Comox Valley Echo - August 29, 2014

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The Lerwick Road-Ryan Road intersection is one of the most crash-prone junctions in Courtenay. Last year there were 39 crashes at this area.

The Valley’s crash-iest intersections ICBC statistics show most accidents at Ryan and Lerwick, bypass

By Michael Briones Echo Staff The Comox Valley has notorious junctions that have a high number of motor vehicle accidents.

Courtenay has five locations where frequent crashes occur that have cost thousands of dollars in damages, as well as lives.

In 2013, ICBC statistics showed 403 recorded collisions at different intersections in the city.

The two leading areas with 39 each were the Island Highway North-Ryan Road and the Lerwick Road-Ryan Road junctions.

Rounding up the top five are 17th Street and

Cliffe Avenue with 34, Old Island Highway and Ryan Road 20, and 17th Street bridge and Comox Road 20.

Last year’s total, however, was down from the previous year’s 477. In 2010 it was higher with 492 crashes.

The Town of Comox also has its share of dangerous intersections. Last year there were 84 crashes recorded at various locations, although the numbers are down from 2012’s total of 91.

Topping the list in Comox are Anderton Road and E. Ryan Road with 10, followed by Anderton Road and Comox Avenue with seven and Anderton Road and Guthrie Road with six.

The cause of the accidents varies. It can be

due to speeding, alcohol, not heeding traffic signs or not paying attention to the road. They can lead to loss of property and injuries, which is putting strain on ICBC. The inurance company is currently facing ongoing pressure from increasing injury claim costs, which cover payouts for pain and suffering, future care and loss of wages. And to alleviate the growing costs, ICBC will be filing a basic insurance rate application today with the British Columbia Utilities Commission asking for a 5.2 per cent increase to basic insurance rates. If the new application is approved this will mean, on average, approximately $3 extra per month for customers.

(Continued on page 2)

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A2 Comox Valley Echo Friday, August 29, 2014

News

Comox Valley Weather

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Friday, 29 August Cloudy with 60% chance of showers.

High 19°C.

Saturday, 30 August Cloudy with 40% chance of showers.

Low 13°C. High 18°C.

Sunday, 31 August Cloudy with 60% chance of showers.

Low 13°C. High 18°C.

Monday, 1 September A mix of sun and cloud.

Low 13°C. High 20°C.

Tuesday, 2 September Cloudy with 40% chance of showers.

Low 13°C. High 20°C.

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

Orientation Day kicks off NI College year on Sept. 2 On Tuesday, September 2, North Island College will roll out the welcome mat to host a full program of Orientation Day events for hundreds of students attending college at Comox Valley campus this fall.

An annual tradition at NIC, Orientation Day is often a student’s first introduction to the people, places, and resources on campus that will make their year a success.

Students can locate classrooms, meet instruc-

tors, visit the library and bookstore, and get started with confidence. Returning students will have the chance to reconnect with classmates and instructors, buy course materials, and find out what’s new at NIC. This year’s event will get underway at 9 am with a student welcome at the Stan Hagen Theatre on campus.

At 10 am, students will attend Program Introductions to meet their instructors and

learn more about their program area. From there, students will have time to tour the campus, apply for student cards, browse information from community vendors, and explore the many recreational activities set up on campus for the day. The afternoon continues with a complimentary outdoor barbeque lunch and a series of drop-in Student Success workshops, with topics ranging from the Survivor’s Guide to Essay Writing, Budgeting 101, Good Memory

= Good Grades, and many others.

All North Island College students enrolled for September 2014 are encouraged to take part and enjoy the day’s events held between 9 am to 4 pm. Schedules are posted online at www.nic. bc.ca/events.

North Island College’s first official day of classes will begin on Wednesday, September 3.

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

Oyster farmer jubilant as RD approves rezoning

By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff A 30-raft seafood operation proposed for Baynes Sound passed its biggest hurdle to date as the Comox Valley Regional District gave Shao Ping Kang the rezoning approval in he was seeking during its regularly scheduled meeting Aug. 26. It’s been a long and unfamiliar journey for Kang and his wife Jenny Xie, and after the amendment was officially adopted they left to celebrate.

“It’s not easy,” said Kang, beaming.

“We just tried as hard as we can. We just try what we believe in.”

The political process was a tougher slog than Kang had expected. As residents south of Courtenay got wind of the plan to expand from a beach oyster growing operation on Denman Island to deepwater aquaculture on a 2.01 hectare section of Crown land licensed tenure of water between Union Bay and Buckley Bay, angst increased.

At a public hearing over 80 per cent of formal comments opposed Kang’s bid.

The Herring Industry Advisory Board also came out against the proposal.

Rural Area A director Bruce Jolliffe, who represents residents in that part of the Comox Valley, referred the issue for further consideration to the electoral areas services committee meeting on Aug. 11.

At that stage the other two rural area directors, Edwin Grieve and Jim Gillis, officially expressed full support of Kang’s application.

The stage was set for Jolliffe’s last chance to sway one of these two peers to oppose the motion at the CVRD full board meeting, since only Area A, B and C directors could vote on the amendment.

“This applicant has asked to add industrial structures in an area fronting primarily residential land,” Jolliffe said. “This will change the environment the residents in that area have come to expect.”

If the application involved a parcel of land instead of a section of ocean, the regional district would never push

(L-R) Roberta Stevenson, executive director of the BC Shellfish Growers Association with Shao Ping Kang and Jenny Xie where thrilled with the regional district’s decision to allow them to farm oysters in Baynes Sound. through something so many residents had opposed, he contended.

“Not supporting this rezoning has been construed as not supporting the prime industry in my area - the shellfish industry,” he said. “This is not the case. On land commercial and industrial land use is supported in some parts of the community and not other parts. Yet, that community still supports commerce and industry, it just wants appropriate commerce and appropriate industry in the appropriate places.”

The shellfish industry supports about 600 workers in the Baynes Sound area, but many contend this is pushing the ecosystem past the point of sustainability.

Jolliffe referred to the failure to implement a 2002 Baynes Sound Coastal Plan - which he helped bring back into play at the last board meeting - and said it wasn’t right to barge forward with further aquaculture in the region without a more detailed explanation of what kind of development should be permitted.

“We don’t have such a tool yet for the future use of Baynes Sound,” he said. “It’s been considered in the past

Worst intersections (Continued from page 1) ICBC’s bodily injury claims totalled $1.9 billion in 2013 alone - up by $73 million from 2012 and by more than $500 million from just five years ago. The rising number and cost of injury claims is commonly the biggest single factor driving rates for all auto insurers across North America and beyond.

There are various factors contributing to the increasing number of injury claims, including the rapid adoption and use of personal electronic devices behind the wheel. Distracted driving is now the second leading cause of car crash fatalities in B.C., with an average of 88 people killed each

year, and the leading cause of rearend crashes which often result in injuries. ICBC, along with government and police, will be launching a new campaign to educate drivers on this issue in September.

There are also various factors contributing to the increasing cost of injury claims we pay out, including higher legal and medical costs.

The basic insurance rate application will ask BCUC to approve the increase effective November 1 on an interim basis while it reviews the full application.

The proposed 5.2 per cent increase will be in addition to a deferred 0.3 per cent increase directed by the BCUC in last year’s rate decision.

and never acted on.

“The goal of the Baynes Sound Coastal Plan that was agreed to at the last board meeting is to put in place a proper plan that will balance the needs of the residents, the shellfish industry and the sustainability of Baynes Sound’s rich aquatic environment.”

But Roberta Stevenson, executive director of the BC Shellfish Growers Association, took issue with Jolliffe’s supposed support for the aquatic ecosystem of Baynes Sound, noting he originally voted in favour of Kang’s

plan to grow thousands of oysters offshore, only bowing to Not In My Back Yard concerns mid-way through the process.

“At first he supported it,” she said.

“He got a lot of pressure.”

She said aquaculture is more environmentally friendly than traditional British Columbia industries.

“British Columbia has traditionally been filled with a working coast kind of atmosphere. In the old days we had logging, we had fishing, we had seine boats and trawlers,” said the paid lobbyist, in an interview.

“Nowadays one in every two pieces of seafood that you eat is farmed.

Rather than seeing a trawler, you’re more likely to see a shellfish farm because that’s our food today. We’re very proud that we’re not taking a resource out of the wild - we’re putting back. We’re seeding and sowing.”

Xie noted that in some ways oysters actually help cleanse the ecosystem.

“They’re filter feeders,” she said, adding she hopes the community will see a benefit in the impact their business will have.

“We understand the upland residents are against it. We can have the opportunity to hire more people to do work and everything. We believe what we’re applying is helping the environment and the economy too.”

Kang pledged to work hard to run a clean operation, adding he just wants to help people eat great seafood.

“We want people to get the best oysters,” he said. “It helps the community, too.”

Ultimately Jolliffe was unable to get the other rural directors to switch sides, and Kang’s bid was approved 2-1.

Stevenson said she hopes those who voiced opposition to the project will come alongside the young family as they develop their small business.

“The fact that they’re willing to invest in this kind of fragile environment with so much urbanization - ha’s off to them. Because it’s high risk,” she said.

“They’re willing to put their dollars on the line to chance it for you to eat that product. All we ask from the community is support.”

Courtenay Outdoor Pool is now closed for the season The Courtenay & District Memorial Outdoor Pool is now closed for the season as of Tuesday, August 26. The decision was made to close as one of the parts which provides water distribution to the pool cannot be repaired in house before the official pool closing date and must be sent away for servicing.

This means that unfortunately the end of season Hawaiian Wrap-Up Pool Party scheduled for this Friday, August 29 is cancelled.

There is some good news! The Courtenay Rotary Water Park in Lewis Park will remain open till mid-September. The Water Park is free and is open daily from 9:30 am - 7:30 pm.

See you next summer for more splashes at the Courtenay Outdoor Pool!

For more information, please call Courtenay Recreation at 250-338-5371 or 250-338-1000.

EXPIRY DATE CORRECTION

In our August 26, 2014 Buy Local Feature, the ad for Woofy's Raw Food Products had the wrong expiry date on it. The date should have been September 1st, 2014.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.

“Enjoy the Labor Day weekend and be safe in whatever you choose to do”

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Aug. 22th – 28th Cinema #4: “Doctor Who Season Premiere: Deep Breath” SPECIAL PERFORMANCE Saturday August 30th: 1:00 (2:35) Cinema #1: “If I Stay” PG: Coarse language: Nightly: 7:05 (9:00) & 9:35 (11:30). Friday to Monday Matinees: 12:50 (2:45) & 3:35 (5:30) Tuesday to Thursday Matinees: 3:50 (5:45) Cinema #2: “Guardians of the Galaxy 3D” PG: Violence. Nightly: 6:45 (9:00) & 9:30 (11:45).

Friday to Monday Matinees: 3D 12:40 (2:55) & 2D 3:25 (5:40). Tuesday to Thursday Matinees: 3D 3:30 (5:45) Cinema #3: “The 100 Foot Journey” G: Violence: coarse language. Nightly: 6:35 (8:50) & 9:20 (11:35).

Friday to Monday Matinees: 12:30 (2:45) & 3:15 (5:30). Tuesday to Thursday Matinees: 3:20 (5:35) Cinema #4: “November Man” 14A Violence; sexually suggestive scene. Nightly: 6:55 (8:55) & 9:25 (11:25) Friday to Monday Matinees: 12:55 (2:55) & 3:30 (5:30).

No 12:55 show on Saturday, August 30th. Tuesday to Thursday Matinees: 3:40 (5:40)

Box Office Hours for August 22th – September 4th Nightly: 6:00 pm – 9:45 pm. Friday to Sunday Matinees: 12:00 - 3:45 pm. Monday to Thursday Matinees: 3:00 – 4:00 pm

Show Times Aug 29 - SEPT 4, 2014 | Campbell River, Showcase The Expendables 3 (PG) Daily 3:30 & 6:45. Sat to Mon Matinees 12:45 & 3:30, NO 12:45 on Saturday Aug. 30th As Above, So Below (14A) Nightly 3:15, 7:05 & 9:155. Sat to Mon Matinees 1:05 & 3:15 The November Man (14A) Daily 3:40, 7:15 & 9:40. Sat to Mon Matinees 1:15 & 3:40 Guardians of the Galaxy 3D (PG) Daily 3:30, 6:50 & 9:30. Sat to Mon Matinees 12:50 Guardians of the Galaxy (PG) Fri to Thurs Matinees 3:30 Sin City: A Dame to Kill For 3D (14A) Nightly 9:30 If I Stay (PG) Daily 3:25, 7:00 & 9:25. Sat to Mon Matinees 1:00 & 3:25 Doctor Who (PG) Saturday Aug. 30th 12:55PM

Comox Valley Echo Friday, August 29, 2014 A3

News

Comox Valley teachers just hoping for a fair deal CDTA president says they don’t want to be out on picket line on Sept. 2

By Michael Briones Echo Staff It was hard for Comox teachers not to be there for their students when school ended abruptly last June 17, the day they decided to go on strike.

With school about to open on Sept. 2, the teachers are finding it even harder at the thought that they will not be there, as well, to welcome them.

The president of the Comox Valley District Teachers Association Nick Moore said, “it should be a happy note.”

Unfortunately, that’s not going to be the case. The scheduled start of classes is likely to be delayed as contract negotiations between the BC Teachers’ Federation and the BC Public School Employers’ Association remain unsettled.

It’s a tough situation, said Moore, who added they’re maintaining the strike because they want improved conditions for students in the classroom.

“We understand that this is going to be difficult for parents and certainly it’s difficult for us teachers to do this,” said Moore. “No teacher wants to be out on the picket line on September 2nd. But with no deal right now and a government that so far is unwilling to come to the table with something reasonable, we felt we had no choice but to start the year with a strike.”

Comox teachers, as well as those from across the province, came out to resume picketing on Wednesday.

Radio advertisements, as well as protests, petitions have been launched to ramp up pressure on the government to agree to mediated negotiations.

Moore said they’re pleased to see Education Minister Peter Fassbender initiating the move to meet with the

Teachers at Ecole Puntledge Park Elementary School were out picketing in force Wednesday.

BCTF and BCPSEA on Wednesday.

However, he does not see contracts to be settled before school opens.

“I am more hopeful that a settlement can be reached within the next week than I was at the beginning of this week,” said Moore.

The major issues that both sides are having to deal with are wages, benefits, class size and class composition. There were some compromises already made but they’re still far apart on reaching a deal.

Moore said if no settlement is reached soon, the local union will meet again next week to decide the direction they would take.

However, the strike is already taking its toll on some of its members, said Moore. They had members missing from the picket lines Wednesday because they had to take other employment.

“That’s our biggest concern right now, is taking care of our members,” said Moore. “Any sort of prolonged job action will have a serious negative financial impact on our members. We will really have to take that into consideration on our decision moving forward. A lot of our members are doing different jobs right

now, working at rec centres, doing landscaping. They have to do that to make ends meet.”

The local union members, said Moore, are focused on achieving one goal.

“We are united and strong in wanting a single purpose - that’s a fair negotiated deal at the table,” said Moore.Late Wednesday night, no deal was reached between teachers and the province following the short meeting between the two sides and Fassbender. However, Fassbender asked both sides to start mediation as soon as possible and to end strike and lockout activity for two weeks while mediation occurs.

He also asked both sides to put off dealing with the contentious issues arising from a B.C. Supreme Court decision around issues related to class size and composition, saying that will be dealt with later by the courts.

Iker emerged from the 90-minute meeting in Victoria and told reporters he hopes mediation could start Thursday, though it’s not clear whether teachers will be prepared to start classes next week

Superintendent advises parents to consult district website on situation

By Michael Briones Echo Staff The teachers were out in full force picketing the schools in Comox last Wednesday.

The BC Teachers’ Federation is hoping it would pressure the provincial government to settle the ongoing labour dispute that’s threatening to disrupt classes that are scheduled to start on Sept. 2.

School District 71 is bracing for the possible delay of schools opening as usual following Labour Day. Superintendent Sherry Elwood has sent a message to parents about the current situation. They are still hoping that both parties, with the help of mediator Vince Reddy, a negotiated settlement can be reach before Sept. 2.

At press time, the Minister of Education Peter Fassbender, BCTF president Jim Iker and the government’s negotiator Peter Cameron

met in Victoria on Wednesday. It’s unlikely a decision on school opening will be made soon.

Elwood presented parents with two possibilities if the teachers’ strike continues after this long weekend: “1. If there is a settlement, our expectation is that all public schools in School District No. 71 will open on Tuesday, September 2, 2014.

“In this scenario if schools do open on time, we anticipate that there will be disruptions in regular instruction as course scheduling for students and timetables, particularly at the secondary level, may need to be changed, however, we will work hard to maintain as much stability as possible in our schools. Our intention is that we return as quickly and smoothly as possible to normal school operations.

“2. If there is no settlement,

some or all public schools in the Comox Valley school district could be behind picket lines.

“In this scenario, a withdrawal of service due to strike action or a lockout will again impact the school district’s ability to provide educational services and supervise students.

“While schools will remain open we will not be able to offer our regular instruction as we do not anticipate that unionized staff will cross picket lines.

“It is my hope that the labour impasse is resolved quickly at the bargaining table and that our school district can soon return to normal operations and begin the school year on a positive note,” said Elwood.

Elwood is encouraging parents to consult the district website www.sd71.bc.ca - as well as follow the local media for any changes over the long weekend.

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A4 Comox Valley Echo Friday, August 29, 2014

Suspect sought in theft from Comox gas station

News POLICE BLOTTER

The RCMP are seeking a male person of interest in connection with the robbery that occurred at the Petro Canada service station in Comox on Aug. 22.

The owner called police when money went missing from the store’s office location at 1720 Anderton Road.

The police have released a photo of a man and anyone who knows this person or have information about this crime you are asked to call the Comox Valley RCMP at 250-338-1321 or if you wish to remain anonymous you can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Police looking for witness in car-bicycle accident Comox Valley RCMP are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying two men in a small two-door blue and silver car that was travelling on Cumberland Road on Aug. 26 at about 7:40 p.m.

The car was involved in an accident with a cyclist at the time. Police are attempting to ascertain what actually occurred.

A woman came to the cyclist’s aid at the time and police want to speak to her to find out what had occurred.

If you know this person or are this person please call Cst. A. Turner at the Comox Valley RCMP at 250-3381321.

Gun brandished in attempted robbery The Comox Valley RCMP arrested a young man for attempted robbery

in the Cumberland area.

The suspect was brandishing a weapon when the crime occurred in the early morning on of Aug. 24 in Dunsmuir Avenue near Third Street.

The weapon, however, ended up to be an imitation handgun. It was located shortly after near the scene.

Police learned that there was a second male involved and are now actively looking for him.

Police are asking for the public’s assistance.

If you know his identity or have knowledge of this crime you are asked to call the Comox Valley RCMP at 250-338-1321 or if you wish to remain anonymous you are asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Campfire ban rescinded through Coastal region

By Michael Briones Echo Staff Good news for those who love to rough it outdoors. The campfire ban has been lifted.

As of noon Thursday, campfires are once again permitted throughout the Coastal Fire Centre’s jurisdiction. That includes the Comox Valley area.

Information officer Marg Drysdale said the ban was rescinded due to cooler weather in the forecast, which decreases wildfire risk in the region.

Those planning to go camping during this Labour Day weekend will be able to enjoy this activity.

The following activities will now be allowed: • Campfires, as defined by the Wildfire Regulation • Open fires in an outdoor stove However, the public is reminded that campfires must not be larger than a half-metre high by a half-metre wide.

Anyone who lights a campfire must have a hand tool, such as a shovel, or at least eight litres of water available to fully extinguish it.

Never leave a campfire unattended and make sure that the ashes are completely cold to the touch before leaving

the area for any length of time.

Small backyard burning piles (Category 2 fires) remain prohibited within the Coastal Fire Centre, except in Haida Gwaii and the area known as the “fog zone,” a two- kilometre-wide strip along the outer coast of Vancouver Island, stretching from Owen Point (near Port Renfrew) north to the tip of Vancouver Island and around to the boundary of the District of Port Hardy.

This strip extends inland two kilometres from the high-tide point.

Category 2 fires include: • The burning of any material in a pile larger than a half-metre high by a half-metre wide, up to two metres high by three metres wide • The burning of stubble or grass covering an area up to 0.2 hectares • Fireworks, sky lanterns and burning barrels of any size and description Category 3 open fires also remain prohibited throughout the Coastal Fire Centre’s jurisdiction.

Anyone found in violation of an open burning prohibition may be issued a ticket of up to $345 or, if convicted in court, may be fined up to $100,000 and sentenced to one year in jail.

Comox Valley RCMP responded to the following incidents between Aug. 19 and 25: Police responded to a two vehicle collision at the intersection of Fitzgerald Avenue and 19th street in Courtenay on August 20th. The investigation revealed that a vehicle travelling east on 19th street failed to stop at the stop sign and as a result ran into a vehicle driving north on Fitzgerald avenue.

The driver of the east-bound vehicle was charged under the motor vehicle act. (2014-10394) On August 20 a report of a theft of an outboard motor was taken by police. The boat had been parked on a property on the 1500 block of Burgess Road in Courtenay. The stolen motor is a 6 horsepower 4 stroke Yamaha engine and is valued at $5,000. (2014 - 10403) On August 21st police received information of a vehicle having a window smashed and its ignition tampered with while parked at the owner’s residence on the 3300 block of Egremont Road in Cumberland. The owner believed this occurred on Sunday August 17. (2014-10450) The Comox Valley RCMP is investigating a collision involving a pickup truck and a cyclist on Ryan road in Courtenay. The collision was reported to police on August 21st at 8:17 PM. Emergency services along with provincial ambulance attended the scene for an unconscious and unresponsive 28-year-old male cyclist. Witnesses at the scene report that the cyclist had driven through a red light and had run into a pickup truck that was proceeding through the intersection on a Green light. The RCMP traffic reconstructionist attended the scene as well. The male cyclist was transported to St. Joseph’s hospital but was later airlifted to a Victoria area hospital due to his condition. (201410463) On August 22nd police responded to a report of a theft of money from the Petro Canada gas station located at 1720 Anderton Road in Comox. It is reported that an unknown culprit entered the unlocked store business office and stole a sum of cash from the desk. (2014-10492) A report of a break, enter and theft was reported by the homeowners of a residence on the 4800 block of Kilmarnock Drive in Royston. The culprit entered the residence somewhere around the 31st of July and made off with jewellery, a laptop computer and personal documentation adding up to about $7000. (2014-10547) On August 23rd police received information of an accident that had occurred on August 21st in the Panorama Crescent area of Courtenay. The information received was that a young man had been run over by a pickup truck and is now in an ICU unit of a Victoria hospital with numerous injuries.

This investigation is continuing. (2014-10558) The Comox Valley RCMP entered into an investigation of threats with a weapon and attempted robbery on August 24th in the Cumberland area. It was reported that a man brandished a knife and later another man brandished what was believed to be an Airsoft handgun at two other males. One of the suspects was located and arrested and the other is being sought. This investigation is continuing.( 2014 - 10606) On August 24th at 02:21 AM police responded to a report of a man who had a gunshot wound.

The man was located on Cumberland road and Union road in Cumberland. The police are asking for anyone who has information about this incident to call the Comox Valley RCMP at 250-3381321 or if you wish to remain anonymous to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. (2014-10609) The Comox Valley RCMP received a report of a stolen vehicle on August 25th from the registered owner. The owner reports that the car was just purchased and was parked on the 1300 block of Krebs Crescent in Courtenay. The vehicle is a 1993 black colored Honda Civic hatchback. (201410657) Police responded to a report of a discharge of a firearm in a residence on August 25th on the 200 block of Mitchell Place in Courtenay. The investigation revealed that the homeowner was manipulating the long gun and a live round accidentally went off and went through the wall into the neighbour’s residence. The man responsible was arrested and charged with careless use of a firearm and will appear in court at a later date. (2014-10682)

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

Richard Martin HUMPHREYS

Douglas Kenneth WATERFIELD DOB: 1995-08-20 170 cms, 59 kgs, Brown hair, Brown eyes Warrants: Breach of Undertaking X4 Break and enter with intent Breach of recognizance Comox Valley file 2014-9966 2014-9691

DOB: 1976-02-02 183 cms, 91 kgs, Brown hair, Brown eyes Warrants: Breach of probation

www.comoxvalleycrimestoppers.bc.ca

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Comox Valley Echo Friday, August 29, 2014 A5

News HMCS Quadra staff and cadets pitch in for a great local cause

Water restrictions to be in effect during fall maintenance of BC Hydro generating station The Comox Valley Regional District will be supplying water to consumers when BC Hdyro performs fall maintenance on the Puntledge River generating station.

The water supply will be done through standby pumping stations starting Sept. 16 at 9 a.m. until Sept. 25 at 4 p.m.

This would mean stage three water restrictions will be in effect to maintain enough water in the system for household and fire fighting needs. Residents are advised to use water only when completely necessary.

During stage three the following activities are prohibited: • Watering lawns (with manual or automatic sprinklers) or pressure washing driveways or boulevards at any time_o Filling or adding water to a hot tub or garden pond at any time • Washing a vehicle or a boat at any time (other than in a commercial car wash or car dealership) The restriction applied to everyone living in the Town of Comox, the City of Courtenay and the Arden, Comox Valley, England Road, Marsden/Camco, and Greaves Crescent water local service areas. All of these areas are served by the Comox Valley water system.

Health regulations require that consumer and business users be aware that water might be turbid (cloudy) if heavy rains occur.

There may be slight discolouration during and after this period.

Residents living near the pump station can expect some noise from the engines while water is being pumped from the river. The CVRD apologizes to residents who may be affected.

For more information on the current restrictions including the three stage bylaw, visit www. comoxvalleyrd.ca/restrictions.

Navy items.

“As the saying goes: ‘An old sailor’s junk is another Sea Cadets treasure” said the salty Chief.

These auctions alone have brought in thousands of dollars in YANA donations over the past two summers.

Royal Canadian Sea Cadets is a national youth program sponsored by the Department of National Defence and the Navy League of Canada.

The program is offered to all youth in Canada aged 12-18 and is provided at zero cost to families.

Adults interested in volunteering or youth interested in joining, are encouraged to contact RCSCC PORT AUGUSTA’s Commanding Officer LcDR Steve Cowan at 189sea@cadets.gc.ca

Commanding Officer of HMCS QUADRA, Commander Mike McCormick (right) and Coxswain, Chief Petty Officer Jennifer Read (Left) present Hugh Mackinnon from YANA, their 14th Annual Donation.

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After 8 weeks of long hours, intensive training, life lessons, and new friendships, the cadets and officers aboard Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Quadra still had time to help out the YANA Organisation with their 14th annual YANA Cheque presentation.

Through the months of July and August they managed to raise over $3,100 for the charitable cause, putting their 14 summer total to over $25,000!

HMCS Quadra accomplishes this by a variety of events such as “YANA Thursdays” where the staff can make a donation in order to wear civilian clothing for the day.

Chief Petty Officer Darrell MacKay selflessly donates numerous items to the ship and in turn, hosts a “Chief’s Auction” where the staff can bid for these prized

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A letter of application indicating the area of study and including references and copies of current grades must be received by the undersigned by 4:00 pm Monday, September 15, 2014

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A6 Comox Valley Echo Friday, August 29, 2014

News

People

before Profit

Construction begins on the Rotary Trail Phase Four

Work begins on next phase of Rotary Trail in Courtenay The popular Rotary Trail along the railway corridor in West Courtenay is getting another extension.

The fourth phase of the Rotary Trail connecting 21st to 26th Streets is now under construction, with expected completion in mid-October.

The Rotary Trail is a hard-surface gravel “rail with trail” beside the railroad tracks, with the first three phases extending from 5th to 21st Streets in Courtenay. This level, accessible walkway is popular with walkers, joggers, and cyclists. Pedestriancontrolled signals between trail sections make street crossings safer and more convenient.

The fourth phase will be largely constructed within Bill Moore Park, both to preserve the vegetation next to the rail corridor, and to encourage park use. To the south of the park, the trail will re-connect with the rail corridor and lead to 26th Street.

Randy Wiwchar, the City’s director of community services, said the trail is improving transportation options in Courtenay’s west side. “We’re getting closer to our longterm goal, which is to have this trail go right through to the south end of Courtenay,”

said Wiwchar. “This is going to make commuting on foot or by bike that much easier.”

Residents around the rail corridor from 21st to 26th streets can expect some construction noise during the day.

The project manager will ensure that it falls within allowable times. The budgeted cost of the fourth phase of the Rotary Trail is $150,000.

The Rotary Trail is a partnership between the City of Courtenay, Courtenay Rotary and the Island Corridor Foundation.

Ron Perrin, president of Courtenay Rotary, said the club is pleased with the progress made to date. “We are proud to be part of the ongoing development of the Rotary Trail,” he commented. “When complete, this trail will be a valuable asset for the residents of the Comox Valley” The Island Corridor Foundation is actively working with other local governments and regional districts along the Vancouver Island Rail Corridor to develop similar projects, with a long-term vision of a trail all the way from Courtenay to Victoria.

For more information on the Rotary Trail please email railwithtrail@courtenay.ca, visit www.courtenay.ca or call 250-3344441.

MEDICARE COVERS EVERYBODY. AND EVERYBODY BENEFITS. But Medicare opponents are heading to court to try and dismantle Canada’s public health care system.

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News

Comox Valley Echo Friday, August 29, 2014 A7

Cumberland crime coincidence Police: Sunday fake gun attempted robbery unrelated to shooting

By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff In some ways the details of both incidents are disturbingly similar. Not long after midnight in the early hours of Sunday Aug. 24 a gun is pulled within Cumberland’s boundaries and police race to the scene to question the victims and try to track down those responsible.

But in key ways the two situations - one an attempted robbery with a fake handgun, the other an actual shooting of an uncooperative victim - are completely different.

While these events happened just a few streets away from each other around the same time, police don’t believe the two are connected.

“Sometimes these things come in twos and threes,” said Comox Valley RCMP spokesperson Don Sinclair. “Generally it’s fairly quiet.”

At 1 a.m. police received a call that someone with a weapon had been harassing two adult Cumberlanders, asking for drugs, on Dunsmuir Avenue.

They gave chase and he took off, but that didn’t put an end to it.

“The same guy shows up and he’s got a friend with him,” Sinclair said, adding a new request for drugs was made, this time with the help of what looked like a 9 mm pistol. “What appeared to be a handgun was brandished at them.”

A police dog attended and police apprehended a 16-yearold 13 minutes after the initial call came in.

“An imitation handgun was located a short distance away,” he noted, adding the other person they were hunting got away.

Police say an incident involving a real firearm could have happened at exactly the same time at the Chinese and Japanese cemeteries.

The 27-year-old Courtenay man, who was shot in the hip, struggled to a traffic island near the on-ramp to the Inland Island Highway, where a woman driving into Cumberland found him at about 2:20 a.m.

But while police characterize the first incident as random, in the second case the victim and the perpetrator seem to have a relationship.

Cpl. Jason Jenkins, with the general investigation services department at the Comox Valley detachment, wouldn’t speculate on whether the shooting was gang-related, but he said Cumberland residents shouldn’t be too worried.

“I’m comfortable in saying that it was a targeted shooting and the general public is not in danger because of it,” he said. “We’ve covered off what we need to and we just need to go through the investigation now.”

Police didn’t find any drugs on the body of the victim, but he’s not talking.

“Who goes and meets somebody in an area in the dark in the middle of the night? You know what I mean?” Sinclair said. “It’s like anything. Would you go walk in the middle of the cemetery at 1 in the morning? Why would you do that?”

The victim arrived at St. Joseph’s General Hospital at 2:52 a.m. An air ambulance was called for the man who was in the trauma room, but was ultimately cancelled, according to a witness, who also said the man had been shot two or three times.

And while the earlier incident - the apparent attempted robbery - may seem less serious on its face, it could very well have escalated quickly.

A fake-gun crime could have turned into a real shooting with a few wrong turns, Sinclair noted, stressing carrying an imitation firearm is more dangerous than the perpetrator probably realizes.

“What happens if we come upon the scene and they turn and point it at us?” he asked hypothetically. “They can get shot very easily.”

Cpl. Spencer Pearson (in blue) experiences his first time pitching in for muscular dystrophy through 19 Wing.

19 WING FIREFIGHTERS WATER DOWN MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY

By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff The rubber boots clinked with change as the 75 foot ladder truck shot out a shower of water to soak vehicles before men rushed in with soapy sponges to lather them up. The Aug. 20 mid-day car wash at the Canex parking lot was a part of a fundraising effort through the fire department at 19 Wing Comox meant to work towards putting a stop to a serious disease.

“We are raising money for muscular dystrophy,” said Cpl. Dusty Kennedy, a department member who helped organize the boot drive and car wash. “We get people to donate change, bills - whatever they want into the boot.”

It’s great to get out from behind the base’s robust fence line to interact with the community, he said, and tackles an important issue.

“Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disease,” he said. “Obviously it affects your neurological functions - so you start to lose control of your body.”

The degenerative disease has a profound effect on muscles and bodily functions for those afflicted.

“It makes people feel good that we’re out here helping out,” he said of the firefighter response to the initiative. “It’s not too hot, not too cold, with a little bit of a breeze to keep us cool”.

The group of diseases that falls under the “muscular dystrophy” label wear down the musculoskeletal system and impedes locomotion.

Over $1,500 had already been raised through a collection effort among 19 Wing workers heading to their jobs early in the morning. The car wash just added more money on top.

“That’s truly impressive,” said Lt. Col. Pierre Theriault. “We picked a nice day for it.”

Firefighters themselves seemed to be having a blast, and an excited Cpl. Peter Kearley stood under the ladder truck shower with a big smile on his face after officially being shifted to the officer cadet rank during the event, as he will be going on to study engineering.

“It’s great - fun in the sun,” said Cpl. Spencer Pearson, experiencing his first time pitching in for muscular dystrophy through the department. “We’re devoting a full day to this pretty much. We’ve been at it since 6:00.”

Pearson says he’s glad to help make a difference.

“People came out and donated money for a good cause and got their car cleaned,” he said.

Peter Kearley stood under a shower from the ladder truck during a muscular dystrophy car wash, as a newly named officer cadet.

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News

Special weekend appearances by one local, two visiting authors Everyone loves a story.

Three Canadian novelists will be in the Comox Valley over the Labour Day weekend.

On Friday evening August 29th, Lawrence Verigin and Randy Kaneen will join local writer Colin Mallard between 7pm-9pm, at “Sweet Surprises, gluten free bakery and Cafe,” across Cliffe Ave from Zocalos On Saturday and Sunday Kaneen, Verigin and Mallard will be at Kitty Coleman Artisans Festival in the Artists Glade between 10am-5pm.

The three authors use stories to engage readers in a discussion of relevant topics of concern to us all.

Verigin’s novel Dark Seed is a thriller, which recently made the Amazon top 100 best seller list of “Canadian Spy Thrillers.” It is the story of a well meaning scientist, Dr. Carl Elles, a pioneer in genetically modified organism engineering.

Now retired, he wants to organize decades’ worth of his work into a memoir and come clean about how research was modified to suit the desire of his last employer. And so it begins.

Most of us have faith that the food we eat is safe, but what if the company altering the genes for the seeds used in our foods has ulterior motives? Is corporate greed, control of the media and people, a harbinger of something more sinister, something of greater importance than producing nutritious food? Advances in science are not always used for good.

A reviewer said “Even if you take away the cat and mouse game that spans international borders, even if you take away the non-stop feeling of uncertainty in whom you can and cannot trust. [The]...story will leave you questioning...what you thought you knew about our food chain...a veritable parfait of treasures, that will leave you hanging on your seat

Guest authors, l. to r., Lawrence Verigin, Randy Kaneen and Colin Mallard wondering what the next leg in the journey will bring. But be warned, if you give yourself to this book, you will walk away a changed person.”

Another reviewer said “Verigin will keep you on the edge of your seat, late into the night. When, bleary eyed, you head out for the day, you’ll find yourself avoiding certain foods like the plague.”

Lawrence Verigin’s goal is to entertain readers while delving into socially relevant subjects. He does this very well.

Kaneen’s novel, In Search of Sticks, was a finalist in the 2013 Literary Fiction category of the Somerset Awards, which recognize emerging new talent and outstanding works in Contemporary, Mainstream, and Literary Fiction.

In Search of Sticks is a book of hope. Hope that emerges from the disease and poverty of those trapped

in the geography of violence. The setting is Canada and an imaginary third world country in Africa. Here we find major players on the world stage-with a striking resemblance to Canadian mining companies-engaged in “resource extraction;” evidently with little consideration for the people whose homes and land is devastated by their actions Kaneen has painted a deeply moving portrait both disturbing and hopeful. James, the Canadian protagonist in the novel, finds himself wrestling with questions we must ask ourselves, questions which only the reader can answer. What can we do, what responsibility do we bear for the suffering of others? Is our comfort and affluence built on the backs of the poor in places we’ve never heard of? Despite Kaneen’s vivid portrait we become aware of the victories, the small tales, the

sheer numbers of those who do not sell their souls to greed.

“A gem!” is how one reviewer put it. “Kaneen tells two distinct stories...one set in Africa and the other in North America. Prepare to be inspired by James who undergoes a dramatic personal transformation as he pursues his passionate quest [for] social change. Fascinating too are the stories of Rose and Hope, young African women who must cope with horrific conditions...almost Biblical in their scope and power. Kaneen deftly weaves his stories into a mesmerizing tale that brings together two vastly different worlds.”

Mallard’s novel, Stillpoint, was a finalist in the 2013 Next Generation Indie Book Awards for general fiction over 80,000 words. It has climbed to 8th out of 183 in the Goodreads list of “Books on the Israel Palestine Conflict.”

Stillpoint enables readers to understand the roots of the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians.

Why would Hamas send rockets into Israel, for instance, knowing that for every Israeli killed thirty Palestinians will die?-most of them women and children. What is our part in this conflict and what can we do about it? Although much of the novel takes place in Israel, Lebanon and Gaza the context is global. Stillpoint is a love story to the great mystery of life. It takes the reader into another world, one with which we are all intimately familiar-our nature as human beings.

Drawing upon years of study in Eastern Philosophy Mallard helps us see ourselves and our role in the current conflict. Although it appears to be geographical it turns out to be deeply personal. The story itself suggests another way of being-grounded in the principle of softness. What if we saw events through the lens of truth, the facts, whatever they are, instead of our dependance on belief?

Beliefs are not the truth, they’re just beliefs!

One reviewer said of Stillpoint, [It} is incredibly well researched, well executed, and the reader gains an in-depth understanding of a most complex situation almost without realizing it.” Another reviewer said: “I picked up this book not really knowing much about the conflict between the Jews and the Palestinians and what was really going on in Israel. It surprised me by how easy it was to get drawn into the story and how as a reader I understood what was going on very quickly.”

Mallard’s two previous non fiction books focus on the wisdom of Taoism, Zen and Advaita Vedanta.

These books, Understanding, and Something to Ponder, have won seven awards between them.

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Comox Valley Echo Friday, August 29, 2014 A9

News

Sea Breeze Lodge bounces back from fire setback said that aside from excellent food they also loved the service.

A temporary kitchen was also built and enclosed in the building is a food truck that is being used for cooking and other prep work for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

On May 25, the service entry of the main building caught fire while staff was serving 30 guests. The dry conditions caused the fire to spread quickly and before fire crews arrive, the blaze had engulfed he building that was built in 1932.

Investigation revealed that the cause of the fire was from an electrical short from the battery charger of a golf cart, said Stephen.

Once the summer season is over, Stephen said they plan to rebuild starting with the dining room in September. They will keep the existing makeshift kitchen and aim to build a new one next year.

“We’re doing it one at a time,” said Bishop. “It’s a lot of work to do in a short period of time.”

The resort’s cabins weren’t affected by the fire.

Makeshift facilities earn rave reviews from guests

By Michael Briones Echo Staff The Sea Breeze Lodge has risen from the ashes.

After suffering a devastating fire in May that burned down its main building, the iconic resort on Hornby Island has made a remarkable comeback.

Owners Stephen and Suzie Bishop didn’t allow the unfortunate experience to keep them down. They remained strong and confident.

They were not alone.

Their staff, friends, good neighbours and volunteers rallied behind them and helped bring the lodge back to life, just in time for the busy summer period.

“It was a quick turnaround,” said Stephen. “It took seven days to clear the site and then 21 days later, we had our first wedding. You’ve got to be resilient. You have to make your mind up, you’re gonna do it and we said we were, and we did it right away.”

The burnt down building has not been replaced. However, they’ve turned the place into a unique type of setting that had some of their clients raving about it.

“People were pretty nervous when they heard about the fire but after the whole event was over, they were so delighted,” said Bishop.

A gigantic deck was built on the site of the former building. A huge marquee white tent now covers the deck. It is majestic to view as you enter the lodge. It is complemented by the panoramic view of the sea behind it. It now serves as the lodge’s new dining room.

“It looks pretty impressive,” said Bishop. “It’s pretty unique and people are loving it. The site looks gorgeous and it looks festive for a wedding every night.”

Some people who have stayed and had dinner at the lodge described the new setting in the lodge’s facebook page as “beautiful and inviting.” One

The new dining pavilion features spectacular views

New village Protective Services Bylaw fired up and ready to go

By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff Mayor Leslie Baird remembers in the old days how a gentleman’s agreement was all it took to make sure things got done the Cumberland way. But times have changed and now the Village has to make sure it’s protected from legal and financial woes through careful language built into its municipal regulations, including the recently passed Fire Protection Services and Regulation Bylaw.

“A handshake in the past was good,” she said. “The rules are changing.”

Staff explained that the new fire services bylaw not only allows the Village to recoup extraordinary costs from landowners for things like extensive use of foam or the need to hire private security companies, but also empowers Village employees to prevent fires within the community.

“If someone tries to stop me from doing something there are fines we can apply,” said fire chief Mike Williamson. “It gives us permission to go on people’s property.”

The concept behind the new rules, largely crafted by Village staffer Rachel Parker, boils down to giving all residents of Cumberland the same type of fire protection across the board.

But because the actual boundaries of the community meander far and wide through private managed forest land this meant tweaking the way in which fire services would be supplied and billed under the bylaw.

“You get what we have,” Williamson said.

“Anything more you might be charged for it.”

There are three different categories of fire protection. The first covers regular residents within the downtown regions who get full fire protection. The second covers high-risk businesses, who would get partial protection.

The third covers private managed forest land and would have to shell out if water bombers or heavy equipment was brought in to fight a fire.

Coun. Gwyn Sproule agreed that the Village was vulnerable prior to the passing of fourth and final reading at the regular council meeting Aug. 11.

“It does protect us,” she said. “We can’t take

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on the full scale of fighting. We can’t put in unlimited time on it.”

The idea is that the Village would handle initial fire suppression but that long-term fights would have to be paid for by the landowner.

She noted that the current council has been working hard to improve fire protection in the Village, setting aside a significant chunk of money to site and construct a new fire department.

The big problem with the current fire hall is

that it isn’t structurally up to standard to protect against an earthquake - a disaster when fire services would be desperately needed.

“The trucks would fall into the basement if there was an earthquake,” she said. “People don’t understand how critical it is.”

It won’t be long before the new location will be revealed, but officials say the new hall will be located on the eastern edge of the Village so trucks can avoid racing through the downtown core along Dunsmuir Avenue.

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A10 Comox Valley Echo Friday, August 29, 2014

Opinions ECHO

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

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

Canadian Publications Mail Agreement Number #0661538

Letters

Tax is not a four-letter word Roderick Bell-Irving knows little about homelessness and acknowledges this.

He knows even less about taxes if his basic research source is the right-wing think tank Fraser institute. Thanks to the taxes we have paid, we spend less on food, clothing, shelter and health care than we otherwise would.

Taxes also pay for things like streets, roads, sewer, water, police and fire services and ambulances. Which of these does Mr. Bell-Irving want to give up? Tax is not a four-letter word.

It is sad that Mr. Irving uses a flawed report to base his argument for a different way of looking at taxes and services. Oliver Wendell Holmes said, “taxes are what we pay for civilized society.” Mr. Bell-Irving would have us return to 19th century kind of society with his reliance on the Fraser Institute.

Tax is not a four-letter word, and I am proud to be able to pay taxes because I have received services otherwise denied me. Medicare paid for my recent surgery. Without Medicare, I would have gone without and soon be dead.

Cliff Boldt Courtenay

SUPPORTING NEW MICRO BREWERY I am writing with great pleasure to support the establishment of the new micro brewery, Gladstone Brewing Co, in downtown Courtenay. I have high hopes that small and medium sized businesses, like Daniel and Alexandra’s, will help strengthen downtown Courtenay’s appeal and help grow the City of Courtenay’s overall economic diversity. I am not surprised to hear that the brewery’s entrepreneurs “love the culture” and “ love the outdoors” and look forward to welcoming more investors for whom our culture and connection to the outdoors is revered.

Best of Luck, David Frisch Courtenay

MACK LAING PROJECT WONDERFUL The Mack Laing House Project should go ahead.

What a wonderful opportunity to make this historical Comox home into a Nature Centre for all to learn more about our natural environment. It would be wonderful to have the Comox Valley Naturalists involved as well as other organizations to provide a Nature House, Nature Pre- school and other learning possibilities.

Susan Denny Courtenay

Letters to the Editor In response to Maureen Clarke’s letter called: “Students’ future is forgotten”.

I applaud Ms. Clarke for taking the time and energy to research the current dispute between the teachers and the government.

However, I believe there is some misinformation in her letter.

The number of school days in the school year is set by the government, not by teachers. At the request of teachers, Pro-D days were added onto the regular school year. The reason for doing this was in order for teachers to receive professional training during the school year. New learning techniques could then be put into practice in the classroom immediately. If the Pro-D days were not scattered throughout the school year they would be added onto the beginning or end of it. Ms. Clarke would still be responsible for her children on those days. The required number of days

and minutes “in session” set by the government must be met and are made up in other ways when teachers have time without students in class (i.e. by adding extra minutes onto the length of the school day).

It should be made clear to the general public that teachers’ pensions ARE NOT funded directly by tax payers. Teachers have a pension deduction from their pay while teaching. Yes, the School Board also contributes to that fund with tax payers’ money. About 80% of a retired teachers’ pension is funded by investments made with contributions to the Teachers’ Pension fund over a teacher’s career and the rest is funded by annual contributions from active teachers. No tax payers’ money funds a retired teacher’s pension check. Retired teachers pour about 1 billion dollars into the BC economy each year, most of it spent at the local level.

The government claims it is short of money to fund learning conditions and class composition in public schools. The Supreme Courts of BC and of Canada have agreed teachers ought to be able to negotiate these conditions - twice. Tax payers money has been spent by the government to appeal the decision - twice. The government is appealing yet again. Is our tax system fair? Do corporations and the very wealthy pay their fair share? Where do the largest contributions to political parties come from? Has the government lowered taxes at the expense of services that fair-minded citizens expect it to support?

Taxes=Services. I encourage Ms. Clarke to continue her research by finding out why funds are short and how the situation could be remedied fairly.

Zoë Levitsky Comox

More Beefs and Bouquets LET’S FIX COMOX. The golf course which is not used very much should be a park so everyone can enjoy it. Second there should be a beach walk from The Goose Spit to the 17th Street Bridge, this would get a lot of people out and increased foot traffic would increase business.

Also the new office buiding that is sitting empty on Church and Beaufort could be used as city hall and sell city hall for a highrise. Lastly demolish the Comox mall and approve it for highrise mixed business and condos and have street side businesses on the sidewalks facing the park. Either we grow up or out.

MOTORISTS ARE REGULATED, requiring a licence and insurance. Privileges that can be revoked - makes sense with tons of metal moving down the road. Cyclists, Scooter drivers, mopeds, pedestrians are all self regulated - they need to look after themselves. Police have enough of a challenge with motorists distracted by electronic devices, drugs and alcohol and the need for speed. So, the helmet law is not enforced because police are too busy and it is in the interest of the cycling /scooter/pedestrian community to police themselves. Two abreast, blowing red lights and stop signs, daily? Many cyclists without a helmet? Self-regulation?

IT WAS INTERESTING to read a recent column in a Vancouver newspaper which discussed a report by the Conference Board of Canada which stated that it found that the average weekly salary of a B.C. teacher was just slightly higher than the national average and the funding per student in B.C. is above the national average.

Those numbers were confirmed as correct by the vice president of the B.C. Teachers Federation.

However in reference to the funding per student he said that it included funding to private schools and secondary education institutions not just public schools, but offered no explanation why they thought these sectors should not be considered as part of the total education system.

I think this should give taxpayers some pause to think if they should believe anything that comes out of the mouths of teachers union representatives who have long contended that in both cases B.C was well below the national averages. I am afraid that there will be a lot of doubt in my mind as to the credibility of any statement coming from the union in the future.

IF BC FERRIES was a private company, there would be a Bouquet, and maybe, a bonus from shareholders for the $30.6 millions in first quarter “profits”. However this is a taxpayers funded essential public service, crown corporation, which provides good, but expensive service.

There is no “profit” here and no justification for half million dollar executive salaries and executive bonuses funded by BC taxpayers. Effective, safe, efficient operation of the fleet is the job of the BC Ferries Management - no more bonuses, please, Premier Clark.

A FOLLOW-UP to last week’s misuse of “handicap parking permits.” Today August 23, my wife and I went to the farmers market, in

Courtenay. There were staff directing the public parking, but not the handicap parking lot, therefore about 50% of cars parked there, didn’t display a permit, although there’s 12” X 12” sign displaying a handicap icon at the entrance. On our way home, I mentioned this to some people, and a lady in the party, said, that she didn’t see it! I wonder how many blind people drive in the Valley, besides the illiterate.

A BOUQUET to Philip Round on his retirement from the Comox Valley Echo. Objective, balanced, human, reporting on local government policies and politics. How else would the public learn of decisions that will effect us - certainly not from current elected representatives who rarely communicate with constituents -and more and more often meet in secret “in camera”. We will miss your very good work Mr. Round, and wish you an enjoyable retirement!

I HAVE A HUGE BEEF with the city of Courtenay regarding water conservation. When rivers and lakes are at an all time low I conserve water. I use only what I need for my gardens while my lawns are burnt brown. You will not see me washing my driveway or vehicle during the dry season unlike other residents of the city.

Why bother with water restrictions when there is no enforcement. The city needs to pass out fines including to themselves because they are the worse law breakers. The city tells us when we can water our gardens and lawns but when it comes to their properties they have no restrictions. My biggest beef is when it rains a couple of days in a row or just one day, the city continues to use their water sprinklers which is totally unnecessary, such as Woodcote Park. Every day I drive by the park and see the sprinklers on.

That’s the pot calling the kettle black. Before they tell us what to do, they should follow the rules they set out for the tax payers. I pay $2400 a year in property taxes. I live in the city limits with no sewer, lights, sidewalk or bus route but I do have city water. I have a hard time following the water restriction rules on designated days when the city does whatever they want....

Harris and the Comox Valley Hospice society.

Finally thanks to the overall Comox Valley community who embraced Murdo during his final three years here.

IT’S UNFORTUNATE the cyclist, riding though a red light, at an estimated 60 kph, not wearing a helmet, collided with a vehicle. We wish the cyclist and the innocent motorist a speedy recovery. Far too many cyclists think they are above the common sense laws of the road.

Riding 2 or 3 abreast, blowing stop signs and red lights. The helmet law is a joke to too many cyclists. It’s no joke to those who are involved in a serious injury or fatality.

A GIANT BOUQUET of summer flowers to Barb Hoskins who jumped in and administered the Heimlich maneuver to a choking diner! Your quick actions were greatly appreciated!

GOSH HOW I MISS Torry and Sons prompt, efficient and friendly customer service!

Regardless of how it all turned out, for years, you could call them, have some professional, friendly and courteous person answer the phone, and within a day or two, your plumbing issue was resolved. Nowadays not so! We called 4.... yes 4 different companies last Monday and only 1, yes 1, actually answered the telephone. We were shocked that after leaving messages with the other 3 “reputable” companies, not one called us back. Sure must be nice to be so busy that you don’t have to worry about returning messages. Thank you to Terra Nova Plumbing for your courteous, friendly and prompt service!

We will now only call one company and definitely pass your name along to others.

HUGE SHOUT OUT to Sam on Royston Road for helping us out on Monday with our little boat/trailer mishap. We had just begun to try to figure out what we were going to do, when you pulled over and just started doing. Your help was appreciated more than you know and we wish we had gotten more info about you so that we could drop off a little thank you. We did make it home safely. Thank you again!

SMALL BOUQUET to Courtenay Council for raising traffic and dirty road concerns during construction of the new hospital. No difficult questions for Mr. Sparrow on the operation of the P3 hospital for the next 30 years. No questions on why we do not have any say, when we property owners are investing $240 million in these privately designed and built, privately operated P3 hospitals. This is yet another indicator that this Council is out of touch. Vote for change in November.

THE P3 JUBILEE HOSPITAL in Victoria has undergone $14.5 million in concrete repairs required to correct cracks - substandard design or construction. Who will ensure that the North Island hospitals will not have the same problem with the Private Designer/Builder, Tandem Health? It seems we had better results with Government-supervised projects. Local property owners have a $240 million stake in these buildings, but apparently no say.

HEARTFELT THANKS and big bouquets to the caregivers for Murdo MacKenzie who allowed him to live independently at home until the day he died at the age of 92. The Omnicare team was caring, reliable and often went above the call of duty - you have our deepest gratitude.

Corrie Albrecht, your compassion, care and companionship for Murdo is greatly appreciated. We also send our thanks to Debby Flowers, Dr. Brad

BEEF TO CITY PLANNERS who want to add a third bridge at 11th avenue. How about putting the bridge at 29th avenue over to the dyke road to alleviate Comox citizens driving back to 17th street to get to shopping areas like Walmart. It would also provide easier access to visitors coming into town who are trying to get to Comox.

This might not be the cheapest solution but makes sense from an access point of view.

DEAR DEER, If you come into my yard, please be a dear and don’t eat my flowers.

PUSSY CAT, pussy cat, where have you been?

All over the neighborhood without being seen.

Pussy cat, pussy cat, what did you there?

I pooped in their gardens cause no one at my home cares.

To those who have had or are trying to maintain a garden and their irresponsible neighbors allow their cats to roam at will and ‘foul’ up everything ... beef, beef, beef.

INTERESTING that Mr. Atwall of 3L Developments Inc. has collected 1000 signatures to support a public park. Perhaps the signators are not aware that 3L has offered the Park to the CVRD for 9 million dollars - so a ten thousand dollar donation from each signator could make Mr. Atwall’s dream a reality!

A HUGE BOUQUET to Andrew, Derek and the staff at Rice Toyota. I was a couple of hours away from taking my summer holidays that included my wedding and my car died. My first call was to Andrew Rice who personally came down to see what the problem was. When the problem wasn’t instantly noticeable, Andrew called the tow truck AND drove me back to Rice Toyota in his own truck AND set me up with a 2014 Corolla Sport to continue with my last day of work and the endless tasks that are included in wedding planning. Thank You for saving the day!!!

BOUQUETS to BC Hydro for avoiding a major domestic water crisis in the Comox Valley, by reducing power generation. Nobody should be wasting water during this typical hot dry summer weather, but there is lots of water in Comox Lake for gardeners. Mother Nature controls the inflows. BC Hydro controls the outflows and lake level. Domestic customers have very little impact on the lake level.

COURTENAY COUNCIL was alarmed at spending $50,00 to review their noise bylaw.

Noisy neighbors can make life miserable - an effective noise bylaw is worth the investment.

Four Courtenay Councilors are CVRD directors as well as City Councillors. They have approved more than 3 million dollars a year on “Planning” budgets for the CVRD and Courtenay. $50, 000 is peanuts.

A GIGANTIC BEEF for a business owner, you know who you are. How dare you come out and start yelling at the BC Hydro workers, how dare you for yelling at the neighbors as well. Is that how you do business? Yelling? Did you even stop for a moment and think? Maybe they shut the power off to keep you, your kids, or how about your patrons safe from a pole that was on fire.

Some neighbor you are. You could care less about anyone but yourself. I will not set foot in your business again! Ever!

Comox Valley Echo Friday, August 29, 2014 A11

Beefs & Bouquets Submit yours at

www.comoxvalleyecho.com IT IS ALWAYS HEARTENING when the fine people and businesses of the Comox Valley donate time and/or product in aid of those most in need.

We at the Comox Valley Food Bank wish to thank PORTUGUESE JOE’s for their consistent thoughtfulness and generosity. The clients of the Food Bank have benefited from the most recent bounty of smoked salmon and tuna. Thank you for thinking of the client-families of the Comox Valley Food Bank.

BIGGEST BEEF going to the officials going in with their guns ablazing to shoot to kill the cougars that have been ousted from their territory all in the name of greed—the all mighty dollar —to build housing on their land. Are we not a great humane society?

YEARS OF ZOOM ZOOM to Doug Walker and Courtenay Mazda service department for exceptional service and attention to customer care on a recent visit to fix a simple oil leak. Their future’s so bright, they have to wear shades!

COASTAL EYE CARE you are the best! Late Friday afternoon I stepped on my glasses!? twisting the frame and popping the lens out — unwearable!

Emergency and crisis for me but for Sheena, who calmly and efficiently put them back together, it was no sweat, professional that she is. All in a day’s work! Thank you for your valuable

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SENDING TWO HUGE BOUQUETS of sweet smelling flowers to St. Joseph’s Hospital and the Campbell River Hospital. Last weekend I was taken to first St. Joseph’s and than up to Campbell River hospital with a bleeding ulcer. In both hospitals I was treated with kindness and efficiency. From the admitting nurses to Dr. Minnaar who took such great care of me. My heartfelt thanks and appreciation for making my medical emergency a lot less scary.

Bouquets &

The Comox Valley’s First and Best Readers’ Forum Email to: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com service to me for 36 years.

A KITCHEN BOUQUET (browning and seasoning sauce for meat) and a platter of yummy beef burgers to Chef Extraordinaire Dawn McRae on the opening of Custom Gourmet CafĂŠ at North Island College. Foodies of all sorts, from students, staff and the public now have a great place to enjoy breakfast, lunch or just something to fill a craving at a very reasonable price. I had chicken strips with a roasted veggie salad for $7.50, what a deal! There was a choice of 8 different tasty specially made sauces/dressing.

I selected the mango lime sauce and it was wonderful. I had lunch with two other ladies and they shared a large roasted veggie salad. For $4 they enjoyed a healthy lunch and left their appetites wanting to know what they can look forward to the next time.

Please drop by and check out the beautifully renovated CafÊ and enjoy some Seattle’s Best Coffee and a blueberry scone. Dawn is passionate about food and would like to share it with all with those in the Comox Valley.

POSSIBLE BOUQUETS to letter writer Christine Green who wants to go “Brown�. Maybe in 100 years when required, but not now. The Comox Valley could be the Garden City of Vancouver Island with endless water from Comox Lake for decades to come. There are much bigger fish to fry for BC Hydro, and they have fried a few. Christine is right about user pay - so maybe, also, the “Grant boys�, possibly, maybe not. Typical Comox Valley politicians - -missing the big picture.

BUCKETS OF LIQUID SUNSHINE to Sandy at DuLux Paints. Since coming on board last month Sandy has saved the day for me a couple of times, most recently staying an hour past closing to get a perfect colour match — and wouldn’t let me pay for her time. She makes me sound like I know what I’m talking about (always a good thing for a contractor). With 30 years paint industry experience Sandy’s the real McCoy, this gal knows her stuff.

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GREAT EXHIBITION this year, but one big beef. Apparently the 21,000 gallons of lovely, precious Comox Valley tap water used to fill the pool for dogs to swim in for a couple of days just went down the drain afterwards. How can this be justified, given that many folks are struggling to keep their gardens alive, and working hard to keep water consumption to a minimum? What a waste. Surely dogs could swim in the river in future.

A GREAT BIG BUCKET of “for shame� to the hater who had to hate and complained to the SPCA and the CVRD regarding the annual Pooch-APoolooza. This nasty person single-handedly ended an annual tradition that has gone on for years. Every year, hundreds of dogs and their people come out to the Courtenay Pool on the last day before it is drained for the season. Dogs frolic in the water, chasing balls and each

This week’s winner

other. People swim with their dogs, give lots of yummy treats from Woofy’s (the generous sponsor each year). They talk to Jane from Canine Conduct about training and child and dog safety. Dogs have great big goofy grins; people are laughing. ONE person (count ‘em, ONE) complained.

The complaint? No veterinarian at the event. No proof of vaccines requested.

Safety hazards with people in the pool with the dogs. Just imagine how different the outcome could have been if this ONE hater of a person rather than hating had simply offered to help. If this ONE person had come forward and offered to ask a veterinarian to be on site and/or offered to organize the checking of vaccines then maybe this party would not have been cancelled but would still go on.

To the person who believes in “no laughing, no having fun�: Shame on you!!

EVERY SINGLE Comox and Courtenay street should be metered and charged for water used as are CVRD strata properties. It should not be a cash cow, as it is, and a burden for the 49% of Comox Valley residents who struggle to pay the rent. It would be nice if this was an election issue in November. Fair water rates for all, should be a huge issue.

Fairness, public input - democracy, is the real issue.

THIS IS REGARDING the Letter to the Editor, “Students’ future is forgotten�, written by Maureen Clarke. Well done! As I parent, I couldn’t agree more. It’s time the teachers - the union anyway - started thinking about the kids. It’s time that people actually looked at both sides, really looked, and not just what one party says. I am at the point where I think that the teachers should vote for new union leaders. I wonder if this would have been settled a lot earlier if the union leaders stopped getting paid as well.

OVER THE PAST FEW WEEKS, there have been comments back and forth over the city of Courtenay and town of Comox watering the grass throughout the water restrictions. As a person who works the night shift, I am usually driving home in the early mornings, at a time when the plants are getting watered. I am all for the plants getting watered a few times a week. I am not for the road getting watered as well. Before the sun comes out and the water evaporates, there are many puddles. The sprinkler systems need to be fixed - the timers, as well as the directions.

AFTER WEEKS at St. Joe’s hospital, my family and I decided to go out for dinner (as I was feeling well enough to go out). To my surprise, a very kind gentleman/couple had decided to pay it forward and decided to buy us dinner Thank you so very much; you brought tears to my eyes.

A BIG THANK YOU to Denny and Ivan for having our corn roast again, and to Jim for the corn. We all had a great time. Penny, the salmon was perfect.

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

Dave Lapointe 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!

SO GLAD my friend took me to Comox Valley Nissan. What a wonderful group of people, from Jim, the owner who went above and beyond; Nathan, who was so patient and accommodating; Peter who never pressured me but when I chose the car he explained all the details of the car thoroughly; to Jennifer who worked to get me the best insurance.

The smiles and greetings of all the staff who even remembered my name three days later. Best move I ever made buying my car from them.

From one Windsorite to another, thank you.

HAS THE LOCAL Salvation Army lost touch with the common man?

Recent trips to the two downtown establishments left me scratching my head! Doors closed in both local stores with notices to head out to Ryan Road. What a mistake! I’m sure donations will drop off as well as business profits diminish. Have they considered travel time and distance their employees must now undertake? Take note that Value Village’s central location meets the accessneeds of all ages and is located within the central business core. Those responsible for making this drastic business-change might wish to reflect on other local businesses that tried to expand their show space and sales areas only to find their business empty of customers (Target). Nothing can replace the feeling of intimacy offered by small stores and the benefits provided customers when they are shopping in a downtown community. Most clients enjoyed dropping off or picking up items in the downtown core because of the convenience. Appears Sally Ann no longer wishes to serve those of us who do not have the luxury of a vehicle, gas money or excesses of time to browse for necessary sales specials. Can you imagine any senior pedding up Ryan Road and then trying to maneuver back down that speedway! Mercy me!

A HUGE GRATEFUL BOUQUET to Dr Stacey Gastis of the Sunrise Veterinary Clinic in Comox who helped and supported my husband and I through a traumatic event last weekend. On Saturday August 23rd our beloved dog Pippin suddenly collapsed, refused to eat or drink and could barely move. We called the office and were told that miraculously Dr Gastis was the vet on call and he agreed to meet us at his clinic immediately. He was initially puzzled by Pippin’s symptoms but finally diagnosed a fatal rupture of the spleen and it was time to say goodbye to our precious boy. Pippin was a wonderful dog - quirky, gentle and loved nothing better than to lie close to you with his head on your feet and we loved him dearly. Throughout this ordeal Dr Gastis was so thoughtful, kind, compassionate and so understanding of our grief - he is a wonderful vet to whom we are eternally grateful. If anyone out there is looking for a vet who truly understands animals and cares deeply about them - look no further. Sunrise Veterinary Clinic is the place to be. Dr Gastis will care for your pet as if it was his own - I know that from experience.

A SPECIAL THANK YOU to all the staff at Eldorado Upholstery for doing such a great job to the seat in my classic Ford truck. Not only was the quality excellent but the attention it brought to the vehicle was unreal.

Thanks again from a very satisfied and will be returning customer. If you want it done super nice and right they’re the people to see, top of Mission Hill.

MANY PUPPY KISSES and sunny days to Stephanie of Pets in the City as she moves on to a new opportunity. Thanks Stephanie for your friendly and sunny demeanour and the great care you take of my dogs. A shout out to Terrina and all the staff at Pets in the City Doggy Daycare, it is a great place for your dog to socialize and get exercise, I recommend them.

CONTENTED PURRS to the many dedicated volunteers who helped Kitty Cat PAL Society at the Fall Fair.

This is a big fundraiser for us, and can only be undertaken with the support of our cheerful helpers. We hope you all enjoyed your shifts at the fair, and can take pleasure in knowing you have helped many cats and kit-

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

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

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

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

Have fun with this!

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Lynn Conn and Old Country at the Filberg

The country sounds of Lynne Conn and her band Old Country will be at the Filberg Centre tonight for the Friday Night Evergreen Club Dance. Lynn sings all those old country classics that are so great to dance to.

Dancing is from 7:30 ‘till 10:30 and all members and non-members are welcome.

Ball Cap Steak Night tonight at the Legion Courtenay Legion is holding its ever popular Ball Cap Steak Night on Friday, Aug. 29th at 6:30 pm.

Come early and join in our meat draw. Wear your best or most outrageous Ball Cap. This is open to all Legion members and their guests.

Comedy showdown sponsored by Lions The ‘Dodge City Comedy Showdown’ featuring the comedic and musical talents of Kenny Shaw, John Reynolds and Todd Butler, is set for Saturday, Sept. 20 at the CRI Hall in Cumberland.

The deadline to get tickets though, is Sept. 6. Tickets are $40 each and include dinner and the show; you must be over 19.

The event is being sponsored by the Royston-Cumberland Lions Club as a fund-raiser for the Child Development Association.

Tickets are available at the Child Development Association, 237 Third St., Courtenay; Courtenay Recreation Lewis Centre; Cumberland Recreation, 2665 Dunsmuir Ave.; Got It-Need It-Want It Musical Instruments, 100 2270 Cliffe Ave., Courtenay.

FMI: Mary or Bob, 250-334-3014.

Fall tea dances coming up at Comox Seniors The Comox Seniors are having a Tea Dance on Sept. 14, from 2-4 pm, with music by Schiehallion.

Come to dance, listen to the music or meet your friends for tea and cookies. All seniors 55+ are welcome.

The event is at the Seniors Centre, 1801 Beaufort Ave., admission $5 at the door.

Tea Dances will be every second and fourth Sunday. Next one is Sept. 28 with Fiddlejam.

A special tribute to Len Wilkie Jazz Society starts fall season remembering a well-loved musician The Georgia Straight Jazz Society opens its season on a sad note, with a tribute concert to Len Wilkie om Thursday, Sept. 4 at 7:30 pm in the Avalanche Bar and Grill, The Lensmen (his former band) will be hosting an evening that will feature many other musicians who wish to honour Len by adding their musical contribution to the evening.

Len, well known to local jazz aficionados and a perennial favourite at Thursday Night Jazz, learned his trade with big band and small jazz groups in Europe.

On coming back to Canada he was the drummer with the Commodore’s big band as well as backing some rock & roll groups.

He toured with the “Canadair Variety Stage Band” (out of Montreal) throughout the east coast. Moving west, he was the drummer/vocalist with the “Dixie Stompers / Desperation Jazz Band” for 22 years, while playing with other country and pop groups. Len passed away this summer, and he will be missed.

The “Lensmen” for the evening will be Al West on Bass, Jake Masri on Trumpet, Mike Eddy on Piano, Greg (Doc) Sumner on Trumpet and Banjo, Bill Street on drums and Ralph Barrat on vocals.

The other well known and loved groups that will be playing are: “Velvet Swing” with Brent Hart on Piano, Kate Morrison on vocals and Michael Schwartz on Sax; “Silk Pajamas” with Danny Bereza on Guitar, Ian Parsons on Flugelhorn and Ann Johnstone on vocals; “Indigo Jazz” with Dale Graham on vocals and Rick Husband on Guitar.

Neil Clark on Drums and Don MacKay on Bass will be part of the rhythm section backing some of these groups.

Many of the instrumentalists will not be able to contain themselves and will also be letting some fine vocals fly.

Over the years Len Wilkie has played with countless musicians in the valley and around the world.

Locally he has also played drums and sung for the Georgia Straight Big Band, Cure All Dance Band, Velvet Swing, Lensmen and many others.

Len was enthusiastic about what he played and this rubbed off on everybody. You knew that if Len was playing and singing the group would be swinging, and that everyone was going to have fun. He always had great stories to tell and

Len Wilkie, who passed away this summer, played in numerous bands here and around the world was loved by all.

As a mentor, Len made a difference in many people’s lives by his unconditional musical encouragement.

He loved all kinds of music, but he loved Dixieland and Swing the most. He got his greatest pleasure swinging and singing “a la” Frank Sinatra and Bobby Darin.

The program for the evening will feature many of Len’s favourite songs - “Bye Bye Blackbird”, “Black and Blue”, “Slow Boat to China”, “Gee Baby, Ain’t I Good to You”, “Satin Doll” and “Hernando’s

Hideaway”.

The evening will also feature some good old Dixie tunes. The Dixieland crowd is invited to dress for the occasion and bring parasols for a “Parasol Parade”.

Len brought smooth vocals and impeccable swing feel to the Lensmen. He would keep a tap in your foot and a smile on your face.

He was the Len in the Lensmen.

The proceeds of Thursday’s concert will go to YANA, as Len would have wanted. Admission to this special event is by donation, and generous contributions to YANA’s cause,

in Len’s memory, will be gratefully accepted.

This will be a swinging evening filled with oldies but goodies, played by some young and oldies but goodies! The sadness is Len’s passing; the fun will be celebrating his joy of music and life this Thursday evening at 7:30 in the Avalanche Bar on Eighth Street.

For more information about the Society’s forthcoming 2014-15 season, please visit us at www.georgiastraightjazz.com or follow us on Facebook.

Union Bay Fall Craft Fair, lunch on Sept. 14 Make sure you mark the Union Bay Fall Craft Fair in your calendar for Sunday, Sept. 14, 10 am to 3 pm.

Forty crafters are featured at this event being held in the Union Bay Community Hall, Old Island Highway, Union Bay. While viewing the great selection of goods for sale, enjoy a ‘Souper Lunch.’

For info call Dave at 250-3352317.

The cast of Avenue Q, one of the shows coming to the Sid Williams Theatre this fall as part of their Blue Circle Series which starts Sept. 19.

Check out what’s coming on page B2.

(Photo by Emily Cooper)

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B2 Comox Valley Echo Friday, August 29, 2014

What’s On

Sid Williams Theatre Society gearing up for the new Blue Circle Series As a community arts organization, the Sid Williams Theatre Society strives to enrich the Comox Valley’s cultural activities. Each year between September and June, the society curates a diverse season of professional performing artists known as the Blue Circle Series.

Presenting a performance means artists have been carefully selected and contracted by the society to appear locally, unlike commercial or community user groups who select available dates to rent the theatre for their shows.

Let your culture curiosity run wild and come and see these fantastic shows!

Kicking off the 2014 - 2015 Blue Circle Series, and back by popular demand, is Vancouver-based alt-country band, The Matinée. They will be joined by Good For Grapes, another up and coming band and pioneers of the “folk-stomp”, for a double bill on

September 19.

Evalyn Parry’s SPIN takes the stage on September 20. Proudly sponsored by Courtenay Recreation, this show is an uncommon theatrical and musical journey celebrating the Bicycle as muse, musical instrument, and agent of social change. “Part theatre, part music gig, part spoken word poetry, and part documentary... whatever it is, it is brilliant,” writes the Toronto Star.

More musical highlights of the Blue Circle Series include Checo Tohomaso and the Victoria Soul Gospel Choir (September 27); The Strumbellas, 2014 Juno Award winners for Roots & Traditional Album of the Year (October 26), Zimbabwe’s world-renowned a cappella group, Black Umfolosi (November 28); the Christmas time favourite, Winter Harp (December 11), and Canadian SLAM poetry champ Brendan McLeod and his band, indie-folk col-

lective The Fugitives (May 8).

Mattina Musica, a classical series of five Monday concerts and co-presented with pianist Sarah Hagen, returns for an exciting fifth season! It features cellist Rebecca Wenham (September 22), flautist Krzysztof Kaczka (October 27), soprano Anne Grimm (November 24), a solo performance by Sarah (February 2), and Bergmann Piano Duo (March 9).

Perennial favourite the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour returns on December 7 and its high-adrenaline partner the Radical Reels Tour is back on March 14.

A male stripper parody and improv comedy show for all genders, The Comic Strippers will have a slight Halloween twist for their October 30 performance. Costumes are encouraged! The show stars Canada’s best improv comedians Roman Danylo, David Milchard, Ken Lawson, and Chris Casillan. Warning: no extreme

Five pricing levels are available for each show in the Blue Circle Series: Regular, Member, Student, Groups of ten or more, and Member 4 OR MORE. The Member 4 OR MORE pricing allows members to purchase a ticket to four or more different shows and receive a substantially discounted price on each show. Patrons familiar with subscription packages will recognize it as a build your own subscription.

Memberships are available for as little as $20 and include benefits such as ticket exchanges, discounts, and the chance to buy tickets before the general public.

For more information about these shows, visit www.sidwilliamstheatre. com/bluecircle or call 250.338.2430.

Ticket Centre summer hours in effect until September 2. Open Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 4pm.

nudity, just extreme hilarity!

After its wildly successful extended run on Granville Island last summer, the Arts Club Theatre Company’s Avenue Q brings the puppet and human cast to town (November 15).

The Broadway musical for adults features full puppet nudity and other vulgarities that will induce laughter.

Part felt, part flesh, Avenue Q is packed with songs that are surprisingly poignant and only occasionally PC. It ain’t no kids show!

Ballet Victoria has gained a reputation for high quality, entertaining performances, and the company returns with Amadeus - Dances With Wolfgang on March 27. The music of Mozart and Queen’s Freddie Mercury meet in this incredible balletic journey to stardom. The ballet follows the tumultuous career of one of the world’s most famous composers, featuring new classical and contemporary choreography.

Brodie Dawson Building houses and a music career Guest performer at 1st Tuesday fundraiser at the Mex Brodie Dawson will be lending her musical talents in support of the Women Build Habitat for Humanity on Tuesday, September 2nd at the Mex Pub as featured guest of the 1st Tuesday Fundraiser concert series.

Brodie has an inimitable style that engages her audiences from the moment they walk in the door.

Recognized as the Island’s Vocalist of the Year at the 2014 Vancouver Island Music Awards, nominated Live Act of the Year for two consecutive years, and a Regional Finalist in CBC’s Searchlight Contest, Brodie’s emotive lyrics, smoky overtones, and her peaceful and sensual personality are entirely captivating.

Also joining Brodie on stage will be guitarist and vocalist Christy Vanden and violinist Blaine Dunaway, a musical configuration whose sound is gaining fans wherever they play.

Each month, participants in the monthly concert series are asked to choose a local charity to donate the evening proceeds to. Brodie’s charity of choice is Women Build Habitat For Humanity, a group of women who work with the Habit for Humanity organization to build affordable housing in the Comox Valley. This concert is hot on the heels of another recent fundraiser “Heels and Hammers” for which Brodie and her group recently performed.

The evening startsat 7:30 with an opening set by hosts Judy and Bruce Wing with admission by donation.

Originally from Hamilton, Ontario and daughter of successful blues musician Brent Dawson, Brodie’s early years immersed her in a life of music. Unaware of the influence and magnitude of the musical seeds that were sewn in those early years, her own style began to emerge and at the age of 19 she began migrating west, embarking on what would be a well-travelled journey of self-discovery and new beginnings.

Brodie’s journey began on Vancouver Island, then east to Montreal and north to Yellowknife, where she performed at cafe’s, clubs, festivals, community events, and radio shows across Canada such as CBC North’sHomemade Jam with Norbert Poitras and CBC’s The Vinyl Café with Stuart McLean. Her album “The Lost Tapes” revisits that journey in a fabulous collection of creative songwriting, artistic arrangements, and polished production.

Brodie calls her style a mix of soulful ‘folky’ blues with a twist of pop and a twang of old-school country.

True to all of those genres she sings of life, love, searching and finding your way.

Her vocals are strong, confident and soothing to listen to, perfectly suited to the acoustic format of this concert series. Food bank donations are also welcome and appreciated.

For more information, visitwww.brodiedawson.com or for more information about 1stTuesday Fundraisers, contact Judy or Bruce Wing atwww.judyandbruce.com ‘Vocalist of the Year’ at the2014 Vancouver Island Music Awards and nominated for ‘Best Live Act’ in both 2013 and 2014 VIMA’s, Brodie Dawson definitely delivers! http://www.brodiedawson.com

Guest speaker is Richard Franklin

Philosophers’ Café returns to discuss integration of special needs students into classrooms

Brodie Dawson performs next Tuesday night at The Mex fundraiser

Ralph Barrat and the Sharp Seven at Simms Park Ralph Barrat and the Sharp Seven play popular jazz favorites at Simms Park this Sunday August 31 at 7:00pm. This is the final performance of the free summer concert series hosted by the City of Courtenay.

Ralph Barrat is a local jazz singer and piano player. His voice is reminiscent of Sinatra and Torme, and will take the audience back to a golden era of jazz.

The Sharp Seven is a very lively horn driven combo featuring some of Vancouver Island’s finest

musicians. Fun, entertaining and nostalgic are just a few words that describe this talented musical combo.

For concert information please call the Courtenay Recreation Lewis Centre at 250-338-5371 or get updates at www.courtenay.ca/simmsconcerts.aspx Season sponsors include the Comox Valley Echo. The Goat 98.9 FM, and the City of Courtenay.

At the core of the ongoing labour dispute between teachers and the provincial government is the issue of class size and composition. A significant part of this issue is the integration of special needs students into classrooms.

Richard Franklin, our guest speaker at the next philosopher’s cafe believes that the integration of special needs students has benefits for all students. He also believes that it is the responsibility of public education to support special needs students in ways that provide meaningful, rich learning experiences.

He will argue that simply integrating special needs students into large classes without individualized programming and sufficient support is inadequate for special needs students and an unreasonable expectation for classroom teachers.

Come to the Philosophers’ Café to hear Mr. Franklin’s point of view and to share yours.

Once a month a speaker will introduce a theme to the Café, and then all who attend can join in respectful conversation, or just sit back and listen. You are welcome to propose topics and introduce them at future Cafés.

Themes should be of broad interest and national significance, and have an element of controversy to them.

Our presenter this month, Richard Franklin, is Director of Children’s Services for the Campbell River and District Association for Community Living and Senior Educational Administrator of Community Living College. He retired from School District #72 after a 34 year career as a teacher and school administrator. Mr. Franklin was recognized as Canada’s Distinguished Principal of the Year 2006-2007 by the Canadian Association of Principals. As with each Café, Mr. Franklin will have just 10 minutes to introduce the topic, and then the floor is open for 50 minutes of discussion.

The moderator is Peter Schwarzhoff.

When: Wednesday, Sept. 3, 7:00-8:00PM Cost: Free Location: Comox Quality Foods Café (in the solarium), 2275 Guthrie Road, Comox, BC V9M 4G1 More Info: Peter Schwarzhoff rigoletto@shaw.ca, (250)778-0333

B-2611 1ST ST - COURTENAY

Celebrating 15 years at Comox Valley ElderCollege ElderCollege is a national organization designed for mature adults 55 and over who are looking for a unique community of adult learners. There are no exams, no grades, and no pressure.

The Comox Valley ElderCollege (CVEC), run completely by volunteers, is starting its 15th year of operation. With over 900 members, it is one of the largest ElderCollege programmes in Canada. As a programme of North Island College, most courses are held on campus, giving members access to the college library and computer lab.

The courses are lead by over 140 volunteers who appreciate the unique opportunity to share their passions, experiences, and knowledge with others.

Courses give members an opportunity to learn something new, meet new people, and participate in lifelong learning.

ElderCollege offers two semesters per year, one in the fall (October-November) and one in the winter (February-March).

Each semester includes general courses (four to eight weeks), Saturday Lecture Series (8 weeks), and short courses (one or two days).

Fall Semester starts the first week of October, 2014.

An Information Forum will be held on Saturday, September 20, and registration for courses will start on Monday, September 22.

Information and details are available on our website at www.nic.bc.ca/ec as well as in our newsletter.

Copies will be available in local libraries, senior centres, and at the college, or you may call 250-3345000 (local 4602) for more information.

We will have an information booth at the Farmer’s Market Saturday, September 6 and on September 13.

Drop by and pick up a newsletter!

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Wayne’s

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Comox Valley Echo Friday, August 29, 2014 B3

What’s On

Square dancing makes you smarter - and healthier Check it out at open house on Sunday In groups of eight - up and down the island - people are linking arms, sashaying and dancing their way to longer, healthier and happier lives.

They are also lowering their risk of heart disease, diabetes, age-related memory loss and depression - and they’re having a blast!

Often called “friendship set to music” West Coast dancing is one of the best activities you can be involved in.

With all the moving, twisting and turning, square dancing provides more than the daily dose of heart and bone-healthy physical activity.

Listening and concentrating on the calls, executing the moves and interacting with other dancers is an antidote to depression and loneliness. And it’s more fun than going to the gym!

For years dancing has been applauded for benefits as a physical exercise. Research shows further benefits such as stress reduction, increased serotonin levels and a sense of well-being. More recently studies have shown a further, even more interesting benefit - frequent dancing apparently makes us smarter.

A major 21-year study led by the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City with a focus on whether physical or cognitive recreational activities influenced mental acuity. They studied such activities as reading, writing, crossword puzzles, playing cards and playing musical instruments. They also studied physical activities like tennis or golf, swimming, cycling, dancing and walking.

Dancing came out near the top as

Square dancing in Courtenay with Ocean Waves callers Fran and Roger Archambault is a lot of fun! A recent dance with caller Fran (centre) ended with lots of laughter and a group hug. The Ocean Waves Club has been dancing in the Comox Valley for over 40 years. Come to the Open House 10 am - Sun. Aug. 31st at the Florence Filberg Centre. Classes start Monday Sept. 08 7 pm at St. John the Divine Church hall 579 5th St. Courtenay. FMI call Anne 897-1657 an activity that assists in rewiring our neural pathways and thereby helping our mental acuity. Dancing integrates several brain functions at once - kinesthetic, rational, musical and emotional. And square dancers experience all of this and more.

Dancers walk between 4 and 8 kilometers in a typical evening of dancing, burning calories with every step. Dancing continuously for 10 15 minutes at a time improves car-

diovascular conditioning.

And then there’s the fun part, hugs, laughter, sharing and companionship with others in a positive setting.

Breaks in between dances allow dancers to socialize and share with others from diverse backgrounds, but with a common interest. This gives an opportunity to meet new people and develop strong social ties which contribute to self-esteem and

a positive outlook.

The energy put into dancing has an effect on the heart rate, blood pressure, rate of calorie burn and cholesterol profile.

In a relaxed setting with popular music, West Coast square dancing has been called the perfect exercise.

It combines all the positive aspects of intense physical activity with none of the negative elements. It’s a good aerobic exercise without the

treadmill, and when you are not moving, you are clapping hands, tapping feet and concentrating on the callers directions. Never a dull moment - and more to come!

And the good news? If you can walk, you can probably learn to West Coast dance. It takes time and practice, but you will have fun even while learning the first basic moves.

You will also be impressed with how quickly you learn the moves and the fact that whatever you were worrying about when you came to the dance has now completely left your mind.

What’s this all about and how can you get involved?

The Ocean Waves Club in Courtenay starts fall classes Monday, Sept. 8 from 7- 9 pm at St. John the Divine Anglican Church Hall on 5th Street. (Open house Sunday, Aug. 31, starting 10 am at the Florence Filberg Centre).

Caller couple Fran and Roger Archambault make it fun from the beginning night. Fran has a wide range of music that makes your feet start moving.

The first two Monday classes are free, dress is very casual and everyone is welcome. For more details call Cathy or Guy at 250 338-7942.

Check our website at comoxvalleyoceanwaves.ca. The Ocean Waves have regular dances every lst and 3rd Saturday of the month.

On alternate weeks there are dances at 6 other clubs from Campbell River to Nanaimo, Powell River and Saltspring Island. On the southern part of the island 9 clubs encourage visitors to a variety of special dance nights, and even some weekend-long events in the summer.

Come on out - you will glad you did and you will, of course, be much smarter!

- Subnitted by Anne Fenn Langdon, Ocean Waves Square Dance Club

The Alberni Project celebrating Bamboo Inn celebrates 30 years its first year with special events with fundraiser for food bank A year has passed since TAP founder and director Lewis Bartholomew signed the lease on its space in the Comox Centre Mall that would soon house the permanent home of The Alberni Project Memorial and Museum.

So much has happened since those early days when TAP first opened its doors to the public on 1 September, 2013. Attendance to the HMCS Alberni Memorial topped 3000 by year’s end.

The Alberni Project Society moved forward in with its YEAR OF THE VETERAN series of exhibits and public events starting in January. This has garnered TAP a nomination for the 2014 Governor General’s History Award for Excellence in Community Programming, winner to be announced in late October.

Though TAP has been operating since 2000 with their website and its mobile memorial and exhibit display, TAP has been very pleased with the local community response to having a WWII memorial located in the Comox Valley for schools, locals, and tourists to enjoy, learn and share their own remembrance.

Anniversary events at TAP began on August 21st which was the 70th anniversary of the sinking of HMCS Alberni, which had a loss of 59 Canadian crewmen.

A public commemoration of Canadian Merchant Navy Veterans Day will be held on September 3 at 1:00 pm at the Comox Mall at TAP. The feature celebration will be held September 6th, and the public is invited to join TAP with cake and coffee in our main lobby.

During the month of September every guest will receive a free “I WILL REMEMBER/ JE ME SOUVIENDRAI” refrigerator magnet, a packet of poppy seeds, and a “Canada Remembers” poppy pin.

You can also register for door prizes that will be awarded at the end of September.

TAP is open Tue - Sat 10am - 4 pm and is located at the Comox Centre Mall, Blue Arch Entrance. Admission is free though donations are gratefully accepted.

For more information on TAP, TAP Society membership/volunteering or the Year of the Veteran events please visit: www.alberniproject.org.

The Bamboo Inn Restaurant is turning 30 years old at the end of this month.

To mark the occasion, the restaurant located at 2040 Comox Avenue in Comox B.C. is holding a buffet dinner on Sept. 12 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The cost of the dinner, which is being held also in appreciation of their many loyal patrons over the years, is by donation. All proceeds go to the Comox Valley Food Bank, which coincidentally is also celebrating its 30 years as a registered non-profit society, assisting persons in need in the region.

The Bamboo Inn has recently undergone new management. Ms. Qu, formerly from China, is inviting the people of the Comox Valley to come and taste their delicious authentic Cantonese and Szechuan cuisine and assist them in celebrating its 30th anniversary. Special dishes will also be served.

Suggested minimum donation of $9.99 or better. Liquor and take out not included.

Reservations are recommended, and can be made by calling 250-339-3500 Food bank volunteers will assist the staff at the restaurant during the dinner. Valley dignitaries will be invited.

Toscanos Trattoria

Dine in Old World comfort overlooking the Comox Marina Open Daily for Dinner 5-9pm

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Shoppe Talk August 2014 Medical Compression Stockings or You’re so Vein

Members of Celebration Singers Choir are getting ready for another year of singing and joy, with the first rehearsal on September 8th.

Celebration Singers Choir welcomes new voices to join in the fun starting Sept. 8 The Comox Valley Celebration Singers are enthusiastically preparing to launch another season of song.

The choir’s first practice will be held on Monday, Sept 8th 7:00 9:00 PM at Mark Isfeld School.

Please note: In the event of a school strike the practice will be held at Comox United Church, 250 Beach Drive.

This high energy, community choir invites all new and returning members to its first practice.

The choir performs a variety of secular and sacred music and explores many musical genres.

The oh-so-talented Jenn Forsland leads the choir and the accomplished Sean Mooney provides accompaniment.

Two concerts a year, one at Christmas and a spring finale, allow the choir to share its music with friends and family and perform, often with other musicians

and singers.

Over the last 20 years the choir has gained glowing reviews for its performances that feature complex harmonies, humour and thoughtful and uplifting music.

Though the choir does not require an audition Ms. Forsland will conduct a voice check with each new member to help determine the best fit within the choir.

The ability to read music is a great asset but not required, and a good ear is a must. In particular, additional tenor and bass voices would help to round out the choir.

If interested in joining, please come to the first rehearsal on September 8th and try us out for a few weeks.

For more information, or to register, visit our website at www. celebrationsingers.ca or contact Kelly Finlayson, choir board chair at 250 338-8971 or kfinlayson@ shaw.ca.

When we look at our circulatory system we have basically 2 pumps - our heart which sends blood out to the tissues in the body via the arteries, and our calf muscles which are the main pumps to get the blood back to the heart via the veins. In our veins we have a series of valves which keeps the blood flowing in the right direction. Unfortunately there can be problems with these valves which can cause problems ranging from uncomfortable heavy feeling swollen legs to varicose veins and, deep vein thrombombosis (DVT). In more serious cases there can be skin ulceration.

Common venous diseases including varicose veins and deep vein thromboses (DVT) can often be treated or prevented using medical compression stockings and socks. By applying controlled graduated pressure the venous pressure is reduced which results in a reduction of edema (swelling) in the limb.

Anti-embolism stockings or TEDS (Thromboembolic deterrent stockings) are designed to prevent a DVT and meant for those on “bed rest”.

On the other hand (or in this case leg) medical graduated compression stockings are for prevention and treatment of many venous diseases. They are generally a higher compression and are intended for ambulatory (walking) use.

We have 3 certified fitters on staff who can work with your physician to determine your specific needs and then custom fit and order just what you need. If you are looking to alleviate existing problems, prevent problems caused by prolonged sitting (such as in long flights) or boost your athletic performance then give us a call or drop in and have a chat.

Apologies to Carly Simon.

B4 Comox Valley Echo Friday, August 29, 2014

Sports and Recreation

Enduro race hits Cumberland trails Sept. 7 Comox Valley mountain bikers looking for one last challenge of the summer can mark their calendars for September 7.

That’s when the Dodge City Enduro, the final local race of the 2014 Island Cup series, will light up the trails of Cumberland.

Invented in France 11 years ago as a “middle ground” between downhill and cross-country racing, an enduro race involves timed downhill sections and untimed climbs spread out over several stages.

“The rider with the fastest combined time over all the stages wins,” explains Mike Manara, president of the United Riders of Cumberland (UROC), which is hosting the event.

“This is the type of riding most of us do here in Cumberland - we climb up and rip down. If you’re like most of us and can only afford one bike in the garage, it’s likely suited to this kind of race.”

The 2014 Dodge City Enduro will be comprised of three stages, each covering a selection of Cumberland’s world-class network of singletrack, including local favourites like

Thirsty Beaver, Blue Collar and That Dam Trail.

Between stages, riders will traverse the terrain that has made Cumberland mountain biking famous via logging roads and cross-country trails like Swamp Monster and Rugburn.

The race begins at 9 a.m. at Cumberland’s No. 6 Mine Park and finishes in Chinatown. Riders can register online at www.unitedridersofcumberland.com; various categories will be tailored toward beginner, advanced and expert riders, with separate divisions for male and female competitors.

The $40 entrance fee includes pulled pork sandwiches and Dad’s Root Beer from the Waverley Hotel.

As well as being UROC’s last major race of the season, the Dodge City Enduro is also the final event of the Cumberland Crown.

Points are awarded to male and female riders in the expert category in each of five UROC-hosted events, with the winners earning the prestigious title of King and Queen of Cumberland.

To learn more, or to register, visit www.unitedridersofcumberland.com.

The Dodge City Enduro, the final race of the Island Cup mountain bike series, descends on Cumberland September 7.

Courtenay lawn bowlers win the men’s interclub trophy for second year Courtenay lawn bowlers have done it yet again. The Men’s teams (members change each week) have won the Interclub event for 2014.

There is a trophy and cash prize involved and bragging rights over Nanaimo, Parksville and Qualicum.

Our Ladies were third, with the Qualicum ladies taking the honors.

In the “Open” department, 4 Courtenay teams participated in the Lakeside Gardens Mixed Pairs in Nanaimo August 23/24 with April Gilchrist and Vern Greenhill taking 2nd prize money with 3 wins and 1 loss (to the overall winners, Jan and Stu MacNaughton). Pat Cutt and Pete Harding also had 3 wins and 1 loss but no money.

Our Club Singles Champions, John Kendall and Melie Ursulom were tied in the last end on two of their games and lost one to the Provincial Bronze medallists, Rick Quibell and Mary Mulligan and won their last game being one up coming home. Martine Castellani and Ross Younger (Martini &Rossi) also had close games and one win.

Great showing!

September is a busy month. We have Vern taking a team of four to Alberni, Sept 3/4. Then the Zone Singles on September 6/7 with the Courtenay Club sending 2 in both

the Men’s Singles and Ladies Singles as we have the 2013 Champions, Pat Cutt and Vern Greenhill defending their titles, as well as this year’s Club Champions, Melie Ursulom and John Kendall.

Then we have Pat Cutt and Melie

GET UP TO

BRIDGE NEWS Comox Valley Duplicate Bridge Club Mark your calendars! On September 4th, plan to stay for a while after bridge to get to know your fellow bridge players better!

We’ll supply the snacks... just bring your favorite beverage.

Although this is primarily a social event, the boards you played during the afternoon will be available to discuss with some of the other players; maybe you want to know a better way to bid a hand?

Maybe there’s a way to play it differently so that you actually MAKE the contract? Find out while you still remember!

September 18th is the date to mark for the Eric Hyde Individual Trophy Game. Hopefully we’ll get a workable number so that we can have this highly entertaining game where you partner with many different people in one game.

September 29th will be a Team Game, so get your team-of-four together. Partnerships are NOT guaranteed for this game, but we’ll sure try to get you in a team if we can!

Monday, August 18th, 2014: 1. Richard Grant - Warren Burd 2. Charles Hodson - Lorraine Hodson 3. Slava Simice - Barrie Turnham 4. Jack Bradshaw - Carole Bradshaw Thursday, August 21st,2014: 1. Myrna Horley - Tom Dugdale 2. Slava Simice - Barrie Turnham 3. Frieda Home - Marilyn Hannah 4. Dianna Rickson - Carole Bradshaw 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) 338-2544.

Friday night bridge Results for 22nd August (8 1/2 tables): N/S - 1. Roger and Rose Lucas; 2.

Tom Dugdale and Lorraine Hodson; 3. Doug and Penny Poole.

E/W - 1. Denise Holst and Betty Fountain; 2. Dick and Lynn Sangster; 3. Phyllis Taylor and Maureen Taylor Note: There is no bridge Aug. 29,

Clock event starting Sunday, Aug. 31 and running through to 4 pm on September 1.

This is a fundraiser for our clubhouse extension so there will be bowlers looking for sponsors to keep them bowling all through the night.

Ursulom, Don and Cath Wiseman and Irene Whitehouse off to Senior Games in Langley. There is more in September as well, but I will save that for next time Locally, the long Labor Day weekend brings the Bowl Around the

7,500

The Golf game starts at 4 pm Sunday and there will be dinner available.

Mixed Pairs, Wednesday League and the Friday and Thursday aggregates are still underway.

- Submitted by Pat Cutt

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Comox Valley Echo Friday, August 29, 2014 B5

9 & Dine is Back at Sunnydale!

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

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

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

Sports and Recreation

Three Hope Afloat dragon boaters compete in Italy Three Hope Afloat Dragon Boat team members are travelling to Ravenna, Italy to compete in the Club Crew World Championships from September 2nd to September 7th.

Sheila Barnes, Marcy Petersen and Leanne Reid have been selected to paddle with the Vancouver Island Paddling Club’s Gorging Dragons Senior Women’s Teams. Two of the ladies are on the Senior Women’s ages 49 - 59 B Team and one lady is paddling on the over 60 C Team. The youngest paddler on the Gorging Dragons Senior Women’s Teams is 52 and the oldest is 75.

For the past two years, Sheila, Marcy and Leanne have travelled weekly and sometimes twice weekly to Victoria to practice with the Gorging Dragons Senior Women’s Teams.

They also maintained a prescribed training and fitness program. The ladies practiced twice a week and attended competitions with Hope Afloat team mates who have benefited from Marcy’s coaching skills and knowledge.

Hence, a very successful racing season in 2014.

Leanne commented, “Not only are we representing Hope Afloat, the Comox Valley, Vancouver Island, but Canada! And, the most important part, representing all seniors out there!”

Hope Afloat is very proud of their teammates’ achievements and looks forward to following their success in Italy. Good luck and paddles up!

- Submitted by Glenda Wilson, Publicity Chair

Leanne Reid, Sheila Barnes and Marcy Petersen (front right) with Hope Afloat Team Members

The youth return to instruct and mentor the following season team, which in turn builds team capacity. Past coaches and instructors have gain employment at Mount Washington instructing or coaching with mainland teams and clubs.

“Because of snowboarding, I’ve found a new family in my team and learned that hard work does pay off,” says Savannah, past athlete who is now in the role of coach.

Youth are required to fill out The Vancouver Island First Nations Snowboard Team Application and return it by October 1, 2014 at 4:00 pm. Intake form, transcripts & 1 - 2 letters

The program provides Aboriginal youth between the ages of 9 and 19 with the opportunity to learn and develop their snowboarding skills.

Apply now to join First Nations Snowboard Team programs The Vancouver Island First Nations Snowboard Team is heading into their 9th season of carving up the hills of Mount Washington Alpine Resort.

The program provides Aboriginal youth between the ages of 9 and 19 with the opportunity to learn and develop their snowboarding skills. Coaching, instruction, equipment and Mount Washington lift passes are provided to the participants.

“The recreation/development program is provided free of cost, to the team members,” says Kim Leming, Vancouver Island Manager.

“In exchange, these Aboriginal youth are expected to be in good standing in school and their communities, maintain a drug and alcohol free season, willingness to commit and

participate as a member for the season by way of volunteering and fundraising.”

The Vancouver Island - FNST has received funding from ViaSport this season to help offset costs with two news programs.

The addition of a Girls Only Program and Six-Week Intro to Snowboarding for kids 9 - 13 “just makes sense, the cost savings on SixPak Tickets and extra fundraising makes it affordable for our team to introduce the sport of snowboarding to more Aboriginal, Metis and First Nations Youth,” says Kim. Over the past few seasons selected youth mentors may attend coaching clinics to become snowboard instructors, Officials or take the Canada Snowboard Coaching Program’s Intro to Comp Training.

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of support from a community mentor, coach or teacher will need to be included to complete the application package.

Selection Committee of coaches and volunteers will go through each of the application and contact youth & families by October 18, 2014.

Please email : vancouverisland.fnst@gmail.com to request an intake form, head to the First Nations Snowboard Team - Vancouver Island FaceBook page for a download or pick up at Wachiay Friendship Centre in Courtenay.

B6 Comox Valley Echo Friday, August 29, 2014

CARRIERS WANTED EARN $$$$$$$$ COURTENAY Rt. 8130 – Cliffe - 19th to 10th, Riverside Lane, Beckensell Rt. 7127 – Marsden, Baird, Lanyon, Charter, Arnett Substitutions for East Courtenay and Mission Hill COMOX Rt. 1107 – Eastwicke, Highwood, Kingsley, Islington, Foxwood Rt. 1120 – Sandpines Area Rt. 2118 – Comox Ave., Orchard Park Dr., Baybrook, Filberg Rd. 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 MISSION HILL Rt. 5114 – Muir, Bryden, McLaughlin, Ashwood Pl, Cruickshank Pl. Rt. 5123 – Braidwood Rd.

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

Comox Valley Echo Friday, August 29, 2014 B7

B8 Comox Valley Echo Friday, August 29, 2014

Sports and Recreation GLACIER GREENS LADIES WIN OVERALL

GOLF NEWS

Last Wednesday the final Interclub Match Play at Myrtle Point pointed at the Glacier Greens Ladies as the overall winners! Congratulations to a great season ladies!

The Solheim final is at Port Alberni September 5th, only a couple of spots left if you want to jump on the bandwagon before it leaves town.

Gene Renaud led the parade today with 1st low gross of 87, Brenda Livingstone 2nd with 91 and Janet Edwards 3rd with 92.

Wendy Dowe had a nice low net of 65, followed by Rose Jacobson with 67 and Glenda Kinney with 70.

Carmel Horochuk had the least putts with 28 and Ellie Nicholas with 30. #4 KP was claimed by Brenda Livingstone and #15 by Irene Marshall.

Only a couple of weeks before the Shoot-Out starts, sign up soon.

- Submitted by Lori Cameron

SUNNYDALE MEN’S CHAMPIONS Great turnout for the 2014 Sunnydale Club Championship.

This year’s Championship was held August 23rd and 24th and included both Men’s and Women’s Tournaments together. What a great idea!

Thanks to all the organizers and the staff in the Clubhouse. It was an enjoyable event with lots of new players participating.

Men’s Champion is a familiar name - Greg Koster did it again with Tyler vanAnrooy runner-up 4 shots back.

Low Net winner was Scotty Mattoon from the Maintenance Department. 55+ Champion was Mitch Carr-Hilton with Rob Heron winning Low Net. Butch Williams was 65+ Champion with Rick Bono winning Low Net. Hopefully this format continues in years to come.

CROWN ISLE’S BEAT THE PRO Kudos to Evan Webber, one of our Crown Isle pros, who played with all the ladies for three holes each on our Beat The Pro Tuesday. He said it is one of his favourite days in the golf season! Evan scored a stellar 1 under 71 gross. The ladies that scored lower than Evan net are Brenda Barrigan 67, Katy Macaulay 67, Maggie Maclean 68 and Linda Stickney 67.

I was charged with unnecessary whining and given a yellow flag! Is this golf or soccer?

AND THE WINNERS ARE: 1st low gross - Raelene Robertson 79, 2nd low gross - Katy Macaulay 80 1st low net - Brenda Barrigan 67, 2nd low net Maggie Maclean 68 The birdie pot was shared by Sandy Linhart, Katy Macaulay, Helen Flynn, Raelene Robertson, and Anne Sands.

Katy Macaulay took the honours for KP on both the par threes.

NEWS ALERT: Congratulations to Marsha Mackinnon who eagled #8!

That is quite a feat - a long par 4!

Dee Horie reminded me that the wind-up for the Juniors is a Ryder Cup between Zone 5 and 6 scheduled for Sept. Watch this column for the results.

As promised here are the results of the Crown Isle Ladies Club Championship held in August: Congratulations to all the ladies who played on the weekend.

Overall gross club champion Raelene Robertson 153 and net club champion Judy Aldcroft 137.

1st Flight: 1st low gross May Mitchell 167, 2nd low gross Dee Horie 169 and Marilyn McCusker 171 1st low net Ev Shaw 141, 2nd low net Judy Pouliot 145 and 3rd low net Jenny Steel 149 2nd Flight: 1st low gross Marsha Mackinnon 181, 2nd low gross Mathilde Schneider 183 and 3rd low gross Jackie Hooper 187 1st low net Iris Petersen 147, 2nd low net Sandy Linhart 151 and 3rd low net Julie Tuepah 151 3rd Flight: 1st low gross Margaret Forgeron 187, 2nd low gross Audrey Clark 203 1st low net Sandra Morton 146, 2nd low net Peggy Quinney 149 Mark your calendars for the final CROWN ISLE LADIES’ NINE AND WINE for 2014. September 10th, 5 pm shotgun, with golf, appys, wine or beer, dessert and coffee. The theme is SWING WITH BLING so wear your golf outfit with lots of bling. Register at the pro shop as a team or individual, 250 703-5031 Come early for the complimentary golf clinic if you are registered for the night.

- Submitted by Donna Cunliffe

FUN DAY FOR COMOX LADIES What a fun day at Comox on Tuesday! The day was perfect and the greens were temporary as they were just aerated.

The format was a team scramble minus 20% of the team’s total handicap.

First place was Monica Yoo, Gi Carlson, Barb Buchanan and Nancy Riva with 46. Second in a count back was Bernice Sutherland, Sharon Crowe, Mary Ann Aikman and Amber Dufour with 47.8 Tied with them was Joyce Land, Jean Kirby, Pearl Madden and June Fraser.

On a beautiful Thursday night , August 21st, Jan Dafoe shot 42 and won the prize donated by Signature wine. Marg Walker had a sizzling 28 to win Low Net for the night. Second low gross was Lorelie Banford with a 43. Second low net with a 34 was Fran Robinson and Nancy Riva won low putts with 14.

Winners of the skill prizes were: Longest putts were Nancy Riva and Donna Ehrmantraut. Closest to the bucket- Barb Siska-(Kathy Branch Hairstyling); Longest drive (0-23)Karen Vanetta-(Thrifty’s); Longest drive (24+)- Darlene McCauley -(Tee Box), Suzy Venuta KP#14 (0-23)-(Arizona Gifts); KP #18 (24+) in 2 shots- Joanne Schroeder(Mid Isle Gifts), 3rd shot for all #13 was Jan Dafoe, (Gibby’s Pro Shop), Draw of the night was for a bunker shot and the winner was Judy McMartin on #7 for a holed out birdie.

Guests are welcome so remember to sign up for Tuesday or Thursday at the Pro Shop 250-339-4444 or in the locker room. Tuesday mornings are a shotgun start at 8:30 am. You

The Sunnydale lmen’s winners (left to right): Scotty Mattoon, Butch Williams, Damon Gaudet, Club Champion - Greg Koster, Rob Heron, Mitch Carr-Hilton, Tyler vanAnrooy and Rick Bono must be there by 8. Thursday evenings the shotgun is at 5:30pm but sign in by 5:00pm.

The ladies club would like to thank all their generous sponsors:

Signature Wines, Arizona Gifts, Thrifty’s, Gibby’s Pro Shop, The Tee Box Restaurant, Kathy Branch Hairstyling, Chinook Forest Products, Mid Island Gifts, Panago Pizza,

CA$H REWARDS

Looneyrama(Comox Mall) and Playtime Gaming and the Bulk Barn.

- Submitted by Nancy Riva

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