintain an overall TripAdvisor bubble rating of at least four out of five, volume and recency of reviews. Additional criteria include a business’ tenure and popularity ranking on the site.

“Winning the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence is a true source of pride for the

entire team at Union Street and we’d like to thank all of our past guests who took the time to complete a review on TripAdvisor,” said Danielle Duncan, Owner at The Union Street Grill & Grotto.

“There is no greater seal of approval than being recognised by one’s customers. With the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence based on customer reviews, the accolade is a remarkable vote of confidence to our business and our continued commitment to excellence.”

“TripAdvisor is pleased to honour exceptional hospitality businesses for consistent excellence,” said Marc Charron, President of TripAdvisor for Business.

“The Certificate of Excellence award gives top performing establishments around the world the recognition they deserve, based on feedback from those who matter most - their customers. From Australia to Zimbabwe, we want to applaud exceptional hospitality businesses for offering TripAdvisor travellers a great customer experience.”

The owners of Union Street Grill & Grotto Danielle and Mark Duncan, along with daughter Jenna Duncan, celebrate the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence award. The accolade, which honours hospitality excellence, is given only to establishments that consistently achieve outstanding traveller reviews on TripAdvisor, and is extended to qualifying businesses worldwide.

POOCH SOCIAL AT NEW DOG SPORTS CENTRE

L to R: Sarah Collins, Anna Collins and Carly Ram

KIDpreneurs learning the ropes of business See what they have for sale Saturday at Comox Mall Meet Anna and Sarah Collins and Carly Ram, the Three KIDpreneurs behind an upcoming sale of their homemade products at Comox Mall on Saturday May 24th from 12 pm to 4 pm.

The girls, who live across the street from each other, were inspired to organize their own sale after attending the Young Entrepreneurs Sale at their school Ecole Robb Road.

For the past month, the girls have enthusiastically planned their business event.

The girls started by thinking about they would enjoy and be good at making, what people would be willing to buy and the need to set a price to make a profit (including paying their Moms back for supplies).

The three KIDpreneurs are getting ready to hit the pavement to market their sale by posting some flyers in the neighbourhood.

Products available to purchase include: homemade cards featuring the beauty of Filberg Park, handy magnets, herbs and vegetable plants grown from seed, rustic twig vases and the ever popular loom bracelets and key chains. The girls will also have homemade baked goods for sale.

The girls are finalizing the local charity of their choice and will donate 15% of their earnings to give back to their community.

The Comox Mall has generously donated a table and space for the girls.

All they need now are customers. Come see for yourself what these talented and self-starter girls, aged 7, 8 and 10 years, have produced. You won’t be disappointed!

Go Dog Go! Dog Training and Adventures is sponsoring a pooch social on May 24, at 7 pm, at the new Comox Valley Dog Sport Centre (8574 Reinhold Road, Black Creek), with a view to sniffing out great homes for local dogs and puppies currently in rescue.

The event will be an excellent opportunity for prospective families to meet dogs, puppies, and their rescuers and will give the dogs a chance to show off their amazing skills at learning new tricks and being great family additions.

Local professional trick dog trainer and enthusiast, Lynne Fedorick CPDT-KA, CTDI, decided to sponsor the event when she opened the Comox Valley Dog Sports Centre as a means of helping dogs and prospective families meet each other.

“Both of my trick dogs came from rescues, and have proven to be excellent family dogs, and I advocate looking into available rescued

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dogs before buying a dog. The best dog ever for you could be waiting in a shelter today. The pooch social will be a bit like speed dating for dogs and people, with people being able to meet and engage with many different dogs.

“As with everything Go Dog Go! does, the focus will be on creating a positive and fun filled event for everyone to help dogs and people to be happy.”

Dogs will get a chance to learn a few new tricks that are sure to impress everyone. Go Dog Go! Dog Training will provide tea, coffee and water and guests are encouraged to bring a dessert and some yummy dog treats.

Go Dog Go! Dog Training provides group classes and private professional dog training services in the Comox Valley and Campbell River regions.

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A12 Comox Valley Echo Friday, May 23, 2014

Opinions ECHO

THE COMOX VALLEY ECHO Publisher Dave MacDonald Editor Debra Martin Advertising Manager Keith Currie Office Administrator Deb Fowler Circulation Manager Hedi MacDonald Production Manager Ryan Getz Phone 250-334-4722 Fax 250-334-3172 Classifieds 250- 334-4215 Circulation 250-334-4734 E-mail: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com

An independently owned and operated newspaper published by Echo Publications at 407-D Fifth Street, Courtenay, B.C. V9N 1J7 All material herein is protected by copyright. Reproduction in whole or in part is not permitted without written authorization from the publisher.

Canadian Publications Mail Agreement Number #0661538

Letters

Don’t blow this opportunity From today’s issue of Building Links: “Acadia on the Walk, a proposed project to build 94 rental units in Courtenay, has been put on hold by the Crowne Pacific Development Corp. due to increased engineering requirements requested by the City of Courtenay. A development permit application has been finalized for review and the staff and applicant were working through the engineering requirements, trying to come to an agreement. The owner has stopped all work for the time being, citing that the new infrastructure costs requested by the City of Courtenay makes this project financially unfeasible at this time. The owner is hopeful that some agreement can be reached at some point as they have already demolished the houses on the property and site clearing has been completed.”

This project is the first purpose built “for rent” housing to be proposed in the Valley.

No longer would tenants be subject to the whims of condo developers, investors and strata councils who don’t want them.

As tenants move up the housing ladder, this project may very well free up housing that impacts those currently homeless.

The City of Courtenay has been given a golden opportunity by an established builder - don’t blow it.

Marty Douglas Managing Broker RE/MAX Ocean Pacific Realty Ltd. Courtenay

BRAND US AS ‘FESTIVAL VALLEY’ Recently, the local soccer community conducted a Mini World Cup, bringing in many guests from around the Island. Well done.

This event could be added to the catalogue of festivals that are held here successfully throughout the year.

MusicFest, Filberg, Shellfish and Seafood Festival, CYMC Sounds of Summer, to mention a few, along with the many sports tournaments, like the Mini World Cup. How about we brand name our community “Festival Valley”?

Comox Valley - Festival Valley.

Or, Comox Valley - FestiValley.

I think this has a certain cache and it reflects a community that seems to have a continuous round of festivals, all summer long.

We could pair up with Edmonton, the other end of the WestJet route from Comox airport.

Edmonton is Festival City.

From Festival City to Festival Valley.

Branding a community is a very powerful marketing tool.

I know we are all very proud of our Valley’s capacity to conduct all these fabulous activities.

Let’s let everybody else know.

Let’s let everybody know the Comox Valley is Festival Valley.

Erik Eriksson Courtenay

WE DESERVE STRAIGHT TALK ON COAL Now that the issuance of the coal license in the Anderson Lake area to Compliance Coal has come to light, including the fact that part of the tenure is in the sensitive Tsolum River watershed, the comments from Compliance are most interesting.

Compliance now wants us to believe they have no intentions of doing anything with their Anderson Lake coal license, and are saying if they tried to get a permit for exploration they didn’t think they could get it, because it’s in the runoff area for Courtenay.

This begs the question why did Compliance pursue this coal license for nearly 7 years, and realizing the tenure is in the sensitive Tsolum River watershed, why didn’t they withdraw their license application at some time during the review process?

On the Bear Coal Deposit above Cumberland, Compliance is now saying they are not eyeing it for future development, despite previous statements anticipating that it would be developed in conjunction with the Raven Deposit.

With Compliance’s efforts currently focused on the Raven Coal Mine proposal near Fanny Bay, if the mine became a reality, and the coal processing infrastructure was in place, it would seem reasonable to assume the Bear Coal Deposit and Anderson Lake coal tenure would become more financially attractive. Would Compliance still being singing their tune of “ no intention of doing anything with it?”

Residents deserve straight talk on future coal development in the Comox Valley. With Compliance’s continuing pattern of corporate bafflegab, the odds of Comox Valley residents granting “social license” for Compliance’s proposals, are between slim and none.

John Snyder Fanny Bay

ALLOW A FREE VOTE ON ELECTION ACT A letter to MP Mr. John Duncan: I am writing to ask you to vote against the Elections Act. Even with amendments it still needs major adjustment. I personally would like to see more stringent limits to the involvement of “big money” in politics. It puts small parties at a serious and unfair disadvantage.

It causes the resultant elected members to be beholden to people and corporations who have no business influencing the business of running this great nation. I also believe all candidate receipts need to be accounted for.

I would love to see a group of representatives from ALL parties, guided by advice from a wide variety of experts (including the Chief Electoral Officer), to form a committee to come up with an actually FAIR elections act.

I am asking you, both as a free-thinking elected representative of your electorate and as a whip, to allow a free vote on the elections act and to vote against it.

Kathy Duperron Cumberland

Letters to the Editor

Alternate transit modes essential I would like to commend Michael McLennan, for the valid and heartfelt appeal to Courtenay City Council to recognize public transit as an integral and valued part of our community.

Listening to Mr. McLellan speak, and reading the review of the Transit Future Plan, brought home to me how essential alternate transit modes are to a healthy community.

The streets in Courtenay can only be expanded so much. The more the valley

grows, the more problems we will continue to have with traffic and pollution.

Public transit is a life line for many people in the Comox Valley and I hope that council will continue to support alternatives to car travel.

The success of the HASTe program is a prime example of how, if a clear alternative to that of driving everywhere is offered, some people will adjust their normal routine. People can adapt to more healthy, economical and environmentally

friendly ways of being mobile.

As the Transit Future Plan is being discussed at council I implore our elected officials to look long term, and continue to take care that all people in our community have safe, reliable and cost efficient ways to travel. Not everyone has the means, desire or ability to drive, but all should have the right to explore and enjoy our city.

Rebecca Lennox Courtenay

More Beefs and Bouquets BEEF TO THE PEOPLE who bring construction garbage to the beach for a fire, then leave behind remnants of the unburned garbage for others to deal with. Do you know that the particle board you were burning contains glue that is toxic when heated? I hope you didn’t have kids with you breathing in those fumes. With so few places where beach fires are permitted anymore, why would you risk it with your selfishness? At least they do it right at Goose Spit - the only wood you can burn is the stuff you buy from the ranger there - but it’s nice for the remainder of the responsible population to have a choice to burn their own wood at other places. So don’t ruin it for the rest of us. Stop burning pallets (left behind nails) and other random garbage at the beach. Do we really want this place to look like the Lower Mainland (former Lower Mainlanders know what I mean). By the way, I’m the guy with the shovel cleaning up your mess so my kids can enjoy a beach fire free of nails and scraps of leftover construction junk.

THIS IS A HUGE BOUQUET of gratitude to Lawrence for jumping to action in the early hours of Tuesday morning when he heard strange crackling noises coming from the front of the house. His quick thinking saved the home from burning to the ground.

To Dalinda for her quick finger action to 911 and then rounding up the pets to get them to safety. Also to the Courtenay Fire Department for their quick response time.

This fire had the potential of being bigger than it was but still caused a fair amount of outside damage to the front of the house.

Seems that a planter box full of Skyrocket compost may have accidentally combusted.

I can’t say thank you enough.

MANY DAYS OF SUNSHINE to Knappett Construction as they work on Beaufort Ave. in Comox. Matt has been very helpful and informative about the construction on the street. Always has time to try and answer your question, which Comox City Hall has not done during these changes. The flag women are pleasant and make my day with some of their humour. If our street had to be dug up I am just glad that a Knappett crew is doing it. Keep up the good work and keep smiling, we do appreciate it.

BEEFS with bafflegab! Did anyone else notice the classified ad in this paper from by our local school board looking for a “Sustainability Coordinator”? What genius came up with this term?? It sounds like a great opportunity to spend money on some position that has little or nothing to do with improving the quality of education that our kids are receiving in the classroom.

BOUNTEOUS BOUQUETS to the Snowbirds! It was such a treat for many of us to be able to have a free air show during their practice times here in the Comox Valley. Their skill and precision was a mar-

vel to behold! And then there was the F-18 .... very noisy but also spectacular as its pilot put it through its paces. It is constantly amazing to think of the design, engineering, and development of such craft that can have such agility and grace in the hands of highly-skilled pilots. I’m sure my wife also sent some wordless Bouquets to the Snowbirds.... more for their leaving than for their arrival. This is a welcome reprieve.

There were many Beefs she directed my way as she frequently caught me gazing skyward at the aerial display rather than pulling weeds in the garden!

I WOULD LIKE TO SEND my heartfelt gratitude to Colin at Handy Hands for the wonderful reno of my bathroom. I would recommend him to anyone. He is so thoughtful and respectful and always on time. He made it possible for me to stay in my home for the entire reno as he put my toilet back on at the end of every day as he did not want me to spend any more money at a motel and then when he finished the job he brought me a large spa basket for my new tub. What a wonderful man.

THE OLD CHURCH THEATRE SOCIETY held their annual luncheon and bridge tournament on April 27th. We wish to send bouquets to luncheon planner/chef Karen Henrich, bridge co-ordinator Wendy Peddy and the members of Co-val under the guidance of Mary Douglas. Many thanks to Jerry Gagne, tireless helper; Beryl Regier and her choristers, troubadour Richard Gagne, and singer poet Barb McCrindle for lunchtime entertaining, and please send boutonnieres to the handsome waiters.

Congratulations to the winners and participants who came out to support this beautiful historic building. Cheers to Courtenay credit union, annual first prize donator and to Comox Pentecostal church and Art Knapps for your donations and to Louise who knows how to pick a team.

THE CV RECOVERY CENTRE would like to extend our deepest gratitude to The Superstore for their ongoing generosity and support. To Pablo the manager, thank you for your continued kindness particularly at Easter, Thanksgiving and Xmas. Everyone at CVRC appreciates your support and our residents are able to truly enjoy these holidays all thanks to you and The Superstore.

THE BOOK BANK MUM at Courtenay Elementary School would like to thank all the book keeners who have been donating gently used books! We have an amazing selection of new and current books that the kids love to take home because people in the Valley have heard of the need and have filled it! A good book can be a welcome addition to our students lives. Thank you for caring and uplifting our kids. We welcome almost new book donations for kids K to grade 6 during school hours.

MY WIFE WAS LEAVING Superstore turning left onto Ryan Road. A semi-trailer truck was blocking part of the intersection so the left turning traffic was going around it. As she was wanting to turn left to the bypass she put on her signal and when the traffic started to turn she attempted to merge in. At this point the driver of a beige pickup truck, who was in his military uniform, decided that instead of allowing her in, he was going to block her from merging.

Another politer driver let her in and when she got to the bridge she observed the pickup driver weaving in and out of traffic. I assume that he was either a Snowbird pilot who was accidentally left behind, and was now racing to catch up, or perhaps he was late for his PTSD counselling.

A SPECIAL BOUQUET to Fabric Land from the Comox Valley Schoolhouse Quilters’ Guild for the wonderful support before and during our 30th Anniversary Quilt Show! We couldn’t do it without you Fabric Land!

SUMMER IS HERE. Civic and Community pride is visible with the beauty of trees ,shrubs and flowers in bloom everywhere in the Valley. BC Hydro did a great job of restoring reservoir levels during the winter drought. Reservoir inflows have been historically lowest in June, July, August, September. Let’s hope that BC Hydro will respond and maintain enough water for the gardens that make the Comox Valley so attractive to retirees.

THE VANIER JAZZ CABARET would like to say a huge thank you to all the businesses that sponsored the silent auction at our evening of jazz on May 10: Dairy Queen, Maria’s Esthetics, Comox Valley Aquatic Centre, Comox Valley Bailiffs Ltd., Corks Caps and Fermentalia, Cinnsational, Black’s Cycle, Long & McQuade Music Store, Blacktail Sawmill, Romper Room Indoor Climbing Centre-Nanaimo, Imax Victoria, Royal BC Museum, Van’s Portraits, Paradise Mini Golf, Central Muntain Air, Chemainus Theatre, Sid Williams Theatre, Mars on Main, Chad’s Restaurant, Level 10 Eurospa, Royston Soapworks, BC Forest Discovery Centre, Alley Cuts, Crown Isle Resort and Golf Community, North Island Tractor, Linda Armstrong, Courtenay Mazda, Jim’s Clothes Closet, Courtenay Motorsports, Diveco Marine Services, Rialto Theatre and Cumberland Bakery. Gigantic thank you to our corporate sponsors this year, All In One Party Shop and Thrifty Foods-Courtenay. And last but surely not the least, a big thank you to the music teachers, Linsay Duncan and Jenn Forsland for bringing the best out of the students; you guys both rock. Thank you to the parents for the silent auction donations, baking and the help with setting up and taking down. And last, but certainly not least, to the students - your performances were awesome, a job well done.

Comox Valley Echo Friday, May 23, 2014 A13

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A HUGE COLLECTION of water lilies to Quality Foods Courtenay. Every year the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue volunteers help out at the Snow to Surf event keeping the contestants safe on the water. QFC Courtenay this year again came through offering us a very generous discount on the lunches required for these volunteers.

RCM-SAR is strictly a volunteer organization and all donations are greatly appreciated. We also have a points reward card at QFC, please consider donating your QFC points to Comox Valley Marine Rescue Society.

HEY YOU, YES YOU! Remember Monday, May 5 between 3:30-4 pm, the lady driving the older dark blue vehicle who was trying to get into the right hand lane near Puntledge Road and knocked me off my bike causing me to land on my back. Thank goodness I had groceries in my backpack because they broke my fall; also the pedal on my bike protected my leg. If I had been walking my bike you would have run right over me. Then you drove away, looked at me and mouthed the words “I’m sorry”. I was in shock or I would have taken down your

Beefs

Bouquets &

The Comox Valley’s First and Best Readers’ Forum Email to: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com licence number and reported you to the police. My groceries were ruined, I was very sore the next day and not very excited to get back on my bike, but that is how I get back and forth to work. Please do us all a favour, save a life, and give up your driver’s licence!

THE COMOX VALLEY SEWER COMMISSION oversees liquid waste for the Comox Valley. There are no Rural Representatives on this Commission, nor a Cumberland representative. Failing septics/inadequate waste treatment are a big issue in some areas of the CVRD, but the Commission does not represent rural areas or Cumberland. It is time for a review of Governance of the Comox Valley.

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million. The CVRD have collected $67 million, from taxpayers, to maintain fewer capital assets. Their explanation is posted on the CVRD “fact and fiction” page. Voters need to send the CVRD directors back to the drawing board. Curling needs to be preserved, but this is the most expensive option for Comox Valley taxpayers.

HERE IS A BEEF about all the beefing beefers who recently beefed about beefs. While I sympathize with the sentiment that we should all just get along and relate the nice things of our daily experience, life just ain’t that way; and neither are live human beings. People want to beef, and people want to read beefs. Beefs are interesting. Scary sometimes, but interesting! And often funny. They help us know what other people are really thinking. Beefs also serve a purpose; better to write a beef reminding dog owners to carry away their blue poo bags from Seal Bay Park than to just scold only that one jerk you happen to catch tossing hers into the bushes - if you had the nerve to do it. And if you didn’t have the nerve, a written beef can also help blow off steam. Then maybe that dastardly woman will read it, gasp, and immediately resolve to change her evil poo-flinging ways. So hats off to the Echo’s beef bar, folks; may we long continue to belly up for some prime cuts and ribs!

WE FLEW HARBOUR AIR to Vancouver recently, and were totally impressed with their outstanding service. The morning of our flight to Vancouver, it was too windy for a float plane, so Harbour Air arranged for us to fly a commuter from Comox airport to Vancouver, including having our heavier luggage which had preceded us to their depot in Vancouver brought to us at the airport. Back from our vacation, we flew Harbour Air back to Comox where Mike, our pilot made a smoothas-silk landing. Every inch of the way, we were impressed with this company that is still small enough to treat you as a person with every attention to all your needs. We’re sold!

BOUQUETS of fragrant blossoms to all those who assisted with the 126th May Queen Party in Cumberland. Thank you once again to Debbie Etherington of Quality Foods for the beautiful bouquets for Her Majesty and her attendants; to Jamie Graham of Graham’s Jewellers for his generosity in annually providing the May Queen’s keepsake ring; to Jean Cameron and Kim Ferguson for lovely hairstyles; to Remax for generously providing tents to protect

This week’s winner

the stage; and to the two gentlemen who graciously chauffeured the girls in their classic cars! The organizers and parents of the May Queen Party are extremely grateful and thank you for your continued support of this time-honored celebration.

ANOTHER BOUQUET to the BC Chamber of Commerce for looking out for local business and local economies. They are asking for more efficient local governments. The three Comox Valley governments have taken more than most neighboring governments, out of the local economy in reserve funds. Reserve funds here are $124 million when $52 million would be just fine and in line with neighboring local governments.

What does this mean to the average property owner or tenant? About $1700/property out of the local economy and out of our wallets - more than required. Visit cvrpa.wordpress. com - we support the Chamber of Commerce policy, taxpayers, the local economy and the 20,000 lower income residents who can’t afford excessive reserve funds.

YOU KNOW WHAT I LOVE about this Valley? The guy who does the most awesome best garlic sausage is on holiday so there is none ... till he gets back. And when he gets back and makes it the earth moves because it is so yummy and it’s even better because he made it for us.

I WISH TO OFFER A BASKET of Cumberland donuts and a glass of Forty Knots wine to all those who have made our first two years in the Comox Valley so welcoming. So many people have gone out of their way to offer value added service and friendship. Ryan from Re-Max, Mortgage Broker Sean, Wendy from UPS, Mike from Telus, the Comox bottle depot guys, My Tech Guys, AnMarcos Furniture, Merchants on 5th, Valhalla, Just like Mom’s bakery, Rose from the CV Pool League, our medical professionals and their staff and many more businesses and people that make this valley so special.

You can’t get this feeling of belonging, in “The Big City”. You can be very proud of the generous spirit in the Comox Valley. Thank you all.

THE NEW FOUR YEAR term will see a 30% pay raise for CVRD Area Directors - some 15 times the rate of inflation. Little justification for this, or the large reserve funds raised by increasing water, sewer and garbage rates - many times the rate of inflation.

Courtenay and Comox Councillors dominate most CVRD committees - they approve the bylaws and budgets.

A BIG BOUQUET, not that you need one. To the person on the top floor of the Washington Inn Apartments: Your gorgeous display of flowers gets better every year. You brighten my day when I see something positive when I walk outside and look up. Thank you for providing a ray of happiness in a sometimes sad world. Keep up the great work.

This week’s winner, drawn at random from submissions received up to Tuesday, is:

Clint Russell of Courtenay, 2 Classic Cheese Basket Meals 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!

SOON SCHOOL WILL BE OUT for the summer. Thousands of students will be looking for work along with the 40,000 youths who are already looking for jobs. How can the BC Liberal Government possibly justify the employment of over 70,000 Temporary Foreign Workers? While some businesses say it is good for the economy - let’s see the money! We know that the BC Liberals will borrow $2 Billion a year to cover the income gap, and students loans are now in the $Billions. The BC Liberals are way off track on the TFWs policy, and continue to be mislead by some self interested business people. The costs outweigh benefits.

A ‘BIG BEEF’ to whomever owns the vacant Chinese take-out restaurant, across from the Lewis Centre. Since the building has been empty & up FOR SALE, the old garbage can that was there is full & overflowing, plus someone has been adding plastic boxes to add more garbage! Something needs to be done about this before it gets out of hand. As the restaurant is no longer being used, there shouldn’t be any garbage there.

AN ENORMOUS fragrant and yummy bouquet to all the donors, gardeners, bakers, and workers at the recent Comox Valley NDP Garage, Plant and Bake Sale. What a dedicated group of people that know how to work hard and have fun!

THE FACT THAT SAFEWAY closed after 83 years in Comox Valley is sad, indeed. The impact on the employees and their families is huge obviously, but hard to measure. The impact on the community is also huge. Not only was Safeway a major contributor to our local food banks, it was the only grocery store in the valley that donated fruit and vegetables. Grant Stamford, the store manager, deserves a civic acknowledgement for his understanding of the need, his compassion and generosity. Not only are more people going to go hungry, the others won’t be eating as healthily.

HUGE BOUQUET and thank you to Chris and Richard at Hyland Precast. I needed 175 pounds of sand in a canvas sack, used as a base weight for a big off-set patio umbrella. As a physically disabled person, I just could not figure out a way to get this done. I called them to explain my conundrum and they were most helpful. I drove out to see them and they took the canvas bag out of my trunk, then told me it would be no charge AND they would drop it off at my home in Comox after work. Well, they did one better than that! Before going home myself I ran a couple of errands and got home in less than two hours. Much to my surprise, the weight bag was already there along with a bucket of extra sand. Above and beyond hardly describes their efforts. Thanks again guys, you truly made my day. Now all I have to do is get the umbrella assembled to enjoy it!

BOUQUETS to the Prozac Advocating Retiree who rightfully points out the many benefits of living in the Comox Valley. It is the “Best Place on Earth”, as any world traveler would know. However, it isn’t all milk and honey for the 20,000 lower income people who work, and some who retire, here. Affordability is an issue that Prozac will not cure.

THE COMOX VALLEY CURLING CLUB should have approached Courtenay or Comox to fund the club upgrades and assume the ownership of the facility. Municipalities have different financing rules than RD’s and the CVRD is the most expensive form of government because of their practice of collecting huge reserve funds. For example, Comox has $77 million in capital assets to maintain and a Taxpayer reserve fund of $16

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.

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A14 Comox Valley Echo Friday, May 23, 2014

News

Courtenay wants to improve development application procedure

By Michael Briones Echo Staff The City of Courtenay is looking at amending its development application procedure bylaw and associated administrative process to make it more efficient and faster.

This is one of the priorities in the city’s strategic priorities list for this year said manager of planning Ian Buck.

The last time the bylaw was amended was in 2012, which the city has been working with it for a year and half now.

The results of the review of the bylaw conducted by Buck and Peter Crawford, Director of Development Services was presented to council on Monday. It revealed that there are still some areas where major improvements can be made.

Buck said that review looked at two categories.

“One was how to expedite the development process, finding ways for efficiencies and removing some items that might not be necessary,” Buck told council. “The second goal was to find ways to add clarity and consistency to our process.”

The report reflected staff’s proposed changes. The first requires council to delegate its authority to issue permits to the director of development services. At present, the director only handles minor and environmental development permits. But by expanding the director’s authority to encompass all development permit applications as long as they do not have any variance issues, processing will be quicker, because it can be approved in just one day. It will reduce the time by a minimum of three days and free up time on the council agenda to deal with other issues. If an applicant is not happy with the director’s decision, he or she can appeal to council, which can overturn the decision when necessary.

Another issue that can be improved is circulation, which is often related to site servicing and not related to the form and character of a building or zoning in the case of a suite.

Current practice requires all applications be circulated for a three-week period to get feedback from other departments or agencies. But Buck said most of the time the comments received are “often generic in nature,” and very little can be done to amend some of them.

Staff suggested minor development permits for duplexes, facade improvement, additions and amendments of existing permit be exempt from circulation if there are no variances. However, it does not completely eliminate any consultation with members of other departments particularly when an application has potential to impact the environment or other issues. The creation of a development review group to assist in the process has been suggested. Elimination of circulation will cut three weeks of the application process and expedite it.

A development permits checklist is also being recommended by staff to be completed by applicants.

Before permits can be issued, applicants are required to submit a detailed summary of compliance of the zoning and development permit guidelines. Buck said they’ve been receiving summaries that are not detailed, making it clear some developers are not reviewing the guidelines or have chosen to ignore them. It often requires amending, leading to frustrations, delays and increased staff time for processing.

Staff also recommended a limit to pre-application meetings to just two. They are regarded to be an important part of the process however, some meetings become repetitive and less productive because some use the occasion to get staff to design their projects because the applicant has not reviewed the basic zoning and development permit guidelines. At times, after several meetings, an application is never submitted.

Repeated meetings with the same person, said Buck, takes valuable staff time away from other applicants. They want to limit the meetings on the same project to two.

For clarity and consistency, staff recommends the city adopt new engineering design standards, develop general TOR for various studies, provide list of studies and triggers for submitting them, improve and develop new guidebooks for applications and better use of development review meetings.

Council directed staff to prepare amendments to the bylaw and associated administrative processes as outlined in the report.

If enacted, the changes will not only reduce approval time for an application but also reduce the staff time that goes into the review.

Cumberland Empire Days included a variety of activities including Market Day, a ball drop in support of the future Cumberland skatepark which brought in $3,500, the annual parade and May Pole dancing, above. A focal point of the day was the crowning

of the new May Queen Caley Herd, who was elected by her peers to serve in the role for the upcoming year.

To see all the photos, check out the photo gallery at www.comoxvalleyecho.com

Extra ECHO

Comox Valley, BC

The COMOX VALLEY ECHO ❑ Friday, May 23, 2014

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ECHO

Cantiamo ensemble gives final concert of season

Cantiamo Chamber ensemble presents its final concert of the season! This youth and young adult choir has gained a reputation for singing beautifully blended harmonies while performing a diverse selection of sacred and secular music. Please join us for an evening of inspiring choral works on Saturday May 24th at Comox United Church, 250 Beach drive. Doors open at 7:00pm for a 7:30pm performance.

Tickets can be purchased for $10.00 from any choir member or at the door.

Comox Seniors serving up pancakes, crafts, books Comox Seniors’ Pancake Breakfast, Crafts, Books and Bake Sale - It’s all happening on Saturday, May 24th, from 9:00 am till noon at d’Esterre House, 1801 Beaufort Avenue, in Comox.

Bring the whole family and treat yourself to a wonderful breakfast of pancakes, bacon or sausage, juice, and coffee, for only $5.00, prepared by our kitchen crew while you take in the beautiful vistas of ocean and mountains.

After breakfast, have fun shopping for our bargain-priced books and baked goods.

You will also be amazed at the variety of lightly-used items on our White Elephant table and the quality of crafts made by our Centre’s members. Or buy a raffle ticket on a beautiful hand-made quilt made by our quilters group.

Did you know that you don’t have to reside in Comox to become a member of the Comox Seniors’ Centre and enjoy the over 50 different activities we offer to the young at heart?

To become a member you have to be at least 55 years old or have a partner who is 55. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to check us out. You will be surprised at how bright and cheery our facility is and how friendly and welcoming we are. Pick up our current newsletter, listing over 50 activities available, including exercise classes, tai chi, yoga, as well as bridge clubs, cribbage, and euchre.

For more information call 250-339-5133 during office hours, 10:00 am until 1:00 pm weekdays or visit our website at www. comoxseniors.ca.

Don’t miss Evergreen Club’s fashion show lunch The definition of Spring Fever: a feeling of invigoration and restlessness associated with the arrival of the warm weather and renewal of nature in the spring season.

This encapsulates why you should grab your girlfriends and put that restlessness into a fun afternoon out at the Evergreen Club’s upcoming ‘Spring Fever Fashion Show and Luncheon’. Mark your calendar for Wednesday, May 28th.

The doors open at 11:00 am and will follow with a scrumptious lunch served at 12 noon. The Evergreen Club catering group will be presenting this delightful sitdown lunch followed with a strawberry shortcake dessert. The fashions of the Comox clothing store Roxanne will be showcased at 1pm.

There will also be a chance to win draws for some very nice door prizes. The fashion show and luncheon takes place in the Conference Hall, at Courtenay Recreation’s Florence Filberg Centre. Tickets are $12.00 and are available Downtown Courtenay at the Filberg Centre office. For more information please call 250-338-1000.

Local studio celebrates the creative and fantastic ‘Off The Wall’ dance gala delivers ‘Out Of The Box’ performances Triple Heat Dance Academy Of Performing Arts presents its second annual showcase at The Sid Williams Theatre, May 22 - 24.

Triple Heat directors, Livea Gill Harding, Tamara Ryan-Telford and Michelle Henly introduce ‘OFF THE WALL’ a celebration of the work by the academy’s students in the 2013-2014 year.

“The concept of ‘Off The Wall’ is performance that is innovative and surprising, we want to intrigue our audience, then keep them on the edge of their seats, expecting the unexpected.’ says Gill Harding.

Adds Henly “This show has had us step ‘out of the box’ and re-examine our technical and artistic boundaries and see how far we could take them.”

Pre-professional students will be performing award winning pieces from NIFPA and Victoria Danceworks Festivals as well as new choreography.

Triple Heat For Little Feet features the littlest dancers with the biggest cute factor. And the THD dancers deliver passionate performances that are a credit to their skill and dedication.

“This show is for everyone regardless of age, it will be pure entertainment!” Ryan-Telford promises. “We are so proud of all our dancers and can’t wait for the rest of the community to see what they are capable of!”

A special acknowledgement to Triple Heat Dancers participating at CORE Dance Competition earlier this month.

With over six hundred adjudicated perfor-

mances, THD students finished with three soloists scoring in the top ten and three group pieces also placing in the top ten for groups.

Congratulations to THD Director, Livea Gill, who was presented with the festival’s ‘Choreography Award.’ Winners were invited to perform in the Awards Gala at the Port Theater, and will perform at ‘Off The Wall.’

Showcase A - Saturday, May 24th 2 pm Showcase B - Friday, May 23rd 7 pm & Saturday, May 24th 7 pm Tickets are $22.00 for adults & $16.00 for 12 and under.

Tickets available at Sid Williams Box Office in person 442 Cliffe Ave., Courtenay or on-line www.sidwilliamstheatre.com

‘YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN’ Phil and Jennie Gaglardi Academy are proud to present the musical “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” to the public from May 22-24th. Performances are at 7pm with a Saturday matinee at 1pm. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the school, 1475 Noel Ave, Comox or by phoning 250-339-1200.

Rush seating, so come early!

KIDS’ ART SHOW SUCCESS Cumberland Elementary School students raised over $2500 for the Cumberland Community Forest Society at their Art Show and Auction on Wednesday May 7.

All 240 students had at least one piece of art sold that evening. Group pieces, such as the one above, were live auctioned and much excitement filled the gymnasium.

Student created renditions of various artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Georgia O’Keeffe, Emily Carr, Jackson Pollock and Roy Henry Vickers to name a few.

Thank you to all the students, teachers, parents and community members for making it such a worthwhile fundraiser.

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B2 Comox Valley Echo Friday, May 23, 2014

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What’s On

Valley-raised musician Elder Sister Plum heads out on her first tour

ECHO

Annual garage sale for CV Camera Club

It’s that time of the year again.

The Comox Valley Camera Club, celebrating their 50th anniversary this year, is holding their annual Garage Sale.

This year’s Garage Sale is being held Rain or Shine on Saturday May 31st at 1892 Noel Ave, Comox, from 8am to noon.

The sale will have lots of cameras and related equipment, plus household and kitchen items, books, music and outdoor equipment, almost everything including the kitchen sink, clothing will not be sold. All items requiring power will have either batteries or extension cords available for testing.

Cheerful camera club members will be available all morning to assist with purchases and provide information for those interested in joining the club.

The Comox Valley Camera Club meets every second and fourth Wed of the month from Sept - thru June.

Meetings run from 7pm -9pm at the Little Red Church in Comox.

For more information on the Comox Valley Camera Club go to www.comoxvalleycameraclub.org

Bursaries available for women in university The Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW) in the Comox Valley will provide two bursaries of $1000 each this year. You should apply if you are a woman who has completed grade 12 in the Comox Valley and if you are beginning the second, third, or fourth year of a program leading to a first degree.

The deadline for applications is May 31. For more information about how to apply: https://sites. google.com/site/cfuwcv/bursaries

North Island Festival of Performing Arts Speech Arts chair, Sara Pasiciel, awarded NIFPA bursaries to the three performers who will represent the North Island at the B.C. Festival of Performing Arts in Penticton June 4th to 8th. From left to right: Annemarie Taylor (Jr. Speech Arts Representative), Monique Collins

The name Elder Sister Plum was created by counter-culture novelist Kurt Vonnegut, but now Highland Secondary graduate Tanya Semple is making it hers.

That’s the 26-year-old singer-songwriter’s stage name, and in May Elder Sister Plum will fly to Toronto to tour eastern Canada and promote her debut full-length studio album “People Like Us”.

Like the author that inspired her stage name, Semple’s music explores the human experience using empathy, humour, and a healthy sense of the fantastic. “People Like Us” is a twelve song musical autobiography weaving tales of sirens and doomed sailors, dark and mystical pirates, as well as personal tales of the joys and sorrows of life.

Semple launched a successful Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign in the summer of 2013 to raise the funds to record “People Like Us” at Townhouse Recording Facility & Sound Studio in Toronto, ON. The album was released in July of 2013 to critical acclaim amongst university and community radio station music-watchers. CBC Radio in Nova Scotia has given her some airplay.

InRetro Magazine/Radio describes her album as “ ... a rainy-day-feel collection of songs that hits you in just the right place ... “ while Pamela Fillion of forgetthebox.net wrote “...

Vernacular dances from her lips to our ears, beckoning listeners into the song paintings she reveals where kisses are stolen, journeys are taken, and treasures are reconsidered.”

The Indiegogo campaign brought Elder Sister Plum back to the Comox Valley on April 12, to play a house concert for her biggest supporters: family and friends. The audience was uniformly delighted with her lyrics and musical presence.

Elder Sister Plum will continue to play venues around Victoria, BC until she leaves for Toronto.

To learn more about Elder Sister Plum and listen to her music, visit www.eldersisterplum.com. You can also purchase digital copies of “People Like Us”.

(Intermediate Speech Arts Representative), and Christian Taylor (Senior Speech Arts Representative). All three talented young performers will be part of the May 27th’s More than a Meeting evening at Courtenay Little Theatre.

CLT presents speech arts students at ‘More Than a Meeting’ Courtenay Little Theatre is pleased to invite members of the community to a special Speech Arts performance at its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, May 27th at the CLT rehearsal studio, 1625 McPhee Ave. in Courtenay (behind Jet FM).

Dubbed “More than a Meeting”, the evening will begin with refreshments at 7 PM, followed by a short meeting from 7:15 to 7:30 PM. The dozen Speech Arts performers, three of whom will be North Island Representatives at the Provincial Performing Arts Festival in Penticton the first week of June, will take to the stage from 7:30 - 8:30 PM. These students of Eleanor Phillips and Val Macdonald will share pieces from their upcoming Trinity Guildhall

London Speech and Drama exams.

Annemarie Taylor, Monique Collins, and Christian Taylor will each share parts of their Performing Arts BC programs as they prepare to be the Junior, Intermediate, and Senior North Island Speech Arts Representatives, respectively.

Admission is by free will donation to the CLT Bursary Fund.

Come out and support some of the best young talent in the Valley and, at the same time, find out about all the theatre news. CLT’s 2014-15 season’s passes go on sale at the Sid Williams Theatre Ticket Centre on May 30th.

For more information, see www.courtenaylittletheatre. com

THE RANGERS are rockin’ up THE CUMBERLAND HOTEL this Saturday night May 24th! C’mon on out and shake up the

dance floor at the best little place around! Great food, fabulous company and fantastic music! See you there!

Pharmacist to speak at osteoporosis group Pharmacist Cait O’Sullivan will discuss medications and osteoporosis at the Comox Valley Osteoporosis Support Group meeting on May 28.

Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bones to become thin and porous, decreasing bone strength and leading to increased risk of breaking a bone. It is estimated that one in three women and one in five men will suffer with osteoporosis in their lifetime.

As a health care consumer it is important to understand the benefits and risks associated with medications, and treatments recommended for osteoporosis.

The presentation will be interactive and is open to anyone who is living with osteoporosis and who would like to learn more about osteoporosis medications and recommended vitamin supplements.

What: Medications and osteoporosis presentation When: Wednesday, May 28 Time: 2 pm Where: Comox Valley Nursing Centre, 615 10th Street, Courtenay For more information, contact: Michele Caley Comox Valley Nursing Centre 250-331-8504 ext. 68425 (Michele)

Social Planning Society having AGM May 29 The Comox Valley Social Planning Society is holding its 17th Annual General Meeting on Thursday, May 29th, 3:30-5pm. The meeting will be held at the Courtenay Firehall, Cumberland Road, upstairs.

The release of the 2014 Comox Valley Quality of Life Report will be the central focus of the meeting, followed by the election of the Board of Directors for the 2014/2015 year.

Everyone is welcome to attend.

Light snacks will be provided.

A day of Pickleball at Comox Recreation Join Comox Recreation Saturday June 7th (Canada’s National Health and Fitness Day) for “A Day of Pickleball Outdoor Play”.

A round robin format will be held from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm and again 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm.

Those of you that wish to give the game a try can register for a group lesson from 12:30 to 1:30 pm. The fee to register to play or take a lesson is $5+gst (which includes a hotdog and juice).

The Rotary Sports Box is located adjacent to Highland Fields with parking across from the Comox Public Works Yard (1390 Guthrie Road).

Register by phone at 250-3392255 or drop by the Comox Community Centre at 1855 Noel Avenue in Comox.

Award-winning First Nations author to speak at Fanny Bay Philip Kevin Paul, member of the WSÁ,NEC Nation from the Saanich Peninsula on Vancouver Island, will be reading at the Fanny Bay Hall as part of the Fat Oyster Reading Series.

This event on Wednesday May 28th is sponsored by the Canada Council for the Arts, Laughing Oyster Books and local oyster businesses.

Kevin, as he prefers to be called, is author of two acclaimed books. The first, Taking the Names Down from the Hill won the 2004 BC Book Prize, Dorothy Livesay Award. The second, Little Hunger, was short-listed for the 2009 Governor General Awards.

Kevin is young, talented, educated and politically savvy.

Kevin’s father, the late Philip Christopher Paul, was a long-time chief and co-founder of The Union of BC Indian Chiefs and the National Native Brotherhood (now AFN).

Kevin grew up utterly surrounded by politics, culture, art and family. As much a fan of his mother as his father, “love and generosity are the

Author Philip Kevin Paul, member of the WSÁ,NEC Nation, is young, talented, educated and politically savvy. first words that come to mind when I think of my mother, Frances Elliot Paul.”

Kevin worked with the Institute of Ocean Sciences, in Sidney, BC, in an effort to collaborate traditional Saanich knowledge with modern scientific “discovery.” He has also worked as an instructor in University of Victoria writing departments, and a researcher with UVic and the University of Northern Texas in Linguistics.

The Mex Pub hosts Baby Jane’s return to the Comox Valley After a multi-year absence from Valley venues, Vancouver band Baby Jane makes its return this weekend. Baby Jane is arguably Vancouver’s busiest dance band, playing venues all over the province each year.

Hosted by The Mex Pub, the band plays Friday, May 23rd and Saturday, May 24th with a 9:30 start.

Baby Jane was founded by vocalist and song writer Shelley Beeston and guitarist and producer Robert Pegg 16 years ago and with this longevity, the band could also be the big city’s most popular cover band. What’s the secret to the success?

“We’re constantly adding new songs”, says Beeston.

“Keeping it fresh is the name of the game, as so many fans come to see us over and over”. In addition, the band is all about the party with the audience the focus. Pegg adds “Shelley is the purveyor of a piece of real estate called the dance floor and she excels in her job of getting the people up and moving on it”.

Beeston and Pegg are the constants at any Baby Jane show. The rhythm section is composed of various combinations of working musicians and this weekend the foundation is laid down by bassist Brian Kehoe (IRIS, Gypsyland, Haus Banned, Wunderbread). He’s joined by Comox Valley drummer Dave Hampshire (Megalicious, Haus Banned, Lance Lapointe, Eagle Talons) and both he and Kehoe are regular members of the band line up. “To say I’m excited to be playing my hometown with one of my favourite bands would be a huge understatement”, says Hampshire. “We incorporate a lot of technology into the show but all of it is secondary to the musicianship of the organization. With Shelley, Bob and Brian, it’s ‘A-Game or go home’ and I’m humbled to be one of four on-call drummers for Baby Jane”.

There is no cover both nights and the band goes on at 9:30 pm. For more info, surf to www.mexpub.ca or call 250-703-9573.

“I am thrilled that we are able to bring Kevin to the Comox Valley. It will be an exciting evening with dynamic writers Derek Hanebury and Mary Ann Moore also on the bill.

This is a thoughtful group of authors who also have an affinity for nature.

Mary Ann’s book is hot off the press,” said Fat Oyster Series organizer Judy LeBlanc. “This event promises to be entertaining!”

Derek Hanebury authored the novel Ginger Goodwin: Beyond the Forbidden Plateau about the union organizer and anarchist Ginger Goodman who is a colourful figure in the history of Cumberland. His first book of poetry, Nocturnal Tonglen ( Ekstasis), is a stirring account of the disappearance of a young woman.

Derek has a Master’s Degree in Creative Writing from UBC and teaches at North Island College.

Mary Ann Moore of Nanaimo, just launched Fishing for Mermaids (Leaf Press), her first full-length book of poetry. It is a sensuous journey that

evokes the ghosts of Pablo Neruda, Frida Kahlo and her monkey Fulang Chang, D.H. Lawrence, Emily Dickinson, Rilke, Sappho, the Queen of Sparta.

In September internationally recognized authors Lorna Crozier and Patrick Lane will also be coming to Fanny Bay as part of the Fat Oyster Reading Series.

“The quality of the authors being brought in by the Fat Oyster Series is astounding. I couldn’t believe it when I heard that authors with national and international reputations such as Sharon Butala, Terry Glavin, and Lorna Crozier were coming to Fanny Bay! Fabulous!” said Zoe Lambert, Executive Coordinator of Beachcombers Education Society. “As Comox Valley Author Lily Hoy Price [I am Full Moon] commented, ‘Fanny Bay is the place to be!’ “ For more information, please see the Fanny Bay Hall website at: fannybaycommunity.com/fat-oyster-reading-series/

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What’s On

Photopia prizes are pretty cool In Photopia, the best prize is recognition and sharing of photo art.

But the gifts are pretty cool too.

A $100 London Drugs gift card, a large canvas printing of a favourite image from London Drugs, four poster-size printings by Sure Copy of a winners’ favourite images, two $50 gift cards from Visual Sound Store and a TIFF film series pass from the Comox Valley Art Gallery are all up for grabs.

The deadline for entries is Wednesday, when the judges - Paul Bailey, photography instructor at North Island College, commercial photographer Gordon Ross and London Drugs Photo Dept. specialist Karina Thygesen - begin sifting the entries to find winners in the four categories: 1.

Stepping toward ...

2.

Imagining ...

3. The Other Side (Weird, Wild and Bizarre) 4.

Manipulated / Transformed Photopia organizer Jamie Bowman says “We are continuing the central theme of positive change for the Comox Valley, including reimagining, portals, gateways, thresholds, urban renewal, and so on.”

The exhibition takes place Saturday, June 7 in the Courtenay Library boardroom, as part of Elevate the Arts, with a number of big-screen televisions loaned by London Drugs and Visual Sound Store rotating the hundreds of images.

Submission details can be found at www.elevatethearts.com under the performers and events tab, or via Elevate the Arts on Facebook.

Comox Valley Echo Friday, May 23, 2014 B3

‘Dingle to Dublin’ celebrates Irish culture

Emma Hyatt (from Courtenay) jumping with a backdrop of an arial view of The Hill of Tara the name sake of the dance school and part of the storyline

Join the Tara School of Irish Dancing and John Reynolds at the Tidemark Theatre in Campbell River on Saturday, May 24 as they bring the magic of Ireland to stage in an exciting new show, “Dingle to Dublin.”

Featuring the glorious music and dance of the Emerald Isle, Dingle to Dublin will transport the audience to Ireland’s welcoming shores.

All of the Tara School of Irish Dancing’s productions are based on original scripts written and choreographed by dance director, Margaret Mullen.

The dancers, all from Campbell River and the Comox Valley, make a special connection with the audience and bring high intensity and emotion to the performance.

Special guest, John Reynolds, who has toured with the Irish Rovers for many years is being brought back by popular demand, after receiving rave reviews for his performance in Dance of the Celts last year.

Reynolds will have the audience alternately laughing, singing along to old favourites and popular Irish ballads or even shedding a tear or two.

Reynolds’ range of musical and entertaining talent always has the audience enthusiastically responding and joining in the fun.

The dancers and the audience alike enjoy his humour, music and professional showcasing of Irish culture.

Presented by the Tara Dancers Performance Association, Dublin to Dingle will be at the Tidemark Theatre on Saturday, May 24 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Matinee $15; 7:00 p.m. Adults $20, Children, Students & Senior $15.

Group ticket rates are available for purchase of six or more so ideal outing for family, friends and groups. Tickets from Tidemark Theatre: 250.287PINK The Tara Dancers Performance Association is a non-profit group which supports the community performance activities of the Tara School of Irish Dancing in Campbell River & Vancouver Island. www.taraschoolofirishdancing.ca http://www.facebook.com/ TaraSchoolOfIrishDancing

B4 Comox Valley Echo Friday, May 23, 2014

Sports and Recreation

Comox Valley Echo Friday, May 23, 2014 B5

Courtenay good hosts for Triples Courtenay Lawn Bowling green was filled almost to capacity May 17/18, with the Anderton Nurseries Triples Tournament. The five local teams, skipped by Vern Greenhill, Pat Cutt, Henri Saucier, Peter Harding and Dean Penny were very good hosts, no shows in the winners circle! However the Edwards team from Parksville, Brenda and Wayne Edwards with Cheryl Baker took the honors in fine form.

Courtenay teams have done well in the previous two tournaments so far this year with Vern Greenhill, April Gilchrist and Melie Ursulom winning the Shandley Triples in Nanaimo, May3/4, and Peter

Harding, Dan and Gaynor Bereza with Carolyn Kassian taking 4th in the Qualicum MacPherson Fours.

Melie Ursulom and Pat Cutt and Ross Younger and Michael Lynch will be the Zone 2 Pairs representatives for the Senior Games in Langley. I will check on the name of the Triples and Fours for that event for next time.

Club tournaments got underway on Tuesday, May 20, with Ladies Pairs Jackie West, Carolle Allen; April Gilchrist, Sandy Tonnellier; and Melie Ursulom,Marsha Mann winning their games on the Ladies side. The men, my information is incomplete, Vern Greenhill and the musicians, Dan Bereza and Ernest

GOLF NEWS

Youth Week road hockey tournament a big success

81 MEN OUT AT GLACIER GREENS Saturday May 18th the forecast was cloud and showers but it was sunny with few clouds but no showers a very pleasant day, so 81 players took to the Glacier Greens course and had so good scores as you will see.

HCP 0-12 1st Low Gross Jeff Edwards 73, 2nd Jason Gordon 76, 3rd Mike Berger 77 1st Low Net Ron Morrison 66, 2nd Bill Village 67, 3rd Bernie Johnston 69 Snips Hole #5 & #14 Terran Berger, #8 Jason Gordon, #12 Bill Village #18 Ron Morrison HCP 13-1 1st Low Gross Ken Grant 82, 2nd Joe Dunham 87, 3rd John Pringle 88 c/b 1st Low Net Gabe Tremblay 67, 2nd Jim Perry 73 c/b, 3rd Ted Sauve 73 Snips Hole #4 Nick Mykitiuk, #6 Rudge Wilson, #7 (POG) Richard Wand, #10 Keith Allan, #11 Wayne Wood, #12 Ted Sauve, #18 Adrian Haut HCP 19+ 1st Low Gross Len Doyle 87 c/b, 2nd Glenn Horsepool 87, 3rd Al Waddell 89 1st Low Net Hank Fortin 66 c/b, 2nd Ken Doll 68, 3rd Bob Henn c/b Snips Hole #6 Wayne Mabee, #10 Bill Stephens, #10 Glenn Horsepool, #15 Tim Hautzinger, #17 Gary Wood Next week 2nd round of the shoot out, not sure who won the meat draw. Till next week see ya.

- Submitted by Ron Carter

The LINC Youth Centre would like to thank all the youth, volunteers and community partners that participated in the annual Youth Week celebrations, May 1-7.

On Saturday May, 3, 8 teams (Destroy Your Face, The Grinders, Team Gingersnap, Kincross Kings, Boyz of Bumder, Comox Bruins, Dirty Mike & The Boys, and Vanier Dirty 12’s) participated in the 5th Annual Young Ones vs. Old Ones Road Hockey Tournament.

After a competitive tournament, the Boyz of Bumder and Vanier Dirty 12, battled hard in the Youth Final.

Vanier won and took on the Old Ones, winning by a score of 5-3 and continuing the 5-year tradition of the “Young Ones” winning the coveted Waka Cup! The LINC staff would like to send out special thanks to their Youth Week sponsors, including Water Pure and Simple and Saputo for keeping everyone hydrated, Thrifty Foods, Onethirtythree Boardshop, Worksafe BC, Codes Country

Kassian won their games but I will get more information on that for next time, and also the Wednesday League stats.

The Webber singles started on May 22, and that will be yet another set of stats to keep track of. Sure is busy around here.

The coaches are willing to give of their time if anyone is interested in giving this game a try. Tuesday mornings at 10:30 am has Jackie West on the green coaching newcomers and old hands. For other newcomers to the sport, leave a message at 250338-8222. Go Lawn Bowl!

- Submitted by Pat Cutt

Peter Harding Games Chair, in blue, Brenda Edwards, Wayne Edwards and Cheryl Baker.

Congratulations to Vanier Dirty 12’s winners of The LINC Youth Centre’s 5th Annual Young Ones vs. Old Ones Road Hockey Tournament in celebration of BC Youth Week, pictured here with the Old Ones team!

Lanes, Ethereal - Djs Adam and Cory, live bands Abstract and Blind Amusement, Brent Craven and The Foto Booth, Comox Valley Regional District, The City of Courtenay, Courtenay Recreation, The LINC’s Youth Council, and Youth Unlimited, for contributing to all of the Youth Week festivities!

The support for BC Youth Week 2014 and for celebrating the Comox Valley’s youth was tremendous and made this their biggest Youth Week yet!

SIEFFERT’S FARM MARKET Opening For The Season Wednesday, May 22nd 7 days a week...

INCLUDING HOLIDAYS

10am - 6pm 720 Knight Rd Comox 1 KM Past The Airport

250-339-2988

Offering...

A selection of Spring Vegetables picked Daily

CARRIERS WANTED No collection required. Great exercise!

Call Comox Valley Echo • 250-334-4734 or drop by 407-D 5th Street, Courtenay Rt. 7107 Rt. 8105 Rt. 8106 Rt. 8130 Rt. 7115 Rt. 7127 Rt. 7108 Rt. 1102A Rt. 2129 Rt. 3120 Rt. 3134 Rt. 3122 Rt. 3110 Rt. 3109 Rt. 9103

WOODGROVE CENTRE - NANAIMO HOURS: Mon.-Tues. 10:00pm-7:00pm. Wed.-Fri. 10:00am-9:00pm Sat. 10:00am-7:00pm Sun. 11:00am-6:00pm

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Courtenay – Between 17th & 13th - McPhee, Grieve, 16th, 14th – Kilpatrick, 29th - 27th, Moray – Kilpatrick, Anfield Centre (Walmart) – Cliffe (Between 19th & 10th), Riverside Lane, Beckensell – 5th to 4th, Menzies to Willemar – Marsden, Baird to Charter – Fitzgerald, Grieve 17th to 13th Comox – Bolt, Lindshart, Martin, Noel, Anderton – Sylvan, Parry, Aspen, Idiens Crown Isle – Monarch, Royal – Crown Isle Dr., Birkshire, Sussex Valleyview – Swan, Trumpeter, Sparrow, Valley View – Back Road, Glen Urquhart, 10th St. E., Hobson, 6th St. E., Aston – Mallard & Partridge Cumberland – Dunsmuir, Derwent, Sutton, 1st

Earn extra $$$$ for all that fun stuff that mom won't buy!

B6 Comox Valley Echo Friday, May 23, 2014

Sports and Recreation

Youth road cycling team off to strong season start at large U.S. stage race

Comox Valley Woo Kim Taekwondo’s Jonathan Blancas, left, fought hard but just fell short of the gold medal against a fighter from the Parksville Woo Kim Taekwondo in the black belt sparring final at the Vancouver Island Taekwondo that was held in Parksville recently. (Photo by Michael Briones)

■ WOO KIM TAEKWONDO

Locals clean up at V.I. Championships Comox Valley Woo Kim Taekwondo sent over 40 athletes to compete in the annual Vancouver Island Taekwondo Championships held recently in Parksville.

They had the largest contingent of competitors with clubs from all over the Island as well as from the Lower Mainland participating.

“This was our largest competition group to date,” said Master Richard Dobbs. “We had 41 of our 120 students make the trek, from age six through 55. Several of them were first timer competitors. It’s a very rewarding experience for the students. We spend lots of time practicing in class and this is where they can put it all together and see the result.”

The valley club didn’t disappoint. They competed well and hauled in a nice number of medals.

Athletes competed in two events: Poomse (or forms) and free sparing. Overall the competitors brought home 19 gold medals, 15 silver medals and 23 bronze medals. Five students bringing home double golds were Drew Matthews, Harley Zolner, Hayden Flemming, Noah Duncan and Teiya Tyler.

Leading the way were black belts Jonathan Blancas, 17 and Noah Duncan, 13. Blancas, a seasoned competitor with well over 20 tourna-

ments under his belt, lost a tough last second decision 24-25, in the senior black belt sparring finals after securing a 1st place in Poomse.

Duncan, after two consecutive years of double gold performances, is making a name for himself as a top tier competitor.

“I am extremely proud of every single one of the students,” said Dobbs. “The athletes face their nerves and their opponents and always learn something about themselves. Regardless of whether it is their first or 21st tournament they continue to develop as martial artists and as individules.”

Belt testing for the students will be held June 7-8th with 8th degree Grandmaster Woo Kim, who will be making the trip over from Vancouver, overseeing the event.

Dobbs said all the students will be looking to impress.

The public is welcome to come observe the testing between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. on both days at the Courtenay Lewis Centre.

Comox Valley Woo Kim Taekwondo offers a variety of programs for all ages.

Look in the Comox Valley Recreation guide for details. Feel free to call head instructor Richard Dobbs for more information 250-8972452.

The Vancouver Island Performance Youth Road Cycling Team (VIPYRS) started the 2014 road cycling season in fine form on the May long weekend in its first international race of the year at the Mutual of Enumclaw Stage Race in Washington State.

The team, which is made up of riders from across Vancouver Island, includes 3 local Comox Valley riders recently named to the 2014 BC Provincial High Performance Road Cycling Team - Jess Reynolds, Mark Grant and James Grant.

The race, which is considered to be one of the largest stage races in the Pacific Northwest, included 3 time trial, criterium and road race stages over 2 days.

Jess Reynolds repeated her 2013 sweep of all 3 stages of the Junior Women’s race to capture the overall General Classification championship.

Chris McLeod (Victoria) placed second in the Category 3 road race while James Grant was a strong fifth place in his first year in the Category.

Evan Luksay of the Comox Valley finished third in the Junior Boys road race.

The VIPYRS are looking forward to another exciting year of road and track cycling.

Anyone interested in following the team should go to their website at www.vipyrsracing.com.

Jessica Reynolds wins General Classification and dons leader jersey at Mutual of Enumclaw Stage Race

GOLF NEWS SUNNYDALE THURSDAY NIGHT LOVELY FOR THE LADIES

7-ASIDE CO-ED SOCCER You are cordially invited to participate in the Co-ed 7-Aside Adult Soccer Tournament hosted by the CVUSC Revolution Women’s Soccer Team.

4 Divisions: * Women’s Open * Men’s Open * Co-ed Open * Co-ed “Wreck”reational Registration $350 per team.

Registration fees must be collected no later than May 31, 2014 and mailed to: CO-ED TOURNIE SHANNON MYERS BOX 226 LAZO, BC V0R 2K0 Any inquiries can be directed to: ERIN BROWN email, elb_28@hotmail.ca or 250-336-8737

Sunnydale Ladies Thursday Night May 15th was a lovely warm evening with a great turnout of ladies.

Hole prizes were given out on Hole #2 to Margie Anderson for shots out of the sandtrap.

Hole #3 prize went to Irene Pearl for closest to pin second shot.

Hole #4 prize went to Coral Tanner for closest to the big rock.

Hole #5 prize went to Monique Fawcett for closest to pin third shot.

Hole #6 prize went to Margie Anderson for the longest drive.

Hole #9 went to Eva Moore for longest putt.

Lowest Putts went to Monique Walker and the Most Honest Golfer was Deb McMahon.

Draw Prizes were given out from: Boston Pizza to Mary Lynn Doubinin Fluids Bar & Grill to Patty Sweeney Investors Group/Locals Restaurant to Monique Walker Jo Klassen to Louise Smiley and Peggy Ferguson Michaels Off Main to Ardene Larison Panago Pizza to Coral Tanner Quality Foods to Maureen Mason Rhodos Coffee to Judy Mann Royston Roasting Co. To Monique Fawcett Safeway to Irene Pearl Donation Golf Glove to Marilyn Curley

Monster trucks hit the big air at Saratoga Speedway

By Terry Guest California Kid and Rockstar laid everything out over the May long weekend. These two trucks hit some incredible air over the weekend, including Rockstar rolling over once again, putting on yet another amazing Monster Truck show at Saratoga Speedway.

The Crash to Pass cars, Hornet cars, Roadrunners and the Figure 8’s accompanied the Monster trucks over the weekend, with the Bomber cars and the I.M.C.A Modifieds joining the action on Sunday.

A season high 26 Hornet cars hit the track over the weekend. 3 heats were given on Saturday, with the C going to #53 Rowland Westra, B to #08 Daryn Cahill and the A to #01 Kevin Lawrenuk. 25 laps were given to the B main which saw Westra once again dominate the field, grabbing the lead on lap 6 and never looking back from there.

Monster Truck Rock Star gets some serious airtime Sunday at Saratoga Speedway.

Photograph By Fernando Pereira 25 laps were also given to the A main which saw 11 closely matched cars battle for all 25 laps, but #08 Daryn Cahill would start on the pole and would never give up his lead, leading all 25 laps to take his first main win of the year. 25 cars arrived

on Sunday.

Three 3 heats were once again given on Sunday with the C going to #54 Glen White, B to #43 TJ Lippy and the A to #01 Kevin Lawrenuk. 12 cars entered a 25 lap B main which saw a lot of lead changes and some close racing, but 13-year-old #10 Blaire Mangles would take the lead on lap 17 and wouldn’t look back, winning his first ever main event.

Brothers Daryl and Daryn Cahill battled hard in the 25 lap main which saw Daryn hold the lead for the first 20 laps, but Daryl would find his way around him and he would hold on to take his second main win of the year.

A full field of 12 Crash to Pass cars

took to the track over the weekend. #73 Sheldon Hopp was dominating the field, winning the 10 lap heat, but after leading the first 10 laps of the main, Hopp would run into mechanical issues, opening the door for #01 “The General” Jeff May to take the lead and the eventual win.

Two new cars joined the field on Sunday bringing the total up to 12 for Sunday night.

May would continue his dominance though, winning the 10 lap heat and dominating the 20 lap main to win his second main in as many nights.

(Continued on page B10)

!

O G E HERE WT’S LIVE! I

Residential Curbside Recycling has now EXPANDED!

If you live in Courtenay, Royston or Cumberland and take part in curbside Blue Box recycling, more items can now be put into Blue Boxes. Here’s what you need to know about the change:

If you live in Courtenay, Cumberland or Royston

• You can now include new items in your Blue Box such as aluminum foil, milk cartons, • •

On many summer, fall & winter 2014 Alaska (cruises and cruise tours), Canada / New England, Northern Europe, Mediterranean, Transatlantics, Australia, New Zealand & South Pacific, South America & Asia sailings*: ◆ ◆

Free Upgrades ◆ Beverage cards Reduced or free 3rd / 4th fares for kids sharing

plastic plant pots, aerosol cans, and hot and cold drink cups. For a full list visit the websites for each area listed below.

Your curbside recycling pickup schedule and contractor will not change.

As before no glass should go into your Blue Box. Take these to a depot.

As of May 19, non-profit organization Multi-Material BC (MMBC) has assumed responsibility for managing residential packaging and printed paper recycling in Courtenay, Royston and Cumberland and in many other areas of BC. If you live in other areas and have questions about recycling contact your local government.

Recycling Depots – COMOX VALLEY

There are changes to local recycling depots too. Here’s what you need to know about the change:

Comox Valley Waste Management Centre, 2400 Pidgeon Lk Rd, Cumberland This depot will expand to accept new materials including: Plastic foam packaging (i.e. Styrofoam); Plastic bags/film wrap; Glass

•

Country Market, Courtenay / Depot Behind Canex, Comox

PLUS - CruisePlus Rewards saves you even more!

These drop-off depots…

Will not take any new items Will continue to accept cardboard, hard plastics, metal containers

Don’t forget!

Encorp Return-It Depots, Courtenay and Comox

CruisePlus is known for our extra value air, hotel & cruise packages – currently we have over 60 sailings to choose from. We’re one of the world’s top producing agencies for Holland America offering exceptional value, advice & service on any destination and itinerary!

1-877-722-2202 www.cruiseplus.ca 7143 CAILLET ROAD, LANTZVILLE OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK (except Stats)

CALL US OR VISIT US TODAY! (We’re located in the old Winchelsea House Restaurant – corner of Lantzville & Caillet Roads)

HURRY – SPECIAL PRICING & INVENTORY LIMITED ON SOME SAILINGS!

* New bookings only. Promotion valid for select sailings only and offers expire June 15, 2014. Please read all the terms and conditions. CruisePlus Management Ltd. BPCPA # 3325-0

• •

These privately run depots…

Will expand to accept new materials such as packaging and printed paper recycling Will continue to offer refunds for refundable items

• •

For up-to-date information on recycling depots in the Comox Strathcona Waste Management area (Comox Valley and Campbell River) visit www.cswm.ca/depots.

www.courtenay.ca/recycling.aspx Tel: 250-703-4863

www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/royston Tel: 250-334-6000

www.cumberland.ca Tel: 250-336-2291

Comox Valley Echo Friday, May 23, 2014 B7

9 & Dine is Back at Sunnydale!

•$20.00 plus gst •includes 9 holes of golf and your choice of meal from the grill menu, or the daily special.

•Monday-Friday 3pm-6pm •Book tee-times at the pro-shop

(250) 334-3232 5291 North Island Highway, Courtenay, BC V9J 1S7

Sports and Recreation GOLF NEWS THE BEST AT CROWN ISLE On another glorious Tuesday, the Crown Isle ladies club played a team event of 2 BEST net balls.

Remember ladies there is no I in TEAM. If you didn’t win the pickle dish there is always next time! As Linda says, “When you look up you always see a bad shot!” Ain’t that the truth!

Envelope please ... and the winners are: 1st low net team - Kathy McGillis, Anne Sands and Rosemary Smith -128 2nd low net team - Jenny Steel, Audrey Clark, Selma de Haas and Donna Cunliffe-127 Birdies - May, Rosemary, Donna and Liz KPs- May and Selma A wonderful lunch was served thanks to the hard work of Anne and Pat, our social committee.

Katy, our eloquent captain, provided lots of info for us: All the best to Janet and Raelene who will be competing in the Champion of Champions on June 2nd Remember to sign up on the ladies’ website for the Captain’s Cup Scramble on June 7th. Join the men for a fun filled day and dinner.

Mark your calendars for 2 special events: LADIES’ NINE AND DINE on Wed. May 28th 5:30 shotgun including 9 holes of golf, glass of wine or beer, appys and prizes. Register as an individual or team at the Crown Isle proshop 250 703-5031. Then after prizes, join us with your glass of wine in the Silverado Room for DUELLING PIANOS. Should be lots of fun -bring your dancing shoes!

CROWN ISLE FIELD DAY - July 8th. Theme is “Honor your Captain”. 18 holes of golf, lunch, prizes and Divas entertainment.

Hope there are lots of ladies from other clubs reading this article because your captain plays FREE golf! Crown Isle ladies remember to invite a guest or two!

Thanks to our very knowledgeable rules’ captain, Judy Pouliot for the rules sheet everyone received at the luncheon. She is one organized lady! Also kudos to Ev and Judy for putting together the basket of goodies in the ladies’ locker room washroom. What a treat!

We wish Jane Cunningham a speedy recovery and back golfing with us soon.

Thanks to Julie and Audrey for organizing the “gently used” clothing sale and to everyone who came out to buy clothes.

Proceeds are going to Junior Golf.

Til next week...

- Submitted by Donna Cunliffe

Canadian Golf Professional Thomas Petts and his mentor Jason Andrew.

Visiting golf pro adds class to Gentelmen’s Night at the Office Most amateur golfers never actually meet a professional golfer, let alone play with one.

However, at the Gentlemen’s Night at the Office (GNATO) last Thursday at Crown Isle some of the fifty-five participants got up close and personal and played with a real Canadian golf pro.

A couple of decades ago, when Jason Andrew, currently the Director of Real Estate at Crown Isle, played on the Canadian golf tour, the four-year-old son of one of his sponsors used to follow him around when he played. That boy, Thomas Petts, now in his early twenties, who happened to be visiting his old ‘hero’, came out to enjoy a round at the GNATO. His class showed through, he scored one under and carted off more than a few of the prizes on offer.

Petts is in the Valley honing his game, under the watchful eye of his mentor, Andrew, in preparation for playing in the Canadian Qualifier to be played at Quilchena next week.

If Petts is one of the ten, out of the one hundred trying for a place, he will play in the CPGA PC Financial Open at Point Gray May 26-June 1.

Other than having an up-and-coming golf pro in its midst the GNATO featured the usual array of prizes, jokes, laughs, and food and

drinks. Given the opportunity as one of the GNATO sponsors to “shamelessly promote” his facility, Cascadia Liquor Store and winner of the 2014 “New Business of the Year”, owner Jeff Lucas extolled the 12,000 bottles of wine his store features and told of the recent arrival of a Spruce beer from Tofino he now has in stock.

He also presented a beer barrel cooler that will be offered as a prize to the GNATO player who records the lowest overall score, over the course of the season, on each of the holes played as calculated by wizard John Davis on his trusty golf computer.

As an added bonus from now on, all the GNATO competitors will receive a $5 voucher each Thursday for just showing up, from new sponsor Choices Casino.

Brian Rice Toyota has also come on-board as a new sponsor as the GNATO continues to gain momentum.

Gentlemen’s Night at the Office sees participants play eighteen holes - starting between 3 and 4 p.m., or nine holes, beginning with a shotgun start at 6 p.m. on Thursday evenings at Crown Isle. Get a foursome together, or join a group by making a booking with the Crown Isle pro-shop 250-703-5031. See you next Thursday.

Dowe 90, 2nd low gross on a countback was Gene Renaud with 92.

1st low net Lynne Pringle 67, 2nd low net Connie Alexa 69.

Low putts was a tie at 30 for Glenda Kinney and Marie Israel.

KP’s: #4 Marie Israel, #12 Brenda Livingstone.

Marie Israel, Lynne Pringle and Irene Perry had chip-ins.

Marie Israel winding her way to Port Alberni for the Zone Amateur/ Senior May 22/23.

Pack your A game Marie, we all wish you the best.

You can still get those entries squeezed in for the early bird deadline of May 24th for the Glacier Greens Ladies Open for which there will be a draw for the winner to get her entry fee back.

See you next week for pin day!

- Submitted by Lori Cameron

SHINING SUN, SILVER, CRYSTAL The Alice Allen Memorial Ladies Club Tournament was played by a full field on Tuesday, May 20th in glorious sunshine at Sunnydale Golf and Country Club. Carolyn Walker appreciated how that trophy glistened in

the sun when she was awarded Low Gross Winner with a score of 94.

The Runner-Up Crystal Mug was won by Lois Westbrook on a count back with Fran Gibson with scores of 98. Sharon Littler and Teri Sleigh rounded out the Gross winners with a tie of 99.

Winners of the shiny hardware on the Low Net side were awarded to Frances Shaw who shot a 69 and Runner-up was Norma Rankin who scored 72. Magge Miller posted a 73, followed by Doris Squire with 74 and Sandra Gallaway with 76.

Norma Rankin and Magge Miller shared the lowest # of putts. Marg Poje won the KP on #15.

Charlene Cebryk had a good day winning both the KP on #10 (sponsored

by Rob Speer Pro Shop) and KP 2nd shot on #5.

In the 9 Hole Ladies Club, Louise Smiley was Low Gross winner. Carol Tanner and Louise Smiley tied for lowest # of putts.

The rest of the 9 Hole Ladies enjoyed the sunshine keeping the ball on the fairway and out of the sand traps.

Everything about golf is always a little bit better when the sun shines.

- Submitted by Vicki Bombini

Comox Valley Minor Hockey NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR

ALL REP TEAM HEAD COACHES Deadline June 1st Probable teams: 2 Atom, 2 PeeWee, 2 Bantam and 2 Midget

To apply send resume and cover letter to dalegstew@gmail.com

New Players REGISTER ON OR AFTER JUNE 1ST PHONE 250-339-0952 FOR DETAILS

3 EAGLES HAVE LANDED AT COMOX On a beautiful Sunday Men’s morning May 18th at Comox Golf Club , three eagles were recorded: Marty Petersen hole 3 Tom Lambourne hole 4 Don Bossenberry hole 6 60 players participated with the following results: 0-16 Low Gross - Nick Usher 70, Marty Petersen 74 17 + Low Gross - Brian Buchanan 83, Burt Meek 83 Low Nets - Art Karpus 61, Tony Vanuta 64, Andy Dean 64, Vic Crisp 64, Terry Christie 65, Mike Simmons 65, Don Bossenberry 65 KP Prizes - 10 2nd shot 0-16 Mark Smith, Bowlzy Brkfst Comox Pacific Express 11 3rd shot 0-16 Dan Bailey, Boston Pizza 12 Long Drive 17+ Ken Simmons, Westview Ford Sales 5 All Don Vanetta, Men’s Club 14 All Andy Dean, Men’s Club 15 2nd shot 17+ Vic Crisp, Bowlzy Brkfst Comox Pacific Express 16 Long Drive 0-16 John Reddin, Westview Ford Sales 17 2nd shot 17 + Ken Simmons, Chads 9 All Burt Meek, Men’s Club 18 All Mark Smith, Men’s Club 2 x 18 hole passes to Qualicum GC won by Don Ellis.

Tee Box cooked up another great Breakfast.

See you on the 25th.

- Submitted by Vic Crisp

CLUB TEAM QUALIFYING AT G.G. Another banner day for the Glacier Greens Ladies on Tuesday May 20th 2014. Some were qualifying for the Club Team Competition that will be held in Powell River June 9th.

The teams that will be taking the cruise to Myrtle Point are: Team 1: Judy Brown, Liz Van Boeschoten, Roberta Cadieu. Team 2: Ann Johnston, Connie Alexa, Ellie Nicholas.

Winners of today’s regular game were: 1st low gross Wendy

The day before the race is a big day. You will have a short workout, you'll register for the event and gather your gear. Pick up of your race package will be at Shoreline Orthodontics, 1530 Cliffe Ave. The office is on the lower level of the building. In your bag will be a race number, swim cap and a t-shirt. You will also be informed what heat and what position in the heat you will swim in. All important stuff.

During package pickup, 1 pm to 5 pm, Tri BC, Comox Valley Tri Club and Shoreline Orthodontics are please to host an Expo. The expo will showcase all things triathlon. Sponsors will host tents where you can pickup last minute items, and check out new gear. CV Road Runners, CV Sharks and the VIPYRS (Vancouver Island Performance Youth Racing Squad), along with other community groups will also be in attendance. Check out the latest details on this years YANA ride and other upcoming local events. Rounding out the event will be guest speakers Gilliam Clayton and Clay Ward. Two local athletes with outstanding personal experiences in triathlons.

After the festivities its time to head home and assemble all of your gear. Laying it out in the order that you will use it will help to make sure you have everything you need. Attach your race number to your jersey fill your water bottles and put them in the frig.

Lunch should be hearty and the prerace dinner a light one. Nervousness will start to set in.

Relax, you have done work and are prepared. Try to get a good nights sleep.

RACE DAY! When you get up you'll feel a combination of excitement and nerves.

This is what you have been training for, the Shoreline Orthodontic's Tri-K triathlon.

Time to eat and shower.

Don’t forget to go to the bathroom, stretch and make sure everything that you laid out yesterday is packed including your bike and water bottles!

Start times are 9 am for youth(Mini) and 10:15 for the Sprint, Just Tri It and Duathlon. I hate to be rushed and that feeling of too much to do and not enough time to do it. Plan to arrive at the sports centre at least 1.25 - 1.5 hours prior to the start of your race. Parking can be tough and you have to rack your bike, acquaint yourself with transition, get numbered, stretch, hit the washroom and cheer on other athletes. And inevitably you will have to go to the bathroom again. Lots to do and there will be crowds to contend with and line ups to wait in.

Triathletes are standing around the pool. There is nervous and meaningless conversations.

What races they have done, what bike they are riding, their latest diet, their last long run. You listen and wonder if you have trained hard enough. As your heat approaches you get more nervous. Find a quiet spot, go through the race, breath deep and stretch.

Listen for your heat but relax in a quiet corner.

Good luck and Enjoy the Race!

See you at the finish line!

E&N Keeping Track Railway

on the move for 100 years

Lalonde’s Jitney at the Courtenay Station, 1924 Credit: Courtenay and District Museum 2004.27.4

The taxis in this 1924 image advertise travel beyond Courtenay, the northern E & N terminus.

Campbell River was to have been the northern terminus because the land the province deeded to the Dominion in 1883 stretched to Duncan Bay. However, two days after the Courtenay line officially opened in 1914, Britain declared war with Germany. All efforts shifted to WWI. The CPR didn’t completely abandon the Campbell River terminus idea. In January, 1920, CPR President E.W. Beatty was quoted in the Comox Argus , “Surveys of a line to Campbell River are being made, when they are completed a decision as to this extension will be made...”

Island highway development put an end to the idea.

Courtesy Courtenay and District Museum

B8 Comox Valley Echo Friday, May 23, 2014

CARRIERS WANTED EARN $$$$$$$$ COURTENAY Rt. 7107 – Between 17th & 13th - McPhee, Grieve, 16th, 14th Rt. 8105 – Kilpatrick, 29th - 27th, Moray Rt. 8106 – Kilpatrick, Anfield Centre (Walmart) Rt. 8130 – Cliffe (Between 19th & 10th), Riverside Lane, Beckensell Rt. 7115 – 5th to 4th, Menzies to Willemar Rt. 7127 – Marsden, Baird to Charter Rt. 7108 – Fitzgerald, Grieve 17th to 13th COMOX Rt. 1102A – Bolt, Lindshart, Martin, Noel, Anderton Rt. 2129 – Sylvan, Parry, Aspen, Idiens CROWN ISLE Rt. 3120 – Monarch, Royal Rt. 3134 – Crown Isle Dr., Birkshire, Sussex VALLEYVIEW Rt. 3122 – Swan, Trumpeter, Sparrow, Valley View Rt. 3110 – Back Road, Glen Urquhart, 10th St. E., Hobson, 6th St. E., Aston Rt. 3109 – Mallard & Partridge CUMBERLAND Rt. 9103 – Dunsmuir, Derwent, Sutton, 1st

No Collection Required Call COMOX VALLEY ECHO 250−334−4734 or drop by 407−D 5th Street, Courtenay

Comox Valley Echo Friday, May 23, 2014 B9

www.comoxvalleyecho.com

CA$H REWARDS

www.comoxvalleycrimestoppers.bc.ca

1-800-222-TIPS

B10 Comox Valley Echo Friday, May 23, 2014

Sports and Recreation

Saratoga (Continued from page 6) Another season high of 8 Roadrunners qualified over the long weekend. #66 Nick Leavitt would win the heat, but #73 MacLaren Inglis would hold off Leavitt to win the 15 lap main.

Inglis and Leavitt would once again battle one another on Sunday; Inglis would take the 12 lap heat, and would hold off Leavitt to win his third straight Roadrunner main event.

The I.M.C.A Modifieds made their first appearance off the year on Sunday. An incredible 10 Modifieds arrived on Sunday, which was one of the largest fields we have had in many years. Father and son team of Jason and Chris Beaulieu were battling all night long in the Modified class. Chris would barely narrow out Jason for the win in the heat.

40 laps were given for their main which saw some of the cleanest, tightest racing you will see all year, but after all was said and done, Chris would once again edge out his dad, taking home a clean sweep.

A total of 6 Bomber cars arrived on Sunday. #66 Wil Baun made his first ever appearance at Saratoga Speedway and didn’t disappoint, finishing 2nd in the 10 lap heat, and leading all 15 laps of their feature main event.

Extra laps: After a long weekend of racing, Drifting round 2 and 3 are now up on the racing card at Saratoga. Round 1 took place on May 10th, with reigning champion #26 Alex Davidson taking the win.

Heads up Drag racing has also been added to next weekend’s event.

Round 1 showed the fans what drifting is all about, hitting some amazing drifts each and every lap, so make sure you mark your calendars for these two great drifting events.

BMX club members warmed up for the day’s scholarship race by taking part in Cumberland’s Empire Day parade on Monday

Coal Hills BMX Club races for scholarship fund

D’Esterre Duplicate Bridge Results for Tuesday, May 31 (31 pairs): N/S - 1. Dianne McKinnon and Joan Erickson; 2. John Godfrey and Paula Sanbrook; 3. Ron and Judy Morrison; 4. Joan and Jim Boase; 5.

Barb McCrindle and Denise Holst; 6.

Carole and Jack Bradshaw.

E/W - 1. Lysbeth McCrone and Bernice Blonarwitz; 2. Irene Smith and Doug Poole; 3. Lorraine Waring and Lorraine Gargan; 4. Kim DeCrane and Del Christensen; 5.

Trish and George Kirkwood; 6. Ann Cook and Harvey Piercy.

Results for Saturday, May 17 (20 pairs): N/S - 1. Betty and Tom Thomsen; 2. Ruby Paulson and Diane McKinnon; 3. Evelyn Ware and Denise Holst; 4/5. Carole and Jack Bradshaw; 4/5. Maggie Wynde and Clark Graham.

E/W - 1. Joan Erickson and Sheila Lockhart; 2. Trish and George Kirkwood; 3. Dianna Rickson and Sharon Hysert; 4/5. Dorothy Branch and Corinne Montgomery; 4/5.

Keith Ware and Roy Hagg.

Friday night duplicate bridge Results for May 16: N/S 1.Dave Robinson and Tom Dugdale 2.Jean Tait and EvelynWare 3.Dianne McKinnon and Ruby Paulson 4.Kim DeCrane and Del Christensen E/W 1.Denise Holst and Betty Fountain 2.Roy Hagg and Keith Ware 3.Cynthia Tree and Warren Burd 4.Iris and Ben Vansterkenburg

+

*

BRIDGE NEWS Comox Valley Duplicate Bridge Club Coming up fast is our Championship game featuring the Eric Hyde trophy, one of our founding club members, on June 2, 2014.

Come on out and join us!

Don’t forget to put The Longest Day on your calendar. This fundraising day on June 21st will run from 6:30 a.m. till 10:30 p.m. with games being held throughout the day at the Lion’s Den in Comox. You do not need a partner. The schedule with game times will be posted to our website at www.cvdbc.com.

Plan to attend! Linda has a donation sheet at the front of the room for the next 2 months. Our goal is to raise $5000.00. Let’s see how close we can come!

The results of our regular game on Monday, May 12, 2014 were: 1. Jack & Carole Bradshaw 2. Warren Burd - Harvey Piercy 3. Mike & Vicki Moffatt 4. Jean Tait - Sharon Hysert Our game on Thursday May 15, 2014 had these results: 1/2 Mike & Vicki Moffatt 1/2 Al Hopwood - Lorraine Gargan 3. Carole Bradshaw - Irene Pearl 4. Arlene Petersen - John Godfrey Our club is located on Nordin Street across from the Comox Mall under the newly renovated Museum and Art Gallery.

We offer guaranteed partnerships, so if you’re visiting or your regular partner is away, make sure you come out to play anyway! If you don’t have a regular partner, I’m sure you’ll meet one.

Our Website is www.cvdbc.com and our email is playbridge@shaw. ca For more information, please contact Linda Marinus at (250) 3382544.

Webster 8 Intermediate - 1st Justin Yaretz, 2nd Isaac Templer, 3rd Macklin Johnson 9 Intermediate - 1st Jack Christian, 2nd Sean Queenan, 3rd Koen Oconnell, 4th Arland Berry, 5th Cody Buckman, 6th Iain Petersen 10 Intermediate - 1st Evan Yaretz, 2nd Aiden Kearns ,3rd Caleb Armitage 11 Intermediate - 1st Adicus Bird, 2nd Samuel Kuzma, 3rd Avery Swanson 10 Girls - 1st Autumn Spenser, 2nd Peyton Yochim, 3rd Avery Yochim 12 Expert - 1st Hayden Fieret, 2nd Jasper Petersen, 3rd William Buckman 16 Expert - 1st Zackery Fieret, 2nd Yuiriah Kaska, 3rd Aleasha Wiebe, 4th Dayton Raps, 5th Kevin Lebrun, 6th Aiden Webber, 7th Eric Cox, 8th Natan Simard

Yaretz, 3rd Aiden Webber 41-45 Cruiser - 1st Rodney Spenser, 2nd Andrew Templer, 3rd Brody Yochim, 4th Clayton McCarthy, 5th Dave Erwin, 6th Paul Simard 5 & Under Novice - 1st Jeremy Purich, 2nd Jett Yochil, 3rd Linden Erwin, 4th Maxim Lefebvre, 5th Noah Kerluck, 6th Harlow Yochim (3 years old) 6 Novice - 1st Edgar McCarthy, 2nd Mathew Middleton, 3rd Cohen Beaton 7 Novice - 1st Dane Kerluck, 2nd Ethan Cracknell, 3rd Jason Sekulich, 4th Reid Watson, 5th James Odarich, 6th Emma McCarty, 7th Nathan Cox 9 Novice 1- st Anna Purich, 2nd Evelyn Cracknell, 3rd Nolan Rounding 6 Intermediate - 1st Maddex Yochim, 2nd Peyton Oconnel, 3rd Samuel Johnson, 4th Brailyn

With Empire Days festivities going on in Cumberland, the Coal Hills BMX Club was busy too, running its annual Warnicke Scholarship Race where half the $10 entry fee goes into a scholarship fund for any graduating Canadian BMXer who wants to apply for it.

The overcast skies provided cool conditions for 63 eager and happy racers. Before the race the racers all took part in the Empire Days parade to warm up their bodies.

The youngest racer was strider racer Jack McInnes, age 2, on a run bike and the oldest was a young 43. Here are the results: 4 yr old Strider - 1st Elliot Purich, 2nd Riley McCarthy 3 year old Strider - 1st James Morrison, 2nd Linden Erwin, 3rd Jack McInnes 17-20 Cruiser - 1st Aleasha Wiebe, 2nd Evan

0

%

†

FINANCING

HURRY! INVOICE PRICING ENDS MAY 31ST Dealer is reimbursed a holdback amount included in invoice price by the manufacturer for each vehicle sold.

*

HWY: 5.3L/100 KM CITY: 7.6L/100 KMʈ

Limited model shownʕ Selling Price: $23,799

OWN IT FOR

2014

ELANTRA L DEALER INVOICE PRICE:

16,397

$

$ PLUS

‡

PLUS GST/PST.

79

BI-WEEKLY PAYMENT

WITH

0%

†

AND

0

$

FINANCING FOR 96 MONTHS

DOWN

ELANTRA L MANUAL. DEALER INVOICE PRICE INCLUDES $1,197 IN PRICE ADJUSTMENTSΩ, FEES (UP TO $499), DELIVERY AND DESTINATION.

OR

2014

STEP UP TO THE WELL EQUIPPED ELANTRA GT FOR AN EXTRA

ELANTRA GT L HWY: 5.8L/100 KM CITY: 8.5L/100 KMʈ

17

$

ELANTRA GT L MANUAL. $96 BI-WEEKLY AT 0.9%† FOR 96 MONTHS WITH $0 DOWN.

BI-WEEKLY

DEALER INVOICE PRICE INCLUDES $862 IN PRICE ADJUSTMENTSΩ, FEES (UP TO $499), DELIVERY AND DESTINATION.

FEATURES INCLUDE: AIR CONDITIONING Q AM/FM/ SIRIUS XM™/CD/MP3 6-SPEAKER AUDIO SYSTEM Q ABS W/ ELECTRONIC BRAKE FORCE DISTRIBUTION Q ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

DEALER INVOICE PRICE:

19,182

$

SE w/ Tech model shownʕ Selling Price: $26,727

‡

PLUS GST/PST.

HWY: 7.3L/100 KM CITY: 10.2L/100 KMʈ

2014

DEALER INVOICE PRICE:

SANTA FE SPORT

27,278

$

PLUS GST/PST.

PLUS OWN IT FOR

WITH

BI-WEEKLY PAYMENT

FINANCING FOR 96 MONTHS

136 0.9

$ Limited model shownʕ Selling Price: $38,448

PLUS GET

%†

AND

0

$

DOWN

‡

SANTA FE SPORT 2.4L FWD. DEALER INVOICE PRICE INCLUDES $1,316 IN PRICE ADJUSTMENTSΩ, FEES (UP TO $499), DELIVERY AND DESTINATION.

0% FINANCING FOR 96 MONTHS †

5-year/100,000 km Comprehensive Limited Warranty†† 5-year/100,000 km Powertrain Warranty 5-year/100,000 km Emission Warranty

HyundaiCanada.com

TM

The Hyundai names, logos, product names, feature names, images and slogans are trademarks owned by Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. †Finance offer available O.A.C. from Hyundai Financial Services based on a new 2014 Elantra L 6-Speed Manual/Elantra GT L 6-Speed Manual/Santa Fe Sport 2.4L FWD with an annual finance rate of 0%/0.9%/0.9% for 96 months. Bi-weekly payments are $79/$96/$136. $0 down payment required. Cost of Borrowing is $0/$711/$1,009. Finance offer includes Delivery and Destination of $1,595/$1,595/$1,795, fees, levies, and all applicable charges (excluding GST & PST). Finance offer excludes registration, insurance, PPSA and license fees. Delivery and Destination charge includes freight, P.D.E. and a full tank of gas. ‡Dealer Invoice Price of 2014 Elantra L 6-Speed Manual/Elantra GT L 6-Speed Manual/Santa Fe Sport 2.4L FWD are $16,397/$19,182/$27,278. Prices include price adjustments of $1,197/$862/$1,316 and includes Delivery and Destination of $1,595/$1,595/$1,795, fees, levies, and all applicable charges (excluding GST & PST). Finance offer excludes registration, insurance, PPSA and license fees. The customer prices are those reflected on the dealer invoice from Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. The dealer invoice price includes a holdback amount for which the dealer is subsequently reimbursed by Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. ΩPrice adjustments are calculated against the vehicle’s starting price. Price adjustments of up to $1,197/$862/$1,316 available on in stock 2014 Elantra L 6-Speed Manual/Elantra GT L 6-Speed Manual/Santa Fe Sport 2.4L FWD. Price adjustments applied before taxes. Offer cannot be combined or used in conjunction with any other available offers. Offer is non-transferable and cannot be assigned. No vehicle trade-in required.ʕPrice of models shown (with Price Adjustments): 2014 Elantra Limited/Elantra GT SE Tech 6-Speed Automatic/Santa Fe 2.0T Limited AWD are $23,799/$26,727/$38,448. Prices include Price Adjustments of $1,445/$1,667/$2,446, Delivery and Destination charges of $1,595/$1,595/$1,795 fees, levies, and all applicable charges (excluding GST & PST). Prices exclude registration, insurance, PPSA and license fees. ʈFuel consumption for new 2014 Elantra L Manual (HWY 5.3L/100KM; City 7.6.L/100KM); 2014 Elantra GT L Manual (HWY 5.8L/100KM; City 8.5L/100KM); 2014 Santa Fe Sport 2.4L FWD (HWY 7.3L/100KM; City10.2.L/100KM) are based on Manufacturer Testing. Actual fuel efficiency may vary based on driving conditions and the addition of certain vehicle accessories. Fuel economy figures are used for comparison purposes only. †‡ΩʕOffers available for a limited time. Dealer may sell for less. Dealer order may be required. Visit www.hyundaicanada.com or see dealer for complete details. The SiriusXMTM name is a registered trademark of SiriusXM Satellite Radio Inc. All other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.” ††Hyundai’s Comprehensive Limited Warranty coverage covers most vehicle components against defects in workmanship under normal use and maintenance conditions.

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COME JOIN US MONDAY, MAY 26 FOR “RIDE WITH A MAYOR AND ELECTED OFFICIALS”

Starting at 8:45am at Courtenay City Hall Celebration Station!

“COMMUTER CHALLENGE” FRIDAY MAY 23

Starting at 3:15pm at the Driftwood Mall.

Ending at the Lewis Centre.

Why Bike?

Here are just some of the main reasons to bike to work: • It’s fun! Biking can be done by yourself or with friends. It’s also a great way to meet people.

• Get yourself in shape. On average biking to work provides 20 to 30 minutes of exercise.

• Keep yourself healthy. 56% of Canadians are considered physically inactive which puts them at higher risk of chronic disease and illness.

• Enjoy work more. Studies show that employees that exercise are more productive, work better with co-workers and enjoy their job more than those that don’t.

• Help the environment. Driving less removes harmful toxins such as ground level ozone. It also reduces the amount of greenhouse gases you put in the atmosphere.

• Save money. Gas costs money. The more you use your vehicle the more you pay for gas, repairs and maintenance.

Even More Reasons!

• You’ll arrive at home de-stressed after work • Cheaper than going to the gym • You can eat more with less worry about weight gain J • It’s good preventative medicine for many health and medical conditions • It reduces the risk of premature death, heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, adult-onset diabetes, osteoporosis, stroke, depression and colon cancer.

• People who cycle 100 kms per week add two and a half years to their life expectancy • It is better for you and easier on the body than jogging; it’s more convenient than swimming • It relieves congestion on the roads and reduces the need for more parking spots • Free parking!

• Active employees are more productive and have lower absenteeism and turnover

• It releases endorphins that just make you feel good

• A $20 bike tune-up is cheaper than $500 a month in insurance and gas

• You’ll actually have more energy!

• Regular cyclists save on insurance by registering vehicles as recreational only

Bike to Work Week Celebration Stations Monday May 26 Simon Cycles

6:45am–8:45am

IHOS Parking Lot

19 Wing Comox:

6:30am–9:00am

Little River Rd and Ryan Rd.

Green Team

7:00am–9:00am

Courtenay City Hall

Cycling Task Force:

3:00pm–5:30pm

Ryan Rd and HWY 1

Simon’s Cycles

6:45am–8:45am

IHOS Parking Lot

19 Wing Comox

6:30am–8:30am

Ryan Road & Miltary Way

Trial Bicycles:

2:00pm–5:00pm

PM station

Simon’s Cycles

6:45am–8:45am

IHOS parking lot

19 Wing Comox

6:30am–8:30am

Ryan Road & Military Way

CVRD Transit / CVRD Sports & Aquatic Centres

7:00am–8:30am

Cliff and Fourth

Black Creek

8:30am–10:00am

Black Creek Community Centre

Village of Cumberland

7:00am–9:00am

Dodge City Cycle

Bike to Play (Cycling Coalition)

10:00am start

Meet at Simms Park @ 9:45am

19 Wing Comox

6:30am–8:00am

Ryan Road and Little River Road

Simon’s Cycles

6:45am–8:45am

IHOS parking lot

Comox Rec

3:00pm–6:00pm

Noel Ave

Mountain City Cycle

7:30am–9:00am

5th Street

Simon’s Cycles

6:45am–8:45am

IHOS Parking lot

19 Wing Comox

6:30am–8:00am

Ryan Road & Little River Road

Tuesday May 27

Wednesday May 28

Thursday May 29

Friday May 30

G.P. Vanier High School

7:00am–9:00am

Schellnick Dr and Headquarters

Bike to Play

10:45am start

Brooklyn School - STRONG START

Mountain City Cycle

7:30am–9:00am

5th Street

Wrap up Party

4:00pm-6:00pm

Broken Spoke

Comox Recreation COME PLAY WITH US!

Bike to Work Week 2014 May 26 - June 1

Enjoy your Commute!

Get fit, have fun and help to Reduce Emissions.

Comox Recreation supports Green Initiatives.

Comox Community Centre COME PLAY WITH US! info@comoxrecreation.com 250-339-2255

1855 Noel Ave, Comox www.comox.ca

Bike to Work Week – Kids

can bike too!

Bike to the Playground The C.V. Cycling Coalition offers all pre-school aged children in the Valley the opportunity to participate in their own event as part of Bike to Work Week.

WHEN? Wed, May 28 Meet at 9:45 AM Start at 10:00 AM WHERE? Meet at Simms Park This is a fun family event. Children can come on any type of bicycle, tricycle, scooter, or be carried, pulled or pushed by parents.

Short and easy ride on paved path away from traffic.

There will be healthy goodies and participation ribbons for all.

SEE YOU ALL THERE!

Bike to School Week 2014 MONDAY, MAY 26TH

WEDNESDAY MAY 28TH

THURSDAY MAY 29TH

ECOLE PUNTLEDGE PARK ELEMENTARY • Bike & Helmet Check * Trail Bicycles

ECOLE PUNTLEDGE PARK ELEMENTARY • Bike & Helmet Check * • Active Travel Program Worker – Angela Holmes • Wacky Wheelie Wednesday – ALL DAY • Bike Decorating • Freezie Fundraiser for PAC 1PM • Student Travel Planning Municipal Stakeholders Meeting 1 – 3PM

HUBAND PARK ELEMENTARY • Walking School Bus Meet at …

• Leader: Gracie MacDonald, VP Huband Park

ECOLE ROBB ROAD ELEMENTARY • Bike Trains arrives • Bikers Breakfast – refueling for riders with juice, muffins and fruit 8:15 – 8:45 • Bike & Helmet Check * • Bike Obstacle Course

TUESDAY MAY 27TH ECOLE PUNTLEDGE PARK ELEMENTARY • Bike & Helmet Check * Mtn City Cycle ECOLE ROBB ROAD ELEMENTARY • Bike Trains arrive • Bikers Breakfast – refueling for riders with juice, muffins and fruit 8:15 – 8:45 • Bike & Helmet Check * • Bike Obstacle Course

HUBAND PARK ELEMENTARY • Wacky Wheelie Wednesday – ALL DAY • Bike & Helmet Check * • Active Travel Program Worker – Angela Holmes • Wacky Wheelie Wednesday – ALL DAY ECOLE ROBB ROAD ELEMENTARY • Bike Trains arrive • Bikers Breakfast – refueling for riders with juice, muffins and fruit 8:15 – 8:45 • Bike & Helmet Check * • Bike Obstacle Course

Cyclist Tips for Bike to Work Week 2014 CYCLISTS • The beginning of the cycling season is a good time to tune up your bike. Perform regular maintenance and safety checks yourself or take your bike to a qualified bike mechanic to prevent mechanical breakdown.

• Plan your route before you set off, give yourself plenty of time and choose bike lanes and paths whenever possible. If you’re new to cycling, choose routes with less traffic.

• With varying weather at this time of year, it’s important to plan for the conditions you may encounter. This means having reflective gear and lights in case they become necessary.

When riding at dusk, dawn or at night, your bike must be equipped with a white headlight visible at 150 metres and a rear red light and reflector visible at 100 metres but consider adding more lights to be even more visible • It’s illegal to cycle on sidewalks or in crosswalks. It puts pedestrians in danger and drivers don’t expect cyclists to enter the roadway from a sidewalk.

• When turning, shoulder check well in advance, hand signal and then with both hands on the handle bars, shoulder check again before turning.

• Watch for vehicles entering the roadway from laneways and parking lots.

• Always wear a helmet – it’s the law in B.C. Make sure you use an approved bicycle helmet that meets safety standards and periodically inspect it for signs of wear.

• Cyclists must always follow the rules of the road just like any other vehicle. Cycle in a straight line, avoid weaving and try to be as predictable as possible.

• When riding on shared paths, ride on the right hand side to ensure the safety of all cyclists and pedestrians.

• Be aware of what’s going on around you at all times and keep an eye on the road well ahead for hazards like potholes, gravel, glass and drainage grates.

• Ride at least one metre away from parked vehicles to avoid being hit by an opening door or a vehicle pulling into your lane from the curb. Be extra cautious if you notice someone in the vehicle.

DRIVERS • When you’re driving, actively watch for cyclists on the road. Make eye contact with cyclists whenever possible to let them know you have seen them.

• If you’re entering the roadway from a laneway or parking lot, always scan for cyclists and other road users.

• Drivers must shoulder check to look for cyclists before turning right and watch for oncoming cyclists before turning left.

• If you need to cross a bike lane to turn right or to pull to the side of the road, signal well in advance and yield to cyclists.

• Cyclists may need to react quickly and unexpectedly to avoid hazards on the road so as a driver, it’s important to leave at least three seconds of following distance.

• Don’t honk your horn at a cyclist unless you need to give them a warning. A loud honk could startle them or even cause them to fall.

• As a driver, before you or one of your passengers open a vehicle door, check for oncoming cyclists. You also need to shoulder check for cyclists before you pull away from a curb.

ECOLE ROBB ROAD ELEMENTARY • Bike Trains arrive • Bikers Breakfast – refueling for riders with juice, muffins and fruit 8:15 – 8:45 • Bike Obstacle Course

FRIDAY MAY 30TH ECOLE PUNTLEDGE PARK ELEMENTARY • B2SW Jamboree!

• Bikers Breakfast – refueling for riders with juice, muffins and fruit 8:15 – 8:45 ECOLE ROBB ROAD ELEMENTARY

• Bike Trains arrive • Bikers Breakfast – refueling for riders with juice, muffins and fruit 8:15 – 8:45 • Bike Obstacle Course

Bike to Work Week 2014 +

Saturday, May 31st, 2014

Bring the whole family for a fun day on the course!

Choose from Soccer Golf on front nine or Learner's Loop tees (1279 yards) on the back nine or play on the putting course.

Contact the Golf Shop at 250-703-5031 for more details.

• One complimentary parent per junior (under 16 yrs of age).

• Free 10 minute golf lessons from our CPGA Certified golf instructors for all juniors.

399 Clubhouse Dr., Courtenay

250-703-5050

+

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30 minutes a day of physical activity*

Biking or walking to and from the bus helps you get some of the recommended 30 minutes of physical activity needed to stay healthy…and for the rest, you can have fun working out at the CVRD’s spor ts and aquatic centres. *suggested daily minimum of physical activity by the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada www.hear tandstroke.com

View schedules and maps at www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/transit For recreation schedules and programs visit: www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/rec follow comoxvalleyrd

Gardening

Comox Valley Echo Friday, May 23, 2014 G4

Lilies: Easy to grow and a must for every garden

By Ellen Presley Anderton Nursery The Lilies are starting to bloom and we have so many varieties that we have devoted a greenhouse to them. Each plant is a surprise and delight as it bursts forth in bloom - the colors, the forms, the shapes and fragrances are sensational.

Lilies have been cultivated for centuries and their blooms have been revered throughout history and featured prominently in many cultures.

One of the more familiar lilies is the old fashioned Tiger lily. Some varieties grow in the wild and are deer resistant. We have the ‘Double Orange’ Tiger which is a stunning orange with a splattering of spots or the gorgeous Tiger Yellow. They both have the double re-curved petals making this bloom amazing to see. At 36-48”, give them a place at the back of the border and divide every 3 years.

Another deer resistant variety of lily is the Lilium Ucida speciosum which derives from a wild lily native to Japan. This tall brilliant dark pink lily has re-curved petals and is a prolific bloomer and attracts butterflies and bees to your garden.

A Japanese farmer named Hirotaka Uchida noticed this wild lily was quite common around his property. During and after WWII he collected the seed from the reddest ones, and was able to export 60 bulbs. They became quickly recognised for their beauty, fragrance and hardiness.

Another superb speciosum lily is the Lillium Henryi which is a native of China. It has light to no scent, down-facing orange re-curved petals and like all speciosums are tough as nails.

Since these plants are 4-5 feet tall they are great for the woodland garden or the back of the border.

The showy Asiatic Lilies come in a variety of colors and heights and are usually unscented which is great for those suffering from allergies.

The shorter varieties are great for containers or as a border plant and make an excellent long lasting cut flower.

The ‘Pixie’ series was bred for their compact habit. ‘Orange Pixie’ is a vibrant orange with upward facing flowers. The ‘Tiny’ series increased the size of the blooms and more flowers per stem. ‘Tiny Pearl’ (14-16) is a rich deep pink color and while ‘Tiny Ghost’ (20”) is a purple/red.

‘Orange Pixie’ reddish-purple petals and a white center (25”).

This lily gets better as it matures as does the exquisite double yellow ‘Fata Morgana’ which has layers of primrose petals with dark speckles.

(39”) They make a long lasting cut flower, have no anthers or messy pollen to worry about and produce 5-7 flowers per stem.

The Tango series is taller and adds both drama and fragrance to the Asiatic lily collection. These are considered the superstars of the garden because of their brighter colors, dense spotting, more blooms and light fragrance. The amazing Tango ‘Orange Art’ is a bright orange with dark burgundy center (48”) and the Tango ‘Push Off’ is a deep maroon color with white tips.

For a softer, feminine look try the Asiatic ‘Elodie’ (24-36’). The double layers of soft candy pink are exquisite and each bulb produces up to 12 beautiful flowers. It is great as a cut flower.

‘Sweet Rosy’ A taller variety of Asiatic lily is the ‘Centerfold’ which is a lovely white with unique maroon stripes and spots and the blooms are 5-6” across. It has fantastic reflexed petals which are fragrant (18-24”) and each plant boasts 12 flowers per bulb.

The Doubles do not produce pollen and have an exceptional long bloom time in the garden.

‘Double Sensation’ is an unusual bi-color with

Is the grass really greener on the other side?

By Steve Nixon Many homeowners on the island strive to have a golf-course green lawn, but the unique weather and soil conditions on the island make that a little challenging for many.

With spring upon us, now is the perfect time to give your lawn some TLC. Now is the time to lime your grass. It is good for overall soil quality to balance the pH for better growing. And, lime is especially helpful as a natural product for addressing mossy patches (after you scratch up the area with a rake or even rent a power rake for densely covered patches.)

Once you’ve limed your grass, consider applying a combination fertilizer and moss control to address the grass’ demand for nutrients this time of year, after a season of rain that depletes the soil.

A recommendation is to apply one-pound of nitrogen in a blend per 1000-square feet. If you’re using a 20-5-10 formula or similar, then it would require five pounds of actual fertilizer to make up the one pound of nitrogen required.

You can apply four to five applications through the growing season, approximately every six to eight weeks.

An added consideration in the choice of fertilizer is weed control, especially in light of the ban on cosmetic pesticides in the Valley.

Fertilizers with a corn gluten meal can be used early in the growing season as a preventive (must be applied before the weed seeds germi-

nate).

The third recommendation for a healthy lawn is to add seed to areas that may need some extra cover. Be sure, however, to purchase a name-brand seed that formulated for our wet, West Coast conditions.

You will also want to be generous with your seeding, and dress it with a topcoat of topsoil in any bare areas.

A turf-type perennial rye grass and fescue mix is a shorter-growing variety, which is ideal for areas near your landscaping beds.

If you use the wrong seed, such as pasture grass, you will spend your summer cutting the grass instead of enjoying it; and if your seed is not specifically for this area, you will be disappointed with the results.

For year-round green, consider a product made in BC called MicroClover. It is drought-resistant and stays green when other grasses brown in the dry months.

Another often-overlooked point with lawn care is the mower. Be sure your blades are sharpened. Many hardware stores offer a sharpening service, which is a modest investment to get that lawn the talk of the neighbours.

Steve Nixon is owner of Black Creek Farm & Feed Supply in Black Creek. He welcomes questions about lawn and pasture care. Call 250337-8922. www.BlackCreekFarmAndFeed.com.

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For drama, try the longiflorum ‘Dimension’ which is the darkest black burgundy I’ve ever seen. It is absolutely stunning.

While the Asiatic lilies are amazing, the most beautiful and fragrant lilies are the Orientals.

They have enormous sweet scented blooms in many vibrant shades and can be added to the cutting bed, the garden or used in containers.

They are the ones used in arrangements to make flamboyant and extravagant bouquets.

Two of the most familiar are the Stargazer and the Casablanca. The ‘Stargazer’ (so named because its blooms face upwards towards the sky) is pink and red with a white edge and the ‘Casablanca’ is an ethereal white. Both have magnificent blooms and an irresistible sweet scent.

Another worthy stargazer is the ‘Salmon Star’ which is a unique salmon-pink with 6-12” blooms while the ‘Cobra’ is a striking deep red with a thin white edge. Most Oriental lilies are 2-3 feet high and thus their towering beauty makes a bold statement in the garden bed.

As if the Oriental lilies weren’t showy enough, the newer varieties come in doubles that make the blooms even larger and fuller.

The new ‘Sweet Rosy’ has 3-4 layers of pink petals with white centers and the gorgeous ‘Polar Star’ has dozens of double white petals striped with bright lime green making it look like a snowy sunburst. Truly Spectacular!

Lilies are very easy to grow and a must for every garden. They like sun or part shade, an average amount of water and good drainage. Use a slow fertilizer with a high center number and you will be rewarded with an abundance of blooms.

Lilies attract butterflies and birds, are good long lasting cut flowers and are drought tolerant once established.

As you enjoy the warm Summer evenings outside, you can surround yourself with the amazing sweet scents of lilies as they gently co-mingle on the evening breeze. Happy Gardening