Comox Valley Echo - May 12, 2015

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NEWS

ARTS

3.Local man

10.Powerful play

badly hurt in Saskatchewan

about women textile workers

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.COURTENAY,BC MAY 12, 2015

ECHO

NEWS Comox Valley Weather

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Tuesday Mix of sun and cloud. 40% chance of showers late afternoon. High 19°C.

Wednesday Cloudy with 60% chance of showers.

Low 14°C. High 18°C.

Thursday Cloudy.

Low 13°C. High 20°C.

Friday A mix of sun and cloud.

Low 13°C. High 22°C.

Saturday A mix of sun and cloud.

Low 12°C. High 20°C.

New Patients Welcome

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

Artist Brian Scott to MC first annual general meeting for Mack Laing Society Artist Brian Scott will act as Master of Ceremonies at the Mack Laing Heritage Society’s first Annual General Meeting.

The AGM will be held on Saturday, May 16, from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm, at the Little Red Church in Comox (across from St. Joseph’s Hospital).

Author Richard Mackie will also attend with a audio visual presentation. Mackie wrote the only biography

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of Mack Laing in 1985. A copy of his book will be raffled.

One of Brian’s Scott’s paintings, done for the Mack Laing Society, will be on display.

Prints and cards of these, and a painting of Baybrook by Comox artist Ruth Dickson, will be for sale.

Everyone is welcome to attend this event. Light refreshments will be served.

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Opportunity for seniors, low vision On Wednesday, May 13th, from 10AM-3 PM, specialists from the CNIB (Canadian National Institute for the Blind) will provide information and advice free of charge on Assistive Technology, Independent Travel Techniques, Independent Living Skills, Low Vision Services, Veteran Services and much more .

In addition, visual aids from the CNIB store including large print calendars, talking watches, large button phones, magnifiers and an assortment of assistive technology devices will be available for purchase with cash, VISA and Mas-

tercard, “This is a great opportunity for seniors with visual difficulties and others to interact and learn how to adapt to your specific visual issues,” says PaulHorgen, blind, Valley resident and Vice Chair Vancouver CNIB Board.

The opportunity begins at Berwick in Comox located at 1700 Comox Avenue in their Meeting Room commencing at 10 AM. Come join us and learn more about what CNIB can offer. Learn about the CNIB facility in Victoria.

College wants to hear from you Wednesday at noon Join NIC President John Bowman for a Community Town Hall meeting in the Comox Valley to discuss how NIC can better serve your community.

All NIC students, alumni, employees, and community members are invited to provide input

on NIC’s draft Strategic Priorities and Goals on Wednesday, May 14 from 12-1:30 pm, in the Stan Hagen Theatre at NIC’s Comox Valley campus.

“The information brought forward at these town hall meetings is essential to improving the

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lives of post-secondary students on Vancouver Island,” said Bowman. “NIC needs to hear from as many people and organizations as possible so we can carefully consider all ideas before the Board of Governors approves College Plan 2020 at the end

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of June.”

Over the past six months, NIC staff, administrators, and faculty have created NIC Plan 2020, developing nine strategic priorities to shape how NIC delivers programs and services for the next five years.

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Your feedback on these priorities is important.

College Plan 2020 will be instrumental in preparing the next generation of health care professionals, tradespeople, artists, social workers, business leaders, and university graduates to work in our communities.

The B.C. government projects one million job openings across the province between 2012 and 2022, with 78 per cent of those jobs requiring postsecondary education.

The Comox Valley

Community Town Hall is one of three forums being held across Vancouver Island, including two other forums in Port Alberni on May 7 and Campbell River on May 14.

“Throughout our planning process it was clear student success is at the centre of all we do - we want to hear your thoughts about how to best prepare students and communities for the future,” said Bowman.

Feedback can also be posted online at www.nic. bc.ca/NICPlan2020.

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ACCIDENT RECOVERY

Local man badly hurt in Saskatchewan Valley family rallies to support much loved 21-year-old, injured while on first full-time job

BY DEBRA MARTIN Echo Staff Sam Fetherston was leaving his parents’ Comox Valley home to live on his own for the first time.

Two weeks later he was in hospital in Saskatchewan with critical injuries.

Sam was a flag person at the site where three teenage boys were instantly killed May 3 by a semitruck driver who fell asleep at the wheel.

Sam was also hit by one of the vehicles involved in the mayhem.

The 21-year-old had been doing some flagging locally when his best friend suggested they try their luck in Alberta. They arrived there on April 22 and then were assigned work at a road construction site in Saskatchewan.

“He was all excited to start a new life,” said his sister Alyna Chowdhury.

“It was his first full-time job”.

A Chevrolet Cavalier driven by a 17-year-old, with two teenage passengers, was stopped behind a Dodge pickup truck, driven by a 48-year-old man, in the northbound lane at the construction zone.

A semi-tractor trailer being driven in the northbound lane by a 38-yearold Manitoba man crashed into the Cavalier from behind.

The Cavalier hit the Dodge truck, which hit

Sam is a wonderful person, he doesn’t have a mean bone in his body.

He loves his nieces and nephews like crazy, they miss him so much right now.”

ALYNA CHOWDHURY Sam’s sister

Alyna Chowdhury, Sam’s sister, has been glued to Facebook for the latest updates on her brother’s condition in hospital in Saskatoon.

Sam. The Dodge truck then crossed the highway and struck a construction pilot vehicle being driven by a 19-year-old Alberta man.

The three teens, all from Carrot River, died at the scene. Sam was flown by STARS to Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon with “what was described as critical injuries,” RCMP said.

He was conscious when being airlifted but put into

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an induced coma when he arrived at hospital.

He has since come out of the coma, said Alyna on Saturday, and recognized his mom Cynde Fetherston, who had flown out to Saskatoon to be by his side.

Alyna said they are hopeful for a full recovery, but won’t know for some time whether Sam suffered any permanent brain damage in the accident.

He does have a com-

pletely shattered humerus, broken collarbone and other assorted injuries. He must have surgery soon to put the upper arm-shoulder back together.

Alyna says Sam saw the pick-up truck coming at him and had managed to try to dive into the ditch at the last minute, but was still clipped and flew 30 feet through the air.

“He’s strong-minded, with a strong body. That definitely helped,” she said.

And he’s starting to get his sense of humour back, according to family and friends visiting him in hospital.

But he does have a long road of recovery ahead of him yet, says Alyna.

And that’s why she’s started up a gofundme page to raise a bit of money “for Sam’s comfort” when he is eventually flown back to B.C. The fund could help with “anything he needs” such as transportation to

Sam Fetherston, waiting for his flight to Alberta, and the start of his ‘new life’ away from home for the first time rehab sessions, she said. “(Sam) is a wonderful person, he doesn’t have a mean bone in his body. He loves his nieces and nephews like crazy, they miss him so much right now,” she said.

Sam had lived in the Valley for the past seven years, where he attended Glacier

View alternative school. He has many friends here, plus most of his family, including three older sisters and a younger brother.

“If we had of lost Sam ....” * If you would like to help Sam please go to: Gofundme.com/samneedsyour help.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MAY 12, 2015

Pilot recovering from harrowing plane crash in parking lot

Courtenay Fire Dept. crew works to get pilot out of plane Saturday morning

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(Photo courtesy Dean Stoltz/CHEK News)

The pilot, whose singleengine plane lost power and crashed in a parking lot at a veterinary clinic on Comox Road, is lucky to be alive.

It was a harrowing experience for Christopher L. Cameron, 61, a Courtenay lawyer, who was first rushed to St. Joseph’s Hospital after firefighters extricated him from his wrecked plane Saturday morning and later flown to Victoria General Hospital where he is recovering.

The plane, a Polishdesigned PZL-104 Wilga, might have saved the pilot’s life, said his friend, Courtenay Airpark Association president Morris Perrey, because it is well built. But it’s still uncertain why the plane suffered engine failure.

Perrey said he talked to Cameron that morning before he left.

“We were chatting with him about an hour before he took off and he was looking forward to his flight and we certainly

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weren’t expecting this to be happening,” Perrey told CHEK News.

The aircraft ended up hitting the roof of the Comox Valley Veterinary Hospital before it crashed into two cars in the parking lot. Witnesses said the plane appeared to have engine trouble.

“It was just going, putt, putt, putt,” said witness Robert Good. “They couldn’t get it up, so it just kept going down you see.”

(Continued on page 7)

Comox Valley, BC

Wednesday, May 13, 2015; 6:30 pm School Board Office, Board Room 607 Cumberland Road, Courtenay, B.C.

BE ELIGIBLE

Pilot Chris Cameron

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MAY 12, 2015

ECHO

OPINIONS

LETTERS

The building site formerly known as the Lorne I attended the May 5th meeting in Comox regarding the proposed project at The Building Site Formerly Known As the Lorne Hotel.

Those opposed generally objected to the exterior design of the proposed building but were in favour of the site being developed so that the town of Comox could be revitalized.

Those in favour of the proposed building generally said that the project shouldn’t be stalled any further as Comox desperately needs development, density and people to support Comox businesses.

As well, the owner and developer have already invested money into the project so they should be allowed to move ahead.

Passionate speakers, all Comox residents, urging council to look at good design, versus frustrated speakers just wanting ANYTHING to go up and just get on with it.

At the meeting, the illustrations of the proposed development showed a building that takes up 2/3 of the lot.

The other one third of the lot has a covered car park and bike storage.

The building wall rises straight up for 4 to 5 stories beside the parking stalls.

Perhaps this section is where the developer, a few years down the road, would like to erect the 8 or 10 storey portion of the building that he states he is actually allowed to build according to the OCP guidelines.

This is true??

Why not build on the whole site with a gabled, 3 or 4 storey building, keeping car parking underneath the building.

A 3 or 4 storey building wrapping around the highly visible downtown corner, could have a metal clad peaked roof with gables and dormers that could house several striking residences with great views.

By using the whole site, the building could easily contain 21 residences or maybe a combination of residences and boutique hotel suites. Might actually even harken back to the design of the old Lorne Hotel.

I wonder, does the Comox OCP have aesthetic guidelines?

I was told that there is no design guideline committee in Comox so

COMOX VALLEY ECHO Published by Black Press Ltd.

407-E Fifth Street, Courtenay, B.C. V9N 1J7 www.comoxvalleyecho.com Phone 250-334-4722 • Fax 250-334-3172 1-866-415-3535 Circulation 250-334-4734 E-mail: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com Publisher Dave MacDonald Editor Debra Martin 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.

proposals are judged only by elected councillors.

Councillors who may be successful businessmen but may not have a clue about art or design.

This is how Comox is being guided?

At the meeting, examples of other communities that got it right in the urban design department were cited.

Port Townsend and Qualicum are Villages

By The Sea, like Comox, that tourists flock to and that continually attract new residents.

Maybe the design of the proposed development could be put out to a national or international competition.

This site is very important for Comox.

Its planning might take time. However, Rome wasn’t built in a day, either.

The design must be right to fit in with the adopted Village By the Sea theme so that other new developments will be encouraged to embrace the theme and create Comox as a unique destination.

The proposed development’s ground floor pub, liquor store and bistro will attract patrons and be good for business. No one argues with that.

But good design is so much more than ropes on posts and a maritime

mural of Popeye on a wall. That’s just “lipstick” as one speaker stated.

No one will pay attention to that. The building could be there for 100 years so we have to get it right the first time.

Having already, somehow, passed first and second reading, the proposal has only one hurdle left, which is third reading at the May 20th council meeting.

Please, oh please, councillors, get it right this time because this will be your legacy.

Craig Freeman Comox

REMEMBER MERCHANT NAVY Recently we celebrated the seventieth anniversary of the end of WW2.

I believe this to be the perfect opportunity to remind us all of the sacrifices made by the men of the allied Merchant Navy.

The Canadian Merchant Navy lost over 1,700 seamen during WWII. The British Merchant Navy lost in excess of 32,000, the highest per capita rate than any of the other forces.

During WWII, the Merchant Navy saw continuous action in the longest battle of the war, the Battle of the Atlantic.

Without them, there

would have been no Battle of Britain or, indeed, other fronts around the world.

Admiral Leonard Murray stated, “The Battle of the Atlantic was not won

by Navy or any Air Force, it was won by the courage, fortitude and determination of the British and Allied Merchant Navy.”

September 3 is designated in Canada, and the rest of the Commonwealth, as Merchant Navy Day. I hope to see the Red Ensign flying from City Hall and our Royal Canadian Legions.

Dennis McGuckin British MN retired

DISAPPOINTED Re: Lorne Hotel site I’m so disappointed in the outcome of the public hearing into the new building on the site of the former Lorne Hotel, but not really surprised.

The citizens of this community were very clear about the changes they wished to see made, but the developer chose to apply some minor cosmetic changes rather than to open his mind to other possibilities. As disappointed as I am by this, it really isn’t the developer’s responsibility to please the citizens.

As long as he follows the

code set out by the Town Council, he can build whatever he pleases.

No, the issue is that there is no vision for this community and no framework to bring this vision to the developers.

Derek Constantino put forth that developers will not build in Comox if they have restrictions on what they can build, but is this what we are really asking for?

Can we not work together as citizens with the very creative profession of architecture to encourage developers to find a vision for this community?

Would they not benefit from public support?

Would the community not benefit from development?

Why must this be a fight instead of mutual support?

It looks as if this development will go ahead, but we need to find the will to make sure that we, as citizens, find a way to put pressure on the Council to address our concerns.

The only way to create change is to be vocal, so please, please, take the time to get involved.

It only takes a few minutes to send an email or to make a phone call.

Corrine Bainard Comox

www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MAY 12, 2015

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Mayday, Mayday!

Three days full of traditional celebrations in Cumberland for Victoria Day weekend Cumberland has been celebrating Victoria Day since 1919. Empire Days is steeped in tradition - with a parade, open market, and local shop specials, all presided over by the May Queen herself.

This vibrant little village will be the place to be on the long weekend; full of fun, festive, family events designed to celebrate the history and culture of one of the Islands oldest communities.

The celebrations begin Saturday, May 16 at 9 am with a Pancake breakfast at the Legion followed by the popular soapbox derby.

Dunsmuir Avenue will be closed to cars from 10 am to 4 pm and a lively market hosted by Elevate the Arts will take place.

Stop in at one the village’s great little shops, have a meal in the local restaurants, enjoy a brew at our new local brewery, or head down to the Village Park.

There will be activities for kids most of the day, Washoe Tournament at 12:30pm, Golf Hole in One at 1:30pm and a beer garden for the adults.

Enjoy the traditional May Pole dancing

Cumberland’s main street, Dunsmuir Avenue, is closed off Saturday for Market Day fun The Highland Dance Competition is from 10 to 4 at the Village Park and the Westies Dog Parade at 12:30pm is a crowd favourite too.

Come back on Sunday May 17th for the Old Timers Soccer Game at 2pm one of the weekend’s best highlights!

Cumberland has had a long tradition of soccer - dating back to our coal

mining days. The multigenerational soccer teams are made up of the family and friends of those players who first played in the Cumberland United Soccer Club as far back as the early 1900’s.

As well the “Legends of the Maypole” is another fun-loving tradition with a new twist! Adults who danced around the Maypole as children are invit-

ed to dance and this year parents and guardians of the children who are dancing on Monday are encouraged to come out and try not to tangle the ribbons! This event takes place at 1pm at the Maypole in front of the stage at the Village Park.

On Monday May 18, a #2 Cumberland special event transit service will be offering $1 rides between Courtenay and downtown Cumberland.

Be sure to watch the Mayday parade, cheer on the fire trucks, and follow the crowd to the Village Park to see the crowning of the May queen.

The entire community will be out to see the traditional Maypole dance where generations of Cumberland’s residents, old and new, celebrate the return of Spring. Maypole dancing has been a part of Cumberland Empire Days

for over 100 years.

The Cumberland and Royston elementary schools have been teaching the dance for generations - inviting local children and their families to participate in the event.

Whether you come for the street market, the parade, to see the crowning of the May Queen, dance the Maypole, or enjoy festivities in the park, Cumberland is the place to be on the Victoria Day weekend.

For a full schedule of events visit www.facebook.com/CumberlandEmpireEvents

Pilot recovering from plane crash (Continued from page 4) Staff at the clinic heard an explosion and didn’t realize what it was until they went out of the building.

“I thought initially it was an explosion but it was just the sound of the impact,” said Dr. Dave MacDonald. “I walked outside and there was a lot of debris in the air and I thought something had exploded at the gas station like a propane tank or something.”

Kelly Dewar, a veterinary assistant, said they immediately called 911. One of the cars struck by the plane happens to be hers. But she was more concerned about the well-being of the pilot and went on to praise MacDonald for quickly rushing to aid Cameron.

“He was like half in the plane, you couldn’t see his top half reaching through talking to the guy,” said Dewar.

According to MacDonald, the pilot was disoriented but conscious.

“He did say I lost power,” said MacDonald. “That’s all I heard him say. He wasn’t really lucid.”

Crews from Courtenay Fire Department, paramedics and Comox Valley RCMP were at the scene, soon after. It took firefighters about thirty minutes to cut Cameron out of the cockpit with the jaws of life.

Perrey said Cameron might have been trying to land the plane in the field behind the veterinary office.

“It was pretty close to take-off and he was just getting into the circuit heading

towards the northeast and he didn’t quite make the field,” said Perrey. “It would have been no problem if he’d made the field, that’s usually the modus operandi of a pilot who loses his power. Head for the field.”

Perrey commended the emergency services and all the people that assisted Cameron.

“I can’t comment how much we appreciate, it was spectacular how much everyone helped out,” said Perrey, who added he’s been getting calls from as far away as Bermuda wondering how Cameron is doing.

“It’s definitely tragic but I’m glad it’s working out the way that it did,” said Perrey.

The Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash.

Meanwhile, MacDonald is now dealing with the damage to their building and also to the two cars in the parking lot.

“The roof has holes in it and the corner of the building got a good smack and the room that got affected there are cracks in the drywall,” said MacDonald. “But we’re still able to go about our business. That would have been stressful if we didn’t.

“One of the cars I believe has been written off. The other one is still under evaluation but has serious damage.”

The fortunate thing, said MacDonald, is that the fine print on their building insurance policy indicates they’re covered for aviation impacts. However, it’s still undetermined what the total cost of the damage is going to be.

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Living on Vancouver Island comes with all kinds of perks. Some of those perks being our mild winters, lack of a heartworm season and no swarms of mosquitoes forcing us to spend our summer evenings indoors. The drawback…..fleas! What was once thought of as the flea season, spring and summer are no longer the only two seasons of the year fleas can be a nuisance. For us, fleas can be a battle 12 months of the year. Did you know your pet can get tapeworms from fleas? Yep, it’s true; this occurs when your pet ingests a flea during their daily grooming ritual.

Where do fleas come from?

Fleas can strike anytime, anywhere. It only takes a second for a flea to jump on and make itself at home. Fleas will habituate both indoors and out. It is just as easy for your pet to pick up a flea during a quick, outdoor bathroom break as it is from a visit to an infested home.

Can fleas be passed onto my children?

While fleas never pass up an opportunity to bite, they cannot live on humans. It seems just like with our other friend, the mosquito, some people are more susceptible to flea bites.

How do I know if my pet has fleas?

This can be tricky. Many pets will carry fleas and not show any significant signs. For others, fleas can be very bothersome. Some pets can be quite sensitive to fleas and even suffer an allergic reaction or what’s known as flea allergy dermatitis. Pets that suffer from flea allergies tend to be extremely itchy and develop visible sores on their skin which eventually turn into bacterial skin infections or hot spots. A flea combs work great at detecting fleas and can be picked up at almost any pet store or veterinary office.

cat can have a harmful, even devastating effect especially if your cat likes to groom your dog.

How long does flea treatment usually take to work?

Flea treatments work fast, some as quickly as 20 minutes. Others will have a full effect on your pet within a couple hours. The key is continuous treatments. It can take at least 3 months or treatments (if treating

What do I do if my pet has fleas?

There are several great products used to treat and control fleas, each work slightly different. Your pet’s lifestyle and the type of infestation you are trying to control or simply avoid will determine which product is right for you. The best source of information on the right flea control for your pet is your veterinarian. Be very cautious with some of the over the counter flea medications meant for treating dogs only. Some of these products can be extremely harmful, even deadly for cats. Owners will sometimes treat both their dog and cat, not realizing the danger. Even just treating a dog that lives in the same household as a

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Seal Bay Nature Park & Forest - April 1st to June 30th (All Trails) Nesting and fawn season Thanks for leashing your pet.

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monthly) to completely rid the pesky flea from your home. Fleas lay hundreds of eggs on your pet and in your home. These eggs can lay dormant for months, even a year before they decide to hatch. This is why it is important to continue to treat long after you’ve stopped seeing fleas.

Better yet….start treating before you even see them!

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EVERYTHING FOR EVERY PET

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR PETS FROM EXTREME HEAT Extreme heat can be unpleasant for anyone, and pets are no exception.

While it’s easy for men and women to detect if their bodies are responding negatively to heat, those warning signs may not be so prevalent in pets, who may suffer in silence as the mercury continues to rise.

Pet owners must pay special attention to their pets on hot days, which the Humane Society of the United States notes can be both uncomfortable and dangerous for pets.

In an effort to help pet owners protect their pets from the summer heat, the HSUS offers the following tips to pet owners who want to keep their pets cool and safe this summer.

• Don’t leave pets in a parked car. The temperature inside a vehicle can quickly approach dangerous levels on hot days, so pet owners should never leave their pets in parked cars, even if they leave the air conditioning on and the engine running. The HSUS notes that on an 85-degree day, temperatures inside cars with slightly cracked windows can reach 102 degrees in as little as 10 minutes. Rather than taking pets with you on car trips, leave them at home inside a comfortably air conditioned room where they won’t be vulnerable to rising temperatures.

• Change pet’s exercise regimen. Pet owners who make sure their pets get

daily exercise should change such routines when temperatures are on the rise. Midday walks or jogs should be switched to evenings or early mornings, when temperatures tend to be at their most moderate. In addition, cut back on the time spent exercising, as pets may have trouble breathing on hot days. When taking your dog for a jog or a run in the summertime, do so on the grass, avoiding asphalt, as hot asphalt can do significant damage to your pet’s paws.

• Be mindful of your breed. Dog owners should recognize that certain dogs can handle the heat better than others.

Short-nosed breeds have a harder time in extreme heat because their shorter airways don’t allow as much time for the air they breathe in to cool as dogs with longer noses. In addition, the HSUS points out that dogs with whitecolored ears are more susceptible to skin cancer than other dogs, making it imperative that owners of such dogs reduce their exposure to the sun on hot days when the UV index is especially dangerous.

• Let dogs inside. Doghouses might not be as prevalent as they once were, but many owners still keep doghouses in their backyards so their four-legged friends have a place to relax outdoors on lazy afternoons. But doghouses can be similar to parked cars on especially

Pets should be allowed to relax indoors on hot days, which can be especially dangerous to animals.

hot days, making rising temperatures feel even hotter. Let dogs hang out inside in an air conditioned room on hot days to reduce their risk of heatstroke.

• Learn to recognize the signs of heatstroke. Pets suffering from heatstroke will exhibit certain symptoms, and pet owners who learn to recognize those symptoms can do something about them before it’s too late. Heavy panting, glazed eyes, rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, excessive thirst, and lack of coordination are just a few potential indicators that a pet is suffering from

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ASK DR. STACEY OF SUNRISE VETS IN COMOX Itchy scratcy itchy scratchy my dog can’t sleep at night and neither can we.

While there are different stand alone reasons for the itch like: fleas, infection with bacteria, yeast, ringworm, mites to name a few, your dog or cat may have an allergy that continuously drives the whole thing. Infections can be quickly treated, allergy is always about lifelong management.

Signs of allergy include: ear infections that are permanent or come and go, fur loss around the eyes, chewing at the nails constantly, bronzing discoloration of the paws suggesting long term licking, swollen paws with red skin, red skin all over the whole body, scratching constantly, anal glands that are constantly in trouble (scooting or itchy bottom), black pigment or rash on the belly that comes and goes, red skin on the temple area or small crusts all over your kitty, pulling fur out with bald patches and of course sudden red oozing ‘hot spots’ appearing with a vengeance.

Allergy is either present all year (food intolerance or dust mites) or seasonal (pollens).

The most important thing is to get the diagnosis. Infection may simply be a response to allergy. You need to know.

Understanding is the key for you to help your pet. And they need help. Itch that no scratching can stop is … my skin’s crawling just thinking about it.

May is “Ditch the Itch” month at Sunrise Vets.

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heatstroke. Animals that are very old, very young, overweight, and unaccustomed to prolonged exercise, as well as those who have heart or respiratory conditions, are especially susceptible to heatstroke. Learn more about pets and heatstroke at www. humanesociety.org.

Extreme heat can be dangerous to pets, who often suffer in silence when dealing with the consequences of extreme heat. Pet owners who take certain precautions and learn to recognize signs of a pet struggling with heat can better protect their animals from succumbing to rising temperatures.

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10

www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MAY 12, 2015

WHAT'SON In the Comox Valley 12 TUESDAY

Digging through the rubble in Nepal after earthquake

Nepal earthquake beneďŹ t concert by local jazz society During the past, Georgia Straight Jazz Society, with the support of local musicians and the generosity of the larger jazz community and others who support good causes, has risen to the challenge of raising thousands of dollars at short notice.

Most recently this included Typhoon Hainan in the Philippines and, before that, support for the victims of Haiti when their respective countries were devastated.

The beneďŹ t concerts were arranged promptly, in order to maximize the generosity with matching funds from the Canadian government.

We proudly rise to this opportunity to support the victims and survivors of natural disasters, and this Thursday is no exception as we have organized a multi-band beneďŹ t concert for the survivors in Nepal.

As you probably know, the death toll approaches 10,000 and hundreds of thousands of people have lost their homes, and many of them are current-

ly starving.

In the same spirit that prevailed in past years, the Society Board, volunteers and musicians have risen to the challenge of a four hour social and musical event at the Avalanche Bar, beginning at 7 pm, Thursday, May 14. Please note the time difference.

The music starts half an hour earlier than usual, and ďŹ nishes at 11 pm.

You’re invited to come and go as you choose come early and stay late, or alternatively - drop in to make a donation and stay for just a few tunes.

This isn’t an evening to focus on the music, like our regular Thursday performances; rather, it’s an opportunity to contribute to a humanitarian cause, and share the event with people of similar generous nature.

Please don’t shy away because jazz isn’t your favourite music; participate, and ďŹ nd out that you actually enjoyed the experience and the opportunity to wear your heart on your sleeve.

(Continued on page 11)

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PEARL ELLIS GALLERY IN COMOX PRESENTS • “KEEPING IT LIVING: ART FOR THE ESTUARY NOW, THEN & FUTURE - A SHOW & SALEâ€? From May 12TH - May 31st.

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 COMOX VALLEY GENEALOGY GROUP • Next meeting will be May 12th, 7 p.m. Location - Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 1901 20th St. Courtenay. Please enter from rear door. Subject will be: Ethics when working on your family tree. Elections for the next year. Everyone welcome. FMI: Marlene 250-334-3080 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.

13 WEDNESDAY EVERGREEN CLUB’S LIFELONG LEARNERS • Presents Jill Brown’s “Cure for Clutter: Organizing for Valueâ€? at 1:00-3:00 PM, Rotary Hall of Filberg Centre, Courtenay. $1 meeting fee for members of Evergreen Club. For info, call Arabella 250-941-8885 or email: arabella888@gmail.com COMOX LEGION DROP IN DARTS • Move to Wednesdays for the Summer months. Check in until 7.25 p.m.toe line 7.30. Blind draw mixed doubles (where possible), Entry $2.25 pp. FMI 250-339-9592 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

14 THURSDAY CV HARD OF HEARING SUP-

PORT GROUP • The next meeting of ‘CHHA’ will be held Thursday, MAY 14, at the Tsoleum Building ( behind Lewis Center Ctny- near tennis court). This month’s presentation will be ‘Fraud and Your Personal Security’ with speaker from the RCMP. There will be a short business meeting first. Following the presentation there will be time to ask questions. Meeting starts at 10 am. New members, family and friends, most welcome.

Hope to see you there! FMI call Glenda 250 338 7792.

THE COMOX VALLEY MS SELF HELP GROUP • Is hosting a speaker for the next meeting, Thursday, May 14th. Bob Wells, from My Tech Guys will be speaking about internet security - always an important topic to keep up to date with. The meeting is held in the Whitespot meeting room from 11:30am-1:00pm. Please contact Jan Elman 250-339-3053 if you are able to attend.

15 FRIDAY EVERGREEN CLUB FRIDAY NIGHT DANCE • Mark your calendar Friday May 15th to enjoy live music from the band CROSSTOWN EXPRESS. Dance takes place in Florence Filberg Centre downstairs in the Rotary Hall. Dancing is 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 250338-1000 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.

16 SATURDAY ST. JOHN’S PARISH GARAGE SALE • Hidden Treasures Await...At St. John’s Garage Sale: Sale of the Century! Doors open at 8 am to Noon, in the Parish Hall on 5th and Harmston. Jumble, gems and other delights! Everyone welcome!

MACK LAING HERITAGE SOCIETY OF THE COMOX VALLEY • Author Richard Mackie will be the guest speaker at its first Annual General Meeting. The AGM will be held on Saturday, May 16, from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm, at the Little Red Church in Comox (across from St. Joseph’s Hospital). There will be a

short business meeting to read out reports from directors and elect the executive for the coming year.

Art prints and cards will be fore sale. Light refreshments will be available. Following the meeting, visitors are welcome to attend an informal gathering at the home of Kate Panayotof (75 Orchard Park Drive). A walk will be led into Baybrook and Mack Laing parks, weather permitting.

CUMBERLAND EMPIRE DAYS • The celebrations begin Saturday, May 16 at 9 am with a Pancake breakfast at the Legion followed by the popular soapbox derby. Dunsmuir Avenue will be closed to cars from 10 am to 4 pm and a lively market hosted by Elevate the Arts will take place. There will be activities for kids most of the day, Washoe Tournament at 12:30pm, Golf Hole in One at 1:30pm and a beer garden for the adults. The Highland Dance Competition is from 10 to 4 at the Village Park and the Westies Dog Parade at 12:30pm is a crowd favourite too.

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. plus Ace of Spades draw.

17 SUNDAY CUMBERLAND EMPIRE DAYS • Come back on Sunday May 17th for the Old Timers Soccer Game at 2pm - one of the weekend’s best highlights! As well the “Legends of the Maypoleâ€? is another fun-loving tradition with a new twist! Adults who danced around the Maypole as children are invited to dance and this year parents and guardians of the children who are dancing on Monday are encouraged to come out and try not to tangle the ribbons! This event takes place at 1pm at the Maypole in front of the stage at the Village Park.

18 MONDAY CUMBERLAND EMPIRE DAYS • On Monday May 18, a #2 Cumberland special event transit service will be

offering $1 rides between Courtenay and downtown Cumberland.

Be sure to watch the Mayday parade, cheer on the fire trucks, and follow the crowd to the Village Park to see the crowning of the May queen. The entire community will be out to see the traditional Maypole dance where generations of Cumberland’s residents, old and new, celebrate the return of Spring.

Maypole dancing has been a part of Cumberland Empire Days for over 100 years. The Cumberland and Royston elementary schools have been teaching the dance for generations - inviting local children and their families to participate.

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.

19 TUESDAY THE NORTH ISLAND MYELOMA SUPPORT GROUP • Is having its monthly meeting on May 19, 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.

20 WEDNESDAY THE COMOX GLACIER WANDERERS VOLKSWALK CLUB • Is hosting a 5/11 kms walk through the trails at Seal Bay Nature Park, Bates Road (V9J 1X4) on Wednesday, May 20th. Registration begins at 9:30 am in the Bates Road parking lot; walk starts at 10:00 am. For further info please contact Crystal at 250898-8612 or Kathleen at 250-8971360.

23 SATURDAY SPRING BAKE AND NEW TO YOU ITEMS SALE • St. Peter’s Anglican Church 218 Church Street, Comox (Corker Hall), Saturday, May 23rd 10 a.m. - Noon. Refreshments.

TEXT YOUR TIP

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MAY 12, 2015

11

‘Threads of Change’ a powerful story about women Kymme Patrick’s original script explores the lives of exploited young textile workers Today’s textile and garment industry is fraught with horrific working conditions, crimes against poorly paid hourly workers, and unimaginable inequalities between multinational owners and the mostly female and young working class.

How is it that condi-

tions have stayed the same these last 100 years?

Theatreworks presents ‘Threads of Change’ at the Old Church Theatre for three shows only, Friday May 15 7:30 pm, and Saturday, May 16, 1:30 and 7:30 pm.

Kymme Patrick, the

Jazz Society benefit night (Continued from page 10) We have registered our event with the Canadian Red Cross, and have arranged with them to have every donor ($20 or more) sign their personal information onto a form which will result in a tax receipt for their charitable donation. We have so much in this wealthy country, and this is your opportunity to share a donation - however modest - with people who have lost everything.

Swing Street will open the evening at 7:00 pm, as the first of 4 acts, followed

by Indigo, Ralph Barrat and Sharp Seven and Anzucena Flamenco (succes-

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sor to Luzna). Musically, the evening stretches from cool jazz, though swing, to romantic ballads and Latin American. Geographically, it stretches from Comox Valley to Nepal.

Dinner will be available as usual - Greek or pub food - so if you’re planning to dine at the Av, make special note of the early start time to avoid disappointment, and more than anything, ask your friends to join you for this very special event.

For more information about the jazz society please visit www. georgiastraightjazz,com or find us on Facebook.

- Malcolm Holt

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artistic director of Theatreworks, has written a poignant moving story about some of the young immigrant working girls who fought for better working conditions in 1911 New York. They were garment workers for the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory. As they struggled to make a new life for themselves, often sent away from their European families to escape the drudgery of back-breaking subsistence farming, these young girls worked long difficult hours for a pittance.

Patrick is a skilled script writer and a forceful advocate of just practices and social change through drama. ‘Threads of Change’ is another powerful dramatic story, weaving fact and fiction into theatre not to be missed. With 20 years of experience working with today’s youth, Patrick has an amazing rapport with young actors, nurturing them to portray their characters with sensitivity and realism.

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Millie Miller and Molly Bryan portray two of the many young immigrant workers in TheatreWorks’ upcoming production ‘Threads of Change’ opening May 15th, 7:30 pm at the Old Church Theatre. Don’t miss this moving, poignant production. There are also two shows on the 16th, 1:30 pm and 7:30 pm. Tickets are $20 adults and $15 senior or student and are available at the Laughing Oyster bookstore in Courtenay and the Red Carpet Consignment Boutique in Comox. coupled with period costumes, projections and powerful words, enables ‘Threads of Change’ to be an excellent dramatic production as well as a call for change in today’s garment industry.

With only three shows and limited seating, this show is likely to sell well and audience members are urged to buy tickets at Laughing Oyster Bookstore in Courtenay or Red Carpet Consign-

ment Boutique in Comox.

Adults are $20 and students or seniors are $15.

For more information, contact 250 792-2031, email theatreworks@ shaw.ca or visit www. theatreworksonline.ca.

12

www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MAY 12, 2015

Up in smoke Burning ban lifted in bid to halt spread of fire ants

BY PHILIP ROUND Special to the Echo A Courtenay-wide ban on open burning was temporarily lifted for a single city block on Saturday (May 9) to help a group of neighbours fight against an invasion of European fire ants.

Smoke billowed from drums and piles of yard waste in the pretty residential block bounded by Second and Third Streets and Duncan and England Avenues in the Old Orchard area.

City staff had approved drastic action to try and at least reduce the infestation, although they acknowledge there is no certain way of eradicating the pests.

Nancy Hofer, City Hall’s environmental planner, said the one-time lifting of the fire ban for four hours between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. was to allow residents in the 13-lot block to burn infested plant and landscaping material, including setting fires on top of soils

A European fire ant collecting sugars from a peony - in reality, the ant is about 5mm long (less than a quarter of an inch). Photo courtesy Dr. Higgins.

Part of the pretty residential block in the Old Orchard area of Courtenay, where several gardeners are fighting an invasion of European fire ants.

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The twin aim was to kill as many existing ants as possible and get rid of accumulations of yard waste that could prove attractive to those surviving for the creation of new colonies.

“European fire ants (EFAs) are an invasive species that can aggressively sting humans, thereby making it difficult to occupy infested areas,” Hofer stated in a report to City Council last night.

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ble terrain’ wider than two metres, such as asphalt or gravel - surfaces without food sources for them - so it was hoped there might be an opportunity to corral the infestation. But, she added: “Dr. Higgins advised that eradication will not be possible, but that on-going management will help to reduce the impacts.”

Such on-going control will require the active participation of all residents within the block to coordinate efforts and reduce EFAs in the long-term, she suggested, while acknowledging that it could be a difficult task.

Residents in any affected area need to ensure that no additional infested materials are received or leave their properties - so the City is actively discouraging the disposal of potentially infected materials through the curbside yard waste pickup service for fear that rogue EFAs could set up new colonies elsewhere.

The temporary one-day burning permit, granted by the City’s Fire Department, was one initiative to help residents in the specific block get rid of their yard waste in a different way.

(Continued on page 13)

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“(In Courtenay) EFAs are currently known to only exist within this block and the residents had requested that the City consider ways to assist them in managing EFAs on their properties.”

As a result, staff coordinated a neighbourhood workshop and site visit in March, attended by a leading ant expert, Dr. Rob Higgins of Thompson Rivers University. At that time, possible ways of tackling the problem were considered, and Higgins stressed that avoiding the spread of the ants to neighbouring properties and other blocks should be a critical objective.

EFAs are not a common species of ant in BC, and according to the provincial government it is only five years ago that they were recorded as definitely existing in the province.

On Vancouver Island, positive sightings have so far been noted in Victoria as well as Courtenay, but the creatures may have been accidentally imported at a much earlier date through contaminated soil, mulch or simply in the roots of potted plants, and gone unrecognized until they started expanding into colonies.

Hofer said EFAs are not known to cross ‘inhospita-

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com TUESDAY.MAY 12, 2015

13

Cumberland students raise money for relief in Nepal At Cumberland Community School, Mrs. Twin’s grade 3 class earned $325 for earthquake relief for Nepal by selling ice cream sandwiches this week. In addition to this amount, the Canadian federal government matches all eligible donations made to the Canadian Red Cross for the Nepal Region Earthquake.

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Insp. Tim Walton, officer in charge of Comox Valley RCMP detachment, takes a break with a McDonalds employee during McHappy Day last week. Insp. Walton started out making ice cream cones, but was quickly switched to preparing drink orders.

On May 6th several local celebrities and non-celebrities joined together to raise money for the Comox Valley Child Development Association.

One of those people was Inspector Tim Walton, the officer in charge of the Comox Valley RCMP detachment.

Inspector Walton started his shift by making ice cream cones, but after a few failed attempts he was moved to preparing drink orders.

He said that his instruction by the staff working that day was second to none and he wants to thank them for having patience with his lack of restaurant serving skills.

Inspector Walton ended his day in the role of presenting drive-thru orders to customers.

“I was really good at that”, boasted Inspector Walton. “But I don’t think they liked it when I was telling customers in the line to hurry up and get a move on, because you’re holding up orders”, he quipped.

“Seriously though, it was a fun few hours for a very worthy cause.”

This was all for fun and a great cause, raising $7107.50 for the Comox Valley Development Association.

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

Fire ants invade city neighbourhood Staff had distributed an information circular to the surrounding neighbourhood last week advising that the burning would be for one day only and explaining why special permission had been granted for the fires.

Hofer said burning permits would continue to be denied for other properties outside the infected block unless it was proved European fire ants were present, at which point the matter would be reconsidered. “These are not common ants,” she told the Echo. “They are nasty little things that can colonize intensively.”

On Thompson Rivers University website, Higgins has created a section to help people identify EFAs with both pictures and explanations of their size and behaviour. It can be found at http://faculty.tru. ca/rhiggins/myrmica_rubra_index.htm There he writes: “While some ants in British Columbia -- for example, red wood and thatching ants -- can be ag-

gressive and bite, they are usually just an annoyance and encountered as single or a few ants.

“The European fire ant, however, swarms rapidly when disturbed, and stings. Unfortunately it likes to live in lawns and gardens. It can make standing on grass impossible as nests often form at densities greater than one per square metre. For example, I counted four nests within one square metre in the backyard of one North Vancouver residence in June of 2011.”

He adds: “While the sting isn’t as painful as a wasp for most people, you are often suddenly stung simultaneously by many of these ants before you realize you are in contact with them.

“Some people, and one example has already emerged in Burnaby, react more seriously and experience painful and significant swelling requiring medical care.

If these ants get into parks or campgrounds, they can render them effectively unusable.”

Comox Valley Transit

Empire Days Special Monday, May 18 • Ride for $1 on Parade Day • Visit www.bctransit.com or pick up a Special 2 Cumberland Rider’s Bulletin onboard.

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Transit Info 250·339·5453 • www.bctransit.com

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CARRIERS WANTED EARN $$$$$$$$

COURTENAY Rt. 7125 – Salsbury, Bood, Barford Rt. 7134 – Salsbury, Mills, Rachel, Houlgrave COMOX Rt. 2118 – Comox Ave, Mack Laing, Baybrook, Orchard Park Dr. Rt. 2121 – Anderton, Robb, Sable, Holly, Noel P.M.Q’s

– C.F.B. Comox

MIRACLE BEACH Rt. 6111

– Seaview Road

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.MAY 12, 2015

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