Comxo Valley Echo - March 3, 2015

www.comoxvalleyecho.com COURTENAY, BRITISH COLUMBIA • Tuesday, March 3, 2015

NEWS

NEWS

11.Comox decides 08.Military PRICE: 57 CENTS PLUS GST

VOL. 21, NO. 18

to demolish Laing’s funeral held for historic homes SAR Tech

RARE HONOUR FOR TWO BROTHERS.03 FRANCE’S LEGION OF HONOUR AWARD GOES TO LOCAL WORLD WAR II VETERANS.

09. SAYING YES PAYS OFF

Thinking of Building?

New subdivisions coming in 2015!

For more details or to reserve your lot , contact our team today.

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Experience, integrity & teamwork to make your dreams a reality.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.COURTENAY,BC. MARCH 3, 2015

ECHO

NEWS

FREE Brake & Mechanical Inspection

Denture Clinic

Comox Valley Weather

(with coupon)

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Thursday

Friday

Saturday

A mix of sun and cloud.

A mix of sun and cloud.

Sunny.

Low 4°C. High 10°C.

Low 2°C. High 12°C.

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Tuesday

Wednesday

Sunny.

Sunny.

High 8°C.

Low 0°C. High 9°C.

Low 1°C. High 10°C.

New Patients Welcome

2215 Cliffe Ave., Courtenay 338-5411

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250.334.4732

331B 6th St. Courtenay

Cumberland considering purchase of Saito house

BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff The Village of Cumberland is looking into buying the only remaining Japanese townsite home. Saito house, which is located in Coal Creek Historic Park, is not protected under heritage regulations and is causing headaches for the current owners, who aren’t allowed to subdivide the property due to a covenant on the land.

“That’s the only house left that has been relatively untouched since those days,” said Coun. Gwyn Sproule, considering potential futures for the No. 1 Japanese townsite dwelling presented to council by staff during a recent meeting. “Clearly the option I would prefer is to have a spare $90,000 to be able to buy it, but I don’t know how much fundraising that would take.”

Masakitchi Saito built the house in 1925 after arriving in Cumberland in 1914.

Now it stands as the solitary home in what has become Coal Creek Historic Park, created in 2002 when Weldwood of Canada Inc. transferred

The Saito House the property to the Village.

At the time a covenant was placed on the property that restricts uses of the land and development, in order to promote the heritage Chinese and Japanese community areas as well protecting the environment.

While the current owners of Saito house, Jan Hellerud and David Kydd, have maintained the house and served as de facto caretakers for that section of the park, they’ve approached Village staff about the potential of selling the property.

Cumberland has been in negotiations with the

owners for about 10 years now, but hasn’t been able to sort anything out.

A staff report noted the house was assessed at $91,5000 in 2015, and suggests it could be rented out with conditions placed on the lease to protect the heritage value.

Coun. Sproule suggested it might be a good idea - although a challenging one - to reach out to the Japanese community as part of discussions about what to do with the property.

“I mean, I’m sure they would be interested in being involved in the purchase,” she said, reflect-

ing on the World War II internments that cleared that very community from Cumberland, “but on the other hand, those houses were taken away from them in 1942 just like that.”

There are other houses from the Japanese townsite still standing, but they have been moved elsewhere in the Comox Valley.

The building is not officially recognized as a heritage structure and the Village does not yet have a heritage management plan or a community heritage registry.

Coun. Roger Kishi said

it’s important to come up with a plan if Saito House ownership is going to change.

“It’s going to have to be maintained, and what would the use of the house be?” he wondered, adding government ownership of historic buildings can be challenging.

“I think that if we are going to be looking at a possible purchase or even a transfer of the land, I think that it’s really important that we try to develop a plan for how the property would be maintained.”

Mayor Leslie Baird said it would be wise to own the property.

“I don’t see it as being subdivided off and someone else taking ownership,” she said. “I think that would create problems for

us down the road.”

The Village could rent Saito house out for a number of years while deciding what to do with it, Baird ventured.

Coun. Sean Sullivan agreed that it’s important to have a plan for the property, pointing to lessons that can be learned from the Mack Laing property in Comox.

Council voted unanimously to seek an appraisal with the intention of considering a purchase of the property.

“Over the years we’ve lost so many of our heritage buildings, and it would be so nice to keep some of them,” Baird said.

“We might not appreciate it so much now, but years down the road it will be very much appreciated.”

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FEB 26

MARCH 5

Feb. 26– March. 5

The Green Party of Canada Town Hall Meeting Meet Glenn Sollitt-your federal candidate Filberg Center Evergreen Room - Courtenay, March 4th, 6:30 to 9PM. • Bring your questions, • Bring a friend • Bring someone who hasn’t voted recently • Learn why Glenn will earn your vote

WE CAN MAKE CANADA STRONG AGAIN, DEMOCRATICALLY, ENVIRONMENTALLY AND ECONOMICALLY! Courtenay Alberni Electoral District

Cinema #2: “The Valley Below” one show only Wednesday, March 4, 7:00 pm (ends approx.8:37 pm Cinema #1: “Focus” 14A:Nightly: 7:00 (8:55) & 9:35 (11:30).

Saturday & Sunday Matinees: 12:55 (2:50) & 3:50 (5:45) Cinema #2: “McFarland” G: Violence. Nightly: 6:40 (9:00) & 9:30 (11:50) Saturday & Sunday Matinees: 12:35 (2:55) & 3:30 (5:50) Cinema #3: “Fifty Shades of Grey” 18A: No Advisory . Sexually suggestive scenes; nudity Nightly Except Wednesday: 6:50 (9:05) & 9:40 (11:55). Wednesday, March 4: 9:40 (11:55).

Saturday & Sunday Matinees: 12:45 (3:00) & 3:40 (5:55) Cinema #4: “Kingsman: The Secret Service” 14A: Coarse language; violence Nightly: 6:30 (8:50) & 9:25 (11:45).

Saturday & Sunday Matinees: 12:30 (2:50) & 3:25 (5:45) Box Office Hours for Feb. 20th – 26th Nightly: 6:00 pm – 9:45 pm Saturday & Sunday Matinees: 12:00 noon - 3:45 pm

www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 3, 2015

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A rare decoration for two Valley brothers James and Bryson Whyte receive French Legion of Honour

BY DEBRA MARTIN Echo Staff Two Comox Valley brothers who served in World War II, were recognized Saturday morning at the Cumberland Legion with France’s highest award, The Legion of Honour.

Out of the close to 400 veterans across Canada to receive the award for their part in the liberation of France, they are believed to be the only pair of brothers.

France decided to issue the honour to Canadian veterans to mark the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landing, June 6, 1944 and the Battle of Normandy that followed.

James “Bud” Whyte, who landed on D-Day with the 1st Battalion Canadian Scottish Regiment, and W. Bryson Whyte, who landed a few days later with the Royal Canadian Engineers No. 1 Road Construction, were presented their medals by Cumberland Mayor Leslie Baird.

“We are so very proud of your service to our country,” she said.

The ceremony was attended by dozens of Whyte family members along with representatives from 19 Wing Comox, MP John Duncan’s office and the Royal Canadian Legion.

James Whyte, who is now 92, joined up in Courtenay in June, 1940. His brother Bryson, who is 90, enlisted in the summer of 1942.

“We’re here today to witness the closing of a chapter of world history, that, thankfully, most of us will never fully appreciate. An armada like the world has never seen before, or since, crossed the English Channel to begin the liberation of Europe,” said Jim Whyte, son of James, speaking on behalf of the families.

“Filling those landing craft were men coming from the largest cities to the small farm communities and mining communities. There were many who answered the call from the Comox Valley. Two of them are here today to be formally recognized by the Republic of France.”

Whyte said that the French ambassador wrote that the Legion of Honour represents “profound gratitude ... Through you, France remembers the sacrifice of all your compatriots.”

He noted that two members of his dad’s regiment, John Bryden and Doug Etherington, were listed among the fallen outside at the Cumberland Legion memorial arch.

(Continued on page 4)

Bill Whyte, centre, did the piping honours for his dad James ‘Bud’ Whyte, left, and uncle Bryson Whyte at the induction ceremony Saturday for the French Legion of Honour. Bill is wearing the Canadian Scottish kilt worn by the officer who ‘signed up’ his dad into the regiment.

Elections BC releases financial reports of municipal candidates Comox’s Paul Ives spends the most out of the mayoralty candidates

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff Elections BC just released the financial reports of the candidates at the last civic elections held in November.

Among the three mayors in the Comox Valley, Village of Cumberland mayor Leslie Baird spent the least money the election campaign.

Although she won by acclamation, Baird still doled out $425 of her own money to pay for newspaper ads and election

proceedings.

Town of Comox Mayor Paul Ives recorded the highest amount of contributions received from individuals, corporations and commercial organizations totaling $6,640.

He spent $6554.04 during his successful election campaign while candidate who ran against him Tom Grant’s total expenditure was $6,399.

Courtenay Mayor Larry Jangula spent $5,274.15 during his campaign.

He received donations total-

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ling $5,650 in individual and corporate contributions and got re-elected for another term in office.

He beat Jon Ambler, a former city councillor, who used $3,081.87 of the $3750 individual contributions he attained during the election.

Here’s the amount of contributions each elected official in the Comox Valley received during the election campaign: • Courtenay councilors - Erik Eriksson ($4,095), Rebecca Lennox ($3,851.52), Manno Theos

($2,750), Bob Wells ($2,190.15), David Frisch ($4,480.35) and Doug Hillian ($2,235).

• Comox councilors - Maureen Swift ($4,149), Russ Arnott ($1,475), Ken Grant ($1,374), Marg Grant ($3,636.08) and Hugh MacKinnon ($1,370.31).

• Cumberland councilors Jesse Ketler ($1,540), Roger Kishi ($1,510.70), Gwyn Sproule ($660) and Sean Sullivan ($723).

• School District Trustees Tom Weber ($0.0), Janice Caton ($1,771.54), Ian Hargreaves

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($0.0), Sheila McDonnell ($1,362), Cliff Boldt ($1,584.49), Peter Coleman ($1,077.23) and Vickey Brown ($0.0).

• Comox Valley Regional District - Edwin Grieve ($1,669.09), Bruce Jolliffe ($2042.72) and Rodney Nichol ($1,062.09).

Anyone wishing to get more information on candidates’ list of contributors and the dollar amount can go visit Elections BC website, http://www.elections.bc.ca/index.php/electoralfinance/financial-reports-political-contributions.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 3, 2015

James Whyte K57517 1st Battalion Canadian Scottish Regiment In June of 1940 I “joined up” in Courtenay near Comox Creamery. The Legion was across the street.

Went by bus to Victoria for basic training at Work Point Barracks where I had my 18th birthday, June 28, 1940.

We traveled by train from Vancouver and arrived October 9, 1941 in Truro, Nova Scotia to find a new base where the barracks had no heat, windows or plumbing and red mud everywhere. There was more training in weapons, driver/mechanic training for the trucks and bren gun carriers.

We left Debert on August 25, 1942 and landed September 1, 1942 on Firth of Clyde then to Aldershot, September 3rd.

From then on until the embarkation for D-Day the battalion trained in all aspects of warfare including commando training in Inverary, Scotland.

In preparation for the invasion, the LCTs (landing craft tank) were loaded with a variety of equipment from sister regiments of the 7th Brigade.

The universal carriers and bulldozers were backed in so when we landed on the beach they could be driven straight off. The bulldozers were to make a roadway over or through the seawall which lined “Juno Beach”. At 8:20 June 6th, D-Day I landed on beach.

At the close of D-Day the Canadian Scottish had advanced farther inland through Courseulles-surMer, towards their objective, than any other regiment. There was a swift retaliation of a counter attack by the SS Panzer Division which is said to have given the Canadian Scottish their “baptism of fire”. Canada’s volunteer army proved they were committed to ridding the world of the oppressors.

For nearly four months the 7th Brigade fought up the coast of France. Some of the villages and cities liberated were Putot en Bessin, Cussy, Rots, Falaise, Caen, Calais, Rouen, Boulogne.

Deas Gu Cath

W. Bryson Whyte K16373 Royal Canadian Engineers No. 1 Road Construction In the summer of 1942 two friends and I went to Vancouver. My friends were going to join up, and I was going to sign up at U.B.C. Instead I also decided to enlist. After taking preliminary tests, I joined the army engineers as a sapper.

We were sent home to be called later and on January 17, 1943 I was to report to Victoria. From there to Little Mountain in Vancouver for uniforms and kit, then on to Grand Prairie for basic training. Back to Chilliwack for advanced training in bridge building, such as Inglis, Bailey, and timber construction; also explosive training, gas chambers, long route marches, wading across the Vedder River in full pack. All to toughen up the troops.

Next move was to Halifax to board the Queen Mary. Twenty-thousand on board we were told.

We took turns sleeping on deck and below deck in hammocks. We landed in Scotland and then off to Aldershot and Guilford for further training and finally to Pitch Hill near Redding. Here we were formed into a heavy equipment company and learned how to operate cats, graders, shovels and stationary equipment.

D-D was approaching so waterproofing our equipment was primary.

Soon 06 June took place and several days later our little company took off and landed on June Beach. Eventually we arrived in the town of Buron not far out of Caen.

Our job was to clear streets and highways so the transports could get through.

My partner and I were sent onto the Caen-Falaise highway to remove debris and maintain conditions as the net around Falaise was tightening.

One day on the highway in a small valley below, the Polish army was advancing toward Falaise.

In short order the Air Force bombers appeared.

We could look up at the low flying aircraft and see the bomb bay doors open

A rare honour: Two brothers received the French Legion of Honour for their role in the liberation of France in a Saturday ceremony at the Cumberland Legion. From left to right, L. Col. Keith Stewart, 19 Wing Comox; medal recipient James Whyte; Cumberland Mayor Leslie Baird; medal recipient Bryson Whyte.

Brothers receive French Legion of Honour “The time has come in our history when the torch of remembrance is passed to the next generations. It will be our task, nay our duty, not only to perpetuate the memory (of the fallen) but of those who went away as young men and came back forever changed.

“Life after the war wasn’t easy nor the return to civilian life. The memo-

ries of the incomprehensible death and destruction just didn’t wash off.

“Veterans were told do something you enjoy. It is understandable that my uncle Bryson and father each in their own way became builders - skills learned in wartime were applied in peacetime.

“They both worked in construction after the war.

Dad continued to work with heavy equipment and Bryson took teacher train-

ing so that he might share his love of woodworking with others”.

Another of James’ sons, Bill, played the bagpipes for the occasion - an historic set of Hendersons from WWI, believed to be one of only three sets from that batch still in existence.

One of the sets was played by Victoria Cross winner Piper Richardson of the Canadian Scottish.

They are now displayed

in the rotunda at the B.C. Legislature.

He also wore a Hunting Stuart tartan kilt that had been worn by Major Art Constable who signed up his father into the Canadian Scottish.

Whyte extended a special thank-you to the comrades of the Cumberland Legion for visiting his dad and uncle, completing the paperwork to apply for the medals and arranging the ceremony.

and bombs came pouring out, unfortunately onto the Polish army. Another short bombing similar to one a few weeks earlier near Caen.

After the fall of Falaise the resistance seemed to weaken and progress was faster.

Soon we had left France and entered Belgium,

Holand, and on to Germany and the end (May 8/45).

Back to Halifax on the Queen Elizabeth and discharged 07 Dec 1945 after

returning on train to Vancouver.

(Continued from page 3)

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(A few memories from W.B. Whyte)

Expedition Cruise Info Night Wild BC and Alaska by Boutique Ship 2015-16

Learn about award-winning, Galapagos-style, boutique cruises on classic ships in BC and Alaska. Featuring natural and cultural history. %PEWOE ,EMHE +[EMM +VIEX &IEV 6EMRJSVIWX +YPJ -W 2EXMSREP 4EVO 6IWIVZI :ERGSYZIV -W Mon. Mar 9, 7 pm Info/RSVP 250-386-7245 Stan Hagen Theatre, North Island College, 2300 Ryan Rd., Courtenay

www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 3, 2015

AnMARCOS ... A Growing Concern!

Dear Friends of the Comox Valley, We at AnMARCOS Furniture & Mattresses would like to thank everyone for your ongoing support over the past two years! Ever since we opened our doors, we have been received by you with open arms, the best of wishes, and a lot of business! Thank you!

AnMARCOS Furniture has grown so much in customer volume that we now have three full-time employees, all from the Comox Valley! We started out on day one with Denis Lacasse. He was instrumental in helping us to build on a solid foundation, and he continues to play an integral role in our company. Later we added Allan Moon to the team.

Always willing to work hard, he started part-time, and has continued full-time for close to a year now.

Both of them work well together, and we often are told how accommodating they are when they deliver our products to you. And now, since November last, we have Pam Roy who came to us asking if she could join our team at the very time we needed help on the showroom floor. Pam was one of our very first customers! We feel honoured to have all three working Back Row (l-r): Denis, Pam, Allan Front Row (l-r): Ana, Mark, Kerry, Micheal with us in the AnMARCOS family-run furniture and mattress store.

We also want to thank everyone in the Valley for being so understanding with regards to us being closed on Saturdays. This we do for our own personal faith reasons. At the beginning, some of our suppliers told us that it would not work if we were not open on Saturdays. How grateful we are that they were wrong! Our growing customer base (you) have been incredibly obliging, and we can’t thank you enough.

Some of the products we sell at AnMARCOS Furniture & Mattresses have changed over the course of time, while others have gotten better and even more popular. Our Cool Chrome Dinettes have taken off like a rocket. These sets are made in Canada by the original chrome company in Winnipeg! Everyone loves them, and we have sold them all over Vancouver Island.

And the BC made flippable mattresses are very popular. There is virtually nowhere else on Vancouver Island that you will find mattresses that are made for use on both sides, and yet the benefits are incredibly obvious.

Our upholstery lines at AnMARCOS are extremely well made by Van Gogh Designs and Deluxe Designs, both of which are strong BC companies that make great products. Our customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. We also carry products by a whole host of other well known, and some not so well known, companies from many different parts of the globe. We have a very interesting collection of art work, lamps, and gift pieces that are cool and affordable!

We at AnMARCOS Furniture & Mattresses will continue to strive to bring you the very best in quality and customer service. It matters to you, and it matters to us!

Thank you, Sincerely, Mark, Ana, Family & Staff.

Open Sunday: 11am to 5pm | Open Monday to Friday: 9:30am to 5:30pm Closed Saturday

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com

TUESDAY. MARCH 3, 2015

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

Q: Hearing loss is to be expected as we get older..

Why should we do anything about it?

Jennifer Frey,

Do I need to wear my glasses while I sleep so I see my dreams clearly?

What causes bad breath?

Registered Audiologist

Hmmm.......... if it helps you – go for it!

1.888.850.9979

Footwear

Q: I have custom orthotics.

Is there footwear available to fit my custom orthotics?

When do I prune flowering shrubs?

Paula Granger Owner

A: Many shoes have removable foot beds, but the Portofino line of footwear is specifically designed to fit your custom othotics, and are available exclusively at Pavia Shoe Co. Come in and be pleasantly surprised by our stylish selection of Portofino footwear. They are fashionable, beautifully hand-crafted in Spain, come in a wide variety of styles for all seasons, and have a deep toe box that allows for a proper fit of your custom orthotics. Treat your feet to someecial! thing special!

Pruning is a source of confusion and worry to many gardeners.

Luckily a few simple quidelines provide good advice for growing most types of flowering shrubs.

1-Don't prune. Many gardeners labor under the belief that they must prune regularly to keep their shrubs in good condition. Not true. Most shrubs need only one significant pruning session a year and many don’t even need that. Many flowering shrubs will look their best when allowed to grow in their natural form or habit.

2-Prune spring flowering shrubs right after flowering. If you prune these spring bloomers in fall or winter you’ll remove the flower buds and won’t have flowers that year.

3-Prune summer flowering shrubs in late winter or early spring.

250.338.0903 www.theHomeMedicalShop.com

Dentists

Causes of bad breath include stomach upset or other metabolic conditions, foods like garlic, onions, coffee, and refined sugars that are easily digested by plaque on the teeth. Bacteria in the mouth release chemicals that produce an unpleasant smell. Minimizing the numbers of these bacteria and their chemicals is the way to freshen up your breath.

DENTISTRY

A: It is normal for older people to have hearing loss but it should not be considered normal for them to be isolated or handicapped by that hearing loss. Untreated hearing loss at any age is associated with depression, anxiety, stress and social withdrawal. Properly fitted hearing aids make speech more audible and intelligible. Hearing aids, along with strategies for better communication, can reduce the effect of age related hearing loss and keep hearing impaired elderly people connected to their families, friends and communities. Hearing loss should not be ignored. Everyone over fifty years of age should have a baseline hearing test done by a qualified Hearing Care Professional.

Dr. Colleen Clancy & Dr. Ann Lu

Gum disease causes pockets around teeth where bacteria can hide. Bacteria can also stick to your tongue. Brushing your tongue will break up the film of bacteria.

Dry mouth is another cause. Without the normal flow of saliva, there is less rinsing of the mouth occurring naturally.

Don’t forget regular brushing and flossing. This is an easy way to keep teeth clean and minimize the amount of bacteria in the mouth.

Dr. Colleen Clancy and Associates #98-1742 Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay, BC V9N 2K8 Phone: 250-338-2599 Web: www.drcolleenclancy.com

My 4 year old has a bad cough, why are there no cough syrups recommended for children under 6?

Typically, medications for colds and flu are not cures but can help control symptoms. Hard candies and cough drops can help soothe sore throats due to cough but can be hazardous in children under 4.

Honey based syrups and other natural remedies can help soothe and control coughs in children under 6. Moist air can help children with croup.

Time in a steamy bathroom followed by cool morning air can also be helpful. For chronic coughs in children with asthma steroids or other prescription drugs may be needed.

DO NOT give adult cough medicine to children under 6. Not only are these drugs not approved but there is no clinical proof that there is any benefit. In addition, the sedation that these drugs cause may be hazardous.

www.comoxvalleyecho.com

TUESDAY. MARCH 3, 2015

How do I arrange to pre-pay my funeral expenses?

What is the difference between a refrigerant handling ticket and a refrigeration ticket?

7

WHEN AND HOW DO I PLANT A BARE ROOT FRUIT TREE? Eric Toneff

A refrigerant handling ticket is a certification required for anyone who wants to purchase, sell or install heat pumps or refrigeration equipment. A handling ticket is a 4 hour course that teaches the importance of properly handling refrigerants that can cause harm to the environment.

A refrigeration ticket is a Red Seal certification from the government of Canada that takes 5 years to complete. A registered refrigeration apprentice must complete thousands of hours on the job, months of in class schooling, a government exam and signed off by a Red Seal Refrigeration technician. This is a rigorous program that ensures only well trained technicians carry this certification that is recognized across the country and world wide.

There currently is no governing body to ensure only Red Seal refrigeration technicians are servicing and installing heat pumps and other types of refrigeration equipment. Only the customer can ensure this by asking for proof of a red seal certification.

For more information on Red Seal Certifications contact us at tempriteclimatesolutions.com

FUNERAL SERVICES

FUNERAL DIRECTOR

Under the Funeral Directors Act, in B.C., all pre-payments for final arrangements must be held by a Trustee. Pre-paid arrangements at Toneff Funeral Services are held by Canada Purple Shield. Canada Purple Shield has been looking after the pre-payment deposits of Canadian Families for 52 years and the company is registered in all 10 provinces. You can make a lump sum deposit or arrange a monthly payment that will suit you budget. Eric and Emma will be pleased to provide more details. Feel free to contact them to discuss this option.

Bare root fruit trees must be planted in late winter or early spring before they break dormancy. This year spring seems to be coming early, so the time is definitely now. Prune dry, damaged or broken roots then soak in Transplanting fertilizer for a minimum of 2 hours before planting. Dig a hole in a sunny well-drained area twice as deep and at least 3 times as wide as the root spread. Mix a small amount of organic matter like peat with the existing soil and add a large handful of bone meal.

Planting depth is indicated by the soil line visible around the base of the trunk, don’t plant any deeper. At this time a product like Myke ®can be added around the roots to promote root development and aid in the uptake of phosphorous. Stake the trunk and fill in the hole, shaking the tree to settle soil, then tamp gently and water thoroughly.

Mulch well to prevent moisture loss, being sure to keep the mulch 2 or 3 inches away from the trunk. Water well twice a week, more in hot dry weather, making sure the water goes deep.

1–204 North Island Highway, Courtenay

Call us

250.338.4463

Why Book with a Travel Agent?

Is there any way to whiten my denture teeth?

I’m buying a house and need a down payment.

What are my options?

We get asked this question many times a week, so I thought I would highlight just some top reasons!

Agents are trained experts and know how to sort through the myriad of travel information available. They spend all day, every day, researching the best possible vacation options for their clients.

They have more knowledge than you can garner from an online search. Agents understand complex travel code and internet jargon – and know how to make sense of it for you. Agents have access to exclusive deals and will find the best products for the best value – that fit your unique vacations needs. Your agent ensures you get where you want to go, when you want to go, and is there to provide timely, insightful, professional guidance along the way.

Travel agents work for their clients, not for a travel supplier. Let you agent do the work for you with unbiased recommendations.

If you experience a problem while traveling, your agent acts on your behalf, as your personal travel advocate. Plus many agents are part of larger industry groups that carry a lot of clout. They can accomplish more – better and faster – than any one consumer can.

No, not really. None of the teeth whitening products on the market today are meant for dentures, they are likely to damage your denture if you try them. Regular care and maintenance can help them remain at their original colour.

Some food and drinks can lead to staining of denture teeth like blueberries, wine and coffee. Smoking can also cause denture staining. Some staining can be addressed by soaking your denture in undiluted white vinegar twice a week for half an hour each time followed by a thorough rinse and brushing.

Funding a down payment can be tough, especially for first time buyers. Your down payment needs to be at least 5% of the purchase price, which in our area is a lot even for a 'starter' home. Luckily, you do have a few options which can be combined if needed, including: 1) your own savings, 2) a gift from family, or 3) a personal line of credit. Saving your own down payment is the most traditional option you just need 3 months bank history showing your savings accumulation. Gifted down payments are becoming more common today as property prices increase, but the rules state they must come from your direct family member (parents/grandparents). In other words, gifts from your siblings or godparents won’t work. Line of Credit borrowing is also typically allowed, but you must have strong credit and enough income to support the LOC payments and the mortgage and the mortgage insurance (if required) will cost more. If you have questions about the best down payment strategy for your purchase, give us a call today!

Always use a non-abrasive cleaner when brushing your denture. Toothpaste, for example, is abrasive and can leave micro-abrasions on your denture that can lead to easier staining. Modern denture teeth are very detailed to resemble natural teeth, make sure you are happy with the teeth chosen whenever you get a new denture. Your Denturist will have teeth in many colours, shapes and sizes to choose from.

Have questions? Email us at comoxdentureclinic@gmail.com

Do I have cataracts?

I have been colouring my hair for years and want to go lighter for summer.

Can I colour my hair a very light blonde without it breaking?

Since you're asking, it sounds like this may have been mentioned at your last eye exam. We think of cataracts as the loss of clarity within the internal lens of the eye. Consider this: the internal lens of the eye loses transparency naturally over time, and this happens to almost everyone eventually - often so gradually that it is imperceptible. Sometimes the lens can develop opacities quickly, and this often affects vision more noticeably. One can also be born with imperfections in the lens. In any case, it's a worthwhile conversation you should have with your eye doctor, at least to address any anxiety you may have about cataracts. Your eye doctor should be able to tell you how well you're seeing and if there's any impending concern, especially if the topic of eye surgery is introduced.

HAIR TREATMENT

KRISTEN Yes! We are excited to introduce a revolutionary new treatment that dramatically eliminates breakage from chemical services and leaves the hair feeling amazing! The only way to change the colour of hair is by breaking the bonds that hold in your natural colour and the lighter you go the more damaging the process can be. You may have heard the buzz around Olaplex.... well this professional treatment actually links these bonds back together rebuilding hair and making it stronger and healthier no matter how light you go or how often you colour. Our Olaplex Treatment also includes a take home Reparative Hair Perfector to be used weekly that continuously strengthens your hair and extends the life of your colour. Phone today for your complimentary consult with me or to book your damage free hair colour appointment! Just mention you read it here and receive a $10.00 credit!

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Send your questions for any of these professionals to us by mail, email or fax Professional: Question:

COMOX VALLEY ECHO 407 - E Fifth Street, Courtenay, BC V8N 1J7 or send your question to Keith Currie at kcurrie@comoxvalleyecho.com or by fax to 250-334-3172

8

www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 3, 2015

The 442 Squadron hangar at CFB Comox was filled with mourners from near and far as Capt. Francois Fasquelle (on the podium) opened the proceedings.

SEARCH AND RESCUE

SAR Tech died ‘doing what he loved most’ Full military honours at funeral held for Sgt. Mark Salesse at 19 Wing

BY PHILIP ROUND Report and pictures Special to the Echo Colleagues described SAR Tech Sgt. Mark Salesse as a giant of a man and a born leader at his military funeral held at CFB Comox on Saturday.

But to his proud mom, Liz Quinn, “he was the loving threads that held the colourful quilt of friends together - and by the many gathered here today, he saw beauty in each of you, and you in him.”

Mark, she told around 400 military and civilian mourners assembled in the 442 Squadron hangar, was a friend to everyone.

Salesse (44) died on a military training exercise in the icy mountains of Banff National Park on February 5. He and three other Search and Rescue Technicians has completed an ascent and were on the way down when an avalanche swept Salesse off the side of a narrow cliff. He body was recovered after a six-day search that had been hampered by bad weather.

Although a native of New Brunswick and most recently based in Winnipeg, Salesse loved the outdoors of BC and had

Pallbearers who were all former colleagues of Sgt. Salesse carry his flag-draped coffin into the service

The attributes of exemplary leadership were all there with Mark: honesty, resilience, determination, personal and physical excellence - qualities of the very best soldiers - and he wielded those qualities with grace and integrity”

Sgt. Mark Salesse

CWO JEFF WARDEN Commandant, Canadian Forces School of Search and Rescue

A lone SAR Buffalo aircraft flies by in tribute to a fallen colleague. been stationed for a period with the Search and Rescue Squadron in Comox, and had also been a volunteer with Comox Valley Ground Search and Rescue and with Mount Washington Ski Patrol.

It was also in BC that his military career began with the British Columbia Regiment in Vancouver.

So his family’s preference was for a funeral on Vancouver Island to reflect his passion for the mountains, adventure and outdoor sports he so enjoyed both profession-

ally and in his own time on the West Coast.

Among the congregation were former friends and representatives of civilian search and rescue teams, as well as around 100 current and former military SAR personnel from across Canada.

Also there to pay respects was the federal minister of national defence, Jason Kenney.

Before the service began, the cortege including the coffin draped in the Canadian flag made its way from the Comox Valley Funeral Home in Courtenay to CFB Comox via Ryan Road, along which several groups of individuals had gathered

Comox Fire and Rescue personnel were among several groups paying tribute as the funeral cortege traveled along Ryan Road. to pay their respects.

They included a contingent of volunteers and vehicles from Comox Fire and Rescue Department, whose members displayed national flags in a similar fashion to tributes along the Highway

of Heroes in Ontario for repatriated soldiers.

The service was conducted by 19 Wing Padre Matthew Lucas, with the Canadian Military Wives Choir (Comox) singing O Canada. Poems were read and music played,

interspersed with tributes from his mother and from friends and former colleagues.

Chief Warrant Officer Jeff Warden, the Commandant of the Canadian Forces School of Search and Rescue, gave the eulogy.

He said Salesse was a true leader of men, a role model and a team builder, “but most importantly, Mark genuinely loved looking after people and was always humble about it.”

He added: “The attributes of exemplary leadership were all there with Mark: honesty, resilience, determination, personal and physical excellence -qualities of the very best soldiers - and he wielded those qualities with grace and integrity.”

(Continued on page 9)

www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 3, 2015

9

Saying ‘YES’ to the Extra pays off for Courtenay resident Diane Levis’ decision to change up her lottery purchase and say ‘yes’ to the Extra paid off to the tune of half a million dollars on the February 21, 2015 Lotto 6/49 draw.

Levis purchased the $10 Big Jackpot Pack which meant she was automatically entered in for a chance to win the Extra prize.

“I usually don’t buy the Extra, but I’ve learned my lesson,” smiles Levis.

“I will never say ‘no’ again.”

When the Courtenay resident checked her ticket at the General Store in Cumberland and the terminal froze, she initially thought it was $5,000.

The cashier told her to look at the screen again, and that was when she realized she had won big.

“I couldn’t believe what I was seeing,” recalls

Levis. “ I’ve been in a fog since Sunday. It’s a head spinner!”

Levis matched all four numbers on the Lotto Max Extra draw to win the top prize of $500,000.

After validating her ticket, she went straight home to share the news with her family.

Levis will be putting her winnings in the bank, but not before paying off the loan on her new truck.

“It will be nice to be debt free,” she says.

The winning ticket was purchased at the Cliffe Avenue 7-11 in Courtenay.

Say ‘Yes’ to the Extra for the chance to win up to $500,000. Extra is available with Lotto 6/49, Lotto Max, and BC/49 at any BCLC lottery retailer or at PlayNow.com.

Military funeral (Continued from page 8)

Warden recalled how, as a teenager fresh into the army, Salesse taught others how to rappel, and the skill became almost an addiction for him.

“Some of his friends were soon chalking up rappels on all the bridges in Vancouver, including the Lions Gate, during the day and at night.

“Mark was soon ‘hooking up’ other soldiers in his Vancouver regiment by coaching them off high structures.

He never broke the rules, but he bent them just a tiny bit.”

As his career in the military progressed, he became a known and respected leader, “and this giant among men subsequently served his brethren well at every Search and Rescue Squadron he worked at.”

Warden concluded: “Our consolation is that Mark has died doing

what he loved most, in the majestic mountains that so beckoned him. He chose his final resting place -- he is at peace.”

After the closing prayer, the Last Post and Reveille were sounded and a piper played a lament as the Canadian flag was removed from the coffin and folded for presentation to his mother by L/ Col Brent Andrews, the Commanding Officer of Salesse’s last Squadron in Winnipeg.

A SAR Buffalo aircraft flew over in a final aerial tribute and a six-man party representing his first BC Regiment fired a volley to conclude the service.

Mark Salesse’s body was returned to Bathurst (NB) on Sunday so his father, Maurice Salesse -- who was unable to travel to Comox for the military service -- and other family members out east could pay their final respects at a private interment.

Diane Levis plans to pay off the loan on her new truck before putting the rest of her winnings in the bank for now.

Above: The Canadian flag that had draped Sgt. Salesse’s coffin was presented to his mother, Liz Quinn, and family representatives.

Right: A six-man party fire one of three volleys in tribute to conclude the service.

Around 100 current and former SAR Techs from bases across Canada were present at the military funeral.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 3 2015

ECHO

OPINIONS

LETTERS

Leave that bridge alone Councillor Eriksson, welcome to the Comox Valley.

I know you are a member of the Courtenay council but you appear to have forgotten something about the Comox Valley. Its big on that “green idea”. You know the “R” stuff: reduce, recycle, repair.

It is much less expensive to repair the bridge than to build a new one. Its better for the environment to keep a bridge which has another 35 years in it. A paint job has less impact on the environment. You sighted the Craigflower Bridge in Victoria as an example of how good a new bridge might be. I’d like to refer you to the Johnston St. bridge with its faulty steel from China. The current bridge is made from good old North American steel. A lot of stuff built in the 1950s and 60s is still in good working order, including a lot of us humans.

If the current bridge has another 35 years of life, than it will give Courtenay council that much time to “save” for a new bridge.

The Craigflower Bridge in Victoria may have been built with money from Ottawa, but that is still tax payer’s money. I’d prefer not to spend money when we don’t have to.

There is nothing wrong with the current bridge, a paint job and some repairs

won’t fix. I love how it looks.

E. A. Foster Comox

REAL COST OF SEWER Mrs Barb Fehlan responded to my earlier warning to all people in Union Bay to Royston that I negatively portray the issue of cost with Option C. Why don’t you look it up so you can see that it is actually the second least expensive solution. Wake up people! Because your connection is really going to cost you around 25,000 if you pay it upfront (do you have 25,000 under your mattress?) or double that amount if you have to borrow it or take 20 years to pay it off.

And since when, Mrs Fehlan, do you accept your plumber or contractor to come up with an estimate with a possible variation of + or - 30%? Further more and this is the most important thing, the voting on this plan was nearly 10 TEN! Years ago with the suggestion at that time that you would pay 1/3 and governmental agencies 2/3.

Now YOU will be on the hook for 70% (+/_ 25,000) and the funding from agencies is only 30%. You call this a fair game? Responsible people would have taken care of their septic

COMOX VALLEY ECHO An independently owned and operated newspaper published by Echo Publications at 407-E Fifth Street, Courtenay, B.C. V9N 1J7

business and with normal maintenance which does not cost more then $ 100. a year, your system can last much longer then the 15 or 20 years Mrs. Fehlan claims.

Wake up people in Royston, Kilmarnock and Union Bay. Your will get on the hook for an initial astronomic amount and if that is not bad enough, also for the rest of your life with recurring and increasing maintenance expenses, just $ 390 in year one and with 2 or 3% increase over 400 in year 2 and on and on.

A democratic proces for this sewer project in area A requires a current referendum or vote, not one from 10 years ago.

Marianne Buijs

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

RESTORATIVE JUSTICE Kudos to Bruce Curtis of the Comox Valley Community Justice Centre, City of Courtenay Centennial Committee, and North Island College for bringing The Right Honourable Beverley McLachlin, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada, as the keynote speaker for the 4th Annual Iona Campagnolo Lecture series on Restorative Justice on Thursday Feb. 26th.

The Right Honourable McLachlin’s comments tracing the recent Canadian history of the move towards more restorative

justice compared to traditional sentencing was insightful and encouraging.

Her caution that restorative justice is not the end all be all in considering options in dealing with criminal cases in our courts was not lost on us.

However, her historical lesson highlighting the fact that restorative justice has been utilized most successfully in many cultures for centuries as a solution to deal with injustices certainly struck a chord with many.

Regarding Young Offenders in our Comox Valley Community, we are very fortunate to have a R.C.M.P. detachment that is very open to considering, when appropriate, as a preferred option, diversion from the courts towards Restorative Justice opportunities provided by our Community Justice Centre.

In my experience as a public school administrator, referring Young Offenders to the Restorative Justice process as opposed to sending Young Offenders through the court system which often has long waits and potential criminal records a possible outcome, was a much preferred and more instructive option in most cases.

Having the Young Offender Face the person(s) the offence was committed against, hearing the consequences caused as a result

of the offence, giving the young offender a chance to listen and be heard and to be part of an agreed solution with other community elders, regarding compensation and/or retribution in some form, can be a positive life changer for a young offender.

If the Chief Justice of Canada’s Supreme Court, with all of her years of experience, sees Restorative Justice as the preferable option, that should support the consideration of diverting Young Offenders to a Restorative Justice opportunity, that our R.C.M.P.detachment seems to be willing to consider, when appropriate! Kudos to our judges, our RCMP, and the many volunteers of our Community Justice Centre who consider and make the opportunity of Restorative Justice for Young Offenders in our community happen!

Hugh MacKinnon Comox

A SPADE IS A SPADE In the spirit of calling a ‘Spade is a Spade’, please consider the following.

I was at the “Re-Think our Watershed” open house the other night @ the NIC. A very nice gathering of leaders from some of the direct stakeholders in our Watershed, plus 240 or so privates interested enough to show up.

Now I arrived ‘In the Valley’ this past April, after 35 years+ on the praries; meaning I am a ‘Virgin’ as far as the arguments associated with the turbidity and other problems facing this watershed. So here we go.

July and August arrived and brought water restrictions, followed in November to January by Boil Water Advisories. OK, I can deal with this, but this was a bit of an eye opener to potential problems in the future. I have followed the discussions in the news and in the letters to the Editor.

Now when I go to Goose Spit nearly every morning and gaze at the vistas around the Comox Glacier, I see an awful lot of clear cuts, nearly one on every mountain side; am I to think this practice has nothing to do with our water problems?

One thing struck me as I listened to the presentations, not once was the word Clear Cut Logging mentioned or brought forward, or is that something that can not be mentioned near this general area?

Yes I like the spirit of cooperation and respect, however, at some point in time a spade becomes a spade, or is it simply an entrenched and hands-off “Elephant in this Room”?

Kris Nielsen Comox

www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 3, 2015

11

Mack Laing’s historical homes to be torn down Society’s feasibility study fails to convince council that they are worth saving

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff The Town of Comox is going ahead with the plan to remove the historic homes of the well-known naturalist and author Hamilton Mack Laing.

The houses, known as Baybrook and Shakesides, were scheduled to be torn down in 2013 but were delayed following a request from Comox Valley Naturalists Society and Project Watershed that they be given the opportunity to conduct a feasibility study.

Both groups felt strongly the heritage properties are worth saving and could further enhance tourism in the valley.

The Mack Laing Heritage Society, a group that was formed to lead the campaign to save the historical landmarks, came up with a plan and presented it to council last year. They assessed Baybrook and Shakesides.

The report stated the former could potentially be salvaged while the latter was not as it was in a more dilapidated state.

The society also deter-

Network and learn at Small Busiess Association meetings The Comox Valley Small Business Association (SBA), now in its 18th year in the Valley, is hosting a meeting on Thursday, March 5, 2015.

The meeting is held the Filberg Center, lower level (Evergreen Room). The meeting will start at 5:30 pm. There will be networking from 5:30-6, and then the educational portion of the meeting starts and runs until 7pm.

The guest speaker is Bob Cassady, owner of Software Systems.

He will speak about custom and off-the-shelf software solutions, pros and cons, and advice for knowing when custom is better.

The organization’s March 19th meeting, also at the Filberg Center, will include networking and a “mastermind” sessions.

There is no charge to attend SBA meetings as a guest for up to two meetings per year.

The house known as Baybrook is too far gone to save, especially given the financials mined Baybrook carried a greater historical significance because it is where Laing did most of his original works. When Laing’s wife passed away in 1950, he built a new home on an adjacent property Baybrook, referred to as Shakesides, which the

town eventually inherited and is now known as Mack Laing Park.

Staff had the opportunity to review the report.

The chief administrative officer Richard Kanigan told council at last week’s committee of the whole, the society’s proposed

strategies and the projected potential for a positive economic impact generated through conservation tourism were not feasible and that the numbers simply did not add up.

The society indicated in its report that it would be self-sustaining and would

not cost the taxpayers anything.

Kanigan said they did not believe the sources of funding to preserve and maintain Baybrook are reliable enough over the long term to make the society’s proposal work.

The models the society based their projects on included the Swan Lake Nature Centre located in Saanich. Kanigan said it operated on major contributions from the municipality and is currently facing financial hurdles relating to fundraising.

As well, the society lost one of the economic components of its strategic plan, when the proponents of a nature pre-school moved its focus to the Village of Cumberland. The school was regarded as a possible source of revenue.

Kanigan also said the society’s recommendation to transfer the mandate of the Mack Laing Trust Fund from the preservation of Shakesides as requested by Laing in his will to Baybrook is not a simple legal undertaking.

As well, he added, the so-

ciety failed to indicate who would cover the legal cost, estimated to be around $10,000.

Kanigan said the remaining structures are in poor condition and recommended to council that they be removed so the town can finalize the park use plan to return the property to a natural state for passive recreation.

Councillor Barbara Price asked if the town could salvage anything from the demolition and use it in creating a pavilion.

Kanigan said the timber is worth saving and could be incorporated in any future design for the park.

Council approved the demolition of the historic structures.

Staff had previously suggested a national park type structure with additional interpretive panels be built as well as a new open-air structure.

Although they would not meet the exact requirements of the Trust Fund, which was for the creation of a natural history museum, Kanigan said, they would still reflect Mack Laing’s legacy.

Women of Bahamas write service for World Prayer Day “Showing genuine interest in others is a positive step forward in maintaining unity among believers, and reaching out to the community”.

With these words the women of the Bahamas encapsulate the World Day of Prayer. On Friday March 6th, 2015, these women invite you to join with them in this year’s World Day of Prayer service, a celebration of their culture and history, their land and their legacy.

The sounds of the ocean breeze of Junkanoo, of rake “n” scrape and the beat of a goomby drum, leave us poised to listen for more.

The women of the Bahamas have stories to tell.

Their stories begin with a question : “Jesus said to them, “do you know what I have done to you ?”

The World Day of Prayer has its roots in an ecumenical day of prayer organized by women in Canada and the United

states in 1920.

This event became the international World Day of Prayer in 1922 and Christians around the world began celebrating this event on the first Friday in March.

In Canada, World Day of Prayer is coordinated by the Women’s inter Church Council of Canada. Please join us and invite your friends and family to attend the service and learn more about the culture and heritage of the Bahamas.

Join Christians in more that 170 countries around the world and in 2,000 communities across Canada who will gather to pray and act in solidarity with the people of the Bahamas.

Local service will be held at the Black Creek United Mennonite Church, 2277 Enns Rd. Black Creek, B.C. , Friday March 6th, 2 p.m.

Refreshments to follow.

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For full details, visit fortisbc.com/startsaving.

FortisBC uses the FortisBC name and logo under license from Fortis Inc. (15-019.7 02/2015)

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 3, 2015

Spring Registration s e l u d e h c S g n i r Sp Swimming Aquafit Skating Swim & Skate Lessons Shinny Hockey Roller Hockey Leadership Courses Yoga

Watch for our special spring break schedules in effect March 30 - April 12

Register Now for Minor Baseball and Softball Register online at

www.cvba.ca

Divisions: Blast Ball 2011 - 2010 T-ball 2009 - 2008 Rookie 2007 - 2006 Mosquito 2005 - 2004 Peewee 2003 - 2002 Bantam 2001 - 2000 Midget 1999, 1998 or 1997

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COMOX VALLEY UNITED SOCCER CLUB SPRING PROGRAMS AVAILABLE FOR YOUTH & WOMEN Youth House, UDP & Select Try-Outs Over 30's Women's Soccer - Summer Camps

For more information about our program visit www.cvba.ca

For more info, please visit our website at www.cvusc.org or contact us at cvuscsoccer@gmaii.com Phone: 250-334-0422

You don't have to be great to start – but you do have to start to be great!

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 3, 2015

Decreasing family screen time Smartphones and tablets appear to have staying power. The Pew Research Center confirms that smartphone penetration has surpassed the 50 percent mark among mobile subscribers. Many others are routinely using tablets to access books, television shows, movies, and magazines. In multiscreen homes, televisions are still king. According to a 2012 Nielsen report, the average American over the age of two spends more than 34 hours a week, or more than 4 hours per day, watching live television. Those findings should raise an eyebrow, as health experts warn that excessive screen time can be hazardous to one’s health.

A sedentary lifestyle spent in front of computers and video game consoles contributes to poor health. Of the leading industrialized countries, the United States has the highest obesity statistics, and Canada is not far behind. Obesity can impact cholesterol, cardiovascular health, risk for type 2 diabetes, and risk for stroke. Excessive screen time can lead to sleep and eating disorders, interfere with a person’s ability to focus

and negatively affect a person’s performance at school or work.

Getting a family active and reducing time spent in front of a screen can have profound effects, and reducing screen time doesn’t have to be difficult. * Gradually implement changes. Families immersed in electronic devices can cut down on screen time slowly and over the course of several weeks rather than tuning out cold turkey. Start by reducing time spent watching television or playing video games by one hour per week, and gradually reduce time spent devoted to such activities in the ensuing weeks. * Hide devices. The mantra, “out of sight, out of mind” can work with respect to digital devices. If tablets or smartphones are tucked away, family members may feel less inclined to reach for them at any given time. Just as you wouldn’t stock your pantry full of fattening foods while trying to lose weight, don’t make digital devices readily available throughout the day. * Keep televisions out of the bedroom. Children who have tele-

visions in their bedrooms tend to watch an additional 90 minutes of programming per day than those who do not have televisions in their room. Keep the television in a shared area of the house so that time spent watching the TV can be monitored and adjusted. * Establish guidelines. Set firm limits on how much screen time will be allowed per day and stick with it. Adults can lead by example. * Plan more family activities.

Boredom can easily give way to time spent fooling around on the Internet or channel surfing. Parents should have a cache of ideas at the ready that promote active family time. Neighborhood walks or tossing around a baseball in the yard are enjoyable activities that cut back on time spent being sedentary. Encourage indoor activities, such as puzzles or board games, if the weather is not cooperating. * Be steadfast. Do not throw in the towel too soon. Families should stand their ground when attempting to decrease their screen time in favor of healthier activities.

Comox Recreation COME PLAY WITH US!

Get the jump on Spring Registration !

Spring Football April 14th til June 21st

Open Registration at Lewis Rec Centre – All Equipment Included Except Cleats – Learn the basic fundamental skills and get prepared for our Fall CV Raiders Youth Football Season Practices Tuesdays, Thursdays, Sundays at Woodcote Park Courtenay – Ages 8-10 Boys & Girls $100 Ages 11-13 Boys & Girls $100 Kids receive pictures and a Father’s Day fun game and BBQ

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Programs for the whole family!

View our Spring Programs at www.comox.ca/recreation or LIKE us on Facebook.

Comox Community Centre COME PLAY WITH US! 1855 Noel Ave, Comox info@comox.ca 250-339-2255 www.comox.ca/recreation

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 3, 2015

Spring Registration How to reduce your injury risk when exercising Exercise enthusiasts look to avoid injury like the plague. Injuries are akin to kryptonite for athletes, who tend to be averse to inactivity and unaccustomed to life away from the gym.

But injuries are a legitimate threat to athletes of all ages. Fortunately, there are several steps athletes can take to reduce their risk of injury.

• Work with a professional.

Personal trainers can be expensive, but novices might want to work with a trainer as they begin a new fitness regimen. Even veteran athletes can benefit from working with a professional, who can help individuals tailor a workout routine that best suits their bodies and fitness goals. A trainer can show you how to use machines properly, and many trainers stay abreast of the latest developments in exercise science, making them valuable sources of information on everything from workout tips to stretching techniques and more. Even if you can only afford one or two sessions with a trainer, make the most of those sessions by asking as many questions as possible.

• Recognize your limitations.

Whether you are beginning a new workout regimen or already have an established routine, you still need to recognize your limitations. If you’re just starting out, don’t push yourself, as your body will need time to adjust to regular exercise. If weightlifting will be part of your new routine, lift light weights initially and gradually work up to heavier weights as your body grows more acclimated to strength training. If you already have a set routine, it’s also important that you recognize any limitations you might have. For example, if you have nagging knee injuries, avoid exercise that might prove especially taxing on your knees.

• Take a slow and steady approach to each workout. One of the easiest ways to suffer an injury while exercising is to dive into vigorous exercise without first preparing your body. Warm up your body before hitting the weights or going full bore on the treadmill. Warming up before a workout readies your muscles for the stress that’s coming later in your routine. If you don’t warm up beforehand, your muscles will be cold and loose, possibly leading to strains, tears or other painful

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Professional trainers can help men and women tailor their exercise regimens to meet their specific needs and reduce their risk of injury. injuries. Gradually increasing the intensity of your workout as your body warms up, rather than going full steam from the get-go, can greatly reduce your risk of injury.

• Stretch at the end of each workout. Soreness and stiffness should not be a regular byproduct of your workouts. While novices will almost certainly experience some soreness and stiffness at the onset of their routines, such feelings are normal because you are exercising muscles that likely have not been worked out in quite some time. But as your body becomes acclimated to routine exercise, that soreness and stiffness should go away. If it does not, that’s likely because you are not stretching enough at the end of your workouts. Muscles shorten during a weightlifting regimen

thanks to the repeated contractions they undergo as the body does repetition after repetition.

Stretching helps the body return to a more natural position, reducing the likelihood that you will develop tight, sore and stiff muscles.

• Take time off. Even the most accomplished athletes in the world take days off from their exercise regimens. Tired, overworked muscles are more susceptible to injury, so make sure your body has enough time to rest and recover. Skip a workout if your muscles seem stiff and sore, or change up your routine so you aren’t taxing the muscles that don’t feel up to snuff.

The risk of injury is always present for exercise enthusiasts.

But there are several ways to greatly reduce that risk.

courtenay.ca/rec Lewis Centre 250-338-5371

Filberg Centre 250-338-1000

www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 3, 2015

Dale Erhart uses Toastmasters to build his capacity as a professional speaker.

Toastmasters provides opportunity for personal development Public speaking group teaches leadership and professionalism

BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff Dale Erhart lunges left to catch the tennis ball that’s flying through the air. The next thing you know the former F18 pilot instructor is chucking the green sphere at a group of men and women in business attire sitting at a long folding table listening to his presentation.

Earhart is not in the middle of a corporate meltdown and in the process of taking it out on the rest of the folks at the meeting. Quite the opposite, he’s in the midst of demonstrating the nature of G forces for his fellow Toastmasters International members, while accomplishing the day’s assignment - getting comfortable with visual aides.

“With centrifugal force the pilot pulls down on a stick and he can go all the way around,” he says, swinging a bucket holding a ball in a circular motion. “He has positive G. In other words, he’s still sitting in his seat - like we are.”

It’s just another Thursday in the life for the weekly 60 Minutes Toastmasters Club #8010, where Comox Valley

Marla Limousin led the “table topics” portion of Toastmasters during a recent meeting. residents come to brush up on real-world abilities while supporting others on their own journey.

Toastmasters International has thrived by the

way it melds business skill development with a community atmosphere you might find in local service clubs like the Lions or Rotary. At its core

Toastmasters provides members the opportunity to brush up on their public speaking and personal organization, but just talk to the participants and you’ll find out for them it’s been so much more.

Many describe deeper changes taking place, from finding their place in a community to building their sense of self.

Gaetane Palardy, a small business owner from Comox, loves to attend because it allows her to work on her professional development.

She says she’s gotten better at networking and picked up management skills in the process.

David Stevenson, the sergeant-at-arms, said he enjoys getting to try his hand at different roles each time he comes to the meeting. This time, for example, he was the Toastmaster, taking on duties similar to that of a chairperson.

Erhart is using Toastmasters as a chance to build his capacity in a very real sense, since he’s trying to get more involved in giving cruise ship lectures on aviation.

He had just followed a speech by club president Gaynor Bereza, who runs one of three Comox Val-

ley Toastmaster groups.

She won applause for her ability to overcome a brief bobble and finish strong with an engaging phrase to sum up the relevancy of Robbie Burns to today’s world.

“You can take the Scot out of Scotland,” she said, “but you can’t take Scotland out of the Scot.”

After Erhart, Marla Limousin, a 57-year-old who has been attending Toastmasters for over a year, led the “table topics” portion of the meeting, where multiple speakers had the chance to respond to one of a handful of questions.

Today’s theme was designated as “stretch” and the word of the day was “extenuating,” and responders were reminded they could “lie, cheat or steal” their way through this section - although everyone seemed to take the high road.

15

Beth Campbell Duke, 49, for example, responded to a question about what she finds a “stretch” to do, by talking about her initial fear with public speaking.

She said after going through the rigours of Toastmaster, speaking at the TEDX event in Victoria was a breeze. * Join the 60 Minute Toastmasters audience for their fabulous International Speech contest March 5. Thursday noon til 1 - please arrive 5 minutes early. Lewis Park (Room location). Everyone Welcome.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 3, 2015

MONEY MATTERS PLANNING TO LIVE TO 100 Janice Armour BBA, CPCA Not that many years ago, living to 100 seemed an impossible dream. Not anymore. Population projections tell us that centenarians, those aged 100 and over, rose 87.7 per cent between 2004 and 20111 -- and the number of centenarians is expected to triple or quadruple by 20362.

What all that means to you is this: You should not only reasonably expect to enjoy a much longer life, you should also begin planning for all those extra years of retirement right away. After all, you will want to be sure your income will extend for the 20 years beyond retirement that today’s 65-year-olds can expect to live, on average3. Start your income longevity planning with these tips.

• Decide on your desired retirement

lifestyle.

• Add to your Registered Retirement Savings Plan income with a complementary portfolio of investments that are eligible plus non-registered investments.

• Assess your projected spending for essential and discretionary expenses and adopt an investment strategy that will match your spending needs. For example, plan to meet such essential expenses as housing, food, clothing and medical treatments for longer than your life expectancy; plan to spend an increased amount for discretionary expenses like travel, dining out and a new car during the first ten years that diminishes thereafter.

• After retirement, manage your retirement savings withdrawal rate based on the size of your retirement savings, the average return on your investments over

time, and the number of years you plan to make withdrawals.

• Use life insurance to shelter excess capital and maximize the value of your estate; consider a life annuity that will provide a guaranteed regular income no matter how long you live.

• Protect your income (and your spouse’s) with life insurance and supplementary health insurance including disability, critical illness and long-term care coverage.

• Revisit your plan regularly to assess investment performance, changes in expense levels or any other factors that can impact on how much you can spend in retirement for how long.

Ask your professional advisor about how these and other income longevity strategies can help make sure you enjoy

a comfortable retirement for a long time.

1 Annual population estimates by age group and sex at July 1, provincial perspective — Canada, Estimates are final intercensal up to 2005, final postcensal from 2006 to 2008, updated postcensal for 2009 and 2010 and preliminary postcensal for 2011.

2 The Daily (Statistics Canada), Wednesday, May 26, 2010 3 The Daily (Statistics Canada), Tuesday, September 27, 2011 - Deaths This column, written and published by Investors Group Financial Services Inc. (in Québec – a Financial Services Firm), and Investors Group Securities Inc. (in Québec, a firm in Financial Planning) presents general information only and is not a solicitation to buy or sell any investments. Contact your own advisor for specific advice about your circumstances. For more information on this topic please contact your Investors Group Consultant.

LOOKING FOR INCOME WITH REITS

By Robyn K. Thompson Q – With Canadian interest rates once again at rock bottom, income investors are hard-pressed to find any good incomeproducing assets without incurring a high degree of extra risk. I’ve heard that investment funds that hold real estate investment trusts (REITs) might be a good choice for more conservative investors (say, retirees) looking for a steady stream of income, because they are diversified and have a better risk profile than, say, common shares of big blue-chip companies. Can you shed some light on this? – Randall P., Nepean, Ontario A – Real Estate Investment Trusts, or REITs, have performed well in the past few years, and their higher yields have attracted a lot of investor interest. To illustrate, the S&P/TSX Capped REIT Index has returned 19.22% over the past year to Jan. 31, 2015, compared with 12.33% for the S&P/ TSX 60 Index. Longer-term, REITs have also held up, delivering 8.75% over three years (9.81% for the S&P/TSX 60), and 13.55% over five years (8.82% for the S&P/ TSX 60).

REITs are specially-structured trust securities that trade on stock exchanges like any other stock. REITs acquire full or part ownership of commercial or residential real estate properties that produce a steady revenue stream. These include properties like shopping centres, office buildings, hotels, apartments, and retirement residences.

REITs generally are liquid investments, meaning you can buy and sell units without

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REITs must distribute their income to unitholders, so they pay a regular dividend.

Compared with other high-yield incomeproducing securities, REITs can be quite attractive. However, in Canada the REIT market is small and choices are limited choices. Recently, REITs have performed well, mostly because the commercial and residential rental real estate markets are quite strong in most regions. But remember that because REITs are so closely tied to the real estate market, they’ll be subject to the same ups and downs as the market.

What goes up eventually must come down.

I do like REITs as part of a larger income portfolio, because they can provide income, liquidity, along with some growth potential.

You can trade REITs individually or invest in a mutual fund or exchange-traded fund that holds a variety of REITs in its portfolio. Many mutual funds in the Real Estate Equity category hold REITs, as do funds in the Miscellaneous – Income and Real Property category. More broadly, funds in the larger Canadian Dividend and Income Equity category may hold REITs as part of their portfolios, as do funds other categories, but do not necessarily focus on them.

In addition, a number of index-tracking pure REIT ETFs are available, including (in alphabetical order) BMO Equal Weight REITs Index ETF (TSX: ZRE), First Asset Active Canadian REIT ETF (TSX: FRF), iShares SP/TSX Capped REIT Index ETF (TSX: XRE), and Vanguard FTSE Canadian Capped REIT Index ETF (TSX: VRE).

With a proper allocation, REITs can be a families. Contact her directly by phone at 647-352valuable addition to the income component 5735, or by email at rthompson@castlemarkwealth. of your portfolio. But diversification with- com for a confidential planning consultation. Follow in the asset class and within your broader Robyn on Twitter and Facebook.

Submit a question on investments, financial planportfolio remains a paramount consider- ning, or portfolio management. We cannot reply peration. sonally and cannot guarantee your question will be For example, as of Jan. 31, the pure REIT used.

ETF, iShares S&P/TSX Capped REIT InNotes and Disclaimer © 2015 by the Fund Library. All rights reserved. Redex ETF had a 3-year standard deviation (a measure of risk) of 10.57%, and a volatility production in whole or in part by any means without ranking of 8/10, which is near the top. So prior written permission is prohibited.

The foregoing is for general information purposes REIT funds don’t necessarily have a betonly and is the opinion of the writer. Securities and ter risk profile than, say, a quality dividend investment vehicles mentioned carry risk of loss. No fund, such as iShares S&P/TSX Canadian guarantee of investment performance is made or imDividend Aristocrats Index ETF (TSX: plied. It is not intended to provide specific personalCDZ), which has a 3-year standard devia- ized advice including, without limitation, investment, tion of 6.97% and a volatility ranking of financial, legal, accounting or tax advice. Please contact the author to discuss your particular circum5/10.

In looking for income, then, you wouldn’t stances. exclusively hold REITs or REIT funds. Instead, you’d look to diversify among other types of income-producing assets and funds as well, including dividend funds. As always, your risk tolerance and investment objectives should give 318 A Duncan Ave., Courtenay (Corner of Duncan & 3rd St.) you some guidance here, and with the help of a qualified financial planner, you should be Investment Advisor able to build a suitable incomeproducing portfolio. – Robyn UÊ/ - ÃÊ UÊ,,-*ÃÊ UÊ/>ÝÊ* > }

Lori Ste. Croix

Robyn Thompson, CFP, CIM, FCSI, is the founder of Castlemark Wealth Management, a boutique financial advisory firm specializing in wealth management for high net worth individuals and

Commissions, trailing commissions, management tees and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated. Rates and prices as of Feb . 27, 2015 . Rates and prices subject to change and availability. RBC Dominion RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. ®Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. © 2015 Royal Bank of Canada. All rights reserved.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 3, 2015

17

Fassbender impressed with novel education programs SD 71 is the first to host the K-12 Innovative Forum initiative by Ministry of Education

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff The BC minister of education was impressed with the novel educational programs the Comox Valley school district havw adopted into its curriculum.

Peter Fassbender, along with BC Teachers’ Federation president, Jim Iker, visited the valley last week and was given a good glimpse on new learning systems and programs that are now being applied in the district.

“This is a district that has gone out of its way to find innovative ways to bring education to their students,” said Fassbender. “I was impressed by not only the programs but the enthusiasm from everyone whether it was from the teachers I met, the administrators and the people from the community. I see a community that is very engaged in the future of their kids education and being willing to try some innovative and new things.”

School District 71 was chosen to host the first K-12 Innovative Forum that the province launched in January. It was held at Highland Secondary School in Comox. It’s part of the BC Education Plan that focuses on more personalized learning. It challenges the K-12 system to provide students with more flexible, hands-

Tiller’s Folly

BCTF president Jim Iker was impressed with the Navigation/Highland Secondary Robotics Program.

BC minister of education Peter Fassbender gets a closer look at the projects of the students in the Navigation/Highland Secondary Robotics class during his visit to the Comox Valley last week. on opportunities to apply their knowledge in realworld settings out the traditional classroom.

The forum engaged local leaders and explored what they can do to support the innovative learning opportunities for students in the community.

Fassbender and Iker toured Ecole Puntledge

Park Elementary School where students built their own desks and also introduced community initiatives like Everyone Deserves a Smile project.

They also went to look at the Try-A-Trade Program at the Sandwick Alternate School, as well as the Robotics Program at Highland Secondary School.

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“What we’re looking for is a transformational culture in education and what I saw here was absolutely that being put into practice in this community,” said Fassbender. “I think the basic principles of what I saw is absolutely what we want to do throughout the province. The cooperation between the community and the school district and

To be able to highlight what we do here is an honour. We were able to show the strong leadership our superintendent and staff do. I am really proud of our district” JANICE CATON School board trustee

(Continued on page 18)

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the schools is something we want to implement in every district in the province.”

School board vice-chairman Janice Caton said it was an “honour” to have Fassbender and Iker see the new culture of education the school district has been establishing here.

18

www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 3, 2015

ECHO

etc.

GREEN PARTY TOWN HALL MAR. 5 Glenn Sollitt, Green Party Candidate for the Courtenay Alberni riding will be holding a Town Hall Meeting, Wednesday, March 4th, at 6:30 pm at the Filberg Center in the Evergreen Room.

Glenn invites you to come with your questions.

LEARN HOW TO PRUNE FRUIT TREE Join Dr Kent Mullinix for an intensive workshop on how to prune fruit trees for optimal fruit production. The workshop will be indoors for the background information, but will then move to the outdoors to Amara Farm for practical experience. Please dress for the weather and bring a lunch. Dr. Kent Mullinix is an agricultural scientist, promologist, and educator.

He is currently the director of Sustainable Agri-Food Systems at Kwantlen University. The cost is $40.00 per person and takes place Saturday, March 7 from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Black Creek Community Centre, 2001 Black Creek Rd. And Amara Farms 2641 Kirby Rd, Courtenay Preregistration is required. For more information Call (250) 3375190 or email info@blackcreekcc.com. Visit our website at www.blackcreek-cc.com or on Facebook.

FREE PARENT PRESENTATION Families and caregivers in the Comox Valley are invited to a FREE presentation on Thurs.

Mar. 5 from 7:00 - 8:30pm.

Presentation will take place in the Multi-purpose room, Mark R Isfled Secondary School, 1551 Lerwick Road, Courtenay.

Seating is limited so please click here to register:. https://www. eventbrite.ca/e/friends-parentprogram-presentation-tickets15803008223.

If you don’t have internet access, please phone: 1-855-887-8004 RSVP Deadline is Tues. Mar. 2 The presentation is sponsored

by School District 71, Comox Valley DPAC and is free, however, donations to the Local Food Bank are appreciated A FRIENDS Parent presentation is designed for parents, families and caregivers to learn more about the online portion of the BC FRIENDS Parent Program.

FMI: www. friendsparentprogram.com

Comox budget reflects shortfall even with tax hike HIKE FOR HUNGER IN COMOX

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff

This year the Girl Guides of Canada and the 386 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron will coordinate the 5th Annual Hike for Hunger in the Town of Comox and East Courtenay.

From 9:30am to 1:00pm on Saturday March 7, 2015, the 1st Komux Guides, 1st Komux Pathfinders, 1st Comox Valley Rangers and the 386 Air Cadets will be in your neighbourhood.

They will be knocking on your door, collecting food for the Comox Valley Food Bank.

Most needed items include: macaroni and cheese or pasta and sauce; canned fish or meat; peanut butter; powdered milk; infant formula and baby food; breakfast cereal; canned soups and stews; canned fruits or vegetables and other delicious non-perishables.

If you would like to make a donation and these members do not come to your door, you can drop off a non-perishable food item at the Comox Fire Hall or on Saturday morning at the Comox Pentecostal Church, 1919 Guthrie Road, Comox . Should you have any questions about this event, contact Debbie Wright at 250-334-3569 or kwright5@ shaw.ca.

The Town of Comox has begun crunching its budget numbers and so far it’s been a challenging task.

While it’s still reviewing strategic and capital plans, the initial draft of the financial plan has already reflected a shortfall of over $1.76 million even with a 2.7 per cent increase in taxes that was projected last year.

The town is looking at infrastructure projects, requests for funding, pay increases as well as a myriad of expenditures in the next five years.

Given the town had a larger surplus last year, around $1.2 million,

FINAL SESSION ON CLIMATE CHANGE Comox United Church and the Comox Valley Unitarian Fellowship have been sponsoring a six session course on The Climate Change Era. The sixth and final session is entitled Facing the Climate Change Era In the Comox Valley: The Inner Journey.

It will take place on Thursday evening, March 5, 2015 from 7-9 p.m. in the main hall of Comox United Church, 250 Beach Drive in Comox. All are welcome. Cost by donation.

The recent news that more than a dozen coal leases covering a third of the Comox Valley have been issued by the provincial government certainly has a way of focusing our attention. It seems that we are “under development” by outside interests intent on turning us into Appalachia North.

We need a development strategy.

Over the years there have been a number of them put down on paper.

They ran into the head winds of economic priorities and rigid political ideologies. And none of them were equipped to deal with the new reality-climate change that is changing everything. create a mutually enhancing The session will be led by Mike Bell. He has MA degrees in Communications and Theology.

He was a friend and fellow monk with Thomas Berry, geologian and the Father of the New Cosmology. For further information contact Mike at 250890-3671 or mikefbell@shaw.ca

Donald Jacquest, the Director of Finance, indicated in his brief to council it could help reduce the shortfall to just $560,000.

Councillor Ken Grant recommended to staff that they start off by figuring if the finances could be balanced this year with a 2.5 per cent increase for homeowners and 1.5 per cent hike for commercial.

Jacquest said in his report that any tax reduction in the next five years could impact revenues.

Each 0.1 per cent decrease across all five years of the financial plan brings down the total tax revenues by $119,000.

Among some of the items that staff have to

consider include the $20,000 casual wages the Comox Fire Department is requesting from the operating budget.

Fire chief Gord Schreiner said that they’ve been struggling to find volunteers who are available during normal business hours.

They’ve addressed this situation by bringing in casual help on some days.

The casual workers are typically younger firefighters who are underemployed.

Schreiner said they work around 200 days a year and get paid $19 per hour. The additional $20,000, Schreiner said, would add another 100 days per year.

Another request for funds the town will be considering in the next couple of weeks, is from the founder and director of the Alberni Project — HMCS Alberni Museum.

Lewis Bartholomew is asking for five-year commitment for an annual operations grant of $6,000.

Some other expenditures that the town will have to address include the Marina waterfront, Lazo shoreline, Rob resurfacing, Rodello roundabout and Port Augusta Storm Drain replacement project.

Staff will again bring another financial report to council highlighting options they could choose in balancing the books.

Local school district programs impress minister (Continued from page 17) “To be able to highlight what we do here is an honour,” said Caton. “We were able to show the strong leadership our superintendent and our staff do.

I am really proud of our district.”

Iker, who was invited

by Fassbender to join him and the group that will be establishing the K-12 Innovative Strategy, gave kudos to creativity in the school district’s educational programs. He was impressed with the Robotics program.

“It’s unique that there

are students who have the option to be in a program that is very hands-on oriented,” said Iker. “They are able to develop some of their passions having that opportunity as well as being in a classroom with other students that they can get feedback. They have a great place where they can feel safe in terms of their own learning style and developing what they want.”

Iker said he would like to see more of this approach happen in schools but they’re also contingent on how the province supports public education.

“There’s a lot of good things happening in our public schools and we have to celebrate that,” said Iker. “We also have to know that our public schools need funding. In the latest budget, school districts have cut another $29 million and that’s shameful. It’s time to move the funding up at

least to the Canadian average. But programs like these in every school need funding.

“We believe in a very broad K-12 program and students all across the province get the same kind of access to various programs that will invigorate them in terms of their learning.”

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 3, 2015

Comox senior jubilant as schoolhouse desk located

BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff A 75-year-old woman from Comox is thrilled now that one of her most prized possessions has turned up after days for frantic searching. Dianne Murray was struggling with the thought that the school desk she’s had for more than 30 years, a key fixture in grandchildren and great-grandchildren visits, could be gone forever.

“I liked it because I knew the grandchildren could sit and play with me,” she said. “It’s my memories of the grandchildren and the memories of them sitting at the desk.”

The green desk with a wood top came from the old Union Bay school. It was an item Murray knew would be a fun - and educational - addition to the water guns, bubbles and other toys that were part of her grandma arsenal. It went missing last Wednesday during a paint job of the room in which it was being stored.

Her daughter Kelly Brimacombe, 48, said the scrapes and the paint marks are little bits of personal history that can’t be replaced.

“There’s no value to this desk - it’s sentimental,” she said. “It really is an heirloom.”

The desk is a traditional solid structure with an inkwell and space for books and other supplies.

Brimacombe remembers her mother using the desk as part of Scouts Canada activities, too.

“My mom was a Beaver leader and she would have crafts with the kids,” she said. “She’d spend an hour taking stickers off and putting them on crafts.”

Murray says she’s “not just the average grandma,” adding her grandchildren call her “GG.” But the way she tells it, it was her own dad who was the OG - an original gangster who ran guns with Al Capone.

“I can tell you honestly he was a bad cat,” she said.

“He talked about it a lot.”

One of her fondest memories with the desk was the time she told a grandson the story of her dad’s exploits - how he got shot by the police and had to change his name before starting a new life.

“I was telling him how his great-grandfather ran with Al Capone,” she said.

“He drew a picture and took it to school and told the class.”

The rudimentary sketch of a car with a stick man on the side holding a gun tickled her pink, as did the text he wrote up to go with it.

As Murray’s grandchildren grew, the desk fell into disuse. She moved it into storage in an empty room.

On Feb. 25 a painter put the desk outside while working to fix up the

The green desk with a wooden top holds a special place in the life of Dianne Murray’s family.

I liked it because I knew the grandchildren could sit and play with me. It’s my memories of the grandchildren and the memories of them sitting at the desk.”

DIANNE MURRAY

19

Almost as soon as it had started drinking in fresh air, it was scooped up by a neighbour.

By the time Murray tracked it down to the St. Joseph’s Hospital Auxiliary-run Cottage Thrift Shop later that day, the desk had already been sold.

“All she’s done is cry,” Brimacombe said, recalling her attempts to get her mother to face a new reality. “Mom, you know, you can’t take this with you.”

Murray said she would even consider finding a way to bring the desk along to her final resting place.

“I said, ‘You could have taken it apart and put it in my plot.’”

On Monday she got the good news - the desk had been found.

Turns out a woman had picked it up at the Cottage for a steal and planned to resell it to make a bit of cash.

“I started to cry and I offered to pay her whatever she paid for it,” Murray said.

“You don’t want to know what I paid for it,” she replied, before revealing the $3 price tag.

Murray’s just glad she’s getting the desk back, and a reunion has already been planned.

“I’m so emotional,” she said. “And so happy.”

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“He was going to start painting it and he didn’t want to get paint on it,” she said. “It was an honest mistake.”

• Annual Membership • April 1st – March 31st 2016 • $ 1,772.50 (includes association dues, hole in one insurance)

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EARLY BIRD TICKET PRICES The Tidesmen Barbershop Chorus 40 men singing in 4 part harmony ‘Mother’s Day’ Concert * Sunday, May 10th – 2PM A presentaƟŽn of The Rotary Club of Strathcona Sunrise with net proceeds to rotary community projects.

Tickets on Sale Now! Sid Williams Theatre Box Oĸce 442 Cliīe Avenue, Courtenay, BC Toll Free: 1.866.898.TIXX (8499) Phone: 250.338.2430 ext 1 Online: sidwilliamstheatre.com

TIL’ MARCH 6TH ONLY!

Join Now ow and Play N h!)

(Free Mont

• No Time to be A member?

• Game Packs available • 4 Game Pack …. $200 • 8 Game Pack …. $360 • 12 Game Pack … $500

20 www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 3, 2015

www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 3, 2015

CARRIERS WANTED EARN $$$$$$$$ COURTENAY

Rt. 7125 Rt. 7134

– Salsbury, Bood, Barford – Salsbury, Mills, Rachel, Houlgrave

COMOX Rt. 2107A – Downey, Wallace, Gladstone, Comox Ave. Rt. 2118 – Comox Ave, Mack Laing, Baybrook, Orchard Park Dr. COLEMAN ROAD AREA Rt. 4106 – Loxley, Avonlee, Sea Terrace Rt. 4107 - Coral, Fern, Kingfisher, Mariner, Avonlee MIRACLE BEACH Rt. 6111 – Seaview Road SINGING SANDS AREA Rt. 4102 – Wilkinson, Singing Sands VALLEYVIEW Rt. 3132 – Hebrides, Fyfe, Inverclyde No Collection Required Call COMOX VALLEY ECHO 250−334−4734 or drop by 407−D 5th Street, Courtenay

21

22

www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 3, 2015

www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 3, 2015

23

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&/2 %6%29 0%4 A great read for any pet owner.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com

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Runs 2nd Tuesday of every month!

Book your ads now with one of our Sales Representatives

250-334-4722

TEXT YOUR TIP ANONYMOUSLY!!!

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

TEXT CVCSTIPS TO:

CRIMES

24 www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 3, 2015

‘What would you do?

First Aid in the outdoors During the spring members of the Comox Valley Paddlers Club suggest and co-ordinate paddling trips for the summer season. But what hap-

pens if things don’t go to plan and a member of the group falls ill, has an accident or injury? Would you or a member of the group have the skills to deal with

the situation?

Wendy Walker will present “What would you do?” at the March meeting of the CV Paddlers Club.

Her presentation will be interactive and informative about the relevancy of first aid in a marine environment - just as paddling rescue skills give confidence, so will some first

aid knowledge.

Wendy is a Wilderness First Responder Instructor and has training in Search and Rescue. She is certified as a Level 2 Kayak Guide with the Sea Kayaks Guide Alliance of BC and is a graduate and alumni member of National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS).

Topics will include the

components of first aid, a case study discussion, identification of emergency and non-emergency situations; a discussion on the protocols learned on a first aid course plus recommended items to include in a first aid kit.

Wendy will also share some of her light hearted guiding moments.

The presentation commences at 7:00 pm on Thursday, March 5 at the Lion’s Den, 1729 Comox Ave, behind the Pearl Ellis Art Gallery. Doors open at 6:30. Non-members are welcome to attend the meeting. FMI: comoxpaddlers@gmail.com or visit www.comoxvalleypaddlers.ca

WIN Canucks Tickets Wine, Wind, and Sea 361 Hunt Road playtimegaming.com HAPPY HOUR KICKS IN ON GAMEDAY!

COMOX VALLEY

www.40knotswinery.com Orland Kurtenbach

YOUR TOTAL FLOORING SOLUTIONS!

Medicine Hat

Enter to WIN! 2 tickets to the Spring/Summer Projects

Canucks/Stars

www.unitedfloors.ca

(250) 338-5511

BOOK NOW!

game on

Saturday, March 28 362 10 St, Courtenay,

1970

Two

LP CONSTRUCTION

plus! $100 dinner gift certificate and overnight accomodation Find the answers to the skill testing questions inside the ads.

Write the name of the advertiser as the answer to the question below.

03-03

Three times

Number 12

Who was the first Canucks captain?

Where was Trevor Linden born?

Building in the Valley for over 80 years MON-FRI 7a-5:30p | SAT 8a-5p | SUN 9a-5p

Central Builders’ 610 Anderton Ave. Courtenay Tel: 250-334-4416

Serving the Valley since 1924.

Trevor Linden

What year did the Canucks join the NHL?

Your Name: Address: Phone # Submit your ballot to:

Email:

Comox Valley Echo Newspaper 407E Fifth Street, Courtenay V9N 1J7

Contest closes

March 25, 2015 @ 4 pm

• Service & Maintenance Division • Plumbing • Heating • Gas Repairs • HVAC • Hot Water Tanks

Mark Messier

You’re Busy... We’re Fast!

MONDAY - SATURDAY 8AM - 6PM

COURTENA: t $03/&3 0' 5) $-*''&

Call 250-338-8026 Stan Smyl

250-871-8700 Markus Naslund

CHOOSE YOUR CRUST

Pepperoni, Italian Sausage and Bacon

Call for details!

Tiger

Due to popular Demand

$7.99 MEDIUM

FLEET CARDS ACCEPTED

NATURAL GAS FURNACE CONVERSION REBATE

Steven’s Back for few more Days!

Replace your old furnace (or boiler) with an eligible NATURAL GAS ENERGY STAR® model that’s 95 per cent efficient or higher.

up to

$13.99

$

1900

IN REBATES and incentives

But hurry! You must pre-qualify for your rebate.

DEEP!DEEP!DISH tax and delivery extra

See in store for details.

Call us for a free in home estimate.

www.bennettsheetmetal.com

COURTENAY

Pavel Bure

Toronto Maple Leafs

Rogers Arena

741 MCPHEE 250-334-3621

CAMPBELL RIVER

None

1721 - 14TH AVENUE 250-287-3108