Comox Valley Echo - September 16, 2014

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Tuesday September 16, 2014

Volume 20, No. 74

Homeowner ‘numb’ after Cumberland fire destroys brand new house Two tenants and a dog escape 30-foot flames and natural gas danger

By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff

Local artist Andy Everson shows the dazzling silver coin version of his design that has a holographic finish.

Local First Nations artist has work selected by Royal Canadian Mint

By Michael Briones Echo Staff Andy Everson has designed an artwork that has literally become the jewel of his many creations.

The Comox Valley artist was selected by the Royal Canadian Mint to create a design for its Interconnection series that celebrates the relationships between Canada’s three natural realms: land, sky, and sea.

The first installment of the 3-part series is dedicated to “Land.” The beautifully minted pure gold coin is now for sale for $1,299.95 with a limited mintage of only 1,500.

Everson, a K’ómoks First Nation drummer and ceremonial dancer, was one of several artists who were invited to submit a design for the RCM’s coin project a year ago. He said he feels honoured to be chosen.

“It’s an actual Canadian coin and I feel privileged to have that,” said Everson. “When I was doing it I was thinking about my grandmother who used to love anything that was Canadian, kind of with the queen on it. She loved new coins. I just know that if she was still alive, that she would have been really proud of what I have created. The coins are going to be a lasting legacy for my artwork and my art career.”

It didn’t take long for Everson to create his vision for the required theme. He needed to come up with three designs.

“There’s not a lot of turnaround time so it was fairly quick,” he said. “I had a pretty tight schedule to meet their deadline. It took me a couple of weeks.

The first one was probably the hardest because of not having done anything for the mint before. And when they asked me to do a couple more, it made a little more sense to go with this piece and I was able to come up with the ideas of having three different kind of worlds - land world, sky world and sea world.”

The 12-ounce 99.99 per cent solid gold coin that has a $200 face value, bears Everson’s striking

Brian Tobacca deals with emergencies on a daily basis as part of his job at the hospital, but when he was called down to the ER in the middle of his break on Saturday just after 6 a.m., it was for a different kind of crisis.

His brand new Cumberland home on Kendal Avenue was being devoured by 30-foot flames and there was nothing he could do to stop it.

“I’m pretty numb, really,” he said Monday, surveying the black charcoal that has taken the place of walls and empty spaces that can be found where a roof once stood. “Everything’s gone. It’s a strange thing.”

Cindy Handyside had been in her home just one house up the hill with her husband and daughter, and was woken up by her alarm at 6 a.m. She decided to sleep in a bit, but that plan was scrapped when she was startled by an unexpected noise coming from somewhere outside.

“I just heard ‘BANG! BANG! BANG!” she said, noting she thought someone might be doing blasting work. “I just saw glowing coming from Brian’s house.”

Handyside ran downstairs and by the time she got outside she saw a man booting in Tobacca’s side door.

“It was pretty hot for first thing in the morning,” she said. “It was brutal.”

(Continued on page 3)

CV teachers to stage open forum Wednesday on school issues

By Michael Briones Echo Staff

Gold collector’s coin designed by Andy Everson - first in a group of 3 design that highlights Everson’s native American K’ómoks and Kwakwaka’wakw ancestors.

While the design focuses on the land, it also relates to Canada’s four seasons.

“It’s all done in traditional First Nations art style with a contemporary flair to it as I’m apt to do,”

said Everson. “It’s a beaver design. I really wanted something that represents Canada and the beaver has long been the symbol of Canada. I thought it was perfect as it shows the hard-working nature of Canadians.”

(Continued on page 2)

Comox Valley teachers are hosting an open forum that’s aimed at informing parents and community members about class size and composition, and other school concerns they’re facing on the job.

“We teachers want the opportunity to engage the public to let them know what life is like in the classroom,” said Nick Moore, president of Comox Valley District Teachers Association. “With class size and composition being one of our defining issues in this round of negotiations, it has come to our attention that a lot of people do not understand what that means.”

The Community Forum on Education will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 17 from 7-9 p.m. at the Florence Filberg Centre in Courtenay.

“We want to give people the opportunity to come out and talk to the teachers,” said Moore. “So we’re asking the community to attend.”

It will be a town hall style dialogue. There will be a panel of teachers, who will meet the public. They will get two to three minutes to briefly introduce themselves, what they teach and what it’s like for them inside the classroom.

Following that, Moore said, they will open the floor for questions and discussions to the public.

“We are anticipating there will be lots of political negotiation types of questions and I will be there to handle any of those,” said Moore. “We are also expecting some haters and some bashers there.”

Moore said they’re hoping that with both the BC Teachers’ Federation and the BC Public School Employers Association back in the negotiating table with mediator Vince Reddy, an agreement could be reached soon. “We’re at a very critical juncture right now and basically if things break down it’s going to be really bad.”

RI 3URGXFHG

A2 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 16, 2014

News

Comox Valley Weather

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Tuesday, 16 September A mix of sun and cloud.

High 21°C.

Wednesday, 17 September Cloudy.

Low 11°C. High 19°C.

Thursday, 18 September Periods of rain.

Low 13°C. High 17°C.

Friday, 19 September Cloudy with 60% chance of showers.

Low 12°C. High 17°C.

Saturday, 20 September Cloudy with 60% chance of showers.

Low 13°C. High 19°C.

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

Two motorcyclists hurt in crash Comox Valley RCMP are still trying to figure out why a motorcycle crashed on the Island Highway just of the Courtenay-Cumberland exit on Monday.

Two people from the motorcycle were ejected as it slid more 30 metres off the road into the grassy median. Police aren’t sure why because no one saw it happen. As well, the road was dry and it was sunny.

The two people who were involved, a male driver and a female, were taken to hospital with injuries.

“There’s no witness to this,” said Cst. Don Sinclair. “People just happened to come across it. They saw them on the highway and turned around and came back to them.”

Several bystanders including two doctors who came across the scene helped stabilize the victims until paramedics and Cumberland firefighters arrived.

Assistant chief Craig Windley of Cumberland Fire Rescue said their injuries were undetermined but they were both conscious.

“I was talking to the female patient and she was quite coherent,” said Windley.

The woman was taken to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Comox while her male companion was transported to a waiting air ambulance, then flown to Victoria Hospital for treatment.

The northbound lanes of Highway 19 were closed for about an hour.

Tutor to hold free classes for students taking Math 11

By Michael Briones Echo Staff

Emergency personnel with one of the two motorcycle riders injured Monday The beautiful late summer weather is bringing out many bikers for a late season spin. And while the cause of this crash isn’t known yet, Sinclair said there have been numerous serious motorcycle crashes on Vancouver Island this summer

including several fatal ones.

Mounties are reminding everyone to be careful.

“The days are just beautiful right now,” said Sinclair. “There’s going to be tons of bikers out on the road and all we ask is that you drive the speed

(Photo courtesy CHEK News) limit, obey the rules, wear your helmet, you know, try and keep it down to a minimum so that nobody’s having big accidents like this and getting hurt.”

- From Dean Stoltz/CHEK News

Regional District hopes Craft brewery seeks okay for lounge endorsement to revitalize 16 parks under new plan

By Michael Briones Echo Staff

By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff Half will be brought back to life. Half will be left in municipal purgatory.

But rural directors said they were happy to hear that none of the Comox Valley Regional District’s inactive parks are going to be put up for sale - at least for now - under a new plan presented at the Sept. 15 Electoral Areas Services Committee meeting.

The CVRD currently has 32 parks that have officially been classified as inactive. Rural directors voted in principal to throw 16 of these on the local government’s roster of active parks, which are cared for thanks to an annual budget. Formal community amenities are provided and conservation goals adopted once these parks are shifted to “active” status.

Most of these inactive parks are actually smaller than two hectares, with the exception of Wildwood Marsh (14.6 ha) and Mountain Spirit Park (9.3 ha).

Inactive parkland is typically only dealt with when risks to neighbouring properties are identified. This could be something like hazard trees.

The oldest inactive green space is Baynes Park, which was created at the time of subdivision in 1965.

The newest one is Mountain Spirit Nature Park which came into being in 2008.

The 16 parks left as “inactive,” won’t be sold but will be left as a placeholder for future municipal directors to figure out what to do with, under the proposal.

Another new craft brewery is popping up in Courtenay.

Forbidden Brew Corporation currently has an application to the Liquor Control and Licensing Branch for a brewery lounge endorsement to be located at 1590 Cliffe Avenue near the Westerly Hotel and Convention Centre.

Before it can endorse it, the LCLB requires Courtenay council to provide a resolution that must include input from nearby residents and businesses that may be affected by the development.

This is the second lounge endorsement application the City of Courtenay has received in recent months. A couple of weeks ago, city council delayed decision on Gladstone Brewery Company’s application to allow the owners to find an adequate means of providing food to their patrons. The proponents wanted to use a food truck but a city bylaw does not allow food trucks to be stationed at one location for long periods of time.

Forbidden Brew, which the owners said would complement the Flying Canoe outlet, plans to create a lounge area within the brewery, with a seating capacity of 30 people. It plans to operate from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week.

It doesn’t have any plans for any outdoor patio or entertainment involving loud music.

The addition of a lounge area, the owners say, will not have additional noise impact to resi-

dents and businesses nearby.

Craft brewing is surging in popularity in the beer industry. Its success can be seen in the City of Victoria, which now has one of the largest number of breweries per capita in BC. They are a boon to tourism and to local economies because they provide jobs and also a novel entertainment venue.

The proponents of Forbidden Brew have indicated that their addition to the business community will enhance the already established food and beverage offering in the Comox Valley for both tourists and local residents.

The brewery aims to fulfill the desire of the beer community with local fresh beer and cites the importance of the lounge endorsement to their success as it will offer a place for local craft beer enthusiasts to gather and sample, socialize and enjoy.

Council endorsed the staff recommendation that notice be published in a local newspaper for two weeks and also at the city’s website calling for input on the proposed brewery lounge.

Once council receives the public’s views that must be forwarded to the LCLB, a resolution will be considered at the regular meeting scheduled for Oct. 6, 2014.

High school students looking to get a jump on Math 11, a free class will be starting this week at the Lewis Centre.

Local tutor Anne Koke has come forward to provide free pre-calculus 11 classes for Grade 11 students starting on Wednesday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Courtenay Recreation centre until the labour dispute between the BC Teachers’ Federation and the provincial government has been settled.

“The room is provided by the Courtenay Recreation free of charge, so the classes are free,” said Koke. “All the students need to do is show up with a pencil and paper and a willingness to learn.”

The ongoing teachers’ strike has kept schools from opening this month. With students nowhere to go, Koke said she is just following the lead of former NIC professor, Slava Simice, who started a free Grade pre-calculus classes Tuesday to Friday, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Comox Recreation Centre.

“The students need this,” said Koke. “It’s important for them to get a head start on math.”

Meanwhile the BCTF, B.C. Public School Employers’ Association, and mediator Vince Ready engaged in marathon talks over the weekend.

However, no agreement has been reached but the fact that they’re talking gives much optimism that both sides are keen on getting the students back to the classroom.

The teachers have been on strike since June 17 and it has delayed the scheduled opening of the school year this month.

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Mint chooses local artist’s work for coins (Continued from page 1) The beaver is the central motif that is framed within a wreath of six maple leaves, that reflect the season of autumn when the leaves of this iconic tree are at their most vivid colour. Set in a six-point pattern, the leaves also become the winter snowflake and the stylized raindrops nestled between the leaves celebrate spring. The rays of sunlight that shoots out from the image, symbolize summer.

The Royal Canadian Mint also issued a silver coin with a holographic finish that has a $20 face value.

When light hits the coin, it projects an array of colours that is dazzling and spectacular to behold.

The second coin of the three-part series is coming in October. It will feature a thunderbird and the sun design.

The final instalment will be issued in November and it will have a killer whale and the moon concept.

Everson considers this achievement to be one of the highlights of his artistic career.

“It’s a totally different take on what I normally do,” said Everson. “I have never made anything like this before so it’s really exciting, the newness of it.

Also the privilege and the honour of having it actually chosen.”

The Interconnections silver coin version is now on sale at the Comox Post Office for $114.95.

Community Forum on Public Education Wednesday, Sept 17th 7-9pm At Florence Filberg Center, Courtenay An open forum for parents and community members to talk to current teachers about what it’s like in a modern classroom. Teachers will share the joys and

challenges they experience in the classroom and participate in an open and honest dialogue

Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 16, 2014 A3

News

Neighbour Cindy Handyside took this photo of Cumberland firefighers battling the early Saturday morning blaze

Homeowner ‘numb’ after fire

Craig Windley, Cumberland’s assistant fire chief, said flames reached upwards of 30 feet during the worst of the blaze.

(Continued from page 1) In fact, three neighbours had jumped into action, frantically trying to save Brian’s beloved Tuzzi, a 13-year-old Labrador, named after former hockey star Todd Bertuzzi.

Luckily, the canine was rescued by the efforts of the neighbours, and will live to bark another day.

One of Brian’s tenant’s, a young woman, jumped out a front window with her boyfriend who was also in the house, escaping the growing flames.

Handyside got her own daughter to safety, worried one wrong turn and their house could be at risk.

“I’ve never seen a house fire,” Handyside said, noting she worked with her husband to move Tobacca’s white sports car and their own boat out of the way, as the flames had their way with the vinyl siding. “It would drip down below and catch whatever was there on fire.”

With 20 members of Cumberland’s volunteer firefighting force on hand it look about 40 minutes to get everything under control. But this particular situation carried some unique challenges.

The flames had eaten through the natural gas line, sending the highly combustible substance into the air just feet away from the next house down the hill.

“The biggest thing was we were so close to the neighbour’s house,” said assistant fire chief Craig Windley. “We were in total defence mode, then transition, then offence.”

While that side of Tobacca’s house was entirely engulfed in flames, the next house over never caught fire. Windley credits that to the more fire retardant concrete-based planks used in that structure for its preservation.

Ironically, the owner of that home had just completed the deck - singed mercilessly by the flames - the previous day.

Water streams were directed at strategic points on the burning

home, with one used to impede the natural gas stream as much as possible. Windley saw the roof cave in.

A Fortis crew arrived on scene, racing against the clock to halt the blaze before flames licked past the shut-off point. Luckily the gas was halted before further calamity ensued.

“We were all working together as a team,” Windley said of his crew’s performance. “The guys did a phenomenal job knocking it down.”

Tobacca is now struggling to deal with all the memories that have been consumed by fire.

But he knows it could have been much worse.

After all, one of his tenants, a woman with a six-year-old daughter, was out of town, and the little girl was safe and sound.

“Luckily she wasn’t here,” he said of his second tenant with the daughter, who lived in the back room.

“She was away in Vancouver. That

“Everything’s gone,” says homeowner Brian Tobacca.

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was really fortunate.”

Tobacca managed to salvage some photos, and some of the most precious items have survived too.

“It’s all at the very least damaged,” he said, trying to consider just how much he has lost. “It’s hard to say.”

He looked through one yearbook and discovered the now invaluable message from his friend Jon, who died in a car accident, is intact.

“That’s the kind of stuff you can’t replace,” he said, adding friends and community members have been very helpful, providing him clothes and moral support. “It’s really nice.”

It’s more than a bit overwhelming, but for Tobacco it’s a new reality he has no choice but to get used to.

Meanwhile, an online fundraising plea has been set up to help one of the uninsured tenants at www. gofundme.com/eggzm8

A4 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 16, 2014

Police officer goes on a shopping spree

By Michael Briones Echo Staff Christmas came early for Andrea Folk.

The Comox resident won the inaugural Largest Shopping Spree of the Century contest sponsored by the Comox Valley Echo.

It was truly a lucky day for Folk. Her name was drawn from the thousands of entries the Echo received for the contest that ran from July to August.

Echo’s sales manager Keith Currie said when he called Folk she didn’t even know what she had won.

“She only entered once,” said Currie. “That was while her boyfriend was buying something at the Butcher’s Block. She filled out one entry and didn’t think anything of it.”

“I didn’t really know what it was,” Folk recalled. “I just saw a draw so I put my name in. I’ve never won anything in my life so it was a huge surprise when I did.”

Folk won $2,014, which she used to shop at any of the participating stores in the valley.

However, she only had 2014 seconds (33.56 minutes) to splurge on herself.

Out of the 20 stores on the list, she targeted 10 that included Madman Mackays, Midland Tools, Tab Imports, Rattan Plus, Butcher’s Block, Superstore, La-Z-Boy, Visual Sound AVU, Woofys and Blinds Bubbles Boutique.

She had to spend $200 at each store and do it within Three minutes.

On shopping day held last Wednesday, Folk couldn’t contain her smile as she got a red carpet welcome, and also got to travel in style. A white shiny limo, provided by Ambassador Shuttle Service, picked her up and drove her to where she wanted to shop.

She brought along boyfriend Colin Hack, as well as friends Tom and Sherry Gray for support.

Folk knew that shopping with the clock

Andrea Folk - winner of the 2014 Shopping Spree

TAB Imports

La-Z-Boy

Ambassador Shuttle Services provided the Limo

Ambassador Shuttle Service

Doughnut Time

Rattan Plus

Blinds Bubbles Boutique

McKay's

Woofy's

Midland Tools

Superstore

Visual Sound AVU

Butchers Block

ticking would be a real challenge.

“Three minutes at each store is way too short to go shopping,” said Folk. “The pressure is on. But we found a way to make it work.”

To make things easier, Folk had already pre-picked the items she wanted after spending a day with her boyfriend visiting stores and seeing what was available.

Upon entering the first store, Rattan Plus in downtown Courtenay, Fold just went straight to the product she wanted. No time was wasted. It was pretty much the routine at every store. Folk knew where to exactly locate the items she would buy. It all went smoothly until she entered Lazy Boy. The item she wanted was nowhere to be found, causing her to panic a bit.

“They’ve moved it,” she said. But a helpful staff member at the store was quick to lend a hand and found it for her.

The whole shopping spree lasted just over two hours. Once she was done, Folk had new bed sheets, pillows, place mats, dog food and treats for her pet Hank, a power tool for her boyfriend, wireless speakers, a dome glass display, meat from Butchers Block and eight lobsters from Superstore.

“It’s an amazing experience,” said Folk, who is a member of the Comox Valley RCMP. “You don’t get to shop $2,000 that you never had. There were some things that I really wanted but I wouldn’t buy for myself. So when the money is given to you for that, it’s kind of easier to buy.”

Currie said they were pleased with the result of the inaugural contest and are encouraged to hold it again next year.

“It was fabulous. Everybody won,” he said.

“The businesses that participated had all kinds of people come into their stores. The entries were literally in the thousands and the winner was an exceptional woman.”

News

Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 16, 2014 A5

Rural Directors all standing again for re-election

By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff The three Comox Valley Regional District directors representing Electoral Areas A, B and C are all eager to get back in the hot seat to fight for rural issues following the November 15 election.

Bruce Jolliffe, the director who speaks and votes on behalf of Baynes Sound-Denman/Hornby Islands said his two terms on council have been instructive and says he wants to work to protect the coastal ecosystem.

“It always has its ups and downs,” he said of his time on council so far.

“I probably didn’t expect how much time it takes to move through anything.”

Jolliffe, who serves on the Comox

Valley Sports Centre Commission, Comox Valley Water Committee, Comox Valley Water Supply Commission, among other duties, and is the vice-chair of the Royston Water Advisory Select Committee, says he’s pleased he was able to help get the Royston Seaside Trail up and running, and notes he wants to move forward with the proposed Baynes Sound Coastal Plan if he gets another term.

“It’s a nice community spot where people like to meet each other,” he said of the new greenway.

“The challenge in more rural communities is finding places for people to interact.”

Edwin Grieve, has also been a CVRD director since 2008. He not only represents Area C, but has been

the chair of the board itself since 2011.

“After much consideration and after receiving encouragement from many quarters,” he said in a statement, “I have decided to once again seek the support of the residents of Puntledge-Black Creek to stand as their Director on the board of the Comox Valley Regional District.”

Grieve added that “powerful interests” who “promote urban style development in the rural areas” is something he would remain vigilant about if he were to be reelected for civic duty.

In addition, he says there is a need to complete programs that promote major economic drivers of the region such as farming, recreation and tourism.

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The workshop is free but pre-registration is required, so if you’d like to attend please email

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Workshop details: Date: Monday, September 29, 7-8:30 p.m.

Location: CVRD Boardroom, 600 Comox Road, Courtenay

Village officials hope new blood will step up to the plate It’s not secret that Kate Greening won’t be seeking another term on council, and she joked about her upcoming never-ending vacation from council during the most recent council meeting. But Conner Copeman, the young councillor who fought for accessibility issues and sometime chose a path divergent from the party line on principle has also decided not to run again.

“It was a good experience,” the wheelchair-bound councillor said, noting he’s looking forward to pursuing a surgery that would likely distract him from Village duties. “I really enjoyed it. I’m glad that I was elected.”

After surviving a hate crime in Saskatchewan that left him permanently disabled, Conner Copeman found his place at home as a councillor concerned about the life of the supportive community he calls home.

In his civic service the creative councillor attempted to bring a different perspective to the table, as he worked to represent the growing community that is home to many young families.

“I had newer ideas I believe because I have a younger perspective on things,” he said, noting part of why he wants to step aside is so someone else can have a chance to do the same. “I’m hoping that somebody else thinks outside the box and definitely brings fresh insight.”

He knows his efforts to build consensus or seek unique funding solutions weren’t always picked up by his fellow council members, but often they provided an important jumping off point so a resolution could ultimately get adopted.

“I think that there are many councils out there that would have dismissed any and all ideas,” he said. “I think the council I was with was very receptive.”

The rest of the Village’s elected officials hope their community will vote them back in.

Coun. Roger Kishi is one of them.

“I look forward to the opportunity to serve another term as Councillor for the Village of Cumberland,” he said in a statement. “I believe that I have gained the skills and experience to serve residents of Cumberland in the future.”

Kishi is pleased with the revision of the Official Community Plan, which came into force this summer, the Village Park Master Plan, which includes the offleash dog park and the new playground, and says he would like the chance to work towards the implementation of the Advisory Planning Commission (APC), sewage and storm water plans, among other challenges.

“This term has seen many accomplishments,” he reflected adding, “Cumberland’s success relies on recognizing our past, dealing with the present, and planning for the future.”

Leslie Baird has already been on council for 24 years

and is just finishing up her first term as mayor.

“I thought, ‘It can’t be that different,’” she said, of sitting at the head of the rectangular council table. “It’s a lot different being mayor.”

She is not stepping aside and not looking for a reduction in duties, pointing to her vast knowledge accrued through experience as a reason people should vote her back in.

“Unless you were there you really don’t understand why a decision was made the way it was,” she said.

“Because of my history I’m able to relate why things were done the way they were done. Past councils had reasons for doing and implementing things they did at the time. Sometimes it’s not understood. When you understand the whole picture it’s easier to understand things the way they were.”

Baird would like to see the new fire hall built, Maple Lake acquired and roadwork completed at the entrance to the Village.

Coun. Gwyn Sproule was a minority voice on council for many years and it wasn’t very fun, she can’t help but remember.

This last session was a joy, she notes, in spite of occasional tensions with feisty legal-minded Coun. Kate Greening.

“It’s so heartening to see the community revitalizing,” she said. “It’s really rewarding to be able to be involved with it.”

It takes a balanced approach to make the taxpayers’ dollars go as far as possible, she noted, adding her passion lies in promoting green corridors and environmental vitality.

“We have a fantastic greenways plan I look forward to implementing,” she said. “We know the key pieces that we want.”

But Sproule also noted she is interested in promoting light industry based on forest resources such as floral material companies and furniture manufacturing businesses.

She’d like to see some recently arrived residents try to get elected, as well “I want some of the new Cumberland to jump in with their ideas,” she said.

Coun. Kate Greening says sometimes she feels like she had more of an impact when she wasn’t on council than in her previous three years as an elected official.

And while she blames her grey hairs on her council days, she sincerely encourages community members to take on the challenge.

“What happens if no one runs?” she wondered. “I hope somebody steps up to run.”

ing to water down the regional district’s plan with their Stotan Falls proposal.

“We want to make sure that it’s not altered or changed,” he said. “It’s essential to be able to manage development.”

He also wants to focus on building the legacy of parks and green spaces we leave behind.

“If I’m elected over the next four years I would be concentrating on connecting trails, getting people out in the community and developing future parks,” he said. “I think it’s important to champion these interconnecting trails. Your parks and your trails are your best bang for your buck when you’re providing recreation. You don’t require a lot of revenue to provide a service.”

Larry Jangula plans to seek his second term as Courtenay mayor

By Michael Briones Echo Staff

Two Cumberland Councillors won’t seek another term

By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff

“There is still much work to do,” he said. “I respectfully ask for the support of the residents of Area C to help get this work done.”

Jim Gillis too is of the same electoral vintage - having been voted to serve as director for Lazo North (Area B) in 2008 - and is going to stand again for reelection, as well.

He was appointed to serve on external committees such as the Comox Valley Community Justice Centre, the Comox Valley Housing Task Force, the Comox Vallley Cycling Task Force, Comox Valley Environmental Council - and more.

If reelected he says he would fight tooth and nail to make sure the Regional Growth Strategy is implemented correctly, noting 3L Developments has already been try-

Courtenay mayor Larry Jangula will be seeking another term in office.

Despite having to endure criticisms and some turbulent moments, Jangula said he’s not easily deterred.

Jangula said the main reason why he wants to run for mayor again in November 15 is due to some unfinished business that he wants to see completed like subsidized housing for the homeless and the controversial Maple Pool case.

“There’s a lot of things that are half done,” said Jangula. “There’s so many things we started that need to be finished. These issues are out there and I am hoping the people would examine them all.”

Jangula wants people to be more diligent when voting for someone in office. He said they should examine the issues and question the candidates on the issues.

“I am hopeful that people would be very careful about who they vote for,” said Jangula. “The message I am hoping to get out to the public is that, when you vote someone for council, it’s like hiring somebody to run a big corporation, which is what you’re doing. So why do people vote for people that they know nothing about their background, nothing about their education, nothing about their work experience then they’re unhappy with the people they have. So whose fault is that?”

Prior to being mayor, Jangula, who is a retired RCMP officer, was a member of Courtenay council for nine years.

Paul Ives to run for mayor of Comox again

By Michael Briones Echo Staff Paul Ives is seeking re-election for the position of mayor of the Town of Comox on Nov. 15. It will be his third term as mayor if elected.

“Much work has been done by council and staff over the last number of years to improve the quality of amenities, services and finances in our town’s operations,” said Ives, who has also served as councillor for six years.

“Together with the efforts of our residents, volunteers, service clubs and organizations, I have been proud to have played a part at the council table in helping to make Comox a better place, and in many ways, simply the best place to live, work and play in the Comox Valley.”

Ives said there’s more work to be done. He wants to see through some of the plans and projects they’ve initiated for the town.

“I’ve got energy and enthusiasm for a few initiatives in the next number of years,” said Ives. “Not only the waterfront and downtown, but particularly St. Joseph’s

Hospital and the future role of that facility in our community.”

Ives said he wants to work with the new task force at St. Joseph’s to look at the role the facility would play in the community in the future.

“As a council and mayor, we would like to support what they’re doing and that would probably entail some work with stakeholders as well as Island Health Authority,” said Ives. “That’s something that requires an experienced hand and being mayor and certainly with a good relationships we’ve had with Don McRae and the province, I think that would be a good role and good job to take on as things develop in the next three to four years.”

He said continued focus on downtown vitalization and waterfront park enhancement will help to ensure the viability of businesses along Comox Avenue, while at the same time providing more amenities for residents and visitors. “A new waterpark type of playground in Marina Park would be a great addition for families, while additional walking paths, washrooms, and activity spaces would be utilized by all.”

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A6 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 16, 2014

Community

Cumberland OAP group celebrating 60 years of service

Empire Day Parade - May 21, 2007: Evelyn Bowers, Sheila Carter, left side; Bill Hewitt, bicycle, Russell Bowers, motor scooter; Pat McCubbin, Florence Bell, right side.

Photos from private collection.

Protest rally in Victoria, Feb. 23, 2002: Evelyn Bowers, Florence Bell, Beverly Berkeley

INTERFAITH PEACE CELEBRATION ON WEDNESDAY NIGHT Want to help create a peaceful global community? Want to experience more peace in the Comox Valley? You can contribute by taking part in the “Let Your Light Shine” evening at the Comox Little Red Church located at 2182 Comox Ave. on Wednesday, September 17 at 7:00 pm.

Unity Comox Valley has organized an evening of speakers, prayers and chants from various faiths traditions to help bring us into an environment of harmony and respect for others.

Vicki Vanderhorst, minister of

Unity Comox Valley says, “Peace in the world starts with peace in our own hearts. Each person can be a presence of peace, no matter the circumstances. Everyone either adds to or takes away from the peace of the whole through his or her daily words and actions.”

Those who attend the evening will learn from each other. They will grow in respect and understanding towards each other. They will discover a desire for peace is shared amongst all faiths. They will leave feeling a connection with each other,

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with our community, with our worldwide family and with Spirit.

Unity Comox Valley is especially pleased to have Mystic Valley Voices and representatives of the Buddhist, Jewish, Baha’i and Muslim faiths joining together for this special evening. Donations will be gratefully accepted and they will be going to support the Coast Realty Hamper Program. A representative will be sharing how this program works.

For more information contact Vicki at 1-866-853-9866 or info@ UnityComoxValley.com.

We all know the expression ...”never underestimate” ... and certainly it is true when they say, never underestimate GREY POWER because their lobbying continues to bring benefits for Seniors.

In 1932, when the first chapter of the OAP or Old Age Pensioners was formed in British Columbia, they were the first “seniors” to organize in North America.

For more than eight decades, the B.C. pensioners and seniors organization has championed rights for seniors.

“Seniors Serving Seniors” embodies what the organization has become since their first fight over the inequities in the Old Age Pension Legislation. They continue to lobby all levels of Government when they see a need for seniors.

In July of 1954, Mrs. E. Fraser from the Island Council of OAP chaired a public meeting in the Cumberland Odd Fellows Hall. She spoke of the strides that had been made since 1932 to improve the living conditions of Canadians receiving a pension.

Those in attendance heard that the current resolution was to lobby for a pension increase from $40 to $65 per month. The OAP was concerned to keep the cost of medications down and to re-instate 101 prescription drugs that had been on a “free list” but only recently had been de-listed; so many seniors were finding it difficult to find the funds to pay for their drugs.

The audience was reminded that one person is seldom heard in the hallowed halls of government, but a large lobby would catch the ear of the members of Parliament. They did not ask for anything unreasonable, but for a reasonable life for seniors.

A show of hands voted for the formation of an OAP group for Cumberland. Mrs. Dorothy Edwards was elected, by acclamation, to be their President, with Mr. A. G. Broughton as Vice-President and Mrs. E. Standing as SecretaryTreasurer.

Supporting the Island Council that afternoon were a number of representatives from OAP groups including members from Courtenay.

Many OAP groups have since formed other Senior Associations so recently the Provincial OAP has changed their name to British Columbia Old Age Pensioners and Seniors Organizations (BCOAPO) to include all groups and associations that support activities for seniors.

The aims of the BCOAPO are to “promote in the best interest for all elderly citizens of British Columbia all matters pertaining to their welfare which includes pensions, health care, home care, Medicare, pharmacare, home support and affordable housing”. There is also a concern that every Senior be treated fairly and equally.

Cumberland Branch #51 OAP received their Charter on 30 September 1954.

OAP business meetings begin with the singing of a hymn which originated in Blackpool, England, sung to the tune of “Onward Christian Soldiers”.

In 1954, the annual dues for membership were $1. At first, the newly formed Cumberland OAP met in private homes, later they were able to meet in the Methodist Church

HUNTFor History

by JUDY HAGEN which was empty at that time.

When the church was demolished, they moved into the old jail addition to the Village Office. A grant from New Horizons provided funding for renovations which included a carpet, drapes, a stove, dishwasher and a fridge. This first official home for Branch #51 was opened on 11 June 1975.

Activities at that time included carpet bowling, card parties, checkers and special events such as the Christmas pot luck dinner. They drove to Victoria to participate in rallies of support when the members of the Provincial OAP lobbied the Legislature.

When membership in the Cumberland group increased to 135, they discussed enlarging their hall but the village Council said this was not possible due to structural problems with such an old building The Town Council, recognizing the need for better facilities for their community, included facilities for the OAP when the Council began planning for a new Cultural Centre. A committee formed by the Council, Cultural Society, Museum and the OAP began to lobby for funding.

Plans for the new facility designated the lower floor for the OAP activities with both a large and a small room, a large kitchen and a storage area.

Again the New Horizon Society provided a grant to fund a gas stove, new dishwasher, small freezer, as well as drapes and blinds for the windows.

The New Cumberland Cultural Centre was opened in September 1993. The ribbon was cut by the MLA Karen Sanford and the Mayor of Cumberland, William (Bronco) Moncrief.

After twenty years in their new facility, the OAP continue with their efforts to both lobby the government and to provide social activities for seniors. The annual membership fee is currently $10. While the membership is only about 45, they allow “drop ins” at a cost of $2 to participate in a variety of social activities.

On Monday they have Whist with tea, coffee and sweets. Saturday evening they start with Whist but many stay for Bingo. Carpet Bowling is scheduled for Friday afternoon.

Once a month they hold a pot luck dinner which is well attended by members of other seniors groups in the valley.

Later this month they will hold a banquet to celebrate their 60th Anniversary.

The OAP no longer caters for dinners and lunches. Any funds that are raised by their activities pay for the maintenance of their area in the Cultural Centre, which is for their use, but they allow the Brownies and Girl Guides to use their hall. The monthly business meeting is held on the second Thursday of the month and new Members are welcome.

In recent years, OAP groups have raised funds to provide scholarships or students entering a field of study that includes Gerontology.

All the OAP groups of North Island contribute to an annual $500 scholarship to North Island College.

Annual General Meeting Tues. Sept. 30, 2014 - 7 PM Comox Pentecostal Church 1919 Guthrie, Comox

EVERYONE WELCOME

Disability Employment Information Fair In recognition of Disability Employment Month The Job Shop/Work BC & Vancouver Island Vocational & Rehabilitation Services are hosting a Disability Employment Information Fair Learn about the programs and services that are available in the Comox Valley for persons with disabilities who are looking for work.

Join us for refreshments & door prizes.

Considering running for local government?

Have you been thinking about running for local government in the civic elections this November? Then this informative workshop is for you. Dr. Gordon McIntosh, president of the Local Government Leadership (LGL) Institute, has conducted over 900 sessions involving more than 110,000 elected and appointed civic leaders throughout Canada and overseas. Comox Valley local governments are bringing him to our community to help you learn some of the basics, so you can make an informed decision about running for public office.

The workshop is free but pre-registration is required, so if you’d like to attend please email Bonnie Kozlowski at the Comox Valley Regional District: bkozlowski@comoxvalleyrd.ca. Deadline for registration is Thursday September 25th.

Date: Monday September 29th, 2014 at 7:00pm - 8:30pm Location: CVRD Boardroom, 600 Comox Road, Courtenay BC

Friday, Sept. 19th Lewis Centre, Courtenay 11am-2pm The Employment Program of British Columbia is funded by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia

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Community

Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 16, 2014 A7

Second annual Raise-a-Reader Day on September 24 Literacy skills impact every aspect of our individual and collective lives.

Our own abilities to read, write, use a computer, research and do arithmetic impacts our home and work lives.

Our collective abilities to work together to design, develop and implement our ideas, communicate, understand, and collaborate builds and strengthens our social and economic capacities.

The result is a resilient, healthy, engaged, and inclusive community that has reduced crime rates and better employment opportunities.

Comox Valley organizations, businesses, community leaders, and citizens are working together toward this vision of a community in which all citizens are able to access literacy and essential skills resources, programs, and opportunities to improve their lives and the lives of their families.

This September, the Comox Valley Echo, the Comox Valley Lifelong Learning Association (CVLLA), the Adult Learning Centre and their many partners in literacy will highlight literacy and learning through the second annual Raise-a-Reader campaign.

The campaign culminates on Raise-a-Reader Day - September

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ECHO

Packing smarter topic for free travel clinic

If you have a trip planned now is the time to try traveling with just a carry-on size bag. Yes, ease your mind and focus on your destination, not your luggage; Packables Travel Solutions will show you how.

This fun, lively 90 minute workshop covers everything from trip preparation and documentation to security, money tips, scams and of course packing. Have everything you need packed neatly & efficiently into a carry-on size bag and travel savvier and smarter.

Next Travel Clinic is Thursday, September 18th at 12:30. Seating is limited so reservations are required, please call 250-703-2141 to book your seat. The workshop takes place in Packables Travel Solutions at 301 5th St., downtown Courtenay, lots of parking at the back.

Become a volunteer literacy tutor this fall Would you like to help an adult meet a learning goal? Tutors are needed to assist adult learners with a variety of needs including reading, writing, math, basic computer skills and English As A Second Language. Learners come from all walks of life and range in age from 19 to 85.

If you are patient, flexible, have a sense of humour and a desire to help others achieve their goals, please consider volunteering as a literacy tutor with the Comox Valley Adult Learning Centre. Call Marcella at 250-338-9906 or email marcella@ cvalc.ca for further information.

Film ‘Solo’ showing at Comox United Church Comox United Church and the Comox Valley Unitarian Fellowship will present the National Film Board film “Solo� on Friday, September 19, 2014 at 7 pm.

This documentary is a very personal investigation by filmmaker Atif Siddiqi into his own sexual identity and his search for an intimate relationship. The camera follows Atif as he interviews his own family members, recalls childhood experiences in conservative Pakistan, talks to his therapist and friends, and encounters others in the Montreal gay community. The film shows how beliefs acquired in childhood influence our adult lives, and may keep us from trusting ourselves and others.

The presentation will be at 7 pm Friday, September 19, at Comox United Church, 250 Beach Drive in Comox. There will be a small group discussion after the film for those who wish to stay and to discuss the film’s themes. Admission is by donation.

Vegan dine-out at Rawthentic this month On Monday Sept. 22nd at 5:30 and 6:30 Rawthentic Eatery at 407b 5th St. in Courtenay will host this month’s Earthsave vegan dine out.

Recently Rawthentic opened its 3rd restaurant in Victoria to add to their Qualicum and Courtenay locations. They are open 7 days a week;for more information on their business, their website is veganrawfoodrestaurant.com. Owner Bill Hadikin and manager Sarah have put together the following full service menu: A Small Warm Philly Cheeze Wrap; Dehydrated portobello mushrooms, peppers, onions, teriyaki sauce, sprouts and nacho nut cheeze wrapped in romaine served with a side of Kale Salad with kale, cukes, carrots, tomatoes and falafel in a

Raise-a- Reader volunteers will hit the streets Wednesday, Sept. 24 for the cause 24th, 2014. Volunteers wearing bright orange shirts will be out between 11:30 and 1pm throughout the Comox Valley handing out a spe-

cial literacy edition of the Comox Valley Echo in exchange for a donation.

The Raise-a-Reader campaign rais-

es awareness of literacy as well as raises money for literacy programs, resources, and services in the Comox Valley. Every penny raised locally

goes to local literacy programs.

Last year, through local sponsorship, donations, fundraisers, and the Raise-a-Reader Day exchange of the special edition newspapers for donations, the Comox Valley raised over $20,000.

The Ministry of Education leveraged these funds by approximately $10,000 for a total of $30,000.

One hundred percent of these funds is directed to local literacy programs and activities in our community.

To donate online go to www.raiseareader.com/donate, and click on ‘Comox Valley’ under Fund/ Designation.

To donate by phone, call 1-866637-READ (7323) or call the Comox Valley Echo at 250-334-4722.

You can also mail in or drop off your donation at the Comox Valley Echo (cheques payable to “The Comox Valley Echo�).

For more information contact the Comox Valley Lifelong Learning Association by email at dhoogland@ shaw.ca or by phone at 250-8972623.

For more information go to the www.canada.com/literacy/raiseareader/ or www.cvlifelonglearning.ca.

hemp dressing and a Mixed Vegetable Medley Miso Soup.

For dessert there will be a Vanilla Bean Cheezecake with Raspberry Sauce.

The meal also comes with a selection of herbal teas or gano coffee.

The cost for the evening including taxes and tips is $15 for adults and $10 for kids to age 12.

The evening is by reservation only.

To reserve call Bob at Earthsave: ph.

250-338-0751.

Change of venue for CV Writers Society The Comox Valley Writers Society announces a change of venue. Due to the teachers’ strike, the first meeting of the CVWS’s 2014/2015 season will be held Thursday, September 18, 7:00 to 8:00 pm, in the activity room of the Courtenay Public Library on Sixth Street.

New members are welcome.

Memberships and membership renewals at a cost of $15.00 will be gratefully accepted.

A brief discussion regarding activities, speakers, and programs for the year is planned for this shortened meeting, and all members and prospective members are encouraged to attend.

Also, please note a change in date for September’s Poetry Reading Session. The readings will take place on Friday, September 26, 12:00 to 1:30pm, in the Activity Room at the Courtenay Public Library. The featured reader will be Bernice Friesen with readings from her poetry and prose. These monthly readings are always informal, with opportunities for audience questions and comments. Refreshments will be served.

Don’t miss bargains at Fall Kiwanis Junktique The Fall Kiwanis Junktique will be held on Friday September 19th from 6.00 p.m. until 8.00 pm. and Saturday September 20th from 8.00 a.m until 11.00 a.m in the Church Hall at St. Georges United Church on Fitzgerald in Courtenay.

There will be a lot of stuff new to the Junktique. Some fixed price collectibles. All the proceeds go straight back into the community so you help yourself and others by coming and buying.

Kiwanis is known for tremendous value, come and check us out. We almost give it away!

Ribbon cutting, l. to r., Len Landry, President, Anderton Therapeutic Gardens Society; Noreen Gullacher, President, IODE Laura Gordon Chapter; The Hon. John Duncan, MP Vancouver Island North; Wendy Harris, President, Kiwanis Club of Courtenay; Brenda Kelm, Treasurer, Comox Valley Community Foundation; Jim Gilles, Director, Area B, Comox Valley Regional District; Andrea Rowe, President, Comox Valley Community Foundation

Funding for new walkways helps enhance accessibility at The Gardens on Anderton The Gardens on Anderton are now much more accessible to those using wheel chairs and walkers thanks to grants from the Government of Canada’s Enabling Accessibility Fund, the Comox Valley Regional District, and the Comox Valley Community Foundation.

New brick walkways have been installed to improve access to the Labyrinth, the Welcome Garden, the Butterfly Garden, the Wave Garden and the wheel chair accessible toilet.

The total cost of the accessible walkways was over $24,000, with $13,420 contributed by the Government of Canada’s Enabling Accessibility Fund, $3,790 by the Comox Valley Community Foundation and $2000 by the Comox Valley Regional District.

The balance was funded by the Anderton Therapeutic Gardens Society through its fundraising activities such as the Wellness Fair hosted by the IODE Laura Gordon Chapter and the Downton Abbey Tea hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Courtenay.

The Honourable Candice Bergen, Minister of State for Social Development stated: “Our government has taken unprecedented action to strengthen programs for Canadians with disabilities. Thanks to organizations like

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yours who have leveraged the Enabling Accessibility Fund, Canadians with disabilities have improved accessibility in communities and workplaces, including right here in Comox.�

John Duncan, MP for Vancouver Island North commented: “The Anderton Therapeutic Gardens are an asset to our community. Many families enjoy the benefits of this facility, whether through gardening activities or simply having a safe and accessible place to enjoy the outdoors. This investment will help make the gardens more accessible than ever.�

At a ribbon cutting ceremony held at the Gardens on Anderton, August 29, Len Landry, Anderton Therapeutic Gardens Society president explains. “We have always had good access on our main pathways, but this project ensures those with mobility challenges will be able to enjoy all areas in the gardens.�

The new walkways were completed in July, just in time to enjoy the summer colour and one of The Gardens signature fund raisers, the highly successful Downton Abbey Tea. The Gardens on Anderton promote community wellness through an interactive outdoor garden experience. The Gardens are open to all members of the

community with a focus on those whose health and mental wellness could be improved through gardening.

The Gardens provide a safe area for those with Alzheimer’s to walk freely with dignity, 12 raised beds for gardening from wheel chairs or walkers or for those who are unable to bend down, 32 allotment beds which allow those in living accommodation without gardening space an opportunity to raise their own vegetables and flowers, a meditation garden and labyrinth for quiet reflection either sitting or walking, butterfly and apiary observation areas, a Welcome Cottage with covered deck and patios for meetings, training, lectures and social events, a pond with small fish, a rose garden, a dahlia garden, a rhododendron garden, and a small orchard among other garden features.

The Gardens on Anderton is open to the public 7 days a week 10am - 4pm, from Mother’s Day in May through to the end of September.

The Gardens is located at 2012 Anderton Rd. behind the Anderton Nursery on the way to the Powell River Ferry dock.

For further information, see www. gardensonanderton.org.

Congratulations!

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OPEN HOUSE FOR COMOX WATERFRONT VITALIZATION IN MARINA PARK 1809 Beaufort Avenue Comox, BC V9M 1R9

@ rkanigan@comox.ca

250 339 2202

Ask your question in person at the meeting

The Town of Comox invites all WHEN AND residents to attend an open house WHERE: to view preliminary design plans for improvements proposed for 7:00 to 9:00 PM the Comox Waterfront in Marina Wednesday, Park.

September 17th, 2014 Drop in and view what is being proposed, and give us your feedback.

Richard Kanigan Chief Administrative Officer

d’Esterre d Esterre Seniors Seniors’ Centre 1801 Beaufort Ave, Comox

Congratulations to

Jan Vandenbiggelaar for being Sales Person of the month for the months of July & August.

Come in today to see why Jan is the right sales person for you!

The

Jan Vandenbiggelar

EST BIGG x Valley o in Com Name ar Sales C

A8 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 16, 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.

Canadian Publications Mail Agreement Number #0661538

Letters

Two-tier health only for the rich Barbara Mellin chooses an odd hero in Dr. Brian Day (Letter in the Echo, 9 Sep).

A provincial audit of Dr. Day’s Vancouver surgery centre and associated referral clinic found that patients were unlawfully extra-billed $491,654 in just thirty days. In one case, a patient was billed $7,215.00 for services that would only have cost $1,288.04 in the BC health care system. Auditors also found over $66,000 in overlapping claims, suggesting there had been double-dipping for the same services. Doubledipping means that, in addition to collecting fees from the patient, a claim was also made to the Medical Services Plan.

Evidence shows that the for-profit structure sought by Dr. Day would lead to longer wait times and poorer health for Canadians. A two-tier medical system, with an enhanced tier only for the rich and an impoverished tier for the rest of us, is a system that hasn’t provided better health outcomes anywhere in the world.

Tom Pater Courtenay

THINK BEFORE YOU WRITE NASTY STUFF “Beefs and Bouquets”, in the Echo, is much to be commended. It provides a forum for those who wish to bring to our attention a good deed, someone who does acts commendably but would not be recognized in the mainstream media. It can even be used to bring to our attention a need in the community that demands fixing.

On the other hand, such a format allows for a distressing amount of vitriol and sheer hatred while allowing the protagonist to hide.

For the last few issues we have seen the teachers being the brunt of such rude, nasty invective.

We may or may not agree with the stand that they have taken, but to use the anonymity of Beefs and Bouquets to put the verbal boots to that group harms not only the teachers, but reflects badly on the views of the anonymous persons attacking them. Surely we have an obligation as a citizen to recognize that we are all citizens, good people for the most part, and should be treated in a fair and reasonable manner.

One can argue that identifying and demonizing any identifiable group is the essence of fascism.

For, after the teachers have been beaten into submission, who is to be attacked next? Would that be the seniors in our community? After all, they use a disproportionate amount of the health care money in this province. They drive too slow. They get in the way in lineups at the grocery store. And on, and on.

I find this trend of anonymous attack to be most alarming. Beefs and Bouquets is not the only forum for the nasty and the cowardly. One just has to read the comments after almost any article on an internet site. In those forums such people hide behind their nicknames.

Is this trend somehow connected to how we are made to believe that we are only taxpayers, whose sole wish is to avoid paying for all those services that make up a caring and civilized Canada? Is it a feeling that “ someone else” can pay the bills, and that “ someone else” is getting too much? Do we no longer see ourselves as citizens and not just taxpayers, citizens who have a stake and affinity for all of our fellow Canadians and feel an obligation to make for a better society and not just indulge in mindless attack?

If one has ever worked with a carpenter the phrase “measure twice and cut once” will be remembered. Perhaps the writers of these nasty comments should be advised to “think twice and write once.” We would all be better off.

Lorne Finlayson Cumberland

WATER BILLING MAKES NO SENSE Maybe I am not understanding the new, water metering system in the CV Regional District. Or maybe we have all been had. But I just got my second tri-annual bill and I am not pleased.

I thought the purpose of these meters, which were installed a couple of years ago, but never actually used for billing until this year, was to conserve water. Good idea. But I fail to understand how the base flat rate helps to this end.

Correct me if I am wrong, but this is how it goes. Instead of an annual flat rate, like in the old days, we are now supposed to pay for what we use, because we have a meter. Just like Hydro.

But wait.

There is a base flat rate of $88.68 for residential use of up to 60 cubic metres. (The actual consumption rate is $1.4780 per M3). So even if you don’t turn the tap on, you are still going to be billed for 60 M3.

So, I went over the base this period, and was charged for that actual use. Well, we all get that.

But I was quite surprised to see my mother’s bill.

She lives 2 blocks away.

Her usage was 9.37 M3 which at $1.4780 works out to $13.85. But no, she still has to pay $88.68, even though she did not come close to using the base.

Please explain to me how this system helps people to conserve water.

If we had to have the meters installed, we should pay what goes through the meter. Not past the meter and on down the street. Otherwise I may as well tell my mother to let her taps run all day.

So, Regional Director C, please lower the base rate to something logical, like maybe 10 M3.

Or eliminate it completely so we just pay per use. It is pretty simple.

James Derry Regional District C resident

Letters to the Editor

Spread the good airport news The Comox Valley Airport is pleased to report to all North Island residents that YQQ has returned to the level of reliability that our passengers expect and deserve. If you are reading this letter, it is likely that either you or someone you know has experienced a delay or cancellation out of YQQ due to the landing restrictions that were previously in effect.

Thankfully, landing limits have been brought back to normal at Comox and we are once again one of the most reliable airports in the province. The Comox Valley Airport has launched a social media campaign to encourage local residents to share this news with their friends and family.

Supporting your local airport means helping to protect all of the positive eco-

nomic benefits it creates for the North Island. Our airport supports hundreds of jobs and injects millions of dollars per year into our local economy.

Including the influence on tourism in the area, combined economic output for the North Island is estimated at about $26 million a year for a single daily Boeing 737 flight.

I am pleased that WestJet shares our confidence in YQQ’s reliability. Our longtime partner has committed to increased frequency beginning in January 2015. This additional year-round, daily flight to Calgary will open up about 14 WestJet markets that were previously not served from Comox in at least one direction, including popular sunspots like Varadero

and Cabo San Lucas.

Whether travelling for a vacation, a business trip, commuting to work or attending an important family function, North Island residents depend on the Comox Valley Airport to get them to where they need to go.

You can rest assured that you will be well-served by YQQ any time of the year.

We are shouting our message from the rooftops.

Whether you shout about it, talk about it or Tweet about it, we are asking for your assistance to keep our airport contributing to Northern Vancouver Island’s bottom line.

Fred Bigelow Comox Valley Airport CEO

An overlooked factor in teachers strike In the Beefs and Bouquets on September 12th, one person wrote, “If teachers could teach large classes years ago without aides and students came out of those classes with excellent grades, then teachers now should be able to do the same.”

There is an overlooked factor at work here - children are not as healthy as children used to be.

For example in 1980 1 in 10,000 children were diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. In 2013, 1 in 42 American boys were diagnosed with autism! One in 10 American children are now diagnosed with ADHD. One in 6 have a developmental disorder. These stats are increasing each year. Our children are growing up in an increasingly polluted, toxic world.

I’ve experienced the difference. In my 3rd year of teaching in 1962-63 I taught a class of 43 manageable Grade 3s.

After raising my own children, I returned to full-time teaching in 1992 (in North Surrey). A class of 24 children was very challenging to manage let alone teach. Most of the children had poor attention spans and fighting was almost a daily occurrence. Academically, they were much lower than the children of the sixties.

After a year and a half, I left on a medical leave due to stress and never returned to the classroom. Now at age 75, I still love children, still love learning and am so saddened by the struggles of today.

I wouldn’t be writing this letter if I hadn’t just received a newly released book that the above statistics come from.

A book with answers! “Staying Focused in a Hyper World: Natural Solutions for ADHD, Memory and Brain Performance”

by John Gray, PhD. It’s available at his website www.marsvenus.com Beverley Howden Comox Valley

THE MONEY IS THERE Every time I hear someone say, apropos of the BCTF’s negotiation proposals: “We can’t afford it!” or “There’s no money for it!”, I’m compelled to ask: “How do you know that?” and, perhaps more to the point, “Upon what information are you basing that statement?”

The answer is, of course, that that is what the government claims. The Liberals after all, collect our taxes and apportion them according to their ideology - which seemingly has no room for the needs of

education.

Although the Liberals may claim they have increased education spending, if the people who are actually working in the system, the teachers and EAs and other support workers, are telling us it’s not enough, then that is obviously the case.

Money that goes to oil and gas subsidies (and the insufficient amount of royalties collected in that area); money for useless PR campaigns or events; or, oh yes, large sums of money spent in court trying to prevent teachers having a say in class size and composition - those are examples of where our money is going rather than to education.

In addition, one must ask, where has the estimated $12 million per day the government has saved during the strike gone?

Where did the proffered $40 per child per day come from?

Every time I hear someone use the “no money” argument, I realise that that someone is simply repeating what they have been told.

If people really want an end to this strike, then the only solution at present is to pressure the government to accept the BCTF’s offer of binding arbitration. I’m no fan of it myself, but it’s what the BCTF is proposing and they are doing it in the interests of getting kids back to school.

I’m not a teacher, just a tax-paying citizen, and I say that there really is only one side to be on in this dispute and that is the teachers’ side because, by extension, that is the students’ side also.

Stephen Harvey Courtenay

SAY YES TO BINDING ARBITRATION! The teachers of the Comox Valley believe that binding interest arbitration is the fairest and fastest way to get students back to school and teachers back to work. It has come to our attention that many people don’t understand what binding arbitration means.

Here are the Coles notes: both parties, the BCTF and BCPSEA will submit their final offers to an agreed upon third party arbitrator. The mediator will then look at both proposals and write language that will form the new collective agreement based on those final offers. At the end of this process, both parties should be happy about some things and frustrated about others. This process may take months, but in the meantime, teachers will be working and students will be

learning.

Teachers are willing to take the risk that an arbitrator may rule against them in some areas, but they truly believe that binding arbitration is the best course of action right now. We recognize that the class size and composition issue is before the courts and we are willing to let that process run its course because we will win that again. The government has already lost twice in BC Supreme Court and they are trying to negotiate themselves out of losing again. It’s a shameful tactic and it is the main stumbling block in this labour dispute.

When we make a decision in life it is important that we take into account all of the factors that will affect it and then make the best decision with the information we have at that moment. New information often causes us to transform our thinking. The BC Liberals got elected on a platform of growing the economy and balancing the budget. Based on the information they had at the time, they believed that was the best thing to do. We are now at a point where the BC Liberal caucus needs to look at all of the information available to determine if they need to transform their thinking.

The people of British Columbia want to see the provincial government invest in education. The working conditions of teachers and the learning conditions of students are deteriorating because of a lack of trained teachers in the public education system.

Because of this, morale is low and students are falling through the cracks.

Teachers have had enough! You have seen the sacrifices they are willing to make.

It’s time to put aside election promises and do the right thing for the children of British Columbia.

Please do everything you can to pressure the government to say yes to binding arbitration - the fastest and fairest way to get this settled now.

Nick Moore President Comox District Teachers’ Association EDITOR’S NOTE: We’ve been flooded with letters about the teachers’ strike over the past two weeks, and unfortunately, there isn’t enough paper to print them all, especially since some are quite lengthy. We’ll try to get them all posted at our website www.comoxvalleyecho.com under the letters category of ‘Opinions’.

Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 16, 2014 A9

What’s On

Fusion and versatility at the Zo this Thursday

Roger Helfrick giving concert Sunday at Cumberland United

Whether as a solo artist or as part of a group, Oscar Robles Diaz plays the Zocalo Café in Courtenay on the third Thursday of every month.

The theme of the concert changes from month to month, giving the skilled Mexican-born musician the opportunity to show off some serious versatility between genres and instruments. Often times, that is in collaboration with other musicians, sometimes dancers.

“It’s fun for me that way, and it keeps things fresh for the audience,” he says. This Thursday, September 18, he is on drumkit, and, with bassist Brittany Bowman and saxophonist Tony Morrision, he presents Bizarro - an entirely original fusion ensemble based locally in the Comox Valley.

Inspired by traditional rhythms from around the globe as well as funk, jazz, hip hop, Afrobeat and more, Bizarro’s sound takes many twists and turns along the course of a concert. It has been described as hard to pigeonhole but easy to feel.

Entirely instrumental with searing improvisations and a deep sense of groove, Bizarro aims to open your musical mind while enhancing your café experience.

The show starts at 7:00 p.m. and

“In all my years as a musician I have only heard a few such gorgeous voices. Roger’s singing is like velvet. His voice has this clear, transparent, warm, completely natural sound that truly makes you want to melt away. And he tells the song’s story so simply and beautifully.” - Lori Pappajohn, harpist, singer, director of Winter Harp Roger Helfrick, baritone and Celtic harp player, is offering a concert on Saturday September 20, at the Cumberland United Church, in Cumberland.

Roger wowed audiences the last two Decembers when he appeared as the main vocalist with Winter Harp for their 2012 and 2013 tours, and is thrilled to be presenting this, an Autumn Equinox concert and official release of his latest cd, “Willow”.

The concert is entitled: “Willow” and features Roger’s voice accompanied by Celtic lever harp, medieval plucked psaltery and guitar.

The evening will feature many songs from Roger’s latest cd as well as some old and new favourites from around the world.

Roger has performed at various concerts and charitable events since moving to the Comox valley in the fall of 2007, and is currently teaching harp and preparing for his return as the main vocalist with Winter Harp for their 2014 Christmas season tour.

A professional musician for 20 years, he has produced four cds, garnering national and international radio play, as well as performances across Canada and in Japan.

“Willow” is on Saturday September 20, at the Cumberland United Church, on the corner of Penrith

Roger Helfrick, baritone and Celtic harp player Avenue and First Street in Cumberland. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $15, available at Laughing Oyster Books in Courtenay, Blue Heron Books in Comox, and at the door.

More information is available at www.rogerhelfrick.ca or 250-331-0482.

Oscar Robles Diaz is on drum-kit with Bizarro - a local trio performing this Thursday is by pass-the-hat donation with all proceeds going to the musicians. The Zocalo Café is located on 5th street at the corner of Cliffe Avenue. An all-ages, friendly, downtown meeting place, it is a licensed venue that serves savoury meals, snacks, sweet treats and hot and cold specialty drinks while regularly presenting local music.

Visit zocalocafe.ca for more information or call 250-331-0933 to make dinner reservations.

All-star lineup for anniversary of Little Red Church jazz series This Thursday marks the first anniverary of Jazz at The Little Red Church, recently renamed the “Bates Beach Farm Jazz Series”.

The evening is also a celebration of the new Jazz series sponsors, the Obal family, owners of the beautiful Bates Beach Farm. Event producer Rob Peterson wishes to thank the Obal family for their fantastic support of the Jazz series.

To mark the occasion, organizer Rob Peterson has produced a very unique evening of Jazz, by inviting back the previous “opening act” performers from the past year, to assemble a stellar evening of entertainment. Performers will be supported by an all-star Jazz combo, including Greg Bush (trumpet), Ralph Barrat (keys/vocals), Grahame Edwards (Bass) and Tom Joseph (Drums) Featured performers for the evening are: Evie Kenny - Alto Sax Already in 8th grade Royal Conservatory, Evie is a huge fan of legendary performers Donald Fagen, Miles Davis and Wayne Shorter.

Evie’s songs will include “Afternoon

Series sponsors Grace Obal with her son Ben at their Bates Beach Farm.

in Paris” and “Desafinado” Matteo Kennedy - Guitar/Vocals At 18 years old, this high skills performer is a huge fan of Classic Rock and Blues and has been the deserving recipient of many local music awards. Matteo’s song choices include ‘Pride and Joy” (Stevie Ray Vaughn) and “Crossroads” (Eric Clapton) Walter Jordan - Vocalist Current age withheld by request, Walter began singing outside of his home at age 60 and now participates in the Just in Time Choir, Island Soul Choir, the Beach Street Players and musical theatre. Congratulations to Walter whose song selections include “Straighten Up and Fly Right” and “I’ve Got You Under My Skin” Jacqueline Lambeth - Vocalist (Mezzo Soprano) Jacqueline is a well established vocalist with a fantastic range, from Opera (Tre Violette) to Celtic (Black Swan Fiddlers) to Jazz, with her group Serendipity. Jacqueline’s song selections will include “Beyond the Sea” and “All That Jazz”.

Tonja Maslin - Vocalist

Tonja is an exceptional young vocalist who is very proud of having achieved honors grades with her Grade 6 Royal Conservatory Music exam. Tonjas song selections will include “At Last” and “Fly Me To The Moon” Jilli Martini - Vocalist This popular Comox Valley singer embraces a broad range of styles and genres, from sultry blues, ballads, hard rock and everything in between.

The super talented Allan Jossul (guitar) will join the house band for Jill’s songs that will include “I can See Clearly Now” and “My Funny Valentine” Part of the ticket revenues from Thursday night’s performace will be donated to the Comox Valley Therapeutic Riding Society The “Bates Beach Farm Jazz Series” at the Little Red Church in Comox is a family friendly venue, serving Tea, Coffee, Soft Beverages and Goodies.

Advance Tickets are $10 and on sale now at Bop City and The Red Carpet Boutique in Comox. Tickets at the door $12. Doors open at 7:00.

Performance at 7:30.

Struttin’ at the Speakeasy returns ... to Comox United

Dana Klassen with Carol Jennermann and Patty Forbes-King

The Beach Street Players are back, singing and dancing their way into your heart once again!

On Saturday, September 27th, there will be two performances of an “in concert” version of STRUTTIN’ AT THE SPEAKEASY at Comox United Church.

In February the Beach Street Players partnered with the Strathcona Sunrise Rotary Club for three sold out performances of this musical revue with dinner. It was a fabulous experience with toe-tapping tunes, a lively plot and much laughter.

Written and directed

by Gloria Herauf, the show weaves together well known songs from the Roaring 20s into a story about bootleggers, temperance women and a speakeasy.

No dinner will be served this time and tickets are only $15/person.

Tickets are available at the Blue Heron Bookstore and at the Laughing Oyster Bookstore and performance times are 1:30 pm and 7:30 pm. Comox United Church is located at 250 Beach Drive in Comox.

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604-605-2304 or 1-800-637-READ (7323)

MAIL IN: Raise-a-Reader, 407-E 5th Street, Courtenay, B.C. V9N 1J7 (cheques payable to “The Comox Valley Echo Raise-a-Reader”)

Proceeds support family and children’s literacy programs

RAISE-A-READER DAY IS WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2014. For more information, visit raiseareader.com Adult Learning Centre

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A10 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 16, 2014

What’s On

Celebrate SPIN! at The Sid outdoor plaza this week SPIN, an extraordinary theatrical and musical journey starring the bicycle as a musical instrument and inspiration for social change, is part of the Sid Williams Theatre Society’s Blue Circle Series on Saturday, September 20th and is sponsored by Courtenay Recreation.

To celebrate this performance Courtenay Recreation invites you to take part in Celebrate! SPIN! on Thursday and Friday, September 18 and 19 from 12:30 to 4:00 pm outdoors in the Sid Williams Theatre fountain plaza in downtown Courtenay.

Celebrate! SPIN! includes free 30 minute activities in the movement and bicycle theme. Movement activities include family sessions in hula hooping, spin, drumming, spinning art, Zumba and Nia. Children’s sessions include martial arts and dance.

Bicycle courses are offered by Mountain City Cycle on how to maintain your scooter and how to change a flat tire.

All participants can activate the Spin to Win wheel for their chance to take home some amazing prizes from Courtenay Recreation and Mountain City Cycle.

“These free activities are about celebrating movement and innovation” says Susan Murphy, the City’s manager of recreation services.

“Join us for a fun festival atmosphere while trying out a new activity!”

For a full schedule of Celebrate!

SPIN! in the Sid Williams Theatre fountain plaza please visit www. courtenay.ca/spinfest or call Courtenay Recreation Lewis Centre at 250-338-5371 or Filberg Centre at 250-338-1000.

For tickets to Evalyn Parry’s tourde-force performance of SPIN contact the Sid Williams Theatre at 250-338-2430 ext. 1 or visit www. sidwilliamstheatre.com. One lucky audience member will take home a brand new Giant Simple 3 bicycle (valued at $499) courtesy of Courtenay Recreation and Mountain City Cycle.

The Birds and the Beans are Comox Valley farmers developing locally adapted flint, flour and popping corn varieties.

CV Growers and Seed Savers host annual garden tour on Sunday

Enjoy free ‘spin’ activities on Thursday and Friday, at The Sid’s outdoor plaza

Beer Fest fundraiser brings industry trade show and public tasting

Simon and Heather, have focused their operation on selling quality locally adapted seeds to home gardeners.

Unlike large commercial seed producers who focus on seed characteristics that effect seed handling like planting, harvesting and storage, Good Earth Farms breeds greens, peas, beans, tomatoes, and herbs for outstanding flavour and texture.

Arzeena Hamir and her family at Amara Farm are founding members of Merville Organics Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) box program. Part of the ‘Farmnifesto’ at Merville Organics includes, “to grow fresh, tasty and nutritious organic produce” and “to build a more sustainable food system, one veggie box at a time!”

For Arzeena, growing and saving locally adapted seeds ensures adequate supply for the next growing season and reduces costs. She will be demonstrating seed cleaning using the CVGSS winnower.

All three farms will have produce and seeds available for sale and Amara Farm will have locally grown barley straw for sale at $8.00 per bale, just in time to mulch your gardens before winter. Tour participants are also invited to bring their own seeds along for cleaning.

Participants must provide their own transportation; carpooling is encouraged. This is an outdoor event, so please dress for the weather. This event is free for CVGSS members and 10.00 for non-members. Everyone is welcome and refreshments are provided.

For more information contact Dianna Talbot at 250-339-3972 or go to www.

CVGSS.org.

Experience the future, today.

Courtenay Rotary event set for Oct. 3 at Native Sons Hall For those who love to discover the tastes of new ales, craft beers, and ciders, the Courtenay Rotary Club is hosting its first ever Beer Fest, a fundraiser to be held on October 3rd at the Native Sons Hall.

The event will bring together over 15 BC vendors bringing samples of their best ales, ciders, and craft beers for a one stop industry showcase as well as a fun public tasting.

The money raised will support the Courtenay Train Station and Rotary Trail projects.

The Beer Fest begins with an afternoon industry tasting and tradeshow from 4-6p m and will provide an opportunity for people to meet and talk with owners and reps from BC breweries. There is no cost to attend the tradeshow event, however an RSVP is required. Those interested can confirm their attendance by contacting Dave White at 250339-0172 or by email d48white@ yahoo.com.

An evening public tasting will also be hosted for those 19 or older from 7-10 pm. Tickets for the evening are $30 and will include 12 tastings (4 oz), complimentary tapas, and a souvenir mug. Food will also be available for purchase.

Advance tickets are recommended and can be purchased online at www.cvbeerfest.ca or at the following businesses: Cascadia Liquor Store, Hot Chocolates, The Mad Chef Cafe, Searles Shoes, Chuck’s Trucks, White Whale, and Eby’s.

Participating vendors include Townsite Brewing Co., Stanley Park Brewery, Salt Spring Island Ales, Lighthouse Brewing, Granville Island Brewing, Vancouver Island Brewing, Blue Moon Winery, Merridale Ciderworks, Okanagan Spring Brewery, Parallel 49 Brewing Co., Central City Brewers, Steamworks Brewery, Hoyne Brewing Co., Tofino Brewing Co., Russel Brewing Co., Phillips Brewing Co., and Spinnakers Brewing Co. The Courtenay Rotary Club is a service organization dedicated to supporting local and international communities through projects that have a direct impact on community well-being.

For more information, visit the Courtenay Rotary website at http:// portal.clubrunner.ca/671 or on Facebook https://www.facebook. com/CourtenayRotary.

The Comox Valley Growers and Seed Savers (CVGSS) are hosting their 2014 Garden Tour on Sunday, September 21.

Meet at 1821 Anderton Road, Comox (by the Natural Pastures sign); the tour begins at 10:00 am. Our theme this year is ‘developing local open pollinated seeds for local growing conditions’.

In a time of rising transportation costs, a changing climate, genetically modified seeds, seed patenting and drought in the regions that supply much of our food, developing crops adapted to local growing conditions is critical to our long term food security.

CVGSS is excited to feature three Comox Valley farmers that are growing and saving seeds for resale and future crop production.

According to Dianna Talbot of CVGSS, “As multinational corporations increasingly use genetic modification and patents to claim ownership and control of the very DNA of our food supply, these Comox Valley farmers are hard at work breeding and sharing open pollinated seeds for today and all future generations.” This is an opportunity to learn how and why these farmers grow, harvest, process and store seeds for our future.

The Birds and the Beans are four young farmers focusing on the staple or ‘calorie’ crops including beans, corn and peas. They are also growing wheat, barley and oats in an effort to develop grain varieties adapted for our coastal climate. These crops form the core of our diet and are critical to a sustainable local food supply.

Good Earth Farm has been saving over 65 varieties of their own seed for 15 years. Husband and wife team,

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Business News

Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 16, 2014 A11

Voting with their feet: Actual quality of life rankings In most ‘best places to live’ lists, subjective stats, skewed perspectives paint unfair picture It seems like every few months, a new ‘best place to live in Canada’ list pops up in media outlets across the country.

Focusing on a range of factors like weather, housing prices, culture, and even the number of luxury cars in a community, these oft-subjective lists are helpful in generating headlines (and anger amongst communities left out of the beauty pageant-like winners list), but in terms of real value: they’re lacking.

The Island Coastal Economic Trust decided to do its own analysis with a different - and incredibly straightforward - methodology: The communities that are most desirable as a place to live are, quite simply, the communities that attract

the most new residents compared to the number of former residents who move away.

When that metric is applied to people who moved within Canada between 2006 and 2011, all seven urban centres in the ICET region attracted significantly more new residents from elsewhere in Canada than they lost. Who suffered the biggest outflow of Canadian residents?

Toronto and Montreal, which were net exporters of 70,000 and 50,000 residents, respectively, to the rest of Canada.

Looking only at 25-49 olds (people in their prime working years) moving into a community versus out of a community, the Courtenay area ranks 14th nationally out of 147 urban centres with a net inflow of more than 1,200 people. Nanaimo is just behind, ranked at #16, with Campbell River coming in at #25. In fact, all seven of the ICET-region communities come out on the positive side of the ledger.

So much for the perception that the

region only attracts retirees.

“The bottom line is that there are a wide range of subjective lifestyle factors that people consider,” said Line Robert, CEO of ICET. “The number of days of rain may not matter if it means there is no snow to shovel and you can golf, mountain bike and play soccer year round. We feel that the best measure is looking at how many new people, especially the young community building demographic, are choosing to make our communities their home for the long term.”

Not surprisingly, ICET communities also fared well in the rankings for those aged 50+. This group tends to be more reflective of ‘pure’ quality of life, as employment becomes less of a pressing concern.

In the 50+ category, Parksville ranked #5 nationally, with Courtenay at #6. All seven ICET-region communities ranked in the top-third nationally. Once again, Canada’s major metro areas ranked poorly, becoming

the country’s largest exporters of Baby Boomers.

The report, titled ‘Voting with their Feet: Actual Quality of Life Rankings in Canada’, was prepared by ICET’s consulting economist, Jamie Vann Struth using data from Statistics Canada’s 2011 National Household Survey.

“The typical ‘best place to live’ lists are wildly out-of-touch with the actual location decisions made by Canadians,” stated Vann Struth. “One of those publications said that Port Alberni was the worst place to live in Canada, even though it attracted 465 more residents than it lost, including nearly 200 people of prime working age. It’s clearly a desirable place.”

To be fair to those major urban metros, they do fare well when it comes to attracting new international in-migrants (different from immigrants, as some of the people could be Canadian citizens returning from living abroad, or foreigners moving here temporarily).

“There are lots of places with great weather and natural beauty, but if there are no job prospects, is it really a great place to live? And there are places in Canada with huge opportunities for earning, but if the money wasn’t there, people wouldn’t be there either,” said ICET Chair Phil Kent. “The truly ‘best places to live’ are the ones that have a combination that works for real people, and on that score, the Island Coastal region consistently stands out among the top places in the country.”

Read the full report here: islandc o a s t a l t r u s t . c a / R E S O U RC E S / ECONOMICANALYSIS. The Island Coastal Economic Trust is a $50 million endowment established in 2006 by the Government of British Columbia to help diversify the economies of central and northern Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast.

A full overview of ICET can be found at www.islandcoastaltrust.ca.

‘Do good’ while looking good at Level 10

Racers Aaron Pitt and James Powsey.

New team represents green grocer Seeds in adventure of a lifetime Seeds Food Market has finally chosen their team of two to represent them in this year’s Mind Over Mountain Adventure Race (MOMAR).

This sold-out race was recently voted the “Best Adventure Race in Western Canada” by Get Out There Magazine for a fourth year in a row.

The MOMAR is an incredible weekend experience that tests mental and physical limits.

Racers navigate their way through a series of checkpoints on the 50 km course that includes kayaking, mountain biking, trail running and orienteering. Racers James Powsey and Aaron Pitt are the lucky winners of the Seeds spot in the race this year.

Its 7th year in the race, team “Seeds of Fury” is all about fun and adventure. “Being the Refreshment Sponsor has been so much fun.” says owner and racer Tina WillardStepan.

“We absolutely love this race.”

Community-building is what their business is all about.

“We love having a team to cheer on each year.”

The race occurs on September 20th in and around Cumberland.

Seeds Natural Food Market is located at 2733A Dunsmuir Avenue in Cumberland, on the corner of 3rd and Dunsmuir. (250)336-0129 www. seedfoodmarket.ca or www.facebook.com/seedsfoodmarket

With about 30,000 hair salons in Canada using sprays, dyes and foils, the industry’s environmental impact is significant.

So when Leanne Boyd, owner of Level10 Eurospa, discovered that her salon could become sustainable by partnering with Green Circle Salons, she didn’t hesitate.

“It was a no-brainer for us,” says Boyd. “We’ve always done our part with LED lighting, low-flow toilets, power smart washers, recycling, et cetera. Unfortunately, our regional recycling program only dealt with so much and the rest went in the landfill. I’d heard about Green Circle three years ago and now that they’re offering their services in BC, we can manage over 95 percent of all our salon waste through them and the rest is compost.”

The Toronto-based company offers salons a comprehensive recycling/repurposing program that ensures foils, colour tubes, plastics, papers and chemicals get diverted out of local waste and water systems - some of it even turns into energy for BC Hydro when incinerated.

All hair clippings are repurposed into mats and booms used to contain oil spills. Hair takes a long time to decompose (just check out pics of Egyptian mummies!), and could sit in a plastic bag in a landfill for centuries. Its oil-absorption properties, however, make it a perfect material for spill clean-ups.

“It’s pretty amazing actually,” remarks Boyd. “Our clients are thrilled their hair clippings can be used for something positive like

Level 10 Eurospa owner Leanne Boyd (L) and salon ambassador Brittany Hainsworth show off the salon’s new recycling bins, part of its Green Circle sustainability initiative.

that, and it’s been surprisingly easy to do. We just have a few more bins to separate hair, used foils, colour tubes and excess spa waste. Then we ship it over to Burnaby to be dealt with appropriately and responsibly.”

Of course, it does cost money. By charging a small eco-fee of $1.50, the salon shares the expense with its clients.

“The reaction has been overwhelmingly positive,” says Boyd.

“We’re all proud here at Level 10 to keep our clients and the planet beautiful.”

For more information on the program or Level 10 Eurospa, drop by the salon at 1025 Cliffe Avenue, call 250.334.0209 or visit www.level10eurospa.com.

Coastal wine, spirit, beer and cider producers to converge here in November Crown Isle Resort and Golf Community.

Comox Valley Economic Development and Tourism, has been working with an advisory Committee to develop the event framework that marries professional and industry development, with marketing and networking opportunities. The group includes representatives from Coastal Black Estate Winery, Merridale Cider, Black Fin Pub, Blue Moon Winery, Vista D’oro, among others.

After an opening reception held at Shelter Point Distillery, the concurrent workshops and sessions held the following day at Crown Isle Resort include topics such as Selling

Pacific Toast Expo developed to support producers’ bottom line The Comox Valley, Vancouver Island and the mainland coast boasts an ever growing number of award winning wineries, breweries, spirit and cider producers, and a new professional development and industry expansion event has been developed in the Comox Valley, to support further expansion of this key industry sector.

The new Pacific Toast Expo, November 6 and 7, brings together these artisan coastal producers, with experts in the field of production, sales, marketing, and understanding the industry laws, for networking sessions, business to business meetings, panel discussions and seminars, culminating in a Coastal Trade Tasting event at

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“B.C.’s Largest Pre-Owned Vessel Brokerage”

Product into Retail and Restaurant Businesses, Marketing & Branding Do’s and Don’ts, Trade and Distribution Opportunities with the US, and Business to Business sessions.

John Yap, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General for Liquor Policy Reform has been announced as the key note lunch speaker, addressing Liquor Legislation Reform and what businesses need to know.

Other confirmed speakers include Ladawne Shelstad, Crush Brand Lab, Pamela Sanderson, Sommelier, instructor and Regional Manager Cascadia Liquor Stores, and Mark Hicken, Vintage Law Group.

While the industry oriented sessions are underway, that weekend, local wineries, restaurants, hotels and resorts are offering a series of Pacific Toast public events including Crown Isle’s 11th Annual Wine Festival, a Blues Concert Package at the Best Western Plus, the Westerly

Hotel, a Toast Celebration at the Old House Hotel and Spa, Mystery Dinner Tour with Ambassador Shuttle and much more.

More information on the Pacific Toast industry and public events at pacifictoast.ca

CARRIERS WANTED No collection required. Great exercise!

Call Comox Valley Echo • 250-334-4734 or drop by 407-D 5th Street, Courtenay Substitutions for East Courtenay and Mission Hill COURTENAY Rt. 7120 – Cliffe to Fitzgerald, 1st to 4th Rt. 7105 – 3rd to 1st Urquhart to Willemar COMOX Rt. 1103 – Pritchard, Totem, Skeena Rt. 1107 – Eastwicke, Highwood, Kingsley, Islington, Foxwood Rt. 1109A – Highwood, Ascot, Beaconsfield, Buxton, Chantry Rt. 2118 – Comox Ave., Orchard Park Dr., Baybrook, Filberg Rd. Rt. 2139 – Hector, Acacia VALLEYVIEW Rt. 3123 – Nechako, Chemainus, 5th St. E., Cowichan, 6th St. E. Rt. 3132 – Inverclyde, Carstairs, Hebrides, Fife

Mia Maria Mia Maria is fine example of the work of Italian Yacht craftsmen. She has been well cared for and is a regrettable sale for the current owner. The main deck has a comfortable layout that functions well at sea or berth. Privacy is ensured in the staterooms below.

Stk #PF3594

NEW!

$

Price Reduced

299,000 (CAD)

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

A12 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 16, 2014

Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 16, 2014 A13

A14 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 16, 2014

What’s On

Learn urban cycling skills at special Saturday course

This hardy team of golf marathoners is looking for your support for the Raise-a-Reader program

Comox Rotary and Young Professionals ready to play marathon golf for literacy The Comox Rotary Club & Young Professionals Comox Valley (YPCV) are participating in the 3rd Annual Golf Marathon Fundraiser to benefit the Comox Valley Raise a Reader program on Thursday, October 2 at Sunnydale Golf Course.

Matt Beckett of Coastal Community, Tim Trottier, Comox Valley Echo, Stu Tunheim, Budget Blinds, and Blake Simpson of RBC Dominion Securities will be golfing as many holes as daylight permits at Sunnydale GC to raise money for the Comox Valley Raise a

Reader program and their ongoing initiatives in the Comox Valley.

The format will be the same this year with all 4 golfers playing scramble golf to make birdies and raise awareness. 100% of funds raised stay in the Comox Valley for local literacy programs.

Additionally, the BC Provincial Government has contributed to the campaign by matching any funds generated through the Raise a Reader program which has doubled the impact!

Save money, avoid traffic congestion and improve your health and wellness by using your bicycle to get to work, school, shopping or errands. Incorporating exercise into your daily routine while you save money, just makes sense!

Worried about safety? Before you start be sure you know how to cycle safely on city roads. Learn the rules, tips and tricks and increase your knowledge and confidence on the road.

“The Urban Cycling Skills” bicycle commuter course is taught by a Nationally qualified instructor from

The Rotary/YPCV golf team are looking for sponsorship from individuals and local businesses to help them raise money.

To support the Rotary/YPCV team, they are accepting donations in a number of formats, online, over the phone or in person.

Donations can be made through a link on their website at www.

YPcomoxvalley.com/donate, or see any one of the Comox Rotary/YPCV golf team members.

CVCycling Coalition who will lead you through both classroom and practical aspects of safe cycling on our roads.

People who have taken this course say that it has made them not only a better rider but a better car driver.

Saturday September 20, 9.30 to 2.00pm. $40. Adults, min. age 14.

Filberg Centre.

Register today at Courtenay Rec 250-338-1000 or www.courtenay.ca For more information about other courses contact : cvcycleskills@gmail.com

DS H N E 0T

ER . 3 F T OF EP

S

HOT FEATURES HOTTER PRICES BE PREPARED WITH OUR AVAILABLE WINTER READY FEATURES

EVENT OWN IT!

$

39

$

OWN IT!

$

68

44

WEEKLY

WEEKLY

WEEKLY

Rio4 SX with Navigation shown hwy / city 100km: 5.3L/7.3L

2015

Sportage SX Luxury shown hwy / city 100km: 7.0L/10.0L Forte SX shown hwy / city 100km: 5.3L/8.0L

LX MT

OWN IT!

2015

$

$

39 0 0 WEEKLY

%

FINANCING FOR ≠ 84 MONTHS

DOWN PAYMENT

2015 LX MT

OWN IT!

$

LX MT

OWN IT!

$

$

44 0 WEEKLY

Offer includes delivery, destination, fees and a $1,500 loan rebate†. Offer based on 2015 Rio LX MT (RO541F) with a purchase price of $14,102.

T E S L A A NC CH

OWN IT!

0

%

FINANCING FOR ≠ 84 MONTHS

DOWN PAYMENT

Offer includes delivery, destination, fees and a $1,500 loan rebate†. Offer based on 2015 Forte LX MT (FO541F) with a purchase price of $16,002.

$

% 0 0 68 WEEKLY

DOWN PAYMENT

FINANCING FOR ≠ 84 MONTHS

Offer includes delivery, destination and fees.

Offer based on 2015 Sportage LX MT (SP551F) with a purchase price of $24,782.

2014 CLEAROUT UP TO $7,000 CASH BONUS

*

“HIGHEST RANKED SMALL SUV IN INITIAL QUALITY IN A TIE IN THE U.S.”

Sportage SX AT Luxury AWD shownΔ

Optima SX Turbo AT shownΔ

2014 OPTIMA UP $ TO

5,000

Rondo EX Luxury 7-seat shownΔ

2014 SPORTAGE

CASH* BONUS

UP $ TO

5,000

CASH* BONUS

2014 RONDO UP $ TO

5,500 CASH

BONUS*

AVAILABLE ON CASH, FINANCE OR LEASE* TH

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED *5-year/100,000 km worry-free comprehensive warranty.

ANNIVERSARY

Graham Kia Victoria

Kia West

2620 Government Street, Victoria, BC (250) 360-1111

688 Lougheed Highway, Coquitlam, BC (604) 931-5425

Courtenay Kia

Richmond Kia

1025B Comox Road, Courtenay, BC (250) 334-9993

3351 No. 3 Road, Richmond, BC (604) 273-1800

Applewood Kia

Applewood Langley Kia

16299 Fraser Highway, Surrey, BC (604) 635-3010

19764 Langley By-Pass, Langley, BC (604) 533-7881

Kia South Vancouver 396 Southwest Marine Drive Vancouver, BC (604) 326-6868

Harris Kia 2575 Bowen Road, Nanaimo, BC (250) 751-1168

Offer(s) available on select new 2014/2015 models through participating dealers to qualified retail customers who take delivery from September 15 to 30, 2014. Dealers may sell or lease for less. Some conditions apply. See dealer for complete details. Vehicles shown may include optional accessories and upgrades available at extra cost. All offers are subject to change without notice. All pricing includes delivery and destination fees up to $1,665, other fees and certain levies (including tire levies) and $100 A/C charge (where applicable), and excludes licensing, registration, insurance, other taxes and variable dealer administration fees (up to $699). Other dealer charges may be required at the time of purchase. Other lease and financing options also available. ≠Representative finance example: 0% financing offer for up to 84 months available to qualified retail customers on approved credit for the new 2015 Forte LX MT (FO541F)/2015 Rio LX MT (RO541F)/2015 Sportage LX MT FWD (SP551F) with a selling price of $16,002/$14,102/$24,782 and includes delivery and destination fees of $1,485/$1,485/$1,665, tire tax and AMVIC fee of $22 and a $1,500/$1,500/$0 loan rebate. 364 weekly payments of $44/$39/$68 for 84 months with $0 down payment. Credit fees of $0. Total obligation is $16,002/$14,102/$24,782. See retailer for complete details. *Cash bonus amounts are offered on select 2014/2015 models and are deducted from the negotiated purchase price before taxes. Available on finance, lease or cash purchase offers. Offer varies by trim. Certain conditions apply. $7,000/$5,000/$5,000/$5,500 maximum cash bonus amount only available on the 2014 Sedona EX Luxury (SD75CE)/2014 Optima SX AT (OP749E)/ 2014 Sportage SX AT (SP758E)/2014 Rondo EX Luxury 7-seat (RN757E). †Loan rebate amounts are offered on select 2014/2015 models and are deducted from the negotiated purchase price before taxes. Available on financing offer only. Offer varies by trim. Certain conditions apply. Offer ends September 30, 2014. See your dealer for complete details. ΔModel shown Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price for 2015 Forte SX (FO748F)/2015 Rio4 SX with Navigation (RO749F)/2014 Optima SX Turbo AT (OP748E)/2014 Sportage SX AT Luxury AWD (SP759E)/2014 Rondo EX Luxury 7-seat (RN757E)/2015 Sportage SX AT Luxury AWD (SP759F) is $26,695/$22,395/$34,795/$38,295/$30,795/$38,495. Highway/city fuel consumption is based on the 2015 Rio LX+ ECO AT/2015 Forte 1.8L MPI 4-cyl MT/2015 Sportage 2.4L 4-cyl AT. These updated estimates are based on the Government of Canada’s approved criteria and testing methods. Refer to the EnerGuide Fuel Consumption Guide. Your actual fuel consumption will vary based on driving habits and other factors. The 2014 Kia Sportage received the lowest number of problems per 100 vehicles among small SUVs in a tie in the proprietary J.D. Power 2014 U.S. Initial Quality StudySM. Study based on responses from 86,118 new-vehicle owners, measuring 239 models, and measures opinions after 90 days of ownership. Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of owners surveyed from February to May, 2014. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com. Information in this advertisement is believed to be accurate at the time of printing. For more information on our 5-year warranty coverage, visit kia.ca or call us at 1-877-542-2886. Kia is a trademark of Kia Motors Corporation.