Comox Valley Echo - July 11, 2014

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Volume 20, No. 55

Regional District agrees five-figure payout over 3L complaint

By Philip Round Echo Staff

A client of Cliff’s Chinook Charters Fishing shows off the huge chinook he caught just a couple of days ago. Chinook and coho are returning in good numbers,

No fish tale, chinook and coho stock returning in great numbers

By Michael Briones Echo Staff The fish at sea are biting. And anglers are snaring them in great numbers.

Since the Department of Fisheries and Oceans opened up the tidal fishing season last month, fish tales abound. And this time there’s some truth in them.

The chinook stock is up, said Bryce Gillard of the DFO, but also coho. They’re allowing fishermen to catch two coho, and one can be wild.

“This is the first time in ten years or so we’ve had that kind of opening,” said Gillard. “I have been seeing coho liking pink and purple hoochies.”

Anglers in Campbell River have been catching daily limits of chinook salmon since late May. Anglers in Powell River, the Sunshine Coast and Howe Sound have reported brisk and steady fishing for more than three weeks.

Cliff Moors of Cliff’s Chinook Charters confirmed fishing

this season, so far, has been unusually good.

“There’s lots of chinook salmon but coho has just started to show up in the last week, big time,” said Moors. “There’s lots of coho and it’s good.”

The areas that have reported an abundance of fish caught are at Kitty Coleman, Grand Rift, off French Creek, and the bottom of Hornby.

“They have been very good and very productive areas for chinook fishing,” said Gillard.

The reasons they’re seeing a fairly good healthy return so far, Gillard said, is due to proper management and conservation by the user groups, good productive water, and good weather conditions.

Salmon fishing, Gillard said, is restricted to the ocean right now. They’re urging anglers not to fish in areas in the Comox Valley including the Puntledge River because of the early summer chinook runs.

“They’re a unique stock we’re trying to protect,” said Gillard.

(Continued on page 2)

There’s a new twist to the mystery surrounding the effective gagging of the two most senior people at Comox Valley Regional District over controversial proposals to develop land alongside Stotan Falls.

As first revealed in the Echo last month, the chair of the board, Area C director Edwin Grieve, and the regional district’s chief administrative officer, Debra Oakman, have withdrawn from all involvement in considering proposals made by 3L Developments Ltd. Whenever 3L is slated to be on any agenda, a separate meeting is now arranged where no other item is discussed, chaired by another director and advised by other senior staff.

The decision by Grieve and Oakman to remove themselves was taken after high-level advice from lawyers and had something - it has never been made public precisely what - to do with a human rights complaint following an alleged reference to an individual associated with 3L some months ago.

Today the Echo can reveal there were serious financial implications resulting from the fallout, too.

In order to prevent the complaint going any further, the regional district board met ‘in-camera’ (behind closed doors) to receive advice from Young Anderson its Vancouver-based lawyers.

And at that meeting it agreed a five-figure sum should be paid over as part of a settlement of the complaint, in addition to accepting the withdrawal of Grieve and Oakman from future deliberation on 3L issues.

The exact sum subsequently paid through its lawyers to the complainant is not known, but more than one source has indicated it is in the region of $10,000$20,000.

(Continued on page 2)

Judge tells two teens to read pair of classic poems Verses from “If” and “The Road Not Taken” assigned for break-and-enter on Hornby Island

By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff If they can manage to make better decisions in future when they see two roads diverging in a wood, a pair of high schoolers might not be back in court to explain why they took the road less traveled. In sentencing two youths who broke into a Hornby Island residence for a night of drinking and card playing, Judge Rod Sutton hopes an assignment of reading Robert Frost’s “The Road Not Taken” and Rudyard Kipling’s “If” will make all the difference to helping the teens keep their heads in the days to come when all others are losing theirs.

“That’s not an order; that’s a request,” Sutton told the two 16-yearold boys in Courtenay Provincial Court July 3, giving them absolute discharges. “Unfortunately for you two, you took the wrong road. I’m satisfied you’re not going to do that again.”

On March 28 the pair had been on

Rudyard Kipling Hornby Island and wanted to have a Friday night beach fire. They decided against it because of the weather, and they thought it might be fun to head into what they thought was an empty house nearby.

There was no one inside so they broke out the playing cards and began to pour themselves drinks with the liquor they found in the cupboards. They went through one bottle

Robert Frost of wine and then another. They also located a bottle of tequila, which they began to drink from.

One of the boys grabbed another bottle of wine to take with him before they left.

Police received a complaint the next morning and arrived to discover the couch had been moved, cabinets gone through and alcohol missing.

Just after noon one of the boys was

dropped off at the house as the police were carrying out their investigation of the break in. With a bottle in hand he fessed up to the crime and returned the extra bottle of liquor that was stolen.

Already one of the boys paid $40 and the other $55 in restitution to the woman who had been renting the house at the time unbeknownst to them.

Judge Sutton rebuked the boys for their impulsive actions, but said it’s better they learn their lesson now instead of getting caught up in more dangerous actions like drinking and driving.

“The back part of the brain is probably overruling the front part of the brain,” he said, adding, “It wouldn’t be the first time youth have done something like this.”

One of the boys chose not to address the court. The other took the time to apologize for what he described as an out of character loss of his sense of responsibility.

“I’m very ashamed of what I did,”

he said. “I would like to put this behind me.”

The Crown was seeking a 9-month conditional discharge, 20 hours of community service and a variety of additional conditions. Sutton considered all defence and prosecutorial arguments during a short break in proceedings.

When he returned he handed the two teens two classic pieces of 20th Century writing.

The first, Rudyard Kipling’s “If,” was written in 1909 as a reflection on a friend an important player in the Boer War who kept a stiff upper lip in the face of deceit and who rose to political power in South Africa.

This man, Dr. Leander Starr Jameson, was tossed in jail by the British Empire after leading a military expedition the government had supported in private.

Over the years the verses, many of which start with “If you can,” has become a mantra of personal integrity and level-headedness for many.

(Continued on page 2)

A2 Comox Valley Echo Friday, July 11, 2014

News

Comox Valley Weather

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Friday, 11 July Sunny.

High 27°C.

Saturday, 12 July Sunny.

Low 17°C. High 29°C.

Sunday, 13 July Sunny.

Low 18°C. High 28°C.

Monday, 14 July Sunny.

Low 16°C. High 31°C.

Tuesday, 15 July Sunny.

Low 17°C. High 31°C.

5774 Island Hwy N. Noon-2pm MLS 374467

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

Fishing is great now in this part of Island (Continued from page 1)

CITY’S NEW PARKS MANAGER: The City of Courtenay has a new manager of its parks department. Dave Snider has joined the municipality’s staff from the City of Chilliwack, where most recently he held a similar position after working his way up the ranks there over 15 years. A landscape

architect by profession, Snider is pictured on the right being welcomed to Courtenay City Hall by chief administrative officer David Allen (left) and the director of community services, Randy Wiwchar (centre).

RD agrees five-figure payout over 3L complaint (Continued from page 1)

When asked about the payment, the regional district’s general manager of public affairs, Leigh Carter, said she could “neither confirm nor deny any statements concerning the settlement agreement.”

She added: “It remains the case that the chair and the CAO are not participating in any discussion around the 3L lands, and of course you know that the board (subsequently) decided not to proceed with the process to initiate an amendment to the RGS (Regional Growth Strategy).”

Asked in general terms whether directors and staff had protection from legal challenges, she explained in an email: “If any legal action is threatened or taken by a third party against an elected official/appointed director or employee of the local government,

over an issue in which the individual(s) has been involved while acting in their official role, the authority may have liability insurance or a budget for legal funds to cover costs incurred in defending any action and settlement reached.”

The regional district definitely does have third party liability cover through the Municipal Insurance Association, but whether it has paid out in this case is unknown.

Insurers consider claims on a case-by-case basis, and if it declines to cover some or all of the cost on a particular occasion, the CVRD has a legal funds budget that can be accessed.

Whatever the source of the money used for the payment, it would not be from the individuals themselves. That’s because the BC Local Government Act authorizes a regional district to provide

for the indemnification of members of boards, directors, officers, employees and volunteers against claims for damages and the costs of legal proceedings.

And, said Carter: “Even though the decision to recuse themselves from 3L proceedings and discussions was a personal decision, it was made (by Grieve and Oakman) in their professional capacities as chair and CAO of the CVRD.” For 3L Developments, Kabel Atwall said he was unable to offer any information or comment on the issue. The Echo understands the settlement agreement included a confidentiality clause impacting both sides.

However, 3L has far from resolved its bigger issue with the regional district - as already reported, its lawyers are threatening to launch a totally separate legal challenge if the CVRD board does not reverse its stand and allow a process to get underway with a view to amending the regional growth strategy.

To date, there has been no indication the board is ready to change its mind following its 7-3 vote to block such a process, and its own lawyers say they are on firm legal ground in taking such a stand. pround@comoxvalleyecho.com

“There are in the area, closures in effect. We’re asking people not to go fishing in the river because the lake gets quite warm and the fish there have a hard time surviving. So we don’t need to stress them out. It is open for trout but we’re asking people to leave the fish alone to do their best for survival.”

In August, Lower Mainland anglers will get an opportunity to fish for Fraser River sockeye that Fisheries and Oceans Canada has estimated will return between seven million and 76 million fish.

In a recent study DFO estimated that in 2013, recreational anglers collectively fished for a surprising 1.4 million days in BC coastal waters.

The improved fishing opportunities and the large anticipated Fraser River sockeye returns will likely mean that anglers in BC will put even more days on the water in 2014.

Meanwhile, Campbell River is experiencing its best fishing in years.

That’s the word from weigh scales, lodges and tackle shops as the extraordinary angling has the city abuzz.

“It’s fantastic,” said Duane Mustard of Painter’s Lodge. “There are lots of fish and big fish are also coming. We had a 40 -pounder the other day and a couple of others in the high 30s.”

Mustard said a key indication for the great fishing is the amount of herring being found in fishing areas and in fish being taken.

“It really speaks of a healthy environment and the fish numbers certainly proves it,” he said.

Both main tackle stores in Campbell River agree with Mustard.

“I haven’t had a chance to get out much, but anecdotally and by all other accounts it’s probably the best fishing in 18 years,” said Murray Whelan of Tyee Marine.

River Sportsman General Manager Dan Drover said this year is even better than last.

“It was great last year, especially in June, so we figured it would be hard to beat, but this year is just amazing,” he said.

“We have people coming in one day to buy downriggers and they come in the next day smiling because they limited out.”

Both said the new regulation allowing the retention of one wild coho has also added big time to the year so far.

- With file from Campbell River Courier-Islander

“Hope everyone enjoys the Comox Valley Music Fest this weekend. What a great event for the Comox Valley.”

Judge wants teens to read poems (Continued from page 1) “If you can keep your head when all about you/Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,” it begins, later on commenting on how virtue will lead to success.

It urges the reader not to be swayed to or fro by friends or enemies and to use time effectively.

And if these words are heeded, the conclusion notes perhaps most importantly, “-you’ll be a Man, my son!”

While the poem was born out of one struggle, Kipling’s own son later died in World War I. The second work, “The Road Not Taken,” was written by American poet Robert Frost and published in his 1916 Mountain Interval release.

Though he has since noted the poem was originally written with a lighthearted, nearly sarcastic touch, people have gravitated to the writing over the years above nearly every other, focusing on the age-old dilemma surrounding choice.

The idea that the subject “could not travel both” of the forks in the road stretching on before him is a

familiar experience for all.

“I shall be telling this with a sigh/ Somewhere ages and ages hence,” he wrote, setting up the kicker, “I took the one less traveled by,/And that has made all the difference.”

Commenting on the “sigh” in question, Frost, who would go on to win four Pulitzer Prizes, told Crystine Yates of Dickson, Tenn., “It was my rather private jest at the expense of those who might think I would yet live to be sorry for the way I had taken in life.”

The poem was written for Frost’s walking partner Edward Thomas, who cited the work as a reason for enlisting in World War I, dying in the first day of the Battle of Arras.

While we may only live once, our society holds people accountable for their actions, Sutton noted, sharing a lesson from his younger years as an up-and-coming lawyer with the delinquent youth.

“You’ve been charged with an indictable offence,” he said, before commending the teens for owning up to their mistake. “You did the right thing.”

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Comox Valley Echo Friday, July 11, 2014 A3

News

Slots cash to fund Courtenay train station restoration study

By Philip Round Echo Staff Some of the profits from slot machines at Chances Gaming Centre are to pay for a feasibility study into the possibility of restoring Courtenay’s heritage train station.

On Monday, City council agreed to allocate $6,500 from its gaming income to cover the cost of the study, which is being promoted by Courtenay Rotary Club in partnership with the Island Corridor Foundation - the owner of the building.

The station was built exactly 100 years ago and whether or not passenger train services are

ever restored, Rotarians believe the building could become a real community focus and facility. As a demonstration of their confidence, they have already funded the re-roofing of the building to limit any further deterioration.

Six non-profit groups already use the building, but the nominal income generated is insufficient to make any impact on a restoration project.

The study will identify and catalogue the extent and complexity of work needed for both interior and exterior restoration, although Rotary has indicated if the project is seen to be feasible they would be interested in taking on key tasks as a community project.

The City’s director of community services, Randy Wiwchar, told Council the station and its location alongside the progressively lengthening Rotary Trail “has the opportunity to be an important hub in reinvigorating and beautifying the area.”

He added: “The opportunity would preserve a historic building; provide for a central community gathering space along a trail connecting 26th Street to downtown; and assist in improving the vitality of Courtenay’s downtown.

“As well, the exterior of the building could be completed in Courtenay’s centennial year in 2015, making this an excellent centennial legacy.”

If the restoration does get a head of steam behind it, the idea is that the City will get involved in negotiating a long-term lease for the building to secure its future and public access to it. But those details will be the subject of a future debate and vote.

The City is making no commitment - at least at this stage - to help fund the actual restoration, although heritage funds from other sources may well be available to supplement any further contributions offered by Courtenay Rotary Club.

But the council voted unanimously to fund the study from its gaming income so the implications could be properly assessed.

Vets warn dog owners to fight back against kennel cough

By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff Local pet owners have been working to stem the tide of kennel cough being passed from one dog to another in the Comox Valley in recent weeks.

Area vets report multiple cases of the bacterial infection that leave animals wheezing.

“They’ll cough and they’ll gag and they’ll retch,” said Dr. Byron Hamlund, of the Courtenay Veterinary Clinic.

“It’s commonly spread through coughing dogs mainly in kennels and dog parks.”

Hamlud has personally seen three suspected cases in recent days and generally tells owners to combat the sickness by reducing exercise and keeping the dog less excited if possible.

He also tells owners to stay away from other pets.

“Dogs can actually be infectious for a couple months after getting the disease,” he said.

“They can be spreading before the coughing even starts.”

Usually the dog gets better on its own, although it’s common to put the animal on antibiotics too.

If the canine doesn’t get better rapidly he knows there could be something else at play like worms.

Over at Shamrock Veterinary Clinic in Comox, between treatments and worried pet owners, staff have interacted with at least 12 people on the subject.

Robin Maxted says it’s good to take your dog to the vet every six months so they stay healthy and can fight off infections like kennel cough.

Doggydo Boarding Kennel’s management knows kennel cough is no laughing matter and have been providing a comprehensive document about the infection to clients.

“The mental stimulation, exercise and social skills that they get from being here are fundamental to your dog’s emotional and physical well being,” they wrote.

“However sending your dog to Doggydo is similar to sending your child to school, in that they might catch a cold or other germs from the other four legged children.

Sometimes owners bring their dogs in that are sick without even realizing that their dogs are sick as they aren’t exhibiting any symptoms or maybe an owner is unfamiliar with kennel cough and may think that the dog just has something stuck in their throat.”

Owners like Robin Maxted, who use kennels and want to keep their dogs healthy, like to know these businesses are ensuring their loved ones don’t come into contact with

kennel cough or other bacterial infections.

He’s made sure to give his dogs Vargas and Levon Helm the preventative treatment they need, no matter the cost.

“It’s not cheap,” he said. “Most people probably spend quite a bit of money on that type of thing.”

As far as he’s concerned it’s money well spent.

“A lot of people have dogs that are sick,” he said, adding he watches for signs of dogs that have fallen ill. “I think you can kinda tell.”

Plus the kennel he goes to requires him to show proof of shots.

A lot of pet care is common sense, but regular checkups have also become part of Maxted’s routine.

“It’s good to take them in every six months,” he said, watching his two dogs race around the Cumberland Dog Park. “When they’re puppies you don’t want to take them to parks like this.”

A4 Comox Valley Echo Friday, July 11, 2014

News

Recycling conflicts require renegotiation of garbage contract

By Philip Round Echo Staff

The best overall float winner was this Ducky 500 entry of Comox Rotary Club. (More parade pictures in the photo galleries section of the Echo website at www.comoxvalleyecho.com)

PRIZES AWARDED FOR BEST CANADA DAY PARADE ENTRIES Eighteen entries in the hour-long Canada Day parade through Courtenay last week have been awarded cash prizes totaling almost $1,600 for their efforts.

The best overall float award ($200) went to Comox Rotary Club for its Ducky 500 entry, which include a real pond and water jets, and the runner-up prize of $100 went to 888 Wing of Royal Canadian Air Force Association.

The best themed float ($200) was won by My Tech Guys, with Quality Foods as runner-up ($100). The best commercial float was the entry of Woofy’s Pet Foods ($200), with the runner-up being Gabs bicycle saddle ($100).

The best float by an organization was the entry of KidSport Comox Valley ($100), with the Comox Valley Multicultural and Immigrant Support Society winning $50 as runner-up.

The Judges’ choice award went to St. John Ambulance ($100) with the runner-up being Maple Pool Street Soccer Club ($50). There was an honourable mention award of $100 to the InConceivable Family Gaming Convention with a $50 award for runner-up Courtenay Rec. Association (LINC).

The best antique car award ($50) went to a 1907 Standard 14, with the runner-up ($25) being a 1928 Model A Coke car. The best decorated car ($50) was a white with gold trim 1957 Chevy Bel Air, with the $25 runner-up award going to the Habitat for Humanity car. The best individual comic entry was awarded to The Great Oldies Love Bug ($50) with the runner-up, a 1957 blue Isetta, winning $25.

Courtenay Council has approved early negotiations on a new contract with Emterra Environmental for the collection of garbage, yard waste and recyclables in the City.

The move is necessary to make sure conflicts with an agreement the municipality has signed with Multi-Material BC for recycling are sorted out as soon as possible.

One immediate issue is that under the MMBC contract, that company owns the recyclables collected and can sell them as appropriate - and in return the City gets an estimated $300,000 a year for assigning the rights to them.

That sum more than covers the estimated 2014 cost of $194,000 being charged by Emterra for collecting residential recyclables, so the City hopes to be in pocket as a result.

So much so, it decided for 2014 to reduce the annual utility charge for residential garbage and recycling collections, effectively abolishing the recycling element of the bill.

But two things are now clear: First, the current contract with Emterra suggests that it, not MMBC, owns the recyclables and it had previously been granted the right to keep any money it raised from selling the material.

And second, serious penalties can now be imposed under the

South Region Liquid Waste Management Plan Moving Ahead Together

Open House Join the project team and engineering consultants at an open house to learn more and provide feedback on the south region liquid waste management plan.

Thursday, July 17, 2014 | 5-8 pm Fallen Alders Hall, 3595 Royston Road Open House Style Drop in and speak to project staff and consultants about the planning process now underway to determine the best options for wastewater management and water resource recovery in the south region. This is the first in a series of public consultation events scheduled to occur throughout the planning process.

Learn more about the south region LWMP, visit: www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/southregionLWMP Contact: CVRD Engineering Services southsewer@comoxvalleyrd.ca | 250-871-6100

terms of the MMBC contract if more than 3 per cent of the content of blue boxes are ‘contaminants’ - items not acceptable for recycling - and at times in the past that figure has been as high as 6 per cent.

The City’s director of financial services, Tillie Manthey, said Emterra workers had been proactively helping to get the contaminant figure down, particularly by slowing down collection runs to visually check blue boxes for obvious problems and providing educational leaflets or stickers where appropriate.

But she noted unless the future proportion could be kept at or below 3 per cent, there would be “significant risk” to the City in terms of the money it hopes to receive as a result of signing up with MMBC. Manthey praised Emterra for the way it had responded to the issues and recommended negotiations on a revised contract be opened with the company on a “sole source” basis that is, without competitive tendering - with a view to a new agreement

being signed that would run until November 2018.

She acknowledged the City’s existing garbage, yard waste and recyclables contact was for a substantial sum of money - it amounts to more than $1 million a year, of which the residential recycling element is less than a fifth of the annual total.

That level of expenditure would normally involve a competitive bidding process, especially for a contract dating back to 2005 that has already been extended once before.

But in the sensitive circumstances the municipality faced, she recommended working with a known supplier who had given consistently good service since it first secured the contact.

The Council agreed to open negotiations exclusively with Emterra, subject to a draft contract eventually being put to a further vote before being signed off for implementation. pround@comoxvalleyecho.com

News

Local CUPE staff workers endorse deal with SD71

By Michael Briones Echo Staff Local CUPE support staff workers have ratified a five-year collective agreement with School District 71.

The deal will see members of Local 439 receive a 5.5 per cent wage increase over the five years with potential for additional increases if the British Columbia economy exceeds the annual forecasts forecasts set by the Economic Forecast Council during the last four years of the agreement.

The term of the agreement is from July 1, 2014, to June 30, 2019.

The local district is already facing a shortfall of around $2 million in the coming school year, however, the new wage hike will have zero impact because it won’t take effect until 2015.

Although contract negotiations went smoothly, the national representative of Local 439 Kirk Oates wouldn’t characterize the process as “easy.”

“I believe what it was, our members had a realistic expectation of what we were able to achieve in bargaining,” said Oates.

“The mandate that the provincial table had, the local table had, was met when we went to the table.

That’s the reason why we’re able to conclude bargaining and bring back an agreement for our membership to vote on.”

Local 439 has over 500 members working in SD71. They provide ongoing support and maintenance of the schools that include those in Oyster River to the north and Deep Bay including Denman Island to the south.

Within 30 days of ratification of a new collective agreement by a board of education, the local union and BCPSEA, the board will reimburse each employee for all scheduled hours that the employee has not otherwise been paid during the BCTF strike.

Oates said as long as the BCTF is picketing the schools, their members will not cross that line.

Minister of Education Peter Fassbender said these agreements mean that support staff will begin to see money lost during the strike.

“These agreements benefit all British Columbians as they ensure services will continue to be delivered effectively and at a cost that is affordable to government and taxpayers,” he said in a press release.

The deal was reached under the government’s economic stability mandate, a proposal to give employees a conditional, incremental wage increase equal to half of any percentage point gain in real GDP growth above the Economic Forecast Council’s annual forecast, in exchange for modest increase in wages and benefits spread over five years.

To date, more than 3,000 support staff workers in six school districts have ratified a five-year agreement.

They include Burnaby, Vancouver Island, Sooke, Powell River, and West Vancouver.

The remaining districts are working to ratify agreements by November.

Meeting to consider alternative schooling Concerned parents considering alternate schooling for grade K-12 children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, or any other developmental disability, are being invited to an information meeting on Monday (July 14) at 2203 Mission Road in Courtenay (7 p.m.).

Nanaimo Unique Kids Organization (NUKO) is a learning centre based in Nanaimo that some local parents would like see modeled in the Comox Valley.

Representatives from NUKO will be at the meeting to answer questions and discuss the level of commitment needed by people considering enrolling a child in the program.

For more information about NUKO, check out www.nuko.ca or contact: cvalternateschooling@gmail.com.

Comox Valley Echo Friday, July 11, 2014 A5

$25,000 gift from Lions for park Salish Park has a new playground.

It was unveiled by Comox council recently along with staff and members of the Lions Club which donated $25,000 to the project.

The new play structure that includes slides and swings is a commitment by both the town and the Lions Club in encouraging active play in the community and supporting local youth initiatives.

In 2013 the Lions Club purchased the new play structure, which was then donated to the Town of Comox. The $25,000 gift to the community provided an opportunity for the town to replace an aged play structure with a new system now in place.

“The partnership between the Town of Comox and members of the Lions Club has been very beneficial to the citizens of the Town of Comox as this is the third playground within the last four years that the Lions Club has donated” stated Mayor Ives.

A6 Comox Valley Echo Friday, July 11, 2014

Business News

Regional technology incubator launches in Nanaimo SquareOne, the region’s first technology incubator and coworking space, officially opened Friday at 38 Victoria Cres. in Nanaimo.

The new initiative, developed by the Nanaimo Economic Development Corporation in collaboration with Innovation Island, is an incubator centre for technology companies just beginning that will offer inexpensive accommodations for the small enterprises that will be fully wired, and also offer coaching and training to help them become larger and more viable.

Phil Kent, chairman of the Island Coastal Economic Trust, was at the launch of SquareOne Friday afternoon and announced that ICET will donate $50,000 towards developing programs and helping to pay for other services for the new companies and the entrepreneurs that run them.

Andrew Wilkinson, the province’s Minister of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services, was also at the launch to lend his support to the initiative.

“With the launch of SquareOne today, entrepreneurs and startups in Nanaimo will have a central location where they can access the resources they need to succeed,” said Wilkinson.

“I’d like to thank Innovation Island, the Nanaimo Economic Development Corporation and the City of Nanaimo whose hard work has made this possible.”

Innovation Island executive director Paris Gaudet, right, and Andrew Wilkinson, Minister of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services celebrate SquareOne’s grand opening on Friday.

Photograph By Aaron Hinks/Daily News

Public hearing agreed for heritage-style homes plan at Fifth and Menzies

By Philip Round Echo Staff Plans for a tri-plex building of three new homes looking out over the junction of Fifth and Menzies in Courtenay are to go to a public hearing on July 21 (City Hall, 5 p.m.)

If eventually approved, the heritage-style strata property would be on cleared land was once occupied by a warehouse badly damaged by fire in six years ago.

Applicant Noel Chaboteaux of Courtenay company Ocean View Enterprises advised City Council he

had already held a public meeting about the plans to which the owners of 75 properties in the area had been invited.

The main concerns they had heard from the six people who attended was about the plan showing only two car parking spaces, as they noted on-street parking in the area was already at a premium.

There was also some comment about the density of the development in what is predominantly a single-family home area, although there were some compliments from neighbours about the look of the

proposed building.

The land’s existing zoning would allow a duplex to be built, but because the applicant is seeking to add a third, small residential unit of just 530 sq. ft. - the other two would each be more than 1,000 sq. ft. - the land needs both zoning and official community plan amendments if it is to progress in its proposed form.

Councillors gave first and second readings to the necessary bylaw changes on Monday to allow the public hearing to take place. pround@comoxvalleyecho.com

Square One will have up to 29 desks that will be rented for a low monthly fee and Innovation Island will have offices on the building’s second floor with people with background expertise in a number of areas to assist the start-up companies.

These services include providing onsite programming and support, including an “executivein-residence” to help coach and mentor companies. Venture acceleration programming at SquareOne is supported by the B.C. Innovation Council with further programming supported by ICET. Sasha Angus, CEO of NEDC, said space at SquareOne is filling up fast. “The Nanaimo region has a vibrant and growing tech community and SquareOne will be a focal point for incubating and launching new start-up businesses in the region,” Angus said. “We very much appreciate all the support we’ve received from ICET, BCIC, the city and (SquareOne property owner) Bill Belland who worked hard and completed a number of major improvements at the site before the launch.”

Paris Gaudet, executive director of Innovation Island, said she is excited about the launch of SquareOne and the opportunity to build on the “already thriving” technology community in the region.

- Nanaimo Daily News

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CUPE 556 and the VIDC proudly support the V Va c v r Island d Mu icff Vancouver Musicfest Living Green Program..

L Li vi g G re Progr McConochie’s Furniture & Appliances presents 50th anniversary draw prize Peter Finlayson, Manager (left) and Ron Johnson, Sales (centre) of McConochie’s Furniture & Appliances present Pam Berthelet, the winner of their 50th Anniversary draw, a brand new Frigidaire 5 cu. Ft. Chest Freezer.

3909 Marine Dr. Waterfront homes like this only come around once and a while, feature include fantastic views, gourmet kitchen, open plan, creek, quiet area close to walking trails and so much more……really.

MLS 367535 $849,900

3996 Forbidden Plateau Rd. 3 Bedroom home home on. 76 of an acre, park like setting, unique plan with lots of wood, so new you will need to call me for details!!!! $369,900

6754 Buckley Bay The best deal in waterfront!!!

Features include 3 large bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a large private yard with a 107’ of waterfront with the possibility of deep water moorage and the ability to create a suite. You will love the view from the large deck, kitchen living and dining rooms. This is an absolute must see if you want a waterfront home.

$599,900

8575 Lory Rd Professionally built, quality Log Construction. Immaculate home on 5.88 acres. Secluded and private. The home is cozy and warm in the winter and cool in summer. Main level living with one bedroom up. Dramatic living area with high vaulted ceiling and fireplace with insert. Jacuzzi tub in main bath. Stainless appliances.

MLS #368800 $579,900

7150 Railway Merville is calling you…there is 5 acres of land and an option to buy the 5 next door, There is a huge pond, a large shop and the house features 5 bedrooms, great kitchen, large family room down and living room up, wood and tile floors and yes there is more.

MLS 366861 $729,900

3381 Kentwood Old country charm. 2 acres of great soil for a market garden or bring your horse, the 6 bedroom home has all its original character from 1967, plus 220 amp service, heat pump, a small greenhouse. There is a large detached shop plus other outbuildings. Some TLC may be required but its well worth the effort for this supper location.

$409,900

Comox Valley Echo Friday, July 11, 2014 A7

Business News

Sunnyside Café: Asian eatery tucked away in Comox

By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff It was after the big price war of 2010/11 that Jae Hee Kwon began to diversify her independently-owned gas station into new product areas, capturing new clients with a range of Asian foods and sauces sourced directly from overseas suppliers.

As a natural extension of this transition, she called on her brother, a mild-mannered chef at a Japanese restaurant in Vancouver, to start a brand new eatery at the Husky station.

“I came here for the environment,” said Sunny Kwon, who named the business Sunnyside Café, adding before coming to Canada he spent years going through the American education system while breathing polluted air. “This is a piece of heaven.”

The restaurant started small, and allowed the South Korean restaurateur to experiment with the menu. Trained in Japanese, Korean, Chinese and Western cuisine, Sunny has a big bag of tricks to choose from every time he expands his menu. Every couple of weeks he would add another item.

He began with burgers and finge rfood, and built the 648 Anderton Road business from there.

The Vietnamese pho seemed to strike a chord. The Korean bi bim bob caught the taste buds of many. And the Japanese teriyaki was another offering seized upon

by customers.

With every menu revision, Sunny learns more about his customers, and has been pleasantly surprised by just how much product knowledge locals bring to the table.

“The funny thing is, people here know more about Asian culture than people in Vancouver,” he said. “That’s very strange, but it’s very true.”

In a poignant example, in the same time he’s been into three boxes of chopsticks he’s still working through his first box of take out forks.

Sunnyside Café approaches its dishes from a home-style perspective.

“I make my own teriyaki sauce. I make my own horseradish sauce,” Sunny said. “I don’t buy anything except the raw material.

I go shopping every day because it has to be fresh.”

He says what he enjoys most about the Comox Valley is the quiet pace of life, but if word keeps getting out about the high quality of his food, it’s something he’ll be willing to sacrifice.

That’s a reality he faces with every oyster burger (with locally sourced shellfish), Korean-style chub mackerel or grilled pork he will sell.

But Sunny is fine with it. After all, it’s the customers that make a restaurant.

“I like meeting nice people,” he said.

“That’s the best part.”

Hours of operation: 11:30 am - 8 pm (closed 3-5 p.m.) Tues-Sunday (off Monday).

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A8 Comox Valley Echo Friday, July 11, 2014

News hazard’ fire.

“How long we stay here depends on the weather, it’s really kind of day to day, we could be called to anywhere in B.C.,” said air attack officer Eric Antifaeff. “While we’re here we’ll be training with the airport ground crew staff on different procedures.

“These aircraft (Fire Boss) allow us to get into more spots where larger (fire fighting) aircraft can’t go. These aircraft can basically go anywhere.”

Besides Antifaeff, there are five pilots and two engineers in the crew.

“The ‘bird dog’ (Cessna) and crew goes up first, assesses the fire and plans the tactics to fight it. It makes

sure all the (Fire Boss) runs are good and on target,” said Fire Boss pilot Barry Florian. “These planes really are a lot of fun to fly.”

The B.C. Forest Service air-tanker fleet command and control is the responsibility of the provincial Airtanker Centre. The centre dispatches fixed wing aerial fire fighting resources from any one of the 18 tanker bases in B.C. Strategic decisions regarding numbers, position and alerts are established by the centre in consultation with air attack specialists and fire centre personnel.

- Campbell River Courier Islander

Council flush with savings on sewer contract

By Philip Round Echo Staff

The ‘bosses’ of the Fire Boss fire fighting crew include from left, pilots Barry Florian, Bryce Connaty, Justin Brooks, Rick Radymski and Roland Gray, along with air attack officer Eric Antifaeff. Photograph By Ken Zaharia

New fire-fighting planes designed for precision Aircraft, crew stationed at Campbell River as dry weather hints at fires to come across province

By Ken Zaharia Special to the Echo Four strange looking ‘arrivals’ are at the Campbell River airport.

No, they’re not passengers, they are aircraft specifically designed to fight forest fires.

They’re brand new, hot off the assembly line and they’re lined up ready for any ‘hot spots’ that show up on the Island or across the province.

The four 802 Fire Boss planes look a lot like crop dusters but they’re much more than that.

For one, their pontoons give them the ability to land on either land or

water.

And on the bottom of those pontoons there are sensors which open the plane’s main frame water tank allowing the aircraft to skim over water and fill the 800 gallon tank in less than 10 seconds.

The lightning quick and deadly accurate delivery of water, or fire retardant, puts the Fire Boss in a league of its own when it comes to fighting forest fires from the air.

The four 802 Fire Boss planes, along with a Cessna Grand Caravan ‘bird dog’ aircraft, arrived in Campbell River last month, from the Kamloops Provincial Airtanker Centre, to take care of a local ‘pocket

The cost of replacing and extending a major sewer in Courtenay has turned out to be much less than City engineers expected.

So on Monday councillors agreed to bring forward a further phase of the project, originally planned for next year, to accelerate the job.

When tenders were opened with bids for this year’s work along Headquarters Road and Vanier Drive, the total cost, including eventual pavement restoration, is set to come in at $603,000.

Although there will be some other costs to add, the grand total is still expected to be $200,000 less than the $900,000 allocated in the budget.

By juggling the timing of other unrelated projects on the books due to start later in the year, the planned 2015 work on the remaining section of the Headquarters-Vanier

Centre for Shellfish

Union Bay Improvement District

sewer is being brought forward to this year, funded in large part from the windfall savings.

The project will take the pipe from an already-renewed sewer at Glacier Road, alongside the exhibition grounds, and up Vanier Drive to the Sports Centre entrance.

There it will connect with an existing pipeline from Veterans Memorial Parkway.There will be further infrastructure work in the immediate area to complete next year, particularly a 210 metre length of new sewer to Perbernat Road and 350 metres of watermain replacement along Vanier Drive, but the contract savings this year represent “a very good news story,” said the senior manager of engineering Lesley Hatch.

The main contractor for the sewer work will be Knapett Industries, which hopes to start next week straight after Vancouver Island MusicFest. pround@comoxvalleyecho.com

Box 70

Phone:

250-335-2511

Union Bay, BC

Fax:

250-335-1178

V0R 3B0

E-mail:

admin@union-bay.ca

Research Public Notice

Summer Schedule of Events at Deep Bay Marine Field Station Music by the Bay Summer Concert Series: July 10th – Phil Dwyer July 24th – Eric Harper Aug 15th – Nanaimo Chamber Orchestra Advance tickets only

Tea by the Sea Come for High Tea every Tuesday, 11am-2pm Reservations required

Summer Camps: FISHY FUN CAMP AGES 6-8 Single Day: July 7 Week Long: July 28-Aug 1 OCEAN ADVENTURES CAMP AGES 9-12 Single Day: July 9 Week Long: Aug 5-8

Union Bay Improvement District All Water Users Please be advised that our annual hydrant flushing will take place on Tuesday, July 15th and Wednesday, July 16th, 2014.

As a result, the water in Union Bay may be highly coloured and turbid at this time but will continue to be chlorinated. Water pressure fluctuations may also occur. Avoid laundry mishaps by running water until it is clear before starting. Consumers using water during this time should be aware that water quality could change rapidly. It is therefore advisable to keep an ample supply of potable water on hand or in your refrigerator until this situation clears. People with immune deficiencies should boil water during this period.

Please be advised the water is checked daily and residents will be notified via the local radio station if a Boil Water Advisory occurs.

For further information call the UBID Office at 250-335-2511.

Open daily 10 am – 4 pm.

Reserve now for all events as space is limited.

New UBID Administration Office Hours Tuesday – Thursday 9:00am – 4:00pm (Closed over lunch from Noon – 1:00pm)

For more information call 250 740 6611 visit our website: viu.ca/deepbay

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News

Red Wagon Café, Ryan Road

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General Store, Merville

Comox Valley Echo Friday, July 11, 2014 A9

Artistic twist added to new rural bicycle racks

By Philip Round Echo Staff Several new bike racks have appeared in rural areas of the Comox Valley, and their novel designs are turning heads as well as wheels as they are far from the standard urban installations.

Drawing on money from federal gas tax refunds, Comox Valley Regional District ran a design competition and worked with businesses and organizations in the three electoral areas to have the racks positioned at convenient spots for cyclists.

“One of the benefits of living in the Comox Valley is the web of rural roads that provide scenic cycling routes,” said CVRD board chair Edwin Grieve, who represents rural Area C. “When cyclists are now travelling through our rural areas, they can find racks in ten spots where they can securely fasten their bikes while they have a rest, or grab a coffee

and a snack.”

The racks were provided in a partnership between the regional district and the individual businesses or organizations that provided the space to locate each one as part of a wider program to encourage cycling.

The racks come in three styles, all designed and manufactured by mid-Island companies and individuals. There are five racks inspired by the design of a vintage cruiser bike, created by McGrath Contracting Ltd of Campbell River; four adopting the theme of waving eel grass from the estuary, designed and made by Ocean Metal Custom Sheet Fabricators Inc. of Courtenay; and a single unique rack featuring a sunflower by Pat Perry, a Hornby Island sculptor and welder.

Nine of the ten racks are now in place, with the final one at Union Bay Community Hall going in shortly. The locations are: Fanny Bay (outside the general store/gas station); Buckley Bay (general store/gas

station by the ferry terminal); Union Bay (two locations - by the post office and at the Community Hall); Royston (two locations Backstreet Pub and Royston Roasting Company); Ryan Road (two locations - Goods Groceries and the Red Wagon Café); Merville (General Store); and Black Creek (Community Hall).

The racks supplement a number of other more traditional bike racks previously installed by the CVRD at regional parks and recreational centres.

For more information about cycling and other transportation alternatives in the Comox Valley go to http://bit.ly/1pZwomc. pround@comoxvalleyecho.com

Comox Valley Transit

Open House

Carved staff attributed to Jimmy John (1877-1988), Mowachaht-Muchalaht

Tuesday, July 15, 2014 Come out and see Phase Two routing for the 2 Cumberland.

4118-2

4:00 pm to 6:00 pm Cumberland Council Chambers 2673 Dunsmuir Ave.

Transit Info 250·339· t www.bctransit.com

NEW EXHIBITION OPENS JUNE 21 Get tickets at royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/languages Proudly supported by:

BC Hydro

Westerkirk Foundation

A10 Comox Valley Echo Friday, July 11, 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

Editorial

Hurry up and crash On a stretch of road that is notorious for black ice and hydroplaning, the provincial government wants drivers to hurry up and crash.

Transportation Minister Todd Stone said the stretch of the Inland Island Highway from Parksville to Campbell River will now have a 120 km/h speed limit instead of 110 km/h. If anything, the speed limit should be reduced to 90 or 100 km/h from November to March.

And it’s not that the government doesn’t know about those stretches of road that become hazardous with rain and low temperatures. They have erected signs warning drivers of the dangers of hydroplaning in those areas -Black Creek, Dove Creek, McNaughton Creek -if you’re not paying attention and driving at a reasonable speed you are at extreme risk.

As it stands right now, 120 km/h is about the average speed drivers use on the Inland Island Highway. That is directly attributed to the ‘it’s only 10 km/h over the speed limit’ assumption for which police will not issue a speeding ticket.

So in reality, the provincial government is increasing the speed limit to 130 km/h or more.

And that is just plain deadly.

Whether it’s the design and workmanship of the highway or because of specific conditions in those areas, there are stretches of road on which the speed limit should be 90 km/h. Even with good tires and a reasonable speed, some of the puddling on the highway causes heart stopping hydroplaning.

The only place to which these speed limits will help get drivers there faster, is an early grave.

- Campbell River Courier Islander

Letter It was with deep concern that I learned popular columnist, Ray Grigg, Buddhist scholar and environmental philosopher, was recently relieved of his position with the Campbell River Courier Islander because, after eleven years, his thoughtful and provocative column ‘no longer fit the publishing objectives’ of the newspaper.

These objectives are best manifested by a recent editorial in that paper, extolling the benefits of the Enbridge pipeline to Vancouver Island.

Ray always gave the broader picture on environmental issues, filling in details, making connections, and providing insight. He was followed, respected and appreciated by many in our community; his column was included as part of a weekly insert in the Comox Valley Echo.

Newspapers are supposed to be an integral part of the democratic process, a means by which the public can learn what is happening in their local community and the wider world; a healthy newspaper is a forum for controversy and discussion.

As the oily hand of big business reaches into our communities to strangle discussion, papers such as the Courier Islander, risk becoming rapidly irrelevant.

A J Vaughan, Black Creek

Letters to the Editor

It’s essential to get the facts Voters in the Comox Valley Regional District seem to have a variety of opinions about our local governance structure.

Some contend the structure is outdated and could be improved. But many of the various opinions held probably are just opinions. Generally, they are not based on facts and analyses.

Hence, the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce has undertaken a project that, if successful, will lead to an independent study to get the facts about how our current local governments provide the services for which they are responsible to our citizens.

The provincial government would consider commissioning a study if it can be shown that there is broad community support for one.

Evidence of that community support will be provided by the petition being circulated by the Chamber’s Governance Review Task Force.

The petition provides voters with an

opportunity to participate in a process leading to discovering the most appropriate local governance structure for the Comox Valley in the 21st century. The study would have no preconceived alternative structures - it would simply seek the facts on which to base its conclusions and recommendations.

Recent letters in the Echo addressing the subject of governance review indicate in different ways the need for such a review. In her letter of June 17 Pamela Monroe wrote about several diverse issues that concerned her and that could be addressed by a restructure study committee. She advocated a governance review to address her issues of concern, and presumably would be interested in providing input about them to a study committee.

In his letter of July 4 Warren McDonald advocates a need for Comox Valley local governments to speak with one voice, an issue that a study could address.

In another letter of July 4 Don Davis

suggests that electors should vote on a different government structure without having the facts of how our present governments operate, and without knowing what greater efficiency and effectiveness could be achieved.

In any decision making situation it is essential to first have the facts before careful consideration can be given to making changes that in our case would affect all of the Valley’s communities.

It cannot be over emphasized that purpose of the current petition campaign is to have the provincial government commission an independent, professional study of our present local governance to determine if there are different structures that would provide the best governance for all citizens.

The support of voters in the Comox Valley for a study is most important so that all concerns can be addressed.

Bob Mortimer Courtenay

More Beefs and Bouquets BOUQUETS TO ALL those who’ve pointed out the many advantages of having a pedestrianised portion of downtown. If it were bad for business, why are so many towns and cities across Canada and the rest of the world trying it - and staying with it? So - when will we be able to send a bouquet to the Courtenay DBIA for trying it too?

A HUGE BOUQUET OF FLOWERS to all the BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE who drop by and/or support my little plant stand on Headquarters Rd. I SO APPRECIATE all of you that stop and take a look, or find a little treasure and especially all the little notes that you are kind enough to leave!! My passion is sharing stuff that I love...

Thank you.

SHOP TILL YOU DROP guys!! Every time I shop at John’s Independent Groceries, I am favourably impressed. The spaciousness of the store, the bakery, the prepared foods when you can take a completely “ready to eat” dinner home; coffee ready to pour and chairs and tables ready to sit at just outside the store’s entrance to enjoy whatever you’ve chosen. The pharmacy ready to help and to fill a prescription. I love the tetra pack fruit juices; the gourmet smoked gouda cheese in the gourmet department. All the fresh meat, fruits and veggies that come in daily. I love Comox’s independent store and its friendliness! Keep on stockin’ the shelves! I’ll be shopping! - Wiggy.

BIG BEEF to the Courtenay City Officials who had all the recycle containers removed from the the outside area of the recycle place on 493 Puntledge Rd. I went there to get rid of my glass, plastic & cardboard like I did a month ago & it was gone. I’ve been told that the owners have had a run-in with the city over some land issues & this is the city’s response. The glass bins were never located at the CFB Comox location, so from now on all my glass will go into the garbage. If this is the city’s attitude towards recycling than “G” help us.

A BOUQUET to Area A Director Bruce Joliffe for voicing concerns about the proliferation of unsightly oyster rafts in Baynes Sound. Indeed, like a towering highrise building that should be built on the Lorne Hotel site, these rafts change the Baynes Sound seascape. Yes, aquaculture does create some low paying jobs, and as the spokesperson for the Industry says, every

Industry has a footprint. Soon, we fear, the footprint will be covering the sea bed with plastic netting for the Sea Cucumber and Geoduck Industry. It seems Bizarre that the Province continues supporting the creation of low paying jobs, and the Temporary Foreign Worker program, to fill many of the jobs.

BOUQUETS to the Chamber of Commerce for promoting a Governance review. It has been 15 years since the Province initiated a referendum on Comox Valley Governance. There was lot of interest and 10,630 voted in a referendum , which was supported by Courtenay residents, but rejected by Comox. Since 1999, the Valley has grown and boundaries overlap. Individual governments have also grown, and combined budgets for the 4 local governments are $150 million. Although some emotional arguments continue to be made about “amalgamating “Them” and “Us”- What are the facts? We need an independent study. Signing the petition could make this happen.

A BIG STINKY BEEF to all the moss growing on my grandma’s lawn. I do not appreciate you growing here and am tired of raking you up for hours on end! Please go back to the marshes and trees where you belong and leave us with a nice, soft green lawn. Thank you.

HUGE BOUQUETS to all who made the 2014 July 1 parade a success!! That said, I have to voice my EXTREME disappointment with the spectators. We cleaned up after the families that sat to either side of us on Fifth, and then walking home, saw more candy wrappers and drink containers than we could have collected without a large garbage can :-( Seriously people.

First get a clue yourselves and then teach your kids by example. Generations of lazy, careless, self-entitled jerks abound, it continues to get worse. FOR SHAME. BEEF to the gentleman who rides the red motorized enclosed scooter in the Aspen/ Murrelet area in Comox. I came very close to hitting you recently as you were driving your scooter on the left hand side of the street, very close to the oncoming traffic driving towards you. You are not a car, and as far as I can see, not licensed or insured, so you should not be driving in the traffic. I have seen you driving in the bicycle lane on Noel, and that’s where you should be driving. On streets without a desig-

nated bicycle lane, you should be driving very close to the sidewalk or edge of the street. As you are currently driving on streets without a bike lane, you are an accident waiting to happen!

I WOULD LIKE TO GIVE a few big bouquets to Kitty Pitt, Parnell Productions, and Chances Playtime Gaming (Red21 Gaming Tap and Grill) for the supplying the Comox Valley with a much needed adult night out. Seeing Nikki Payne at The Sid Williams Theatre and then going to Chances for a stellar after party was exactly what this adult needed. Kitty Pitt puts on one killer show and knows how to treat her guests. I can’t wait for the next Big Show!!

CALL ME CRAZY, but when a union goes on strike, does that not mean you walk the picket line/ 24-7....Rain or shine? We have been past numerous schools this past week and a half.

Hmmm no one picketing ... Just because you ruined the rest of the school year for the students doesn’t mean you’re finished as well. It doesn’t work that way...I hope you have to walk till Xmas!

KUDOS to DARRYL and his crew at CREATIVE CONCRETE. Darryl did a terrific job paving my driveway and patio. He listens to your wishes but when you have uncertainties, he shares his extensive experience according to your setting and environment. As well, he goes above and beyond what he is contracted to do. His work is well sought after, so if you are able to get him, I highly recommend his work.

A BEEF to both parties in the teachers dispute who both claim to be acting in the best interests of the students when it is obvious the real issue is who will get control of the education system. It seems quite ridiculous that the employees are demanding the right to control staffing, both numbers of staff and skill levels, leaving the employers (taxpayers) only input as how they are going to pay for their decisions. To me this ranks with the strike of baggage handlers at Heathrow airport striking for the right to steal from luggage. It would seem obvious that the government could only agree to their demands somewhere just after half past never.

However if the teachers would ever win their law suit and this concept would threaten to leak into the private sector the backlash would be horrendous with hopefully the silver lining

being a push to introduce right to work legislation which would certainly help to solve this country’s public sector union woes.

ON SUNDAY, June 29th, at about 4:30 pm, I was in a devastating single rollover car accident, on the Old Island Highway, near the Merville Hall. I want to thank all the people that came to help me in what seemed like seconds. I am ok, with only a broken collar bone.

I really don’t know how to say how very grateful I am to everyone who ran to help me - I was trapped. The people in the Comox Valley are so amazing. I want to return a lovely blanket (blue and white) that someone ran to get to wrap me up in - as I was in shock. I wish I could thank each one, personally. There was a Physician, an off duty rescue person, and so many others. The RCMP, Fire and Rescue, were amazing too, so kind and caring and professional and reassuring, while working in awful conditions. I feel so very blessed to live in a place like the Comox Valley with such kind and caring people. With so much gratitude, name withheld by request.

(Somehow I would like to say contact the RCMP or ambulance to help me return the blanket).

A FEW YEARS AGO the federal Conservatives decided to cut medical benefits for certain classes of refugee claimants. This included those who were seriously ill, children, and pregnant women. Medical professionals and other Canadians objected. The case went to court.

Last week, Federal Court Justice Anne Mactavish overturned the Cons’ decision, ruling: “the cutbacks potential jeopardize the health and indeed the very lives of these innocent and vulnerable children in a manner that shocks the conscience and outrages our standards of decency.” So a great big beef to Chris Alexander, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration for his decision to appeal the Judge’s ruling and continue to endanger the lives of children. Another big beef to our M.P., John Duncan for going along with it. An even bigger beef to our Prime Minister, who perports to be a Christian.

Wonder how these gentlemen will acquit themselves when and if they get to the pearly gates and St. Peter asks them about their treatment of the sick, the children, and pregnant women, they denied health care to? I really don’t think Canadians want children to be denied health care just because their parents came to Canada and applied for refugee status.

WWW.NIC.BC.CA

Comox Valley Echo Friday, July 11, 2014 A11

University Transfer

For more information visit www.nic.bc.ca or call 250-334-5000

Tuition: $275 approx / course Where: Comox Valley It’s not too late! Apply now and start first and second year courses this September that transfer into arts, science, business, and fine arts degree programs at UVic, VIU, and across our growing university network.

I WOULD LIKE TO SEND a huge bouquet of thanks and community spirit to the Comox Valley Transit company. Their inclusive thinking and consideration towards our students is greatly appreciated. - CV Child Development Association.

DOUBLE BEEF to the vandal(s) who wrecked the sprinkler system on the pathway between North Island College and Queneesh school. Not only are the sprinklers ruined, the path is constantly flooded now. If you didn’t like the sprinklers before, you could have just asked to have them turned off.

A BILLOWY, bright bouquet to the nurses and staff at the St. Joseph’s Cancer Care Unit who work in incredibly cramped quarters delivering chemotherapy treatments to residents of the Comox Valley. I was a patient there weekly from January to June, and always found the atmosphere to be cheerful, caring, and optimistic despite the overcrowded conditions. They truly exemplify the motto of the hospital, “Care with Compassion”.

ON 1 JULY WHEN I WAS walking to the parade area I collapsed and was unconscious for several seconds.

When I awoke I was being tended to by two Paramedics who were on parade duty in the area. They arranged for me to go by ambulance to St. Joseph’s Hospital. Their prompt professional assistance was much appreciated and I wish to thank them for their kindness.

THIS BEEF is for the low-life who raped a woman who came to him for help. In her time of need you were not her friend as you said, you were but a predator. She has a head injury from a stroke and yet you preyed on her. You are not a man but a low-life. I am glad she reported you and I hope the courts will be harsh.

MANY THANKS to my Highway Heroes! On July 8 I was in such a rush

250.331.0813 • 106-501 4th Street www.cockeyedoptical.com

with his Big Fun. We will miss him so much! He is genuine, authentic, and sincere. He really is that boy playing some Rock n’ Roll. He’s just doin’ what comes naturally. He’s not up there for recognition; he sings and drums from his soul with music that inspires us all to be better people. His spirit has been a pillar of this community. Kelowna better be good to him, because we wish he would never leave. Bob will always have a home in our Valley and John’s sure gonna miss Mondays. Bob, you Rock and we Love you Big Time!

Beefs

Bouquets &

A GRATEFUL THANKS to the person who found my wallet sitting on the bench at Little Caesar’s Pizza in Comox and turned it in.

The Comox Valley’s First and Best Readers’ Forum Email to: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com to get on my bike and enjoy the beautiful day that I forgot my spare tube and bike tools and of course found myself stranded on the highway before reaching Union Bay with a flat tire. It wasn’t long before a handsome young gentleman named Roger showed up on his fancy electric bike. Although he couldn’t fix my tire he was very optimistic that WE could find someone nearby that could because he said, “this community is full of helpful, kind and generous people”. After a short stroll down the highway I was introduced to Gord who has a reputation to be able fix anything mechanical. Gord had my tire off, fixed and back on in about a 1/10 of the time it would have taken me. Gord you are amazing, the wizard of wheels! I wanted to let you know how grateful I am and how nice it was to meet you both.

WELL, THE AIR CADETS are flying again, and I suppose the perpetual complainers will start once more.

They are probably the same people who close their eyes if they see someone else having a good time. I, for one, am happy to hear the sound of that little piston engined airplane in the air again. Signed, A not so old retired Airman!

A SMALL BEEF to the BIG BEEF about the use of fish symbols on vehicles. Why do they put fish symbols on their vehicles? I am talking about Christians. I’m not sure why they need to advertise their faith. I can only assume the “modified” versions you are complaining about are there for clarification, as some enlightened Christians do believe in evolution. Some may be for mockery.

I personally like the one that has “N CHIPS” in the symbol. People put a lot of symbols on their cars, for various reasons, but only Christians advertise their faith. Also, before we accuse others of “borrowing” symbols, let’s remember that the virgin birth mythology (see Horus) along with the great flood story (see Gilgamesh) are just two examples of what Christians “borrowed” from other cultures that were around long before Christianity. Even the date for Christmas was taken from a pagan winter solstice celebration, not the actual birth date of Jesus. The cross as a symbol also predates Christianity by about 1600 years. We can all respect the history and symbolism associated with the fish, but do we need to be so sensitive? Maybe we should ask municipalities to remove fish symbols from storm sewer grates lest we offend someone. It’s time to turn the other cheek, or in this case, fender.

WE ARE SO SORRY to lose our wonderful neighbours Hank and Delores. My husband is blind and they have been such a godsend in every department. All the best in your new home.

TASHA AT SALON PURE was a life saver. She did an awesome job fixing my daughter’s hair in time for Graduation. Not only did she correct

This week’s winner

a dye job gone bad, she did it on short notice at a great price and the smile on my Daughter’s face ...

“Priceless”. Thank you Tasha :D WE ARE SO THANKFUL for the wonderful care our parents received at St. Joseph’s Hospital in June. Both mom and dad were in ICU together.

Right from the emergency room to ICU, the doctors, nurses and LPNs gave professional, knowledgeable and exceptional care to them. We are so lucky to have this hospital and these people in the Comox Valley.

They are a wonderful asset to the community. Special thanks to Doctors Azer, Comancho, Wiens and Winter.

FREE ROAD SPIKE BELT for person who lives near the Merville Store to lay across his driveway. Maybe if enough vehicles have blowout tires they’d stop using the private driveway as a short cut. July 4th at 12:30 pm - I saw you!

A LIFETIME of enjoyable bike rides to the woman who carried my bags on her bicycle from the Merville store on Thursday, June 26 during my long walk home. A huge thank you!

A BIG BOUQUET OF STINKEWEED to the person/s that left your three garbage containers of greehouse junk by the side of the road in my neighbourhood. How would you like it if someone did the same where you live? Not much I think ... Get your act together and take care of your own crap!

WE DECIDED TO SPONSOR a Vanier Grad who otherwise could not participate in the Grad Ceremonies, and we got a lot of help. Many thanks and a big bouquet of beautiful roses to: Meredith at Fabricland for fashioning a beautiful dress, Karen from Courtenay Curves for the lovely wrist corsage, Ida Marie from Roots for the ultimate hair do and finally to beautician Kayla for the finishing touches, all of the above at no cost.

She should have felt like a princess because she surely looked like one.

A BIG SHOUT-OUT to Anne and her team from DELANEY RELOCATION SERVICES for my dad’s move to Casa Loma this past Friday.

Change is never easy, but your work allowed us the time to focus on the important things, while you did the heavy lifting! We also would like to thank CASA LOMA for providing this much appreciated service. Cheers to the next phase of my dad’s life!

THUMBS UP to the crew at Prime Chop House and Wine Bar, the merchants, including the Echo and artists that supported us and everyone who attended the Throw-Back Thursday event in support of Dawn to Dawn. Thanks so much!

AS I WATCH the world news I always wonder what the world would be like without religion.

Imagine all the hate, death, torture, sexual abuse, lies and deceit that

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

Lisa Christensen 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!

would be eliminated if we didn’t have religion, think of how wonderful this world could be without it. “In religion people’s beliefs and convictions are in almost every case gotten at second-hand, and without examination, from authorities who have not themselves examined the questions at issue but have taken them at second-hand from other non-examiners, whose opinions about them were not worth a brass farthing.” - Mark Twain. “Religion is fundamentally opposed to everything I hold in veneration - courage, clear thinking, honesty, fairness, and, above all, love of the truth.” - Henry Mencken. “I am surrounded by priests who repeat incessantly that their kingdom is not of this world, and yet they lay their hands on everything they can get” Napoleon Bonaparte.

I LIVE NEXT to a busy bus stop where exchanges take place (driver changes etc). The other day I noticed a bus sitting with the doors open waiting for what seemed an unusually long period. Eventually another bus showed up and both drivers patiently waited while a visually impaired passenger changed buses ... it was obvious the first bus was going out of his way to wait and there must have been some communication between drivers to make it all work.

It was real nice to see to efforts made by the drivers to accommodate this person’s needs. Well done.

A YEAR AGO OUT LITTLE DOG, Pepper, was hit by a small white pick-up truck on Ryan Road. The driver immediately came to tell us that he had hit her and he thought that she was dead. I was devastated - Deb came to console me, and as we were sorrowing, Pepper started to move. Then, the wonderful mechanics at A & E Marine rushed out with a piece of plywood, gently put Pepper onto it and then into the back of their truck to rush her down to the Vets.

Rob stayed in the back with her and Dennis drove to Van Isle Veterinary. I rushed inside saying that my dog had been hit by a truck. Dr. Chris Cannon and several other medical staff rushed to the operating room and immediately began their magic.

Many procedures later, many weeks and months of rehabilitation, the skill and knowledge of Dr. Cannon and staff gave us back our dog.

Bouquets can’t even begin to thank Deb - the amazing mechanics at A & E, Kenny, Rob and Dennis for their caring and compassion - And then there is Dr. Cannon and the amazing Van Isle staff who worked evenings and weekends to heal Pepper. And, to the driver of that pick-up truck, please know that we realize it was an unavoidable accident and we are very appreciative of your coming to tell us what happened. Pepper comes to work every day if you would like to come for a visit and a coffee.

ON BEHALF OF ALL THE WHISTLE STOPPERS, we would like to pay tribute to Bob Johnstone.

We want to thank Bob from the top of our hearts for all the great times we have had dancing to the music

1-800-222-TIPS www.comoxvalleycrimestoppers.bc.ca

Comox Valley

Reflexology Centre Downtown Courtenay 216 5th St. • 10am - 4pm

Grand Opening July 21st!

“Rest, Relaxation and Rejuvenation”

250-218-2130

www.PrestigeVideoTransfer.ca

Over 30 years in the Comox Valley

Jan Lefeber Denturist • Complete & Partial Dentures • Implant Supported Dentures • Relines & Repairs

HERE’S HOW IT WORKS! Our weekly feature, Beefs and Bouquets, is intended to be a light-hearted forum for you, our readers, to express brief views on issues and events in your lives.

It’s not intended to hurt people or make unsubstantiated and libelous comments.

Names won’t be published with the beefs and bouquets; however, we do need your full name, mailing address and telephone number for verification purposes.

Each week someone will win a 2 Classic Cheese Basket Meals from Dairy Queen.

Have fun with this!

CA$H REWARD$

BOUQUETS FULL OF SKATES to the Rink Minx Rollergirls! What an amazing derby game you put on! It was so good to see such a huge crowd come out and support the sport of Roller Derby. Such agility and power you all have! Number 12 WOW. Looking forward to seeing the Rink Minx play again!

All Dental Plans accepted

Call for FREE Consultation and Appointment Open Monday – Saturday 204 - 1819 Beaufort Ave Comox BC

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A12 Comox Valley Echo Friday, July 11, 2014

News

Project launched to help pre-schoolers get exposed to books

By Michael Briones Echo Staff The four Rotary Clubs in the Comox Valley have banded together and launched an initiative that aims to have a thousand books read to young children by age five.

It’s called the 1000x5 Children’s Book Recycling Project. The Rotarians are doing this in partnership with the Comox Life Long Learning Association, School District 71 and Comox Valley Success by Six. The goal is to make children’s books readily available to families for free.

The project is based on a study that suggests reading to pre-schoolers regularly by the time they reach five years old, significantly increases their chance of doing well in school.

Research also established that owning a collection of their own books is essential in setting young children on the right path.

The ideal goal for every five-yearold approaching school for the first time is to have been exposed to a thousand books, perhaps some of them multiple times.

To help families achieve this goal, a collection of used story and picture books through the elementary schools and other groups in the Valley have now been initiated.

Christine Dickson, who is one of the many Comox Valley volunteers supporting the project, said the collected books are then brought to a dedicated room at Courtenay Elementary School where they are cleaned, sorted and bagged.

The books are then distributed as gifts by local agencies that support families. It’s a recycling program by the community for the community.

The 1000x5 program, which is also happening in other communities on Vancouver Island, is aimed at helping a child from birth to kindergarten. It is not a book lending program. The child receives books as gifts.

A study by the U.S. Department of Education in 1999, concluded if reading is initiated in infancy, by the time the child is aged five, he or she has been fed roughly 900 hours of brain food. Reduce that experience to just 30 minutes a week and the child’s hungry mind loses 770 hours of nursery rhymes, fairy tales and stories.

The research also stressed that a kindergarten student who has not been read aloud to could enter school with less than 60 hours of literacy nutrition. The study indicated that no teacher, no matter how talented, can make up for those lost hours of mental nourishment.

Province grants $865,000 to Valley’s local governments The four local governments in the Comox Valley are to share almost $865,000 in grants and transfers from the provincial government to help pay for local services.

Comox Valley MLA Don McRae said the money was part of a regular province-wide share-out from Victoria, which in this round totals $74 million.

“Many of our communities really depend on this funding,” he said.

“This money gives local governments increased financial certainty they can use for programs that help stimulate the local economy.”

McRae announced the local allocations would be: Village of Cumberland $293,803; Town of Comox $267,380; City of Courtenay $197,860; and Comox Valley Regional District $105,886.

Some of the money being transferred comes from traffic fine revenue, while other funds include special grants to help smaller communities cover day-to-day costs.

In general terms, the grants do not come as a surprise to local government finance staff, as the programs have been running for some time and projections of likely income have been incorporated in to budgets already.

Books collected by 1000x5 are bagged and ready for Comox Valley Family Services who will distribute them to pre-schoolers. Helping out are Zoe Levitsky (1000x5 volunteer), Sarah Hoffman, Michelle Guthrie (Comox Valley Family Services), Deborah van der Linde

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2014

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Bids now open for share of $10m trail building fund The federal government is offering $10m towards the cost of building or renewing trails for cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, ATVing, and non-motorized sports such as biking and walking.

Local trail organizations can now bid for a share of the money for specific projects, but the money will only be available for two years.

Vancouver Island North MP John Duncan is encouraging local groups to put forward good projects quickly, as applications will close in mid-August He said it was expected between 150-200 projects would be supported, which would mean the average grant from the National Recreational Trails Program would be in the region of $50,000-$65,000.

Interested organizations can get more information online at www. ntc-canada.ca

(1000x5 Project Co-ordinator), Kate Hackett, Anita Wotschel, Christine Dickinson (1000x5 volunteers).

$ $

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28,594 3,599 INCLUDES

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Enjoy hitting the road this summer.

We’ve got you covered!

Extra ECHO

The COMOX VALLEY ECHO ❑ Friday, July 11, 2014

etc.

ECHO

Art show at Filberg Lodge captures living on the West Coast

Summer camp fun for kids at 4R’s Centre Looking for fun and educational ways to entertain your children this summer? Summer camps are back at 4R’s Education Centre!

Young Artists will explore different kinds of art inspired by Van Gogh, Pollock, and more. Ages 4 - 7 will colour the world July 14 - 18 while ages 8 - 12 will express themselves July 21 - 25.

The theme for this year’s French camp (age 5 - 8; Jul 28 - Aug 1) is fairy tales - a great way to help maintain French skills over the summer.

Back by popular demand is Dynamite Detective (Aug. 5th - 8th; 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.). Now in its 8th year, this camp strives to improve observation, math and language arts skills as participants (age 8 12) interview witnesses, identify ‘suspects’ and, most of all, have lots of fun!

Young Scientists will have fun learning about the natural world at this earth science-themed camp.

The best part is that you won’t have to worry about cleaning up the mess! Aug 11 - 15 (age 4 - 7) and Aug 18 - 22 (age 8 - 12).

All camps (except Dynamite Detective) run from 8:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m. FMI: 250-338-4890.

Limited space - register early to avoid disappointment.

Valley artist Joe Smith is holding his annual summer art show at Filberg Lodge this weekend, July 12 & 13.

His versatility can be seen in the montage which highlights some of his work. From a large diptych at the top to a home portrait and rendering for a development at the bottom, his work covers a broad spectrum of styles and subject matter.

Motorcycle art show call for submissions Calling all painters, photographers, sculptors, cartoonists, airbrushers, graphic artists and creators of motorcycle themed art.

We know there’s a lot of folks who ride motorcycles that do more than catch bugs in their teeth and wrench on their bike - so we thought it was time to show off the ‘artistic’ side of riders and host the Freewheelin’ Motorcycle Art show at the Corre Alice Gallery as part of the Cumberland Motorcycle Roundup, August 7-9.

Let’s think beyond ‘skulls and flames’: there’s helmets to paint, parts to weld and sculpt, old shop signs to resurrect, tanks to adorn, bike and rider photography, imagery of bikes to draw/paint/graphic design. You name it - create it!

Entry deadline is August 1.

Drawings, paintings and photography must be framed and a $5 hanging fee will be collected at the drop -off date, August 7.

This is a non-juried art show and everyone is welcome.

Please go to Art Show on our website www.cumberlandmotorcycleroundup.com for more info and application form.

Invite your friends - find us on Facebook.

Grant Shilling, guest curator of the exhibit “The Book of George: The Life and Art of George Sawchuk.”

CURATOR TALK, DISCOVER ART AT CVAG SATURDAY Saturday July 12 will be busy at the Comox Valley Art Gallery, with a family-friendly Discover Art Saturday running from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and a curatorial talk about the current George Sawchuk retrospective starting at 1 p.m.

Discover Art Saturday takes place at CVAG (580 Duncan Ave., Courtenay) on the second Saturday of every month. It is a participatory make-art project for all ages, and materials are provided.

This month’s Discover Art Saturday will focus on bookworks and found objects.

The curatorial talk at 1 p.m. will feature Grant Shilling, guest curator for the exhibit “The Book of George: The Life and Art of George Sawchuk.”

Shilling will introduce the audience to rare archival material and talk about Sawchuk’s artistic process.

The exhibit at CVAG is the first retrospective of Sawchuk’s work since the Fanny Bay-based artist died in 2012.

Sawchuk is perhaps best known for his large

outdoor gallery in the woods near his home on Ships Point.

“This exhibit is the first opportunity for the public to see some key archival material related to George’s artwork - including George’s original sketches and handwritten notes,” says Shilling.

A reading series is taking place in conjunction with the exhibit. On Tuesday, July 15, author Lee Henderson and author/carver Chris Arnett will give readings at CVAG starting at 7 p.m.

You can follow events related to the exhibit and quotes by the late artist on twitter, @george_sawchuk.

The current exhibits are on display until August 9. The gallery is open Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the gift shop is open Mondays to Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission to the exhibits and events is by donation and everyone is welcome to attend.

For details visit www.comoxvalleyartgallery.com or call (250) 338-6211.

Filberg Lodge in Comox will once again be the venue for well-known valley artist Joe Smith’s annual summer art show to take place this weekend, July 12 & 13.

Painting in a realistic style using either acrylics or watercolors, Smith is recognized for his attention to detail and his ability to capture the essence of the West Coast in his landscapes and seascapes.

One of the unique features of his paintings is the fact that many of them are painted from locations that are easily accessible and readily identifiable by both residents and visitors.

“I view my art as a reflection of a moment in time,” says Smith. “I also want my art to be meaningful in that the scenes I paint can conjure up fond memories of a special trip, hike along a trail or a day at the beach with family and friends.”

His paintings also remind us of the spectacular beauty that is so important to our lifestyle on the West Coast and our need to ensure it is protected and preserved for future generations.

The paintings in this show highlight his ability to create great depth so that the viewer is drawn right into the painting. This is especially noticeable in some of his larger pieces where you get the feeling that you could walk right into the scene.

Smith is also a very versatile artist who paints in a variety of styles. Along with what he calls his gallery paintings, he provides renderings ... paintings ... of what proposed projects may look like for builders and developers. In addition he does home and boat portraits along with commissions that capture a scene which can act as a constant reminder of a special time or place.

Most of those kinds of paintings the public never sees except for his project renderings that are often reproduced on roadside billboards that provide passers-by with a sneak preview of what the empty lot may look like in the coming months.

“I really enjoy working on these special projects,” says Smith. “In some cases when I have unveiled a painting of a home that saw all the trials, tribulations and happy times of a family growing up, it brought tears of joy and a flood of fond memories for those family members present.

As an artist witnessing this it is very special because it means I have been able to help people preserve those moments in time that as so meaningful to them.”

All of the paintings in his Filberg Lodge show represent the scenes that he feels are important because they highlight what is so special about West Coast living. From shoreline to mountaintop, from an iris in his garden to a familiar landmark, Smith’s paintings will help provide inspiration, bring back a fond memory or help stir the imagination. To get a real sense of his work and versatility, visit his website at www.joesmith.ca His show at Filberg Lodge is open from 10 am to 4 pm both Saturday and Sunday, July 12 & 13.

Smith will be on hand throughout the weekend to answer questions and provide more insight into his work. Filberg Lodge is located at 61 Filberg Road in Comox.

SUMMER SOUNDS AT THE ZOCALO Come and chill out to the jazz stylings of the Wire Choir Duo on Friday July 11th from 7:00 to 9:00 PM at the Zocalo cafe in downtown Courtenay. The Wire Choir Duo features guitarist Grant McLellan on guitar and Grahame Edwards on Bass. Both Grant and Grahame are regular’s in the North Island music scene and play an eclectic mix of jazz, pop music and originals. The licensed premises have a selection of meals, treats and refreshing beverages. Come out and enjoy

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B2 Comox Valley Echo Friday, July 11, 2014

What’s On

CYMC BRING THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE TO THE SID With music, dance and laughter, CYMC (Comox Valley Youth Music Centre) bounces into summer with one of the merriest musicals ever performed. Thoroughly Modern Millie brings 1920s energy and pizzazz to a story of adventure, love and hilarity. Based on the movie starring Julie Andrews, the stage musical has now swept the world.

Millie is a plucky, small town girl who arrives in New York to find a wealthy husband. But what she discovers is romance, danger, and dance.

The Charleston is king and everyone can do it. So Millie, searching for love (though only if combined with cash) dances, sings, and charms her way into everyone’s hearts.

Avoiding white slavers, a bizarre landlady and false friends, Millie finds excitement and opportunity in every song.

This CYMC performance is directed by the award-winning Lori Mazey, while Lindsay Sterk lends his outstanding talents to the choreography.

Bringing the wonderful songs to life

is the role of musical director, Shannon Tyrrell. With music by Jeanine Tesori and lyrics by Dick Scanlan, audiences will delight in the witty words and tuneful music.

Thoroughly Modern Millie is an wonderful production of music and mayhem, supported by superb dancing by a bevy of colourful flappers.

This family friendly show is guaranteed to make you laugh and cheer.

With sponsorship from local radio station GOAT 98.9 FM, CYMC will again delight its audiences with the

energy and high spirits of its youthful performers.

Come to the Mark Isfeld theatre for a sneak preview of some musical numbers on Sunday, July 6th at 7:30.

These outstanding performers are a dream team of energy and drive.

Some are familiar local faces, while others are from around the province and even from abroad. They will absolutely amaze you with their singing and dancing. Musical theatre directors, Mazey, Sterk and Tyrrell will also be strutting their stuff.

Thoroughly Modern Millie moves into the Sid after just two weeks of intense rehearsals.

Performances are in the Sid Williams Theatre, Wednesday July 16 to Saturday July 19 at 7.30 p.m. with a matinee on Saturday July 19 at 2.00 p.m.

Tickets at the the theatre box office, online at sidwilliamstheatre.com, and at 250-338-2430.

- Submitted by Alana Gowdy for CYMC

CV Farmers’ Market moves for MusicFest

Fish & Bird perform Thursday July 17th at Filberge Park in Comox

Indie-folk powerhouse Fish & Bird heading to Filberg Park The Filberg Summer Concert Series is excited to welcome Fish & Bird for their second concert of the summer season on Thursday July 17th! Head out to the stunningly beautiful grounds of Filberg Heritage Lodge and Park and enjoy world class live music on the park’s brand new stage!

Fish & Bird were once known as Victoria’s most promising folk duo, but over the past few years they have evolved into Canada’s most unique folk-rock ensemble.

This critically acclaimed group began in 2006 as an acoustic duo of Taylor Ashton (banjo, guitar, vocals) and Adam Iredale-Gray (fiddle). In 2007, they put together recordings of a few of Ashton’s quirky folk tunes, made cases out of recycled file folders, and labeled them “Fish & Bird” (with homemade rubber stamps). Their sound was a hometown hit.

Their take on ‘folk’ included original songs in odd time signatures and traditional murder ballads with rock beats. Their 2009 CD, Left Brain Blues, was a more mature exploration of the space between folk traditions and reckless creativity, with Ashton and Gray playing multiple instruments. Some of the friends they enlisted to fill out the sound on record and at live shows became permanent band members and Fish & Bird became the

five-piece indie-folk powerhouse we know today.

Their music hovers somewhere in the void between newgrass and Indie-folk. Folk is kind of the main idea, but nowadays kids get their records from all over the place. Bluegrass, Country, Art-rock, Jazz, the Beach Boys - these individual influences come out if you listen, but the strength is in the blend. The songs get you in the heart and the music messes with your head (in a good way).

Their CD, Every Whisper Is A Shout Across the Void came out in 2012, featuring the band pretty much exactly as they sound playing together all at once. And while we wait for their next juicy disk to drop, come see them at the Filberg Summer Concert Series and check out their truly unique and heart swelling sound.

Tickets for the Fish & Bird show are on sale now at Laughing Oyster Books or Long and McQuade in Courtenay, Blue Heron Books in Comox on online at www.filberg.com. Adult tickets are only $15 and kids 12 and under are free. Gates open at 6 and music starts at 7 sharp.

Bring a blanket and enjoy the show ‘festival style’ or enjoy the seating provided. Be prepared for breath taking music in a truly beautiful sea side venue!

The Comox Valley Farmers’ Market will relocate to the CV Sports Centre on Vanier Drive for Saturday, July 12th only to accommodate Vancouver Island MusicFest.

Each year these two successful events overlap causing significant traffic and parking congestion for both vendors and customers who are trying to get in or out of the Exhibition Grounds.

“Last year was the first year the Market moved to the Sports Centre during MusicFest,” said VIMF Production Manager, Cresslynn Fay, “and it worked very well for both organizations. We’re happy to be working with the Farmers’ Market again this year.”

Sold out again this year, VI MusicFest attracts approximately 10,000 festivalgoers.

The Comox Valley Famers’ Market draws between 1500-3000 on the Saturday morning so moving the

Market to the Vanier location alleviates the congestion while keeping the Market accessible to the thousands of potential MusicFest costumers.

Farmers Market Manager Vickey Brown is encouraged by the support music fest has provided for the move.

“The MusicFest team has been great to work with again this year. They will be rerouting market customers up mission hill and down Vanier with directional signage so our regular customers and new ones can find us”.

The Farmers Market normally hosts between 60 - 65 vendors, including meat and poultry growers, fishers, fruit and veggie growers and food processors of all sorts.

Vancouver Island MusicFest takes place at the Comox Valley Exhibition grounds July 11 - 13 with gates opening at 3:30 - Friday, July 11.

For a complete list of all the performers and the festival schedule go to www.islandmusicfest.com

Three summer music concerts at The Gardens on Anderton Anderton Therapeutic Garden Society and Georgia Straight Jazz Society are offering three Sunday afternoon concerts this summer, entitled “Music in the Gardens”. This is a joint effort hosted by two non-profit organizations, and it builds on their highly successful concert in August 2012.

As before, the venue will be The Gardens on Anderton, 2012 Anderton Road (behind the Anderton Nursery). Each event will be held between 1:00 - 5:00pm, and each will feature a theme.

On July 27, Strathcona Little Big Band will play “Summer of ‘42” featuring band music from WWII. On August 10, Armi Grano, jazz songstress from Vancouver and Bucerias, Mexico, plays her “Satin Dreams” concert; and on August 24, Luzna performs a concert of salsa, Cuban

and Latin music, with special guests from Mexico. The concerts are quite distinct, and you are encouraged to mark your calendars for all three dates.

Admission is $10, children under 14, free. Picnics are welcomed.

Dancing is encouraged. Marquees will be erected for shaded seating.

Parking is free, and you are asked to carpool if possible. Marshals will assist with parking.

Live music will be performed between 2:00 and 4:00, but you’re invited to join family and friends for a social experience by spending time viewing the spectacular gardens as well as stretching out on the grass and listening to wonderful live music.

Proceeds from these events will jointly support both societies.

COURTENAY LITTLE THEATRE CONTINUES SEASON DISCOUNT FOR 2014-15

Neale Donald Walsch

“Courtenay Little Theatre has just finished its most financially successful season ever, “ reported Treasurer Richard Kerton, at CLT’s Annual General Meeting on June 17th. A large part of that success is due to the exponential increase seen in the sale of the community theatre’s Season Discount Pass program.

With the launch of CLT’s 2014-15 Season just recently announced, there has already been a run on season’s passes at the Sid Williams Theatre Ticket Centre for the three upcoming 2014-15 shows.

“Satisfied past subscribers have just been waiting for our 2014-15 tickets to go on sale so that they can continue to save,” says Val Macdonald, the season’s co-producer. “By buying a ticket for each of the three shows in advance, a patron saves a total of $15 over the single ticket prices for three shows. Several past subscribers have told me that they’re organizing groups to take advantage of the discount this year and our sales are already taking off.”

The coming season’s lineup of CLT shows being presented at the Sid Williams Theatre are: “Enchanted April” by Matthew Barber, directed by Vivien Douglas, running October 3rd to 11th; “Narnia” (the musical based on C. S. Lewis’ “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe”) by Jules Tasca, directed by Brian Mather, which runs during Christmas break (December 27th to January 3rd); and

Noted author, spiritual teacher comes to Ocean Resort CARRIERS WANTED New York Times best selling author, Neale Donald Walsch is coming to Ocean Resort July 17th to July 20th. A pioneer in the spiritual community, and author of 28 books, Walsch is best known for his “Conversations with God” book series. His books have been translated into 35 languages and seven have made the New York Times bestseller list.

Walsch offers a simple, yet profound series of teachings based on the “Conversations with God” books.

These teachings are grounded in his experience and based on his personal conversation with God. Thursday July 17th Neale explores the 9 key messages from the series as an introductory event.

Then from Friday July 18th to Sunday July 20th, he takes us deeper into the teachings and invites us to accept the souls ongoing invitation for “life renewal”.

Thursday evening is already sold out, but there is still space for the weekend event.

You can find more information and register at http://www.nealedonaldwalsch.com/doc/canada2014. Additional information can also be found at http://www. oceanresort.ca/events or by calling Cheryl Stiefvater at 250 792 2029.

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“Quartet” by Ronald Harwood, directed by Alana Gowdy, April 10th to 18th, 2015 .

Single ticket prices range from $20 to $25 per show, with season discount passes at just $15 to $20 each per show, depending on the performances chosen. For more details, see the Events section of the Sid Williams Theatre website: www. sidwilliamstheatre.com, phone (250) 338-2430 or visit the Ticket Centre, 442 Cliffe Ave., Courtenay, open Tuesday to Saturday 10 am to 4 pm.

Auditions for the Christmas musical, “Narnia”,

are being held August 22nd to 24th for ages 12 and up.

For more information, email Val Macdonald for materials at evmacdonald@shaw. ca “Enchanted April” has been cast and is starting rehearsals in July, while “Quartet” will announce its auditions in the fall.

More information on Courtenay Little Theatre, the Comox Valley’s award-winning community theatre, is available at its website: www. courtenaylittletheatre.com.

Sports and Recreation

Comox Valley Echo Friday, July 11, 2014 B3

GOLF NEWS CROWN ISLE LADIES’ FIELD DAY Does it get any better than spectacular mountain views and sunshine, 18 holes of golf on a beautifully manicured course, delicious lunch (cooked by someone else!). raffle and door prizes, entertainment, and perhaps a glass of wine or two?

C.I. ladies field day was superb -Katy Macaulay and her team were nothing short of brilliant in arranging this great day of golf. They even flew the Crownettes in from the illustrious Crown Isle Golf Resort, with no thought to the huge cost, to perform and get many of the ladies putting on their dancing shoes.

Everyone went home with a prize - beaded zipper pulls, and raffle, door and skill prizes. Many thanks to the sponsors who helped to make this day so successful: CASCADIA LIQUOR STORE, NATURAL PA S T U R E S CHEESES, PHARMASAVE, ASSANTE CAPITAL MANAGEMENT, CROWN ISLE GOLF RESORT, SIGNATURE WINES, TOSCANOS AND THE ATLAS RESTAURANTS. The game was 2 best net balls in a team of 4 with also prizes for going in the sand and water.

AND THE WINNERS ARE: Tied for 1st (net 116 - wow!)

Raelene Robertson, May Mitchell, Susie Youle and Carol Ross, Elaine Johnstone, Sandra Barwick, Donna Cunliffe and Sharon Hastings 3rd (net 118) Anne Sands, Judy Aldcroft, Jan Macfarlane, and Susan Chepil 4th ((net 122) Jenny Steel, Ev Shaw, Judy Pouliot, and Marsha Mackinnon KPs - #4-Edith Yaworski, #7-Ev Shaw #12 Shirley Ketter #16 Nancy Riva What a day! What a day! What a day!

The coveted Majestic tournament was also played last week at Storey Creek. Stu, Val, Judy, George, Rosemary, Ken,and Stu and Ann (who all happen to live on Majestic St in Crown Isle of course) fought hard for this prestigious trophy.

Kudos to Anne Sands who got a HOLE IN ONE on #5!

MARK YOUR CALENDARS for the B. C. Summer Games July 17-20 in Nanaimo. Representing the North Zone VI are Nanaimo’s Shirin Anjarawalla, John MacDonald, and Kevin Bishop and Crown Isle’s Megan Radcliffe and Lauren Yanick.

Nearly 3200 athletes, coaches and officials from all over B.C. will be participating and meeting new friends. Thanks to our very own Dee Horie for her tireless efforts in supporting these young athletes.

On a final note, the CROWN ISLE LADIES NINE AND WINE with 9 holes of golf, appys, wine and prizes is happening on July 30th with a 5:30 shotgun. If you are signed up to attend, Bert is having a complimentary golf clinic at 4:30. Hope to see you there!

- Submitted by Donna Cunliffe

PIN DAY AT GLACIER GREENS Pin Day was a tight race today (July 8) at Glacier Greens with Lorraine Courtemanche scoring a net 68 edging out a tie of 69 carded

by Judy Brown and Rosslyn O’Rourke.

Scoring a low gross of 85 had Tobi Norris snapping up that award.

Low putts were a tie at 32 for Leslie Hauser and Marie Israel.

KP on #4 was Tobi Norris and #15 Judy Brown.

A couple of chip-ins went to Judy Brown and Rikki Farrell.

Yoohoo! Calling ALL lady members of Glacier Greens - the Club Championship is on July 19th and 20th; payment and registration at the Pro Shop.

A great way to spend the weekend with fun, sun, food and prizes!

- Submitted by Lori Cameron

Tuesday Men’s Pairs were won by “ends won” by Vern Greenhill and Henri Saucier

Brian Benedictson won the NI Open trophy in a six-hole playoff

North Island Open decided in playoff The 2014 Men’s North Open at Comox golf course, presented by Comox Valley Dodge, finished with a 6-hole play off to determine the winner.

After a great round and tying the course record with a score of 61, Jordan Caron from Victoria Golf Club seemed to be in the driver’s seat.

Comox member Nick Usher had already posted a great score of 66 with a front nine round of 29 to be the low score posted in the clubhouse.

Day 2 was a battle of rain and competitive fire as top names like Brian Benedictson, Greg Koster, Mitch Carr-Hilton knew they needed to bring their A game to chase down Usher and Caron.

In the end Benedictson and Caron were tied at 5 under par after 36 holes of regulation. Usher and Carr -Hilton fell one back with their total at 4 under.

The stage was set for a playoff to determine the champion of this historic event.

After 6 holes Brian Bendictson was crowned the overall champ.

There was some tremendous play and some great laughs Thank you to all the players, volunteers and corporate sponsors for helping make this event great.

In addition to Comox Valley Dodge thanks go to the other corporate partners: Dales Plumbing, Holland and Cameron, Comox Fire Place, Old House Resort, Black Fin Pub, Jackson and Associates, Ladies North Island Open Committie, Budget Blinds, Gibbys Proshop, Glacier Gutters, Coastal Community Mathew Beckett, Coast Community Dale VanderMark, Optimum Cleaning, ABC Printing, Hartman Auto Supply, Investors Group Jason Heflin, Brentwood Bay Spa, Royal Lepage Greg Hart, Royal Lepage Scott Fraser, Shiloh Painting, Re/ max John Hope, Sun Life Financial Rick Siddall, John’s Independent Grocier, Chinock forest products, Jim’s Clothes Closet, M Petersen contracting, Westview Ford, Gus Baudais, Ives Burger, Undiscovered Photography, Square One Travel, Branch Construction, Bill Wheeldon Construction, I-Hos Gallery, Visual Sound, Canadian Western Bank, SURE Copy, Longbeach Golf Course, Saratogae Beach Golf Course, Comox Golf Course.

Men’s North Island Open Gross 1. Brian Benedictson 135 2. Jordan Caron 135 3. Greg Koster 136

4. Nick Usher 136 5. Mitch Carr-Hilton 136 6. Stephen Watson 137 7. Gordon Grubisich 139 8. Richard Duerden 139 9. Jeff Edwards 143 10. Steve Peters 145 11. Casey Johnson 145 12. Lawry Willis 145 13. Peter Benedictson 146 14. Craig Follis 146 15. Larry Ferguson 147 16. Bobby Benedictson 148 17. Kyle Mudge 149 18. John Huisman 150 19. Gerry Koster 151 20. Graeme Edwards 151 21. Robin Ward 151 22. Tracy Branch 154 23. Grant Goudy 155 24. Don Gallop 155 25. Bernie Valentine 156 26. Matt Beckett 157 27. Shawn Vincent 159 28. Rick Siddall 159 29. Jules Urban 161 30. Jason White 161 31. Tyson Slater 161 32. Dylan Slater 163 33. Marty Petersen 163 34. Dave Tribe 165 35. Paul Williams 166

NET 1. Keith Welch 126 2. Dan Buss 127 3. Billy Schneider 128 4. Marc DeWinter 128 5. John Reddin 129 6. Jim Rhodes 130 7. Doug Kines 131 8. Vic Crisp 131 9. Rick Aker 132 10. Gary Usher 132 11. Ken Simmons 133 12. Mark Smith 133 13. Steve Blacklock 134 14. Greg Hart 134 15. Al Pasenen 134 16. Mike Simmons 135 17. Charles Lawlor 135 18. Mike Naso 135 19. Bill Bowles 135 20. Burt Meek 136 21. Jim Slater 137 22. Pat Riva 137 23. Silvio Alberti 138 24. Gord Baudais 138 25. Jim Eremko 138 26. Stuart Tunheim 138 27. Gord Trenholm 138 28. Rick Morrison 139 29. Terry Christie 139 30. Jack Currie 139 31. Paul Ives 139 32. Art Karpus 140 33. Don Gates 140 34. Mark Vandervoort 140 35. Gord Harris 140 - Submitted by Keith Gibson

Ladies Pairs were won by Pat Cutt and Marguerite Sklarchuk

Courtenay Lawn Bowling club ready to host provincial triples event today Courtenay Lawn Bowling Club is gearing up, shifting gears and getting ready to roll with the Provincial Ladies Triples event on Friday, July 11.

First game is at 10 am and 8 Ladies Teams, Ann Mathie’s from Victoria; Diane Fulton, Mary Wright and Sharon Baldwin from Vancouver; Parksville’s Brenda Edwards, and Mary Mulligan (Nanaimo), Robin Forrest of Pt Alberni and Courtenay’s Pat Cutt will take to the green for the Provincial Championship and the opportunity to participate in the National event in Winnipeg in August.

The Men’s edition of this event takes place in Nanaimo, with 15 teams involved.

Courtenay’s Vern Greenhill has a team in this group.

Triples is a new event for the Nationals; 2013 was the first year for this as the Singles have an event of their own now. Parksville will be hosting the National Mixed Pairs event, later in August.

Parksville Mixed Pairs were held July 4, 5, 6 and Vern Greenhill and Melie Ursulom placed in the B event and Henri Saucier and Sandy

Tonnellier were also in the money. I saw pictures of them getting envelopes, but couldn’t hear the announcement.

On the home front, the first half of the Wednesday Mixed League had Peter Harding with Bill Whitehouse and Rosemary Montreuil winning over Vern Greenhill, Helen Ryley and Ann Kwasnizka. New teams will be formed and the Spare list will be arranged differently.

Tuesday Men’s Pairs were won by “ends won” by Vern Greenhill and Henri Saucier over Dean Penny and Don Wiseman.

Ladies Pairs were won by Pat Cutt and Marguerite Sklarchuk, with April Gilchrist and Sandy Tonnellier a close second.

Webber Singles has Pete Harding, Dean Penny and Vern Greenhill tied for points and very close in differential. More games to come.

Many of the bowlers will be away in Alberni for Men’s and Ladies Pairs, July 9/10 so the greens will be available for the Provincial Competitors to practice, although here may be some Webber games happening.

- Submitted by Pat Cutt

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GREAT NIGHT AT SUNNYDALE Sunnydale Thursday Night Ladies July 3rdh we had a great evening!

Prizes were given out for: Hole 2 for shots out of the sandtrap to Peggy Ferguson Hole 3 for closest to the pin 2nd shot to Bev Slater Hole 4 for closet to the big rock to Maylene Friesen Hole 5 for closet to the pin 3rd shot to Fran Wright Hole 6 for longest drive to Fran Wright Bev Slater had the longest putt on #9 and lowest putts overall.

Most Honest Golfer was Erica Roy. Draw Prizes were from: Rob’s Pro Shop to Ardene Larison Boston Pizza to Andrea McGinnis Fluids Bar & Grill to Jenny Lavery Great Canadian Oil Change/Car Wash to Jean Wheaton Independent Grocers to Coral Tanner Investors Group/Locals Restaurant to Marilyn Curley Jo Klassen’s to Peggy Ferguson & Bev Slater Michaels Off Main to Erma Derkson Panago Pizza to Isabelle Roy Quality Foods-Comox to Willa Fussey Royston Roasting Co. to Maylene Friesen Pro Shop prize to Judy Huges Donation prize to Monique Walker Thursday Night Ladies sign up at 5:00 pm, tee off at 5:30 pm Everyone welcome!

- Submitted by Mary Lynn Doubinin

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quote of the week

B4 Comox Valley Echo Friday, July 11, 2014

Sports and Recreation

Robbie bringing home gold from Transplant Games Two-time heart transplant recipient Robbie Thompson will be bringing home a gold medal to the Comox Valley.

Robbie, 16, is currently in Moncton, NB competing in the Canadian Transplant Games.

The games began on July 7 and run through the 12th. The Transplant Games run every two years and offer the opportunity to highlight the importance of organ donation, the full and healthy lives recipients enjoy and the opportunity to celebrate and thank donors and donor families for the precious gift of life.

In addition to the 5K Cycling event that saw Robbie win Gold on Tuesday, he will also be competing in a 20K cycling event and several swimming events in the coming days.

Robbie’s incredible journey began when the Valley native was just a few months old.

Found to have a defective heart muscle at 5-months old, Robbie underwent his first transplant almost a year later in July 1999.

Robbie was again listed for a heart transplant in December 2002 when cardiologists found that veins in his heart had become blocked, placing him at risk of a heart attack.

Sue Germain, Robbie’s mother has instilled in him what an amazing gift organ donation truly can be.

“When Robbie was on the transplant ward after his second transplant, and he was walking around, he’d meet up with other kids, and we realized there were several families, several children there that had received organs the same night that Robbie had. There was this incredible feeling that this one donor had saved all these children’s lives.”

Robbie and his family feel a responsibility to give back not only to the transplant community but also the

Robbie Thompson in Sick Children’s Hospital in Toronto after undergoing a heart transplant

Robbie Thompson had a sticker, above, honouring the memory of Ciaran Martin on his bicycle helmet, which he wore while winning a gold medal, right Comox Valley community that helped his family during difficult times.

One of the community groups that stepped up and raised money to help the Thompson family was the Comox

Valley Kin’s Club.

This year, during the annual Robbie Thompson Slo-Pitch Tournament, in addition to throwing out the first pitch, Robbie will be

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One of the oldest and largest markets on Vancouver Island is celebrating its 42nd year on July 26th. With over 130 vendors selling everything from antiques to jelly, this fair attracts over 10,000 visitors each year. Activities such as a petting zoo and face painting keep the kids busy while you enjoy the live entertainment.

4 person - 3 Hr. $325 4 person - 4 Hr. 4 person - 5 Hr.

Kid Fest

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If you got kids, you may as well pitch a tent in Parksville because August 10th is Kid Fest. Kids of all ages will love this fun-filled day stuffed with entertainment, activities and the always popular Quality Foods Kids Sandcastle Competition.

Dust off your sand bucket because you won’t want to miss this; they have awesome prizes!

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shaving his head to draw to attention to the good work of the Kin’s Club and the importance of organ donation.

He’s been growing out his hair for

over a year.

On the opening night of the Tournament, September 16, Robbie, his family and friends will be there passing out information on organ donation and registration cards for anyone who wants to become a donor.

During these current Transplant Games Robbie has found a way to honour another Valley resident, Ciaran Martin.

Martin died after being struck by a car on Jan. 2, 2014 in Black Creek.

Ciaran’s family, knowing Ciaran’s strong feelings about organ donation, donated his organs, bringing hope and new life to six recipient families.

During Robbie’s 5K cycling ride, visible on his helmet was a picture of Ciaran.

For more information on organ donation, visit https://www.transplant.bc.ca/index.asp or phone 1-800-663-6189.

Oceanside Overdrive

Parksville Beach Festival Featuring the Quality Foods Canadian Open Sand Sculpting Competition and Exhibition, this year’s Beach Festival begins July 12th and runs for more than a month! Entertainment, activities and vendors all gather on Parksville’s sandy shores for the most fun you can have with sand in your pants.

What could be more fun than hanging out on the beach, listening to some golden oldies while checking out hundreds of classic, custom cars, trucks, hot rods and motor cycles?

Parksville beach is the place to be Aug. 4 but don’t forget the sunscreen! P.S. The Cruise is pretty cool, too!

Coombs 36th Annual Bluegrass Festival

LIVE RAPTOR PRESENTATIONS

JULY & AUG. 1:30 PM Every Wed. Thurs. Fri.

“A Wildlife Experience for the whole family”

www.niwra.org

250-248-8534

1240 Leffler Rd., Box 364, Errington, B.C. V0R 1V0

Make sure y’all hang around Coombs July 31 to Aug. 3 and take in one of the oldest bluegrass celebrations in B.C. (and quite possibly, one of the largest!). They will be pickin’ n’ grinnin’ all B.C. long weekend with bluegrass bands from all over the continent. Enjoy great jam sessions and fun for the whole family.

Arbutus Meadows Island Classic Equestrian Show Jumping Take in four days of show jumping July 10-13 at the Arbutus Meadows Equestrian Centre, just south of Parksville on Highway 19.

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Parksville Lions International Kite Festival Look up. Look way up and you will see the sky filled with every imaginable shape and colour. Kite fliers come from as far away as Alberta and Washington to spread their strings on Parksville’s expansive shore. July 20-21, bring your own kite to fly or simply hunker down and enjoy.

www.pineridgefarm.ca

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• Hourly family tours • Self exploring • Outdoor rock rappelling • Cave theatre & museum

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Check out our website

oceansidestar.com • Local News • Events • and more!

Sports and Recreation

Comox Valley Echo Friday, July 11, 2014 B5

Locals ‘klean’ up at races The always popular Kusam Klimb took place on Saturday June 21st in Sayward. This is an extreme 23 kilometre trail race with the motto “Are you tough enough?” It starts with a devastating 5km kilometre climb up Mount H’Kusam for a vertical gain of nearly a mile.

Then there is a mix of single track and double track for the remaining 18k descent back to Sayward for the finish.

The overall winner this year was Nick Elson, who finished in a new course record time of 2 hours and 9 minutes. The first local finisher was James Powsey, who finished 5th overall and won his age category with a time of 2:30. Hot on his heels was local young gun Peter Gledhill, who also won his category with a time of 2:34. Kelsey Knoll also had an excellent race, finishing as the third woman overall and winning her age category as well with a time of 3:06.

Close behind was Sarah Seads (ELM), who finished as the 5th woman overall and second in her age category in 3:09. Next were Carl Tessman and Todd Gallagher, who both had great races and finished with times of 3:10 and 3:12 respectively. Mary Bridges also had an excellent race as she returns from ultra trail racing, finishing as the 15th woman with a time of 3:31.

Ken Rodonets had a strong showing with a time of 4:17. Debbie Wright finished in a time of 4:35 and Glen Christensen raced well to finish in 4:47. Louis Nadeau also had a great race, beating the 5 hour mark for this grueling event. He was followed by Joanne Stanger, Bruce Johnstone, and Wink Richardson with times of 5:03, 5:07, and 5:09. Gail Martindale also had a great day, finishing with a

time of 5:18.

The Kusam Klimb was followed by the Vancouver Scotiabank Half Marathon on Sunday June 22nd.

This beautiful and challenging course follows the water around the University of British Columbia, past Spanish Banks and Jericho Beach, and finishes at Stanley Park.

Neil Holm had an excellent race, finishing 17th overall and winning his age category in a time of 1:14.

Wayne Crowe (Extreme Runners/ Asics) also ran extremely well, finishing in 1:24 and placing 2nd in his age group. Danny Keyes showed that he is recovering well from the marathon, holding on for a strong finish of 1:29.

Roz Smith continued her dominance with yet another age group win, finishing in a time of 1:41.

Darrell Fisher also raced well, breaking the 2 hour mark for the Half Marathon distance.

Congratulations to all of the racers. As there are too many finishers to list them all here, please see full results online. Be sure to check out the 45th Annual Nautical Days 4 Miler on August 4th. Registration is between 8 and 8:45am at Town Hall in Comox. The race begins at 9am sharp. For more information visit cvrr.ca.

Pictured in photo (L-R): David Millard (Telus), Andrew Scherck (VIMC), Don Sharpe (VIMC)

Telus grant provides Mountain Centre with Adventure Program gear The Vancouver Island Mountain Centre (VIMC) located at Mount Washington has received a grant of $2,500 from the Telus Community Action Team aimed at using new technologies to enhance youth learning and empowerment.

The VIMC offers a variety of sub-alpine programs for youth ranging from map, compass and GPS navigation,

geocaching and team building to intro programs focusing on Biathlon, Winter Skills and Snowshoeing. “This grant is awesome for us as it will allow us to incorporate new technology into our pre-existing programs, create new programs and introduce new safety-based technology, such as beacons, GPS units and solar power sources to our island youth. The addi-

Pee Wee Cards take wins on the road The Comox Valley Cardinals Pee Wee All Star “A” team had another successful winning weekend on the road.

Saturday July 5th the boys hit the big city to take on the Victoria All Star Team and braved the clouds and rain and played hard with a shorthanded team. We came up on the winning end of both games as the team gears up for their upcoming

zone playdowns in a few weeks in Campbell River.

On Sunday 6th the team travelled to Chemainus and took the first game 10-2 with some clutch timely hitting and some real aggressive base running.

Again our team was down to 10 kids so all the boys stepped up and we battled hard in game two - with the game tied 3-3 heading into the

6th inning the boys rallied for 4 huge runs and a big 7-3 victory.

Giving up only 5 runs in two games was a great effort by the entire pitching staff and all our infielders and outfielders.

The updates will continue next week as the boys travel to Campbell River for a tournament - stay tuned for more scores and news! GO CARDINALS.

Oceanside Christmas Craft Explosion begins that last few weeks of November and runs until the beginning of December.

Visitors come from as far away as the U.S. to get a jump start on their Christmas shopping as various Craft markets conveniently coordinate their event to coincide with others.

tional bonus for us and our participants is that we can enhance our programs without having to raise our program prices thanks to great community support from groups like Telus,” stated Mountain Centre Manager Andrew Scherck.

The VIMC currently offers a variety of half-day programs starting at $19.50/person and full day programs starting at $39/person.

The non-profit V.I. Mountain Centre provides group accommodation for up to 40 people, full kitchen and dining facilities, ample parking, amazing views of Mt. Albert Edward, plus meeting rooms and the VI Mountain Fitness Centre. Find the VIMC at Mount Washington at the end of Nordic Road across from Raven Lodge and Strathcona Park’s Paradise Meadows.

Visit vimountaincentre.com for additional information.

• Fashion Jewlery • Ladies Accessories • Baby Wear & Gifts • First Nations Gifts • Tea Forte

www.fayesgifts@shaw.ca

142 Second Ave. W. Qualicum Beach

250.752.1391

Mon. to Sat. 9:30am to 5 pm Sun. 11 to 4 pm

Milner Christmas Magic at Milner Gardens and Woodland is a must-do on any list. Thousands of twinkle lights illuminate the forest as vignettes whimsically entertain. Talented musicians fill the air with the sounds of the holidays and local artists offer their wares-at very reasonable prices. Enjoy a hot chocolate in the historical home and take home a real wreath. An old-fashioned Christmas experience that is magical indeed!

Coombs Fair This is an old-time country agricultural fair with 4H kids bringing in their bunnies and calves and people of all ages vying to have the best of everything from roses to pies. Plus demonstrations, historical exhibits and live music and more.

It’s on the fairgrounds in beautiful downtown Coombs Aug. 9-10.

For more information on any of these events or the 130 others that take place throughout the year, www.

VisitParksvilleQualicumBeach.com or pop by one of the Visitor’s Centres.

Knox United Church Fall Fair Every year it’s a grand garage sale with furniture bargains, family entertainment, children’s games, home baking, a silent auction and much more. This year the 9th-annual fair is Sept. 13, 8:30 a.m to 2:30 p.m., at Knox United Church, 345 Pym St., Parksville.

THURSDAY, EVENINGS 6:00 PM TO 9:00 PM

July and August on Second Avenue

Vendors, Food, Entertainment & Summer Time Fun

Try us First

250-752-8856

www.qualicumbeachdowntown.ca This initiative was made possible through the generous support and sponsorship from the Town of Qualicum Beach

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Coombs Old Time Fiddlers Jamboree Each year the Coombs Old Time Fiddlers host an annual Jamboree to showcase the wonderful fiddlers and complementary musicians who live in or visit Oceanside.

This year the Jamboree is Saturday, Sept. 20 at the Coombs Rodeo Grounds. Kick up your heels and dance and they enjoy an old-time country-style supper. For information, call Nell at 250-752-4185.

250.752.1937 Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm Sun 11:30am - 4pm

www.qualicumtoyshop.com

Christmas in Oceanside Because of our mild winters and celebratory nature, we have events happening all year round. If you had so much fun in the summer and can’t wait to come back, you are in luck; just look at what we do at Christmas!

For more information on any of these events or the 130 others that take place throughout the year, www.VisitParksvilleQualicumBeach.com or pop by one of the Visitor’s Centres.

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Canada’s first no tipping restaurant is NOW OPEN at Pacific Shores in Parksville/ Nanoose Bay! The completely remodelled Smoke N’ Water!

Gourmet burgers, fresh baked pizza, grilled steaks, pork sliders, seafood & more!

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B6 Comox Valley Echo Friday, July 11, 2014

Comox Valley Echo Friday, July 11, 2014 B7

CARRIERS WANTED EARN $$$$$$$$ COMOX Rt. 1103 – Pritchard, Totem, Skeena, Orca Rt. 1112 – Noel, Nootka, Tsimshian, Kwakiutl, Salish, Pritchard Rt. 2129 – Sylvan, Parry, Aspen, Idiens Rt. 2135 – Denman, Quadra CROWN ISLE Rt. 3120 – Monarch, Royal Rt. 3134 – Crown Isle Dr., Birkshire, Sussex VALLEYVIEW Rt. 3110 – Back Road, Glen Urquhart, 10th St. E., Hobson, 6th St. E., Aston Rt. 3123 – Nechako, Chemainus, 5th St. E., Cowichan, 6th St. E. Rt. 3132 – Inverclyde, Carstairs, Hebrides, Fife Rt. 3135 – Hawk, Swallow, Whiskeyjack Rt. 3136 – Bluejay Place COLEMAN ROAD AREA Rt. 4106 – Sea Terrace, Avonlee, Loxley MISSION HILL Rt. 5110 – Tatton, Virginia, Paula, Adrian

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B8 Comox Valley Echo Friday, July 11, 2014

Sports and Recreation

ISLAND SERIES DRAWS BMXers On an overcast Saturday morning riders from all over Vancouver Island made their way up-island to Cumberland for the 3rd race in the Sea Soil Vancouver Island Championship Series.

Victoria, Nanaimo and Oceanside as well as a large contingent of Coal Hills BMXers were ready for the day of racing.

Sea Soil has been the main sponsor of the series for a few years now and have been very supportive of Vancouver Island BMXing for which we are very greatful for.

Results are as follows: 4 year old Strider - 1st Kavin Fawkes 2nd Linden Erwin 2 & under Strider - 1st Cole adams 2nd Devon Spenser 3rd Jack McInnes 11-12 Girls Cruiser - 1st Aleasha Wiebe 2nd Ally Churko 3rd Janel Church 4th Tianna Fretz 8 Cruiser - 1st Jaxon Smith 2nd Jordan Paddock 3rd Caylus Martin 10 Cruiser - 1st Evan Yaretz 2nd Brody Wark 3rd Xylus Martin 13 Cruiser - 1st Aiden Webber 2nd Riely Brosius 3rd Mitchel Landry 31-35 Cruiser - 1st Ayden Houle 2nd Mike Smith 3rd Eric Beaudin 4th Tayler Fretz 36-40 Cruiser - 1st John Makson 2nd Dwayne Wark 3rd Dave Erwin 41-45 - Cruiser 1st Andrew Templer 2nd Rodney Spenser 3rd Geoff Letwin 4th Todd Martin 5th Chris Pritchard 5 & under Novice - 1st Tiffany Brosius 2nd Maxim Lefebvre 3rd Ian Swanson 4th Ethan Richmond 5th Noah Kerluck 6 Novice - 1st Graeme Campbell 2nd Caylus Martin 3rd Rhyan Barfoot 4th Ethan Neubauer 5th Mathew Berg 6th Calvin Hatcher 7 Novice - 1st Felix Beaudinb 2nd Jason Sekulich 3rd Ethan Cracknell 4th Jeremy Wolfe 5th Ethan Vivian 6th Travis Richmond 7th Pierce Guest 8th Emma McCarthy 8 Novice - 1st Larsen Titterton 2nd Nicholas Toews 3rd Rosalie Beaudin 9 Novice - 1st Anna Purich 2nd Jerimiah Roberts 3rd Maxwell Rumming 11 Novice - 1st Aubrey Rayner 2nd Bennet Murphy 3rd Kevin Wolfe 13 Novice - x1st Desmond Debellefeuille 2nd Kylisha Kasook 3rd Nathan Simard 5 & under Intermediate - 1st Jeremy Purich 2nd Jett Yochim 3rd

BRIDGE NEWS Comox Valley Duplicate Bridge Club The Longest Day on June 21st was a huge success. We raised a little over $4000 for Alzheimer Society of Canada! That’s pretty impressive!

The club and the organizers would like to thank all the businesses and individuals who supported us and made our efforts all worthwhile!

Results for the Monday, June 30th, 2014 game were: 1. Jack Bradshaw - Carole Bradshaw 2. Gary Priestman - Pat Pantuso 3. Barrie Turnham - Sharon Feduniak 4. Glen Parsons - David Proctor The Thursday, July 3rd,2014 game had these results: 1. Slava Simice - Barrie Turnham 2. Gayle Cousins - David Mosher 3. Jack Bradshaw - Carole Bradshaw 4.

Dianna Rickson - Sharon Hysert 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.

D’Esterre Duplicate Bridge Results for Tuesday, July 1 (22 pairs): N/S - 1. Betty Fountain and Barb Morris; 2. Jeanette Baron and Tom Dugdale; 3. Jim Lucas and Clark Graham; 4. Sheila Lockhart and Dianne McKinnon.

E/W - 1. Carole and Jack Bradshaw; 2. Lysbeth McCrone and Karin Franzen; 3. Patricia and Roy Lowe; 4. Judy Morrison and Harvey Piercy.

Results for Saturday, July 5 (18 pairs): N/S - 1. Penny and Doug Poole; 2.

Betty and Tom Thomsen; 3. Carole and Jack Bradshaw; 4. Jean Tait and Denise Holst.

E/W - 1. Jeanette Baron and Tom Dugdale; 2. Trish and George Kirkwood; 3. Gil McLaren and Kathy Kein; 4. Bernice Blonarwitz and Colin Park.

Friday Night Bridge Results for Friday, July 4 (11 tables): N/S - 1. Doug and Penny Poole; 2.

Jean Tait and Evelyn Ware; 3. Tom and Betty Thomsen; 4. Chuck and Lorraine Hodson.

E/W - 1. Del Christensen and Phyllis Taylor; 2. Grace Whetter and Wendy Peddie; 3. Colin Park and Dorothy Branch; 4. Tied, Frieda Home and Marilyn Hannah, Jim Boase and Ann Cook.

At the starting gate: Yuriah, Kevin, Dillon and Zack in the 16 Expert Class (Photo by Chris Webster) Jordan Paddock 6 Intermediate - 1st Austin Cornbill 2nd Gavin Parkinson 3rd Samuel Johnson 7 Intermediate -1st Isaac Templer 2nd Dane Kerluck 3rd Roan Makson 4th Jackson Luchtmeyer 9 Intermediate - 1st Seth McInnes 2nd Macklin Kohnson 3rd Jaxson Smith 4th Arland Berry 5th Brighton Feldman 6th Kaleb Nykwist 7th Loki Arsenault 8th Jasper Letwin 10 Intermediate - 1st Brody Wark 2nd Caleb Armitage 3rd Aidan Kearns 4th Hayden Rogers 5th Jacob Near 12 Intermediate - 1st Mathew

Barbeau 2nd Troy Jansen 3rd Nick Heys 36-40 Intermediate - 1st Dwayne Wark 2nd Cory Hyne 3rd Eric Cox 7 Girls - 1st Avery Yochim 2nd Brailyn Webster 3rd Eden Robbins 9 Girls - 1st Janel Church 2nd Makayla Brosius 3rd Peyton Yochim 4th Keira Murphy 5th Lauren Churko 6th Adah Godley 11 Girls - 1st Ally Churko 2nd Adicus Bird 3rd Tianna Fretz 17-20 Girls - 1st Alison Grecht 2nd Aleasha Wiebe 3rd Serena Smythe 7 Expert - 1st Ryley Cofield 2nd Braxen Ryckman 3rd Maddex Yochim

9 Expert - 1st Devin Fawkes 2nd Evan Yaretz 3rd Justin Yaretz 4th Sean Queenan 10 Expert - 1st Aiden Grecht 2nd Haiden Botrokoff 23rd Jacob Sorg 4th Avery Swanson 11 Expert - 1st Riely Brosius 2nd Quinn Webber 3rd Mitchel Landry 13 Expert - 1st Aiden Webber 2nd Hayden Fieret 3rd Drew Johnson 4th Alex Grecht 5th Theron Taylor 6th Liam Robbins 14 Expert - 1st Benjamin Leslie 2nd Ayden Houle4 3rd Tayler Fretz 16 Expert - 1st Yuriah Kaska 2nd Kevin Lebrun 3rd Dillon Butcher 4th

Zackary Fieret So it was a great turn out and once again congrats to all riders hope you had a great day.

Also a huge thank you to Sea Soil (Nan), Nanaimo Chrysler (Nan), Dodge City Cycles (Cumb), Goldstream Bikes (Vic), Mountain City Cycles (Crty), Alterinitive Groove Fashions (Nan), Arrowsmith Bikes (Nan), Newcastle Engineering (Nan), Top Drawer Graphics (Nan), Oceans Edge Orthodontist (Nan), Engrave It (Nan), Vahalla Pure (Nan), Oak Bay Bikes (Vic).

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