Comox Valley Echo - March 31, 2015

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com COURTENAY, BRITISH COLUMBIA • Tuesday, March 31, 2015

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VOL. 21, NO. 26

PROPOSED PROVINCIAL RIDING CHANGES SPLIT VALLEY CUMBERLAND MAYOR SAYS IF ELECTORAL BOUNDARY CHANGE GOES AHEAD, IT WILL BE DEVASTATING FOR VILLAGE. 02.

NEWS

ARTS

3.Comox council

17.CLT actors

not keen on food court idea

celebrate roles in Quartet

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.COURTENAY,BC. MARCH 31, 2015

ECHO

NEWS Comox Valley Weather

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Tuesday Mainly cloudy. 30% chance of showers. Risk of a thunderstorm in the afternoon. High 11°C.

Wednesday Cloudy.

Low 3°C. High 10°C.

Thursday Cloudy.

Low 2°C. High 10°C.

Friday Rain.

Low 5°C. High 9°C.

Saturday Cloudy with 60% chance of showers.

Low 4°C. High 10°C.

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

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Mayor calls proposed changes ‘devastating’ Electoral Commission recommends Cumberland be moved into a new provincial riding

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff C u m b e r l a n d M ayo r Leslie Baird was caught unaware about a provincial proposal to move the village to a new riding.

The BC Electoral Boundaries Commission recommended Cumberland be included in the Alberni-Pacific Rim electoral district along with Royston, Hornby and Denman Islands and form the new Mid-Island Pacific Rim. The City of Courtenay and the Town of Comox, along with the Comox Valley Regional District Electoral Areas A and C will make up the new electoral district, Courtenay-Comox.

The commission’s preliminary report arrived at this proposal because the current Alberni-Pacific Rim electoral district is by far the smallest electoral district on Vancouver Island by population. It is 18 per cent under the provincial average and is projected to grow slower than the provincial average in the near future. The population of the current Comox Valley riding is 22 per cent above the provincial district average of 53,119 and needed to be trimmed down.

“We conclude that to provide more effective representation for both communities the bound-

If we’re put in those other areas, we will never see the MLA. It makes it harder for us to work with our provincial represetative.”

LESLIE BAIRD Cumberland Mayor

Cumberland Mayor Leslie Baird aries between the two districts should be altered to assign some of the population of Comox Valley to the other mid-island electoral district,” said commission chair Thomas Melnick in the report.

Baird called the announcement “devastating.”

“This is news to me,” said Baird. “So we won’t have Don McRae as our MLA? We’re not going to be part of the Comox Valley? We will be taking action on this. Absolutely.”

T h e v i l l a ge d o d ge d the bullet when the federal electoral commission aligned the boundaries on the Island. Cumberland remained part of the Comox Valley.

Baird said having an MLA that is close to the village and accessible makes

Dr. Sterling Desmond

it easier for the village to raise municipal issues and concerns.

“If we’re put in those other areas, we will never see the MLA,” said Baird.

“We will discuss this at council and we certainly will be writing and make presentations because it doesn’t do any justice for Cumberland by doing that.

It makes it harder for us to work with our provincial representative.”

McRae said, although “nothing ’s been set in

stone yet,” he is saddened to see some of the prospective changes.

“I wonder, if you’re living in the Village of Cumberland, are you going to travel to the MLA’s office in Port Alberni?” he asked.

“I don’t blame anybody for saying no. It’s a long way to get there. That’s a two-hour drive. If it stayed the way it was I wouldn’t be upset.”

Courtenay Mayor Larry Jangula had yet to analyze the commission’s report, but was glad to hear

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that Courtenay and Comox would remain in the same constituency. The two municipalities are in different federal ridings.

“I personally don’t have a problem with it,” he told the Victoria Times Colonist. “It’s probably less disruptive than the way the federal boundary commission divided the area up.”

Comox Mayor Paul Ives agreed.

“We certainly share a lot of services with Courtenay - water and sewer, in par-

ticular, are the two big ones - so we’d obviously like to have one person to talk to on those things.”

McRae doesn’t believe this proposal would have any impact politically. He encourages citizens to submit their concerns and issues about the proposed boundary changes.

They can do it by mail or email until May 26. The commission also will hold public hearings in April and May across the province.

“With the release of this Preliminary Report, we look again to British Columbians to present your opinions of our proposals,” said Melnick. “We then will analyze this input over the summer before producing our final proposals.”

According to the Electoral Boundaries Commission Act, these final proposals must be submitted as recommendations to the Legislative Assembly by September 25, 2015.

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BC Hydro issues warning to stay away from Puntledge this week BC Hydro is spilling water from Comox dam and that will continue likely through this week.

The public should be cautious around the Puntledge River.

BC Hydro, as planned, shut down the generating station this morning for the bi-annual maintenance work.

The facility will back online on April 16.

The operational plan was to provide minimum ďŹ sh habitat ows during the shutdown and capture some water in the reservoir for storage.

Some storms were forecasted this past weekend and today, though the rainfall and subsequent water inows into the reservoir have been high. Total precipitation in the upper the Comox Lake watershed hit about 85 mm over a 24 hour period from 3:00 pm Saturday to 3:00 Sunday. On Sunday, the reservoir level increased by about 0.6 of a metre. It is currently at 135.05 metres. Water free-spills over the dam at 135.3 metres.

With no water coming out of the generating station for the next few weeks, all the water is being passed below the Puntledge Diversion dam

and down the Barber’s Hole, Nymph Falls, and Stotan Falls area of the river. Minimum ďŹ sh habitat ows in this area are normally around 6 m3/s.

The river ow is currently at about 45 m3/s and BC Hydro may increase the ow later today based on the water abundance conditions.

BC Hydro increased the river ow to about 100 m3/s briey before backing off early Monday morning.

BC Hydro is providing a public safety advisory for people to be cautious around the Puntledge River through this week as BC Hydro manages the reservoir level.

River ows in the Stotan Falls area of the river are dangerous and the public should stay away from that section of the river. Warning signs have been placed along the river.

With the near record low snowpack for this time of year, BC Hydro plans to hold the reservoir near the full level into early June.

From there, with the snowpack likely gone by then, water conservation measure will be put in place to manage through a potentially low water supply situation this summer.

Eva Kennedy couldn’t contain her joy as she accepts two tickets to last weekend’s Vancouver Canucks versus Dallas Stars NHL game at Rogers Arena. The prize was presented by Comox Valley Echo advertising representative Paul Wiebe. The Echo sponsored the Win Canucks Tickets contest. The prize also included hotel accommodation and a $100 dinner certificate. Kennedy was happy to win but she made her son, a devout Canucks fan, happier when she gave the prize to him as a birthday present.

Council not keen on food court proposal at Comox Marina Park

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff The proposal to establish a temporary food court at the Comox Marina Park has gone a bit stale.

Comox council does not have any appetite for now, of supporting councillor Ross Arnott’s idea.

In January, Arnott made a proposal to convert ďŹ ve parking spaces at the marina park and use them to create a food court for the upcoming summer season. But the consensus at the committee of the whole meeting held last week favoured deferring the proposal until the town knows if its grant application to Western Economic DiversiďŹ cation Canada for the marina

park enhancement project is successful.

As well, there have been concerns that debate on this issue has escalated to a degree that is beyond council’s expectation.

Staff was asked to look at the feasibility of this plan. At the committee of the whole on Wednesday, Comox parks superintendent, Al Fraser provided the pros and cons of the proposal and asked for council’s direction.

Fraser indicated that additional food and craft vending would be welcomed and with a suitable fee structure established, revenue generation could be achieved. It would also attract more people to the marina park and possibly have spin-off beneďŹ ts for businesses close by.

The downside, however, Fraser said, is that marina tenants would be inconvenienced if they lose the existing loading zone, and a competition for parking would occur. There will also be a need to relocate garbage bins and the handicap parking closest to the washroom. As well, vendors won’t have access to power and potable water and there are no allowances for grey water discharge.

Fraser’s report did not contain any feedback from Comox Business Improvement Action.

The CBIA wrote to council and indicated that its members had a good debate on both sides of the issue. However, given the tight timeline, the CBIA said they were in no

position to give “decisive� input on it. They needed more time.

However, individual members forwarded their feedback to council. But according to the CBIA, the individual comments do not represent the group’s view on the issue.

Some members expressed concern that the proposed food court might take business away from downtown restaurants.

Arnott said the intention of his proposal is not to take anything away from anyone. “This isn’t about allowing vendors at the Marina.

This is about having them in a dedicated spot,� said Arnott. “This is only a temporary thing and we’re looking at what kind of business it can generate.�

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The Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) is seeking submissions for the provision of contracted services to increase transit ridership through marketing and community outreach.

:Ĺ˝Ĺ?Ĺś ŽƾŜÄ?Ĺ?ĹŻ žĞžÄ?ÄžĆŒĆ? ĂŜĚ Ć?ƚĂč Ä‚Ćš ƚŚĹ?Ć? Ĺ?ĹśÄ¨Ĺ˝ĆŒĹľÄ‚ĹŻ žĞĞĆ&#x;ĹśĹ? ƚŽ ĎŜĚ Žƾƚ ĹľĹ˝ĆŒÄž Ä‚Ä?Žƾƚ ŽƾŜÄ?Ĺ?ůΖĆ? Ć‰ĆŒĹ˝Ć‰Ĺ˝Ć?ĞĚ ĎǀĞ Ç‡ÄžÄ‚ĆŒ ĎŜĂŜÄ?Ĺ?Ä‚ĹŻ ƉůĂŜ ĂŜĚ ĹšĹ˝Ç Ç‡Ĺ˝ĆľĆŒ Ć‰ĆŒĹ˝Ć‰ÄžĆŒĆšÇ‡ ƚĂdž ÄšĹ˝ĹŻĹŻÄ‚ĆŒĆ? Ç Ĺ?ĹŻĹŻ Ä?Äž Ć?ƉĞŜƚ Ĺ˝Ç€ÄžĆŒ ƚŚĞ ŜĞdžƚ ĎǀĞ Ç‡ÄžÄ‚ĆŒĆ?͘

Submissions will be received at the office of the Comox Valley Regional District at 600 Comox Road, Courtenay, BC V9N 3P6, until 2:00 p.m.

3DFLĂ€F WLPH RQ :HGQHVGD\ $SULO

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Village of Cumberland ώϹϏͲϯϯϲͲώώϾϭ Íť Ä?ƾžÄ?ÄžĆŒĹŻÄ‚ĹśÄšÍ˜Ä?Ä‚

way things are for now.�

Ken also added that if the town does not get the funding, they could discuss this again next year.

Arnott said that would mean another year wasted.

He has heard from certain quarters in the community that the town is making some changes but is not taking any action. “If that doesn’t happen we’ve gone a year without doing anything,� said Arnott.

People are tired of it.

They want us to do something.�

Councillors Barbara Price, Maureen Swift, and Marg Grant, also preferred to put the plan off until they know more about the result of the funding application for the marina enhancement project.

REQUEST FOR SUBMISSION

DŽŜĚĂLJ͕ DÄ‚ĆŒÄ?Ĺš ĎŻĎŹÍ• ĎŽĎŹĎ­Ďą Ä‚Ćš Ďł Ć‰Í˜ĹľÍ˜ ŽƾŜÄ?Ĺ?ĹŻ ŚĂžÄ?ÄžĆŒĆ? Ä‚Ćš ώϲϳϹ ƾŜĆ?žƾĹ?ĆŒ ǀĞŜƾĞ

/Ĩ LJŽƾ Ä‚ĆŒÄž ƾŜĂÄ?ĹŻÄž ƚŽ ĂƊĞŜĚ͕ LJŽƾ Ä‚ĆŒÄž Ç ÄžĹŻÄ?ŽžĞ ƚŽ Ć?ĆľÄ?ĹľĹ?Ćš ĨĞĞĚÄ?Ä‚Ä?ĹŹ ƚŽ Ĺ?ŜĨŽΛÄ?ƾžÄ?ÄžĆŒĹŻÄ‚ĹśÄšÍ˜Ä?Ä‚ Ä?LJ Ć‰ĆŒĹ?ĹŻ ĎŽÍ• ĎŽĎŹĎ­ĎąÍ˜

Arnott made a motion that council invite the CBIA, the public and other stakeholders to give their input on his proposal and that they discuss it again at the next COW meeting. “I think this could really be a nice addition to our marina area without taking away anything from anybody,� said Arnott.

Councillor Ken Grant supports the idea but would rather wait for the result of the town’s funding application for the Marina Park Project. “It seems like an awful lot of effort to go through and a whole lot of shenanigans to end up with something that could actually be a problem for us, if it’s successful,� said Grant. “I kind of think that we should maybe leave the

14

Details regarding this request for submission (RFS) can be found on the CVRD website at www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/rdbid.

follow comoxvalleyrd

4

www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 31, 2015

Elizabeth May unites Vancouver Islanders at Earth Hour event Bridging Gaps: An Earth Hour Walk with Elizabeth May united Vancouver Islanders in Courtenay on Saturday evening, March 28th in recognition of Earth Hour’s focus on global climate change.

An enthusiastic crowd of 75 braved the rainy weather to join Ms. May, federal leader of the Green Party of Canada, and local candidate, Glenn Sollitt, near the Courtenay-Alberni electoral district’s brand new Green Party office at 350 17th Street to begin the walk.

May’s presence in Courtenay followed the sold-out fundraiser, “Rock the

Boat with Eilzabeth May” in Campbell River on Saturday afternoon. One of only two Canadian parliamentarians to have attended the international climate talks in Lima, Peru last December, May is a long time supporter of the Earth Hour initiative involving hundreds of millions of people all over the world turning off their lights.

May told those gathered for the evening event that there is a Green wave building from coast to coast in this country, and that electing BC candidates like Glenn Sollitt “will lead to a fundamental shift in the balance of

power in Ottawa”. Courtenay-Alberni candidate, Sollitt, also the federal Green Party’s new Fisheries and Oceans Critic, extended an invitation to the official opening of his campaign team headquarters on Sunday, April 19th between 2:00 and 5:00 pm. Please contact lois.eaton@greenparty. ca or 250-927-6147 for details.

Above: Vancouver Islanders assembling for Earth Hour Walk with Elizabeth May and Glenn Sollitt, Saturday, March 28th Photo credit: Ed Wilson

Daffodil pins distributed by the Lions for Cancer Society

Lion Club Members from Comox Lions, Baynes Sound Lions, Black Creek Lions and the CV Monarch Lions with the Daffodil Pin Boxes to be distributed

Easter Family Fun in Comox The Town of Comox Recreation Department and partners present a weekend of Easter fun.

Comox Recreation and the Filberg Lodge and Park host the third annual Easter Bunny Trail April 4 and 5.

Free events run from 12:00-3:00pm near the Tea House. There will be a crafting centre for children and the Tea House featuring Tria Fine Catering and Gourmet Eats will open their doors specifically for this event.

When you find the Bunny trail, hand in your map with all the bunnies marked and receive a small treat!

The Easter Eggstravaganza, presented

by Comox Recreation Department, Investors Group and Quality Foods, is April 6 at Marina Park from 11:30am-2:00pm.

The Easter egg hunt starts at 12 noon

sharp. There are games, activities and a BBQ for families.

All proceeds go to YANA. The Easter Eggstravaganza is sponsored by Mountain City Cycle, The Eagle, Marc Villaneuva Reality, Real Canadian Superstore, Benino Gelato, Hot Chocolates and Berwick Retirement Communities.

Mandy Johns, Recreation Director, is excited about the special events.

“We strongly believe in families and community and these Easter events, offered with the help of our generous partners and sponsors, are a great way to enjoy both in beautiful Comox.”

For more information on these Easter events contact the Comox Community Centre at 250-339-2255 or info@comox. ca

The local Lions Clubs of the Comox Valley (Black Creek Lions, CV Monarch Lions, Comox Lions and Baynes Sound Lions) are excited to start their relationship with the Canadian Cancer Society and will serve in the month of April to distribute the Daffodil Pins around local businesses in and around the Comox Valley.

The Lions encourage people to buy a pin and wear it in the month of April to show your support for Canadians living with cancer now.

Daffodil Month is a national fundraising campaign of the Canadian Cancer Society.

The daffodil is a symbol of strength

and courage in the fight against cancer.

During the month of April volunteers raise vital funds for the fight against cancer.

“The local Lions Clubs are doing this for the Canadian Cancer Society because we are committed to fighting cancer and providing support to people living with cancer,” said President of the CV Monarch Lions Rick Grinham.

Money raised during Daffodil Month helps local patients living with cancer and their families.

Donations fund life-saving research, support services and other important work that means fewer Canadians will be touched by the disease.

Easter Brunch CROWN ISLE

SUNDAY, APRIL 5, 2015

Two Seatings Available: 10:00 am & 12:30 pm Easter Egg Hunt for Children 10 and under at 9:30 am & 12:00 noon

Full brunch menu including chef-attended “build-your-own” omelet station and ham carvery For further details and reservations, please call 250-703-5050 399 Clubhouse Dr., Courtenay

250-703-5050

www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 31, 2015

Composting and recycling successes mean residents will feel the pinch

ECHO

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CHRISTIAN WOMEN DESSERT NIGHT Comox Valley Christian Women’s Connection presents: A Dessert Night featuring Dr. Ken Gaglardi . He will entertain us with a show of how “ the hand is quicker than the eye” Guest Speaker : Brian Hamp and his topic will be “ Seasons of Life” We will also have a guest musician : Bill Broadway AKA “Belvis” The event is April 1, from 6:308:30 pm at Crown Isle resort in Courtenay.

For reservations please contact comoxvalleycwc@gmail.com or call Rose at 250-337-5491

BASIC BOATING COURSE WEEKEND Cape Lazo Power and Sail Squadron is running a Basic Boating course on Saturday, April 25 and Sunday, April 26, 2015.

Successful completion of an accredited exam at the end of the course will allow you achieve operator competency and your Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC).

The course will run from 9:00 am to approx 3:00 pm on Saturday, and from 9:00 a.m to approx 1:00 pm on Sunday, which includes the writing of the exam.

Cost for the course is $80 and includes all required books and material.

For more details and to register visit our website at capelazocps. ca. For more info, please contact Barb Hammer at 250-339-2333.

MS GROUP MEETS APRIL 9 The Comox Valley MS Self Help Group (aka The Day Trippers) will be having their monthly meeting on Thursday, April 9th at the

BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff

Personal Trainer Kim Hamilton working with a Wellness Centre participant at the Lewis Centre

Learn to fall-proof yourself Are you 55+ and want to improve balance, strength and walking ability?

If so sign up for Fall Proof Balance & Mobility Training at the Lewis Centre.

FallProof is a nationally recognized program that challenges an individual’s capability through centre of gravity control, sensory reception, postural control strategies and gait training enhanced with upper and lower body strength, flexibility and endurance

Whitespot meeting room, 11:301:00. This month our presenter is Kazimea Sokil, a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Creative Arts Therapist from Resonance Arts, Courtenay.

“Art and music, movement and drama can all be used to express feelings, explore issues and options, and practice new ways of doing things. In this brief introduction to Creative Arts Therapy, we’ll dip into several art forms to see what they have to offer us. “ This a perfect spring topic. Hope you can join us. Please contact Jan Elman 250-339-3053 or Cherie Kamenz 250-890-3439 if you are able to attend.

work.

The goal of this program is to promote functional independence by improving or modifying risk factors contributing to heightened fall risk in the older adult.

Exercises are matched to ability and are done sitting, standing and walking. Pre-program assessments determine the right exercise with an end of term review to track progress.

Instructor Kim Hamilton is a personal trainer who works with the 50+ age group and specializes in working with people who have osteoporosis and less mobility.

The next Fall Proof classes start Tuesday, April 7 or May 19 and are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1-2 p.m. for six weeks. To register participants must be able to walk a city block without stopping and without the use of a walker or cane.

For more information please contact the Courtenay Recreation Lewis Centre at 250-338-5371 or Florence Filberg Centre 250-338-1000

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Cumberland’s representative on the Comox Strathcona Solid Waste Management board told Village council members as host of the Comox Valley Waste Management Centre the community needs to keep abreast of trashy issues.

Coun. Roger Kishi said the Comox Valley has been a victim of its own success, highlighting the necessity of future garbage tax increases thanks to recycling and organic waste collection.

“The more we divert from the landfill the less revenue we actually generate,” he said, pointing out last year’s new solid waste tax will likely only keep going up. “That tax requisition will increase to keep up with the costs of providing this solid waste service.”

Current projections suggest it would cost $234 for every tonne of garbage brought into the dump by 2034 if the facility were funded entirely by socalled tipping fees.

That’s because the dump doesn’t meet environmental standards and is almost full.

“There’s just barely two years left in the life of the landfill here in Cumberland,” he said. “So we need to plan for what we’re going to do with our waste in two years.”

An incinerator that generates revenue by burning rubbish is an attractive funding source according to many local officials, but the Comox Valley Regional District recently de-

Coun. Roger Kishi urges Cumberland council, the host of the Comox Valley’s landfill, to stay on top of solid waste issues. cided to install a methane flaring system for now, instead.

That has angered some, like Edurado Uranga, a chemical engineer who has worked locally as an energy efficiency consultant.

“Why are they waiting to do this?” he said in an interview, charging he’s not the only one concerned that methane flaring still puts carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. “We’ve been trying to make the regional district do something that’s better than 25 per cent of the solution.”

The big problem he says comes right back to the fact that garbage is such a big funding source for the dump.

Instead of buying a “candlestick” methane flare, the regional district could have picked up a micro turbine incinerator for under a million delivered, such as a Capstone system about the size of a 40foot container currently available in Texas.

In February a Durham Region waste-to-energy

system that can power more than 10,000 homes fired up after years of controversy over environmental impact and cost (coming in at $286.56 million).

At the Cumberland council meeting Kishi echoed the desire to make progress on solid waste solutions.

“We need to keep our eye on the ball,” he said. “I think it’s very important that we continue to move forward on the implementation of the Solid Waste Management Plan.

It wasn’t something that was drawn up on a napkin.”

However, the budget for the solid waste service just barely passed.

A special Association of Vancouver Island Coastal Communities committee on solid waste has been struck, something that in and of itself signals progress, according to Cumberland Mayor Leslie Baird.

She remembers when the regional district reached out to other communities to work together on solid waste only to be offered the cold shoulder.

“It is a major cost to residents,” she said. “And if we could find a way to bring it together for everyone it would be really beneficial to everybody.”

Coun. Jesse Ketler said diverting organic material from landfill would only help with incineration.

“Landfills are usually the last resort,” she said. “You divert garbage in all sorts of ways - and that includes waste-to-energy. Diverting organics from the waste stream actually complements waste-to-energy because they are so high in water content.”

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 31, 2015

ECHO

OPINIONS

LETTERS

Teachers happy with school board The Comox District Teachers’ Association would like to publically thank the SD71 board of trustees for their actions in regards to the BC Liberal government’s persistent underfunding of the public education system in British Columbia.

Their recent letter to education Minister Peter Fassbender and finance minister Micheal de Jong underscore the fact that students of SD71 have had to endure cuts to services year after year after year.

Trustees have had to make difficult decision regarding budget cuts decisions that have negatively impacted student success and that have created incredible stress and anxiety for teachers - the people tasked with educating our youth.

Local trustees are also a part of the Vancouver Island School Trustees Association (VISTA).

That organization has also penned a letter to Premier Clark. It is they state, “Your government’s indiscriminate expectations will ensure the erosion of the BC Education Plan.

The professional growth of our teachers, guided by our District’s educational leaders, will be disrupt-

ed and will have a direct impact in our student achievement.

Innovative ideas and solution are born from collaboration and sharing of knowledge. We ask that you consider the impact that this will have over the longer term. Our children’s education is the key to our future success economically as a province.”

It is wonderful to see trustees starting to speak out so passionately in favour of investing in public education.

Teachers have been asking for this for a long time, but especially since January 28, 2002 - the day our collective agreements were stripped of specific language that ensured workable class size and composition ratios for teachers.

We know from experience that the Liberal government will not listen to teachers or trustees. They will, however, listen to voters.

The only way to enact change is for the voters to rise up together and tell the government that they have their priorities all wrong! A strong public education system is one of the keys to a strong economy in the future.

If you feel that public

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

education is worth investing in, please make an appointment to meet with MLA Don McRae to have your voice heard. Write letters to ministers. Organize or participate in public events that put political pressure on the government to make a change.

In 26 months we get to vote in the next provincial election. Public Education can’t wait 26 more months.

Nick Moore President Comox District Teachers’ Association

ANOTHER ROUTE Re: The Scott Rd. Extension As I drove a couple of kilometres south to Comox Ave. in order to access Comox Rd. on my way to the shopping malls of South Courtenay, it occurred to me that there had to be a more fuel efficient route to do it.

Presently those of us living in the northern areas of Comox or the southern areas of East Courtenay have the choice of either driving south to Comox Ave. or north to Ryan Rd. to access the bridges to West Courtenay, both rather round about routes.

There has to be a shorter way.

If Scott Rd., which meets Comox Rd. near the Gas n Go, were extended east-

ward to the hill and then routed up the hill along the ravine where the slope is more reasonable than attempting to go straight up the hill (think of all the cut and fill that was necessary to route Ryan Rd. straight up the hillside), perhaps this could do it.

The Scott Rd. extension could cross Back Rd at the switchback, then proceed behind the properties fronting the north side of McDonald Rd. to join Sheriton. Sheriton in turn joins McDonald which has an existing traffic light controlled intersection at the Lerwick-Guthrie junction.

Since Lerwick is the main north-south artery in East Courtenay and Guthrie is the main eastwest artery in Comox, residents of both communities would have much more direct access to Comox Rd. and the 17th St. bridge.

This proposal would reduce the traffic on the west end of Comox Ave. and the portion of Comox Rd. which runs through the reserve, a change which should please our First Nations neighbours.

However, since the beneficiaries are principally the residents of Comox and Courtenay, and the road would be primarily located on land in the CRD, we will need to push

our politicians in all communities to get it moving.

Garry Brown Comox

BLINDS AND DECOYS On the prairies each Fall, many hunters go out into the fields and sloughs to hunt Canada geese and ducks.

On the fields, they construct blinds and decoys to lure the geese and ducks to a feeding area, easier shots for the hunters. Often, the blinds and decoys work.

As the past president of the BC Retired Teachers’ Association, I am finding the use of blinds, decoys and hunting an apt metaphor for what is happening in public education in the province of BC. The premier consciously denigrated teachers during job action last year and she was insensitive to the painful cost cutting that teachers, trustees and school boards have been doing in the past with her comment about “low hanging fruit.”

As an elected school trustee, I am invited to meetings with teachers in my school district. What immediately impresses me when I walk into their schools and classrooms is their demonstration of enthusiasm for working with their students Back to decoys and

blinds. The provincial government has very cleverly constructed decoys to take our minds off the real issues. Some of these decoys are: Seismic upgrades; Attacks on administrative costs; Insensitive comments on job actions; budget cuts that are considered low lying fruit.

These are all decoys to take our minds off the real policy and agenda of Christy’s government: privatization of public education.

Policy decisions are made about: - budget cuts including those that are considered low lying fruit - a special MLA advocate for private schools All of these are policy decisions are designed to force those who can afford it out of public schools into private schools. Run the public system into the ground and parents will beg for private school opportunities.

I wonder when parents, grandparents, students and teachers will draw a line in the sand? And where have the school boards been all these years.

Phone your local trustee - ask for some action to save public education in your community.

Cliff Boldt, Past President BC Retired Teachers’ Association

www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 31, 2015

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Water buffalo yogurt and gelato products get boost from provincial Buy Local program McClintocks expand herd at their local farm Family-owned and locally operated McClintock’s Farm is receiving $5,000 through the B.C. government’s Buy Local program to create new opportunities for the company and increase sales.

On behalf of Agriculture Minister Norm Letnick, Comox Valley MLA Don McRae made the announcement rcently at the McClintock’s Farm booth at the Comox Valley Farmers’ Market.

McClintock’s Farm is introducing new products made from the water buffalo milk produced on the farm.

The new products include water buffalo milk yogurt and gelato that will be available soon and sold at the farm, local farm-

ers markets and selected retail establishments.

The funding will be used for marketing and promoting the new products and creating labelling to advertise and sell to the public.

McClintock’s Farm has been in the water buffalo milk business for four years, and has been part of the local food economy in the Comox Valley for over 27 years.

The farm has expanded their herd to a size that allows the McClintocks to diversify into new valueadded products and move the water buffalo industry forward.

This project is funded by the Buy Local program, which has received $6 million in B.C. government funding since 2012

Bring an unfamiliar product to market is especially challenging.

Having the ability to do a larger promotion is important to our success with these new products” GERRY MCCLINTOCK Farm owner-operator

to increase sales of locally grown and processed agrifood and seafood products throughout the province.

The McClintock’s Farm primary goal is to directly provide consumers with fresh, healthy, local food that is grown in an environmentally sustainable manner.

Comox Valley MLA Don McRae checks out the new yogurt made from water buffalo milk with Sandra McClintock and Gerry McClintock atl the CV Farmers Market.

Building the local market for British Columbia foods is a key commitment of government’s Agrifoods Strategy, a component of the BC

Jobs Plan, to grow the agrifoods sector into a $14-billion-a-year industry by 2017.

The provincial government’s Buy Local

program is administered by the B.C. Investment Agriculture Foundation.

Applications are available at: http://www.iafbc.ca/

Fish and game club wants to expand property uses Comox can’t comment on rezoning application near lake due to lack of information

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff The Courtenay and District Fish and Game Protective Association is planning to expand the permitted uses on the property they own adjacent to the Comox Lake.

It is seeking approval for a zoning amendment application to the Comox Valley Regional District. Because the property is close to the region’s drinking water source, stakeholders had been requested to give their input.

The association’s property is zoned UR-400ha. The groups wants to add a boat launch, RV camping, a members lounge for special events and archery

ranges.

The Town of Comox had the chance to review the rezoning application. Staff told council it could not provide input because of lack of information.

Town Municipal Planner, Marvin Kamenz, said the rezoning application fails to address key policies on the Regional Growth Strategy, and Rural Comox Valley Official Plan on Watershed Management and Protection.

Kamenz said the policies require the applicant to provide a study and recommendation by a qualified professional to assess the possible impact on water quality and quantity.

As well, the scale of the proposed development and other important details have not been

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provided.

Kamenz explained that any expansion of the uses “increases the overall risk to the drinking water supply.”

For example, he said, an accessory building as a lounge to a firearm range is low intensity.

But when they propose to add public assembly, Kamenz said, it would “significantly expand the potential intensity of use and therefore the potential impact to dinking water quality: e.g. contamination from wastewater, grey water or pets.”

The threat of oil and fuel contamination also heightens, Kamenz said, through increased use of motorized vehicles or boats.

Town council approved that

the CVRD be requested to rerefer the zoning amendment application for comment upon the provision of information to address noted policies.

The Village of Cumberland also had the opportunity to look at this issue and provided their feedback to the CVRD. Cumberland staff told council they have concerns over legalizing some of the current uses “without parameters in place to limit the expansion and location of those uses.”

They passed on recommendations that council approved the CVRD. They pointed out due to potential environmental risks due to any development adjacent to Comox Lake, limitations should be considered to uses

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such as - but not limited to - RV camping, the area of development facilities, and limit to the list of permitted public assembly functions.

Staff also added that restoration of the shoreline be encouraged with native vegetation to reduce uncontrolled access, prevent erosion and sediment entering the lake. As well, the Rural Comox Valley OCP designates the Upland Resource Area for significant natural habitat, resource and recreational values.

The CVRD planning staff has also been requested to consider the Cumberland Lake Park Master Plan to provide consistent planning for recreation facilities in the Comox Lake Watershed.

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3 Things You need To know About …….

COMOX VALLEY CO-OP ........................................................

GREAT STAFF !!!

1) OUR BRAND VALUE OUR Co-op is locally owned and community focused – just like you. Decisions affecting the Co-op are made locally with the best interest of our members and our community

2) COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Aspen Gas Bar & Convenience Store

CONVENIENT LOCATIONS !!!

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Lots of Family Friendly Events

MEMBERSHIP BRINGS BENEFITS !!!

Members Receive Dividends Each Year on their Purchases START BUILDING YOUR EQUITY TODAY

By JOINING the Co-op Comox Valley Co-op 699 Aspen Rd, Comox or 4889 Island Hwy N. 250-339-1955 250-338-8181

We financially support the BC Children`s Hospital Foundation. Our Drink Pink Cup Promotion has proceeds going to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation. We work closely with the Canadian Red Cross to provide effective – community based emergency response. We are proud to support other local charities as recommended by our Members.

3) MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS We sell only quality products at competitive prices plus each time you purchase fuel or other products from us our Members receive 5% cash back. Imagine the SAVINGS in your pocket !!!. We host an annual BBQ for our Members – always a wonderful family friendly event.

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things you need to know about...

Golf +

Hotel +

Dining

www.CrownIsle.com 399 Clubhouse Drive, Courtenay | 250-703-5000

• Home of the 2015 PGA Tour Canada’s Qualifying School tournament • Open to public golfers year-round, with great green fee structures • 5 membership options available to suit golfers of all needs • Variety of tee-length options for all skill levels • Full practice facilities with CPGA Professional instruction available • Full-service Pro Shop with the latest in equipment and apparel

• 88 guest villas, 4½ star rating; most overlooking the first fairway • Jacuzzi suites and kitchens • Variety of room styles; standard and double occupancy rooms • Closest hotel to the Comox Airport • Competitive rates, with special packages and group rates available

• Timber Room Bar & Grill is family-friendly; open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, 7 days a week • Huge patio overlooking the 18th green • Timber Room Restaurant is open for dinner Tuesday thru Saturday with stunning mountain views • 7 banquet rooms of varing sizes available to accommodate any type of conference, meeting or special event, with full catering options

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Celebrating 20 Years in Business

It’s good to be home.

Fireplaces & Stoves Pool & Spa Barbecues Fire Tables Patio Furniture Inviting You to Celebrate 20 Years With Us! Bring in this coupon and receive

10%off any in-store product

(must present coupon, one per purchase, may not be combined with any other offers) Valid until December 31, 2015

comoxfireplace.com 4911 Island Highway North • Courtenay • 250 338-8522

Originally established in 1995, with change of ownership in 2006, Comox Fireplace & Patio is proudly locally owned and operated. It is our mission to remain the Comox Valley’s number one choice for hearth, patio and pool & spa products. We see the long term satisfaction of our customers as being paramount toward achieving our goal.

As such, we focus on bringing in only the highest quality product lines, attracting highly motivated long term employees and providing life long comfort to our customers.

Best Barbecue & Patio Furniture Service in the Valley Did you know…Comox Fireplace & Patio provides FREE assembly, FREE delivery and FREE removal of your old barbecue and/or patio furniture?!? I know right…who DOES that?!?

Home of the “Warm Fuzzy Guarantee” a) The Right Product, Guaranteed – if within the first 3 months of ownership, you decide for whatever reason that the product you have selected is not right for you, we will happily exchange it, applying its full value towards a replacement product. b) Superior Performance, Guaranteed – Our products all come with comprehensive manufacturer warranty, however, many of the components are covered for only 1 year, and often labour is not included. At Comox Fireplace & Patio we top up the warranty on most products with our own “bumper to bumper” in store warranty, covering both parts and labour for a period of 3 years.

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17

COURTENAY LITTLE THEATRE

Four actors celebrate ‘Quartet’ Comedy for our times marks the changes we experience in our senior years

BY HAZEL LENNOX

Trying on costumes to be worn during a musical presentation at the seniors’ home (left to right - Susan Cox as Jean Horton, and Annie Lord as Cecily Robson)

Four enthusiastic local actors are preparing for Courtenay Little Theatre’s upcoming production of ‘Quartet’ by Ronald Harwood. They already feel closely connected. “Like family” was the term used frequently by Tony Arnold, Susan Cox. Phil Henry and Annie Lord.

Arnold, who has appeared in numerous Courtenay Little Theatre productions, commented, “In rehearsals, you get to know people really quickly - and it’s fun!” Arnold is pleased to feel himself stretched by playing Reginald Paget.

Paget, once a renowned tenor, now living in a residence for retired musicians. “Reg goes through a lot of emotions when his former wife moves in,” explains Arnold. “He is called on to re-visit a somewhat painful past . He goes through a big change”.

(Continued on page 18)

Trying on costumes for a musical presentation at the seniors’ home (left to right - Phil Henry as Wilfred Bond, Tony Arnold as Reginald Paget, Annie Lord as Cecily Robson, and Susan Cox as Jean Horton) Photos by Terry Penney

Easter weekend retrospective art show of ‘naughty lady tree’ Brian Scott shows arbutus paintings at Filberg When artist Brian Scott moved from Vancouver back to the Comox Valley in 1980 he was overwelmed by 50 shades of green.

He was desperate for color and found it in the Arbutus tree. A full spectrum of color from cool yellow, orange, reds, purples with the blues of the sky and mountains.

He purchased a lot on Hornby Island, built a studio with the help of Ronny Larson, a Norwegian builder, and painted there every summer for 20 years.

On Hornby they call the Arbutus the Goddess tree because of her shapely form. The school kids in Victoria used to call her the “Naughty Lady Tree” because she was “stripped and was streaking”.

The artist is doing a retrospective of his Arbutus paintings at the Filberg Lodge for Easter weekend. The showing runs Saturday and Sunday from 11 till 4 pm.

CELEBRATING

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SATURDAY APRIL 4, 6 PM THE RAVEN LODGE

Join us for dinner, drinks and a fun Hawaiian theme evening! There will be silent auction items, live auction items, and plenty of games.

Dress in your best summer wear— PRIZE FOR BEST DRESSED!

TICKETS AND AUCTION DONATIONS Brian Scott’s son Robert gets a laugh out of his new painting the “Naughty Lady Tree” because she is stripped and streaking. Easter weekend show at the Filberg Lodge.

Please email events@vimountaincentre.com Adults $50 Children under 10 $25

MT Washington Alpine Ski Club Strathcona Nordic Ski Club VI Riders Snowboard Club VI Biathlon Club MT Washington Freestyle Club First Nations Snowboard Team VI Society for Adaptive Snowsports

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 31, 2015

Tete Trio performing at Gardeners Green Folk Club

The Tete Trio are at a folk club house concert o April 11

Four actors celebrate ‘Quartet’ (Continued from page 17) Philip Henry, playing Wilfred Bond, observes that all the characters are “nice people�. “Maybe that’s why we were chosen,� he quips, “because we’re all nice people.�

Henry expressed his appreciation at being able to work alongside Arnold. “I was a CBC radio presenter/interviewer for years,� he explains. “Sitting in front of a microphone felt totally comfortable to me. Stepping onto a stage, however, that’s a whole different matter. It’s a more dynamic experience, quite visceral. I enjoy it hugely,� he grins.

Susan Cox, a seasoned Vancouver performer new to CLT, was surprised by her role as prima donna Jean Horton. “I’ve never seen myself in the shoes of this autocratic British woman. It

was quite a leap of faith for me to take the part, and I’m so glad I did.� Cox has only recently moved to the Comox Valley, but said she has had no trouble feeling part of the acting community. “Whenever I meet another actor, I feel an immediate sense of family,� she confesses.

The fourth character, Cecily Robson, is played by Annie Lord. Cecily is beginning to drift into mild dementia, but her friends show compassion and patience. Echoing her fellow actors, Lord affirms how there is a strong sense of ‘family’ within the cast. “We have to rely on one another totally. If there’s a hole, it has to be ďŹ lledâ€?. No stranger to the stage, Lord has been performing since childhood. “Being in a play is more of a stretch for meâ€? she admits. “My experience has

been more as a dancer and performer than an actor. I must say I’ve enjoyed the challenge.�

Quartet, directed by Alana Gowdy, is a comedy for our time. It celebrates the changes we experience in our senior years. The years when laughter, friendship and music still ourish.

Tickets for Quartet are on sale now at the Sid Williams Ticket Centre, 442 Cliffe Ave., or by phone (250) 338-2430 ext. 1, and online at www.sidwilliamstheatre.com. Show dates are Apr. 10th, 11th, 16th, 17th, and 18th at 7:30 PM (all seats $22) and Sunday Apr. 12th for the 2 PM matinee (all seats $20).

Thanks to the sponsors for the CLT’s 2015-16 season 98.9 GOAT FM, Paul Chisholm (RBC Wealth Management, Dominion Securities), and Jane Denham (REMAX, Ocean Pacific Realty).

Gardeners Green Folk Club in Merville will be hosting a house concert with the Tete Trio on Saturday, April 11th.

Lynn McGown and Michael Pratt have an infectious love of singing that has delighted audiences in Vancouver for thirty years. As Tete a Tete, they have played at the Vancouver Folk Music Festival four times, and various concerts and folk clubs throughout Canada and the British Isles.

Their songs range from traditional to contemporary but always touch the heart, entertain and delight.

Michael is an excellent singer, concertina player and ďŹ ddler who draws from his Irish roots, as well as his involvement in the folk clubs in the British Folk Revival in the late 1960s and 70s, before he moved to Canada.

Lynn’s musical roots come from growing up in a French Canadian/English family in Montreal. She

has a beautiful voice and sings with warmth and presence that inspires.

Michael Viens, of Blackthorn fame, ďŹ rst joined the Tetes for the Vancouver Peace March in 2012 and brought his wonderful guitar playing and bass voice to add a rich depth to the harmonies.

An evening with the Tete Trio is a musical conversation with stories of humour, the events that shape our lives, and love won and lost, with plenty of opportunity for everyone to lift their voices in chorus.

Tete a Tete’s CD “Thousands or Moreâ€? reects the heritages and eclectic musical tastes of Michael and Lynn, including songs of the sea, Canadian history, love, humour and music of Quebec.

Their latest CD, “Images�, released in 2014, still carries their love of many genres of music, and is named after one of Michael’s own songs. It was released to a sold out

Rogue Folk Club concert last September in Vancouver.

Michael and Lynn created the Jericho Folk Club in 1995, and now have their own concert series at their music school, Celtic Traditions, where they weave a magic that frees all to give voice to the pleasure of singing.

We hope you’ll come and join us at Gardeners Green for an intimate evening of great entertainment.

As this is a house concert, seating is limited, and tickets must be purchased in advance.

Tickets are $20, and include hot drinks and a lovely spread of desserts and ďŹ ngerfood.

For more information regarding time and location, and to purchase tickets, please give us a ring at 250-337-5337.

Just leave us a mesage if we’re outside, and we’ll get back to you shortly.

--Summer Joy for Gardeners Green Folk Club

Electro Health Awareness group having meeting with speaker Thursday night There is growing unease, both locally and in the wider world concerning the proliferation of devices that emit Electro Magnetic Radiation (EMR).

In the Comox Valley, a group of people who are concerned about the emissions from ‘Smart’ meters have formed a coalition called Electro Health Awareness.

Electro Health Awareness can give information and support to people interested in having their homes measured

so as to make a balanced decision about ‘smart’ meters.

There will be a retired Canadian Armed Forces Captain who is an expert in this ďŹ eld, having spent 22 years employed in the military ďŹ eld of Electronic Warfare, coming to Courtenay on April 2nd, 7-9 pm in the Filberg Centre. Admission by dobation. The contact for Electro Health Awareness is cvelectrohealth@gmail. com.

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WHAT'SON In the Comox Valley 31 TUESDAY PEARL ELLIS GALLERY IN COMOX • Presents: “LANDSCAPES AND OTHER THINGS” - A SHOW & SALE by “DAVID NETTERVILLE & JOCK MacNEIL” From March 31st - April 19th. Open Tues - Sat from 10 am - 4 pm, Sun 1 - 4 pm, Closed Monday. Free Admission. Located at 1729 Comox Avenue. FMI and to see a virtual gallery of the current show go to www.pearlellisgallery.com ROYAL PURPLE DROP-IN BINGO • Every Tuesday night, 7 p.m., at the Elks Home on Sixth St. COMOX VALLEY WOOD CARVERS • If you are interested in any type of wood carving please join us at the Royston Community Hall every Tuesday from 9:30 AM to 3 PM for a day of carving and learning about carving. No experience necessary. FMI call Al at 250-331-0156 or Jim at 250339-5350.

VANCOUVER ISLAND BRAZILIAN EMBROIDERY STITCHERS • Meet every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Black Creek Community Hall. Please bring a bag lunch.

FMI: Darlene 897-1345.

1 WEDNESDAY NORTH ISLAND MPRA • Do you receive a pension from The Municipal Pension Plan? The next North Island MPRA meeting will be: April 1st at 1:00, at the Comox Legion, 1825 Comox Ave. A local Pharmacist will talk to us (SENIORS) about: Medication Safety, Medication Reviews, Diabetes and drug interactions and answer any questions for us. For further information, contact Graeme (250-3397604) or Jim (250-339-0236) PLAY BRIDGE • Every Wednesday at 7:00 pm at the Royston Hall, 3902 Old Island Hwy and Royston Road. FMI: 250-3341883 or roystonhall.com and on Facebook at Royston Community Club COMOX VALLEY NEEDLEARTS GUILD • Meets at Berwick Comox Valley Retirement Residence, 1700 Comox Avenue, 7:00-9:00pm, every Wednesday. New members are welcome; we do crossstitch, canvas-work, Hardanger, Huck embroidery, etc., bring your stitchery! Call FMI 250-334-0935.

FUN DARTS • 1 p.m. on Wednesdays at the Courtenay Legion. More players (Legion members and their signed-in guests) always welcome.

COMOX LEGION • Wednesday is Beer and Burger night, $10.00 per person 5.00 pm until 6.30 pm.

2 THURSDAY COMOX VALLEY SMALL BUSINESS ASSOCIATION • Is hosting its next meeting on Thursday, April 2, 5:30-7pm. The meeting is held at the Filberg Center, lower level, Evergreen Room. Entrepreneurs are welcome. There is no fee to be a guest for up to two meetings. FMI: CVEntrepreneurs. com LOST FAMILIES FOUND • Everyone welcome to attend. Genealogy Meeting Apr 2nd from 7-9 Maritime Heritage Centre.

Come hear Phil Umpherville, a speaker and storyteller shares the history of his ancestors in association with the Hudson Bay Co, the English, French & Cree in Northern Manitoba. Library open 6-7 before meeting. For info Janice 250-2030585 Campbell River Genealogy Society COURTENAY LEGION • Every Thursday: Crib & Gucci 6:30 FMI: Courtenay Legion

TUESDAY.MARCH 31, 2015

office at 250-334-4322.

THERAPEUTIC RELAXATION PROGRAM FOR PERSONS WITH CANCER IN THEIR LIVES • Thursdays, 3-4 p.m., Nursing Centre, 615 10th St., Courtenay. Free.

Sponsored by BC Cancer Foundation, BC Cancer Agency, Pacific Therapy and Consulting. FMI: Diane Davies 250-3382700.

THERAPEUTIC RELAXATION PROGRAM FOR PERSONS EXPERIENCING CHRONIC PAIN OR ILLNESS • Thursdays, 1:15-2:30 p.m., Nursing Centre, 615 10th St. Free.

Sponsored by the Nursing Centre. FMI: Diane Davie 250-338-2700.

COMOX VALLEY SCHOOLHOUSE QUILTERS GUILD • Meets every Thursday, from 9 A.M. till 9 P.M. at the Cumberland Cultural Centre (Buchanan Hall). For further information please contact - Carol 871-6671 or Nerissa 941-1809.

3 FRIDAY CYCLING • Come join us on our Friday rides. We are a road cycling group of active adults and members of the Cross Canada Cycle Tour Society (CCCTS) www. cccts.org. At 10am (except in the months July and August when the start time changes to 9AM because of the heat). We meet at the Filberg Centre’s lower parking lot, 411 Anderton Courtenay, before setting off on a bike ride. We cycle at a medium pace of 20 kph for a 35 to 80 km ride and break along the way for refreshments. The first ride will be on March 20 and the last ride of the season is October 16, 2015. See www.cccts.org under tabs Day Rides/Comox Valley for the schedule or email bikehikepeople@gmail.com COURTENAY LEGION • Meat draws every Friday, 5-7 pm.

COMOX LEGION • Meat draws every Friday, 3 p.m. Open to all Legion members and signed in guests. Friday is still drop in darts night 7.30 pm toe line, $2.25 per person.

4 SATURDAY COMOX VALLEY FARMERS MARKET • 9-12 every Saturday at the Native Sons Hall, Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay. Come for the freshness, stay for the fun! FMI: Mkt. Mgr. Vickey 250.218-0321 or or www. comoxvalleyfarmersmarket.com & keep in touch on Facebook.

COURTENAY LEGION • Meat draws every Saturday 2-5 p.m. in the lounge. Dancing to Gord Kruger and friends.

COMOX LEGION • Meat draws are held every Saturday 3 p.m. plus Ace of Spades draw.

6 MONDAY CRIBBAGE • Every Monday night, 7:00, at the Royston Hall, corner of Old Island Highway and Royston Road. No need to bring a partner. FMI: 250-334-1883.

LADIES AUXILIARY DROP-IN BINGO • Comox Legion Ladies Auxiliary Drop-in Bingo, upper hall. Doors open 6 pm, bingo 7 p.m. All money goes to charities. Free coffee and tea.

9 THURSDAY CV HARD OF HEARING SUPPORT GROUP • The April meeting of the ‘CHHA’ - will be held Thursday, April 9, at the Tsoleum Building ( behind Lewis Center Ctny- near tennis court). There will be a short business meeting first, than the team from the “ Costco Hearing Aid Center” will give a presentation on their Center and Services offered. Following the presentation there will be time to ask questions. Meeting starts at 10 am. New members, family and friends, most welcome. FMI call Glenda 250 338 7792.

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Tunnel Six is the next guest group Thursday night at the Georgia Straight Jazz Society gathering at the Avalanche

Tunnel Six at Thursday jazz night After last week’s wild celebration of traditional jazz, with all the fun of New Orleans and its musical history, this week’s concert at the Avalanche Bar presents /Britishcool jazz of the Pacific Northwest as the great Canadian/American jazz collaborative “Tunnel Six” plays at the Avalanche Bar. Like other performers in recent months, this is the outermost part of their Canadian and American Tour - ranging from Winnipeg to Portland. The great thing is that Courtenay is on the map as a notable jazz venue, and we are able to lure these great musicians.

This is the sixth consecutive year the sextet has toured internationally, and we’re proud to be on the circuit.

The band comprises Ben Dietschi, saxophones; Chad McCullough, trumpet; Andrew Oliver, piano; Brian Seligman, guitar; Jesse Dietschi, bass, and Tyson Stubeck on drums. These musicians come from cities as dispersed as Toronto, Chicago, London, Nashville and Portland, and the band is the by-product of a chance meeting in 2009 at Banff Centre’s International Jazz Workshop.

As Ben told me recently, “Tunnel Six tastefully blends elements of Jazz, world and folk to transport audiences from the peaks of the Rockies to the shores of the Maritimes. Our music was described in eMusic as ‘A transcendent moment, almost spiritual’.

“Our compositions bring distinctive melodic arrangements, by blending six distinct threads into uniquely impressionistic soundscapes.”

The group will also begin recording its third album in Vancouver, British Columbia, during the tour, a yet-to-be-titled project that will dig deeper into group collaboration, album production, and ensemble-based compositions.

“It’s always a challenge to record with this group - because we’re together for such an intense and focused amount of time that we want to be sure to capture the music at the right point of growth.” Trumpeter Chad McCullough said, from his home in Chicago. “I can’t wait for this upcoming project as we’ll be adding elements of post-production studio work over time, to truly make the artistic statement we want. It’ll be an international recording project. Challenging? Yes - but it’ll be worth the extra effort, and I’m sure the result will be (like the band) greater than the sum of its parts.”

In addition to this year’s tour and recording, the band has created an online collaborative space at http://tunnelsix.tumblr.com where they are taking advantage of their geographic separation to create new collaborative compositions, while taking in the surroundings of their diverse home cities.

The new collaborative compositions will find their way into the repertoire of the group on

the tour, providing a new element to their “collective group sound and style,” as drummer Stubelek called it.

“The collaborations through the online [tumblr] site are like an in-depth look at how each musician adds his own concepts. You can really see how all of the gears fit together, as the song’s being built.”

After a visit to the tumblr web site, what I found exciting is the way in which it allows an understanding of how music can be collectively composed and arranged via the Internet, and it illustrates what happened in a ten day period from a first trumpet recording of the melody of the new tune “Water”, to a final digital recording incorporating all of the musicians.

The group has also recently been granted a week long artist residency at the Avaloch Farm Music Institute in New Hampshire, where they will continue to further work on their new album and compositions.

It goes without saying that Tunnel Six has spent more than half a decade defying the traditional concept of a band. They are six diverse artists, with very different mailing addresses - yet, each time they come together they further the common bond of weaving melodies and improvisations on a shared path. This Thursday is your opportunity to listen to their descriptive music.

Don’t miss it.

Admission is $10 for members and $12 for non-members. For more information on forthcoming events, go to www.georgiastraightjazz.com.

CARRIERS WANTED No collection required. Great exercise!

Call Comox Valley Echo • 250-334-4734 or drop by 407-D 5th Street, Courtenay COURTENAY Rt. 7125 – Salsbury, Bood, Barford Rt. 7134 – Salsbury, Mills, Rachel, Houlgrave COMOX Rt. 1125 Rt. 2107A Rt. 2118 Rt. 2142 Rt. 2112A

– Daye, Hudson – Downey, Wallace, Gladstone, Comox Ave. – Comox Ave, Mack Laing, Baybrook, Orchard Park Dr. – Murrelet, Plover Court – Arbour Village - 680 Murrelet

COLEMAN ROAD AREA Rt. 4106 – Loxley, Avonlee, Sea Terrace Rt. 4107 - Coral, Fern, Kingfisher, Mariner, Avonlee MIRACLE BEACH Rt. 6111 – Seaview Road MISSION HILL AREA Rt. 5124 – Walbran, Nit Nat, Mission Rd. VALLEYVIEW SUBSTITUTES NEEDED

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20 www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 31, 2015

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FURNITURE & MATTRESS LTD. In the old Fletcher’s building • 100% Independently Owned & Operated Monday - Saturday 9:30 am - 5:30 pm • Sunday Noon - 4:00 pm

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 31, 2015

CARRIERS WANTED EARN $$$$$$$$ COURTENAY Rt. 7125 – Salsbury, Bood, Barford Rt. 7134 – Salsbury, Mills, Rachel, Houlgrave COMOX Rt. 1125 Rt. 2107A Rt. 2118 Rt. 2142 Rt. 2112A

– Daye, Hudson – Downey, Wallace, Gladstone, Comox Ave. – Comox Ave, Mack Laing, Baybrook, Orchard Park Dr. – Murrelet, Plover Court – Arbour Village - 680 Murrelet

COLEMAN ROAD AREA Rt. 4106 – Loxley, Avonlee, Sea Terrace Rt. 4107 - Coral, Fern, Kingfisher, Mariner, Avonlee MIRACLE BEACH Rt. 6111 – Seaview Road MISSION HILL AREA Rt. 5124 – Walbran, Nit Nat, Mission Rd. VALLEYVIEW SUBSTITUTES NEEDED

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

www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 31, 2015

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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

Visit us online at www.comoxvalleyecho.com

24 www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MARCH 31, 2015