Comox Valley Echo - January 9, 2015 by Comox Valley Echo

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com COURTENAY, BRITISH COLUMBIA • Friday, January 9, 2015

$1,500

PRICE: 57 CENTS PLUS GST

03.COUNCILLOR WANTS CHAT WITH POLICE OVER ILLEGAL ACTIVITIES AT CITY LIBRARY

VOL. 21, NO. 03

IN HOLIDAY CA SH ELIGIBLE OWNER FOR S

ENVIRONMENT

BENEFIT

8.Two Sea

21.Big concert

Lions rescued at Fanny Bay.

planned for cancer patient

SEWER PUMP PLANS DELAYED

NOW.04 ANGRY CROTEAU BEACH AREA RESIDENTS GO AFTER ANSWERS FROM CVRD

SPACES STILL AVAILABLE

in ﬁrst and second year university courses. Register by January 14.

LEARN MORE. Visit www.nic.bc.ca or call a student advisor at 250-334-5000

www.comoxvalleyecho.com

FRIDAY.COURTENAY, BC. JANUARY 9, 2015

ECHO

NEWS Comox Valley Weather

1.85

Ian Doe Seniors Real Estate Specialist



Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Periods of rain.

Cloudy with 40% chance of showers.

Cloudy with 60% chance of showers.

Cloudy with 40% chance of showers.

Low 4°C. High 6°C.

Low 3°C. High 5°C.

Low 3°C. High 6°C.

High 7°C.

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

250-897-5628 Website: iandoe.remax.ca Email: iandoe@remax.net

2230A Cliffe Ave., COURTENAY BC V9N 2L4

Record year of giving for CV Community Foundation 20 charities set to receive $118,000 next Thursday in community enrichment ceremony This year the Comox Valley Community Foundation will award $200,000 to local charities and students. “This is a 50% increase over last year and the largest amount the Comox Valley Community Foundation has been able to disburse since it was founded,” said Norm Carruthers, CVC Foundation President. “To be able to pay such a sizable amount is very exciting for our many donors and our directors.”

The majority of the grants will be awarded during the CVC Foundation’s annual Community Enrichment Awards taking place Thursday, January 15 at 2 pm, at the Comox Recreation Centre. Then, 20 local charities will be awarded in excess of $118,000 to help them achieve their goals. These organizations fall within one of the ﬁve areas of interest supported by the Comox Valley Community Foundation and

include Arts and Culture, Environment and Parks, Health and Welfare, Education and Youth, and Seniors. The CVC Foundation has awarded over $1.5 million since 1996. “The Community Enrichment Awards ceremony is one of the highlights of the year for the Foundation,” said Carruthers. “We hear ﬁrst hand from the groups about how these funds impact each organization and the community as a whole. It’s

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inspiring!” The CV Community Foundation also administers a number of endowment funds for local organizations whose total awards, disbursed in late 2014, amounted to more than $50,000. Later this year $23,000 in scholarships and bursaries will be awarded to local students. The CVC Foundation also sets aside funds for grant requests that emerge outside of the grant review and award cycle.

Currently the Comox Valley Community Foundation has assets totalling $5 million. All assets are invested in perpetuity so there will be an on-going source of funding for local initiatives. For further information about the Comox Valley Community Foundation, its mission and how individuals or organizations can participate in enriching life in the Comox Valley visit, the Foundation’s website at www. cvcfoundation.org

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 9, 2015

CRIME

Illegal activities around city library draw concern Councillor Hillian wants to meet with police chief

matter addressed. “I was hearing suggestions that it’s not just a motion to move people along,” said Hillian. “Because where do they go and then what happens? So I think there is an opportunity for some proactive community polic-

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff

ICourtenay’s public library has become a hub of illegal activities and a favourite hangout by people whose interests have nothing to do with books or learning. It’s a concern raised by true patrons of the library and they have brought this issue to the attention of city officials. City councillor Doug Hillian raised the topic at Monday night’s regular meeting. He introduced a resolution calling for a meeting with Comox Valley RCMP Commander, Insp. Tim

Walton to discuss this situation at the library as well as other policing issues. Hillian said he heard these complaints from residents during the election campaign. Some felt they are losing the public library. “People are actively dealing drugs, using drugs within the precincts of the library, creating an atmosphere that is difficult for people who are going there with their children to make use of the library

services,” said Hillian. As there are no other public facilities in the downtown area where people, who are either homeless or on the streets, can hang out during the day, the library has become a popular place where they can sit and sleep, said Hillian, or even engage in illegal activities. Hillian said, while he does not want to deny anyoe access to the library, he has received pleas from people who would like to see this

OPEN HOUSE South Region Liquid Waste Management Plan

The project team has reached a critical stage in the liquid waste management planning process and is seeking the community’s feedback on a shortlist of service options. Details about proposed effluent discharge locations, project costs and costs for participants will be presented at this important open house event.

Wednesday, Jan 21, 2015 | 4 - 7 pm Union Bay Community Hall 5401 South Island Hwy, Union Bay Open House Style Fill out a comment form/survey at the open house and your name will be entered to WIN one of four 10-visit passes to CVRD recreation facilities as a thank-you for your time. If you can’t make the Jan 21 open house, drop by the project oﬃce (3843 Livingstone Rd) on Jan 22 or 29 (noon to 4 pm) with any questions or feedback. Learn more at www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/southregionlwmp Contact: southsewer@comoxvalleyrd.ca | 250-871-6100

ing here.” Courtenay council never got the opportunity to meet with Walton since his appointment to the Comox Valley Detachment last spring. Hillian said his resolution has dual purpose to meet with Walton and also discuss the situation at the library. “What I would like to speak to Inspector Walton about is to what extent they can assign the community policing unit to get to know the people in the area, to be there with a presence to help connect people who might be challenged

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with services that can help them,” said Hillian. Council agreed with Hillian and endorsed his resolution. A spokesperson from the Vancouver Island Regional Library, Natasha Bartlett said there were protocols in place that people who use the facilities are required to follow. “Our goal is to provide a safe haven for people and the community,” said Bartlett. “We do have security cameras located at the branch and our staff will call the police when they see an illegal activity.”

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 9, 2015

Isfeld Secondary’s Kristen Bystrom wins Governor-General’s Award for Academic Excellence The Governor General’s Academic Medal is the highest award offered to a high school student, and is based on all grade 11 and 12 courses. The calculation is done only after all provincial exams have been marked, so schools will not know the ﬁnal result until late August. By this time, the recipient is often off to university, and the presentation of the award must wait until a break from studies. This

year, Kristen Bystrom placed ﬁrst in Mark Isfeld Secondary based on her academic average of 95.84 per cent. The Governor-General Award is always a close competition, and a gap of half a percentage point is considered a decisive margin. This year, there was a tie for second place to the hundredth decimal, with many others close behind. However, Bystrom’s aver-

A product of Mark Isfeld Secondary, Kristen Bystrom receives the Governor General’s Academic Medal, the highest award offered to a high school student and certificate from principal Jeff Taylor. age was 1.5 per cent higher than second place, which is an almost unprecedented lead over what has always been a tight ﬁeld. Remarkably, the bulk

of Bystrom’s studies were in Sciences and Mathematics, where marks are not always easy to earn. Add to this the fact that Bystrom was active in ﬁne

arts, including a lead role in the Wizard of Oz, and in leadership activities, managing her own Destination Imagination Team as a grade 12 student.

Considering all that Bystrom was able to jam into her grad year, for her to maintain this academic average is a stellar achievement and a testament to her organizational skills and personal drive. Bystrom is currently studying Actuarial Science at Simon Fraser University, and is looking into Co-op education opportunities. She has continued her academic excellence at SFU, earning a high enough grade point average to qualify for continued scholarship funding. The staff of Mark R. Isfeld Secondary congratulate Bystrom on winning this distinguished award and applaud her continued academic success at the post-secondary level.

Sewer pump station project delayed for more study BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff The Comox Valley Regional District’s Sewage Commission has passed a motion to stop the controversial Comox No. 2 Sewer Pump Station from moving any further until they have the opportunity to evaluate reports on the $11 million project. Newly elected chair of the commission, Manno Theos, presented the motion after hearing angry residents from the Croteau Beach-Hawkins Greenway neighbourhood express their disappointment over the CVRD board’s decision to buy a property on Beech Street for development of the project. Residents came out to attend the inaugural Sewage Commission meeting on Tuesday and they ﬁlled the boardroom to hear the CVRD’s reasons why they chose this particular site that is located in a residential area and is in between two homes. CVRD’s senior manager of engineering services Marc Rutten explained the

Comox Pump Station No. 2 is a high priority because of the environmental risk related to the exposure of the current sewage pipeline along the Willemar Bluff due to beach erosion that was discovered in 2002. The pipeline transmits wastewater from the City of Courtenay and Town of Comox to the Comox Valley Water Pollution Control Centre. “The exposure has been temporarily repaired by the regional district by placing gabion baskets over the exposed pipeline,” said Rutten. “But at the time those baskets were put in place, there was an acknowledgement and recognition that a long-term solution needed to be in place.” Rutten said there were three technical factors that limited the choice where the proposed pump station could be built. First, it has to be located between Courtenay, Jane Place Pump Station and Goose Spit. Elevation is the second factor. The pump station has to be located at about

Jan 9 - Jan 15 Jan 9 - Jan 15

Typically these pump stations are not noisy. And for odour there’s some very good technologies in place to control odour” MARK RUTTEN CVRD Engineering Services

the 12 to 14 metre elevation. If it’s too low or too high, Rutten said, the Jane Place Pump won’t work. The third consideration was the size of the property. It must be able to accommodate the pump station. Bruce Turner of Heuristic Consulting Associates, which was commissioned to evaluate properties suitable to build the project, explained the scoring methodology it used to select an ideal location. Three properties were considered - one located at Mack Laing Park, a vacant lot on Young Street and the Beech Street

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Rutten said they anticipated these questions and tried to address them. “Typically these pump stations are not noisy,” said Rutten. “They are located well-below ground, covered by concrete ceilings and an enclosure on the building on top of that. And for odour there’s some very good technologies in place to control odour.” Theos said the residents have serious concerns and put forward a motion requesting staff present the new commission all the reports on the project so they can assess them, and to delay any development of the project for four months.

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not answer that as they have yet to complete a hydrological study on the property and the surrounding areas. If there are concerns, he said, they will ﬁnd a way to mitigate them. Comox’s Barbara Price asked Rutten if he was conﬁdent everything could be mitigated if the outcome shows there is a problem. “Without seeing the report, it’s difficult to say,” said Rutten. “It’s quite likely that there won’t be any impact to the existing ground water in the area.” The crowd reacted negatively to his answer. Grant also raised the issue of noise and odour.

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lot. The Beech Street lot ranked the highest. The process on how the decision was reached is now being made public by the CVRD and is posted on its website. Rutten said they’re still looking at options as to the size of the station and what it’s going to look like. They plan to involve the community so they can have a better idea of what the form and the character of the building would be. “Some existing pump stations are quite institutional looking but there are examples of other pump stations that look like single family homes,” said Rutten, who added the size would be around 3,000 square feet, would be above ground and not over a single story. Comox director Ken Grant said he has heard a lot of concerns from residents about the impact the pump station will have on the water table in the neighbourhood, which relies mostly on well-water and have their own septic tanks. Rutten said they can-

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YANA Dinner & Auction 2015 Friday, February 27th at the Florence Filberg Center Tickets sales open Sunday, January 18, at 9am. On-line only at

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 9, 2015

ECHO

OPINIONS

LETTERS

Time to protect our water at the source RE: BOIL WATER ADVISORY Perhaps instead of blaming BC Hydro, or the Regional District, or the Province for our boil water advisory which has been going on for several weeks, we need to start thinking about protecting the water at source. The expensive part of getting water into our homes is the infrastructure required to physically move the water into our taps and toilets and to keep the bad stuff out of the water that actually gets into our mouths. Some statistics indicate that only 5% of the water that enters our homes actually ends up in our bodies. Most of it is ﬂushed away in toilets, used to water lawns and gardens, or goes down the drain after washing dishes, clothes, and vehicles. The current boil water advisory is a precautionary measure because of increased turbidity. This turbidity increase has been assisted by the amount of water that has fallen over the last few weeks that has not stayed in the mountains as snow. The water running down the hillsides used to be contained and absorbed by the vegetation on those hills. With the increased and aggressive logging over the last decade, there is less vegetative cover to assist with water retention, increasing the amount of sticks, leaves, and silt that gets into the water supply.

Victoria recognized this issue many years ago and was successful in buying up the land around their watershed. Nanaimo is seriously considering the same remedy to protect the water for their citizens. It is time for the Comox Valley Regional District to begin negotiations with TimberWest and other logging companies who own land and/or logging rights around Comox Lake to secure this land for protection of our water supply. At the very least the Regional District should take seriously a proposal called, Comox Lake Watershed Sustainable Use Recreation Area, which was released by the Comox Valley Conservation Strategy (CVCS) Community Partnership in April 2013. It calls for: a) signiﬁcant restrictions and changes to permitted land use to end large scale clear cut logging, mining and land development activities; b) the development of a watershed management plan; and c) establishment of an independent watershed authority tasked with the responsibility to maintain watershed health. The proposal is available for viewing on the CVCS Community Partnership web site at: http:// w w w. c v c o n s e r v a t i o n strategy.org/wp-content/ uploads/2010/09/ComoxLake-Sustainable-Use-Recreation-Area_-Printable.pdf I invite the City of Cour-

COMOX VALLEY ECHO An independently owned and operated newspaper published by Echo Publications at 407-E Fifth Street, Courtenay, B.C. V9N 1J7 Phone 250-334-4722 Fax 250-334-3172 Classifieds 250- 334-4215 Circulation 250-334-4734 E-mail: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com Publisher Dave MacDonald Editor Debra Martin Advertising Manager Keith Currie Office Administrator Deb Fowler Circulation Manager Hedi MacDonald Production Manager Ryan Getz 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

tenay council appointees to the Comox Valley Water Committee to bring these suggestions forward at a future meeting of the Committee. Pamela Munroe Courtenay

DO SOMETHING NOW! Now that we are done with the season of charitable giving, it’s time to sit back and ...do something! Food banks ﬁll a gap, charitable giving is good in and of itself but these things are only band aids - as we all know. But here’s one action that we can take to ensure that the pressure is eased a little on food banks and other charities. We can ramp up the pressure on the Provincial government to end the evil claw-back of parental support payments for those on social assistance and disability payments. This is the provincial Liberal government literally taking money from children! Parental support payments belong to the children. The government is not teaching anybody a lesson about taking responsibility for oneself by withholding these payments. They are not preventing abuse of social assistance by doing this. They are, in fact, ensuring that people are stuck in a dark well of dependency by taking away any ability for people to reach a degree of comfort where they can actually see a future.

There are many things that we can do as citizens to make this a more equitable society. I don’t do nearly enough to try to change things but I am making this my own feeble effort to rouse people to pressure Don McRae and Christy Clark and all the rest of the Liberals, to immediately end this despicable clawback. Oh I know, the Liberal caucus is “studying” this issue, but the next budget will have come and gone before the caucus comes to any conclusion. Do it now I say - any excuse that it takes time is simply bureaucratic BS. And while you’re at it, raise the amount of money that people can earn over and above their social assistance payments. These are a couple of simple ways in which we can immediately improve the lives of people who are victims of the lousy economic system under which we live. Do it now! Stephen Harvey Courtenay

WHAT A HYPOCRITE I’m reading the article about residents raising a stink about the CVRD sewer station project. They are appalled that there was no consultation with the residents before the property was purchased. Well welcome to the politics of Comox Valley. We live on Braidwood Rd. where

property was purchased for assisted housing (shelter) without any consultation with the public until after the deal was done. What I ﬁnd most nauseating is mayor Jangula’s hypocritical comments that “The public needs to hear why this area was selected, what other options or alternatives that could have been used, the neighbourhood has to have input. They have to be heard from.” Well Mr. Jangula, why wasn’t this approach afforded to the residents in the Braidwood Rd.? Not one council member showed up after the consultant had a meeting with residents after the deal was done. I made sure I didn’t vote for anyone on the old council. It would be nice to hear from one of the new council members re the unfairness of the way this was handled or will they toe the line like everyone else from the past council? On another note I wish I had of been home when Manno Theos was toadying around our neighbourhood for votes. Don’t come again you’re not welcome! Paul Locke Courtenay

DROP THE GMO FOODS Happy 2015 !! If you are ringing in the New Year with a resolution, why not make it a healthy one? Why not start to choose your food ? Decreasing or even eliminating genetically engi-

neered (GE/GMO) foodstuffs from your diet will not only help to reduce your calorie intake, but it will kick start your year on a healthier path. No need to go 180 degrees tomorrow. Just choose a few items to avoid to start with. Then as you become comfortable with the labels it will become second nature. Start easy as there are only 4 genetically engineered crops in Canada: Corn, Canola, Soy and Sugar beets. Often unknowingly, we ingest GMOs through corn by-products like high fructose corn syrup, citric acid and cornstarch which are found in most processed foods. By avoiding sodas, sugary cereals and candy, we can cut a huge number of empty calories out of our diet. Opting for fresh fruit and vegetables for snacks or oatmeal for breakfast will ensure that your purchasing dollar support non-GMO producers. Also our fabulous local farmers are providing us with more choices and ﬂavours every year.!! Choosing to eliminate genetically engineered foods from your diet means you will be eating healthier, more nutrient-rich foods and getting rid of the junk food that doesn’t help our waist lines anyways. What better way to start off the New Year? For more information on GE/GMOs, see www.cban.ca Linda Cheu, Member of GE Free Comox Valley

www.comoxvalleyecho.com

FRIDAY.JANUARY 9, 2015

BEEFS & BOUQUETS IF I READ ONE MORE insipid Bouquet I think I’m gonna throw up! Only two individuals are interested in them. The subject of the piece who is usually some schmuck who just did his or her job correctly and the author who feels compelled to shower his or her pearls of wisdom on the rest of us poor misguided, uninformed readers. Give your head a shake! This valley offers all kinds of opportunities for bitching: Amalgamation, flood control, lack of flood control, Maple Pool, left wing politicians, right wing politicians, school boards, teachers, bridges, lack of bridges, driving too slow, driving too fast, traffic control, zoning,

THE COMOX VALLEY’S FIRST AND BEST READER’S FORUM Email to: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com lack of zoning, the Comox Valley Regional District, boil water advisories, dog barking, doggie doo, new hospitals, old hospitals to name just a sampling. Our MLA has spiked hair for heaven’s sake. Spiked hair! As my mother used to say, if you can’t find something to complain about you aren’t looking hard enough! Get out there and bitch! BEST WISHES for a happy new year along with a large bouquet to the doctors and staff of Seacove Medical Clinic. Thank you for your patience and compassion. Your clients are indeed fortunate to be under your care. A BOUQUET of shiny composites to Jordyn, Dr. Helpard and staff who were so caring over the holidays and brought a smile back to my daredevil for 2015! SEASON’S GREETINGS and God’s richest blessings for the New Year to Scott from Vanisle IT Services. Scott is a businessman with a big heart. He care about keeping costs down for his customers, is very patient and compassionate when it comes to older, technically-challenged seniors (like me). Thankyou, Scott, you are truly appreciated.

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BOUQUETS and good karma to the wonderful staff of the Rialto Theater this past Tuesday evening. Thank you so much for setting a chair at the back of the theater for me so that I would not be a bother to others trying to enjoy the rest of the movie. Small courtesies are not forgotten and it is so nice to see someone willing to help than appear inconvenienced. A BOUQUET of candy canes to a thoughtful customer, Lorne Barr. At Slegg Lumber in Comox, a Santa’s Workshop elf was picking up donations and her car

battery died. Lorne used his jumper cables to get her going and followed her to make sure she got home safe and sound. Thank you for your kindness. IN THE CV ECHO’s December 2, 2014 article on John Leung, there needs to be a correction. For the sake of historical accuracy, the subhead would be more accurate to read: He was the last Cumberlander to be from a Cumberland Chinatown family. John Leung was born in Cumberland, B.C., and not in Chinatown. His grandparents lived in Chinatown, and his Mother was the one who was born in Cumberland Chinatown. NO BOUQUETS for Swiss Chalet. To those of you wishing they would come to town, remember it takes big bucks to buy a franchise. I have been in touch with their head office several times over the past decade and I am sorry to say there was no interest. Now that they have closed locations in Nanaimo and Victoria I would not be surprised if they’ve lost all interest in our island. What we need is a Tim Hortons at the old Chad’s location and a Wendy’s in Comox. If it’s restaurants you prefer, what about an Olive Garden or The Keg or a Milestone’s or Montana’s or Kelsey’s, but located by the new hospital. FLAT BALLS to the older men’s soccer team. I was at the new turf field on a Sunday about 1:30 with my daughter. We were waiting while her team was warming up to play next. What I heard from those men was disgusting, the language foul and the team spirit non-existent! How can grown men behave in such a manner in front of young people or ... anyone for that matter? You men as adults are an example to our young people. Teaching them that another player is a f----ing idiot for not passing

the ball to them or to their feet or even just swearing is UNACCEPTABLE. I am not a soccer expert, however I know respect for any team event is a very important thing. Grow up. A BIG BEEF to the stupid, stupid girl (young woman) who ran in front of my car on Cliffe Avenue by A&W on Saturday, Dec. 20. It was pouring rain and gusty, not the best driving conditions. I had to stand on my brakes and skid to avoid hitting you. Your long auburn hair would not have looked so great under the front wheel of my car. You came very close to serious injury. I’m sure your family would have been devastated. In light of recent tragic events that have unfolded in our area involving cyclists and pedestrians, I feel that everyone needs to take responsibility for safety on the roads, not just vehicle drivers. I also noticed that there is quite a long stretch of four lanes south of 29th Street on Cliffe with no safe crossing for pedestrians. Perhaps if the city put a crosswalk somewhere between Anfield and 29th, people wouldn’t have to risk their lives trying to cross. Stay safe. IN RESPONSE TO THE BEEF directed to ICBC pertaining to driver’s medical report for seniors reaching their 80th birthday (Dec. 19, 2014). I am also 80 and coming to 81, and yes, I also agree there should be a set fee, and income tax deductible. My fee was well over one hundred dollars. When I completed the form with my doctor, I also had a full medical, which is covered by B.C. Medical, but not the driver’s medical examination report! Excuse me, but is this not a money grab that is not taxed? Yes, I believe the Superintendent of Motor Vehicles and whoever is involved get their heads together and fix this dilemma.

And yes we (seniors) have to pay this fee every two years thereafter with the medical report. Are we as seniors targeted because we don’t fight back? We are on a fixed income and have paid our dues in our working years, and on. The examination report is mailed to the senior before your 80th birthday. REGARDS YOUR ARTICLE on the Lorne site as regards the sound attenuation. We had one but the wheels fell off. A ‘BIG BEEF’ to the continuing boiling of water in Courtenay!!! We pay taxes to have a safe water system, then every time severe flooding occurs, we have to go through the inconvenience of boiling water or pay for bottled water. Enough is enough, we need a system upgrade. A BIG HEARTFELT BOUQUET to the lady who stopped to help when I hit a cat with my car this week. Without hesitation, you stopped and picked me up when I was absolutely hysterical. You helped me find the owner and stayed until I was calm and able to continue on my way. To the sweet lady whose cat I hit, you were so kind and understanding in the face of your loss. I am so very sorry. You have no idea how much I appreciate you both. To my son and his friend who came and helped us, thank you. You came to my rescue and I am so proud of you. ANOTHER EARLY, DARK, rainy night with very poor visibility, once again leaving me wondering why we have such pathetic road markings on all our roads. White lines on the sides show up just slightly better than the yellow lines down the centre. No reflective paint, and very few cats eyes, if any, down the middle, none at all on the outer edge. Why is this? I recently read that water based paint is used, which wears off in a very short time, in-

stead of spirit based paint. Ridiculous!! Is this some sort of environmentalism gone mad?!? Many parts of the world use paint containing reflective materials -- surely in the 21st century we can take the leap to join them, for safety’s sake? And in England, where we came from, cats eyes are used, close together, on virtually all centre lines and road edge lines. If it’s a matter of finances, I for one would like MY tax dollars to go for highly visible road markings, which would make mobility at night, and especially in winter, so, so much easier, and no doubt would save lives too!

(Continued on page 7)

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FRIDAY.JANUARY 9, 2015

BEEFS & BOUQUETS (Continued from page 6) CLEAR CUT around Comox Lake, then you get silt in the water and it is going to cost at least $200 million to clean the water. The public will get stuck with the bill, the forest company and whoever permitted it will benefit. We have a boil water advisory, it should be a boil the idiots that permitted this advisory. BEEF to Mayor Jangula for more broken promises. In 2011 he promised to resolve the Maple Pool issue, and nothing happened until 2014, when he promised to fix the issue again. Then, on CBC radio the day after getting elected, he said that the Maple Pool issue would be fixed by Christmas. It’s still not fixed. How much longer do the residents and owners of Maple Pool have to wait? MY BEEF is to the store managers that seem to think they should yell at their employees. I was shopping at one of the stores. I witnessed this manager, she didn’t yell at one employee, she did it to all of them. I have seen her do this a few times before. I feel sorry for employees. Lady if you can’t handle your job quit it. BLESSINGS to the couple who took time out to drop off a misdirected airmail card to me last Saturday morning. Thank-you, and may generous things happen to you this year. And may it give me a reminder to ‘play it forward’ whenever I can. THIS IS A BOUQUET for Jiffy Lube in Courtenay. I have been going there for the last 15 years and I don’t understand why anyone would go anywhere else. They’re great. I was in about a week ago and the guys were having a problem with something that just wasn’t working on my car. They called the manager over and Jim had it solved in just a few seconds, then he came over and took the time to explain it to us. I don’t think I have ever been in a shop that has as happy employees as they are. Good job guys, from a very happy customer. TO ALL MY CUSTOMERS on Cliffe Ave. and Mansfield Dr. I would like to thank you for the cards, gifts and home baking that you gave me this Christmas. I enjoy delivering your papers and your kindness throughout the year makes the job fun. I am looking forward to another year as your Echo carrier. Again,

THE COMOX VALLEY’S FIRST AND BEST READER’S FORUM Email to: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com thank you so much and I wish you all a very Happy New Year. TO THE IDIOT on his motorcycle that drove up behind me at the light at 19th and Cliffe yelling the “F” word at me for stopping for the orange light, kept yelling the “F”word looking for an escape, either over my car or through it, finally took off across the ambulance parking lot still yelling the “F” word. Grow up jerk, the orange light means stop and the sooner you learn that the safer our roads will be, you are not intelligent enough to be driving anything get off our streets, again GROW UP. TO THE GENTLEMEN t h a t helped me put out the fire in my car in the Costco parking lot on Friday Jan 2nd. My biggest thanks. I was a little rattled at the time and can’t remember if I thanked you properly. Huge bouquets!! A HUGE BOUQUET of good New Year’s wishes to Ian at Speedy Glass in Courtenay. He helped me trouble shoot with a leak in my pick-up truck. On 2 different occasions he spent the time and effort and did not charge me!! I will recommend him to everyone I know--thank you IAN!!! BOUQUET: for the new hospital construction site to display Christmas lights on the crane. It shows such community spirit. BEEF: to the businesses near the new hospital construction site (Crown Isle plaza) choosing not to display outdoor Christmas lights/decor. Thumbs down. BOUQUETS of beautiful fresh flowers to the person who returns my long black winter coat to the upper Courtenay Legion coat closet. It was taken by mistake after the

dinner dance on New Year’s Eve. Your coat is still there and I really need my coat for the winter. Any one who was at the Legion that night could have worn it home, hung it in the closet and not noticed. Please, everyone who was at the New Year’s Eve dinner dance at the Courtenay Legion and wore a black coat, check your closet!! Thank you. THREE WEEKS PLUS of boiling water in 2014? What is going on in our watershed? The very well informed CVRD general manger of water services is lost to explain this phenomena which is unprecedented in the history of the Comox Lake water supply. Will the Province, who are implementing more expensive water standards, investigate the cause of this? Surely it is not solely climate change or heavy rainfall. This is not a Mount Polley disaster, but a rolling, boiling issue which will boil over into big bucks for solutions to a problem that has not surfaced until this year, 2014. Let’s have an independent investigation and find the causes of this and assign the liablities for the cost of fixing the water quality. Writer and long term resident, Frank Carter, outlines the issue well in his letter to the editor. Ask your elected or appointed CVRD rep what they are doing to address this problem! Why should we pay for water quality problems created most likely by the Province, who have not protected our watershed? DAWN TO DAWN would like to wish the Goat FM’s Dave Tymo a warm dry, successful 2015 and a huge vote of thanks for weathering the storm of 2014 on Thrifty’s roof to raise food and funds to help the less fortunate in our community! Thanks Dave!

BEEF to the movie theatre and the crummy, dilapidated seats you expect people to pay money to sit on. It’s worth the drive down island where some theatres have cushioned bucket seats! Come on owners, you’re the only theatre in town, make it nicer for your paying customers. Vote with your feet! THIS IS A BEEF to Superstore and all those other businesses out there who are flying tattered and torn Canadian flags. Shame on you. A REALLY HUGE BOUQUET: The Comox Valley Lions Club wish to acknowledge: Sandy of Dulux Paints in Courtenay for the generous donation of paint for the ceiling and walls in our Lions Den, and Midland Tools for the painting tarp. We also thank Chad Rochon (C.H.A.D.Painting) and his friends Rachelle, Andrew, Judy, Ed, Karin and James for assisting with prepping and painting. The Den looks so much better thanks to your efforts. Special thanks to Mrs. Rachon for the fabulous cookies. Having the community come out in our time of need, truly was the best Christmas present we could ever have received. A GREAT BIG BOUQUET to my Bus Driver Don for making my morning and chasing down the Handy Dart this morning to make sure I got my free coffee that the CVRD were handing out; we caught up and I got my coffee, not only that you have gone above and beyond on many occasions in the recent horrific weather that we have been having. Thanks again Don, and the CVRD for appreciating your customers you rock! KUDOS to the Echo for continuing to provide plenty

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

of NEWS coverage of local events and the opportunity for readers to comment through letters and beefs & bouquets in its columns right through the holiday break. Coverage of events like the Goose Spit polar bear swim, the reasons behind the continuing boil water advisory, the departure of local 19 Wing troops to the Middle East, and the memorial tribute to the Lake Trail teacher was extensive both in words and photographs. As for the other paper, all we got was a look back at past events - not a word of actual new news, although they had plenty of flyers. I read that the owners of the Record are buying several Island papers including the Echo - I hope they appreciate how much more comprehensive the news reporting is in the Echo, and what an asset the paper is to the Comox Valley. THIS COMMENT goes out to the tall fellow with a beard that decided to dump the last month’s garbage in the dumpsters behind the Time Square Complex of Guthrie Road in Comox. You know who you are, you said you used to live here. If you did, you would know that residents pay for the dumpsters to be there and so you dropping your trash on us results in added expense for us. So a big, insincere thank you for stealing from us to the liar who’s too cheap to bring it to the city dump! A great example to all! I hope we can someday return the favour! RUTTED TRAILS to the person, who took my Swix classic blue, black, and silver 130 cm. poles, from the ski rack, at Raven’s Lodge, on December 29th, at 12:30. I was only away from my ski equipment for 5 minutes. Happy Trails, if you do the right thing, and turn the poles into the Lost, and Found, at the Raven Lodge.

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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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 9, 2015

HOPE HOLID YS FOR

THE

Thank You

Vancouver Aquarium team, along with DFO officers, check log booms at Fanny Bay looking for entangled sea lions

Two distressed sea lions in Fanny Bay rescued BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff A team from the Vancouver Aquarium and Fisheries and Oceans Canada rescued two sea lions with entanglements Wednesday in the Fanny Bay area. Unfortunately, none of them was the distressed sea lion that was spotted with a severe laceration around its neck near the Fanny Bay docks recently. Experts from the aquarium’s marine mammal rescue centre, led by its head veterinarian, Dr. Martin Haulena, scoured the area in search of “Riptide”, the

The team from the Vancouver Aquarium and Fisheries and Oceans Canada works to disentangle a second sea lion. (Vancouver Aquarium) name given by Campbell River wildlife photographer Netonia Chatelaine,

who ﬁrst photographed the animal and reported it to DFO and the aquarium.

However, the team’s entire efforts were not completely in vain because they were able to save two California sea lions. “Those were done in the water, and neither one of them was the one Netonia has called Riptide,” said aquarium communications advisor Deana Lancaster. “We try to save as much as we can whenever we’re out here.” There was an attempt to save a third sea lion but it was unsuccessful. The team also went to Hornby Island to look at other sea lions. (Continued on page 9)

FINANCIAL & INSURANCE COUNSELLING

Eirah Unger – eirahunger@gmail.com – 250-218-7573 Builders Lien Act (Section 7 (10))

• to the Comox Valley for your Generous Support. Our 2014 “Hope for the Holidays Campaign” was a HUGE success! • to our Host Locations – your partnerships are so integral to our campaign! Special appreciation to 97.3 THE EAGLE for getting our messages out! • to our many individual volunteer’s ages 3 – 91 years old, together you helped us cover over 1270 hours of ringing Bells at the kettles! • to those who sponsored a hamper this year and to our wonderful Grandma who provided baked goodies the entire Christmas season! • to Rice Toyota for supplying The Salvation Army with a Christmas Cruisor vehicle

A huge thank you to NOORT INVESTMENTS – the owner of 468 29th Street for the use of the building that served as our “Hamper Headquarters”. Every year someone such as you blesses us with the perfect location and we so very much appreciate it! If your group or business has been missed, please accept our sincere apologies. We deeply value all of our community partners and we thank YOU for your ongoing support! 19 Wing CFB Comox

Kiwanis Club of Courtenay

97.3 The Eagle

London Drugs

98.9 Jet FM

Mayor Leslie Baird

ABC Printing

Mayor Paul Ives

Airport Elementary School

Mayor Larry Jangula

Baynes Sound Lions Club

Oyster River Fire Dept

BPO Elks #60 - Courtenay

Order of the Royal Purple

Canadian Tire

Quality Foods – Courtenay & Comox

Coastal Community Credit Union

Rotary Club of Comox

Comox Mall

Royal Canadian Legion – Branch #17

Comox Valley ECHO

Royal Canadian Legion – Comox #160

Comox Valley Monarch Lions Club

Seifert Farms

Comox Volunteer Fire Department

Scotia Bank – 5th Street

Costco

Shaw Cable

Courtenay Liquor Store

Sheet Metal Workers & Roofers Local 276

Cumberland Elementary School – Gr. 3/4

Presley & Partners

CV Echo Newspaper

LA to the RCL Branch #60

Driftwood Mall

Royal Purple of Canada

John's Independent Grocer

Comox Valley Bailiffs Ltd.

Farmers Market Association

Knights of Columbus (BC) Charity Foundation

Grains Bakery

888 Komox Wing R.C.A.F.A.

Kinsmen K40 Club

Superstore

Kiwanis Club of Comox

Thrifty Foods – Courtenay & Crown Isle

Certificate of Completion I

Yaso Somalingam of Cantam Group Ltd.

[name of payment certifier],

850 Tapscott Road, Suite 51, Toronto, Ontario M1X 1N4

, Ontario certify that, for the

purposes of the British Columbia Builders' Lien Act, the following contract or subcontract was completed on

December 12, 2014

[month/day/year]

Street address or other description of the land affected by the improvement: 444 Lerwick Road Courtenay, British Columbia Crown Isle Shopping Centre Building K, Phase 2 Brief description of the improvement: New Build 3 bay Mr. Lube drive through oil change facility. Brief description of the contract or subcontract, including the date of the contract and the names of the parties to it: Owner: 0982557 B.C. Ltd 1157 Esplanade Avenue West Vancouver, British Columbia V7T 1G3 Attention: Mr. Guenter Raedler Contractor:

TKI Construction Ltd 17-737 Stremel Road Kelowna, British Columbia V1X 5E6 Attention: Mr. Brandon Panopoulos

Signed Payment Certifier Date

December 22, 2014

[month/day/year]

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 9, 2015

Sea lions rescued (Continued from page 8) The sea lion rescue operation is an ongoing program of the Vancouver Aquarium, a non-proﬁt organization. Much of its funding is derived through donations and sponsorships. “There are hundreds of sea lions tangled in marine debris on our coast,” said Lancaster. “We will continue doing this project.” Organizing a rescue is not an easy task because it entails a lot of resources and also funding. “It requires a lot of coordination with the agencies,” said Lancaster. “We need equipment, the drugs, it’s not something we can turn around and do in a day. It requires some time to pull together.” Lancaster said the aquarium appreciates the sightings reported because it assist them in their rescue efforts. “They are really important for them to tell us if they see animals that are tangled,” said Lancaster. “We are happy that people care. That’s a great thing.” Lancaster would like to advise the public to be more careful when tossing out and throwing away things. A lot of the animals get tangled in rope, wires, lost ﬁshing gear and other garbage. Anyone wishing to donate and help the aquarium with its rescue program can go their site at http:// www.vanaqua.org/act/direct-action/ marine-mammal-rescue. If you see a marine mammal that you believe is in distress, contact 604-258-SEAL (7325)

hosting a special Taize prayer service for Christian Unity on Tuesday January 13th, 7PM at St John the Divine Church on 5th Street in Courtenay. January is a month in which Christians worldwide pray for unity, especially to overcome historical and present divisions that exist between RHODO CLUB church communities. All STARTS SEASON are welcome to attend. The service will run about 40 The North Island minutes. Rhododendron Society Taize is an ecumenical (NIRS) will kick off the new year Tuesday, January 13 with community in France which one of the club’s most popular welcomes people from around programs-its annual panel of the world each year for prayer, sharing and communal gardening experts. work. Their distinct form NIRS member Nadine of prayer focuses on simple Boudreau will keep the repetitive chants sung in many questions and answers languages to encourage unity ﬂowing with members Paul Wurz, Bernie Guyader, Garth between nations. The chants are easy to learn and because Wedemire and Wolfgang Hoefgen providing answers on they are repetitive stimulate a calm prayerful atmosphere. various aspects of gardening L’Arche Comox Valley holds including, of course, a Taize prayer service every rhododendrons. month on the 2nd Tuesday NIRS meetings are held of the month at St John the on the second Tuesday of Divine and welcome visitors every month at the Comox anytime. This month’s service United Church. Doors open will have this special theme at 7pm with the business of Christian Unity and they meeting starting at 7:30pm. are extending their welcome Refreshments are served widely to people whether they and guests interested in club attend a church regularly or membership are welcome. not. FMI at taize.fr

ECHO

etc.

L’ARCHE HAVING TAIZE SERVICE

MYELOMA GROUP MEETING JAN. 20

L’Arche Comox Valley is

The North Island Myeloma

Dancing ‘til 2am Fri & Sat .........DJ Kevin D Thu & Sun ......DJ OZ (Open Late)

The Newcomers club is a friendly, warm and welcoming group of women who have resided in the Comox Valley for less than two years. We help women new to the valley feel comfortable, meet friends and learn as much as they can about this wonderful place that is now home. The Comox Valley has so many attractions and opportunities that the monthly meetings are always entertaining and informative! Why not attend the next general meeting which is scheduled for Monday, January 12th. Guest speaker will be Deb Dewar, owner of Packable Travel Solutions. Packables is a store that has everything anyone would need for travel from squishable packable

THANKS FROM SANTA’S ELVES Santa’s Workshop extends an enormous thank you to all the Comox Valley community for another very successful Christmas Season in 2014. The “elves” gave out 212 bikes, 599 children from 271 families received gifts and 40 grandparents “shopped” for 115 grandchildren. This is all made possible because of such a very generous and special community. Thank you to the local businesses, individuals,

local newspapers, service clubs, Shaw Cable and local radio stations for all your wonderful and on-going support. Thanks as well to Chris and Rita Timberley for the location and also to those who took a ‘dropbox’ for toys. We are very fortunate to live in a community where people are so caring and compassionate. All the “elves” at the workshop put in many hours - they are very dedicated people - and all this couldn’t happen without them so Santa thanks and commends all you “elves” for your wonderful efforts! Many children of the Comox Valley were able to enjoy a happier Christmas because of such community spirit during the season. Thanks to everyone who participated in any way for your individual assistance and for all working together - we are a great community!

PLUG THIS SUCKER PLEASE

Tuesday-Saturday 5pm-9pm

JANUARY SPECIALS Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

MEET FRIENDS AT NEWCOMERS CLUB

clothing, accessories, books, guide maps to the luggage to pack it all in. Deb will demonstrate efficient ways to pack along with many other travel tips. Meetings are held at the Crown Isle Club House, 399 Club House Drive, Courtenay. Doors open at 6:30 pm with the meeting starting promptly at 7:00 pm. For more information email us at cvnewcomers. bc@gmail.com or check out our website at www. cvnewcomers.net. Your new friends are waiting for you!

Sushi Nights at The Flying Canoe

Live Music From 9pm Wed................Anela & Friends Thu ................Student Night Every Thursday 10pm to Close Karaoke Thurs & Sun....The Valley’s Best!

Flying Canoe Pub/ Chalk

Support Group is having its monthly meeting on January 20, in the dining room at the Best Western Westerly Hotel, 1590 Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay. Come for lunch at 12:15 (optional, buy your own lunch), meeting starts at 1:30. Keep up to date on the latest info on myeloma and enjoy socializing with others affected by the disease. Please contact Sandy at: bowsersandy@shaw.ca or 250703-4688 if you plan to attend or for more info.

Westerly Restaurant

Burger Night - Try our Terminator Burger Tapas from the Forno Schnitzel Special Wings Pasta Night Prime Rib with Yorkshire Pudding Fish N’ Chips - Best in the Valley Pizza from the Forno Chef’s Special Roast Beef

Limited Time Offer! Pussers British Navy 750ml (not available in government stores)

Steam Whistle Pilsner 500 ml 4 Pack

$12.99ea plus dep

$43.99ea

Tuesday Night Chefs Tapas Night - authentic dishes from around the world from $5!

2L Pepsi - 2 for $4 plus dep and be entered for a draw to win a day lift pass for Mount Washington!

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 9, 2015

What does

100% LOCAL mean to you?

Here’s what it means to us: 100% of our employees live and work here. 100% of our board members live and work here. 100% of our decisions are made here. 100% of staff volunteer hours go to local communities. 100% of deposits are reinvested to beneﬁt members and local businesses.

Over the course of 70 years, our members and clients have helped us become the largest financial services organization based here on the islands. Visit the branch nearest you and talk to us about how we can help you meet your goals while strengthening the communities where we live. Plus, be sure to enter to win a gift basket ﬁlled with 100% local treats! Comox 202 - 1797 Comox Ave

Ryan Road 1045 Ryan Road

4th Street 291 4th St

cccu.ca/local 1.888.741.1010

CREDIT UNION

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 9, 2015

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK: LUNCH & DINNER

SUPER BOWL 2015 5 Join the PARTY February 1st!!!!

January Skiing during WinterJam100 Mount Washington Alpine Resorts instant snow accumulation and opening bodes well for those planning a January ski getaway, as the mountain and participating resorts and hotels offer 50% off ski for those who ski & stay January 16 to 31. Additionally, ten dynamic concerts including County Music legend Michelle Wright, the lead singer of 54-40 Neil Osborne, and Boogie Nights with the Powder Blues, will see the region in full swing celebrating the City of Courtenay’s Centennial, snow and music. FMI winterjam.ca

Your natural gas bill went down Air-Fare & 3 Nights

Accommodation Provided Draw Date January 15 2015 th

Full Contest Details Available Online

As of January 1, 2015, your natural gas bill went down by approximately 13 per cent* or about $98 per year depending on consumption. Plus, the look of your FortisBC bill changed—making it NATURAL GAS easier to read and understand. It’s all because we’re phasing in common rates over the next two years (2016 to 2018), to eliminate the current rate differences that exist across our service areas.

RATE DECREASE

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For the most up-to-date information visit fortisbc.com/vanisland2015 or call 1-888-224-2710.

IslandsBestHomes.ca/LasVegas *For residential customers on Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast or in Powell River and Whistler. FortisBC uses the FortisBC name and logo under license from Fortis Inc. (14-030.29 VI 12/2014).

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 9, 2015

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY. JANUARY 9, 2015

ECHO

EXTRA

New Band Office a symbol of pride and strength for K’ómoks First Nation BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff The sun beamed down after a week of seemingly endless rain as K’ómoks First Nation marked the opening of their new band office with a celebration of pride and strength Dec. 12. Feathers fluttered, dancers flowed and voices sang songs to the throng of dignitaries and members of the public who gathered outside on the reserve. The sturdy and symmetrical building right on the edge of the estuary will serve as the home for band economic development and administrative functions as the community develops its business interests and completes the treaty process with the federal government. “We’re at a point in history when things are changing,” said elected chief Rob Everson in an interview. “It’s so important for us to embrace our culture as First Nations people, and this building is a direct reflection of our culture.” More than 125 mm of rain had fallen in the previous week, triggering a state of emergency as the banks of the river flooded, displacing people from their homes and closing

Ocean and mountains are reflected in the front windows of the new K’omoks band office on the Dyke Road down some of the main routes through the Comox Valley. The day before the ofﬁcial administrative building opening the rain

continued to fall. But as Calvin Hunt looked up, he was beaming. “In never gets old,” he said, as the second of two totem poles he carved was

lifted up with a crane and a handful of band members alongside construction workers. “It’s always like they’re coming alive as you see them get moved

into place.” Randy Frank was in awe, too. Along with Karver Everson, Ali Hunt and Merv Child, he had been men-

tored as a totem pole artist by the master carver on the project during the summer. (Continued on page 15)

Sweet score. FR E E

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 9, 2015

K’omoks open new band office (Continued from page 13) “It’s been awhile that they’ve been in storage,” he said. “It’s pretty spectacular.” He seemed like he was looking at the ﬁgures on the totem poles with fresh eyes. “They don’t look that big when they’re laying down,” he said. “It’s phenomenal.” Karver agreed. “They’re just so much bigger and more powerful,” he said. “Now they’re kind of more of a monument, you know?” The blessing ceremony the next morning was meant to prepare the way for positive words and interactions within the space.

The four surviving clans that make up the First Nation - the Sahtloot, Sasitla, E’eksen and Pentlatch - were represented by the sun, whale, thunderbird and bear in the totem poles and representatives from each were brought forward during the festivities. Wedlidi Speck, a community elder, said their ancestors had once gathered on Quadra Island, choosing to build a “Whale House” to bring people from disparate regions together. “This whale house would be where they brought their spirit, they brought their wisdom and they brought their visions for the future,” he said. (Continued on page 16)

Construction workers maneuver a totem pole off a truck and into place To see many more photographs of the ceremony please go to www.comoxvalleyecho.com

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 9, 2015

New Band Office a symbol of pride and strength

THE LITTLE RED CHURCH

Join ‘Anela and Friends’ for allstar performance Saturday night Enjoy a stellar musician line-up as “Anela & Friends” perform at The Little Red Church in Comox, this Saturday at 7:00 pm. Anela will be joined by Sue Medley, Luke Blue Guthrie, Jim Papp and Oscar Robles Diaz. Performance organizer Rob Peterson comments: “All locals of the Comox Valley, these are some of British Columbia’s ﬁnest musicians, all of whom have dedicated their lives to music”. Headlining the performance is Anela Kahaimoe. Since arriving in the Comox Valley from Hawaii, Anela has established himself as one of Vancouver Island’s premium entertainers. Anela will be joined by Sue Medley. Wow, what a musical career, “a road less travelled” as they say, that has taken Sue to the highest levels of performance in the music industry. Interestingly, the road that began in her teens, led Sue back to the Comox Valley and we are so fortunate to have such

clockwise motion around the ﬁrst ﬂoor. Later leaders from First Nations and non-native communities gathered together as part of the blessing of the space. Paddy Walkus, hereditary and elected chief of the Gwa’salaNakwaxda’xw in Port Hardy said KFN has done a good job of balancing tradition with modern life. “I really feel they are an inspiration the way they’ve pulled together, the way they’ve worked and achieved so much in the last few years,” he said. “They’ve progressed all our First Nations people throughout the North Island.” KFN chief Everson said the band will keep moving towards self-governance and sustainable development. “The way to true prosperity is through economic development and getting our fair share of resources,” he said. “The only way to change the social fabric of First Nations is through economic prosperity.”

(Continued from page 15)

a gifted and experienced musician/singer/songwriter, residing back in our home town. Luke “Blu” Guthrie is another sensational home town musician who will join Anela with his soulful style, poignant melodies and masterful guitar picking. Another home-town boy taking the stage with Anela is Jim Papp. Jim’s musical roots date back to the early1970’s, when he formed a band “Comox” with Edwin Grieve and Paul Stephens. The band produced a Top 10 Canadian hit “Country Hooka”. On Percussion will be latin specialist, Oscar Robles Diaz. Born in Mexico City and a graduate of Classical and Contemporary guitar studies at Mexicos National University. Performance is family friendly with a concession offering tea, coffee, soft beverages and goodies. Net proﬁt from the concession is directed to the Vancouver Island Compassion Dog program. Net proﬁts from the concessions is matched by Sun-

Anela Kahaimoe leads a group of all-star Comox Valley musicians in performance Saturday night west RV. Doors open at 6:30 and performance begins at 7:00. Tickets at the door $18 Advance tickets $15

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“Out of that they would come up with ideas for their technology, for their teaching and for their philosophy that they were able to bring out. How they shared territory, how they shared their community experience was all part of what came out of that house.” KFN officials decided to build a modern day Whale House, resulting in the new band office. The symbols, or crests, on the totem pole will be a source of strength for community members, Speck added. “When you have your crest with you, you have your strength with you; you have your power with you; you never have to question who you are when you’re standing in the ground that you’re standing,” he said. “That’s the beauty of coming from a culture like this.” Everyone was invited to join in as dancers shook their ﬁsts in celebration and headed into the building, moving in a

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FOLK LEGENDS DESCEND ON THE COMOX VALLEY Tom Paxton, above, and Valdy, two renowned folks singers, are performing together next Wednesday, January 14, at the Native Sons Hall. Paxton is an American folk singer and singer-songwriter who has had a music career spanning more than fifty years, including receiving the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2009. Valdy has been part of Canadian pop and folk music for over 34 years and boasts 14 albums including 4 Gold Records and 2 Juno Awards. Concert tickets and details available at winterjam.ca

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Forbidden Jazz Trio returns to Zocalo Café for an evening performance on Friday, Jan 9. Featuring Jake Masri on trumpet, ﬂugelhorn, & vocals, Mike Eddy on keyboards, Grahame Edwards on bass, & Jeff Agopsowicz on trombone, they appeal to audiences of all ages by performing a wide variety of timeless jazz standards & original compositions. Joining the trio on trombone is special guest Jeff Agopsowicz. Jeff is moving on to a new phase in his musical career as he retires in the Comox Valley, following many years as a professional performer, primarily in the music branch of the Canadian Armed Forces. This journey has also included a variety of civilian performances. We invite you to join us for a casual, entertaining evening of jazz. Music commences at 7:00 pm and admission is by donation. The spacious café displays local artwork & the licensed kitchen will offer a supper menu of sweet & savory food plus assorted beverages. For more info & reservations, please contact Zocalo Café & Gallery @ 250 331 0933, or simply drop by the corner of 5th Street and Cliffe Ave. in downtown Courtenay (www.zocalocafe.ca.)

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 9, 2015

Celebrate Courtenay’s centennial at ‘Sid’s Vaudeville Follies’ Jan. 10 Enjoy some old-fashioned songs, dance, comedy The Sid Williams Theatre Society is kicking off 2015 and Courtenay’s 100th birthday with a special production, Sid’s Vaudeville Follies, on Saturday January 10 at 7:00pm. Show producer Kenny Shaw has put together a true live variety performance in the style of an old time vaudeville show with a nod to theatre namesake Sid Williams and his penchant for song, dance, and comedic characters. Long time residents of the Comox Valley who remember Williams will likely recall hearing about or seeing many of his unique performances during Skattered Skits, an annual fundraiser by the amateur theatre community which was led by Williams and other community leaders including Herb Bradley, G.W. Stubbs, and Bob Gibson. One such well-loved

Edwin Grieve plays the character of ‘Century Sid’, the nephew of ‘Century Sam’

It is my hope that, in a small way, Century Sid pays tribute to the memory and hoour of the Comox Valley’s greatest legend.” EDWIN GRIEVE ‘Century Sid’

Williams character was Century Sam. From the Courtenay & District Museum’s exhibit Out of the Ordinary: Sid Williams, “Century Sam was a character created for the BC colonial centennial celebrations of 1958...Legend has it that Century Sam was discovered panning for gold on the Puntledge River in late 1957 by two young girls. Sam was a miner left over from the 1858 Fraser River gold rush who awoke from his

near 100-year sleep with the stir of the approaching centennial celebrations. Century Sam showed up everywhere across BC - in parades, on ﬁlms, wherever people gathered to commemorate the centennial. “As the 1958 centennial year drew to a close, Sam was put into a deep freeze where he was to remain until the next celebration. In 1966 he was roused from his sleep to do a nationwide tour for Canada’s 1967 centennial. Never left to rest too long, Sam also helped to observe BC’s centennial in 1971.” Edwin Grieve will play tribute to that beloved character as Century Sid, long lost nephew of Century Sam, in Saturday’s show. Joan Collins was Sid Williams’ accompanist for many years and she, along with husband Art, were

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key members in the early days of Courtenay Little Theatre and Co-Val Choristers. Collins will support a new century character when she performs with Grieve. “Joan was Sid’s piano player and has all the sheet music he used for his various characters...It is my hope that, in a small way, Century Sid pays tribute to the memory and honour of the Comox Valley’s greatest legend,” says Grieve. Sid’s Vaudeville Follies is packed full of some amazing local talent. A four time BC Country Music Association Entertainer of the Year, Kenny Shaw enjoys a well deserved reputation for drawing his audiences into a wacky world of highpowered comedy and music, innovative skits and hilarious one-liners.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 9, 2015

It’s ‘Open Season’ at The Sid for family movie fun The Sid Williams Theatre Society’s family ﬁlm series kicks off the new year with OPEN SEASON on Sunday January 11 at 2:00pm. Originally released in 2006, Open Season is an animated comedy with life lessons about friendship and responsibility where a domesticated grizzly bear ﬁnds that there’s more to life than being the star attraction of a mountain town nature show when a fast-talking mule deer offers him a crash course in woodland living. Raised by kindly park ranger Beth since he was a just a cub, 900-pound grizzly Boog is content to spend his days entertaining Timberline tourists and his nights nestled

safely in Beth’s luxurious garage. Boog’s life is about to get much more complicated, however, when paranoid hunter Shaw returns from a recent foray in the woods with a frightened, one-horn mule deer named Elliot strapped trophy-like to the hood of his truck. Though at ﬁrst reluctant to answer Elliot’s desperate cries for help, gentle giant Boog eventually frees the thankful creature, who in turn decides to teach his hulking friend what it truly means to be free. The ﬁlm features voice performances by Martin Lawrence (Bad Boys), Ashton Kutcher (That 70’s Show), Debra Messing (Will & Grace), and Gary Sinese (Forrest Gump).

“A story that balances gentle messages with enough goofy anarchy to please any kid,” writes Elizabeth Weitzman of the New York Daily News. And Variety’s Justin Chang says, “though hardly the ﬁrst animated ﬁlm to tackle the plight of domesticated animals returning to the wild, Open Season is a witty, warmly crafted chestnut.” Don’t miss this fun and affordable afternoon for the whole family! Admission is pay what you can by donation. There will be popcorn, prizes, and a colouring contest! Colouring sheets can be downloaded at sidwilliamstheatre.com, picked up at the Ticket Centre prior to Jan.11, or when doors open

at 1pm on Sunday. The ﬁlm begins at 2pm. Generously sponsored by the Financial Team of Nicole Deters & Associates, these family ﬁlms are fundraising events for the Sid Williams Theatre Society. The Sid was a state-

of-the-art movie house when it opened 79 years ago, then known as the Bickle Theatre. Over the years, theatre technology has seen many incredible changes, but the speed of change and cost required to keep up with those changes is an ongoing

challenge. Come and see this exciting ﬁlm and help the Sid raise funds for student bursaries and arts outreach activities. For full event information and a theatrical trailer of the ﬁlm, visit www.sidwilliamstheatre.com.

A fun night Saturday at ‘The Sid’ with Vaudville Follies show (Continued on page 23) His performances are liberally laced with crafty impressions, hysterical comedy and incredible musical tributes to favourite entertainers. The Go Dog Go! All Stars Trick Dog Team is a troupe of marvellously clever mutts from Western Canada who each perform 45 specialized tricks and stunts. This one ring dog circus is on a mission to entertain and edify audiences of all ages. It’s the dogs’ personalities that always make their shows a hilarious crowd favourite! Standing 6 feet 5 inches, ‘Big’ Steve Rossner is known throughout the Comox Valley as a magician and, since 2008, as an on air radio host on 97.3 The Eagle. The incredible musical talents of Rachel Fuller

(saxophone and clarinet), Blaine Dunaway (violin and trumpet), and Rob Petrie (piano) will be on display. Tap sensation Cody Rodgers will knock your socks off. What would a vaudeville show be without a ventriloquist? Papa G and Scruffy are coming to town. It is prohibition in BC in 1919 and women have had the vote for 2 years. Papa G and Scruffy have jumped the train in Victoria and wound up in Courtenay. Hilarity ensues. The Black Swan Fiddlers, known since 2005 for warm, exciting, and foot tapping music, have worked hard to hone their Celtic sound. To a mix of reels, jigs, hornpipes, and polkas, they add soulful Irish ballads, French Canadian reels, Canadian ballads, and ﬁddle tunes. Valley Dance is in its

19th year of operation and under the artistic direction of Amanda Rodgers offers instruction in dance and stage presentation. The focus is on fun, achievement, and success. The Valley Dance crew have a special number prepared for the show! Swing Set is a popular a cappella jazz quartet, featuring Jenn Forsland, Wendy Nixon Stothert, Michelle Weckesser and Dale Graham. Together these four women represent some serious talent and experience. 7 Story Circus exists to amaze & inspire! Whether high up in the air in aerial silks, cerceau, trapeze or ropes, or defying gravity by way of juggling, balancing, unicycling or stilting, 7 Story Circus pushes beyond the boundaries of everyday life with incredible skill and artistry.

SALESPERSON OF THE MONTH General Manager Rod McLean, is pleased to announce that Gary Kremsater has been named Top Salesperson for the Month of December. His commitment to top-notch customer service, combined with his advanced product knowledge skills, places him in the top tier of his profession. Gary would like to thank his customers for making December such an outstanding month.

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Sid’s Vaudeville Follies features songsters, hoofers, jokesters, and corny characters that Williams himself would be proud of. This here’s a must see! Tickets for this centen-

nial performance are $8 for members, students and groups of 10 or more, and $13 for the general public. Purchase in person at the Ticket Centre Tues-

day to Saturday from 10am to 4pm, by phone 250.338.2430, or online at sidwilliamstheatre.com. - Sid Williams Theatre Society

20 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 9, 2015

Police Blotter Comox Valley RCMP responded to the following incidents between Dec 30 and Jan. 5: On the evening of December 30th the Comox Valley RCMP entered into a complaint of a disturbance at the Rialto theatre in Courtenay. Staff at the theatre reported a young man causing a disturbance inside the theatre. As a result of the investigation an Ontario resident was arrested and is now facing charges of Obstruction, for giving a false name, and causing a disturbance. (2014-16459)

CODES COUNTRY LANES Bowling highlights from Codes Country Lanes: Monday AM - Arnie Auerbach 237, Roy Brekke 261, Ria Tjart 234, Micki McDonald 258, Dave Stacey 210, Joyce Slater 215, Bob Sharp 234, June Berry 188. Monday PM - Ben Braun 242, Pat Huntley 181, Christina Wallenberg 204, Colleen Torrie 210, Lyle Torrie 202, Erma Wilson 218, Shirley Evans 217, Rick Kroeker 217. Monday Youth - William Derksen 130, Lucas Rye 93, Morgan Grout 98, Lucien Rousseau 118, Brycen Burgess 156, Benoit Rousseau 68, Celine Rousseau 68. Tuesday Ladies - Syliva Vandervliet 196, Shirley Mangano 195, Debbie Raithby 177, Brenda Searl 184, Marilyn Shetterly 172, Barb Potruff 256, Laurie McWillis. Tuesday Afternoon - Garry Pearson 169, Judith Munro 105, George Andrews 171, Ev Andrews 180, Ed Schievink 99. Tuesday Adult - John Graff 223, Eric McWillis 239, Sharon Shepherd 214, Ian Taylor 239, Steve Robson 230, George Ghinis 200, Bill Brundige 202, Brian Booth 211, Ed Carefoot 207. Wednesday GA - Yvonne Melancon 253, Sally Hazleton 167, Bert Brown 216, Gerry VanAchte 205, Betty Gilchrist 204, Andre Melancon 220, Art Wesner 192, Minnie Frame 184, Laurie Aucoin 240. Wednesday Adult - Maureen Woodruff 211, Vicki Major 229, SONTINA ESPEY 333, Sandy Nurse 231, John West 227, Debbie McCooey 190, Dave Pond 203, Tara Bruer 218, Candace McLellan 209, Dave Stevenson 190. Thursday GA - Jim Hume 174, Vera Winter 213, Pat King 225, Bob Van Nes 212, Bob Short 263, Pat Chambers 223, Sharon Shepherd 223, Alan Edwards 200, Linda Jeffery 173. Thursday Adult - PAUL ZORZ 315, Rick Granneman 256, Andrew Stubbing 239, Duwanee Granneman 208, Candace McLellan 196, Ed Carefoot 206, George Wedge 205, Chris Roberge 265. Friday GA - Arnie Auerbach 204, Bernice Clouthier 179, George Andrews 198, Ev Andrews 182, Ickle Brown 245, Bert Brown 235, Joan Lucas 236, Jim Lucas 186, Art Wesner 182, Marj Arnold 171, Gerhard Sorger 236, Minnie Frame 193.

Police attended to a report of a male assaulting a bouncer at the Flying Canoe pub, located in the Westerly hotel, in the early morning hours of January 1st. An intoxicated man was arrested and is now facing charges of assault and will appear in court on a later date. (2015-13) On January 1st a report of a theft of a motor vehicle was reported to police. The owner reports doing the right thing by leaving his vehicle at the party location on Denman Island only to return the next day and found his vehicle missing. Stolen was a Red 2002 Toyota Corolla with BC plate 860TTV. (2015-28) A report of a theft from a pickup truck was reported on January 1st. At the time of the theft the truck was parked in front of a business on 8th street in Courtenay. Stolen was a Mystery Ranch bag which contained hunting equipment worth approximately $3000.00. (2015-53) On January 2nd police entered into an investiga-

tion of a man who had been assaulted outside RBC located on the 1000 block of Ryan road in Courtenay. The man stated that he had just taken funds out of his account and a woman approached him asking for a light for her cigarette. The woman launched a vicious attacked knocking the victim to the ground and taking the money he had just removed from his account. This investigation is continuing. (2015-59) The Comox Valley RCMP report that on January 2nd they received a report of a break, enter and theft from the Avalanche Bar and Grill in Courtenay. Culprits entered the locked area of the restaurant and once inside pried the pull tab machine from the wall. This investigation is continuing. (201569) On January 3rd police were called to the Black Creek Tool Rentals for a report of a break, enter and theft. Sometime over night thieves had broken into a shed and stole approximately $10,000.00

worth of tools. If you have information on this theft you are asked to contact Cst.C.Voller of the Comox Valley RCMP at 250-3381321 or if you wish to remain anonymous you can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. On January 4th police entered into an investigation of a large party that turned into a theft complaint. A party was hosted by a young person on the 2500 block of Tamarack drive in Courtenay and a large number of attendees were present. In the aftermath of the party the parent, who was unaware of the party until they arrived home, found that almost $10,000.00 in food, jewellery and electronics had been taken from their home during the party. If anyone has any information on this crime they are asked to contact Cst. C. Curtis of the Comox Valley RCMP at 250-338-1321 or if they wish to remain anonymous they can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-8477.

Valley Bridge News Comox Valley Duplicate Bridge Monday December 22, 2014 Flight A 1. Pete Marinus & Jack Bradshaw 2. Lloyd & Bernice Snyder Flight B 1. Dave Mosher & Howie Cohen 2. Dorothy Branch & Al Gavel Monday Dec. 29, 2014 Flight A 1. Barrie Turnham & Cynthia Tree 2. Dave Mosher & Howie Cohen Flight B 1. Glen Parsons & Dave Proctor 2. Bernice Blonarwitz & Karen Franzen HAPPY NEW YEAR REMEMBER: Team Game January 10, 2015 Club located in Comox at Lions Den on Nordin Street across from Comox Mall. Game times Monday 7:00 pm., Thursday 1 pm. Partner guaranteed. Website www.cvdbc. com, email playbridge@ shaw.ca. Contact Linda Marinus 250 338 2544 d’Esterre Duplicate Bridge Results for Tuesday 30th December (11 1/2 tables): N/S - 1. Art Morgan and George Law; 2. Harvey Piercy and Jean Tait; 3. Jim and Joan Boase; 4. John and Lynne Godfrey. E/W - 1. Phil Sandford and Maureen Olafson; 2. George and Trish Kirkwood; 3. Doug Poole

and Trish Heyland; 4. Irene Smith and Dorothy Branch. Results for Friday 2nd January (11 tables): N/S - 1. Art Morgan and George Law; 2. Jean Tait and Evelyn Ware; 3. Jim and Joan Boase; 4. Tom and Betty Thomsen. E/W - 1. Roy Hagg and Keith Ware; 2. Phil Sandford and Maureen Olafson; 3. Phyllis Taylor and Maureen Taylor; 4. George and Trish Kirk-

wood. Results for Saturday 3rd January (10 1/2 tables): N/S - 1. Phil Sandford and Maureen Olafson; 2. Neil Jackson and Jean Tait; 3. Doug and Penny Poole; 4. Pete and Glenda McGrath. E/W - 1. George and Trish Kirkwood; 2. Irene Smith and Betty Fountain; 3. Roy and Patricia Lowe; 4. Tom Dugdale and Jeanette Baron.

CARRIERS WANTED No collection required. Great exercise! Call Comox Valley Echo • 250-334-4734 or drop by 407-D 5th Street, Courtenay COURTENAY SUBSTITUTE NEEDED FOR RT 7119 DOWNTOWN BUSINESS AREA Rt. 8136 – Pidcock Ave Rt. 8102 – Urquhart, Tull, 27th, Stewart COMOX Rt. 1109 – Highwood, Deal, Eastwicke Rt. 1110 – Skeena, Pritchard, Chinook, Nimpkish, Chilcotin, Noel Rt. 2110 – Aspen, Stellar, Bolt, Bambrick Rt. 2111 – Anderton, Bunting, Cormorant, Bolt Rt. 2112 – Aspen, Meadowlark, Towhee, Merrelet Rt. 2144C – Forester, Slater, Painter, Coach VALLEYVIEW Rt. 3114 – Evergreen, Mantle, Zeballos, Malahat Rt. 3133 – Sterling Pl, Sterling Cres., Kinross Pl. Rt. 3135 – Hawk, Swallow, Whiskeyjack CUMBERLAND Rt. 9103 – Dunsmuir & Derwent Rt. 9117A – Rydal, Grizedale COLEMAN ROAD AREA Rt. 4106 – Loxley, Avonlee, Sea Terrace MIRACLE BEACH Rt. 6111 – Seaview Road

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

Steven Allan FERRIS DOB: 1976-05-23 188 cms, 77 kgs, Brown hair, Blue eyes Warrant: Breach of Undertaking Comox Valley file # 2015-187

Kimberly BROWN DOB: 1967-04-14 172 cms, 84 kgs, Brown hair, Hazel eyes Warrants: Fail to comply with probation Breach of undertaking Comox Valley file # 201416385

www.comoxvalleycrimestoppers.bc.ca

Request for ADVISORY PLANNING COMMISSION MEMBERS Advisory planning commissions are established in Areas ‘A’ and ‘C’ to provide input and advice about planning and land use management applications. The Comox Valley Regional District is looking for volunteers to participate in monthly advisory planning commission (APC) meetings. If you are a resident of Electoral Area ‘A’ (Baynes Sound–Denman/Hornby Islands) or Area ‘C’ (Puntledge–Black Creek) and are interested in participating in monthly meetings please submit a letter to the CVRD, outlining your qualifications. More information regarding duties and responsibilities can be found on our website at www.comoxvalleyrd.ca. Applicants will be required to have basic local knowledge, interest in planning, land use, environmental stewardship, or aquaculture / agriculture, the ability to attend evening meetings, the ability to exhibit ethical conduct and recognize when a conflict of interest may occur. A comprehensive workshop will be provided to applicants outlining the roles and responsibilities of APC members. The deadline for submissions is Friday, January 16, 2015 at 4:30 pm. For more information or to submit an application please contact: James Warren, corporate legislative officer Comox Valley Regional District 600 Comox Road, Courtenay, BC V9N 3P6 Tel: 250 334-6000 Toll-free: 800 331-6007 Fax: 250 334-8156 Email: administration@comoxvalleyrd.ca The Comox Valley Regional District is a federation of three electoral areas and three municipalities providing sustainable services for residents and visitors to the area. The members of the regional district work collaboratively on services for the benefit of the diverse urban and rural areas of the Comox Valley.

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 9, 2015 Last weekend Sunday’s friends launched a crowd funding (online) campaign that has seen incredible results. The family needs to raise $300,000 to cover all expenses for Sunday’s medical journey over the next year and last weekend they raised the ﬁrst $100,000, in only 48 hours. They still have a long way to go to meet all their costs but this is an incredible start, “The success of our online campaign represents the kind of love there is for our friend and her family.” says Shea Wilson, a spokesperson for the family. “Sunday is a very loving and generous person. She and Jason are completely blown away by this support from their community, and from complete strangers. This support will be what saves her life”. The community is also

Musicians and community rally for Sunday Dennis The radical generosity of the Comox Valley is at work once again as the community rallies for a friend in need. Last week, Sunday Dennis, a local musician, mother of 3, volunteer and owner of Sock Soiree in Downtown Courtenay was diagnosed with an aggressive and life threatening brain tumor. Sunday has been given a critical opportunity to have surgery and treatment for her condition at UCLA in California. Based on test results there is a

high probability that she has a high grade Gleoma, a fast growing, aggressive form of brain cancer otherwise known as Gleoblastoma. With full blessings from her Canadian medical team, she and her husband are headed to the LA this week to enroll in a cutting edge trial at UCLA for this kind of brain tumor. However, while the trial will be fully funded, her travel expenses, surgery in the US, pre and post operative care and loss of work will not be.

Link to crowdfunding campaign: http://www.youcaring.com/medical-fundraiser/hope-for-sunday-dennis/286076 Link to facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Love-andBright-Light-for-Sunday-Dennis/510613112411830 Like to Facebook event Saturday: https://www.facebook.com/ events/939286122763351/

rallying this Saturday Night at the Waverley Hotel for a night of music, friendship, a silent auction and joyful celebration and hope for Sunday Dennis. “Bright Light for Sunday” kicks off at 7 pm and admission is by donation. There is a signiﬁcant silent auction as part of this event and folks are also welcome to drop off cash donations at the event as well. Performers include Corwin Fox, Pamela Tessmann, Marc Atkinson, Kevin Jay Flesher, Casey Ryder, The Cumberland Brothers, Willowicious, The Moon Band, Helen Austin and other surprise guests. Visit “Bright Light for Sunday” on facebook for more information about this weekend’s event. Visit “Love and Bright Light for Sunday Dennis” on facebook to stay up to date on Sunday’s progress.

‘The Lani Hootenanny’ - a fundraiser for Lani Alton Many people know the smiling face of Lani Alton - she is a shining light in our community. While living independently for a number of years now, the funding she receives for her support does not include some very essential services. Though Lani is conﬁned to a wheelchair for her waking hours, and suffers from the muscle stress and spasticity of cerebral palsy, she does not receive adequate funding for

health services she needs, such as chiropractic, massage therapy, physiotherapy and counselling. Funds for these services are generated by a small group of volunteers who form the board of the Lani Alton Society, whose primary purpose is to assure that Lani gets the care that she needs and deserves. This year’s major fundraising event - the Lani Hootenanny - takes place on Sunday evening, Janu-

ary 11th at the Little Red Church Theatre in Comox. Musical entertainment will be provided by Kel Kelly, Tina Filippino and you, the audience. The evening will begin with a set of original tunes by Kel and Tina, covering everything from travel to love to grandchildren. A brief intermission will be followed by Tina’s enthusiastic guiding of a community hootenanny, sharing some songs we all

Congratulations!

Congratulations to

Jan Vandenbiggelaar for being Sales Person of the month for the month of December. Come in today to see why Jan is the right sales person for you! The

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know, and some we will learn together. If you have spent any time singing with Tina, you will know that she can bring out the singer in everyone. Lani, who loves music, is really looking forward to singing together with her community.

The organizers hope to recruit a few new monthly donors to the Lani Alton Society. A pledge of as little as ten dollars per month can make a huge difference in the quality of Lani’s life. Admission to the Hootenanny is by donation.

Everyone is welcome to the Little Red Church at the top of Comox Hill on Sunday, January 11th. Doors open at 6:30, show time is 7 p.m. For more information, contact Kel Kelly at 250 337 8348 or kelkelly55@ yahoo.ca

Vancouver to Sydney cruise Dave Frinton co-founder / President CruisePlus

The famous Sydney opera house

appy New Year! I hope you had a wonderful holiday season and if you haven’t spent your life’s savings on gifts, then now is the time to save on cruises! One terriﬁc oﬀer is on September 29th. You will board the gorgeous and elegant ms Noordam for 25 nights with ports in Astoria, San Diego, Hilo, Honolulu, Samoa, Fiji (2 stops), New Caledonia and then into Sydney. For $4999 CAD pp (based on 2 sharing) you will receive a desirable high category balcony stateroom, a $100 per stateroom onboard credit, 2 nights in a four star hotel in Sydney, your air back to Vancouver and all taxes. Other categories are available too. If you’re interested in extending your cruise for another 14 days you can add a very nice itinerary on to Auckland – please ask us for details. If you are itching to go sooner, the ms Oosterdam still has space on its April sailings from Auckland or Sydney up to Vancouver. We also have some very special deals on early 14 day roundtrip Vancouver and Seattle Alaska sailings. Best prices are balcony staterooms on the ms Oosterdam departing Vancouver on May 10 or 24 and well located oceanview staterooms on the ms Zaandam sailings on May 17 or 31. The ms Statendam does a more interesting itinerary out of Seattle on May 18 and June 1. There are also plenty of 7 day itineraries and many land tour options. Alaska is selling well for 2015, so don’t wait too

long. We will save you money on any sailing throughout the season! I just got back from our top producers cruise with Holland America. I was very impressed on the new vision of the cruise line – elegance with a bit more hip. The shows were lively, the music at BB Kings (which is on some ships) was such a great place to dance and they are really making their food venues top notch. Bottom line, they will appeal to a broader range of individual and family cruisers while also enhancing their “premium” touches. I’ve sailed over 60 times with them, and I noticed some signiﬁcant improvements making the value for what you get compared to other lines even better. Their new addition, the ms Koningsdam, set to launch in early 2016, may just be the nicest mid sized (around 2600 passengers) ship at sea. It’s already booking very well. Please call CruisePlus at 250-390-0220 or toll free at 1-877-722-2202 for more information on any cruise. We have noticeably better pricing plus superb advice & service from our team of non-commissioned travel consultants. For the ﬁrst look at our deals, please remember to sign up for our emails at

www.cruiseplus.ca

Big Agency Deals…Small Agency Feel

1-877-722-2202 | cruiseplus.ca .ca

New bookings only. Prices are per person based on 2 sharing and subject to availability at the time of booking. CruisePlus Management Ltd. BPCPA #3325-0

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 9, 2015

24 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 9, 2015

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