Comox Valley Echo - September 30, 2014

TAX-FREE SAVINGS ACCOUNT

2.00% *

Courtenay Branch 470 Puntledge Road Ph: (250) 334-8888 cwbank.com

*Rate subject to change without notice. WestEarner® TFSA Account only. Interest is calculated daily, paid monthly. Available in-branch only. See branch for full details.

just for

WHAT’S INSIDE Weather Hunt for History What’s On Letters Classifieds Sports

SEN SE NIO IORS RS Special Feature on Pages A3–A5

A2 B4 B5 A8 B6 B2

www.comoxvalleyecho.com Price: 57 cents plus GST

Tuesday September 30, 2014

Volume 20, No. 78

Welcome to signage frustation Cumberland not happy their planned entrance message could hit a stop sign

By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff

College of Pharmacists official carries out box of inventory Friday from Marigold Pharmacy in downtown Courtenay

College of Pharmacists shuts down natural pharmacy in Courtenay Marigold pharmacist’s lawyer calls it a four-year witch hunt

By Michael Briones Echo Staff Clients of Marigold Natural Compounding Pharmacy in Courtenay were surprised to find its doors locked Friday afternoon despite the blinking neon sign by the window indicating it was open.

The College of Pharmacists shut down the pharmacy on England Avenue and suspended the pharmacist licence of owner and manager Isidore “Rudy” Sanchez effective Sept. 26.

The order was made in the interest of public safety following a large-scale investigation that raised serious concerns with respect to the pharmacy practice of Sanchez at Marigold.

The college cited examples of unsafe practices that include: Unsterile and generally unclean facilities being used to manufacture a variety of prescription drugs and over-the-counter health products without authority to do so. In addition, compounding safety standards appeared to not have been followed when delivering that service._ Human placenta intended for encapsulation was accepted, handled, and prepared with little evident regard for safety protocols necessary when handling human tissue. This service was being offered despite the lack of a proper facility or the regulatory approval to provide it, said the College.

Patients were counseled on alternative drug therapies and products well outside the scope of pharmacy practice and without notification to

Competing municipal welcome sign projects in the Comox Valley have highlighted concerns in the Village of Cumberland that the local group tasked with promoting economic development in the region has the power to dictate what goes on within its boundaries. Cumberland officials aren’t happy that the Comox Valley Economic Development Society’s drive to build a Comox-Courtenay-Cumberland entrance sign on the Inland Island Highway could block them from building their own and they’re ready to take the gloves off.

“We should have the right to have be able to have a sign that says Welcome to Cumberland,” said Village mayor Leslie Baird, adding she has already reached out to MLA Don McRae about what she sees as a serious problem. “Because the highway’s in our jurisdiction, our Village boundaries.”

Ken Grant, chair of the Comox Valley Economic Development Society’s welcome sign project, said as he understands it there is only one sign allowed along Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure property for a particular community.

About two years ago the EDS loaded up a vehicle with a government official to scout locations for their sign and settled on a berm along the northbound lane of the highway just north of the Trent River bridge.

(Continued on page 2)

Comox Valley teachers put school board on defensive

By Michael Briones Echo Staff

Shelves were left almost bare when the College of Pharmacists officials were through seizing items the original prescriber._ Documentation was completed and submitted incorrectly to a number of relevant parties.

An incorrect health care record is a serious risk as improper decisions could be made on the wrong information, putting a patient’s health at risk.

Sanchez’s lawyer Clive Ansley called the college’s action “a witch hunt” that has been

going on almost four years now. Sanchez intends to fight the suspension and is launching a lawsuit.

Marigold was able to open again for business on Monday to provide supplements and vitamins, according to a statement on its website.

Comox Valley teachers took advantage of the public question period in Tuesday’s school board meeting to raise a variety of issues that included the trustees’ lack of presence in the community during their job action.

Although the school board has written a number of letters to the Minister of Education expressing their concerns about the huge impact of the strike, some teachers felt they weren’t enough.

The trustees also issued an open letter to the community, in which board chair, Peter Coleman, stated their position was diminished to that of an observer when the government dismissed trustee representation to the bargaining agent the BC Public School Employers’ Association.

One teacher criticized the letter and said it appeared like the school board was passing the responsibility to the association instead of coming out in public to help the teachers fight for change in the school system.

“I don’t feel the last letter you wrote did that,” she said. “What us teachers did, we stood behind our federation and we also told our story. We so told our story very publicly to make sure that the community and parents were aware and to build a public support. I don’t really know if the story of this district being told through your trustees, the greater community fully understands what situation we’ve been placed in.”

Coleman said working with the association was more effective in putting pressure on the government and being a small district they don’t carry a lot of a weight to do that.

(Continued on page 2)

(Continued on page 2)

Visit, stay or live with us!

Respite and short term stays available.

For a personal visit please call 250.331.4365 All other inquiries 250.331.1183

Retirement Concepts Communities

comoxvalleyseniorsvillage.com

casalomaseniorsvillage.com

A2 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 30, 2014

News

Comox Valley Weather



ď €ď

ď †ď ‡

ď †ď ‡

ď €ď

Tuesday, 30 September A mix of sun and cloud.

High 18°C.

Wednesday, 1 October Cloudy.

Low 7°C. High 14°C.

Thursday, 2 October Periods of rain.

Low 10°C. High 13°C.

Friday, 3 October Cloudy with 70% chance of showers.

Low 10°C. High 14°C.

Saturday, 4 October Cloudy.

Low 12°C. High 17°C.

Ocean Pacific Realty 282 Anderton Rd., Comox, BC V9M 1Y2 250.339.2021

250.334.6432 ryanwilliams@remax.net ryanwilliams.ca

P E R S O N A L R E A L E S TAT E C O R P O R AT I O N

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

Courtenay pharmacy closed down Signage frustration again; lawyer says it’s a ‘witch hunt’ (Continued from page 1)

(Continued from page 1) Marigold is not like any other regular pharmacy that sells prescription drugs. It’s a natural and naturopathic pharmacy that uses medicinal herbs and remedies. “The role the college has played, they’re constantly saying that they’re acting to prevent a danger to the public and I think that is demonstrably untrue,� said Ansley, “Their concern is what they may regard as unfair competition to the pharmaceutical companies. That’s what it comes down to.�

Representatives from the college hauled out over 30 boxes of inventory from the pharmacy.

This is not the first time this has happened. In 2010, the college closed Marigold and suspended Sanchez’s licence for 14 months for similar infractions. He completed educational training, paid a fine to the college, and signed an undertaking to practice pharmacy in accordance with pharmacy standards and all other federal and provincial legislation.

Ansley said at the time, they filed a lawsuit against the college and they tried to recover over $250,00 worth of confiscated inventory. “They sat on it until all the expiry dates had passed and the materials couldn’t be used by patients,� said Ansley.

The college reinstated Sanchez’s

licence without holding a disciplinary hearing. A deal was struck that had four conditions.

First, Sanchez was required to pay the college $30,000, which Ansley said they have no idea what for. “I don’t know if it was meant to be a Christmas gift or a birthday gift,� said Ansley. “They have today, characterized it as a fine. They put out highly defamatory material on their website and in a press release today about the pharmacy and they have referred to that as a fine. That is an outright lie. “It wasn’t a fine. They couldn’t have been fined because the inquiry committee never held a hearing. They never found them to be in contravention of any particular regulations.

The agreement did not refer to it as a fine.�

The college also told Sanchez to drop his lawsuit and required him to read the regulations of their handbook. He was also mandated to take a course on compounding. Sanchez agreed to the terms against his lawyer’s advice.

Ansley said his client had no choice but agree to the terms because Sanchez was on the brink of “bankruptcy.�

Since then Marigold has been subjected to continuous harassment and intimidation, said Ansley, “trying to find any kind of technical infraction they can in order to put these people

out of business.�

The last time the college came to the city to investigate Marigold was in March 2014. Six inspectors came and spent two days probing the pharmacy. “They go with a fine tooth comb over every aspect of the practice in the pharmacy,� said Ansley. “Apparently, in March they found things, according to them, which made them concerned that the public is in danger. So they wait until the end of September. They allowed this danger to the public to go ahead six to seven months until they can concoct a series of accusations against the pharmacy.�

On Friday, when college representatives presented their concerns, Ansley said they were never expressed before, even after the inspection was done in March.

The college’s Director of Public Accountability and Engagement, Mykle Ludvigsen, said their findings were drawn from recent inspections.

However, he would not indicate the exact date because the case is still under investigation. “It was fairly recent and we took action fairly quick,� said Ludvigsen. “That’s about as close as I can put if for you.� Ludvigsen said there were things that were witnessed and observed by an actual college investigator and were promptly reported to the college.

Local teachers critical of school board (Continued from page 1) “But you can bring the situation of the district to the public light,� the teacher commented.

A Mark Isfeld teacher asked why the district decided to put barricades up around the schools during the strike and how much did it cost?

Superintendent Sherry Elwood said it was a directive from the BC Public Schools Employers Association and that SD71 was not the only one as far as she knows. “It’s a health and safety issue,� Elwood explained. “It is ironically about keeping people safe, particularly teachers. It is about signaling where intersections or the entrances and exits to the buildings are.�

Director of operations Ian Heselgrave said the cost, which came out of the district’s operating budget, is around $1,000.

One teacher invited the members of the board to come to her classroom to experience what they go through and to better understand the key issues they have been fighting.

She also questioned why the district opened a school to allow international students to attend class, while her daughter and many others were left out. “As a parent, I have a really hard time with that,� she said because it appears that preference is being given to international students because they are paying to study here.

Board chair Peter Coleman said the international student program is a vital component of the school district’s curriculum. “It’s just not for financial reasons,� said Coleman. “We had dozens and dozens of our students who have gotten enormous opportunities to travel and visit other countries because of the international students. It’s an extremely important program and has enormous benefits to our students.�

The parent told Coleman “if you say the international students are extremely important to the district, is my child not important too?�

Another issue raised by a Courtenay teacher is the timing of the board’s plan to re-brand the school district’s corporate image. She doesn’t understand why the board is discussing this when they have financial concerns and also in light of the fact that they passed a motion to write a letter that reprimands the government for continually under-funding education. “It seems kind of foolhardy to me at best to consider any logo when you consider the cost of rebranding [stationeries, vehicles and many more],� she said. “This board has often said you want to keep money for students. I find it hard to imagine how changing our logo is going to improve the situation in our classrooms for our kids, for our teachers, for our CUPE ... anybody. It’s going to be pretty no doubt about it but how is that going to help students at all in their education.�

Elwood said the plan to redesign the district logo started in late spring. They’re now only discussing the preliminary design and are looking for feedback. “There hasn’t been a decision made to go through the corporate rebranding piece,� said Elwood. “This is just about six to seven months of work that was started previously.�

The teacher pointed out that six months ago the district was in budget crisis and to talk about a new logo now was simply bad timing. “It’s ludicrous to me and I would beg this board to reconsider spending taxpayers’ dollars on such a frivolous [project],� she said.

Elwood said the board has discussed the impact of a new image and they will decide on whether to proceed with it. The cost, she added, would be “significantly minimal to the investments on what we believe it will attract and actually do for us in terms of corporate branding.�

Injured in a car accident?

TH 3TREET #OURTENAY s www.ivesburgerlaw.com

35

$

00

and up

4:20 pm

$1099 Youth & Adults

The Rialto Presents

www.landmarkcinemas.com

SEP 26 - OCT 3

Features Showing Sep. 26th - Oct. 2nd

Cinema #1: “The Equalizer� 14A: Coarse language; violence. Pass restricted until October 9th Nightly: 6:40 (9:00) & 9:35 (11:55). Saturday & Sunday Matinees: 12:30 (2:50) & 3:25 (5:45) Cinema #2: “This Is Where I Leave You� 14A: Coarse & sexual language Nightly: 7:00 (8:55) & 9:40 (11:35). Saturday & Sunday Matinees: 12:45 (2:40) & 3:30 (5:25) Cinema #3: “The Maze Runner� PG: Violence; coarse language Pass restricted until October 2nd Nightly: 6:50 (8:55) & 9:25 (11:30). Saturday & Sunday Matinees: 12:40 (2:45) & 3:20 (5:25) Cinema #4: “The Boxtrolls 3D� G: May frighten young children Nightly: 7:10 (9:00) & 9:30 (11:20). Saturday & Sunday Matinees: 3D 1:00 (2:50) & 2D 3:45 (5:35) Box Office Hours for Sep. 26th – Oct. 2nd Nightly: 6:15 pm – 9:45 pm. Saturday & Sunday Matinees: 12:15 - 3:45 pm

Show Times Sept 26 – Oct 2, 2014

Campbell River, Showcase

Walk Among the Tombstones (14A). Nightly 7:15 & 9:45. Sat & Sun Matinees 1:15 & 3:45 The Maze Runner (PG) (No Passes Accepted). Nightly 7:10 & 9:40. Sat & Sun Matinees 1:10 & 3:30 The Boxtrolls 3D (G). Fri to Wed 7:00 & 9:15. Sat & Sun Matinees 1:00 The Boxtrolls (G).Sat & Sun Matinees 3:15 This is Where I Leave You (14A). Nightly 7:00 & 9:20. Sat & Sun Matinees 1:00 & 3:20 The Equalizer (14A) (No Passes Accepted). Nightly 6:45 & 9:35. Sat & Sun Matinees 12:45 & 3:15

$R 3TERLING $ESMOND !#505.#452%

IB

.!452!, #().%3% -%$)#).% YEARS OF EXPERIENCE SUCCESSFULLY TREATING DhiZd"6gi]g^i^X ?d^cih! H]djaYZgh! 7VX`! =^e @cZZh! 9^\Zhi^kZ! GZhe^gVidgn! 8^gXjaVi^dc! ;Vi^\jZ >bbjcZ! ;VX^Va GZ_jkZcVi^dc! Higd`Z! EVgVanh^h! He^cVa HiZcdh^h!

Edhi @cZZ$=^e GZeaVXZbZci >cÓVbbVi^dc$EV^c &-)'7 8dbdm 6kZ# '*%#.)&#-,,, ™ lll#:kdakZL^i]9ZhZgV#Xdb

YOUR TAX FUTURE IS HERE Learn online with in-class support

We can help.

PERMANENT VOLUME, CURLS OR TEXTURE

In December 2013 Grant announced the launch of the Buy a Bottle, Build a Sign campaign that funneled money from the sale of water bottles towards the construction of the “Comox Valley� welcome sign. “But you can bring the situation of the district to the public light,� the teacher commented.

A Mark Isfeld teacher asked why the district decided to put barricades up around the schools during the strike and how much did it cost?

Superintendent Sherry Elwood said it was a directive from the BC Public Schools Employers Association and that SD71 was not the only one as far as she knows. “It’s a health and safety issue,�

Elwood explained. “It is ironically about keeping people safe, particularly teachers. It is about signaling where intersections or the entrances and exits to the buildings are.�

Director of operations Ian Heselgrave said the cost, which came out of the district’s operating budget, is around $1,000.

One teacher invited the members of the board to come to her classroom to experience what they go through and to better understand the key issues they have been fighting.

She also questioned why the district opened a Cumberland’s drive to get its own welcome sign on the same stretch of highway would be constrained in part by the different rules which apply to highways (such as the Victoria to Parksville section of the Inland Island Highway) and freeways (such as from Parksville to Campbell River). “That means the old sign could not be there and it means that no community could put one on there either,� he said. “The rules are pretty clear from the highways department.�

A Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure spokesperson confirmed it is working alongside the two separate groups requesting similar signage “for the same general location on Highway 19, near the Cumberland interchange.�

Officials are now in discussions with the Village of Cumberland about their request for welcome to signage but are awaiting clarification on the type, size, and exact location of welcome sign it hopes to construct.

While Grant doesn’t think

Cumberland will have much luck with their efforts to alert Island Highway drivers of its presence, he wishes them the best of luck. “If they can get a sign out there then good on them,� he said. “It’s got nothing to do with us.�

A Cumberland staff report presented to council in September notes Village administration was told by the ministry there is no specific timeline attached to the design, production and installation of the EDS’s sign, which will mention Comox, Courtenay and Cumberland. Grant said final design work is currently being completed, adding construction will start next spring.

Getting its own welcome sign erected is a strategic priority for Cumberland.

Baird said she is aware of different rules for communities in highway versus freeway zones, during a recent council meeting. “Because of that we do not qualify to have a sign,� she said, describing what Grant told her in a conversation. “I was disappointed that they had gotten this far without coming and telling Cumberland what was going on and that we would not be able to have a sign on the highway.�

Significant Village staff time has gone into preparing multiple signage reports.

Coun. Kate Greening said it’s not fair that communities wouldn’t be allowed to put a sign up within its own boundaries, and suggested mountain climbers could use their skills to hang a sign from the Royston Road overpass. “They don’t get to just put up any sign that they think,� Greening said of the EDS’s signage plans.

Coun. Gwyn Sproule said she wishes the EDS had consulted more with the Village on the topic. “The road is passing through our territory, if you will,� she said. “I think it should say Welcome to Cumberland.

I can’t possibly find something wrong.�

The province is hoping a deal can be worked out that would accommodate both parties without compromising the safety of the road system.

Baird said it’s an important issue that she will make sure gets addressed by provincial officials. “I don’t think we should stop,� she said. “I think we should take it further.�

Advance your tax knowledge and improve your tax earning potential at Liberty Tax Service with a 6, 8, or 10 week Knowledge Bureau certified tax program.

Contact us at: 1B 204 Island Hwy N Courtenay, BC V9N 3P1 250-338-8290

866-290-2222

To register go to www.libertytaxcanada.ca

Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 30, 2014 A3

just for

SENIORS SE HOME ALONE? Linda Rutherford, Berwick Retirement Communities.

Nothing is more important than the place we choose to call “home”. Whether it’s a mansion or a single room, it’s where we create and keep our memories and treasures, where we feel comfortable and secure, a place where we can warmly welcome family and friends. At its best it should provide us with a sense of community and belonging, but at its worst, when we become isolated socially, it can feel like solitary confinement.

Regardless of age, social isolation can have devastating impact on health and wellbeing.

A study in the US by AgeWave showed that low social interaction by seniors can be as bad for your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, as dangerous as alcoholism, as harmful as not exercising, and can be twice as dangerous as obesity. The American Association of Retired People (AARP) commissioned a study that revealed that loneliness and isolation is a significant predictor of poor health with links to depression, anxiety, panic attacks, eating

7 HABITS OF HEALTHY AGING Dr. Deidre Macdonald, ND

arm you with the information you need to take charge of your health with safe, common sense lifestyle practices and natural medicine.

Topics will include: secrets of the longest living peoples, the latest research on lab tests, foods that improve your energy and immune system, how to optimize your digestion to get the most out of your food, keys to cancer and heart disease prevention, solutions for arthritic and back pain, stress management tools and much more!

Naturopathic physicians are licensed primary care physicians and provide full diagnostic work up as well as the prevention and treatment of disease. They practice by a philosophy of lifestyle first, natural medicine second and pharmaceutical medicine third and have 8-9 years of university training.

Come on out to Crown Isle on Monday, October 7 at 7:00pm to learn ways to take charge of your health with ‘The Seven Habits of Healthy Aging” seminar. Admission is by donation. For more information or to reserve a seat, contact Dr. Macdonald’s office at 897-0235 or via www.getwellhere.com. For more information about the Glacier Grannies check out www.glaciergrannies.org.

Your health is the most precious asset you have.

There is nothing more important than getting proactive about your health, investing in your well-being, and choosing a lifestyle that fosters longevity and vitality. If you are ready to learn how you can experience greater health, less aches and pains, more energy and balance in your life, then you may wish to attend an informative seminar by a local doctor. Naturopathic physician Dr. Deidre Macdonald will be presenting a seminar entitled “The Seven Habits of Healthy Aging” on Wednesday October 7 at 7:00 pm at the Crown Isle clubhouse. Admission is by donation and all proceeds will be donated to the Glacier Grannies, who support the Stephen Lewis Foundation which supports grandmothers raising children due to HIV/AIDS in Africa. This seminar will be an exploration of the most important principles of health optimization.

The latest research on how to enhance longevity and prevent disease will be discussed.

HELPING YOU Learn how you can take stock of your current health and make optiLIVE MORE mal lifestyle and medical choices INDEPENDENTLY for your future. For instance, did Continue living in the comfort of you know that 50% of people who your own home. have heart attacks and strokes Get prompt, caring assistance at the touch of a button—24 hours a day, don’t have high cholesterol and 365 days a year. that there are other lab tests that Enjoy increased peace of mind for you and your family. are more accurate predictors of your cardiovascular risk? Did you Call Lifeline Now! know clinical studies have shown that exercise is a more effective Comox Valley Lifeline Society 392 10th Street, Courtenay | T: 250-338-4255 | TF: 1-866-205-6160 treatment for early Alzheimer’s www.comoxvalleylifeline.com than medication? This seminar will

Relief

disorders and overall chronic illness.

As the population ages, universities in Australia, the UK, America and other nations are continuing research into the negative impact of being alone, and in March 2014 the National Seniors Council (www.seniorscouncil.gc.ca) announced that it will be studying the effects of isolation on the health and well-being of seniors in Canada.

“Aging In Place” seems to be the latest buzzword being used by a variety of sectors when talking about housing options for seniors, which can imply that staying put is the ultimate goal (regardless of where ‘put’ actually is..). It might be time to talk about Aging In The Ideal Place, so that we can start a conversation about what is working for seniors at their particular age and stage of life. A family home, with yard, or patio might be an ideal place for a couple or single in their 70’s when they are still driving, physically active, socially involved with friends and neighbours, and enjoying the daily routines of meal preparation, gardening, and household chores. However, a decade later may have seen many changes

including loss of a spouse or partner, loss of a driving license, concerns about vision, or mobility and the onset of loneliness as activities become more of a challenge. Now that family home or retirement condo may not be the ideal place for someone to create a home that provides them with the supports and services that will enhance their ability to connect and enjoy life to the fullest. There are many seniors that may do very well on their own in their family homes, with lots of support and companionship from family. But many of today’s seniors do not live close to family, do not have an ability to get out and socialize in the community, and are now finding the loneliness associated with many hours alone at home is becoming an overwhelming challenge.

It’s time to encourage our seniors and their families to have honest discussions about needs, wants and desires when it comes to a lifestyle that will promote health, well-being and wellness, and what and where will become the “ideal’ home in those later years.

from Arthritis Pain

Therapy for

Laser Therapy Has Been Proven

Arthritis or Degeneration of Knees, Back, Discs, Neck, Hands & more

in decreasing arthritis symptoms by regenerating new cartilage, reducing inflammation and swelling around the joints, and providing significant pain relief.

For a Complimentary Consultation, Contact Dr. Deidre Macdonald, Naturopathic Physician

2 5 0. 8 97.0 2 3 5 www.getwellhere.com

Discover how easy downsizing & moving can be DELANEY RELOCATION SERVICES WILL TAKE CARE OF EVERYTHING FROM SORTING, PACKING, UNPACKING & FULL SET-UP TO HIRING A MOVING TRUCK

Want to move for FREE??

Move to Casa Loma, CVSV, Nanaimo Seniors Village Your whole cost will be covered!

Want to be moved-in and set-up by suppertime? Call Anne Delaney

Delaney Relocation & Home Support Services Inc.

Office 250 339 1188 Cell 250 338 3359 Servi ng Cent ral and N ort h I sl and

just for

A4 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 30, 2014

SEN SE NIO IORS RS FREEDOM FROM PAIN – AT ANY AGE If you are retired, these are your years and you should enjoy them without unnecessary nagging pain. For many people, old injuries, arthritis or back pain can get in the way of fully enjoying this stage of life. Thousands of people world wide have enjoyed pain relief and improved quality of life thanks to new advances in laser therapy The good news for pain sufferers is that with the painless approach of laser light therapy, rapid healing occurs. Dramatic healing can be

seen when laser light is applied to wounds such as diabetic leg ulcers, large bruises, burns and other stubborn wounds. The same tissue healing can be felt for people suffering from tendonitis, back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, ligament issues, disc herniation, nerve pain, bursitis, plantar fasciitis, osteo and rheumatoid arthritis, post surgical recovery and more.

There have been over 2,500 scientific studies done on laser light therapy over 50 years. For example, the Cochrane medical review

MITOCHONDRIAL DYSFUNCTION AND CHRONIC DISEASE Dr. Deidre Macdonald, ND Have you ever wondered why the body ages or why you seem to have less energy as you age?

It turns out the answer lies deep within the cells in a tiny organelle called the mitochondria. They are the energy producers of the body. They turn our food into the fundamental fuel that drives cellular activity. It is in the mitochondria that carbohydrates, protein, and fat are metabolized, producing cellular energy called ATP. The ATP provide the energy to allow cells to do what they do; it keeps the brain working, fires muscles, repairs tissues, and more.

The more energy a certain tissue requires, the more mitochondria those cells contain. The brain and heart have the highest concentration of mitochondria because they require large amounts of oxygen and energy. The heart muscle is packed with mitochondria. Any dysfunction on the level of the mitochondria has a significant impact on the functioning of these organs especially.

As we age, our mitochondria produce about 40% less ATP and therefore our organs feel the effects of decreased energy production.

Mitochondria get damaged over time. The rate of their decline can be influenced by a number of lifestyle factors.

Malfunctioning at the level of the mitochondria has now been shown to be at the heart of a host of degenerative diseases, including diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease; neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, ALS, as well as cancer.

Mitochondria dysfunction has also been shown to be related to chronic fatigue syndrome and has implications for affecting athletic performance. Interventions to stabilize mitochondrial function and enhance ATP production will be the new medicine of the future.

The formation of ATP is dependent upon proper intake of vitamins, minerals, omega-3 fatty acids and plant based nutrients. Deficiencies of these nutrients can alter mitochondrial function. Antioxidants like Vitamins C, E and A protect the mitochondria. Other nutrients like resveratrol from grape skins, green tea EGCG and curcumin from tumeric also have strong protective effects.

Exercise protects the mitochondria as well. A

well-trained athlete has more than twice the muscle mitochondria than a sedentary person.

Exercise stimulates the production of more mitochondria in the cells thus providing an anti-aging effect, especially where we need it most: the brain and heart.

However, those protective mechanisms can be overwhelmed by additional sources of bodily stress, leaving the mitochondria susceptible to damage. A diet high in processed food and high in fat as well as excess alcohol can all damage the mitochondria. Exposure to chemicals, heavy metals, and some pharmaceuticals, like statin drugs for cholesterol, can damage mitochondria.

The heart has to produce 13 to 35 pounds of ATP per day to sustain its approximately 86,000 daily beats. There has been extensive research to find ways to enhance mitochondrial function to maintain the ATP critical to heart function. In addition to exercise and high plant-based diets, natural medicines have been shown to help.

CoEnzyme Q10 is a nutrient that fuels the pathway that makes ATP. In 2013, the European Society of Cardiology stated that it is the first “drug� to significantly improve heart failure in over a decade. This statement was based on research showing that there were very significant reductions in mortality in people with advanced heart failure who took CoEnzyme Q10.

Magnesium and l-carnitine have also been shown to reduce death after heart attacks and more. In a recent Mayo Clinic review, acute heart patients who took L-Carnitine had a 27% reduction in allcause mortality, a 65% reduction in arrhythmias, and a 40% reduction in angina symptoms.

Naturopathic physicians seek to understand the underlying cause of disease and use treatments that target those mechanisms. In the case of neurological disease, cancer, heart disease and more, interventions that repair mitochondrial function can help give the body the fuel it needs to promote healthy tissue function. There is so much more to health than managing symptoms with drugs. Take charge of your health with a great lifestyle and natural medicines.

Dr. Deidre Macdonald is a naturopathic physician who has had a natural family medical practice in downtown Courtenay since 1997. For more information call 250-897-0235 or check out www. getwellhere.com.

confirmed that 5 well designed studies concluded that laser therapy was an effective treatment for back pain. General Motors did a study on carpal tunnel syndrome showing a quicker return to work when laser therapy was used and other studies showed an 84% success rate with carpal tunnel syndrome. A metaanalysis of 35 placebo controlled studies demonstrated that laser therapy reduced pain and increased mobility in osteoarthritis of the knee. Studies comparing the effect of various physiotherapy machines on osteoarthritis of the knee showed that laser therapy had the greatest short and long term pain relieving effect. Excellent results are being achieved particularly with new breakthroughs in the technology. The laser machine available now have nine laser beams per treatment head, enabling faster and more powerful treatment of larger areas than the traditional older, single laser units.

This technology enhances healing of tissues, thus creating long term effects. It bathes tissue with photons. Photons are particles of energy that are absorbed by cells and ramp up a number of positive healing responses. In essence, light energy is converted into

biochemical energy. The therapeutic light beam permits penetration of deep tissues without adversely affecting normal cells. The body’s natural healing processes are enhanced and tissues heal. Laser therapy doesn`t just mask the pain, it accelerates the healing process and treats the injured tissue in a lasting fashion.

Numerous scientific studies have pinpointed the mechanism by which it speeds healing, such as increasing the fuel within the cell (ATP) by 300%, improving blood supply, and enhancing cell replication.

Dr. Macdonald’s clinic uses a state-of-the-art laser machine called the Theralase-1000 which is used by thousands of practitioners worldwide.

This type of cold laser therapy is painless, highly effective and there are no known serious side effects. So if you are looking forward to a retirement filled with traveling, golf, gardening and more, make sure that your body gets all the help it needs to let you live life to the fullest.

To find out more about laser therapy, call for a complimentary 15 minute introductory evaluation with Dr. Macdonald at 897-0235. Dr. Deidre Macdonald is a naturopathic physician with a natural family medical practice in downtown Courtenay. www.getwellhere.com

• Wills, Powers of Attorney, and Represenation Agreements • Legal Documents • Travel Documents • Property Acquisitions & Transfers

520 4th Street

250-871-7150

COURTENAY

www.darylrobbins.ca Bank Trust Insurance Wealth Management

A faster way to save! *

2.00%

Tax-Free Savings Account Want a fast, tax-free way to save for a vacation, home renovation or a new car? Our TFSA products can help you achieve your goals. Ask us for more details!

Courtenay / 470 Puntledge Road / P: 250.334.8888 cwbank.com A CWB Group Company *Rate subject to change without notice. WestEarner TFSA Account Only. Interest calculated daily, paid monthly. Available in-branch only.

Seniors helped to build our country and continue to contribute to its success The Government has taken significant action to meet the needs of seniors by: • ensuring financial security for seniors; • enabling active participation in the labour force & community; • helping seniors to age in place; • encouraging healthy & active aging; • combatting elder abuse; h • ensuring seniors have access to information, service & benefits. services For more info go to seniors.gc.ca

MP Vancouver Island Nor th 1250F Cedar Street, Campbell River 250-287-9388 & ax 250-287-9361

www.johnduncanmp.com

Committed to Serving the Vancouver Island North Constituents

just for

Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 30, 2014 A5

SEN SE NIO IORS RS LIVING WITH A SENIOR CAT Senior cats are your affectionate long term companions that have won your heart. You have had them for years and know their in’s and out’s and what makes them unique, and in turn they know how to make you smile.

Although all cats age differently depending on their diet, activity level and personality, cats generally begin their senior years around the age of seven.

With the cooler months approaching, a common medical problem to be aware of when your cat reaches its senior years is arthritis.

Arthritis is one of the most under diagnosed and under treated condition in cats. About 90% of cats over the age of 12 are suffering from some form of arthritis and yet many owners are unaware of this.

Because cats are small and quite agile they can often cover up mobility difficulties and pain from arthritis. And unlike dogs, cats generally don’t limp with arthritis but will show subtle changes in their lifestyle or behavior such as; reluctance to jump up to or down from obstacles or go through a cat flap, sleeping more often and for longer periods of time,

stiff or creaky joints, matted or scurfy coat from lack of self grooming, less tolerance for people or more withdrawn attitude.

There are many ways to help with the pain of this condition such as a joint support supplement. A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory may be prescribed by your veterinarian but it is recommended to run a full blood panel on your pet before using this medication.

Changing your cats exercise routine and altering their movement around the house may also help to decrease discomfort and further damage to the joints; slick floors, jumping up on or down from high surfaces and furniture, and stairs are all obstacles that may need to be avoided or reduced is possible for your pets comfort.

Maintaining activity and play at low levels is very important. Creating places where your cat can easily climb and hide, and playing gentle games with him/her are great ways to keep them active and keep their mind sharp while reducing the impact on their joints. Relocating their food, water, and litter box may also be necessary for ease of access.

Controlling your cats’ weight can also be a major factor in keeping their joints healthy and pain free. Excess weight can put extra strain and pressure on the joints which increases the risk of arthritis at any age.

Mobility/Joint Support diets can also add great support and relief for sore, swollen joints.

Just like people, the cooler weather can elevate your cat’s aches and pains associated with arthritis. Make sure they have a warm, cozy bed to curl up on where they can sleep those rainy days away.

A wise precaution for cats over the age of seven is to have, at least, annual health exams to assess their health and catch arthritis in the early stages. Although you cannot prevent arthritis from happening, you can certainly help slow down the process and provide ways

to keep your beloved feline friend as pain free and limber as possible during their senior years.

The most important thing to remember is to cherish your cat’s senior years; they come too suddenly and pass too quickly. They will be some of the best years and moments you will have with an old, loyal and loving friend. So make every day count!

Submitted by Van Isle Veterinary Hospital

Comox Recreation COME PLAY WITH US!

Open Evenings and Weekends!

Seniors Play for Free!

Wednesday October 1st is National Seniors Day

Celebrating Seniors

October and November is all about senior pets!

We are offering free drop ins to all customers 60 years and over. This includes courts, fitness studio and all programs that accept drop-ins Comox Community Centre COME PLAY WITH US! 1855 Noel Ave, Comox info@comox.ca 250-339-2255 www.comox.ca

Give us a call to learn more about our special discounted senior pet package.

250-334-8400 24Hr emergency on call service

www.vanislevet.com

CVRD Sports & Aquatic Centres

Adult Programs 50 and Over

Want more strength or energy?

Need motivation to keep physically active?

Recovering from an injury or surgery?

The CVRD’s sports and aquatic centres have programs that are specifically designed for adults 50 and over.

Aquatic and dry land programs involve: Ĵ Participating at your own pace Ĵ An instructor who has special training www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/rec in teaching fitness to older adults Tel: 250-334-9622, ext. 1 Ĵ Small groups where the instructor can make sure you stay injury-free Ĵ The chance to try new fitness activities Ĵ Meeting like-minded people

Register today!

Follow comoxvalleyrd

health connection

With a Fusion Airgo 2 in 1 “too far” doesn’t exist!

WALKER

into A TRANSPORT CHAIR

Find your freedom at: 1070 Cliffe Ave, Courtenay BC 250.338.0903 www.theHomeMedicalShop.com

A6 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 30, 2014

News

Citizens on Patrol Society celebrates 20 years of service

By Michael Briones Echo Staff When there’s someone watching over the community, residents can sleep soundly as they know the neighbourhood is safe.

That’s the invaluable service the Comox Valley Citizens on Patrol Society has been providing for 20 years now.

It’s a vigilant volunteer group that has served as the extended eyes and ears of the local police force.

Last week, the society celebrated two decades of operation and gave recognition to the service of the many volunteers who have selflessly donated a lot of time and energy in helping keep the community safe. “We had a great celebration,� said president Cindy Von Kampen.

The event was attended by local politicians, ICBC officials and members of the RCMP, who appreciate the work this group does in helping police combat crime. “We fully support the Comox Valley Citizens on Patrol,� said Cpl. Ken Simmons, who is the liaison officer assigned to the group. “They provide valuable resource and assistance to the RCMP.�

COPS started in 1992 when the community was asked to help locate a little girl who went missing. A local CB group took part in the search armed with radios and wore visible vests.

When the search was over, the CB group continued to patrol the community day and night.

They drew some attention as well as concerns. Residents reported to the RCMP about this group driving around at all hours. The local police knew

Comox Valley Citizens On Patrol Society shows off its new van that will help them patrol the community looking for suspicious activities. who they were and got together with the group. They decided to form Comox Valley Citizens on Patrol in 1994. Later they adopted the COPS acronym when the group became a society.

Von Kampen said the group has lasted this long because of the strong commitment from people who feel this service is valuable to the community. “It makes people want to stay and do it,� said Von Kampen, who has been involved with COPS for eight years. “We still have four of the original members still volunteering with us.

That’s how dedicated they are.�

The group currently has 38 volunteers and they’re always looking for more members.

Those interested have to fill out an

application form and pass a criminal record check. Applications can be picked up at the local RCMP station or e-mail cvcops@telus.net or phone 250897-1443.

In order to attract more members, COPS is making themselves more visible to the community. “We’re going from the old way to the new way,� said Von Kampen. “Years ago members said they didn’t want to be seen and known to the public. Now that has changed. We have just purchased a van and some jackets and staff. “We are hoping to get recognized.

We are always looking for new members so we’re hoping to grow in the membership.�

Having more volunteers, Von Kampen said, will allow them to do

more work in the community. “We do the local speed watch at every location from Fanny Bay to Oyster River, especially at school zones,� said Von Kampen. “We’re very active in the campaign for distracted driving and we just had a day recently where we worked with the RCMP and ICBC to do this.�

As well, COPS also assists ICBC recover stolen autos. They use a Stolen Auto Recovery System, a unit that allows volunteers to input licence plate numbers to help recover stolen autos.

In one year they helped recover at least five stolen vehicles.

In 2013 COPS volunteers worked a total of 13,456 hours and drove 53,246 kilometers.

In the 2012-2013 season COPS, with 40 members volunteering their spare

time of at least two shifts a month for about eight hours, helped local RCMP find people that were lost, helped find vehicles and looked out for the safety of the neighborhood by being the extra eyes and ears of the community Von Kampen praised the support they’ve received in the last two decades. “We would not be here today if it wasn’t for the support of the City Of Courtenay, Town of Comox, Regional District, and some local residents who donate to our Registered Non Profit Society,� she said.

During her speech to the many guests and also to fellow members at the celebration, Van Kampen ended it with a quote: “Volunteers are seldom paid; not because they are worthless, but because they are priceless!�

2 014

WELCOME TO THE SHOW We at Bridal Exhibition are very honored to have been a finalist for the 2013 Vancouver Island Business Excellence Awards and are proud to present this year's fall show on Sunday, Oct 5, 2014 at the Filberg Centre. We invite you to come and meet with top wedding professionals and organize every aspect of your wedding in one day.

We are a Vancouver Island owned and operated company and have hosted the Bridal Exhibition for more than 19 years. Each show has been very successful and this one promises to once again live up to those expectations.

Come send the day meeting with wedding enthusiasts, check out the on stage presentations,

fashion shows, and take in the samples, freebies and fun!

The event runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and features some of the Island's best wedding exhibitors from every avenue of the wedding industry. Make sure you don't miss out on our fashion shows, and on stage presentations. We will be giving away door prizes every hour and each registered couple at the show will have the opportunity to enter the draw for GRAND PRIZE WEDDING PACKAGE. All couples will also receive a free Wedding Experts Bridal Resource Directory and the new issue of Vancouver Island Wedding Ring magazine. Our registered couples will also receive

AT THE

a complimentary Bridal Rewards card when they attend our show which entitles them to all types of savings from our participating Bridal Exhibition Vendors.

We look forward to seeing all the soon-to-be newlyweds and their family and friends at our show and encourage all couples to pre-register at www.bridalexhibition.ca Advance tickets can also be purchased online for $12 and are $12 at the door.

We would like to thank our media sponsors: The Comox Valley Echo & The Eagle 97.3 FM.

We would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who attends the Comox Valley Exhibition and wish much happiness on your wedding day, Our website is also an online Bridal Guide to help you organize your special day. For exhibitor information, bridal resources and wedding planning guides please go to www.bridalexhibition.ca or call us at 1-888-501-9696 Sincerely, Rick Scheffers: Owner / Producer Beckie Ross: Co-Producer

KINGFISHER

ut You! o b a l l a s It’ Come enjoy an intimate wedding at the Kingfisher! *HW PDUULHG DW WKH ZDWHU¡V HGJH RYHUORRNLQJ WKH 3DFLÀF or in our lavish garden with breathtaking panoramic views. )URP ZRUOG FODVV FXLVLQHV E\ RXU &KHI WR RXU IDPRXV +\GURSDWK LQ WKH 3DFLÀF 0LVW 6SD ZH¡OO SDPSHU \RX and your wedding guests on your special day & beyond.

Call now to inquire about our new 2015 Wedding Packages

Call Sales & Catering at 250-897-1178 kingfisherspa.com

4330 Island Hwy S Courtenay BC V9N 9R9

Expression.

Eternity.

We have the perfect space for your wedding reception!

The Florence Filberg Centre & Native Sons Hall are centrally located in downtown Courtenay.

View these facilities on the virtual tour at: www.courtenay.ca/virtual-tour.

Drop by or call 338-1000 to book your special occasion.

Francis Jewellers 320 Fifth Street, Downtown Courtenay

250 334 2611

Courtenay Recreation

Filberg Centre 250-338-1000

Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 30, 2014 A7

News

City of Courtenay launches new website with social media links The City of Courtenay is hoping its new and improved website will help the community stay on top of municipal news and events.

It just launched the city’s new website that includes channels to popular social media like facebook and twitter.

The city has been working on this project since October 2013. The Cost for the 550-page website is $74,000.

It offers features such as online employment applications, improved search capabilities, accessibility options, an events calendar, and a responsive design that adjusts the layout to fit a variety of devices and screen sizes ranging from large monitors to mobile phones.

Chief Administrative Officer David Allen said these new communication tools will make it easier to find information and interact with the City.

“Our website hasn’t had a major upgrade for many years, and we took this opportunity to review everything with fresh eyes,” said Allen.

“Much of the information on the current site has been completely updated and reorganized, and there’s lots of new content and tools as well.

“The new website and social media represent a big step forward in our communication efforts.”

New and improved content and easy-to-use navigation were designed around the needs of the general public as well as the business and development community.

Contact information and related

links are available on every page of the new website.

Other custom functionality includes a projects gallery that will inform visitors of capital projects under way in the city, and photo galleries and tours that showcase the natural beauty of the region.

For businesses, new online applications for current bid opportunities will make it easier for vendors wishing to sell products or services to the city.

The new site also includes an emergency notification system.

In the event of an emergency, every page of the website will include an emergency alert, ensuring that website visitors are kept informed, regardless of which page they land on.

Courtenay’s new website was designed by Atomic Crayon, a Victoria-based web agency that has designed more than 40 websites for municipal clients that include governing bodies in British Columbia, Alberta and the United States.

To view the new website, go to www.courtenay.ca

Child care fraudster gets fine for bike theft hours before release

By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff The day before a woman convicted of defrauding the province of hundreds of thousands of dollars through a child care scam was released from custody she was sentenced for another crime. On Sept. 18, Victoria Rutenberg’s lawyer Douglas Marion entered a plea of guilty to a Theft Under $5,000 charge in Courtenay Provincial court, while his client watched by video link from a halfway house on the mainland.

In January Rutenberg was sentenced to 18 months in jail for bilking the Ministry of Children and Family Development out of $360,000 after billing for child care services that either didn’t exist or weren’t as large as she claimed.

She has been out on day parole but was scheduled to be released into house arrest Sept. 19.

Rutenberg took advantage of the Child Care Operating Fund Program to extract $118,000 for a phony Cumberland business, $118,000 for a fake Royston operation and $120,000 in overcharges for a Courtenay facility that took care of 10 children, though she received funding for more than 40.

She would routinely head to CIBC with government checks totaling more than $20,000.

“It was quite a significant fraud,” said Crown prosecutor Richard Ellsay reminding the court of the scope of the rip-off trick, which helped set off a wave of changes in the child care ministry.

While she was awaiting sentencing, reports emerged of Rutenberg frequenting pawn shops, and in one instance she was caught on video helping her boyfriend steal a bike outside a Courtenay department store.

She denied it at the time and even entered a plea of not-guilty, but in the end she admitted to playing a minor role in the bike theft.

Marion said his client, who sat in a boardroom-type setting wearing a white shirt with a calm expression on her face, has behaved well during her first eight months in the prison system.

“She has done quite well,” he said, explaining the reason why she had been released to Columbia House, a 12-bed halfway house for women in New Westminster, which is run by the Elizabeth Fry Society of Greater Vancouver.

Rutenberg had been a secondary actor in the Oct. 11, 2013 drama that was quite minor in comparison to the extent to which she defrauded taxpayers, he added.

Surveillance video shows her helping hold a truck canopy open so her boyfriend could place a stolen bike in the back of a truck.

Judge Anthony Dohm didn’t want to affect the woman’s Sept. 19 release from the community residential facility into house arrest for the theft and gave her a $300 fine, which she must pay within six months.

She faces 24 months of probation.

Rutenberg’s defence lawyer noted she has already begun interviewing for volunteer positions.

Sunday, Oct 5th 11am–3pm Filberg Centre BRIDAL REWARDS

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

Always Invited Event Rentals

12:00 pm Fashion Show:

•

All in One Party Shop

•

Shady Shores Beach Resort

•

Always Invited Event Rentals

•

South Hill Designs by Danielle

with floral provided by: Purely Flowers

•

Arbonne

•

•

Best Western, The Westerly Hotel

Sublime Celebrations Event Planning & Design

1:00 pm Fashion Show:

•

Courtenay Fifth Street Florist

•

•

Four Frames Photo Booth

Szymon Szymczakowski Photography

•

Jamberry Nails

•

Table Charm

•

Lavish Engagements

•

The Bride’s Closet

•

Park Lane Jewelley

•

The Wedding Experts

•

Purely Flower

•

Undercoverwear

3:00 pm GRAND PRIZE DRAW

•

RBC

•

Uniglobe Alliance Travel Ltd

SPECIAL THANKS TO: FASHION SHOW MUSIC: RSM PRODUCTION – DJ SERVICES

•

Relay Event Rentals

•

Vancouver Island Wedding Ring

•

RSM Productions DJ Services

•

Zija

The Bride’s Closet

Rentals value up to $1000.00 will receive $50.00 off Rentals value from $1001.00 to $2000.00 will receive $100.00 off

UnderCover Wear

Rentals value from $2001.00 to $3000.00 will receive $200.00 off

2:00 pm Fashion Show:

The Bride’s Closet

Rentals value from $3001.00 to $4000.00 will receive $300.00 off

Best Western Plus The Westerly Hotel & Convention Centre 10% off their meeting room space rental or 10% off delivery fee for off-site functions

Lavish Engagements

with floral provided by: Courtenay Fifth Street Florist

STAGE DÉCOR: ALL IN ONE PARTY SHOP

15% off Lavish Engagement packages

RSM Productions DJ Services Free Ceremony Services when booking a Deluxe, Premium or Ultimate Wedding Package with RSM Productions

2014 VENDORS

FASHION SHOW FLOWERS: PURELY FLOWER & COURTENAY FIFTH STREET FLORIST

Sublime Celebrations Event Planning & Design Free wedding cake with every Full Wedding Planning package purchase (value up to $250 - see vendor for details)

279 Selby Street, Nanaimo 250-753-4975

The Bride’s Closet Free Veil (valued up to $100) with purchase of wedding gown over $800

You Deserve the Best!

www.thebridescloset.com

Wedding & Honeymoon Destinations Whether you’re planning a trip to Tofino or anywhere else, make sure that you come and see the honeymoon specialists.

Save hundreds of dollars on every trip!

UNIGLOBE Alliance Travel

Courtenay Campbell River Toll Free

250-334-3442 250-287-7715 1-866-334-3442 www.uniglobealliancetravel. com

Relay event rentals

Entertaining made easy...

WEDDINGS • BUSINESS FUNCTIONS FAMILY EVENTS • PARTIES

MODERN | CREATIVE 250 | 730 | 1150

www.theweddingring.ca/vancouver-island-weddings vancouverisland@theweddingring.ca

1255 McPhee Avenue, Courtenay

250.871.4646

www.relayevents.ca

artweddings The

of

Everything you need for a perfect day.

Visit www.thriftyfoods.com

COURTENAY • CROWN ISLE Customer Service: 1.800.667.8280

LANA SCHULER Pure Safe Beneficial Kate Read

Independent Arbonne Consultant

CID: 116284219 Ph: (250) 661-9918 Email: kateread.arbonne@gmail.com Website: www.arbonne.ca

Exceptional quality jewellery backed by an unconditional guarantee!

Kate Vasseur 250 667 0315

https://parklanejewellery.ca/rep/katevasseur

• 300+ nail wrap designs

INDEPENDENT DISTR STR DISTRIBUTOR

• Easy to apply www.noladunn.jamberrynails.net welovejams@telus.net • 250.739.0941 Nola Dunn, Jamberry Nails - Independent Consultant

T 250.591.5049 | C 250.616.5049

www.lschuler.myzija.com

lanaschuler@shaw.ca

A8 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 30, 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 IT’S SO IMPORTANT TO VOTE It’s important that Comox Valley residents vote in the November local elections, six weeks away.

Why? For a start - it is a four year term, instead of three. Some say it takes 4 years to learn the ropes, but in the real world, if you don’t learn the ropes in the first year, you likely won’t be in the job much longer.

Representing the majority of constituents views, is a very challenging job for elected representatives.

Hard work. It is much easier to defer to the Administration’s recommendations.

In fact, we have seen significant erosion of democracy in our local government with the Alternative Approval Process. An easy route for approval. Only 2-3% vote to oppose new taxes.

The majority of elected and appointed CVRD Directors are not representing the majority view because they do not solicit input from constituents.

Representing us is their fundamental role - their job as Elected Representatives This is an extremely challenging role and more than a part-time job spent in numerous meetings.

They are reasonably compensated.

Area CVRD representatives will earn about $200,000 in the next four years plus benefits. Worth every cent if they do the job.

This above average compensation should attract candidates who are willing to work full time for their constituents. It is a full time job to solicit and represent the majority view on budgets, policy and priorities.

In November, elect Councillors and CVRD Directors who will connect with constituents and represent the majority in decisions that affect us all.

This includes 20,000 low income residents, who are most impacted by new taxes and increased fees.

I’m retired, and like most retired folks, don’t need or want a full time job. We need to elect candidates who will represent the majority view over the next four years and lead the democratic process in our local government.

Whatever your view, please vote on November 15th.

Phil Harrison Comox

IT’S A MATTER OF TRUST I have enjoyed Ray Grigg’s excellent articles in the North Islander section of the Echo for many years.

As usual, his piece on how we define economics in the September 23 issue is interesting and informative; however, the headline, which reads, “Economics has evolved from science to political” seems to have missed the essence of what Grigg is saying, that is, economics is not now, nor was it ever a science; it could hardly have evolved from something it never was. Neither does he imply the existence of any other predecessor whatsoever when he argues that economics has always been political in human society.

Grigg articulates a complex societal phenomenon well, citing authorities and giving examples. His essential point is economics is not driven by any natural, immutable law but, rather, it’s as many different things as there are different human societies, as there are freedoms or repressions, as there are democracies or tyrannies, cruel or benevolent. In free democracies citizens create the kind of economy they want, and are satisfied to the extent their politicians represent their desires in legislation. Given the same found-wealth opportunity, the economies of Norway and Canada otherwise contrast each other in what their respective democracies have demanded from their governments: Norway collects high royalties in a trillion-dollar public trust fund realized from offshore oil extracted at a steady, pace, while Canada prefers to provide public subsidies, keep royalties low and regulatory burden small for private fossil fuel extractors which extract the resource at breakn eck speed, providing short term jobs and forgoing any public heritage fund for future generations. For the time being, Harper has convinced enough voters that this is the best way to get the things they want in life. The point is the two distinct economies are the products of their respective democracies’ political choices, all other things being equal—- not of some science that anywhere and always works for whomever uses it.

Any society’s powerful elites, wealthy industrialists or high officials, have a disproportionate amount of influence and their offices are conceived as public trusts. Despite claims of magnanimity and impeccable honesty, and solemn oath swearing, society still relies on laws to hold those offices to account and to deter unethical behaviour with punishments—-just in case. Once US banks and investment houses had successfully lobbied conservative governments to relieve them of ethical invigilation, they assuaged any resulting distrust by misrepresenting their economic system as scientific, too factual, consistent, unbiased and sophisticated, they said, to be corrupted by human foible. Assisted in this sleight of hand by complicated derivative formulae, high speed electronic financial transactions and common naive faith in analogue computing power, millions of junk-secured investments were sold and sub-prime mortgages inked, and a giant inverted pyramid over Wall Street mel ted down, squeezing the largest economy in the world for trillions in bailouts, with shock waves encircling and sloshing around the globe, ruining millions of innocent people who lost their jobs or houses or both. The real economy bankers were operating was that of corporate executive greed, the colossal failure of their bogus “science” exposing them for the charlatans they really were.

Not surprisingly the notion of scientific economics has fallen out of favour. Perhaps this is one of the reasons Harper eschews science by liquidating publicly owned scientific libraries, muzzling scientists on the public payroll that haven’t already been cut, forbidding their testimony at dumbed-down environmental hearings, dismissing the 97% of scientists around the world who conclude climate change is manmade and ongoing, and so on. But that doesn’t mean science has gone extinct or that he’s “evolved”—-no, the economic system he wants us to believe is safe as milk is that of international trade deals like FIPA. The question is, of course, whether the society that’s supposed to create the economy it wants thinks this is the best way to get what it wants. It’s a matter of trust because these trade deals have been negotiated in secret.

Scotty Donaldson Denman Island

Letters to the Editor

When ya gotta go, ya gotta go There are too many young people in positions of advocacy. This is especially so when it comes to dishing out advice to seniors. The papers and media are all full of councilors and newly minted MA’s prattling on about our physical and emotional well being. Don’t do this; don’t eat that etc, etc. So I figure it is high time that someone doled out some practical and pertinent advice to we doddering old fools.

One of the biggest problems facing today’s local senior residents is the whereabouts and availability of accessible washrooms! Toward that end I have personally researched my own day to day requirements and have come up with the following suggestions.

If you are coming into Courtenay from the South end of town (with the water on your right) your first stop has to be the Wal-Mart. Their washrooms are immediately accessible on the left hand side of their main entrance, past the McDonalds. They are clean, well lit and wheelchair accessible.

After grabbing a quick Mac coffee on the way out, your next stop will probably be the Driftwood Mall. It’s only a

safe two minutes up the road and, if you really need speed in your quest, park around the back as the washrooms are just inside the back door in the middle of the block. With your mission accomplished you will probably want to stop at the coffee bar. Go past the washrooms and keep straight ahead.

N.B. Only get a small or medium size java here because the next rest spot is a whopping ten minutes away along Cliffe Avenue, over the bridge and into the Superstore!

By the time you get there you will probably be in a hurry so go straight in the main door, spin your walker left and scurry past the checkouts to the far corner.

Luckily (if my memory isn’t on the blink once more) the nearest cafe is across the parking lot at Timmy’s. You can relax at this juncture and treat yourself to a large latte grande as the next stop will be just across the lights at Canadian Tire.

You can save yourself some time here by parking outside the Auto Repair door.

Go straight inside to the desk and they will show you where the keys are! These

washrooms have the added advantage of being equipped with a “baby change” table. I’m assuming this is where the young folks swap their babies? Anyway, it’s also very handy for rolling up a few smokes for the rest of your journey and a good spot to sort out your lunch time pills and vitamin supplements.

As for the journey home, simply retrace your passage along Cliffe Avenue.

Do not go into the arid region of Fifth Street; creature comforts there are few and far between.

Remember! A wise man or woman goes when they can. A foolish man or woman goes when she has to!

Gillian Parker Comox

CLOWNISH MATTER I was smacked in the gob by the very brief notice (Echo Extra, Sept 19th), “Clowns get together after summer break”.

What do clowns do on their break? Be miserable?

Colin Park Comox

We’re adults, so let us choose We have just learned of the recent closure of Marigold Pharmacy. This is my personal letter of support for Rudy, his staff, the pharmacy and the health store. And a personal request to The College of Pharmacists of B.C. I have been a customer at Marigold since it opened its doors. I am a semi-retired professional and I have chosen to use many of Marigold’s products.

With the myriad of pharmacies in the Valley, I have chosen to have my prescriptions filled there.

And many times when my doctor has had no suggestions or the directives given, have little reference to how I choose to care for my well being, I have turned to Rudy and asked his advice. Each and every time, our conversations are educated, instructive and he has shown to be an excellent resource.

Without some of the distinct health care products that Marigold offers, I can attest that my health would not be optimal today.

How do I know this - not because my doctor prescribed what was best for me, nor because I asked Rudy about a product that he shared knowledge and insight. I have gained optimal health because I listened to myself, what my body was telling me and then I was able to try something new from Marigold Pharmacy (that has worked) because they compounded it!

Thus I find it intriguing that the College of Pharmacists of BC are looking to silence one of the most engaged, caring, innovative and inspired pharmacists I have ever CHOSEN to do business with.

Perhaps the College finds it somewhat disruptive to learn that patients are actually self-responsible customers, who prefer to have a wide range of choices available, so we can make better informed and educated decisions about our own health.

So my personal request to The College of Pharmacists of BC is simply this.... On behalf of all those like myself, who are responsible grown adults, making informed decisions about our health care options, please just grow up. Its’ time we all realize

that health care and how we as patients are caring for ourselves, is quickly changing.

I close with this invocation. May your College find the courage to let go of the old ways of finding excuses to shut down a thriving local business that assists many people in its community to live stronger healthier lives.

May your College move into inspiration and forward thinking by providing those pharmacists that are leaders in their own right, like Rudy Sanchez and the team at Marigold Pharmacy, the opportunity to assist your industry to grow and create new systems so all will benefit accordingly.

And lastly, may your College and all those who are part of your profession, open your hearts wider to care for your patients and customers to the level that Rudy Sanchez does with those of us who have walked through his doors.

Always a Marigold Customer, Vivian Dean Royston

WE CAN’T AFFORD FOR-PROFIT In her recent letters in the Echo, Barbara Mellin refers to some of the lamentable extra user fees and service charges under BC’s existing medical services structure, for things like crutches, wheelchairs, and special bandages.

And she supports extending MSP coverage to prescription drug costs and dental and vision care, necessities currently not covered.

But, in the next breath, Ms Mellin promotes the introduction of even more privatized, for-profit health care.

Australian research has shown that private medical facilities drain health care professionals and resources from the rest of the system, thus lengthening wait times for all except those who can afford expensive private insurance.

The cost to privately insure an average family of four in the US is over $16,000 per year. Policies have, on average, an annual $1000 in deductibles, meaning that the first

thousand dollars expended comes out of pocket.

The bulk of bankruptcies in the US are due to medical bills.

And 69% of Americans who filed medically-related bankruptcies in 2007 were insured at the time of their filing, so private insurance isn’t much protection from catastrophic bills.

If Dr Day’s constitutional challenge is successful, problems in Canadian health care will only worsen.

The reality is that most Canadians cannot afford an enlarged for-profit component in our medical system.

Tom Pater Courtenay

A VIBRANT COMMUNITY Courtenay is a vibrant city, nestled among spectacular mountains and rolling farmland with the ocean at its doorstep.

Those of us who are lucky enough to live here know that, and lots of other people from across Canada are starting to realize it, too.

A recent study by the Island Coastal Economic Trust looked to see which cities in Canada were attracting newcomers which cities had a net inflow of people.

While Toronto and Montreal lost more than 50,000 people each, Courtenay attracts more people every year.

Older Canadians are choosing Courtenay in large numbers. It is the 6th most popular place to move in the whole country (with age comes wisdom). And younger Canadians are choosing Courtenay too - our city was 14 out of 147 Canadian cities in attracting 25-49 year olds. According to the Island Coastal Economic Trust, Courtenay gained over 1,200 25-49 year olds - the economic engine of a growing community.

The word is out; Courtenay is a destination. Let’s build a lively, prosperous and sustainable city and welcome those, young and old, who choose to make it home.

David Frisch Courtenay

Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 30, 2014 A9

News

Sally Ann lays ‘Cornerstone’ of its expanding family services

By Michael Briones Echo Staff The Salvation Army has just laid the new cornerstone to enhance further the services it provides the community.

It unveiled a new building located on 29th Street aptly called “Cornerstone Community and Family Services.” The official grand opening was held last Friday.

It’s a place where people, who need assistance, are treated more like guests instead of clients.

Pastor Kevin Elsasser said they’re pleased to see the completion of this project that was initiated by his predecessor, Darryl Burry, who now heads the Salvation Army in the Okanagan.

“Things are changing,” said Elsasser. “The direction the Burries, our colleagues, has set for this is coming true. We just had an Island meeting with all the Salvation Army teams. They came to our building and we were the envy of all. People were so excited.”

The new centre features more space and extra rooms that will allow the Sally Ann to expand the services it provides while continuing to preserve their other programs like handing out emergency food hampers and looking after the needs of people that include clothing, furniture and many household necessities.

“What the new operation does is allow us a whole lot more training

Comox Valley Salvation Army Pastor Kevin Elsasser shows off collection of food for its emergency food hampers that are now being handed to clients at its new Cornerstone Family Services located on Kilpatrick Avenue.

“If you can’t interact with your boss and accept what they’re saying, then you’re going to get fired,” Elsasser explained.

The local Sally Ann is now discussing with School District 71 about introducing Red Cap, a program geared for children aged eight to 12 years that have anger issues.

“We had great success in Peace River (Alberta) and we’re hoping to have great success here too,” said Elsasser. “There’s one guy who would just storm out of the school and he would be swearing all the way down the school. And through taking this program, he was one of our most successful people. He came back and said ‘I understand why I am angry. I understand some of the stuff, getting beat up by my brother and I’ve

A ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of the new family services building of the Comox Valley Salvation Army was held last week. The divisional commander of the Salvation Army of BC Lt. Col. Larry Martin (second from left) did the honours of cutting the ribbon assisted by Comox Valley Pastor Lt. Kevin Elsasser, Lt. Michelle Elsasser and Velma Martin. space facility,” said Brent Hobden, community ministries director. “Now what we’re able to do is offer new courses.”

The goal is to help marginalized people gain confidence and skills that will help them get employment. New programs that include forklift training, first aid, Food Safe, computer training and anger management are now going to be offered at the centre.

“Just a couple of months ago we

graduated our first [forklift training] class of 11 people here in the valley,” said Hobden. “In those 11 people, we know for sure that one has already found employment so they’re very tangible and recognized services that are going to promote dignity and health in our community.”

The centre will also soon be starting its anger management course for both adults and youth, which Elsasser said is very important.

learned bad skills.’

“Once you’ve started to recognize the signs - knots in your stomach, clenched jaws, clenched fists - that you’re angry, you can do something pro-active.”

Red Cap has lessons that focus on three areas - stopping, thinking and problem solving.

Elsasser said that the courses they choose to offer are inspired by people that come to the centre. They are asked to fill out a survey which Elsasser said they use as a gauge of what programs people are most interested in learning.

“We just don’t want to start a program on our own,” said Elsasser. “We want to make sure the interest is there otherwise we’re setting ourselves up for failure.”

Project Watershed marsh funding request gets warm reception Rural directors with the Comox Valley Regional District showed support for a salt marsh shoreline improvement project that would cost $25,000. Money for the Comox Valley Project Watershed Society environmental regeneration effort was approved in principal at the Sept. 15 Electoral Area Services Committee meeting and will come up for an official vote at the end of the month.

The funding hangs on the Union of BC Municipalities allowing the regional district to siphon money from Community Works Funds to inject the ecological project with the financial lifeblood it needs to get off the ground.

“I think over the past couple years people have come to realize that soft shores trump hard shores when it comes to mitigating cli-

mate change and wave action,” said director Edwin Grieve, noting that eelgrass on its own can reduce waves by 30 per cent, on top of serving as habitat for marine life. “You have to remember that the Comox estuary at one point as abundant in eel grass and kelp beds. Over the last 100 years of industrial development the sawmills and what have you - a lot of that has been lost.”

The carbon sequestering of eelgrass is roughly 10 times that of evergreen trees, he added.

“What they’re basically saying is the work they’re doing is helping to protect shorelines,” noted director Jim Gillis.

Salt marsh work could be completed along parkways, which would aid tourism efforts in the Comox Valley, staff added, explaining this could help to make it easier to legally open up the purse strings from municipal coffers,

Man facing child porn, luring charges gets computer access for assignments

By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff A young man who faces luring and child pornography charges has been granted the right to use computers while attending classes at North Island College. Thomas Wesley Smith, who is accused of perpetrating the offences while volunteering with the youth group at Comox Pentecostal Church had been restricted from using electronic devices with access to the internet by his bail conditions.

The brief September hearing in Courtenay Provincial Court, for which the accused was not present, underscored the challenges the legal system faces in trying to combat online crimes while still adhering to principals of law that promote fairness and rehabilitation.

On March 12 Smith, 23, was arrested on suspicion of luring at least on minor under the age of 14 and possessing child pornography for distribution. He was released on conditions including no contact with anyone under the age of 18 without the presence of an adult, and not possessing any device capable of connecting to the internet.

Comox Pentecostal Church’s leadership has

said it will assist investigators in any way possible.

Defence lawyer Eric Chesterley told the judge he had applied to amend the computer use portion of the judicial interim release documentation so that his client, who is innocent until proven guilty, can succeed in his post-secondary studies.

Now the order states the youth must not possess a computer, cellphone or other electronic device “except for the purpose of his coursework.” However, he “may not access or use” platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Meetup, Tumblr (the Crown spelled this out for the record), Google+, Pinterest “or any other social network.”

Edward Gouge only had to consider application for a moment.

“Despite the fact that I’ve never heard of most of those I will make the order,” he said, referring to the social applications.

Crown lawyer Richard Ellsay chimed in, commenting on the vast array of these peer-topeer networks that have emerged in recent years to dominate interpersonal communication among young people.

“I Googled them,” Ellsay said.

Notice to the Public

Comox – Powell River Customers

although the CVRD is still waiting to hear back from UBCM on the specific requirements for dipping into the Community Works Fund.

Shoreline improvement could be seen as a way to protect against the threat of a serious catastrophe or natural disaster.

Typically a disaster mitigation project, which would be one scenario for accessing the money under the “infrastructure” category, would have to create a tangible capital asset, staff noted.

“The resulting infrastructure’s not ‘owned’ by anyone,” said CFO Beth Dunlop, explaining some of the challenges to figuring out how to support Project Watershed.

The funding would come from the Area B Community Works Funds pot. “It may or may

Margaret Martin, Ian Harmon, Norma Dirom David Cooper Photography

By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff

not qualify.”

It might also qualify for money under the “capacity building” section of the Gas Tax agreement.

Project Watershed has restored over 5,000 m3 of eelgrass in the Comox Valley estuary and now wants to expand the restoration efforts with salt marsh shoreline protection to guard against “increased severity of coastal storms as a result of climate adaptation.”

One of the targeted areas would be along the newly opened Royston Seaside Trail, reopening a small lagoon that was removed from tidal action by the old rail bed.

The group also proposes to enhance walkways in the area.

By

Joe DiPietro

TICKETS FROM

$25

Luxurious Theatre Getaways from $134 per person

Oct 3 to Nov 8 1.800.565.7738

chemainustheatre.ca

Opportunity to Comment on BC Ferries’ Proposed Spirit Class Mid-Life Upgrade Project The British Columbia Ferry Commission is seeking public comment on BC Ferries’ application pursuant to section 55(2) of the Coastal Ferry Act (“Act”) for approval of the major capital expenditures for a mid-life upgrade project for the Spirit of British Columbia and Spirit of Vancouver Island, the primary vessels serving on Route 1, connecting Swartz Bay and Tsawwassen.

As of October 1, 2014, a new ferry schedule will be in effect to reduce conflict with the Texada Island sailing schedule. New departure times of 10:00 am (departing Comox) and 11:50 am (departing Powell River) are being introduced with the new schedule.

Effective October 1, 2014 to June 23, 2015 DEPARTING COMOX 6:30 am 10:00 am 3:15 pm 6:50 pm 7:15 pm

Except Dec 25, Jan 1 Except Wed & Sat Wed & Sat only Except Wed & Sat

DEPARTING POWELL RIVER 8:10 am Except Dec 25, Jan 1 11:50 am 5:15 pm Except Wed & Sat 8:45 pm For more information, visit bcferries.com or phone 1-888-BC Ferry (1-888-223-3779).

Thank you for sailing with BC Ferries.

The scope of the proposed Spirit Class Mid Life Upgrade Project is fourfold: 1) to carry out work to address regulatory requirements, 2) to convert vessel propulsion to dual fuel marine diesel and liquefied natural gas, 3) to implement hull, electrical and passenger service modifications, and 4) to carry out renewals and overhauls of systems which have reached end-of-life.

Under section 55(4) of the Act the commissioner may approve a major capital expenditure if the proposed major capital expenditure is: a) reasonable, b) prudent, and c) consistent with (i) the current Coastal Ferry Services Contract, and (ii) any long term capital plan established by the ferry operator BC Ferries’ application is available at http://www.bcferries.com/files/PDFs/ Spirit_Class_MLU_Application_to_the_BC_Ferries_Commissioner.pdf . Section 55 Application Guidelines as established by the Ferry Commission is also available at http://www.bcferrycommission.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Section-55Application-Guidelines-Revised-July-5-2014.pdf.

Comments or submissions can be sent by email to info@bcferrycommission.ca or by mail to: BC Ferry Commission PO Box 9279 Stn Prov Govt Victoria, BC V8W9J7 Deadline for public comments is October 24, 2014. Comments submitted to the Ferry Commission may be published on its website.

A10 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 30, 2014

News

New murals brighten Courtenay park buildings

Woodcote, top, and Puntledge Park murals

Provincial wood use award for visitor centre The Comox Valley’s Vancouver Island Visitor Centre has received a prestigious provincial award for its use of wood.

Elected officials from five B.C. local government associations were honoured last week at the Union of B.C. Municipalities Convention in Whistler, as Wood WORKS! BC presented the 2014 Community Recognition Awards.

The awards are presented annually to communities that have been exemplary advocates for wood use in public structures. This may be demonstrated through the specification of wood in a community project and/or through visionary initiatives that work toward building a community culture of wood.

The 2014 recipients include: AVICC — Association of Vancouver Island and Coastal Communities (includes several local governments and First Nations in the Comox Valley): Comox Valley Economic Development Society for the Vancouver Island Visitor Centre (Merit: City of Nanaimo and District of Tofino) “We congratulate these local governments for their vision and leadership by choosing wood for design and construction of their civic projects,” stated Lynn EmburyWilliams, Executive Director, Wood WORKS! BC. “These projects truly showcase the many attributes of wood, while connecting us with our province’s past and moving us toward a more sustainable future. Wood use in public buildings brings pride to B.C. towns and cities, and leaves a lasting legacy, which is an enduring celebration of our culture of wood.”

William Billups, Technical Advisor, Wood WORKS! BC has worked extensively with local governments on projects ranging from fire halls to arenas to recreation centres.

He noted the extensive use of technologically advanced wood products and systems in the projects of the 2014 award-winning communities, and explains the reason.

“Local governments want the beauty and versatility of these wood products and systems which make it possible to create distinctive and innovative projects to

Vancouver Island Visitor Centre awarded for wood use

Two formerly plain, nondescript park buildings are now “must-see” local attractions and showpieces for the local cultural community.

The buildings at Woodcote and Puntledge Park have been covered with new murals, painted in September by local artists with help from youth volunteers.

The Woodcote Park mural, designed and painted by artist Tracy Kobus, features a soccer and neighbourhood theme. This design wraps around the whole washroom building and adds colour and visual interest to the park.

Tracy Kobus said there were many highlights while working on the mural. “I enjoyed the process of working outside in the beautiful weather, figuring out the logistics of a big project and seeing the different people who use the park” said Kobus. “ We also received an overwhelmingly positive response from the public while painting the mural.”

The Puntledge Park washroom building mural features a distinctive nature theme with sky, clouds, and trees, designed and painted by artist Helen Utsal. The artwork is designed to fit with the natural landscape of Puntledge Park.

The City of Courtenay and the Comox Valley Community Arts Council worked together on this project as part of the city’s Mural Initiative Program. This program includes mural development on city buildings, utility boxes, and partnerships with local businesses, community organizations, and BC Hydro.

Dallas Stevenson, the Executive Director of the Comox Valley Community Arts Council, noted the project has many benefits. “The Mural Initiative Program is a key development activity for the future of public art in our community,” advised Stevenson. “It enables engagement between social and arts organizations, creating more diverse partnership opportunities.

“As an extra bonus, it engages youth. The best part is seeing amazing art in our community made by our local artists and our youth.”

For more information on the Mural Initiative Program within the City of Courtenay please contact communityservices@courtenay.ca, call 250-334-4441, or visit the Comox Valley Community Art Council’s website at www. comoxvalleyarts.com for details on projects.

Fall Hours: October to November 10 enhance their streetscapes. The significant advantages from fire and seismic hazards are also a major consideration as well as the potential for retrofitting for future needs. Affordability of wood is very appealing to local governments as well, as they must make the most of thin capital project budgets,” he explained.

Mary Sjostrom is mayor of the City of Quesnel, past president of UBCM, and her community was a recipient of a Community Recognition Award in 2012.

10am - 5pm 7 days a week Lots of in-season and 720 Knight Rd Comox 1 KM Past The Airport

250-339-2988

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 71 (COMOX VALLEY) Expression of Interest — Charter Bus Services School District 71 (Comox Valley) seeks Expressions of Interest for the provision of charter bus services for transporting students in the district.

When the new unit opened in 2007, St Joseph’s had over 1,400 cancer care patient visits.

Today, approximately 4,700 cancer care patient visits will be supported annually.

Charter bus company requirements are described at www.sd71.bc.ca under district *Policy 6031 MR5: Non-Scheduled Transportation of Students or by contacting Paul.Berry@sd71.bc.ca

St. Joseph's Hospital Foundation 2137 Comox Ave., Comox, B.C. V9M 1P2 Phone 250-890-3046 www.cvhospitalfoundation.com

bulk vegetables

Extra ECHO

Comox Valley, BC

The COMOX VALLEY ECHO ❑ Tuesday, September 30, 2014

etc.

ECHO

2nd Annual Pet Blessing at St. John the Divine

Animals are a part of God’s creation and our pets play an important role in our lives.

Come join us on Saturday, October 4th (the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals) _at 10:00 a.m. to 11am at St. John the Divine Anglican Church fenced yard at 579 5th Street, Courtenay for the Blessing of the Animals.

We will give thanks to God for our animals and bless them. Each pet will be individually blessed. All pets must be on a leash or in a carrier. Photographs may also be brought to honor pets that prefer not to travel.

Everyone is welcome and donations will be given to the CV SPCA. Encourage your friends and relatives to attend. St. John the Divine Anglican Church is located at 579 5th Street in Courtenay.

For more information, call the church office at 250-334-4331/250-897-8569 or visit http://stjohnthedivinecourtenay.bc. anglican.ca

Power and Sail Squadron course starts October 21 Do you have your Pleasure Craft Operators Certificate (PCOC), but want to learn more about boating? Then this is the course for you.

Cape Lazo Power and Sail Squadron is offering the Boating Essential course from October 21 to December 16, 2014 at Mark Isfeld School. Topics include navigation, plotting, working with charts and much more.

For more information or to register go our website at www.capelazocps.ca. If you have any questions please contact Barb Hammer at 250-339-2333.

Community Market has a new name starting Sunday The Comox Community Market (formerly known as the Little Red Church Community Market) is a local, family-friendly market, offering a variety of crafters, jewelry, beauty & skincare, health & wellness, household items, candles and more!

Be sure to check out our facebook page to enter in for the $25 Gift Card and Vendor Gift Basket giveaway’s at the Market.

Come on out and support your local vendors and have a great day at the Market, Sunday Oct. 5, at the Little Red Church, 2182 Comox Ave., Comox from 10-3.

Annual Navy Meet and Greet set for October 5 The Comox Valley Royal Canadian Naval Association is hosting its 12th Annual Navy Meet and Greet in the Comox Legion Sunday, Oct 05, between 1:00 and 5:00 p.m. All RCN, ex-RCN, Merchant Navy, USN, Commonwealth Navies and wannabes are welcome. Come out and meet some old friends and make some new ones.

Finger foods will be available.

For more Information contact Don Knight at 250 339 5498 or Steve Cowan at 250 890 0225.

Get up and go for a hike with Courtenay Recreation Join Courtenay Recreation for a beautiful hike to Crouteau Lake and Meadows on Saturday October 4th from 9:30 am - 3:30 pm. Hopefully by then early frosts will have painted some good colours on meadows foliage.

The hike is on good trails with some up hillplodding and is rated as moderate to moderately hard, depending on your conditioning.

Participants should have hiked with us before or have had some mountain hiking experience and must have good hiking boots and rain gear. Participants will meet at the Lewis Centre parking lot for carpooling and don’t forget lots of water and a hearty lunch!

Minimum age is 8 and we will take a maximum of 15 hikers, so register early!

The fee for this hike is $10 per person or $25 for a family of 3.

Register for this hike by calling Courtenay Recreation at 250-338-1000 or 250-3385371.

Courtenay man helps to remake history Terry Mills fixed up boat used in search for lost Franklin ship

By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff In 2011, when Courtenay resident Terry Mills first set eyes on the boat that would end up handling the brunt of the work leading to the discovery of a ship lost in the Franklin expedition, he knew he knew his task wouldn’t be easy. The long-time fire protection and electrical engineer saw a 62-foot Ocean Alliance that would have to be gutted and rebuilt before it could begin scanning the Arctic Ocean for signs of two vessels that sunk in pursuit of the Northwest Passage.

“It was a tired fishing trawler,” he said.

“There was a fair bit of patching.”

Fast-forward three years. Mills revels in the knowledge that the grand restoration project he embarked upon with his son Mike had proved fruitful, as the boat did 80-90 per cent of the undersea mapping critical to finding either the HMS Erebus or the HMS Terror, which left England in 1845. On Sept. 7 a remotely operated Parks Canada vehicle positively identified one of the ships, but it was the trawler renamed the Martin Bergmann after the Fisheries and Oceans Canada boss who helped get the project off the ground but passed away before the ultimate success - that provided a lot of the clues that were key to understanding the mystery of what happened.

Martin Bergmann had managed to rope Jim Balsillie, the former Research in Motion owner who made his money through the company’s BlackBerry smartphone, to support the venture.

Balsillie paid to buy and convert the old boat into a specialized arctic research vessel - something so rare Transport Canada didn’t even have an official classification for such a watercraft.

To get the paperwork in order Mills flew back to Courtenay and took a lesson in AutoCAD from a North Island College instructor.

Though the boat was mainly built in Newfoundland and improved in Nunavut, parts were sourced from wherever they could be found.

Mills leaned on knowledge from Ocean Pacific in Campbell River and picked up cables and cords there too. Emery Electric in Victoria built the specialized electrical panel for the generator. EECOL electric in Courtenay provided lighting fixtures and electrical devices. And EB Horsman & Son in Campbell River had other cables necessary for the big search.

It proved just as difficult to refurbish the boat as Mills had expected. For one, a 12 x 12 ft lab needed to be constructed on the stern of the boat.

The workers had to set up both 24 volt DC and 120 volt AC power so the ship-seeking devices could function properly.

“We had our work cut out for us,” he said.

“We wanted clean power for the lab. You want pure sine waves for the AC equipment. It would be steady voltage otherwise electronic equipment can have problems.”

The engine room was its own sort of hell.

Terry Mills is held aloft by fellow crew members aboard the boat he played a key role in refurbishing.

Above: In 2012 the Martin Bergmann sported a fresh coat of paint as warmer weather prevailed Left: The Ocean Alliance was a tired fishing trawler that would become one of the most useful arctic research vessels to hunt for the lost explorer’s sunken ships.

“We had to take a lot of things out of the engine room,” he said. “We had to remove a lot of the old obsolete communication equipment, sonar, and lighting.”

(Continued on page B4)

More than ‘Dependent’ Book by Base Commander’s wife explores military spouse culture

By Drew A. Penner Echo Staff Brenda Corey Dunne’s latest book Dependent is an exploration of just how independent military wives really are. It’s something she knows about quite intimately, having given up her military uniform the day she married her husband, the new 19 Wing Base Commander Col. Tom Dunne.

“I don’t think ‘dependent’ is a good name for what military spouses do,” she said, following a book reading at the Vancouver Island Regional Library Comox Branch Sept. 23, noting the wives of Canadian Forces members play Brenda Corey Dunne reads from her new novel Dependent. a crucial role in allowing members to keep focused on the task at home of the main character to munity among people who are in hand. “They’re concentrating on bring the bad news that her hus- this position. band has passed away.

“You have to rely on each other,” staying alive sometimes.”

The rest of the book operates on she said. “I don’t think people The novel, which was 10 years in the making, was an exercise in two separate timelines that ulti- understand what it’s like.”

But there’s no training course facing her own fears, and arose mately join up and is a touching from the aftermath of multiple reflection of the realities and hard- on how to excel at this particular military role, she adds. peacetime aircraft fatalities that ships of military life.

It’s the type of theme that many “Everyone always said, ‘You affected people she knew directly, knew what you were getting into,’” including the July 13, 2006 crash in the Comox Valley can relate to.

Martina Polson, owner of Blue she said. “You have no idea.” of a Cormorant helicopter near 19 Heron Books, which put on the Cheryl B. Prystay touched on a Wing Greenwood.

She read a heart-wrenching pas- book reading, has 28 years of similar sentiment, noting when sage that opens the book where experience as a military spouse, her husband died of a heart attack men in uniform show up at the and says there is a sense of com- she was left to navigate the com-

plex Canadian Forces bureaucracy in the aftermath alone, but notes the culture has improved significantly since she first became a dependent in the 1970s.

“It seems like there’s more supports out there,” she said. “Every military wife has a story.”

Polly Watters, who’s been a military spouse for 23 years, says she’s glad Dependent tackles the subject of Canadian Forces family life from a very raw perspective.

“I think there’s a lot of ‘Suck it up,’” she said, describing the tone of the culture from her perspective. “There’s a lot left unspoken with the military spouses.”

One of the passages in the book that struck a chord was the portion that depicts moving day, since military families are required to move frequently - much to the chagrin of many spouses.

“Moving day sucks the big one,” she said, “especially if you have to do it every few years.”

A lot of younger military families don’t fully appreciate the unlimited liability involved in living a Canadian Forces lifestyle.

“You’re owned by the government,” Dunne said. “It’s a difficult life but a good life.”

Ma^k^ l :epZrl Lhf^mabg` @hbg` hg Zm IZbgm^k l Ma

Super Value!

$149 CIAL E P S Y A W A FALL GET

1 Night Stay & a $50 Meal Credit Sept 14 - Oct 12

EBO> FNLB< BG MA> MR>> IN; >o^kr ?kb]Zr gb`am lmZkmbg` Zm 1if

LNG=:R ;KNG<A ;N??>M ?khf *)Zf & +if u K^l^koZmbhgl K^\hff^g]^]

250-286-1102 | www.obmg.com 250-2

B2 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Sports and Recreation

UVic womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hoops team takes on Guelph at Vanier The University of Victoria Vikes womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s basketball team will be in the Comox Valley to play an exhibition game against the Guelph Gryphons at G.P. Vanier on Oct. 3 at 6 p.m.

The Vikes will also be staging a practice session open to the public from noon to 1:15 p.m. also on that day at Mark Isfeld, the home of Avery Snider, who committed to the Vikes for the 2015-2016 season. The 16-year-old guard is a key member of the Isfeld senior girls basketball team and the B.C. U17 provincial squad The Vikes welcome Sniderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s competitive spirit, which recently helped Isfeld place 10th at the B.C. High School Basketball provincials and sixth at the national tournament with Team B.C. This past season, Snider was named a Second Team All-Star for her provincial performance and was named to the Top-15 BC High School Girls Basketball team. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Averyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been part of our youth programs for five years and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve obviously been keeping our eye on her,â&#x20AC;? said Vikes womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s head coach Dani Sinclair. â&#x20AC;&#x153;On the court, Avery brings a strong sense of competitiveness but sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also developed the qualities of a great leader. She brings energy to every practice and game.â&#x20AC;?

The five-foot-eight guard will be on site to get a glimpse of her future basketball career, watching the Vikesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; open practice on Oct. 3 at her own high school. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am honored and excited to join the UVic Vikes

womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s basketball team. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m looking forward representing the island and playing in front of my friends and family,â&#x20AC;? said Snider, who plans to study kinesiology at UVic. Sinclair hopes to see the same up Island draw for Vikes support for Snider as former Vikes menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s basketball player Ryan MacKinnon, also from Comox. â&#x20AC;&#x153;MacKinnon and Snider are both skilled players and I see the high level of character MacKinnon brought to UVic in Snider,â&#x20AC;? she said.

Sinclair will have to focus on her current squad for the time being as the Vikes will face the Guelph Gryphons later that night. Sinclair will be up against her former provincial teammate Christin Dickenson, currently head coach of the Gryphons. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As the only CIS basketball program on the Island, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m thrilled we can include the entire community in Vikes Nation,â&#x20AC;? said Sinclair, adding, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everyone has rallied around the event and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fantastic to see the local support. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re already looking to make this a reoccurring event.â&#x20AC;?

The Vikes tip-off against Guelph for their first exhibition game of the season on Oct. 3 at 6 p.m.

The Vikes will make a quick return home to Victoria to host Guellp again on Oct. 4 at 6 p.m. in the McKinnon Gymnasium, as part of Days of Thunder and the Guy Vetrie Memorial Tournament.

Mark Isfeld guard Avery Snider commits to Vikes womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s basketball

GOLF NEWS CAPTAIN TERRY CONQUERS THE WIND

GET ACTIVE IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD ... Free Family Fun What an amazing day for the first Get Active in Your Neighbourhood event held at Lake Trail School.

The field was filled with smiling faces and lots of laughs as the kids played games, tossed water balloons, danced with Zumba instructor Gloria Grieves and enjoyed healthy

snacks donated by Quality Foods. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This initiative was designed to get kids and their familiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; active through old fashioned play,â&#x20AC;? said Active Comox Valley Coordinator Dawn Stevens.

She went on to say that â&#x20AC;&#x153;these events will be held in various neigh-

bourhoods throughout the Comox Valley and will be free to everyone, thanks to the sponsorship of Daryl Robbins and Quality Foodsâ&#x20AC;?.

Our next event will be held October 5, at Courtenay Elementary School from 1pm-3pm.

Twenty golfers played and braved the wind on Wednesday night with the following results: 0-16 Low Gross Captain Terry Christie 34, Rick Siddall 40 17 + Low Gross Vic Crisp 44, Ron Pratt 45 KP Prizes 10 2nd shot All Terry Christie (Little Caesars Pizza) 11 3rd shot shot 17+ Ian Smith, Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club 12 Long Drive 0-16 Ken Loga, Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club 13 2nd shot All Rod Nichol, (Westview Ford) 14 All Terry Christie, Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club 15 2nd shot 0-16 Terry Christie, Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club 17 2nd shot All, Ron Pratt Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club 18 All Stu Holland, (Shilo Painting/ Glacier Gutters ) Deuces recorded by Stu Holland and Terry Christie.

Well done, 3 Birdies in a row for Captain Terry.

Thanks to pro Shop, Teebox Restaurant, Course staff and our sponsors.

See all you golfers next year.

- Submitted by Vic Crisp

thanks to our greens crew. Now here are the good scores: HCP 0-11 1st Low Gross Fabian McCarty 70, 2nd Terran Berger 75 c/b, 3rd Chris Kalnay 75 1st Low Net Wayne Ogilvie 68, 2nd Blair Peacock 69 c/b, 3rd Dave Wacowich 69 Snips Hole #1 Blair Peacock #3 Fabian McCarty #4 & #10(EAGLE) Mackenzie Osborne #5 Jason Gordon #7 Rob Borland HCP 12-17 1st Low Gross Karl Cameron 79 c/b, 2nd Lyle Torrie 81, 3rd Randy Doan 82 1st Low Net Bruce Henderson 65, 2nd Glen Horsepool 67, 3rd Glen Meeres 68 Snips Hole #3 Tim Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Rourke #4 Phil Nakashima #5 Gabe Tremblay #12 Glen Horsepool #17(POG) Rudge Wilson HCP 18+ 1st Low Gross Dave Buckley-Jones 84, 2nd Art Trto 86, 3rd Richard Wand 89 1st Low Net Bob McKay 61, 2nd Al Pasenan 65, 3rd Frank Gibson 69 Snips Hole #7 Andy Clark # 12 Ron Carter # 17(POG) Art Trto Remember get your entry in for the devils scramble; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the only game in town. Till next week see ya.

- Submitted by Ron Carter

WHITE TEES AT GLACIER GREENS Saturday Sept. 27th, 95 players played the white tees at Glacier Greens. The weather to start was foggy and cool having to start in sweaters and jackets, but as the day went on off came the tops and the sun came out and up went the temp.

The course is in good condition

Find us on Facebook facebook.com/ComoxValleyEcho

Join the happy Youth Council members at The LINC; find out how at ifo meeting Thursday, Oct. 2

Info meeting to be part of Youth Centre Council Do you know a youth looking for a way to be active in your community?

The LINC Youth Centre is having an information meeting this Thursday, October 2, at 4:30pm in The LINC Meeting Room.

Members of Youth Council participate in leadership workshops and job skills training - including opportunities to run concessions, and plan monthly activities or community projects. Members are also instrumental in helping staff facilitate large special events at The LINC, like their upcoming Haunted House and Christmas Dinner.

Youth Worker Alexis Forbes shares, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We meet each Thursday for an hour, from October - June and plan lots of different events at The LINC - skate board competitions, candy bingo, videogame tournaments, girls nights and more.â&#x20AC;?

Youth Council volunteer hours can be put towards graduation credits and scholarship applications and are great additions to rĂŠsumĂŠs.

Alexis continues, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have had several members on apply for leadership programs and receive part-time jobs, based on skills, and references they received being involved in Youth Council. It has been amazing to watch our members take on greater roles in the Centre, and the community developing their leadership skills and taking on greater roles in the community.â&#x20AC;?

She continues, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We also offer incentives for participation in Youth Council - including free memberships to The LINC, courtesy passes, training opportunities, like First Aid or Food Safe, and concession coupons. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s even more reason to get involved!â&#x20AC;?

Applications are available in advance at The LINC and Lewis Centre, or can be found online at http://www. c o u r t e n ay. c a / E N / m a i n / c o m m u n i t y / re c re a t i o n / forms-applications.html. For more information on Youth Council and the benefits of getting involved, contact Alexis Forbes at 250-334-8138 ext. 222 or aforbes@courtenay.ca, or bring your questions to the information session on October 2.

Rotary International Youth Exchange

School District 71 (Comox Valley) Trustee Election â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Candidate Information Meeting

Interested in Travel?

Adventure?

School Abroad?

Long term (10 months) and short term (1 month) exchanges available Contact Â&#x2026; $PVSUFOBZ 3PUBSZ 3BOEZ 7BOJFS TUVEFOUT Â&#x2026; 4USBUIDPOB 3PUBSZ #PC )JHIMBOE TUVEFOUT Â&#x2026; $PNPY 3PUBSZ "OJUB .BSL *TGFME TUVEFOUT BMM USBWFM UP TUBSU TVNNFS PG

Superintendent Sherry Elwood and Secretary Treasurer Russell Horswill would like to invite prospective school trustee candidates to attend an information meeting and to answer any questions relating to your role as trustee:

Thursday, October 2, 2014 7 pm School Board Office, Board Room 607 Cumberland Road, Courtenay, BC

$%! $ " ! $

" # $ $

&

Business News

Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 30, 2014 B3

Business Network has ‘Swap till you drop’ for Care-a-Van The Comox Valley Business Network (CVBN) is seeking clean, consignment-quality clothing items for its “Clothing Swap for Care-a-Van” fundraiser October 19.

The way it works is simple: drop off up to 10 clean, consignment-quality clothing items at one of the drop-off locations (below) and pay a $10 donation fee. Then, between 1 pm and 5 pm on Sunday, October 19, head to the Courtenay Legion for shopping, entertainment and refreshments, and to pick up the same number of items as you contributed.

All proceeds and remaining clothing items will be donated to the Care-a-Van, which is dedicated to prevention and early intervention of homelessness in the Comox Valley by providing access to health care and related services to homeless or at-risk individuals.

“Not only is this a great way to spice up your wardrobe or hunt down cool items ahead of Halloween, it’s also a fun way to support some true unsung heroes in the Comox Valley,” says CVBN president Beth Campbell Duke. “We were all really inspired by the work that Care-a-Van is doing in the community.”

“There’s an estimated 250 individuals living in absolute homelessness in the Comox Valley and 3,000 at risk of home-

lessness,” says Helen Boyd, coordinator of the Care-a-Van program. “In our five years, we’ve helped more than 850 distinct individuals.

“The Clothing Swap is a fantastic idea,” she adds, noting that her organization is funded entirely through community donations. “We give thousands of items yearround to those in need, and they so appreciate receiving free clothing given their limited funds. In the winter months, it’s crucial that they can dress warmly and stay healthy. We’re so grateful to the Comox Valley Business Network for this creative fundraising idea.”

Clothing items can be dropped off until October 17 at Mackenzie Gartside & Associates, 5-202 Fifth Street above Zocalo Café. In addition, there will be a number of rotating drop-off locations: Oct. 4: Quality Foods in Comox, 10 am to 12 pm Oct. 8: Ginger Nine on Fifth Street, 1 pm to 3 pm Oct. 11: Serious Coffee on Cliffe, 10 am to 12 pm Oct. 16: Serious Coffee on Cliffe, 3 pm to 5 pm For complete details, visit www.cvbn. ca/clothing-swap, email clothingswap@ cvbn.ca or call Beth at 250-650-1527. To learn more about the Care-A-Van and how you can help, visit www.comoxbaycare. org.

Members of the Comox Valley Business Network promote their “Clothing Swap for Care-a-Van” fundraiser, scheduled for October 19.

Ignoring the consensus: Find out more at workshop

By Rob Wolfe At the start of this year, the consensus view was that bond yields would rise. This would be an issue for bonds since bond prices fall as yields rise (and vice versa).

On December 31, 2013, the yield on a 10-year U.S. bond was 3.03% when the consensus view was that

Small Business Association invites entrepreneurs to October meetings The Comox Valley Small Business Association invites entrepreneurs to its twice-a-month meetings. Mark your calendar for Thursday, October 2 and October 16.

The meetings are held the Filberg Center, lower level (Evergreen Room), starting at 5:30 pm with networking.

The educational portion of the meeting starts at 6, and the meeting concludes by 7:30. Refreshments are available, or bring your own.

For the October 2nd meeting, the speaker will be Lori Ball, co-owner of Audio Xcellence DJ Systems. She will facilitate a discussion about social marketing.

Deb Ross, owner of All Keyed Up Music Lessons, is the member spotlight.

A mastermind session-groupthink discussions about business issues and opportunities-will round out the evening if time allows.

The October 16 meeting will include power networking and a mastermind session.

There is no charge to attend this organization’s as a guest for up to two meetings per year.

The cost of membership is $95 per year.

For guests and members alike, door prizes are welcome and encouraged as an additional way to expose individual businesses (via announcements at the meeting and newsletter acknowledgement).

In addition to the meetings, there is a variety of marketing opportunities for members with the SBA. The website and Facebook page accept member posts. Members can also gain visibility through sponsorships and participation on committees, the board, and in fun events, including the Canada Day parade.

Membership in the SBA is open to all small businesses.

FMI: Carolyn Touhey 250-335-2342.

Rob Wolfe, Associate Portfolio Manager with Odlum Brown Limited, is giving a workshop at their office in Courtenay on Wednesday, October 8th. yields will end this year at 3.2% to 3.5%. In reality, the yield is 2.52% (as of September 11, 2014) which is 51 basis points, or half a percentage point, lower than it was at the start of the year.

It is human nature to be influenced by the majority. In anticipa-

tion of rising yields, you may have adjusted the fixed income element of your portfolio or perhaps pulled out of bonds altogether. However, as it stands today, you may be feeling somewhat disappointed as bond prices have risen over the year and provided quite respectable returns to date.

The reasons that bond yields have fallen, and prices have therefore risen, over the year include: 1. Demand for bonds exceeding supply; 2.

Geopolitical risks; and 3. Relative attractiveness of U.S. and Canadian yields compared to European yields.

What Does this Mean for Investors?

When it comes to the fixed income portion of your portfolio, we at Odlum Brown have long believed that the “Laddering Strategy” is optimal for two essential reasons: 1.

It avoids reinvestment risk.

By balancing a portfolio with evenly spaced maturities, investors avoid the risk of having too high a percentage in short-term or long-term bonds

at the wrong time. Reinvestment occurs periodically as bonds mature.

2.

It permits adequate diversification by credit to reduce the risk to one’s principal.

The laddered approach can be tailored to investors’ particular circumstances. Generally, we opt for the use of 10-year ladders as they capture the yield advantage normally found in maturities beyond five years, while still offering relatively short durations. Laddered portfolios can be composed of all government bonds for maximum safety of principal; all corporate bonds for higher yield; or some combination of these two sectors.

The current low interest rates are very problematic for investors seeking a yield on their portfolio. It is worth remembering that in this environment bonds are generally added to portfolios to provide a return of your capital rather than a return on your capital.

RETIREMENT

SALE %

20OFF EVERYTHING

* excluding light bulbs and Verilux

• Dining Room • Kitchen • Bathroom • Entry • Outdoor

OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE • WE’RE LOCAL...WE CARE

Tues-Fri 9:30-5:00 Saturday 10:00-3:00 Closed Sun. & Mon.

582 SOUTH DOGWOOD ST.

CAMPBELL RIVER

www.theliteshop.ca

250.287.9905

To find out more investing for income in a low interest rate environment, including further discussion on the laddering strategy mentioned in this article, join Rob Wolfe, Associate Portfolio Manager with Odlum Brown Limited, for a workshop at their office in Courtenay on Wednesday, October 8th.

Contact Rob for more details at rwolfe@odlumbrown.com or 250703-0637.

The information contained herein is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide financial, legal, accounting or tax advice and should not be relied upon in that regard.

Many factors unknown to Odlum Brown Limited may affect the applicability of any matter discussed herein to your particular circumstances. You should consult directly with your financial advisor before acting on any matter discussed herein. Individual situations may vary.

Odlum Brown is a Member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund.

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. 7104 – Burgess, Larsen, Krebs, 13th Rt. 7107 – Grieve to McPhee, 13th to 17th Rt. 7120 – Cliffe to Fitzgerald, 1st to 4th 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. 2122 – Robb, Church, Fir, Hemlock Rt. 2139 – Hector, Acacia CUMBERLAND Rt. 9102 – Penrith, Maryport, Windermere, Egremont, Dunsmuir VALLEYVIEW Rt. 3123 – Nechako, Chemainus, 5th St. E., Cowichan, 6th St. E. Rt. 3132 – Inverclyde, Carstairs, Hebrides, Fife MISSION HILL Rt. 5102 – Stafford, Valecourt, Cruikshank.

Rt. 5104 – Myra, Cruikshank, Muir Rt. 5106 – Centennial, McLaughlin, Nim Nim Pl.

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

B4 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Community

Volunteers keep Air Park running for 50 years HUNTFor History

by JUDY HAGEN Some men see lemonade while others see only lemons. This was true more than 50 years ago when a group of pilots were looking for suitable land for an airstrip in the Comox Valley. Many of those involved had learned to fly while serving during the Second World War and were keen to keep flying.

It was the era of the Cold War; civilians could not use the military runways.

An aerial view of the Courtenay River estuary showed a long line that was the Comox Logging Railway and nestled between the railroad line and the marshy river delta, the City of Courtenay had built a sewage lagoon. To create assess to the lagoon, the City Works crews would from time to time dump “fill” to made a solid maintenance road.

To the average Joe, it was an eyesore, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Pilots recognized that this was just the right length of land for a small airstrip. The driving force behind the project was the Chamber of Commerce with volunteer labour directed by Dave Kirk, chairman of the Air Park Committee.

Like so much that happens in the Comox Valley, it became a “community” project. There are no records

Aerial view of the Courtenay Airpark (Photo from private collection) listing all the businesses and construction companies who “donated” time and equipment to clear the land. In September 1964, the gravel runway was ready.

“The first plane to land was piloted by Eric Franklin to be followed minutes later by the plane piloted

by Wes Colebank” (Comox District

Free Press 23 September 1964; page 1) They were greeted by an official delegation: Bill Moore, Mayor, City of Courtenay, Randy Klavour, President of the Rotary Club, Mike Mendria, from the Chamber of Commerce. There were other representatives from valley clubs and

Making the journey north through perilous waters full of rough seas and icebergs.

organizations. A large crowd had gathered to watch four planes land including pilots from the Comox Flying Club Bruce Samuel and Al Mitchell whose passenger, Roy Robertson, was the Manager of the Flying Club.

The ceremonies concluded when the Air Park was officially turned over to the City of Courtenay. The Air Park Association had a “lease” to run all operations on the air strip.

Over the years, while the city owns the Air Park, the work and maintenance has always been done by volunteers. As buildings such as the pilots lounge and hangars were built, work was again done by volunteer labour with donations from the business community. Grass around the runway was cut by Ernie Lapp and Wolf Rautenburg yet Wolf never ever owned a plane! Such was the community support.

In the early years, fuel was purchased by the “honour system” with each pilot noting on a “slip of paper” the amount of fuel he had pumped.

The slips were tallied at the end of

each month. The system worked well but now everyone uses a credit card.

In 1992, the City decided to drain the Lagoon since sewage treatment was now part of a wider Comox Valley plan. Again, seeing lemonade while others saw lemons, the City realized that the perimeter of the Air Park could become a “parkway”, with viewing platforms, allowing the public access to the river along a paved walk.

The lagoon became a salmon rearing pond and a refuge for waterfowl and sea birds.

Local pilots now set their goal on paving the runway. Many pilots and flying schools were not willing to land on a gravel runway. Dave Mellin explained in a Comox Free Press article, “Pilots apply full power at take off, causing pieces of gravel to shoot upward into their planes’ airframe and propeller resulting in costly repairs. A banged-up propeller can cost an owner thousands of dollars to replace”. And as for stopping on gravel, “braking on a gravel strip can be like trying to stop on ball bearings, but with pavement you stick”. (17 June 1994) Earlier that year two mishaps had made everyone realize that it was time to upgrade. Although the air strip had been maintained for nearly 25 years by membership fees, the surcharge on gas and $5 fee for visitors, the cost of paving was beyond their budget.

In 1994 with the help of all levels of government, the landing strip was paved and extended to 1800 feet in length and 60 feet in width. With the $300,000 upgrade, the Air Park was estimated to be worth $1.2 million After the strip was extended, to test the capacity of the runway, a Buffalo aircraft was flown in: the largest aircraft to land at the Air Park.

There are many air fields on the island, but the Courtenay Air Park is the only one within walking distance of shopping and dining. While many visiting pilots stop at Betty’s café which opened in 1995, others will take time to walk further along Cliffe Avenue for fine dining in restaurants such as Locals.

(Continued on page B5)

Terry Mills keeps warm aboard a the winterized vessel thanks to a thick parka.

Straight from the seahorse’s mouth:

Local man helps make history

Bundle and save $100 on any new smartphone.

(Continued from page B1) They installed satellite communication, a new radar, a new navigation system, and put in monitors for all the equipment.

The boat was set up to run a special winch with that drag the side-scanning sonar device behind it. They also prepared the Martin Bergmann to probe the depths with a tube device pointing directly below.

There seemed to be endless hydraulics components that needed a messy rework.

Mills had finally finished the main round of work on the boat and was in the middle of an interview with a reporter when the tragic news came in - Martin Bergmann and a family connection had been killed in a plane crash. The First Air Boeing 737 had been attempting a landing at Resolute Bay but crashed, killing 12.

Mills was aboard in 2012 as Bergmann’s family gathered on the boat to spread his ashes in the part of Canada that inspired him so much.

“They went out on the boat and spread his ashes in Cambridge Bay,” he said of the emotional and deeply personal moment aboard the Martin Bergmann. “It was very nice.”

Bergmann was far from the first man who hunted the phantom Franklin ships to die in the cold North without the answers they had so desperately wanted.

Sir John Franklin and his 128 crew members disappeared in the original voyage, setting off a worldwide obsession with trying to discover exactly what happened.

Years later graves and human remains were found. The cannibalism pointed to by the evidence has fascinated observers ever since.

Taking part in the successful hunt has given Mills a new appreciation for how this country developed.

“I learned more about our history, about the Franklin expedition and what a big loss it was,” he said. “I feel like I played a small part in it.”

The earlier searches may have come up short, but they led to a greater understanding of the Arctic.

Now as companies eye the north for cruise ship routes and quicker shipping lanes, the discovery bears particular relevance.

“Now the Northwest Passage, with global warming, is getting more open,” he said. “The North is getting more accessible.”

And while working on the project Mills discovered a much more personal tidbit. As he was lending his skills to the mapping of the north, he learned one of his ancestors, Pete Fiddler, had a long career with the Hudson’s Bay Company as a cartographer and explorer.

Bundle your mobile with Optik TV and Internet to: TM

Save up to $100 when you activate a new smartphone* Save an additional $5/month on your mobile rate plan†

Call 310-2121, go to telus.com/deals or visit your TELUS store.

®

TELUS STORES Courtenay 795 Ryan Rd.

1599 Cliffe Ave.

2885 Cliffe Ave.

*Offer available with any activation of a new TELUS smartphone on a 2 year postpaid consumer rate plan. Promotional discount is the lesser of $100 and the price of the eligible device before tax. The mobility and TELUS Home Services accounts must be in the same name. †Offer available to consumers and businesses operated by a sole proprietor. TELUS Home Services are TV, Internet and TELUS Home Phone. Linking of home services and mobility accounts required to receive the $5/month discount. Only one discount available for each mobility account. The mobility and TELUS Home Services accounts must be in the same name. TELUS, the TELUS logo, Optik, Optik TV, telus.com and the future is friendly are trademarks of TELUS Corporation, used under licence. © 2014 TELUS.

Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 30, 2014 B5

What’s On

Arrowsmith ‘Small’ Band on at Thursday jazz night One of the most respected acts in our performance season is Arrowsmith Big Band; an 18 piece line-up of some of Vancouver Island’s most seasoned and respected musicians.

But here’s the twist: this is your opportunity to listen to the crème de la crème as the Arrowsmith Small Band takes the stage at The Avalanche Bar & Grill at 7:30 this Thursday, when this amazing quintet will carry the audience through an evening of Latin, swing, bop and blues, as they combine a unique blend of vocals, horns and outstanding grooves.

The band members are all veteran players who bring a wealth of

History

The Arrowsmith Small Band features five veteran players who bring a wealth of experience and passion to their performances

(Continued from page B4) It had been 50 years since the first plane landed. Currently 90 members own 67 aircraft which includes 20 float planes and a helicopter, of those 12 are home built planes. There are very few airfields which can accommodate all types of planes Along with float plane facilities are 41 private hangars, a pilot’s lounge as well as a flight school, aircraft charter business and aircraft maintenance and modifications company.

The Air Park is still operated and maintained by volunteers. In the past half century their dedication has brought the airstrip up to a $4 million asset to the City of Courtenay.

The Air Park, surrounded by the River Way Park, is a “Jewel” in the crown of the City of Courtenay.

experience and passion to their performances The quintet comprises Claudio Fantinato (saxophones); Colin Campbell (Guitar, vocals, trumpet and flugelhorn); Gary Hodi (piano and vocals); Doug Gretsinger (bass) and Wayne Finucan (percussion).

Those of you who already know the Big Band will need no further testimonial about the these top calibre musicians, but the exciting aspect of this week’s performance is this rare opportunity to listen to the core talent of the big band as these five perform as a small combo.

So be prepared to be captivated by this great combo; sit back, close your eyes, and let the music carry you away.

Tunes for this performance will include Joy Spring, Stella By Starlight, Sugar, I Thought About You, Norwegian Wood, On Green Dolphin Street, Well You Needn’t and Triste.

The Society is actively seeking a limited number of volunteers who would be interested in participating in set-up and sound. Previous experience is desirable, but we are more than happy to train new volunteers.

If you are interested, please let us know by contacting us at Thursday Night Jazz, or through our web page.

It’s a great way to get involved with a good group of people, and to participate in the presentation of live music at Vancouver Island’s premier jazz club.

Society members are reminded to mark their calendars for the AGM at 5:30pm, October 30.

For more information about forthcoming activities, or to see Peter Sinclair and Bill Jorgensen’s stunning gallery of photographs of previous concerts from the past year or so, please visit us at www.georgiastraightjazz.com or on Facebook.

2014 2015

DRESS UP FOR FRIDAY ‘SPEAKEASY’ Speakeasy Electro Swing - featuring DJ Eliazar and Dubtecha - performs Friday, October 3, at The Waverley Hotel.

Dress up, and get down at the first Speakeasy of the season - Happy Music for Revolutionary People by DJ Eliazar and special guest Dubtecha Tickets $10 available at Bop City, The Waverley Hotel, by phone (250)336-8322 or online at cumberlandvillageworks.com. Doors at 9:30pm, dance lesson at 10pm-10:30pm.

Free mix CD from Eliazar for the first 30 people in the door.

Speakeasy Electro Swing is coming back at you in the Comox valley once again. With nights happening in 11 cities and 5 countries worldwide, Speakeasy is one of the top

purveyors of the Electro Swing and Vintage Remix scenes around. Last year, we started this night at the Waverley with mostly sold out shows full of folks dressing up to get down, and we want this vibe to grow even more in the coming year.

There will be prizes for the best dressed man and lady this round, so go for broke in evoking the styles of the last great depression .... as the roaring 20s are only 6 years away...

HOCKEY POOL ENTER T

Hockey fans! Enter to win

ODAY! IT’S FRE E!

1st 52” High Definition PRIZE Flat Screen TV Choose Your Players from Categories:

2nd Authentic PRIZE Canucks Jersey Weekly

PRIZES

Hot-n-Ready Meal Deal includes medium pepperoni pizza, 8 piece Crazy Bread, 2 litre pop

ONLINE ENTRIES ONLY To enter, go to:

www.ComoxValleyEcho.com Make your 2014-15 NHL regular season hockey pool selections and then watch this newspaper for weekly standings each Friday, starting Friday, October 17.

• • • • • • •

The Elite Superstars Young Guns Old Guns Quit Crying and Play Goalies and more...

Rules: One entry per person. You must reside within the distribution area of the Comox Valley Echo newspaper to be eligible for prizes. Employees of the Comox Valley Echo and/or their immediate families are not eligible to win prizes. Contest winners agree to have their name and photo published in the newspaper at the conclusion of the contest. Participants will accept pool manager’s judgment as final. Any tie breaker will be determined by first, total number of goals scored. Secondly, by total number of goals scored by last place player on a team. Finally, if necessary, by a mechanism determined by pool manager. Final entry deadline is 4 pm, Wednesday, October 15.

Entry deadline for this on-line Hockey Pool - Wednesday, October 15 at 4 pm

B6 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 30, 2014 B7

%6%294().'

Give A Tip &/2 %6%29 0%4 www.comoxvalleycrimestoppers.bc.ca

ONLINE Tell us

A great read for any pet owner.

what you know,

UÊ / «ÃÊ ÊÃ V > â>Ì Ê> ` Ê «iÌÊiÌ µÕiÌÌi

not who

UÊ /À> }ÊÌ «Ã]Ê}> iÃÊ> `Ê Ê >VÌ Û Ì iÃ

you are.

UÊ ÝiÀV ÃiÊ `i>Ã UÊ ii` }]Ê}À }]Ê`i Ì> Ê Ê V>Ài]ÊiÌV°

Runs 2nd Tuesday of every month!

Book your ads now with one of our Sales Representatives

250-334-4722

R Lim E G ite IS d T to 1 E 00 R P N lay O er W s !! !

TBGF t TFDVSF t BOPOZNPVT

Strathcona Sunrise Rotary Club Fall 2014 Series of Charity Texas Hold’em Tournaments

Oct. 18 Nov.15 Dec. 13 Final Date TBA

$

BUY-IN

50

Advance Registration at the Comox Valley Echo or call Keith at 250-334-4722 All Tournaments start at 9:45 am Doors Open at 8:30 am Registration 8:30am to 9:30 am Located upstairs @ Courtenay Legion

$

1st - 20% $1000(max)

BUFFET LUNCH

4th - 2.5% $125(max)

20

CASH BAR

2nd - 10% $500(max) 3rd - 5% $250(max)

5th - 1.25% $62.50(max) High Hand - 1.25% $62.50(max)

Class B - No Limit Texas Hold'em Poker, Licence # 65423 KNOW YOUR LIMIT PLAY WITHIN IT

B8 Comox Valley Echo Tuesday, September 30, 2014

What’s On

Des Edwards’ A Brush With Colour retrospective at Whyte’s Gallery The arts community recently lost the very talented and respected Des Edwards to ALS. Des and Betty came to Kitimat from England in 1969 where he had been employed by the Rolls Royce Company, with whom he completed a five year drafting apprenticeship. Initially hired by Alcan as a draftsman, his talents soon saw him as a graphic designer.

In 1983 Des joined the Art Club in Kitimat and took up watercolours. A very prolific painter, Des was featured in the BC Festival of Arts catalogue on several occasions and also taught watercolour courses at Northwest Community College.

In 1986 Des’s piece “Weathered Wood” was one of four paintings chosen from northern BC for display at Expo ‘86.

Des was involved in many museum activities through the years including an exhibit of his work entitled “A Brush With Colour”.

If you are ever to visit Kitimat, you will surely notice the aluminum snowflake, a design that was one of his many contributions to the community.

Upon retirement from Alcan, Des and Betty moved to Comox where, apart from some painting, Des enjoyed playing guitar and golfing.

Whyte’s Framing and Gallery is very pleased to host an exhibition of Des’s work on October 4th through to October 17th.

Betty will be in attendance on opening day, October 4th from 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm to chat with people and show some of Des’s work that has not been seen before, including studies done with friends Harry Heine and Kiff

Self-portrait by Des Edwards Holland.

Betty has decided a portion of sales will be donated to the ALS Society.

Charming comedy kicks off new season for Little Theatre Think of London in 1922. Postwar, grey, damp, and dreary.

Think of two marriages, also on the grey and dreary side.

Then fate, and the London Times, toss in an opportunity for escape to Italy, leaving England and husbands behind.

Lottie (Brianna Mason) and Rose (Christine Reynolds) grab the moment and run, taking with them a world-weary socialite, Lady Caroline (Jackie Leung), and Mrs. Graves, a lonely, if domineering, widow (Annie Lord).

Join the theatre crowd at the Sid Williams Theatre starting October 3rd, and enjoy Enchanted April, Courtenay Little Theatre’s fall production.

Find out what happens when these four women venture to sunny Italy.

Mathew Barber’s comedy won the 2003 award for Outstanding New American Comedy, but its English base is from the 1922 novel

by Elizabeth von Arnim.

Wit and humour bounce through the script. Mrs. Graves, admitting that her husband’s death was a surprise, adds, “though not nearly as surprising as it must have been for him”.

Annie Lord delights in such witticisms, but stresses that the humour comes at many different levels, from satire to slapstick.

There are moment of comeuppance and embarrassment, rather like an elegant gentleman slipping on a banana skin, laughs Jackie Leung.

Moments of complete misunderstanding happen, especially when the Italian housekeeper, Costanza (Adele Bailey) neither speaks nor understands English.

Fortunately, the owner of the villa, Antony Wilding, played by Nika Barry, turns up to help sort things out.

The contrasting husbands, Mellersh (James Sawatsky) and Frederick (Matt Williams), add their foibles and personal styles to the mix.

THANK YOU! Comox Valley

For making a difference Helping to raise readers Providing the tools to help children and families improve their reading skills is an investment in our community and our future.

In Courtenay Little Theatre’s upcoming production of Enchanted April, Costanza (Adele Bailey) communicates her lively Italian desires to a delighted, if uncomprehending, Rose (Christine Reynolds). Photo by Terry Penney.

As secrets are revealed, characters intertwine, and love conquers all.

Stage Manager Caitlin Hooper has been chuckling throughout the rehearsal process of this entertaining comedy. She describes the banter between the characters as “hilarious, bold, sarcastic, even outrageous”.

Award-winning director Vivien Douglas has pulled out all the humorous stops in this delightful production, so that Enchanted April is guaranteed to enchant its audiences.

Courtenay Little Theatre’s presentation of Enchanted April runs in the Sid Williams Theatre on October 3, 4, 9, 10, 11 at 7.30 p.m. and on Sunday October 5 at 2.00 p.m.

Tickets are available at the box office, 250-338-2430 and at sidwilliamstheatre.com.

100% of proceeds support family and children’s literacy programs For more information, visit www.RaiseAReader.com

Sponsored by: Strathcona Sunrise

- Submitted by Alana Gowdy, CLT

A Brush With Colour

Club of Comox

Club

A Retrospective of the Works of the late Des Edwards Adult Learning Centre

www.islandhonda.ca

Oct. 4 to Oct.17 Betty Edwards will be in Attendance Oct. 4 2-4 pm.

Partial Proceeds to the ALS Society.

Whyte’s Framing & Gallery 1225 Lazo Road, Comox info@whytesframing.com 250.339.3366 • www.whytesframing.com

Comox Valley Lifelong Learning Association

Club of Courtenay