Comox Valley Echo - May 1, 2015

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Now Open Sunday 10-4 www.comoxvalleyecho.com COURTENAY, BRITISH COLUMBIA • Friday, May 1, 2015

PRICE: 57 CENTS PLUS GST

VOL. 21, NO. 35

ARTS

SPORTS

15.Of myths and

23. Don’t miss

monsters theme for new art show.

out on St. Joe’s golf tournament.

CLEAN UP FORBIDDEN SAYS RD TO PROVINCE.06 VALLEY’S FIRST SKI RESORT HAS FALLEN INTO UNSIGHTLY, DANGEROUS RUINS. IT’S IN A CLASS ‘C’ PROVINCIAL PARK.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.COURTENAY,BC MAY 1, 2015

ECHO

NEWS Comox Valley Weather 1 year GIC* we lead with our best *Rates are subject to change. Min. $50,000

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Friday A mix of sun and cloud.

Low 6°C. High 15°C.

Saturday Sunny.

Low 6°C. High 14°C.

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Low 6°C. High 16°C.

Monday A mix of sun and cloud.

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Tuesday A mix of sun and cloud.

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

Police Blotter Comox Valley RCMP responded to the following incidents between April 21 and 27: On April 23rd police received a report of a theft of a donation container from the Cumberland Museum. The container was seen in the possession of two young males shortly after the theft. This investigation is continuing.

(2015-4939) The Comox Valley RCMP was dispatched to a report of a male committing an indecent act in a vehicle near the children’s playground at the Comox Recreation center on April 24th. The vehicle had departed the area prior to police attendance was located shortly after. This investigation is continuing. (2015-4962) On April 25th police attended a single vehicle collision that had occurred on the 6500 block of the Island Highway North near Merville. The investigation revealed that the driver of the vehicle was under the influence of prescription medication that was to be taken at night due to its side effects. The driver was charged with driving without due care

*DU\ V PICK OF THE WEEK

Gary Kremsater

Should there be a limit to free speech?

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.

Randy Michael VAN CUREN

Alisha Louise EMBREE

DOB: 1978-03-13 178 cms, 67 kgs, Blonde hair, Blue eyes Warrants: Family court matters Breach of Probation Fail to appear Comox Valley file # 2015-3501 2014-16382

DOB: 1991-08-17 170 cms, 73 kgs, Black hair, Green eyes Warrants: Possession of property obtained by crime Failing to appear X2, Breach of Recognizance Comox Valley file # 2015-328 and others

www.comoxvalleycrimestoppers.bc.ca

The Charlie Hebdo massacre showed us that some would violently suppress freedom of speech.

Our Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms lists freedom of speech as a fundamental right. What do you think? Do people have the right to say whatever they want, or should there be a limit? If there should be a limit, who should set it, and how?

Come to the Philosophers’ Café as David R. Clark Q.C., former Attorney General of New Brunswick, helps us explore this difficult question.

Once a month a speaker will introduce a theme to the Café, and then all who attend can join in respectful, non-partisan conversation, or just sit back and listen. You are welcome to

and attention and given a 24 hour driving prohibition. (2015-5017) Police received a report of a Mischief to picnic tables at the Cumberland Elementary school on Ulverston Avenue over the week-end. Several racial slurs were written on the tables and a window was smashed. (2015-5117) - RCMP Comox Valley

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David R. Clark Q.C., former Attorney General of New Brunswick propose topics and introduce them at future Cafés. Themes should be of broad interest and national significance, and have an element of controversy

to them.

As with each Café, David Clark will have just 10 minutes to introduce the topic, and then the floor is open for 50 minutes of moderated discussion.

Note that we are moving. The philosophers wish to thank Quality Foods for making meeting space available for the Café. Now that we have outgrown that space, we thank the Berwick Comox Valley for opening their doors for us.

When: Wednesday, May 6, 7:00-8:00PM Cost: Free Location: Berwick Comox Valley, community room 1700 Comox Ave, Comox, BC V9M 4H4 More Info: peter@peterschwarzhoff.ca

Help support CV Multicultural Society by attending the "Impressive Dance from Taiwan" on Friday, May 1st at the Florence Filberg Centre tickets available at Laughing Oysters Book Store.

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 1, 2015

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Lobster Boil to help Syrian refugees

BY VAL MACDONALD Special to the Echo Here is a unique invitation: come out to a Lobster Boil on June 6th and help save the lives of a young Syrian refugee couple and their two toddlers who are fleeing the atrocities of ISIS in Syria.

For just $50 per ticket, you will be treated to a full buffet prepared by Chef Matt MacDonald, including clam chowder, a whole lobster, and a spread of sumptuous hot and cold dishes, finishing off with fresh strawberry shortcake.

Great music will be provided by a variety of groups: Fiddlejam, Richard Caissie, and the band, Flying Debris.

Salish Sea Foods has donated an oyster bar, plus there will be a cash bar and silent auction.

How did this odd pairing come about? Lobster and Syrian refugees?

The idea was the brain child of the Comox Valley Refugee Support Committee, a small but dedicated and diverse group of humanitarians which has come together to carry on the Comox Valley’s long history of being an extraordinary commu-

nity of caring, welcome, and compassion.

Funds are needed to sponsor the Darwish family to come to Canada from Algeria, where they have managed to flee.

Committee member, Caron Mulgrew, proposed a “Maritimes-style, down home, grassroots Lobster Boil. East Meets West.

Nothing ostentatious, just the kind of gathering where you chow down on lobster, wear a lobster bib and then toss out the tablecloth at the end. Everyone has to experience this at least once!”

Caron’s enthusiasm stems from the fact that her husband, Darren, personally knows the young Syrian family, as he worked in the oilfields of Syria with the father, Yasser Darwish, before ISIS invaded.

The CV Refugee Committee, a constituent group under the auspices of Settlement Agreement Holder, the Diocese of Vancouver, has been approved to sponsor this family through Canada Immigration and Citizenship (CIC).

The committee also hopes to help at least two other Syrian families who are still trapped in Syria

Some of the members of the Comox Valley Syrian Refugee Support Committee prepare to launch their June 6th Lobster Boil. From left to right: Val Macdonald, Dave Talbot, Laura Miller, Sue Rambow, Eric Macdonald, Caron Mulgrew, Linda and Tom Doyeland, and Ralph Rambow.

Tickets for the Lobster Boil are $50 each and are now on sale at Christ

the King church office, Laughing Oyster Books, and Red Carpet Consignment. All proceeds go toward the resettlement of a young Syrian refugee family of four to the Comox Valley in the near future.

Photo credit: Darren Mulgrew

and are, therefore, not able to be recognized as refugees by the United Nations (UNHCR) at present.

The CV Refugee Support Committee has committed to raise at least $40,000 in order to fully support this young family for a minimum of one year, as part of the government of Canada’s Syrian refugee program

are being processed in Paris.

Tickets to the June 6th Lobster Boil at Christ the King Church (1599 Tunner Drive in Courtenay) are $50 each and are now available at the church office Mon.- Fri. 8 am noon and 1 - 3 PM, as well as at the Laughing Oyster Bookstore on 5th St. in Courtenay, and Red Carpet Consignment at the

(in which Canada has agreed to take 10,000 Syrian refugees, a small percentage of the 10 million Syrians displaced by the war).

To date, almost half of the needed funds have been raised locally through charitable donations and fundraising.

The Darwish family may arrive as early as this summer as their papers

corner of Anderton and Comox Ave. in Comox.

Charitable donations may be made through Christ the King Church or www.CanadaHelps under “Comox Valley Refugee Committee”.

Members of the public who would like to help the committee are encouraged to contact Caron at mulgrewd@shaw.ca for more information.

Cumberland council votes to give itself a raise

BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff Cumberland council has voted to give itself a four percent pay increase every year for five years. That includes a one per cent cost of living increase in 2015.

“It’s always difficult when it’s going to benefit you, to make that decision,” said Mayor Leslie Baird.

“But there comes a point where it needs to be made.”

This will allow staff to bring forward an

amendment to the 2016 - 2019 as well as the current financial plan, since pay increases are currently capped at 2% hikes each year.

One third of the remuneration is considered an expense allowance to cover incidental costs, like travel.

Every year the remuneration is increased alongside the BC cost of living.

In 2015 the increase was set at 1 per cent.

In 2014 there was no increase (although in 2013 it was a 1.1% increase).

Right now Cumberland, which had

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3,398 residents according to the 2011 Census and a $4 million budget last year, pays Mayor Leslie Baird $14,862 (including 1/3rd expense allowance) and $7,989 to councillors (including 1/3rd expense allowance). Bowen Island has a population of 3,402 and a $6.6 million budget, with the mayor there getting $21,961 and councillors getting $10,980 each year.

Courtenay has a population of 24,099 and a $31.7 million budget, with Mayor Larry Jangula getting $50,432 and councillors getting $21,676.

That’s compared with Comox, which has a 13,627 population, a $10.9 million budget, where Mayor Paul Ives gets $31,252 and councillors get $16,734.

In Pemberton, which has a population of 2,369 and a $4 million budget, pays the mayor there $25,806 and councillors $12,903 (all census figures from 2011 and all other figures from 2014).

The raise means by 2019 the mayor would get $18,255.76 and councillors would get $9,813.30, according to staff figures.

4

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 1, 2015

Cumberland’s ‘Legendary’ debate One word sparks lengthy argument about village sign

BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff The selection of a highway Welcome sign design has forced Cumberland to consider its identity and what image it wants to broadcast to the world.

A fault line appeared over the use of the word ‘legendary,’ the first such difference of opinion that has emerged since a new Village council was elected last November.

“You don’t hear me say this very often, but I strongly object to ‘legendary,’” said Coun. Gwyn Sproule, during a council meeting April 27, arguing against that particular feature more strongly than she has opposed anything in the past two years.

“Okay so sometimes I do hang out from young people form Cumberland, so I know that ‘legendary’ is seen as being cool. But it’s, I think, used inaccurately.”

Cumberland has been striving for a Welcome message they can place along the Inland Island Highway for about a decade. The Village has already earmarked $40,000 from development amenity funds to complete the next phase of the project and it looks like it’s really going to happen, and soon.

A staff report summarized public survey results on two different sign options. There was mixed support for colour choices

and some suggested the design could have been more creative. About 57 per cent of people preferred the asymmetrical option over the symmetrical one.

But the choice of the word ‘legendary’ came up time and again.

“The wording was one issue, and there’s not agreement for the wording,” said senior planner Judith Walker. “There was support for the use of the word ‘legendary.’ There was support for the use of the word ‘historic.’ ‘Welcome to’ was also suggested.”

Coun. Sproule wanted to make sure she gave the people against the word ‘legendary’ a voice, pointing out the word isn’t in the Village’s Official Community Plan.

“I’ve never heard of anybody mention ‘legendary’ once, you know, ever,” she said. “It’s not in our OCP. It’s not anywhere.

I haven’t even heard local people saying ‘We’ve moved to Cumberland because it’s legendary.’ It just came up for the first time with this sign.”

Coun. Jesse Ketler is most definitely in the opposite camp on this one, and she made that plain.

“I personally like the sign,” she said. “A lot of the comments are saying you’re focusing too much on the past and it’s not bringing very much of the present into this sign. I think having ‘legendary’

The wording on a Welcome sign has spurred furious debate in the Village in the wording is bringing it into the present a little bit more.”

To some extent whether or not the rest of the world sees Cumberland as a ‘legendary’ place isn’t really up to them.

A simple one-sentence explanation of the term was submitted to urbandictionary.com on April 1, 2009 by user Tenacious Faulker, describing it as an intensifier “added to any word to take it’s meaning to its highest power imaginable.”

Examples include “Legendary win,” “Legendary

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fail,” “Legendary awesomeness,” “Legendary weed” and “Legendary sex.”

Turn to the 2012 edition of Collins English Dictionary and you’ll find three definitions of the adjective, one of shows “legendary” can be equated with “notoriety” - something that could be seen as reminiscent of the Village’s past “Scumberland” identity they’ve largely moved beyond.

Dig deeper and you’ll learn it comes from the mid-16th century Medieval Latin legendarius - al-

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I’ve never heard of anybody mention ‘lendary’ once, you know, ever. It’s not in our OCP. It’s not anywhere. I haven’t even heard local people saying ‘We moved to Cumberland because it’s legenday’. It just came up for the first time with this sign.”

GWYN SPROULE Cumberland Councillor

though this itself traces its etymology to a noun meaning a “collection of legends.”

The modern day mythmakers inside PR offices and in home businesses have begun using the word to sell Cumberland and the broader Comox Valley already.

On the Mount Washington website you’ll read about “legendary powder stashes” and “legendary 10.5 metres of annual snowfall” - something that certainly seems a bit mythical this year.

The term has been picked up by kayaking and skiing websites to promote getaways in the Comox Valley.

Last year’s Foggy Mountain Fall Fair in the Village was promoted by organizers as a free community collaboration that celebrates “Harvest, Heritage, Trees, Trails and Traditions in Legendary Cumberland.”

An Airbnb accommodation called the Cumberland Getaway advertises itself as a “vacation rental accommodation in Cumberland, steps away from the historic downtown and legendary mountain biking of Cumberland, BC.” In an interview Shred Kelly vocalist Sage McBride, unprompted, referred to the Waverley Hotel as having a reputation as a “legendary” venue among touring musicians.

(Continued on page 5)

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 1, 2015

5

What you need to know about oral cancer and HPV Free oral cancer screenings offered locally on Saturday The Comox Valley Dental Hygiene Society is offering Free Oral Cancer Screenings to the public May 2, 2015 from 10am - 3pm in Courtenay and

Campbell River. Special thanks to Dr. Paul Helpard who is providing us with a clinical setting at Shoreline Orthodontics in both communities. Loca-

‘Legendary’ debate in village (Continued from page 4) On Wednesday, March 25, 2015, union officials at UNIFOR Local 433 announced they were helping filmmaker Neil Vokey complete Goodwin’s Way, a documentary “about legendary labour hero Ginger Goodwin and his legacy in the Cumberland area.”

Whenever the Village eventually makes its decision staff can finalize the design and get quotes from developers.

But Coun.

Sproule pointed to marketing materials that could create confusion if Cumberland went with “legendary” over another option, referring to White Spot Restaurants, which introduces itself as “a British

Columbia legend.”

Coun. Sean Sullivan said it was difficult to endorse one of the proposed sign options and said he recognized the differences of opinions that exist in the Village.

“There’s so many disagreements throughout town withal these comments,” he said, adding, “I don’t mind ‘legendary.’”

Coun. Sproule tried to make sure a vote on the wording was only allowed to proceed if there was total consensus. The there was no seconder.

She tried a second motion and that stalled too.

In the end the council members came together in a unanimous vote to defer the issue until Coun.

Roger Kishi returns.

tion in Courtenay--1520 Cliffe Ave, Suite 100; in Campbell River-- 520 2nd Ave, Suite 200.

Funding for this project is provided by the Comox Valley Dental Hygiene Society and a grant from the British Columbia Dental Hygienists’ Association.

There are two distinct pathways by which people tend to be diagnosed with Oral Cancer. One is through the use of tobacco and alcohol, which is the long-term historic problem and cause.

The other is through exposure to HPV --Human Papilloma Virus--which is the most commonly transmitted sexual virus in the US and likely the world.

HPV oral cancers and tobacco/alcohol oral cancer produce very different signs and symptoms and the treatment for each type of cancer is different as well.

HPV is the leading cause of oropharyngeal cancers (the area at the back of your mouth/throat and the base of you tongue. There are nearly 200 strains of HPV. HPV #16 is the version most responsible for oropharyngeal cancers

affecting males and females. Incidentally HPV #16 is also responsible for 95% of cervical cancers in women. MOST at risk for oropharyngeal cancers are white, nonsmoking males in their 30-40’s, 4 to 1 over females--the reason for this is poorly understood.

HPV Oral Cancer Signs and Symptoms may include: -Difficult or painful swallowing -Persistent sore throat or hoarse voice -A painless lump felt on the out side of the neck which has been present for over 2 weeks -An ear ache on one side (unilateral) which persists for more than a few days Tobacco/Alcohol Signs and Symptoms (which may also be advanced signs of an HPV cancer) may include: -An ulcer or sore in the mouth that does not heal within 2-3 weeks -Swelling or lump in the mouth -A numb feeling in the mouth or lips with no known explanation -White or red patch on the tongue or soft tissues of the mouth Having regular oral can-

cer screenings is key to early detection of possible problems. These can be performed by a medical doctor, dentist, or dental hygienist.

Who should be screened? All adults, especially if you don’t see an MD or dentist regularly.

Screenings are quick, easy and painless, further information about Oral Cancer,

HPV and Smoking cessation will be provided at the screenings.

To book an appointment time please contact Monica: cvd h s o c i e t y @ g m a i l . com or 250-334-0669.

Drop-ins welcome.

- CVDH Society. Information for this article was sourced from the Oral Cancer Foundation (USA)

Free sessions to get ready for emergency Comox Fire Rescue is offering FREE “Neighbourhood Emergency Preparedness Program” (NEPP).

Experience has shown that after a disaster, it may take three or more days for emergency services to reach many of the neighbourhoods and individuals. The NEPP program is designed to provide information, training and skills necessary for individuals and neighbourhoods to be self-sufficient after a disaster.

NEPP programs are scheduled at the Comox Fire Station on Friday,

May 8, at 1 pm Friday, May 22, at 10 am and on; Friday, June 26, 2015, at 10 am. Sessions are free.

Contact the Comox Community Centre at 250-3392255 to register.

Emergency Preparedness Week in B.C., May 3-9, offers a perfect time to prepare.

The Comox Valley Emergency Program is offering free Personal Emergency Preparedness sessions on Monday, May 4 from 1-3 pm and 7-9 pm at 3001 Moray Ave. (next to Walmart). For the Moray sessions pleae call 250-334-8890 to register.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 1, 2015

CVRD wants the province to clean up Forbidden

BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff When a ski resort dies and the carcass that remains has rotted down to its skeleton, who is responsible for disposing of the bones? When it comes to the remains of the old Forbidden Plateau ski hill, the Comox Valley Regional District believes it’s the duty of the province to pay for the cleanup, since they own the land.

“The whole thing kind of disintegrated into the state it’s in now,” said Area C director Edwin Grieve.

“I just think it’s time we raise the awareness with the government to see if they can look into remediating and restoring the site.”

This history of the area runs deep, from stories of First Nations using the land as a strategic position to agricultural settlers moving in nearby. In the 1930s the first lodge was constructed and allowed people to access the vast natural bounty behind.

In 1946 an earthquake shattered the development in the area with a 7.3 wallop on the Richter

The old Forbidden Plateau ski day lodge before a heavy snowfall collapsed the roof scale.

Serious ski activity kicked off in the Comox Valley with the installation of lifts in 1949 for the establishment of Wood Mountain Ski Park.

The site faced more than a few serious challenges over the years. The ski hill peaked in popularity in the 1970s.

When Mount Washington came along and Forbidden Plateau faced a few warm seasons it went downhill fast.

Intense snowfall took out the roof to the day lodge in 1999, and the lifts

have been out of commission ever since. Fire also hit the remains of the day lodge.

Now often well below the snow line, plenty of travelers and community members have made the pilgrimage to the site over the years to examine the burned out buildings and orange chairs from the main lift.

But some are worried the place could be a death trap. If nothing else, it just looks bad, as far as local residents are concerned It’s an issue that Grieve has decided to take on

wholeheartedly.

After a number of folks in his jurisdiction reached out about the decaying lift machinery and graffitiedup concrete slabs, he agreed to take action.

“The property values in the area are being affected by the eyesore,” he said.

“There’s some potential hazards there.”

He wrote a letter to the regional district asking for support for a move to try to get the province to deal with the problem.

“The Class C provincial park “has become extremely unsightly with po-

What’s left of Forbidden ski area - an unsightly and dangerous mess tential environmental and public safety concerns and has been in this state since 1999,” he wrote.

On April 28 he got his wish, as the regional directors voted to support move to ask the province to approve funding for remediation of the area It’s something that

needs to be done “as soon as possible,” according to Grieve.

“It can’t really continue in its current state,” he said, adding he’s not sure the province is aware about the need to clean up their property.

“I think it’s kind of important.”

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MAY 1, 2015

Honouring those who died from workplace injuries

BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff About 75 people attended a National Day of Mourning ceremony for those who have died from work-related causes, held at the Courtenay Fire Hall April 28. Mayor Larry Jangula said each one of the deaths represents too great a sacrifice.

“We never expect that when we go to work we might not come home, or that we might get hurt,” he said. “Workplace safety has come a long way over the years. But the risk is still there.”

Patrick Olsen, regional prevention manager for WorkSafeBC in Courtenay, reminded attendees that last year 173 workers died in BC workplaces 98 died from occupational diseases.

City CAO David Allen highlighted a recent accident in Edmonton where a man was submerged in a full load of sand, in a

reflection on how serious things can happen to public works staff.

“We imagine what that might be like if it happened in our community with any of our workers,” he said. “Obviously it’s a great concern.”

During his address Jangula said his years on a prairie grain farm growing up, and later with the RCMP, taught him about just how real some of these concerns can be.

“I was fortunate never to have been seriously injured on the job with the RCMP,” he said. “Not all of my colleagues were so fortunate.”

David Craven, CUPE 556 unit vice president, reflected on how the canary was once used as a rudimentary method of keeping miners safe.

He also remembered his brother’s unit chief Jo-Ann Fuller and partner Ivan Polivka who died in a 2010 single vehicle accident in Tofino.

About 75 people attended the National Day of Mourning.

“I would like you all to remember those two paramedics today,” he said.

Don Bardonnex, Courtenay’s fire chief decried the fact that last year workplace deaths and occupational injuries were up 35 per cent from the year before.

“It’s staggering to think that last year in British Columbia the average number of workers that were killed due to injuries on the job or occupational injuries was over three - every week,” he said. “That’s simply unacceptable.”

After observing a few moments of silence everyone went outside to watch the flag-lowering ceremony.

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After a number of public addresses attendees went outside to witness the lowering of the flag ceremony.

7

8

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 1, 2015

Valley grieves for Gallipoli As a child in Sydney, Australia, Cathy Kaardal celebrated Anzac Day with her family.

After an early morning ceremony, the neighbourhood would join the whole country in recognition of a nation-changing event.

Exactly one hundred years ago, on 25 April 1915, the combined forces of Australia and New Zealand landed at Gallipoli on the coast of Turkey.

Pinned down until almost Christmas, the men died by the thousand.

Forces from Britain, France, India, Newfoundland, and the Turkish army all suffered dreadful losses.

Heat, hunger and the smell of death combined with the fragrance of wild rosemary as two countries, once colonies, were forged into independent nations.

On April 25 of this year, Anzac Day Centennial ceremonies were held across the world.

At the local event, held in Comox Mall, Cathy remembered playing TwoUp. This special game, which

resented by Padre Bernie Thompson and local resident Lucas Evans, told stories of his recent Anzac Days in Queensland.

Specially made ANZAC biscuits were available.

These biscuits are made from a recipe devised a century ago to provide nutrition to the Anzac troops. The biscuits had to last two months on the slow voyage from Australia to Turkey.

“I know they are called cookies here,” laughed Cathy. “But on this one day they are definitely bis-

cuits!”

Organized by Lewis Bartholomew and hosted by the HMCS Alberni Museum and Memorial, the event was appreciated by both visitors from Australia and local residents with Anzac connections.

A showing of the movie Gallipoli, starring Mel Gibson, provided a relevant conclusion to the afternoon.

It is anticipated that an Anzac ceremony will be held next year.

- Submitted by Alana Gowdy

Former mayor George Cochrane dies

A traditional wreath of poppies and rosemary displayed at the Centennial Remembrance Ceremony for the Battle of Gallipoli and Anzac Day. uses two coins and a stick, is played only on Anzac Day. She emphasized the celebration of ‘mateship’, the renowned supportive friendship shared by

Australian men, a country whose early settlement days were dominated by a largely male population.

In an event that was both moving and enter-

taining, the national anthems of Canada, New Zealand and Australia were led by Maori singer, Shayne Stuchbery.

CFB 19 Wing was rep-

George Cochrane chatting with friends at Courtenay’s centennial party on Jan. 1, 2015

Word came Wednesday that former Courtenay mayor and long-time councillor, George Cochrane, had died that morning in Victoria hospital.

Mr. Cochrane served on city council from 1972 to 1982, taking over as acting mayor when Bill Moore died, and later that year being elected to the position.

He was a member of the provincial champion basketball teams from Cumberland 1949-1952.

He later served as a teacher and administrator at Vanier Secondary.

More to come in next Tuesday’s Echo.

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 1, 2015 celebrate the contributions of all the people who have helped out over the years.”

Costco donated a good chunk of the food and Strathcona Sunrise Rotary flipped wieners, persevering as the rain came and went.

It’s not hard to see why CVCDA has garnered such a positive reputation even beyond the borders of the Comox Valley.

“We figure we’ve probably helped 25,000 people in forty years in the community,” Schroeder said.

“A lot of people have been connected to the organization over the years.”

Mary Ruth Harris, a board member and host of go! Island with Shaw TV, said it’s been a pleasure to serve with CVCDA. “It’s the most rewarding volunteer experience I’ve ever had in my life,” she said.

“Being part of an organization that provides services for more than 800 families in the Comox Valley is extraordinary.

“That’s the only word that comes to mind.”

Lorraine Aitken, the former CVCDA executive director, attended the ceremony and was more than excited by what she saw.

“Everything is so vi-

9

brant and strong,” she commented. “It’s very satisfying to know that everything is rolling right along.”

Because no matter how much success the organization has enjoyed - not to mention bestowed on many a family in the community - there is never time to rest on its laurels.

Administrators are working on another big goal - implementing the Early Years Centre Project, as it seeks to improve how families access services.

(Continued on page 10)

Joanne Schroeder, executive director of the Comox Valley Child Development Association, serves board member Mary Ruth Harris a piece of celebratory cake.

Big 4-Oh luncheon held at Child Development Association Organization has helped 25,000+ during its lifetime

BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff It was a chance for celebration and reflection as the Comox Valley Child Development Association held its 40th anniversary get-together April 23. The group has selflessly served

the community and made unfathomable changes in the lives of many residents, but even in honouring their own achievement executive director Joanne Schroeder spread the love around.

“We are celebrating our 40th birthday in part-

nership with our neighbours Pacific Care who are celebrating their 25th birthday,” she said, before emphatically commending those who have made CVCDA’s work such a powerful force. “Having this event is really great because it allowed us to

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10

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 1, 2015

40th birthday (Continued from page 9)

St. John Ambulance welcomes four new Therapy Dogs. Recently qualified are, left to right, “IndY’, a Keeshond, “Emilee’ a Standard Poodle, “Blue, a Short-coat Collie and “Chay” a Great Pyrenees - but they could be “mixes” as well! Dogs are tested for temperament, obedience and socialization before being permitted to work with seniors and high school children. They must prove themselves and then pass additional tests

THANK YOU!

to work with elementary and preschool children. St. John Ambulance Comox Valley has some three dozen teams working at six seniors’ facilities, seven schools and the psychiatric ward at St. Joseph’s Hospital. Therapy Dog teams contributed 5,555 hours of community service in 2014 and are on track to equal or beat that total this year.

This action plan includes 10 satellite locations around the Comox Valley, made possible through partnerships with public health, School District 71, the Military Family Resource Centre, Aboriginal Head Start and Comox Valley Family Services.

Loved ones of kids under six years old who require supports as they develop will have an easier time getting the help they need.

The organization is already planning for its Nov. 1st telethon, getting ready for its next 40 years.

We have rock stars on our stage and in our community. These local businesses generously support our mandate as an arts organization.

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A storyteller, musician, and poet, McLeod performs literature in many different guises. “This show is simply brilliant.” – CBC. His band, indie-folk collective The Fugitives, join him for the second half. “The four part vocals are sensational…each of the Fugitives has the talent, voice, charisma to front their own band.” – Edmonton Sun OUR 2014 - 2015 SEASON FINALE!

SAVE THE DATE!

Our Annual General Meeting will take place on JUNE 19, 2015. We’ll be celebrating our past year of operations with delightful appies and special performances by Erica Sigurdson and Cheesecake Burlesque Revue. Plus you’ll get a sneak peek at the 2015 - 2016 Blue Circle Series!

Phone 250.338.2430 ext 1

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Hornby Blues Odyssey 2015 | May 9 Tidesmen Chorus Mother’s Day Concert | May 10 Triple Heat Dance FX - Inspire & Impact | May 21 - 23 Laurie Tinkler Dance Explosion 2015 | May 28 & 29 Valley Dance Centre’s Dance Mix 2015 | June 3 - 6 Brian Kruse School of Dance’s Dulcet | June 12 & 13

Ticket Centre hours: Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 4pm Open 1 hour prior to show time

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 1, 2015

11

ECHO

OPINIONS

LETTERS

Last chance to speak on Lorne Hotel site Next Tuesday, if you are a Comox resident, it is important to attend the Public Hearing about the proposed development of the old Lorne Hotel site.

So much depends on this decision by council, not just the Lorne site but the future direction of downtown Comox development (the Legion may be next).

Council members need the public to let them know how to vote. Do you like the proposed development for the Lorne site or not? This is the final vote. If you don’t show up, council takes it that you accept the proposal as it is. If you are opposed to the plan, write and attend the meeting.

Only strong opposition would stop the project I was told even though the majority of people attending the Open House on the project last December were opposed to the proposal.

The meeting starts at 7:00 pm, Tuesday May 5 in the Comox Community Centre, 1855 Noel Avenue.

It is also very important to submit your written comments by email (council@comox.ca), fax (250-339-7110) or by hand (Town Hall, 1809 Beaufort Ave.), to arrive before 4 pm Tuesday May 5. Earlier is better so that councillors have time to read them.

Your written submission MUST be addressed to “Mayor and Council”. It MUST identify the bylaws

in the subject line: “Bylaws 1791 and 1792” (re 5 storey proposal at 1770 Comox Avenue - Lorne). It MUST include the name and address of the person making the submission.

Send your letters and attend the meeting. You can be part of creating a downtown that appeals to you, Comox Valley residents and tourists - something that would also be good for businesses. But we need to get it right.

A hodgepodge of buildings is not the answer. We need a solid design concept that makes downtown Comox exciting and lively.

I believe we can do it with good public input and planning.

I would like to see Comox hold a charette, like many municipalities do, where the community is asked for their ideas for creating a successful, vibrant downtown.

This is used to create a vision and plan that makes it easier for the Town and developers to know what is needed and would make passing future projects easier.

Lawrence Buser Comox

Circulation Manager Hedi MacDonald

The original American designed and built P80 was designated as the Shooting Star. A re-design of the aircraft including enlarged tandem cockpit and reconfigured tip tanks resulted in the Lockheed T-33. Licensing of this aircraft design to Canada and the addition of the more powerful Nene 10 engine as well as a few other changes resulted in the Canadair T-33 Silver Star.

The T-33 Silver Star was Canadian built; it was flown by handsome young/old Canadian pilots with big watches and bigger ambitions, who were often accompanied by grizzled old electronic warfare officers or training pilots with good survival instincts.

The Silver Star was maintained by incredibly ingenious, hardworking maintenance staff with a gift for scrounging parts to make the system work.

These Canadian airmen and women when they weren’t flying or fixing airplanes spent their free time playing hockey or ice fishing in the True North strong and free. It’s a Canadian thing, eh - and so is the Silver Star.

Ryan “Yogi 24” LaPalm 414 EW Sqn

Production Manager Ryan Getz

HONOUR TO HOST CEREMONY

SILVER, NOT SHOOTING, STAR The April 24 edition of the Echo is mistaken in referring to the T33 captured in the stain glass presentation in the Comox Terminal as a “Shooting Star.”

COMOX VALLEY ECHO A division of Black Press Ltd.

407-E Fifth Street, Courtenay, B.C. V9N 1J7 www.comoxvalleyecho.com Phone 250-334-4722 • Fax 250-334-3172 Classifieds 1-866-415-3535 Circulation 250-334-4734 E-mail: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com Publisher Dave MacDonald Editor Debra Martin Advertising Manager Keith Currie Office Administrator Deb Fowler

The Comox Valley Echo is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body governing the province’s newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about the conduct of member newspapers. Directors oversee the mediation of complaints, with input from both the newspaper and the complaint holder. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the B.C. Press Council. Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent to B.C. Press Council, PO Box 1356, Ladysmith, B.C. V9G 1A9. For information, phone 1-888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org. All original content in this publication is copyright material belonging to Black Press. Any re-use or reproduction without the expressed, written consent of the copyright owner is strictly prohibited.

On 25 April our museum was host to the first annual North Vancouver Island Anzac Day service as well as the commemoration for the centennial of the Battle of Gallipoli.

The ceremony, attended by locals and visitors from other nations, proved to be a very successful event and a wonderful addition to our Days of Remembrance we host at HAMM throughout the year. (Our sincere apologies to those who had to stand when we ran out of chairs.)

It was indeed an honour to create an event which means so much to those in our community who have Ozzie or Kiwi ties and see the local support from Canadians who came to pay homage to the Australian and New Zealand Forces who have served so proudly alongside of our own Canadian Forces for the past 100 years. And yes, there were even a few Newfies in attendance to honour the service and sacrifice of the Newfoundland-Labrador soldiers who served beside the Anzac at Gallipoli during the Great War. It couldn’t have happened however without the wonderful contribution from those who told stories for our minds, baked Anzac Biscuits for our stomachs and sang songs for our hearts.

Of special note we want to thank 19 Wing Padre Thompson, Captain John Cowan C.S.C. R.A.N (Australia), Matthew Rennie; Royal New Zealand Returned and Services Association (Wellington, NZ), Branch 160 (Comox) Royal Canadian Legion, BerwickComox Valley, and Les

Spilsbury.

Lewis Bartholomew Executive Director The Alberni Project - HMCS Alberni Museum and Memorial Comox

AVOIDING GE FOODS The recent event at the Filberg, with Dr. Vrain explaining the health impacts of Genetically Engineered foods and resultant use of the herbicide glyphosate, (trade name, Round Up), was a real wake up call for me. And I’ve been a greenie a long time.

I knew there were a few, but widely used, products with genetic engineering, most notably corn, soy, and canola oil in Canada. I had assumed by not buying hardly any processed foods, that I was pretty safe.

But I learned that glyphosate is increasing used as a desiccant, a drying agent, sprayed on many cereal crops just before harvest. That means wheat, flax, sorghum, oats, and more. And those crops aren’t even GE. OK, so back to plan number one, only buy organic, or better yet grow my own.

I wonder if I can buy locally grown oats and wheat??

Susan Holvenstot Courtenay

PRIVATE SURGERIES I wonder how many people have heard the news that Island Health (VIHA) has issued a Request for Proposals (RPF) to contract out up to 55,000 surgeries

to for-profit clinics on Vancouver Island over the next 5 years, ostensibly to reduce wait times.

Rather than spending our tax dollars to create profits for private clinic shareholders and their owners, why isn’t our provincial government building capacity in publicly-funded hospitals and creating outpatient surgical clinics.

North Vancouver’s “onestop” joint replacement assessment clinic and Mt. St. Joseph’s Hospital cataract and corneal transplant program have both dramatically reduced wait times within the public system.

Research shows that forprofit clinics charge the government more for these surgeries than they would cost in the public system.

Private clinics need to maximize their profits and so are more likely to cut corners, making them less safe than our public hospitals. As medical practitioners move from our cash-starved public system to for-profit clinics, waiting lists increase.

Publicly funded hospitals have allowed us to contain the cost of health care. No allowance has to be made for profits to be paid to clinic owners and shareholders.

This new policy of relying on for-profit clinics, rather than increasing capacity in our public system, will only increase the costs of health care to the taxpayer.

Kathie Woodley Courtenay

12 FRIDAY.MAY 1, 2015

www.comoxvalleyecho.com

BEEFS & BOUQUETS THE COMOX VALLEY’S FIRST AND BEST READER’S FORUM Email to: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com POOP BEEF to the person who walks their dog on Keeneland Avenue and uses blue poop bags: please do not put this crap in my empty garbage pail on Fridays. I keep my garbage pail in my garage and it starts to reek after a few days. Use your manners and put it in your own garbage. Stop it!

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A BEAUTIFUL BOUQUET to our wonderful audiences who came to the Evergreen Drama Club’s presentation “Picnic in 1915”, an original play written by local playwright Betty Annand to celebrate Courtenay’s 100th birthday. Your enthusiastic applauses were much appreciated.

REAL WORMS AND SLUGS to a select few garage salers who drop by the garage sale address a day or two in advance. They claim to be going out of town and won’t be around on the actual day of the sale. May I encourage garage salers not to fall for this line of bull. Also, hold to your opening time. If you say 8 am, please don’t give those arriving at 7 am the time of day! Let’s get garage sale-ing back to the fun and courteous event it was!

RE: 1915 PICNIC PLAY Thursday night. MY HUMBLE APOLOGIES to the cast and crew, also to the audience, on the disruption when I fainted and brought the play to a halt. Many thanks to the nurse and my friends for their care and prayers for me. Also the ambulance attendants and the emergency care at the hospital - many thanks. Only in Canada eh? Sorry, sorry for all the commotion.

www.nic.bc.ca

A LOVELY BOUQUET to the volunteers/parents of the Port Augusta Sea Cadets.

For many of you, you’ve been a beacon of support to the many boy and girl cadets for a long time. For the recent volunteers ... “keep up the great work!” Your time volunteering is much appreciated.

A HUGE BEEF to those who made a decision that it’s okay to waste our valuable non-renewable resource, WATER!; and to let the river flow to accommodate a few people in kayaks! Really? If they want white water, perhaps kayak in November or December? Who said we have a good snowpack and we have enough to allow the gates to open in May/June?

Idiot! There is no snowpack now and I doubt we’ll have one next month. When we’re asked to restrict our water usage in summer, you’ll look like the fool.

A BEAUTIFUL BOUQUET of flowers to all the city workers who do such an amazing job with maintaining all the flowers and plants around Courtenay and Comox! Whenever I am at a stop sign or traffic light and see the beautiful colours of flowers displayed, I remember the advice of not rushing through life and to always, “stop and smell the flowers”. Thank you.

BAGS OF INGRATITUDE to those young (and sometimes not so young) drivers who seem to have forgotten their etiquette in busy traffic. Several times in the last few weeks I have let drivers go ahead of me or let them sneak in front of me when they are trying to merge into traffic. I have noticed that most of the older drivers give a wave of ‘thanks’ and appreciation of sharing the road. However, four times in this last while when letting young drivers (some with their ‘N’ on their cars) ahead of me there was absolutely no appreciation or etiquette shown. They just screeched in front like it was expected. Please remember that a small nod, or wave of thanks goes a long way to having us all get along in busy traffic.

A BIG BOUQUET to Stefan and Bella Fan both who are new to Canada. They both were willing to help me clean-up my backyard.

They were so helpful and

did all the work themselves.

I really appreciated their help and my wish for them is many happy adventures in this land of ours.

BOUQUETS OF SUNSHINE to the gentleman that handed in my wallet to the staff at John’s Independent Store. I believe you also stopped me on the street - were driving red pick-up and asked if I had lost it ... indeed I thought it was safe in my car but I had lost it - you checked my driver’s licence pic recognized me - impressive. I was able to enjoy my daughter’s first day back from college and not have to deal with the stress of a lost wallet because of your kindness. Thank you so much and the staff at John’s :) A HUGE BOUQUET to the many individuals and local businesses we dealt with when we recently put on a retirement function. To Gillian & Pat at the Courtenay & District Museum, your knowledge and approachability was greatly appreciated. To Lena, Paul and staff from the Beez Kneez Catering Company, your wiliness to be so flexible and the fabulous spread you put on was amazing. To Terra, Tracey, Pat & Karen who volunteered to run the bar from Vancouver Island Mountain Sports Society, thank you for your professionalism and doing such a great job and to Tammy & Robyn from Always Invited, the rentals were perfect.

Great to live in a Community with such wonderful people and businesses!

I HAVE A BEEF with all customers who think they can treat customer service people with little or no respect at all. Have you considered what we have to deal with in a day? We deal with money being thrown at us, no please or thank you, no answer when we ask you a direct question, talking on your cell phone when we’re trying to ask you questions to get you on your way and

then we get told that we are rude or that we should drop everything to handle your request when we have several people waiting in line to be served. Do you know that most of us are not ignorant or stupid people, we are teachers, nurses, office managers, etc. that can’t find work in our chosen fields and to support ourselves and our families have had to take what is offered out there. May I make a suggestion? - next time you are dealing with a customer service individual that you take a moment to consider how you would feel if you were on the other side of that counter and how you would deal with what we have to handle daily. If you need something done in a special way PLEASE ASK US BEFORE we start packing it, we are not mind readers (at least not all the time) that way you get what you want and we get you and others thru the line up quickly and everybody is happy. A little respect, a please or thank you can go a long way to getting you what you want and on your way and keep the line moving.

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Sat, May 2

Meat Draw and Dancing 2pm - 5pm

Tue, May 5

Euchre 1:30pm Mixed Pub League Darts 7:30pm

Wed, May 6 Drop in Darts 1pm Thu, May 7

Crib and Gucci 6:30pm & Men's League 7:30pm

Fri, May 8

Crib and Gucci 6:30pm Friday Night Meat Draw

Sat, May 9

Meat Draw + Dance

WITH THE SPECTRE of water shortages in the years to come I wonder why the town of Comox doesn’t consider rock gardens with succulents instead of grass and sprinklers when they have new areas to plant specifically at the corner of Guthrie and Torrence at the moment. How about xeriscaping from now on - it doesn’t require grass cutting either and that would provide a further saving.

I WOULD LIKE TO SEND a big bouquet to Dr. Colleen Clancy and her staff for taking such good care of my teeth. I appreciate the high level of care and quality of work. Thank you!

A RIVER OF ROTTING SALMON to BC Hydro for the dumb decision to release millions of (Continued on page 13)

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FRIDAY.MAY 1, 2015

13

BEEFS & BOUQUETS (Continued from page 12) litres of Comox Lake water to please a handful of thrill seeking kayakers in a year of lowest-ever snow pack and forecast of a dry summer. It’s not the fact that the Valley will be on Stage 3 restrictions for most of the summer, but Hydro is jeopardizing the summer and fall salmon runs and other fish in the Puntledge because there will be an insufficient flow of lake water to keep the river cool and oxygenated enough for the survival of fish in the river or needing to enter the river to spawn.

Hydro is gambling with a precious and, perhaps, irreplacable resource.

HUGE THANK YOU to Ryan at the Great Canadian oil change at the corner of Cliffe Ave. and 29th street.

When my daughter’s car was still dirty after paying the top price before going through the touchless car wash, he explained why it didn’t come absolutely clean, and then let us go through the car wash again free of charge and used a long handled soft broom to scrub the car between cycles. What an awesome young man! We are telling our friends about how you went the extra mile with a smile on your face!

A BIT OF BOTH, but time for change. With recycling at a priority, my garbage is very minimal, time for a weekly pickup of the recyclables and bi-weekly for garbage.

I seldom have a worthwhile amount of garbage to pick up, where as I have up to 3 blue boxes full for the recyclable truck.

MANY COMOX VALLEY organizations are recipient of our local businesses’ donations.

It is a part of what makes our Valley such a wonderful community. The Courtenay Fish & Game is no exception and recently were the appreciative recipients of the generosity of George Castle of G C Tree Services and Rick Bracchi of Tireland. We thank them both.

When you have the need for their services of trees looked after or tires maintained or replaced, please acknowledge them for their generosity to the Fish & Game.

THE INTENT of the lobby group is not clear. Do they want laws to prohibit anything not organic to be allowed to be sold? Where will I buy my produce and milk? I purposely move past anything in the pro-

THE COMOX VALLEY’S FIRST AND BEST READER’S FORUM Email to: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com duce counters that says “organic”. Who says the items are organic, who verifies these products. What legal laws dictate what is meant by “organic’? Who polices this? I agree with Mayor Jangula that there are two sides to this issue. I find the whole thing is a fanatical approach to what is safe. I will still avoid anything that says “organic” until there is a lot more proof of dangerous products otherwise. Is this an indirect movement to get rid of dairy farms on Vancouver island? What do the milk producers say about this? Their industry is regulated and inspected!

LET’S SEE, last week I got to do Yamaha demo day at Courtney Motorsports, the FZ 900 was amazing. Then I got to watch the Snowbirds practising overhead in crystal clear blue skies. The topper was the F-18 pass overhead at speed. Boy were you loud, and awesome camo colour scheme. I’m grinning ear to ear now. Then got served a beer at the Whistle by Johnny, who’s always good for a laugh and a smile. To the Valley complainers, I don’t understand. The Comox Valley, best man cave ever.

THANKS TO EVERYONE who came to the Earth Week Feast. We had wonderful food, featuring fresh spring greens from our garden and nettles harvested in the area. Special thanks to LUSH Valley - Jessica, and Chantal, Julan, Bob, Susan, Christine, Lynn and some wonderful student helpers. We enjoyed celebrating with old friends and made some new ones. Quite a few people sent regrets due to illness - we hope you are all better soon and will join us next month. But we also have a lovely little pink raincoat left behind by one of our younger guests.

Please get in touch to claim. Email - or call 250897-1892.

THE BIGGEST, BRIGHTEST spring bouquet to the staff at St. Joe’s who have provided the best of care to me over the past month. Special thanks to the ER team, whose quick and accurate assessment started me on the treatment I needed without delay. Also, the nurses in Medical Daycare, who are the best at care and compassion. Your caring attitude and concern for my well-being is greatly appreciated. You guys rock!!

KUDOS to Bev, Broombuster extraordinaire, for all her efforts in organizing the broom clearing efforts in the Valley. I had a great sense of accomplishment (and a few sore muscles) after our first work bee.

There are many more opportunities for everyone to join in! GO TO http://www. broombusters.org/comoxvalley.html for info.

BE CAREFUL what you wish for when it comes to bylaw enforcement! You may be the victim. CVRD Directors may want to look at the 3 other local justifications before granting CVRD staff more powers to enforce bylaws. The very expensive Chum and Champ saga comes to mind ,as well as the attempted eviction of a trailer owner from his own property, on the Dyke. All local government’s have nuisance bylaws - why should the CVRD be different?

A VERY HUGE spring bouquet of thanks to Berwick Comox Valley, their staff and residents for their hosting of National Advance Care Planning Day workshops for members of our community. Berwick’s partnership with the Comox Valley Hospice Society encourages people in our community to have the conversation about end of life health issues if ever in a position when one is unable to speak for themselves.

Nearly 70 people attended on the day to hear about changes in the BC Legislation and steps to prepare their own Advance Care Plan. Warm gratitude to Berwick for their support and the use of their beautiful residence, Theatre and Community Room.

I LIVE IN COURTENAY and I am frankly getting tired of being dive-bombed by air force jets (Snowbirds) on a daily basis. It is at the point where this noise is disturbing my peace both indoors and out of doors. One never knows when the next fly-by will happen over my house.

I understand that hours of practice are required for air acrobatics and I appreciate the skills required to fly such complex formation.

This has been demonstrated adequately in the last two weeks.

As in all good things, moderation is the key. Now that we’ve all had our air show experience, could these practices not be relocated over the Georgia Straits or over less populated areas?

ROSES to the gentleman who offered me $3.00 to pay for my parking at St. Joseph’s when my credit card wouldn’t work. This happened around 3PM on Thursday, April 23rd, outside the Emergency Department. It was a random act of kindness and was much appreciated. I will be paying it forward.

A BOUQUET OF SMILES from the children at Cumberland Preschool (Comox Valley Children’s Day Care Society). A HUGE THANK YOU! for the Home Depot Community Improvements Grant that helped us build a play-yard fence.

IT SEEMS THAT THE CRVD is in a quandary as to how the different municipalities will be able to collect funds from tax payers for the homeless

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

program. I would suggest the Kiss method. With the yearly tax bills about to be sent out simply include a form with the questions already asked on the referendum with tick boxes so that taxpayers could indicate the level they would wish to contribute at, and a signature line. If it would be felt to be necessary it could be indicated that a failure to return the form would be used as consent to the $5 contribution. Expeditious, efficient, binding and infinitely democratic without the red tape and political nonsense.

THANK YOU ECHO for doing such a nice write-up on Tia Lawrence. We’ve known Tia and her mom for so many years that I remember Tia when she was healthy, active and full of so much energy. Please consider donating towards Tia’s Go Fund Me account. h t t p : / / w w w. g o f u n d m e . com/helpTiaNow#sthash. d7S4OjT4.dpuf THE BIGGEST, brightest, spring bouquet to the staff at St. Joe’s who have provided the best of care to me over the past month.

Special thanks to the ER team, whose quick and accurate assessment started me on the treatment I needed without delay.

Also, the nurses in Medical Daycare, who are the best at care and compassion.

Your caring attitude and concern for my well-being is greatly appreciated. You guys rock!

BOUQUETS of beautiful spring flowers to all those volunteers who selflessly gave up their Saturday morning to help with the spring clean-up on April 18th at St. Andrew’s Cemetery on Dingwall Road.

This is a huge job and St. John the Divine Anglican Church Cemetery Trustees are thankful for all the help offered by the community.

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!

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

14

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 1, 2015

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY. MAY 1, 2013

15 Mortgage Consulting

ECHO

EXTRA

CV Nature offers free public walk, with biologist, to controversial Stotan Comox Valley Nature will be offering a FREE Public Walk at Stotan Falls with well-known naturalist and Professional Biologist, Dr. Loys Maingon, (Riparian and wetland ecology specialist), on Saturday May 2, 9:30-12:00.

CVN is an entirely volunteer-driven non-profit, with no paid staff and does not charge for these public walks which have been freely offered for the past 5 years, to promote the conservation of our local regional parks and sites of ecological interest Situated at the spectacular confluent of the Browns River and the Puntledge River, Stotan Falls is a controversial local site whose riparian zones have been offered as a public park.

It is regularly used by the public in the summer.

It is home to very rich and interesting vegetation and wildlife year round. As many sites on east Vancouver Island, although the Stotan Falls area is a prime green space, it has a long - often forgotten- late

19th and early 20th century industrial history.

This is an opportunity to understand the site ecologically and historically.

Interested parties should either meet at Stotan Falls bridge (if they know the location) at 9:30 am.

Parties who do not know the location should meet at 9:00 am in front of The Old Church Theatre on Harmston Avenue, in Courtenay (across from the Courtenay Fire Hall).

This walk is expected to take about 2 hours. It’s open to people of all ages, and is part of CVN’s educational mandate and commitment to the Comox Valley’s environment.

The walk will follow 2 trails. A part of the trail has a short steep descent to the river, however the main trail is an old road bed.

Anyone interested in participating in CVN activities can also contact us at the website http:// comoxvalleynaturalist. bc.ca/ or Loys Maingon (CVN President) at 250331-0143.

Nicholas Frenette turns to Greek mythology, 14th century manuscripts and his own creative mind for inspiration.

Of Monsters and Mythology Nicholas Frenette’s artistic ingenuity aims to provoke and amuse

BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff Amid the wash of guitar chords and coffee shop vocals 27-year-old Nicholas Frenette looks up at the face of a middle aged man whose face he’s about to paint like a canvass.

“Come with me,” he says, bubbling with excitement when the brave soul gives him carte blanche with the design. “I can do your whole face?”

Frenette is participating in an event in advance of his Portraits: From Myth & Mind exhibit, which is set to open at the Gatehouse Gallery in Cumberland on May 1.

He’s been toiling away on his series of mythological creatures done up

in a striking style, but even his face painting is performed with surprising agility and verve.

The Moncton, NB native moved out to the West Coast to go to art school - something he’d been planning to do for a long time.

“I’ve always been an artist through and through,” he says while in the midst of another dark and mask-like face canvass, recalling his early thought process. “I’m not going to be anything else but an artist, so I’ll get that for an education.”

Well Emily Carr was definitely high-end art schooling, if a bit more “modern” than the young painter had bargained for.

“I like the aesthetic quality of picture making and creating things

that are sellable but also interesting and provocative,” he explains, contrasting his sensibility with that of the school’s less literal focus. “I’m a bit more traditional.”

Case in point, Frenette can’t help but turn to the pre-Raphaelite painters time and time again for muse-like artistic invigoration.

These late-19th century painters mimicked the Italian Renaissance while putting their own fairy tale twist on things, he describes.

Interestingly enough, he points to one example pre-Raphaelite characteristics that sounds like it has more in common with today’s Kardashian clan fixation and rap music leanings than with a dip into the past.

(Continued on page 16)

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16

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 1, 2015

You’re invited to Social Planning Society’s AGM The Comox Valley Social Planning Society is holding its 17th Annual General Meeting on Tuesday, May 12th, 2015, noon-1:30

at the Courtenay Quality Foods (upstairs meeting room) located in the Driftwood Mall.

The meeting will begin

with two presentations: The first presentation will be from the Comox Valley Community Foundation. Executive Direc-

Beaufort Vineyard and Estate Winery spends winter fixing up an old barn to provide an intimate little tasting spot Functional and funky, it opens to public May 14 The tasting room at Beaufort Vineyard and Estate Winery has been known by locals and out of town guests as an intimate little spot to try some great wines on a hot summer afternoon.

While wanting to preserve that cozy atmosphere, the Cameron Family proprietors, General Manager Mark Timmermans, and winemakers Susan and Jeff Vandermolen all felt that a little more space would go a long way.

So, while the vines have had the winter off, the rest of the crew at Beaufort have been working hard on a re-invention of the old barn at the back of the vineyard.

What used to be implement storage and cobweb central has become tasting room, winemaking, office, barrel room, and cellar.

General Manager Mark Timmermans says, “We used the same footprint, roofline, and interior configuration, as well as all salvageable wood from the original structure, so the feeling created in the new space is a great combination of old and new, rustic and comfortable, functional and funky.”

Coinciding with the opening of the new tasting room, is the release of the 2014 white wines that Beaufort has become so well known for.

The multiple award winning Ortega is tasting like

one of the best yet according to Susan Vandermolen. She says, “thanks to the long, hot summer in the Comox Valley in 2014, the Beaufort signature grape varietals like Ortega, Siegerrebe, and Schonburger had beautiful fruit and were harvested at the perfect times for excellent winemaking.”

The new tasting room opens for case club members on May 9th, and to the public on May 14th.

Beaufort Winery will be open through till the end of August on Thursdays through Saturdays from noon till 5.

More information about Beaufort Winery can be found at www.beaufort wines.ca.

tor, Rebecca Christie will introduce the group to the Vital Signs Reports that have been produced in other communities.

The CVC Foundation would like to partner with the CVSPS and other community groups to produce such a Report for the Comox Valley.

The second presentation will be about the Vancouver Island Community Investment Cooperative.

“Launched in the fall of 2014 through the aus-

pices of the Greater Victoria Community Planning Council, the intention of the Cooperative is to provide an investment vehicle for people wanting to support local projects with their investment dollars”, said presenter Pam Munroe.

“Money invested in the Co-Op will be used for projects on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands that build and manage supportive/affordable housing or provide loans

to entrepreneurs with socially responsible businesses”, she concludes.

Following the presentations the Annual General Meeting and election of officers will be held.

Everyone is welcome to attend. Light snacks will be served.

Please RSVP to <5779bunny@gmail.com> so we can plan accordingly.

For more information email that address or call 250-335-2003.

Of monsters and mythology (Continued from page 15) “I like the aethetics of their women, their nudes I find it’s one of the most pleasing ever,” he said.

“These women who look like they have a natural corset built into them.

They still have the nice voluptuous asses.”

His own take on the classics by way of aesthetically inclined Europeans creatives comes across as overtly expressive, inexplicably dreamy, deliciously bizarre and - if nothing else - brazen, though not in an uncouth fashion.

His show Portraits From Myth & Mind displays drawings from his imagination that reach into the past.

“There’s a little bit of mythology tied into most of them,” he says of the portraits. “Some of them are more related to the myths than others.”

This fits in well with his love of Baroque opera and his fascination with malleable storylines.

“I’m really fascinated with pretty much all aspects of Greek mythology,” he said. “I’m fascinated with the proposition

of the stories. I like the characters. I like the monsters.”

He’s rendered these visions in what he calls “a quirky little style that’s heavily influenced by manuscript illuminations from the 14th century” something that is sure to keep the minds of viewers active as they peer at the metallic shimmer of the paintings.

The Portraits: From Myth and Mind opening will take place May 1 at the Gatehouse Gallery at 3273 Third Street in Cumberland from 7-10 p.m.

PATIENTS OF DR. ALISON STOCKS

Sea Cove Medical Clinic

#201 -1757 Beaufort Ave, Comox, BC V9M IR8 I 250-339-5335L seacovemedicalclinic.com

Dear Patients: It is with great regret that I have to inform you that I will not be returning to work due to health issues.

However, I am very happy to be able to inform you that we have found two excellent Family Physicians who are excited to take half of my practice each. One you may have met already is Dr. Bonnie Bagdan, and the other is Dr. Jonathan Kerr, who is joining us from Ontario.

They will be starting this summer. Until then coverage will continue to be provided by Dr. Judith Hammond and Dr. Shannon Marshall, with help from Drs. Hemmerich, Ostry, and Brailey.

It is with sadness I leave my practice. I have enjoyed the privilege of being able to share some of your life journey with you. However, I have great confidence in Dr. Bagdan and Dr. Kerr, and it is a relief to me to Know you will be in capable hands. Yours, Dr. Alison Stocks, MD

“At this time Dr. Bagdan and Dr. Kerr will not be accepting NEW patients”

for all the details, go to

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Commissions, trailing commissions, management tees and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated. Rates and prices as of April 28. 2015 . Rates and prices subject to change and availability. RBC Dominion Securities Inc.* and Royal Bank of Canada are separate corporate entities which are affiliated. *Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund. RBC Dominion Securities Inc. is a member company of RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. ®Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. © 2015 Royal Bank of Canada. All rights reserved.

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Thanks again to the Volunteers and Directors of the Royal Lepage`s Snow to Surf, a good time was had by all !!!

www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MAY 1, 2015

17

Back to back Pinnacle Awards for Courtenay Toyota Comox Valley car dealership wins prestigious award two years in a row After celebrating their 32nd birthday, Courtenay Toyota received the Pinnacle Award from Toyota Canada for the 2nd year in a row.

The Pinnacle award is given to the dealership that achieves the highest score for Overall Customer Service and Satisfaction in both Sales and Service.

An individual award was also presented to Glenice Neal, who was one of the top product advisors for Customer Satisfaction in all of Canada.

Customer Satisfaction Surveys are collected through JD Power & Associates measuring the Sales and Service experience and Courtenay Toyota has consistently achieved a very high score on both sides of business operations.

“I couldn’t be more proud of the staff at Courtenay Toyota, winning this award for the second year in a row really reflects the culture we have created in our

dealership.

“We treat each customer with the nothing but the utmost respect and with the informative low pressure approach to sales and service we make sure they are a Toyota customer for life”, says Brian Rice, Dealer Principal of Courtenay Toyota.

The sentiment echoes down through the staff who takes great pride in making the sales and service experience unique to each customer.

“Our success is based on how well we can serve our customers, the great people of the Comox Valley. We live here, play here and want to make sure every single customer leaves the dealership with a positive experience, one that they will be proud to tell friends and family” adds General Manager Andrew Rice.

Courtenay Toyota is very active in giving back to the Comox Valley community with a variety of charitable initiatives including the Comox Valley

Christmas Drive Thru for Charity as well as supporting Sports Leagues, Arts and Culture, and various charitable initiatives.

Courtenay Toyota has been family owned and operated in the Comox Valley for over 32 years, come by and see what makes Courtenay Toyota stand alone when it comes to sales and service of your next vehicle.

Above: Pinnacle Award winners, L-R, Derek Rice, Andrew Rice, Brian Rice Left: L-R, Steve Watkins, National Mgr, Toyota Canada - Glenice Neal - George Hrvacanin, Field Consultant, Toyota Canada

TEXT YOUR TIP ANONYMOUSLY Text

CVCSTIPS To CRIMES

Tell us

Another successful Mountie Camp

what you know, not who you are.

TBGF t TFDVSF t BOPOZNPVT www.comoxvalleycrimestoppers.bc.ca

“We’re at the heart of things”

13TH ANNUAL BOYS & GIRLS GOLF TOURNAMENT FRIDAY, MAY 29TH, 2015

HOSTED BY CROWN ISLE RESORT AND GOLF COMMUNITY Registration beginning @ 11:00 am | Shotgun start @ 12:30 pm $125 per player or $500 team

SPONSORSHIP/DONATIONS Count your business as one of the valued supporters of this annual event!

Email rsmart@bgccvi.com or call 250-218-0904 to become a sponsor, a volunteer, or to donate an auction prize.

• Hole events and activities!

• All new high energy, fast pace auction and dinner hosted by 98.9FM The Goat.

The Comox Valley RCMP, in conjunction with School district 71, wishes to announce another successful Mountie Camp that would not have been a possibility without the continued support from our community partners.

Thirty - two local youths were able to experience a simulated police training camp known as Depot. Depot is the academy in Regina where all RCMP officers receive their training to become police officers. During the week of April 12 th-17th, the teens stayed at HMCS Quadra and all training was completed on Canadian Forces property. Students were woken up in the early morning hours every day to participate in an exercise of some sort, and up late some nights doing class work, marching or scenarios.

Mountie Camp is a joint effort between the Comox Valley RCMP, School District #71 and CFB Comox. Many community supporters are also required to make this venture successful as well and this year’s contributors were once again amazing.

Special thanks to the following: Comox Valley Crimes Stoppers Royal Canadian Legion branch #28 Royal Canadian Legion branch # 17 Plateau Temple No.7 – Pythian Sisters Royal Purple of Canada Knights of Columbus #4597 Drug strategy committee / City of Courtenay Rotary club of Courtenay – Afternoon 888 Komox Wing RCAFA Comox Valley Airport Commision Beta Sigma Phi Jordan Marshall at Hot Chocolates Thrifty Foods(Courtenay) Plates Eatery and Catering

Comox Valley, BC

To register a team or individual player for the tournament, or for more information contact BGCCVI, 250-218-0904 or email rsmart@bgccvi.com

“Thank you so much for the time and energy and support put into making this camp successful for the youth in the Comox Valley”.

18

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 1, 2015

BATTLE OF THE ATLANTIC

70th anniversary service Sunday Canada played a vital role keeping supplies moving to Britain The first Sunday in May each year commemorates the end of the Battle of the Atlantic, the longest, most unforgiving campaign of World War II. It is to those Sailors of the navy and merchant marine who sailed on the stern and unremitting waters of the Atlantic, into the dangers of the enemy that we owe so much today.

From September 3, 1939 through May 8, 1945 a continuous flow of war materials was maintained between North America and The United Kingdom by the convoy system. “Fast” convoys could cross the Atlantic in 13-14 days, while the slow convoys took 16-17 days.

Between the threat of enemy submarines, and the unpredictable weather of the North Atlantic, each trip could be a nerve wracking experience.

Many of the escort vessels were Corvettes, small vessels which, were said, would roll on a wet blotter, and were uncomfortable and often wet below decks.

In heavy seas, the mess decks where the crew lived could have several inches of water slopping around.

2082 Park Drive

This resulted in constantly wet clothing and bedding, (hammocks). Food was prepared in the galley aft and had to be carried forward along the open upper deck to the mess deck, forever resulting in cold meals.

Sailors of the Merchant navy faced many of the same perils as those of the Navy, but had their own problems, including sailing on ships full of high octane gasoline or ammunition. Some of the vessels used were not even designed for ocean crossing.

Although conditions were trying, these young men achieved results of which this nation can be proud. We should not allow the sacrifices of these young men to be forgotten. Without their contribution, the freedom that we take for granted could have been lost.

The Comox Valley Branch of the Royal Canadian Naval Association will participate in a service of remembrance at the Memorial Cairn in Marina Park, Comox, at 1:00 PM Sunday, May 03, 2015. The public is invited to attend.

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Courtenay Heritage Commission seeks new members Help shape heritage policy in the city Do you have a passion for heritage? The City of Courtenay Heritage Commission is looking for three new people to join its ranks.

The commission advises Courtenay City Council on heritage conservation matters, and participates in activities to honour and preserve the city’s history, including educational and public awareness programs.

Former Courtenay Fire Chief Lawrence Burns has been a member of the Heritage Commission since 1996, and chair since 2004.

He encourages anyone interested in the conser-

vation of Courtenay’s heritage to apply. “Our meetings and workshops are fun and rewarding,” said Burns. “We all work together, both at our meetings and workshops, to research our history and advise Council on heritage matters. We’re looking for more volunteers to help fulfill our goals.”

Erin Ferguson, the city’s liaison on the heritage commission, advised that having heritage conservation experience would be an asset, but isn’t mandatory.

“Individuals with an understanding of heritage conservation, such as architects, designers, and other heritage professionals would be a bonus, but really anyone with an interest in heritage is encouraged to apply,” advised Ferguson.

Courtenay ONE HUNDRED YEARS OF HISTORY

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1915– 2015

New Listing !!! 2 bedroom, 2 bath in desirable Courtenay East

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3 bed, 3 bath – walking distance to Downtown Comox. Fully landscaped &

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9 ft ceilings and 10 1/2 ft Vaulted ceilings in the living area along with a gas fees but still enjoy the Crown Isle lifestyle!

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“This role is an opportunity to help shape heritage policy in our city, and they’d be joining a great team of Heritage Commission members.”

The Heritage Commission meets monthly, during regular business hours. Members are appointed by City Council for a one-year term.

Applicants should provide a letter with details on relevant knowledge, experience, and general interest in heritage conservation to the City of Courtenay Planning Department, 830 Cliffe Avenue, or email planning@courtenay.ca .

For more information on this volunteer position, contact Erin Ferguson at eferguson@courtenay.ca or call 250-334-4441.

The application deadline is Tuesday, May 19, 2015.

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

Want your house in this ad Call Me !!!

Wayne’s

quote of the week

1915– 2015

T Courtenay and District Museum The is i celebrating the City’s 100th aanniversary with the publication of a coffee table style book with the help of the Comox Valley Echo.

It is a high quality magazine style publication with a durable cover.

Historically rich content focuses on activities of people who have shaped our community over the decades. Proceeds from the sales of book copies will help the museum with funding development of programs and activities. Copies are $5.00 each which includes GST, and are available at the Museum and the Echo.

19

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 1, 2015

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Bronze herons guard the pond in Robert Argall’s garden.

A garden tour for Mother’s Day

the

westerly F A M I LY R E S TA U R A N T

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Daily 6:30 am – 1:30 pm, 5 – 9 pm

Reservations 250.338.7741 The Westerly Hotel & Convention Centre 1590

Mature rhododendrons in Robert Argall’s well-established garden. of our Valley’s rocky legacy.

Since May is officially Rhododendron Month in the Comox Valley, one of the best shows of rhodos on the tour is Robert Argall’s large spread near the ocean on Wireless Road.

This is a garden that is beautiful at any time of the year but the display and variety of rhodos are a special attraction-as is the spring blooming of literally thousands of bulbs (last year Robert planted more than 4,000 bulbs.)

Other special features are secret gardens filled with rare perennials and trees and a large pond shaded

by plantings and guarded by non-fish eating bronze herons.

The big surprise in the garden of Jaime Wilms and Dany Fortin on 14th Street in Courtenay is how much can be planted in a compact city lot . Five years ago, they purchased a boring grassy space and have transformed both the front and the back into an oasis of rare plants (some that come from places like Peru and Chile). You can spot the attention and love in special details such as Dany’s crevice garden and Jaime’s whimsical pottery creations hidden like elves under plants.

Another garden that is a miracle of transformation is owned by Linda Blakelike Jaime and Dany’s, she bought a typical city lot with lawn in front and back and almost nothing in plants. (“It had one rhododendron and a hydrangea,” she says.) Taking Asian gardens as a theme, Linda has created a geography of berms and paths that give the illusion the garden is larger than it is. A bamboo fence surrounds the plantings (and keeps out the deer) and Japanese maples carefully selected for form and colour provide tasteful punctuation marks.

On a larger scale, Helen and Joe Stefiuk’s garden on Glacier View Drive cascades down a gentle slope and is both woodland and Asian reflecting the couple’s many travels to the Far East. Paths wind by natural woodland plants through Asian gates, past unusual Far Eastern pottery and statues or lead to secluded sitting areas.

Even the narrow pond (which began life as a planter) has a Japanese water feature. For the Stefiuks, building the garden one section at a time, was a labour of love stretching over many years.

(Continued on page 20)

Welcome to the Westerly’s Weekday Buffet Join us Monday through Thursday from 5pm-6:30pm for our NEW dining experience

Choose from our Salad Bar, Vegetable, Meat, Seafood and Vegetarian stations and finish up with our dessert bar!

Adults $19 Kids (11-16) $9.99 Seniors $13 Kids (under 10) $5.99

beverages, taxes and gratuities are not included – reservations recommended

PORT ALBERNI 250-723-5231

CAMPBELL RIVER 778-346-3332

COURTENAY 250-338-2624

www.jimsclothescloset.com

Goodbye Glenice, We will miss you!

Oh No! I’m leaving the valley! I want to send out a big “Thank You” to all of those who have supported me during my career in car sales here in the Comox Valley. I won’t be here much longer so if you want to buy from me, now is the time! Call me today or stop by and say, “Hi!”

Remember, Free Hugs!

445 Crown Isle Boulevard 250.338.6761 www.CourtenayToyota.com

Sunday, May 10th 10am-2pm

Mother's Day

Brunch Adults $27.95 / Seniors $22.95 Kids 6-12yrs $12 / Under 6 $6.99

Se ec om pl et on e M Pa oth ge er A9 's D ay m en u

There are many ways to show your mother how special she is: you can treat her to a day at the spa, take her out for an expensive dinner or present her with a bouquet of flowers. Better still, you can treat her to a whole tsunami of flowers at the North Island Rhododendron Society (NIRS) Annual Mother’s Day Garden Tour Sunday May 10.

This year marks the tour’’s 20th anniversary and its seven gardens each hold something special for moms and other gardeners. It might be a brand new garden transformed from a bland stretch of grass, a small mecca of species each carefully chosen by a plant guru or a large spread with winding paths and secret gardens.

In choosing the gardens for this year’s tour, the co-ordinators looked for those in the Comox/ Courtenay area that were inspirational and could trigger ideas for a visitor’s own garden. Many feature a wide variety of species and employ design ideas particularly that can be adapted to a normal city lot.

Others have ponds or special features such as crevice gardens that blend textures making the most

20 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 1, 2015

Rhodo tour (Continued from page 19) Paths wind by natural woodland plants through Asian gates, past unusual Far Eastern pottery and statues or lead to secluded sitting areas. Even the narrow pond (which began life as a planter) has a Japanese water feature.

For the Stefiuks, building the garden one section at a time, was a labour of love stretching over many years.

Bernie and Gloria Guyader’s half-acre garden on 6th Street is both great and small-great swaths of pink and red giant rhododendrons form a background for many of Bernie’s true loves-alpine flowers. The garden is also filled with “dwarfs,” from dwarf rhodos to many delicate alpine plants to an awesome display of bonsai. This is a garden to be viewed inch by inch.

The garden owned by Wolfgang and Wilma Hoefgen on Towhee Court is also rich in detail and unusual plants many of which were grown from seeds by Wolfgang, a highly experienced horticulturalist. His specialty is conifers and this small garden likely holds the best variety in the Comox Valley.

The garden owned by Maggie Seymour on Robert Lang Drive is unusual in that its “bones” were already in place when she bought this city space. In the backyard, mature feature specimens highlight the beds as a backdrop for a prominent pond while the front garden is a shaped terrain that is a balance between rock and shrubs.

While each garden is unique, the gardeners all share the same passion for creating the most beauty they can in the spaces around their homes. As the famous British landscape designer Vita Sackville-West said: “The man who has planted a garden feels that he has done something for the good of the world.”

TOUR DETAILS: Tickets cost $10 for all seven gardens and include detailed driving directions as well as a coupon for a free draw for a prize rhododendron. The tours are from 10AM to 4PM and are self-guided but garden owners are on hand to answer questions or provide additional information on specimens. Tickets are available before the tour at Anderton Nursery, Art Knapp’s Plantland, Blue Heron Books and home & Garden Gate. A limited number of tickets will be available at the gardens.

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 1, 2015

21

Top ten picks for Petunia 2015 ny. German breeder Westhoff from Westflowers has created the ‘crazytunia’ series that is spectacular.

The crazytunia ‘Star Jubilee’ is black with wide yellow petal shaped stripes and definitely has the wow factor. It can stand on its own in a pot or in a mixed container.

The crazytunia ‘Terracotta’ has wonderful yellow and pink tones and looks like a tropical fruit

BY ELLEN PRESLEY Anderton Nursery Petunias have always been a popular annual in the garden. Their showy blooms add wonderful color to baskets, containers, and window boxes and add dramatic splashes of color and texture to the garden bed. Many of the newer varieties need little or no maintenance and behave amazing well with their companion plants.

My favourite is Petunia ‘Black Magic’. Who can resist a deep dark velvet Petunia. When people see it, their first instinct is to touch it and feel the velvet. It has a lovely mounding habit, 3” wide flowers and is as dark as a black cat at midnight. It adds high drama and bold contrast to containers and beds and does not fade with heat. I mixed it with the blood red Geranium ‘Calliope’, Purple fountain grass and lime green Ipomea....to create a very bold and dramatic look.

So lush and gorgeous!

Fabulous new petunias are coming out of Germa-

NE

W

punch. It really gets you into the Summer mood to start creating your own tropical paradise.

A show stopper is the crazytunia ‘Mandeville.’

What could be more striking then a huge fiery star shaped bloom with yellow stripes radiating outwards from the center. Simply spectacular! It grows 10” by 12” and like all petunias continually blooms from June to October.

Not everyone wants bold in their garden, some people are looking for something more subtle like Crazytunia ‘Cloud No.9 ‘. It is a very soft white with a subtle blue vein and delicate yellow star and is great for creating that soft pastel, feminine look. You can mix it with other pastels by adding light pinks or echoing the blue and yellow of the bloom itself.

(Continued on page 22)

Petunia ‘Black Magic’ - first instinct is to touch it and feel the velvet

Market Mate Planters Choose from 7 different Combos

Summer Styles in NOW

A show stopper is the crazytunia ‘Mandeville.’

!

MASTER GARDENER available for questions

Come see our Garden Centre for New stock every week New Arrivals this Week • Ageratum

• Trees and shrubs: In full bloom; Rhodos, Azaleas, Ribes es (Flow (Flowering ow ng currants), Cherries, and so much more. Come talk to ourr st staff ff oonn how ow to plan your garden.

• Perennials: Over 700 varieties to choose from and the girls irls lss keep kee ke bringing ging more in. Incredible selection of both old favourites and the he new nneew w and and unusual. unusual. ua • Fruits and Vegetables: Time to get your fruit trees in: n:: Apples, Appl A ple les,, Pears, rs, Cherries, Plums, Peach and many more. As well as Grapes, Kiwis, wiss, Figs, gs, Raspberries, Rhubarb, Goji Berries & Honeyberries. The Vegetable etaaabbl starts arts art such as Lettuce, Broccoli, Cabbage, Onions, and Kale are allll ready dy to to put puu in your garden for that head start to the season. Get them m all in now ow w and aand be b eating fresh from your garden all Summer!

• Annuals: Yes...most of them are out and ready too go for you early birds. ds.

Lots of plants for pollination !! Just ask us.

Baskets! Lots to choose from and for those who want custom basket...time me to put in your orders.

Like Us On Facebook or enter our in-store draw for a chance to win a hanging basket for Mother’s Day

2012 Anderton Road, Comox • 250-339-4726 Open 9am - 6 pm 7 Days a Week (On the way to the Powell River Ferry)

www.andertonnursery.ca

• Nicotiana • Gazania • Begonia • New Guinea Baskets • Wave Petunia • and Much More

22

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 1, 2015

Free guided nature walk at Seal Bay Nature Park Join Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) parks and Active Comox Valley as they present a free guided “Wetland Wonders” nature walk at Seal Bay nature park. Led by biologist Ian Moul, the walk takes place Saturday, May 2 from 10 am to noon and is part of provincial Move For Health Day. Learn about the plant communities of a second growth forest and the various stages of wetlands, particularly Melda’s Marsh. Kids can take part in an educational ‘what can you see’ scavenger hunt which will help them learn about the various types of tree cones, birds, reptiles and amphibians found in the park.

The event will happen rain or shine and is fun for all ages, however please leave your pets at home. Bring your camera and binoculars for viewing birds and other wildlife. The walk will take an out and back route, stopping at the marsh to learn about its history and inhabitants. Meet at the

Melda’s Marsh in Seal Bay nature park. main parking lot on Bates Road. There will be giveaways, prizes, including a draw for walking poles from Alberni Outpost, as

well as healthy snacks.

For more information about CVRD parks visit www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/ parksandtrails.

Shoreline Orthodontics Tri-K Triathlon - School Participation Trophy The Al Pullen trophy is awarded annual to the school that supports the Shoreline Orthodontics Tri-K Triathlon by encouraging participation in the event and promoting active lifestyles for its student body and teaching staff through training sessions and ongoing support.

Al Pullen was a teacher and administrator in School District 71 for many years. During this time he was instrumental in getting students involved in participating in the Tri K. The year he would switch to a new school there would be a fantastic rivalry as students from his previous school would rally to beat the participation level of students at his new school. A few of the past trophy winners were Puntledge Park, Glacier View and Aspen Park. Which school will be the proud recipient this year?

Students, teachers and administrators can all join in on the fun visit www.trik.ca to register for this years fun. There are categories for all ages and distances to match.

This weeks training schedule contains a Brick, In this workout you complete a 20 km ride then immediately go into a 5 km run.

After being on your bike it will take your legs some time to get use to running. It is important to practice this so that you know what to expect race day. If you need to walk a bit at first, stretch out your legs then take off.

Beginner schedule is on the top line and the intermediate schedule is on the lower line.

Monday Week Five

Tuesday

Wednesday

Swim OFF Warm-up or Weights and Timed

750m Swim

Ride :55 1:00

Thursday Run :40 :50

Friday Swim 900m 1600m

See you at the finish line!

Saturday 20km Ride/5km Run

Sunday OFF

Top 10 petunias to try this year (Continued from page 21) Great for the cottage garden look.

A darling petunia is ‘Sunspun Yellow’ which has the cleanest yellow bloom with a deep yellow throat and a white edge.

It has a nice compact mounding habit and yellow always makes a sunny impression no matter where you put it.

A few years ago they took the trailing double white Petunia ‘Sonata’ off the market and I have been trying to find a double white to replace it. The best one is Wave ‘Double White’. It is the cleanest freshest brightest white with fully double blooms and semi trailing. By adding white to your garden or containers, it makes the other colors pop.

A very popular choice is the Sweetunia ‘Johnny Flame’. It has a deep purple almost black center with plum and magenta extending to the outer scalloped petals. This free flowing petunia makes a good spiller for baskets, flower pots and window boxes. This petunia won the ‘Medal of Excellence’ and is definitely a must in

The award winning ‘Cha-Ching Cherry’ any garden.

Sun catcher ‘Blue Burst’ gives a regal look to any planting with its deep purple veining highlighting the velvety purple blooms. It has a wonderful compact, mounding habit and doesn’t take over its companion in containers.

The center velvet veining is definitely unique and makes it a good conversation piece.

The award winning ‘Cha-Ching Cherry’ is still the brightest and most eye catching of all the petunias. The nonstop flowers are a deep red with a central star of lime green and primrose yellow. The

multi colors allow you to match it with many of the other plants in the garden or container. These striped blooms are so cheerful in the garden and give a crisp look to any design.

Petunias have always been a most colorful and popular annual plant. It is one of the easiest of plants to grow - all they need is good soil, regular watering and plenty of sunshine. Feed it weekly or get a slow release fertilizer for maximum flowers. jIf you haven’t tried petunias for a while, try adding them this year and let your garden show its inner pizzazz.

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 1, 2015

23

25th Annual St. Joe’s Golf Classic builds on years of success The 25th Annual St. Joseph’s General Hospital Foundation Golf Classic may still be more than a month away, but organizers are encouraging would-be participants and sponsors to sign up early for the much-anticipated silver anniversary edition.

“You can count on this being a sold-out event,” says tournament chair Robert Mulrooney, who’s also a Senior Investment Advisor at HollisWealth and founding partner of Mindset Wealth, the event’s title sponsor.

“This is one of Vancouver Island’s premier golf tournaments and the larg-

est single-day fundraiser for the Hospital Foundation.”

The event, scheduled for June 17 at Crown Isle, will feature 18 holes of exceptional golf, a buffet dinner, both a live and silent auction and - back by popular demand - the Keil Wealth Management “Million Dollar Shootout.”

“Six shooters get a shot at a million dollar hole-inone,” explains Mulrooney.

“It’s very exciting - last year one shot ran right over the hole!”

Over the past 24 years, the annual charity golf classic has raised more than $520,000 for vital

Past participants have some fun during the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation Golf Classic. The 25th annual Classic on June 17 is now open for registration and sponsorship. equipment that enhances the level of patient care at St. Joseph’s General Hospital.

“This event is truly key to building relationships and raising much-needed funds for the hospital,” says St. Joseph’s General

Hospital CEO Jane Murphy.

“The proceeds from this year’s event will help purchase a Masimo oxygen saturation monitor, part of an advanced respiratory monitoring system for post-surgical patients.”

FOOT

In addition to supporting a great cause, the event has also delivered its share of unforgettable memories and “highlight reel” moments over the years.

Several hole-in-ones have been recorded, in-

NOW OPEN DAILY

cluding Ken Muir’s dramatic first shot of the day in 2010 and Dave Wheeldon’s unlikely ace on hole #13 - a 340-yard par 4!

The classic has also attracted a cohort of VIPs, from Lui Passaglia and (Continued on page 24)

PGA Tour

CDN Qualifying School

$15/18 holes

May 5th – 8th Spectators welcome!

GOLF

REGISTER NOW FOR BIKE TO WORK WEEK 2015

Triple Play

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24 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 1, 2015

GOLF NEWS CROWN ISLE LADIES CODES COUNTRY LANES

Bowling highlights from Codes Country Lanes: Monday AM - Dave Stacey 192, Heather Abraham 208, Joyce Slater 163, Nick Tjart 216, Ria Tjart 192, Arnier Auerbach 195, Rita Dalby 184, Lynne Davidson 185, Roy Brekke 208, Bob VanNes 246, June Berry 192, Bob Sharp 223, Arnie Morrison 216.

Monday PM - Lyle Torrie 223, Val Johnson 235, Erma Wilson 197, Ben Braun 200, Rick Rodriguez 231, Grace Rodriguez 192, Rick Kroeker 283, Kelvin Davis 202, Shirley Evans 203, Pat Huntley 181, Marg Moore 228, Lucille Smith 189, Ruth Johnson 172, Mildred M 215.

Tuesday Breakfast - Shirley Webb 182, Marilyn Shetterly 206, Jane Wedge 203, Barb Pottruff 194, Laurie McWillis 191, Mary MacArthur 179.

Tuesday 12:30 - George Andrews 211, Allison Bennett 123, Garry Pearson 119, Ev Andrews 168.

Tuesday Adult - Eric McWillis 266, George Ghinis 270, Laurie McWillis 208.

Tuesday/Wednesday CRA Karen Slater 191, Patti Gove 96, Debbie Downer 163, Lisa Bruce 134, Richard Major 133, Allison Bennett 141, Leona Wagner 126, Jack Errington 144, Jeff McLaughlin 192, Jessica Anderson 114, Tiffinee Nicol 125.

Wednesday Adult - Louise Bundschuh 222, Doris Smith 232, John West 213, Matt Casavant 255, Bruno Bagden 225, Heather Kelly 180, Melissa McGrath 164, Sontina Espey 238, Eric McWillis 207, Barb Potruff 207, Gord Potruff 244, Darlene Bernard 251, Rick Aker 223, TOM NURSE 303, Ross McWillis 251, Brian Booth 256.

Thursday GA - Linda Meers 183, John McLean 190, Jill Comeau 202, Arnie Morrison 239, Kelvin Davis 252, Linda Jeffery 185, Vera Winter 209, Grace Rodriguez 205, Ivan Ally 210.

Thursday Adult - Alfred Cyre 215, Rick Kroeker 266, Rick Granneman 265, Janet Ellis 189, Steve Robson 243, Ed Carefoot 261, Lorne King 229, Duwanee Granneman 246, Candace McLellan 278, Scott Van Achte 251, Chad Kelly 252, Eric McWillis 210, Ross McWillis 211.

Friday GA - Ken Scavarda 255, Roy Brekke 204, Arnie Auerbach 205, George Andrews 238, Ev Andrews 210, Jim Bennett 209, Anna Delucry 192, Nick Tjart 222, Ria Tjart 222, Ed Tanner 219, Coral Tanner 197, Minnie Frame 225, Gerhard Sorger 215, Joan Lucas 218.

Special O - Bobby Bolen 173, Joe Grubwieser 183, Mathew Strachin 193, Clint McColl 184, Chris Gillis 228, Randy Bates 156, Terry Daniels 188, Colin Wells 170, Matt Cadwell 203, Debbie Downer 151, Marilyn Shetterly 179.

Our cup runneth over with ladies for our Tuesday game of Nassau. That is ... until the blustery weather hit the Comox Valley in the early morning. Then some of the ladies who cancelled would have preferred to travel to Nassau and some heat than play here in the cold!!

Boy did they make a mistake! The sun came out and those who chose to play were trated to a great day of golf.

THE WINNERS: 1st low net Front Nine: Gwen Rypien; 2nd: Karen Currie; 1st low net Back Nine: Jean Wharton; 2nd: Anne Sands 1st low net 18 holes was a tie between Gwen Rypien and Jean Wharton.

Jean who had an awsome game was also the winner of the Dorothy Olive Franklin tournament with the money raised going to Junior golf.

KPs: Carol Ayley and Mathilde Schneider Par 5s: Judy Aldcroft and Audrey Clark The birdie pot was ravaged by Raelene, Jeannie, May, Audrey, Gwen, Mathilde and Iris -all with the hands in the pot!

WELCOME to all of our new members - Elizabeth Buchacher, Charlene Foster, Sue Fulkerth, Marie Knowles, Jeannie McInnes, Barbara Morris, Evie MacDonald, Cathy Nelson, Rhonda Ryan and Gail Soliski. All of you will love golfing with this dynamic Crown Isle ladies club!

Kudos to Dee Horie, Val Dingwall, Katy Macaulay, and Carol Ayley for admirably respresenting the

Crown Isle Ladies’ Club in the North/South Challenge a Royal Colwood and Cowichan golf clubs.

The North Island has won this event 5 of the last 7 years but this year it was the South who took the honors.

Make sure that you take some time between May 4 and 8 to watch the golfers who are trying to qualify for the PGA tour at the Qualifying School being held at Crown Isle.

The Ladies’ Nine and Wine with golf, appys, wine, prizes and tons of fun is fast approaching.

Mark your calendars for May 27th on your calendar and register at the proshop as a single, double or team at 250 703-5031.

- Submitted by Donna Cunliffe

flag on #7 and #16 sponsored by The Tee Box Restaurant.

Panago Pizza sponsored the closest to the flag in 2 shots on #9 and #18, which Jean Kirby won. It was a special day for all of us because it was Grace Coulter’s birthday and we all had a piece of Black Forest cake baked by the Tee Box. Jesse (our manager), Nadine (our pro), Adrian (chef of the Tee Box) and John (head greenskeeper) have been working hard with Kathy and her North Island Committee to ensure we have another successful tournament on Mother’s Day. Spots are still open and if you enter before May 1st you will be entered into a draw for one person to win a lesson from Nadine.

Call Sharon Crowe @ 250- 339-7450 for further information on the tournament.

several of his B.C. Lions teammates to NHLers Byron Dafoe and Olie Kolzig and renowned First Nations artist Roy Henry Vickers.

One year Sportsnet broadcaster Dan Murphy attended and was the lucky winner of two tickets to anywhere WestJet flies - he graciously re-donated them and the amazing Dave Stevens auctioned them off, bringing in more than $2,000!

Who will be the lucky winner this year?

From the foursome of Ed Leakey, Ian Leakey, Mike Hamilton and Roy Parker - the first names engraved on the tourna-

COMOX MEN Thirty-five golfers played 18 holes on a fine blustery Sunday morning at Comox golf course with the following results: 0-16 low gross Nick Usher 67, Tracy Branch 71, 17 + low gross Brian Hegg 85, Rod Nichol 88, Low Nets Colm Kenny 65, Keith (Gibby) Gibson 67, Mark (skinny) Vander-

voort 69, Bill (Bowlzy) Bowles 70, Dane Petersen 70 Hole Prizes #10 2nd shot 0-16, Kyle Mudge, Comox Pacific Express #12 Long Dr. 0-16, Dane Petersen, Westview Ford Sales (Mike Paroshy) #13 2nd shot All, Kyle Mudge, Investors Group (Keith Gibson) #5/14 All Mike Code/ Jim Poulson, Men’s Club #15 2nd shot 17+ Dave (Woody) Wood, Comox Pacific Express #16 Long Drive 17+ Brian Hegg, Royal Lepage (Scott Fraser) #5/18 All Frank Craig/ Gord Baudais, Men’s Club Nice Deuce for Comox’s best Nick Usher on #5 (2nd week in a row).

- Submitted by Terry Christie

GOLFING IN 3 SEASONS The Comox Ladies League was treated to a little of everything weather wise Tuesday, April 29th, sun, rain and wind but no snow. Yayy!

The game of the day was count your holes that begin with T’s and F’s minus 1/2 of your handicap.

The winners were Linda Callender- 35.5, Louella Dooe- 39.5, Nancy Riva40.5, Gi Carlson- 41, Phyllis Taylor, Grace Coulter and Linda Verdenhalven42 and Pat Schmidt had 43.

The longest putt for everyone was won by Linda Callender on holes #3 and #12. Gi Carlson won the longest putt on holes #8 and # 17. The Dollar Store in the Comox Mall sponsored closest to the hole on #5 and 14 was won by Phyllis Taylor. Sharon Crowe won closest to the

GLACIER GREENS MEN Ninety four out for our Saturday Men’s play.

Congrats to Elmo Guinan for his “ Hole-In-One “.

Hcp 0-11 Gross: Jim Livingstone 74, Jeff Edwards 75 & Scott Robertson 76 cb.

Net: Carl Webber 65, Brian Goodwin 66 & Burt Graham 68.

Snips: Carl Webber # 1, Brian Goodwin # 2 “eagle”, Larry Lott # 12 “POG”, Brian Goodwin # 13, Scott Robertson # 15 & Fabian McCarty # 17.

Hcp 12-18 Gross: Paul Schroeder 75, Neil Neilson 81 & Bernie Johnstone 82 cb.

Net: Pat Renaud 66, Bud Bryan 68 & Lyle Torrie 69 cb.

Snips: Mike Gibbs # 1, Art Trto # 3 & Rob Egan # 16 Hcp 19+ Gross: Ted

Don’t miss out on 25th tourney (Continued from page 23)

Sauve 85, Richard Wand 86 & Murray Polson 89.

Net: Bill O’Neill 59, Henry Bonde 66 cb & Andy Clark 66 cb.

Snips: Ted Sauve # 1, Murray Polson # 2, Wayne Mabee # 3, Bob Henn # 7 & Elmo Guinan # 12 Holein-One and P.O.G. - Submitted by Len Doyle, Saturday Men’s Coordinator

ment’s trophy - to the impressive team of Rod McLean, Jamie Edwards, Jeff Edwards and Grant Skelly - the tournament’s only three-time winners the Hospital Foundation Classic has hosted some phenomenal golf. Participants have also walked away with thousands of dollars worth of auction items, and this year will be no exception.

“The business community has been wonderful, as usual, jumping on board and supporting the classic,” says Mulrooney.

“We’re still looking for donations for the silent and live auctions, and there are even a few spots left for hole sponsors.

“We’d be remiss if we

didn’t acknowledge the great job done by the organizing committee and the tournament sponsors: Crown Isle, Quality Foods, 97.3 The Eagle and of course Mindset Wealth,” he adds. “We’re building on the outstanding work done by Ron Weir from Royal Bank, who chaired the tournament for years before we stepped in.”

Reserve a spot for you or your team in the 25th annual St. Joseph’s General Hospital Foundation Golf Classic by contacting Rod Prieto at 250-703-5010 or rod@crownisle.ca. To sponsor a hole or donate an auction item, contact Rob Mulrooney or Russ Wigle at Mindset Wealth: 250-338-5222.

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