Comox Valley Echo - April 14, 2015

www.comoxvalleyecho.com COURTENAY, BRITISH COLUMBIA • Tuesday April 14, 2015

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BUSIESS NEWS

ARTS

9.Gladstone

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Brewing expands with pizza

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COMOX SAYS IT’S NOW ‘OPEN FOR BUSINESS’.03 09.REMEMBERING INTERNMENT OF CUMBERLAND’S JAPANESE RESIDENTS. NEWS

NEWS

02.Sally Ann

05.Pickleball

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.COURTENAY,BC. APRIL14, 2015

ECHO

NEWS Comox Valley Weather

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Tuesday Cloudy with 40% chance of showers.

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Wednesday Cloudy.

Low 1°C. High 11°C.

Thursday Cloudy with 60% chance of showers.

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Friday Cloudy with 30% chance of showers.

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Sally Ann set to accept dead electronic equipment New initiative to start on Earth Day will keep unwanted stuff out of landfill

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff If you have electronic equipment that’s dead and are planning to bury at a landfill near you, there’s a better and environmentally friendlier way of getting rid of it.

The Salvation Army in Courtenay is offering to the items off your hands if they are of no use to you, taking up space and collecting dust in your home or office.

All you have to do is drop them off at the Salvation Army Thrift Stores on 2966 Kilpatrick Ave and 1671 Ryan Rd East during business hours from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

It’s that simple. It won’t cost you a dime. No tipping fees and other charges.

This is a new recycling program the local Salvation Army is introducing in the Comox Valley. Not only will it help reduce the organization’s carbon footprint, it will also help raise funds.

Sally Ann is starting this

Comox Valley Salvation Army is starting a recycling program for old electronics equipment that is past its prime or dead. initiative to coincide with Earth Day on April 22. It’s their way of promoting this world-wide event as well.

Community ministries director, Brent Hobden said this is not a new concept.

“I started this program in Port Alberni about six years ago,” said Hobden.

“It has been extremely

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successful there. That’s why we want to have this here.”

The Salvation Army in Prince George started a recycling program in 2012 and since then its operation has generated $250,000 annually.

Hobden said the most important thing other than this being a fundraising tool, is the Salvation

Hobden said Sally Ann’s thrift stores collect a lot of donations of electronics and when they can’t sell them, they redirect them to their recycling program.

They will do the same to the electronics that are past their prime.

“What people think is completely junk really has value. It will generate funds for the Salvation Army,” said Hobden. “But the biggest thing for us is we’re keeping them off the landfill area.”

Sally Ann packs the unwanted electronics and ships them to Encorp in the Lower Mainland, which is the province’s recycling program.

All money derived from this recycling program, as well as other fundraising initiatives, stays here in the Comox Valley. It helps sustain a myriad of social services the Salvation Army provides. They include food hampers, toy hampers, addiction and rehabilitation services, shelters, summer camps and courses that help people become employable.

As well, Hobden said, the Salvation Army has a metal recycling program and is accepting scrap metal.

“We have staff, they’re there to help and make sure they’re taken to the right place,” said Hobden.

Army’s commitment to being good stewards of the environment.

“Keeping that stuff out of the landfill is something the Salvation Army is very, very interested in doing,” said Hobden.

“We’re mandated to reduce our carbon footprint in our communities. This is an opportunity to do that.”

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.APRIL 14, 2015

AVICC vow to pressure BC government to bring down ferry fares, improve service

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff The Association of Vancouver Island and Coastal Communities vow to continue to fight to bring down ferry fares and improve services.

That was the message relayed by members to over 50 people, who kicked off the annual AVICC Convention with a rally at the Florence Filberg Centre on Friday.

The main objective of the rally was to thank the AVICC and Union of BC Municipalities for commissioning research that examined the socioeconomic impact of BC Ferries’ fare hikes from 2003 to 2013.

Colin Palmer, Chair of the Regional District Coastal Ferry Group and AVICC director, who talked about the future of BC

Protesters outside the Florence Filberg Centre on Friday afternoon Ferries at the convention, said the series of fare increases has resulted in a $2.3 billion reduction in BC’s GDP. Palmer went on to criticize the Minister of Transportation Todd Stone for failing to find ways to encourage people

to ride the ferry.

“He’s not doing anything to improve the economies of the Coast,” said Palmer.

“All he is doing really is saying to people, you and I, ‘we are going to put LNG in the engines on the ferries.’ That doesn’t make

Comox streamlining development process

BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff

The Town of Comox has unveiled new development application forms they hope will make building in the community a breeze.

With the introduction of Bylaw 1780 last year staff embarked on an update and standardization process for applications and the procedures surrounding their approval.

Forms now come with checklists to make things easier for developers and residents.

Staff wanted to ensure they avoided duplication on forms, for example with a rezoning application.

The new forms highlight easily overlooked requirements and aim to make things more transparent.

This change will affect everything from development permits to tree retention and removal.

A standardized process can overcome obstacles, such as different professions which use different

Yes, we are ‘Open for Business’ and we’re rolling out the welcome mat.

I applaud it.”

MARG GRANT Comox councillor

techniques to mark trees for removal.

This effort pushes the “vertical integration of the development process” to its logical conclusion, aiming to make it as scalable as possible - since a modular format can allow for customization.

Staff notes as the community moves towards pursuing developments on tighter and more dense sites, as per the requirements within the Regional

Growth Strategy, a cohesive plan allows ease of hydro transformer siting and ensuring accessibility along pedestrian routes.

Derek Jensen, project manager McElhanney Consulting Services and Dylan Gothard, design manager BC Hydro, have been involved in the process so far.

All of these efforts are an important part of spurring development, since Town staff won’t even date an application as received until it’s deemed complete.

Administration presented a report to council at the April 8 Committee of the Whole Meeting.

Coun. Marg Grant liked what she saw, noting the move makes Comox look quite business-friendly.

“Yes we are ‘Open for Business’ and we’re rolling out the welcome mat,” she said of the work. “I applaud it.”

Council voted unanimously to receive the PR 15-7 Development Applications and Checklists for information.

more people travel on the ferries. He is talking about improving the reservation systems. That’s not going to improve the ferries.”

Palmer cited that the number of people traveling to the ferries now is equal to what it was in

1992. “It’s a fact and it’s not an imagined number,” said Palmer. “The ferry traffic now for cars and passengers, is down to the level it was in 1992.

That is a phenomenal drop. We’re just going to challenge them. How are you going to get that traffic to increase. We’ve got ideas on how to do it but it doesn’t alter the fact that it is very significant.”

Palmer said the root of the problem is the Coastal Ferry Act, which he suggested should be scrapped.

“The Coastal Ferry Act is a flawed set of legislation,” said Palmer. “It has to be changed and all the delegates have to go to their communities, like these people out here today and say, hey, look at what’s going on. We’re in trouble on the Coast. The Coast is becoming an economic solitude.

“If you go up to the North Island, people are suffering. Businesses are failing. Even Victoria is having problems. It’s not like this is some kind of minor event. The whole Coast is in trouble. We’ve got to get rid of the Coastal Ferry Act and get a better system. We’re determined to make it happen.”

AVICC president Bar-

3

bara Price said it’s time to turn things around.

“We need to bring our ferries back,” said Price.

“We need reasonably priced ferries, we need a good service, and we need it to be recognized as part of our highway system.”

Former AVICC president Joe Stanhope said that the socioeconomic impact of the ferry hikes concluded in the study released last year, should be acknowledged by the provincial government.

The report estimates that if fare increases from 2003-2013 had been limited to the rate of inflation, passenger volumes would have grown by 19 per cent, adding $2.3 billion to provincial GDP over that ten-year period. Instead, overall ridership over the same period declined by 11 per cent. This foregone economic activity resulted in an estimated total loss of $609 million in tax revenues from 2003-2013 at the federal, provincial and local levels of government.

Stanhope said if the government doesn’t believe the report, then he suggested that they do their own study so they can realize the impact it has on the province is “significant.”

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.APRIL 14,, 2015

AVICC holds talk on Washington State’s pot legalization vote Delegates consider the finer points of a pro-pot campaign

BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff The ganja smoke hung thick in the air over the hall packed with red-eyed delegates from up and down British Columbia’s West Coast who had gathered to ponder how to “free the weed.” Not. In fact, the mayors, councillors and industry reps attending the Association of Vancouver Island and Coastal Communities (AVICC) conference session about the success of Washington State’s marijuana legalization drive might as well have been listening to a corporate marketing presentation about a new product or a slick Power Point slideshow on urban planning metrics.

“Lets just talk about the elephant in the room,” said Tonia S. Winchester, former deputy campaign director of Washington State’s Initiative 502 which brought in legal marijuana to BC’s southern neighbour, asking audience members to shout out various monikers for cannabis. “For the last 75 years we have been so focused on the plant itself, and all the puns that surround the plant...we’re forgetting that prohibition has had negative consequences on our communities.”

In order to combat organized crime and fight drug trafficking while raising tax revenue, Initiative 502 organizers focused on coalition building to push the paradigm shift that legal weed holds the answer.

The role of weed crusader is an unexpected spot for Winchester to find herself in.

Born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska, she was president of the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) chapters at her junior high and high schools.

“I felt that if you used marijuana you were one step away from using heroin or other drugs,” she said in an interview. “I avoided it like the plague.”

She became a prosecutor in Washington and started locking people up for marijuana offences.

But something didn’t feel right.

“I realized that I had a stack of domestic violence cases on my desk and I was spending more time prosecuting marijuana possession than I was focusing on the domestic violence cases where someone was actually injured,” she said.

“I felt that was a misuse of my time and energy as a prosecutor and that citizens wouldn’t really appreciate that if they knew what was happening.”

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Tonia S. Winchester, the former deputy campaign director of Washington’s Initiative 502, says pot legalization can be pitched as a public safety issue.

She joined the team to make weed legal in her state and later started working for Tilray, the large marijuana production facility on Vancouver Island.

Washington took a different approach to appealing to voters for support, Winchester told delegates.

Instead of pushing weed as a drug with less harmful effects than alcohol, the 502 team got endorsements and ran commercials around the concept that ending prohibition was a public safety initiative.

That’s not the only thing

that’s different between the two states. Colorado grossed $76 million (netting $44 million) in the last calendar year thanks to marijuana. Winchester said Washington likely made about $2.7 million last year from weed (although she projects that will jump to $236-276 million over the next two years).

Residents and business there have complained about a lack (and then glut) of product and an onerous tax regime that has actually encouraged the development of a “grey” weed market.

Winshester admits there

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has been controversy, but says good things take time.

“We’re at least progressing forward and not stuck with the status quo,” she said. “As frustrating as it may seem that things aren’t happening faster, we’re taking a pragmatic approach and going stepby-step through what needs to happen.”

Comox Valley municipalities have all considered the implications of the current medical marijuana production regime on community planning.

Cumberland is the most open to seeing a cannabis production facility open-

ing in its borders. Comox and the regional district both have provisions that would allow this kind of development in some areas. Courtenay has said no way.

Following the AVICC presentation, Courtenay councillor Rebecca Lennox said a second look might be a good idea.

“Bringing industry to the Valley that’s sustainable and semi-green would be a great step,” she said, noting tax revenue could be directed towards fixing water and sewer infrastructure. “This is something I think we should be open to in the future.”

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.APRIL 14, 2015

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Search on for pickleball home in Comox Pickleball player provides council with perspective on place to play problem

BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff Steve Chambers of the Comox Valley Pickleball Association didn’t mince words when discussing the plight of fellow pickleball enthusiasts during a Comox Committee of the Whole meeting April 8.

“Where does one go to play pickleball on a Sunday afternoon? Nowhere,” he said, wondering aloud, “How can this grievous injustice be corrected?”

Chambers was there to make the case it’s time this sport - played with racquets and a hole-filled ball - should get some serious love from Town.

“It’s quite popular on Vancouver Island,” he said.

“It’s growing by leaps and bounds.”

Mash-up badminton, tennis, and ping pong and you have a sport that spurred more than 14,000 Canadian residents to become active pickleball players.

The growth in the Comox Valley alone has been quite remarkable.

The local chapter became certified in December and has racked up 121 members in less that five months. As snowbirds return organizers expect this number to rise.

“Who plays pickleball?

Isn’t it just for seniors?”

Chambers threw out there for the political audience,

Steve Chambers says Pickleball is experiencing a popularity surge in the community.

Where does one go to play pickleball on a Sunday afternoon?

Nowhere. How can this grievous injustice be corrected?”

STEVE CHAMBERS CV Pickleball Association

noting that often it is the elderly who do play the sport but noted a number of school groups include it as part of their physical education repertoire. “The sport has grown quite ex-

tensively.”

So far GP Vanier Secondary, Mark R. Isfeld Secondary, Miracle Beach Elementary, Navigate powered by Nides, Hornby Island Community School, Brooklyn Elementary, and Courtenay Elementary have all hopped on the pickleball bandwagon with others considering a similar move.

The sport started in 1965 on Bainbridge Island in Washington State.

Apparently a dog named Pickles took delight in making off with the ball, doing the pastime a giant favour by providing it with a catchy name many have come to adore.

According to official statistics, there are 8,000 courts in the US and 290 in Canada. That does not include any places to play in the Comox Valley.

Chambers said Powell River is getting new courts at a cost of just $50-60,000. He suggested reworking underused tennis courts as pickleball courts could be as cheap as $18-25,000 (you can fit six pickleball courts in the same area that would house two tennis courts).

But you can’t stop pickleball players from getting down to businesses, and many local enthusiasts have taken to playing in the roller rink by Highland

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Secondary, although this doesn’t suit the needs of families who may want to throw down a spontaneous game or three.

Coun. Ken Grant wondered how realistic the construction estimates could possibly be, considering a recent drive build tennis courts cost about “half a million dollars.”

Chambers said that work included engineering involving creeks and water issues affecting the ground. Grant suggested this could be more appropriately tackled as a regional issue, something Chambers said the group would be open to.

Mayor Paul Ives said it might be worth looking into partnering with Tennis Canada, since its members are seeking to build a domed facility in the Comox Valley.

Coun. Russ Arnott asked about the possibility of painting different lines in

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existing tennis courts.

Chambers said this could be an “Option C” (after a new facility or taking over tennis courts entirely), stating the nets are fundamentally different, and adding there could be “less animosity” if you were to “keep both communities apart.”

Mayor Ives said he wouldn’t want to see the dry rink renovated since it was built for floor hockey and similar pursuits, but added there is land nearby that could be targeted.

“Have you looked at specific locations in the town?” he asked, also questioning “have you done any fundraising?”

Chambers noted they are open to many options and said he was hoping to get an endorsement from council to assist with fundraising. Town elected officials will consider a staff pickleball report in the coming weeks.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.APRIL 14, 2015

International students celebrate Women’s Day CFUW Comox Valley celebrated International Women’s Day with two international students and the student ambassador from North Island College. From left to right: Akhilaa Susheela, India; Gail Nasadyk, chair of CFUW CV; Gbemisola Falade, Jamaica; Beverley Eriksson, vice chair of CFUW CV; and Marcia Graham, Nigeria. We joined together for a Saint Patricks pot luck and listened to their many engaging stories.

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Airport volunteers to celebrate National Volunteer Week with YQQ fundraiser The Comox Valley Airport will be hosting a special volunteer recognition and fundraising barbeque on April 15.

The event, which coincides with National Volunteer Week, will be held at the airport from 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

All profits will be donated to L’Arche Comox Valley’s I Belong! Campaign, with the airport matching donations to double the impact of the event.

“Our volunteers are generally the first point of contact for a person entering the terminal building,” explained CVA CEO, Fred Bigelow.

“Our 53 volunteers have

an important role in shaping the passenger experience at YQQ and it is important that we take this opportunity to thank them for their commitment.” The CVA’s volunteer program attracts individuals with a broad range of experience and skills.

Each volunteer is scheduled for an average of one shift per week, coinciding with peak traffic volumes in the terminal building.

The barbeque will be hosted by On the Fly Café and members of the public are invited to join YQQ’s volunteers for a burger, pop and chips for $6. With purchase, guests can enter a free raffle to win a beautiful handcrafted garden bench and fully-

stocked picnic basket.

The event takes place rain or shine and entertainment will be provided by Rob Petrie. Parking at the airport will be free for guests attending the barbeque during this time.

L’Arche Comox Valley is raising funds to provide six housing units for people with developmental disabilities in the Comox Valley that require residential support and have no suitable housing options available. The plan includes construction of a “place of belonging”- a multi-purpose facility, located close to the downtown core, offering residences, creative arts programs and outreach services.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.APRIL 14, 2015

THE PLOG If a web log is a ‘blog’ then a paper log is a ‘plog’ ...

BIKE SWAP SUNDAY AT ECOLE ROBB ROAD Ecole Robb Road is hosting the 2nd Annual Community Bike Swap on Sun April 19th from noon-3pm.

Last year was a huge success, selling hundreds of pre-loved bikes with hundreds of buyers and sellers in attendance. We are anticipating an even bigger and better turnout this year!

It is a fantastic community event, providing an opportunity for community members to both sell and buy used bikes and bike gear, just in time for Bike to Work and Bike to School week in May. We will have all kinds of bikes from cruisers, road, mountain, cross, kids bikes, run bikes, foldable bikes, trailers, tag-a-longs a lots of bike gear. Last year we began this bike swap as a tie in to promote our schools efforts to increase active school travel and encourage students to bike or walk to school.

Following the bike swap, students from all over the Comox valley were set up with new (new-to-them) wheels ready to roll to school.

ALBERNI PROJECT AGM The Alberni Project Society extends an invitation to all its members and interested Comox Valley residents to attend its 2015 AGM. Date: 18 April 2015 Time: 7:00 PM Location: HMCS Alberni Museum 34-190 Port Augusta Street Comox Centre Mall (Blue Arch Entrance) A presentation of the past year’s events will be shown by Executive Director Lewis Bartholomew. Refreshments will be provided by Salsbury House Bed and Breakfast.

Agenda will be emailed to members and posted on TAPS Facebook.

RSVP to mrbarth@alberniproject.org if you plan to attend. For more

7

information on The Alberni Project call 250339-4322. www.alberniproject.org MYELOMA SUPPORT The North Island Myeloma Support Group is having its monthly meeting on April 21, 2015 in the dining room at the Best Western Westerly Hotel, 1590 Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay. Come for lunch at 12:15 (optional, buy your own lunch), meeting starts at 1:30. Keep up to date on the latest info on myeloma and enjoy socializing with others affected by the disease.

Please contact Sandy at: bcsandymac@gmail. com or 250-703-4688 if you plan to attend or for more info.

EARTHSAVE VEGAN DINEOUT This coming Monday April 20th at 5:30 and 7:00, Osaka Sushi at 450 Ryan Rd. in Courtenay will host this month’s Earthsave vegan dine out. Owners Grace and Andrew have put together the following full service menu: Miso Soup to start, followed by a vegan bento box including Tofu Teriyaki with Rice, Vegetable Tempura, Avocado and Cucumber Roll, Salad, Croquette and Fruit.

The cost for the evening including coffee, tea, taxes and tips is $20 per person. The evening is by reservation only. To reserve call Bob at Earthsave, ph 250-338-0751.

EVERGREEN DANCE FRIDAY Grab your friends and your neighbours and come on out for a night of fun dancing. Mark your calendar Friday April 17th to enjoy the live music from the band CROSSTOWN EXPRESS. Dance takes place in Courtenay Recreation’s Florence Filberg Centre downstairs in the Rotary Hall.

This Evergreen Club dance has bar service for its guests with dancing from 7:30pm to 10:30 pm.

We will break at 9pm for our coffee & cookie break. Evergreen members are $7 at the door and non-members are $9. FMI call the Filberg Office at 250-3381000.

Daniel Sharratt, co-owner of Gladstone Brewing, says business has been increasing every week. In the background, Courtenay-based Muchalat Construction workers tear down a wall as Gladstone Brewing Company expands.

Gladstone Brewing expanding with in-house pizzeria, growler station

BY DREW A. PENNER Echo Staff

Co-owner Alexandra Stephanson is excited to introduce Valley residents to a remodeled Gladstone Brewing Company growler.

With line-ups out the door and increasing interest in Courtenay’s microbrewery, the owners of Gladstone Brewing Company decided to knock down their northern wall and launch an expansion.

The former home of Samson’s Eco Clean is about to become a familyfriendly pizzeria, thanks to a partnership with Guerrilla Food Company.

“Business has been good,” said Daniel Sharratt, who co-owns Gladstone Brewing Company with his wife.

“Right now you can bring your food from anywhere. We want a consistent food supply for customers.”

Following on the heels of the wildly successful Springtoberfest, held on a recent Saturday at the Fourth Street business, Sharratt decided to pull the trigger on an idea

pitched by locally-focused Guerrilla - installing a pizza oven on site.

“I loved it,” Sharratt said. “Lots of things go with beer, but pizza is the one thing pretty much everyone can agree on.”

Guerrilla purchased a like-new oven with a charming old school character and can’t wait to rock n’ roll.

Sharratt says this will only help further the Gladstone concept, which embraces 1940s imagery and implements to mirroring the previous life of the space, once a gas station and mechanic shop.

“It will be a show piece,” Sharratt said of the oven, noting Guerrilla workers will also wear coveralls.

“We’re bringing it back to the ‘40s.”

Gladstone has been adding merchandise and beer varieties at an incredible clip as the months have gone by.

(Continued on page 13)

8

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WHAT'SON In the Comox Valley 14 TUESDAY NORTH ISLAND RHODODENDRON SOCIETY • For their monthly meeting Tuesday, April 14, members of the NIRS will journey “down under” with Garth Wedemire and his wife, Sue, to view images of remarkable gardens in both the north and south islands of New Zealand. The occasion was the New Zealand 70th Jubilee International Rhododendron Conference held in Dunedin in the South Island. Photographs cover the preconference tour to both public and private gardens organized by the New Zealand Rhododendron Society. NIRS holds its meetings at the Comox United Church, 250 Beach Avenue on the second Tuesday of each month. Doors open at 7 pm followed by a business meeting and the presentation at 7:30pm.

Anyone interested in membership is welcome to attend and refreshments are served.

COMOX VALLEY GENEALOGY CLUB • Will hold their next meeting on Tuesday, April 14, 2015 from 7-9 pm at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day-Saints - 1901 20th St Courtenay. Please enter from the rear of the building. Our speaker, April Shopland will give a presentation on “K’omox First Nation Research through Family Stories and Photos”. Everyone welcome. For more info..Marlene 250-334-3080 COMOX VALLEY SENIOR PEER COUNSELLING SOCIETY AGM • AGM is on Tue. April 14 at Comox Rec Centre from 12.00 to 1.30pm.

Tea, coffee and light snacks will be served. The current Board of Directors will be present to answer questions and nominations for new Board members will be received.

Our Society, through its volunteers, offers emotional support to vulnerable seniors with through Friendly Visitor Program and to Caregivers looking after loved ones with dementia and other conditions.

Members and non-members are welcome to attend.

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 250-339-5350.

15 WEDNESDAY THE ROYAL CANADIAN NAVAL ASSOCIATIOn • Holds their monthly meetings on the 3rd Wed of the month. The April Meeting will be held at 1300, Apr 15 in the Upper lounge of the Comox Legion.

Guests are more than welcome.

HEART SUPPORT GROUP • Comox Valley Chapter Monthly Meeting April 15, 7PM, Comox Recreation Centre, 1855 Noel Ave. Our group is a support group for anyone who has had a heart procedure, is about to undergo a heart procedure and their spouses. Our Guest Speaker for this meeting is Cathy Wagg from the “Heart Function Clinic”

in Campbell River. There is no charge for our meetings & all are welcome. For more information, please call: (250) 339-5349 PLAY BRIDGE • Every Wednesday at 7:00 pm at the Royston Hall, 3902 Old Island Hwy and Royston Road. FMI: 250-334-1883 or roystonhall.com and on Facebook at Royston Community Club

16 THURSDAY COMOX VALLEY RELAY FOR LIFE CORPORATE KICK OFF • Interested in this year’s Comox Valley Relay For Life? Join Investors Group and Comox Valley Relay for Life on April 16th for the Corporate Kick Off, held at the Westerly Hotel and Convention Centre. Enter to win $500 credit towards your team’s charitable collection efforts!

MEDICARE IN CRISIS • Comox Valley Council of Canadians hosts an evening of information on threats to public health care and what we can do about them. April 16, 7-9 pm. Creekside Commons, 2306 Lambert Drive, Courtenay. Donations accepted for BC Health Coalition Legal Defence Fund. Everyone welcome.

17 FRIDAY EVERGREEN CLUB FRIDAY NIGHT DANCE • April 17th. Grab your friends and your neighbours and come on out for a night of fun dancing. Mark your calendar Friday April 17th to enjoy the live music from the band CROSSTOWN EXPRESS. Dance takes place in Courtenay Recreation’s Florence Filberg Centre downstairs in the Rotary Hall. This Evergreen Club dance has bar service for its guests with dancing from 7:30pm to 10:30 pm. We will break at 9pm for our coffee & cookie break. Evergreen members are $7 at the door and non-members are $9. FMI call the Filberg Office at 250-338-1000.

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. 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.

9

Remembering internment Special film, walking tour in Cumberland The Cumberland Museum remembers the anniversary on Thursday, April 16th of the internment of Cumberland’s Japanese community with a special historic walking tour of the No. 1 Japanese Townsite guided by Dawn Copeman.

On April 16th, 1942, in the wake of the attack on Pearl Harbour, the entire Japanese population had their land, businesses and possessions confiscated and were moved to internment camps inland, changing the fabric of Cumberland with ripple effects felt even today.

No.1 Japanese Township was part of a vibrant family community that thrived and showcased Japanese culture with yearly Tea Ceremonies at Comox Lake, businesses in downtown Cumberland and a three-story Japanese language school that operated until the 1940s.

The Japanese Townsite tour will be preceded by the Comox Valley premiere of the short film

20 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.

21 TUESDAY PEARL ELLIS GALLERY IN COMOX PRESENTS • “A GROUP SHOW” by “THE MONDAY BUNCH” From April 21st - May 10th. 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

18 SATURDAY

22 WEDNESDAY

COMOX VALLEY FARMERS MARKET • 9-12 every Saturday at the Headquarters Road fair grounds, Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay. Come for the freshness, stay for the fun!

FMI: Mkt. Mgr. Vickey 250.2180321 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.

THE COMOX GLACIER WANDERERS VOLKSWALK CLUB • is hosting a 5/10 km walk on Wednesday, April 22nd. Registration starts at 9:30 am; walk starts at 10:00 am from parking lot at end of Brazier Rd. From Courtenay take Anderton Rd to Condensory Rd; Follow Condensory Rd, it will change to Dove Creek Rd; Continue on Dove Creek Rd. Turn LEFT on Brazier Rd. Parking at the end of Brazier Road.

For further info contact Crystal @ 250-898-8612 or Kathleen @ 250897-1360

Cumberland Japanese community at cemetery ceremony C140-003 “Kiri’s Piano” by Yellowknife Filmmaker France Benoit.

Kiri’s Piano is based on folksinger James Keelaghan’s song of the same title, which tells the story of a Japanese-Canadian family that are relocated

from their coastal fishing community told from the point of view of a white neighbour who is tasked with confiscating their belongings.

The film will be shown at the Cumberland Museum at 4:15pm. The walk-

ing tour will begin at 5pm at Jumbo’s Cabin on Comox Lake Rd. Walking tours are $10/$15. Contact the Museum to sign up in advance. FMI: 250-336-2445 outreach@cumberlandmuseum.ca

10

www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.APRIL 14, 2015

EVERYTHING FOR EVERY PET

TRAINING ESSENTIAL FOR HAPPY PETS Developing strong and healthy relationships with pets requires that pet owners provide for their pets in a variety of ways. Although affection and exercise are essential elements to raising a wellrounded pet, owners should not overlook one of the most important parts of pet care: discipline.

Well-trained pets can be a joy to be around. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals says learning how to train a dog can improve the life of the pet and the life of the owner, enhancing the bond between owner and dog while ensuring the pet’s safety. Many dogs are eager to learn and will embrace their training.

Dogs have special needs and instincts, communicating in ways separate from humans. When a puppy is brought into a home, both puppy and person must adapt to each other. Humans must learn to communicate effectively in a language that a dog will comprehend, while dogs must learn to fit into the human world and refocus some behaviors that may not be appropriate in a home setting.

Pet owners have various training methods at their disposal. Pet owners can find many resources in the library, at pet care centers or online. No matter which training method pet owners choose, the most effective are those that reward good behavior so that dogs will be

more inclined to repeat that behavior over and over. Bad behavior should not be punished, but there should be consequences. The ASPCA says dogs live in the moment and cannot make connections between events and past experiences. Therefore, praise or consequence has to happen immediately for the notion to be reinforced. If the dog sits on command, she should be given a treat or a good amount of praise. If she is nipping while playing, the owner should stop the play so that the fun ends immediately.

Training also requires consistency.

Anyone involved in the training and interaction with the pet should be following the same set of guidelines. If a behavior is worthy of praise, it should be offered each and every time. If the dog jumps up on a greeting and that is discouraged, every person she jumps up on should correct the behavior. All it takes is one person to pet the dog when she is doing something wrong to confuse the animal.

It’s also important to consider the dog’s temperament during training.

Certain breeds tend to be more docile or dominant than others. Training methods may need to be adapted based on the demeanor of the dog. Owners who have a stubborn, willful dog on their hands may need firmer, more consistent measures. A

dog who is more amenable may be trained easily with food-based rewards. Finding the training balance can take time and patience.

Dogs who are trained as puppies will learn good behavior right away and be less likely to adopt bad habits. But dogs can be trained at any age. Older dogs may just require a little more effort.

Training tends to be most effective when it is short and fun for pets and their owners. Dogs do not have long attention spans, so many trainers recommend that training sessions last no longer than 15 minutes. Commands should be to the point and not clouded with a lot of language. For example, “sit,” “stay,” “down” and “off” will get the point across.

Try practicing the training in different environments and scenarios. This way the dog will behave whether at home or in a friend’s backyard. Use rewards that are tied to the event and what the dog may find most attractive at that point. A hungry dog may respond to food treats. A dog looking to play may appreciate a game of catch as a reward.

If training doesn’t seem to be working, try a few different options. Some pet owners find they need help training their dogs. In addition to informative literature and training videos, dog trainers are readily available. Classes can be scheduled

privately, and many pet centers offer group classes to interested pet owners.

The success rate of training classes and the socialization that these training opportunities offer often justifies the financial and time investments required to attend classes.

The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior emphasizes the importance of starting a puppy in training, including training classes, before all vaccinations have been completed. Data supports a lower risk of transmission of disease in puppy socialization classes over the last 10 years. Lack of full immunizations should not be reason alone to keep pups out of important training classes.

Pet owners should know that not all behaviors can be stopped. Rather than punish the dog for every natural behavior, try to find acceptable ways to channel those instincts into something safe. A dog who likes to chew should be given plenty of toys. Dogs who are naturally active should be given adequate amounts of time to run outside. Highly intelligent breeds may benefit from agility training or even learning assistance techniques.

A veterinarian can usually provide resources on animal trainers in the area.

Look to work with Certified Professional Dog Trainers (CPDTs) and Certified Applied Animal Behaviorists (CAABs).

PETS, SPRING & OUR NATURE PARKS

GIVE BIRDS & WILDLIFE SOME SPACE Leashing Is Required At: Goose Spit Park March 1st to May 20th

Migrating Brant geese have landed to rest and feed

Seal Bay Nature Park & Forest April 1st to June 30th

www.comoxvalleyrd.ca

(All Trails) Nesting and fawn season

Thanks for leashing your pet.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.APRIL 14, 2015

11

Now Open Sundays!

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EVERYTHING FOR EVERY PET

PESKY PARASITES AND OUR PETS This is an exciting time of year for pet owners to finally get out and enjoy all the nice weather coming our way. As pet owners, we are very fortunate to live on Vancouver Island as there are several pest and pet hazards we do not worry about. We’ve all heard the stories of emergency trips to the vet’s after porcupine encounters or the multiple tomato sauce baths after a run in with a skunk! Yet we can sit smugly back and breathe a sigh of relief because we are lucky enough to live where we do.

However there is a trade off.....fleas!

Often heard referred to as the flea capitol of Canada, fleas are a year round pest for our pets on Vancouver Island.

Often thought of as a seasonal parasite, fleas have become a year round issue and can invade your homes even in the middle of winter. The best defense against fleas and flea infestations is prevention. There are several good flea control products on the market, some topical and some oral which can be found at your family vet’s office. Another pest we tend to see late spring is the tick. With this past exceptionally mild winter the ticks seem to be out if full force early this season.

The most common question we tend to hear this time of year is, “how do I remove a tick from my pet?”

The best way to remove a tick is to

use a pair of house hold tweezers or a commercial tick remover also known as a “tick twister”. These are very handy little tools that look like miniature crowbars and work in much the same way. Grasp the tick as close to the head as possible and with constant, gentle pressure twist the tick free. If all or some of the head remains, remove those remaining pieces and clean the area well with an antibacterial soap and warm water. You may also want to apply some antibiotic ointment to the area.

Sometimes the skin will react to the bite forming a hard lump. This usually clears up within a few days but should be watched for signs of infection. If you are concerned about infection or concerned about the species of tick found (some are more prone to carrying disease), consult your veterinarian.

There are many common misconceptions out there about ticks and their removal. One of which is to use a recently extinguished match or even a still lit match. Holding it to the body of the tick will not cause the tick to back out or fall off; in fact it can be rather dangerous and can singe the fur or burn your pet. Once the mouthpiece is attached, ticks can only let go after they are fully engorged. Applying fingernail polish or Vaseline is also commonly recommended. This can be

helpful in that it will suffocate the tick and may make removal easier, but it will not cause the tick to fall off. Another common and popular misconception is that the head of the tick will continue to thrive and even burrow into your pet if separated from the body during a botched removal. Even though this sounds quite fascinating, it is not true.

However leaving the head behind can

cause irritation of the skin, even infection and should be treated.

As always, prevention is the best medicine.

Contact your family veterinarian to learn more about your options and what works best for your pet so you can get out there and enjoy this beautiful time of year.

Submitted by Van Isle Veterinary Hospital

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.APRIL 14 2015

ECHO

OPINIONS

LETTERS

A painless way to help relieve pain As we know, Doctors Without Borders (MSF.ca) performs an exemplary job of providing vital medical aid throughout the world, the response to the Ebola outbreak is a prime example.

Msf.ca relies on donations from ordinary citizens and is now asking Aeroplan members to donate miles.

Donated Miles significantly reduce the amount spent on air travel, meaning more of every dollar donated to MSF goes directly to providing medical care to people caught in crisis.

This week, from April 13-19, Aeroplan Miles donations at msf.ca/aeroplan, will have twice the impact when Aeroplan matches the first 500,000 miles donated.

A painless way to help alleviate pain.

MEL McLachlan Comox

THOUGHTS ON THE BRIDGE It appears the City is planning to keep the Fifth Street Bridge and refurbish it with a paint job. Although debate continues on the bridge and an additional pedestrian bridge. I have a few observations that may be helpful.

Once the paint is removed I would expect a more detailed inspection could be completed. If the

bridge does have adequate strength and a significant life span remaining, the City could explore widening the walkways on either side.

The current concrete walkways could be widened or the concrete could be removed and replaced with lighter weight aluminum or timber walkways. The current railing could be retained and just moved to the outside so the appearance would remain similar.

The current walkways are 4-5 feet wide, they could likely be widened to 7-8 feet relatively easily.

The bridge originally had to carry cars as well as heavy truck traffic. The current traffic is mainly cars and light trucks. The traffic is busy but likely well below the original design loading. The structure can probably handle more walkway loading.

The current walkway supports cantilever out from the main structure.

They also support two heavy 12” water lines on each side. The water lines could be moved onto the main structure. This would free up more sidewalk loading capacity.

The lane widths also were designed to handle wide trucks so they should be more than adequate for the current traffic which is unlikely to change in the future.

If you walk across the bridge and look closely at the driving surface the concrete has very little cracking or fatigue evidence.

Many bridges have much more visible fatigue damage.

This is a testament to how well built the structure was and how well it has withstood 5 decades of traffic. It’s also an indication it has many years of life remaining.

Ian Farquharson PEng. Courtenay

WE HAD A GREAT TIME

COMOX VALLEY ECHO A division of Black Press Ltd.

407-E Fifth Street, Courtenay, B.C. V9N 1J7 www.comoxvalleyecho.com Phone 250-334-4722 • Fax 250-334-3172 Classifieds 1-866-415-3535 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 The Comox Valley Echo is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body governing the province’s newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about the conduct of member newspapers. Directors oversee the mediation of complaints, with input from both the newspaper and the complaint holder. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the B.C. Press Council. Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent to B.C. Press Council, PO Box 1356, Ladysmith, B.C. V9G 1A9. For information, phone 1-888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org. All original content in this publication is copyright material belonging to Black Press. Any re-use or reproduction without the expressed, written consent of the copyright owner is strictly prohibited.

Sharing outstanding talent is a wonderful way to give people an unforgettable evening.

Thanks to Saskia and Darrel who shared their talents and gave the audience magnificent entertainment on a fundraising concert.

Their genii was exhibited through professional performance and personal warmth which came through from the first to the last note in each song; a great way to reach out to folks who appreciated their excellent music.

The mosaic of colourful songs were introduced through tales which brought merriment and fun. Most of the songs were arrangements of their own making.

Many of the songs were based on the Canadian prairies and multilingual performance.

Of course the song “Springtime in Holland”

was refreshing and original, the song was written

by Saskia who was born and raised in Holland.

A standing applause from an exceptionally receptive audience resulted in the beautiful composition of “Hallelujah” which was rendered inspirationally through Saskia’s marvelous voice.

It was an evening to look back on and definitely to look forward to again in the future. Saskia and Darrel, please feel welcome to the musical garden of Courtenay, as you call it “home” despite your extensive traveling, sharing your talents at home and abroad.

Thank you and may the Lord bless you with sharing your God given talents to people everywhere.

Ary Sala Fanny Bay

STOP THE PADDLE FEST To BC Hydro.and the Regional District RE: Paddle Fest: If you truly want to be water wise, cancel this festival. This morning April 10 on Global TV, a news release from Environment Canada stated that on Vancouver Island due to a snowpack that is only 15% of normal and the likelyhood of another very dry summer,w e should prepare ourselves for moderate to severe water restrictions.

This flies in the face of hydro’s statement that lowering the lake by 20 centimetres will not be a prob-

lem.

No, it may not be a problem for BC Hydro but in the event of a dry summer it will be a problem for water users in the Comox Valley.

Hydro can slow or stop power generation from June onward thereby keeping the outflow to a minimum, but that 20 centimetres is a 2 or 3 year supply of water to the residents of the Valley.

The other questionable statement is the idea that the extra water flow will somehow enable the smolts to bypass the seals in the lower river.

The smolts do not now and never have needed extra water to reach the ocean. The problem is the seals, and that is DFOs problem.

If they were doing their job instead trying to be all things to all people there would be no seals at the mouth of the river eating the smolts.

They also say that this festival is a revenue geneerator for the valley.

Last year you couldn’t have found 50 kayakers if you sent out search parties, and no one from the business community has ever stepped forward to say how well they did as a result of this festival.

There are too many unanswered questions and due to the uncertain weather and the statement from Environment Canada, this festival is a really bad idea.

You may disagree but in July when you are facing stage 2 or stage 3 water restrictions, you may want to reconsider.

R. McCulloch Area B

LIVING LIKE THEY DO I’m not looking forward to the end of the month.

As part of a global antipoverty fundraiser, I’ve vowed to take part in a program called Live Below the Line.

The unfortunate reality is that 1.5 billion people live on $1.75 a day or less. As a plump and well-fed Westerner, I’ve been challenged to do the same and see how it feels. I have to live for 5 days on less than a cup of coffee a day. Pretty much rice and beans.

I’ve done it before, and it’s very hard. No more food or drink for pleasure, for comfort. Eating just to stay alive. Profoundly bland, low in nutrition. No variety.

Think how often you enjoy the taste of your food, look forward to your meal.

Now imagine an amorphous lump of cooked grains 2 or 3 times a day.

Nothing green, no meat, no fruit. Day after day. This is the reality for far too many, and it’ll be mine for 5 days.

Find someone doing Live Below the Line and be generous, because while they endure this for 5 days, for 1.5 billion it’s never-ending; a preventable reality.

Nathaniel Poole Victoria BC

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Join the crowd of happy walkers at the Scotiabank MS Walk on Sunday, April 19

Help fight MS at the annual Scotiabank walk on Sunday Join the fight against MS at the Comox Valley Scotiabank MS Walk on Sunday, April 19th at 10 am. The MS Walk is the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada’s largest national fundraiser with more than 160 walks across Canada.

The Comox Valley Scotiabank MS Walk is at the Courtenay Airpark - a safe, scenic, wheelchair and scooter accessible route. There are three walk distances to choose from - 3, 7 and 10 km.

Dogs on leash are welcome to attend and we will have dog bandanas for sale!

Arrive early and enjoy coffee, hot chocolate, a snack, entertainment and fun; after the walk stay for a hot lunch, music, recognition announcements and draw prizes.

Register in advance at www.mswalks.ca or by calling 250-339-0819.

Register as an individual or connect with friends, family and co-workers and start a team.

A team should be comprised of four or more

participants, including a team captain. TeamMS perks include a team photo, team captain support, and public recognition for your team and, if applicable, the company or local business your team represents. So far, these local businesses have a team participating in the Comox Valley Scotiabank MS Walk: Canadian Tire, Scotiabank Comox branch, Courtenay Pet Centre, Epicure, and Longevity Fitness and Nutrition.

Registered walk participants receive a pledge package and access to online fundraising tools to raise pledges prior to the walk.

Raise a minimum of $125 in pledges and receive a walk t-shirt and day of event lunch. Raise $250 or more and receive additional fundraising rewards or join the Mission First Club and receive a tax receipt for 10% of the pledges you raise.

Last year, Comox Valley Scotiabank MS Walk participants raised $37,527.15!

Proceeds from the Comox Valley and Port Alice Scotiabank MS Walks stay with the North Vancouver Island Chapter of the MS Society of Canada.

Our Chapter serves communities from Bowser to Port Hardy, including Gold River, Tahsis and the northern Gulf Islands.

We provide local programs and services to people affected by MS including information, support, advocacy and referral services, the Equipment Provision Program, the Special Assistance Program, the Comox Clinic and self-help support groups in the Comox Valley and Campbell River.

Our Chapter also makes a significant annual contribution to MS research to treat MS and find a cure - $16,853 in 2014.

Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable, often debilitating disease of the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord).

Gladstone Brewing expanding again (Continued from page 7) Now you can purchase branded toques, chips and salted almonds to go with a porter, India pale ale or Belgian single. Gladstone’s customer base has been rising, too.

“We’re still selling more beer week over week,” he said. “We’re still struggling to keep supply up with demand.”

The new space will feature four or five bar stools and co-owner Alexandra Stephanson is excited to plan for tables made out of oil drums.

She says the business growth is a natural progression from the support they’ve received from the Valley so far.

“We currently have lineups out the door almost daily,” she said. “We call it our ‘growler rush.’”

Growlers are the jugs of beer that hold about as much alcohol as a typical six-pack. The regular lounge area will not be cluttered up with folks who want to get the take-away Gladstone fix. Stephanson says growler replenishing will take place in the new section of the business,

which will be branded “the Filling Station” - another throwback to the building’s roots.

The couple has big plans for their company. They recently sponsored a roller derby team, are planning a play structure for children made out of a Studebaker (vintage 1948, of course) and a painting evening where participants recreate Van Gogh’s Starry Night is in the works.

“We’re teaming up with Habitat for Humanity for a salsa night,” she adds.

“We really want this to be a community space.”

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Outdoor education program to host information night in Cumberland

The Acronaires will perform some amazing stunts at April 21 show

Acrobatic team of Alberta students at school show The Acronaires are coming to École Aucoeur-de-l’Île in Comox on Tuesday, April 21 at 7:30pm.

This performancebased acrobatics team is comprised of students from Alberta committed to the advancement and progression of gymnastic skills and community development.

In their pursuit of acrobatic excellence, they attempt to impact the communities they tour by encouraging a healthy

lifestyle and by promoting athletic involvement among young people.

Their show can be described as a unique combination of gymnastics, acrobatics, cheerleading and cirque-style acts, sure to wow spectators of all ages.

Tickets are $5/person or $15/family and can be purchased from Ascent Physiotherapy in Comox, from École Au-coeurde-l’Île, or by contacting Kim at 250-897-2820 / ksenechal@shaw.

The new outdoor schooling program in Cumberland is holding an information session on Wednesday, April 15 at Cumberland Community School Library.

Hand-In-Hand Early Years Nature Education Program invites parents and guardians to join Director Jarrett Krentzel and Early Childhood Educator Alix Wilson for an evening of Nature Preschool information, program overview and question and answer.

It takes place at 2674 Windemere Avenue from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Snacks and refreshments will be provided.

This outdoor educational program is designed to offer a unique early childhood learning experience for children aged 3-5 years.

The classroom is the natural environment. The chairs are the logs, pencils are sticks and the possibilities are endless.

The program is offered Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., outside, as this is an environmental educational program.

The programs are facili-

CONGRATULATIONS!

Hand-in-Hand Early Years Nature Education Program set to bring this unique learning format to Comox Valley. tated by two certiďŹ ed and experienced Early Childhood Educators that will teach a maximum of 16 children.

Expanding on the BC Ministry of Education’s Early Learning Framework, the emphasis of the program will be on a nature and play-based curriculum and will encourage preschoolers to engage with their environment through art, music, games, physical activities and group learning.

For more information you can email Krentzl at jarrett@hand-in-handeducation.com or call 250.650.0438

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Luminaries from the 2014 Relay for Life (Photo courtesy VIP Studio)

Early kick-off for Relay for Life Open house Thursday night Ever wonder what Relay for Life is all about? This 12 hour overnight relay that raises funds for local cancer patient services and research is having an open to the public Kick off Event on Thursday, April 16th, between 6:30pm and 8pm. This is an open house event at the Best Western Westerly at 1590 Cliffe Ave in Courtenay.

“We will have information about joining Relay, signing up for our free Cancer Survivor Celebration, day-of volunteer opportunities and people can even pre-purchase

luminaries for only $5 to remember a loved one lost to Cancer.”, say Tracy Berg - Event organizer.

Relay for Life will take place this year at Vanier Track on Saturday, June 6th from 7pm to 7am. Comox Valley is the #1 Relay on Vancouver Island and in the Top 5 in BC. For more information of how to register a team for the June 6th event or volunteer at the event, please contact Tracy Berg, Coordinator Community Giving at 250.668.6794 or visit www.relayforlife.ca/ comoxvalley.

Island Voices sing of ‘Piety and Variety’ From the music of Renaissance Cathedrals, to the Kingdom of Spamelot, the Island Voices’ April 18/19 concert, “Piety and Variety” is sure to provide audiences with goosebumps and giggles, and all emotions in between.

Love songs, work songs, spicy Latin rhythms, and even a little jazz, make this a program that will truly provide something for everyone.

Part of the program features songs of Faith, but with an amazing diversity.

Palestrina’s joyful “Exultate Deo” and the soaring harmonies of Bruckner’s “Ave Maria” are joined by

two Spanish pieces - Basden’s luscious setting of “Que el Senor te bendiga y te proteja”, and Aguiar’s Salmo 150, perhaps more reminiscent of flamenco than hymnal. The rhythmic excitement continues with a Moses Hogan arrangement of “Elijah Rock”. Even Bruce Cockburn joins this theme of faith; the men’s section will delight you with their version of “All the Diamonds”.

The theme of variety continues with many pieces that evoke pictures and moods. “Woodsmoke and Oranges”, “The Pasture”, and “I Dreamed of Rain”

conjure images of nature and peace. The inticate hamonies of Whitacre’s “A Boy and a Girl” contrast with the sweet innocence of “Siepi, Che Gli Orti Vaghi”. We hear work songs “V’la l’bon Vent” and “Drunken Sailor”, and become part of an instrumental band in “Vox Cubana”. We hear of a mother’s love in “Tabula Rasa”, the competition of “The Song that Goes Like This”, and the sultry “Mood Indigo”.

Island Voices invites you to share these moments of “Piety and Variety” in Campbell River at 7 pm on Sat. April 18th at the Maritime Heritage Centre

(reception to follow), and in Comox at 7 pm on Sun., April 19th at the Comox United Church.

Tickets for Campbell River can be purchased at the Visitor Information Centre - $18 for all adults.

Tickets for Comox can be purchased at Laughing Oyster Books and Blue Heron Books - $15 for adults. For both concerts, tickets for youth under 18 accompanied by an adult are free. For more information call 250-337-8441 (Comox Valley) or 250285-3560 (Campbell River), or go to our website, www.islandvoiceschamberchoir.bc.ca.

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GEORGIA STRAIGHT JAZZ SOCIETY

CODI Quintet takes stage By

Agatha Christie

CODI returns to the jazz society stage this Thursday night at the Avalanche ties, or to see our wonderful gallery of photographs of previous concerts from

the eighteen months or so, please visit us at www. georgiastraightjazz.com or

find us on Facebook.

Apr 24 - May 30

- Submitted by Malcolm Holt

Tickets from $25

Ralph Barrat and band perform at Friday Bates Beach Jazz Series

1.800.565.7738

The Sharp Seven pay tribute to Sinatra’s 100th birthday

Bandleader Ralph Barrat following a 30 year professional musical career within the music branch of the Canadian Armed forces.

Jeff has collaborated with some of Canada’s finest musicians and the band is thrilled to have Jeff as a new member of the band.

The Band’s repertoire includes many songs that have been especially arranged by former band member and “Composer Extraordinaire” Troy Lucas, whose work has produced very tasteful and interesting versions of classic jazz standards.

The Band includes one of the Valley’s most indemand and skilled musicians, Grahame Edwards.

For this performance, the band will include 2 very special guest musicians.

On Keyboard is Kelly Thomas, an absolutely fabulous musician skilled in a variety of genres. On Drums will feature special guest musician Neil Clark, whose professional music career is extensive.

Dance Floor Alert !

There will be a designated dance area to kick up your heels, so bring your dancing shoes !

The “Bates Beach Farm Jazz Series” is made possible by the generous Volunteer and Financial support of the Obal family (Grace, Mike and Ben). On behalf of the entire Jazz Musician Community of the Comox Valley, event coordinator Rob Peterson extends a special thank-you to the Obal family for their awesome support of this Jazz series.

The “Bates Beach Farm Jazz Series” is a family friendly venue with a concession offering tea, coffee, soft beverages and goodies. Net profit from the concession is being directed to veterans suffering with PTSD. Doors open at 7:00 and performance begins at 7:30. Tickets at the door $12 with advance tickets $10 available at Bop City in Courtenay and the Red Carpet Boutique in Comox.

David Cooper Photography

The “Bates Beach Farm Jazz Series” at the Little Red Church is thrilled to confirm “Ralph Barrat and the Sharp Seven” are back this Friday evening, April 17 with a tribute to the songs of both Frank Sinatra and Duke Ellington.

Comments band leader Ralph Barrat: “Believe it or not, it is the 100th birthday year of Francis Albert “Frank” Sinatra and this Friday’s performance is perfect timing for the band to recognize and honour the amazing songs and career of Frank Sinatra” Enjoy a stellar evening of Classics as Barrat belts out tunes with his distinctive vocal style, reminiscent of Sinatra, Bennett, & Buble. Take a seat as the band transports you back to the golden era of Jazz with songs such as “New York-New York”, “Take the A-Train” ,”Mack the Knife”, just to name a few.

This dynamic 7-piece combo includes a fantastic “first call” 3-piece horn section that includes Jeff Agopsowicz (Trombone), Jake Masri (Trumpet) and Rachel Fuller (Alto Sax) Newcomer to the band, Trombone musician Jeff Agopsowicz, recently retired to the Comox Valley

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CODI takes the stage for the second time this season at The Avalanche Bar & Grill at 7:30 this Thursday, when the group, led by Colin Campbell (guitar, vocals, trumpet and flugelhorn) will carry the audience through an evening of Latin, swing, bop and blues, combining their unique blend of vocals, horns and outstanding grooves.

The musicians are all veteran players who bring a wealth of experience and passion to their performances. Returning by popular request, regular jazz fans know what to expect from this fine quintet: smooth tunes, including Recorda-Me, Stella By Starlight, I Thought About You, And I Love Her, On Green Dolphin Street, Well You Needn’t, I Remember You and Idaho.

“You can count on soulful melodies combined with fine harmony,” Colin told me in a brief conversation.

“We remember how well our music went down when we performed here early last November, and you can count on our melodic swing sound once again. We just want to build on the success of our previous concerts at the Avalanche Bar. “Everybody knows that Courtenay has something really special happening with its live jazz scene, and attentive audience, and we’re proud to be part of it.”

CODI also includes Claudio Fantinato (saxophones); Gary Hodi (piano and vocals); Doug Gretsinger (bass) and Wayne Finucan (percussion) - well known to jazz fans in their own name, or as part of the Arrowsmith Big Band, in which they all perform as well.

So be prepared to be captivated by this smooth combo, and remember that white linen table settings with an option of Greek three-course dinners priced as jazz night specials as well as regular pub menu, offer you a perfect atmosphere for a wonderful early start to your weekend.

Plan on coming down to see why Thursday Night Jazz at the Av is Vancouver Island’s premier jazz venue. Admission is $10 for members, $12 for nonmembers.

For more information about forthcoming activi-

“The Mousetrap” is presented by special arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH, INC.

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