Comox Valley Echo - May 29, 2015

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$6 MILLION GIFT TO THE COMOX VALLEY.08 THE DAUGHTER OF EARLY SETTLERS HERE LEAVES HER ENTIRE ESTATE TO THE CV COMMUNITY FOUNDATION TO HELP LOCAL CHARITIES AND STUDENTS.

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Highland grads ready for a classic ‘cruise’ on Saturday Highland Secondary School Grads will once again arrive in style at their graduation ceremony as the Highland Grad Classic Car Cruise continues this year.

There are expected to be about 40-50 vehicles ranging from Model-A’s to the most potent Muscle cars transporting over 90 Grads on a scenic cruise around the Comox Peninsula on the afternoon of Saturday, May 30.

The event will get underway shortly after 2:00 pm, as the Grads meet their drivers and cars in the Highland Secondary Parking lot, just off Pritchard Rd. in Comox.

The cruise itself will start at about 3:00 pm and follow a route that includes Lazo Road, Knight Road, Military Row, Ryan Road, Crown Isle Drive, Lerwick Road, Anderton Road, and Comox Avenue. The Cruise will take a quick loop through Marina Park to allow cruise participants to view

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Learn about the importance of lifejackets and boating safety.

Saturday, May 30th from 2 pm - 4 pm

Enjoy a high standard of living at an affordable price.

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the rest of the cars. They should start arriving at Filberg Park at approximately 4:00 pm .

There may be a few minor inconveniences to the public during this time, mostly at the intersections listed above. We appreciate the patience of the motoring public in this matter.

Highland Secondary would like to take this opportunity to thank the RCMP and Comox Fire Department for providing support to the procession, thus ensuring that it runs smoothly and most importantly, safely.

We would also like to thank all those automobile owners and drivers who generously supply their time and wheels, without which this event couldn’t take place!

We hope to see many from the community out on the boulevards and sidewalks along the cruise route on the afternoon of Saturday, May 30 2015.

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Reserve your lot today!

Call Jason Andrew at 250-207-0070 for more details.

For more info, contact

Visit: www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/rec or call 250-334-9622

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

Telus to use ‘small cells’ to improve cellular services in rural area

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff Telus plans to install small cell technology in the Comox Valley Regional District to improve cellular service in the Ryan Road and Anderton Road area.

The technology is not new as it has already been applied in other municipalities in the province including the Town of Comox.

In his delegation to the CVRD, Doug Anastos, senior real estate manager for Telus, said the new technology will enhance capacity and coverage to cell phone users.

“They’re small, about the size of a laptop computer,” Anastos explained.

“It’s about a square foot in size and we’ve been using them in an urban setting and the reason is to intensify our network. We use them in areas where there’s poor coverage, specifically in the Anderton/ Ryan Road area of the regional district.”

Telus aims to address this issue the best they can, especially with the proliferation of cell phones and devices that people rely on for various reasons that include business needs and emergency purposes.

This had made Telus’ job challenging, said Anastos, as they work on staying up to speed and meeting demands with the wireless network.

The small cell technology will not need a new tower. They will be installed in existing infrastructure such as BC Hydro poles or buildings.

Anastos said they’ve done this in the Brooklyn Elementary School area in the Town of Comox and indicated the technology has worked well.

Telus is hoping to start installing them in the regional district some time this month or June and wrapping it up in the summer.

CVRD chair Bruce Jolliffe appreciated Telus’ effort to improve service and suggested it also look at Denman Island and Hornby Island where reception is also poor.

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Neighbour Katie Rempel took this dramatic shot from her backyard after the explosion and fire last Friday afternoon

Neighbours angry at hash oil production that caused explosion and fire

BY MICHAEL BRIONES AND DEBRA MARTIN Echo Staff

Butane cylinders in the backyard (Photo: CHEK News)

They were three amateurs wanting to make ‘shatter’, a drug derived from marijuana.

But they ended up shattering their lives, and those

of their families and loved ones instead, not to mention destroying a duplex and the peace and quiet of a family neighbourhood.

Residents living next door to the house that exploded and caught fire (Continued on page 6)

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

A distraught woman affected by the fire gets a helping hand from Fire Chief Don Bardonnex. He said he didn’t know whether she lived in the duplex or not, but she was worried about her cat.

(Continued from page 4) on First Street in Courtenay last Friday afternoon are upset with the alleged creation of a form of cannabis that led to a dangerous situation in the neighbourhood.

Three individuals who were in the house at the time were seen leaving the scene and ended up driving themselves to St. Joseph’s Hospital. The men, 25, 28 and 29 suffered “life

threatening” burns and injuries and were airlifted to Vancouver and Victoria hospitals.

Following the execution of a search warrant, Comox Valley RCMP concluded that the explosion that erupted in the basement the duplex on the 2000 block of First Street was due to production of butane hash oil or BHO as it’s often called.

Cst. Don Sinclair, spokesperson of the local

RCMP, said they located equipment that was used and other evidence.

The three suspects in the explosion were neither the homeowners nor the tenants. Sinclair said they are looking for the tenants and want to talk to them.

Butane was used in the hash oil making process, which Courtenay Fire Chief Don Bardonnex said was a dangerous accident waiting to happen.

“Butane is 2.1 times

heavier than air so it’s going to drop, it’s going to drop to the floor,” said Bardonnex. “It’s not going to come out of the basement unless it’s ventilated so it’s just sitting there waiting there for an ignition source.”

He said the “surprising fact is they survived.”

The fire was first reported at around at 4:56 p.m. last Friday. Numerous blasts were heard from the residence.

Lora Kane, who lives next door said she heard a “boom and the whole house just shook.”

“And I just saw the shadow of flames and some guy screaming roll around roll around, I just went ‘Oh God this is bad.’”

One witness who was cycling in the area at the time said he heard “a huge boom” before he saw men running out of the house and speeding away in a truck.

“One guy was all burned ... his shirt was in shreds,” he said.

Bill Wright lives across the street and saw the smoke as he returned home, telling CHEK News that “I saw a big puff of smoke as I was coming down the road and as I got close to my property here I see a couple of pieces of something smouldering on the road.

First Nation Storytelling By: Cree Elder Phil Umpherville Please join us for cultural sharing and storytelling for all ages.

Caring, Sharing, Respect and Fun Saturday June 6, 1pm – 2pm, Location: K'omoks Big House Cultural Protocol Sharing & Volunteering Information Please join us for evening of Cultural awareness, teaching of protocol needed for joining WWOS K’ómoks.

Tuesday July 7, 6:30pm – 8pm, Band Hall K’ómoks, 3320 Comox Road Empowering Our Spirit By: Elder Teaching by Elder James Quatell To smudge is a cleansing of mind, body, spirit and emotion.

Our Elders teach us that all ceremonies must be entered into or begun with good intent.

Saturday July 4, 1pm – 2:30pm, K'omoks Big House All the above events are Free to attend everyone welcome Further information. sales@ihosgallery.com or phone 250-339-7702 event on FB WWOS Comox Valley

(Continued on page 7)

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015 (Continued from page 6) “I pulled over and looked at it and it was a couple of pieces of clothing that were still on fire a little bit.”

Nicole Lebrun, who lives across the street, told CHEK News “all of a sudden I started hearing a bunch of screaming, more bangs, loud, loud bangs.

Sounded like someone got shot up. So I come outside and all of a sudden I see the house like up in flames.”

Neighbour Jenny Wright said what she saw and heard still disturbs her.

“I saw the flames and then I heard the screaming. I saw the people come outside and get in the truck and rush off.”

A day after the fire, neighbours were also finding out what the alleged cause of the explosion was. They’re angry.

“Well I’m a little bit angry yeah, because of the complete disregard for the neighbouring families, I mean there’s kids all the way through here,” said Kane.

“It’s very shocking for us especially living across the street, we’re walking past there quite often with the kids,” said Jennie Wright.

“Does make you a little bit angry that you know if the explosion had come out the front and if we were

standing out front with our kids it could have been a whole other story,” said Bill Wright.

The house suffered extreme damage and is now structurally unsound. It’s likely to be torn down.

The new drug the trio were attempting to make is called “shatter”; it looks like maple syrup or thin toffee on wax paper.

The drug is similar to hash oil and is also known as honey oil or budder.

Butane is poured over the top of a cannabis shake, which pulls out THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the principal psychoactive component of marijuana, from the leaves and creates a gummy substance.

There is no heating involved, but it creates a lot of fumes.

The product contains a THC level of up to 80 per cent, which can give hallucinations.

Top grade marijuana on the streets usually measures about 20 per cent.

Last week’s explosion wasn’t the first on the Island to be caused by BHO makers.

Three men were sent to hospital in March 2014 with serious burns after their house north of Qualicum Beach exploded while they were using butane to make the marijuana product.

The back of the duplex after the fire; the building was knocked off its foundation due to the explosion

(Katie Rempel photo)

Regional District to appeal Supreme Court ruling Comox Valley Regional District is to appeal a BC Supreme Court ruling that set aside a decision not to consider an application from 3L Developments Inc. seeking to amend the Comox Valley Regional Growth Strategy (RGS).

The company had gone to court to ask for a judicial review of the rejec-

tion of its request for an RGS amendment covering land between the Puntledge and Browns Rivers, which ultimately could pave the way for an intensive development of up to 700 homes and some commercial space close to Stotan Falls. The RGS currently allocates the land mainly for largelot, low-density residen-

tial development.

3L won its case earlier this month when Justice Emily Burke ruled the CVRD must follow the full and detailed amendment process set out in the RGS document, rather than halting the request at an early stage.

But following an incamera board meeting on Tuesday, CVRD

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chair Bruce Jolliffe said: “We respect the decision made by the judge of the BC Supreme Court, but we do not agree with it.

Therefore, we will be filing an appeal of that decision.

“Until the outcome of that appeal, the board will have no further comment, as the matter will be before the courts.”

8

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

A $6 million gift to the Valley The late ‘Mamie’ Aitken leaves a generous bequest that will benefit at least four groups

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff Catherine Mary “Mamie” Aitken has left the Comox Valley a sizable donation of over $6 million.

It’s the largest amount ever donated to the community.

The generous amount has been entrusted to the Comox Valley Community Foundation, which will be responsible for allocating the income generated from the Aitken fund to four local organizations the well-known philanthropist specified in her will.

They are St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation, students attending North Island College and the Comox Valley Hospice Society, and the foundation, which will use the funds for its annual granting program.

“It is an amazing gift to the lasting benefit of the community,” said Norman Carruthers, president of

Norman Carruthers, president of the CVC Foundation, congratulates North Island College vice-president of strategic initiatives Randall Heidt for being one of the chosen recipients of the Aitken Fund.

the CVC Foundation. “It will have a profound impact on the Valley, and because only the income will be spent, the gift will keep on giving to our community for generations to come.”

Carruthers estimates the possible income of the Aitken fund would be between $250,000 to $500,000 annually. It will be shared equally by the four organizations.

NIC vice-president of strategic initiatives Randall Heidt expects the college to receive around $70,000 every year from the fund.

It will benefit 25 students from the Comox Valley.

“It will allow them to attend our college basically for free,” said Heidt.

“It is an amazing gift. It’s the largest ever in North Island College’s Foundation.”

Heidt expects the fund to be available in 2016.

He added it will be open to “the best, the brightest

Catherine Mary “Mamie” Aitken

and the most in need students.”

Audrey Craig, president of the Comox Valley Hospice Society, said this will allow them to continue to help hundreds of people especially during their tender moments.

“Mamie understood that while places of care are important, being able to ensure that people are available to offer care was paramount,” said Craig.

“Her generous gift will

allow hospice care to be here now, and more importantly in the future for all people in our community.”

Lynn Dashkewytch, Executive Director of the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation says that contributions from the Aitken Fund, “... will provide the opportunity to address the needs of both care and comfort for the frail and elderly living at The Views at St. Joseph’s.

“This very generous and thoughtful donation will help us upgrade the physical space in the rooms, the respite room and the common areas,” she said.

“The renovations would include new paint, window coverings and furniture.

The goal will be to create an environment that feels more like a home setting.

These upgrades will help enhance the comfort and quality of life for the residents of The Views at St. Joseph’s.”

(Continued on page 9)

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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

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City agrees to bend rules to service KFN land Puntledge Reserve could host big residential development

BY PHILIP ROUND Special to the Echo Courtenay City Council has agreed to bend its own rules to supply water and sewer services to the K’ómoks First Nation’s Puntledge RV campground just across Condensory Bridge.

But there is more to the proposal than ďŹ rst meets the eye, as the Band is considering the possibility of wider economic development initiatives on the extensive #2 Indian Reserve property either side of Condensory Road.

Those include an expressed interest by the KFN in promoting a residential housing project, with accommodation for up to 500 people.

As the land is a designated Indian Reserve, it lies outside both City and Regional District jurisdiction, so development plans for the site would not be required to go through the usual processes of local government decisionmaking.

But the City hopes that by offering services and negotiating a cooperative agreement with the KFN, they can help guide development options that would also beneďŹ t the wider community and address potential concerns.

The Agreement in Principle (AIP) on water and sewer services has been welcomed by both parties, which will now begin

negotiations on a detailed servicing agreement with a view to having this in place by the end of the year. As the regional district is responsible for water supply and sewer disposal services, its water committee and sewage commission will also need to be involved.

While a ďŹ nal deal is likely some months away, KFN Chief Rob Everson said he was “elatedâ€? at the interim AIP. The collaboration with the City “demonstrates that we are ready to move forward with our neighbours.â€?

He added: “The expansion will build capacity within our nation and generate an economic beneďŹ t for the Comox Valley.â€?

City Mayor Larry Jangula said the municipality was pleased to be working with KFN on the initiative. “We have a strong working relationship with the K’ómoks First Nation and we support their desire for economic development,â€? he said. “This is also a mutually beneďŹ cial agreement, since the proximity of their land to downtown Courtenay could lead to more economic activity in our downtown core.â€?

In recent years Courtenay has taken a tough line on refusing permission to property owners outside its boundary to hook up to water and sewer lines within the City, and had enshrined the principle of

yond its borders.

Nonetheless, the OCP will have to be amended through proper public process to make a special case, including hosting a public hearing.

The non-binding AIP also states that the ďŹ nal agreement with the KFN will have to ensure the ongoing costs to the City in supplying water and sewage disposal services will be covered by the Band and that the KFN will also reimburse the City for all the capital (construction) costs incurred in getting pipes and associated infrastructure to and from the Reserve land.

In a background brieďŹ ng on the topic, it is stressed: (Continued on page 10) The extent of KFN’s #2 Indian Reserve, with the Puntledge River defining the border with the City of Courtenay to the south and the Tsolum River to the east. The white line bisecting the Reserve is the route of the former logging railway; Condensory Bridge, carrying the existing road access, is just above the point where the railway used to cross the Puntledge.

Mamie’s parents, John and Elizabeth Aitken immigrated to Vancouver Canada in 1910 and took up residence in Courtenay in 1912 when John was sent to open the telegraph office. Daughter Cherry was born in 1920 and Mamie arrived in 1922. The Aitkens had planned to stay in Canada for just a few years and then immigrate to New Zealand but they fell in love with the beauty of the Comox Valley and the friendliness of the people and decided to

stay and raise their family here.

Mamie and Cherry were active in the community throughout their lives.

Both members of the Soroptimist International Club of Courtenay, they were dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls.

The Aitken Fund ensures that their legacy and generosity will continue in perpetuity. The Aitken gift to the CVC Foundation increases the endowment fund holdings to more than $11 million.

Carruthers said this year

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refusal in its Official Community Plan.

But it plans to bend its policy in this case, although it is insisting this will not set a precedent for other rural applicants be-

$6 million left to Valley Foundation (Continued from page 8)

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the foundation distributed a record $200,000 to 20 organizations.

However, they also had to turn down an equal amount of applicants. But with the Aitken fund, Carruthers said this will allow them to increase the number of recipients in the future.

For further information about the Comox Valley Community Foundation, its mission and how individuals and organizations can participate in Enriching Life in the Comox Valley visit the Foundation’s website at www.cvcfoundation.org

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

Puntledge flow will dip to new lows to save water Valley water restrictions start Monday

BY PHILIP ROUND Special to the Echo Rare approval has been granted to BC Hydro to reduce flows in the Puntledge River to new lows in order to conserve water supplies.

With the agreement of other government agencies, the Comptroller of Water Rights has granted the power company -which controls water from Comox Lake -- a variation in its licence, allowing it to severely curtail river flows this summer, starting right away.

And from Monday (June 1), water use restrictions for most homes and businesses in the Comox Valley will be stepped up.

The unusual step of a licence variation has been taken following detailed discussions with the federal department of fisheries and oceans and the provincial ministry of forests, lands and natural resource operations.

“The result of those discussions is an agreement to consider fish habitat over a likely record dry summer and still having

some water for returning salmon in September,” said BC Hydro spokesperson Stephen Watson. “We are thinking long-term.”

As the master licence holder for the lake’s water, BC Hydro has to serve the needs of various users, including the 40,000 people in Courtenay, Comox and some neighbouring rural areas hooked up to the Comox Valley Regional District’s water system.

It is they that face Stage 2 water restrictions from Monday, meaning that people may use a sprinkler to water a lawn only on these days and between these times: at even numbered addresses on Tuesdays and Saturdays between 4 a.m. and 9 a.m. and between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m.; and at odd numbered addresses on Wednesdays and Sundays between 4 a.m. and 9 a.m. and between 7p.m. and 10 p.m.

Another important user of water from the lake is the DFO, which operates the Puntledge fish hatchery and which oversees fish habitat in the river system.

To balance near-term and long-term flows for fish and still have water left in the reservoir by the end of summer, BC Hydro and the agencies have agreed their plan for the coming months.

Normally, the minimum river flow to be sure fish thrive is 15.6 cubic metres a second. But from last weekend, below the Puntledge power generating station that flow has been cut to 14 cubic metres a second for a three-week period ending June 15.

“The river flow will then be reduced to 12 cubic metres a second from June 16 to July 31,” Watson added.

“And for the month of August, the flows will be reduced to the extreme conservation flow of 9 cubic

metres a second.”

The generating station, which is currently running at only 20 per cent capacity to save water, will be shut down altogether from mid-June through September, he confirmed - unless there is an extraordinary and unexpected change in the weather.

“On June 15, all required downstream fish habitat flows will be passed down the Nymph Falls and Stotan Falls section of the Puntledge River; no flow will be coming out of the generating station,” Watson explained.

He added: “This is the first time in BC Hydro’s Puntledge River operations history that such a long and precise operational plan has been put

in place. Unprecedented conditions require steadfast focus on relationships to manage through this as best as possible.”

For the federal DFO, Darcy Miller, the Puntledge River watershed enhancement manager, said the DFO and BC Hydro would “work cooperatively to ensure the best conditions possible for fish while ensuring water conservation measures are achieved during the unseasonably dry months ahead.”

As previously reported in the Echo, current water

inflows into the reservoir are around 11-13 cubic metres a second, below historical record lows dating back 52 years.

“There has been negligible snowpack run-off into the reservoir; basically there hasn’t been any,” said Watson. “Come August, water inflows may be as low as two cubic metres a second.

“One of the benefits of dams and the management of water is, in this case, holding back water as much as possible while considering various water use interests.”

City, KFN reach agreement the KFN must restrict development to land uses that are compatible with the surrounding area.”

Specifically, no heavy industrial uses will be permitted, nor will any land use that produces offensive odours.

Further, the KFN agrees it will address to the City’s satisfaction a number of potential flooding issues that could impact the immediate area and further away if development progresses.

(Continued from page 9) “Neither the City of Courtenay nor the K’ómoks First Nation will subsidize the services for others’ benefit.”

It also states the KFN will not allow any property owners outside its Reserve boundary to hook up to the new pipes to access City services by the back door.

As far as potential land uses are concerned, the AIP also stipulates “that

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

11

ECHO

OPINIONS

LETTERS

Don’t destroy a beautiful jewel Dear Mr Mayor: I just had a strange occurrence. Kind of a fate thing. I had a fellow member send me a copy of a letter he sent to you Re: Closing Courtenay airport.

What’s interesting was that I was just doing my flight planning to go there.

I have a friend who is a teacher and I was going to go up to do a little crab fishing, have dinner than head home before dark.

Courtenay airpark is one of my favourite locations.

Partly because my friend lives there but it also offers many nice features.

Fuel is always the cheapest in the area, little kids hang around the fence line to watch (I have asked a couple to come and sit in my airplane making their day and great smiles), beautiful scenery, a nice walking path up the river (?? longest river port in the world?? I remember reading something like that on a sign) and very close to local food.

In the summer many of the lower mainland and Victoria flying clubs organize Courtenay as a fly out destination because of the close proximity to a good selection of restaurants.

I had heard there may be the possibility of moving the airport but I think you would lose all the good

reasons for going there in the first place.

Remember there are many features accessible within a short walk.

There are other airports we go to but the longer or the more difficult it is to get somewhere after landing the less likely we will go there.

Tofino was a great example of this when they closed off the west side access for a couple years.

You needed to park on the east side and take a taxi in.

Previously you could walk directly to the beach.

While the barriers where up I rarely went to Tofino.

If you have any questions in regards to the financial benefits of keeping a small local airports I’d suggest you contact Patrick Gilligan of the Canadian Owners and Pilots Association.

They are a national organization and have lots of information about this exact situation.

My guess would be that a developer/friend/contributor has started putting the pressure on you to develop the land. Patrick will have information to show you the long term economic benefits of keeping the airpark vs the short term real estate dollars.

Respectfully against destroying a beautiful jewel in the Comox Valley.

COMOX VALLEY ECHO Published by Black Press Ltd.

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

Jim Niessen Surrey

THE FIX WAS IN I attended the Town of Comox May 20th Council meeting as I was anxious to hear their final decisions on zoning bylaw amendments 1791 and 1792; amendments, which if passed, would allow the proposed Lorne Hotel to go forward.

After what I witnessed I can safely say Comox is where democracy goes to die. Not only that but the behaviour by two of the Councillors was shameful to say the least. Bullying in its finest form.

Given the recent public hearing and submissions (including a petition), it was clear the majority of the people of Comox do not want this proposed building.

They want a building, they want a pub, they just don’t see this 5 storey proposal as the right building.

To this end, Councillor MacKinnon proposed a compromise with a 4 storey building, a proposal supported by Councillor Price.

Councillor Ken Grant suggested that “compromise will kill this project and you’ll end up with a vacant lot.”

He used the “sky is falling” scare by intimating if council said “no” and

asked for a new plan of 4 stories, then the developer would take “his toys and go home.”

And to change plans now would send a bad message to other developers who may want to build in Comox.

What utter nonsense. So, Council is just there to do the bidding of developers and be damned what the citizens of Comox want for their town?

If that’s the case then heaven help up all. What does it say about a Town Council that does not support the majority of it’s citizens.

I do not believe due process was followed with respect to this entire project; as my Dad would say “this fix was in.”

My thanks to Councill ors Mackinnon and Price for actually listening and attempting to do the right thing. To the rest of you ..shame,shame.

Barb Tribe Comox

DEVELOPMENT NOT GREEN I noted with interest the article in the May 22 edition of the Echo about 3L’s continuing efforts to get their controversial development proposal for the Stotan Falls area approved.

Although the judge decided that the CVRD acted unreasonably in turning

back the application, there is still a process that must be followed before this project can move forward.

The proponents of this project have decided that this should be treated as a minor amendment to the Regional Growth Strategy (RGS).

Minor amendments have a different process than a standard amendment as outlined in the RGS document on Page 110 (can be viewed on the CVRD website).

However I assert that asking for this application to be treated as a minor amendment is absurd.

This is a huge development that will have enormous environmental impact no matter how “green” they think they can build it.

Throwing in a few acres of green space and promising to build a few trails does not make this development green. In fact the very location flies in the face of green development because it would require everyone living there to get in a car every day to get to work, school, or for shopping.

I urge the Board of the Regional District to ensure that they do what they can to see that this is not processed as a minor amendment.

If they cannot legally do that then they have to fol-

low the process for a minor amendment to the letter and they must insist on a public hearing as part of that process.

The public worked long and hard to develop the Regional Growth Strategy and the 3L development, in my opinion, fails to meet any of the goals and objectives of that strategy.

Pamela Munroe Courtenay

MAKE MY DREAM TRUE For some reason, I cannot let go of the dream of having TB REACH funded. Here is an organization that with so little, can do so much.

TB REACH funds new, innovative ideas for fighting one of the world’s oldest diseases, whereas the Global Fund needs strong evidence that a certain approach works before they can support it.

TB REACH needs a mere $120 million over the next five years to stay in the business of reaching the hardest to reach TB patients. This is, relatively speaking, a small amount and will still keep Canada well below Lestor Pearson’s recommended .7% of GDP for international aid funding. Would the HAT Caucus kindly rise to the occasion and make my dream come true?!

Connie Lebeau Victoria

12 FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

www.comoxvalleyecho.com

BEEFS & BOUQUETS LUNCHBOXES FULL of rotten beef to the irresponsible parents and children at the Mile of Flowers celebration. There were several children hanging and swinging on the recently repaired volleyball nets, and not once did we see a parent ask them to stop damaging city property.

Now the net close to the road has permanent damage and an even more noticeable sag. The city rents out these courts to various sports teams, so perhaps these parents will chip in when they have to buy a new net again?

MY SINCEREST APOLOGIES to the couple I almost hit at the intersection of Fitzgerald and Cumberland at 8:15pm on May 26. I’m so glad you were doing the driving for both of us as obviously I need a refresher on what Red means.

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THE COMOX VALLEY’S FIRST AND BEST READER’S FORUM Email to: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com solutely I have the utmost sympathy for the owners of the duplex that burnt down last week but also for the 3 young men and their families. All of the people involved in this horrible situation have my prayers.

In a time of need and very wrong decision making this is not a time for judgment or questioning but rather love, support and forgiveness. Not one person out there can say they have never made a mistake in their life that could have altered their life differently if they got caught or under different circumstances.

Think about if one of these people were your child, spouse, friend, brother or other relation. Yes it was wrong and dangerous and inconsiderate of other people around them but that does not deserve some of the cruel remarks I have read or heard. They are paying their consequences with their lives on the line and do not need other people’s judgment and sometimes non-factual comments. Please find the goodness in your heart instead of the hatred. Peace, love and happiness.

HUGE BEEF to the young guys who stole our local Designated Drivers Tempo! Your family must be sooo proud of you for targeting a group dedicated to helping people get home safely. This hurts, no only us, but our community greatly! Not only do you steal our car..you break it! Brakes were shot and our handsfree device stolen among other things!

The mud covering the car.. kinda looks like the mud at Maple lake...ya we have good citizens in our community seen you and even got a pic of you on their phone! One of you look very familiar. Got a good idea where one of you live!

We have other sightings of you driving(guy with the cap) The police have dusted the car for prints... and dusted your water bottle too! Do the right thing now and turn yourself in under your own choice before they have to come and get you...cause they will!

TO THE PERSON who wrote the “News Bulletin” (Beefs & Bouquets May 22nd) complaining about large people in Spandex: while the garments may not be

hiding body-shape, they may be covering a beautiful person; you never know. And they are OUT THERE, trying. Kudos to them. Perhaps you need Spandex for the head, to get your mind in shape?

C’mon! And no, I am not such a be-spandexed person.

A BIG BOUQUET of beautiful flowers for Valerie at Suzanne’s women’s clothing store in the Comox Mall.

Thank you for helping me out by lending me a clothing rack during my home renovation. I can now access my clothing and keep it wrinkle-free! Greatly appreciated.

A GIGANTIC BOUQUET of bouncing tennis balls to the amazing Coach Brenda! The Valley is so fortunate to have someone like you who works tirelessly to push tennis forward, to keep our kids active, and to build community. As an award-winning volunteer, you inspire us with your energy and commitment.

Thank you for all that you do!

A BEEF to a fellow driver from this past Sunday morning at the intersection of Headquarters & Merville Road. I noticed you drove past the two males and proceeded a couple of hundred feet where you stopped your pick-up and started yelling obscenities and ranting at the female and younger volunteers.

When asked to move on, you threatened them with physical violence, and then threatened to back over the flag person. Thankfully you moved on in a timely manner. This type of behaviour, in our Comox Valley, to volunteers at a community event is appalling! You are not completely anonymous as the name of a business is on the door of your pickup truck. How many hours were you inconvenienced by a community event that was enjoyed by whole families, parents and children alike. For next year I invite you to have more fun and get involved in events, whether that be participating or volunteering, to be active with the rest of your community and understand that these events promote a healthy happy Comox Valley.

DEAR SPANDEX FASHION CRITIC: The most unattractive thing a person can wear is an attitude like yours!

THIS IS A MESSAGE to the management of every big box, and large store in the Comox Valley. Your stores are situated in a beautiful place, a place where a huge amount of elderly folk retire to live out the rest of their days. ALL these old folk are your customers, the people willing to support, and spend their dollars in your stores, so that you and your staff have a job, and can take a paycheck home every month to support you, and your families’ way of life, and make the valley the wonderful place it is to live in... Okay! Here’s the beef I have with every single big box store, and a lot of the slightly smaller ones!

None of you seem to have any respect for us old timers, in that, you don’t have one single seat in a store where we can ‘take five’ as we walk around the acreage inside your store, viewing the products that you’re attempting to sell, and we are considering buying... Are you managers unable to understand that it can be a one mile walk (or more) around your store looking for our items. A LOT OF US ARE OLD AND FRAIL!!!; we use walkers, canes, crutches and God knows what to struggle around, but still manage to crawl our way, to get to your store to spend our bucks... You should respect us more by having a simple little 3-seat bench in each of the far corners of your store so we can take a moment, and also, at each exit so we can sit and wait for our friends to go through the check-outs.

So, Costco, Superstore, Canadian Tire, Walmart, Home Depot, London Drugs, John’s (in Comox), Quality Foods, Thrifty’s, Central Hardware, Slegg’s and any that don’t come to mind at this time, please, at your next ‘management meeting’ bring this subject up for consideration. You may gain some customers as I know several folk that won’t come to any large store for this very reason!

There’s nowhere to rest.

(Walmart needs a little seat at EACH exit, not two seats at one exit). As

a handicapped old timer that slumped to the floor in London Drugs one day, from exhaustion, and they had to call for a wheelchair, I’d like to say thankyou for reconsidering this option...

BEEFATRON - Sunday afternoon a woman entered our retail place of business and promptly and repeatedly verbally beat the heck out of our very well trained, underpaid employee. This poor girl took the ABUSE and held herself well to provide the info this hagatron was demanding so rudely. I don’t know why this happens sometimes, but there is no reason at all not to be civil in any retail operation, yes even a car rental operation. We are doing the best we can on a Sunday, at low wages.

Thankfully this poor excuse for a lady will be returning here to pick up her rental. We hope she comes through the door with a much different frame of mind. She will be met with good service regardless.

Trashing the employees is just a downer.

KUDOS to the many people who took part in the antiGMO march on Saturday.

Unfortunately, the world wide protests have come too late for the people of rural Argentina who have suffered by the thousands with birth defects, cancers and other debilitating and fatal diseases directly resulting from the widespread usage of chemical spraying of soy crops in areas that used to have widely diversified crops.

Check it out.

A HUGE BOUQUET to Doctors & Surgical Daycare Nurses at S.J.H. I recently had Gallbladder Surgery at the Saint Joseph’s Hospital. I would like to express my deepest gratitude for the wonderful care I received. Especially, Dr. Kimberly, Dr. Richardson and Surgical Daycare Nurses involved in my surgery and care took the time to calmly and thoroughly explain in each procedure. It alleviated my fears to know exactly what was happening and why. I wish to thank in particular Surgical Daycare Nurses, Vicky and Dawn who deserve recognition for their competence as well as

their kind and caring spirit. They demonstrated professionalism, the warmth, and compassion in relieving my sudden pain that occurred after surgery.

MANY LOVELY BOUQUETS and grateful thanks to the small number of local businesses who take the trouble to allow posters for local events to be posted in their stores and businesses. For small non-profit organizations a low cost way to let the community know of important events is not easy to find. Thank you to the willing few businesses for your spirit of community!

RE: NEWS BULLETIN. I would like to know where people like you who are narrow minded and have an overinflated sense of self worth find hats to fit your over sized egotistic head. Now is the time to take a good long look at yourself in the mirror. You’re not as flawless as you might think you are.

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FRIDAY.MAY29, 2015

13

BEEFS & BOUQUETS IT’S 12:15 PM on Friday, May 22. You, sir, in the big white Dodge Ram 4x4 with the Brian Howich license frame exiting the Home Depot lot via Lerwick, were in the WRONG so why did you have to shake your head and throw up your arms like you weren’t?

That lady you almost hit on the cross walk had the walk signal. Maybe put down that Timmy’s drink you had and pay more attention! Then at the intersection at Ryan/Lerwick you were so impatient to turn left. Were you heading to Costco for a hotdog?

SLOW DOWN! THANKS TO BEEFS and Bouquets, I’m starting up a new, feel good business in town. It entails selling earplugs to the people who complain about Snowbird noise and piped in music downtown. Then I have real dark sunglasses to sell to those, so you can’t see the recycled homes along Dyke Rd. For the spandex haters, I have kites to sell, so you can, go fly a kite. For

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THE COMOX VALLEY’S FIRST AND BEST READER’S FORUM Email to: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com the rest of the complainers in general, I have detailed maps to the short pier, so you can take a long walk.

But I anticipate my best seller will be my magic pills called, getalife, cause everyone in the valley should be walking around with a smile on their face.

I know I’m smiling now, how about you.

TO THE PERSON complaining about the “BALL TEAM” breaking her sunroof.

When you park your car next to a ball diamond it is WELL known that you do so at your own risk. Those playing the great pasttime sport of slo pitch or any other kind of baseball are NOT held responsible for damage cause to vehicles by errant balls that may hit a vehicle. If you have been at meetings in this building before then you should know that when you park 20’ feet away from a back stop you are asking for something to happen to your car whether it be a dent in the hood or in your case a broken sun roof.

Does it suck that it happened? Yes it does but to turn around and blame it on the ball team, that is just ludicrous. That is why we have insurance people.

So pull up your adult underwear and stop pointing the finger at other people and take the responsibility that is all YOURS for parking there. Not trying to be rude just stating the facts about parking next to a ball diamond. Have a great summer and may this never happen to you again.

JUST WANT TO GET THE JUMP on people that will call for the closure of the airpark due to the latest mishaps.

If you sit back and think, would you want the same thing each time two or more vehicles are in a collision on any major roadway

- let-s close the road down until it can be made safer.

I don’t use the airpark but still know the aircraft have a better safety record and are maintained at a higher standard than cars on the roads today and that’s also for the pilots versus the drivers.

I’D LIKE TO GIVE a big bouquet of flowers to the, I’m guessing dude, in the big silver guts, glory, and Ram, also ran, pick-up, who sped up, when I passed him on Anderson Rd. yesterday.

The 20 bucks worth of gas you burned when you floored your behemoth must have inflated your manhood just as your stupid truck depletes your cash flow, and let’s everyone know that you’re a stereotypical, small man syndrome derivative. I didn’t look, as it took only a few seconds to leave your 7000 pound hulk in my dust, but if I must, I’d guess that you have a ball cap and tats, board shorts and flip flops, and that you’re also short of education. Haul on, you stupid mother trucker, you’re just another over-vehicled, and under-brained, sucker investing 50 grand in making grocery runs and picking up your six pack of cheap beer.

THANK YOU “MR. A--HOLE” for denting my car at lunch, on the 22nd of May, in the McDonald’s parking lot on Ryan rd. My poor black 2011 VW Jetta didn’t deserve such a thing. It was great of you, after someone saw you, to write me a note of what had happened. Although maybe you should have left some information instead of writing and telling me that you were just faking it to make it look like you were a “nice guy” in front of the witnesses. I asked

every business in the area for camera footage of you smashing my car. You’re lucky, I couldn’t get a good enough angle of the incident. I wish I could thank you in person for the dent and the fake note you left me. I guess Karma will just have to thank you instead.

Maybe the witness who saw you hit my car is reading this. Then maybe I can thank you personally.

I’M SENDING all the bad bugs to infest your hardware stores. I went to three building supply stores to purchase a simple item, a sliding screen door for a patio door. I actUally thought these were hardware stores that carried products for the DIY people. Thanks a lot for nothing. BAH, BEDBUGS to ya’s.

THE SALVATION ARMY would like to send a bouquet of spring flowers to the Comox Valley Presbyterian Church for their faithful donations of monthly food items to enrich the food hampers that Cornerstone Community and Family Services provides on a daily base to those in need.

The Salvation Army would also like to thank Staples for their special items that also enhance our emergency food hampers. Thank you!

Re: NEWS BULLETIN: Here’s a new bulletin for you and a beef. Why are you so fat phobic that you feel the need to publish how grossed out you are with people wearing things they like? Who cares what size people are? They aren’t taking away any of your rights by wearing spandex.

As someone who has experienced this type of shaming first hand (and I’m not even that big at all!) it’s beyond hurtful and damaging

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

to someone’s self esteem.

If someone size 20+ wants to wear spandex, I say right on for wearing what you like and not changing your style to suite someone else’s skewed idea of beauty. Be proud of your body and don’t let people tell you to be ashamed.

Love yourself.

STREET SMART KIDZ are celebrating Steven Baird’s birthday at the Whistle Stop Pub from 2-4 Saturday, June 6in conjunction with Street Smart Kidz Meat Draw. All funds raised go directly to building Street Smart Kidz House. It’s time to get even and Roast the Man of the hour. Come and have fun and show your support.

IT’S NICE that you think that your pitbull is “cuddly, lovable, well trained and amazing around children”. This is your personal opinion and maybe your dog is an exception.

However, in the past week in Calgary, there were incidents involving pitbulls attacking pets, children & a teenager. Too often over the years we’ve heard on the national news about pitbulls attacking people & pets with sometimes tragic results. Apparently the Cities of Toronto and Winnipeg have banned pitbulls and some cities are considering having them muzzled when out in public. So you can say all you want about how nice pitbulls are, but most of us will remain very cautious of this breed for good reason.

A HUGE BEEF to drivers in Courtenay who turn left without checking that the coast is clear. Do you need to actually HIT a pedestrian in the crosswalk before you realise you do not have the right of way when

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!

people are walking - especially when they have the signal to do so? I know everyone’s getting into summer driving mode now and for some reason that means completely tossing the rules of the road out the window, but please PAY ATTENTION when you turn left at an intersection. Rushing out of a turn when you are not clear is not only a danger to the pedestrian but to you and other drivers as well, when you have to slam on your brakes and stop in the middle of the intersection to prevent a collision. Please use common sense behind the wheel so everyone can get home safely!

(Continued on page 14)

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14

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

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 donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to give your name and you could be eligible for a cash reward.

Michael Dean NAGY

Dalton Shawn Robert COLE

DOB: 1967-05-11 183 cms, 102 kgs, Brown hair, Hazel eyes

DOB: 1975-01-05 168 cms, 64 kgs, Brown hair, Brown eyes

Warrants: Produce a controlled substance Possession for the purpose of trafficking Comox Valley file # 2000-6953

Warrants: Break and enter with intent Comox Valley file # 201310835

www.comoxvalleycrimestoppers.bc.ca

More Beefs and Bouquets (Continued from page 13) INTERESTING the CVRD collects an average of $25 per year for liquid waste management from rural residents, but do absolutely nothing for this fee.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just Brent Road residents who smell an odor. Who voted for this, Regional Directors? We would not know - they voted to not record their vote!

This does not smell well.

ONCE AGAIN, planning costs top the list for expensive services for rural property owners. The CVRD planning costs are way out of line with other local jurisdictions and other RDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Where is the justiďŹ cation, when there are so many other expensive infrastructure priorities?

U18 GIRLS RIPTIDE would like to thank Danny Keyes of Comox Valley RV Ltd., for his outstanding support. Danny has provided assistance to our team since itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inception. On behalf of the players, coach-

es, managers and parents we wish Danny continued success.

I ONCE AGAIN READ in the beefs about the nasty pit bulls. Do you people out there not realize it is the owners who train the dogs to kill? Put the owners down not the dogs.

WHILE MANY WOULD AGREE with concentrating development within the boundaries of municipalities, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no wonder that Judge Burke found the CVRD RGS process ďŹ&#x201A;awed. The CVRD argument â&#x20AC;&#x153;To avoid the waste of scarce economic and staff resourcesâ&#x20AC;? is incredible - the CVRD planning budget is larger than the 3 municipal budgets, where there is growth! What is â&#x20AC;&#x153;scarceâ&#x20AC;?, is accountability for these budgets, and open, transparent local government.

A THOUSAND DIFFERENT sized and shaped sad looks to the author of â&#x20AC;&#x153;News Bulletinâ&#x20AC;? on May 22. How nice it must be that you can think yourself an authority on what the human structure should be, and feel the need to dictate what does and does not look good on others. Everyone is beautiful in their own way and what they wear is rendered moot by the personality within. Maybe you should

educate yourself on the fact that we are not all alike .... and who would want to be. I say to those who want to wear spandex - stride on and love who you are!!

THE COMOX VALLEY B&B Association wishes to thank 40 Knots Winery, The Whistle Stop, and Blue Moon Winery for inviting our members to experience their businesses ďŹ rst hand with open houses and receptions. This will allow us all to speak ďŹ rsthand about our experiences with our guests. Thank you!

SENDING LOVE, peace and incense to all you happy people of the Comox Valley! Unfortunately, I cannot share your joy and happiness. First, my life is interrupted by the sound of airplanes cruising over my house, then my midmorning nap is interrupted by tutors practicing ďŹ&#x201A;ying stunts over my neighborhood, and this week I have been offended by the putrid smell of cow manure as I drive along the rural roads on my way to the shopping center. This morning I had to roll up the windows of my car as I cruised along the Dyke Road because the smell of liquid cow excrement was being sprayed into the ďŹ elds and the stench was

JUNE 2-6

Visit us online: www.comoxvalleyecho.com

overwhelming. With todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s technology surely we can deodorize these droppings so that civilized people like myself can motor along in unimpaired bliss.

Failing that, I shall put in a request to the Regional District to reimburse me for my breathing apparatus, my ear protectors, and the sound prooďŹ ng Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had to add to the roof of my home. Does anyone know of an uninhabited, tropical island I can buy?

IF THEREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S A Kathryn Hemmingway in the valley, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an elderly gentleman from the UK that keeps phoning your old phone number from 5-6 years ago & leaving messages. He seems concerned about you. Please phone him and give him your new number. Thanks!

INTERESTING that TimberWest has been criticized for overlogging in the Great Bear Rainforest, exceeding the Provinceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual allowable cut. Is this happening in our watershed?

Who has responsibility for this? It seems the BC Government has invested in the TimberWest through BCIMC? BC Hydro continues to have huge challenges with predicting the Comox lake watershed inďŹ&#x201A;ows. What has changed, besides the climate?

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and signed in guests. Friday is still drop in darts night 7.30 pm toe line, $2.25 per person.

In the Comox Valley 30 SAT.

29 FRIDAY

CYCLING • Come join us on our Friday rides. We are a road cycling group of active adults and members of the Cross Canada Cycle Tour Society (CCCTS) www.cccts.org. At 10am (except in the months July and August when the start time changes to 9AM because of the heat). We meet at the Filberg Centre’s lower parking lot, 411 Anderton Courtenay, before setting off on a bike ride. See www.cccts.org under tabs Day Rides/Comox Valley for the schedule or email bikehikepeople@gmail.com COURTENAY LEGION • Meat draws every Friday, 5-7 pm.

COMOX LEGION • Meat draws every Friday, 3 p.m. Open to all Legion members MARS AGM • Sat. May 30th 10 am to 2 pm Merville Big Yellow Hall off Hwy 19A. Refreshements follow reports by directors, staff. Live Ambassador Birds of Prey. Followed by a walking tour of the New MARS Property. Appropriate footwear required. FMI 250-337-2021 or www.wingtips.org COMOX VALLEY FARMERS MARKET • 9-12 every Saturday at the Headquarters Road fair grounds, Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay. Come for the freshness, stay for the fun! FMI: Mkt. Mgr. Vickey 250.218-0321 or or www.comoxvalleyfarmersmarket.com & keep in touch on Facebook.

COURTENAY LEGION • Meat draws every Saturday 2-5 p.m. in the lounge. Danc-

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COMOX LEGION • Meat draws are held every Saturday 3 p.m. plus Ace of Spades draw.

31 SUNDAY

HUGE GARAGE SALE • Cumberland PAC and Community School society annual huge garage sale Sunday May 31 9-3 at Cumberland Elementary.

1 MONDAY

CRIBBAGE • Every Monday night, 7:00, at the Royston Hall, corner of Old Island Highway and Royston Road. No need to bring a partner. FMI: 250-334-1883.

LADIES AUXILIARY DROP-IN BINGO • Comox Legion Ladies Auxiliary Dropin Bingo, upper hall. Doors open 6 pm, bingo 7 p.m. All money goes to charities. Free coffee and tea.

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2 TUESDAY

PEARL ELLIS GALLERY IN COMOX • Presents: “WEST COAST RENDITIONS” a SHOW & SALE by CHARLOTTE DEPTFORD” From June 2nd - 21st . Open Tues - Sat from 10 am - 4 pm, Sun 1 - 4 pm, Closed Monday. Free Admission.

Located at 1729 Comox Avenue. FMI and to see a virtual gallery of the current show go to www.pearlellisgallery.com ROYAL PURPLE DROP-IN BINGO • Every Tuesday night, 7 p.m., at the Elks Home on Sixth St. COMOX VALLEY WOOD CARVERS • If you are interested in any type of wood carving please join us at the Royston Community Hall every Tuesday from 9:30 AM to 3 PM for a day of carving and learning about carving. No experience necessary.

FMI call Al at 250-331-0156 or Jim at 250-339-5350.

DUPLICATE BRIDGE • Every Tuesday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 1 p.m., Comox Seniors Centre.

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Cost of borrowing is $0 for a total obligation of $16,905/$33,058. This offer cannot be combined with any other offer. Conditions apply. $1,000 cash bonus included in advertised offers applicable only on the 2015 Altima 2.5 (T4LG15 AA00). ≠Representative monthly lease offer based on any new 2015 Altima 2.5 (T4LG15 AA00)/ 2015 Rogue S FWD (Y6RG15 AA00)/2015 Pathfinder S 4x2 (N5RTS5 AA00). 0%/1.99%/2.9% lease APR for a 60/60/60 month term equals monthly payments of $237/$253/$404 with $0 down payment, and $0 security deposit are due at lease inception. Prices and payments include freight and fees. Lease based on a maximum of 20,000 km/year with excess charged at $0.10/km. Total lease obligation is $14,236/$15,179/$24,246. These offers are only valid from May 1 – June 1, 2015. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Cash Bonus included on advertised offers. $1,000/$1,000/$1,000 cash bonus included in advertised offers applicable on he 2015 Altima 2.5 (T4LG15 AA00)/2015 Rogue S FWD (Y6RG15 AA00)/2015 Pathfinder S 4x2 (N5RTS5 AA00). Conditions apply. VModels shown $36,598/$48,668/$39,543 Selling price for a new 2015 Rogue SL AWD Premium (Y6DG15 BK00)/2015 Pathfinder Platinum (5XEG15 AA00)/2015 Frontier Crew Cab 4.0 SL 4X4 4CUG75 AA00). X$22,748 MSRP price for a new 2015 Frontier KC S (2KLG75 AE00). Conditions apply. *X±≠VFreight and PDE charges ($1,750/$1,720/$1,567/$1,695) air-conditioning levy ($100) where applicable, applicable fees (all which may vary by region), manufacturer’s rebate and dealer participation where applicable re included. License, registration, insurance and applicable taxes are extra. Lease offers are available on approved credit through Nissan Canada Finance for a limited time, may change without notice and cannot be combined with any other offers except stackable trading dollars. Retailers are free to set individual prices. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Vehicles and accessories are for illustration purposes only. Offers, prices and features subject to change without notice. Offers valid between May 1 – June 1, 2015. ††The Nissan Loyalty Offer (“Offer”) is available only to eligible customers who (as of Feb. 1, 2015) lease/leased, finance/financed or own/owned a 2009 or newer Nissan brand vehicle (an “Existing Vehicle”). Eligibility for the Offer will be determined by Nissan Canada Inc. (“NCI”) in its sole discretion. Proof of current or previous ownership/lease/finance contract will be required. Offer is not transferrable or assignable, except to a co-owner/co-leasee of the Existing Vehicle who resides within the same household as the intended recipient of the Offer. If the eligible customer elects to lease or finance a new and previously unregistered Nissan brand vehicle (excluding NV, Fleet and daily rentals) (an “Eligible New Vehicle”) through NCI and Nissan Canada Financial Services Inc. (collectively NCF”), then he/she will receive a specified amount of stackable loyalty dollars (“Loyalty Dollars”), as follows: (i) Micra/Versa/Sentra ($500); (ii) Juke/Altima/Rogue ($600); (iii) Frontier/Xterra/Leaf/Murano/Pathfinder ($800); and (iv) Maxima/Z/Titan, Armada/GT-R ($1000). Loyalty Dollars will be applied before taxes. Alternatively, the eligible customer elects to purchase or lease/finance an Eligible New Vehicle (excluding GT-R and Leaf®) other than through NCF, then he/she will receive a three-year/48,000 kiliometer (whichever comes first) Oil Change and Tire Rotation Plan which consists of a maximum of 6 service visits, each consisting of 1 oil change using conventional 5W30 motor oil) and 1 tire rotation. For complete details on the Oil Change and Tire Rotation Plan, ask your dealer. Offer has no cash redemption value and can be combined with other offers. Offer valid on Eligible New Vehicles purchased/leased/financed and delivered between May 1 - July 31, 2015. Conditions pply. Model(s) shown for illustration purposes only. Offer subject to change or cancellation without notice. While quantities last. Ask your dealer or visit www.nissan.ca for complete details. Nissan names, logos and slogans are trademarks owned by or licensed to Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. and/or its North American subsidiaries.

2015 Nissan Canada Inc. All rights reserved. *Global Auto Markets of Canada (GAC). Large Pickup Segmentation. °9,400 lbs maximum towing on Titan SV King Cab 4X4. See Nissan Towing Guide and Owner’s Manual for proper use. **Ward’s Large Cross/Utility Market Segmentation. MY15 Pathfinder vs 2015 and 2014 Large Cross/Utility Class. ∞Ward’s Large Cross/Utility Market Segmentation. MY15 Pathfinder and Pathfinder Hybrid vs 2014 competitors. ∞Global Automotive of Canada Small Pickup segment. MY15 Frontier vs. 2015 and 2014 Small Pickup class. +MY15 Frontier V6 Gasoline engine (216 HP @ 5600 rpm) vs MY15 Tacoma V6 Gasoline ngine (236 HP @ 4000 rpm). For more information see IIHS.org. Offers subject to change, continuation or cancellation without notice. Offers have no cash alternative value. See your participating Nissan retailer for complete details. ©2015 Nissan Canada Inc. Nissan Financial Services Inc. is a division of Nissan Canada Inc.

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

15

VANCOUVER ISLAND BRAZILIAN EMBROIDERY STITCHERS • Meet every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Black Creek Community Hall. Please bring a bag lunch. FMI: Darlene 8971345.

3 WEDNESDAY

NORTH ISLAND MPRA • Do you receive a pension from The Municipal Pension Plan? The next North Island MPRA meeting will be: June 3rd at 1:00, at the Comox Legion, 1825 Comox Ave. Our guest speaker is a Pharmacist who will speak about the intricacies of pharmaceutical drugs, and anything else we wish to know about them. For further information, contact Graeme (250-339-7604) PLAY BRIDGE • Every Wednesday at 7:00 pm at the Royston Hall, 3902 Old Island Hwy and Royston Road. FMI: 250-3341883 or roystonhall.com and on Facebook at Royston Community Club

16

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

BCAA seeks site for auto service centre

BY PHILIP ROUND Special to the Echo BCAA is looking to set up its own auto service centre in the Comox Valley, offering its members discounts and extended warranties on work done there.

Last fall, the provincial insurance, rescue and travel group - which already operates an insurance agency in Courtenay in the former Safeway plaza - opened its first fullservice auto centre in Kelowna.

Now it has commissioned commercial real estate specialists Colliers International in Nanaimo to seek out an appropriate site or building in the Courtenay/Comox area as part of a plan to expand FURNACES • NATURAL GAS • PATIO HEATE

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After a long flight the Ducky 500 participants have arrived in the Comox Valley. As one happy ducky said: “This is the ultimate Duck Race of the season and we are very excited to get into the river here! The flight was wonderful, my wings aren’t tired at all!” According to the Westjet flight attendants the ducks were very well behaved, although they did have some difficulty with their seatbelts and headsets. After leaving the airport the ducks were spirited off to an undisclosed location for a medical checkup and further training. You will see Comox Rotary members at many locations during June. They will be pleased to show you how to sponsor a ducky. The actual race will take place at Lewis Park on Canada Day. (Photo by Susie Fraser)

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the concept to other communities.

Colliers says the premises it is looking for would ideally be between 7,00011,500 sq. ft and have 8-10 vehicle service and repair bays, a car wash, business office and storage, and public retail space for services such as BCAA’s insurance agency.

“Sites that can only accommodate the repair centre/car wash and not the admin offices will also be considered,” states Colliers. “Facilities may be either existing or built to suit.” They add that properties “with prominent exposure and signage opportunities” will be preferred, but any location proposed must have appropriate zoning to be considered.

They stress the search

is not a tender process, “but only an inquiry as to the availability of suitable properties,” and any proposals have to submitted by 5 p.m. today (Friday) to receive further consideration.

BCAA opened its first and so far only auto service centre in Kelowna last October. On paper there are a small num-

ber of high-profile vacant Valley sites with commercial zoning that could be offered, notably in the Ryan Road and adjacent areas - and as for existing premises, eyes could fall on part of Canadian Tire’s existing premises if that business is able to fulfill its hope of moving to the former Target store at Driftwood Mall.

COURTENAY CENTENNIAL UPCOMING CELEBRATIONS JUNE 3 - 7

SATURDAY, JUNE 6

ELEVATE THE ARTS

HERITAGE FASHION SHOW

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THE EVERGREEN CLUB

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FILBERG CENTRE

SUNDAY, JUNE 7

SUNDAY, JUNE 14

CELEBRATION SINGERS CENTENNIAL CONCERT SID WILLIAMS THEATRE

COUNTRY ROADS MARATHON

JUNE 19 - 20

SATURDAY, JUNE 20

ABORIGINAL DAYS

TEA & TREASURES

K'ÓMOKS FIRST NATION K'ÓMOKS BAND OFFICE, 11AM

COMOX VALLEY SPORTS CENTRE FULL & HALF MARATHON COURSES

RACE PACKAGE PICKUP: JUNE 13

ANGLICAN CHURCH 100 YEARS

TEA AND FASHION SHOW

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

17

Long-serving city planning chief retires

BY PHILIP ROUND Special to the Echo Long-serving planning chief Peter Crawford retires today (Friday) after 35 years guiding developments in the Comox Valley.

Born in Creemore, Ontario, his began his career in Ottawa before moving

west to Red Deer (Alberta) and then to the Comox Valley in 1980, when he was appointed director of planning for the former Comox Strathcona Regional District.

He became Courtenay City planner in 1994, and for the past 21 years -- most recently as director of development ser-

vices -- has helped guide the municipality’s growth and overseen a series of developments that would have seemed unimaginable when he first took up post.

Back then, there was no Inland Island Highway, Crown Isle was only just getting started, Lerwick Road was not even a

City’s retiring finance chief has a way with numbers

BY PHILIP ROUND Special to the Echo Tillie Manthey has a way with numbers - and for more than 22 years she has been putting her skills to good use with the City of Courtenay.

Manthey retires today (Friday) from her role as the authority’s director of financial services as well as being the City’s deputy chief administrative officer.

There was no let-up in her final days as she prepared and presented a detailed briefing on her department and its work to councillors this week.

Born and raised in Terrace, BC, Manthey began her career at the credit union in her home town, before moving to northern Alberta to join the staff of a public accountancy business.

In the early 1980s she switched to a position with the municipality of Cold Lake, later being appointed director of finance with a regional hospital board in Alberta.

She arrived in Courtenay in 1992 and has worked in the finance department at City Hall ever since, taking on overall responsibility for the good management of what is now a $55 million annual budget in the year 2000.

There have been many changes and challenges to the work since she arrived in the Valley, but Manthey says she has always found the job fascinating.

Technological innovations have been to the fore, and a particular highlight was a massive up-

Director of development services Peter Crawford checks out a zoning map of the City of Courtenay just prior to his retirement today. through route to Comox, and the advent of big box stores like Home Depot

and Walmart were still years off.

Reflecting on his time

in the Valley, Crawford says he is most pleased with the work to establish a growing network of recreational greenways in Courtenay and, in earlier years with the CSRD, getting regional parks formally established through Crown grants at places such as Nymph Falls, Seal Bay, and Mount Geoffrey on Hornby Island.

He recognizes that for anyone involved in planning there will be controversies along the way, and his career has been no exception.

But as he steps away from being in the front line, he says throughout his career “I always put the interests of the community first.”

He will continue living in Comox and in retirement plans to keep up his active participation in hockey. ❑

Congratulations to the Finneron Hyundai Sales Team for their Best Month Ever!

The City of Courtenay’s retiring finance chief, Tillie Manthey, pictured while working on her final presentation to councillors this week. dating of all the software used for City’s accounts to improve efficiency and provide faster and better reports on both income and expenditure.

At about the same time the municipality embarked on the process of choosing new auditors as well as changing its bank to secure best value for taxpayers - a huge issue when so many automated payments and accounts are involved.

Change continues to be constant, she notes - last year a web-based Citizens’ Budget service was provided to help guide council spending priorities, and right now a new program allowing people to apply

for homeowner grants online is being launched to help taxpayers claim their full entitlements and speed the transaction process.

As she steps way from her role to enjoy retirement in the Comox Valley, Manthey takes satisfaction from consistently strong audit reports over many years highlighting the City’s solid financial position.

And while no one enjoys paying taxes, she hopes people will at least recognize that she and her team have been meticulous in the manner in which they have handled public money. ❑

De aler #30993

18

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

NATURAL THERAPIES FOR SEASONAL ALLERGIES

By Dr. Deidre Macdonald, ND Do the buds of spring signal trouble to you? If so, you may be among the 20% of the population who suffer from spring hayfever. Hayfever, known medically as seasonal allergic rhinitis is the most common allergic disorder in Canada. It is characterized by nasal congestion, sneezing, red, itchy eyes, nose or throat, tearing, fatigue and the dark bags under the eyes (known as

allergic shiners). For people allergic to pollen, grass, and weeds spring and summer are a mixed blessing. But allergic rhinitis can occur at any time of the year for people allergic to dust mites, feathers, and animal dander.

Mold and fungus allergies typically flare up in the fall when the molds grow rapidly in the cool moist air.

Think mold allergies if you suffer from sinusitis at the time of year when mushrooms are popping up underfoot.

Allergies are a reflection of a disordered immune system perceiving harmless substances as foreign invaders. The symptoms the body produces are its convoluted attempt to protect itself. Parts of the immune system, mast cells and basophils, release histamine, which causes swelling and fluid discharges in the eyes, nose, and throat.

Conventional treatments target the symptoms of the condition and may

provide temporary relief. The new class of anti-histamines, while producing far fewer routine side effects can have potential fatal side effects if combined with some other common drugs, including antidepressants and antibiotics. Steroid nasal sprays have local side effects including nasal irritation and bleeding and perforation of the nasal septum. So, what’s worse, the disease or the cure?

Continued on next page...

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

19

SEASONAL ALLERGIES ...Continued from previous page Many people are turning to natural medicines to help combat allergies.

Extensive scientific research has helped us understand which herbal remedies and natural substances are most beneficial with the least side effects. Nature provides a medicine for spring hayfever in the form of stinging nettles. Ironically, the same plant that can cause a stinging rash if touched, can be transformed into an effective anti-histamine.

Studies show that 60% of people find freeze dried nettles to be effective in relieving their symptoms, and 50% find it to be equally or more effective than the conventional drug counterparts.

Nettles not only rarely have side effects, they have many side benefits.

They are one of the most nutritious, edible plants in our BC forest. Just make sure you steam them or dry them before eating!

Several other natural remedies have been proven to be effective against allergies.

Bromelaine is an antiinflammatory and mucous clearing agent. Quercetin has anti-histamine, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

N-acetylcysteine is an amino acid with few side effects and many side benefits that breaks down mucous, so it can be discharged more easily. Vitamin C is also helpful for allergies in a number of ways.

Naturopathic physicians are primary care physicians who often pay extra attention to diagnosing and treating allergic conditions. But they not only

treat the allergy symptoms, with medicines such as those addressed above, they also help their patients to understand what may be the underlying cause of the allergies. What has caused the immune system to become so disordered that it mounts such a defense to such harmless invaders?

What other stresses are impacting the immune system? What can be done to strengthen the immune system in the long run, to prevent or cure allergies?

These are the deeper questions one must ask if one wants to get off the endless cycle of symptoms and shortterm treatments. For instance, recent research shows that antibiotic, c-sections and other modern medical practices can contribute to the formation of allergies by disturbing the microbial lining of the intestines, which impacts the immune system.

Naturopathic physicians individualize an allergy treatment program for each patient. They educate their patients on how to use safe and effective naturopathic strategies.

Some can provide scratch testing in-office or Allergy Desensitization using safe and effective non-injection techniques.

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Did you know?

If you have psoriasis, an autoimmune skin condition marked by red, flaky patches on the body, you also could be at risk for a certain type of arthritis.

Psoriatic arthritis, which causes stiffness, swelling and pain in and around the joints, affects up to 30 percent of people with psoriasis, says the National Psoriasis Foundation.

While psoriatic arthritis can develop at

any time, it is most common in people between the ages of 30 and 50. This type of arthritis can develop slowly or come on quickly and be severe. Just like psoriasis itself, psoriatic arthritis tends to go through periods of flareup and remission. Typically, the skin condition precedes the joint disease in 85 percent of patients. Keep in mind that a severe case of psoriasis will

not necessarly translate into a severe case of arthritis. Psoriatic arthritis may be treated like other forms of arthritis. Doctors may prescribe antiinflammatory drugs, antirheumatic drugs, exercise, and complementary therapies. Those who have psoriasis and have begun to experience joint pain and stiffness should talk to a doctor about potential therapies.

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DON’T LET ARTHRITIS SLOW YOU DOWN

By Dr. Deidre Macdonald, ND In my years of naturopathic medical practice, I have been struck by the number of people who suffer from arthritis. In fact, it is the most common cause of disability in North America. Too many of my patients are suffering from sleep issues, chronic pain and mobility issues because of arthritis. What concerns me about arthritis is the global affect it can have on a person’s health. We know that exercise is one of the key elements of achieving a long and productive life, so if arthritis is interfering with exercise the repercussions can be profound. I have seen many patients whose heart problems can be traced back to their weight gain and lack of exercise, which are a direct result of the limitations imposed by arthritis. I have seen patients whose health is being compromised by pain killing medications that provide short term pain management but create long term health problems.

Consequently, I have been on the quest for real solutions for people with arthritis pain. My motivation to find effective prevention and treatment of arthritis has led me to investigate a number of safe, non-toxic therapies that have proven very effective in relieving pain, increasing mobility and reducing the need for surgery.

The current treatment options typically presented to a patient by their medical doctor will include drug therapy and eventually surgery for knees, hips and some other joints. All the prescription medicines, while providing good short term relief, have significant problems associated with long term use.

Aspirin causes gastric bleeding and ear problems, Tylenol (acetaminophen) can cause hepatitis at 8 pills a day, ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen are not recommended for long term use as they can cause bleeding in the stomach, the cox-2 inhibitors like Vioxx and Celebrex can be dangerous for the heart, and many other pain killers are highly addictive and have their own problems.

Surgery of course has its significant risks, including infection, adverse reactions to anaesthetic, and surgical complications. Also, since arthritis can affect any joint, including the spine, there are instances where surgery is not available. Many of the patients I see have degeneration in many spinal segments that cannot be adequately addressed through surgery.

I counsel my patients to employ a three pronged approach to addressing arthritis. The first step is to support the proper functioning of the joint.

That may mean joint manipulation and alignment, stretching the joint, and most importantly, strengthening the joint by engaging the muscles around it. A weak joint needs the support of strong muscles, so as soon as possible, gentle strengthening exercises are recommended.

For example, strengthening the muscles of the core abdominal region is essential to prevent and treat back pain.

Secondly, I recommend low level laser therapy. This is the one physical therapy that has been proven in numerous scientific studies to significantly reduce the pain and inflammation of arthritis in a real and lasting manner. Animal studies have shown that laser treatments

can stimulate repair of the cartilage in joints. A scientific meta analysis of eight placebo controlled human clinical trials demonstrated that laser therapy reduced pain and increased mobility in osteoarthritis of the knee. Many more studies have shown similar results for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

The laser treatments are painless, have no side effects, and are reasonably priced. State of the art equipment, like the Theralase laser, enhances the effectiveness of laser therapy.

Since 2007 we have been providing laser light therapy in our clinic, and we have had hundreds of patients experience significant relief from their arthritis pain. Arthritic hands have responded

very well to laser therapy, as have arthritic knees, shoulders and spines.

The third aspect of treatment that I recommend is to take advantage of natural anti-inflammatory medicines.

Examples include curcumin (extracted from turmeric), bromelain, serrapeptase, Kaprex, boswelia and more. Don’t let arthritis relegate you to a life on the couch. A full, rich life may be possible with a new approach to arthritis.

To schedule a complimentary 15 minute consultation to discuss whether laser therapy or naturopathic medicine is right for you, contact Dr. Macdonald’s downtown Courtenay office at 250 8970235, or though her website at www. getwellhere.com

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The bar has been licensed for just 30 people, who will be served beer by the pint or glass. There will be a simple menu of snacks and food to accompany drinks, provided in part through a business arrangement with the Westerly Hotel.

“If we have enough beer, we’ll be doing growler fills as well,” said Vincent, who got involved in setting up the brewery because he wanted to be his own boss doing something he was interested in.

“And for sure I’m very interested in beer,” he added.

Third craft brewery closer to opening in Valley

BY PHILIP ROUND Special to the Echo It’s been a long haul for Michael Vincent and his four business partners, but they are now close to becoming the latest craft brewery to open in the Comox Valley.

The Forbidden Brewing Company’s walk-in bar, tasting room and brewhouse alongside the Best Western Westerly Hotel in Courtenay is targeted to welcome its first customers in July.

The independent business venture follows in the footsteps of two other micro-breweries that have recently launched to acclaim in the Valley - Cumberland and Gladstone.

Forbidden Brewing hadn’t actually intended to follow anyone, but getting all the paperwork and licensing agreements in place has taken longer than originally expected, as has the conversion of premises that were never designed to be a brewery.

When it finally launches, it will be what chief

executive Michael Vincent calls a ‘nano’ rather than ‘micro’ brewery.

“We’ll start small and build up,” he told the Echo. “We’ll begin by brewing 900-litre batches, starting with a Pale Ale and an India Pale Ale.” The project began nearly 12 months ago, but most of the major work is now complete, including building a walk-in cooler, creating washrooms, and installing the majority of the all-important brewing equipment.

Front-of-house, rejuvenation has been the theme, with the sleek bar being made from reclaimed wood recovered from a Tin Town restoration project, and old wood tables and chairs being restored to give them new life.

A series of wood planks ‘branded’ by burning Forbidden Brewing’s logo on to them have been used to create a customized sliding door to divide the bar from the brewing operation.

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Tapping the market: Michael Vincent at work installing equipment at the Forbidden Brewing Company, which is set to open this summer in premises alongside the Best Western Westerly Hotel.

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The Comox Valley Photographic Society (CVPS) holds their annual Garage Sale, rain or shine, on Saturday May 30th at 1892 Noel Ave, Comox, BC from 8am to noon.

The sale will include camera related equipment, household items, books, exercise equipment, and so much more. Clothing will not be sold. This is an important fundraising event for the club and cheerful camera club members will be available all morning to assist with purchases and to provide information for those interested in joining the club.

For more information on the Comox Valley Photographic Society go to www.cvps.ca

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26 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

SPRING IN THE GARDEN Highlights for the summer garden A new twist on some old favourites ...

BY ELLEN PRESLEY Anderton Nursery I love this time of year.

Everything is growing so vigorously, as we leave behind the Spring Garden and make way for all the fabulous Summer blooms.

The lilies and roses are starting to make a show and they are breathtaking in both their beauty and fragrance. The Irises are stunning. The early double Rudbeckia are so lush and everything that was only a few green leaves before is now forming buds and getting ready to bloom. It’s so exciting to see what’s next. Especially all the new varieties of plants - taking all are our old favorites and adding a new twist.

The beautiful, graceful Campanulas have always been lovely with their en-

chanting bells or bell clusters - then comes along the interesting Campanula glomerata ‘Genti Twisterbelle’.

Imagine fascinating feathery tuffs of blue and white bi-color flowers growing along 21-23”stems. This sun to part shade lover is a prolific bloomer with long stems which make it an excellent cut flower.

Wonderful in the mid border, containers or in the cutting garden, it is very hardy ( Zone 3) and attracts hummingbirds and butterflies, but the deer usually leave it alone .Keep the soil moist but well drained.

Phloxes come in a variety of colors and sizes, are long blooming, hardy and long-lived, often fragrant and never need staking.

They have been gracing gardens for over 100 years and there are over 800

The interesting Campanula glomerata ‘Genti Twisterbelle’. named varieties.

This year we added the lovely Phlox paniculata ‘Flame Blue’ to our collection. It has dark blue buds which open to large fragrant clusters of white flowers brushed with blue.

Considered a dwarf at 12”, this disease resistant plant loves full sun to part

shade and looks wonderful in garden beds or borders. It also makes an excellent cut flower. Humming birds and butterflies love it. Zone 4 Coreopsis are wonderful dependable plants that are easy to grow and maintain, add wonderful texture and design to the

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garden, and usually come in yellow with pink and burgundy recently appearing on the market.

Now we have Coreopsis ‘Crusin’ ‘Broad Street’ sporting bright scarlet red flowers with orange overtones and the underside of each bloom is orange. It has light open thread-leaf foliage and blooms from summer to fall. Lovely at the edge of the border it will grow only 15-18.”

Give it full sun and good drainage. When the new colors became available they were not very hardy but this one is, at zone 4.

It makes a wonderful cut flower, butterflies love it but deer and rabbit leave it alone.

Shasta daisies are always sunny in any garden and this variety is no exception. Leucanthemum ‘Real Dream’ has large creamy

‘Flame Blue’ phlox yellow flowers with 3 layers of petals that surround a golden center. Shorter than many Shasta it grows only 14-16. ‘Real Dream’ is a well behaved easy care, long blooming plant in the garden that is disease resistant and makes a great cut flower.

Your butterflies and hummingbirds will love it and yet it is deer and rabbit resistant. It can be mass planted and makes a cheery addition to the cottage garden.

Another sunny addition to the perennial garden is Helianthus ‘Happy Days’ (perennial sunflower).

(Continued on page 27)

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015 (Continued from page 26) This fantastic mid-size (21-23”) sunflower has a gorgeous head of a double blooming large yellow flower with a pom-pom center. The blooms are 3 1/2 -4” in size!

This lovely easy care plant would be attractive in any garden bed, along borders or in containers.

It can be used as a cut flower and will attract butterflies to your garden but the deer and rabbits leave it alone. It prefers full sun and moist soil but will tolerate salt air making it a great choice for the seaside garden.

An old favorite to the Summer garden is Digitalis mertonensis (Strawberry Foxglove). Tolerating sun but preferring part shade, it grows 24-36” high and has huge coppery rose tubular flowers that bees and hummingbirds love.

Butterflies and birds love it too.

Foxgloves are a classic for the woodland and cottage garden and love a moist organic rich soil.

They bear gorgeous towers of flowers above the garden canopy giving height without needing staking and adding charm and romance to the garden. Usually considered a bi-annual, this variety is

Helianthus ‘Happy Days’ considered the most hardy (Zone 4) and the foliage always looks crisp and fresh. They often reseed themselves and can naturalize quite nicely, are deer resistant and their showy blooms can be used as a cut flower.

Most people are familiar with the annual Lobelia but there are several perennial versions. The most common is the native red version Lobelia cardinalis which is quite tall and used in boggy areas. This year we are offering two blue varieties.

Lobelia speciosa ‘Fan blue’ is the blue version of the cardinal flower yielding intense blue-violet blos-

soms on compact (28”) upright stems. It blooms from mid - summer to fall and is a multiple award winner for its garden performance.

Definitely a hummingbird magnet but it also attracts butterflies and swallowtails. It grows in average soil but needs consistent water.

Although hardy at Zone 5, it is often considered a short lived perennial but usually reseeds itself. This showy accent is great in beds, mixed perennial borders, for the cottage garden or large containers. Song birds love it and again deer and rabbits leave it alone.

Lobelia siphilitica ‘Blue Selection’ (24-36”) is a lighter lavender blue, with shorter stalks and larger flower heads. From mid-summer to early Fall, spires of colorful hood-like flowers open from top to bottom.

This lobelia needs constant moisture and is often grown along a stream or beside a pond. Great paired with ferns and Heuchera. Like all woodland plants, it prefers part Sun to full shade and is hardy to Zone 3.

It is attractive to hummingbirds, butterflies and birds but the Deer leave it alone. Good cut flower.

The plant can be pinched

Coreopsis ‘Crusin’ ‘Broad Street’ sporting bright scarlet red flowers with orange overtones before flowering to produce a more compact plant. An interesting note: the species name of siphilitica came from a prior medicinal use of the plant in the treatment of venereal disease.

Saving the fun one for last is Salvia elegans ‘Pineapple Sage’ which smells like a pineapple cocktail. Seriously! The foliage smells like a ripe pineapple candy.

It is considered a tender perennial at Zone 8, but can be brought inside to winter over or grow it as an annual. It grows quite tall and has stunning profuse bright red tubular flowers which have hummingbirds flocking to it.

Despite its intense fragrance only the flower is

27

Salvia elegans ‘Pineapple Sage’ which smells like a pineapple cocktail

Leucanthemum ‘Real Dream’ has large creamy yellow flowers used as an edible garnish.

Add it to salads or fruit cocktails or sugar it and use it to garnish cakes or cookies. Either way, this plant is a must for the Summer - so much fun for both you and hummingbirds.

Lots of new and wonderful perennials filling our tables with wonderful blooms and fragrance - whether you choose an old favorite or a new variety you can have fun in your garden this Summer.

Happy Gardening!

28 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

7th Annual HUGE Garage Sale returns to Cumberland Fund-raising event helps Community Schools Society and the school parents association to help the kids The 7th Annual HUGE Garage Sale takes place this Sunday May 31st.

The Cumberland Community School gym will be packed with treasures all priced by donation including clothes, toys, sports

equipment, housewares and more!

This year, the event is an important fundraiser for both the Cumberland Community Schools Society (CCSS) and the Cumberland Community

School Parents Association. CCSS is a registered charity that has been working in the Village of Cumberland for 15 years.

Working in partnership with the school, volunteers and community organiza-

GRAND OPENING Saturday May 30th

tions, CCSS offers a wide variety of programs and services for all ages.

The Cumberland Community School Parents Association works to enrich the school environment through fundraising

and parent engagement.

Individuals can drop off donations of items to sell on Saturday May 30th from 10 AM- 3 PM, and return on Sunday to purchase new treasures.

Doors open at 9 AM on

Sunday May 31st. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss this important community fundraiser in Legendary Cumberland!

For more information contact 250-336-8521 or ccss.coordinator@gmail. com

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

29

For all my current listings please go to: www.tinavincent.ca se Open Hou Sat. 1-3

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O: 250-334-3124 | TF: 1-800-638-4226 121-750 Comox Rd, Courtenay Each office independently owned & operated

13-3355 1st Street, Cumberland JUST LISTED at Ambleside Estates! Lovely 2 bd, 2 bath 1190 sq ft patio home with private patio area! A great place to call home with a strata fee of only $150 p/month!

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Truly one of a kind! 4.98 acres, 2250 beautifully renovated 3 bd, 2 bath, rancher with 2400 sq ft shop with over height doors, & 1040 sq ft barn! with 2 stalls & tack room!

Cyclists top commuter challenge

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff When traffic is at its busiest, would you prefer to drive your car or to ride your bicycle?

The proponents of the Bike to Work Week in the Comox Valley held a commuter challenge to prove which was more convenient and faster.

Two cyclists - Courtenay councillor David Frisch and Comox Valley Regional District’s senior manager of recreation facilities Darcy Walters - went up against the 97.3 FM the Eagle’s promotions director Linda Thomas and afternoon radio host Rick Yurkewich, who traveled in their community cruiser.

The race started at 2:55 p.m. at the Eagle radio station located on 29th Street, and the finish line was at the Lewis Centre in Courtenay.

Participants were required to make three pit stops along the way at The Broken Spoke on Fitzgerald Ave., Mountain City Cycle on Fifth Street, and the Comox Valley Regional District Office on Comox Road.

The first to reach the Lewis Centre was Frisch, an avid cyclist who pedaled around the traffic with ease and speed. He crossed the finish line at 3:08 p.m.

A minute later, Walters wheeled in the CVRD ebike with the Eagle cruiser coming in at 3:13 p.m.

Frisch said it proves that cycling has its benefits.

“It’s actually viable,” said Frisch. “It was great on Fitzgerald because we

The

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

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Daily 6:30am - 1:30pm, 5:00pm - 9:00pm

Reservations 250.338.7741

The Westerly Hotel & Convention Centre

1590 Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay

David Frisch was the fastest

Commuter Challenge participants relax at the Lewis Centre after racing through Courtenay - and having to make a few stops. From left to right, Courtenay councillor David Frisch, the Eagle’s Linda Thomas and Rick Yurkewich, and Darcy Walters, CVRD senior manager of recreation facilities.

had our own bike lane so it was really comfortable there. There are some advantages because you’re smaller and you’re a little more maneuverable. I am just really excited that we had the opportunity to show that it’s possible for people.”

Last year, the Eagle was first to cross the line. It was a straight race with no stops along the way.

This year, it wasn’t that easy.

“We had three stops to make along the way, that’s the difference this year,” said Linda Thomas, promotions director of the Eagle. “We had to park our vehicle, go to the store and then go on our way.

For cyclists, it’s easier for

them to zoom in especially if they have bike parking in front of the store. For us it’s harder to park, especially at the CVRD. It’s really very small. We legitimately tried very hard and kudos to Bike Week.

They did a fantastic job.”

Active Comox Valley coordinator, Dawn Stevens said this year they tried to make the challenge a little more realistic.

“Having to find parking, it’s tough in town,” said

It’s actually viable. It was great on Fitzgerald because we had our own bike lane so it was really comfortable there.”

DAVID FRISCH Courtenay councillor

Stevens. “When you’re in a bike, you can put it in a bike rack and away you go.

When you’re in a vehicle, that’s where their challenge came from, finding parking, getting in and out, getting blocked in by other people backing out.

So it was really great this year.”

Bike Week in the Comox Valley was a huge success.

There were a lot of participants this year especially at the schools where some of the bike racks were filled to the max. A big barbecue event was also held at Simms Park on Wednesday afternoon to celebrate Bike Week.

Bike to Work Week kicked off Monday morning at Courtenay city hall with municpal and school board officials joiining others for a quick ride

Welcome to the Westerly’s WEEKNIGHT Buffet

“Best Brunch in Town”

Join us Monday through Thursday from 5:00pm - 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 (10 and under) $5.99

beverages, taxes and gratuities are not included – reservations recommended

Join us every Sunday from 11:00am - 2:00pm only at The Westerly!

30 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ART ■ Campbell River Artist, Charlotte Deptford, is presenting a collection of her most favorite Acrylic and Watercolor paintings at the Pearl Ellis Gallery in Comox, June 2 to 22. Charlotte would love to meet and chat with you. A reception will be held June 7, from 1-4pm. Pearl Ellis is located at 1729 Comox Ave, is open daily Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 4pm, Sundays 1pm to 4pm. For a visual tour of the show visit our web site at www.pearlellisgallery.com

Cumberland. This exploration will include writing prompts and exercises, as well as in-class readings and is open to writers of

all levels and genres. The workshop runs June 7th, 9 am - 3 pm, at Purusa Movement+Mind, 2703 Dunsmuir Av., Cumberland. Cost is $75. To register please call 250-3368702 or email traciskuce@ gmail.com.

■ Author Marlet Ash-

ley and illustrator Kate Brown have published a sixth book for children set in the Comox Estuary.

A Pirate’s Life for Gabby, fifth in their series Revelry on the Estuary and their sixth children’s book, is set in the Comox Estuary at Comox Harbour

and Goose Spit. BOOK LAUNCH for A Pirate’s Life for Gabby is on May 30th at 1:00 at the Courtenay Library. Children of all ages are welcome.

MUSIC ■ THE RANGERS are rockin’ it up at The Grif-

fin Pub this Friday night May 29th. Bring out your appetites and have dinner, wet your whistle with ice cold beverages, and stay for some of the best dance music in the valley! Get your chance at the Friday night jackpot which is up to $1850.00!

BOOKS AND WRITING ■ Calling all book authors - As a contribution to the City of Courtenay centennial, the Comox Valley Writers’ Society is compiling a history of book authors from the Comox Valley and surrounding communities. This applies to authors of all genres and includes those with self-published books as well as books produced by mainstream publishing houses. For further information or inclusion in this project please contact Terry at tn-james@shaw.ca or 250-338-0597. Deadline is June 5.

■ Poetry and Prose Readings - Comox Valley Writer’s Society and the Courtenay Public Library invite the public to our Monthly Reading Series. New and published writers will read their work at the Courtenay Library Events Room from 11:45am to 1:15pm on Friday, May 29th. For more information and to sign up to read please call 338-0965. Everyone is welcome. This is a free event, refreshments will be served. - Our next reading event will be the last Friday in September. See you there!

■ Denman resident Sheila Carnegie has once again become a best selling author with the release of her third book “Tales from Old Toad Island,= Humourous Adventurs of Esmerelda Perkins, Book Two”. She will be at Abraxas Books on Denman Island on June 6th from 1-4 pm for a book signing and will have her three books available.

■ Get your creative juices flowing! On Sunday June 7th, Victoria author Julie Paul is offering a one day writing workshop in

With over 20 new theme packs, the largest On Demand library, all your favourites on CraveTV TM and blazing-fast Internet speeds*, it’s time you took control of your entertainment.

Switch to Optik TV TM and Internet for 3 years and get: FREE 40" Samsung TV† 1 year of CraveTV TM

FREE HD PVR and Wi-Fi® modem rental‡ 2-hour installation window

Take control by calling 310-MYTV (6988), going to telus.com/optik or visiting a TELUS store.

TELUS STORES Courtenay 795 Ryan Rd.

1599 Cliffe Ave.

2885 Cliffe Ave.

Offer available until June 1, 2015, to residential customers who have not subscribed to TELUS TV or Internet in the past 90 days. Cannot be combined with other promotional offers. Regular prices apply at the end of the promotional period. Minimum system requirements apply. Final eligibility for the services will be determined by a TELUS representative. TELUS reserves the right to modify channel lineups and packaging, and regular pricing without notice. Cannot be combined with other offers. The Essentials is required for all Optik TV subscriptions. Offer not available with TELUS Internet 6. HDTV-input-equipped television required to watch HD. *Internet access speeds may vary depending on location, usage within the home network, Internet traffic, applicable network management or server configurations. For a description of TELUS’ network management practices, see telus.com/networkmanagement. †A retail value of $689 for the 40” Samsung TV, based on the manufacturer’s suggested retail price, plus a 2 year extended warranty, provincial government eco fees and shipping. A cancellation fee applies for early termination of the service agreement and will be the value of the promotional gift received in return for your term commitment multiplied by the number of months remaining in the term (with a partial month counting as a full month), divided by the total number of months in the term, plus applicable taxes. TELUS reserves the right to substitute an equivalent or better product without notice. ‡Offer available with a 3 year service agreement; current rental rates apply thereafter. A cancellation fee applies to the early termination of the service agreement and will be $10 for the PVR and Wi-Fi modem rental multiplied by the number of months remaining in the term. TELUS reserves the right to substitute an equivalent or better product without notice. Rental equipment must be returned in good condition upon cancellation of service, otherwise the replacement cost will be charged to the account. PVR capabilities are subject to and limited by applicable laws. TELUS, the TELUS logo, Optik, Optik TV, telus.com and the future is friendly are trademarks of TELUS Corporation, used under licence. Samsung and the Samsung logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Samsung Canada. Network logos and names are trademarks of their respective owners. Crave TV and all associated designs are trademarks of Bell Media Inc. All rights reserved. HBO and any associated characters and logos are service marks of Home Box Office Inc. All rights reserved. All copyrights for images, artwork and trademarks are the property of their respective owners. © 2015 TELUS.

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

31

Experience the Toneff difference in Cremation and Funeral Service.

Eric Toneff, Owner Licensed Funeral Director

Emma Rimell, Licensed Funeral Director

MUSIC ■ The Comox Valley Youth Music Centre (CYMC) is widening its sphere of influence through a Gala Fundraiser on Saturday, May 30. The event starts at 7:00 pm at St. John the Divine Anglican Church on Fifth Street in Courtenay, Saturday May 30.

Doors to the hall will open at 6:30 pm to give everyone a chance to bid on the auction items. Strings & Winds Director, John Littlejohn, select students and more will be entertaining us with the familiar and the fun. The proceeds are earmarked for three very fortunate wind students from St. James Music Academy in Vancouver, where at-risk kids are shown a “doorway to a better world” through after school music programs. Tickets are $30.00 and will be available at the Laughing Oyster Bookstore in Courtenay, the Blue Heron in Comox and on line at www.cymc.ca.

■ Anela Kahiamoe and his Band “The Experiment-

Anela Kahiamoe ers” take the stage at the Avalanche Pub for a special performance this Saturday evening, May 30 at 7:00. Tickets are $15 at the door or $12 Advance and available now at the Avalanche Pub, Bop City Records, Red Carpet Boutique in Comox and Scorpios Hair Salon in Comox.

■ This Sunday, Letz Sing steps out of the ordinary to share singing with the wider community for an evening of fun that will benefit the Care-A-Van, a project of the Comox Bay Care Society. Tickets are available at the Laughing Oyster Bookshop in Courtenay for $10 each.

The concert starts at 7 pm sharp at Cumberland United Church, 2688 Penrith Avenue. Find out about Letz Sing at www. letzsing.com ■ It’s hard to know where to begin describing the talents of Helen Austin, a featured guest of the 1stTuesday Fundraiser at the Mex Pub on June 2nd. Joining Helen for the evening is local and world renowned dobro player Doug Cox. Austin will be performing this benefit concert in support of the Comox Valley Hospice Society, with admission by donation.The evening at the Mex Pub starts at 7:30pm with an opening set by event organizers Judy and Bruce Wing,

joined by violinist Blaine Dunaway. Donations of food for the Comox Valley Food Bank are also appreciated. For more information about the evening’s entertainment visit helenaustin.com or dougcox. org.

ETC.

■ Comedian Dylan Rhymer performs Friday, May 29, at The Waverley Hotel. “Politically charged, brutally honest...changing the face of comedy” The Georgia Straight. $10 cover. 9 PM door, show at 9:30 PM.

Courtenay

Is love just a four letter word?

Love can be viewed as a four-letter word. There are many forms of love: patriotic love, brotherly love, spiritual love, but the most vexing kind is erotic love. So many poets and songwriters have praised its promise of ecstasy and lamented its pain. Love can seem like a four-letter word, but have we ever considered that love may not be a noun, but a verb?

Comox Psychologist Dr. Frank Young will present several perspectives on this topic, and demonstrate how different parts of our brain are moved by this fascinating emotion.

Moderator Peter Schwarzhoff will then open the floor for what looks to be a very engaging topic for a lively discussion at Philosophers’ Cafe.

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

FEATURE LISTINGS 2024 Cedar Cres Open house

2111 LAMBERT

TORY ONE HUNDRED YEARS OF HIS

5– 2015 915 191

T Courtenay and District Museum The is i celebrating the City’s 100th anniversary with the publication a 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.

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

When: Wednesday, June 3, 7:00-8:00PM Cost: Free Location: Berwick Co mox Valley, community room 1700 Comox Ave, More Info: peter@peter schwarzhoff.ca

for all the details, go to

ONE HUNDRED YEARS OF HISTORY

1915– 2015

Dr. Frank Young

An amazing 2 BR retirement bungalow in a quiet area of nice homes, features a deluxe ensuite, great patio and more, nothing to do - just move in.

$279,900 MLS #388811 NEW PRICE 2096 Morello Place This is a very special family home, with living on the main floor and bedrooms are downstairs. The main floor features an open plan, with a large kitchen with eating bar and pantry. There is NEW a 4th bedroom that could be a LISTING den or an office. The 15x14 living has a gas fireplace, this is an ideal plan to entertain, outside there is a 12x25 deck with gas. Downstairs, you will find 3 bedrooms 2 baths, a large family room, 11x10 laundry, your family will love this home, there is also a 20x25 attached garage.

$469,900 MLS #392500 44-3400 CONISTON CRES

A rare Steam Engine Estates patio home features 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, awesome open plan, a den. There is a garage and more.

This complex has both 1 and 2 level homes so there is a very nice mix of people and age.

$247,000 MLS #391551

OPEN HOUSE Saturday 10:30-!2:00

A great family home in a quiet central Courtenay location.

Features lots of new flooring, 10 year old roof, 5 bedrooms & den & family room. Open plan design. The fenced yard is great for children & pets, large carport.

This home is a great value.

Sat.12-2:00

$299,900 MLS #388275

3909 Marine Dr Location is the number 1 reason for people to buy a great home and Marine Drive is one of the best locations in Comox Valley. This home was built in 2005 & renovated in 2011. Everything is top shelf including wood floors, granite countertop, heat pump, as good as view as you can get from the large master bedroom. The open plan allows for your ocean view from 3 sides. MLS #390291 You’ll need to check out the carport that opens up for your workshop.

There is a creek running through the manicured 0.23 ace and more!

$789,100

3792 Piercy Road You will love the privacy of the 8.35 acres on a few minutes from town, features include a Barn/Workshop, a green house, A 1600 square foot country home with a woodstove, country kitchen and more,The property has lots of trees, some great gardening options a seasonal creek and pond, close to the Wildwood Trails so bring your family and horses.

MLS #387052

$500,500

The 2nd Annual Royal LePage Petite Fondo is September 13, 2015

32 www.comoxvalleyecho.com Evergreen Club presents a centennial show of fashions through the decades FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

The Evergreen Club presents their fashion show “Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed” on Saturday June 6th at 7pm in the Florence Filberg Centre.

This fun walk down memory lane takes place upstairs in the Conference Hall.

This will be an extra special fashion show showcasing a century of fashion.

“We are celebrating Courtenay’s Centennial with a show of fashions through the decades,” says convenor Marlene Lally.

The evening starts with the Denman Island and District Lace making group doing a demo in the lobby.

“Come and enjoy their beautiful creations,” says Lally. “It is so intricate, an artwork that you need to see up close to appreciate the process.”

Doors will open at 5:30 to allow guests to do just that and socialize.

Hors d’oeuvres and coffee/tea will be served prior to the show and a no host bar will be available.

Everyone is welcome to take part in this fun histor-

Rare chance to see Quinn and Qristina in concert ical evening as we remember fashions and events from our past.

Guests are invited to be part of the show as well.

“If there is an outfit deep in your closet that you cannot bear to part with,” says Lally, “now is the time to bring it out, dust if off, and come in style!”

There will be a prize for the most original outfit.

The evening is a night of fashions, food and music.

We don’t think there could there be a better way to

celebrate Courtenay’s birthday!

Two local shops from Downtown Courtenay, LaCache and Jim’s Clothes Closet, will be showcasing the fashions of today.

LaCache have beautiful modern fashions and accessories that complement a show of vintage items perfectly.

Tickets are $15.00 each and may be purchased at Courtenay Recreation’s Filberg office or at LaCache on Fifth St. in Courtenay,

Talented young Victoria musicians Quinn and Qristina Bachand have acquired a big following internationally, in Canada, and here on the North Island.

We’re very fortunate to have them performing in concert at the Big Yellow Merville Hall on Thursday June 11th.

Over the last two years you may have seen Quinn performing locally at concerts with Ashley McIsaac, Pierre Schryer, and Shane Cook. And you may have been lucky enough to see Quinn and his sister Qristina performing at Gardeners Green Folk Club house concerts. However, this magical sibling duo’s popularity has outgrown the house concert venue, and many who wanted to see them weren’t able to get in, so this time there will be room for all at the Merville Hall.

Qristina and Quinn began their musical lives early, both specialising in classical violin. Quinn soon discovered his affinity for all stringed instruments, quickly mastered both guitar and banjo along with

various other instruments, and the duo began to draw on their Celtic heritage for material. Their firs CD, Relative Minors, was released in 2008, and thei second, Family in 2011. Their newest CD, Little Hing es, has just been released, so named for the adage “big things swing on little hinges”.

Qristina’s sultry voice and superb fiddle playing continue to captivate audiences. With a degree in public health under her belt, she will be beginning a masters degree in traditional music at the University of Limerick in September.

Don’t miss a fantastic evening’s entertainmen with the Bachands exciting mix of phenomenal talent youthful vigour, and Celtic-tinged traditional and new music. Advance tickets are available at Long and Mc Quade in Courtenay, $18 for adults, $12 for youths or online at https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/qristina quinn-bachand-merville-bc-tickets-16606091266 They’ll also be available at the door on the concer night, Thursday June 11th, $22 adults, $15 youths.

BLACK CREEK-OYSTER BAY (BCOB) WATER SERVICE AREA Shoppe Talk May 2015 – Chorus Supernaturals It seems like everyday we are exposed to an increasingly complex array of chemicals in either the food we eat or the products we use. Wouldn’t it be nice to have a choice in personal care products that are safe, effective and affordable?

All Chorus products contain only 100% natural-source ingredients. Not 95% or 99%. Maintaining the integrity of nature and the amazing ingredients it offers is incredibly important.

Chorus wants to ensure that any of their products you drink or put on your skin are 100% naturally derived, and unsullied by synthetics or harsh chemicals.

Everything Chorus makes is free of parabens, sulfates and petroleum derivatives. They do not and will not use any artificial fragrance or artificial preservatives. Instead a wide range of unadulterated botanical extracts, pure essential oils, plant-derived cosmaceuticals and high-grade plant and vegetable oils have been blended with the foundation products which have been sourced from the pristine wilderness of British Columbia. There are wonderful, natural alternatives that can do a better job and cause far less harm to our environment and bodies.

We're exposed to so many toxins from our surroundings and the typical, everyday products available in the marketplace. Through our skin, our bodies absorb many of the chemicals found in numerous personal care lines. It's as though we're breaking our link with nature because the body doesn't know how to process many of these unnatural elements. Our concern is how this accumulation of synthetic ingredients in the body affects us later in life.

If you are looking for a safe and natural alternative to your skin care products come and check out our line of Chorus products and see and feel the difference yourself.

Community Information Meeting Join us for a community information meeting to review the comprehensive BCOB water rate study.

Tuesday, June 9th, 2015 at 7:00 p.m.

LIVING WATERS FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 2222 Regent Road, Black Creek The CVRD will present information on well water capacity and conservation issues. There will also be a discussion on monthly volume thresholds and the rate increases that come into effect for the billing period ending June 30, 2015.

For questions or inquires, contact the CVRD’s engineering branch at 250-334-6056 or by email at: engineeringservices@comoxvalleyrd.ca Prior to the meeting, residents are encouraged to review the frequently asked questions (FAQs). The FAQs provide clarity on the 2015 water rate review. www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/waterratereview. follow comoxvalleyrd

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

5 This Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday Only!

Lease & Finance Rates!

This Sale Ends Monday, June 1 @ 5pm!

With any vehicle purchase during this 5 day sale you are automatically entered to win 1of 5 $500 Gas Cards!

33

34 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

Low net win for Patti Harris

Patti Harris, a member of the Comox Golf Club won Overall Low Net with a sizzling 64 at the Ladies North Island Golf Tournament on Mother’s Day. Shelly Stouffer from Fairwinds carded a 74 to win the Overall Low Gross trophy.

The team prize, presented

by Kay Dick in honour of her late husband, was awarded to the team of Brenda Kelly, Karen Wade, Phyllis Taylor and Sharon Crowe.

Of course none of this could have been possible without our major sponsors Gregg Hart, owner and managing broker of Royal LePage in the Comox Valley and our Hole in One sponsors, Canadian Western Bank and Visual Sounds.

Although there were no Holes in One, it was the thought that counted.

Royal LePage provided goody bags with the participation of a lot of their realtors and a towel made

by Peg Runquist, one of our lady members.

Throughout the weekend the ladies enjoyed a horse race, chipping contest, karaoke, great food and some great golf.

John, Sean, Ernie and Brandon had the course in great shape and the flags in some pretty tricky places.

It was nice to have our new manager, Jesse Moussa and his wife Nadine Ash (teaching pro) take part in our weekend.

Nadine provided a free lesson for registering before May 1st which was won by Tobi Norris in a draw.

Adrian, head chef of the Tee Box Restaurant, provided us with an amazing meal topped off with some awesome decadent desserts.

On Saturday night Jesse supervised the Horse Race.

Lorelei Banford, Laurie Appleyard and Barb Dixson placed first when they birdied the last hole, #9.

Shawne Munro, Fran Gibson and Sue Leakey placed second and third was the team of Sue Fulkerth, Janet Edwards and Patti Harris.

A chipping contest was held also, with Kathy Branch placing first by chipping 101/2” from the hole, second was Nancy Riva 4 feet.

Ian chose a hidden spot on the green for another prize won by Shawne Munro.

Our tournament is so successful because we have very generous hole sponsors: Bill Wheeldon Construction, Chinook Forest Products- Ian Leakey and Ed Leakey, CIBC Wood Gundy Investment Broker-Dave Wheeldon, Comox Fireplace and Patio, Comox Men’s Club, Creative Orthodontics- Dr. Mark Lawrence, G lacier Gutters- Rick McCaughan, Golf Life- Jesse

Moussa, Holland and Cameron - Mike Holland and Chris Cameron, Investors Group-Keith Gibson, J.R. Edgett Excavating Ltd. - Jack and Lynda Hornstein, Marty Peterson Contracting, Royal LePag e- Scott Fraser, Royal LePage - Gregg Hart, Scorpio’s Hair Design - Cheri Kahiamoe, Shilo Painting Mark Vandervoort, Sun Life Financial - Rick Siddall and Tracy Branch Contracting and Finishing.

A generous donation was made by Thrifty’s, Rexall Drugstore, Independent Grocers, The Echo and Nadine Ash. The Comox Golf Club has a very committed group of volunteers as well.

Ron Pratt, Brian Buchanan, Yvonne Higgs, Hank Verdenhalven, Gus Baudais and Tom Shaw found our errant shots in the trees, water and somewhere around the green.

Ian Leakey, Don Vanetta and Gerry Rautenberg supervised the chipping contest.

A cheerful group of ladies greeted us at the Registration Table.

Bernice Sutherland, Margot Hope, Monique Walker, Linda Diamond and Yvonne Baker were joined by Chettie MacDonald from Royal LePage to present us with our goody bags and cards.

Pat Ailles was busy polishing the trophies. Don and Maureen Taylor along with Doris Ellis and Ber-

Kathy Branch Jesse Moussa, Patti Harris. Low Net Champion from Comox and Gregg Hart. nice Sutherland worked diligently to tally the results in a timely manner.

As the ladies headed into the club house after their golf or flog or whatever you wanted to call it, they received Bits and Bites provided by Edith Albrecht with help from the kitchen staff.

In the 56 years of this tournament Edith has only missed one and that was because she was on a cross country train tour.

Chairman Kathy Branch and her committee of Sharon Crowe, Karen Vanetta, Sue Leakey, Mary Buchanan, Linda Callender, Car-

men deWinter and Nancy Riva, were congratulated on another successful tournament.

Following the presentations Katrina LeNoury led us astray in another rousing Karaoke sing song and dance.

Here are the top winning scores: Low Gross: Karen Kloske -80, Darleen Michell - 82, Jenny Steel - 84, Dee Horie 85, Tobi Norris - 85, Katrina

LeNoury - 86, Pat Peden 87, Georgina Hermans - 88, Carolyn Walker - 88, Suzy Venuta - 90, Judy Pouliot 90 and Sue Fulkerth - 90.

Low Net: Pat Schmidt69, Nancy Newton - 71, Karen Wade - 72, Barb Buchanan - 72, Nancy Riva - 72, Fay Baxter - 73, Anne Patterson -73, Brenda Kelly - 73, Edith Yaworski - 73, Phyllis Taylor - 73, Laurie Appleyard- 74 and Amber Dufour - 74 - Submitted by Nancy Riva

BRIDGE NEWS DUPLICATE BRIDGE CLUB Monday, May 18 A 1 Jack and Carole Bradshaw 2 Pete and Linda Marinus 3 Arlene Petersen - Dianna Rickson B 1 Charles Hodson Tim Kennelly 2 Tom Dugdale - Jeanette Baron 3 Gary Priestman - Pat Pantuso Thursday, May 21 A 1 Pete and Linda Marinus 2 Dave Mosher - Ken Hooper 3 Lloyd and Bernice Snyder B 1 Allen Hopwood Lorraine Gargan 2 Jim Poulson - Irene Pearl 3 Lorraine Waring - Leslie Craig Our club is located on Nordin Street across from the Comox Mall under the Museum and Art Gallery.

We offer guaranteed partnerships, so if you’re visiting or your regular partner is away, make sure you come out to play anyway. If you don’t have a regular partner, I’m sure you’ll meet one. Our Website is www.cvdbc.com and email is playbridge@shaw. ca For more information, please contact Linda Marinus at (250)338-2544.

COMMUNITY INFORMATION SESSIONS Tuesday, June 2nd, 2015, 3:00 – 4:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

13TH ANNUAL BOYS & GIRLS R GOLF TOURNAMENT

Stan Hagen Theatre, Komoux Hall North Island College, 2300 Ryan Rd. Courtenay, BC

HOSTED BY CROWN ISLE RESORT AND GOLF COMMUNITY FRIDAY, MAY 29TH, 2015

dŚĞ EŽƌƚŚ /ƐůĂŶĚ ,ŽƐƉŝƚĂůƐ WƌŽũĞĐƚ ;E/,WͿ ŝƐ ŚŽƐƟŶŐ ĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚLJ ŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƟŽŶ ƐĞƐƐŝŽŶƐ ƚŽ ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞ ĂŶ ƵƉĚĂƚĞ on the new 153-bed Comox Valley Hospital slated for ĐŽŵƉůĞƟŽŶ ŝŶ ůĂƚĞ ϮϬϭϳ͘ ŽƚŚ ŵĞĞƟŶŐƐ ǁŝůů ƐƚĂƌƚ ǁŝƚŚ ƚŚĞ ůĂƚĞƐƚ ƉƌĞƐĞŶƚĂƟŽŶ͕ ĨŽůůŽǁĞĚ ďLJ Ă ƋƵĞƐƟŽŶͲĂŶĚͲĂŶƐǁĞƌ ƐĞƐƐŝŽŶ ƌĞůĂƚĞĚ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ƉƌŽĐƵƌĞŵĞŶƚ͕ ĚĞƐŝŐŶ ĂŶĚ ĐŽŶƐƚƌƵĐƟŽŶ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ŶĞǁ ĨĂĐŝůŝƟĞƐ͘ dŚĞ E/,W ƚĞĂŵ ĂŶĚ ƌĞƉƌĞƐĞŶƚĂƟǀĞƐ ĨƌŽŵ selected proponent Tandem Health Partners will be ŽŶ ŚĂŶĚ ƚŽ ĂŶƐǁĞƌ ƋƵĞƐƟŽŶƐ ĂŶĚ ŐĂƚŚĞƌ ŝŶƉƵƚ͘ &Žƌ ŵŽƌĞ ŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƟŽŶ ǀŝƐŝƚ ƚŚĞ E/,W ǁĞďƐŝƚĞ Ăƚ͗ ŶŝŚƉ͘ǀŝŚĂ͘ĐĂ

TODAY!

Registration beginning @ 11:00 am | Shotgun start @ 12:30 pm $125 per player or $500 team

REGISTRATION @ 11am TODAY! • Hole events and activities!

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

For volunteer opportunities, prize donations and further information contact BGCCVI, 250-218-0904 or email rsmart@bgccvi.com

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

35

College ‘will have to charge for parking’ Fears lots will be swamped with hospital staff and visitors

BY PHILIP ROUND Special to the Echo Charges for vehicle parking will have to be imposed at North Island College before the new hospital opens, Courtenay councillors have been advised.

In a briefing on the college’s draft five-year plan, NIC president John Bowman explained that as the hospital was being built right next door to the college -- and parking charges will definitely apply to its parking lots -- the college had no option but to introduce its own fees.

If it failed to do so, students and staff would inevitably find they had nowhere to park, as the college’s parking lots would be swamped with vehicles trying to avoid the hospital’s charges.

At present, NIC is one of the few colleges in BC that has not introduced pay parking, but that policy simply could not be sustained once the hospital opened, Bowman sug-

gested.

Careful consideration was being given to how parking charges could be structured and implemented to make them as affordable as possible for staff and students, while deterring overspill parking from the hospital site.

On present projections, he thought it would be about a year before they were implemented.

The Echo has confirmed

the same issue is being actively considered by regional district staff responsible for the CVRD’s Aquatic Centre, which also currently offers free parking and which is also alongside the new hospital site.

Answering questions from councillors on other NIC issues, Bowman acknowledged that several BC colleges had changed their names and status to

‘university,’ but in his view that had caused some confusion for the public.

People had difficulty working out what the difference really was between, say, Camosun College in Victoria and Vancouver Island University (formerly Malaspina College) in Nanaimo, especially as both offered degree-level credentials and broadly comparable programs.

“I understand the mo-

tivation behind the title change, but it’s not something North Island College aspires to do,” Bowman explained.

Apart from Masters degrees, NIC already offered a very wide range of programs and qualifications related to local student and employer needs and interests without changing its status or name.

NIC was proud to be a valued community col-

Sunday launch for Guardian Watchmen program This Sunday (May 31), K’ómoks First Nation will launch its own Guardian Watchmen program at the Band’s new administration office on Dyke Road between 1p.m. and 3 p.m.

KFN Chief Rob Everson and Band Councillor Melissa Quocksister will speak at the open event, introducing the four guardians - Cory Frank, Tony Billie, Randy Frank, and Candace Newman.

In addition, there will be traditional dancing and a PowerPoint presentation explaining

the role of the watchmen and the importance of the work they are taking on.

Guardian Watchmen are First Nations’ people who monitor and protect the lands and waters on their territory in a bid to ensure a vibrant future for generations to come. They view their task as carrying forward the work of their ancestors to manage and respect their natural and cultural resources through traditional laws.

In particular, they monitor the health of important food,

social and ceremonial species and the impacts of various resource uses throughout their territory. Often working in forestry, fisheries and parks, they contribute to the successful implementation of land and marine use plans and other sustainable resource management initiatives.

A growing number of First Nations, particularly along the BC coast, have Guardian Watchmen, and the KFN is pleased to be able to launch its own program.

lege, and already offered its own business degree program.

Other partnerships and dual admission agreements had been forged with institutions elsewhere - including universities - so students could pursue their studies and gain credits locally for the first year or two, which for many was a very attractive proposition. ❑

Join the Oh Canada!

Team Trivia Night, Eh? To get in the spirit of Canada Day and the Courtenay Centennial celebrations, the Comox Valley Council of Canadians is hosting their ninth annual Oh Canada! Team Trivia Night. To accommodate demand, this popular event will move to a new location at the Rotary Hall of the Florence Filberg Center, 411 Anderton Road, Courtenay.

Doors open at 6:15 pm, Saturday June 6, with trivia questions beginning at 7pm.

For more information and to register for the June 6 Team Trivia Night, call Kathie at 250-3344608 or email cvcouncilofcanadians@gmail.com. $10 per person includes a ticket for all door prizes. Visit www.cvcanadians.org for more details and upcoming events

Bring a Friend &Volunteer!

Volunteer! at Courtenay Recreation

Summer Volunteer Information Meeting (14 years & over) June 4, 4:00 - 5:00 pm Lewis Centre For info: phone 250-338-5371 or text 250-650-9903

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36 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

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No Collection Required Call COMOX VALLEY ECHO 250−334−4734 or drop by 407−D 5th Street, Courtenay

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38 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

AHOY MATEYS

39

Mess around in boats with CV Yacht Club

Comox Valley Marina, in conjunction with the Comox Valley Yacht Club, are hosting the First Annual Boaters Exchange Extravaganza and Yacht Club Open House in the upper lot at the Comox Valley Marina where the Edgewater Pub used to sit (1805 Beaufort Avenue, Comox, BC) Mark it on your calendars May 30, from 10:00 to 3:00 p.m. Arrive when the doors open and be the first to spot just the special item that’s what you’ve been looking for. Vendors such as Wills Marine, Ocean Metals and Comox Marine and Woodworking and more will display their specials and many boaters will have dug out the treasures from the bottom of their lockers to buy, sell and trade.

Desolation Sound Yacht Charters have lots of bits and pieces at the ready.

A concession worthy of the hungry sailor is sponsored by the Sailing and Stand up Paddle Boarding Association to support Youth Watersport Athletes in the Comox Valley in the areas of catamaran and Stand Up paddle board development. Come and explore the treasures of the deepest bilge and see what you can find.

Annual information session Saturday with boaters’ exchange event The Comox Valley Yacht Club (CVYC) will hold its annual information session Saturday, May 30, 10 AM - 3 PM at the Comox Valley Marina site near the Harbour Air office in Comox.

This year we have been invited to be part of the Comox Valley Marina ‘Boaters Exchange Extravaganza’.

CVYC is a fun-loving group of people with boats of all sizes and descriptions. They all share a love of the water.

Members can go on planned group summer cruises whether they have a power boat or sailboat.

We have power and sail boats in the fleet, from 17 - 51 feet and all levels of experience.

Our members are interested in exploring, learning, socializing, and sharing ‘all things boating’.

Therefore, if you have a boat, love boating, and want to share or acquire information about sailing the wonderful waters that surround us, come to check us out and ask questions of the members who will be on hand.

During the winter months there are regular educational presentations on boating-related topics, and many social events to entertain.

A monthly bulletin with a calendar of events, marine information, and boating articles keeps members up to date on what’s happening.

Reciprocal moorage at other yacht clubs is a definite club benefit. Members also receive discounts at chandleries on the Island.

In conjunction with BC Parks, the club is a steward of Sandy Island (Tree Island). Club members do

TEXT YOUR TIP ANONYMOUSLY!!!

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

TEXT CVCSTIPS TO:

CRIMES

Help us name our new ferries.

We’re proud to be introducing three new Intermediate Class Ferries to our fleet. They will become part of our shared culture and history, serving British Columbians and visitors for decades to come.

Celebrate the beauty of coastal British Columbia and our marine heritage by submitting your best vessel names.

You could win over $500 in ferry travel. Contest ends June 9.

To enter, visit bcferries.com.

an annual spring cleanup of the park, and act as marine park hosts during summer weekends.

Any potential new members are invited to attend a social event later in the day and will be eligible for

a prize draw.

For more information, contact Sue at 250-898-8333, e-mail memberships@comoxvalleyyachtclub.com or visit www.comoxvalleyyachtclub.com.

40 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

that vehicle into a third.

One minor injury was reported and the driver of the pickup was charged under the Motor Vehicle act. (2015-6179)

Police Blotter Comox Valley RCMP responded to the following incidents between May 19 and 25:

this theft you are asked to contact Cst. N. Bandet of the Comox Valley detachment at 250-3381321. (2015-6200)

a theft from an unlocked shed on the 2000 block of Bolt Avenue in Comox.

Someone stole a large pressure washer that was on wheels. (2015-6317)

Break-in at grill Big TV stolen from mall Police received a report of a theft of a 40 - 50 inch Samsung TV from the Comox mall on May 20th.

The suspect is described as a white male in his early 20’s, is about 5’11”, 200 pounds and was wearing black pants and a white shirt. If you know this male or have any information about

Crash at intersection On May 20th police attended a three vehicle collision at the intersection of the Old Island Highway and Ryan road in Courtenay. The investigation revealed that a full sized pickup drove into the back of a car stopped for the red light which in turn pushed

On May 22nd police responded to a report of an alarm at the Joe Klassen’s Grill located on the 2400 block of Cliffe Avenue in Courtenay. Entry was gained by smashing a window and once inside the thief targeted the till.

This investigation is continuing. (2015-6282)

Theft from shed Police took a report of

Woman pulls knife On May 23rd police responded to a report of a female pulling a knife and demanded money and cigarettes from the store clerk at the Shell Gas bar located on Ryan road in Courtenay.

The female was located shortly after near her residence and was arrested for Robbery.

The 52 year old woman

will be appearing in court at a later date. (20156367)

David Suzuki in Comox June 3

Break-in on 16th St.

Celebrating Coastal Connections with David Suzuki event in Comox: When: 12 p.m., Wednesday, June 3 Where: Comox Community Centre, Comox What: David Suzuki is touring 12 coastal communities on Vancouver Island, the mainland and Haida Gwaii to celebrate the shared respect and admiration for coastal waters that make British Columbia such an amazing place to live.

Register for event: http://davidsuzuki.org/coastaltour

A break, enter and theft was reported to police on May 24th at 06:45 AM from a resident on the 1000 block of 16th street in Courtenay. It is reported that the break and enter occurred during the early morning hours while the people in the residence were asleep.

The point of entry to the residence was the unlocked basement door.

Several items were stolen. ( 2015-6383)

www.comoxvalleycrimestoppers.bc.ca

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41

42 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

Learn about water and boating safety during ‘Everyone Welcome’ swim at the RD’s Aquatic Centre May brings warmer weather, and also the Canadian Red Cross’ National Lifejacket Day, To mark the occasion, the Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) is inviting the public to learn about water and boating safety on Saturday, May 30 between 2:00 - 4:00 pm during the “everyone welcome” swim at the CVRD’s aquatic centre which runs from 1:00 4:30 p.m.

The event, which is in partnership with Pacific Pro Dive, will raise awareness of the importance of lifejackets and personal flotation devices (PFDs) It will include fun activities for the entire family, including water survival games and rescue challenges, and boating safety drills and demonstrations.

This water safety session will take place in a section of the 25-metre pool, and is included in the regular swim admis-

sion rates.

Participants can also win prizes.

The wave pool and remaining areas of the 25-metre pool will be open for patrons enjoying the “everyone welcome” swim.

Some of the tips attendees will learn about include the proper size and fit of a lifejacket, water entries and exits, how to safely load and enter a boat, and rescue simulations.

“National Lifejacket Day is an annual campaign initiated by the Canadian Red Cross to ensure boater safety by encouraging the use of lifejackets and PFDs,” said Jennifer Zbinden, the CVRD’s recreation services manager.

“We wanted to offer a fun session on water safety skills because we want residents of our community to feel comfortable around water and be able to enjoy some safe, summer fun.”

For more information on the CVRD’s sports and aquatic centres, including swim lesson rates and schedules, visit www. comoxvalleyrd.ca/rec.

Tip sheets on water safety can also be found online at www.redcross. ca/swim .

Volunteer with Courtenay Recreation this summer Courtenay Recreation Lewis Centre will be buzzing with activity this summer, and relies on volunteers to help with programs for children and youth. If you are 14 years and older, want to keep busy, learn new skills, have fun, meet new friends and gain valuable work experience, then join the team!

There are many opportunities available including day camps, Parktime, Art Exploration, pre school programs, inclusion programs, The LINC Youth Centre and much more.

Find out about all the fun volunteer opportunities available. Come to the Volunteer Information Session on Thursday, June 4, 2015 at 4:00 pm at Courtenay Recreation - Lewis Centre.

If you are unable to attend the meeting, contact the volunteer coordinator at 250-338-5371, text 250-650-9903 or drop by The Lewis Centre for more information.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.MAY 29, 2015

43

Road Runners present youth grant

Support young athletes at mountain dinner, auction

Gabe Gledhill receives the CV Road Runners Youth Grant ($300.00) from Roslyn Smith, President of the CVRR. Gabe is a dedicated and talented youth runner and cross country skier. Gabe is 12 yrs. of age in his 2nd year with the Comox Valley Cougars.

We all wish him well in his dream to compete at the Olympics.

Enjoy a nice Hawaiiantheme dinner and drinks to support emerging Island athletes in a variety of mountain sports.

The Vancouver Island Mountain Sports Society is having a special fundraiser on Saturday, June 6 in the alpine lodge at Mount Washington resort.

There will be silent and live auction items, plenty

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