Comox Valley Echo - June 3, 2014

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Look inside for your copy of the

WHAT’S INSIDE

2014 Comox Valley Growers Guide

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Inside

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Volume 20, No. 44

The scene pictured by passenger Danny Buttnor from the deck of the BC Ferry Queen of Burnaby yesterday morning.

Fisherman rescued as boat bursts into flames By Philip Round Echo Staff Ferry passengers on their way from Comox to Powell River yesterday witnessed the rescue of a prawn fisherman whose boat burst into flames, apparently the result of an electrical fault. The Queen of Burnaby ferry was

about an hour into its first run of the day when a radio message about the emergency was received at 7:30 a.m. and the ferry changed course to launch its rescue boat. To escape from the flames and a dense plume of billowing smoke, the lone fisherman had got in to his own dinghy and that was intercepted by another fishing boat in the Georgia

Strait that also responded to the alarm. Eventually the man was transferred to the ferry’s rescue craft and subsequently to a Canadian Coast Guard vessel that had been called to the scene. The ferry then continued its journey to Powell River, making a quick turnaround for the return to Comox

to try to catch up some of the lost time. But there was a domino effect of delays into the day - for example, the scheduled 10:10 a.m. departure from Comox did not get away until 10:45. For BC Ferries, public affairs manager Darin Guenette told the Echo their ferry crews were well trained for such rescue missions, which hap-

pened perhaps 12-15 times a year across the entire coastal ferry network. As for yesterday’s efforts, he noted the unnamed fisherman was safely transferred “so it was good work all round,” adding: “The adrenalin would certainly be flowing out there.” pround@comoxvalleyecho.com

City budget trawl to find money for fire training centre By Philip Round Echo Staff City finance staff will propose changes to the recently-approved Courtenay municipal budget next Monday to find the money needed to speed work on a new firefighter training centre. As previously reported in the Echo, the council has voted to move quickly to set up the state-of-the-art centre on land it already owns close to Home Depot, and intends to build a second City fire hall next to it later. Both are intended to be fully operational before the new Comox Valley Hospital opens across Lerwick Road in 2017. The latest projected cost for the entire fire department project is put at $5.7 million, with the site preparation at Waters Place estimated to cost $1.5 million, the training centre just shy of $1 million, and the fire hall itself $3.2 million. (Continued on page 2)

The Burke family is struggling to deal with the loss of a pet and a large vet bill for another.

Coutenay cougar attack leaves one feline dead, another seriously injured By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff Zoe and Floyd, brother and sister Siamese-tabby cats from the same litter, would clean each other and cuddle with each other on the couch. Sometimes in the middle of the night they would climb into bed with Kai and Hannah, the children of Melissa and David Burke. Floyd was the laid back one. Zoe was a bit more precocious. But last Friday everything changed when a young cougar snuck into the family’s Cumberland Road yard. Returning home around 8 p.m. from a

school movie night, Dave thought he heard a catfight in the backyard. But it wasn’t a housecat brawl. The wild cat had Floyd in his jaws. “Am I really seeing what I’m seeing?” he said, shooing the cougar. “He tried to take off with our cat at first.” Dave was glad the animal dropped Floyd and dipped beneath the fence, only to realize Zoe was lying limp nearby. Meanwhile Melissa arrived home with Hannah and a friend - who was ready for a sleepover - in tow. Dave yelled frantically. “What?” said Melissa, in shock. “A cougar in the yard?”

The girls headed to safety upstairs while Dave raced with Floyd to the vet to try to save Floyd. Melissa decided she best deal with Zoe’s limp body. “I grabbed the dead cat and brought it in the house,” she said. It wasn’t long before the cougar returned. “It was just sniffing around the perimeter of our yard,” she said, noting there was actually a deer it began stalking in the neighbour’s yard. “I was really worried there might be an ugly mess.” She wasn’t at peace until she saw the conservation officer arrive and heard the gunshot. (Continued on page 2)

Map showing location of proposed new fire hall

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

Cougar attack leaves one pet dead, another injured alerted the neighbourhood, since they had been searching for the cougar for several hours Friday. He had just let Zoe out before leaving for the movie. But, he says, it could have been a lot worse. “All the other things start sinking in,� he said. “Our little girl had been playing in the yard earlier in the day.�

(Continued from page 1) The staff at Courtenay Veterinary Clinic investigated the extent of damage Floyd sustained. Veterinarian Byron Hamlund noted the cat has a fractured sinus cavity, a puncture through his ear as well as one through his eye. “We’re going to have to see what’s happening when the swelling goes down,� Melissa said, adding she hopes his eye won’t have to be taken out. “Our cat, he’s really special, you know? He’s a really good cat.� As the animal doctors worked away on Cliffe Avenue Monday Kai couldn’t help but be affected by the shape his beloved family member was in. The fur on the scruff of Floyd’s neck has been shaved down and the animal has a feeding tube because it hasn’t been up to eating for the past three days. “He’s been around for almost my whole life,� he said. “He played a lot and he would snuggle with me in the middle of the night.� Hannah can hardly find the words to describe the horror her family has been through in these past few days. But her sullen eyes say it all. Over the weekend the family had a burial service for Zoe, as they try to regroup. “I won’t be having as much love from the cats as I used to,� Kai said. But, he adds, “One cat is better than none.� Now the family is faced with a vet bill that could be upwards of $3,500, whether the animal lives or dies. Dave wishes the authorities had

Melissa agrees. “The kids play outside all the time,� he said. “We’re just lucky it happened when the kids weren’t around.� People interested in contributing to the family’s vet bill can contact the Courtenay Veterinary Clinic at 250338-7721 or reach the family at candyapple14@hotmail.com.

A cougar snuck into a Courtenay yard, tearing a family unit apart. It was later killed.

BRISK PACE TO VALLEY HOME SALES IN MAY May was the year’s busiest month yet for home sales in the Comox Valley, according to new figures from the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board. In all, 94 single-family homes changed hands locally - 30 more than in April, and just one short of the bumper total sold in May of last year. The average price paid for last month’s homes was $369,000 -the

same as in April, but a $14,000 (4 per cent) increase on average prices recorded 12 months earlier in May 2013. Real Estate Board president Blair Herbert considers the Island market to be very affordably priced for buyers in comparison to some of the larger urban markets across Canada. “In terms of overall value for your dollar, our market is very attractive,� he commented.

Slegg Lumber supports Food Bank Peter Moonen and Alicia Robertson are pleased to present a cheque for $2,235.00 to the Comox Valley Food Bank from the local building contractors of the valley. Each year Slegg Lumber donates prizes during our yearly contractor party and contractors purchase tickets to win. All funds collected go toward the food bank. Slegg Lumber would like to thank

every one involved in this yearly event. Slegg Lumber also has a metal recycle bin in the Cumberland yard located at 3217 Small RD. All funds collected from this initiative also goes to the local food bank. Please stop by and recycle your steel and the food bank wins.

City budget trawl to find money for fire training centre (Continued from page 1) The City’s director of financial services, Tillie Manthey, told the Echo yesterday she was reviewing the municipal budget to see how money might be found to get on with the training centre in line with the council’s decision. The only funds so far allocated to the project in 2014 are for consultancy fees, but more would have to be identified to actually start construction. She would have recommendations on how this might be achieved ready to put to council next week. The project has stirred controversy, not just because of its cost, but also because neighbouring Comox Fire Department already runs a well-established and nationally-recognized fire training facility that is used by a number of other fire departments - including Courtenay. Comox Mayor Paul Ives has alluded to the latest Courtenay developments at least twice in recent tweets. One read: “What a great training facility we have - too bad our neighbours aren’t using it to their advantage.� A day later he added: “What’s good for Campbell River, Victoria, Union Bay etc. isn’t good enough for Courtenay? That’s the million dollar question.� But Courtenay insists its planned “scenario-based� training centre with plenty of space for vehicle maneuvering will complement rath-

er than duplicate the existing “skills-based� programs offered at the Comox Fire Training Centre. And it argues its new centre and second fire hall are definitely needed to serve a growing population on the east side of the City, citing two documents it commissioned - a Fire Underwriters survey and the FireWise Consulting report - in support of its position. It has now posted those reports and other information on the City’s website (www.courtenay.ca) so citizens can judge the issue for themselves. It has also released a statement in response to some of the questions being raised by the public about the project. The City stresses what it is planning is different to the training centre in Comox, which it says it will still need to use for live firefighting practice. “Simulated real-scenario training is important to prepare firefighters for fire and emergency response,� it explains. “This means providing situations and environments that replicate the conditions a firefighter could expect when responding to fire and emergency calls. The difference is these would be in a controlled and safe environment. “An example would be a fire simulation building with moveable partition walls to create new and unexpected environments - similar to what would be found in real life in the City of Courtenay. This could include hotel, motel and apartment fire training. “Training technology has made significant advances in the last 20 years: natural gas sim-

ulation and artificial smoke, which will be used in the East Courtenay training grounds, provide a safe, realistic environment. “At the same time they minimize the impact on neighbouring properties, the environment and the health of firefighters. “The proposed training ground will also permit Courtenay to develop a practical officer training program - another key recommendation from the FireWise Report.� Courtenay Mayor Larry Jangula said the decision to move forward with the second fire hall and training ground was not taken lightly. “Our fire hall project review committee analyzed the need for this fire hall and training ground very thoroughly,� he said. “After reviewing all of the information, I am confident that we’ve made the right decision for the right reasons.� And the chair of the project review committee, Coun. Jon Ambler, said the lengthy review process allowed the committee to make an informed decision. “After analyzing all the facts, it’s clear that this facility is going to make our community safer,� he commented. “Don’t forget the Courtenay Fire Department protects over 35,000 people in the Comox Valley. “Just as importantly, it’s going to protect the lives of our firefighters through improved training.� He said being a predominantly volunteer fire department was extremely cost effective for taxpayers when compared to a staffed service working shifts round the clock.

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“We have a moral obligation to invest in the leadership, equipment, training and facilities our volunteers require to safely face the dangers of the job - a life-saving job they do on our behalf,� Ambler added. While construction on the training ground will begin without further delay - subject to the money to get the ball rolling being found on Monday - the proposed satellite fire hall will be subjected to further design and cost review. Work on that is not expected to get underway until 2016. pround@comoxvalleyecho.com

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News

Valley hospice care project gets $250,000 provincial grant By Michael Briones Echo Staff A huge provincial grant has given the Comox Valley a major boost in making hospice care a reality. The BC government doled out $250,000 for the project that was announced by Health Minister Terry Lake and Comox Valley MLA Don McRae at the public opening of the healing gardens and donor recognition event at St. Joseph’s Hospital on Friday. With Vancouver Island Health Authority committing to fund the operation of four new hospice beds to the tune of around $90,000 annually, the provincial grant will support renovation costs in The Views residential care facility at St. Joseph’s General Hospital. “Hospice palliative care services and the compassionate health-care professionals who deliver them, help patients and families through a very difficult time in their lives,” said Lake. “By supporting The Views to create these new hospice beds in their facility we are helping to provide a safe and welcoming environment for more patients and families in the Comox Valley.” The renovations are expected to be complete and the beds available by spring, 2015. McRae, who has worked tirelessly for the project along with the Comox Valley Hospice Society, Vancouver Island Health Authority and the community, is pleased to see the quest for hospice care finally coming to fruition. “Without a doubt, this is the biggest $250,000 announcement the government of British Columbia has ever made in the Comox Valley,” said McRae. “I say that because there’s so many partners whether it’s the Comox Valley Hospice Society, the countless donors, St. Joseph’s Foundation, there’s just so many individuals who came together along with Island Health as well to make sure we become beneficiaries of this four-hospice beds. They’ve worked so hard for so long. I am so pleased that we’re here today with minister Lake to celebrate an absolute important day in Comox Valley’s history.” Single rooms are the standard of care for hospice patients to support the needs of both patients and families. The renovations to The Views will convert existing four-bed

These Comox Valley kids are going to Kananaskis camp in July

Health minister Terry Lake speaks at St. Joseph’s Hospital on Friday

Comox Valley MLA Don McRae rooms into single rooms. The rooms will have private bathrooms, space for families and loved ones and a home-like feel. Each of the four rooms also will have ocean and/or garden views. Renovations will create a dedicated and separate entrance to the hospice located in The Views. “Island Health is committed to providing high-quality, accessible services and supports to individuals and families dealing with end-oflife care and issues,” said Don Hubbard, board chair of Island Health. “We are proud to be part of the partnership that is bringing this important service to the communi-

ty.” The residential care unit at St Joseph’s Hospital (now called The Views), opened in 1967 with 48 beds; since then the facility has grown to a total of 125 residential care beds. “There is tremendous interest in the community for this long-awaited service and to work in partnership with the Ministry of Health around the capital needs is extremely exciting,” said Jane Murphy, president/CEO St. Joseph’s General Hospital. “This will help The Views continue to create an environment characterized by peace, quiet, dignity and privacy where our palliative patients and their families will feel at home during this challenging time.” “The experience of dying is greatly influenced by the quality of information we have, how prepared we feel, and the support and resources available to us. Creating this four-bed hospice cluster at The Views provides a place for people in our community to have a choice about the kind of end-of-life care they receive. The Comox Valley Hospice Society is pleased to keep working with The Views to support people who are dying, their loved ones and caregivers,” said Terri Odeneal, executive director of the Comox Valley Hospice Society. Since 2010, the ministry alone has provided over $17 million in hospice and palliative care funding. The addition of these beds supports government’s commitment to double hospice spaces in the province by 2020.

A coffee can make a true difference on Tim Hortons Camp Day: Wed., June 4 Going to camp is a childhood rite of passage in North American culture, but for many children this quintessential experience is out of reach. On Camp Day, Tim Hortons guests can help make camp a reality for thousands of economically disadvantaged kids in Canada and the U.S. On Wednesday, June 4, Tim Hortons restaurant owners will generously donate all proceeds from coffee sales, as well as other fundraising activities, to the Tim Horton Children’s Foundation (THCF). All funds raised go directly to sending kids on an inspiring and unforgettable camp adventure. Last year, a record $11.8 million was raised in Canada and the United States to help send more than 17,000 kids to camp. “The Tim Horton Children’s Foundation provides more than just a camp experience to every child who attends,” said Dave Newnham, Vice President and Executive Director, Tim Horton Children’s Foundation. “It’s the opportunity for children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds to help develop the skills, confidence and positive attitude needed to build a brighter future for themselves.” In addition to buying a coffee, Tim Hortons guests can directly impact children in their community through additional in-restaurant and online fundraising activities. Ways to participate include:

* Make a donation by purchasing a tent or cabin in restaurant * Round Up for Camp Day (round the after-tax total of an order to the nearest dollar amount) * Text CAMP to 45678 in Canada to donate $5 * Text CAMP to 41518 in USA to donate $5 * Donate online at sendakidtocamp.com Children who attend one of the Foundation’s six camps are selected from within the communities where Tim Hortons restaurants are located. Tim Hortons restaurant owners work closely with local youth organizations and schools to the identify children who would benefit most from the experience. Often, this camp experience is the first time a child has travelled outside their community. During their stay at a THCF camp, kids participate in a wide range of first-class programs and activities designed to build self-confidence, self-esteem and leadership skills. The powerful life experiences learned at THCF camps come at absolutely no cost to the campers or their families. Join the #CampDay and #THCF conversation online on Facebook (www.Facebook.com/TimHortons) and Twitter (@TimHortons) or visit www.youtube.com/THCF1974 to watch inspiring videos on how the Tim Horton Children’s Foundation camps are making a difference.

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A4 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, June 3, 2014

News

William Matous and Katelyn Peterson shared the Valedictorian address.

One of the cars broke down along the way but gallantry emerged among the graduates from Highland Secondary as they help pushed the vehicle and get their fellow graduates reach the disembarking area.

Trenton Cameron received the Osler Shield from principal Lyneita Sawnson. Cameron is being recognized for excellences in academic, citizenship and athletics or arts.

Kianna Everson, sporting a traditional First Nation outfit is congratulated by vice principal Rob Grantham.

The Highland Secondary graduating class of 2014 travelled in style riding in classic cars that drove them from school all the way to the Filberg Heritage Lodge and Park.

Highland graduates feel like ‘superheroes’ By Michael Briones Echo Staff The Highland Secondary Commencement Ceremony was held on a perfect day in Comox on Saturday evening. The annual ritual that featured over 170 graduating students was blessed with good warm, sunny weather that provided a beautiful outdoor setting with the picturesque Comox Bay just gleaming brightly in the background just behind the stage at the Filberg Lodge and Park. The event began with the graduation parade highlighted by the bright, colourful classic cars of various models and brands that transported the graduating class of 2014 in style from school all the way to the venue. However, while there were joy and excitement expressed by students who have worked long and hard for a good ending to this chapter of their lives, there was also a bit of sadness. Their teachers, who have mentored, advised and taught them in the last five years in high school, were sadly missing from this important ceremony. The teachers, who are engaged in bitter contract negotiations with their employers, were not allowed to take part due to the lock out imposed by the provincial government in retaliation to the BC Teacher’s Federation’s rotating strikes. Vice-principals Greg Kochanuk and Rob Grantham introduced each of the students and read the teachers comments and congratulatory greetings as they climbed up the stage. School principal Lyneita Swanson congratu-

lated all the graduates that included local and international students, and wished them all the best in the next chapter of their education. The Osler Shield, which has been awarded to outstanding students since 1938 who excel in academic, citizenship, athletics or arts, was awarded to Trenton Cameron, who was top of his class for academic achievement. Cameron will be receiving full-year Excellence Scholarship at University of Victoria totaling $26,000. He is also an exceptional musician having played in concerts and numerous jazz band during his time at Highland. He is also very athletic having been a member of the Raiders’ volleyball, basketball and soccer teams. Katelyn Peterson and William Matous shared the Valedictorian address. Both creatively reflected on what they’ve all been doing in the past 13 years and commemorated their journey. Their story, they said, is like a superhero movie and that they’re all “superheroes.” “You know what my favourite part of the superhero is, it’s the origin story,” said Matous. “When there is this gradual change for this one defining moment when you discovered something extraordinary about yourself. However, in that moment, ordinary people become something unique.” Both related some of their schoolmates’ origins, as well as their many up and down battles, their mentors, friends, teammates, groups, and many good and bad experiences along the way. “All of us have had to face our super villains even our Kryptonite,” said Peterson.

“Throughout our journey, we were forced to put up bravery and nerve in times when we felt isolated from everyone else. Even though most think they are made of steel, have felt weak from behaviours and words. Eventually we battle insecurities and rejections. There will be times when we have to trust ourselves to be our own hero.” Peterson said that out of all her fellow graduates, “I don’t see a single person who is ordinary.” “I see people who have learned to revive a heart or brain inorder to save a life. I see people who will save strangers from a burning building. I see caregivers, rock stars, teachers, dancers, trades people and even those willing to join the military to defend our country.” Matous added “It’s not as if we were given these powers. We’ve earned them. We’ve learned from our endless mistakes that we must always look towards the light from the darkness. The positivity in what we’ve gained through what we’ve loss. We’ve learned from our successes that the path to satisfaction is always one more step forward and never two steps back. Every action we’ve made since we

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began this journey moulded us in some small way. Seemingly insignificant moment in time seems to have added up to a larger journey.” Teachers, they said, often state that young people are the future and are the ones that will change the world. “It hasn’t proven that one person can change the world,” said Peterson. “Every person who lives in this world makes ripples. Small changes that add to bigger waves. As a person who has ever lived, has died living behind a different world than the one they were born into.” “We have in front of us the same opportunity that every single other graduating class at every other high school has had throughout history. Having this opportunity does not make us special or significant. It’s what we do with this opportunity that matters.” The graduating class were each called up to receive their commencement cerftificates. Following that, the event concluded with the traditional minuet dance with people cheering and applauding the precious and memorable moment. ■ For more photos please check out the photo gallery at www.comoxvalleyecho.com

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Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, June 3, 2014 A5

News

Task force formed to review local governance structure By Michael Briones Echo Staff The Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce has launched a new initiative that aims to review the current governance model of the region to determine if improvements are necessary or needed. It has formed the Comox Valley Governance Review Task Force that is now chaired by Joe Smith. The goal is to conduct an independent study to determine if the governance of the Comox Valley is structured in a manner that best satisfies the political, cultural and public services the community needs in order to meet the challenges that growth brings. “Over the years we’ve heard people talk about something needs to be done in the valley in terms of the government,” said Smith. But before this initiative could proceed any further, it needs to get guidance from five per cent of registered voters in the region. “The chamber of commerce feels that it’s time that we got the community involved in looking at what we need to do,” said Smith. At present, a petition is being circulated and once sufficient signatures are obtained, the Task Force will then have a mandate from the voters to investigate fully whether it’s beneficial or not to restructure

Joe Smith is chairing the Comox Valley Governance Review Task Force announced by the Chamber of Commerce last week the provision of services and the governance of the Comox Valley. “We need to show that the community has an appetite for a study of this nature,” said Smith. “We need to have at least 5,000 signatures of voters within the community.” The task force, Smith said, is following the review process as outlined in the Ministry of Municipal Affairs Review and Program Guide titled “Managing Changes to Local Government Structure.” The task force, Smith said, is a non-partisan group in the Chamber of Commerce. It is composed of a diverse section of business people,

Queneesh students had their own picket line to support their teachers

retirees, volunteers and former politicians. The study will look at current and future needs of the community. Recent events, Smith said, have prompted the notion that something needs to be initiated in the Comox Valley. In 2007, he pointed out, the Comox Strathcona Regional District was split into two by the provincial government creating the Comox Valley Regional District and the Strathcona Regional District. “Obviously it recognized the regional government structure was not working,” said Smith. “So the

province did something. They didn’t go to a referendum. They just did it.” As well, in 1999, a referendum was held calling for the amalgamation of the City of Courtenay, the Town of Comox and certain parts of Areas A, B, and C. It was defeated. There was also an independent citizens group in 2007 that put out a proposal for one area of government. It was rejected by the BC government because it did not have the support of the local governments. In 2009, Union Bay expressed dissatisfaction with the region and held a referendum to incorporate as a municipality. That failed by only 50 votes, which Smith said is an indication that more than half the population of Union Bay was looking for change. In 2010, there was a proposed amalgamation of the Village of Cumberland and Royston but it did not materialize. Royston is now managed by the regional district. Governance reviews have been successfully achieved in many communities in Vancouver Island and across the province, said Smith. As well there are reviews occurring at present in places like Salt Springs Island, Trail, and Victoria. If sufficient signatures are collected through the petitions, then the Task Force will initiate a request for a study to have a joint committee established to oversee the review

process as outlined by the Minister of Municipal Affairs. This initiative is in line with the BC Chamber of Commerce Policy Statement that has been approved by all member Chambers throughout the province. “Why the chamber is involved is because several years ago they identified there was a need to review the regional governance structures because they sense they’re not working properly,” said Smith. “Of course we can see that by the split here in the Comox Valley. So let’s put opinions aside. Let’s put speculation aside. We need to get facts in order to be able to make decisions because we don’t have the answers. That’s what the governance review will do for the Comox Valley.” The Task Force will be visiting many community groups and organizations in the coming weeks to provide more information on this initiative. Please contact the Comox Valley Chamber if your organization is interested in hearing from this Task Force. Petitions are available to be signed or picked up for distribution at the Chamber of Commerce office and can be downloaded from www. comoxvalleychamber.com. Only original signatures on hard copies of the petitions can be accepted.

Teachers on strike last week at Ecole Puntledge school

Comox Valley students get another free day from school By Michael Briones Echo Staff Comox Valley students will again miss another day of class due to the rotating strikes that were extended by the BC Teacher’s Federation this week. On Thursday, students were kept out as teachers picketed the schools. Today, they will get another unscheduled day off from school. Comox District Teachers’ Association president, Steve Stanley said it’s “very unfortunate” the students are caught in the middle of the ongoing contract negotiations. “It’s the only vehicle we have when we’ve been negotiating for 16 months and it seems like at that point we’re not getting any closer,” said Stanley. “By taking this action, it puts pressure on the government to try and reach a deal. We’re hoping that will work. Over the next couple of weeks we’re hoping for a deal.” Members of the local union are going to use the free day to stage a rally in support of public education and BC teachers today (Tuesday) at the School District 71 board office at 607 Cumberland Road in Courtenay. BCTF 1st vice president Glen Hansman will be in attendance. The rally will begin around 3:45 p.m. with speeches followed by a march to Comox Valley MLA Don McCrae’s office. Around the district, some parents have staged their own protest in support of the teachers. At Queneesh Middle School, students and parents were out with placards and signs just before school started. Around 40 people were out there protesting for over an hour airing their unhappiness over what’s happening to the province’s education system. According to organizer Sherry Turnbull, the students went back to school following the protest. On Wednesdy, Valley View Elementary students are going to walk out of classes at 9 a.m. The goal they said

MANAGER’S SPECIAL

is to send the message that this strike is affecting the students, who want to see things settled. The BCTF decided to keep the rotating strikes for another week. The union’s reason stated in their press release is the provincial government’s refusal to put the necessary funding on the table to reach a reasonable deal on issues like class size, composition, staffing levels, and fair wages for teachers. In retaliation, the B.C. Public School Employers Association introduced partial teacher lockouts that started Monday, which means they can only be in school 45 minutes before and after the end of the school day. They’re also off-limits during lunch hours and recess. Over the weekend, Highland Secondary

held its commencement ceremony but without the teachers attending it. “It’s very sad it has to reach this point,” said Stanley. “It’s disappointing that had to happen. We would be able to do the grad according to our job action but the lockout response from the government .... we couldn’t do that. It’s definitely putting kids in the line of fire and it’s nothing we planned and hoped for.” Education Minister Peter Fassbender said he’s “profoundly disappointed” at the turn of events “while we’re still at the table, with all of the talk that’s been going on that children and parents and communities are continuing to be held hostage and put in the middle of this dispute.” “It’s unfortunate,” he said. “I feel very

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strongly that we have come to the table with a real goal to get a negotiated settlement. We’ve made significant moves both on the term of the agreement, on the wage settlement side, in terms of a signing bonus that we’ve offered.” Fassbender said the teachers’ union seems unwilling to negotiate a settlement, but the government will not resort to the dysfunctional pattern of legislating a contract with the teachers’ union. “We’ve been at the table since we were re-elected last June and we’ve been willing to negotiate. And here’s the bottom line: 24-7, we’ll be at the table to hammer out a negotiated settlement. We need the other party to this negotiation to be at the table, willing to negotiate.”

Sunday, June 8, 2014 2:30pm The Port Theatre

Enter a Draw for a chance to win BBQ From

with guests Dawn Pemberton & Patrick Courtin Trio or $650 in-store credit Winner will be drawn end of day June 30th 2014

PLUS

NanGo Grannies and Oceanside Grandmothers to Grandmothers will be selling crafts in the theatre lobby, in support of the Stephen Lewis Foundation.

Tickets (reserved seating) Adults $22.50 | Children 12 and under $5 | eyeGO $5 available through

581 Ryan Road, Across from Superstore, 250-334-9969

The Port Theatre Ticket Centre 250-754-8550 www.porttheatre.com

Annual General Meeting will be held

Thursday, June 5th at 7 pm at Vanier Senior Secondary in the band room Preliminary Discussion of the future of SWWD

A6 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, June 3, 2014

What’s On

SPEECHREADING WORKSHOPS HERE

The Birds and the Beans Farmers — Kelsey Knoll, Foster Richardson, Jay Baker-French, Natasha Tymo.

Seed Savers host young farmers Thursday What do UBC Agriculture graduates do for fun and employment, we asked Foster Richardson, Natasha Tymo, Kelsey Knoll and Jay Baker-French. Speaking at the CV Growers and Seed Savers (CVGSS) AGM on Thur, June 5, these four young people were not looking for secure government research positions or to work for the chem-agribusiness. Instead they wanted to increase their hands-on practice and actually grow and sell healthy food. “Before we were farmers, we were friends at university, working in the student garden. In our final days of undergrad, we stumbled across the opportunity to lease land from an existing organic farm in the Comox Valley and we jumped on the opportunity,” says Foster.

So they set up their own farm - The Birds and the Beans. According to Foster “Starting in April 2013 we began growing vegetables, raising pastured poultry, and growing staple crops to sell at the farmers’ markets, and direct-to-customer veggie boxes”. They will focus on their experience with grains and beans - quinoa, barley, oats, buckwheat, dried beans and soup peas. The Birds and the Beans aims to feed people fully. Natasha explains, “When people think of eating local, there is often a focus on fruits and vegetables, but staple crops are often overlooked. We want to begin filling this gap by growing not only vegetables, but also meat and staple crops like grains and beans.” Comox Valley Growers and Seed

Savers is celebrating their 14th year Thursday, June 5 at Creekside Commons, 2202 Lambert, Courtenay. Come at 6:30 for a Creekside Garden Tour; the AGM starts at 7 pm, and the speakers at 7:30. To reach Creekside Commons from Courtenay, take Cumberland Road, turn left onto 20th Street, then the first right onto Lambert. Follow to the end of Lambert and park on the street. There is limited parking in the Creekside complex; watch for parking guides. Creekside Commons is a shoes-off sort of place, so bring slippers, and a mug. All are welcome and delicious GE-Free refreshments will be served. Contact Susan at 250-334-2375 or CVGSS.org for more info.

Linda Scarlett- Hauck, an approved Canadian Hard of Hearing Instructor from Salt Spring Island, will be offering a SPEECHREADING (previously called lip reading) workshop the first two weekends in June. Describing what the participants will learn, Ms Scarlett-Hauck noted that Speechreading ‘supplements our residual hearing and what we know about the situation’. Her workshop will offer participants

new skills in ‘watching mouth and speech movements, picking up on facial and body expressions, and putting these together within the conversational context, as well as learning to ‘ infer/ fill-in’ to better understand ‘messages’ exchanged’. Anyone interested in registering for the workshop, please contact Mary 250 339 4706

7 STORY CIRCUS PRESENTS YEAR-END SHOW 7 Story Circus, your local community circus, presents “PUSH” on June 9, 13 & 14. Featuring Aerialists, Acrobats, Jugglers, Stilting, & maybe even a Unicycling Unicorn! 7 Story Circus’ “PUSH” is a contemporary circus odyssey into the exploration of PUSH & everything that comes with it. Push, pull, together, apart, community & isolation. Push as momentum. Push the limits. Push past beliefs. So, what happens when we push? Come to the show and find out!

Monday June 9, Doors at 5:30pm and show at 6 pm with Opening Act by Community Circus 1 Students. Friday June 13, doors 6:30pm and show 7pm with Opening Act by Aerial Arts Students. And Saturday June 14, Doors 7:30 pm and show 8 pm with Opening Act by Aerial Arts Students. At Courtenay Recreation’s Lewis Centre, 489 Old Island Highway. Admission at the door: $12/person or $25 Family Pass. For more information check out www.7storycircus.com and on facebook.

Send your questions for any of these professionals to: COMOX VALLEY ECHO, 407-D Fifth Street, Courtenay, BC V8N 1J7 or kcurrie@comoxvalleyecho.com or FAX 250-334-3172

Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, June 3, 2014 A7

What’s On

Friends of Comox-Lazo Forest Reserve AGM features talk on Mack Laing

Philosophers’ Cafe tackles crime and punishment Philosophers’ Café - an informal evening of dialogue hosted by a facilitator in which participants discuss current topics. On Wednesday, June 4 the public is invited to join in an hourlong conversation on the theme “Tough on Crime or Smart on Crime?” The government says they will help keep our streets and communities safe by enhancing victim’s rights and making offenders accountable. Critics say the government’s tough-on-crime policies do nothing to reduce crime. How do we deter crime, protect citizens and rehabilitate offenders? Is there a balance required between victim’s rights and offender’s rights? Does a minimum sentence make sense or should a judge be free to make the punishment fit the crime? Is there a place for restorative justice? What do the experts say? What do you think? Our presenter will be Sandra Harrison, former Executive Director with Alberta Correctional Services. As with each Café, Sandra will have just 10 minutes to introduce the topic, and then the floor is open for 50 minutes of discussion. Drop in to the Philosophers’ Café in Comox, a friendly forum for reflection where you can join the conversation, or just sit back and listen.

Sandra Harrison, former Executive Director with Alberta Correctional Services. Members of the public are welcome to propose topics and introduce them at future Cafés. Themes should be of broad interest and national significance, and have an element of controversy to them. Our moderator for each evening is Peter Schwarzhoff. When: June 4, 7:00-8:00PM Cost: Free Location: Comox Quality Foods Café (in the solarium) 2275 Guthrie Road, Comox, BC V9M 4G1 More Info: Peter Schwarzhoff rigoletto@shaw.ca (250)778-0333

The Friends of Comox-Lazo Forest Reserve are holding their Annual General meeting on Thursday, 5th June at 7 pm at the Comox Recreation Centre on Noel Avenue. The guest speaker will be Kay Bukta, the curator of the Comox Archives and Museum. Kay’s illustrated talk features David Hamilton Mack Laing - A man of many talents. Her presentation shows the life of Mack Laing and his many contributions through several careers. This year the Comox Museum is featuring Mack Laing and have created a display which includes a corner of the Baybrook house with Mack lining up a shoot through his Graflix Camera on his front porch, and a section representative of his living room with furniture built by Mack and some of his art work. This is the inspiration for the slide show developed by the museum’s curator. ‘We hope you can come out and join us to learn more about the North East Woods and the Wildlife Management Area - an area of importance and well loved by all of us’ said Friend’s President, Barbara Price. Light refreshments will be provided as well as an opportunity to learn about future plans for this popular area. For more information, contact, Barbara Price at 250-339 4037.

Mack Laing with a large fish, Comox Bay in the background - photo courtesy of Comox Archives and Museum

‘FOUR FEMININE ARCHETYPES IN OUR PSYCHES’ TOPIC FOR C.C. JUNG SOCIETY MEETING The Comox Valley C. G. Jung Society will host a presentation entitled “Four Feminine Archetypes in our Psyches: A Compass for the Soul” by Jungian analyst, Marlene Brouwer on Friday, June 6. Dr. Toni Wolff, a colleague of Carl Jung, identified four basic forms of the Feminine in women: MOTHER, AMAZON (warrior), HETEIRA (lover),

and MEDIAL WOMAN (wise woman), which serve as a kind of compass for the soul. How do these strong inner forces manifest in the lives and relationships of women today? Which archetype guides your life? In this interactive presentation, we look more closely at the structure and dynamics of the Psyche and especially the archetypal

It’s hard to give an exact figure. For instance, web pages differ substantially in size. Some websites are incredibly simple (mainly text with a few images) whilst others are much more complex (with photos and videos embedded which increases data consumption). In order to produce the table below, I’ve taken a few averages. It should provide a rough guide on what you’re able to do with 500MB or 1GB of cellular data.

Accessing Web Pages Basic e-mail/instant message Rich e-mail/IM (with attachments) Downloading/streaming music Downloading/streaming video Skype voice call Skype video call Listening to online radio Downloading/updating apps

500MB corresponds to… 900 pages 150,000 1,000

1GB corresponds to… 1,800 pages 350,000 2,000

100 songs 1 hour 15 hours 2 hours 8 hours 40 apps

200 songs 2 hours 30 hours 4 hours 16 hours 75 apps

Is there a relationship between diabetes and hearing loss? Almost 2.5 million Canadians live with diabetes but the link with hearing loss is not clear. A 2012 study recommends that diabetics have their hearing tested because the data showed a greater incidence of hearing loss in the diabetic population. Research continues as to whether it is the disease or the drugs that treat it that may increase the risk for hearing loss. Primary care doctors may not suggest that a person with diabetes have a hearing test because they are more concerned with urgent diabetes health issues. However, research suggests that hearing loss may increase the chance of depression and dementia, potentially adding an even greater load to the burden of diabetes. Our recommendation is that if you have diabetes you should arrange to have a hearing test by a qualified Hearing Care Professional.

forms of the Feminine. Marlene Brouwer, BA, MTS, D. Analytical Psychology (C.G. Jung Institute, Zurich, 1999) is a member of the International Association for Analytical Psychology and Western Canadian Association of Jungian Analysts, with an Analysis practice in Victoria.

A8 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, June 3, 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

An independently owned and operated newspaper published by Echo Publications at 407-D Fifth Street, Courtenay, B.C. V9N 1J7 All material herein is protected by copyright. Reproduction in whole or in part is not permitted without written authorization from the publisher.

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Letters

Special deal on head shields Smart meter worrying you? The answer is here! Are you tired of the tin foil hat that you made not giving you enough protection? Never fitting right and always falling off? A big wind comes up and it’s gone? Oh no! But there’s help! After years of research we’ve developed the smart meter Head Shield! That’s right! Fits to any head and is completely guaranteed to protect!! Protects 100 times more than any tin foil, how can we say that? It’s due to our patented Neurological Uptake Testing System, or NUTS for short, so we can absolutely guarantee 100% satisfaction! Never again worry about growing a tail, a third eye, or glowing in the dark! Think about it, how much would pay for that kind of safety? $100? Or even $200? No! During this special offer you get two smart meter Head Shields for just $19.95! Never be a victim to BC Hydro again! But Wait! Order today and I’ll double the offer, that’s four Hea d Shields! Just pay separate shipping and handling. But that’s not all! For this special Comox Valley offer I’ll also include 4 crotch shields! Ever worry about what those waves are doing to your private parts? Do you worry you can’t have children? Or that you may grow a third testicle? NO MORE! Crotch Shield is here to protect you! Fits comfortably under your clothes, no-one will ever suspect! And it’s also produced using the same NUTS technology as your Head Shield so you know you’re extra safe. You get four Head Shields and four Crotch Shields all for just $19.95! But they won’t last long! so order today! Call 1-855-Ritalin, that’s 1-855-Ritalin. Order now! Brian Ford Comox

I HOPE HE PASSES In the paper was a story which should make all of us proud. Proud that our military, who can’t find the cash to help veterans with blown off limbs and traumatic mental problems, are able to find the money to assist one guy who works at DND headquarters to learn french, because he is dyslexic. $72,000.00 plus some follow ups which may cost another 13 grand so that he may converse and write reasonably well in our other official language. Apparently his kind of training can’t be done in a group setting. He needs private instruction - 85,000 dollars worth of instruction. I wonder what the students in the rest of the country who are carrying massive debt for their schooling would think about this? While I’m on this rant, our Courtenay councillors thought it was a good idea for 5 of them to take a junket to Niagara Falls. The cost is only about 2000 bucks per person. Hey, after all, what could a community do with 10 thousand dollars anyway. Chump change, don’t ya know. Congrats to Mayor Larry and Doug Hillian who didn’t go on this taxpayer funded shindig to the honeymoon capital of Canada. Maybe the honeymoon will be over for some of them in November. Perhaps they decided to share a room. Ronna Rae and Star in the same suite, forgetaboutit. Doug Kerr Courtenay

MY BIKE IS READY What an excellent and inspiring letter Bill Morrison wrote in the Friday Echo. Rails to trails is forward thinking, while sinking millions into old infrastructure to get the snail train back is a losing proposition. Turning railways into biking/hiking trails is an idea that has been used extensively in Europe and other parts of BC. It would certainly put Vancouver Island on the map, bring in many more tourists and serve the people who live here very well. My bike is ready too. Shirley Wade-Linton Courtenay

WORKERS DOING A GOOD JOB Unfortunately, local governments and their contracted suppliers are often on the receiving end of displeasure by residents. This isn’t one of those stories. On Wednesday, our household garbage remained alone on our street, after all the other houses’ garbages had been collected. Don’t know why - mistakes happen, but this isn’t one of those stories either. I called Courtenay city hall the next day, asked to speak to someone about our garbage collection and was put through to Kate, who was friendly and helpful, and said she’d contact Emterra, the city’s contracted waste hauler, immediately. She did, because about five minutes later I got a call from Kimberly at Emterra, who said that she’d send someone out right away to pick up the left-behind garbage, as long as it was at the curb. I was at work so asked if I could have 30 minutes to get home and put out the garbage, and that was no problem. I got home about 28 minutes later, put out the garbage and about five minutes after that, a small Emterra truck, driven by a smiling, whistling man, came by and took away the garbage. Problem fully solved - pleasantly and efficiently — from beginning to end. An example of something that happens more often than we may think: workers doing a good job, providing excellent customer service and “getting it right”. And that’s what this story was about. Leigh Carter Courtenay

Letters to the Editor

Saving the community’s schools It must be pretty obvious to anyone watching the sad deterioration of the neighborhood school that this government does not value public education, despite their feeble and disingenuous blatherings to the contrary. Starting my teaching career in Courtenay in the 1960’s, I went on to a thirty year career in Education, mostly in North Vancouver. I taught at all levels, including university, was principal of several schools, started the first Community School in the province, served as District Coordinator of Community Schools, consultant to the B.C. School Trustees and the Ministry of Education. Later on, I was elected President of the North Vancouver Teachers’ Union and helped negotiate the first Collective Agreement between our teachers and our School Trustees. They were agreements which both teachers and their employers supported as being in everyone’s best interests - students, teachers, parents, and trustees. Our first Collective Agreement, signed in 1988, had provisions for class size as well as support services for special needs children. Trustees recognized that if these children were to be fully integrated into all aspects of school life, their needs would first have to be assessed before a suitable program with

adequate support services could be developed. Contrast that with today’s situation! Large classes with few supports for either the children or the teacher struggling to provide a quality experience for all students. We should have built on the progress we could have made if we had just not ‘taken our eyes off the ball’. Schools must be organized around the needs of children and their teachers. They should not be meddled with by politicians and bureaucrats. As one of my graduate professors liked to remind us, “there are only two questions to ask about learning/curricula: What’s worth knowing and who decides?” Some suggestions to ponder: Require all students to attend school in their attendance areas. There is no reason why the neighborhood school cannot serve student needs at least as far as grades 11-12. The neighborhood public school is the glue which binds the community together. Eliminate public funding of private schools. Deal creatively with declining enrollments in a way which does not lead to school closures and consequent weakening of communities. Hold regular community forums for students, parents, trustees and community members so that a consensus can be

developed about goals and objectives for the school system and individual schools. Use a form of zero based budgeting to ensure that expenditures are in line with the core mandate and agreed upon goals. Consider a return to referendums when necessary. Thanks to continued underfunding of schools, many of them are in dire condition. If the so called ‘core funding’ by the government is insufficient, then the community will have to decide if they value schools enough to top up their funding. Trustees should lobby to return to local control of public education. In the meantime, they should prepare ‘needs budgets’ for submission. If the government fires them and sends in a czar to run the schools, we will find out the level of community support. Either way we need a new beginning. We cannot afford to let this deplorable situation deteriorate further. Finally, if we want to strengthen the Comox Valley for all age groups and check the drift of young parents to other communities, we had better roll up our collective sleeves starting immediately. Are we up for the challenge? For all of our sakes,I hope so! Jack Stevens Union Bay

Neonicotinoid Pesticides: they don’t just affect honey bees If it wasn’t for the reporting of honey bee hive losses by apiculturists, the loss to many native bee species would probably have gone undetected due to our limited knowledge of their particular populations. As well, if we were informed about the losses of our native bee species, most people would hardly take notice to yet another insect that could “sting and bother” us, and would relax knowing that the honey bee was still doing fine. We would be wrong on both accounts because our 450-plus different species of native bees are the real saviours when it comes to crop yields and ecosystem seedset, as well they are not a bee that would readily sting us. Granted that all female bees of any species is equipped with a stinger (males can’t sting), most of our native bees are solitary creatures and do not have the hive mentality to form an assault on us whatsoever. Essentially, the only native true hive bee that we have is the friendly bumble bee and attacks on us are rare unless we threaten their hive. Bumble bee hive numbers are much smaller as well due to their limited life span. So we should be concerned about the use of neonicotinoid pesticides on ALL bees if it is truly the cause of their deaths. While these neonicotinoids pesticides are terrific against certain insect pests because the plant systemically absorbs the pesticide and it doesn’t affect mammals, but repels the insects that eat the plant, it doesn’t stop there. Other resources that the plant produces such as pollen and nectar also incorporate neonicotinoids and this is where the problem lies for bees when they harvest these resources. Combine this with other pesticides and toxins in the environment,

stresses from already occurring diseases, mites and climate pressures and you have a perfect storm of problems for many of our bees, both native and the introduced honey bee. Another big one is habitat alterations and habitat loss, both foraging and nesting, and many of our native bees are really struggling! However, neonicotinoids are more and more looking like one of the major threats to our bees and we would be wise to adopt the same concerns and actions of the EU in halting the use of these very powerful class of pesticides until we figure this one out. Gord Hutchings Cobble Hill

WHAT ABOUT CHINA? This is an open letter to our M.P. Mr. John Duncan: On 30 May 2014, Colin Perkel, Canadian Press reported: “Stephen Harper launched into a full-throated attack on the evils of communism at a fund raiser on Friday for a monument to its victims.” The article quoted Prime Minister Stephen Harper saying: ‘During the 20th century communism’s poisonous ideology and ruthless practices slowly bled into countries around the world, on almost every continent.’ ‘The result was catastrophic. More than 100 Million souls were lost - an almost incomprehensible number.’ ‘Evil comes in many forms and seems to reinvent itself time and again. But whatever it calls itself - Nazism, Marxist Leninism, today, terrorism - they all have one thing in common: the destruction,

the end of human liberty.’ Harper then launched an attack on President Putin, of Russia. Many of us would not disagree with Mr. Harper’s comments regarding communism. What I would like to know is; if communism is as bad as described by Mr. Harper, why does he insist on signing a free trade deal with China. Why does Mr. Harper continue to welcome companies controlled by the government of China and the Red Army of China to do business in Canada, buy into Canadian oil and gas companies, import their goods—frequently made with slave labour, and permit them to purchase Canadian land? Mr. Duncan, as my M.P. I would ask you to have Mr. Harper clarify his position. On one hand he condemns the evils of communism, yet on the other he welcomes the largest communist dictatorship, in the world, into Canada with open arms, and indeed encouraging them to participate in military exercises in Canada and do business in Canada. It is very confusing to have the prime minister of our country equating communism with terrorism and then welcoming them, China, into Canada. If P. M. Harper is indeed sincere in his comments regarding communism, when can I look forward to hearing there will be no free trade agreement with Communist China, that they will not be permitted to invest in our oil and gas companies, Communist China will not be purchasing any further land in Canada, and ending any military exercises with Communist China. Thank you for your attention to this matter. E. A. Foster Comox

Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, June 3, 2014 A9

What’s On

Elevate Arts Festival set to transform Downtown Courtenay Downtown Courtenay is definitely going to look just a little different this June 4th to 7th. At first the change might be gradual to the casual observer. Wednesday night will be filled with ideas through “WordPlay” and “Pecha Kucha”. Thursday eve the change will intensify with “Delinquency, “The Tribal Cafe” and “Voices of Fire”, a fiery conversation series at the local Art Gallery. Come Friday Eve it will become abundantly clear that something

unusual is afoot with cranes rolling onto the street, alleys closing up, art installations being constructed, DJ’s playing, shows at local pubs and cafes, and volunteers and artists hustling and bustling with stages, tents and scaffolding. On Saturday the alleys, plazas and Duncan Avenue in Downtown Courtenay will be a whole new world with Underground Art, Extreme Crafts, Circus, Art Projects, Shadow Puppets, Portals and Pop Up Parks, Performance Art, Improvised Rock Operas, Slam Poetry,

Installations, an explosive Hip Hop showcase, Street Dance Parties, DJ’s, Kids Crafts, Live Fire Performance and a whole lot more. It’s all part of the 3rd Elevate Arts Festival, presenting over 200 artists and performers, free of charge, to a both an unsuspecting public, and an audience of culture lovers keen to see the 3rd year manifest itself. “The Elevate Arts Festival is a really inspiring undertaking,” says Co-Producer Meaghan Cursons. “It’s all about breaking down barriers between culture producers and cul-

GARDENS IN BLOOM TICKETS NOW ON SALE The annual Gardens in Bloom tour, presented by the Comox Valley Horticultural Society, takes place 10am - 4pm June 21 and 22. The tour showcases ten beautiful and unique gardens in the Comox Valley. All funds raised by this tour go to support garden related initiatives to enrich the lives of children, the elderly, and the disadvantaged in our beautiful valley.

CVAG hosts ‘Voices of Fire’ Thursday

to those in need “Searle’s for that hard foot to fit” 250-5th Street, Downtown Courtenay

250.334.3178

Co-Producer Anna Rambow. “Check out the schedule, grab a pen and map out your day to make the most of it. With over 15 venues the choices are crazy. Or just jump in with both feet, wander the venues and see what happens!” The Elevate Arts Festival is produced by a volunteer consortium of local professionals, community organizers and animateurs. The event is also dedicated to directly engaging audiences leading up to and during the event. The website offers a list of ways you can get involved creatively right up to the weekend, through poetry, photography, art projects and more. “We really encourage folks to not be passive spectators - for this event and in our community in general. This is not about sitting in a lawn chair all day.” Says Co-Producer Bobby Herron. “It’s about exchanging ideas, music, art and inspiration with others and fueling inspiration to create more, change more, live more. We do this out of a love of community and optimism about our potential. We hope people feel that.” For the full schedule, performer bios, community partners and more go to www.elevatethearts.com

2014

CARRIERS WANTED Comox Harbour Tide Guide No collection required. Great exercise!

The Comox Valley Art Gallery will continue its new “Voices of Fire” public dialogue series Thursday, June 5 at 7 p.m. This installment of Voices of Fire is held in conjunction with Elevate the Arts and will pose the question: “Can creativity be taught?” The event is free, and everyone is welcome to attend. The tone will be informal and there will be a cash bar. “CVAG started Voices of Fire to provoke and inspire debate, questions and dialogue about specific art-related themes,” said gallery director Glen Sanford. “Our goal is to select relevant and topical themes to explore, and Thursday’s discussion on art and education seems particularly timely. “The backdrop to this dialogue is the graduate show for Emily Carr students at North Island College, which is currently on exhibit at the gallery. It’s one of the last times there will be such a show here because the Emily Carr program at NIC is coming to an end.” Thursday’s dialogue will include brief opening remarks from three artists, and then the floor will be open for comments and questions. One of the speakers is visiting artist Alex Poruchnyk of Winnipeg, who is in Courtenay to build an installation called Soft Movements floating and falling in the CVAG windows as part of Elevate the Arts. He will start the project June 3, and everyone is welcome to watch and participate. The other guest artists for Thursday night’s dialogue are Sara Vipond and Renee Poisson, both of Comox Valley. Thursday’s event will be CVAG’s second public dialogue in the Voices of Fire series. The first Voices of Fire took place in April, and featured K’omoks artist Andy Everson. For more details about this and other events coming to CVAG, please visit www.comoxvalleyartgallery. com

Please Give Blood

Last year over 400 people enjoyed the imagination, artistic flare and charm presented by these gardeners. Tickets are $15 and are available at Art Knapp Plantland and Home & Garden Gate in Courtenay, Blue Heron Books in Comox, and Arrowsmith Greenhouses in Qualicum. For more information visit our website at www.comoxvalleyhortsociety.ca.

ture consumers and coming together to create a truly accessible event that helps us to re-imagine our downtown, and our community. The synergy between artists, businesses and local organizations is phenomenal. And this year, the creative juices have really ramped up with installation art projects, pop up parks and other surprises. “ Elevate is also about embracing under-represented talent in our community. “We’ve really made a point engaging diverse ages and genres this year. We’ve got Evergreen seniors “Heartstrings Band” and the “Happy Gang” ukulele ensemble and then at the other end of the age spectrum we have a the “Detonation” hip hop showcase, the Delinquency emerging artists event, DJ’s and indie rock bands,” says Kera McHugh, Co-Producer. The visit to the Elevate website is a must. The sheer number of performers and artists involved means that a little research is seriously advised. You can explore by performer names or by projects and see how performers and artists come together for showcases, street parties and other collaborations. “It’s a lot like a fringe festival’, says

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June 24, Tue: 1:30 - 7:30 June 25, Wed: 1:30 - 7:30 June 26, Thu: 12:30 - 6:30

July 15, Tue: 1:30 - 7:30 July 16, Wed: 1:30 - 7:30 July 17, Thu: 12:30 - 6:30

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A10 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, June 3, 2014

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Courtenay Recreation looks for volunteers

Unplug and volunteer this summer ... Courtenay Recreation will be buzzing with activity this summer, and we want you to be a part of it. We are looking for volunteers 14 years and older who want to keep busy, learn new skills, have fun, meet new friends and gain valuable work experience. There are many volunteer opportunities available to you, from day camps, park time, art exploration, pre-school programs, inclusion programs, LINC youth centre and much more. Find out about all the fun volunteer opportunities available. Come to the Volunteer Information Session on Thursday, June 5, at 4:00 pm at Courtenay Recreation - Lewis Centre. If you are unable to attend the meeting, phone the volunteer coordinator at 250-338-5371 for more information. Mark this date on your calendar!

Free parent info night on your kids’ careers Beth Campbell Duke, a local career educator, will be hosting a free parent information evening in the Comox Valley on June 16 from 6:30 - 8:30 pm. The evening is geared for concerned parents of teens or twenty-somethings; parents who want to learn how best to help guide their young adult towards life/work success in a fast-changing labour market. This seminar is based on Beth’s own work with youth and adult job hunters, as well as from interviews she recently conducted with experts in the areas of careers, education, small business and psychology to write her recent book, Future-Proof Careers: Expert Advice To Help You Guide Your Young Adult Towards Life/Work Success. This evening event is free, but seating is limited so pre-registration is required. Reserve your seat by contacting Beth (250-650-1527) or registering online at CareerTutor.ca/ rsvp.

What’s On

Buy tickets for shellfish event and support a great cause Contribute to scholarship for new Aquaculture Technician Program Every ticket sold to the Comox by the Sea Celebration will raise invaluable funds for a scholarship to North Island College’s (NIC) planned aquaculture technician training program. The proposed eight-month, two-level program will support all aspects of the aquaculture industry -finfish, shellfish, aquatic plants and marine, freshwater and land-based production systems. Scholarship applicants will be selected by the BC Shellfish Growers Association. “Education truly is the first step to change, and this program is integral to the shellfish and seafood industry’s continuing innovation and advancement,” says Susan Auchterlonie, Director, College & Community Relations, NIC. “It is imperative that during a time of heightened environmental awareness, that industry have the structures and training in place to match consumer and citizen enthusiasm for sustainability and eco-friendly practices.” Aquaculture now accounts for over 50 percent of the global seafood supply. As the aquaculture industry continues to grow and diversify, the need for enhanced training also increases to ensure quality and security of the food supply world-wide. The new NIC program provides anyone from a young high school student to an industry veteran the opportunity to advance their understanding of the technical side of the industry, while earning a credential that will increase opportunities for promotion. Courses are also expected to be transferable to university, encouraging the continuation of learning and involvement in aquaculture, leading to a long, healthy and dynamic career in the industry. “The BC Shellfish and Seafood Festival is an annual event that has been very well received,” says Dr. Stephen Cross, board member with the BC Shellfish Growers Association and the NSERC Industry Research Chair in Sustainable Aquaculture at

Dr. Stephen Cross with kelp

Dr. Aisling Brady is an aquaculture researcher at North Island College. NIC. “It’s a showcase of the vibrant and important aquaculture industry and, while there are challenges within this sector, it’s all about producing high quality food.

Being a member of the scientific community, and a part of this critically important industry, we’re here to stimulate innovation and offer experiential learning, so programs like this one launching at the NIC are vital to the fulfillment of the mission.” Comox by the Sea Shellfish and Seafood Celebration will take place from 12:00 to 5:00 pm, Saturday June 21st at the Filberg Heritage Lodge and Park. NIC will have a booth with brochures, sampling gear and visuals, showcasing current aquaculture research projects, as well as a surprise interactive display. Event tickets are $15 and are on sale now. Visit www.discovercomoxvalley.comor call 1-855-400-2882. Dr. Cross will also be one of the presenters at a complementary industry session about understanding Trade and Export strategies for BC Seafood taking place Thursday, June 19th at Crown Isle Golf & Resort

Community. http://bcseafoodseminar.eventbrite.ca Join the conversation with the Vancouver Island Visitor Centre by visiting or using #BCShellFest. About Dr. Stephen Cross Dr. Cross sits is North Island College’s Industry Research Chair for Sustainable Aquaculture, a position funded by NSERC (Natural Sciences Engineering Research Council) and he sits on the board of the BC Shellfish Growers Association. He is an active member in the shellfish community and industry. He will be a presenter at the upcoming complementary Industry Session: Expanding Sales and Exports and Understanding Trade Barriers, to be held in Courtenay on June 19th, 2014. Dr. Cross was also recently featured in National Geographic magazine on the bright future of aquaculture and the blue revolution. http://www. nationalgeographic.com/foodfeatures/aquaculture/

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Bring the whole family to Union Bay Day Union Bay Day Family Day is set for Sunday, June 8 from 11:45 am to 6 pm at the Union Bay Community Hall. The day-long event features Children’s Races, Beverage Garden, Bouncer Mania, Games & Activities with Prizes, Nail Driving, Horseshoes, Baked Pies, Kid’s Raffle, Ice Cream, Raffle, Fire Dept. Display and Demonstration, Stream Keepers Display, Concession. For more information call: Dave at 250-335-2317.

Concert Band playing at the seaside Sunday Comox Valley Concert Band takes its show to the seaside Sunday, June 8, 2:00 pm. at Comox Marina Park. In an attempt to continue the successful Summer Sounds series that ran for many years at the Filberg gardens, residents of the valley can enjoy the full sound of a fifty piece wind ensemble in a casual outdoor setting. A unique dynamic occurs when music is performed in collaboration with the calls of seagulls, the laughter of children on swings and the rustle of breezes in the chestnut trees. Bring a chair or blanket and share in an afternoon of music designed for the outdoor listener. Plenty of marches, hummable pop tunes and rhythmic dances will round out the programme. Summer means music on the green and the concert band will be pleased to meet you there with sounds for the season. Concert contingent on weather. By donation. Sunday, June 8, 2:00 pm. Sponsored by Comox Recreation.

Sign up with Comox Rec for day of pickleball Join Comox Recreation Saturday June 7th (Canada’s National Health and Fitness Day) for “A Day of Pickleball Outdoor Play”. A round robin format will be held from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm and again 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm. Those of you that wish to give the game a try can register for a group lesson from 12:30 to 1:30 pm. The fee to register to play or take a lesson is $5+gst (which includes a hotdog and juice). The Rotary Sports Box is located adjacent to Highland Fields with parking across from the Comox Public Works Yard (1390 Guthrie Road). Register by phone at 250-3392255 or drop by the Comox Community Centre at 1855 Noel Avenue in Comox.

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Sports and Recreation GOLF NEWS NINE AND WINE SOLD OUT AT C.I. Crown Isle ladies’ Nine and Wine was an overwhelming success as 72 ladies played 9 holes of golf, had a glass of wine and appys and enjoyed receiving lots of prizes. Rod Prieto, director of golf, MCed the event with skill prizes presented to Donna Wilson, closest to Ron Coulson, owner of Crown Isle, on Hole 1, his second year appearing on the course at ladies’ night (mannequin of course!), Jan Dafoe -longest drive; Heather Gordon - in the water (which took 2 pages count ‘em to determine the winner); Barb Parker - in the bunker; Judy Pouliot - closest to the #8 bullseye, and Wendy Graham - longest putt. The winning team of the coveted bag and goodies from Eagle FM, our Title Sponsor of the 2014 Ladies’ Nine and Wine, was none other than our own Ev Shaw, Judy Pouliot, Jenny Steel and Joanne Meyer (gross 35). Guess what Joanne found inside her Eagle FM hat? $50! Second place going to Katy Macaulay, Donna Cuniffe, Lindsay Sparkes and Karen Hopwood. (gross 35-lost on card off!) It was heard said by Donna that it is lucky there is no “I” in Team because she was lousy! Vanna White also made her appearance (dressed as Donna Cunliffe!) and gave out lots of raffle prizes to many happy ladies. Who cares how you golf when you can win a prize and have lots of laughs anyway? No event can be successful without the support of some very fine sponsors: Breana Morgan at Eagle FM Radio, Holly Francis (an amazing buyer and makeover artist) at Pharmasave (in the Comox Quality Foods mall), Jeff Lucas at Casacadia Liquor Store (in the Crown Isle Mall), Dyan Spink from Royston Roasting Company, Dave Reynolds at Chances Casino on Ryan Rd., Shari at The Head Shed, Deb Halstead at Kernaghan Adjusters and of course Crown Isle. Kudos to all these sponsors! And ask how 15 of us finished the evening! We went into the Silverado Room with our dancing shoes and danced ‘til almost midnight to the fab music of the Duelling Pianos. They will be back for the next ladies’ night so have a nap in the afternoon so you can golf and stay up and dance! The night was a gift to all of us! So ladies, don’t be disappointed and miss the next Nine and Wine on June 25th, 5:30 shotgun. It is filling up very quickly and there are only 72 spots. Register individually or as a team by calling the Crown Isle Proshop at 250 703-5031 - Submitted by Donna Cunliffe

COMOX LADIES TUESDAY, THURSDAY Comox Ladies Golf Tuesday 27th and Thursday 29th: 29 ladies played golf Tuesday the 27th. The game of the day was half and half (putts for the back 9 holes added to your net score of the front 9). Of course most of us had our good scores on the opposite nines. Winners for the day were 1st-Sue Leakey with 49.5 tied with Anne Patterson. Suzy Venuta had 50 with Nancy Riva at 50.5. Tied at 51 were Brenda Good, Mary Ann Aikman and Patti Harris. Each week we have amazing hole sponsors for Tuesday and Thursday leagues. They are Tee Box Restaurant, Panago Pizza, Playtime gaming, Looneyrama, Gibby in the Golf Shop, Chinook Forest Products, Kathy Branch Hairstyling, Arizona Gifts, and Thrifty Foods. Tuesday’s winners were: Bernice Sutherland (closest to the bucket), Sue Leakey (Closest to the flag on #4 and 13 in 3 shots), Grace Coulter (closest to the flag #5 and 14), Marg Kelly (closest to the flag in 4 shots on #7 and 16), Patti Harris (longest putt) and Pat Schmidt (closest to the flag #9 and 18 in 2 shots). Sue Leakey’s team won jelly bellies for a chip in. 27 ladies played “count your water shots” on the evening of Thursday the 29th. One of our

Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, June 3, 2014 A11

BETTIES TO TAKE ON THE BELLES AT ROLLER DERBY ON JUNE 7 The Brick House Betties will host a night of roller derby and burlesque on Saturday June 7 at the Comox Valley Sports Centre (arena 1). Doors open at 5 PM for the 19+ double-header event. Game 1 starts at 6 PM, with The Loganettes, a pick up team of skaters from Victoria’s Eves of Destruction League, playing against Nanaimo’s Brass Knuckle Derby Dames. The Betties will take to the track in Game 2 at 8 PM. The Brass Knuckle Derby Dames were in Courtenay to play against the Brick House Betties last month in an exciting game. On May 10, local roller derby fans were treated to a nail-biter, resulting in a 220 - 217 win for the Dames. “I am incredibly proud of the game we played against the Brass Knuckle Derby Dames,” said Brick House Betties team co-captain, Ruby Whipper. “There were so many lead

Brick House Betties played a close game against Nanaimo’s Brass Knuckle Derby Dames last month. T changes, it was anyone’s game.” In the headline game of the upcoming June 7 event, the Brick House Betties will challenge Victoria’s Belles of the Brawl to a rematch. The Belles came up-Island last June and beat the Betties 209-169. At that time, the Betties had to borrow a few skaters from the Rink Minx, another local Comox Valley derby team, to complete their roster, but the team is proud to field a full Betties roster a year later and to focus on teamwork. Admission to the June 7 event is 19+ only, so book a baby-sitter for the night. As well as action-packed roller derby, the Betties are pleased to present a special performance by Sweet Tease Burlesque at a “Mo’ Funk after-party” when the games are done. There will also be 50/50 draws, a raffle, merch tables, a concession, and refreshments. Check out the fast-paced, athletic sport of roller derby and see the Betties dish out the hits 70s style! Want to get a good view of the game? Bring your own chair (BYOC) for trackside seating. Don’t miss the Brick House Betties’ last home game of this season. The team traveled to Whistler to play the Black Diamond Betties on May 31, and will travel to Victoria to compete against the Margarita Villains on June 28. Tickets to the Brick House Betties June 7 double-header will be available at the door only ($10 cash), starting at 5 PM. Please bring ID. For more info, join the Betties on Facebook or visit www.brickhousebetties.com.

Winners left to right: Net Winners Rudge Wilson & Nick Mykitiuk; Tournament Winners: Dave Wacowich & Chris Kalnay

Wacowich and Kalnay win Glacier Greens Men’s Shoot Out Clear skies greeted the 112 participants as they teed it up for the final day of this year’s Shoot Out at Glacier Greens. The format was the challenging Alternate Shot. And yes it did prove challenging for many. After the scores were tallied Dave Wacowich & Chris Kalnay were the tournament winners with a three day Gross total score of (209). Round two leaders Rob Borland & Steve Peters were second at (213) followed by last year’s winners the father and son team of Mike & Terran Berger at (216). Chuck Brown & James Dickson as well as Jeff Edwards & Shane Robinson rounded out the top five with (219).

guests, Colleen Boudreau, won that honour. Our guest Katy Doran won the draw for the golf pass for Thursday night. 1st low gross was won by Suzy Venuta with a 42 and 1st low net went to one of our Thursday night organizers with a 35, Sharon Crowe. 2nd low gross - Joan Rallison 43 and 2nd low net with a 36 was Nancy Riva. Low Putts for the evening was 12 won by Sharon Crowe. Sponsored prizes were won by Joan Rallison - longest drive for 0-23, Katy Doran - longest drive 24 and over, Closest to pins on #9 -Nancy Riva, #5 in 2 shots - Katy Doran and the closest in 3 for everyone on #4 was Suzy Venuta. Members and guests may join us at the Comox Golf Club at 8 am for an 8:30 shotgun on Tuesdays. Please sign up before Monday at noon or call the Golf Shop 250-339-4444. Remember to sign up for our Thursday night ladies league. This event is open to non-members as well. Arrive at 5:30 pm for a 6 pm shotgun and bring your friends. Lots of fun prizes and our guests have a chance to win a 9 hole round of golf. - Submitted by Nancy Riva

WARM NIGHT AT GLACIER GREENS Tuesday night May 27th at Glacier Greens with warm weather, 47 players played low handicapper off the blue tees, high off the red tees and others off the white tees. The scores

On the Net side winning a count back was Nick Mykitiuk & Rudge Wilson at (182). Second place went to Greg Conway & Wayne Mabee also at (182). Third place winning a count back was Len Doyle & Gary Wood at (184). Also at (184) was Bob Henn & Glenn Horsepool. Four teams were tied for fifth with (185). They were John Keats & Dick Stuart, John Holley & Rod Verchere, Ross Dowe & Lyle Torrie and Bud Bryan & John Pringle. All participants were treated to a fine lunch and a visit to a well stocked prize table. K.P. prizes went to Clint & Jim Perry on hole # 4 sponsored by Scott Fraser of Royal LePage Reality, Ross Dowe & Lyle Torrie on hole # 7 sponsored by the Glacier Green’s Saturday

were as follows: 1st -5 Mike Berger, Russ Wreggett, Ron Carter, Greg Conway, Dan Dupuis 2nd -5 Sandy Clausen, Loo Lamonthe, John Layhe, Doug Messer, 3rd -4 Kris Kalnay, Roy Hagg, Ben Gill, Andy Deviers, Doug Mann Jr Hole #1 Kp Al Pasenen, Sponsor Chads West Coast Grill #2 Longest Putt John Holly, Sponsor Jo Klassen’s #3 Car Kp Lee Johnson, Sponsor Brian McLean Chevrolet #4 Kp Fred Williams, Sponsor The Wine Cottage #5 Longest Putt Doug Mann Jr, Sponsor Griffin Pub #6 Kp Rick Verbeek, Sponsor A-Lure Barber Shop #7 Kp Greg Conway, Sponsor Bill Kelly Golf #8 Longest Putt Bob Mowat, Sponsor Billy D’s Pub #9 Kp Tarran Berger, Sponsor Boston Pizza Sponsors For the draw prizes were Canadian Western Bank, Aero Art Screening, Gill.s Catering, Panago Pizza, Quick and Easy Granite, thank you sponsors. Remember, put your food order in before you start play. Till next week see ya. - Submitted by Ron Carter

Men’s Club, Rob Egan & Blair Peacock on hole # 12 sponsored by the R.C.M.P. Vet’s, Adrian Haut & Joe Dunham on hole # 15 sponsored by Bill Kelly Golf and Al Cabilan & Gabe Tremblay on hole # 17 sponsored by Slegg Lumber. The tournament committee would like to thank all the sponsors and a special thank you to club member Lee Johnson who once again donated a hand painted, framed painting to the Memorial Bridge fund raising project. Next year will be the twentieth anniversary of this popular tournament. - Submitted by Len Doyle, Saturday Men’s Coordinator

Photo credit: John Bonner,

Hole prizes were given out on Hole #2 to Mary Lynn Doubinin for shots out of the sandtrap. Hole #3 prize went to Judy Hughes for closest to the pin 2nd shot. Hole #4 prize went to Ardene Larison for closest to the big rock. Hole #5 prize went to June Fuller for closest to pin 3rd shot. Hole #6 prize went to Louise Smiley for the longest drive. Hole #9 prize went to Peggy Ferguson for longest putt. Lowest Putts of 9 went to Jenny Lavery and the Most Honest Golfer was Cora Hawkins.. Draw Prizes were given out from: Booster Juice to Corinne Innes

Boston Pizza to Erma Derkson Curves-Comox to Jenny Lavery Curls N Cuts to June Fuller Fluids Bar & Grill to Coral Tanner Investors Group/Locals Restaurant to Judy Mann Jo Klassen to Erica Roy and Peggy Ferguson Michaels off Main to Cora Hawkins Quality Foods-Comox to Judy Hughes Rhodos Coffee to Louise Smiley Royston Roasting Co to Mary Lynn Tim Hortons to Fran Wright Pro Shop to Ardene Larison Thursday Night Ladies sign up at 5:00 pm, tee off at 5:30 pm Everyone welcome!

STAGE THREE WATER RESTRICTIONS START THURSDAY, JUNE 12 AT 8:00 A.M. AND RUN UNTIL TUESDAY, JUNE 17 AT 4:30 P.M.

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BC Hydro will be conducting fish screen cleaning maintenance at the Puntledge diversion dam. During this time, the Comox Valley water system will supply water to consumers via the standby Puntledge pump station from Thursday, June 12 at 8 a.m. until Tuesday, June 17 at 4:30 p.m. Water activities that are PROHIBITED during these restrictions include: • Watering lawns or pressure washing driveways and boulevards at any time. • Filling a hot tub or garden pond at any time. • Washing a vehicle or boat at any time (other than in a commercial car wash or car dealership). Restrictions apply to residents living in the Town of Comox, the City of Courtenay and the Arden, Comox Valley, England Road, Marsden/Camco, and Greaves Crescent local water service areas. For more information on the current restrictions including the bylaw, visit www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/restrictions.

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A12 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, June 3, 2014

CARRIERS WANTED EARN $$$$$$$$ COURTENAY Rt. 7107 – Between 17th & 13th - McPhee, Grieve, 16th, 14th Rt. 7115 – 5th to 4th, Menzies to Willemar Rt. 7108 – Fitzgerald, Grieve 17th to 13th COMOX Rt. 1102A – Bolt, Lindshart, Martin, Noel, Anderton Rt. 2129 – Sylvan, Parry, Aspen, Idiens CROWN ISLE Rt. 3120 – Monarch, Royal Rt. 3134 – Crown Isle Dr., Birkshire, Sussex VALLEYVIEW Rt. 3122 – Swan, Trumpeter, Sparrow, Valley View Rt. 3110 – Back Road, Glen Urquhart, 10th St. E., Hobson, 6th St. E., Aston Rt. 3123 – Nechako, Chemainus, 5th St. E., Cowichan, 6th St. E. Rt. 3135 – Hawk, Swallow, Whiskeyjack Rt. 3136 – Bluejay Place

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

Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, June 3, 2014 A13

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A14 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, June 3, 2014

Sports and Recreation for two anywhere that WestJet flys. Admission and parking is free, we just ask for Food Bank donations; but bring some money for food, activity tickets or that special item that some exhibitor has available just for you. Any exhibitors that have not sent in their application form should do so as

soon as possible to guarantee space. Information and applications are available at www.courtenayfishandgame.org or email the-office@courtenayfishandgame.org. Bring your family and have some fun!

Sure Copy presents World Cup pool for great prizes, good cause Bring the entire family to this weekend’s outdoor recreation show at the Fish and Game club

IT’S SHOW TIME AT COURTENAY FISH AND GAME THIS WEEKEND June is here and so is the 22nd Annual Outdoor Recreation Show of the Courtenay and District Fish & Game Protective Association out at Comox Lake on 7 and 8 June. The gate opens at 9 am each day and closes at 5 pm on Saturday and 4 pm on Sunday. This popular family community event is generously sponsored by 97.3 the Eagle, Quality Foods and John’s Your Independent Grocer. Ride a hay wagon from the parking lot to Boomtown, to the Shotgun

Facility and the show grounds. There will be interesting exhibits to see such as the latest ATVs, RVs, water sports equipment, children’s activities, lots of food including a pancake breakfast each morning, a bake, plant and book sale, and archery. Watch retriever dogs show their stuff or visit the Eagle geocaching tent and search for special caches on the property. The shotgun facility will be open for you to try trap and skeet; as well as the cowboy action range where

you can visit Boomtown, the tiny frontier town that takes you back in time to the Wild West or try Black Powder shooting of muzzleloaders of an era long ago. There is a nominal fee to cover cost of ammunition for these sports. There will be live music and good food. Kids can build birdhouses, try pellet shooting, spin casting, archery, have their face painted, etc. Free hourly prize draws are available as well as raffles including a trip

Every four years a truly remarkable event comes along that brings together people from all different countries and backgrounds in a celebration of the world’s greatest game ... 2014 FIFA World Cup BRAZIL. To commemorate the occasion, Sure Copy will be hosting our second FREE World Cup Soccer Pool. This year’s pool has the capacity to accommodate up to 500 online participants. Our competition is designed to bring together community members in celebration of the game, while also supporting a good cause. To join, we ask that you bring one non-perishable food item into one of our major sponsor locations listed on our website. The non-perishable items will then be donated to the Comox Valley Food Bank at the end of the campaign. The competition is open to all ages.

Thanks to our amazing sponsors, we have close to $5000 worth of prizes to give away. Please consider joining us as we celebrate the world’s greatest game. When you come by one of the sponsor locations, be sure to pickup one of the Player Packages for you to take home with you and plan your World Cup Pool entry. You can also enter directly on our website by going to www.worldcup. surecourtenay.ca

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