Comox Valley Echo - March 6, 2015 by Comox Valley Echo

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VOL. 21, NO. 19

EDUCATION

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.COURTENAY,BC. MARCH 6 , 2015

ECHO

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Police Blotter Comox Valley RCMP responded to the following incidents between Feb. 24 and March 2: A&W broken into On February 24th the Comox Valley RCMP were called to the scene of a break, enter and theft at the A&W restaurant on Cliffe avenue in Courtenay. Unknown culprits smashed a window to gain entry and once inside stole a large amount of cash and electronic equipment. This investigation is continuing. (2015-2409)

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.

Tools stolen Police received a report of a large theft of tools from a garage on a prop-

Carson Roy GRAHAM DOB: 1989-07-25 188 cms, 73 kgs, Brown hair, Blue eyes Warrant: Theft under $5000 Comox Valley file # 2015-337

www.comoxvalleycrimestoppers.bc.ca Call 250-871-1122

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erty on the 2700 block of Penrith Avenue in Cumberland on February 24th. The tools stolen were large items such as a welder, a wood splitter a compressor and more. The owner believes the theft occurred between February 22nd and the 24th. This investigation is continuing. (2015-2423) Attemped casino B&E On February 25th at 03:00 AM police received a report of an attempted break in to the Chances Casino in Courtenay. Attempts had been made to disable the locking mechanism on an outside door. A suspect was located and arrested and is now facing charges. (20152447) Indecent act at home On the night of Febru-

ary 25th a Courtenay resident, on the 1400 block of Burgess Road, opened their residence door to an unexpected criminal act. She reports an unknown, slightly built, Caucasian male dressed in a black colored hoodie that was up over his head and had or may have had a toque on under the hood. The male was standing with his pants down committing an indecent act on her front steps area. Police were called right away but the suspect was not located. (2015-2486) Power tools stolen Police received a report of a theft of power tools from an unlocked shed located on a property on the 4200 block of Briardale Road in Royston. The theft occurred sometime between 3:00

PM and 8:00 PM on the 25th day of February. (2015-2487) Impaired driver stopped On February 26th at 11:13 PM police conducted a stop of a vehicle where it was suspected that the driver may be impaired. The driver was given a roadside screening device test which he failed. He was given a 90 day Immediate Roadside Prohibition and his vehicle was impounded for 30 days. (2015-2538) E-bike in middle of road On February 21st police were alerted to an E-bike that had been abandoned in the middle of Braidwood road in Courtenay. The E-bike is described as a Red colored Sorrento. If this is your property or know who it may belong to you are asked to contact the Comox valley RCMP. (2015-2316)

COMMUNITY INFORMATION SESSION Wednesday, March 11, 2015, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Stan Hagen Theatre, Komoux Hall (K104) North Island College, 2300 Ryan Road Courtenay, BC

The North Island Hospitals Project (NIHP) is hosting a community information session to provide an update on the new, 153-bed Comox Valley hospital slated for completion in late 2017. The meeting will start with a presentation, followed by a question-and-answer session related to the procurement, design and construction of the new facilities. The NIHP team and representatives from selected proponent Tandem Health Partners will be on hand to answer questions and gather input. For more information visit the NIHP website at: nihp.viha.ca

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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.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MARCH 6, 2015

AGRICULTURE

Local farm launches a new product Yogurt made from water buffalo milk was a natural next step for expanding herd The McClintock family, who operate one of three water buffalo dairy farms on Vancouver Island, are launching water buffalo yogurt made from milk produced on their farm. For the past three years, all the milk was sold to Natural Pastures Cheese to make mozzarella di buffala, brie, cream cheese and paneer. With the herd growing from the original 15 buffalo to almost 50, new products were needed. It only seemed natural to work with Natural Pastures to bring water buffalo yogurt

to the market. Water buffalo spend April through until October grazing fresh grass pasture. During the winter after the grass stops growing and the ﬁelds get too wet, they are fed grass silage and non-GMO corn silage. Water buffalo produce very rich milk containing twice the cream and more protein than cow’s milk. It also has 46% more calcium, all of which are ideal for making yogurt. Yogurt made from water buffalo milk has special properties because it has

Natural Pastures has four cheeses named as finalists in Grand Prix Dairy Farmers of Canada announced this week the finalists - including Courtenay’s own Natural Pastures Cheese Company - for the recordbreaking ninth edition of the prestigious Canadian Cheese Grand Prix. Cheese makers from British Columbia to PEI submitted 268 cheeses in 27 different categories in the esteemed Canadian cheese competition. A panel of Canadian food industry experts gathered in Montreal for a closed door session on February 21st and 22nd and selected 81 finalists that truly exemplify the world-class calibre of cheese being produced in Canada today. Natural Pastures Cheese Company had four cheeses named as finalists in the following categories: Fresh Pasta Filata: Cherry Bocconcini Soft Cheese with bloomy rind: Comox Camembert, Comox Brie Smoked Cheese: Naturally Smoked Boerenkaas The Canadian Cheese Grand Prix is sponsored and hosted every two years by Dairy Farmers of Canada, celebrating the high quality, versatility and great taste of Canadian cheese made from 100% Canadian milk. “Canadian cheese makers are expanding their

repertoire and producing unique, highly impressive, top quality cheeses,” said Phil Bélanger, Canadian Cheese Grand Prix jury chairman. “Given the growth and diversity we’ve seen over the years, we knew we needed to expand the submission categories this installment, to truly showcase how evolved this craft has become in Canada. “With stunning, flavourful cheeses ranging from pasta filatas to extra-aged Goudas, cheese makers from coast-to-coast are making a name for themselves, both here in Canada and on the international stage.” This year, nine new categories, including three individual Gouda categories based on cheese age and a stand-alone category for Smoked Cheese, were added to the competition. The Category Champions and Grand Champion will be unveiled at the 2015 Canadian Cheese Grand Prix Gala of Champions at Toronto’s Liberty Grand on April 22nd. Judging Process The jury members had the envious challenge of tasting 268 cheeses and naming three finalists in each category. Tasting began with the milder cheeses and progressed to the more full-bodied varieties.

a low water content which results in a thicker, creamier yogurt than cow’s milk yogurt. It is able to carry beneﬁcial bacteria into the intestinal tract more efficiently than other types of milk. Buffalo milk yogurt is easy to spot because the milk lacks carotene, making it very bright white with a smoother texture and a great taste. Natural Pastures uses a traditional handmade kettle process that produces a rich, thick, natural yogurt without the need for any other additives or preservatives. People with a cow’s milk allergy can often tolerate water buffalo products. The McClintocks are excited about their new venture and will be starting by offering their yogurt at the Comox Valley Farmers’ Market and at the Natural Pastures plant located at 875 McPhee Avenue in Courtenay. Sales will be expanded to select local retailers later.

Water buffalo at the McClintock family farm will soon be giving milk for yogurt

Drug warrant nets heroin and crack cocaine The Comox Valley Drug Section is continuing to keep dangerous drugs off valley streets. On Friday, Feb. 27, police conducted a search warrant on a Cumberland residence after a two and a half month investigation into information of drug dealing. As a result heroin, crack cocaine, a quantity of cash and related evidence to support the criminal investigation was seized. A 2 6 -ye a r- o l d Cumberland man is now being held in custody pending a court appearance and will be facing charges of possession of heroin for the purpose of trafficking, possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking and breach of probation.

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Compliance pulls Raven Coal application Company cites ‘misinformation’; opponents claim victory, at least for now BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff Compliance Coal Corp. has voluntarily pulled the additional documentation it submitted to the BC Environmental Assessment Office for the Raven Underground Coal Mine in January, but is vowing to make good on the $20 million invested in the project so far. President and COO Stephen Ellis blamed “misinformation” swirling in Vancouver Island communities as the reason why the company decided to pull the plug on this attempt before the submission period closing. “Our 30 days was up we were short of time,” he said. “We couldn’t do anything else and couldn’t apply for an extension. The way to go about it is probably to do a bit of a step back.” The province sent the company back to the drawing board in 2013 after receiving an incomplete application it said had hundreds of shortcomings. The Raven project is a joint venture between and LG International Investments (Canada) Ltd. which seeks to mine a coarse and ﬁne rejects rock dump for 1 million tones of saleable coal. ITOCHU Corp. of Japan

had been a minority player in the proposed mine but announced it was dropping out in July 2014. Ellis said he’s far from done with the plan to mine for metallurgic coal in the Buckley Bay area, adding Compliance’s board was concerned there’s so much “misinformation” out in the public sphere it would prevent a fair evaluation from the working group set up to look at the project. “We still remain conﬁdent that the Raven Coal project will be developed in an environmentally manner,” he said. “We’ve got a lot of money invested in this and we don’t want to see it just racked up because of a process.” Critics believe Compliance may not have wanted or been able to pay the $112,500 assessment fee due by the end of the 30day period. The EAO says it stressed the importance of addressing all environmental

requirements to the company prior to its second go at an environmental assessment this year. “During the evaluation of the resubmitted application in January/February 2015, the company was provided with comments from the working group,” said Ministry of Environment spokesperson Dave Crebo, in a statement. “The company made the decision to withdraw the application before a decision on its completeness was issued, so we consider the evaluation to remain a draft document.” Already opponents of the project have begun claiming victory, if only a partial one. “They had to step aside while being heavily criticized in the press and in public forums -and in their own consultation meetings,” said Harp Grewal, regional organizer for the Paciﬁc region with the Council of Canadians. “In a sense it’s a really big vic-

tory for small communities.” BC activists haven’t had as much luck halting other projects in the province, like pipeline developments or the Site C dam. “Here in this case communities had a very small voice and in some ways scared off the company,” he said. “I think that’s really big.” Grewal said the protests

Regional directors voted to support improvements to the transit system they hope will increase ridership and give the community more bang for its buck, during its Committee of the Whole meeting March 3. The Comox Valley Regional District has been seeking ways to boost ridership while upping the efﬁciency of the system. In 2016 the service will expand by 4,500 hours, with 7,000 reallocated to carry people around the community more effectively. “This was the big need,” said Mike Zbarsky, CVRD’s manager of transit and sustainability. “This was the big ask from the public.” Right now the bus service operates 28,000 service hours each year and gives about 1,600 rides

per day. These days the regional district recovers about 25 per cent of the money it spends on public transit. There are no planned fare increases until 2018. But Courtenay director Manno Theos was dismayed by the proposed ﬁnancial plan, noting the 5 per cent increase in funding outpaces inﬂation and suggested it won’t solve ridership problems. “I know we’re trying to do something different and I appreciate that,” he said, but characterized recent cost increases as representing a “failed situation.” Cumberland director Gwyn Sproule said you’re never going to recover your costs when providing transit, but said this isn’t the point. “This is more a social equity issue,” she said. “It’s more of a philosophy we’re looking at.” More money into the system

means more ridership, she added. “But it’s a gradual buildup,” she said. “If you don’t have more service you won’t get ridership up.” Under the five-year financial plan being considered, the regional district would spend $2,500,016 in 2015, up from the $2,373,163 it payed out in 2014. The CVRD says it reduced 2016 operating costs by $164,948 based on moving implementation of the 4,500 hour service expansion to September 2016. Comox director Ken Grant said his analysis seems to show many bus riders are schoolchildren. He wondered if this represents a shift of responsibility from the school board to the local government. Both the financial plan submissions and a transit service amendment bylaw moved forward.

tion as a bigger concern for Baynes Sound aquaculture. Plus, negative air pressure in a planned storage facility in Port Alberni would prevent coal dust from contaminating the community, he charged. Meanwhile, those who are against Raven say they’ll be ready to ﬁght once more if and when the project is back on the table.

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against the Raven mine really stuck with him, noting most battles take a long time to heat up whereas citizens on Vancouver Island were up in arms almost instantly. “It was steep and strong opposition,” he said. “You don’t see that very often.” Ellis says people don’t realize how safe a coal operation would be and points to ocean acidiﬁca-

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There was an air of excitement when the LINC Centre opened it doors last Tuesday after being shut down for almost two month due to ﬂooding. The popular hangout of for many of the youths in the Comox Valley was truly missed by many. As they entered the centre, the smiles, the exuberant energy and joy were clearly evident. It was a indeed a happy day, said youth services coordinator Kris-

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Lease payments of $64/$92 on the 2015 Rogue/2015 Pathfinder must be made on a semi-monthly basis and cannot be made weekly. Weekly lease payments are for advertising purposes only. †Offer is administered by Nissan Canada Extended Services Inc. (NCESI) and applies to any new 2015 Micra/Versa Note/Sentra/Altima/Juke/Rogue/Pathfinder models (each, an “Eligible Model”) leased and registered through Nissan Canada Financial Services Inc., on approved credit, between March 3 – March 31, 2015 from an authorized Nissan retailer in Canada. Eligible only on leases through NCF with subvented rates. Offer recipient will be entitled to receive a maximum of six (6) service visits (each, a “Service Visit”) for the Eligible Vehicle – where each Service Visit consists of one (1) oil change (using conventional 5W30 motor oil) and one (1) tire rotation service (each, an “Eligible Service”). All Eligible Services will be conducted in strict accordance with the Oil Change and Tire Rotation Plan outline in the Agreement Booklet for the Eligible Vehicle. The service period (“Service Period”) will commence on the lease transaction date (“Transaction Date”) and will expire on the earlier of: (i) the date on which the maximum number of Service Visits has been reached; (ii) 36 months from the Transaction Date; or (iii) when the Eligible Vehicle has reached 48,000 kilometers. All Eligible Services must be completed during the Service Period, otherwise they will be forfeited. The Offer may be upgraded to use premium oil at the recipient’s expense. The Eligible Services are not designed to meet all requirements and specifications necessary to maintain the Eligible Vehicle. To see the complete list of maintenance necessary, please refer to the Service Maintenance Guide. Any additional services required are not covered by the Offer and are the sole responsibility and cost of the recipient. Offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain offers NCESI reserves the right to amend or terminate this offer, in whole or in part, at any time without prior notice. Additional conditions and limitations apply. Ask your retailer for details. ≠Representative semi-monthly lease offer based on any new 2015 Rogue S FWD CVT (Y6RG15 AA00)/2015 Pathfinder S V6 4x2 (5XRG15 AA00) CVT transmission. 1.99%/2.9%lease APR for a 60/60 month term equals 120/120 semi-monthly payments of $138/$200 with $0/$0 down payment, and $0/$0 security deposit. First semi-monthly payment, down payment and $0 security deposit are due at lease inception. Prices and payments include freight and fees. Lease based on a maximum of 20,000 km/year with excess charged at $0.10/km. Total lease obligation is $16,541/$23,986. This offer is only valid from March 3 - 31, 2015. $500 NCF lease cash appplicated only on the 2015 PathfinderS V6 4x2 (5XRG15 AA00) CVT transmission. $31,748 Selling Price for a new 2015 Murano S FWD CVT (LXRG15 NA00). Conditions apply. **MSRP starting from $29,998 for a 2015 Nissan Murano S FWD (LXRG15 NA00) excluding Freight and PDE charges and specific duties of new tires. ▲ Models shown $36,348/$48,368/$45,248 Selling Price for a new 2015 Rogue SL AWD Premium (Y6DG15 BK00)/2015 Pathfinder Platinum (5XEG15 AA00)/2015 Murano Platinum AWD (LXEG15 TE00). * ±≠▲Freight and PDE charges ($1,750/$1,720/$1,750), air-conditioning levy ($100) where applicable, applicable fees (all which may vary by region), manufacturer’s rebate and dealer participation where applicable are included. License, registration, insurance and applicable taxes are extra. Lease offers are available on approved credit through Nissan Canada Finance for a limited time, may change without notice and cannot be combined with any other offers except stackable trading dollars. Retailers are free to set individual prices. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Vehicles and accessories are for illustration purposes only. Offers, prices and features subject to change without notice. Offers valid between March 3 - 31, 2015. °Based on full-line brands (those selling both cars and trucks) on a rolling 12 month year over year retail sales volume basis. *Ward’s Large Cross/Utility Market Segmentation. MY15 Pathfinder vs. 2015 and 2014 Large Cross/Utility Class. Offers subject to change, continuation or cancellation without notice. Offers have no cash alternative value. See your participating Nissan retailer for complete details. ©1998-2015 Nissan Canada Inc. and Nissan Financial Services Inc. a division of Nissan Canada Inc.

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MARCH 6, 2015

Youth celebrate re-opening of LINC Centre

tine Klupsas. “We’re back up and running,” said Klupsas. “We’re back as per usual regular hours.” The centre suffered ﬂooding during the major rainstorm that hit the Comox Valley last December. The remnants of the effort to keep the water out remain visible as sandbags still surround the building. Klupsas said they will be removed eventually but for now they will stay there.

Tuesday’s tween night kids celebrate the re-opening of the LINC Centre which was shut down for almost two months due to flooding.

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MARCH 6, 2015

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MARCH 6, 2015

Kids are happy LINC Youth Centre open again after flooding

KRISTINE KLUPSAS Youth Services Coordinator

Two months of not having access to the centre seems a lifetime to the many youth who regularly use it. “It helped them realize how much they appreciate the space and how important it is,” said Klupsas, who added when they were closed they absorbed a barrage of queries as to when the centre would open. Most of the youth centre activities were moved to the Lewis Centre when the LINC was not available but “it’s a little differ-

ent than having your own space,” said Klupsas. It took some time to open the centre because they had to make sure that everything has dried out like the walls and that electrical outlets are safe to use again. The centre averages between 30 to 60 kids per night. Tuesday is Tween night and it draws around 30 to 40 youth aged 8 to 12 years. The centre’s regular hours are: Tuesday (Tween night) - 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Wednesday and Thursday - 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday - 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday - 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday - Youth centre is closed. Adults (18+) only skate night. 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Drop in fee is $2.50 per youth. The LINC Youth Centre is located at 300 Old Island Highway, Courtenay. For more information, please contact The LINC at 250-334-8138. *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 CR-V LX 2WD model RM3H3FES/Odyssey LX model RL5H2FE/Pilot LX 2WD model YF3H2FE (“Specifid Models”) for a 60-month period, for a total of 260 payments of $69.89/$84.49/$107.42 leased at 1.99%/1.99%/2.99% APR based on applying $400.00/$0/$0 “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, 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 $18,171.40/$21,967.40/$27,929.20. Taxes, license, insurance and registration are extra. 120,000 kilometre allowance; charge of $0.12/km for excess kilometres. **MSRP is $27,685/$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 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 */#/**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 March 3rd through 31st 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.

We did get a lot of water in here but we were really lucky we were pretty prepared for it. We were able to lift everything off the ground and make sure when it came to that kind of stuff, nothing in terms of equipment was damanged.”

“We did get a lot of water in here but we were really lucky we were pretty prepared for it,” said Klupsas. “We were able to lift everything off the ground and make sure when it came to that kind of stuff, nothing in terms of equipment was damaged.” The LINC Centre is a unique facility for youth. It’s been around for 10 years and it has attracted youth not only from the Comox Valley but also

from other parts of Vancouver Island from Victoria to Campbell River. It provides an indoor skateboard park, which is the main feature of the centre and the only one of its kind on the island. It allows skateboarding, scootering or BMXing. The centre also provides other activities youth can engage in like video games, digital arts lab, air hockey, ping pong, pool tables, youth-access computers and many more. It is also a place where they can just hang out.

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MARCH 6, 2015

Mountain Film Fest coming to Courtenay Get ready to welcome spring with a couple of thrilling evenings of outdoor adventure, exploration & action films - the Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival ‘Best of the Fest’ tour is coming to Courtenay on Friday March 20, and to Campbell River on Friday March 27. Founded in 1998, the VIMFF is now the premier mountain film festival of the spring season. Following the VIMFF festival awards in Vancouver in February, a selection of the best films , including jury award winners and people’s choice favourites, goes on tour. The film themes range from skiing, climbing, trekking, surfing, biking, nature and environment, with stories of explorers, adventurers, thrill-seekers and human ingenuity. Join Strathcona Wilderness Institute for this exciting evening of films, on March 20 at the Stan Hagen Theatre at North Island College in Courtenay, and on March 27 at Timberline Secondary School Theatre in Campbell River. SWI is hosting the ‘Best of the Fest’ in both communities this year, as part of our outreach & fundraising initiatives. SWI is a non-profit society which operates the two summer information centres in Strathcona Park: at Buttle Lake between Campbell River & Gold River; and at Paradise Meadows near the Comox Valley; where we organize nature talks, walks & hikes for the public. Doors open at 6:30, films start at 7 pm. Admission is only $17 for adults, $5 for children 12 and under. Tickets can be purchased online at www. strathconapark.org or at the following stores (exact cash only): Tarbell’s in Cumberland, Blue Toque Sports in Courtenay, Blue Heron Books in Comox, and Outdoor Addictions in Campbell River. Last year the ‘Best of the Fest’ in Courtenay sold out, so be sure to get tickets early, as seating is limited. For more information contact strathconawilderness@gmail.com Follow SWI on Facebook, Twitter or sign up for Enews on our website www.strathconapark.org for the most up-to-date information on films & tickets.

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*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.MARCH 6, 2015

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School district receives funding to reduce carbon footprint Comox Valley School District 71 has received $90,000 to help it purchase new boilers for Royston Elementary School. The funding comes from the provincial government’s Carbon Neutral Capital Program. “This funding is good news for the Comox Valley School District. Not only will it help them reduce long-term heating costs at Royston Elementary, new and modernized boilers are far more efficient in cutting carbon footprints,” says Comox Valley MLA Don McRae. “Our government promised British Columbians their province will be a world leader in reducing emissions. We’re delivering on this promise and are helping support school districts do their part.” The Comox Valley School District is one of 24 B.C. school districts are sharing $5 million for energy projects like lighting upgrades, boiler replacements, solar panels and electric vehicles under the CNCP. School districts were asked to submit proposals to the Ministry of Education back in No-

vember. These proposals were then evaluated on greenhouse gas emission reductions and operational cost savings, along with the level of contributions available for the project from the district and energy service partners. Overall, 25 projects, including the $90,000 boiler replacement project at Royston Elementary, were given the green light to move forward and are receiving provincial funds. Every ﬁve years, each dollar a school district spends in purchasing carbon offsets is intended to ﬂow back to the district through the CNCP. The funded projects help school districts reduce their energy costs over time and support government’s overall objective of climate action leadership. Since the program began in 2012, school districts now achieve annual savings of more than $1.2 million in school and vehicle operating costs as well as a reduction of 4,000 tonnes in carbon dioxide emissions as a direct result of the projects.

‘Blood Blitz’ event offers rapid HIV testing

Fossil Ammonite; Desmophyllites sp. ; Hornby island, Dan Bowen Collection.

Fossil talk at museum The Vancouver Island Paleontological Society invites the public to the ﬁrst lecture of the year, “Molluscs the fossil makers” this Sunday, March 8th at 1:00 pm. The lecture will be at the Courtenay and District Museum and Paleontological center. Meet Graham Beard, author of “West Coast Fossils”, a guide to the Ancient life of Vancouver Island. Get your fossil book signed. The sedimentary rocks

along the east coast of Vancouver Island, Denman and Hornby islands have been well preserved and can tell us a lot about the marine life 70-85 million years ago. This is a free lecture. Families welcome. Prior to this lecture the Vancouver Island Paleontological Society will hold their 2015 AGM at 11:45 -12:45. Members and new members are welcome to attend.

Despite studies showing that early detection provides the best possible outcome for those living with HIV it is estimated that 25% of individuals in Canada who are HIV positive are unaware of their status. AIDS Vancouver Island’s “Blood Blitz” aims to provide accessible HIV and STI testing, promote awareness about the importance of early detection and educate individuals about how simple it is to implement regular testing as part of a healthy lifestyle. The event will feature point of care tests, including the Rapid HIV test, with results available in less than 60 seconds. Pre and post-test counselling will also be available. The Blood Blitz Testing Day will take place on: Wednesday, March 11th from 9:30am to 12:00pm at the Courtenay AVI office Light refreshments will be offered to those who attend plus a chance to win one of our door prizes. “Offering the 60 second tests, greatly reduces the anxiety people feel about waiting to get their results,” says Leanne Wingert, key event organizer and support worker at AVI in Campbell River.

Courtenay to advertise RFP for Braidwood Road housing project BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff Courtenay staff has been given the green light to invite proposals to develop a housing project at 810 Braidwood Rd. Council, as requested by staff, approved in principle the revised Request For Proposals in order to get the project moving. Chief administrative ofﬁcer David Allen said they wanted the amended RFP endorsed in principle only as there might be some

more minor language changes to be done in the RFP. Staff was asked to revise the original RFP draft after council in January raised concerns on some of the language used in the RFP. Allen said meetings were held with different stakeholders and discussions conducted to address the issues raised by council and different groups in the community. The topics included language that identiﬁed supportive

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housing as a preferred option while not eliminating other affordable housing proposals, the possible legal and liability issues related to the use of funds the city used to buy the Braidwood property with part of the proceeds from the sale of the properties at 865, 877 and 889 Cliffe Ave, which was owned by the Comox Valley Regional District. The scoring matrix of the RFP was also reviewed and revised to add supportive housing. A staff

representative from Island Health, Lisa Murphy, the acting manager, Mental Health and Substance Abuse, was also appointed to the Braidwood working group that is chaired by John Jessup. The other members are Jim Spinelli, the Vancouver Island Board member of the BC Non-Proﬁt Housing Association and Ian Buck, Courtenay’s Manager of Planning. Allen said they obtained legal opinion regarding the concerns of Village of

Cumberland that Courtenay is reneging on the covenant it agreed on that proceeds from the sale of the Cliffe Avenue properties be used for emergency shelter and or supportive housing. The city has expanded the scope of the project by not limiting it to just a homeless shelter but to also allow a wide-range of target groups that are in need of affordable or supportive housing. The city’s lawyer, Allen indicated in his report to council, that the city

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would be correct in stating “it is of the view that its purchase of 810 Braidwood Road and issuance of the RFP are consistent with the CVRD’s requirement and the former s.219 covenant.” The city will now be advertising the RFP and after they’ve received all proposals after the deadline April 28, 2015, the Braidwood Housing Project Working Group will review them and select a preferred proponent to be submitted to council.

Lorna Stefanson was born and raised in the Comox valley and has spent her entire adult life in this wonderful area.

Lorna Island Honda is pleased to welcome Lorna Stefanson to our Sales Department!

1025 Comox Road , Courtenay 250-338-7761

She is the mother of four beautiful children, two of which are still enjoying the comforts of home. She is an avid motorcyclist enjoying all the picturesque scenery that Vancouver Island offers. She has a true love of cooking and baking but especially enjoys camping and the outdoors with her family. Lorna is very personable and outgoing and her low pressure but fun and positive attitude makes her a great asset for Island Honda. She is excited to join the Honda team and start her career is sales. She says she has fresh coffee on for all her Comox and Courtenay valley friends. Drop in anytime!

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MARCH 6, 2015

Society slams Comox for failing to preserve historic Laing homes BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff

Salvation Army re-opens Kilpatrick Avenue thrift shop Captain Gordon Taylor, Lt. Kevin Elsasser and beloved ‘Sally Ann” were all on hand for the ribbon cutting ceremony at the The Salvation Army’s Grand Opening of their newly renovated 2966 Kilpatrick Ave location. This Grand Opening marks the final stages of a complete overhaul of the Thrift Store Operations, says Operations Manager Dawn Nicker-

son. “We’re excited to have reached the final stage to Grand Opening and we are back to being open late on Fridays from 6-8 pm at both the Ryan Rd and Kilpatrick Ave locations!” The boutique store on Comox Avenue has much to offer, including the famous Auction Window.

CV Marine Rescue given free use of Comox Marina BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff The Comox Valley Marine Rescue Society will be allowed to continue to use the Comox Marina for free. However, the agreement that council approved on May 18, 2005 to provide the society a grant to offset the annual moorage rent and

hydro cost is being amended to add a second berth to accommodate two boats. The society is replacing the Bruce Brown II with the Lazo and has also acquired the Paul Giles and will use 34 foot and 38’ berths. Staff recommended to the committee of the whole that council allow the society free use of the marina so it can continue to provide

vital services to the community and nearby waters. It would have cost the non-proﬁt society around $4,000 in rental fees and hydro annually without the grant. The new agreement however would be limited only to the next ﬁve years and will be reviewed again on March 31, 2020.

The Town of Comox and council has been criticized for failing to preserve the historical homes of well-known Canadian naturalist and artist Hamilton Mack Laing. The directors of the Mack Laing Heritage Society, the group that led the quest to save the heritage properties, accused the town of neglecting the homes. The group is disappointed council approved the demolition of Baybrook and Shakesides, the former homes of Laing. When Laing passed away in 1982, he donated Shakesides and the land to the town. A generous sum of money, about $55,000, was also entrusted to the town. In Laing’s last will, it stated the money be used to turn his home into a natural history museum. The society felt funds should have been invested in maintaining Shakesides, which at the time

they believe was in good repair, fully furnished, full of art, bird and other specimen collections, scientific articles, letters and reprints. “His home has been rented for profit and neglected by the town of Comox for these 33 years,” the society stated in a press release. “The money from his donations, sales of possessions and rent from his home, donated for a natural history museum have been circulating in the Town of Comox coffers, neither strategically invested, nor quite to be accounted for.” Town staff had declared Shakesides to be in a dilapidated state and not worth saving. The society stated, “There are no regrets or shame for the unfulfilled dying man’s will and trust in his elected officials.” The society has been pushing to at least save Baybrook, the original home of Laing where he spent most of his productive life. (Continued on page 21)

CVRD supports $5.75 million 5-year deal with Economic Development BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff The Comox Valley Regional District voted to support a ﬁve-year agreement with the Comox Valley Economic Development Society in excess of $5.75 million, during the regularly scheduled Committee of the Whole meeting March 4. The amount includes a one-time top up of $65,000 in 2015 to deal with recommendations raised in a recent review by Urbanics Consultants.

“If we’re going to be putting in an extra $65,000 to implement the recommendations by Urbanics, I don’t minds doing that,” said director Manno Theos. “Measuring the outcomes of their successes of how they just spent that $65,000 I think is very critical to ensure that there’s transparency, that they just didn’t get another $65,000 as a result of maybe some gaps that they had.” Under the endorsed

budget, which must be officially approved as part of the ﬁnancial plan later this month, CVEDS would get $1,105,400 in 2015/16, which would rise to $1,127,508 in 2016/17, $1,150,058 in 2017/18, $1,173,059 in 2018/19 and $1,196,520 in 2019. CVEDS expects to spend $412,400 on core services, $365,000 on destination marketing and $328,000 on visitor services in 2015/16. Director Erik Eriksson said this shows CVEDS is

more focused on tourism than other aspects of economic development. He stressed he was disappointed the economic development society was not present at the meeting and even made a motion that was defeated which would have required them to attend a future session. “Somewhere along the line we’re going to approve a contract with them,” he said. “They should be able to show me they’re worthy of that.” Director Bob Wells said

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he had a chance to have a personal meeting with CVEDS and suggested other directors try that avenue of getting up to speed with their inner workings. Ken Grant, a Comox director who had served on CVEDS until the election last November, said there’s even more going on behind the curtain that can’t be revealed due to conﬁdentiality agreements. The total contract amount now up for ratiﬁcation is actually more

than $86,000 higher than had been requested by CVEDS. CVRD staff said the original ﬁgures had left out a 2 per cent consumer price index increase that must be added every year. No one brought up the thousands of dollars local governments will be required to kick in if Cumberland gets the green light to withdraw from the service. Staff noted CVEDS is required to present its work plan to the CVRD for approval each year.

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Cinema #1: “Cinderella”G: Sneak peak Thursday March 12, 2015 - 6:50 (8:35) & 9:40 (11:25) Cinema #1: “Chappie” 14A: Violence; Coarse language.Nightly: 6:40(8:40) & 9:35 (11:35) Saturday Matinees: 12:50 (2:50) & 3:35 (5:35). Sunday Matinees: 12:50 (2:50) & 2:10 (4:10) Cinema #2: “Focus” 14A: Coarse language. Nightly: 7:00 (8:55) & 9:45 (11:40) Saturday Matinees: 1:00 (2:55) & 3:55 (5:50). Sunday Matinees: 11:45 (1:30) & 3:55 (5:50) Cinema #3: “Kingsman: The Secret Service” 14A Coarse language; violence Nightly: 6:50 (9:10) & 9:40(12:00). Saturday & Sunday Matinees: 12:40 (3:00) & 3:45 (6:05) Saturday & Sunday Matinees: 12:45 (3:00) & 3:40 (5:55) No showing on Thursday March 12, 2015 Cinema #4: “The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel ” G: Nightly: 6:30 (8:35) & 9:30 (11:35). Saturday & Sunday Matinees: 12:30 (2:35) & 3:25 (5:30) Box Office Hours for Feb. 27th – Mar. 5th. Nightly: 6:00 pm – 9:45 pm Saturday Matinees: 12:00 noon - 4:05 pm Sunday Matinees: 11:30 – 4:05pm

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MARCH 6, 2015

ECHO

OPINIONS

LETTERS

Library does have rules of conduct Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) is committed to enriching lives and communities. A part of this commitment includes providing strong library branches that are destinations for knowledge, inspiration, innovation and renewal. These library spaces are ﬁrst and foremost safe and welcoming spaces – intended for access by all. To ensure that VIRL libraries are safe and welcome spaces, VIRL has established rules of conduct and procedures to help guide customers and VIRL staff. These rules of conduct outline positive behaviours, as well as those behaviours or instances that would hinder the safety or welcoming nature of our spaces. The rules of conduct are accompanied by procedures that allow VIRL staff to react proactively and timely to circumstances that might hinder or threaten the safety and public enjoyment of these shared library spaces. These procedures include informing the customer of a breach in the rules of conduct, dismissing a customer in breach of the rules of conduct, or inviting the RCMP to dismiss an individual and/ or return the library to a safe, welcoming environ-

ment. The rules of conduct are posted in the library branch and on VIRL’s website. VIRL staff are trained in the understanding and enforcement of these rules and in communicating these rules to customers. We encourage customers that may be concerned about the safety and welcoming nature of their library to contact their library manager. We also encourage all customers to familiarize themselves with the rules of conduct, and to continue to support us in the delivery of welcoming spaces and quality services. Bruce Jolliffe Chair, Vancouver Island Regional Library Board of Trustees

HARD TO COMPREHEND Re: Raven Coal application withdrawal The explanation from Compliance Coal ( Compliance) regarding the recent withdrawal of their Raven Coal Mine Application from the BC Environmental Assessment Office (BCEAO) screening evaluation is hard to comprehend. Stephen Ellis, COO of Compliance makes reference to some sort of misinformation circulating in some communities as the

COMOX VALLEY ECHO An independently owned and operated newspaper published by Echo Publications at 407-E Fifth Street, Courtenay, B.C. V9N 1J7 Phone 250-334-4722 Fax 250-334-3172 Classifieds 250- 334-4215 Circulation 250-334-4734 E-mail: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com Publisher Dave MacDonald Editor Debra Martin Advertising Manager Keith Currie Office Administrator Deb Fowler Circulation Manager Hedi MacDonald Production Manager Ryan Getz All material herein is protected by copyright. Reproduction in whole or in part is not permitted without written authorization from the publisher. Canadian Publications Mail Agreement Number #0661538

reason for the Application withdrawal. The BCEAO on the other hand says that after careful review, they advised Compliance of issues they identiﬁed with the Application and Compliance decided to withdraw the Application. Looks to me like a simple case of Compliance realizing that for a second time their Application was going to be rejected by the BCEAO, so they decided to withdraw their Application rather than have it rejected. Perhaps when they go back to drawing board, Compliance should focus more on the required information that was missing in their two Application failures rather than this so-called misinformation excuse they’re using. While they’re at it, maybe they should also analyze why after investing over $20-million so far, all they have to show for it are two Application failures and a coal mine project that shows no evidence of having ongoing approval or broad social acceptance (social license). Finally, while Mr. Ellis says the project is a good one and he hopes it can be resubmitted in the future, perhaps he should keep in mind the often used deﬁnition of insanity: “doing the same thing over and over again

and expecting different results.” John Snyder Fanny Bay, BC

OLD CROCKS What would Key West be without Ernest Hemingway or Savanna, Georgia without William Faulkner!. Alice Munro, our only Nobel Laureate, stayed at Mack Laing house in the winter of 1996. I recently read a bio and it said Alice Munro wintered in Comox BC. I have read all her books. I ﬁnally ﬁgured out my Ontario relatvie having pondered her novels. I had the pleasure of meeting her at a book signing at Clarion Books in Courtenay in 1996. She hated book signings having to listen to gushing enthusiast such as myself nattering on about her novels and how much they meant to me. I understand why the good burghers of Comox want to bulldoze Mack Laing house where Alice spent a winter writing her Nobel winning books. The house is an old crock and would cost money to renovate. You could say that about our seniors - they are old crocks and are expensive to renovate. Look at our health care costs! I’m rapidly becom-

ing an old crock myself and i hope my kid doesn’t run a bull dozer over me! Brian Scott Black Creek

WORKPLACE BULLYING I think there is truth to the old adage, “Things happen for a reason.” There is good reason behind the desire for there to be communication with school district #71 trustees regarding the topic of workplace bullying. Since writing to the paper recently, several past or present employees have shared feeling humiliated, degraded, and traumatized by their employer. In addition, some parents have expressed the belief that their entire small school population appears to have been traumatized by disciplinary processes which included aspects of what can be interpreted as, workplace bullying towards school district employees. Please understand that regarding employees I am not referring to individuals that are just “up in arms” because they have been subject to discipline on the part of their employer...this is something else. Yes, the school district has policies and procedures in place. However, workplace bullying has occurred, and people

haven’t felt safe to report. How can it be addressed? I remember an old prof of mine at university talking about the two steps that must occur prior to there being the potential for change...awareness and understanding. I personally feel that community input to individual trustees can share a perspective that beneﬁts in terms of awareness and certainly, understanding. To date only one trustee has come forward to discuss this matter. I believe in the inherent goodness of people. I can’t help but wonder how the trustees’ hands are tied. It is not appropriate to refer speciﬁc allegations of bullying to trustees. However, I implore members of the community to email individual trustees if they can share that they have experienced workplace bullying within the district, either directly or indirectly, or if they wish to emphasize their concern for this topic. Medical and mental health professionals... please...your voice is so important on this matter since you have knowledge of trauma and have seen it in the eyes of those traumatized. Scott Montgomery Retired School District #71 counsellor

12 FRIDAY.MARCH 6, 2015

www.comoxvalleyecho.com

BEEFS & BOUQUETS BEEF TO ALL IDLERS. I walk my dog early in the morning. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s often dark and raining and 3 - 5 degrees. As we walk in our quiet suburban Comox neighbourhood we pass numer-

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THE COMOX VALLEYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FIRST AND BEST READERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FORUM Email to: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com ous empty vehicles idling in driveways. I wonder if the owners have ever heard of hydrocarbons or global warming. My thoughts turn to my grandchild and what lies in store for him on this poor planet of ours. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not a rabid environmentalist, but I do know that each one of us could do our tiny part in reducing the greenhouse effect in our atmosphere. My friends tell me the idlers are probably refugees from the Prairies used to massive minus degrees. But this is balmy Comox, practically tropical! So, folks, could you consider taking your ďŹ nger off the remote starter while you ďŹ nish breakfast or a bowel movement. Think of our planet in exchange for a brief moment of discomfort.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;employee beneďŹ tsâ&#x20AC;? to provide the water service. Interesting that despite the millions in overhead, that the CVRD charges to our bulk water cost, they still made proďŹ t of 27% on our water! $1,597,020 in excess charges to CVRD water customers. On it goes. Please take a look at this, Directors.

A BIG BOUQUET to the lady who paid for my coffee Monday morning at the Courtenay Tim Hortonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drive thru. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s amazing how the small things can make such a big impact! You made my day! Thanks so much and I did pay it forward!

TO ALL OUT THERE who sit at home alone doing needlework or wishing to: Lake Trail Community Association offers â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wooly Mammothâ&#x20AC;? group, a dropin (free), every Wednesday evening 6:30-8 pm in the Lake Trail school library, Courtenay. If you live in Comox come out to the Comox Library every Tuesday evening (6:30-8 pm). Both venues are friendly, fun and free. Come on out. Teens and seniors especially welcome! Come learn to knit, crochet, etc. FMI: 250339-1240.

TO DAVE WIEBE, a bouquet of roses and rainbows because without shovel or hoe, and by lending a generous hand, he helped me clear broom from Lake Trail land to graze my horses. I now have pasture. With his bobcat machine, he was a master. This noteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main aim is to say thanks once again! IT WILL BE A BOUQUET to the 10 CVRD directors if they take the time to study the CVRD water costs, in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s budget. The actual cost of the Comox Lake water for 40,000 customers is $64,014 including the water license, bulk water purchase from BC Hydro and chemicals to treat the water. The bulk water cost are less than half the $141,000 that is charged by CVRD for

A FEW WEEKS AGO, when I was shopping, I treated myself at the Early Bird restaurant, for a breakfast. While I enjoyed my meal, the waitress came to my table and said, a gentleman paid for your breakfast. He said Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll pay for the little cutieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s meal and he left. What a nice person, to pay for the little cutieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s meal. Thank you very much, you made my day.

A HUGE BOUQUET to the nurses Susan, Maura, Amber and Joy at the Public Health Unit who encouraged, supported and assisted a very stressed and anxious teenager with vaccines last week. Your professionalism and empathy towards us both is to be admired and emulated. Many thanks. I FOUND IT SURPRISING enough that we sold pot equipment in the area across the river. But now I see it on 17th and McPhee

and Lake Trail and Willemar. Both family areas and school zones. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next, demos in parking lots? I WOULD LIKE TO THANK the wonderful woman who came to my rescue after I had fallen off my bike at the Airpark Walkway on Sunday and ended up in the bushes upside down. I truly was in a bind and initially was unable to extract myself from the bushes. Given my left leg was up on the river wall and my right leg was trapped under me, I was in a bit of a predicament. It was very much like being a post turtle. Thank you for getting me right side up and helping me to get back on the pathway. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d also like to thank Doctor B. Filipetti and Doctor Ward at the Dynamic Clinic for their chiropractic skills. I certainly would not have been able to do the splits without your intervention. Thank you all and aside from a few sore muscles I am ďŹ ne and riding my bike again. LETâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SUPPORT the small energetic group that organizes the functions at Del Trailer Park. Each one is always better than the last - dinners, card games, teas, birthday parties, decorations, friendship and the welcome smiles with open arms and more. So sorry you have to miss the fun and getting to know each other and learn more about our neighbours. Bring a friend and a relative from far away, all are welcome. Hope to see you there next time. Thanks again, you know who you are. A HUGE, BEAUTIFUL BOUQUEt full of gratitude to the man who helped me get my car unstuck in my parking space on MansďŹ eld Road in Courtenay on the sunny afternoon of March the 3rd. My car wheel had gotten stuck in

a hole and I was unable to get out. This man was walking across the street, and had noticed I was struggling. He went out of his way to cross the street and help me. He ďŹ rst tried pushing my car, but then guided me to reverse and pull forward. I was in a rush and very stressed out. I am ever so grateful to him. So thank you so much mister!! WELL WELL, So Cumberland decided to stop forking over dough to the Comox Valley Economic Development. Whatever. A ray of sunshine is beaming down on Cumberland for this decision. So funny, that no one has been defending this big hole we keep shoveling good money into, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to rethink this whole million dollar waste. One kid on a computer in a corner of city hall could generate more so called development in this burg. Time to cut the losses and toss the CVEDS.

next year. A special thanks to my coaching partner, Jouska Lockquell whose EXTREME committment, passion for the sport and dedication to her players has steadily increased the strength of the girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; basketball program at Isfeld - Go Ice!!

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MANY THREE POINTERS to all of the girls whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve played basketball at Isfeld since 2007. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been fortunate to be involved with the Isfeld girls basketball program for the past eight years and in that time Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had the pleasure of working with many athletes and have seen them develop into ďŹ ne young women. I will take many good memories and lasting friendships away with me as I return to coaching elementary basketball

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BEEFS & BOUQUETS A HUGE BOUQUET and heartfelt thanks to naturopathic Dr. Biswas at Aqua Terra. I have a chronic back problem with pain that has only been marginally controlled by medication, physiotherapy, and chiropractic treatments. I visited Dr. Biswas at his new clinic office where he did an extensive evaluation of all my test results and suggested incorporating herbal and homeopathic remedies, as well as ozone therapy. I hadn’t heard of it before and was somewhat skeptical at first, but noticed pain improvement after the first ozone treatment. With continuing subsequent treatments I have been able to reduce my pain medication by half, have improved mobility and flexibility, and increased overall energy I haven’t felt in a very long time - truly amazing results. Again, thanks for your incredible care and I wish you great success with your new practice here in Courtenay! RECENTLY I SAW a man turned away from entering the Courtenay Public Library by an officer who told this man that if he had no library card he was not allowed to enter. This is untrue. While there are rules we must abide by, all are free to enter. Let’s not allow prejudice to dictate who uses this beneficial public service. I use the library regularly and take my grandchildren there too and although I have seen people gather outside I have never been harassed or felt unsafe. Surely the police are better used elsewhere. A HUGE BOUQUET of spring flowers to Paddle Canada Instructors Brian, Doug, Gabriella, Lauren and Penny for volunteering their Sunday afternoon to teach kayak rescue skills to members of the Comox Valley Paddlers Club. Thanks also to the pool attendants at Vanier. Everybody had lots of fun while learning new skills. A SPRING BOUQUET to Cal, our letter carrier on Hurford Avenue. He guessed it was my birthday and sang the traditional song for me while I worked in my front yard. It was a precious moment and a sign of caring that was not expected. Thank you Cal. BIG BEEF to those in the library who talk and use a cell phone. Go outside for that! TO THE LADY in the Tim

THE COMOX VALLEY’S FIRST AND BEST READER’S FORUM Email to: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com Hortons Lineup, Thank you so much for the coffee and sandwich! After several years of staying home with kids, I had just had my ﬁrst job interview and was grabbing a coffee on the way home. You have no idea what a nice treat that was for me! I had been feeling nervous (and excited) all morning and you really made my day. Thanks! I promise to pay it forward! :) From the Lady in the Red Van! :) BOUQUET: Interesting that the native healing article and anti-bully day info was posted at the same time in the paper. We have come a long way baby!!! BEEF TURNING INTO BOUQUET: I grew up in Nanaimo and attended public school. I am 62. If we, the students, didn’t follow curriculum, we were punished. I got spanked and my brother got knuckled with the pointer. I sat on a stool in front of the class with my gum on my nose and a dunce hat on my head. Oh, sometimes we stood in the corner. It was the way things were done back then...let’s just heal and move on! ALL SECURE STORAGE lives up to its name Their patience with my move kept me sane My numerous date changes put them to the test But the attention I got was simply the best IN RESPONSE to the letter about Pit Bulls in last weeks Beefs and Bouquets. I have a dog who is often identiﬁed (incorrectly) as a Pit Bull. It is handy having a dog like that as he is a great ‘Flake Alert Device’. When people who have never met him start accusing him of being “one of those” I know to ignore them, as they are probably Flakes, and any conversa-

tion with them will be a waste of time. PARENTS: do you know how your kid’s paying for his/her PlayStation charges? My wallet was stolen out of my vehicle the evening of Feb. 13 from the Puntledge Park area. All my id, plane tickets, $100 in cash, personal cheques, etc. etc. Anyone who has had a wallet stolen knows all the steps one must take afterwards... Last night I noticed $500 in Play Station and Utopia charges on my blocked Visa. The RCMP might be knocking on your door soon... you might want to check your kid’s recent transactions. Catch ‘em with a stolen wallet, especially a grey, ﬂowery zip-up one? Do the right thing-- contact the RCMP about your kid’s behaviour and return my wallet-- you can ﬁnd my address on my drivers licence. I WOULD LIKE TO CONGRATULATE the Highland Secondary Drama Team for their recent accomplishment at the North Island Regional Drama Festival. I had the opportunity to travel down to Nanaimo to see their performance of “Kindness” which was very well done. I learned that it was student directed as well. Thank you to Mrs. Williams and everyone who made the weekend possible for these great kids. My daughter was among the participants and her experience and the fun she had will stay with her for a long time. Continue the great work and I look forward to future N.I.R.D. fests! A PLEA FOR COMPASSION from a disabled person. Until a year ago, before I became disabled, I used to look at those disabled parking spots with some envy, wishing I could park just that little bit closer to shopping. Now that I am

disabled, I can tell you it is humbling and intimidating to consider going shopping at all, and often have to limit my shopping to little bits at a time. Those parking spots are so appreciated. However, they are often occupied and I have noticed that there are not infrequent regular people with the handicap sticker on board easily running into the store. Then I have to park in more distant spots in an already difficult situation. Please, please let us disabled people use those spots. Those stickers are not meant to be used if the disabled person sits in the car waiting for you or if they are at home but if they are actually using those spots. For other regular folks out there, please help us out by pointing this out to people who are misusing those spots. Thank you. A HUGE HUGE HUGE BEEF to the uneducated, ignorant person who wrote a very, very, very incorrect article about Pit Bulls. Please educate yourself by doing a simple Google search on the American Temperament Test Society, in which American Pit Bull Terriers scored 86.8% which is more than the Beagle, Golden Retriever, and German Shepherd, among HUNDREDS of other poorly-tempered breeds that people think are okay to have out in public. On top of that, Pit Bulls were NOT bred to ﬁght, any bonehead without the smarts to do a Google search on how the breed originated would believe that, which apparently, you’re one of those people. Here is a quote DIRECTLY from the American SPCA website: “Today’s pit bull is a descendant of the original English bull-baiting dog-a dog that was bred to bite and hold bulls, bears and other large animals around the face and head.

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

When baiting large animals was outlawed in the 1800s, people turned instead to ﬁghting their dogs against each other.” So again, whose fault is it that Pit Bulls have a bad name? Oh yeah, HUMANS! So before you start advocating for banning or muzzling a breed of dog that likely has a better temperament than the mutt you have at home, pull your head out of your you-know-what and educate yourself before spewing out scatological garbage that promotes the hatred of an entire breed of animal. Also, in case you weren’t aware, in humans we call that..... You guessed it... RACISM! FYI... My current dog, a Chihuahua mix, has a far worse and unpredictable temperament than my Pit Bull ever did. Punish the deed, not the breed! THANK YOU to the couple in the van who pulled out to enjoy the view on Valley View Drive on Sunday afternoon, and chucked your Wendy’s garbage out the window before you left. I have your license plate number and will watch for your van, so I can deposit my garbage on your windshield. It’s people like you who think the world is your garbage can that make it hard for the rest of us who care about where we live. BOUQUETS to all those people who do not attach their bouquets at various park locations throughout the Valley but most notably near the beach on Lazo Road. To all you others, please remember that today’s bouquet is tomorrow’s garbage. BEEFS to the Comox Town Council. I am so disappointed in your decision to demolish the Mack Laing homes of Baybrook and Shakesides with no replacement with a nature

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!

centre. So much for Mack Laings wishes when the land and buildings were donated to the Town. I had thought that City Council would do the right thing... but they have disappointed me. A HUGE THANK YOU to Randy, at Randalls auto body in Cumberland for the fantastic job he did on my classic mopar muscle car..not only did he do it to the budget he quoted me he and his wife Terry put in lots of extra hours at no extra cost to make sure the car was super nice..and then even when the car was ready for paint he pulled it out of the booth and did some more to get it perfect..many thx from a very satisﬁed customer .. if you want a great job on your classic take it to Randalls

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MARCH 6, 2015

Two youths honoured by RCMP with a tour and a helicopter ride Two young Comox Valley boys had the distinction of being honorary Mounties for a day. It was awarded to them on Feb. 25. It’s an honor not given lightly, says Tim Walton, the commanding officer of the Comox Valley RCMP detachment. “We occasionally bestow this honor on someone who goes out of their way to show their support for their local police,” said Walton. “Conall and Emmett took the

time to write a letter and draw a picture. It may be a little thing but it made my day when I read it.” The two Courtenay youth, Emmett, 5, and Conall 8, sent a letter to the local detachment on Dec. 3. “The boys message was simple and to the point,” said Don Sinclair. “It read, ‘my brother is a big fan. I would like to thank you for all the good work you do.’” In appreciation, the young boys were presented with RCMP certif-

icates, an RCMP ball cap, and given a tour of the RCMP detachment. They were then taken to CFB Comox by Walton and shown where the RCMP helicopter is housed. Once at the airport, the pilot invited the boys to join him on a scheduled patrol over the Comox Valley. Both children and their mother were blown away by the treatment they received with smiles all around.

Emmett and Conall got to fly in the RCMP helicopter as honorary Mounties for a day.

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Remembering Anne Frank 70 years later Co-Val Choristers present spring production based on the famous life, diary of teenager “Dear Kitty: “I am thirteen years old. It seems to me no one will be interested in what I write. And yet I have to write to bring out what’s buried inside my soul. “My diary will be ﬁlled with my thoughts, my dreams, my plans.” Anne Frank received her diary as a present for her 13th birthday, June 12, 1942 and shortly afterwards on July 6, 194, the Frank family and the Van Doans went into hiding at number 263 Prinsengacht, Amsterdam, Holland, recorded in history as the Secret Annex. They were joined by Albert Dassel on November 16, 1042. All eight remained in hiding until August 4, 1944 when Dutch Nazis turned them over to the German police. In March of 1945, Anne and her siste, Margot, died in Bergen-Belsen, ﬁve weeks before the liberation of Europe May 5, 1945. Searching for money and jewellery, a German officer emptied Otto Frank’s briefcase which contained Anne’s diary, later found and fortunately preserved for our reading today. It is a timeless story rediscovered by each new generation. For young readers and adults it

continues to capture the remarkable spirit of Anne Frank. In spite of her horriﬁc existence of two years, Anne remained triumphantly and heart breakingly human. She records for all youth to remember: “Make the most of your carefree young life as you can.” It is 70 years since the end of the 2nd World War in Europe, and 70

years since Anne’s death. Anne, in spire of what you thought that no-one would be interested in your diary - we are! This piece of history comes alive at the Old Church Theatre in a CoVal Choristers production March 20-29. Be a part of it. Tickets 250-44-2992 and at the Old Church Theatre box office Tuesday and Thursday 10-2.

Get your Irish on for special poetry night Join us for an evening of poetry and music when Irish and Irish-at-heart celebrate St Patrick’s Day at the Luck O’ the Irish poetry night, March 17, 7pm at the Union St. Grotto in Courtenay. Bring your limericks and Irish ﬂavored writings and be prepared for some shamrock inspired musings and laughter as we pay homage to the ‘ould sod’. Special guests, Irish entertainers, Mary Murphy and David Somers, will share a few stories and songs. Murphy is an award-winning writer whose words and songs are steeped in

traditional Irish lore. Somers is the singer/guitarist with local favorites, Celtic Cargo. All ages are welcome. Arrive early and take advantage of the Grotto’s food and drink specials. To pre-register to read original limericks or Irish inspired poetry email: islandsuem@gmail.com Presented by Elevate the Arts, producers of the Elevate Arts Festival, June 3-6 in the heart of Courtenay and myriad cultural events throughout the year. Find out about upcoming spring events and an exciting crowd fundraising campaign at www. elevatehearts.com

Avry Payne, who plays Anne Frank, “records her thoughts, her dreams, her plans.” Photo by Craig Oliver

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MARCH 6, 2015

The best high adrenaline ﬁlms from the Banff Mountain Film Festival are coming to Courtenay

A scene from the film Unrideables. Photo copyright Scott Serfas

The Sid Williams Theatre Society is proud to present the 2015 edition of the Radical Reels Tour, part of the theatre society’s Blue Circle Series, on Saturday March 14. There is no better way to get stoked about skiing, biking, riding, or paddling than by seeing these ﬁlms! We’re talking jaw-dropping bike jumps, nail-biting kayak drops, and mind-blowing powder. The Radical Reels Tour, presented by The Banff Centre, continues to push boundaries with the best ac-

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

tion sports films from the annual Banff Mountain Film Festival. Experience more than half a dozen wild action sports as seen through the eyes of some of today’s top athletes and most talented adventure sport filmmakers. The Radical Reels Tour runs every spring & fall and spans North America, bringing a variety of mountain sport films to a wide range of viewers from hard-core outdoor adventurers to weekend warriors. The Radical Reels Tour is presented by National Geo-

graphic and MSR, and sponsored by The North Face, Deuter, and Cushe, Buff and Yomad. See you there, adrenaline ﬁlm lovers! Tickets for this Blue Circle Series event are $24 for members, $29 for general public, $19 for students and groups of 10 or more. Members can add this show to a 4 or more pack for just $19. Purchase in person at the Ticket Centre Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm, by phone 250.338.2430, or online at sidwilliamstheatre.com.

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

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High school improv teams earn high rankings at Island tourney Four Comox Valley High schools competed at the Canadian Improv Games Island tournament this month in Victoria and all of them can be proud of their strong performances. The Canadian Improv Games (CIG) is an education based format of improvisational theatre for Canadian high schools. High school students form teams of up to 8 players and compete in regional tournaments, organized and coordinated by regional Canadian Improv Games volunteers. Players perform improvised scenes, fuelled by suggestions provided by the audience. Each scene is judged based on a ﬁxed rubric. The winning senior team from each region proceeds to the National Festival and Tournament held in Ottawa. In the junior Island tournament, which included the top 6 teams from the South and North Island zones, Isfeld was the only Comox Valley School to (Continued on page 20)

The Isfeld Secondary junior team with their award

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Panama Canal has increased pricing for 2015. We’ve seen such great deals these last few years, but 2015 is a whole different ball game. We will save you money on Alaska, but don’t expect to see many (if any) bargains. Finally, there’s a lovely 3 night mini cruise on September 26 doing a rare roundtrip Vancouver itinerary with ports in Seattle and Victoria. This is a Saturday afternoon to Tuesday morning getaway, and is selling very well. It’s not a giveaway, but when you think about what you get (with all your meals, onboard entertainment, etc.), it’s still exceptional value. Please call CruisePlus at 250-390-0220 or toll free at 1-877722-2202 or visit us in Lantzville (Nanaimo north) for more information on any Holland America cruise. We’re the largest single location Canadian agency seller and I am confident you will be extremely happy with our service, knowledge and pricing. For the first look at our deals, please remember to sign up for our emails at

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Improv teams tops (Continued from page 19)

Highland Secondaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s senior team had their highest finish ever

have earned a spot and the only school to have 2 teams in the Finals. As one of the younger teams in the tournament, Isfeldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s junior junior team played extremely well and with tremendous energy to ďŹ nish 4th in a very tough ďŹ eld. Meanwhile, Isfeldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s senior junior team was neck and neck for ďŹ rst place with a stellar Ladysmith Secondary team throughout, but pulled ahead in the ďŹ nal round with a convincing 16 point lead to take ďŹ rst place overall on the Island. The senior semi-ďŹ nals saw the top 8 teams on the island vying for the 5 spots in the Sunday ďŹ nals. In its ďŹ rst year competing in the Canadian Improv Games, Gaglardi had beaten out several veteran teams to take a spot in the Semi-Finals. The team played very well but did not make the cutoff to advance to Butler. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be kicking off the the ďŹ nals. Highland Secondary demonevent by performing with Doug strated amazing skill and teamCox, well known as the artistic work to ďŹ nish 4th in the semi director of Island MusicFest. The band line-up includes: Jilli ďŹ nals and qualify for the ďŹ nals Martini Band, Baynes Sound, for the ďŹ rst time. Vanier Secondary played Brodie Dawson Band, New Mothconsistently and with fantaser Earth, Anela Kahiamoe, Luke Blu Guthrie and Alan Josshul, tic energy in all of their events Jack Starts, Centrepiece, Dukes and qualiďŹ ed in 2nd place for the semi-ďŹ nals - just 2 points of Dodge.

BeneďŹ t Sunday at Royâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Towne Pub for local musician Eight bands over eight hours will be playing to raise $3,000 to help a local musician with his medical needs. Royâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Towne Pub on the Island Highway in Royston is having the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Rock to Seeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; beneďŹ t event for Blaine Dunaway on Sunday, March 8 from 2-10 pm. They are asking for help from local sponsors in the way of do-

nations for the live and silent auction so they can raise $3,000 for surgery to assist with his vision problems. This website outlines Blaineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs: http://www.youcaring.com/ medical-fundraiser/blaine-dunaway-in-the-key-of-see-/292050 Master of ceremonies for the event is the Valleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own Todd

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behind the Senior Ladysmith team, whose creativity and teamwork were intimidating and inspiring throughout the weekend. Gulf Island Secondary (3rd in the semi ďŹ nals) and Carihi (5th place) were the other two amazing teams in the ďŹ nals. The ďŹ nals were extremely well played by all 5 teams. Highland played even better than in the semi-ďŹ nals and were able to move up in the rankings to ďŹ nish 3rd in their highest ďŹ nish ever. Vanier played the best they had all year and pulled ahead to ďŹ nish 36 points ahead of second place Ladysmith. G.P. Vanierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Improv team will now advance to the National Tournament in Ottawa in April. With two wins, a 3rd and a 4th place, The Comox Valley was extremely well represented by these young improvisers. The senior Vanier Improv team will now begin their quest to fund-raise enough money to get to Ottawa. They are available for hire to entertain at events and will be hosting a multi-school Improv Mixer on March 14 and a spaghetti dinner and talent night at Vanier on April 11 to raise money for the trip. You can contact Lori Mazey at Vanier school for more information 250-338-9262 or lori.mazey@sd71.bc.ca.

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Flying Debris blows into Zocalo Cafe Flying Debris is looking forward to their 13th year of ﬂying around the valley entertaining folks with their unique blend of music. The band features 4 of its members on lead vocals and harmonies. Jim Hunter croons his own creative tunes that blend hints of Tony Bennett to the Cure. Mathew Nicol presents his up beat and humorous, sometimes reﬂective songs and revs things up with his popular Beetles and Stones num-

The group stated that they worked tirelessly with many pro bono professionals, historians, artists, naturalists, Mack’s contemporaries, Comox residents and the valley to prove Baybrook can be repaired and repurposed. They believed it would have met Laing’s will at no cost to the town and valley taxpayers. Town staff had evaluated the feasibility study presented by the society. But they were not convinced it would work. Council agreed with staff ’s assessment and recom-

Jazz, Blues, Country and good old Rock and Roll. They have played all around the valley from Denman to Reed Island and toured West Kootenays. Hope to see you at Zocalo’s on March 7 at7:30pm .

CARRIERS WANTED No collection required. Great exercise! Call Comox Valley Echo • 250-334-4734 or drop by 407-D 5th Street, Courtenay COURTENAY bers. Steve Ellis has now jumped into a lead singing role with some solid and up beat soulful blues. Stevie (the Senator) Smith

sings a variety of country to reggae tunes to round out a fun evening of entertainment. Musically, the blend of this 5 piece band

creates a solid groove with Gee Funk on Drums working in tight with the energetic and gutsy bass of Steve Ellis. Mathew Ni-

Society slams Comox for failing to preserve Laing homes (Continued from page 10)

col pulls out all the stops on the keys pouring out his years of experience into blending sounds with Jimmy Hunter’s guitar and Stevie Smith’s ﬂying harmonica. is works a blend of musical variety that has been inspired by

mended the Laing homes to be torn down. The society disagreed with the town’s decision. “What is it that our town and council stand for? Where is the sense for honouring our heritage and conserving for future generations,” the society stated. “We are Canadians, proud of our heritage and that of others - but ashamed of our town and council.” Mayor Paul Ives said the Laing fund, which is now around $70,000, is in a separate trust account managed by the town and will remain there pending

further council decision. He added the amount is simply not sufficient enough to fulﬁll Laing’s wishes. “People have great intentions in their will,” said Ives. “They leave money for various causes but sometimes when all the dust clears, there’s no money left really to do anything. The council of the day obviously decided not to proceed with any museum of any kind.” The town had a tenant living in Shakesides and was collecting rent of around $400. But Ives said it was hardly proﬁtable and that the amount

was reduced in view of the state of repair and flooding issues. “Mack Laing’s Heritage Society’s own report on it recognized it would be pointless to improve that old property. It floods on a regular basis, and really was never suitable for anything like a museum.” Ives said the park is already an honour to Laing’s legacy. The town has made a lot of improvements to the heritage property. It’s been named after Mack Lain; as well, interpretive panels had been erected to highlight the historic significance of Laing’s work.

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Wednesday Addams, played by Rebecca Curtis, is torn between her Addam’s Family ways and her new found love

‘They’re creepy and they’re kooky ...’ Highland presents Addams Family Highland Secondary is pleased to announce that their latest Spring musical is going to be anything but just another normal musical. Torture, the walking dead, a freaky family enjoying morbid and macabre rituals - The Addams Family has got a little something unexpected and entertaining for all. As the curtain rises, the last dead leaf of autumn falls from the family tree, and all is right with the gruesome world of Gomez, Morticia, Fester, Grandma, Wednesday, Pugsley and Lurch. They’ve gathered where else - in the family graveyard, to celebrate life and death in a yearly ritual

to connect with their past and ensure their future. They seem at peace, not just with each other and their inimitable, unchanging Addams-ness, but with their dead ancestors, too - who emerge from their graves on this night each year to join in this celebration of continuity. But, at the end of the ritual, Fester blocks the ancestors’ return to their graves. Those unchanging Addams family values are about to be tested. Fester enlists their help to set things right, just in case a new family secret goes terribly wrong. What’s the secret? Wednesday Addams, that irresistible bundle of malice, has grown up and found love.

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 71 (COMOX VALLEY) School District No. 71 (Comox Valley) seeks an Expression of Interest for School Exterior Painting of Mark R. Isfeld Secondary and Arden Elementary schools. The services required are described in Tender 2015-001-054 and are available from Carol Snead (carol.snead@sd71.bc.ca) Tender closes on Thursday, March 19, 2015.

So what’s the problem? The young man, Lucas Beineke, is from Ohio, and his parents are coming to dinner to meet the family. Two different worlds are about to collide. Will love triumph, or will there be a Romeo and Juliet worthy ending? Lisa Williams, the director of the show and drama and dance teacher at Highland, says, “The Addams Family was carefully picked as it is a good ﬁt for the students in our drama department. They understand the absurd, and have impeccable comic timing.” Many of the lead roles are played by Highland’s award-winning improv team. The Addams Family

may seem like they are all about things that are odd, but really this is a musical about family. Williams explains, “Family is family. Normal can’t be deﬁned. The Addams end up teaching us that love and silliness are all we need, no matter who we are. That, and don’t mess with grandma.” The Addams Family is a show for all ages. There are some romantic themes in the play and a few edgy or suggestive jokes, so some families might decide to keep their young ones home, but William’s own daughters, aged 4 and 6, love the show and know all of the words and songs. (Continued on page 23)

Toscano's is now OPEN FOR LUNCH 11:30am - 2pm Monday to Friday. Join us for Lunch by March 13 and Come in and enjoy the Italian lunches you have been missing for the last seven months. We look forward to seeing you all!

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MARCH 6, 2015

Seedy Saturday: Preparing for Climate Change in your garden Preparing for Climate Change on March 7th at the Florence Filberg Centre in Courtenay, offers something for everyone interested in gardening, growing food, saving seeds, building soil and having fun. This event is the primary fundraiser for the Comox Valley Growers & Seed Savers, allowing them to offer information and education all year round and support the Seed Bank. The low admission price of $5 offers access to the Community Seed Exchange and Horticultural Trade Show starting at 10 am with more than 45 vendors and exhibitors along with a great line up of speakers and other activities. Exciting and knowledgeable speakers and presenters have information for all gardeners. Lynda Smith of Lawntofood.com will describe how she and her family

have converted lawns to food gardens everywhere they lived, and beyond. A perennial favourite, Connie Kuromata, of Gardens on the Go will describe the Miracle of Soil - and how to get there from dirt, while Tyler Johns describes natural pest control. Many of your questions about gardening will be answered by our panel: Jo-Ann Canning of Vancouver Island Master Gardeners, Master Organic Gardener, Terry Fassbender and the Duchess of Dirt: Leslie Cox. Another returning favourite is Gordon Hutchings of Hutchings Bee Services describing the co-evolution of ﬂowering plants and bees and how we can continue to support our many species of native bees to thrive in a changing climate. Jen Cody and Craig Evans address the experienced gardeners to explain how, despite

rumours to the contrary, we really can save carrot seeds. Jen and Craig have a combined 50 years of experience in agriculture - researching, experimenting and creating cooperative organizations to address the whole continuum of seed to table. The Seedy Cafe - open 10 am to 2 pm - will again offer a wonderful and tasty array of snacks and lunch at very reasonable prices. Families can visit the child activity room to take a break with crafts, activities and music. Visit www.cvgss.org to view the list of wonderful presenters and to create your shopping list by vendor. The organizers would like to acknowledge the ongoing support of Coastal Community Credit Union, Eatmore Sprouts, Edible Island, SeaSoil and Quality Foods.

Fat Oyster is calling you: Open Mike with award-winning author David Carpenter Do you dream of reading your unpublished writing in front of an audience? Are you a published author and want to have some fun? Do you want to come listen to our wonderful local talent in the Baynes Sound Region? Join award-winning author David Carpenter at the Fat Oyster Open Mike event at the Fanny Bay Hall on Wednesday March 11th. David Carpenter, who is a prolific author with 18 books of fiction and nonfiction to his name, will give a featured reading at the upcoming Fat Oyster. He has also been a book reviewer for the Globe and Mail and has published in numerous magazines. His book, The Education of Augie Merasty: A Residential School Memoir, was just released in February 2015 and has been chosen for CBC Radio’s CANLIT 2015 competition. He is currently writerin-resident at the HaigBrown Heritage House in

Campbell River. Carpenter has received critical acclaim and numerous awards for his work: Jokes for the Apocalypse was runner-up for the Lampard Award for best ﬁrst work of ﬁction in Canada, and The Ketzer was winner of the Canadian novella contest. A Hunter’s Confession, was winner of the Book of the Year Award from St. Peter’s College. This promises to be a fun event with some surprise authors. Please join David Carpenter on Wednesday March 11th at 7:00 pm at the Fanny Bay Hall. Doors open at 6:30. The cost is by donation at the door. For more information about this or the Tell Your Story workshop with Bernice Friesen on March 7th, please see the Fanny Bay Hall website at: http:// fannybaycommunity.com/ fat-oyster-reading-series/ and Facebook at: https:// www.facebook.com/fatoysterreading. For more information about the writer-in-resi-

dence in Campbell River: http://www.haig-brown. bc.ca/writer-residence.

Addams

These composters are designed in the Valley

Speedibin Composter gets tough on rodents Check them out at Seedy Saturday Backyard composting just got easier. And safer. You’ve probably heard that composting is the best way to use your organic waste. But if you’re thinking making compost is a hassle and you don’t want to attract rodents, there is good news.

team have made improvements to the design. Now they have engaged a larger manufacturer in Vancouver so that fabrication can be automated using a CNC punch. “The goal is to remove the hurdles to backyard composting. The Speedibin has a big lid for easy dumping and removal, a large enough volume to make hot compost if you want, and it’s metal so rodents can’t chew through” says McMenamon. “Compost adds permanent fertility to your garden, slows soil nutrient loss due to leaching, and reduces waste to the landﬁll. “Backyard composting is arguable the single most effective activity individuals can do to help the environment.” says McMenamon. You can check out this new composter at Seedy Saturday March 7, 10 am to 3 pm, at the Filberg Centre. Need one? Speedibins will be available for purchase there. Locally, the Speedibin can be purchased at South Country Feed and Supply, Black Creek Farm and Feed and Anderton Nursery, as well as online. Meanwhile, learn more about composting and the new Speedibin at www. speedibin.com/echo.

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(Continued from page 22) By the end of The Addam’s Family, it’s been a night of darkness. Everything’s changed. And the new, extended family understands: The unknown may be frightening, the darkness overwhelming, but if we don’t run from it, we may see our mysterious, miraculous lives ﬁnally illuminated. If we move toward the darkness, we might ﬁnd love and acceptance. For when it is dark enough, we can see the stars. The Addams Family opens on March 17th and runs through the 21st. Tickets are for sale at The Laughing Oyster bookstore and can be purchased at the Highland Secondary office for just $15.

A Comox Valley company, Fresh Earth Products, has just launched the new version of their all metal composter, the Speedibin. Having observed how people are using their Speedibins in the Comox Valley, managing partner Joyce McMenamon and

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24 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MARCH 6, 2015

Isfeld senior boys off to provincials CODES COUNTRY LANES Bowling highlights from Codes Country Lanes:

Monday AM - Evelyn Foot 207, Tricia Turnbull 221, Bob Van Nes 287, Bob Sharp 259, George Railian 212, John Kendall 208, Anna Turcotte 204, Marie Israel 192, Heather Abraham 210, Joyce Slater 201, Dave Stacey 199, Ed Farrant 125. Monday 12:30 - Marg Moore 193, Lucille Smith 192, Mildred M 212, Erma Wilson 191, Ivan Ally 216, Bill Tower 182, Pat Huntley 196. Monday Youth - Lucien Rousseau 105, Ava Friesen 80, William Derksen 182, Brycen Burgess 138, Celine Rousseau 44, Benoit Rousseau 30. Tuesday Breakfast - Pat Fish 188, Isabelle Bracchi 189, Shirley Mangano 201, Karen Anand 172, Brenda Searl 180, Donna McColl 152, Barb Potruff 201, Laurie McWillis 224. Tuesday Adult - John Graff 208, Gary Coombs 185, Ed Carefoot 204, BRIAN BOOTH 309, George Ghinis 244, Laurie McWillis 229, Brenda Frizzell 190, Sharon Shepard 225, Bruno Bagdan 255. Wednesday 9:30 - Sally Hazleton 206, Yvonne Melancon 194, Dave Stacey 234, Heather Abraham 219, Nick Tjart 262, Minnie Frame 180, Andre Melancon 208. Tuesday/Wednesday CRA Leona Wagner 137, Lisa Bruce 126, Lindsay Clayton 112, Daniel Erb 141, Patti Gove 127, Debbie Downer 134, Richard Major 157, Scott Burden 147, Jessica Anderson 94, Tamiko Watanabe 105, Robert Burns 109, Linda Scott 98. Wednesday Adult - Donna Aubuchon 176, Doris Smith 194, Scott McLellan 255, Ken Bird 240, Gord Pottruff 239, Sandy Nurse 200, Vicki Major 228, Rick Aker 205. Thursday GA - Vicki Bailie 191, Sharon Shephard 191, Alan Edwards 220, Grace Rodriguez 205, Rick Rodriguez 244, Ivan Ally 269, Vera Winter 213, Bob Van Nes 258, Carolle Allen 219, Bob Sharp 245, Bea Tomkinson 201, John McLean 205. Thursday Adult - PAUL ZORZ 304, Andrew Stubbing 247, Alex Bodnar 201, Jessica Giroux 244, Scott VanAchte 259, Jessica Davies 154, Rick Granneman 221, LORNE KING 320, Duwanee Granneman 229, Aprile Brekke Reidl 244, Stve Robson 250, Ed Carefoot 224, Jane Wedge 208. Friday Golden Age - Jim Bennett 207, Ken Olsen 172, George Railian 208, Joan Lucas 234, Millie McCharles 184, Ickle Brown 218, Nick Tjart 210, Ria Tjart 235, Coral Tanner 192, Ed Tanner 206. Special O - Kim Burke 198, Colin Wells 199, Morgan Bell 204, Jamie Bennett 207, Randy Bates 212, Clint McColl 216, Chris Gillis 202, Joe Grubwieser 200, Bobby Bolen 152, Mathew Strachin 193, Gary Thompson 128.

The Mark Isfeld Senior boys basketball team qualified for the AAA provincial championships March 11-15 at the Langley Events Center this past weekend by going 3-1 and finishing 3rd on the Island. In the opening round the Ice defeated Reynolds 55-21. Up only 7 at the half (22-15) the Ice shut out the Roadrunners in the third quarter 26-0 blowing what had been a tight game wide open. Nic Xylinas had 14 and Blaze Gailloux added 11. In the semi-final game against

Wellington the Ice lacked the intensity at the defensive end of the ﬂoor to win the game coming up on the short end of a 62-42 score. Noah Kaefer scored 15 and Nic Xylinas contributed 10. On Saturday in a win or go home game the Ice faced tournament host Parklands. The score was 25-20 at half time and then the Ice hit 4 straight 3’s in the middle of the third quarter to go up 15. Foul trouble plagued Isfeld in the 4th quarter with 3 starters

Play and Learn will be held on Thursday from 1:00pm to 4:00pm at the Lion’s Den. Come and play and ask questions about the bidding and play of the hand. To register or for further information please contact Jack Bradshaw at (250) 703-0397. Monday, Feb. 23 A 1. Jack Bradshaw - Carole Bradshaw 2. Bob Dugas Cynthia Tree 3. Dave Mosher Howie Cohen B 1. Bob Dugas Cynthia Tree 2. Tom Dugdale Jeanette Baron Thursday, Feb. 26 A 1. Pete Marinus Sharon Feduniak 2. Daphne Welch Karin Franzen 3. Jean Tait - Dianna Rickson B 1. Daphne Welch - Karin Franzen 2/3 Al Hopwood Lorraine Gargan 2/3 Marilyn Morris Myrna Horley Our club is located on Nordin Street across from the Comox Mall under the newly renovated Museum and Art Gallery. We offer guaranteed partnerships, so if you’re visiting or your regular partner is away, make sure you come out to play anyway. If you don’t have a regular partner, I’m sure you’ll meet one. Our website is www. cvdbc.com and our email is playbridge@ shaw.ca. For more information, please contact Linda Marinus at (250) 338-2544. d’Esterre Duplicate Bridge Results for Tuesday, 24th February

ly only allowing 32 points for the game winning 52-32. Xylinas scored 21 and was selected ﬁrst team all island and Kaefer scored 19 and was selected to the second team all island. The Ice now enjoy a much needed week off before heading to the provincials where they will face last year’s semi-ﬁnal opponent Charles Hays in the opening round on Wednesday March 11 at 1:45. All games are live streamed on the Langley Events Center Website.

Kids invited to Run4Fun program

Bridge News Comox Valley Duplicate Bridge Club

fouling out with over 5 minutes to go. Zach Fieret and Jonah Hill along with Anthony Xylinas stepped up playing major minutes helping the Ice win the game. In the final 4 minutes of the 4th quarter Davis Malton and Hank Mangdaz hit 11 of 13 free throws to seal the victory. In the 3rd place game, where the winner goes to the BC’s, the Ice faced Pacific Christian school that had upset Reynolds and Carihi to get here. The Ice were terrific defensive-

(12 tables): N/S - 1. Phil Sandford and Maureen Olafson; 2. Dianne McKinnon and Ruby Paulson; 3. Lloyd and Bernice Snyder; 4. Betty Fountain and Barb Morris. E/W - 1. Roy Hagg and Keith Ware; 2. Jack and Carol Bradshaw; 3. Dianna Rickson and Evelyn Ware; 4. Howie Cohen and Sharon Feduniak. Results for Friday 27th February Team Game: 1. Piercy team; 2. Lucas team; 3. McKinnon team. Results for Saturday 28th February (10 tables): N/S - 1. Denise Holst and Barb McCrindle; 2. Doug and Penny Poole; 3. Dianne McKinnon and Ruby Paulson; 4. Myrna Horley and Lorraine Gargan. E/W - 1. Dick and Lynn Sangster; 2. Tom Dugdale and Jeanette Baron; 3. Pete and Glenda McGrath; 4. Jack and Carol Bradshaw.

Junior runners between the ages of 7 and 14 will be hitting up seven different locations around the Comox Valley every Wednesday evening commencing April 15th, as they enjoy the Comox Valley Road Runners’ (CVRR) Run4Fun program. Run4Fun provides runners with skills to increase their endurance and learn to run in different terrain including trails and hills. Since the beginning of the program, we have had many returning runners and are so pleased that a couple of our former runners have stepped up to

help as Junior Leaders. Runners are guaranteed to have fun in addition to learning about the importance of a proper warm up, pacing, and good nutrition. Regardless of their ﬁtness levels or abilities, everyone will be getting fresh air and exercise while participating in a supportive and non-competitive environment. The Run4Fun crew will target trails such as Seal Bay (where there’s an exciting Poker Fun), as well as the North East Woods, Simms Park and a few other diverse spots.

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Healthy post work-out snacks are provided and the grand ﬁnale always includes good old fashioned games and relays. This program relies on dedicated CVRR volunteers as well as generous sponsors including Extreme Runners, RE/MAX Ocean Paciﬁc Realty, Rawthentic Eatery, and Quality Food. For more information, drop-in to Extreme Runners on Fifth Street in Courtenay, visit the Comox Valley Road Runners’ website: www.cvrr. ca or email Mary Ann at mar08@hotmail.ca.

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Happy’s Tier 1 Midget Chiefs are playoff champions Thrilling series win sets team up to host the Provincial tourney The Happy’s Source for Sports Chiefs have added Tier 1 playoff champions to their 2014/2015 hockey resume. The Chiefs hoisted their second Tier 1 banner after winning a hard fought 3 game battle with the upstart Nanaimo Clippers. The Clippers won right to play the island’s top ranked Midget team in Comox in the finals with a 2-1 victory over the Juan de Fuca Grizzlies in JDF on February 7th. Enjoying home ice advantage, the Chiefs took to the ice February 21st for their first playoff final against their Nanaimo rivals. After taking 3 successive minor penalties to start the game, the Chiefs relied on stellar goaltending by Matt Henwood to hold the hard charging Clippers at bay. Eventually finding their stride, the home team jumped out to a 2-1 lead after the first period and a held a 4-2 lead after the 2nd. Blowing the game wide open in the 3rd with 5 more goals and skating to a 9-2 victory, the Chiefs sealed a dominant victory. Led by Brayden Bennett, Tyson Slater and Colin Dixon each with 2 goals, Ty Graham and Brad Crisp chipping in an-

Happy’s Source for Sports Tier 1 Midget Chiefs celebrate addition of second Island banner to their collection other goal and Caleb Dolman’s goal and 4 assists, the Chiefs had their way with their south island rivals in game one of the island ﬁnal. Game two however in Nanaimo on Feb 28th was an entirely different story. The Chiefs started strong, outshooting the hometown Clippers 19-3 in the ﬁrst period, and holding a 2-0 lead on goals by Lynden Lennox and Tyson Slater. They gave up a late powerplay goal to Nanaimo which began to swing the

With their home town fans in full force, the Midgets came out hard, once again dominating the first period ... the relentless pressure finally began to take its toll on the Nanaimo defenders. momentum in the Clippers favor. The second period saw the Clippers tie up the game 2-2 before Dolman put the Chiefs ahead 3-2

with only seconds left in the period. Leading after 2, the Chiefs were only 20 minutes away from sweeping the series and cementing their Tier 1 championship playoff win. But playing for pride and wanting to earn their way into the BC Tier 1 Provincial Championships, the Clippers came out hard in the 3rd. Scoring 5 unanswered goals the Clippers dominated the 3rd and skated away with a 7-3 victory on home ice.

Setting the table for a winner take all playoff ﬁnale at Sports Centre 1 in Comox on Sunday March 1st. Home ice has its advantages. With an enormous, raucous crowd in attendance, you would have been forgiven if you thought you were at a Comox Valley Glacier Kings home playoff game. With their home town fans in full force, the Midgets came out hard, once again dominating the ﬁrst period and outshooting the Clippers 19-5 and tak-

ing a 2-0 lead into the ﬁrst intermission. But the second saw some push back and with some timely goals the Clippers fought back and ended up taking the lead at the start of the 3rd period, 3-2 Clippers. After dominating puck possession with strong play by Joe Surgenor and Dom Dietrich, and playing the majority of the game in Nanaimo’s end, the relentless pressure ﬁnally began to take its toll on the Nanaimo defenders. (Continued on page 27)

Good hearing, poor comprehension? The number of people who can hear well, but can’t understand what’s being said, is increasing. This is most evident in conversations and watching television. A newlydeveloped hearing chip is designed to restore speech comprehension without being noticeable in the ear. A lot of people have poor comprehension, though they actually still hear well. It becomes noticeable in conversation, watching television and asking family to repeat what’s been said. A potential cause can be undetected loss in the high-frequency range. This means the sensory cells in the cochlea that hear high-range sounds are damaged as a result of circulatory disorders, diabetes, sudden hearing loss or workplace noise. Hearing loss in the highfrequency range makes speech sound muffled and unclear. The person with hearing loss mixes up, or can no longer hear, consonants like s, f, t, k, h and g. Speech comprehension is particularly impaired when there is background noise or when television programs have background music. The dilemma is that people with hearing loss in the high-frequency range do not

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

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

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

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26 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MARCH 6, 2015

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BY IAN KENNEDY Top coaches maintain that it takes 10,000 hours of practice and play to make a world-class, or an Olympic athlete, and in order to ﬁt those many hours into young lives athletes must take up their chosen sports at a very early age. With this in mind Rugby Canada has begun a pilot project here in the Comox Valley to introduce boys and girls aged 5 to 15 to the game of rugby with a mass-participation program called Rookie Rugby. Using game-based learning, volunteers and teachers are introducing the great game of rugby to elementary children who have never seen a rugby ball before. “So far the results have been very positive,” says B.C. Rugby Development Officer Tony La Carte, who is championing the

So far the results have been very positive. The aim is to get the kids active and to let them run around using a rugby ball. Making the game fun is key, the structure comes later” TONY LA CARTE BC Rugby Development Officer

project on Vancouver Island. “The aim is to get the kids active and to let them run around using a rugby ball. Making the game fun is key, the structure comes later.” La Carte recently spent a couple of days in the Valley and, with the help of volunteers and the Kickers Rugby Club, introduced Rookie Rugby to over 450 children at Brooklyn, Huband Park, Queneesh and Elcoe Puntledge Park

Schools. “Most of those kids had never seen a rugby ball before but they took to it like ducks to water,” offers La Carte, himself an international rugby player who traveled the world playing Sevens rugby and Fifteens rugby for Canada. “When I was in New Zealand, home to the New Zealand All-Blacks the world’s number one men’s and women’s teams, kids as young as four and ﬁve were running around in bare feet playing rugby. There deﬁnitely is a correlation between starting rugby early and being the world’s best.” Recognizing this, the United States, using Rookie Rugby, has introduced six million children to rugby in recent years and Rugby Canada is now using their model and piloting it in Comox Valley and Port Coquitlam to see how it goes. (Continued on page 28)

Happy’s Midgets win playoffs (Continued from page 25) With only about 8 minutes left in the third period the tide began to turn. The Chiefs’ hard work and forecheck paid off with Dolman chipping in the puck after a scrum in the goal crease tying up the game 3-3 and setting the 100’s of fans up for a fantastic ﬁnish. Continuing to pile on the pressure, the strong play of Justin Mirabelli was ﬁnally rewarded with the go ahead goal only

minutes later sending the crowd into a frenzy. A stiﬂing defense, timely goaltending and a hard backcheck minimized the Clippers chances to even things up. Chasing down a loose puck in the dying moments of the 3rd period, Alex Wilford ensured victory by putting away an impossible angle open net goal. A heart stopping ﬁnish to a record setting season. It’s hard to believe it

can get even more exciting than this, but with the BC Provincial Championships being held in Comox, March 15-19th, your hometown Happy’s Source for Sports Chiefs are poised to make their success a three-peat! Come on down and watch some more unbelieveable hockey at SC1! Once again, thanks to coaches Gord Lennox, Jess Sekulich, manager Jody Lennox and safety Derek Luty for their time and dedication.

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28 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MARCH 6, 2015

Rookie Rugby a success (Continued from page 27)

Ready to rumble No lost love between Comox Valley Glacier Kings and Campbell River Storm as Lucas Anderson (red) and Campbell River Storm, Reece Costain square off from a recent game. Both teams meet in

the highly anticipated north division finals starting Friday 7:30 pm in Campbell River, then hosted by the Glacier Kings Saturday 7:30 at the fabulous Sports Center 1. (Jim Hockley photo)

“It’s a ﬂag sport with no tackling and it aims to let children have fun and teach them skills of catching, passing and running with the ball in hand. Once they have been introduced to the game at this level and they want to continue with the game they can take up Mini rugby, play it in school or at the club level,” says La Carte. “Kids are four times more likely to continue with a sport if they play it in a P.E. class ﬁrst.” Aimee Burley who runs the local Kickers Mini Rugby program says that eight new children showed up at the club on Sunday looking to play Mini rugby as a result of the Rookie Rugby. “I was very pleasantly surprised,” said Burley. “This shows that Rookie Rugby is already having a very positive impact.” Rugby Canada has devel-

oped an array of easy-to-use teaching resources, CDs and on-line materials, that makes it extremely easy for teachers and volunteers to run Rookie Rugby. “I have never seen a sport partner with schools like this before,” says School District 71’s coordinator of Elementary School Athletics, Kyle Timms. “It’s a very worthwhile program that teachers can use to interest more children in sport.” Rookie Rugby plants the seed and even if it doesn’t look like rugby in the conventional sense, it introduces a new game to children and parents and lays the foundation for life-long activity. And, if it helps to produce world-class athletes for Rugby Canada in the future -- that can only be good too. For more information go to: www.rookierugby.ca and http://comoxvalleyrugby.ca/

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School District No. 71 (Comox Valley) is seeking two (2) public members with financial expertise and business knowledge to serve on its audit committee. The appointment term will be from March 2015 to December 2018. The audit committee is comprised of two (2) Trustees and two (2) independent public members drawn from the Comox Valley community at large. The primary role of the audit committee is to assist the Board of Education in fulfilling its duties related to governance and oversight. The purpose of the audit committee is to assist the Board of Education and Superintendent of Schools in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities for the financial reporting process, the system of internal control over financial reporting, the audit process, and monitoring the school district’s compliance with laws and regulations pertaining to financial operations. The Committee will meet at least two (2) times a year with the auditor, plus ad hoc meetings as required. Board policy provides financial compensation for public members that attend audit committee meetings. Orientation will be provided to committee members. Candidate Eligibility: • Applicants must have sufficient accounting, senior financial management or other relevant experience to understand public sector accounting and auditing standards. • Applicants will possess an accounting designation (CPA, CA, CGA, or CMA) or have a university degree in a related field. • The applicant must not be a current employee or officer of the school district or of any other school district. • The applicant must not have a parent, child or spouse currently employed by the district. Submission of Applications Qualified candidates interested in serving on the audit committee are invited to submit a letter of interest along with resume and three (3) references by: Tuesday, March 17, 2015; 2:00 pm. Send To: Russell Horswill, Secretary Treasurer Email: Russell.Horswill@sd71.bc.ca School District No. 71 (Comox Valley) 607 Cumberland Road, Courtney, BC V9N 7G5

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