Comox Valley Echo - February 27, 2015

50% OFF ALL CLOTHING 2966 Kilpatrick, Courtenay • 1671 Ryan Rd., Comox (across from SPCA) • 1785 Comox Ave., Comox

OF OUR KILPATRICK LOCATION.

Kilpatrick & Ryan Rd. Locations Open Late Until 8pm Friday!

www.comoxvalleyecho.com COURTENAY, BRITISH COLUMBIA • Friday, February 27, 2015

BIGGEST SA LE

OF THE SE AS ON

Save up to 50%* Hurry! Sale ends

March 2nd, 2015

. See Store for De

tails.

Courtenay 2937 Kilpatrick Ave 250871-6074 Victoria 3501 Saanich Road 25 0-382-5269 Nanaimo 3200 No rth Island Hwy 25 0-756-4114

ARTS

SPORTS

17.Sunday concert 19.Local ball PRICE: 57 CENTS PLUS GST

VOL. 21, NO. 17

COMOX GETS $320,000 GRANT FOR PARK PLAN

features church’s new piano.

player named best in B.C.

15.TWO LOCAL STUDENTS AWARDED PRESTIGIOUS SCHOLARSHIPS

‘MEETING PLACE VILLAGE’ CONCEPT AT MARINA PARK SUPPORTED BY ISLAND COASTAL ECONOMIC TRUST. 16.

TRUCK MONTH

$4500 DELIVERY CREDIT

GET GREAT OFFERS ON $2080 CASH CREDIT A TRUCK LINEUP FULLY $2420 PACKAGE DISCOUNT LOADED WITH AWARDS + $1000 WINTER CASH

= 10,000 $

TOTAL VALUE

ON SILVERADO DOUBLE CAB TRUE NORTH EDITION

2

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.COURTENAY,BC. FEBRUARY 27, 2015

ECHO

NEWS Comox Valley Weather

 Friday Cloudy with 40% chance of showers.

High 9°C.

 Saturday Sunny.

Low 1°C. High 9°C.

 Sunday A mix of sun and cloud.

Low 1°C. High 8°C.

 Monday A mix of sun and cloud.

Low 1°C. High 9°C.

Ian Doe

Seniors Real Estate Specialist

Two Names You Can Trust Ian Doe & Re/Max



250-897-5628

Website: iandoe.remax.ca Email: iandoe@remax.net

Tuesday Sunny.

Low -3°C. High 7°C.

2230A Cliffe Ave., COURTENAY BC V9N 2L4

For the latest Comox Valley Weather visit: www.comoxvalleyecho.com This investigation is continuing. (2015-1954)

Police Blotter Comox Valley RCMP responded to the following incidents between February 17 and 23:

Young driver prohibited On February 16th the Comox Valley RCMP stopped a vehicle with six occupants as it was believed the driver was driving in contravention of his licence restrictions.

The driver was found to be a new driver and was exhibiting signs of alcohol impairment.

A roadside screening device test was given which was failed.

The youth driver was given a 90 immediate roadside prohibit for 90 days and had the vehicle he was driving impounded for 30 days. (2015-1950)

Truck stolen, found Police took a report of a vehicle that had been stolen from the parking lot at St. Joseph’s hospital on Comox Avenue in Comox, on February 16th, 2015.

The Ford 350 pickup truck was located later in the day in Campbell River.

Hay stolen

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

On February 16th police received a report of a theft of hay.

The hay had been stolen from a building on the 1800 block of Surgenor road in the Black Creek area.

The owner stated that sometime in the last two weeks a neighbour had seen a truck and trailer leaving the area with four males. (2015-2050)

B&E on Willow Way

Dallas Dawn KARDASH DOB: 1989-12-15 168 cms, 57 kgs, Blonde hair, Hazel eyes Warrants: Theft under $5000 Breach of undertaking Fail to appear X2 Comox Valley file #2014-14916

Kevin Todd WILLIAMS DOB: 1964-08-28 168 cms, 54 kgs, Brown hair, Blue eyes Warrants: Theft under $5000 Fail to appear X2 Comox Valley file # 201410288

www.comoxvalleycrimestoppers.bc.ca

On February 20th a report of a break, enter and theft from a residence was called into police by a homeowner on the 100 block of Willow Way in Comox.

Sometime over the night an unknown culprit entered the residence via an unlocked outside window and once inside stole alcohol. (2015-2136)

Attempted school B&E Police responded to a report of an attempted break and enter at the Mark Isfeld School during the early morning hours of February 22nd.

Three youths were seen attempting to get into the school. (2015-2335)

CO-VAL CHORISTERS PRESENT

Expedition Cruise Info Night

A MUSICAL BASED ON

Wild BC and Alaska by Boutique Ship 2015-16

THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK Performances Evenings (7:30pm) March 20, 21, 26, 27 & 28 DĂƟŶĞĞƐ (2:00pm) March 22 & 29 Ail seats $20.00 Tickets available at The Old Church Theatre (Tuesday & Thursday - 10am to 2pm) or call 250-334-2992 visit CO-VAL Choristers on our facebook page

The Old Church Theatre 755 Harmston Avenue, Courtenay

Seafood company hit with fine for growing scallops without a licence

BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff A Baynes Sound shellfish grower has been ordered to pay a $1,500 fine for growing scallops without a permit, at the Feb. 19 sentencing at the Courtenay Courthouse.

While Comox Shellfish Ltd. didn’t damage the environment through its illegal operations, the punishment - which includes a forfeiture order worth $1,866.90 -is part of maintaining the health of BC aquaculture, said provincial court judge Peter Doherty.

“The company knew it did not have a proper licence,” Doherty said, adding the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) must do what it takes to ensure the safety of the public.

The proceedings started with the swearing in of a Vietnamese to English translator, who helped Kim Nong, a director and officer with Comox Shellfish, plead guilty to a Fisheries Act violation.

The summary licencing offence (one of two charges she had originally faced) could have landed her in jail for up to a year.

Federal Crown Alexander Clarkson showed the judge pictures DFO had taken of the operation, which was only supposed to be growing clams and oysters.

During an inspection on May 16, 2013, a DFO official observed scallops that looked to be about a year old.

The fisheries officer notified the licencing branch and Nong was put in the hot seat for an interview that September.

She acknowledged not having a licence but said the scallops were for personal use only.

In December 2013, 987 scallops were confiscated (worth $1,362.90).

On Jan. 23, 2014, 1,280 scallops were seized (many of these were deformed so the haul was worth just $504).

$1099 Youth & Adults

(Continued on page 3)

FEB 26

MARCH 5

Feb. 26– March. 5

Learn about award-winning, Galapagos-style, boutique cruises on classic ships in BC and Alaska. Featuring natural and cultural history. %PEWOE ,EMHE +[EMM +VIEX &IEV 6EMRJSVIWX +YPJ -W 2EXMSREP 4EVO 6IWIVZI :ERGSYZIV -W Mon. Mar 9, 7 pm Info/RSVP 250-386-7245 Stan Hagen Theatre, North Island College, 2300 Ryan Rd., Courtenay

Cinema #2: “The Valley Below” one show only Wednesday, March 4, 7:00 pm (ends approx.8:37 pm Cinema #1: “Focus” 14A:Nightly: 7:00 (8:55) & 9:35 (11:30).

Saturday & Sunday Matinees: 12:55 (2:50) & 3:50 (5:45) Cinema #2: “McFarland” G: Violence. Nightly: 6:40 (9:00) & 9:30 (11:50) Saturday & Sunday Matinees: 12:35 (2:55) & 3:30 (5:50) Cinema #3: “Fifty Shades of Grey” 18A: No Advisory . Sexually suggestive scenes; nudity Nightly Except Wednesday: 6:50 (9:05) & 9:40 (11:55). Wednesday, March 4: 9:40 (11:55).

Saturday & Sunday Matinees: 12:45 (3:00) & 3:40 (5:55) Cinema #4: “Kingsman: The Secret Service” 14A: Coarse language; violence Nightly: 6:30 (8:50) & 9:25 (11:45).

Saturday & Sunday Matinees: 12:30 (2:50) & 3:25 (5:45) Box Office Hours for Feb. 20th – 26th Nightly: 6:00 pm – 9:45 pm Saturday & Sunday Matinees: 12:00 noon - 3:45 pm

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 27, 2015

Heritage award to Alberni Project Town of Comox recognizes efforts of memorial founder Lewis Bartholomew Comox Councillor Barbara Price presented the Town’s Heritage award on Wednesday, 18th February, at a Heritage Tea in the Filberg Lodge, to Lewis Bartholomew in recognition of his creation of the Alberni Project.

What began in 2000 as one man’s vision to create a simple memorial for the men who served on HMSC Alberni is now a year round memorial and exhibit located in the Comox Mall.

While on vacation, Lewis Bartholomew took the Queen of Alberni ferry to Vancouver Island. It was on this vessel that Bartholomew first saw a painting by Pat Burstall of the HMSC Alberni.

Below the painting was a plaque which told of the 59 men lost when the Alberni was torpedoed and

sunk in 1944.

When in 2004 Bartholomew met some of the veteran survivors of that ill fated day, he was encouraged to expand his web based memorial and develop a mobile exhibit which could be taken to various communities and schools on Vancouver Island.

Known as the Alberni Project, its purpose was to honour all the crew who served on the Alberni from the time she was commissioned in 1941 until her sinking in 1944.

In 2013 Bartholomew took the next step and moved into a permanent facility in the Comox Centre Mall and created a year-round venue for the Memorial - the HMSC Alberni Museum - dedicated to preserving the memories of the

Alberni and the Battle of the Atlantic.

The Alberni Project Society was formed in 2013, to maintain the museum and the mobile unit which continues to take a similar memorial to various locations on Vancouver Island. It also develops educational programs and encourages community involvement with a variety of veterans commemorations and events.

Filberg Heritage Lodge and Park Society was pleased to host the fundraising tea in support of Heritage Week in Comox.

‘Being in the Filberg Lodge to present this award, was a real privilege,’ said Councillor Price.

‘Many thanks go to the event organizer Val Graham and her team of volunteers.’

Hospital Thrift Shop needs donations of used items The St. Joseph’s Hospital Cottage Thrift Shop (behind the hospital off Rodello Avenue) is in need of donations.

All money raised in the Thrift Shop goes to the hospital.

Everyone who works there is a volunteer. Not one person is paid. It is operated by the St. Joseph’s Hospital Auxiliary.

We are a hidden gem in the Valley that a lot of people don’t know about. Also the best prices in the Valley, bar none.

So please go through your house and cupboards and bring in your gently used items no longer needed. We accept clothing, footwear, housewares, toys and games, linens, jewellery, collectibles, crafts material, wool, books, seasonal items such as Christmas stuff, etc.

The book shelves at the hospital are stocked by us and that money as well goes to the hospital.

Donations can be dropped off at the Thrift Shop Monday-Tuesday 9-12, Wednesday-Friday 10-4 and Saturday 10-1.

We are so grateful to all the people who shop at our store and remember us with their donations of items. We couldn’t do it without you.

Think of it this way. Some day you ore your loved ones might be in the hospital and use a machine or item that your donation to the Thrifty Shop has bought, and wouldn’t that make you feel good?

Remember, we all need the hospital from birth to death.

Seafood firm fined for growing scallops (Continued from page 2) Clarkson cited a number of Fisheries Act violation cases and asked the judge to impose a fine of $2,000. Permitting allows DFO to be aware of all the aquaculture in a region in the event of a disease outbreak, he added.

Considering Baynes Sound produces 3,762 tonnes of shellfish a year

(valued at $7.08 million in 2008), DFO likes to keep its eye on what goes on there.

Duty counsel Robert Yeo said Comox Shellfish has no prior violations and requested a fine of $1,000 instead.

“This was not a commercial venture,” he said.

“She was already licenced to grow other shellfish.”

Not only that, but Co-

mox Shellfish sought and received a permit to grow scallops in short order, he added.

“They’ve been a good corporate citizen,” he said, stressing that no harm had been come to Baynes Sound as a result of the illicit aquaculture.

Doherty split the difference on the fine and gave the go-ahead to the forfeiture order.

Comox Councillor Barbara Price presents the Town of Comox’s heritage award to Lewis Bartholomew, founder of the Alberni Project memorial and museum.

3

4

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 27, 2015

CUMBERLAND BRIEFS

Village looking for entrance sign input Minor debate between councillors about the use of the word ‘legendary’ to lure visitors

BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff The Village revealed two prospective welcome sign designs during open council Feb. 23.

One of the signs is symmetrical while the other places the Village logo on one side.

Two sign body options were also proposed. The HDU material, which is useful for creating a 3D effect, would cost an estimated $50,000, whereas the aluminum would cost an estimated $15,000.

Mayor Leslie Baird, said she would prefer the HDU option, adding Cumberland has been working for a long time on planning for an entrance sign and shouldn’t skimp on the final result.

Coun. Gwyn Sproule said she wasn’t a fan of the “EXPLORE THE LEGENDARY” welcome message and would rather see something that points to the community’s “historic” nature.

Councillor Sean Sullivan noted he’d heard comments suggesting “legendary” would be seen as an appropriate way to refer to Cumberland.

This binary opposition caused a chuckle at the

meeting, and council decided to put the call out to the public for input on sign designs.

Community Group Seeks Funding for Youth Centre The Cumberland Community Schools Society stopped by Cumberland council Feb. 23 to request $10,000 a year over a twoyear period to help establish a youth centre in the community.

The CCSS has already completed a youth needs assessment, kick-started a youth council and begun fundraising.

The youth centre is expected to be open three evenings for a total of 11 hours per week, starting in March 2015, on the Cumberland Community School campus.

Parking Under Consideration Council members had a lengthy discussion about the future of managing parking in downtown Cumberland during their Feb. 23 meeting.

And while they didn’t set any long-term precedents for how downtown businesses could make up for not providing enough stalls for customers, the

One of the entrance sign options. did come up with an interim solution.

At issue was the proposed Waverley Hotel & Pub Ltd. expansion that would eat up half the gravel parking lot outside with the addition of commercial and residential properties along Dunsmuir Avenue.

Don McLellan, owner of the Waverley Hotel, told council he doesn’t think it’s fair to charge him based on rules under an old parking bylaw he noted Village staff had referred to as archaic.

But elected officials wanted to balance the desire to promote business improvement efforts downtown with the need to im-

prove parking infrastructure in the community.

Ultimately they decided to charge the Waverley $916.67, which will be put into parking upgrades.

Coun. Roger Kishi was absent from the meeting and Coun. Sean Sullivan had withdrawn from the vote due to a conflict of interest.

This means for now any new application will be charged for parking variances based on a formula that considers future upgrades to Dunsmuir Avenue parking, the Cultural Centre parking lot and the Cumberland Recreation Institute parking lot, at

CARRIERS WANTED No collection required. Great exercise!

Call Comox Valley Echo • 250-334-4734 or drop by 407-D 5th Street, Courtenay COURTENAY

Rt. 7125 Rt. 7134

COMOX Rt. 2107A – Downey, Wallace, Gladstone, Comox Ave. Rt. 2118 – Comox Ave, Mack Laing, Baybrook, Orchard Park Dr.

TV SCENE Now available

Your number one

Rexall

r Island television

April 11 - 17,

2014

$1.0

Jon Hamm stars in “Mad Men”

Story on page

SINGING SANDS AREA Rt. 4102 – Wilkinson, Singing Sands

18

Comox Mall

•

Rexall

Courtenay

•

Gas ‘n Go Dyke Rd

• •

The first half of the final season drama appears of to be going bi-coas“Mad Men” takes flight April the ride to the 13th and fans are tal in season 7, Golden State. with Sterling Cooper in for a & Partners openinglong-haul, with the back end of the season not an L.A. office and slated to air until taking a good 201 portion of the show’s main charact Moving? Budge t Car & Truck Rentals / Budge t Self Storage need to pack has everything up or store your you belongings.

Present this ad to receive 15% Budget Car & off your next purchase.

Truck R001696369 Boxes, Tape, Bubble 10Mattre x 28 ag Wrap, Wardrobes, Packin g Paper, ss Covers, Dish Paks…

Must present ad Call 1-888-368-7 to receive 15% 368 for inform discount. Can be used in Duncan, ation.

Nanaimo,

SAVE 15%

Parksville, Port

Alberni, Courtenay , Campbell River,

Cumberland General eral Store Comox Valley Echo

Port Hardy. Cannot

be combined with

COLEMAN ROAD AREA Rt. 4106 – Loxley, Avonlee, Sea Terrace Rt. 4107 - Coral, Fern, Kingfisher, Mariner, Avonlee MIRACLE BEACH Rt. 6111 – Seaview Road

Get jet-set

England Ave. & Ryan Rd

•

guide to Vancouve

TVScene

every Friday at the following locations: • Thrifty’s

– Salsbury, Bood, Barford – Salsbury, Mills, Rachel, Houlgrave

other specials or

Mail subscriptions available Contact the Comox Valley Echo 250-334-4734

discounts. Expires

12/

VALLEYVIEW Rt. 3132 – Hebrides, Fyfe, Inverclyde

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

least for now.

Lake Park Contract Awarded Council agreed to hand the keys to its campground at Comox Lake to the Cumberland Lake Park Wilderness Society during its regularly scheduled meeting Feb. 23.

The newly formed nonprofit group rose to the top of the pile of applicants by pledging to make no major changes to the operations or the boat launch facilities

My thanks and appreciation goes to the people at YANA for all their efforts they have put into the fundraising event this Friday. Thank you for all you do for the people of the Comox Valley

at Lake Park Campground.

They also want to institute improvements to “the overall atmosphere and appearance of the park, including emphasis on a family friendly environment.”

The change in management reflects Cumberland’s plans to move forward with the development of an ecotourism strategy.

The road to the campground is currently closed as the Village returns the route to its former two-lane glory.

Under the contract the Village will receive a dividend of 5-10 per cent of all revenues, similar to model that’s currently in place.

This brought in $17,436.81 to Village coffers in 2014.

The Village has been looking for an alternative to current management for several months now.

Draft Strategic Priorities Released The Village revealed its new corporate outlook during a brief submission in council chambers Feb. 23.

(Contiued on page 5)

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 27, 2015

Cumberland council (Contiued on page 5) Short-term priorities include the much-anticipated zoning bylaw review, developing a heritage management plan (including a conservation plan for Village-owned assets), completing the Welcome to Cumberland sign, building a new economic development services model, going through a recreation facilities review, looking into a community grant program and including social procurement in a revamped purchasing policy.

Atmosphere Secures Noise Exemption and Street Closure Atmosphere Gathering’s request for a noise exemption and street closure permission were nearly rubber stamped upon introduction at council Feb. 23, as members commented on how thoroughly it seemed organizers had been in attempting to adjust their event to fit within the confines of the community environment.

While the Village had received 16 written and in-person complaints following the inaugural event last year, organizers plan to end the festival earlier and produce less disruptive bass frequencies overall this year.

Coun. Jesse Ketler made the motion to approve the requests, which found unanimous support. Coun. Roger Kishi was absent from the meeting.

Cumberland to Buy Great Bear Rainforest Carbon Credits Council voted to buy 69 tonnes worth of carbon offset credits in support of the Great Bear Forest Carbon Project during its regularly scheduled meeting Feb. 23. This will allow the Village to secure $4,155 via the Climate Action Revenue Incentive program as signatories to the BC Climate Action Charter. The Village had set aside $3,000 for carbon offsets in the 2014 budget, more than enough to cover the purchase of carbon credits at the $25 per tonne level.

5

Valley Farmers’ Market named best in the province

BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff The local farmers’ market was named Best Large Market of the Year at the BC Association of Farmers’ Markets AGM over the weekend.

Vickey Brown, executive director of the Comox Valley Farmers’ Market Association, says the participants are what have built the local food and product smorgasbord to what it is today.

“We’re pretty lucky to have so many great farms and so many great farmers,” she said.

“We are very often the envy of many markets who struggle to get enough vegetable producers to their market.”

The award is a step up from the showing last year when the local group was nominated in three categories (Market of the Year, Vendor of the Year and Manager of the Year) but walked away empty-handed.

Following a nominations process that was promoted provincially and through local social media channels the community marketplace

ended up victorious.

“It’s great,” she said. “It’s just super nice to be recognized by your peers.”

The local farmers market is a sturdy institution now, with at least 45 primary agriculture producers, which include meat, vegetables and eggs.

Allow your feet to carry you to the Saturday morning gathering and you’ll discover everything from grass-fed yogurt to hemp-based ice cream. Wander further and you may decide to try some bison, lamb or even local vodka.

It’s been a significant part of the local economy, considering small businesses are its fastest growing component.

Supporters say the farmers’ market functions as a business incubator for food entrepreneurs.

But it’s not exactly a walk in the park for proponents.

“It’s not necessarily the highest paying work you can do, and at times it’s not the most rewarding work you can do,” she said. “You’re kind of at the mercy of the elements.”

One of the things that has

The Comox Valley Farmers’ Market won top honours at the provincial farmers’ market AGM.

It’s great. It’s just super nice to be recognized by your peers. We’re pretty lucky to have so many great farms and so many great farmers. ” VICKEY BROWN Market executive director

helped the Comox Valley Farmers’ Market shine particularly bright in recent years is its reliance on a quite strict value system.

“We allow only products that are grown in the Comox Valley or Strathcona regional districts,” she said, pointing out the particularly close-knit feel this adds to the foodpurchasing experience.

“Whoever’s there selling is the one who’s grown it.”

Shoppe Talk February 2015 Heart health month February is heart health month. Knowledge is power or so the saying goes. Sometimes we need a little motivation or knowledge to enact a change in our behaviour which will ensure our long term cardiovascular (heart) health.

This month I am going to give you a little homework. Just for the fun of it check out this website http://www.heartage.me/. Follow the prompts, take the test, and answer the questions posed. This will give you the “age” of your heart. Having a different heart age from our biological age may definitely be a wake-up call for some of us.

Next on the list of homework is checking out this website -https://www.cvdriskchecksecure.com/FraminghamRiskScore.aspx. Here you will find an assessment tool that determines your risk of developing cardiovascular disease over a 10 year period.

Both of these tests require knowledge of your cholesterol and blood pressure readings which your family doctor can test for. If the results of your homework causes you concern you should discuss those concerns with your family doctor.

There are many risk factors for heart disease. Some, such as gender and age are not modifiable. On the other hand many other risk factors such as tobacco use (cessation), blood pressure control, moderation in alcohol consumption, diet and exercise are modifiable.

If you don’t have a computer at home, come in to the store and we can run through the tests with you. Remember it is not just quantity of life but also quality of life that counts. Make every day count by taking care of yourself and minimizing your risk factors for heart disease.

We are here to help you do that. www.cvdriskchecksecure.com/FraminghamRiskScore.aspx

Extended for more days due to popular demand:

81st

6

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 27, 2015

School District’s final budget reflects little change Job cuts and use of operating reserves help balance the books

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff The Comox Valley School District board approved its final budget for the 2014-2015 school year.

What was projected in the preliminary budget approved last May hardly changed, said secretary treasurer, Russell Horswill.

The school district’s finance committee anticipated an enrolment

decline of about 240 students.

While the numbers did go down by 227 this year, it was still lower than the expected decline of 240 students.

“It was very, very close to what we projected,” said Horswill. “So very little changes to the budget really.”

On Tuesday night, school trustees approved the budget bylaw and the $86,781,167 amount for the 2014-2015 fiscal year.

The components that sum up this year’s total are operating budget $74,445,825, Special Purpose Funds $4,979,453, and Capital Fund $7,355,889.

There were two significant changes made from the initial budget, Horswill said.

One was the loss of savings generated from the teachers’ job action worth $2.3 million that was refunded to the BC government. The second

was the school district had to account for grant money of $1.1 million the province paid to cover the negotiated teachers’ salary increase for the current year.

When the district started working on the budget last year, it had to deal with a shortfall of $2.1 million.

To balance the books, jobs had to be reduced and some of the funds had to be drawn from operating reserve, which

School trustees fuming over order to find ‘efficiencies’

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff Comox Valley school trustees are disappointed that the BC government has ordered all 60 school districts in the province to find $29 million in ““administrative efficiencies” next year.

The government, which revealed this plan on Feb. 17 when it announced its budget, also expects school districts to find additional $25 million “in efficiencies” the following year.

“I am furious,” said School District 71 trustee Janice Caton. “It’s just beyond words.”

The Comox Valley school district has just finalized a very tight budget for the 2014-2015 year.

It reflected less grant money coming in due to the decline in enrolments.

To balance the budget that initially reflected a $2.1 million shortfall, the school district had to reduce staff and also draw from its dwindling operating reserve.

The details of the province’s shocking plan or budget cuts are still unknown but are expected to be revealed on March 12.

How it will impact next year’s budget and operation has worried the local school board.

“At this time we don’t know what the definition of administrative savings is,” said secretary treasurer Russell Horswill.

“We don’t know what reporting requirements we’re going to have. And we don’t know what our share of that $29 million will be.”

Caton said how can the school district continue the good work that they do for students when

funding for education is being reduced?

She made a motion for the board to write a letter to the Minister of Education and to the Minister of Finance to express their concern with respect to the funding cuts and its impact on public education and that public letters also be sent to the BC Schools Trustees Association, Comox Valley MLA Don McRae and to NDP education critic Rob Fleming.

“I am absolutely devastated,” said Caton. “I am very concerned with what is happening to public education when schools districts have already cut to the bone. There’s no school district in the province that could say they have extra money.

“We are hurt. Every school district in the province has been fiscally responsible in supporting

the students to the best that we can and to be told by the government that we can find more savings, I don’t know where we can even find it.”

School board chair Tom Weber said that when they write the letter, it’s incumbent for the board to ask pertinent questions.

“If the letter solely represents our disappointed indignation etcetera, it will go on the disappointed, indignation file in the office,” said Weber, who added that their questions should be specific to the local school district.

“I am not sure what the ministry’s understanding of our circumstance where they can in fact determine that School District 71 has X-amount of dollars to give.

“Because perhaps they’re seeing something that we’re not seeing.

amounts to $1.1 million.

Horswill said they’re hoping not to tap the operating reserve, which would be depleted when this school year is over.

“There’s still a little bit of time left in the school year, so hopefully we don’t have to use the reserve by the end of the year,” said Horswill.

The school district’s current financial status is really “tight,” said Horswill.

“For the last many

years, five to six years, we’ve been dealing with declining enrolment, which brings declining grants, and so the board has been strategic in aligning our expenditure budgets with the revenue that our students are generating,” said Horswill.

“To do that has resulted in reductions. Those changes that were implemented last May, they just continue to exist.

They’re still in this budget.”

Perhaps they’re looking at something we’re not prepared to look at or we’re disagreeing with.”

Weber said there has been no indication of what the local school district’s share of the first phase of the government’s plan will be. And he wants clarification.

“A reasonable question to ask them is, for our portion, on what basis are you coming to that dollar figure and the second question I would ask is what basis or what criteria will you use in determining when is enough,” said Weber.

“When do we hit the end point where there is consensus, if that’s even possible, that there is no more to give? My belief is neither those questions have either been asked or answered within the ministry.

“I think it is incumbent upon us to push them respectfully and continue to push them with multiple letters,” The school board unanimously endorsed Caton’s recommendation to write a letter.

The districts are required to accept the cuts. Education minister

Peter Fassbender insisted that they aren’t as significant as they seem, insisted Education M i n i s te r P e te r Fassbender.

“I understand no one wants to have to find more, but we need to work together to run a tight fiscal ship,” Fassbender said in an interview with the Province newspaper.

Fassbender said the school districts are being told to limit the cuts to administration budgets only and will not impact educational services in classrooms.

He also contended the government spends a total of $5.2 billion on kindergarten-to-Grade-12 education, so a $29-million administration cut this year is less than onehalf of one per cent.

“It’s a very small amount when you really look at it,” he said.

School districts do the math differently, arguing their total administration budget is just $368 million.

So a $29-million reduction this year is actually a cut of nearly eight per cent, rising to more than 14 per cent next year.

The Green Party of Canada Town Hall Meeting Meet Glenn Sollitt-your federal candidate Filberg Center Evergreen Room - Courtenay, March 4th, 6:30 to 9PM. • Bring your questions, • Bring a friend • Bring someone who hasn’t voted recently • Learn why Glenn will earn your vote

WE CAN MAKE CANADA STRONG AGAIN, DEMOCRATICALLY, ENVIRONMENTALLY AND ECONOMICALLY! Courtenay Alberni Electoral District

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 27, 2015

7

ECHO

OPINIONS

LETTERS

Who’s responsible for cleaning up mess?

I have been visiting the Comox Valley from Edmonton for the last two weeks.

One hike suggested to me was to go up to Mt. Becher. I found this a very pleasant excursion with great scenery in Strathcona Park and overlooking the region from the top.

Unfortunately, the same could not be said for the hike up to the Park boundary.

I went up the old Mt. Woods/Forbidden Plateau ski area route. For a jurisdiction that prides itself on its environmental orientation this was a disgrace.

The site is full of burned out buildings, partially collapsed structures, partially dismantled ski lift parts strewn around at the top just before the park boundary, pieces of machinery, steel plates, plastic and corrugated steel pipe, old fuel tanks, and rusting structures.

Graffiti covered foundation walls, remnants of fire pits, general garbage complete the picture.

The old chair lift is still standing, with all the chairs still hanging from old cable. The old pylons are rusting and one wonders when one will collapse, bringing the cable and chairs down as well.

Undoubtedly this will just be ignored and all will

be left to sit on the hill side.

In addition, I was told that just before the ski operation closed, a snow grooming machine had collided with a fuel tank which resulted in a spill of some 25,000 litres of diesel fuel, which was never cleaned up.

This is environmental awareness and attention?

Is there not some municipal, regional, or provincial authority which has jurisdiction or responsibility to ensure this derelict site is cleaned up?

What is the point of having a Provincial Park with great scenery as an attraction when one is exposed to environmental degradation on the trail to get to it?

This is not something that should be allowed to exist in the Comox Valley.

Helmut Mach Edmonton

INSTALL SPRINKLERS To the Property Owners at Mount Washington: It is with disbelief and sorrow that, in this day and age, your homes do not have an automatic fire suppression system (sprinklers). You already have water mains in place.

To expect an inexperienced person to fight a fire of the magnitude you

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

have just experienced is ludicrous.

There is much more to consider in the fighting of a residential fire than just hooking a fire hose to a hydrant. That is why we spend thousands of tax dollars training people to become professionals.

I am quite confident if you talk to your insurance broker, the savings on your annual building policy would be quite substantial if a sprinkler system were to be installed. The installation should pay for itself within a short period of time.

I have over thirty years of experience in this and other related fields. Believe me, sprinklers saves lives.

R. Wells Royston

ARE TAXES TRULY LOWEST?

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

I was so pleased to hear Christy Clark announce a balanced budget with a small surplus. I can’t tell your readers how proud I am to tell my rellies in Alberta and Saskatchewan how we know how to do government financial business in BC. Imagine my chagrin when a cousin in Saskatchewan had the nerve to ask me about fees. How much more do I pay in fees for: ferries, medical service premiums, car insurance, electricity for my home,

driver’s licence renewal, crossing the Fraser River. I finally deleted their cheeky email comments.

But then I thought: how much do I really pay in taxes. Oh, sure I know how much I pay in income taxes that’s easy for a pensioner to figure out. But aren’t fees a kind of taxation? Are my taxes truly the lowest in all of Canada? I’ll have to ask my MP. Cliff Boldt Courtenay

VARIETY THANKS The 49th annual Variety Show of Hearts Telethon was a resounding success, with generous donors across B.C. helping us to raise $5,886,973 for children who have special needs.

At Variety, we see each child as a champion and we’re inspired by the courage and determination with which they meet their challenges and achieve little victories.

We believe that, with support, each child is capable of fulfilling their unique and full potential.

With the support of our donors, we’re able to help children who have special needs across our province.

But the children give us so much more.

From their example we have defined our work through three distinct pil-

lars of excellence: positivity, celebration and teamwork.

Every day we seek to look through a lens of positivity to see the opportunities instead of the challenges.

We believe it’s important, on our journey with the children and their families, to celebrate their little victories and share them with the many people who make those moments possible.

Viewers who tuned in to the Telethon saw those wonderful stories, and there are many, many more.

These little victories are made possible because of teamwork.

We know that we can’t do it alone, and appreciate the support and commitment of everyone who helps us in whatever way they can. Because we know that together we make an even bigger difference.

Thank you to everyone in the Comox Valley for showing your hearts and making little victories happen for more children who have special needs.

Bernice Scholten Executive Director Variety - The Children’s Charity

IDEAS FOR BRIDGE Regarding the improvement to the Fifth street

bridge. I have a couple of ideas which may be worth considering. If the life of the bridge can be extended by fifty years then perhaps a few modifications would make it better all around.

I would take up the sidewalks which parallel the road bed and widen the traffic surface on the automobile section. Still only two lanes but wider for cars, improving safety.

Then, move the sidewalks to the outside of the bridge by a simple cantilever system which could be welded or bolted to the existing structure. Put a pedestrian walkway on one side and a similar cantilever system on the other side wide enough for two bikes to pass one another.

These could be accessed by simply crossing under the bridge to get to the appropriate side.

A cantilever system could easily be built locally by one of the many welding or machine shops in the area, thereby keeping the work in town. In addition, a roadbed of expanded metal like that of the 17th street bridge, as opposed to pavement, would probably last longer and be easier to maintain.

This will make it safer overall, for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.

Just an idea, maybe it’s been discussed already.

Douglas Kerr Courtenay

8

www.comoxvalleyecho.com

FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 27, 2015

BEEFS & BOUQUETS CAN ANARCHY be far behind? First the police say they can’t do the policework they have contracted to do e.g. clean up drug trafficking and disturbances near a public place

THE COMOX VALLEY’S FIRST AND BEST READER’S FORUM Email to: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com like the Courtenay library.

Then commemorative plaques in Simms Park are ripped off benches and elsewhere. It appears as though the underbelly of our fragile society is getting the upper hand. What lurks in the mind of someone who commits vandalism? Is there anyone out there protecting citizens?

I WISH TO CONVEY a huge thank-you to Jin Lin who organized and somehow managed to bring a very spectacular group of young people from Taiwan to perform in our little City of Courtenay at the Native Sons Hall.

The Dragon dances were awesome! Giving an afternoon performance for the seniors in the Valley was great and just a sample of the generous spirit Jin has.

We are so lucky to have her in our community.

Feb. 27 Feb. 28 Meat Draw and Dancing 2pm - 5pm Mar. 3 Euchre 1:30pm

Mixed Pub League Darts 7:30pm

Mar. 4 Drop in Darts 1pm

WWW.NIC.BC.CA

Mar. 5 Crib and Gucci 6:30pm

BOUQUETS to the letter writers who comment on the cost of the South Sewer systems. Yes, unmaintained , misused, septic systems can fail after a decade or so, but with proper use and maintenance they can last half a century, and cost only $100/year to operate and maintain. Be that as it may, the CVRD and the Province have decided that every septic owner should do the right thing, without any followup requirements. The consequence is that those responsible rural homeowners will be paying a much bigger price for an urban solution to a rural problem, caused by irresponsible neighbors. For Royston residents, a more cost effective solution would be to hook up to the Courtenay/Comox system - the big pipe is only a few kilometers away. Cumberland could hook in as well.

This should be an option.

A “TIDY� BOUQUET for Jordan at Nissan courtesy car wash: He even gussied up the dash when he washed and vacuumed my X Trail.

Office Assistant I Tuition: $1,510 approx Where: Online Length: 30-week certificate online Develop ofďŹ ce administration skills valued in virtually every type of business and industry. Courses are all offered online, giving you the exibility to plan your studies to suit your needs.

Thank you so much for excellent service. Smiles too!

BOUQUETS of glow-in-thedark ball hockey blades to Stu who runs a drop-in ball hockey league at Martin Park every Sunday and Wednesday evening. It is well attended by kids and even some adults come to play.

BOUQUETS of forget-menots to our elected representative for not responding to several emails regarding the government’s guidance/involvement in the Comox Valley water woes. I’ll be using one of these forget-menots in the next provincial election.

TO THE LOWLIFES hanging out at the Courtenay library: I hope someone reads this to you and explains the big words though I’ve tried to keep it real simple. Libraries are for people who read and/or use the computers there. Libraries are places where civilized people go to browse and read in peace and quiet. Our library is not your living room where you converse loudly amongst yourselves and on your cell phones, or play audible computer games. Our library is not your kitchen where you eat hot smelly food, then leave mountains of litter in your wake. This includes McDonald’s wrappings, cookie boxes, coffee cups, candy wrappers, milk cartons and yoghurt tubs, with accompanying crumbs and drips. You might redeem yourselves slightly if you put your rubbish in the litter bins.

Our library is not your bedroom for snoozing.

The library, indoors and outside, is not for drug dealing. The washrooms are not for injecting drugs.

Our bags are not there for you to steal. You need to keep well away from the entrance with your stinky smoke. Do not think your

foul language outside is not heard inside. The word “loitering� means “hanging out where you have no business�. Your panhandling is really irritating, especially when you have cigarettes and cell phones.

Rather hang out at the Job Shop.

A BOUQUET of Brown-eyed Susans to Diane at Cockeyed Optical. You made choosing my ďŹ rst pair of glasses a breeze and were tasteful and tactful in your suggestions. I can’t believe the compliments I have had and I don’t even have to say “my eyes are up hereâ€?! Thanks again!

A BIG BOUQUET to the author of the letter regarding “associatesâ€? at stores and “blondesâ€? in real estateâ€? ads. Rest assured you’re not the only one who feels this way. Now why stores/ employers like to use the term “associateâ€? is because they hope to “engenderâ€? a sense of belonging for the workers/sales staff. They don’t want to give them a raise, they just hope the “better titleâ€? will do the job. Unfortunately workers want a living wage and not all the titles are going to work if the sales staff don’t make enough to pay the rent. You know those huge law ďŹ rms, with the founders names on the door, followed by associates for the other 50 less important partners, well the stores are trying to do the same thing; except these associates don’t have shares in the company, they just work for less than a living wage.

Usually the bigger the title for sales staff, the lower the salary. Now as to the “blondes� in real estate ads, well “sex still sells�. It might help if some of the real estate sales persons got out there and actually did some selling, but hey, you work with what you got. One hour open houses just don’t work. Try 3 hours. When real estate agents have the “agent

tours� real estate companies should insist all sales staff go on the tours so they have an idea of what they are selling. Many agents have never been to the house they are taking the client to. They don’t even know their product.

Their job is to sell the listing, whether it’s their own or some one else’s.

The name of the game is sell that house, not stand by the door and let them wander through. Now that felt better!

A BOUQUET OF CANDY to my pal, Sam. For a 6-year-old, you’re wise beyond your years, and you make me laugh. Keep up the good work, you’re going to be a somebody.

see your vision. Keep doing the great job you do.

Oh, and for those who hate buying new, sometimes it is just well worth the outcome.

Spring has Sprung Early!

Nursery stock arriving, colourful primulas & bulbs Seeds, Onion Set, Garlic and MUCH MORE Mon-Sat 8:30-5 Sundays 9:30-5

CA$H REWARDS

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

A HUGE BOUQUET of awards & good fortune to Gary Renkema of Monterra Development. Coming from a military background and 34 years of many moves (and homes) myself, Monterra takes the prize without hesitation for home builders. My ďŹ rst Monterra Home in the valley was previously owned but, despite warranty lapse, on request Garry (without hesitation) toured us through our (then) new home to ensure max beneďŹ t to sustainment and efficiencies. Given my ďŹ nance background, it was (per se) against my religion to buy new & pay HST/PST, but Monterra’s quality workmanship and consummate professionalism had me sold. He and his team “againâ€? spared no effort to ensure that our retirement home at the Timbers was nothing shy of our palace, with every small detail to perfection and comfort; this includes post-build, post move-in and post warranty. He has made the Timbers a wellsought retirement haven that few owners (if any) wish to give up. Well done Gary (and your team); you know what’s important to people and people are obviously important to you.

Why can’t all businesses

Gary Kremsater

*U T 5SVDL .POUI BU #SJBO .D-FBO T BTL GPS (BSZ GPS BMM ZPVS USVDL OFFET OFX PS VTFE

$FMM FNBJM HBSZL!CSJBONDMFBO DB

XXX CSJBONDMFBO DB

Find out more, visit www.nic.bc.ca or call 250-334-5000

www.comoxvalleyecho.com

FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 27, 2015

9

BEEFS & BOUQUETS THIS IS A BOUQUET to the employees at John’s the Independent Grocer in the Comox mall. My son and I use the help of those persons every day. I am not what you can say a young person, but going there is my get-out and I receive so many smiles and hellos that I wish everybody can go there. If you need meat, talk to Cliff, the perfect one. I hope and wish that JOHN is aware of the quality of all those working for him. God bless you all.

THE COMOX VALLEY’S FIRST AND BEST READER’S FORUM Email to: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com appreciate your kindness.

A ROAR of applause to Terri of the Comox Valley Lions Club, Lloyd of the Comox Valley Monarch Club, and Lynne of the Black Creek Lions Club for working together to supply my Mom with a wheelchair, walker, and bathroom safety equipment. With my father cutting off Mom’s enhanced A BIG BOUQUET to Willi’s medical, and the 3-month Collision for doing a super equipment loan from the job on our 2 vehicles withRed Cross coming to an in the last 2 months. Beef end, I was concerned as to to the person who damhow I was going to replace aged my little car at St. the equipment. Because Joseph’s parking lot and a of your thoughtfulness beef to whoever damaged and cooperation my Mom our SUV at the Crown Isle can remain mobile and Thrifty’s lot. Accidents semi-independent. Thank happen but you could have you all. at least had the decency to leave your name & numWHAT A TRAGIC STORY about ber. Shame on you! the person’s dog dying from horrific wounds inA BIG BOUQUET of tulips flicted by a pit bull on to Bob from Budget Roof Headquarters Road. What Cleaning. The service we a terrible vicious attack. received was speedy, thorEven if the pit bull owner ough and provided exwere held responsible and actly what was promised. the pit dog confiscated by A great big thank you for the SPCA and put down helping us keep our roof (all of which should hapclean of mould, moss and pen), a beloved pet can fungus off our roof. never be replaced. In the light of this I was disturbed JUST WANTED TO SEND a bouto see the other day on a quet of tulips to the gentlepublic trail a woman allow man who was kind enough her toddler to run up to a to stop and give me a ride pit bull being walked on a home after I took a nasty leash. When the mother fall out running. My ankle eventually arrived, she enwill be fine in a few more couraged the child to put weeks I hope! Again, thank its hand out to the dog you. and touch its nose and pet it on the head. As with TO THE POOR SOUL who is so perturbed about the Home Depot and its “Associates”... I just happen to know a fetal alcohol syndrome survivor who is extremely proud to be one of these, and rightly so. I am always impressed by this company, though American (!), about helping folks who might have trouble attaining good jobs. Kudos!

AN EARLY SPRING BOUQUET for the excellent performers in the musical delight called “Through the Stage Door” with special gratitude to the wonderful artist who created it and led the cast, Gloria Herauf.

This lady is indeed a valley treasure.

A HEARTFELT THANK-YOU and a huge bouquet to Marshall at Affordable Framing. Your support and professional work will greatly assist my efforts in raising funds to fight cancer.

It’s this kind of spirit that drives a community. I truly

the attack described, the owner assured her the dog was friendly. Fortunately, in this instance, the dog did appear to be friendly, but one can only imagine how devastating it could have been if this incident had gone the same way as the one on Headquarters Road. A quick internet search of statistics shows that pit bull attacks on adults, children and other dogs very far outnumber any other breed of dog, in fact no other breed comes even remotely close. Many countries and cities the world over have banned these dogs. Yet they are very popular amongst young people here in Canada, many of an age to have young children.

Everyone swears their pit bull is reliably friendly and sweet and any bad behaviour is the fault of the owner, but the breed have a dangerous habit of just one day suddenly going berserk and turning on their owners (including children), and/or friends or strangers. At the very least, pit bulls should be required to be muzzled in public, no matter how friendly their owners think they are. This could protect innocent dogs and humans from the unpredictable nature of these dogs. On the occasions that pit bulls do go berserk, they don’t leave their victims with a small scratch or bite -- they are killing machines, it’s what

they were originally bred for. And a warning to all parents -- for safety’s sake, teach your children never to approach even the friendliest looking pooch in public, without your close presence. Please do let them have plenty of time with dogs you know well so that they do not have a fear of dogs in general, but unknown dogs of any breed should never be trusted unless you’ve connected with the owner first and feel confident of their temperament before allowing the child have contact. And if the dog in question is a pit bull, just stay clear of it altogether and give it a very wide berth, no matter what assurances the owner may give about it. A very sad dog tragedy could suddenly be a very sad child tragedy.

cost of water for your constituents. This has to be priority number one. It is obvious that noone is taking responsibility so take on the job. Next generations will thank you.

BOUQUETS to the organizers/participants in the Comox Lake Watershed meeting on Tuesday night.

Lots of issues and ideas, and dedicated volunteers.

Thank you, for starting the process. It is unfortunate that the biggest elephant was not in the room - BC Hydro. They control all aspects of the reservoir.

The CVRD only use 1% of this water reservoir for domestic customers. Leadership is required by the 10 CVRD directors who represent ALL in the Comox Valley. Take charge of the reservoir, watershed and

AIRSHOW SUPPORT ...Huh? Now you want us taxpayers to run free buses for the Airshow and charge us $20 at the gate. What happened to the military thanking the locals for their support? Wasn’t that what the base said last year...and the base broke even! This free bus idea has more to do with Airshow parking problems and lack of Airshow sponsorship money, than to thank us. We locals (and our pocket books) need to wake up and realize the Airshow is for the benefit of the base and its internal

THIS WEEK’S WINNER, DRAWN AT RANDOM FROM SUBMISSIONS RECEIVED UP TO TUESDAY, IS: Lorraine Angly, 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!

A BEEF with the Senior who insisted that $70 million be spent on a water treatment plant that likely will not be required, if measures are taken to restore the historic, mostly pristine reservoir conditions. It’s easy to demand expensive solutions that you may never fund.

Some “Seniors” are the privileged generation who receive tax discounts, can defer property taxes and will have little responsibility for the growing debt burden of the Province and Federal governments.

Please think of those who will pay the bills.

Rotary gives $5,000 to CDA Joanne Schroeder and Pam Crowe of the Comox Valley Child Development Association accept a $5,000 donation from Strathcona Sunrise Rotarians, Keith Currie and Pippa Atwood. The funds will be used to enhance the new Sensory Room at the Association.

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!

notoriety...hmmm. Once again, we are back to the “double dipping” military Airshow actions...now at the cost of the “thankful” locals.

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

Formerly Clinical Sleep Solutions

THE SLEEP APNEA & SNORING PROFESSIONALS 250-334-0789

Call today for more information

www.pacificsleep.ca

10

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 27, 2015

ALL TARGET CANADA STORES

Last year’s walk at the Coal Hills was done in a blizzard - weather forecast to be much different this year

Free public guided walk around the Union Bay coal hills Feb. 28 Comox Valley Nature will be repeating an extremely popular “learning the valley” walk around the Union Bay Coal Hills. Last year’s February walk to the Coal Hills took place in a snow blizzard when a record low 10 people enjoyed the sights of Anna’s hummingbirds and California sea lions.

Union Bay Coal Hills is an important part of the valley’s cultural history. This post-industrial coal and rail site was deactivated and capped in the 1960’s.

It is a good example of the environmental successional processes associated with coal mining restoration and rehabilitation and the problems associated with such sites.

The site is monitored monthly by Comox Valley Nature for Bird Studies Canada’s seabird survey. It is home to a rich, and sometimes surprising, birdlife.

The walk will be led by Dr. Loys Maingon (RPBio) and President of Comox Valley Nature.

Interested participants are invited to meet either in front of the Old Church Theatre on Harmston Ave, in Courtenay at 9:30 am, or at the park entrance at Union Bay at 10:00 am on Saturday, February 28.

Anyone interested in CVNS activities can contact us at the website http:// comoxvalleynaturalist.bc.ca/ or Loys Maingon at 250-331-0143.

VancouVer to auckland & more

CLOSING! PRICES SLASHED AGAIN!

25-40

%

OFF ORIGINAL PRICE

*

ENTIRE STORE! *LIMITED EXCEPTIONS APPLY.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF SUPER SAVINGS! % %

25

25

OFF ORIGINAL PRICE

ALL

OFF ORIGINAL PRICE

ALL

TV’S, GROCERIES, SNACKS, BEVERAGES, BABY FOOD, DISPOSABLE DIAPERS

HOUSEHOLD PAPER PRODUCTS, CLEANING & LAUNDRY PRODUCTS, PET FOOD & SUPPLIES

Dave Frinton co-founder / President CruisePlus

30

T

his popular itinerary is the Vancouver to Auckland, New Zealand 41 night package aboard Holland America’s gorgeous ms Noordam. The cruise departs on September 29th and sails to Astoria, San Diego, Hilo, Honolulu, Samoa, Fiji (2 ports), New Caledonia and then into Sydney. From there you visit Melbourne, Hobart (Tasmania), Milford Sound, Dunedin, Christchurch, Picton, Wellington, Napier, Rotorua and finally into Auckland. My daughter and I did a similar itinerary a couple of years ago, and it really is worth doing. For $7599 CAD per person (based on 2 sharing), you receive the 39 night cruise in a balcony stateroom, a $100 per stateroom onboard credit, 2 nights in Auckland (in a 4 star hotel), your air back to Vancouver and all taxes – which is exceptional value. If you prefer a shorter version, the Vancouver to Sydney 27 night package is $4999 CAD – including a balcony stateroom, 2 nights in Sydney, air home, taxes and more.

We have Transatlantic to Med deals aboard the lovely ms Nieuw Amsterdam. For $2999 CAD you get a high category balcony for 14 days of cruising, 1 night pre hotel, 2 nights in Barcelona, transfers in Barcelona, roundtrip Vancouver air, a $100 per stateroom onboard credit and all taxes. This departs on April 7. If you’d like

%

OFF ORIGINAL PRICE

Auckland, New Zealand to extend, for $4499 CAD you get a similar offer, but includes more Med ports and is 27 nights in total.

The ms Volendam has its Osaka to Vancouver repositioning cruise via Alaska on April 24. This 19 night package includes air from Vancouver, 2 nights in Japan with transfers there, the 17 night cruise, a $100 per stateroom onboard credit and all taxes in a well located unobstructed ocean-view stateroom for $3749 CAD pp.

Please call CruisePlus at 250-390-0220 or toll free at 1-877-722-2202 or visit us in Lantzville (Nanaimo north) for more information on any cruise. We have noticeably better value on almost every Holland America cruise plus I’m sure you’ll like the non-pressured approach from our team of consultants.

For the first look at our deals, please remember to sign up for our emails at

www.cruiseplus.ca

1-877-722-2202 | cruiseplus.ca New bookings only. Prices are per person based on 2 sharing and subject to availability at the time of booking. CruisePlus Management Ltd. BPCPA #3325-0

SCHOOL & OFFICE SUPPLIES, FRAMES, PHOTO ALBUMS, STATIONERY

40

OFF ORIGINAL PRICE

ALL

ALL

Big Agency Deals…Small Agency Feel

.ca

30

%

%

OFF ORIGINAL PRICE

TOYS, CLOCKS, WALL ART, INTERIOR LIGHTING, MIRRORS, AREA RUGS, THROWS

40

%

OFF ORIGINAL PRICE

ALL

ALL

GREETING CARDS, GIFT WRAP, BOOKS, MAGAZINES

MOVIES & MUSIC, FASHION JEWELLERY, SUNGLASSES

NEW MERCHANDISE ARRIVING AT MANY LOCATIONS!

NOTHING HELD BACK! STORE FIXTURES & EQUIPMENT FOR SALE VISIT

TARGET.CA

SEE FIXTURE MANAGER

TO FIND A STORE NEAR YOU

WE ACCEPT REDcard, VISA, MASTERCARD, CASH, INTERAC, TARGET GIFT CARDS NO CHEQUES • ALL SALES FINAL • NO EXCHANGES • NO RETURNS NO ADJUSTMENTS TO PRIOR PURCHASES • SELECTION MAY VARY © 2015 Target Brands, Inc.

11

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 27, 2015 with large woody debris and rip rap. To enhance the area, a 3-metre wide multi-use path will be created to make it safer for pedestrian and cyclists.

Six dedicated beach access spots, one of which will be wheelchair friendly, will also be built, and five rock swales to improve road drainage will also be constructed.

Staff indicated work needs to be undertaken as soon as possible to mitigate any further damage as more storm events are happening lately. Not taking action could lead to road closure in the future because it is at risk of fail-

Lazo project to prevent erosion

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff Since acquiring the Lazo Road portion of Point Holmes in 2007 through annexation, the Town of Comox has had a plan to protect 700 metres of foreshore from further erosion that’s been caused by heavy storm events.

A project was included in the 2012 financial plan of the town with construction set to take place this year.

At the time, the basic engineering cost was projected to be $1,050,000. The town set aside $350,000 from revenues and the balance of $700,000 they were hoping to gain through infrastructure grants.

The town has a chance to attain the grant they need if it’s successful in its application to the Small Communities - New

ure, as well as the possible loss of BC Hydro poles, which are an important distribution component that feeds electric power to around 1,500 customers.

This will not only reduce the risk of having to rebuild infrastructure, which would be challenging and costly, but will also address public safety, provide continued access to neighbouring properties, protect archaeologically sensitive sites in the area including rare coastal sand dunes, provide dedicated beach access, and a multi-use path for both cyclists and pedestrians.

Lazo Road at Point Holmes Building Canada Fund, an initiative that was introduced by the BC government last October. Council approved the application that included the cost and rationale behind the project that has been titled, “Disaster Mitigation.”

The price tag of the project, however, has escalated to $1.8 million, which increases the town’s

one-third share of the cost to around $600,000. The town also included in its application proof that it has funding in place.

The last storm event that hit the Comox Valley brought to light infrastructure concerns that now need immediate attention.

They are erosions that occurred along Lazo Road, some just metres from the

BUILD

street, and the near toppling of amBC Hydro pole by hard-hitting waves near the shoreline.

Given the imminent threat to the area, staff has placed some urgency to get this project off the ground.

To protect the area from further erosion and loss of land, the town plans to anchor 700m of shoreline

Your Ow n

BURGER 795 RYAN ROAD 250.334.9638

THE PERFECT INDOOR ENVIRONMENT NOW COMES WITH A LOW MONTHLY PAYMENT. EVERY HOME DESERVES A TRANE.

v

High Efficient Natural Gas Furnaces Installed from $48/month OAC

N

axisheating.ca

eekly THREE W u n e ew M COURSES CALL 1

$37

for

*

800 663 7929 TO RESERVE Available March 2 - 8, 2015

DESSERT FIRST COURSE MAIN COURSE Broiled Holliewood Oysters Sweet Soy Marinated Sockeye Frozen Milk Chocolate Mousse brandied cherries, seaweed salad lime leaf scented basmati rice crème anglais miso mayonnaise picked radish & carrot slaw, mango coulis

*Taxes and gratuity not included.

info@kingfisherspa.com | www.kingfisherspa.com

Can we help?

Last summer, Marine Harvest Canada’s salmon barbeque cooked up $31,000 of support for local charities from the Comox Valley to Port Hardy. Marine Harvest Canada is now booking fundraising events for the 2015 summer barbeque season. If your charity or society is interested, please see our guidelines and application at www.MarineHarvestCanada.com

12

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 27, 2015

250-331-0813

#106-501 5th Street, Courtenay

Find us on

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY. FEBRUARY 27, 2015

1 year GIC*

*Rates are subject to change. Min. $50,000

Robert Mulrooney

Senior Investment Advisor HollisWealth (a Division of Scotia Capital Inc.)

1-145 19th Street 250-338-5222

r.mulrooney@holliswealth.com

Russ Wigle, B Comm Assc.Investment Advisor

russ.wigle@holliswealth.com

www.mindsetwealth.com

EXTRA

ECHO

we lead with our best

13 Mortgage Consulting

‘Boutique’ expedition cruises on the west coast Learn about the unique fleet of Maple Leaf Adventures at presentation Monday, March 9 People interested in learning about boutique expedition cruises in BC and Alaska can attend an information presentation

by Maple Leaf Adventures, Mon., Mar 9 at the Stan Hagen Theatre.

The award-winning, local travel company will explain this increasingly popular style of travel, as well as introduce their new classic tugboat, Swell, and their classic schooners.

There will be time for questions and answers.

A boutique expedition cruise is different from a big-ship cruise.

Maple Leaf’s trips feature small ships, anchoring at remote islands and fjords, frequent shore trips in natural habitat, and wildlife viewing guided by experts.

Coastal culture is also a feature, as are the naturalists and gourmet food on each trip.

Destinations include areas large ships cannot go, including Haida Gwaii, the Great Bear Rainforest, Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, and the wild Alaska inside passage.

The ships are all classic

The ‘Swell’, above, has been added to the fleet (Photo: Jason Bradley/Maple Leaf Adventures) Right: Passengers enjoying an Alaska adventure (Photo: Kevin J Smith/Maple Leaf Adventures) ships with bonafide coastal histories.

The Swell may be recognizable to some in town from her 92 years as a tugboat on the south coast.

The Maple Leaf is a well-known coastal sailing ship.

Details: Mon., Mar. 9 from 7 pm to 8:30 pm, Stan Hagen Theatre, North Is-

land College, 2300 Ryan Rd, Courtenay.

Info and RSVPs: info@ MapleLeafAdventures. com or 250-386-7245 or 1-888-599-5323.

14

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 27, 2015

Military funeral here for SARTech A military funeral will be held for Sergeant Mark Salesse at 19 Wing Comox, Saturday, 28 February at 2:00 p.m.

Salesse, 44, a native of Bathurst, NB., and member of 435 Transport and Rescue (T&R) Squadron, 17 Wing Winnipeg died during a military iceclimbing training exercise in Banff National Park Alberta.

The Winnipeg-based Search and Rescue (SAR) Technician was recovered from under 2.7 meters of Snow by Parks Canada, six days after an avalanche swept Salesse 60 meters off a narrow cliff at the Polar Circus. The three other SAR technicians of 435 T&R Squadron on the training exercise were not impacted by the avalanche.

A funeral procession will escort the casket of Salesse from the Comox Valley Funeral Home to 19 Wing Comox from 1:00 to 1:30 p.m. Saturday just prior to the service. A Guard of Honour and a military fly-past of a SAR aircraft will be included in the private service, to be held at 442 Transport and Rescue Squadron.

Liz Quinn, the mother of Sgt. Salesse, will travel from Moncton to attend the service, which is a private event open to that family and to the military and civilian communities Sgt. Salesse was affiliated with.

Colonel Joël Roy, 17 Wing Commander, and Lt.-Col. Brent Andrews, Squadron Commanding Officer, will be at the funeral along with other personnel from 435 T&R Squadron.

“A small cadre of representatives from Mark’s SAR community in Winnipeg will be here to show support and pay our respects alongside his family and close friends in the Comox Valley,” expressed Col. Roy. “This was a region near and dear to Mark, a place where his SAR career began and a place he would often call home.”

Visitation will be held at the Comox Valley Funeral Home, 1101 Ryan Rd., Courtenay, on Friday from 3:00 p.m.to 6:00 p.m. for members of the public associated with the family and/or Sgt. Salesse’s military and civilian affiliations.

3SALE

DAY

Bananas

Grown in Ecuador or Guatemala $1.28/kg

On Sale

58

¢

Per lb

2 7 28 1 FRI SAT SU

N

Lactantia

Salted Butter 454g Limit 4

On Sale

2

9Each9

Fresh Pork Back Ribs

Compliments

Cheese

All Size Packages $7.69/kg

Assorted

907g Limit 4 Total

On Sale

On Sale

899

349

Each

Per lb

Fresh Boneless Pork Loin Chops

Sunrise Farms

Roasted Turkey Breast

or Roast Centre, Regular, Butterfly or Fast-fry Canadian Grain Fed All Size Pakages $7.69/kg

Random Weight

On Sale

On Sale

349

149

Per lb

Per 100g

Green Ocean

Shrimp Raw, Quick Peel 71–90 to the lb Frozen 300g Bag

On Sale

399 Each

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27TH to SUNDAY, MARCH 1ST, 2015 Vancouver Island locations ONLY. For a limited time.

Shop at

Thrifty Foods Save at

Shell

Over $27,000 in savings coupons so far.

Come in and get yours with every purchase of $50 or more.

Visit www.thriftyfoods.com/shell or ask your cashier for details.

*Coupon is good for one (1) gasoline fill-up, up to seventy-five (75) litres. Coupons have no cash value. Coupons can be combined at the time of redemption with other discount offers for a cumulative discount of up to $0.30 per litre. Spend must occur at Thrifty Foods Stores on Vancouver Island excluding Saltspring Island in the province of British Columbia in a single transaction and does not include taxes, purchases of tobacco products, gift cards, prepaid cards, Canada Post products, bus passes, bottle deposits, prescriptions, lottery, and all other goods or services specified by Thrifty Foods or excluded by law, and applies to in-stock items only. Thrifty Foods and Shell reserve the right to amend the promotion at our discretion or terminate this promotion without notice. Offer is only available at select Thrifty Foods and Shell locations. Thrifty Foods will award coupons between January 19, 2015 and March 15, 2015. Coupons expire and must be redeemed at Shell by end of business on April 30, 2015.

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 27, 2015

15

Two students win prestigious Horatio Alger scholarships Each to receive $5,000 to further their dreams

BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff Two Comox Valley Grade 12 students have won a $5,000 scholarship from the Horatio Alger Association of Canada given to individuals who have demonstrated integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity.

Kennedy Ledingham, from Mark R. Isfeld Secondary School, and Juliana Bartemucci, from Highland Secondary School, were among just 17 students from BC who rose to the top out of 3,500 applications submitted in four provinces.

“I still can’t believe I was chosen to receive this award,” Ledingham said.

“I’m beyond grateful.”

The non-profit educational organization evaluates students based on strength of character, a good academic record, a commitment to pursue higher education, and a desire to contribute to society.

Ledingham, 17, dances nearly every day of the week and teaches three classes at Triple Heat Dance in Courtenay.

“I don’t have much of a social life,” she said. “I stay home most nights and do my homework.”

It’s this drive that has helped her stay on top of her academic load.

Juliana Bartemucci, from Highland Secondary School, spends about 20 hours in the pool every week.

YOu’re #1 ON OUR LIST

4

9

#

Luxury Hotels in Canada

20

#

#

Top Hotels in Canada

Most Romantic Hotels in Canada

The numbers are in. Come see why everyone is talking about the Oak Bay Beach Hotel.

Kennedy Ledingham, from Mark R. Isfeld Secondary School, feels at home on a stage, both as part of theatre and dance productions.

“I’m very on-task,” she said. “You don’t really have time to procrastinate.”

Ledingham has faced a number of challenges throughout her life, although you wouldn’t guess that based on her attitude.

“My parents divorced when I was little,” she

24 HR Service 250-338-8026

said. “We’ve always been a more low-income family.”

Her mom has held down multiple jobs, including doing cleaning work at the SPCA and shifts as an animal protection officer, while her step-dad, a drywaller, has dealt with the uncertainty of the construction industry.

(Continued on page 16)

s (OT WATER TANK REPLACEMENT s $RAIN CLEANING mUSHING s 0OLY h"v REPLACEMENT s 6IDEO INSPECTION

BC RESIDENTS RATES FROM

$169* per night

*Offer expires May 14, 2015. Exclusive of taxes, gratuities and subject to availability.

OAKBAYBEACHHOTEL.COM OAKBAYBEACHHOTEL

terranovaplumbing.ca

OAKBAYBEACH

1.800.668.7758 | 1175 BEACH DRIVE - VICTORIA, BC

Xtremely well-equipped

2015 TOYOTA TUNDRA

$

21693 Bi-Weekly or $3,000 Off

$216.93 bi-weekly for 2015 Toyota Tundra model code UM5F1TAA. Payment of $216.93 bi-weekly at 2.99% for 84 months OR $3000 OFF. Bi-weekly payments are 26 payments/year. OAC. Payment does not include taxes, levies or fees. See dealer for details.

16

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 27, 2015

‘Career Speed Dating’ event planned for School District 71 parents and their children

Scholarships (Continued from page 15)

Sign up early for chance to win prize SD #71 Parents and Child Career Information Evening Mark Isfeld Secondary School, Tuesday March 10, 7pm.

For parents, and students in grades 8 to 11.

Studies show that parents are the number one source for career guidance. But where will you get the information to share with your child? Where do you begin?

To help you and your child, the school district Career Department would like to offer you an interactive evening of ‘Career Speed Dating’.

You will be encouraged to move around to three different career areas and hear from someone in that field, about what they do, what schooling is required and other relevant information about their career.

There will also be an opportunity to ask them questions you would like answered.

Careers we will be presenting will be from the following areas: Business, Health and Human Service, Trades and Technology, Science and Applied Science, Tourism, Hospitality and Foods, Fitness and Recreation, Fine Arts, Design and Media.

At this event we will be sharing information about our very popular dual credit and ACEIT programs. We have invited a few students, who are attending dual credit courses such as Fine Arts, Psychology and English at NIC while still in grade 12 to join us and to share their experiences with you. As well, we will have students who are involved in ACE-IT Auto Service Technician, Carpentry, Welding, Cook, Plumbing and Electrical pro-

Work experience student at Hot Chocolates grams.

Our Work Experience co-ordinators will also be available to answer any questions and to provide you with information on the services they can offer your child.

To *pre register, please call your school Work Experience office: Mark R. Isfeld Second-

ary School/NIDES/Alternate schools 250-3344628 Highland Secondary School 250-339-3617 G.P.Vanier Secondary School 250-338-2110 *Pre-registered attendees will be entered for a prize, winners to be announced during the event.

Comox’s ‘meeting place village’ plan gets $320,000 grant from ICET Economic activity in the Comox harbour and downtown will see a boost after a waterfront project to build a ‘meeting place village’ concludes next year.

The Island Coastal Economic Trust has approved a grant of $320,000 for the Town of Comox’s Marina Centre project.

Two new buildings, with recreational spaces for rendezvous boating gatherings, as well as public meeting spaces for up to 70 people each, will be constructed.

Also included will be a new Harbour Services Building which will house the wharfinger, visitor information services as well as washrooms and showers.

The broader project also features a Central Plaza: a meeting place for visitors and locals alike, with benches,

15164.97 18209.19 1204.20 0.8038 22.20 52.31 108.60 5.32 22.35 0.76% 1.32% 1.96% 2.58%

EQUITABLE BANK HOME TRUST COMPANY HOME TRUST COMPANY

1yr: 1.510% 3 yr: 1.800% 5 yr: 2.100%

fountains, and open spaces to gather and enjoy the panoramic views. The concept also allows for the establishment of new businesses in Marina Park adjacent to the facilities.

The new buildings and outdoor amenities will facilitate the hosting of festivals, markets and other special events with plug and play facilities that can be used year-round.

“Visitors to Comox, whether arriving on water or land, will soon be able to enjoy enhanced services and amenities,” said ICET Chair Phil Kent. “Improving visitor experiences leads to more frequent and longer stays, and that helps support the economy of the Comox Valley.”

ICET previously provided funding to the Comox Harbour Revitalization Project. The BC Ocean Boating Tour-

75.05 53.27 65.22 55.21 46.00 38.34 31.41 11.50 29.06 39.82 54.95 19.21 19.91

ism Association also received ICET funding for international marketing efforts. The new Comox Meeting Place at Marina Centre will complement and build on these initiatives, becoming a new focal point for marine tourists.

“This project will generate nearly a dozen person-years of construction employment, and 16 more direct tourism-related jobs once it is fully operational,” said Comox Mayor Paul Ives.

“We’re looking forward to attracting new businesses to the waterfront and creating a better link to the downtown area as more tourists and locals use these new facilities.”

The Meeting Place Village is anticipated to be complete by fall 2016.

The Island Coastal Economic Trust iA full overview of ICET can be found at www.islandcoastaltrust.ca

2.00%

Meanwhile, Ledingham has helped care for her aunt, who has special needs and lives in their basement.

Her mother, Jenna Flint, says she is so proud to see her daughter win the scholarship.

“She’s very proficient, very focused,” she said, adding it’s been nice to see her daughter’s artistic talents sparkle. “She has been committed to dance and theatre since she was in single digits.”

Kennedy hopes to put the $5,000 scholarship towards tuition at Sheridan College, where she plans to study musical theatre performance.

“I just want to be happy with what I can do,” she said. “I don’t want to have to make excuses for myself.

“I just want to show my passion to the world.”

For Bartemucci, it’s not dancing but swimming which occupies upwards of 20 hours of her time every week.

“I basically live here,” she said, soaking up the sun outside the Comox Valley Aquatic Centre before an afternoon practice. “I actually swam once today already.”

She used to be more enthralled with soccer, but that all changed when she learned she had arthritis in her foot.

Suddenly swimming was an exciting new passion to explore.

“It’s a zero gravity type of sport,” she said.

“It was an alternative I could do instead of playing soccer.”

Now 17, Bartemucci has been to nationals on multiple occasions and recently attended an international swim meet in Oregon.

As part of the comprehensive scholarship application she had to discuss some of the hurdles she’s faced to far.

“I don’t usually talk about the challenges,” she said. “I don’t normally talk about myself.”

Going through this process allowed her to reflect and even learn a few things about herself.

“It was interesting to see how I’ve moved on past issues I’ve had - and illness,” she said.

“I hadn’t really looked back on that.”

Now she wants to study biology at the University of Victoria, where she hopes to make the varsity swim team.

And after spending so much time at Children’s Hospital in Vancouver earlier in life, she says she wouldn’t mind eventually becoming a doctor.

“It’s kinda neat,” she said remembering those days. “They helped me and it’d be nice to pay it forward.”

*

TAX-FREE SAVINGS ACCOUNT

Philip Shute Vice President

Investment Advisor

38.11 17.57 45.67 28.69

Commissions, trailing commissions, management tees and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated. Rates and prices as of Feb. 24, 2015 . Rates and prices subject to change and availability. RBC Dominion RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. ®Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. © 2015 Royal Bank of Canada. All rights reserved.

1.95%

**

or

54 month RRSP/RRIF/TFSA GIC

Great rates get you started.

Great people actually get you there.

Talk to an account manager about your retirement plans at 470 Puntledge Road in Courtenay.

P: 250.334.8888 cwbank.com/retirement Rates subject to change without notice and available only in-branch. *WestEarner® TFSA Account only. Interest calculated daily and paid monthly. ** Interest compounded annually, paid at maturity.

17

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 27, 2015

Big Little Lions giving two shows here next week Songwriting duo have been drawing attention everywhere Big Little Lions is the songwriting duo of Comox Valley’s JUNO Award winning Helen Austin and Cincinnati, Ohio’s award winning Paul Otten.

Since forming the band in early 2013 they have gone on to win the top John Lennon Songwriting Contest award of Song of the year, 1st place in the International Songwriting Competition as well as many other awards.

“The duo’s sound mix-

work TV shows.

Their songs are a dynamic fusion of feel-good and deep emotion that leave the listener with a strong emotional reaction and have been described as “Pomplamoose meets Mumford & Sons”.

“Few indie-pop newcomers are as interesting or bold as Big Little Lions” - Popdust.com After releasing 2 EPs and catching the attention of people like American Idol’s Ryan Seacrest, they have their first full length album coming out in early April.

Fresh from playing at

es the new school folk of Mumford and Sons with a dance rhythm that keeps the music sounding light and upbeat. It also doesn’t hurt that their songs are very catchy and aided by how well Austin and Otten’s voices complement each other.” - Examiner. com Between them they have 100s of placements on TV, ads and movies and their music can be heard on MTV, IKEA ads and net-

this year’s NAMM show, you can catch them on their Vancouver Island tour before they head to Austin, Texas to play showcases at South By Southwest.

They will be playing at Zocalo’s in downtown Courtenay on Thursday March 5th at 7:30pm and The Roy (formerly The Backstreet) in Royston at 7pm and they will be joined by Daisy Squires on various instruments and Jim Stepan on percussion.

Admission to Zocalo is by donation.

FMI please visit www. biglittlelions.com

Music at The Mex supports African Grand Mothers Tina Filippino is the featured performer at the next 1st Tuesday Fundraiser, which will be held at the Mex Pub on March 3rd. Tina loves to sing and getting others to sing along with her has morphed into a full time job of song leading here in the Comox Valley.

The three “Letz Sing” singing groups that meet weekly are part of the UBUNTU Network, a global community of choir groups that love singing and believe the world can be made a better place through song.

Last year at this time Tina was visiting Ethopia and South Africa representing the Merville Grand Mothers on an educational trip with the Stephen Lewis Foundation. These areas have experienced tremendous hardship, and many children who have lost both parents to

inclusive, and taught in the oral tradition of call and response. “You don’t have to know how to sing to enjoy the experience,” says Filippino. “Music is able to people together in their own communities and with others across the globe to do some pretty amazing things.”

“The format for these concerts is similar each time but there is a lot of

mance of a few original songs and covers, as well as ample opportunity for the audience to sing along with some old favorites and a few surprises. Tina will also invite the audience to experience some of the amazing benefits of song by engaging the audience with songs, chants, rounds, and harmonies that are fun and

Sunday afternoon concert at St. John’s features new piano St. John the Divine Anglican Church (579-5th St., Courtenay) is pleased to present “Music for a Sunday Afternoon” on March 1 at 2 pm, featuring Dagmar Kilian, Tracy Canil and Peter Walker.

This concert is light classical in nature with a few more robust pieces thrown into the mix.

We are so pleased to showcase these pieces of music on our newly acquired grand piano, which will give much satisfaction to both the performers and the audience, in a setting with excellent acoustics.

Kilian is well known

in the Comox Valley as a music teacher and accompanist for Rainbow Theatre and other endeavours, resting on a secure musical training. She is currently organist and choir director at St. John’s Church.

Canil has been involved in many community productions in the valley over the last twenty years and will be playing flute in two upcoming productions in March and April. Tracy also plays with a folk band and provides healing therapeutic music weekly at St. Joseph’s Hospital and other healing centres.

the door by the Merville Grand Mothers and will go to the Stephen Lewis Foundation. Tax receipts from the foundation will be available. Food donations for the Comox Valley Food Bank are also greatly appreciated. The Mex Pub is located at 1001 Ryan Rd in Courtenay. For more information about the Letz Sing groups, visit http:// letzsing.com/.

Featured Listings

Tina Filippino the aids epidemic are being raised by their grandmothers. Tina’s trip allowed her to see the work the foundation supports in sub Saharan Africa first hand and inspired her to continue to work here at home raising funds to support grandmothers raising their grandchildren.

The evening at the Mex will include the perfor-

diversity in the musical styles of the featured performers, which people really like. This month will be both an evening for listening to music, and experiencing the fun of singing together,” says event host Judy Wing.

The evening starts at 7:30 with an opening set by organizers Judy and Bruce Wing. Donations will be collected at

Walker is an eager performer, especially on a well-tuned grand piano.

His Alberta pedigree is outstanding with regular CBC performances and a showcase evening with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra.

Pieces for your enjoyment include Brahms, Bartok, Liszt, Rachmaninoff and Shostakovich, along with delightful pieces for flute and piano.

Admission by Donation.

Proceeds to our church ministries.

St. John The Divine Anglican Church is at 579 5th Street, Courtenay.

2082 Park Drive

1100 Arrowsmith Ave

399,900

$

“MLS# 386070

You've been waiting for this Comox home to come on the market that is close to the hospital, shopping & great restaurants. Enjoy the mountain & ocean views from the upstairs or deck.

369,900

$

“MLS # 386065

Fabulous custom built home of more than 2200 sqft is situated on a large sunny lot in the desirable Courtenay East

#11-1935 Capelin Place

1693 Little River

419,900

454,900

$

$

MLS # 384485

Fabulous ocean & coastal mountain views from this exceptional designed townhome to enjoy year round. Open concept, loft, vaulted ceilings and 2 private balconies. Ideal for seasonal or full time residence.

B-1033 Monarch Drive

334,900

$

MLS# 383652

Zoned Industrial Light that is located close to CFB Comox base comes with many uses warehousing, offices, automobile body shop, industrial equipment sales and service, garden nursery and commercial greenhouse use and processing, veterinary clinics, animal hospital, wood processing, and many more

MLS # 382708

One of the few Duplex ranchers available in Crown Isle. An open floor plan with 9 ft ceilings and 10 1/2 ft Vaulted ceilings in the living area along with a gas fireplace. Two bedrooms with an ensuite off the master bedroom along with a walk-in closet. A den or office off the main entrance. Enjoy living without strata fees but still enjoy the Crown Isle lifestyle!

THINKING OF BUYING OR SELLING? Why do people say “no offense” right before they’re about to offend you?

Ocean Pacific Realty (e) waynemcloughlin@remax.net 282 Anderton Road, Comox

250-897-9189 (c) 250-339-2021 (o)

Wayne’s

quote of the week

18

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 27, 2015

Are humans basically irrational? Discuss.

ECHO

Enjoy an evening of good food and fine jazz. Music starts at 7pm.

etc.

Philosopher’s Cafe meets March 4

WORLD PRAYER DAY MARCH 6

Do we believe only what we want to believe?”

Why, when people are more educated than ever in the history of humankind, do we have a very substantial proportion of the population holding beliefs that do not appear to be supported by science?

Various groups question the efficacy of vaccines, evolution and global warming despite the evidence scientists place before us.

Why would we choose to take actions that are not in our own best interests?

Why do people continue to smoke? Are humans basically irrational? Or are we selective and only believe what confirms our pre-existing biases?

Come to the Philosophers’ Café as psychologist Frank Young helps us explore this perplexing question. Once a month a speaker will introduce a theme to the Café, and then all who attend can join in respectful, non-par-

“Showing genuine interest in others is a positive step forward in maintaining unity among believers, and reaching out to the community”. With these words the women of the Bahamas encapsulate the World Day of Prayer. On Friday March 6th, 2015, these women invite you to join with them in this year’s World Day of Prayer service, a celebration of their culture and history, their land and their legacy.

The sounds of the ocean breeze of Junkanoo, of rake “n” scrape and the beat of a goomby drum, leave us poised to listen for more.

The women of the Bahamas have stories to tell. Their stories begin with a question : “Jesus said to them, “do you know what I have done to you ?”

The World Day of Prayer has its roots in an ecumenical day of prayer organized by women in Canada and the United states in 1920. This event became the international World Day of Prayer in 1922 and Christians around the world began celebrating this event on the first Friday in March.

In Canada, World Day of Prayer

ANDERSON JAZZ AT ZOCALO

Frank Young tisan conversation, or just sit back and listen. You are welcome to propose topics and introduce them at future Cafés. As with each Café, Frank Young will have just 10 minutes to introduce the topic, and then the floor is open for 50 minutes of moderated discussion.

When: Wednesday, March 4, 7:00-8:00PM Cost: Free Location: Comox Quality Foods Café (in the solarium)

Friday February 27th marks the return of the Anderson Jazz Syndicate to the Zocalo Cafe in Courtenay. This will be the first of monthly performances by this group at Zocalo this year. This trio of guitar, bass and drums enjoys the musical interaction that comes with playing together.

They are developing a reputation for the energetic and swinging approach they bring to both jazz standards and original tunes.

Leading this combo is guitar player Doug Anderson who has played with many local jazz groups and has studied with Canadian jazz legend Bill Coon.

Bassist John Hyde was the Artistic Director of the Jazz Studies Program at Mount Royal College.

He has numerous recording, arranging and producing credits.

Drummer Aaron Amar brings professional jazz experience from Toronto where he was on the jazz scene for several years where he studied with Jim Blackley.

is coordinated by the Women’s inter Church Council of Canada.

Please join us and invite your friends and family to attend the service and learn more about the culture and heritage of the Bahamas. Join Christians in more that 170 countries around the world and in 2,000 communities across Canada who will gather to pray and act in solidarity with the people of the Bahamas.

Local service will be held at the Black Creek United Mennonite Church, 2277 Enns Rd. Black Creek, B.C. , Friday March 6th, 2 p.m.

Refreshments to follow.

BERWICK MUSIC FOR CV HOSPICE Berwick Comox Valley is Swinging Into Spring this Saturday night with a Jenn Forsland Group concert.

This popular Valley group will be performing at 6:00 pm featuring a mix of jazz and light pop, with all proceeds from the evening going towards Berwick’s commitment to put a fireplace in the family area at the new CV Hospice scheduled to open this summer.

Tickets to attend the concert are a steal at just $10 each which includes your seat for the concert, one drink, and “nibbles” on the

tables. Please join us for a couple of hours this Saturday evening to hear some fantastic music and help us make a Hospice dream come true.

For tickets, or more information, please call Linda Rutherford at Berwick 250-890-2346.

TICKETS ON SALE FOR ‘YOURS ANNE’ Tickets for Co-Val Choristers spring production of “Yours Anne”, a musical based on the “Diary of Anne Frank”, are now available.

The box office at the Old Church Theatre is now open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 am to 2 pm.

For reserved seating phone 250334-2992.

Dates for this production run from March 20-29.

This brilliant musical addresses the life and times of Anne Frank and her family as they lived in hiding from July 1942 to August 1944.

Although the situation was fearful Anne remained hopeful and positive - “In spite of everything I still believe that people are good at heart.”

Spring break Search and Rescue Academy for students What are your plans for spring break? Amazing adventures are happening on Hornby Island March 30 – April 10th that can all be applied toward secondary school graduation requirements in any BC school district.

Thanks to an exciting new partnership between the Tribune Bay Outdoor Education Centre, SD71 in the Comox Valley, and SD69 in Qualicum, the new experiential learning Search and Rescue Academy will offer students 16+ an opportunity to learn search and rescue skills, outdoor and winter mountain survival, and develop

important life and team building skills.

The courses at the academy are taught by professionals from the Tribune Bay Outdoor Education Centre, Comox Valley Ground Search and Rescue, and St. Johns Ambulance.

Upon completion, students will achieve 6 credits toward their graduation requirements, a Ground Search and Rescue Technician Certificate, Standard First Aid Certification with transport endorsement, and 30 community connection hours that can be applied to Grad Transitions.

Instruction for the program will take place at Tribune Bay Provincial Park on Hornby Island and at the Vancouver Island Mountain Centre on Mount Washington.

The search and rescue components of the course include ground search and rescue response, swift water rescue, rope management, helicopter safety, avalanche skills, wilderness survival, navigation and tracking. Students will also learn winter survival skills, snow shoeing, beacon and probes, and GPS training.

“This is a wonderful opportunity, not just for

Your r e h t a Le On! Casual ther Lea FashionSnowmobile & Jackets ear up to G

40% OFF

the young people learning these skills but for the communities they come from,” says Gord Campbell, Executive Director of TBOEC. “In addition to their certifications and graduation credits, those who complete the program are also qualified to join the Search and Rescue BC organization. The average age of a Search and Rescue Technician in BC is 51, so providing access for youth to acquire these valuable qualifications will open up both career and volunteer opportunities for them in their communities.”

The Tribune Bay Out-

door Education Centre is accessed by almost 3000 young people each year, and is operated by the non-profit Tribune Bay Outdoor Education Society.

The Search and Rescue Academy is open to all BC residents (non-residents may also apply) and registration fees include meals, accommodation, equipment, and training.

Supportive funding may also be available by contacting your school counselor, or work experience coordinator.

There are some pre-requisite steps required, so those who are interested

are invited to register for a free information night by emailing Gord Campbell at gord.campbell@sd71. bc.ca.

The info night will be at the Comox Valley Search and Rescue Headquarters, located at 3001 Moray Ave on Thursday, March 12th, at 7pm, and will give students a chance to ask questions, see the equipment, and meet some of the instructors.

To register for the components needed to get BC Ministry of Education course credits, fill out the registration form found at: https://reg.nides.bc.ca/ register-10-12.php

EARLY BIRD TICKET PRICES The Tidesmen Barbershop Chorus 40 men singing in 4 part harmony ‘Mother’s Day’ Concert * Sunday, May 10th – 2PM A presentaƟŽn of The Rotary Club of Strathcona Sunrise with net proceeds to rotary community projects.

Tickets on Sale Now! Sid Williams Theatre Box Oĸce 442 Cliīe Avenue, Courtenay, BC Toll Free: 1.866.898.TIXX (8499) Phone: 250.338.2430 ext 1 Online: sidwilliamstheatre.com

TIL’ MARCH 6TH ONLY!

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 27, 2015

19

Valley’s Brad Teasdale named BC ball player of the year While British Columbia is enjoying an early spring, BC Minor Baseball Association hosted their annual Coaches convention at Langley Center, Langley BC this past weekend.

Over 250 coaches and another 200 players from throughout the province attended.

An allstar lineup of presenters and coaches including Toronto Blue Jays

Locals win darts tourney Under brilliant sunny skies 24 ladies opted out of the UV rays to participate in the day long Comox Legion Ladies Open Darts Shoot event.

Players from Alberni, Parksville and Campbell River joined the local ladies. 12 pairs took to the toe line for a round robin event with the top 8 going to the much loved knock out round.

The final consisted of locals Sandi Kohlen and Wendy Jackson who took the best of 3 over the other Valley duo of Brenda Durant and Patti Dennis.

Third spot went to Nicole Sumner and Becky Godfrey (Campbell River) with Angie Kienas and Noella Ross (Alberni/ Parksville) securing fourth place.

Singles had 20 players step up to the toe line.

Two sections of 10 played a one game round robin with the top eight from each sheet entering a one game knockout.

Brenda Durant emerged as the winner over her doubles partner Wendy Jackson. Jennifer Manstrum (Campbell River) placed 3rd with local Kellie Watt taking 4th spot.

High take out on the day was Anita Hopps (Parksville) with a finish of 100.

Top scores went to Brenda Durant and Jennifer Manstrum both with a 156.

Many thanks to: Dwayne, Peter and Ernie for their help to set up and to Vicky for the lunch.

Next up at the Comox Legion is the Men’s Open on March 21st, posters will be up, but information can be got from dcwillington@gmail.com

alumni players Lloyd Moseby and Rance Mulliniks, Greg Hamilton, Head Coach of the Canadian Jr National Team, also Reggie Smith, Pete Caliendo, Pete Wilkinson, Ron Davini, Randy Town, Marty Lehn, Dave Empey, Rick Johnston.

As well, Matt Holtzman and Nilo Ghajar-Williams, Bob Elliott and Mike Sarai were part of the player development clinics and presentations.

The 2014 BC Baseball Awards were presented at the Association’s annual Banquet.

Rob Fai (voice of the Vancouver Canadians) hosted as Master of Ceremonies.

Numerous speeches and awards were presented throughout the evening with the recipients listed below.

BC Player of the Year was presented by Eric Toneff to Bradley Teasdale, of the Comox Valley’s RE/MAX Ocean Pacific Bantam traveling Rep team.

Eric went on to advise the crowd that Brad’s athletic skills, abilities, and game stats were more than enough to gain his

nomination for this award, but it was his attitude and willingness to be part of the team that made him stand out.

To quote his coach Shannon Gaboury, “Brad’s greatest attribute besides his playing skills, is his willingness to mentor, and encourage others without judgment.He acts like a leader and does so by example of encouraging spirit, and good sportsmanship.

“He is a hard worker at every practice, game and off-field jobs. His positive attitude and ability to connect with all players and coaches goes a long way in consideration for this award. It has been my pleasure to coach, and be associated with Brad.”

Other awards were presented to the winners. 2015 Roll of Honor awards: Builders category went to Warren Karsgaard - Richmond City Baseball, Vince and Maurice Restoule - Burnaby Minor Baseball, and Richard Todd.

The Umpire of the year award is Greg Harrison of South Burnaby Metro Club Minor Baseball.

The Coach of the Year

Brad Teasdale receives his award from Eric Toneff awards went as follows: 11U - Pete Davey of Ridge Meadows baseball, 13U Scott Lunny of Richmond City Baseball, 15U - Garnett Pawliw of Cloverdale Minor Baseball, and 18U AAA - Sean Wandler of Kamloops Minor Baseball.

The Outstanding Male athlete of the Year award went to Bradley Teasdale of Comox Valley Minor Baseball.

The Outstanding Female Athlete of the Year award went to Stephanie

Russo of Rutland Minor Baseball.

The Elizabeth Bampton Memorial Award went to Sofi Jansch of the Greater Victoria Minor Baseball.

The Team of the year award went to North Delta Rays 11U A. Finally, the Association of the Year went to North Delta Minor Baseball.

Congratulations to all the award winners.

For more information and 2015 registration info, go to CVBA.ca or BCMinorBaseball.org

Reason's to Join • Fun & Challenging Golf • Excellent Course Conditions • Friendly & Helpful Staff • Weekly Social Club Events • Great Value

Join Now ow and Play N h!)

(Free Mont

NOW AVAILABLE

• Annual Membership • April 1st – March 31st 2016 • $ 1,772.50

2015 Memberships Join now and enjoy member benefits through March 31, 2016!

• Full play annual membership • Annual limited membership • Intermediate membership (ages 19 to 39) • Corporate membership • Social membership • Junior membership

(includes association dues, hole in one insurance)

• Ask about “Free” 12 month payment plan • 9 Hole Membership’s Available

Call the Golf Shop at 250-703-5031 for details.

• No Time to be A member?

• Game Packs available • 4 Game Pack …. $200 • 8 Game Pack …. $360 • 12 Game Pack … $500 2015 Crown Isle Men’s

TEXT YOUR TIP ANONYMOUSLY! Along with our 1-800-222-8477(TIPS) line, tipsters can report information via our secure WebTips application at www.comoxvalleycrimestoppers. bc.ca and now we accept anonymous tips via Text Messaging.

TEXT CVCSTIPS TO:

CRIMES

www.comoxvalleycrimestoppers.bc.ca

To enter your team, call the Golf Shop today:

March 28th, 11:00 am Two Man Scramble Pros & Amateurs Welcome

250-703-5031 or 1-888-338-8439

Enter online: www.CrownIsle.com or email: golfshop@crownisle.com

399 Clubhouse Dr., Courtenay

250-703-5050

20 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 27, 2015

Eickstein 182, Bin Brundige 207, John Graff 184.

Wednesday 9:30 - Ria Tjart 184, Marie Israel 210, Dave Stacey 201, Heather Abraham 231, Bert Brown 210, Laura Webber 204, Yvonne Melancon 180, Grace Coulter 192, CODES COUNTRY LANES Aggie Aucoin 206.

Tuesday CRA - Larry McCooey Bowling highlights 201, Scott Burden 128, Clint McColl from Codes Country 164, Clayton Heid 151, Karen Slater The PGA of British CoLanes: 156, Debbie Downer 155. lumbia Board of Directors Wednesday CRA - Clayton Heid is proud to announce Bill Monday AM - Anna Turcott 205, Patti Gove 103, Allison Bennett Kelly, Head Professional 212, Micki MacDonald 222, 110, Clint McColl 131, Michael Campat Glacier Greens Golf Bob Van Nes 270, Pat King 230, bell 162, Larry McCooey 126, Jim Course in Comox, as the Joyce Slater 195, Marie Israel Battram 141, Tamiko Watanabe 80, Association’s 38th Presi220, Arnie Auerbach 201, Lynn Heike Wilson 111, Walter Martin 123, dent.

Davidson 222, Evelyn Foot 235, John Vincent 103.

Serving the last two Tricia Turnbull 240.

Wednesday Adult - Sandy Nurse years as Vice Presidents Monday PM - Val Johnson 238, Brian Booth 241, Scott McLellan of Administration and Fi184, Ben Braun 203, Grace nance, Kelly was selected 240, Ken Bird 221, Vicki Major 226, Rodriguez 256, Ivan Ally 245, by the Board of Directors Wayne Wilson 208, Rick Aker 257, Colleen Torrie 186, Lyle Torfor the role.

Sontina Espey 272, Deb Miller 209, rie 191, Lucille Smith 171, Bill He succeeds Fairview Bill Kelly Gord Pottruff 256.

Tower 195, Lynn Fern 96, MarMountain Golf Club’s ExThursday Golden Age - Mina Putecutive Professional Brian Brian McDonald for a very cel DeRyke 73. nam 190, Pat King 182, Vera Winter Monday Youth - William McDonald, who previ- successful 2 year term as 195, Meta Westdorp 200, Kelvin DaDerksen 162, Brycen Burgess ously held the position President” he adds. vis 214, Jeff Broadbent 174, Ivan Ally since 2013. McDonald will Also appointed as As- 205, Celine Rousseau 66, 207, Alan Edwards 209, Rick Rodriremain on the PGA of BC sociation Executives are Benoit Rousseau 56, Shae 70, guez 194.

Board as Past President.

Chad Scott (Head Profes- Ava Friesen 71, Lucien RousThursday Adult - Candace McLel“I am honoured to be sional, The Harvest Golf seau 129, Jack Friesen 114. lan 283, Lorne King 271, Dave Stacey Tuesday Breakfast - Mariselected as the PGA of BC Club) who will serve as President. I am very proud Vice President of Admin- lyn Shetterly 194, Pat Fish 173, 213, Paul Zorz 230, Andrew Stubbing of our brand and the 650 istration and Jon Kadin Joyce Boon 181, Mary McAr- 230, Anne Lavery 265, Rick Granmembers across British (Head Professional, Gal- thur 184, Brenda Searl 200, neman 221, Rick Kroeker 245, Chad Columbia who represent lagher’s Canyon Golf & Laurie McWillis 261, Shirley Kelly 236, Jessica Giroux 226, Ed it. The PGA of BC Board Country Club) who was Webb 161, Sylvia Vandervliet Carefoot 240, Laurie Aucoin 217.

Friday GA - Ickle Brown 205, Bert of Directors will continue named Vice President of 195, Shirley Mangano 245.

Brown 215, Roy Brekke 260, Arnie to focus on member ben- Finance.

Tuesday 12:30 - George Anefits, education and enThe inductions of the drews 276, Ed Schievink 88, Auerbach 225, George Andrew 207, gagement” says Kelly.

PGA of BC Executives Garry Pearson 138, Judith Mu- Joyce Unsworth 226, Joan Lucas “The Association is were effective the 2015 185, Ria Tjart 208, Minnie Frame 255, nro 132, Allison Bennett 151. strong and carrying a lot PGA of BC Annual GenerGerhard Sorger 222.

Tuesday Adult - Jan Hardof momentum, it is my al Meeting held last week Special O - Sarah Laviere 127, Laring 222, Brenda Frizzell 190, goal to keep that momen- at Shaughnessy Golf & ry McCooey 207, Clint McColl 164, tum rolling. In conclusion, Country Club in Vancou- George Ghinis 210, Brian Booth Kim Burke 156, Morgan Bell 180, 281, Marlo Duncalf 202, Cindy I would also like to thank ver.

Jamie Bennett 155, Marilyn Shetterly 192, Linda Cade 161, Chris Gillis 254, Mary Wells 181, Jessica Anderson 100, Randy Bates 186, Daniel Erb 169, Rose Fletcher 140. newly renovated Museum and Art GalComox Valley Duplicate Bridge Club lery.

Bridge tutoring: We offer guaranteed partnerships, so Starting Thursday Feb. 26 the Comox Valley Duplicate Bridge Club will if you’re visiting or your regular parthost “play and learn” bridge sessions. ner is away, make sure you come out to Players will bid and play previously play anyway.

Our Website is www.cvdbc.com and played hands. After each hand, the results from previous plays will be avail- our email is playbridge@shaw.ca For more information, please conable and there will be an opportunity to ask about and discuss the bidding, tact Linda Marinus at (250)338-2544. play and defense.

The sessions will run from 1:00pm D’Estere Duplicate Bridge Tues. Feb.17 to 4:00pm each Thursday at the Lions N/S - 1. Jean Tait-Sharon Feduniak; Den and the cost is $5.00. If you have any questions about the “play and 2. Barb Morris-Betty Fountain; 3. Joan learn” sessions, call Jack Bradshaw at Boase-Maureen Taylor; 4. Jack-Carole Bradshaw (250)703-0397.

E/W - 1. Dick-Lynn Sangster; 2. MarMonday, Feb. 16, 2015 COMOX VALLEY A - 1. Barb Bayer - Bernice Blonar- ilyn Hannah-Freida Home; 3. Dianna witz; 2. Jack Bradshaw - Carole Rickson-Howie Cohen; 4. Patti WheelPUB LEAGUE MIXED DARTS Bradshaw; 3. Richard Grant - Milos don-Lorraine Ramesbottom POSITION A Division Pts Fri. Feb. 20 Hajsky 1 Crty Legion Black Cats 121 N/S- 1. Lorraine-Chuck Hodson; 2 B - 1. Barb Bayer - Bernice BlonarCrty Legion DA’s 104 2. Tom-Betty Thomsen; 3. Judy-Ron 3 witz; 2. Dave Mosher - Howie Cohen Cx Legion Beer Pigs 95 Comox Legion Bulls Hitters 90 C - 1. Barb Bayer - Bernice Blonar- Morrison; 4. Bob Dugas-Paul Bozen- 4 5 Comox Legion Misfitz 85 ich witz 6 Griffin Gang 83 E/W- 1. Freida Home-Dorothy 7 Thursday, Feb. 19, 2015 Elks FunGi’s 68 A - 1. Jack Bradshaw - Bob Dugas; Branch; 2. Daphne Welsh-Karin Fran- 8 Griffin Darts of Hazzard 38 2. John Godfrey - Arlene Petersen; 3/4 zen; 3. Joan Erickson -Sheila Lockhart; February 17 Results .Arnold Thomsen - Betty Thomsen; 4. Iris-Ben Vansterkenburg Griffin Gang 3 - Beer Pigs 6 Sat. Feb. 21 3/4. Allen Hopwood - Lorraine Gargan D.A’s 5 - Misfitz 4 N/S- 1. Dianna Rickson-Sharon Hy- Blackcats 6 - Darts of Hazzard 3 B - 1. Allen Hopwood - Lorraine Gargan; 2. Douglas Nash - Sharon sert; 2. Jean Tait-Neal Jackson; 3. Barb BullsHitters 7 - FunGis 2 Hysert; 3 Lysbeth McCrone - Eileen McCrindle- Denise Holst; 4. Bernice- Ladies Hi Score: Jenny Nylund, Wendy Lloyd Snyder MacLean Jackson 140 E/W - 1. Jeanette Baron-Tom Dug- Men’s Hi Score: Geoff Phillips 152 C - 1 Allen Hopwood - Lorraine Gardale; 2. Glenda-Pete McGrath; 3. Car- Ladies Hi Checkout: Janet Litchfield 113 gan; 2 Pat Cutt - Myrna Horley Our club is located on Nordin Street ole-Jack Bradshaw; 4. Colin Park-Ber- Men’s Hi Checkout: Dave Willington 97 across from the Comox Mall under the nice Blonarwitz 180s: Glen Litchfield 1, Laurie Bull 1

Glacier Greens head golf pro elected president of BC PGA

Valley bridge news

THE DART BOARD

2015 COMOX HARBOUR

TIDE GUIDE

Used Exclusively by Local Fishing Guide Steve Veloso of Island Pursuit Sport Fishing www.fisingcomox.com

GREAT FOR: • • • • •

Tide Bites Boat Launching Kayaking Beachcombing Shellfish Picking

AVAI L AB L E AT AN Y OF T H E SE L OCAL LY M I N D E D B USI N E SSE S: • A&E Marine • Bates Beach Resort • Brian Mclean Chevrolet Buick Gmc • Canadian Tire • Comox District Consumers Coop • Courtenay Fish And Game Protection Assoc • Courtenay Motorsport • Campbelll River Boatland

• Discovery Harbour Fuel Sales • Don Mcrae MLA • Eldorado Upholstery Ltd • Fanny Bay Oysters • First Insurance • Marine Harvest Canada • Pacific Playgrounds Resort & Marina • Pilon Tool Rentals • Rice Toyota

• St Jeans Cannery • Thrifty Foods - Crown Isle Plaza • Thrifty Foods England Ave • Tyee Marine & Fishing • Westview Ford • Wolf Manufacturing Inc • Woofys Discount Pet Foods

AL L PR OCE E D S H E L P SUPPOR T CV M AR I N E SE AR CH & R E SCUE

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 27, 2015

21

22

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 27, 2015

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 27, 2015

23

www.comoxvalleyecho.com

%6%294().'

&/2 %6%29 0%4 A great read for any pet owner.

UÊ / «ÃÊ Êà V > â>Ì Ê> ` Ê «iÌÊiÌ µÕiÌÌi UÊ /À> }ÊÌ «Ã]Ê}> iÃÊ> `Ê Ê >VÌ Û Ì ià UÊ ÝiÀV ÃiÊ `i>à UÊ ii` }]Ê}À }]Ê`i Ì> Ê Ê V>Ài]ÊiÌV°

Runs 2nd Tuesday of every month!

Book your ads now with one of our Sales Representatives

250-334-4722

24 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.FEBRUARY 27, 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.