Fri August 31, 2011 About Town by Comox Valley Record Newspaper

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ABOUT TOWN

DCBIA COMOX VALLEY

The president’s message

RECORD Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Joanna Ross Feature Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Miguel Strother Additional Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nancy Miller Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Erin Haluschak, Ron Pogue Miguel Strother Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (250) 338-5811 Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (250) 338-5568 Mailing Address: 765 McPhee Avenue, Courtenay, B.C. V9N 2Z7 E-mail: editor@comoxvalleyrecord.com www.comoxvalleyrecord.com All material contained in this publication is protected by copyright. Reproduction is expressly prohibited by the rights holder.

elcome to the summer edition of About Town. This is my first opportunity as President of the Downtown Courtenay Business Improvement Association (BIA) to write this column. I’m struck by how much our downtown core continually evolves, yet it somehow stays the same. Businesses close or move, other businesses open, and our downtown remains vibrant and colourful. I believe it is the subtle ebb and flow and the new energy that comes with new businesses that make this a wonderful unique place to shop. When I moved my golf store to 5th Street five and a half years ago, I sought guidance from some of the business owners who had been around for a while (read that as the old guys). One of those businesses was Rickson’s Menswear. Rickson’s owner Blaine Douglas has recently decided that it’s time to retire. A downtown anchor for more than 87 years, with Blaine being

Parade down 5th Street there for most of them; for the little ones will be sadly Rickson’s is no on Monday, Oct. 31st. This more. is organized by the staff A similar tale is of the Lewis Recreation unfolding across the Centre, and the downtown street at Jim’s Clothes businesses on 5th distribCloset where owner ute treats to hundreds of Terry Parkinson has also small children dressed in decided to retire and has their ghoulish best. After sold his business to his Remembrance Day, the former partner from Port Christmas decorations Alberni. Renovations go up downtown and the are underway and come DCBIA president Christmas Magic weekend September the new Mark Middleton brings the festive season Jim’s Clothes Closet will to town November 26th open in the old Rickson’s and 27th with the Moonlight Magic building. More ebb, flow and renewal. Sale, Walk the Windows and the Comox On behalf of the BIA, I would like Valley Christmas Parade. These to wish both Blaine and Terry much events are proudly sponsored by the happiness in their retirement and Downtown Courtenay BIA. thank them for their years of service The merchants and professionals and dedication to Downtown Courtenay. that make up the Downtown Courtenay I’m looking forward to some of the events we are working on for downtown Business Improvement Association (BIA) thank everyone who shops locally. this fall and winter. The Halloween

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ABOUT TOWN

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

DCBIA

Bench strength DCBIA adds noted board members

The DCBIA has added some new faces but its mandate to continue to improve Downtown Courtenay remains the same. DCBIA Board of Directors from left: Kim Stubblefield (coordinator), Catherine Bell, Evelyn Gillespie, Amanda Delisle, Deana Simkin, Mark Middleton, Vashti Lehrle, Jorden Marshall, Jan Bruce. Missing from picture: Keith Currie, Sue Smith, Theresa Mooney. PHOTO BY ERIN HALUSCHAK

he DCBIA just added some serious bench strength to its Board of Directors. Former Comox Valley MLA Evelyn Gillespie and former Comox Valley MP Catherine Bell recently joined the team tasked with driving the development of Downtown Courtenay. Both have extensive backgrounds in political and business spheres and both are highly motivated to do what they can in order to further improve downtown Courtenay. “The reason I decided to get on board is because I really like our downtown and I want to see it prosper and find ways to get more people to come here,” says Bell, who is the current owner of the Zocalo Cafe. “It’s a neat little downtown and I think we

can grow it and help other businesses.” In particular Bell says that there is interest in improving recycling and composting amongst downtown businesses and she will work with the board to find ways to make it easier for those businesses to participate in related programs. “I would like to see more recycling,” says Bell. “So for downtown businesses in terms of recycling, instead of having to take stuff to the bins, have bins brought in for all the business. Also composting is something we don’t do now. I would love to see composting for all the restaurants. There are several people Continued on page 4

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ABOUT TOWN

Continued from page 3

important for our downtown and we need to work with the City and really integrate those areas into the downtown,” says who are interested in that and I think Gillespie. “There is such a distinct feel on that if we can get [a composting program] 5th Street and it would be positive to have going that would be great.” that proliferate over to 4th and 6th Street Another very significant issue for Bell as well. There’s a lot of work that could be and the DCBIA board is the growth of the done there to make it look and feel more downtown business community beyond like a part of the downtown core.” 5th Street. Many businesses on 5th Street Despite the work that needs to be done, are experiencing continued success, but Gillespie is tremendously excited by what getting more attention for other areas of is already happening the downtown is on 4th Street in parcritical for further People have served ticular. growth, according for years on our Downtown “I am really to Bell. impressed by what “I think it would Courtenay Business Mudsharks is doing, be nice to expand Improvement Association and for example,” says our focus onto 4th Gillespie. “They are Street and 6th I felt like the time has come for Street,” says Bell. me to serve in a more active way. bringing so much life and energy back to that “Fifth Street is When you’re an owner-operator location. And there are doing really well. some other really interIt’s a beautiful of a small business, every one of esting businesses on or little street, but us is working all the time. But around 4th Street and businesses on the businesses only succeed based on we want to be sure that other two streets are sometimes a the success of the downtown as a people get over there and visit them.” little left out, so it whole. As to why she wants will be a positive – Evelyn Gillespie to add even more to an thing to have more already stacked plate, of a focus on those Gillespie says it is her time to give back to streets, to make them feel like part of it an organization that has done so much for all.” Gillespie, who currently owns Laughing the businesses of Downtown Courtenay. “People have served for years on Oyster Books and was a Comox Valley our Downtown Courtenay Business MLA between 1996 and 2001, agrees with Improvement Association and I felt like her counterpart on the importance of the time has come for me to serve in a integrating other areas of downtown into more active way. When you’re an ownerthe successful business environment of operator of a small business, every one of 5th Street. She says that with some infraus is working all the time. But businesses structure improvements and a greater focus by both the City and the DCBIA, 4th only succeed based on the success of the downtown as a whole. I want to try and do and 6th Streets in particular are bound to my part to help keep things moving.” grow. In order for that to occur, however, With the kind of commitment and there needs to be efforts similar to the experience that Bell and Gillespie bring ones made to improve the infrastructure to the DCBIA Board of Directors, further on 5th Street during her time in public improvements to an already successful office. business community are inevitable. “Fourth and 6th Street are really

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Wednesday, August 31, 2011

DCBIA

0 . 2 n w o t n w o D

alking ing the flower lined d streets and soaking king in the smiles while shopping in the owner operated erated small businesses of Downtown Courtenay can n make visitors feel like they’ve turned back time. But make no mistake, the small businesses of Downtown Courtenay are proving that they’re more than capable of keeping up with the times. The addition of an online version of About Town is a natural evolution of the well-read publication produced by Black Press, and Comox Valley Record publisher Joanna Ross says the jump online reflects and supports changes in the entire business community. “Putting About Town online is definitely a sign of the times,” says Ross. “I think we are a community that still really appreciates the value of the traditional newspaper. However, we also need to embrace all of the many opportunities presented by online platforms. Doing this will only

C o n s c i o u s

support all of the many efforts we make to communicate with the community and promote the businesses in our fabulous

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Putting About Town online is definitely a sign of the times … I think we are a community that still really appreciates the value of the traditional newspaper. However, we also need to embrace all of the many opportunities presented by online platforms.

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– Joanna Ross downtown core.” From web sites and QR codes to Facebook pages and Twitter accounts, most of the merchants of Downtown Courtenay have not been shy in adopting technology to help drive their businesses. The personalized experience of

C r e a t i v e

doing business with people who take deep personal pride in preparing the perfect meal, for example, will always define downtown Courtenay. But Downtown merchants are adapting without compromising their core values. “There has been growth in digital communication efforts by downtown merchants over the last couple of years,” says Kim Stubblefield, the DCBIA’s coordinator. “Most businesses have their own websites so this is an ongoing thing. Having About Town online is another move to meet that increasing need to be in touch digitally with their customers and prospective customers.” Stubblefield notes that while many of the businesses downtown are embracing the power of the digital communication, for many it’s quite a steep learning curve and the DCBIA will continue to try and support their efforts. “It’s an educational process for a lot of businesses. Some are not web

people and it’s nott their focus becausee they’re brick-andbusinesses. mortar businesses s. So for many of ourr especial-members, especial people, ly the older people e, it’s a real learning g curve. But it’s the way of the world and it’s our job to promote the down-town businesses, so it’s important to o connect them in a relevant way and try to help them understand it to a certain extent.” “Nothing will ever replace the experience of actually being in

Downtown Courtenay,” says Ross. “E-editions of all Black Press publications provide a wider reach for our advertisers and features,

such as a searchable archive, printable pages and hyperlinks to advertisers’ websites and/or e-mail addresses, are huge benefits for our readers.”

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COMMUNITY

Knowledge base CVAG to build new media studio

she has been pursuing a PhD in he Comox Valley Art Gallery Communication under the tuteis about to experience expolage of Dr. Stuart Points. nential growth. Previous to her PhD Karsten Led by one of its newest was the executive director of champions, CVAG is underQuick Draw Animation Society, taking an effort to realize the addition of a new digital media a film and video animation cooperative in Calgary, Alberta. lab. And although the lab will According to Ahn Le, curator take up little more than 100 and programmer at CVAG, that square feet of space, it will potentially expand the gallery’s experience and the fearlessness that comes with it, will be of reach across the world. tremendous benefit not only to “It’s just a small room that the gallery, but to we’re looking the entire Comox to expand into The technology Valley. for the purposes “I think the of developing a component of our skill set that media lab,” says Sharon brings, Sharon Karsten. practice is something and her experi“The concept is that is on the rise ence in arts and that it would and that needs to be culture, is a very house a series valuable comof computers addressed. ponent of what that would have – Sharon Karsten she has to offer,” digital technolosays Le. “I’m very gies available excited about to our members and to the what she has contributed so far community at large. And that and excited about what we will would really help to stimulate be able to accomplish as a team. innovation and production in I feel that the team is cohesive creative media in the Comox and the skills that we have now Valley.” Karsten is a Denman Island enable us to address many of the challenges that we’re looking at resident who recently took as an organization, whether that up an administrative position be funding, audience developat CVAG. She comes to the ment, community outreach or position by way of Vancouver excellent programming. Sharon where for the last two years

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Sharon Karsten brings leadership and experience in new media to the team at the Comox Valley Art Gallery. PHOTO BY ERIN HALUSCHAK has skills to bring together all of those pieces.” As for the lofty ambitions of creating a leading edge digital media lab at CVAG, Karsten doesn’t think it is actually that lofty at all. Her experience and significant success backs that confidence. “I have a history of actualizing technology based art education projects, so I’m really bringing this focus into the gallery,” says Karsten. “This is a rising trend for visual arts centers and galler-

of the population to access this technology is a bigger and bigger concern. “Who gains access to the equipment is important because really, what we are talking about is the public sphere and the ability to participate on that level. If you look at a media piece or a video as an expression of identity, but also of political participation or what have you, the idea is to give voice to people who don’t

ies to embrace new technologies and to enable our members and members of the communities at large to participate in this realm, so it’s not a foreign concept. The technology component of our practice is something that is on the rise and that needs to be addressed.” Central to the issue, according to Karsten, is access. As technology and its costs experience ongoing and exponential growth, the ability of the public, and particularly marginalized segments

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Wednesday, August 31, 2011

necessarily have those tools and to encourage and enable those who want to participate in the spheres to do that.” In order to make sure that the public and artists in particular are able to access and work with technology, Karsten says it takes a great deal of persistence and innovation to attract the corporate interest and capital donations necessary. Although the interests of artists and corporations are often portrayed as diametrically opposed, there is in fact a great deal of mutual benefit that stems from putting new technology in the hands of artists. “It’s certainly in my experience been beneficial for corporations to participate with centers of innovation,” says Karsten. “In this way their equipment and technology is being used by not necessarily professional artists but people who are coming in with a new slant and the equipment is pushed in new directions. I was recently on the Adobe site, for example, and there’s a whole component of that organization’s operations that’s dedicated to this idea of enabling and giving voice to people on the margins of society. More and more corporations are being asked to look at their activities and at their contributions and the ways that these contributions are being socially, as well as economically, valued.” As for how the development of a media lab at CVAG will impact both Downtown Courtenay and the entire Comox Valley, Karsten says the economic potential is tremendous. This potential stems from the ability to help people

from every generation to work and collaborate with other communities across the world. “Certainly the Comox Valley has grown rapidly in [recent] years and there’s a kind of identity crisis going on in terms of shifting demographics. To my understanding of the demographic changes, there’s been an attempt to find incentives for young professionals to stay in the Valley. One way in which that type of retention can occur is through the development of spaces for technology-based creativity. I am certainly not putting forward the idea of the Valley becoming a technology Mecca at this point, but really there is an opportunity to retain talent, to retain creative energy and build the type of workforce in this community that I think the politicians are really looking for.” For Karsten it is not a matter of if these capital donations will materialize, but when. “We are hoping to partner with various corporate entities because there’s a lot of expensive gear that we need to beg, borrow, and somehow equip our space with. Again it’s very formative right now but we’re hoping to equip the space within the next four months in order to have it fully operational by January or February, 2012.” And with the media lab in place the team at the Gallery says the Comox Valley will significantly strengthen it’s ability to attract individuals interested in this type of work and allow those in the region to participate in an important global dialogue about the role of technology and creative work in general.

Artist Liz Carter’s On Reserve, an exhibition of large format photographs and sculpture is currently on offer at the Comox Valley Art Gallery. PHOTO BY ERIN HALUSCHAK

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RETAIL

s i h t e r u t Pic b

Down Town Photo adapts to changing industry

eing ing a successful photogthe understanding of visual rapher apher in a world increasimagery, is extraordinary. ingly influenced by digital However, understanding and technology requires imaginaharnessing this potential can tion and innovation. And as be a challenge for those new Doug Kerr knows very well, so to the game, according to too does running a small busiKerr. ness. “The changes going on For more than 30 years are incredible, but you Kerr and his wife ran Studio have to keep up with them. One, a retail photography store [Photography is] totally difon 5th Street before closing ferent now. It’s fantastic what the doors in 2008. After a brief we can do with a program breather Kerr has reinvented like Photoshop compared with his business and come back to what we used to have to do by Downtown Courtenay in the hand.” form of Down Town Photo. But creating great images “I decided isn’t as simple to get back as clicking into the phoa button. To see more of tography busiPhotoshop Doug Kerr’s original is one of the ness in April of this year,” says most complex artwork visit Kerr. photography Kerr’s new http://dkerrpictures. programs ever business model invented and blogspot.com/. involves a a professional much greater quality image focus on phostill very much tographic services such as demands the skills of somephoto restoration, the ability to body dedicated to the craft. quickly and effectively process “Having a background with passport or ID photos, and so many years in the business assisting with projects that gives you an idea what color require expertise in digital should look like and what software such as Photoshop. tone should look like, etc. in “We offer photo restoration, order to make a better image. media recovery, print making, It is substantially helpful to digital restoration and just have years of conventional about whatever a person might photography experience.” need when it comes to phoRestoration also makes up tography services,” says Kerr, a key segment of Down Town who is still an avid shutterbug Photo’s business. as demonstrated by the many “We offer simple things quality pieces around his new like just touching up old phostudio. tographs and bringing them The power of modern proback to life,” says Kerr. grams in the hands of a pho“You can put color back tographer such as Kerr, who into the photographs. You has spent a lifetime perfecting can take out the backgrounds

or eliminate people and add things if you want. It’s no problem.” Another big part of what Down Town Photo has on offer is passport and photo ID services, which according to Kerr are much in demand. “The actual passport and ID photographic business is very good for us because a lot of people do passport photos but don’t do it very well,” says Kerr. “[These types of photos] tend to suffer from a lot of rejections. Plus, the other thing I’m doing is offering something other than a standardized set up. I can do different sizes, insert different color backgrounds. Like the Indonesian passport, for example, has a red background and a lot of places can’t do that kind of work. I can do any size for any kind of ID photograph around the world and that’s been a good part of the business.” As for being back in business in Downtown Courtenay, Kerr couldn’t be happier. He says that for a visual artist it’s an ideal setting and a

great place to be in business. “It’s a good location and it’s a very nice downtown” says Kerr. “You travel through the province and wonder what happened to all

the old downtowns because most of them have been covered in box stores. Courtenay hasn’t and it’s a really nice environment to do business in.”

ABOUT TOWN

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

COMMUNITY

d e t c e n n o c l l e W f

or many professionals the rules of working life have forever changed in n the digital age. Gone are the work days where getting up to go to the bathroom athroom constitutes a scenic break from a boring cubicle. In its place is a flexibility that demands nothing more than a laptop and an internet connection. That also means more skilled pros are able to live outside of urban centres and enjoy the high quality of living presented by places like the Comox Valley without compromising their careers, a choice that is good for the local economy, including many Downtown Courtenay businesses. As a professional fully immersed in the digital economy, one of my biggest fears when moving to the Comox Valley was the loss of café life in downtown Vancouver, where I often completed tasks for clients across the world while gathering inspiration from fresh coffee and watching life unwind in the wild West End. However, making the move to the Valley has meant virtually no interruption to the lifestyle I love because although the scenery and cafés have changed, the internet connection remains the same and work can continue. On any given day in Downtown Courtenay you’ll find people sitting over their laptops sipping a latte and enjoying a bite to eat while simultaneously developing iPhone applications, teaching online classes or even writing newspaper articles. Not all spots are

created equal, however, and while one person might work well in the outdoor air on Mudsharks Coffee Bar’s 4th Street patio, others will prefer the live music and artwork at the Zocalo Café and Gallery, or the peace and quiet of the Vancouver Island Public Library branch on 6th Street. But most of the best businesses in town have a good internet connection open to paying customers and are happy to accommodate. Here are a few plum spots worth checking out if you need to get a little work done online. The Broken Spoke Café The Broken Spoke is everything I ever hoped the Valley would be when I moved here a couple of years ago, with a fully functioning bicycle retail and repair shop all rolled up with happy caffeinated locals ready to have a chat on a moment’s notice. The coffee is as good as it gets and as for a place to sit and surf the net, it ranks right up there. Although there is not as much room as in many of the other coffee houses in town, you’re not likely to find a more interesting atmosphere than at The Broken Spoke Café. If you’re looking to spark a new idea bring your laptop, grab a latte, log in and soak up the unique blend of bicycle grease and espresso beans. We’ve had more than one moment of clarity amidst the gears of this well run local business, for sure. Delicados Southwestern Café Delicados is a food franchise with multiple outlets in both Victoria and

The dining room at Delicado’s is a great place to grab a bite to eat and get some work done. PHOTO BY MIGUEL STROTHER Nanaimo. The recently opened Courtenay location sits on the opposite side of Cliffe Ave from the bulk of 5th Street businesses, but there may be no better place to get a feel for downtown. They play mellow tunes, serve up tasty southwest casual cuisine and are blessed with a beautiful view of the 5th Street Bridge. Delicados might not be the best place to hang out chatting to clients on Skype, especially during the lunch rush when it can be packed. However, it’s got a strong internet connection and in the off-rush hours there are plenty of places for privacy, whether sitting on a stool looking out one of the picture windows or lapping up the sun on the patio out front. Carderos Coffee and Tea Company This classic coffee house is pretty much right in the heart of the 5th Street mix, directly opposite Graham’s iconic clock. Carderos serves up a pretty potent brew,

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an equally strong internet connection and a full slate of comfy couches to kick back on. And for those without computers of their own, Carderos has a bank of internet ready machines open to the public at a very reasonable price. Perhaps the best part of Carderos is the constant coming and going of an interesting and committed clientele. Sitting at one of the stools in the front window in the early hours, listening to a music mix that includes coffee house kitsch reworkings of Gnarls Barkley and U2 is the perfect spot to watch the city wake up while getting a couple of hours of work complete. So while it’s much more likely that professionals who’ve moved to the Comox Valley for the lifestyle will have a home office than their counterparts in the big city, for those looking for interesting places to work in the new economy there is no shortage of stops downtown.

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lthough h it’s been an integral part of the downtown core for more than 75 5 years, this season at the Sid Williams Theatre heatre is set to be entirely unique. According to o Deb Renz, the theatre’s longtime director, tor, this fall is full of new content, including performances, ing original performances and performers who have never been seen before in the Comox Valley. “This year with our fall season, we’re trying to have as much fresh material as we possibly can,” says Renz. “So virtually all of our season is consisting of either new performances or performers. Or, if we are having performers that have been here before, they’re putting on new material.” To launch the season on September 24, a rock ‘n roll double bill consisting of great Canadian performers the Grapes of Wrath

and the Odds are set to shake the stage at the Sid. The Grapes of Wrath have been nominated for two Juno Awards and have hit singles that include ‘O Lucky Man’ and ‘All the Things I Wasn’t’. The Odds have toured with the Tragically Hip and have been nominated for six Junos including Best Rock Album and Song Writer of the Year. As to how the Sid secured these acclaimed acts, that was up to another dedicated member of the theatre team. “My partner in crime Jo-Ann Mills has had the idea of bringing these bands into the Valley for a while and has been connecting with their agent. They’ve probably performed in Nanaimo but they’ve never been here before and we couldn’t be happier. We’ve kind of been programming for an older demographic for a while and we certainly would like to maybe move that

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down a little to a younger age group. I think this is a great start.” Although the Sid’s programing may have skewed a little older in recent years, the impact it’s had on youth in the Valley is worth more than a passing mention, and this season should be no different. Through the Superstar program the Sid works to help under-privileged people, and especially youth, attend performances without having to pay. The program started out with the help of BC Gaming funds, however, the gaming branches have cut down the amount of funding they are currently circulating. To make up the difference (and more besides), members of the community have stepped up to the plate to donate. “Much of the program is now funded by theatre society member donations and community business donations,” says Renz. “What we do with those donated funds is we purchase tickets and distribute them through the social service foundations to low-income families to help them gain access to cultural performances. I would say of all the various programs, that program has seen the best growth in terms of donor support.” The reaction to the Superstar program has really touched Renz personally and she says it is this type of impact that keeps her heart in the often grueling game of running a community theatre. “The feedback we get from the organizations and the individual recipients has been very heart warming,” says Renz. “The testimonials say things like, ‘This has made a really big difference to me at such a hard time in my life.’ You know, it seems like a very small thing to give somebody a pair of theatre tickets but if you’re barely able to make ends meet, the idea that you might have a night out at the theatre, especially if it’s a cultural event like the symphony or something, it’s not just a treat, it’s a real escape from the pressures of every day.” Renz is actively trying to take the Superstar program a step further. She is in contact with contemporary dance producer Martha Carter from Vancouver who just came back from Croatia, where she’s worked on a project with urban youth impacted by the violent conflict there. According to Renz the energy from that effort has the potential to translate to the Sid’s work with youth in the Valley. “They have so much artistic energy to put into the production so we are hoping we can bring Carter in to do some kind of workshop to help launch a storytelling festival next year in early July.” As for what else is on deck for the Sid this season, the Granville Island Arts

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

touring schedule. “This is the first time Seattle Opera has performed at all on Vancouver Island and they won’t be going anywhere else,” says Renz. “And they are presenting a full-length opera, which is great. Pacific Opera was interested in bringing up a production but the best they could do was offer a bunch of excerpts. This will be much better.” Another interesting development for the Sid this fall is the launch of a newly designed web site. Like many other organizations the Sid is trying to take advantage of the reach and cost effectiveness of social media. “It’s the time to re-face our website,” says Renz. “We’re hoping to do more social media and direct networking with our artists, performers and patrons.” One thing that won’t change anytime soon at the Sid is its commitment to being a positive and active community contributor in Downtown Courtenay and the Comox Valley in general. “We are so lucky that we have this exciting Downtown scene. We have lots of vibrant little businesses and lots of people coming down here. It’s a really healthy, lovely little downtown and I like the theatre being part of it. It is something that keeps our batteries charged.” Deb Renz says having the Sid located in such a vibrant downtown helps keep her batteries charged. PHOTO BY ERIN HALUSCHAK Club Theatre brings the Buddy Holly Story and the Seattle Opera Company will perform a Vancouver Island exclusive of Massenet’s “Werther.” The Buddy Holly Story is the Arts Club Theatre’s best-selling musical of all time and it’s something patrons of the Sid have been asking for for some time, according to Renz. “The Buddy Holly Story has been a really hot show,” says Renz. “When the show first ran in Vancouver we had theatre society members coming in saying we just had to get it here at the Sid and now we have it. I daresay I’m looking forward to it because I love Buddy Holly myself and it’s a very high energy, upbeat show and I can’t see it not being a hit.” According to Renz, there has also been a huge upsurge in interest in opera in the Valley. To answer that interest, the Sid is bringing one of the best to town this season. The Seattle Opera Company is among the most respected on the entire west coast of North America. The company’s Rising Stars program is set to replace the Vancouver Opera, which used to appear regularly before it substantially cut its

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Wednesday, August 31, 2011

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Visual sual Sound AVU shows there’s still room for the little guy in a big market

t’s been a little ttle more than a year since Visual Sound moved to its new location on 5th Street, and by all accounts that move has been een a good one. “It’s been a big g jump for us to move up here,” says the store’s longtime manager John Hope. “We’ve got far better exposure, better parking and better access. Everything is just better.” The global economy continues to struggle, the competition presented from big box stores is growing even more fierce, and the price of TVs is down. Despite all that, Visual Sound is proving the little guy with guts can still make a go of it. “There’s been an increase over last year, which is good because the economy is still in the tank,” says Hope. The huge advancements in the digital realm mean a constant effort to stay ahead of the curve in the electronics business. Hope has been in the game since he was just 18 years old when he worked across the street at Kelly Stereo. He says Visual Sound can still compete by being innovative and offering the kind of service a box store will never be able to provide. “We spend [hours] each week on the phone with people or at their houses just telling them which button to press,” says Hope. “We solve a lot of problems.” That experience and dedication to customer retention makes a massive difference in this market and allows the store to thrive in Downtown Courtenay. “We have a really good, loyal customer

base and we find that most people buy at a [box store] once and have that bad experience and come to us. They want somebody they can deal with after the sale.” And as most anybody who has bought a TV in recent years knows, there are more than a few buttons to figure out how to press. The rise of high definition, 3D and networking capabilities means TVs are more powerful than they’ve ever been and understanding just what they are capable of is a big part of every purchase. According to Hope, upcoming innovations are going to wow people even further. “The biggest thing that’s going on right now, and it changes so fast, is the network capability,” says Hope. “Computer, home theater and home audio are melding together and the mantra at our last general meeting for Audio Visual Unlimited was that if you want to keep a loyal customer, you’ve got to own the router. The router is going to be the most important piece.” Smart phone technology is another big piece, says Hope. “Network connectivity is huge. Netflix is making inroads and the 5 inch disk is going to be gone and everything’s going to be streaming. Virtually all the products can be controlled with an iPhone and can do just about everything. It’s the technology melding together. It’s really cool but it can be mind-boggling [for people] trying to stay on top of it.” In order to be sure it stays on top of the technology and to remain exceptionally

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One year after moving locations, Visual Sound AVU is living large. competitive in terms of price and product, Visual Sound recently joined Audio Visual Unlimited, an affiliation of approximately 100 independent dealers across Canada. “We are members of AVU but we’re still a totally separate entity,” says Hope. “We get great resources and do some buying together and that kind of thing. It’s just

PHOTO BY ERIN HALUSCHAK

a working group for the little guy to fight box stores. It’s a huge fight but AVU has been a big help.” And it’s that type of innovation that means you can still buy big name electronics at a reasonable price in a quaint business setting like the one in Downtown Courtenay.

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Wednesday, August 31, 2011

RETAIL

Hitting its stride

Extreme Runners makes a perfect fit for Downtown Courtenay

chool is not the only thing people get back to in September. In fact, if sales at Extreme Runners are any indication, more people start or resume their exercise regimens than at almost any other time of the year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With back-to-school and the end of the summer, the whole fitness thing comes to the forefront again,â&#x20AC;? says Lene Curts. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The thinking is itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to get back into the routine and get fit and train for a particular race or what have you. The Victoria Marathon is a big one and we have lots of people who train for that, so things like that make it a busy time.â&#x20AC;? Curts started Extreme Runners 14 years ago this Fall after she was laid off from the Employment Insurance office. There have been many ups and downs associated with running a retail business, but the lifestyle and friendships have kept her going. And now the store is more than just a highly specialized running shoe store, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a significant hub for everybody in the Comox Valley running community. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is quite a large running community based around our store,â&#x20AC;? says Curts. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have very close ties with Road Runners, which is the local running club and we always try to connect peo-

According to Curts, the phiple with the resources they need. p entire We really are the hub of informa- losophy that drives the ent tion, whether people have been team at Extreme Runners is in the community for a long time getting people exactly what they running or they just started running and need when it comes to runn shoes. That doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean the want to know whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s available or store caters only to marathoners who to go to for specific training and triathletes, however. In fact help. We always try to keep all a large portion of the clientele sorts of information around for doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t run at all. people to access.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just the runners we And while the store doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have coming offer regular here,â&#x20AC;? says clinics they do We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t send Curts. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We maintain ties with several people out with the right have a really good relationtalented traincolour shoe, we send ship with the ers and organize a weekly people out with the right medical community, the trail run, which fitting shoe. chiropractors costs nothing and attracts â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Lene Curts and physiotherapists. We get dozens of runreferrals from people who have to ners each Thursday. walk on a concrete floor for eight One of those trainers is hours a day, five days a week and also an employee at Extreme theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve developed some sort of a Runners. Mary Bridges is a chronic injury, for example.â&#x20AC;? Can-Fit-Pro Certified Personal In order to help everybody Trainer. She just completed who comes into the store, a 125km run known as the Extreme Runners has developed Canadian Death Race. This a deep expertise in discovering a grueling test takes place every masterful fit for any foot. August long weekend in Grande â&#x20AC;&#x153;A huge factor, I think, is that Cache, Alberta. The 125 km we provide a service, we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t course begins and ends on a just sell a product. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t send 4,200 foot plateau, passes over people out with the right colour three mountain summits and shoe, we send people out with the includes 17,000 feet of elevation right fitting shoe.â&#x20AC;? change.

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PHOTO BY MIGUEL STROTHER

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SERVICE

y d a e r d n a d e m i r P f

IT company finds success Downtown

soup to nuts service that first and foremost. ro rom om saving lives to begins with recommend“You know, more than saving sa aving data, Kevin ing workstation and server Dryden is the kind of anything it is hard to find D environments, installing really good people in this guy you want around in an servers, as well as conindustry,” says Dryden. emergency. figuring and maintaining “Matt is really good at Dryden moved to the them. Their clients include what he does. Service is Valley with his wife 20 local businesses such as really important and we years ago from the Bay the Kingfisher Spa, the both are focused on estabarea of California where new Information Centre, lishing long-term relationhe worked as a paramedic. ReMax and a large number ships rather than trying to After a long journey that of doctor’s offices and pharsee how much (money) we included stints as a logger macies. can make on each call. We and a circuit board salesIn addition to man, he started Lazo servicing small and Computer Services We treat people well and medium-size busimore than six years ago. Now, along with look at those relationships in nesses, Primetek offers more basic the former owner a long-term way. services for individuof Covell Tech Matt Behrens, Dryden is the – Kevin Dryden als, including virus removal, program co-owner of Primetek and hardware instalIT Solutions, a merger treat people well and with lations, and general mainof the two IT companies. tenance. These smaller Primetek is just one of a respect and look at those relationships in a longclients represent a growing growing number of knowlterm way.” segment of the company’s edge-based businesses in According to some of work that Dryden preDowntown Courtenay. Primetek’s customers, they dicts will only continue to “The Comox Valley is are doing a heck of a job. expand. definitely growing and it’s “We have a great deal “We do a lot of the dayset to grow a lot more,” of confidence in Primetek to-day stuff,” says Dryden. says Dryden. “At Primetek IT Solutions and highly “If people need help, we’re I think the reason we’ve recommend them for all here for them.” seen such growth is business IT solutions in Primetek’s current because of businesses and the Comox Valley,” says location at 420 Fitzgerald home users who are so Lisa Henderson of Better (between 4th and 5th reliant on the internet and Mousetrap Marketing. Street) is virtually ideal, because nearly every busiDryden says. They are not ness transaction requires a “Matt and Kevin are personable, professional and set up to offer retail sales computer these days.” downright great guys. yet, but he hints that may Primetek primarily Their quick response time be in the works because offers small and mediumand excellent communicathey do need to provide size businesses computer people with the products support services that range tion makes it easy to do business with them.” they service. from workstation set-up to Although the type of “We do sell some comserver maintenance. The services the company offers puters because you have company came about as a to be able to provide the result of Dryden’s introduc- vary, Dryden explains that most businesses run products in this environtion to Behrens at a busisome type of proprietary ment,” says Dryden. “We ness meeting organized by program that accesses don’t really have a retail the Royal Bank. According a database that manset-up but we order comto Dryden the merger of ages things like scheduling puters, and a lot of them their skills and the two and payment options, for are custom-made to users’ companies’ resources benexample. Primetek offers specific needs.” efits Primetek customers

❝

❞

Primetek IT Solutions Inc helps solve the Valley’s computer woes. Although they are still adjusting to the new location, the team at Primetek loves the new office and being downtown.

“I’ve always really liked Downtown Courtenay,” says Dryden. “We still haven’t gotten things set up exactly as we want but

PHOTO BY ERIN HALUSCHAK

I would say it’s been a good move because it’s a good place to do business. It’s got a vitality that not a lot of other places have.”

ABOUT TOWN

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

PROFILE

y a n e t r u o g in r u o C l o C

t’s fair to say that having Kelly Everill around helps keep Courtenay rtenay beautiful. Everill’s artwork is in high demand across all of British Columbia, but especially in Downtown Courtenay where she’s worked on countless projects for businesses that range from Hot Chocolates to the Zocalo Café. Her talent is locally grown, her work everywhere imaginable in the Comox Valley, and her career a showcase of what it takes to be a successful working artist. Everill moved to the Comox Valley from New Brunswick when she was just 10 years old. She was a member of the thirdever graduating class at Highland High School and has always been drawn to art. “I was always interested in art in high school,” says Everill. “When I graduated, three of my five classes were in the art field. I was the editor of the yearbook and the newspaper. I’ve just always been interested in it. It’s a passion for me that grew into a career.” Everill’s been a full-time artist for going on 12 years. She started mostly working in glass etching but now predominantly produces large chalk and paint murals. She’s done everything from princess scenes in children’s rooms to a panel for a mural mosaic that was featured in the 2010 Winter Olympic celebrations that included other famous painters such as Roy Henry Vickers and Robert Bateman. Some of Everill’s most current work brightens 5th Street’s

Winds of Change. “I commissioned Kelly to do my whole wall (see photo) so that it was reflecting products I sell,” says Winds of Change owner Amanda Delisle. “I love the finished product and I get tons of comments on it. One lady said that every store should have to have a piece of art like that because it makes for a

❝

My work is all one-of-a-kind … I’m not the kind of artist who does paintings and gets residuals through prints. I have to get my little paintbrush going and stay busy all the time.

❞

– Kelly Everill great shopping experience.” Everill has helped businesses with creative projects of all types, but it seems murals are her favorite form, with many ongoing commissions, including a 100-ft piece currently underway in Richmond, BC. However, she always seems to find something to do in Courtenay, where even minor samples of her work brighten the backdrop with its authenticity, originality and overall feel for Valley life. At the Zocalo Café, for example, the chalk menu she made for owner Catherine Bell, who has known Everill for many years, shines above the cash register.

“Kelly is a great artist, I’ve know her for a long time,” says Bell. “She did our windows last year for Christmas and people loved it. People want to come in and have something to look at not just a boring cardboard sign. Kelly’s work really stands out.” For Everill the opportunity to work as an artist is fantastic, particularly because she is constantly crafting original material and exploring creative possibilities with her clients. “My work is all one-ofa-kind,” says Everill. “I’m not the kind of artist who does paintings and gets residuals through prints. I have to get my little paintbrush going and stay busy all the time. I do logos for people, signs, tattoo designs, ads for the paper and you name it. There is stuff around town that you wouldn’t even know I’ve done because my name is not on it.” Everill is one person whose livelihood relies on art being valued by the community. And as inspirational and beautiful as Downtown Courtenay is, she says it could be better when it comes to including art. “I’ve been talking with [several prominent Downtown business people] about how the whole downtown could look a lot cooler than it does already,” says Everill. “And paint can do wonders to that and really make a huge difference and actually help attract visitors. There are so many artists in this place. There’s so much talent in this town and we

Kelly Everill is living proof that not all artists spend their lives in solitude and poverty. PHOTO BY MIGUEL STROTHER

should be utilizing that talent more than we are.” As living proof that not all artists spend their lives in solitude and poverty, Everill also does as much

as she can to encourage other young artists around the community. “It’s important to develop younger artists so I go to schools and give talks

and tell people that they can become a full-time artist and it’s not like starving to death. You just have to put effort into it and you can be successful.”

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

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Wednesday, August 31, 2011,

COMMUNITY

Public display

Innovative art projects making a mark downtown

owntown Courtenay boasts among the most beautiful retail settings on all of Vancouver Island, but it’s been something of a struggle to add public art to the majestic stic mix. According g to Dallas Stephenson, an administrator or at the Comox Valley Community Arts Council, attempts to beautify downtown with public art have encountered many hurdles over the years. However, ever, some recent developments ts are changing that. “There’s a minimum amount of public artt going on downtown,” says Stephenson. nson. “Although we are trying to o work with the City to build a cultural ultural policy of promoting public lic art and supporting public arts in action.” The mostt significant efforts currently underway nderway include public murals as well as the painting of utility boxes, s, all of which are giving local artists tists a chance to showcase their talentss and contribute to defining this vibrant community. “Last year we did 10 hydro boxes in the downtown area between 17th Street and 4th Street,” says Stephenson. “This year were doing 13 Telus boxes.” The utility companies such as Telus and BC Hydro are supporting these beautification projects by providing funding for the artists. However, the City of Courtenay and Comox Valley Community Arts Council are helping

facilitate the projects and are always looking for ways to add to the community’s sense of artistic self. Last year there were six artists involved with the boxes and currently eight different differen local artists are working on similar projects. In order to have the opporh tunity to work on the boxes, artists go throu through a design submission pro process. They are juried in and th then go through the City’s planning departplan ment and the ccommunity services depart department at the municipal leve level, and finally on to Telus for final approval. line is, it’s no easy The bottom lin everybody who does task and every demonstrates sserious artistic talent. Many other communities America have across North Am similar ventures, undertaken sim Nanaimo and Gibsons. including Nanaim As for what the public ccan expect to see on these unlikely Courtenay Courten canvases, Stephenson says it’s wide-ranging. “There is everything across the board, from some water themed boxes including fish and octopus to environmental-scapes to ones with people kayaking down the river. We have someone painting more abstract apples. So really, everything you can imagine.” The point of this type of public art is two part, according to Stephenson. First, she says it makes our commu-

From brightly coloured salmon underneath 5th Street Bridge to water lilies on Telus Boxes, public art is spreading in Downtown Courtenay. PHOTOS BY ERIN HALUSCHAK

nity more beautiful and profiles our local artists. Second, it engages the public in a dialogue about the importance of art in our community. In fact, the role of programs like this is extending well beyond the simple beauty of the pieces themselves. Another significant development with regard to public art in Courtenay involves the City’s four part policy for helping to combat graffiti. Part of this strategy involves the Comox Valley Community Arts Council working with the City to support a youth mentorship program. This program pairs young people with local artists who help give guidance, as well as the opportunity to display their own unique creative vision in a positive and lasting way. “We now have experienced artists working with young community members to create public art pieces,” says Stephenson. “There’s an example of one under the 5th Street bridge near Lewis Park and there are two more along the river way. The City decided that this should be one piece of the four part policy for tackling graffiti in the community, and

we have undertaken an educational and community component on that task force.” That project will continue with another mural going up shortly and the Comox Valley Community Arts Council is committed to trying to find further opportunities for young artists to express themselves in such a positive fashion. As for what the artists themselves get out of the project, financially it’s still pretty limited. “The utility box artists get an honorarium that’s decided upon by the utility companies,” says Stephenson. “It’s within the lower scale for public art, however, the artists have their supplies covered.” That, and a great spot to showcase their imaginative talents. As for what is next for public art in the Comox Valley, the Comox Valley Community Arts Council’s base of operations stretches from Fanny Bay to Oyster River, and if Stephenson is accurate, there is growing momentum for more public art all across the region. Leading the charge, as it so often does, is Downtown Courtenay.

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Wednesday, August 31, 2011,

COMMUNITY

Public display

Innovative art projects making a mark downtown

From brightly coloured salmon underneath 5th Street Bridge to water lilies on Telus Boxes, public art is spreading in Downtown Courtenay. PHOTOS BY ERIN HALUSCHAK

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ANNIVERSARY

0 5 t a s t r a t s Life Historical Society celebrates half-century

ime flies. It also kills just about everything, buries it water, presses it in dirt and water together for several million years and spits it back out, all of which is relevant to the Courtenay and District Historical Society as it celebrates its 50th anniversary in September. The museum is one of the most popular spots in all of Downtown Courtenay, attracting throngs of tourists and local visitors each year, which is quite a change from its humble beginnings. According to Deb Griffiths, who has worked with the Historical Society for the last 20

years, its successful climb from a display case in the courthouse to its current location at the corner of 4th Street and Cliff Ave. is due to progressive thinking and the dedicated work of volunteers. “The biggest reward for me has been working with a Board of Directors that is aggressive and practical at the same time,” says Griffiths. “Much of the success is built on the work of volunteers. People have come together from diverse backgrounds and politics for a common cause and that’s been a real blessing to work with the entire time.” The Museum Courtenay and District combines its rustic red

Much of the ❝ success is built on the work of volunteers. People have come together from diverse backgrounds and politics for a common cause and that’s been a real blessing to work with the entire time.

❞

– Deb Griffiths

brick building and small town charm with a facility and a permanent collection that rivals those in much larger locations. These include the fossilized remains of the Elasmosaur, a giant river and sea predator discovered in 1988. Also included is the Vampyromorph, a particularly predatory squid like creature that Pat Trask, assistant curator at the Courtenay Museum describes as, “The eighty million year old great granddaddy of the vampire squid from hell.” Even though much of its collection is ancient, the museum’s approach is both modern and progressive and its programming

will continue to push boundaries to bring attention to the region and its history, according to Griffiths. “It’s a popular museum but at the same time, I think our growth has to be practical,” says Griffiths. “As far as for the future, I think that as long as the museum provides an active center in the downtown area and acts as a regional destination and continues to grow, it will be a healthy endeavor.” Fifty years, four locations, and some serious skeletons say she is right. But it is a what-have-youdone-for-me-lately kind of world. Funding availability is constant-

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Wednesday, August 31, 2011

ly changing, so all non-profits have to be nimble to survive and the museum is no exception. The Historical Society, as it’s always been, is up to the task. Currently, one of the fastest growing functions of the museum is its support of homeschooling programs. As many more people in the Comox Valley choose to home school their children, the staff at the museum continues to build programming to suit. “This past year we have worked extensively on homeschooling programming which has been extremely popular,” says Griffiths. “It is a little bit of a surprise to see how many parents use the program.” She adds that education is one of the Historical Society’s biggest mandates and thinks added homeschool programming is a very good thing that the museum team is happy to support. “Our main demographic is families and education children,” n and children, says Griffiths. “We will continue to work ork along those lines and d to provide programming ming for all ages around ound lectures and exhibitions, and nd whatever else is needed.” The homeschool program runs from September to May on Wednesdays and parents can register children between the ages of 5 and 12 anytime they like. The cost is $60 per session, which amounts to four twohour classes. Each class is comprised of “interactive discussions and slideshows, hands-on activities and experiments, group activities, scientific diagrams and project creation.” More information can be found on the Museum’s website at www. courtenaymuseum.ca.

As for celebrating the ongoing success of a half century, the Museum staff says they’re no dinosaurs when it comes to throwing a good party. This September several special events are planned around the anniversary and are open to the public. “We have a reception in September here at the e museum and another at Cape’s Escape, ape, both of which are open to the public,” ,” says Griffiths. Cape’s Escape is a seven acre property on Cumberland Road that was donated to the Historical Society by founding member Katherine Capes, one of Canada’s first female archeologists. “About three years ago a we tturned d it into a vacation rental, which is ren quite quit popular.” The Th property provides provid ongoing revenue fo for the Historical Society, and perhaps importantly for the more imp moment, iis a great place for hosting company. As event will likely such, the ev be a who’s who of Valley life. In fact, some of the region’s most prominent and interesting people—much like Capes herself, apparently—can often be seen milling about the museum. Most are sure to come out to enjoy the free evening. As for what is happening inside the museum, “Natural Bounty: Cultivating and Creating in the Land of Plenty” is an ongoing exhibit about the ingenuity of set-

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things we now take for granted in the semirural life in the Comox V Valley. Butt a llott off C ll B people started out this way.” Well, it may have started out raw, but the Valley, and the Historical Society, have come a long way in just 50 years.

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tlers, fitting considering how innovative the museum itself has been over its first 50 years. “The key ingredient is ingenuity and so that was a big subject when we were choosing items to display,” says Griffiths. “Many of the items really reflect how people use ingenuity when they are working in a rural environment.” These include things that have been like a iimprovised i d ffrom other th materials t i l lik bicycle wheels and tin cans in order to make do. It works to show that white settlers were really working from scratch. “Many of those things displayed are the

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or Kathy Vanderhorst retirement means every day is a girl party. For 34 years, Vanderhorst spent her life helping people as an operating room nurse at St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital. Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s never been in the retail business before but she sure knows feet. And perhaps even more than feet, she knows shoes. So what better way to spend her new found freedom than running a shoe shop in one of Vancouver Islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most beautiful downtown business centers? â&#x20AC;&#x153;I just retired from nursing and I wanted to do something different and something fun. I love shoes, so I thought Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d give this a try,â&#x20AC;? says Vanderhorst. Shoebiz opened on March 24, 2011 and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been a very positive start for the store. Vanderhorstâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seen plenty of interest and is enjoying every day of helping women find that perfect pair of shoes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When a woman finds her perfect pair of shoes and she leaves happy, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very rewarding,â&#x20AC;? says Vanderhorst. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kind of like a girl party every day. Women come in with an event that theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to and sometimes they bring a dress or an outfit they want to match and we have a little fashion show and they leave happy. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been a lot of fun as a way to retire.â&#x20AC;? Although Vanderhorst is happy to leave the health care industry behind and doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to be offering medical advice out of Shoebiz, her experience as a nurse has certainly come into play in her new profession.

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ness? Well, Vanderhorst says itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been a learning experience made much easier by being able to network with other businesses in the downtown core, many of which have offered vital advice. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The other retailers on 5th Street have been great and very helpful,â&#x20AC;? says Vanderhorst. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When I was just thinking about this, I would walk up and down the street and talk to people about what it is like as a retailer downtown and they were really helpful. Even down to details such as how tall the counters should be. Because you have to make these kinds of decisions and how was I supposed to know? So itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been a really great place to start a business.â&#x20AC;?

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Wednesday, August 31, 2011

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r e b m e t p e r o S f t e S

hhh, September — like the ad According to Keith, the have-to-have items says, “It’s the most wonderful time me for the fall include plaid shirts, hoodies, of the year!” Of course, they don’tt jeans and “skater” shoes, both for boys bother mentioning the agony and girls. “For colours, there by Nancy ancy Miller of spending hours traipsing is plenty to choose from this through a mall with hunyear, it’s kind-of a Santa Fe dreds of other crabby kids looking for just st influence with lots of pinks, pinks purples and corals. The hot colour for jeans is grey, and the right jeans, the proper binders and still in.” appropriately y coloured the skinny jean look is stil runners. “OMG, MG, those Across the way on 5th the women at shoes are, like, e, sooo Street, th Trousers are also busy yesterday, seririTrouser helping teens get the ously…” helpin Okay, so right duds for the back-to-schooll first month back. “For the guys this shopping is “F fall we’ve been a necessary fa evil that is sselling lots of skinny cords— hard to avoid.. sk deep grey-green Fortunately for or dee and, unusual for us Valley resi-and dents, at leastt this year, is that rusty brown colour. we can get our ur rus Same for gals, cords kids outfitted Sam big but in more without having ng are b to endure the of the earth tone colours. We’ve been cramped and colou doing really well stuffy quarters of a mall.. with the over-sized, Whether it’s wrap sweaters,” clothes, gear says oowner Shelley Greenup. or supplies, the he Greenup According to Greenup, downtown mererAccord chants have got this fall’s styles are based it covered. on those ffrom a few decades b back. In terms off clothboth genders, ing there are plenty of “For bo options for parents arents and there is a real 1970s their kids, tweens eens and influence, I call it hippy chic. The gu guys are wearteens. Starting ng chronologiagain and for cally, even the e youngest of ing cords ag the school sett can look good girls there is lots of All the cool kids layering of fabulous by checking out ut Kradles laye are wearing skinny fabr fabrics over leggings and Firefly, for or those babes jeans and bright skinny jeans and crawlers ready to start or sk colors this fall, or so with knee boots. For mommy and me signing we hear. accessories we are classes. Podlings ngs and The acce PHOTO BY seeing lots of backShack offer selections elections ranging seein ERIN HALUSCHAK packs, fake leather from toddlers to Primary and pack beyond. and canvas looks with army green being a big colour.” “We start at about 24 months and go Cherry Wine, Wax, Fiction Clothing all the way up to size 18 or 20 for boys,” and the Ski and Surf Shop can also be notes Shanley Keith, owner of The Shack.

counted upon to provide stylish options for “It can be a little tricky, when the parevery taste. ents are looking for one thing and the kids With clothing under control, time to are just concerned about look, but we try to find a balance between good suppo support move to shoes. Most of the stores mentioned carry casual and style.” shoes in the latest So the kids are lookHave-to-have items walking styles and range of ing good and walk straight, just a few sizes, but for those who for the fall include plaid more supplies needed. need a good foundation shirts, hoodies, jeans and For older kids, Extreme Runners has sizes starting as small “skater” shoes, both for boys Valhalla has a broad selection of packs as junior size 1. and girls. that will carry a load Owner Lene Curtis and fit right. And the admits that when kids Green Room offers eco-friendly options for are growing like weeds it can be hard to lunch bags, containers and water bottles. spend money on shoes that will be outThere, that wasn’t so bad was it? One grown in a matter of months, but that’s afternoon in Downtown Courtenay and often when extra support is needed and a you take the rest of the year off ‘til next good pair of running shoes can help allay September. some of the issues of growth spurts.

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The days will soon shorten, the trees will change colours, and it will once again be time for the teachers of School District 71 to get ready for the classroom.

s the stress of back-toschool starts to sink in, the same quaint street that used the power of homemade gelato and manicures to clear teachersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; heads from exam papers and report cards to begin their summer, is also fully equipped to help them get ready to go back for a new school year. Instead of the hustle and bustle of big box stores, standing in long lines just trying to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;get things doneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, teachers can get back to school shopping done right with the help of local 5th Street businesses like Cherry Wine, Uranus, and Planet Kids. Cherry Wine for instance is full of sophisticated backto-school clothes for teachers of all ages. And according to owner Livia Supplie she serves plenty of the Valleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many educators, quite often right after the first few weeks of school. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have quite a large teacher clientele,â&#x20AC;? says Supplie. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Especially after they get their first pay cheques! They like our clothes because they are not just comfortable but fun.â&#x20AC;?

Supplie has worked at Cherry Wine for the past five years and in November of 2010 took over as owner. In her store you will find a variety of styles fit for any occasion, including by Naomi the first day of school and teacher-parent interviews. A short walk down 5th, just past Hot Chocolates, is Uranus Greeting Cards and Gifts. Not only does the store give the option to stock up on hilarious birthday cards and all sorts of novelty gifts, teachers can also find some pretty handy school supplies. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We sell backpacks, lunch kits, pencil cases and day planners,â&#x20AC;? says Siobhan Hayton, the manager of Uranus for the past 10 years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We also get teachers in buying little prizes through the whole year.â&#x20AC;? But it is not all business for many teachers, according to Hayton. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Some teachers also come in and buy themselves new jewelry!â&#x20AC;? And why not? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a long year. Following 5th down another

block to Planet Kids reveals perhaps the best place in town to serve back to school needs. Pam Watson took over Planet Kids in 2006. Watson says that once she had the reins, she began Hoffart to expand the product base to incorporate educational toys, which then led to curriculum support materials and classroom decoration supplies. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In 2009, we outgrew the teaching component for the Comox location,â&#x20AC;? says Watson. Noticing the need to grow she started looking into where the highest demand was, eventually settling on 5th Street. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are lots of teachers on that side of the bridge,â&#x20AC;? says Watson. Although sales are pretty steady throughout the year Watson says they do tend to rise just before the new school year starts. At Planet Kids teachers can find an assortment of supplies for the year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everything from early learning manipulatives to a simulated frog dissection kit,â&#x20AC;? says Watson, adding that

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they carry products from the Kindergarten level all the way up to Grade 9, with a few exceptions going even higher. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We also carry a huge science section including microscopes for adults.â&#x20AC;? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just teachers of School District 71 that Planet Kids caters to either, according to Watson. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have a huge home school community that we supply to,â&#x20AC;? says Watson. This year Watson is especially excited about the new line of products she is beginning to introduce that is inspired by the 60s and 70s. This includes things like Cuisenaire rods, colourful sticks used as a math manipulative. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I learned math on those rods,â&#x20AC;? recalls Watson with a smile. By the end of the day any teacher will have had an enjoyable stroll in one of the loveliest parts of town, no doubt run into a friend or two along the way, and supported local businesses, getting everything needed for going back to school.

5th Street mixes business and pleasure for teachers heading back to class this fall. PHOTO BY ERIN HALUSCHAK

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Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Billy D’s Pub and Bistro Steak and Prawns at Billy D’s Pub and Bistro — like most men, the way to my heart is through my stomach.

Cardero’s lemon loaf If you’ve tried it then you know what I’m talking about.

Butcher’s Block Meats

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C t lC Coastal Community it Credit Union Listing a bank may seem strange but it’s nice to do business where you feel welcome and where they remember yyour our name.

The Library it’s a nice place to relax and read the local papers.

Happy’s Source for Sports Great service and they keep my skates sharp.

The Courtyard Situated on the corner of Cliffe and 5th, it is a perfect place to relax a little during your busy day.

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Wednesday, August 31, 2011

ABOUT TOWN

Calendar of EVENTS SEPTEMBER Until Sept. 10 Comox Valley Art Gallery Public Gallery exhibits On Reserve, photography, sculpture & video by Campbell River artist Liz Carter; Arts and Craft Gallery shows Food Source, oil paintings by Powell River artist Megan Dulcie Dill. Admission by donation. Open 10 a.m.–5 p.m. FMI: 250-338-6211. Sept. 10 Sid Williams Theatre Society presents Kidsfest, all-day event at Lewis Park & Courtenay Recreation Centre, 10:30 a.m.–3 p.m. (gates 10 a.m.). Two stages, great fun entertainment, games, crafts, activities. TIX: $5/gate, $3/advance. FMI: www.sidwilliamstheatre.com. Sept. 11 Ovarian Cancer Canada Walk of Hope - Together we are striving for early detection. FMI: www.downtowncourtenay. com.

On Sept. 19 in the Sid Williams Theatre lobby, Sarah Hagen presents Mattina Musica featuring oboist Laura Karney. For more information, visit www.sidwilliamstheatre.com. PHOTO SUBMITTED

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Sept. 1–28 Comox Valley Art Gallery Arts & Craft Gallery exhibits Always and Forever, Old World European-inspired reliquary chests & mirrors, by local artist Yartys. Opening reception Friday, Sept. 16, 7–9 p.m. Admission by donation. Open 10 a.m.–5 p.m. FMI: 250-338-6211.

Sept. 24 Sid Williams Theatre Society presents The Grapes of Wrath & The Odds, Sid Williams Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Canadian folk-rock band & Canadian alternative rock band. TIX: $45/regular, $40/SWTS members, $25/students. FMI: www.sidwilliamstheatre.com.

Sept. 17 – Nov. 5 Comox Valley Art Gallery Public Gallery exhibits A Releasing Breath, sculpture by Cortes Island artist Joel D. and drawings & prints by Hornby Island artist Sara Vipond. Examines the physical, visceral & liminal qualities of life/death of the human body. Opening reception Friday, Sept. 16, 7–9 p.m. Admission by donation. Open 10 a.m.–5 p.m. FMI: 250-3386211.

Sept. 30 Courtenay Little Theatre presents Homechild, Sid Williams Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Powerful story of lastcentury child migration programs in Canada. TIX: $18/all ages. FMI: www.sidwilliamstheatre.com.

Sept. 19 Sarah Hagen presents Mattina Musica featuring oboist Laura Karney, Sid Williams Theatre lobby, 10 a.m. TIX: $20 (or $70 for series of 4 shows). FMI: www.sidwilliamstheatre.com.

OCTOBER Oct. 1 Courtenay Little Theatre presents Homechild, Sid Williams Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Powerful story of lastcentury child migration programs in Canada. TIX: $18/all ages. FMI: www.sidwilliamstheatre.com.

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Wednesday, August 31, 2011

OCTOBER Oct. 1 – Nov. 5 Comox Valley Art Gallery Arts & Craft Gallery exhibits Alberta in a Box: Wide Open. Provocative and eloquent ceramics by members of Alberta Potters Association. Admission by donation. Open 10 a.m.–5 p.m. FMI: 250-338-6211. Oct. 2 4th Annual Courtenay Kidney Walk, Simms Millennium Park, Courtenay. FMI: www.downtowncourtenay.com. Oct. 2 Courtenay Little Theatre presents Homechild, Sid Williams Theatre, 2 p.m. TIX: $18/all ages. FMI: www.sidwilliamstheatre. com. Oct. 6 Courtenay Little Theatre presents Homechild, Sid Williams Theatre, 7:30 p.m. TIX: $18/ all ages. FMI: www.sidwilliamstheatre. com.

Oct. 7 Courtenay Little Theatre presents Homechild, Sid Williams Theatre, 7:30 p.m. TIX: $18/ all ages. FMI: www.sidwilliamstheatre.com.

Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Exceptional Johnny Cash tribute performance. TIX: $45/regular, $40/ SWTS members, $25/students. FMI: www.sidwilliamstheatre. com.

Oct. 8 Courtenay Little Theatre presents Homechild, Sid Williams Theatre, 7:30 p.m. TIX: $18/ all ages. FMI: www.sidwilliamstheatre.com.

Oct. 31 Halloween Parade for the little ones to trick-or-treat, Downtown Courtenay. 4 PM start, meeting at the parking lot corner of Fitzgerald and 5th Streets. For more information call the CRA at 250338-5371.

Oct. 25 Ocean Blue Production presents Country Blend: Tribute to The Legends of Country Music, Sid Williams Theatre, 7:30 p.m. TIX: $22/adult, $20/ senior, $18/student, $15/child (-14)). FMI: www.sidwilliamstheatre.com. Oct. 29 English Entertainment presents Howie Miller, Sid Williams Theatre, 8 p.m. Renowned Canadian comedic actor, writer & stand-up comedian. TIX: $30/all ages. FMI: www. sidwilliamstheatre.com. Oct. 30 Sid Williams Theatre Society presents Harold Ford and The Cash Band, Sid Williams

NOVEMBER Nov. 11 Remembrance Day breakfast 9:00 AM at the Courtenay Legion. Tickets available at the door. Ceremony at the cenotaph, 11:00 AM, located beside the Sid Williams Theatre on Cliffe Ave. Nov. 12 – Dec. 31 Comox Valley Art Gallery Public Gallery exhibits The Boxing Match, collaborative sculpture & assemblage by Bowser artist Bill Friesen and Deep Bay artist Marci Katz. Examines masculine/

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feminine dichotomy in quirky, humorous & colourful show. Opening reception Friday, Nov. 11, 7–9 p.m. Admission by donation. Open 10 a.m.–5 p.m. FMI: 250-338-6211. Nov. 12 Sid Williams Theatre Society presents Seattle Opera: Massenet’s Werther, Sid Williams Theatre, 7 p.m. TIX: $50/regular, $45/SWTS members, $25/students. FMI: www.sidwilliamstheatre. com. Nov. 18 – Dec. 24 Comox Valley Art Gallery Arts & Craft Gallery presents CVAG’s 37th Annual Christmas Craft Fair. Original design pottery, glass, wood, fibric, jewelry, ornaments, specialty foods, stocking stuffers & more. Opening Friday, Nov. 18, 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Regular hours 10 a.m.–5 p.m. FMI: 250338-6211. Nov. 19 Sid Williams Theatre Society presents Arts Club Theatre: The Buddy Holly Story, Sid Williams Theatre, 7:30 p.m. “The world’s most successful

rock ‘n’ roll musical.” TIX: $55/ regular, $50/SWTS members, $30/students. FMI: www.sidwilliamstheatre.com. Nov. 21 Sarah Hagen presents Mattina Musica featuring violinist Sharon Stanis and pianist Karen Enns, Sid Williams Theatre lobby, 10 a.m. TIX: $20 (or $70 for series of 4 shows). FMI: www.sidwilliamstheatre.com. Nov. 25 Pianist Sarah Hagen in Concert, Sid Williams Theatre, 7:30 p.m. TIX: $32/adults, $29/ seniors, $16/age 33 & under. FMI: www.sidwilliamstheatre. com. Nov. 26 – Dec. 11 Walk the Windows – vote for your favourite window display and be entered to win one of 4 fabulous prizes valued at over $4,000. Watch for more information coming in November. Nov. 26 Christmas Magic Weekend, starts with the Moonlight Magic Sale. 9 AM to 9 PM. 5th Street will be closed to

traffic; with entertainment and sparkling lights to launch the holiday season. Nov. 26 Sid Williams Theatre Society presents Double Bill: singer/ songwriter Kate Reid with poet/storyteller Ivan Coyote, Sid Williams Theatre, 7:30 p.m. TIX: $35/regular, $30/ SWTS members, $20/students. FMI: www.sidwilliamstheatre. com. Nov. 27 Sid Williams Theatre Society presents Best of the Banff Mountain Film Festival, Sid Williams Theatre, 7 p.m. International film competition & annual presentation of short films & documentaries about mountain culture, sports & environment. TIX: $30/regular, $25/SWTS members, $15/students. FMI: www. sidwilliamstheatre.com. Nov. 27 “Fairy Tales Do Come True”, during the Comox Valley Christmas Parade. Bring the kids and watch a long-standing community tradition. The Parade starts at 2 PM sharp, down 5th Street.

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

ABOUT TOWN

LOCAL FLAVOUR

s many of us Valley residents know, the word Comox comes from a Native word meaning Place of Plenty, referring to the abundant seafood, game and berries. And when it comes to local food producers there are plenty of those, too. In the downtown, Thrifty Foods, Edible Island and Butcher’s Block are all cognizant of, and thankful for, the many wonderful community suppliers, some internationally recognized and others more of a local secret. No matter the production scale, the variety of goods is wide and the quality is always high. The folks at Thrifty Foods have respected the local offerings for years, and as a demonstration of their respect for local suppliers, they have implemented their “We Pick B.C. First” program that helps customers easily identify products that are grown, made or processed in British Columbia. In their 23 provincial stores one can find more than 400 BC-grown products on the shelves. Rick Gaiga, manager of the Courtenay store, acknowledges the value of this program and the opportunities for the company to source locally produced goods. Some of these have been in the store for a long time and others are relatively recent additions. Probably their best known local supplier is Natural Pastures Cheese Company. Using milk from their dairy farms, and with the direction of their Swiss head cheesemaker, the Smith family of Beaver Meadow Farms began cheesemaking in 2001. Their sustainable, traditional artisan methods have garnered numerous world and national awards. More recently, Thrifty’s hooked up with Pentlatch Seafoods, an aquaculture company owned and operated by the K’ómoks First Nation that supplies all their BC stores with the Komo Gway brand of premium oysters and clams. A couple of products that are lesser known, but have growing followings are Gold Phoenix Asian Foods and Prontissima Pasta. “The ladies at Golden Phoenix have been doing food for us for more than five years—wonton soups, spring rolls, dim sum. And Prontissima has been supplying us with

The land of milk and honey And in the wellness supplement and body care area there are a couple of favourites, too. Sue Tupper, co-owner/manager, can’t say enough about Healing Bliss Botanicals, an organic body care line that offers everything from sunscreens, baby lotions, insect repellents to pet care products. “Dana (Hook) has created a wonderful line of products and we are so fortunate to be able to carry them in this store, she has some really lovely items.” “Another wellness line that is very popular is Harmonic Arts. They make healing teas and tinctures, primarily, but the line is very extensive. He is a clinical herbalist in town, as is his wife, and we sell a lot of their products. It’s a beautiful thing to be able to add these producers into our store…we are lucky to be in a place that is so abundant in products and suppliers.” Whatever the need, there seems to be someone local who is able to fill the niche, and local stores that are more than happy to provide them with support and shelf space. Beaver Meadow Farms began cheesemaking in 2001 and have since gone on to win numerous awards. PHOTO BY RON POGUE fresh pasta and gourmet sauces for a few years now, too. Both are great for quick meal ideas, and it’s nice to support these local businesses.” Over at Edible Island, co-owner/manager Sue Clark loves that their store can offer its customers so many quality local products. “Well, we are a local-based business ourselves, and even though we are well known in Vancouver and around the Island for our lines we carry, it is the regional economy that is our success, and we definitely participate in that as much as we can.” And, she admits, having local producers can sometimes make things easier. “We know we will be getting high quality items, because these people are known around here and they have their reputations to keep. They care, they are dealing with their customers face-to-face, it’s not some producer in Europe sending things over.” In terms of foods, baked goods and produce, the local suppliers are too numerous to mention, but there are certainly some customer favourites, including Hornby Island vegetarian pates, Kathy’s Salsas, Energy Balls and, needless to say, Denman Island Chocolates.

MAD CHEF CAFE “insane food with attitude…”

eat in, or take away

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OPEN for lunch and dinner. 250-871-7622 • madchefcafe@shaw.ca 492 Fitzgerald Ave., Courtenay, BC

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Wednesday, August 31, 2011

ADVERTISER DIRECTORY ART GALLERY South Hollow Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 BEAUTY Pearl Cove. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Extreme Ends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 BOOKSTORES Laughing Oyster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 BUTCHER SHOP Butcher’s Block Meats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 CHILDREN’S CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES Kradles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 The Kid Shack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 COMPUTER SYSTEMS Primetek IT Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 DELICATESSEN Runge’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 ELECTRONICS Visual Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 FASHIONS - Men’s • Women’s Be Clothing on 6th Street . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Penny Tyme. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Robert A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Secret Drawers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Shar-on’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Trousers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 FURNITURE McConochie’s Furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 GROCERIES/HEALTH FOODS Edible Island . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Thrifty Foods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

POLITICAL REPRESENTATIVES Don McRae . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

HOME & GIFTS Beyond the Kitchen Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Cody & Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

SERVICES One Hour Optical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Sid Williams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Piercy’s-Mt. Washington Funeral Home. . . 24 RESTAURANTS/CAFÉS

Romance Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Atlas Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Rattan Plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Billy D’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Delicados . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

SHOES Searle’s Shoes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

TOY STORE Planet Kids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Shoebiz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 SPORTS

Early Bird Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Extreme Runners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Francis Jewellers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Mad Chef Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Golfer’s Edge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Graham’s Jewellers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Yamato . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Ski & Surf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Simply Timeless . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Carderos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Ski Tak Hut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

JEWELLERS

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Real Estate Coast Realty Group (Comox Valley) Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

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Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Pauline Rae, left, and Sasha Nowicki of Nowicki & Rae Barristers & Solicitors are pictured at their legal firm at 243 4th St. The office is adorned with paintings by Pieter Molenaar.

s e c a l s e P c a F

Douglas Kerr (left) is the owner of Down Town Photo at City Centre Mall on 5th Street in Downtown Courtenay. The business offers passport photo service, ID, Visa photos, portraits, copy work, photo restoration and consignment sales. Rod MacKenzie (right) opened Roadrunner Toys and Collectables at 102-457 Cliffe Ave. in March to offer plastic models, toy cars, comic books, stamps, coins, action figures and more.

Denturist Ruth Ewert (left) has been creating nice smiles in the Comox Valley since 1986. She moved to her new office at 331B Sixth St. just over a year ago. Scott Stevens and Tina Card (right) have co-owned Percs 5th Street CafĂŠ since June 20. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s at 344 5th St.

Anna Palumbo manages Fiction, a new clothing store that opened in March at 237 5th St. Fiction carries clothing and accessories for guys and girls for less than $40, including brands such as American Apparel, Alternative Apparel and Threadless.

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

ABOUT TOWN

DOWNTOWN FLAVOUR

Sthetate nion of U

ith the growing hype, that comes from using these it is easy to think of little slices of the Valley is still the push toward eatsomething Duncan carries with ing ng local food as something of a him today, despite significant new ew phenomenon in the Comox pressures created by the downValley. alley. However, Union Street turn in the economy. “Cost is always a hard one Grill owner and head chef Mark Duncan uncan knows better. With more and that’s the argument with than han 25 years of experience in people who are promoting local the Comox Valley’s restaurant foods,” says Duncan. “In this curmarket, Duncan has seen signifi- rent economy I don’t think that cant changes when it comes to people have that extra cash and the local food supply. it is in fact substantially more “When I came back (to the Old expensive, so you just have to House Restaurant) as the chef in try to educate people and find 1989, at the time ways to make it there was a huge work. But people We served local farm push,” notice the quality maybe 250 or 300 says Duncan. difference, abso“There wasn’t any lutely.” people and it was farmers market Duncan says just a huge seafood at the time and the biggest difso the farmers buffet, so we’ve ference with the were quite avidly always been involved local food push selling to local today is that in the local food restaurants. I many of the assohad a Rolodex ciations related market. full of farm sales to local food are – Mark Duncan much more orgafor romaine and blackberries and nized and have blueberries and raspberries and support from government. These all kinds of things. It was a huge, include the Farmers Market huge thing.” and the BC Shellfish Growers Duncan eventually left the Association. Old House to open Union Street “Those groups have grown Grill in January of 1994, and and formed their own societhe brought with him his love ies over the years and they fall for using local ingredients. His under government jurisdiction original landlord told him that and it seems that they’re just a he was probably going to have lot more professional now. Back to choose between being an artthen it was just a bunch of local ist and a business man when it farmers.” came to running his own restauAlthough Duncan is still a rant, but Duncan says he’s manhuge supporter of all the local aged to find a very good balance, food associations, Union Street especially when it comes to using has recently taken a step back local products. The sense of pride from its involvement in the

❝

❞

Mark Duncan and Union Street Grill and Grotto have been in the local food game for a longtime. PHOTO BY ERIN HALUSCHAK

growing number of organizations. “Especially when we started, we were heavily involved with local shellfish growers and we started doing the original shellfish banquet at the Filberg,” says Duncan. “We served maybe 250 or 300 people and it was just a huge seafood buffet, so we’ve always been involved in the local food market. This year we are kind of doing our own thing, a little.” Doing their own thing includes recipes such as the one featured as well as a fine assortment of local wine and beer, which has come a long way in recent years, according to Duncan. “All of our wine is from BC,” says Duncan. “It has come a long way since the 70s and 80s when local wine was just terrible. Last year we had a bunch of Beaufort wines that were so popular that we sold out quickly. We’re now carrying two whites and two reds from that winery. As far as local whisky goes it is something that we’re looking at.” Union Street Grill and Grotto also offers Vancouver Island beers from Phillips and Surgener breweries. It is not just food and drink

Roasted Vegetable Salsa GRILL: Bell peppers, red and yellow (200 0 g) Purple Onions (40 g) Whole garlic cloves (.5 bud) Yams (80 g) Zucchini (80 g) Roma tomatoes (2) Lime juice (40 ml) Cilantro (12 g) Cumin, ground (4 ml.) Corriander (4 ml.) Salt (2 ml.) Cracked pepper (5 ml.) Cayenne pepper (1 ml.) Jalapeños (40 ml.) METHOD: • Wash and cut all vegetables into sizes that are easily asily barbecued • Charbroil vegetables and cool • Dice all vegetables and mix with rest of ingredients • The salsa without the jalapeños has a light bite to it. Add the jalapeños if you want a dip with a little more oomph. • Served chilled with crispy tortilla chips or as an accompaniment to barbecue chicken or fish • Makes just over a litre of salsa

that make Union Street a truly local eatery. The restaurant has also shown a tremendous amount of support for local artists and performers over the years. And while again the economy has had an impact on these luxuries, Duncan is committed to bringing them back whenever he can.

“We like to focus on getting in local talent and having local musicians play and that’s worked really well,” says Duncan. “We’ve also exhibited local art for last couple of years. The bottom line is we’ve always supported local whether it’s food and wine or art and music.”

ABOUT TOWN

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

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Wednesday, August 31, 2011

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