Comox Valley Echo - April 22, 2014

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Volume 20, No. 32

Decision day for new Evangelical church and community facility By Philip Round Echo Staff For nearly 20 years, the congregation of the Central Evangelical Free Church of the Comox Valley has yearned to have a permanent place for worship.

And tonight (Tuesday) their hopes and prayers could take a big leap towards being fulfilled as Courtenay Council votes on granting a development permit for a new church on Inverclyde Way. If approved, the final push to raise the necessary funds will get under-

way with a view to starting construction in the spring of next year, lead Pastor Dave Koleba told the Echo. And he promised the new building, designed to accommodate more than 460 worshippers, would be a multi-purpose structure specifically intended to be an important commu-

nity facility, too. The main auditorium would have removable seats so that it could be rented for events such as dinners, wedding receptions or sports activities, and there would be a cafeteria and smaller side rooms that could double up as space for Sunday School

or discussion groups one day and be children’s activity centres or community meeting rooms on another. The chosen site for the church is nearly five acres of vacant land at 2700 Inverclyde Way, at the end of Carstairs Drive. (Continued on page 2)

‘Positive progress’ in K’ómoks treaty talks By Philip Round Echo Staff

Ski seaon ends with Crush Slush Cup About 30 participants signed up for the Crush Slush Cup April 20, in which contestants with a gnarly side took off down a mini-mountain constructed outside the chalet with a healthy crowd of onlookers cheering and jeering in jest as they took of and touched down in a giant pool of water with a splash. Children dressed up in costume

joined the fun, and “divers” were in the pool at the ready to ferry them to safety. You could spot a number of animals from giant frogs to sasquatches to Easter bunnies all getting in on the action. The event marks the penultimate day on Mount Washington’s alpine calendar, which started out with low snow challenges only to enjoy quality

powder for the second half of the season. Or as the Slush Cup announcer put it while addressing the crowd lining the ice-filled pond: “Three cheers for the season that almost didn’t happen! Hip hip horay! Hip hip horay! Hip hip horay!” Photo by Drew A. Penner/Echo Staff

Positive progress on treaty negotiations between the K’ómoks First Nation and both the federal and provincial governments is being reported by the Band’s chief negotiator, Mark Stevenson. It is now three years since an Agreement in Principle was endorsed in a vote of the K’ómoks people, and two years since that AIP was formally signed by all three governments to set the parameters for detailed negotiations. But getting to a final treaty, including an agreed settlement of all cash and land issues, is inevitably taking time and it is in everyone’s interests to get it right, Stevenson told the Echo. He recently reported to Band members at their annual treaty update meeting that the next 12 months should see many key issues coming to a head. And he is optimistic that things are heading in the right direction, with goodwill on all sides to reach a fair and final settlement that will be put to the 300+ Band members in another vote. The annual KFN meeting had been really successful, Stevenson noted. “There was a good turnout, a good spirit and good exchanges. That’s very important.” He assured Band members that negotiators were making progress on a number of issues and that “nothing negative is happening.” He added: “It all just takes time, and we understand that.” In particular, he told the Echo, there has been good progress on economic development issues and opportunities, and the role the Band sought to play in pursuing commercial and employment initiatives. (Continued on page 2)

19 Wing Commander heads up disaster training contingent in Peru By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff When Col Jim Benninger, was asked to head up the Canadian contingent as part of Pan-American disaster training mission he leapt at the chance. He was named Air Task Force Commander for the Royal Canadian Air Force as part of the third installment of Exercise COOPERACIÓN, an effort to build international cooperation between friendly military forces through dryrun scenarios April 19-May 2. Under his command are military goods such as a 426 Squadron CC-130J Hercules transport plane and a CH-149 Cormorant helicopter from 413 Squadron, and a 429 Squadron CC-177 Globemaster III. He will also take charge of crews joining the foray from 8 Wing Trenton, 9 Wing Gander and 14 Wing Greenwood. Of course he will be a little more familiar with Cpt. Trevor Reid and Sgt. Yan Senechal, who hail right here from 19 Wing Comox - where he serves as base commander. In total about 60 members were tasked with taking part in the mission which focuses on providing

disaster relief, and represents an opportunity for the Canadian military to try out a few tricks that have never been tested before. This is the first time Canada will try to squeeze a Cormorant into a C-117 and would represent an improvement on disaster relief and other military functionality. It’s also the first time a Cormorant has headed outside of North America on official business. As Canadian Forces busied themselves at a military airbase in Peru attached to Jorge Chávez International Airport, a port which served more than 15 million passengers last year, Cpt. Trevor Reid paused for a moment to describe the excitement building among fellow soldiers. “It’s looking pretty good right now,” he said, explaining the complex process involved in removing rotor and tail blades from the helicopter. “We’ll have a test flight tomorrow morning.” Another first for the mission will be using the specially designed air transport kit, which is a crucial component of taking parts of the Cormorant apart and reassembling the yellow bird flawlessly. (Continued on page 2)

A CH-149 Cormorant helicopter is loaded into a CC-177 Globemaster III in preparation for deployment to Peru to take part in Exercise COOPERACIÓN III, a key Latin American multi-

national exercise with a focus on disaster relief, which will be conducted from April 19 to May 2. (Wing Imaging)

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A2 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, April 22, 2014

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Comox Valley Weather

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Tuesday, 22 April A mix of sun and cloud. 60% chance of showers. High 12°C.

Wednesday, 23 April Cloudy. Low 6°C. High 13°C.

Thursday, 24 April Showers. Low 8°C. High 12°C.

Friday, 25 April Cloudy. Low 7°C. High 13°C.

Saturday, 26 April A mix of sun and cloud. Low 6°C. High 13°C.

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

Sprinkler system construction causes hedge fire By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff

Firefighters easily had their way with this Cousins Avenue blaze. Photo by Drew A. Penner/Echo Staff

‘Positive progress’ in K’omoks treaty talks (Continued from page 1)

Stevenson stressed the Band is eager to be seen as business-oriented, seeking joint ventures with the private sector rather than the KFN itself ending up as a government employer. On other issues, he was reasonably optimistic that important outstanding matters involving fisheries, migratory birds, long-term forestry licenses, and fiscal issues - particularly around health and social services - could be settled by later this year. “For sure, there is goodwill to get these resolved,” he commented. “That’s clear at the table.” The big make-or-break decision could come in the spring of 2015, Stevenson believes, when the province and federal governments might be ready to make their final cash and land offer. The AIP blueprint already includes a proposed $17.5 million cash settlement and offers a transfer of more than 5,000 acres of Crown land to the K’ómoks people if a final treaty is agreed. There has already been movement on the land issue, with the offer of an additional 2,000 acres that was to have been the site of

the thwarted Sage Hills development south of Courtenay. And Stevenson also noted there had been good progress with the federal government on the tricky issue of easy road access to additional lands at the end of Goose Spit, beyond HMCS Quadra. Land areas already known to be on the table are Williams Beach Forest (665 acres); Williams Beach woodlot eastern portion (593 acres); Williams Beach woodlot western portion (96 acres); Browns River (91 acres); Hornby Island gravel pit (27 acres); Hornby Island ‘2’ (6 acres); Salmon River (184 acres); Royston Forest (1,637 acres); Mount Washington gravel pit (146 acres); District Lot 7 Union Bay A (45 acres); District Lot 7 Union Bay B (46 acres); Wood Mountain (251 acres); Sandy Island (81 acres); and H’kusam near Sayward (395 acres), and the tip of Goose Spit. Existing Indian Reserve lands that will be totally transferred to the ownership of the Band are: Comox Road IR #1 (152 acres); Puntledge IR #2 (206 acres); Goose Spit IR #3 (13 acres); and Salmon River #1 at Kelsey Bay, near Sayward (395 acres). Other elements in the AIP being

Decision day for new church (Continued from page 1) The proposed stucco-faced building would be at the back of the site, approached by a tree-lined boulevard through a landscaped parking lot for 129 vehicles. Essentially, the building will be a two-storey structure, but with a higher partially pitched roof feature and high-level windows in the centre. Most of the main auditorium at the heart of the church will be the full height of the building, bathed in light from the side and roof windows, with the other ancillary rooms on both the first and mezzanine floors around it. City planners are recommending councillors approve the necessary permit, commenting: “The project provides a high level of quality and design, carefully integrated with the access and landscaping.” The site was zoned for a potential future church nine years ago, but at the time it was agreed a development permit would be required in time to ensure the scale and look of the building and the amount of landscaping were appropriate in what is a residential neighbourhood. The planners say those tests have been passed.

Koleba praised the designers of the project - Richard Jasper and Harry Whitfield of Courtenay-based Studio 2009 Architecture Ltd. - for the way they had interpreted what had been a quite complex brief. “I have to doff my hat to them they have captured the essence of everything we wanted for the church and the community,” he said. “They have created an attractive, multi-purpose building that has the atmosphere of a church when needed for worship, but which can quickly become a banqueting hall, public meeting space or gymnasium and look equally appropriate for those functions. It has been thought through really well.” Koleba said the present congregation, which currently meets for worship in the theatre at North Island College, was not large but was pretty determined. All involved with the church were convinced God had spoken and urged them to keep focused. “So for more than a decade, nearly two in fact, they have been very fixed in their goal and have been fundraising for this moment. “Now is the time. We feel that unless we go ahead and jump in right up to our necks we will lose the opportunity.” pround@comoxvalleyecho.com

progressed steadily through the negotiations include constitutional and self-governance issues; the retention of hunting, fishing and gathering rights; the ownership and maintenance of roads; access to water supplies for future development; and various cultural mat-

ters. Stephenson reported that for some of these issues, negotiations had now reached the stage where they were “dotting the Is and crossing the Ts” in some chapters of the drafty treaty. pround@comoxvalleyecho.com

As flames soared over a metre, licking up past a birdhouse, firefighters raced to the scene of a Cousins Avenue blaze that was threatening a two-story house. Dennis Henderson, assistant fire chief of the Courtenay Fire Department, said the fire started when radiant heat from a machine installing a sprinkler system in the backyard lit the hedge on fire. “If it happened just a couple of weeks later he could have just turned it on,” he noted. “It didn’t take long to knock it down.” The irrigation company had been at work on site when exhaust from the pipe puller heated duff in the several meter high hedge on the property line to the point of ignition. Henderson said it was lucky the property backs onto a park, as this prevented the dangerous situation from turning disastrous.

Resident wants a water park built in Comox By Michael Briones Echo Staff During the summer months, when the temperature heats up and become unbearable for everyone, especially the kids, the water park is one place where you can cool down. The City of Courtenay and the Village of Cumberland have this type of parks but not in the Town of Comox. One parent has written to council requesting that it seriously look at the possibility of building a water park for the community. Lauren Clark said the town has wonderful parks like the Marina Park, Anderton Park, Lancaster Park which she and her two young children enjoy during summer. A water park she said would be a great addition and enhancement to the community. “As a thriving population of 12,000, the town of Comox would benefit from offering an outdoor water play-

ground for all ages to enjoy,” said Clark. Clark feels there is a shared desire in the community for this type of park and considers it an ideal recreational activity for both young and older children. “It is a free and safe environment, supervised by parents, does not require a lifeguard, and is accessible to all abilities,” said Clark. An ideal location, Clark suggested, could be off a major artery but built it within a park that has a playground like those in the Victoria area. Clark said whenever she visits her family in Victoria, they head to one of the many water parks and join other families soaking up the sun and splashing with fun. Clark commended the town for investing in the Comox Recreation Centre’s gym and the recent upgrades to Anderton park that included a fitness circuit and renovation of the tennis courts. However, she noted that they cater mostly to the adult

population. “Perhaps it’s time to consider our youngest Comox community members whose parents and grandparents are also constituents and contribute their hard earned tax dollars to the Town of Comox,” she said. Town council indicated that it doesn’t have extra funds for such a plan but agreed to refer the request for staff to review for consideration.

Steak dinner, dancing at Legion’s Tacky Tourist Friday Night It’s Tacky Tourist Time at the Courtenay Legion on Friday, April 25! Haul out your craziest Caribbean shirts, Mexican sombreros and Hawaiian grass leis and join us for an evening of great food and dancing. Steaks, baked potatoes with all the trimmings and tropical salads served at 6 for just $10. Meat draw starting at 6:30. Crosstown Express will play from 7 on. Members and bona fide guests.

19 Wing Commander leads mission in Peru (Continued from page 1) “This adds a new capablility to the air force,” he said. “It’s gone smoothly so far.” Reid described the significance of the RCAF’s role in Sistema de Cooperación entre las Fuerzas Aéreas Americanas (SICOFAA) - or as the Canadians like to call it: the System of Cooperation among the Air Forces of the Americas. “This is the second time that Canada’s taken part in an exercise like this,” he said, pointing to the difficulties that lie ahead, such as ensuring the aircraft navigate geographically challenging terrain near Pisco. “I think this exercise is very important for the RCAF.” SICOFAA, headquartered out of Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland, in the US, is a concrete way to develop support networks between nations of the Western

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Hemisphere, allowing countries to act more fluidly when called on to do so. The organization focuses on air operations, human resources, education and training, search and rescue, disasters relief, telecommunications, aerospace medicine, weather, prevention of plane crashes, and scientific research. Benninger indicated particular enthusiasm with the exercise he was chosen to lead. “Cormorant crews have demonstrated time and again that they can help those in need at home,” he said, “and through this exercise Canadians can be proud to know that we are demonstrating our ability to help those in need abroad.”

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Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, April 22, 2014 A3

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Watchdog: BC needs to rethink its privacy settings Local lawyers cite problems with info in police checks By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff Defence lawyers are cheering a stern report from BC’s privacy commissioner Elizabeth Denham, where she urges the province to stop releasing unproven allegations, mental health records and other “non-conviction� information as part of background checks. Courtenay defence attorney Dennis Evans, who participated in the consultation process, said the sensitivity of law and daily practice has not kept pace with our new digital reality. “This is unacceptable,� Evans said. “Everything gets disclosed including suicide attempts.� Denham calls her report April 15 report possibly “the most important

one I have issued since I became the Information and Privacy Commissioner in 2010,� because it highlighted many of what she describes as highly questionable practices surrounding police information checks in the hiring process. Evans knows this first hand. “I had a client that was charged with theft,� he said, describing a 2010 ordeal. “It turned out she actually owned the property.� While he was able to sort out the situation by sending a copy of ownership papers of the item to the Crown, a year later the incident came back to haunt her when she applied for a job at 7-Eleven in Courtenay. “You can’t get a records check with just convictions on it,� he said. “It raises red flags for any employer.� On top of convictions (“which is what most people think is being disclosed,� commented Evans), pending charges, discharges and local police files are also released. What then is returned is a “May or may not contain a record� status, he explained.

This largely defeats the purpose of the legal system, which is supposedly founded on principals of innocence until guilt is proven, he added. “I don’t think local police files ought to be disclosed to anybody period,� he said. “The whole point of a conditional discharge or a stay of proceedings is it isn’t a record.� Lawyer Robert Miller was in agreement that the status quo is not working. “It’s about time,� he said in response to the privacy watchdog’s report. “I’ve had several clients that have been refused employment.� The damage is often done to people who struggle with mental illness or fighting systemic injustice, he added. “They disclose absolutely everything,� he said. “They have enough problems as it is.� Eric Chesterley recalls defending a client who left the Comox Valley for a trip to Las Vegas. She did not have a criminal record but was turned back at the border because of unproven police charges.

“That surprised me,� he said. “It’s kind of mortifying.� In a world where reams of data are being scooped up by police, immigration and other officials, now is as good a time as any to reconsider what kind of safeguards we put on people’s personal information, he said. “I think it’s quite positive,� he said in response to the privacy commissioner’s report. “I think this is something we should be discussing. What information should be available and who should we be sharing it with? Should it be shared with Homeland Security as a matter of course?� Chesterley noted he’s had at least two other Comox Valley clients who were refused entry at the US border not because they were convicted of a crime but because officials had access to local police files. “You get to the border and you say, ‘I was acquitted,� he said. “They don’t have the court records and transcripts. They just have the police reports. “It’s all stuff that’s available to be

accessed off the cloud.� This brave new world is an eye-opener to Evans, who in a previous life actually worked as a customs official at the border himself. Back then, he remembered, there was no access to the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) database, which provides details related to wanted people, those who are on parole and contains an in-depth look at criminal records. And they certainly didn’t have access to the Police Records Information Management Environment (PRIME-BC). BC was the first to adopt this online police records management system in February 2003. The irony is that because a there is an official process to have convictions removed from your record, whereas none exists for wrongful accusations, in some cases a client would be better off pleading guilty to a crime they didn’t commit. “There’s no procedure for removing them,� he said. “A wrongful accusation is going to remain on her record for eight years.�

Volunteer firefighter recalls 25 years of triumphs and tragedies By Philip Round Echo Staff In life, many of us wear different hats. For John Ward, at least one of those hats is very real - in fact, it’s a firefighter’s helmet. When the alarm goes off at home, he wakes, dresses and heads off to City Hall where he is Courtenay’s Director of Legislative Services. But when the alarm goes off at the fire hall, he frequently becomes Senior Captain John Ward, one of a dedicated group of volunteer firefighters always on call to protect life and property. And his dedication to the cause in the Valley over the past 25 years has now been recognized by the award of a long service medal by the province. There are currently just three such medal holders at the fire hall - the others are Fire Chief Don Bardonnex and Assistant Chief Dennis Henderson. And while two more of the 42-strong team will hopefully join them over the next couple of years, there will likely then be a very long gap indeed. That’s because times have changed from the days when volunteer firefighters were able to give decades of service to the community, says Bardonnex. Modern pressures of work and family, and greater mobility with people moving around the country or taking on careers with unusual shift patterns, sometimes in different locations, mean far fewer people can commit to the cause for more than a limited time. That’s a big headache for fire departments across Canada, especially in small to medium-sized communities that rely on volunteers to make up the

Courtenay Fire Chief Don Bardonnex (right) holds the 25-year service medals presented to Senior Captain John Ward (left) - who, wearing another hat, is Director of Legislative Services with the City of Courtenay. vast majority of their teams. More than half the members of the Courtenay department have served for less than five years, said Bardonnex, and there is, on average, an 18 per cent turnover each year. “We’re always taking applications, and next month we’ll be starting up a new class so we’re looking for about a dozen good candidates,� he added. Applicants must not have a criminal record, but should have a reasonably clean driving history, be 19 years of age or older, and have a medical note from their doctor to say they are fit enough for the task. Those who throw their own

hats in to the ring will be interviewed and put through a physical test before the final trainees - both men and women - are chosen. Although, like Ward, all will be volunteers, they won’t serve for free. Those who successfully complete the training will be paid an hourly rate whenever they respond to a call-out. And there are about 500 emergency callouts a year in Courtenay an average of almost ten a week. Volunteers are expected to be able to respond to at least 30 per cent of them over a year, potentially risking life and limb whenever the sirens sound.

Ward first joined the Cumberland Volunteer Fire Department in 1982. “I was following in my father’s footsteps, as he served in the volunteer fire service for 34 years in Cumberland and ten in Union Bay,� he explains. But 21 months after signing up, John left the community in 1984 for work, but he and his wife returned to the Comox Valley five years later in 1989. “I was approached by the Deputy Fire Chief, Grant Lupton, to join the Courtenay Volunteer Fire Department,� he recalls. “I had no idea they were looking for members, and I thought I would give it a try. “Lawrence Burns was the Fire Chief at the time - he continues to be an important part of our department and a tremendous source of support for me personally.� “Giving it a try� has so far spanned 24 years with the City team to add to his earlier Cumberland service, and over that time he says he and his colleagues have witnessed many tragic events as well as triumphant successes. “Our members perform their duties out of a strong sense of community and a desire to serve,� he says. “They don’t do it for the money or for recognition. “They selflessly leave their jobs, their homes and their families at all hours of the day and night to drive to the fire hall, get on a fire truck and help others. “They do this consistently, month after month, year after year. And if we are lucky, we keep them for decades.� He also notes the volunteers never stop training, and all the Courtenay members have NFPA 1001 - Fire Fighter Professional

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Qualifications - Level 2. Encouraging others to apply, he adds: “There are many benefits to joining a volunteer fire department, including learning new skills, helping your community, and meeting new people. In fact, I have met all of my best friends through the fire service. “I believe all our communities in the Comox Valley area are extremely fortunate to have committed, highly trained and dedicated volunteers serving our citizens. But we always need more.� He concludes: “I am proud of my service, but there are many firefighters who have served far longer than I have. We owe them a great debt.� Bardonnex agrees, but is keen to highlight Ward’s personal contribution to the fire-rescue service. “John’s put his heart and soul into it. His dedication to the community and his commitment to the department has been outstanding,� he says. “For any volunteer firefighter to achieve a 25 year service medal in today’s world is amazing. It’s the kind of experience you definitely don’t want to see walking out the door.� pround@comoxvalleyecho.com

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A4 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, April 22, 2014

News

In the line of fire: Firefighters honoured with medals for serving Cumberland and region By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff At a Tuesday night training session assistant chief Glen Rodger grabs a chainsaw while several up and coming members of the Cumberland Fire Department while the light drops own over the hills past Camp Road. He goes over a few pointers as part of a certification process these members must go through on their way to being top-notch recruits. “You can’t hold it with one hand and operate it safe,� he said, demonstrating the correct method “so it doesn’t end up in your face.� It takes dedication, commitment and honour to truly embrace the ideals of a firefighter. A number of Cumberland firefighters were recently commended officially for displaying these qualities and staying true to the local department over the years. Rodger received his 20-year federal service medal, and says it’s been a wild ride. “I joined when I was 21 years old and worked my way up,� he said. “It doesn’t feel like 20 years. It’s gone by really, really fast.� He’s the first to admit there are a lot of highs and lows, times you question things. But for a firefighter the true love of the job sucks you in. “You get to the end of your rope,� he said. “Then something will happen where you’re helping out a little old lady or something like that and it turns you around kinda thing right?� As far as Rodger is concerned, to some extent you don’t have a choice in the matter. “I don’t know if there’s anything you can tell somebody to make them want to join,� he said. “I think there’s sort of born with that. It’s a desire that you want to help your community.� Firefighter Angelina Banks received her 10-year service pin, Cpt. Jess French and Lt. Craig Dry both received five-year service pins. Fire Chief Mike Williamson says its important to give credit where credit is due. “These kind of volunteers aren’t your normal volunteers,� he said. “These people don’t say, ‘Oh, on Saturday at 1 o’clock I’ll meet you there because I’m free on Saturday.’ “A lot of people don’t get that part. They’re not just volunteering for the

community. They’re serving the community. There’s a big difference.� For 2013 Kevin Wallace was name Firefighter of the Year, after taking on secretary duties and being dependable. “His attendance to practice is good but his attendance to calls is even better,� Williamson said. “The guy doesn’t miss calls. It doesn’t matter whether its 3 o’clock in the morning or 3 o’clock in the afternoon.� The department is an active one, responding to 208 calls last year (102 fire and rescue related vs. 106 medical related). Bob Banks now has a 45-year bar to add to his a 25-year provincial medal, 35-year bar and a host of other commendations. He remembers way back in 1963 when the department first brought in an award to honour the best firefighter. “It gives the incentive to the guys to work better,� he said. “We copied it from North Cowichan.� His family has a total of 200 years of service invested in the Cumberland department. “My grandfather joined in 1900,� he said. “He came from the States in 1899. “So I figured I’d join too. Then it got in my blood helping people, more or less.� Now the department has 36 members and racked up 4144 hours in training last year and is getting considerable support from the local government to beef up resources further. Williamson says the new crop of firefighters are getting a new level of fire theory that wasn’t part of the gig back when he started. “These firemen are putting in more of their own time,� he said. “We got stuff passed on to us on Tuesday nights and that’s how we learned. These guys learn a lot more theory and they do most of their theory at home.� Honouring members helps to keep firefighters keen, but also recognizes the serious commitment they show. “There’s things here that will hurt you,� he said. “If you stay here long enough you’re going to see things that could be stressful to you for the rest of your life. You take risks here. “That’s why you see us honour these guys.�

Assistant chief Glen Rodger gives tips on how to hold a chainsaw during Tuesday night practice.

Bob Banks received a 45-year bar

Assistant chief Glen Rodger received a Kevin Wallace was named Firefighter of the Year for 2013 20-year federal service medal

Valley Chamber holds its annual general meeting Thursday Marty Douglas will be the keynote speaker at the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce’s 95th Annual General Meeting to be held on Thursday, April 24th. The event will be held from 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. at the Best Western, the Westerly. Douglas will discuss the year so far and what can be expected ahead in terms of the local economy. Douglas’ presentation promises to be both informative and entertaining. Douglas states that “Some things never change, some things constantly

change - if only we knew which! This week’s proud peacock is next week’s feather duster!� Both Chamber members and the general public are welcome to attend, however, you must register in advance. In addition to the keynote presentation, the Chamber’s AGM will see the induction of five new board members. Outgoing board members who will be thanked for their terms of outstanding voluntary service include: Past Chair Bob Scales, and Directors Kip Keylock,

Shelley Osachuk, Deborah McKenzie and Allen McWilliam. Outgoing Chair, Tracey McGinnis will ‘pass the gavel’ to Incoming Chair, Helen Furgale who will discuss the year ahead and the organization’s focus for 2014-15. The coming year will see the return of past events such as the Chamber’s 40 Under 40 Awards Program and the implementation of new events such as the Great Valley Rally which is modeled after the “Amazing Race�. This exciting new event will benefit a dif-

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ferent economic community project each year. Attendees at the AGM will learn how their business can get involved. The Chamber’s Governance Review Task Force will be making a short presentation on their goals which are to initiate an independent study to determine if the governance of the Comox Valley is structured in a manner that satisfies the political, cultural and public services the community needs in order to meet the challenges that growth brings. The Task Force is

in the process of gathering information in order to be able to determine if there is a desire amongst the general population and levels of government to investigate fully whether it is necessary or even possible to restructure the provision of services and/or the governance of the Comox Valley. Tickets to the Chamber’s AGM are $20 for members ($25 for prospective members) and advance registration is required. Pre-register at www.comoxvalleychamber.com/news-events or call 250-334-3234.

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Special Information Supplement

New Car Dealers Association of BC

Proud to celebrate a 30 year relationship with Special Olympics BC $XWR 6KRZ DWWHQGDQFH UHDFKHV SHRSOH D ÂżYH SHU FHQW LQFUHDVH RYHU ODVW \HDU The Vancouver International Auto Show is like Christmas for car lovers. If next year’s show is anything like the one just held at the Vancouver Convention Centre at the end of March, there’s a lot to look forward to. The 2014 Vancouver By Blair Qualey International Auto Show featured more than 400 vehicles from 30 companies around the world. From luxury sports cars to family SUVs, the 94th annual show held March 25-30 had a vehicle for each and every guest to explore and covet. And there were a lot of guests cruising the Ă€RRU WKLV \HDU $WWHQGDQFH IRU WKH VL[ GD\ HYHQW UHDFKHG SHRSOH D ÂżYH SHU FHQW LQFUHDVH from last year’s show. It’s not surprising given how much the Auto Show had to offer, which included the return of the popular “Green Ride

and Drive,� which gave guests the opportunity to test-drive some of the industry’s leading ecofriendly vehicles. There were also collector cars, concept vehicles, and a number of prizes and contests. In an informal poll being conducted on the Auto Show website (www.vancouverinternationalautoshow.com) guests listed the chance to shop all the latest factory models as among the most enjoyable reasons to head to the show. (If you attended the Auto Show, there’s still a chance to vote about what you found most fun about the event). Another factor behind the increased attendance is the number of people purchasing new cars lately. Industry data shows Canadian auto sales reached a record 1.74 million vehicles last year. This is only the second time the retail market has surpassed 1.7 million units in Canada, and breaks the old record set in 2002.

Now that spring is here, we’re seeing more people entering our showrooms looking at the latest makes and models. For many drivers, it’s the ideal season to purchase a new vehicle, especially now that the days are longer, the grass is greener and the driving conditions friendlier. ,I LWœV \RXU ¿UVW WLPH EX\LQJ D QHZ FDU RU \RX haven’t purchased one for a few years, here are some tips from our members across B.C. to help prepare you: Do your homework: Like any major purchase, you need to do a little research and ask yourself a few key questions: What type of car are you looking for? Do you need two doors or four? A hatchback or a trunk? Would a sport utility vehicle EH D EHWWHU ¿W IRU \RXU OLIHVW\OH" 0DNH D FKHFNOLVW of what you need (and want) in a vehicle. Think about what you would use your vehicle for 80 percent of the time.

Gas consumption: )XHO HI¿FLHQF\ LV DOVR D ELJ factor for buyers today. We all want to save money on gas and do our part to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. There are a number of vehicles to choose from to achieve these goals. Set a budget: Once you’ve decided what you want and need in a vehicle, decide how you’ll pay for it. If you can’t pay for the entire vehicle up front DQG PDQ\ RI XV FDQœW WKHUH DUH JUHDW ¿QDQFLQJ and leasing options available. With today’s low interest rates, there’s rarely been a better time to take advantage of these opportunities. We look forward to seeing you soon at one of our more than 350 dealerships across the province, and at next year’s Auto Show March 24 - 29, 2015. Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. Email him at bqualey@newcardealers.ca

News

Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, April 22, 2014 A5

Cumberland trail gets brand new cedar bridge By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff Turn left right at the iconic yellow gate at the entrance to Cumberland’s network of trails and you only have to go a couple hundred metres before you are confronted by the “Swamp Crossing.” Luckily for those who love to follow winding pathways through the forest, the old rugged way to get across the tributary of Maple Creek will be a breeze now that a new bridge has been installed at this crucial part of the South Wellington Colliery Park Trail. “It was a pretty sketchy crossing,” said Kevin McPhedran, parks and outdoor recreation coordinator for the Village of Cumberland. “This really helps to improve that.” A partnership between volunteers, the Village, local businesses and organizations led to the fashioning of a arched structure made of western red cedar. “It smells really good if you head down there,” McPhedran said. “That’s the key access point for the Cumberland Community Forest and the Cumberland trail network.” In recent months the Community Forest Society has attracted an upwelling of support for their bid to save signifi-

cant stretches of forests currently in the hands of loggers, such as the parcel that now boasts this brand new bridge. Village crews did landscaping and installed the bridge abutments and stringers, while also boosting protection of water resources in the area. “The Village’s main water infrastructure comes in on that corridor,” he said. “There was erosion happening there.” The United Riders of Cumberland, Sew What I Sew, Facet Custom Builders, Standsbury’s Guest House, the Wandering Moose Café all pitched in to the project. The stream in question is part of a number of important wetlands to south of the Village. The water flows into the Trent River and hits the ocean at Baynes Sound near Royston. Work has been going on since March although in the span of a few hours volunteers put the final touches on the bridge April 4, so the public could start using it. The trail is used for tourist-attracting mountain bike races, bird watching and educational school excursions. “I think it’s important to this young and growing community that there’s access to our trail network,” he said.

Above: Volunteers in the photo are (left to right): Jason, Mario, Silas, Bill, Scott, Kevin Left: The new pedestrian bridge now open on the South Wellington Colliery Trail

Mayor miffed regional district held talks with province behind Cumberland’s back By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff Cumberland’s mayor says the Comox Valley Regional District has muddied the waters of an effort to figure out what to do with landfill sludge by holding talks with the province without including Village officials. “They actually met with the Ministry of the Environment and the consultants without any input from our staff,” she said, noting a report arising from these discussions recommended Cumberland’s wastewater treatment facility wouldn’t be a good place to treat the leachate. “But why isn’t it a good option? And that’s a concern I have. They’re going about doing their business, but they’re not really working with the Village.” The concern from the staff and elected officials was part of the reason councillors considered striking out on their own to investigate handling wastewater within the commu-

nity, after a motion to move towards developing a regional sewage treatment system to deal with the leachate was approved unanimously April 14. “Although Village staff provided technical data in regards to possible options, they were not contacted directly to propose or examine various treatment options,” read a staff report presented at the regular council meeting, “nor did they participate in any meetings between the CVRD and their consultants and the Ministry of Environment.” At the heart of the issue is the fact that Cumberland pumps nutrient-rich water directly into the Trent River watershed, which then empties into the ocean, potentially causing serious environmental degradation. The Ministry of the Environment has put pressure on the regional district and the municipality to get its house in order - but this is easier said than done. Meanwhile, the Brent Road treatment facility, which handles wastewater from the rest of the

Comox Valley, is practically full up itself. As Cumberland pulls in hundreds of thousands of dollars a year having agreed to update its waste management centre, the dilemma is what to do with the toxic goop - aka leachate - that trickles down through all the garbage and is collected so as not to contaminate the surrounding environment. Consultants EBA, A Tetra Tech Company was brought on board by the regional district to analyze options for treating the zinc, boron and ammonia-filled liquid. Cumberland CAO Sundance Topham’s report, which was commended by multiple council members for its agile ways of summing up what has become a very complex issue notes “only one of these could

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have a potential benefit for the Village, Option 4, which involves pre-treating the leachate on-site and then sending the leachate to any potential South Sewer project.” There Comox Strathcona Waste Management board could kick in $3 million dollars to build the system, along with up to $60,000 per year for ongoing operation and maintenance costs - but this is nowhere near confirmed at this point. Coun. Roger Kishi said it’s good to restate the Village’s conditions of governance and funding before signing on to a costly regional wastewater plan. “Is it the utopia option? No. Because there’s still a lot of pieces with the South Sewer project that we’re dealing with,” he said. “I think there’s a responsibility for the Village

to put forward options instead of just saying ‘No’ to things.” And that’s a path other members of council were willing to walk down. An effort to look at other wastewater options was supported by Coun. Kate Greening and Coun. Conner Copeman and opposed by Mayor Baird, Coun. Kishi and Coun. Sproule. When that died Coun. Copeman made a motion to look at the cost of hiring a consultant to do this work. “I’m just wondering if we can handle this 175 metres cubed a day to 250 metres cubed a day on an average basis if we take it on ourselves,” he said. “I guess I’m wondering if the pipes would have to be pressurized or not.” That motion died when it was not seconded.

A6 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, April 22, 2014

Opinions ECHO

THE COMOX VALLEY ECHO Publisher Dave MacDonald Editor Debra Martin Advertising Manager Keith Currie Office Administrator Deb Fowler Circulation Manager Hedi MacDonald Production Manager Ryan Getz Phone 250-334-4722 Fax 250-334-3172 Classifieds 250- 334-4215 Circulation 250-334-4734 E-mail: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com

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Letters

Stop burning my taxes I’m profoundly unhappy seeing a portion of my federal and provincial taxes go up in smoke. Fossil fuel extraction companies (“big oil”) have been picking my pocket for years and producing a huge collective headache for us all. Do you think I exaggerate? The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has called continued financial support to the fossil fuel industry perverse. They report that $1.9 trillion dollars per year is given worldwide in subsidies to these highly profitable companies. This amounts to 8% of all government revenues sent down the tubes, into the gilded pockets of the corporate shareholders or, more properly, out into the atmosphere to further despoil our wounded earth. This is the environment upon which we depend for our and our grandchildren’s future. Meanwhile, one of these corporations, Exxon, hauled in a profit of $32.6 million last year and bumped up the paycheck of its CEO, Rex Tillerson, to over $28 million. I find it sickening and truly obscene that people will contribute to planetary destruction solely for personal gain. It’s time to wake up and end all subsidies and tax breaks to fossil fuel extraction, including oil, natural gas and coal. I’m thoroughly tired of seeing my hard earned taxes wasted on such reckless, foolhardy, and destructive behaviour. Enough already! Marvin Haave Courtenay

A TENT-SELLING CONSPIRACY? I guess it is paranoia on my part but I can not help but suspect a tent selling conspiracy between the Vancouver Island Music Festival and Canadian Tire. The festival camping sells out for the first time ever. Imagine all the festival goers with weekend passes who planned on camping that now contact a friend who has purchased a camp site for 4 people and ONE camping unit ($80); they convince the friend to add them as the 5th and 6th campers for an additional $50, and now all 6 must bunk up in ONE camping unit (tent or RV). It does not matter that all of these folks who paid to camp already own 2 or 4-person tents that they may have purchased just last year, now somebody must buy a tent large enough to accomodate 6 campers with their all their gear for every site. What reason could there be - other than a tent selling conspiracy - for a rule that forces so many campers - who have support the festival year after year - into having to purchase all these large tents when a couple of smaller ones that take up the same amount of space are not allowed on site? Jeff Butterworth Courtenay

THANKS TO ACCESSIBILITY GROUP About 2 months ago, I learned about the existence of the CV Accessibility Committee who help to distribute free lights for cyclists and people driving scooters and wheelchairs once a year apparently. They are a non-profit group who could use some extra cash to keep doing this good deed for all people who need it. I had a rep come to my home and install 2 different lights on my mobility scooter which I have used already and really appreciate. Thanks to this committee and the good work they do. Nicole Arsenault Courtenay

THE ‘C’ STANDS FOR CANADIAN To Walter Morgan, who reproached the CBC and Canadians for “blasphem[ing] the name of God for the sake of a chuckle,” the C in CBC stands for “Canadian,” not “Christian.” Judy Johnson Comox

THE MEANING OF EASTER On Sunday, Christians in many parts of the world gathered to commemorate the event that is the foundation of our belief. We celebrated the fact that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, became alive again after having died for our sins. We thanked God for His forgiveness, and we rejoiced in the life that He gives to us. That life is offered to all who will accept it. The gospel message-the story of the death and resurrection of Christ-is a message for the whole world. Anyone who believes in Him can be saved from death and sin. ‘I am the resurrection, and the life’, said Jesus, ‘and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die.’ This is the significance of Easter. Brendon Johnson Courtenay

THE NDP IS DOOMED If John Horgan would have taken time to do some research he would have noticed the following key points. Time to face the facts and reality. Alberta has 87 legislature seats, 4 are NDP. Saskatchewan has 58 legislature seats, 9 are NDP. Ontario has 107 legislature seats, 21 are NDP. Newfoundland and Labrador has 48 legislature seats, 3 are NDP. Nova Scotia has 51 legislature seats, 7 are NDP. Quebec, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick do not have any elected NDP MLA’s. Cannot fool these taxpayers. Manitoba is the only province in Canada with a NDP government. The next provincial election in Manitoba is scheduled for October 5, 2015. Latest polls shows the governing NDP at 24% and the opposition Progressive Conservatives at 48%, and critics stating that this NDP government is headed for opposition status or even third party status. Also on the Federal government scene, it appears that the Federal Liberals will become the official opposition party and the present Federal NDP opposition party will go back to third party status, in the 2015 federal election. John fails to realize that the NDP party is doomed right across Canada. John also fails to admit that voting in a NDP government is exactly the same as taking back a spouse from a previous divorce to recreate the “NIGHTMARE”. Joe Sawchuk Duncan

Letters to the Editor

Flooding is indeed a problem I am responding to recent media reports concerning Maple Pool Campsite which is located at 4685 Headquarters Road in Courtenay. Controversy has been brewing since the devastating flood that peaked on November 16, 2009. News reports from various sources that day (Nov.16.09) included the following: “A state of emergency was declared in Courtenay. Courtenay Mayor Greg Phelps issued the warning because of high water levels in the Puntledge, Courtenay, Tsolum and Browns Rivers. The Courtenay Engineering Department evacuated 54 people around Maple Pool Campsite and surrounding homes on Headquarters Road. More residences were on evacuation alert. A major frontal weather system moving through B.C.’s south coast caused multiple power outages and floods. Some parts of the Island recorded a couple hundred millimeters of rain over the past day and a half. “Meanwhile, BC Hydro is closely monitoring the situation at its Comox Lake dam and controlling flows into the Puntledge River system. The Hydro reservoir rose by 1 metre over 18 hours yesterday. Since yesterday, the inflows in the Comox Lake Reservoir have been around 400 cubic metres per second. BC Hydro had been spilling water all weekend and as of last night, has been spilling 200 m3/s from the dam - the full capacity of the two spillway gates. We have been backing off a bit with ocean high tides. “

The next day I visited the campsite to see for myself the damage (I knew someone who lived there). What I saw were several trailers/ motor homes that had water at least 3 feet above the top step leading into them. Also, at slighter higher ground elevation levels I could see the high water marks along the bottom portions of many trailers and these are trailers that are by and large still on their current pad locations today. Later I found out that several trailers/ motor homes were basically totally destroyed or uninhabitable (mold and so forth). For the “Friends of Maple Pool” to support statements that it was entirely the fault of BC Hydro or that it was just inconvenient and messy is not consistent with the news reports or my own observations. Altitude.nu or “Google maps find altitude” are two of several websites which will provide elevation levels. It seems that there is maybe 5-10 feet leeway between winter Tsolum River water levels and the nearest trailer ground elevations. The campsite is designated a flood zone for good reason. As one looks at weather conditions in recent years in various parts of North America it is no longer reasonable to conclude that the 2009 flood is a once in 100 years event. High water levels in the Maple Pool Campsite area also occurred in January 2010 and again in 2011.

I believe it is incumbent for parties on both sides of this debate and dispute to use common sense (which isn’t necessarily that common). The issue is that residents of Maple Pool campsite are at risk. The campground owners (along with their friends) need to see what it takes to comply with City bylaw requirements and the City needs to provide the needed information (if that is the case). However, a barrier or protective wall around the at risk portion of the campsite may need to be as high as 10 feet and one that will withstand strong and fast moving waters; no doubt an expensive undertaking and one that needs to be properly done (meeting engineering specs). As things now stand, both sides seem to have given up on the idea of seeing the other’s point of view. Fighting using lawyers in a court forum is one that reasonable people normally view as a last resort. If this last resort continues then the money that could have been used to rectify the situation will be lining the pockets of lawyers. It seems to me that both sides are not willing to move enough to consider what might be in the best interests of the residents of Maple Pool Campsite. If the City wins (if that is the correct term) possibly these residents may end up being evicted. Ed Zirkwitz Royston

Hydro’s new smart meters do pose a health risk It is imperative that the public be made aware of the deceitful and dangerous untruths being told by BC Hydro who say that Smart Meter frequencies are safe. Nothing could be further from the truth! Both transmitters inside a Smart Meter emit pulsed microwave radiation on 910 MHz and 2.4 GHz respectively, which are in the frequency range militaries of the world use in electronic warfare weaponry! Smart Meters in ‘meshed-networks’ emit pulsed microwave radiation virtually 24/7/365 in perpetuity! The 910 MHz transmitter emits between 14,000 and 190,000 pulses daily in perpetuity! Microwave ovens use 2.4 GHz to cook food and heat liquids, yet 910 MHz is even more dangerous as it can do both better and faster because it penetrates all organs of the body more deeply! BC Hydro does not tell the public to know about “Network Management” which requires all Smart Meters in meshed-networks to chat back and forth 24/7/365 in perpetuity - whether or not customers use any electricity! The 2.4 GHz transmitter is there to control an expected 15-or-so ‘Smart Appliances,’ each of which will have its own 2.4 GHz transmitter radio circuit! Sales of Smart Appliances are projected to reach US$ 34.9-billion by 2020! Independent world-class scientists know that low-level pulsed microwave transmissions are more dangerous to all living things than are continuous wave emissions, such as microwave ovens emit! I’m a retired Canadian Armed Forces officer who specialized in Electronic

Warfare and Signals Intelligence for 22 years. I know that two, more harmful frequencies could not have been chosen by BC Hydro! Militaries consider microwaves to be the “perfect” weapon because one cannot see, touch, hear, taste or smell them - yet they are everywhere! Jerry Flynn Bowser

PUT MATTER TO A VOTE A letter to Board of Trustees Coastal Community Credit Union: The news report that you are planning to close small island branches in Alert Bay, Sointula, Cortez Island and possibly Quadra Island defies belief especially when reading the statement, quoted below, on our website. “Growing with Our Island Communities “Serving island communities for over 60 years, Coastal Community Credit Union has grown to be the largest Credit Union based on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. With more than 80,000 members, 650-plus employees, and over $2 billion in assets under administration... “We are one of Canada’s 50 Best Employers, and we are passionate about building stronger relationships with our members, clients, employees and communities to improve financial health, enrich people’s lives and build healthier communities.” My concept of Credit Unions is that we provide banking services where commercial banks won’t. With $2 billion in assets we should be prepared to provide service in these communities as part of a contract in a civil society.

In Alberta many years ago the conservative Social Credit premier Ernest Manning established the Alberta Treasury Branches to provide banking for communities ignored by the big banks. I suggest that we follow his public spirited example and not withdraw these services. Put this matter to a vote at an annual meeting to gauge the strength of our commitment to those who live in isolation. Joy Johnston Comox

DON’T SCRIMP ON CLEANING I agree entirely with the article written by Fred Muzin, April 15, in the Echo, “P3 model for hospitals flawed”. It’s time we acknowledge that the “emperor wears no clothes! Contracting out cleaning staff has led to serious infections occuring and being spread in hospitals. This occurs because (a) high turnover of staff who are unable to live on salaries paid, (b) use of inferior cleaning supplies, or not using full amounts to save money and (c) no on-site supervision & training of staff. It’s bad enough that the Comox Valley has to put up with a small hospital crammed into a small building space located on the busiest corner in Courtenay. Money spent on cleaning staff who are part of the hospital staff will produce shorter, healther patient stays, saving not only money, but lives. Julie Tuepah Comox

Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, April 22, 2014 A7

Community

Cosi Fan Tutte next up in Rialto opera series

The next live Metropolitan opera is Mozart’s beloved Cosi Fan Tutte on Saturday, April 26, at 10:00 am. Music Director James Levine makes his long-awaited return to the Met podium to conduct Mozart’s opera about testing the ties of love. The cast is filled with youthful Met stars: Susanna Phillips and Isabel Leonard are the sisters Fiordiligi and Dorabella, Matthew Polenzani and Rodion Pogossov are their lovers, with Danielle de Niese as the scheming Despina. Tickets are on sale now at the Rialto. Adults and youth $24.95; children and seniors $20.95 (including taxes). For more information call (250) 338-5502.

Turn green business practices into revenue Transition Town Comox Valley (TTCV) invites businesses and organizations in the Comox Vally to join us for a presentation/workshop that shows how implementing practices that reduce green house gas emissions can generate new sources of revenue for your business. Brian Rogers executive director of the Cowichan Energy Alternatives Society will explain how the Community Carbon Marketplace program works and suggest a range of actions that businesses and organizations can adopt to achieve a new level of sustainability. Please join us at Rhodo’s Cafe, #103 364 8th St from 5:30 to 7:30 pm Wednesday April 23. Rhodos will be open for coffee and snacks. Organizations and businesses that pledge to engage in the Carbon Marketplace program will be featured in Transition Towns Earth Day Displays.

Highland Interact club presents variety show Are you interested in an evening of entertainment and tasty desserts? If so, consider joining us for Variety Night at 7:00 pm on Friday, April 25th in Highland’s multi-purpose room. This evening is hosted by Highland’s Interact Club which is raising money for the Comox Bay Care Society’s Care-A-Van initiative. This program, which relies upon a variety of volunteers, provides healthcare services to those who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness here in the Comox Valley. The cost to attend the Variety Night event is $10 per person or $20 for families. The admission covers the entertainment, as well as coffee, tea, iced tea, and desserts. In addition, there will be a Silent Auction of some fabulous items generously donated by local businesses and individuals. If you’re the successful bidder, you could become an on-air radio personality for a day on The Eagle 97.3 FM, get tickets for live theatre, get a day of painting from a professional house painter, and much more! Please come and enjoy a great evening, while supporting a truly worthwhile cause.

Library celebrating poetry month Friday April is National Poetry Month in Canada. To celebrate the vital place of poetry in Canadian culture and showcase our own local talent, the Vancouver Island Regional Library will host a Poetry Reading at the Courtenay Branch on Friday, April 25th at 1 pm. Poets from the Comox Valley Writers’ Society (CVWS) will read some of their finest poems and works in progress. Now in its 16th year, National Poetry Month is backed by the League of Canadian Poets. The Library and the CVWS are pleased to contribute to its commemoration with this free event. Everyone is welcome to attend and enjoy the verse along with some light refreshments.

Cape Lazo Squadron offering radio course Cape Lazo Power and Sail Squadron’s Restricted Operators Certificate (Marine) course will run Tuesday evenings from May 6 to May 27, 2014 at Mark Isfeld Secondary School. Classes start at 7pm. The ROC(M) is required by anyone using a marine radio. All new VHF radios are now equipped with the Digital Selective Calling (DSC) function. If you received your ROC(M) card before the DSC function was available, you are encouraged to return and get the DSC endorsement for your ROC(M) card. For more information contact Charles at 250-334-0225 or register on line atwww.capelazo.ca.

Kids’ Clutter Sale coming up ... under YANA banner The Comox Valley Kids’ Clutter next sale is on Saturday, April 26th from 9am to 12pm at the Courtenay Legion on Cliffe Avenue. The sale offers local families the opportunity to either buy and/or sell gently used children’s clothing, toys and equipment. This semi-annual event has grown over the years and has been run by Chelsey Newton. Chelsey has supported local charities, such as YANA by donating partial proceeds from the sale. Recently, Newton chose to donate the Kids’ Clutter Sale to YANA, so for the first time, this will be the YANA Kids’ Clutter Sale. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to run this semi-annual event for our community as a fundraiser for YANA. Chelsey has worked so hard at making this a successful event over the years and we are so grateful for her generous donation,” states YANA President, Judy Cryer. The Kids’ Clutter Sale makes selling items much easier and also offers the opportunity to buy well priced and gently used items for children. There are hundreds of items to choose from and items often disappear quickly at this popular sale. Partial proceeds from the sale are returned to the sellers and the balance will help YANA with the work they do for families. YANA is a local charity that provides accommodation and funding to Comox Valley families who need to travel outside the community for medical treatment for a child under 19 or for a pregnant mother. If you are interested in selling items, volunteering at the event or want to get in on the great deals, visit www.yanacomoxvalley. com, find us on facebook, or email us at yanakidsclutter@gmail.com.

Chelsey Newton and her parents (the Nelsons) pass on Kids’ Clutter to YANA, represented by Judy Cryer, President.

EARTH WEEK AND TRANSIT: A NATURAL COMBINATION Taking transit to Earth Week activities in the Comox Valley is affordable, soft on the environment and, using the new Google Maps trip planning tool, easier than ever to navigate. Earth Week 2014 runs from April 22 through the 26, and there are a host of activities going. Check http://transitiontowncv.org/earthday/ for a full slate of events and their locations. And then go to Google Maps and click on “directions”, and then the transit icon, and find the bus that will take you from where you are to where you want to go.

“Anyone with Internet access or a smart phone, can quickly and easily use Google Maps to plan their transit trips in the Comox Valley,” said Michael Zbarsky, manager of transit and sustainability for the Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD). “There’s no better time to try it out than during Earth Week.” More than 544,000 people rode BC Transit in the Comox Valley in 2012/13. Tools like the transit trip planner powered by Google Maps encourage even more riders by demonstrating that buses are a convenient alternative to private vehicles.

Get your tickets soon for annual May 1 bean supper in Cumberland Every May 1st, friends of the Cumberland Museum and Archives come together to celebrate the struggles and triumphs of working people everywhere. An unofficial celebration in Canada, May Day (May 1) is a national holiday in more than 80 countries. The Cumberland Museum and Archives Workers’ Day Bean Supper features a traditional bean supper (vegetarian options available) with coleslaw, cornbread and Flo’s home made oatmeal cookies for dessert. This year’s supper features Jon Bartlett and Rika Ruebsaat and an evening of BC traditional song and

story, together with a presentation of archival photographs. Jon and Rika are cultural historians with a great interest in traditional songs from the logging, fishing and mining industries. Bean Supper is held Wednesday May 1st at 6 pm at the Cumberland Cultural Centre. Tickets are only $15 for Museum members and $20 for non-members. Purchase tickets online or come by the Cumberland Museum Wednesday to Sunday between 10-5. This event is sold out every year so be sure to grab your tickets soon!

Restaurant fund-raiser Thursday for HIV/AIDS services On Thursday, April 24, fighting HIV and AIDS in your community is as easy as picking up a menu. This spring, over 75 of Vancouver Island’s best-loved restaurants will come together to take part in Dining Out For Life, an annual fundraiser that supports island

Take your ‘Chances’ at fund-raiser for GVL adult daycare program Glacier View Lodge is hosting a fundraising event at Chances in Courtenay on April 30th. Community members are invited to attend! Tickets are $25 and available from the Lodge Reception office. For more information visit our website at www.glacierviewlodge.ca or call us at 250 338 1451. The Evening at Chances is in support of the addition of a dedicated space for the Adult Day Program at the Lodge. The Adult Day Program is attended by 12 - 14 seniors each weekday. The clients take part in social and cognitively stimulating programs that helps reduce the decline of memory and cognitive functioning. Over the past three years, the waitlist for the program has grown to a 7 month waiting time. “We are so happy to have the opportunity to enhance our services to community seniors”, said Michael Aikins, Executive Director at the Lodge. “Adult Day Program is a highly sought after service that provides relief for caregivers in our community. When we support the caregivers, we reduce the impact on other health services, including stays in hospital and early admission to care facilities. “We are currently working with an Architect to design the addition to the Lodge. We were pleased to raise $21,000 last October at our inaugural gala event. We invite the community to join us on April 30th for a fun evening at Chances to help us raise additional funds needed to equip the space.”

include Avenue Bistro, Zocalo Café and The Breakwater Restaurant. “We do this because, even before AIDS was understood, we lost many friends due to the lack of treatment and the stigma that was attached to the disease. We have come a long way since then, but AIDS is still destroying the lives of many people, their family and friends,” says Greg Hays, co-owner of Café Brio in Victoria, a Dining Out For Life participant since 2008. “Dining Out For Life is a chance for us to raise awareness and acceptance of the disease and maybe someday no one will have to suffer.” Dining Out For Life Vancouver Island is part of a larger international effort involving AIDS service organizations serving 60 cities and regions across North America. In 2013, Dining Out For Life events across the US and Canada raised more than $4 million dollars for HIV/ AIDS nutrition programs. Additional information on AIDS Vancouver Island at www.avi.org/about Additional information on Dining Out For Life at www.diningoutforlife.com/about

programs and services for people living with and affected by HIV/AIDS. One key area of support that directly benefits from Dining Out For Life is nutrition: “Nutrition plays a crucial role in keeping the effects of HIV and AIDS in check,” says Gill Scadeng, nutrition program coordinator at AIDS Vancouver Island. “It’s wonderful that people can come together over a great meal knowing they’re helping to provide nourishment and care to others in their community.” For one day, participating restaurants will donate 25% of food sales to AIDS Vancouver Island, an island-wide AIDS service organization. The annual event, now in its ninth year, has raised more than $200,000 for programs and services across Vancouver Island. For restaurateurs, the event offers a chance to give back to their community as well as a promotional boost - diners are encouraged to get out and enjoy a meal at their favourite local establishment, or to try out a new one, with manym restaurants offering special menu items on the day. Participating restaurants in Comox Valley

TRANSIT future

Open Houses We want to hear from you. BC Transit is working with the Comox Valley Regional District on the second phase of a 25-year future plan. A network was developed from your input in the first round of public open houses. The next step is to prioritize transit investments.

COMOX VALLEY BOOK FRIENDS

Visit the Transit Future bus at:

ANNUAL SALE

11:00 – 1:00 pm

FRIDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY APRIL 25th, 26th and 27th, 2014 2608 Tsolum Road

IHOS Gallery, 3310 Comox Rd

5:00 – 7:00 pm

Oyster River – Discovery Foods 2207 Glenmore Rd

9:00 – 11:00 am

Driftwood Mall

12:30 – 1:30 pm

Union Bay Post Office

3:00 – 5:30 pm

Downtown Courtenay, 4th and Cliffe Ave.

9:00 – 11:30 am

Comox – Quality Foods, 2275 Guthrie Rd

1:00 – 3:00 pm

Comox Centre Mall

4:30 – 6:00 pm

Buckley Bay Ferry Terminal

9:00 – 12:00 noon

Comox Valley Farmers Market, Fairgrounds

1:00 – 4:00 pm

Earth Week Festival, Lake Trail Community School

Please note this site is not suitable for wheelchairs, walkers or strollers

FRIDAY 9:30a.m. to 5 p.m. SATURDAY 9:30a.m. to 5 p.m. SUNDAY 11:00 a.m. to 4:00p.m.

Cumberland, Dunsmuir Ave. (between 2nd and 3rd)

Wednesday, April 23 2:00 – 4:00 pm

(Yellow building behind Value Village)

Thursday, April 24

ALL PROFITS DONATED TO NON-PROFIT GROUPS IN THE COMOX VALLEY Friday, April 25

Saturday, April 26

Visit www.bctransit.com, click Transit Future to complete our online survey.

4501

etc. ECHO

A8 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, April 22, 2014

Community

Comox Valley adds to creative problem solving reputation Eleven problem solving teams from the Comox Valley travelled to Vancouver to compete in Destination Imagination’s Provincial Tournament. With more than 100 teams participating, the competition was steep but our students excelled. Eight of our teams finished in the top three in their respective categories qualifying for the Global Finals held in Knoxville, Tennessee in May. Three of our teams are provincial champions. “British Columbia has more than 700 schools participating in Destination Imagination this year,� said Faith Garriock, Affiliate Director for British Columbia, “and the Comox Valley, again, sent outstanding teams to the tournament.� Teams start in September working to solve challenges in different areas. Then, during tournaments they publicly compare their solution with those of others in the same grouping - Elementary, Middle Level, Secondary, and University and a team of appraisers analyses each solution. The challenges are the same in all 32 countries that participate in Destination Imagination and focus on developing innovation, critical thinking, creative thinking, collaboration skills, communication skills, and resilience. Highland Secondary School had a breakthrough year having two teams be the best in their categories at the Instant Challenge (a challenge not previously seen that teams are given 5-8 minutes to solve while being evaluated on their skills, teamwork, creativity, etc.), were the Provincial Champions in the Structural Challenge, and finished second in the Improvisation Challenge. “These are outstanding results,� said Jeff Taylor, Regional Director for Destination Imagination, “the students should be very proud of themselves.� Team members on the Structural Team are Willem Roelants, Brett Dalton, Jack Yeo, Andrew Jutte, Jessie Elliott, and Lucien Maurice. Team members on the Improvisation Team are Liam Galway, Kristy Lloyd, Nathaniel Johnson, Brennan Tack, Andrew Jutte, Carmen Stevens, and Jake Catling. Isfeld Secondary School lived up to its reputation with one Provincial Champion in the Secondary Technical Challenge, a second behind Highland in the

Highland improv team from left to righ: Andrew Jutte, Brennan Tack, Carmen Stevens, Jake Catling, Kristy Lloyd and Nathaniel Johnson. Structural Challenge, and a third in the Fine Arts Challenge. Members of the Technical Team are Matthew Black, Olivia Blackwell, Nicole Cho, Claire Fullerton, Chris Howard, Elizabeth Watson, and Steven Yik.

Team members of the Structural Team are Katherine Corman, Jake Heselgrave, Quinna Laver, Cody Rodgers, Christian Taylor, and David Schmidt-Schweda. Team members of the Fine Arts team are Wing Sung, Chance

Devereux, Julia Scott-Lenz, Emma Haggins, and Sam Collins. Isfeld also had two middle level teams: the one with students from both Isfeld and Ecole Robb Road were Provincial Champions in improvisation finishing ahead of a

team of all Isfeld students coached by DI Alumnus Kristen Bystrom. Members of the joint team are Kamryn McMillan, Meagan Trevor, Breannah Bugslag, Anika Barrios Langhelt, and Joel Black. Members of the all Isfeld team are Myia Dunn, Shelby Richardson, Maya Leger, Emily Kelly, Amelia Candy, and Monique Collins. Bystrom was also awarded a scholarship along with Ethan Glenwright in recognition of their unprecedented success in Destination Imagination and for their embodiment of the ideals of DI. Another team from Ecole Robb Road placed third in the Structural Challenge at the Middle School level. They created a structure that weighed 76 grams and held 480 pounds before breaking. Members of this team were Anja Leikermoser, Christian Langmann, David T’ien, Nathan Childs, and Tyler Griffith. More than one thousand students in our local schools are involved with various programs developed by Destination Imagination focused on developing the skills our students will need to be successful in the increasingly dynamic world beyond school. It is great to see so many of our students receiving recognition for their skills, work, and determination at the Provincial level.

Starbucks employees help Salvation Army hot lunch crew Tuesday, March 11th was a big day for a handful of local Starbucks employees who joined with the Tuesday Hot Lunch Crew of The Salvation Army to serve at the local soup kitchen. The partnership was in celebration of Starbucks 20th anniversary on

Vancouver Island From North to South and East to West the Starbucks teams joined in on various community projects bringing coffee, treats and most enjoyed the extra smiles and hands to their respective communities.

MARS is hosting the third annual ‘Walk for Wildlife’ on Saturday Mountainaire Avian Rescue Society (MARS) will stage its Third Annual Walk for Wildlife fundraiser on Saturday, April 26. You can walk anytime between10 a.m. and 2 p.m. This fundraising event takes place at the north end of the Courtenay Airpark by the Park CafĂŠ (Cliffe & 20th St. behind Comox Valley Kayaks & Canoes) where fresh air joins with one of nature’s most interesting theatres for bird

watching. The walk is an enjoyable 1km stroll along the banks of the Courtenay River Estuary. The paved pathway easily accommodates wheelchairs and strollers. Of course the family pooch is welcome to tag along on leash. Whether you like to meander, jaunt, skip or scoot, “The Walk� is an excellent way for animal lovers and everyone concerned with the environment to support a very

important cause. All proceeds go towards the demanding expense of providing 24/7 hospital facilities plus costly medicine and food for over 400 injured and/or sick wildlife which come to MARS each year. The Walk will also be part of the EARTH DAY celebrations, organized by The Comox Valley Conservation Strategy in an effort to make all of us aware of our environment. Those of you who participated in

‘Christian Imagination in the Real World’ topic for seminar starting Friday night Imagination and religion have been conjoined throughout the history of civilization. From its earliest traces, humanity has expressed its sense of wonder at the world and its meaning through art. From Buddhism in the east to Christianity in the West, art in all its forms - music, painting, sculpture, architecture - has reflected the great themes of humanity’s search for meaning. And so it is today, through a much wider choice of medium. Iwan Russell-Jones is an award-winning filmmaker, writer and theologian. After a doctorate from Oxford University, Iwan spent 25 years with the BBC as a producer and director with television and radio. He currently heads the Christianity and the Arts program at Regent College in the University of British Columbia. Russell-Jones leads a seminar titled “Christian Imagination in the Real World� beginning Friday, April 25 through Sunday, April 27. With reference to a range of filmmakers, writers and contemporary artists, he will explore how the modern imagination gives expression to the realities of human nature and humanity’s destiny as seen through the timeless truths of the Christian scriptures. He has a reputation for being both humourous and provocative, prompting old assumptions to be examined in fresh ways. The seminar begins Friday evening at 6:30 through to 8:30 with refreshments and discussions to follow. Coffee is on at 9 am on Saturday with the session to start at 9:30 to noon. The third session takes place in the context of a contemporary non-liturgical service called the

Iwan Russell-Jone

5:40 Express beginning at 5:40 pm that afternoon and concluding with a light supper. The final address happens as part of a 10 am Communion service on Sunday. All sessions take place at St Peter’s Church on Church Street in Comox. Admission is by donation. Seating is limited and people are requested to register their attendance by email to: st.peters.teachingweekend@ gmail.com or by signing up prior to the event at the church or church office.

the Walk in 2012 may recall that during the Walk, MARS was called out to rescue an Osprey which became entangled with an eagle. The Osprey was in rehab for 16 months and was released in August of 2013 along the Courtenay estuary. MARS Ambassador Birds will accompany our Educational Outreach Worker Reg Westcott, who will answer your questions and outline some of the challenges that face a wildlife rescue organization. MARS Founder and manager, Maj Birch will also be on hand to share her vast knowledge with the public. Once again, MARS acknowledges the generous donations of water (don’t forget your water bottle) from Water Pure and Simple, fruit from Quality Foods Comox, coffee donated by the Park Cafe and the “stand by� assistance from the St. John Ambulance Society.

We are sponsored by FM 97.3 The Eagle radio and we thank them for all the “on airâ€? time. Look for us at the north end of the airpark by the Park CafĂŠ under the Scotia Bank tent and of course, MARS registration tent. Registration and the walk begin at 10:00 a.m. with the event lasting until 2:00 p.m. The $10 registration fee is waived if participants obtain sponsoring pledges from their friends, neighbors, co-workers and families. You may download pledge sheets online at www.wingtips.org. The forms are also available for pick up from various Comox Valley merchants listed on the MARS website. Don’t forget to bring your pledge sheets and donation money. Adult and child prizes will be awarded for the most pledges and most funds raised.

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Sports and Recreation

MAJA NYMANN TOP CANADIAN U16 GIRL AT INTERNATIONAL WHISTLER CUP The stakes were high, the competition even higher as the Mount Washington Ski Club U14 and U16 teams travelled to the International Whistler Cup Ski Race held in Whistler on April 4th - 6th. Whistler welcomed over 400 athletes ages 12 to 15, 150 coaches and 300 volunteers to the 22nd running of the Whistler Cup, presented by Rio Tinto Alcan. This is an Annual International Race, with the highest calibre of ski racers competing in their age groups from around the world. The competition could not be any more challenging. Given the snow year the Mount Washington Ski Team has had - the results held up impressively for the club athletes over this three day event. On day two, Slalom was the name of the game for all the squads with both Men and Women competing in the event. BC Ski Team member and

THE DART BOARD COMOX VALLEY PUB LEAGUE MIXED DARTS PLAYOFFS

Mount Washington athlete Maja Nymann though was the star of the show taking home a 9th place finish after starting 40th and the title of top Canadian U16 girl in this event. Nymann also had the fourth fastest second run time. Ava Langevin was the leader in Slalom for the U14 MWSC girls’ team with a 39th place while Kieran Nilsen of the U14 boys had his best run placing 34th. While the U14’s battled it out on the Slalom Course, the U16’s raced down the hill at high speeds in the very fast, treacherous Super G course. BC Ski Team Member and Mount Washington Athlete Kole Harle placed 31st, Liam Gilchrist took a 69th while Maja Nymann for the U16 girls placed 47th. For the U14 MWSC boys’ team on day one in the Dual Slalom, the top placement went to Kieran Harley, who started 65th and placed 34th with Kieran Nilsen finishing 55th and Zarija Djurickovic placing 75th. The U14 girls fared well too with Sylvii Nymann starting 56th and placing 23rd in the dual slalom, Ava Langevin starting placed 33rd while Natalia Bellefleur placed 75th. On day three both teams took a crack at the fast and challenging GS course with Kole Harle placing 37th. Again, a Nymann, but this time younger sister, Sylvii pulled an impressive 18th out of her hat after starting in 71st place while older sister Maja had an outstanding result of 26th. For the U14 girls Ava Langevin was close on Sylvii’s heels with a 21st place and Natalia Bellefleur

Mount Washington ski team at Whistler: F: Kieran Harley, Zarija Djurickovic, Kole Harle, Kieran Nilsen, Liam Gilchrist. R: Coach John Trimmer, Natalia Bellfleur, Maja Nymann, Ava Langevin, Sylvii Nymann Coach Krystal Francisty placing 97th. Kieran Harley for the U14 boys placed 38th and Zarija Djurickovic placed 55th. Overall, the European teams namely the Austrians and the Norwegians, dominated the podium

at this event this year and the Canadians were not able to defend their overall cup title. When asked about her experience competing at this international level, Maja Nymann commented that “fin-

ishing at the Whistler Cup as the top Canadian U16 Girl has boosted my confidence and given me a perspective on my rankings with athletes from different placed around the world”.

POSITION 1st 2nd 3rd

A Division Cx Legion Beer Pigs Crty Legion Black Cats Crty Legion DA’s

BC Freestylers make mark at Provincials on Mt. Washington

POSITION 1st 2nd 3rd

B Division Elks FunGi’s Comox Legion Bulls Hitters Griffin Darts of Hazzard

By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff

AWARDS A Div Ladies Hi Score: Patti Dennis 140 B Div Ladies Hi Score: Wendy Wiseman 134 A Div Men’s Hi Score: Art Forbes 174 B Div Men’s Hi Score: Dave Merkley 171 A Div Ladies Hi Checkout: Wendy Jackson 96

B Div Ladies Hi Checkout: Lona Denis 100

A Div Men’s Hi Checkout: Brian Wilcox 148

B Div Men’s Hi Checkout: Ken Rodonets 96 180s: Brian Wilcox, Glen Litchfield

COMOX VALLEY MEN’S DART ASSOCIATION LEAGUE APRIL 17/14 POS. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Team Courtenay Legion A Courtenay Legion C Courtenay Legion B Griffin Pub Flyers Comox Legion C Comox Legion B Griffin Pub A

POINTS 390 346 315 286 277 206 199

Youth, juvenile, junior and senior athletes headed up Mount Washington April 3-6 to compete in moguls, slopestyle and duel moguls for ski supremacy. Local skiers also had an impact in the “super youth” event that gets judged separately and includes moguls, big air and slopestyle. “The main thing about these kinds of events is people do come here from all over the province,” said Peter Gibson, president of Mount Washington Alpine Resort. “A lot of people found out earlier in the year when we were closed what kind of an impact we have economically on the community. When we have an event like this kids are staying in town, they’re staying on the mountain, they’re buying food.” A lot of hard work went into prepping for Canadian Freestyle Ski Association-sanctioned event which was organized by the Mount Washington Freestyle Ski Club and supported by the mountain. Sean Heard served as chief of competition, while Lee Pond was chief of moguls, Shane Harle was chief of slopestyle. Jay Henitiuk took on the duty of head judge for the Timber Tour, while John Robin was head judge of the Super Youth Challenge.

Competitor on moguls course

Meanwhile chief of scoring for the Timber Tour was Gayle Finlayson and chief of scoring for the Super Youth Challenge was Gayle Finlayson. Roy Krej took on the role of facilities chief builder and fabricator. And the youth were well served by the course, with the multi-day competition serving up the full range of slope conditions over its duration. A hot-dog stand for competitors was set up at the base of the mountain and a special are in the main lodge was set up for the BC Freestyle Association and competitors. Out of towners enjoyed themselves as well. Tami Bradley, a two-time Olympian, brought a crew of excited youngsters with her from Whistler to compete at the event. “They were so psyched to come over on the ferry,” she said, watching the youth form a human pyramid and arrange themselves on their back in a circle above the slopestyle course Saturday. “We had an epic day yesterday with the sun coming out. “They’re having a blast. They’re learning dance routines, doing photoshoots and just livin’ up the real freestyler life.” Gibson says they’re looking at adding more events like this to the ski calendar next season.

TOP 10 AVERAGES 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Bill DURANT Joe McNEIL Ernie LINDEN Terry JACKSON Glen LITCHFIELD Jack ETHIER Mark WYATT Daniel LEAMAN John CHEQUIS Stuart WILLS

60.70 60.04 57.06 56.03 55.53 55.03 54.44 54.23 53.86 53.06

GAMES WON THIS WEEK Comox Legion B Comox Legion C Courtenay Legion A Courtenay Legion B Courtenay Legion C Griffin Pub Griffin Pub Flyers

11 16 Bye 13 16 8 8

High Checkout: John Chequis 134 High Score: Bill MacPherson, Jack Ethier, Terry Hills, John Chequis, Ralph Brydon 177 180s: Terry Hills 2, Jamie Deith 1, Chuck Smith 1, Jack Ethier 1, Bill MacPherson 1, Hap Hanson 1, John Chequis 1, Mark Wyatt 2, Ralph Brydon 1, Glen Litchfield 1, Stan Kowalewich 1, Shane Dennis 1, Ernie Linden 1

BRICK HOUSE BETTIES RECRUITING FRESH MEAT APRIL 27 Want to try Roller Derby? The Brick House Betties invite you to a Fresh Meat recruitment Sunday, April 27, from 9-10:30 AM at the CRI (2665 Dunsmuir, Cumberland). Bring quad skates, safety gear (helmet, mouth guard, elbow/wrist/knee pads), and a positive attitude! Wear sports-comfortable clothing (don’t forget a water bottle) and

bring a $4.20 drop-in fee for the CRI. Become part of a positive, diverse, sweaty group of derby-loving chicks! Learn to skate and join the fastest-growing, most fun sport on the Island. Need gear or can’t make the date? Contact the Betties on Facebook OR email ahead of time: info@ brickhousebetties.com

CARRIERS WANTED No collection required. Great exercise! Call Comox Valley Echo • 250-334-4734 or drop by 407-D 5th Street, Courtenay Courtenay Rt. 8105 – Kilpatrick, 29th - 27th, Moray Rt. 8106 – Kilpatrick, Anfield Centre (Walmart) Rt. 8130 – Cliffe (Between 19th & 10th), Riverside Lane, Beckensell Comox Rt. 2129 – Sylvan, Parry, Aspen, Idiens Rt. 2136 – Pritchard, Dogwood, Elm, Noel Rt. 2126 – Robb (between Pritchard & Stewart), Elm, Dogwood, Noel (between Pritchard & Stewart) Substitutes: (May/14 to Oct/14) Rt. 2145 – Jubilee, Bolt, Heron Rt. 2153A – Olympic, Murrelet Rt. 2155 - 2300 – Murrelet Crown Isle Rt. 3120 – Monarch, Royal Rt. 3134 – Crown Isle Dr., Birkshire, Sussex Valleyview Rt. 3122 – Swan, Trumpeter, Sparrow, Valley View

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

A10 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, April 22, 2014

CARRIERS WANTED EARN $$$$$$$$ COURTENAY Rt. 8105 – Kilpatrick, 29th - 27th, Moray Rt. 8106 – Kilpatrick, Anfield Centre (Walmart) Rt. 8130 – Cliffe (Between 19th & 10th), Riverside Lane, Beckensell COMOX Rt. 2129 – Sylvan, Parry, Aspen, Idiens Rt. 2136 – Pritchard, Dogwood, Elm, Noel Rt. 2126 – Robb (between Pritchard & Stewart), Elm, Dogwood, Noel (between Pritchard & Stewart) Substitutes: (May/14 to Oct/14) Rt. 2145 – Jubilee, Bolt, Heron Rt. 2153A – Olympic, Murrelet Rt. 2155 - 2300 – Murrelet CROWN ISLE Rt. 3120 – Monarch, Royal Rt. 3134 – Crown Isle Dr., Birkshire, Sussex VALLEYVIEW Rt. 3122 – Swan, Trumpeter, Sparrow, Valley View

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

In the Matter of Part 3.1 (Administrative Forfeiture) of the Civil Forfeiture Act [SBC 2005, C. 29] - the CFA NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT: On March 22, 2013, at the intersection of Braidwood Road and Back Road, Courtenay, B.C., Peace Officer(s) of the Comox Valley RCMP seized, at the time indicated, the subject property, described as: a 2006 Nissan Altima, BCLP: 742XSJ, VIN: 1N4AL11E96C115575, on or about 12:12 Hours. The subject property was seized because there was evidence that the subject property had been used in the commission of an offence (or offences) under section 5(2) (Possession for purpose of trafficking) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act of Canada. Notice is hereby given that the subject property, CFO file Number: 2014-2080, is subject to forfeiture under Part 3.1 of the CFA and will be forfeited to the Government for disposal by the Director of Civil Forfeiture unless a notice of dispute is filed with the Director within the time period set out in this notice. A notice of dispute may be filed by a person who claims to have an interest in all or part of the subject property. The notice of dispute must be filed within 60 days of the date upon which this notice is first published. You may obtain the form of a notice of dispute, which must meet the requirements of Section 14.07 of the CFA, from the Director’s website, accessible online at www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/civilforfeiture. The notice must be in writing, signed in the presence of a lawyer or notary public, and mailed to the Civil Forfeiture Office, PO Box 9234 Station Provincial Government, Victoria, B.C. V8W 9J1.

Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, April 22, 2014 A11

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