Comox Valley Echo - February 20, 2015

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POLITICS

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‘Free Tillie’ Courtenay’s finance director set to retire after 22 years service

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff After 22 years of serving the City of Courtenay, Tillie Manthey, the director of finance and assistant chief administrative officer, is leaving her post and will be retiring on

May 31.

Mayor Larry Jangula made the announcement during Monday’s council meeting. He congratulated Manthey, who has worked in local governments in B.C. and Alberta.

“It has been an honour and a privilege to have

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gone above and beyond the call of duty and balanced many city budgets.

support me and my role and has been an excellent colleague. So thank you.”

Over the next few months, Manthey will help the city with a transition plan said Allen “to ensure that we can maintain a strong foundation she’s built while she’s been here. She’s left the budget in great shape.”

Allen added that “it might be our loss but certainly it’s her family’s gain.

She’s going to be spending a lot of her time with her husband Mark, her children Erika and Peter, and her young grandchildren.

“If this was a made for TV movie, I’d call it ‘Free Tillie.’”

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I know this is no easy task. She will certainly be missed. We thank her for the years of service in the City of Courtenay.”

In all the time he has worked with Manthey, Jangula said he always found her to be “very approachable and made budget issues, which to me are always difficult, easier to understand.”

Chief Administrative Officer David Allen said this is good news for Manthey but “bittersweet” for staff and her colleagues.

“She has been an incredible asset to the organization,” said Allen. “Over the two years that I’ve been here, she’s really helped

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Comox begins work to replace failing storm drain Construction foreman warns public there will be long traffic delays

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff Those wishing to access the Marina Park in Comox may face delays due to a major work to replace a failing storm drain on Port Augusta Street.

It’s a 60-year-old storm pipeline that has began to collapse and may pose a risk to private property in the area.

The problem is the current main is located four meters undergroun.

“We want to bring it out to the road so it’s more accessible,” said Brett Green, Comox’s public works foreman.

“We’ve had issues. It’s collapsing and because it’s so deep it’s a big deal to go and fix it.”

The plan is to replace it with 150 metres of new storm main and upsize it so it would meet the needs of the town down the road.

Green said the major conflict that’s going to arise from the project is the traffic situation in the Port Augusta Street, just adjacent to the Black Fin Restaurant.

Work will take place between the hours of 8 a.m. to 12 noon and 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

“It’s a narrow road and we’re going to be digging,” said Green.

“We’re anticipating delays of up to 20 minutes.

The biggest delays will be on February 23rd, 24th and 25th.”

Green said they’re advising people to use the West Marina parking lot but would prefer if they could park some where in the downtown area and walk down.

There will be parking restrictions to the section of Beaufort Avenue between Nordin Street and Port Augusta Street.

Access to private parking off Beaufort Ave will be maintained, but may be subject to detours or minor delays.

“We certainly want people to come to the Marina and use it,” said Green.

“We’re just asking them to park in the west parking lot or try to time it around the traffic control people.”

Comox work crews have already started to replace failing storm drain on Port Augusta Street Town crews are now doing exploratory work in the area. This is just the first phase of the project, which has some complexities.

“One of the things that make this fairly difficult in scope is there’s two high

pressure fuel lines that runs to the base there that we’re weaving in and out of constantly,” Green explained. “There are also natural gas mains, high pressure water mains and two sewer lines. There’s a lot of infrastructure under-

ground that is conflicting with us. We can deal with it but it’s going to slow us down.”

Green said that all the businesses in the Port Augusta corridor will remain open and their parking won’t be conflicted at all.

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BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff Courtenay council has approved capital funds to carry out the design and costing for the proposed East Courtenay satellite fire hall project.

The $150,000 fund, which will be included in the 2015-2019 general capital financial plan, will help the city determine

the best way to proceed with the plan.

At this time, the price of the proposed fire hall is expected to be around $5.5 million. But city staff believe this estimate may be high. They want to determine the precise cost for the benefit of the public, which will eventually vote on the money that will need to be sourced from new borrowing.

The initial concept called for a combined emergency services building but the scope of the project was reduced to simply provide a fire hall for the Courtenay Volunteer Fire De-

partment as other groups that included the Comox Valley Ground Search and Rescue, as well as the Comox Valley Emergency Program opted out of the proposed plan. Staff feels

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This matter is so important to the people in the valley that we should reinstitute the fire services committee and talk about the overall picture.”

CAO David Allen said what Eriksson was requesting was beyond the fire services committee’s mandate, which was mainly to determine the feasibility of a creating a fire training facility and satellite fire hall, and to examine the design and cost of the project.

“You can broaden the terms of reference of the fire services committee but you can’t broaden it beyond the actual capacity for the city to have control,” said Allen. “What councillor Eriksson is talking about is a governance issue that is much broader than the city’s ability to weigh in on.

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Funds approved to determine cost and design of satellite fire hall

this will bring down the overall cost.

Councillor Erik Eriksson wanted to revisit the project and revive the fire service select committee.

“During the election campaign the issue of fire services came up quite a bit and I still firmly believe that the people of Courtenay are asking for us to take a second look at it,” said Eriksson.

“Not necessarily opposed to but a second look at it. I’d like to know how we can bring the matter up to the fire services committee because the issue of fire services in the valley is very important.

I’d like to know and I liked to be involved in especially how, what our relationship is with our fire department, the Comox Fire Department, the base fire department and other fire departments in the valley.

4

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 20 2015

Next step for new fire hall taken by city

Monarch Lions provide gift of independent living for Courtenay man

(Continued from page 4) “Those wider and broader governance issues are typically not dealt with in a single entity’s committee structure. That would require a broader, sort of cross-jurisdictional approach.”

Allen said if the public reads the information on the proposed fire hall they would better understand why the city is proceeding with this plan.

“If they can review it line by line, section by section, it spells out its rationale on the staff recommendation to go forward to the next step,” said Allen. “It does not mean fully committing to the actual construction of the new fire hall. What it means is essentially taking it to the next step so that you understand better what the cost would likely be.”

Councillor Bob Wells said he too had some concerns and shared Eriksson’s views. But that changed when he reviewed the report and also had conversations with staff.

“I have a much higher level of satisfaction how we got to this decision,” said Wells.

BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff

Comox Valley Monarch Lions Club members worked together to build handrails to make it safe for Isaac Leblance to get in and out of his house.

It was hard enough that Isaac Leblanc, 29, was confined to a wheelchair by a multiple sclerosislike disease, but on top of everything he was stuck living with seniors at the Glacier View Lodge residential care facility because his own home in Courtenay wasn’t accessible.

That’s why the Comox Valley Monarch Lions Club decided to work on a couple of entrances so he can get in and out of the Fitzgerald Avenue building independently, thanks to new handrails.

“I had to live in the lodge until that place was fixed and made wheelchair ac-

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cessible,” he said. “I finally get to go in and out of the house.”

This marks a big step forward in a three-year medical journey for the Leblanc, which has led to hospital stays in Victoria, Vancouver and Comox before he moved to Glacier View.

Doctors never were able to say definitively what has cause the slurring speech effects and mobility issues Leblanc lives with day in and day out. The closest they can figure is he may have MS. The renovation was quite the endeavour and was kicked off by a Lions cleanup of the site, which cost $50 for a dump run.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 20, 2015

Rotary Clubs of the Comox Valley If you have driven over the 5th street bridge you have probably seen one of many Rotary Wheels that dot our communities of Comox, Cumberland and Courtenay. The four Rotary Clubs of the Comox Valley have been instrumental in completing such projects as the SkyPark at the Courtenay Airpark, by the Strathcona Sunrise Rotary Club, the marina walkway and pier in Comox, by the Comox Rotary Club, the beautiful Waterpark near the Lewis Center in Courtenay, by the Courtenay Rotary Club and the new play park for children in Cumberland by the Cumberland Centennial Rotary Club.

While each of these clubs is independent, they all are part of Rotary International whose 110th birthday is on February 23. The Rotary slogan is “Service above Self” and members live by this. If you visit the Rotary website of www.rotary.org you will see “Welcome to Rotary”. We are neighbours, community leaders and global citizens uniting for the common good. With you, we can accomplish even more.

The genealogy of Rotary in the Comox Valley starts with the Courtenay Rotary Club lunch meeting on October 27, 1936 at the Elk’s Hall. Hy Smith was the first president and their initial project was sending fruit and vegetables to people in the prairies trying to deal with drought. The club continues to work in our local community with projects such as Simms Millennium Park Pavilion, the railway trail, book sales and their, newest fundraiser, the Courtenay Rotary BeerFest held last October in the Native Son’s Hall.

The Courtenay club sponsored Comox Rotary in 1974. The Comox club was instrumental in the construction of d’Esterre House Seniors Centre in 1976 and its expansion in 1994 as well as building the Pavilion and Pier walkway in Marina Park. Comox Rotary is famous for their fundraiser Ducky 500 as well as Whiskey Fest.

March 1, 1987 saw the formation of the Strathcona Sunrise Rotary Club, again sponsored by Courtenay Rotary. George Law was the first president and their first community project was the much-used “Duck Blind” on Dyke Road. Other local projects include renovations at Camp Gilwell Scout Camp, installation of playground equipment and assistance with construction of nature pathways. Recent major fund-raising efforts have included pancake breakfasts at community events, the Have-a Heart musical revue dinner theatre and sale of Skyrocket compost.

And last but certainly not least, in June of 2005 the Strathcona Sunrise Rotary Club sponsored the Rotary Club of Cumberland Centennial. So named, as 2005 was the centennial year of Rotary. Cumberland Centennial’s first and foremost fundraiser has been the Italian Extravaganza held in Cumberland each autumn reinstating an old tradition of the Italian miners from days past. Cumberland is known as the small club that does big things. From a membership of only 30 members, the club has raised over half a million dollars in the last ten years. One of their first purchases was defibrillators that are used all over the Comox Valley, helping to save lives.

These are just a few of the local projects undertaken by Rotary clubs of the Comox Valley. In addition they all make financial donations to support the work of many other valley organizations and all are involved with projects in developing nations.

Rotary projects in the Comox Valley and worldwide count on community support to raise money. Fund raising takes many forms from plant sales to pancake breakfasts to book sales and auctions. The support of the community is greatly appreciated.

Who are Rotarians? They are active or retired business and professional men and women who are passionate about helping people and communities worldwide. Apart from the satisfaction of doing good, one of the great benefits of being a Rotarian is the fellowship of like-minded people.

To become a Rotarian, one must be invited by a current member of a Rotary club. Typically, potential new members attend one or two meetings as a guest to better understand the commitment of membership before applying. Within the Comox Valley there are four choices with two breakfast clubs, a lunch club and a dinner club. If you are interested becoming a member or simply want more information about Rotary, please go to our websites listed below.

ST R AT H CO N A S U N R I S E www.rotarystrathconasunrise.org

EVENT CALENDAR March 14 Texas Hold ‘Em Charity Poker Tournament starting at 5:30 pm in the Courtenay Legion.

Have fun while fund raising for Strathcona Sunrise Rotary.

At the starting line of the Port Alberni bike ride to raise funds for a Mexican project are Bob Johnson and Gord Nettleton.

April 18 Strathcona Sunrise Rotary’s Skyrocket Garden Compost Sale. Watch for additional information.

May 6, 7, 8, 9 Courtenay Rotary’s next book sale in the Comox Mall. A great way to get bargain books while supporting community projects.

May 10 The Tidesmen Barbershop Chorus will entertain you with their wonderful singing in the Sid Williams Theatre. Show Starts at 2pm. Adults $28, seniors, students and youth $23.

Tickets available at the Sid. A fund raiser of Strathcona Sunrise Rotary.

The Rotary Club of Strathcona Sunrise partnered with the City of Courtenay to build the extremely popular universally accessible playground next to the air park.

End Polio Now Campaign Rotary International’s single greatest project is involvement in the global effort to eliminate polio from the world. Rotary’s effort in this fight has spanned 35 years with a contribution of US$ 1.3 billion to the Global Polio Eradication Initiative of which Canadian Rotary club members contributed more than $27 million.

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However, the fight is not over and there are immense challenges to achieving the ultimate goal of eradication.

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Monarch Lions to the rescue (Continued from page 5) Because the Monarch Lions were at Central Builders in January for a separate event management learned about the project and offered materials and special tool rentals free of charge.

Now Leblanc has a dual cedar railing accompanying the cement ramp from the rear entrance of the building, which allows him to grab on at one height while others who are not in a wheel chair can secure themselves with the wood that extends horizontally higher up.

“It’s good,” he said. “I was getting sick of the hospital.”

April Dyck, a Lions member, said there was a good reason even after Leblanc was discharged from the hospital he wasn’t allowed to go home at night.

“It was a huge safety issue,” she said of the previous ramp that was in place. “He couldn’t use it at all until the railings were put in.”

The Lions also improved the ramp at the front entrance of the building, adding a rubber mat that

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Isaac Leblanc with mom Wendy will guard against weather decay.

In total the Lions donated about 55 hours of labour to the project.

“He didn’t have a proper access,” said president Rick Grinham. “What this has done is create an environment where he can be self sufficient even though he’s in a wheelchair.”

Leblanc’s mom Wendy says this has made a world of a difference to her son.

“Everything’s done on a very strict schedule,” she said of life in an institutional setting. “Here he still has a routine, but it’s

a routine he got to pick.”

She’s thankful for the help of people like Trevor Coyle, from Kinetic Construction, and doesn’t know what they would have done without the Lions.

She’s already seen the impact the accessibility features have made on her son, who couldn’t wipe the smile off his face.

“My dad owned it before,” the 29-year-old man said, thinking of his home, which he inherited from his father when he passed away recently. “I lived here when I was a teenager.”

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Dragon show for seniors only The Comox Valley Multicultural Society will hold a bonus afternoon show exclusive for seniors only. Help celebrate the Lunar New Year Festival on Tuesday Feb 24th from 2 pm to 2:40 pm at the Grand Hall of Courtenay Recreation’s Native Sons Hall. Donations will be taken at the door. The incredible Jhuo Lan Dragon Dance Team of Taiwan, champion in Asia, is only visiting three cities during the short trip: Toronto, Vancouver, Courtenay. For more information, please call Jin at (250)338-9386 or visit www.comoxvalleymulticultural.ca.

8

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 20, 2015

Flying the flag for Courtenay’s Centennial The chairman of the Courtenay Centennial Celebrations Committee Ron Webber (centre) and committee member Rod Hunter present Courtenay Mayor Larry Jangula (left) and council a flag of Courtenay’s 100th year celebration. The flag will be displayed at Courtenay city hall throughout the year.

THE ACOUSTICAL SOUNDS OF BIG SUGAR MARCH 10 | TICKETS $34 - $45 Audiences will get a rare chance to see Gordie Johnson and the entire BIG SUGAR family in an intimate and entirely acoustic setting, performing their new reggae inspired album YARDSTYLE.

RADICAL REELS TOUR MARCH 14 | TICKETS $19 - $29 The most outrageous films from the Banff Mountain Film Festival and beyond. Ski, climb, paddle, bike or fly, hold on to your seat for the jaw-dropping best mountain sport films!

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 20 2015

9

Oyster River Fire honours its best Oyster River Volunteer Fire Rescue held their Annual Awards Banquet on Jan. 24, 2015. This event was held to honour the members that have completed training and have excelled as firefighters.

The awards portion of the evening commenced with Deputy Chief Bruce Green and Lieutenant/ Training Officer Chris Murray presenting Firefighter II certificates to fire fighters Paul Theriault, Kevin Cowie, Jerry Rippen and Nick Huxham.

Fire Chief Niels Holbek presented Deputy Chief Bruce Green with his Fire Officer 4 certificate.

Strathcona Regional District Area D director Brenda Leigh was happy to present long service pins to firefighters Martyn Thomas, Janet Marriott and Kevin Cowie for 5 years of service, 10 years

Congratulations!

Fire Chief Niels Holbek and Rose Carnie presenting Dave Carmichael with the Bill Carnie Memorial Firefighter of the Year award. of service to Paul Theriault and 15 years of service to Lt. Chris Murray.

Edwin Grieve, Area C director from the Comox Valley Regional District, was delighted to present firefighter Paul Drakeley with his federal medal for

20 years of exemplary service. During his 20 years, Paul served with the Lang and Lantzville departments and is currently with Oyster River.

To conclude the awards portion of the evening, Deputy Chief Bruce Green

presented firefighter Jim Flohr with the Rookie of the Year award and Fire Chief Niels Holbek and Mrs. Rose Carnie presented firefighter Dave Carmichael with the Bill Carnie Memorial Firefighter of the Year trophy.

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Jan Vandenbiggelaar for being Sales Person of the month for the month of January.

Come in today to see why Jan is the right sales person for you!

Finneron Hyundai is a proud recipient of the Presidents Merit Award for 2014!

Paul and Cathy Drakeley with Paul’s 20 year exemplary service medal.

Deputy Chief Bruce Green presenting Jim Flohr the Rookie of the Year award.

Good hearing, poor comprehension?

The number of people who can hear well, but can’t understand what’s being said, is increasing. This is most evident in conversations and watching television. A newlydeveloped hearing chip is designed to restore speech comprehension without being noticeable in the ear.

A lot of people have poor comprehension, though they actually still hear well. It becomes noticeable in conversation, watching television and asking family to repeat what’s been said. A potential cause can be undetected loss in the high-frequency range. This means the sensory cells in the cochlea that hear high-range sounds are damaged as a result of circulatory disorders, diabetes, sudden hearing loss or workplace noise. Hearing loss in the highfrequency range makes speech sound muffled and unclear. The person with hearing loss mixes up, or can no longer hear, consonants like s, f, t, k, h and g.

Speech comprehension is particularly impaired when there is background noise or when television programs have background music. The dilemma is that people with hearing loss in the high-frequency range do not

Ginette van Wijngaarden, at Connect Hearing, advises people with hearing loss on the new hearing chip, together with her colleagues. consider themselves to have a hearing problem. They can hear deep tones with no issue, and often put difficulty understanding speech down to unclear pronunciation. However, the time soon comes when problems with comprehension become annoying.

A new hearing chip has been developed.

and speech comprehension analysis is done. Where inner-ear damage is present, a software program analyzes the difference relative to normal hearing. These values are then input into the new Venture hearing chip in the Audéo V, which precisely takes into account and balances the frequency range of the person being tested. The test phase in particular is designed to clarify how speech comprehension can be improved in various situations and what role a new technology called “Autosense OS” plays. The chip recognizes where the person being spoken to is located and amplifies only his or her voice, while ambient noise is lowered and the optimum hearing programs are seamlessly adjusted. Thanks to several synchronous microphones, the hearing system can detect sound in all directions and select the direction that speech is coming from within milliseconds. According to Swiss researchers, this significantly augments speech comprehension, especially in conversation.

Swiss audiologists have developed a new hearing chip that restores speech comprehension, particularly with hearing loss in the high-frequency range. People can test the new Audéo Interested people can register for a V system by Phonak simply by calling no-obligation demonstration of the now to do so. First, a hearing test Audéo V by calling 888.408.7377

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 20, 2015

City supports two watershed projects

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff Courtenay council has agreed to support a fish habitat enhancement plan for the stagnant Airpark Lagoon.

Project Watershed, which has been working for five years with the city on this project, will be receiving $25,800 in funds as well as in-kind support valued at around $3,500.

The city will draw the money from its Gaming Fund Account.

Councillor Doug Hillian said it’s a worthwhile project that’s going to be a “win-win all around.”

Staff as well strongly endorsed the project and recommended that council give its full support.

Project Watershed will be installing a fish friendly culvert that would breach the Airpark Lagoon dike on the Courtenay River side. The funds will be used to purchase crushed rock and asphalt for the trail, as well as rental of the trail compactor equip-

Project Watershed plans to build a breach in the north side of Air Park Lagoon to make the water more ideal for fish and aquatic habitat. ment, and also for riprap for the culvert ends.

The project will cost $280,000. Project Watershed has secured around $140,000 already from various provincial and federal programs. An applica-

tion for another $106,000 in funding has been made to the BC Hydro’s Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program.

Another project that Courtenay council approved in principle is the

restoration of the former Fields Sawmill site to a natural state.

Project Watershed asked council to support a plan to conserve the property that is part of the K’omoks Estuary, considered one of the most biologically rich estuaries in the world.

The property has been cleared of all sawmill infrastructure and is currently vacant. It is up for sale for $3.5 million. Project Watershed wants to buy the property.

Staff reported to council that certain factors make the property unsuitable for future development.

That’s because it is located in the river’s natural floodplain and is subject to both 30m setback and flood construction levels.

The site is also within an environmental development permit area and will need city approval. A requirement would also be needed to complete a site profile pursuant to the Environmental Act. Even with height restrictions, buildings in the location may affect air traffic at the nearby airpark and float planes that land on the river. Any structures built may require the Airpark to invest in sophisticated lighting and instrumentation to continue operation.

Council supported the project in principle only and are not committing any funds to it. They have also agreed to appoint a representative to the restoration initiative.

City sad to hear Cumberland’s plan to withdraw from CVEDS

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff Courtenay council is disappointed that the Village of Cumberland wants to withdraw from the Comox Valley Economic Development Service.

Councillor Erik Eriksson said he has always considered Cumberland to be part of the history of the Comox Valley and is saddened by the village’s decision.

Cumberland Mayor Leslie Baird notified Courtenay council by letter of the village’s intention to back out of the service.

Baird stated the results of the service review completed by Urbanics Consultants Ltd. in 2014, “re-

inforced the village’s belief that participation in this service is unsatisfactory and not in our best interest.”

Council has asked what the impact this will have on the city and the rest of the members of CVEDS. Chief Administrative Officer David Allen said the process of withdrawing from CVEDS is mediated by the province and will not be immediate.

“It would certainly be a staged or gradual withdrawal,” said Allen.

“There are other factors to think about. The visitor centre is within the Village of Cumberland and there’s tax revenue generated that they receive in the order of around $28,000

roughly. They obviously benefit from having the Visitor Centre in their jurisdiction.

“How that might play out if they withdrew the services is a bit of an unknown question. All of these things need to be worked through over time.”

Councilor David Frisch shared Eriksson’s sentiments.

“It’s always better to work together as a valley and as a community,” said Frisch.

“I understand exactly where the Village of Cumberland is coming from. I think our representative to the CVRD, if that’s their job, should be taking this to CVEDS, asking them

There are other factors to think about. The visitor centre is within the Village of Cumberland there’s tax revenue generated that they receive in the order of around $28,000 roughly. ” DAVID ALLEN Courtenay CAO

for maybe a little bit of accountability and a little bit better reporting to ourselves and the public about what exactly that they do and how we’re getting good value for our money.”

Councillor Doug Hillian wanted to know what action CVEDS is taking and whether they are planning on making representations to Cumberland.

Mayor Larry Jangula

2082 Park Drive

said CVEDS has to improve the way they communicate to the public about the work that they do.

“Economic development often does not do a good job of explaining all the things that they’re doing,” said Jangula.

Eriksson said CVEDS will be renewing its agreement with the regional district and he plans to relay council’s concerns.

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11

ECHO

OPINIONS

LETTERS

Learn more about LWMP Residents in Royston and Union Bay have been talking about wastewater management for many years - and this month plans for the service are in a critical stage.

As project manager for the Comox Valley Regional District’s south sewer project and the south region liquid waste management plan, I encourage residents to learn more about the planning work that has been completed on a possible service including the four shortlisted options that were presented to the public last month.

We know this is a critical project for residents in the area. If the LWMP is approved by the CVRD board and provincial Ministry of Environment, those living in the core residential area of Royston, Union Bay and Kilmarnock could see a wastewater collection system constructed by September 2018. We know many people are eager to see this happen - but we also know that there are a lot of questions as this significant capital expense is considered.

In early March, the public and technical advisory committees will take the next step of applying a triple-bottom line analysis to the four scenarios to assess their financial, environmental and social impacts. Feedback from the

community will be critical in that process, which is why we’re encouraging residents and homeowners in the area to provide comment now, throughout February.

The LWMP requires significant public consultation to move forward, and much of the community has already been generous with their time and feedback. This, however, is a particularly significant step and it’s important that we hear from you now to be sure the best solution is selected for the long-term.

An LWMP can be used as an authorizing mechanism for construction of a service like this - the CVRD board will ultimately decide whether the engagement with the community has been successful or whether it requires another referendum on borrowing, like the one that passed in 2006.

You can learn more about the LWMP process, and how to provide feedback at www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/southregionlwmp or by phoning 250-8716100. Our project office at 3843 Livingstone Rd. in Royston is open each Thursday from noon to 4 pm or you can send an email any time to southsewer@comoxvalleyrd.ca Kris La Rose Manager, Liquid Waste Planning Comox Valley Regional District

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

Budget pushes white picket fence further out of reach

BY DERMOD TRAVIS Guest Column Government policies are normally designed to help citizens as they try to move up the economic ladder, not penalize them for trying. And on that one count alone, this week’s budget from Finance minister Mike de Jong is an abject failure.

In its budget highlights, the B.C. government presented four scenarios to bolster its case that “British Columbians continue to have one of the lowest overall tax burdens in Canada.”

But buried deep in another budget document - on page 106 of the three year fiscal plan - are two other scenarios and, strangely, B.C. doesn’t fare quite as well when they’re pulled out for comparison purposes.

Accepting the government’s numbers entirely at face value, a single individual earning $80,000 in B.C. would have the lowest tax burden in Canada. Yet, a single individual earning $25,000 has the third lowest burden in Canada. A two-income family of four earning $90,000 has the second lowest burden, but a two-income family of four earning $30,000 has the fourth lowest.

Notice a pattern? Such as the wealthier you are in B.C., the lower the comparative burden when compared to other provinces.

Undoubtedly it’s a coincidence, but surely no government would ever stoop so low as to design fiscal scenarios that were the most favourable for their political spin, such as setting income levels marginally below where the full impact of MSP premiums might kick in, which would likely throw some of

those favourable inter-provincial comparisons out the window.

It’s why what other provinces have to say about inter-provincial tax burdens is so fascinating.

According to the Saskatchewan government’s inter-city comparison, a family living in Vancouver, earning $50,000 annually in 2014, had the highest tax burden of the ten cities included in their analysis (including property tax). A family earning $75,000 was a little better off, fifth highest.

Numbers compiled by the Manitoba government don’t back up B.C. either.

A single parent with one child, earning $30,000, would have a lower tax burden in seven other provinces than they do in B.C. A two-income household of four, earning $60,000, would have a lower tax burden in Newfoundland and Labrador, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta.

But what’s really killing off the economic hopes of most British Columbians is the incessant nickel-and-diming by a government that lacks the political will to set personal income tax rates at a level where the tax burden is shared fairly among all British Columbians.

Whether it’s a B.C. Hydro rate increase, an ICBC premium hike or a rise in MSP premiums, they’re all just another way for the B.C. government to pick the pockets of taxpayers. And since income rarely factors into the equation with regressive taxation, it’s generally those who can least afford the hit that get hurt the most.

According to an analysis by PBI Actuarial Consultants, MSP premiums for a family of three or more have gone

up by 33 per cent since 2009, while per capita health care costs increased by 15 per cent.

PBI notes that since “all families with an adjusted net household income over $30,000 pay the same flat MSP rate, the lower the income above $30,000, the higher the impact of the premiums increase will be.”

They calculate that a family of three or more with an income just over the $30,000 limit for premium assistance will have to pay $1,728 per year, or over five per cent of their annual income; while families with a net household income between $50,000 and $99,999, will see the percentage of their family income going to pay premiums progressively fall from 3.5 per cent to 1.7 per cent.

And since premium assistance levels aren’t indexed to the cost of living, every pay raise for someone on premium assistance risks putting them a little further behind the eight ball, as that assistance begins to cut out. The last time that the limit for MSP assistance was changed was in 2010, when it was raised from $28,000.

By 2017-18, the BC government forecasts that MSP premiums will bring in $2.666 billion or $1.06 billion more than they did in 2009-10. The revenue it generates will be $18 million shy of what the government forecasts its royalties will be from natural gas, forestry and mining combined.

It would seem the B.C. government has found its own prosperity fund in MSP premiums.

Dermod Travis is the executive director of IntegrityBC. www.integritybc.ca

12 FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 20, 2015

www.comoxvalleyecho.com

BEEFS & BOUQUETS A BEAUTIFUL BOUQUET to the young girl at Shoppers Drug Mart’s cosmetic counter who came to my rescue last Friday night.

My massage face “mess�

Gary Kremsater

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THE COMOX VALLEY’S FIRST AND BEST READER’S FORUM Email to: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com was quickly masked for an opening at another function I had to attend at minutes away. She was quick, polite and did an amazing job. Thank you!

BAD KARMA to the stupid owners of the pit bull on Headquaeters Road, whether I was on their property or not This dog, “Scappy�, latched on to my sweet therapy dog “Cami� and tore her eyeball right out of the socket, and the irresponsible owner, since I was in shock, tried pushing her eyeball back into the socket. Friendly bill bull dog alright, as their friend said. Cami lost her left eye, her jaw was fractured, and she was sent home, but then came the seizures, and now sweet “Cami� is gone. She is now missed at the Senior Village, Saint John’s Ambulance, Van Isle who did everything possible to save her because she touched so many. Rest in peace my sweet “Cami�. I am so sorry, sweet gal, that I took you to an unsafe place.

A BIG THANK YOU to the girls in Courtenay Thrifty flower department. You bring many smiles and much happiness to customers with your beautiful bouquets. Flowers are like sunshine to rain. Great job, much appreciated.

Feb. 20 Feb. 21 Meat Draw and Dancing 2pm - 5pm Feb. 24 Euchre 1:30pm

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Feb. 25 Drop in Darts 1pm Feb. 26 Crib and Gucci 6:30pm

Extended Service and Delivery Available

BOUQUET to the person who wrote in about landlords raising rents every year. I agree with you.

Some places are not worth the rent they charge. Going to be a lot more on the streets if rents keep going up. Thanks for doing that letter.

ON 11 FEB. WHILE DRIVING along Lerwick at Idiens Rd., I felt unwell. I pulled over, put my flashing lights on and my wife, a passenger in the car, phoned for an ambulance. When we were waiting a couple pulled up to see if they could assist

us. They waited 10 minutes or so until the ambulance arrived. My wife is an invalid and can’t drive, so I asked if one of them could take my vehicle and my wife to our residence.

This they did. Although we thanked these people, we didn’t get their names and I wish to use this message to thank them for taking considerable time to come to our aid.

GOOD KARMA to all the considerate folks who refrain from tossing their Tim Hortons, Wendy’s, Macdonalds, etc. coffee cups, and beer cans out the window of their cars. Last week two garbage bags, of mostly cups, and a bag of beer cans were collected from a 3 km stretch of Howard Road. Anyone who walks or bicycles along our beautiful country roads is assualted by this unnecessarily tossed garbage and recyclables. So, to you who would love to earn some good karma, please stop tossing.

WENT FOR A LOVELY WALK around the estuary this glorious Sunday morning warmed by a wonderful breakfast at The Hog and The Hen, the former Oh So Yummy cafe, in the Comox Valley Inn. I had been pleased to find the setting brighter and warmer and my food, even better. Adding the intelligent conversation with the lovely and lively Christina, the server, it made for a perfect way to start a day in the Comox Valley. It’s much quieter for the first hour or so in the morning too from what I understand, something else I greatly appreciate.

ALL THE BOUQUETS to the cowling farm behind Highland for mowing a nice little race track around the edge of your field. Made running through the swamp that much more enjoyable, even though it ruined my

one pair of socks!

I AM WRITING regarding the irritating trend in businesses of referring to people who work for them as “associates� rather than employees. One big box hardware store in particular insists on using this ridiculous term, which means nothing at all. Associated in what way? Are they friends of yours, or perhaps you know them from a sports league, club or hobby group? Is there something wrong with a business having employees? There is certainly nothing degrading about it, and it clearly states what your relationship is to the person who is working for you. We all know what employees are, and when we’re looking for someone to help us find something, what we really want is one of your employees to come to our aid, not someone who may be associated with your company in some unexplained way.

There’s nothing wrong with basic, simple English, so let’s use it.

And while I’m getting my tiny little insignificant grumbles out so I can be free to have a nice day: I’m really beginning to wonder whether real estate agents are selling property, or themselves. More and more real estate ads feature big pictures of beautiful blondes in enticing poses -- do you have to be young, blonde and beautiful to attract buyers, or to do a good job selling a piece of property?

Whatever happened to pictures of houses and landscapes? It seems like the real estate business is turning into a “Miss Real Estate� beauty competition! For goodness sakes, will it be bikini poses and singing and dancing next?!?

HUGE BEEF to the lady working the express lane

at the grocery store. You were extremely rude to the senior man who was having trouble counting his money and I felt ashamed by your behaviour. Please do not forget that every single customer pays your wage and they do not deserve your eye rolling or attitude. Shame on you.

MY WIFE AND I would like to thank the staff in St. Joe’s Emergency ward for taking such good care of Mary in her final days. Dr. Moosbrugger, your gentle thoughtfulness, guidance and passionate care of mom was greatly appreciated. Thank you to all the nurses and O.T. who went above and beyond to make all three of us comfortable.

We would also like to thank all the VIHA workers, especially our regulars, who created that special bond with mom that made her feel so special and well cared for.

Your loving care and concern meant so much to Mary and to us. We can’t forget her three special friends Joan, Christine, and Alice whose weekly visits were highlights of mom’s week. Dr. Russell-Atkinson, you were always there for mom when we needed you and we can’t thank you enough for being there for us at the end. We couldn’t have done it without you!

IT WILL BE MANY BOUQUETS to Courtenay council if they divert part of the funding from the cost estimate for a satellite Fire Hall, into a study on Comox Valley Fire Protection/Emergency response. Currently half the Comox Valley Fire Departments report to the CVRD. The CVRD has many professional and administrative resources and is fully funded by ALL Comox Valley taxpayers. We are already paying for the administration. A study would likely confirm that the Valley would be better protected, better prepared

for emergency, at a lower cost, if all Fire Departments reported to, and were coordinated by the Comox Valley Regional District.

I WOULD LIKE TO THANK the most inspirational and strong women who come to my fitness classes and brighten everyone’s day!

Forever grateful - Anna MANY SLAM DUNKS to the two teenage boys that came to play basketball at Huband Elementary after an early dismissal day on February 11th. My 8-year-old son was in the Afterschool building right outside the basketball court and when he and his friends saw the older boys playing basketball, went outside to ask if they could play with them.

The boys told the younger kids of course they could play too and were very kind and respectful towards them. Thank you for the kindness you showed towards my son and the other kids, they look up to teenagers like you, and thank you to your parents for raising you right!

A MAGNIFICENT BOUQUET of spring flowers to the Fortis workman who stopped to visit 5 super excited daycare youngsters. Those little ones spotted your truck and workman gear from their window and you spontaneously came up and shared your time and gifts with them. You really made our little guys day, thanks to you.

A HUGE BOUQUET to everyone in the Valley who donates their QF Points to the Comox Valley and District SPCA. We use the points for everything from shelter supplies to items for our online auctions! Also, thank you to Quality Foods for the very generous donation of hundreds of cupcakes for our Cupcake Day fundraiser. The staff, volunteers and animals thank you!

(Continued next page)

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A BIG BOUQUET to the CV Project Watershed Society and others with the vision to return the Field Sawmill site to its natural state. It would remove an eyesore from the Valley and help to reduce the flood risk. I hope the politicians are listening.

BRIGHT SMILES all around Courtenay Elementary School thanks to three local dentist offices that provided dental kits to kids in need. Thank you to Dr. Colleen Clancy, Driftwood Dental, and Shoreline Orthodontics for the cute kits for kids.

elected Councillors, Mayors and CVRD Directors who are asking questions.

They have the picture. It is not the CVRD Valley or the Courtenay Valley, Cumberland Valley or even the “Comox “Valley.

They will get it done by 2018!

BOUQUETS to Councillor Arnot for his initiative to commercialize the Comox Marina. This is a special pace. It needs something -not Condos - move carefully -it’s not just Comox taxpayers who enjoy this best place on earth - it’s one of the reasons that people will move here to the Comox Valley in future. Do you seen many vendors on the Airpark walkway? Just asking.

A HUGE BOUQUET of peach roses is being sent out to Tracy from the Future Shop, who is a ‘peach’ of an employee! After having some issues with a new computer, she went out of her way to make my shopping experience a ‘positive one’.... it was her aim and that is exactly what she managed to do. Thank You Tracy.

A HUGE BOUQUET of beautiful daffodils for a company we’ve discovered called A Little Lift. We live out of town and we were so excited when we came across this wonderful seniors service. They do everything that a trusted family member would do.

Their regular check-ins, love and care gives my family a peace of mind.

Thank you to Lisa and her team.

A BIG BOUQUET to our

THIS IS A BIG BAG of rotten bones to the RCMP of the Comox Valley. I have now twice almost plowed in to the back of an RCMP vehicle while the officer has parked in a very unsafe location. Coming around a corner on a very busy street and there was a RCMP car almost in the middle of the road. They hadn’t even bothered to have the common sense to pull right over to a safe spot? I had to swerve around the police car and lucky for me there was not a vehicle coming the other way. If there was a vehicle coming towards me I would have had no choice but to hit to the RCMP car. I thought you people were supposed to make things safe for all of us!

Transfer to DVD Slides, Photos and Music www.PrestigeVideoTransfer.ca

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Spring

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Credit Union helps Valley Growers and Seed Savers The Comox Valley Growers and Seed Savers receive a $500 donation from the Coastal Community Credit Union 4th Street branch in Courtenay. From left to right: Lynn Collins, CCU community invesment, Sylvain Alie, chair of the CVGSS, Sue Moen, Seedy Saturday Coordinator, Coastal Communities Credit Union representatives Tove Koper and Paul Roberts.

Mon-Sat 8:30-5 Sundays 9:30-5

BERNICE JOHNSTON RECEIVES A BASKET OF GOODIES SHE WON, worth over $1,000, that was raffled by Coastal Community Credit Union. On hand to present the huge basket was regional manager of the Ryan Road and Comox branch, Simon Morgan (middle) and Robert Buckley, branch manager of the 4th Street CCCU. The CCCU’s marketing department provided $1,000 and it was used to purchase the various items and goodies from local businesses and stores in the Comox Valley. Buckley said it’s about buying locally and promoting local awareness.

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

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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14

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 20, 2015

§

“Half Price Payments” for up to one year available on financing offers only on 2015 Rio/Forte/Optima/Rondo/Sorento models

2015

$

from

Rio4 SX with Navigation shown ‡ HWY / CITY 100KM : 5.3L/7.3L

LX MT

21 0 weekly for 69 payments

%

financing for up to 84 months

$

0

down payment Δ

$21 weekly payment includes $1,500 Half Price Payments Credit. Payments based on 2015 Rio LX MT (RO541F) 84-month financing with a price of $15,602. After 69 weekly payments at $21, weekly payments increase to $43Δ . Half Price Payments Credit may alternatively be taken as a one time lump sum payment.§

2015

$

from

LX AT

36

weekly for 28 payments

0

Optima SX Turbo shown ‡ HWY / CITY 100KM : 5.7L/8.9L

%

financing for up to 84 months

$

0

down payment Δ

$36 weekly payment includes $1,000 Half Price Payments Credit. Payments based on 2015 Optima LX AT (OP742F) 84-month financing with a price of $26,402. After 28 weekly payments at $36, weekly payments increase to $73Δ . Half Price Payments Credit may alternatively be taken as a one time lump sum payment.§

$ OR A

1,000 BONUS

2015

$

from

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24

weekly for 62 payments

0

%

financing for up to 84 months

$

0

down payment Δ

$24 weekly payment includes $1,500 Half Price Payments Credit. Payments based on 2015 Forte LX MT (FO541F) 84-month financing with a price of $17,502. After 62 weekly payments at $24, weekly payments increase to $48Δ . Half Price Payments Credit may alternatively be taken as a one time lump sum payment.§

2015

$

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39

weekly for 50 payments

0

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%

financing for up to 84 months

$

0

down payment Δ

$39 weekly payment includes $2,000 Half Price Payments Credit. Payments based on 2015 Sorento LX AT (SR75BF) 84-month financing with a price of $28,782. After 50 weekly payments at $39, weekly payments increase to $79Δ . Half Price Payments Credit may alternatively be taken as a one time lump sum payment.§

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Offer(s) available on select new 2015 models through participating dealers to qualified retail customers who take delivery from February 3rd to March 2nd, 2015. Dealers may sell or lease for less. Some conditions apply. See dealer for complete details. Vehicles shown may include optional accessories and upgrades available at extra cost. All offers are subject to change without notice. All pricing includes delivery and destination fees up to $1,665, AMVIC fee, tire tax of $22, $100 A/C charge (where applicable). Excludes taxes, licensing, registration, insurance, variable dealer administration fees (up to $699), fuel-fill charges up to $100, and down payment (if applicable and unless otherwise specified). Other lease and financing options also available. §Up to “Half Price Payments” for up to one year (“Offer”) is only applicable on financing offers on 2015 Rio/Forte/Optima/Sorento/Rondo models. On approved credit, from a participating dealer in Canada between February 3rd and March 2nd, 2015. The Offer consists of a loan credit (up to “Half Price Payments Credit”) that will range from $500 to $3,250 depending on model/trim. Customers can choose to take the full amount of the applicable Half Price Payments Credit as a one (1) time incentive that will be deducted from the negotiated price of the vehicle before taxes. Alternatively, customers can choose the up to “Half Price Payments” option and have their financing payments reduced (before taxes) by 50% until such time as the entire amount of the applicable Half Price Payments Credit has been exhausted. This may take between 10 weeks and 69 weeks depending on model/trim and the amount of the applicable Half Price Payments Credit. After the entire amount of the applicable Half Price Payments Credit has been exhausted, the customer will be required to pay the full amount of all regularly scheduled finance payments over the remaining term of the contract. Vehicle trade-in amounts and down payments are not calculated in the advertised up to “Half Price Payments”. See dealer for complete details. ΔRepresentative financing example: 0% financing offer for up to 84 months available to qualified retail customers on approved credit for the new 2015 Rio LX MT (RO541F)/2015 Forte LX MT (FO541F)/2015 Optima LX AT (OP742F)/2015 Sorento LX AT (SR75BF) with a purchase price of $15,602/$17,502/$26,402/$28,782 financed at 0% for 84-month period with $0 down payment equals 69/62/28/50 reduced weekly payments of $21/$24/$36/$39 followed by weekly payments of $43/$48/$73/$79. Includes $1,500/$1,500/$1,000/$2,000 up to “Half Price Payments” credit. Cost of borrowing is $0 and total obligation is $14,102/$16,002/$25,365/$26,782. Up to “Half Price Payment” Incentive varies by model and trim level and may be taken as a lump sum or to reduce the financed amount. Offer ends March 2nd, 2015. ‡Model shown Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price for 2015 Forte SX (FO748F)/2015 Rio4 SX with Navigation (RO749F)/2015 Sorento SX V6 AWD (SR75XF)/2015 Optima SX Turbo AT (OP748F) is $26,695/$22,395/$42,095/$34,895. Highway/city fuel consumption is based on the 2015 Rio LX+ ECO AT/2015 Forte 1.8L MPI 4-cyl MT/2015 Sorento LX 2.4L GDI 4-cyl AT/2015 Optima 2.4L GDI AT. These updated estimates are based on the Government of Canada’s approved criteria and testing methods. Refer to the EnerGuide Fuel Consumption Guide. Your actual fuel consumption will vary based on driving habits and other factors. ¤$1,000 Winter Edition Bonus amounts are offered on select 2015 Winter Edition models and are deducted from the negotiated purchase price before taxes. Available on financing offers only. Certain conditions apply. $1,000 Winter Edition Bonus amount available on the 2015 Rondo LX AT (5-seat) Winter SE (RN75SF), 2015 Rondo LX AT (7-seat) Winter SE (RN75TF) and 2015 Optima LX AT Winter SE (OP74SF). Information in this advertisement is believed to be accurate at the time of printing. For more information on our 5-year warranty coverage, visit kia.ca or call us at 1-877-542-2886. Kia is a trademark of Kia Motors Corporation.

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY. FEBRUARY 20, 2015

15 Mortgage Consulting

ECHO

EXTRA

What’s a poet laureate to do?

Nominees for the Comox Valley Poet Laureate Search might take inspiration from Victoria for their presentation to the panel judging works submitted.

There, Poet Laureate Linda Rogers was at City Council once a month, often presenting another word artist, during her time in the role. She often she wrote poems to celebrate community leadership/citizenship.

“Some of my most enjoyable projects involved kids and elders,” she says.

Rogers, who has published a number of poetry and children’s books, is one of the jury members who will be selecting the Valley’s poet laureate from entries submitted to www. co m ox va l l eya r ts .co m .

She is originally from Port Alice.

During her three-year tenure as Victoria Poet Laureate, Rogers organized: · sidewalk chalk poetry to celebrate Valentine’s Day · putting merchants and poets together for works in store windows, · poets responding to visual art, resulting in a book with 60 artists and 60 poets, · a poetry collage with the general public and artists working together, · poetry as outreach with street kids, · poetry in seniors’

Linda Rogers residences homes, · poetry parties, reading events with inter-disciplinary cooperation, including dance and music, · poetry in the schools and libraries, in which kids made a book of poems and pictures as wedding present for Prince William and Catherine Middleton, · connecting with Slangspruit School in South Africa, in which artists helped fund a library, a garden growing lunches for child-headed families, a first-aid room and scholarships, as well as arts funding for a crèche in Haiti and for a First Nations school.

Nominees/applicants can come from any form of verse, from classic, freeform, lyrics, rap or spoken word.

The event is being organized by the Comox Valley Community Arts Council.

Shane Koyczan, Canadian spoken word artist, performs March 24 at the Sid Williams Theatre

CV Arts launches Poet Laureate search Winner will open Shane Koyczan show, plus cash prize “Word up!” The Comox Valley is about to become a more culturally literate place.

The Comox Valley Community Arts Council has begun a search for the Valley’s first designated Poet Laureate, to engage and inspire the community for a two-year term.

“This is a very inclusive, big-tent project,” says CVCAC president Jamie Bowman. “We’re inviting all forms of poetic creation, including classic page poets, lyricists, rappers and spoken word artists. It’s not necessary to have been published.”

The winner will not only

get to open for iconic Canadian spoken word artist Shane Koyczan March 24 at the Sid Williams Theatre, but will be awarded a $1000 honorarium to carry out Poet Laureate duties over the term.

“Just as writing is a social catalyst, a poet laureate can be seen as a

community alchemist, divining the moments to lament and celebrate, using his or her words to glue people together in times of joy and sorrow,” says Linda Rogers, past poet laureate for Victoria and on the jury to choose a poet laureate here.

(Continued on page 16)

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 20, 2015

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CYCLING SAFETY DANCE CANCELLED The Cycling Safety Dance slated for Feb. 21 has been cancelled due to circumstances beyond our control. We are hoping to organize another event in the near future. Thank you all for your support!

EVERGREEN DANCE TONIGHT The Dan Hughes Band is coming to town to play for us Friday, February 20th, in the Rotary Hall at the Filberg Centre. Your favorite dancing music starts at 7:30 pm till 10:30 pm Bar Service will be available and a coffee and cookie break will happen at 9 pm in the Lounge.

Evergreen Club members $7.00 and non-members are welcome at $9.00.

FREE INCOME TAX SERVICE It’s that time of year again and our group of volunteers will be at the Lions Den (1729 Comox Ave., Comox, 250-339-6232) every Tuesday from 1 pm to 3:30 pm for the months of March and April to E-file taxes for seniors, families, individuals, persons with disabilities, students and newcomers to Canada who are eligible for this free service.

Our volunteers have been trained by the CRA to file very basic income tax returns. Basic eligibility is as follows: Single individuals - up to $30,000 Couple - up to $40,000 Single with child - $35,000 Each dependent - $2,500 Interest income less than $1,000 Our volunteers are not trained to complete complex returns

for individuals who: 1. Report income for self employment, rental income, capital gains/ losses; 2. Claim employment expenses; 3. Are deceased or bankrupt.

HUMMUS IS YUMMUS FOR KIDS Hummus Is Yummus is a series of four cooking classes for budding young foodies, ages 8 and up.

Tackle hummus, falafel, sushi, spring rolls and more. Receive your own cookbook binder for keeping recipes. Please bring your own apron and a desire to learn about new flavours. Instructor: Julie Mathews. Classes run Saturdays February 21 - March 14 ( 4 sessions) from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. At the Black Creek Community Centre, 2001 Black Creek Rd. Early registration is $60.00, regular is $65.00. Call (250) 337-5190 or email info@ blackcreek-cc.com. Visit our website at www.blackcreek-cc. com or on Facebook for more information.

STARTING FROM SEED CLASS How do you satisfy the gardening itch in the middle of winter?

Easy! Start plants from seed.

Now is a great time to get a jump start on the gardening season.

Learn the entire process at our Starting From Seed workshop with agrologist and local organic farmer, Arzeena Hamir, this Sunday, February 22 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Black Creek Community Centre, 2001 Black Creek Rd. Just a little preparation will ensure you seed starting success. The cost is $25.00 per person, or $40.00 for two people. For more information Call (250) 3375190 or email info@blackcreekcc.com. Visit our website at www.blackcreek-cc.com or on Facebook.

WORKSHOP ON HAPPINESS

“The Happiness Factors - a day of Mindfulness” is a oneday workshop with Margo McLoughlin being offered on Saturday, February 21st, at the Purusa Movement Studio in Cumberland.

This one-day workshop is being led by former Valley resident Margo McLoughlin, a graduate of the Community Dharma Leader training program at Spirit Rock Meditation Center in California.

Margo leads retreats and workshops in Canada, the U.S., and Ireland. She is currently a writer and teacher in Victoria.

The Purusa Movement Studio is located at 2703 Dunsmuir Avenue.

The registration fee for this retreat is by donation.

Participants will also be able to offer a donation for the teaching.

To register, please contact Jane McCarroll at 250-334-0086.

MESSY CHURCH IS BACK AGAIN Cumberland United Church is hosting the second “EAT, PRAY, PLAY” on Saturday, February 21st starting at 2pm. There is no charge.

Eat, Pray, Play, or Messy Church, is a different way to ‘do church’.

This time the theme will be

“Hope”. We will start off with a sing-along and then a few tables of creative activities. We will have a short but inspirational time to boost our inward spirit and then finish up with pizza including a gluten-free choice.

The songs and activities are appropriate and fun for all ages and stages of life. Come out; bring the kids, the grandparents, the friends. Everyone is welcome.

Reservations are encouraged but not required. FMI call Mary Lou at 250 336-8656 or the church phone 250-400-7800.

Cumberland United is the white church with the red roof on the corner of First and Penrith in Cumberland.

SPRING FLING FASHIONS, LUNCH

PIED PIPER COMING TO TOWN

For more information, call Kim at 250.334.4495 ext 116.

What do you do when your town is overrun by rats? You call THE PIED PIPER! On Saturday, February 28th at 3:00 and 6:30 PM take a trip to Hamelin Town with Missoula Children’s Theatre, as over 50 local students present THE PIED PIPER, an original musical adaptation of this classic tale.

This production is part of the Missoula Children’s Theatre’s unique international touring project. Tickets are (prices) and are available at the door.

WRITERS READ AT LIBRARY FEB. 27 Comox Valley Writer’s Society and the Courtenay Public Library invite the public to our Monthly Reading Series. New and published writers will read their work at the Courtenay Library Events Room from 12 noon to 1:30pm Feb. 27. FMI 338-0965.

This is a free event.

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A Spring Fling Fashion Show will be held Saturday, Feb 28th - 11:30 - 2;00pm in the Comox Legion Upper Floor.

Soup, Sandwich,Dessert Tea or Coffee lunch will be served.

Tickets: $12.00 each.

Featuring Shar-On’s all size fashions.

Sponsored by Florence Chapter # 53, OES. All monies raised stay in the Comox Valley.

COMMUNITY INFORMATION SESSION Wednesday, March 11, 2015, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Stan Hagen Theatre, Komoux Hall (K104) North Island College, 2300 Ryan Road Courtenay, BC

The North Island Hospitals Project (NIHP) is hosting a community information session to provide an update on the new, 153-bed Comox Valley hospital slated for completion in late 2017.

The meeting will start with a presentation, followed by a question-and-answer session related to the procurement, design and construction of the new facilities. The NIHP team and representatives from selected proponent Tandem Health Partners will be on hand to answer questions and gather input.

For more information visit the NIHP website at: nihp.viha.ca

Search on for poet laureate (Continued from page 15) Cumberland Village Works, School District 71, the City of Courtenay and the Vancouver Island Regional Library have all stepped up to partner financially.

The winner will be expected to create works during the year, appear at significant community events (i.e. Elevate the Arts, Miners Memorial, Canada Day, etc.), work to stimulate and encourage poetic and cultural writing, and serve as a lightning rod for the mood of the community.

Joining Rogers on the judging panel are Anne

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Cumming, the English Department Chair at North Island College, Eric Ettinger, half of the rap duo Butterfinger Bombsquad and whose past group Still-life Family opened for 2-Live Crew during their years of touring, plus an as-yet unnamed lyricist.

“Writers can either apply or be nominated by someone who knows the value of their work and their potential for the community,” said Bowman.

“Beauty is not only in the eyes, but also in the ears and feelings of the beholder.”

Full entry and nomination details are at www. comoxvalleyarts.com.

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The ‘Young Old Woman’ Tour with Tracy Lynn starts tonight in Courtenay

CONTRA DANCE AT MERVILLE HALL LIVE MUSIC AT THE WHITE WHALE The White Whale public house in Courtenay presents some live music this weekend.

Friday at 8:30pm we have Brett Wildeman & Jodi Doige, West Coast Folk.

Saturday is a Beer Pairing Dinner with Tofino Brewing Co. followed

by Tofino’s “Little Saturday”, providing live music starting at 8:30pm.

TRIBUTE TO CCR AT THE BRIDGE Willy and the Poor Boys, a tribute to Creedence Clearwater Revival, performs tonight, Friday, FEb 20 at The Bridge Lounge in Courtenay.

You’d never know the difference when you see this band. Come relive the magic of the 60’s and early 70’s with the ultimate tribute to one of the most influential and popular bands of all time, Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR).

Larry Thompson has drawn on a variety of influences to forge his

There will still be lots of romance in the air at the Valentine’s Day Community Contra Dance at the Big Yellow Merville Hall in romantic, downtown Merville, the spooning center of the Comox Valley.

On Saturday, February 21st, there won’t be just candy kisses as you dance to the Contra Dance tunes of the Funtime Fiddlers.

Before the dance, from 7:00 to 7:30pm, there will be a Contra Dance workshop.

This workshop is free of charge so plan to come early. t 7:30pm, the Funtime Fiddlers take to the stage, bat their eyelashes to the crowd and start the music.

Single dancers are most welcome as they can pair up with anyone during the Contras and our Contra sets last about 15 minutes per dance.

In between the called Contra dances, we’ll play waltzes, foxtrots, polkas and showcase some hot young fiddlers.

Doors open at 7:00, dance starts at 7:30pm.

Cost is $10.00/adults, $5.00/youth (6 and under free) and you can come as a family for $22.00.

Free workshop starts at 7:00.

FMI: 339-4249

17

Learn how to DJ Let’s Record Music is a new program that is occurring at recreation centres all over Vancouver Island, and the Gulf Islands.

It is the brain child of Eli Hason, a sound designer/ DJ/recording engineer who relocated to Denman Island after years of working in Montreal and Los Angeles in the video game and entertainment industry. The program is designed to get youth, and the young at heart, a basic understanding of DJing on turntables, CDJs, and how to DJ on a computer.

They will get to try out all the different gear, and see how to do it for free on their home computers, or tablets. The price of the course includes a basic USB audio interface, and CDs full of songs, headphones, samples and

programs that are free to share online. Students will learn the art of beatmatching, how to find free to share music online, EQ, effects, key matching, and much more. Facilitator and instructor, Eli is also known as DJ Eliazar, and tours Canada and the rest of the world with regular nights called Speakeasy Electro Swing happening in 15 cities in 8 countries, including The Waverley in Cumberland, and monthly shows in Nanaimo.

“Introduction to DJing” is being held on Feb. 28th from 9:30-4:30 at The Lewis Centre in Courtenay. This program is being offered to both youth and adults for $78 + a $30 material fee. To register or find out more call 250338-5371. Also visit letsrecordmusic.com.

Tracy Lynn is returning to her Vancouver Island homeland to promote her new cd, THE YOUNG OLD WOMAN. “This cd is full of fun, endearing and heart warming original material,” says Tracy. “THE YOUNG OLD WOMAN cd has something for everyone. While each song is a page from my own life, equally its a page shared with someone else.”

She performs in Courtenay tonight, Feb. 20, 6:308:30 pm at Zocalo’s Cafe.

The performances weave in some beautiful cover tunes by some of the most amazing female singers and songwriters.

We all tell a similar story and that’s the point, we don’t live in isolation, we can’t. The Young Old Woman story is about how we are connected.

With a commitment to staying true, Tracy Lynn blends and balances the finer points of being a woman in today’s world in her songs. She delivers with a unique folk country sound and embraces her

Tracy Lynn strong gospel roots.

With fabulous responses to this new cd, Tracy Lynn is hitting stages throughout British Columbia with excitement and confidence.

You can find out more about Tracy Lynn by visiting her website at: www. tracylynnmusic.com

for all the details, go to

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 20, 2015

Lunchtime gathering provides for NDP soul-searching NDP Deputy Leader touches down in Courtenay

BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff The environment critic for the federal NDP inspired hearty applause during a lunch-time Q&A at Zocalo Café in Courtenay, at which she called the environmental review process for coal mines, and other projects, inadequate and promised to take an anti-pipeline message with her back to Ontario.

Megan Leslie said the Feb. 18 visit to the Comox Valley is part of party soul searching she hopes will lead to a winning platform come election time.

“It’s so beautiful here,” she said, in an interview.

“I’ve never been this far up the Island.”

The deputy leader of the Official Opposition was hot off of town halls in Duncan and Nanaimo and a morning gathering in Parksville.

“It shouldn’t be pointy heads in Ottawa coming up with the ideas,” she said. “You may have a great idea then and you go to Courtenay, B.C., or you go to Ecum Secum, Nova Scotia, and you find out it doesn’t work in that region.”

Leslie railed against the federal environmental assessment process, pointing to concerns provincial

regimes have set lower bars for environmental protection.

She also decried the government’s changes to factors that initiate an environmental review, charging this has meant the 4-6,000 early assessments have dropped to 20-30 for the entire country per year.

The way environmental assessments are done in Canada wouldn’t give Compliance Energy Corp. the “social licence” it should have to operate a coal mine here, Leslie said, though she didn’t come out and condemn the project itself.

Fisheries was another subject she explored passionately as the packed audience sipping soup and chowing down on sandwiches listened intently.

“We only protect certain types of fish,” she said, explaining she is frustrated with the Harper government’s decision to move away from looking at fish habitat when trying to ensure the health of fisheries.

“We can destroy their breeding ground and that is okay,” she added wryly.

Leslie pledged to reverse these decisions in the event the NDP forms the next government, and she promised to take the

Gord Johns, NDP candidate for Courtenay Alberni, introduced NDP deputy leader Megan Leslie to a packed lunchtime crowd as part of a Q&A session. country in a new direction.

“It’s not enough to just bring us back to where we were,” she said. “We have to have a vision.”

While the party works out its position on issues like the controversial (though apparently popular among Canadians) plan by the Conservatives to give Canadian agencies more power to fight terrorism through Bill C-51, the NDP is trying to figure out how to wrest ridings like this one away from the Conservatives.

In an interview Courtenay Alberni NDP candidate Gord Johns said he has first-hand experience

working on environmental issues, including meeting with provincial mines minister Bill Bennett about a planned Imperial Metals mine in Clayoquot Sound.

Leslie said the party will emphasize working with First Nations on environmental issues and wants to put a price on carbon. While the NDP likes the cap and trade method, Leslie said it’s the intention that’s behind the initiative that’s the most important component.

“It doesn’t matter what the mechanism is so much,” she said, adding energy efficiency mea-

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sures would be targeted to help low-income Canadians as part of building a “green economy.”

Leslie was cagy on another area of popular concern - namely the pipeline debate. When a questioner pressed her on the NDP’s platform on multiple project currently under consideration, during a Q&A following her speech, she would only venture as far as saying, “I will take that message back.”

It was, however, a concern she said she heard loud and clear from Islanders.

Leslie says her minitour has already initiated new policy ideas that will begin to emerge in the next few months.

Conditional discharge on thefts Mitchell Klody, 18, one of three people arrested last month for 308 thefts from vehicles received a conditional discharge Friday in Campbell River.

Klody, from Courtenay, was charged with two counts of theft under $5,000 and one count of conspiracy to commit an indictable offence.

One of the theft charges

and the conspiracy charge were stayed, and Klody was convicted of one count of theft.

He received a conditional discharge and was ordered to serve 12 months probation and pay a victim surcharge of $100.

A conditional discharge comes with requirements such as probation or counselling.

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 20 2015

19

Presentation on ‘Japan - Culture and Climbing’ “Land of the rising Sun” is what Japan is often referred as because the characters that make up Japan’s name mean “sunorigin’. Japan is made up of over 6800 islands, but the four largest islands Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku, comprise about ninety-seven percent of Japan’s land area.

It has the world’s tenthlargest population, with over 126 million people.

Honsh_’s Greater Tokyo Area, which includes the de facto capital of Tokyo and several surrounding prefectures, is the largest metropolitan area in the world, with over 30 million residents.

However, once outside

of any of the big cities, Japan has attractions for those interested in adventure: vast areas of wilderness, big mountains including numerous volcanoes, and wild rivers.

Like numerous mountains in Japan there are very few officially recorded first ascents.

Many mountains enjoy a religious significance and have been hiked and summitted by Japanese religious ascetics for hundreds of years including Mt. Fuji which was thought to have been first climbed in 663 by an anonymous monk.

Strathcona Wilderness Institute is pleased to present Rod Szasz with his stunning slide show

the Stan Hagen Theatre at the North Island College facility on Ryan Road in Courtenay on February 21. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. with the show beginning at 7 and followed by a question and answer period.

There is a cover charge of $10 per person, student’s half price, at the

presentation titled “Japan: Culture and Climbing.”

Rod Szasz grew up in Nanaimo, moved to London where he obtained a business degree and then moved to Japan. He became fluent in the lan-

guage and learned the cultural nuances so that he could successfully integrate himself into the business society where he lived and worked for the next 25 years.

The presentation is in

Valley bridge news Comox Valley Duplicate Bridge Club Monday, Feb. 9, 2015 A1 Jack Bradshaw - Carole Bradshaw 2 Slava Simice - Barry Turnham 3 David Proctor - Glen Parsons B1 David Proctor - Glen Parsons 2 Sharon Feduniak - Dianna Rickson 3 Mark Lawrence - John Biehl C1 Mark Lawrence - John Biehl Thursday, Feb. 12, 2015 A1 Linda Marinus - Pete Marinus 2 Richard Grant - Slava Simice 3 Gary Priestman - Jim Poulson B1 Gary Priestman - Jim Poulson 2 Allen Hopwood - Lorraine Gargan C1 Allen Hopwood - Lorraine Gargan 2 Myrna Horley - Tom Dugdale Our club is located on Nordin Street across from the Comox Mall under the newly renovated Museum and Art Gallery.

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As part of BC Heritage Week, which begins with the national Heritage Day on Monday, February 16, the Cumberland Heritage Fair will take place Saturday, February 21 from 10am to 4pm at the CRI (Cumberland Recreation Institute, 2665 Dunsmuir).

This year’s heritage fair will be the 11th edition. It was launched by a group of community volunteers in 2003 and was modelled on the folk festival that ran from 1949 to 1958 celebrating the diverse heritage of Cumberlanders. Each year families, clubs and other organisations set up displays of antique tools, unique collections, photos and demonstrations of crafts and folklore from the early days of Cumberland and the Comox Valley.

Heritage Canada’s theme for this year’s festivities is “Main Street: at the Heart of the Community”. In Cumberland, the vitality and history of Dunsmuir Avenue is abundantly obvious: from the historic build-

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ings of the old post office (Wandering Moose Café), Tarbell’s, Leiser’s Big Store (The Patch), the Cumberland Hotel and the Waverley, to the newest businesses Purusa yoga and the Cumberland Brewing Company.

This year’s displays will include traditional embroidery from Brazil and Norway, quilters, weavers and lacemakers (oh my!) antique coins and cameras and much more. There will also be performances including old time fiddle and banjo tunes and Polynesian dance. In addition the Cumberland Museum & Archives will be open by donation all day and will have a scavenger hunt for kids with prizes awarded at the end of the day.

Admission to the fair is by donation.

Links: www.facebook.com/ events/424298354389692 www.heritagebc.ca/ heritage-week-2015 www.heritagecanada. org/en/visit-discover/ heritage-day www.cumberlandmuseum.ca

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20 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 20, 2015

CODES COUNTRY LANES Bowling highlights from Codes Country Lanes: Monday AM - Nick Tjart 217, Marie Israel 192, Bob Van Nes 215, Bob Sharp 220, Pat King 208, Micki MacDonald 235, John Kendall 211, Tricia Turnbull 180, Roy Brekke 202, Heather Abraham 219, Dave Stacey 206, Anna Turcotte 204.

Monday PM - Bruce Ram 211, Rick Kroeker 257, Lyle Torrie 218, Marg Moore 192, Ruth Johnson 212, Grace Rodriguez 205, Ivan Ally 218, Rita Grill 192, Erma Wilson 211.

Tuesday Breakfast - Barb Potruff 204, Laurie McWillis 244, Shirley Mangano 186, Marilyn Shetterly 169, Brenda Searl 175, Joyce Boon 167, Mary McArthur 161.

Tuesday 12:30 - George Andrews 174, Ev Andrews 163, Garry Pearson 162, Judith Munro 105, Allison Bennett 106, Ed Schievink 93.

Tuesday Adult - Cynthia Taylor 203, Cindy Eckstein 209, Ed Carefoot 227, Gary Coombs 204, Bill Brundige 287, John Graff 237, Ross McWillis 248, George Ghinis 234, Marlo Duncalf 207.

Wednesday 9:30 - Nick Tjart 204, Gerry Van Achte 204, Rosalle Williams 196, Pat Schmidt 189, Andrew Melancon 249, Laurie Aucoin 225, Sally Hazelton 181, Yvonne Melancon 236, Joyce Slater 183, Dave Stacey 239.

Tuesday/Wednesday CRA - Allison Bennett 131, Brian Mitchell 142, Sarah Lariviere 137, Karen Slater 156, Debbie Downer 155, Clayton Heid 151, Clint McColl 164, Larry McCooey 201, Scott Burden 128, Leona Wagner 129, Gary Scavarda 113.

Wednesday Adult - Gord Pottruff 259, Scott Murray 200, Barb Pottruff 222, Melissa McGrath 163, Ken Bird 253, Dave Stevenson 215, Larry Adams 258, Tara Breuer 211, Niki Eldstrom 197, Louise Bundschuh 194, Sandy Nurse 235, Rick Aker 218.

Thursday 12:30 - Kelvin Davis 172, Grace Rodriguez 214, Ivan Ally 211, Vicki Bailie 208, Bob Van Nes 232, Bob Sharp 293, Bea Tomkinson 225, Pat King 237, Linda Meers 198, Vera Winter 228.

Thursday Adult - Alfred Cyr 223, Paul Zorz 234, Steve Robson 256, Ed Carefoot 254, Laurie Aucoin 291, Jessica Giroux 267, Scott VanAchte 229, Lorne King 208, Aprile Brekke Reidl 222, Rose Stenabaugh 238, Ken Bird 218, Rick Granneman 243, Rick Kroeker 240, Ross McWillis 195, Anne Bodnar 291.

Friday 9:30 - Trudy Olsen 188, Jim Bennett 224, Ken Scavarda 214, George Railian 171, Nick Tjart 213, Art Wesner 197, Marj Arnold 184, Bernice Clouthier 190, Ruth Rivington 189, Millie McCharles 182.

Special O - Jesse Andersen 168, Chris Malboreuff 175, Jacob White 166, Randy Bates 167, Marilyn Shetterly 174, Sherri Lines 184, Leona Wagner 163, Larry McCooey 168, Clint McColl 153, Mathew Strachin 206.

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 20 2015

21

Dairy farm switches to robotic milking system $2.9 million investment to modernize Black Creek operation

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff A dairy farm in the Comox Valley has gone hitech.

It has switched from the conventional and cumbersome method to a robotic milking system. It sounds like science fiction but it’s the real deal.

Daldas Farms Ltd., located in Black Creek, invested around $2.9 million to modernize its dairy operation. They’re only one of two farms on Vancouver Island that has switched to this hi-tech process.

Fred Doberstein, who runs the family farm with his siblings, said it has made their dairy farm more efficient as well as improved their annual yield.

They have 180 cows that are now milked by four Astronaut A4 robots, a machine made by Lely, a Dutch company and distributed in the region

through West Coast Robotics.

The robots don’t look anything like the popular Star Wars android C3PO but they are capable of milking cows 24/7 and do not require constant monitoring. There are no preparations and cleanup after because the whole process is spontaneous.

The cows are drawn into a spacious milking box where they would find grain to feed on. Doberstein said it is like their “Snickers Bar.” Once they know it’s there, cows develop a habit of visiting the milking unit. They don’t need to be coaxed to go in.

While they’re feeding, the robot does its job. A laser locates the teats and then a robotic arm cleans and sanitizes the udder and attaches four milkers to the teats. A computer system will determine when she’s ready and then activate the pumps that extract the milk.

The cows adjusted very quickly and we went up immediately in milk volume.”

FRED DOBERSTEIN Daldas Farms Ltd.

A computer system directs four milkers to attach to the teats and when the cows are ready, the pumps are activated to extract the milk.

The computer also identifies each cow by its size and shape of udder.

Data is printed that includes the time and yield.

If the cow has just been milked the automatic gate system sends the cow back out of the unit.

The machine can also detect diseases, check for discolouration or other problems with the milk

and immediately divert that cow’s milk from the supply.

The robots cause less stress for the animals because unlike humans, which all have their own ways of milking, the robotic system means a consistent milking technique.

“The cows adjusted very quickly and we went up immediately in milk vol-

ume,” said Doberstein.

Doberstein said he now has more time to attend to other matters that need attention on the farm because the robotic system reduces the amount of labour and the time spent on milking the cows.

Turning Daldas farm into hi-tech operation was a big gamble. Doberstein said they had their moments of doubt.

(Continued on page 23)

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23

Dairy farm invests in robotics (Contiued from page 21) “It was a huge step for us,” said Doberstein. “Although it was not uncharted territory, you always have that apprehension.

In the very beginning it was like a gong-show. We were like round the clock and thinking ‘what have we done?’ We kind of tweaked out some of the bugs ... three days of absolute horror, three weeks of kind of crappy and after three months we were up and running. After a year, we’re seeing progress and I don’t think I’d want to go back to the old routine.”

Among the other robotic systems, Daldas has installed a Lely Juno 150 feed pusher that drives automatically over the feeding alley by following the feeding fence. It pushes the feed towards the fence as often as required without disturbing the cows.

Four Lely Luna brushes are also installed at different locations in the pen.

It is designed to groom cows, enabling them to get rid of dust and itches. It’s triggered by touch.

As well, there are two Lely Calm feeding stations that monitor the feeding plans of calves. As

A Lely Juno 150 pushes the feed towards the fence as often as required without disturbing the cows. soon as a they enter a milk station, it is recognized by its electronic transponder and, according to the calf’s diet, the feeder decides if it is allowed to drink, and how much. A minimum and maximum portion of milk per visit can be set for each calf, then the calf feeder will automatically determine the ration per calf. If the calf is indeed allowed to drink, the calf feeder immediately prepares a fresh portion of milk at the predetermined

After a year we’re seeing progress and I don’t think I’d want to go back to the old routine” FRED DOBERSTEIN Daldas Farms Inc.

temperature.

Turning Daldas Farm into a hi-tech operation has garnered the attention of the business com-

munity here on Vancouver Island. It was one of the top award winners at the 15th Annual Vancouver Island Business Excellence Awards that was held last month in Victoria. It was named the Agricultural Company of the Year.

And it was one of the featured highlights on the media tour held in conjunction with the Island Agriculture Show held last weekend in Courtenay

Agriculture minister drops by B.C. agriculture minister Norm Letnick dropped by Friday morning for the official opening of the Island Agriculture Show held this year in Courtenay at the Filberg Centre and Native Sons Hall. Letnick urged attending farmers to participate in the provincial Buy Local program which had received $2 million in fundig for this year. He noted that B.C. produces 300 food commodities, 200 from land and 100 from water, generating $12 billion in sales. The biggest growth in the export market is China, but ‘the biggest market of all is our American buddies in the south’. Letnick said on one of the biggest challenges facing the industry is attracting more young people.

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25

Wounded Warrior Run BC passes through Valley said. “The timing is right.

You can really feel the spirit of the organization.

People are talking about mental health.”

Wounded Warriors Canada is a non-profit organization that helps Canadian Forces members who have been wounded or injured in their service to Canada, including pointing soldiers in the direction of therapeutic programs.

The focus is on mental health and, particularly, the staggering impact of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and O perational Stress Injuries (OSI).

The “Wounded Warrior Run BC” was created with its first Vancouver Island run held in 2014.

Knull says he’s been glad for beautiful weather heading into Courtenay, but says he’s prepared for changes that could come up during the run.

This year, some of the runners have suffered some injuries, but are still focused on getting the word out about the importance of supporting injured soldiers.

While Veterans Affairs and the military have

BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff The huffing and puffing and sweat is all worth it, according to participants in a 600 km run that aims to raise awareness for Canadian soldiers struggling with PTSD. Six runners involved in the Wounded Warriors support trip have been fighting turn after turn north to south to highlight the challenges faced by the men and women who have dedicated their lives to serving Canadians through the military.

“It’s very dynamic,” Channing Knull said of the run, pausing upon arrival at the Courtenay Legion to catch his breath and hydrate before setting off again towards Comox. “Everything’s fluid and ever-changing.”

Last year, for example, one of the hotels fell through at the last minute, but a lodge owner in Sayward stepped up to the plate to provide accommodations that evening.

“People come out of the woodwork at the right time,” the 45-year-old

Channing Knull runs through downtown Courtenay on his way to Comox, as part of Wounded Warrior Run BC 2015. women here.

“It’s a very important cause,” he said, explaining people who have service-related injuries deserve our support.

“They’ve been through a lot.”

It’s so important not to allow people with PTSD to suffer in silence, he added.

The base gave the runners a place to sleep for the night and cooked them breakfast Feb. 18, as they continued on towards Victoria – for an expected Feb. 20 finish.

This year’s crew of runners will log more than 600 km by the time they’re done – about 100 km a day. their role in helping these men and women, Knull said the run is a way to add an additional leg to the stool of support for people living with psychological wounds.

Another runner, Steve Deschamps, 35, was approached last year to participate. He couldn’t say no.

Deschamps grew up on a military base and has a

number of friends who are now living with PTSD following their military service.

As a sailor on the HMCS Algonquin, he was glad for the chance of a repeat performance this year, in order to pitch in to help injured soldiers.

That’s why he left his home in Victoria and laced up in Port Hardy for the run.

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“It’s such a great cause,” he said.

Ron Mierau, provincial coordinator of the run for BC says he, too, has lot of his friends who have suffered from PTSD and wants to support them any way he can.

Over at 19 Wing, Cpt. Guanhua Wang, 25, heard the run would be coming through Courtenay and mobilized airmen and

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INCLUDES A 60-MONTH LIMITED WARRANTY!††

2015 SANTA FE $

SPORT 2.4 L FWD

23,067

ALL-IN CASH PURCHASE PRICE:

24,862

$

SELLING PRICE:

‡

$

DELIVERY & DESTINATION FEES:

1,795

$

INCLUDES

3,832

IN FREE TRADE BONUSΩ

INCLUDES A 60-MONTH LIMITED WARRANTY!††

Limited model shown♦

2015 TUCSON $

GL FWD

18,102

ALL-IN CASH PURCHASE PRICE:

19,862

$

SELLING PRICE:

‡

$

DELIVERY & DESTINATION FEES:

1,760

$

INCLUDES

3,897

IN FREE TRADE BONUSΩ

INCLUDES A 60-MONTH LIMITED WARRANTY!††

Visit HyundaiCanada.com for details on our entire line-up!

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

††

HyundaiCanada.com

®/™The Hyundai names, logos, product names, feature names, images and slogans are trademarks owned by Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. ‡Cash price of $10,962/$12,462/$19,862/$24,862 available on all new 2015 Accent 4-Door L Manual/Elantra Sedan L Manual/Tucson GL FWD/Santa Fe Sport 2.4L FWD models. Prices include Delivery and Destination charges of $1,595/$1,595/$1,760/$1,795 and price reductions of $300/$600/$0/$0. Prices exclude registration, insurance, PPSA, fees, levies, license fees, applicable taxes and dealer admin. fees of up to $499. Fees may vary by dealer. Delivery and Destination charge includes freight, P.D.E. and a full tank of gas. ΩFree trade bonuses are calculated against the vehicle’s starting price. Free trade bonus of up to $3,882/$4,532/$3,897/$3,832 available on all new 2015 Accent 4-Door L Manual/Elantra L Manual/Tucson GL FWD/Santa Fe Sport 2.4L FWD models. Price adjustments applied before taxes. Offer cannot be combined or used in conjunction with any other available offers. Offer is non-transferable and cannot be assigned. No vehicle trade-in required. ♦Prices of models shown: 2015 Accent GLS Auto/Elantra Limited/Tucson Limited AWD Santa Fe Sport Limited AWD are $20,794/$26,794/$35,759/$41,444. Prices include Delivery and Destination charges of $1,595/$1,595/$1,760/$1,795. Prices exclude registration, insurance, PPSA, fees, levies, license fees, applicable taxes and dealer admin. fees of up to $499. Fees may vary by dealer. ▼Fuel consumption for new 2015 Accent GLS (HWY 6.3L/100KM; City 8.9L/100KM); 2015 Elantra Limited (HWY 6.7L/100KM; City 9.7L/100KM); 2015 Tucson Limited AWD (HWY 9.3L/100KM; City 11.6L/100KM); 2015 Santa Fe Sport Limited AWD (HWY 9.8L/100KM; City 12.9L/100KM); are based on Manufacturer Testing. Actual fuel efficiency may vary based on driving conditions and the addition of certain vehicle accessories. Fuel economy figures are used for comparison purposes only. ∆The Hyundai Accent/Elantra received the lowest number of problems per 100 vehicles among small/compact cars in the proprietary J.D. Power 2014 Initial Quality StudySM (IQS). Study based on responses from 86,118 new-vehicle owners, measuring 239 models and measures opinions after 90 days of ownership. Propriety study results are based on experiences and perceptions of owners surveyed in February-May 2014. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com. ▲Government 5-Star Safety Ratings are part of the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA’s) New Car Assessment Program (www.SaferCar.gov). ‡†♦ΩOffers available for a limited time and subject to change or cancellation without notice. Dealer may sell for less. Inventory is limited, dealer order may be required. Visit www.hyundaicanada.com or see dealer for complete details. ††Hyundai’s Comprehensive Limited Warranty coverage covers most vehicle components against defects in workmanship under normal use and maintenance conditions.

26 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 20, 2015

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 20 2015

LOST CELLPHONE Lost my cellphone in the back seat of one of the Minivan Taxis around Midnight on Friday, Feb. 13. Phone was in a green and black case.

Reward offered.

Call 250-650-6871

27

28 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 20, 2015

WHEN YOU PURCHASE ANY VEHICLE WITH ISIAND HONDA, RECEIVE FREE TWO TICKETS TO AN EVENT OF YOUR CHOICE * INCLUDES CONCERTS. SPORTS. SHOWS, AND MORE CONCERTS I SPORTING EVENTS I CIRQUE DU SOLEIL I DISNEY ON ICE AND MORE!

†Based on IHS Automotive: Polk Canadian New Retail Vehicle Registrations as of CYTD November 2014 for the Intermediate Car segment as defied by Honda Canada Inc. *Limited time weekly lease offer and all other offers are from Honda Canada Finance Inc., on approved credit. #The weekly lease offer applies to a new 2015 Accord LX model CR2E3F3/Odyssey LX model RL5H2FE/Pilot LX 2WD model YF3H2FE (“Specified Models”) for a 60-month period, for a total of 260 payments of $64.90/$88.84/$107.42 leased at 1.99%/2.99%/2.99% APR based on applying $450.00/$0.00/$0.00 “lease dollars” (which are deducted from the negotiated selling price before taxes). ‡In order to achieve $0 down payment, dealer will cover the cost of tire/battery tax, air conditioning tax (where applicable), environmental fees and levies on the 2015 Accord LX, Odyssey LX and Pilot LX 2WD only on customer’s behalf. Down payment of $0.00, fist weekly payment and $0 security deposit due at lease inception. Total lease obligation is $16,874.00/$23,098.40/$27,929.20. Taxes, license, insurance and registration are extra. 120,000 kilometre allowance; charge of $0.12/km for excess kilometres. **MSRP is $25,745/$32,045/$37,095 including freight and PDI of $1,695 based on new 2015 Specifid Models described above. License, insurance, registration and taxes are extra and may be required at the time of purchase. †† For more information about Editor’s Choice 10Best award, visit http://www.caranddriver.com/features/honda-accord-2015-10best-cars-feature €For more information about IIHS’ Top Safety Pick award, visit http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/honda/odyssey/2015. #The weekly lease offer applies to a new 2015 CR-V LX 2WD model RM3H3FES/Civic DX model FB2E2FEX/Fit DX model GK5G3FE (“Specifid Models”) for a 60-month period, for a total of 260 payments of $69.89/$41.91/$39.97 leased at 1.99%/0.99%/2.99% APR based on applying $400.00/$350.00/$1050.00 “lease dollars” (which are deducted from the negotiated selling price before taxes). ‡In order to achieve $0 down payment, dealer will cover the cost of tire/battery tax, air conditioning tax (where applicable), environmental fees and levies on the 2015 CR-V LX 2WD, Civic DX and Fit DX only on customer’s behalf. Down payment of $0.00, fist weekly payment and $0 security deposit due at lease inception. Total lease obligation is $18,171.40/$10,896.60/$10,392.20. Taxes, license, insurance and registration are extra. 120,000 kilometre allowance; charge of $0.12/km for excess kilometres. **MSRP is $27,685/$17,245/$16,070 including freight and PDI of $1,695/$1,495/$1,495 based on new 2015 Specifid Models described above. License, insurance, registration and taxes are extra and may be required at the time of purchase. £For more information about the 2015 Motor Trend Sport/Utility of the Year® award, visit http://www.motortrend.com/oftheyear/suv/2015_honda_cr_v_is_the_motor_trend_suv_of_the_year/ ΩFor more information about the AJAC’s Best Small Car (Under $21,000) award, please visit: http://www.ajac.ca/web/ccoty/2015/comparison_category.asp?cat=176 */#/**Prices and/or payments shown do not include a PPSA lien registration fee of $30.31 and lien registering agent's fee of $5.25, which are both due at time of delivery and covered by the dealer on behalf of the customer on Specifid Models only. Offers valid from February 3rd through March 2nd 2015 at participating Honda retailers. Dealer may sell/lease for less. Dealer trade may be necessary on certain vehicles. Offers valid only for British Columbia residents at BC Honda Dealers locations. Offers subject to change or cancellation without notice. Terms and conditions apply. Visit www.bchonda.com or see your Honda retailer for full details.