March 25, 2014

March 2014

PAPER COVER TO COVER ON-LINE

COMOXVALLEYRECORD.com

This About Town edition is available online

bout A TOWN

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Glorious Garden is Spring 2014 theme

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Funky atmosphere and insanely good food

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Boo the Magnificent gives shoppers a warm welcome

PHOTO BY KAREN MCKINNON

“Searle’s for that hard to fit foot”

Serving the Comox Valley for over 80 Years

The world’s leading ANTISTRESS footwear brand. Latest spring styles and colours. $110.00

OPEN: Monday - Saturday 9:30 am - 5:30 pm Friday till 9:00 pm

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250 Fifth Street, Downtown Courtenay

250-334-3178

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Tuesday, March 25, 2014

ABOUT TOWN

DCBIA

COMOX VALLEY

RECORD

Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Zena Williams Sales manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Joanna Ross Feature editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jennifer Cox Additional writers . . . . . . Stacey Harper, Lisa Grant Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Erin Haluschak, Jennifer Cox, Karen McKinnon Cover Photo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Karen McKinnon 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.

I

The president’s message

t has been an amazing winter this year; we can be glad that the worst storms and power outages are behind us now. With spring just around the corner, in due course summer tourists will be arriving – many of whom will fall in love with our corner of the world.

The Downtown Courtenay Business Improvement Association (DCBIA) does extensive external marketing on our own, and in partnership with publications like the Visitor’s Choice, Discover Comox Valley, Arts & Cultural Guide, and BC tourism websites, postings of our events on Hello BC, Harbourliving.ca and other tourism sites. We stock our brochures at the Comox Valley Visitor Centre as well as local hotels and motels to promote the Comox Valley and downtown. Our website www.downtowncourtenay.com and Facebook page www.facebook.com/ DowntownCourtenay all showcase the uniqueness that we have to offer and enjoy in Downtown Courtenay.

With attractions in the DCBIA like

nesses offer something that the Courtenay and District isn’t found in many commuMuseum, the Comox Valley nities; thriving, family run Art Gallery and the Sid businesses and services that Williams Theatre promoting offer a collection of locally their wonderful programs, made, fine imports and topvisitors are attracted from quality items, and great all over the Island and places to stay, all wrapped the world to our doorstep. up in a friendly smile.

Downtown is truly the culThe final and very tural heart of the Comox DCBIA president important factor to Valley.

Mark Middleton To help with improving Downtown Courtenay is you, the streetscape, the Downtown Courtenay the customer. Shopping in downtown BIA is continuing with a second year of stores, doing business with the various the Façade Improvement Program. This service providers and enjoying a meal is a grant program for BIA members and with your family and friends at one of property owners to help them with the our wonderful restaurants are key ingrecosts of fixing up the exterior of their dients to the success of our thriving city, buildings. Last year, with the launch of that all can be proud of. this program, we saw two key corners of As the Valley continues to change and downtown upgraded; improvements all of grow, the DCBIA will look for other ways downtown will benefit from. to earn your interest and your pride in Another key ingredient to this mix is this very special place we call Downtown our DCBIA member businesses and assoCourtenay. ciate members. These 240+ diverse busiThanks to everyone who shops locally!

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ABOUT TOWN

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

e h c a C a L

3

RETAIL

Feel beautiful, live beautiful, be beautiful

J • E • W • E • L • L • E • R •S

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1 8 K Y E L L O W, W H I T E & R O S E G O L D S TA C K I N G R I N G S

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daughters enjoy browsing the store hen La Cache opened it’s April together and some, such as Johnson and Cornell concept store in downtown Courtenay two years ago, her sweet daughter Ilan, have fun playing Jill Moran jumped at the chance to join a dress up in matching mommy and me outcompany that shares her belief in the impor- fits that brighten up any special occasion. tance of empowering women.

Beauty is at the heart of all

by Jennifer Cox Moran works alongside Joanne of April Cornell’s designs and Butler and Chelsea Johnson in the bright it is how Moran wants customers to feel colourful downtown storefront where women when they enter the store. She explains are encouraged to feel beautiful, live beautithat the clothing is designed to make ful and be beautiful. women feel beautiful. The home décor centres on living beautiful, while the mantra The nature-inspired designs and be beautiful is about giving back to the colourful décor at La Cache appeal to community. women of all ages. Many mothers and “If you feel positivity and goodness it will multiply as you do good for others,” says Moran.

A favourite part of her job is the relationships she continues to build with her customers.

“They try on clothes and we start to play,” she says. “We like to have fun! We have customers that will come up from Victoria and women who fly in from Calgary to shop at our store because they’ve shopped with April Cornell for so many years.”

“The brand really resonates with people,” says Butler. “People just love coming in here. We get so many comments on what a gorgeous store this is. Switching around the displays is just pure fun.”

A framed sign on the front counter speaks to the store’s vision. It reads, “We love women.

We love color. We love art and creative expression. We love global awareness. We love caring for those around us.”

This statement goes beyond mere words. At the April Cornell women-run factory in New Chelsea and her daughter Ilan have fun getting Delhi, India where the majority dressed up in mommy and me matching outfits in of April Continued on page 4 PHOTO BY ERIN HALUSCHAK flowery spring colours.

Cornell

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Tuesday, March 25, 2014

Continued from page 11

product has been manufactured since the mid-70s, safe, healthy working conditions are a priority.

At the Giving World Foundation, the charitable arm of April Cornell, the company supports grassroots projects aimed at helping disadvantaged individuals create a better future for themselves and their families.

“Our idea of stewardship implies a global responsibility,” says April Cornell on her company website. “For my company and my life I feel I have been entrusted with a unique obligation to care for people, to take an interest in the communities I live and work in.”

Knowing that April Cornell product is made with integrity is important to the staff at La Cache. Their customers have strong values and care about what they buy. Consumers do not want product that is merely pretty on the outside.

They care about the global community and believe strongly in social responsibility.

Whether setting their table with gorgeous linens for a special occasion or dressing up their wardrobe with romantic, feminine layers customers at La Cache are drawn to the beautiful

ABOUT TOWN

textiles and joyful, colourful femininity of April Cornell’s designs. What some customers might not realize is that in addition to being a designer, Cornell is a painter. Many of her linens are paintings that have been screen printed in a variety of vibrant colour combinations.

“She uses the same screen multiple times and will switch up the colours so that to me it doesn’t even look like the same thing,” says Moran pointing to the difference between the soft blues and lemony yellows of the Provence collection and the much brighter grape tones and showy white blossoms in the perfectly plum collection. You wouldn’t realize it at first glance but the same print has been used for each design.

The bright, colourful collections combined with a commitment to building community with all who enter the store makes every day at La Cache feel like the first day of spring!

Fuel your body with better food

Shoes!!

A highlight of La Cache’s spring collection is a new line of Fluevog shoes. They will be carrying five styles, including one custom colour to coordinate with the April Cornell vintage collection.

Glorious Garden is the theme of the Spring 2014 linens collection which features gorgeous peonies, hydrangeas and zinnias in full bloom.

Photo by Erin Haluschak

Like many things in life, eating well is a balancing act. Jumpstart your day with veggies: Add kale to your fruit smoothies, spinach to your egg sandwich or chopped zucchini, onion and mushrooms to your omelet.

Search our recipe database at thriftyfoods.com/recipes for tasty options.

Your destination for better food.

COURTENAY 660 England Ave • 250.338.1383 CROWN ISLE 444 Lerwick Rd • 250.331.5101 Visit thriftyfoods.com

ABOUT TOWN

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

5

COMMUNITY

Associate membership allows local businesses to be a part of Downtown Courtenay’s thriving business improvement network

w

hen tourists visit the Comox Local restaurants, hotels and other busiValley they will often research nesses can connect to downtown by applying ahead of time to determine the for associate memberby Jennifer Cox ship. Applications are best places to eat, stay and shop. Downtown reviewed on a case-byCourtenay consistently comes up at the top case basis. Associate members do not have of this list. voting privileges but they do have the ability Members of the to have a positive impact on the downtown Downtown Courtenay community, forgBusiness ing important Improvement Every kid loves a connections with Association other businesses (DCBIA) are strong and service proadvocates for linkSATURDAY, APRIL 26, 2014 viders. ing the downtown The Royal Lepage Snow to Surf organizers, along with the “When people core to the wider DCBIA have been busy getting the word out for teams, sponcome to the valley community. sors and fans to participate in the 2014 Snow to Surf parade to visit a winery “Downtown is more which will start at 5th street and Harmston and travel down or the mountain than the DCBIA,” 5th street to the intersection at Cliffe Ave. The parade will they come downsays Executive start at 5 p.m. and will be a fun event for the whole family! town too,” says Director Kim For more info contact Sandy at semstaples@gmail.com Stubblefield. “The Stubblefield.

PARADE!

Courtenay 5th Street Florist

Associate membership links local hotels such as Best Western Plus Westerly Hotel & Convention Centre (inset above) to our thriving downtown core, offering visitors a well-rounded introduction to the community.

PHOTO BY ERIN HALUSCHAK DCBIA is about businesses working together to offer the best for shoppers and the community.”

The Comox Valley Record is one of the most recent associate members to join the growing list. Other associate members committed to a vibrant downtown include the

Alano Club of Courtenay; Hans Peter Meyer; Rhodos Coffee Roasting Company and the Dawn to Dawn Action on Homelessness Society.

More information on the application process is available online at: www.downtowncourtenay.com/about/membership/associate/

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Tuesday, March 25, 2014

ABOUT TOWN

FASHION

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v

r a e w e y E n o i h s a F AT VOGUE OPTICAL

pair is free, and the third comes at a disogue Optical will celebrate their 20th counted rate. The additional pair can also anniversary in 2014. This Fifth street storefront is well known for exceptional be prescription sunglasses – an option that service and high quality eyewear.

Szymanski notes is a popular item for her Gail Szymanski, a clientele. Every pair of glassby Stacey Harper licensed optician, is Vogue es also comes with a two-year Optical’s manager. Cheerfully guiding me unconditional warranty. through an extensive collection of frames, The Comox Valley is a very fashion forSzymanski explains the necessity of findward place and Szymanski notes that the ing the right pair of glasses for the right designer series sells very well. person.

“Vogue Optical works hard to keep con“You need to talk to your clients” she temporary styles in stock,” she says. says. “The service end of the eyeglass They carry a variety of designer labels industry is very important. You have to such as Guess, DKNY, Soho, Dolce and satisfy the customer’s lifestyle needs, fashGabbana, Helium, and the ever-popular ion sense, as well as the functionality of Ray-Ban Line. the frames.”

Many styles have a retro look with slimSzymanski encourages clients to try on mer cleaner lines and a deeper lens frame, a wide range of brands and there is no lack which accommodates some prescriptions of choices. You need not limit yourself to with greater comfort. one either – at Vogue Optical the second “Many of our clients wear bifocals and

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ABOUT TOWN

Tuesday, March 25, 2014 Continued from page 6

Gail Szymanski showcases a great selection of fashion eyewear at Vogue Optical.

PHOTOS BY ERIN HALUSCHAK

progressives which require deeper frames,” Szymanski explains.

“It’s wonderful that the fashion in eyewear is becoming so much more functional”.

A fantastic pair of cat eye glasses, studded with faux diamonds, stands out from all the others. There is a great collection of eyewear with jungle patterns and bold colours. Jewel tones are popular, tone on tone, often combined with metal arms. Some have as many as three to five colors on a frame.

Szymanski drew my attention to a pair of two-toned frames, demonstrating to me how much lighter on the face the inside accent colour looked. A great new innovation is the ‘Change Me’ line with sets of swap out arms.

With so much to choose from, you could develop your own collection – change your glasses to match your mood – have a neutral front and swap out for brightly colored or patterned arms. And if you like to have fun with your eyewear, there is

a striking pair decorated with images of lovely lashed eyes.

Vogue Optical’s clientele is very diverse and many of the new fashions bridge age barriers.

“Not just the young want funky modern styles these days,” Szymanski quips.

Who knew there were so many fun fabulous fashions in eyewear?

From the bold, to the subdued, sport or business, multi-colored or metal, there are frames to accent every personality.

We don’t need to leave the Comox Valley to find the looks and fashion forward brands we are after; Vogue Optical has them all.

FUN IN THE SUN starts at the Ski & Surf Shop See us for great quality fashions, multi sportwear, footwear & swimwear Kayaks, accessories, paddle wear, demo service.

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Tuesday, March 25, 2014

ABOUT TOWN

TRENDS

Vinyl Revival THE

AT BOP CITY

t

here is a beautiful, ritual he has really appreciated over the quality in the experience of years is turning the record’s cover pulling a vinyl record from over in his hand and reading the liner notes to discover new artists. its sleeve and placing it carefully “The liner notes in records on a turntable. Many say that the help you navigate the music has a richer,

by Jennifer Cox industry and discover warmer sound quality what you like,” he says. “I enjoy but it is more than just the experilooking for the artists names on ence of sound. There is a tactile the records and then searching experience with vinyl records that out other work by the same musiresonates deeper than simply cians.” choosing a playlist on iTunes.

Bop City carries a wide selecBill Massey, owner of Bop City tion of new and used vinyl records Records has had a lifelong fasciand CDs nation with music. He loves the Continued on page 9 but the sound of vinyl records but what

Bill Massey has had a lifelong passion for music and is thrilled to see a resurgence of interest in vinyl records.

PHOTO BY JENNIFER COX

Funeral Planning Introducing Rosemarie Clark Certified Pre-arrangement Counselor Piercy’s-Mt. Washington Funeral Home

Rosemarie’s passionate, results-driven service attitude has been key in developing relationships with integrity and respect. She comes to us with 10 years experience with First Memorial Funeral Services, Victoria.

Rosemarie invites you to call her for your complimentary “Personal Planning Guide” and if you are a member of a group or service organization and are searching for a dynamic speaker for a 15-minute presentation on “Dying to know before you go” please call 250-334-4464. A door prize and cake will be offered for participants.

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ABOUT TOWN Continued from page 8

resurgence in demand for vinyl records has taken Massey by surprise. There have always been a select group of audiophiles whose appreciation of the vinyl record has never waivered but there is a new trend towards vinyl among younger generations.

Abby Shewfelt started collecting vinyl records after receiving a turquoise blue vintage-inspired Crosley Cruiser turntable for her twelfth birthday last August.

“I really like vintage stuff and I was downtown one day walking around and saw the record players at Uranus,” she explains. “I thought it would be really cool to have one so I could play records. My close friend Olivia got a yellow record player from the same place.”

Abby’s musical taste ranges from old classics like Queen and Abba to modern tunes by Katy Perry and Lorde.

“Just after I got my record player I went down to Bop City

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

and bought a whole bunch of records,” she says as she sorts through her collection looking for her favourite albums.

Paul Simon ranks up there as a favourite, as does Elton John with his 1972 tune Crocodile Rock.

It’s amazing to ❝ me how many young people are coming in … They’re doing their research and know what to buy.

❞

– Bill Massey “It’s amazing to me how many young people are coming in,” says Massey. “They’re doing their research and know what to buy.

Classic rock is always popular. Other top sellers include roots, blues, and jazz. Many of the young people that shop Bop City come in search of indie bands such as Arcade Fire or

simply

outstanding

Blackie and the Rodeo Kings. At Bop City they can find an eclectic selection of music that they can’t always find in box stores.

Massey holds up Jason Isbell’s album, South Eastern as a favourite. The album is listed in Rolling Stone magazine as one of the top ten albums of 2013.

“He is just a great, great song writer,” says Massey. “Last year at Music Fest John Hiatt was in town. His guitar player came into the store and saw this record. He said that as far as he was concerned it was the best album released in the States last year.”

With the resurgence of vinyl records, Massey is always thrilled when someone walks through his door with a box of old records retrieved from closets and basements.

“I pay a decent price in store credits when people bring in their old records and then try to price it to move,” says Massey explaining that his passion is to get music into the hands of the people who want to listen to it.

Abby Shewfelt has been collecting vinyl records ever since she received a vintage Crosley record player for her twelfth birthday.

Photo by Jennifer Cox

BOOK THE GROTTO FOR YOUR NEXT PARTY Great Gift Ideas for Every Occasion

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DOWNTOWN

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Tuesday, March 25, 2014

owntown D

ABOUT TOWN

ARTS & CULTURE

t

Pick your up co TODA py Y!

magazine AVA I L A B L E

DOWNTOWN COURTENAY and locations throughout the Valley E-EDITION

availa ble o n lin e a t

comoxvalleyrecord.com A P U B L I C AT I O N O F

THE HEART OF ARTS AND CULTURE

he VI Regional Library and CV Art Gallery are on Duncan. It’s a short block over to the Sid Williams Theatre on Cliffe, and just a stone throw to the Native Sons Hall, the Filberg Centre and the Courtenay Museum. These cultural properties are the beating heart of our downtown core creating a

by Stacey Harper vibrant hub in our commercial center.

The Comox Valley Art Gallery (CVAG) draws over 2200 patrons in any given month. Visitors to the Gallery’s events and workshop also become patrons of local shops and restaurants.

Like? Indigenous Musings in a Digital Age by Andy Everson is a current show that should not be missed. It is a challenging presentation of First Nations imagery combined with pop culture references.

Concurrent with his show is a collaboration between Everson, CVAG, the Wachiay Friendship Society, and the Community Justice Centre, presenting work created by local youth.

The CVAG creates many interactive experiences, finding ways to connect children and adults more actively to the ideas and elements of the work.

On the second Saturday of every month the gallery hosts Discover Art Saturday. You can visit the exhibits and then sit down to sketch, draw, color, and collage with materials the gallery provides, creating pieces of your own art based on the themes of art on display.

“Discover Art Saturdays act like a bridge between what is happening in the space and the wider community, creating art and dialogue inspired by the professional artist,” explains CVAG Curator Angela Somerset.

Family adventures to the gallery can be topped off with lunch or dinner downtown, or catch a film or performance at the Sid Williams Theatre just around the corner.

The Sid Williams Theatre Blue Circle Series recently featured the critically acclaimed singer-songwriter Royal Wood. His stellar performance was captured for the cover of this issue of About Town.

PHOTO BY KAREN MCKINNON Tara Murphy, Marketing and Development Coordinator at the Sid Williams Theatre, loves her job. Two of her favourite recent performances were Hello Baby and Deck. These oneman comedy shows featuring writer, actor, and director, Lucas Meyers, had the audience in stitches from beginning to end.

One of the next Blue Circle events is Ballet Victoria’s performance of Carmina Burana on April 26th – a perfect opportunity for that fabulous night out, dressed to the nines and preceded by dinner at one of the great local restaurants.

“The Sid Williams Theatre’s mandate encourages us to present a broad range of art from diverse backgrounds and cultures,” says theatre general manager Deborah Renz.

They try to bring both international as well as Canadian performers.

Both Murphy and Renz point to the ability of the theatre society to bring acts that do not normally come to smaller centers like the Comox Valley.

Renz notes that smaller venues have some benefits, such as more opportunity to interact with performers.

“You just don’t get that in larger centers,” she says. “The difference between a regional facility like the Sid and larger theatres like the Royal or the Queen Elizabeth, is that we can provide intimacy that would not be possible if the audience was 2000 plus.”

The theatre has over 42,000 distinct visitors annually but both Murphy and Renz say they are particularly proud of their relationship with community groups like the North Island Festival of Performing Arts, Comox Valley Youth Music Centre, and many others. Renz and Murphy are always looking for opportunities to collaborate with other arts organizations and local businesses as the theatre society endeavors to bring something special to the downtown core.

Colleen Nelson, manager of the downtown library, also thinks collaboration is an excellent way to develop,

ABOUT TOWN

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

“inclusive and inspiring environments that enrich the community and help to promote the vision of Vancouver Island Regional Libraries.”

Nelson says that the goals of partner groups are often very compatible combining art shows, musical events, with that of the library. Partnerships with local culture organizations, service films, craft fairs, workshops, demonstrations, and activities developed clubs, and businesses help the library with community partners. The Comox deliver quality service.

Valley Community “We partArts Council pronered with the This is a program vides vital organiart gallery for zational support the Cardboard that promotes creativity, and resources, also Challenge last imagination and entrehelping to connect October,” Nelson the producers with says, sharing an preneurship in children. its membership example. “This is Families were invited to the base of artists and a program that cultural producers. promotes creativgallery to create cardboard A conscious ity, imagination creations and the results effort was made by and entrepreneurour city planners to ship in children. were fantastic. locate the cultural Families were – Colleen Nelson properties downinvited to the town and wisely gallery to create so. The theatre, library, art gallery and cardboard creations and the results museum are all within blocks of each were fantastic.” other, creating a kind of cultural corElevate the Arts is the one project that all the cultural organizations men- ridor and commercial hub. tioned as a high point of the year. The These organizations provide diverse producers of this three-day event tell opportunities for families and friends us that Elevate is “about re-thinking to come downtown to interact and and animating our urban core, opening experience music performances, fesdiscussion and debate and dreaming about what our downtown can be.”

Produced in early June, on Fifth street and environs, Elevate the Arts takes over the downtown core

❝

❞

Like? Indigenous Musings in a Digital Age runs March 15 to May 2.

Discover Art Saturday takes place on the second Saturday each month.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CVAG tivals, visual art, spoken word, literature, and community presentations.

Not only do these organizations stand alone as purveyors of their particular gifts and priorities, they also collaborate with local businesses and each other striving to make the Comox Valley a must-see destination. The sheer number of interesting opportunities to get out into our community to enjoy food, drink, and local entertainment demonstrates that Downtown Courtenay is truly the heartbeat of arts and culture in the community.

Fresh for

g n i r p S BRAX SARAH PACINI SAINT JAMES

360 Fifth Street, Courtenay Elevate the arts is a collaborative project that calls on the participation of the entire arts community including community organizations, individuals, families, activists, artists, churches, media and businesses.

PHOTOS BY ERIN HALUSCHAK

250-338-7333

www.robertacouture.ca

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ABOUT TOWN

RETAIL

n o i t i d a r t s s e l e m i T a AT F RAN CIS JE WE LL E R S

n appreciation for she realized that her boyquality craftsmanfriend had brought her into ship and unique the downtown jewellery store to propose. jewellery design has drawn Wright loves helping young couples to Francis young couples Jewellers for

by Jennifer Cox and makes a eighty years. special effort to treat them The store is known for with the same respect as its wonderful selection of his more senior, long-time jewellery and collectibles, customers. including a collection of “We want them to feel estate jewellery where welcome here,” Wright says customers can find rare explaining that whether pieces that they won’t see a customer is spending anywhere else. twenty dollars or hundreds Just recently store he wants them to feel the owner Daryl Wright had a same sense of welcome. couple become engaged at Francis Jewellers holds his ring counter. The young a special place in the woman was ecstatic when

hearts of many long time local couples. Ron Webber purchased a beautiful stand-alone cluster ring at Francis Jewellers in 1964.

At the time it was a promise ring for his girlfriend Lorraine, in grade 12.

Money was tight in those days and he didn’t think to buy a proper engagement ring with a matching band so when he asked Lorraine to marry him they had a family friend create a wrap around band to fit the ring. They were married November 7th, 1964. Fifty years and many adventures later this ring is still

A L W AYS

Ron and Lorraine Webber are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary this year. It was 1964 when he purchased her diamond cluster ring at Francis Jewellers.

PHOTO BY ROSE ZILKE

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ABOUT TOWN

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

an important symbol of the couple’s commitment to each other.

“Here we are fifty years later and we’re still having adventures,” says Lorraine after a trip to Francis Jewellers for watch batteries before heading on a holiday to celebrate her anniversary.

Another long time Comox Valley couple, Dave and Casey Keld, began dating back in 1969. By 1972, Dave knew he was in love.

He stole away to Francis Jewellers without Casey’s knowledge and picked out what he thought was the nicest ring in his price range. Dave was excited and nervous presenting Casey with her ring. What if she didn’t like it?

As he proposed, he told her that she could exchange it if it wasn’t the right ring, but she absolutely loved it. They went back to the store the next day to have the ring sized

to fit her finger and she’s been wearing it ever since.

“As any happily married woman can tell you, it becomes more priceless with time,” Casey says.

When couples come into the store looking for a special ring to commemorate their love, there is a wide selection to choose from.

One of the most popular designs is the Always collection by Alfred Sung. The diamonds in this collection are cut, mined and polished in Canada.

“Canadian diamonds are some of the nicest,” says Joan Baudais who has worked in the store part time since September 2013.

The Alfred Sung collection is central in the display case but they do carry other brands, including some very unique pieces such as a beautiful blue diamond engagement ring.

“Engagement rings are very personal,” remarks Baudais. “Some people

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Daryl Wright says that one of the most popular modern ring designs is the Always Collection by Alfred Sung.

The diamonds in this collection are cut, mined and polished in Canada.

PHOTOS BY ERIN HALUSCHAK come in and see six or eight that they love and others come in with a picture in their head of one

perfect ring.”

When it comes to having precious items restored, Evelyn Gillespie speaks

highly of the customer service at Francis Jewellers.

“My husband’s grandmother wore this beautiful engagement ring in 1908 and it had huge sentimental value but it was broken. I took it to Francis Jewellers for repair and they did a great job, helping me to preserve an important item in my family history.”

“We get a lot of customers by word of mouth, being recommended by others so customer service is important,” says Wright.

“When customers leave our store we want to know all their questions were answered and they were well served.”

Wright knows that choosing an engagement ring is one of the most significant moments in the life of a young couple. He feels honoured when he is able to help a couple find the ring that is just right for them.

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13

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14

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

Red Living

ABOUT TOWN

CVAG Gift Shop

Maida’s Fashion on 5th

I love my Cheryl Jacobs earrings and I have more than one pair. They are very elegant and I can dress them up but I can also wear them with jeans.

I have been admiring a pair of bamboo and cotton pajamas.

They look just right for curling up with a book at the end of a busy day.

My husband bought me this beautiful pink brooch for Christmas last year and I just love wearing it. It is a bit of bling and is something that makes me happy.

Linda’s Leather New heels and a thicker sole restored my daughter’s muchloved cowboy boots. I was thrilled to have a place right downtown to get them fixed.

My 10fect picks per Who: Evelyn Gillespie Where: In our beautiful Downtown Courtenay What: Owner, Laughing Oyster Bookstore

McConochie’s I love my new smooth top double oven! I’d been looking for a stove for a long time and this one is great. It allows me to cook multiple items at once and is fabulous to cook with.

La Cache I was looking for a gift for my mother and was thrilled to find this hooked rug in the perfect colours for her home.

Laughing Oyster Books

Searles My favourite pair of Rieker boots are super comfortable. I love the red zipper buckle. They are in between dress and casual and I wear them all the time.

I love books and read a lot. My recent favourite is Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert. The lead character is so powerful.

This is a great family saga and a thoroughly satisfying read.

Rattan Plus I have been admiring the brilliant colours and aboriginal design of these bed coverings for a while. I love the brilliant colours and because they’re not overly feminine I know my husband would love it too.

Sid Williams Theatre There are so many great events at the Sid. I love attending the World Community Film Festival in February each year. The festival raises awareness of social, economic and environmental concerns and brings together people interested in issues of social justice.

ABOUT TOWN

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

15

The Immigrant Welcome Centre

THANKS Comox Valley THE

F O R

T H E I R

S U P

P O R T

free

A fun, upbeat environment and a commitment to customer service shows on the smiles of Edible Island staff.

PHOTO BY JENNIFER COX

g n i v i l n a e l C HEALTH & WELLNESS

The project is made possible through funding from the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia.

a

AT

EDIBLE ISLAND

Nor do we want to feed our kids or grandcommitment to clean living is just kids food colouring and preservatives.” as important to the staff at Edible Skin care and body care is Island as it is to their

by Jennifer Cox a huge part of their business. customers.

“Clean unadulterated food is important to They carry a vegan and gluten-free cosmetics line, Zuzu Luxe Cosmetics. It is made us,” says co-owner Sue Tupper. with natural ingredients such as spring “The skin is nothing but a big organ.

Whatever you put on it is going to go in,” water, herbs and vitamins. This is important says Tupper. “We don’t want to put propylto consumers who Continued on page 16 ene glycol in our armpits from deodorant. are conscious of the

www.courtenaymuseum.ca

Discoveries Happen Here.

See 80 million year old fossils.

Explore an ancient sea floor.

Discover a fossil of your own.

Learn about giant ocean going lizards.

Experience the thrill of discovery.

Call the museum for more information at 250-334-0686.

Or come for a visit at 207 Fourth Street, Courtenay

APPRECIATE THE SID? Show your support by becoming a Sid Williams Theatre Society member.

Members enjoy pre-sale privileges plus special discounts on Blue Circle Series performances.

sidwilliamstheatre.com/member 250.338.2430

16

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

ABOUT TOWN

Calendar of

Continued from page 15

skins ability to absorb makeup and skincare products.

The whole foods market, located on 6th street, carries a wide variety of organic, gluten-free, non-GMO, fair trade and local products.

The owners, Sue Tupper, Sue Clark and Jackie Somerville, are proud of the role that Edible Island plays in the community. Since the store first opened in 1980 they have worked hard to bring good, clean food to the Comox Valley.

Edible Island’s commitment to community extends to local causes.

“We want to support locals,” says Tupper. “We want to support people from our valley, keeping our community alive and healthy and clean” Whether customers are on specialty diets due to health concerns or lifestyle choices, Edible Island has built a solid reputation as the place to shop for the health conscious consumer.

The store carries a wide variety of quality fruits and vegetables in season, local meat, specialty breads, cereals, baking supplies, vitamins, supplements and skincare products.

A large part of the Edible Island philosophy revolves around shopping and supporting local businesses.

“People really are demanding local and for good reason,” says Tupper.

“This is where we live.

A lot of our associates are our friends and neighbours whose product we’re bringing in. People grow things here.”

Tupper always looks forward to spring and the arrival of fresh nettles.

Nettles are flavourful leafy greens, packed with iron, calcium and vitamins.

“Young nettle tops steamed like spinach or a green,” explains Tupper. “We sell bags of them.”

A dedication to customer service sets Edible Island

EVENTS

MARCH

March to May 2 Like? Indigenous Musings in a Digital Age by Andy Everson at the Comox Valley Art Gallery.

March to May 2 Hand of the Next Generation by Wachiay Friendship Centre Students at the Comox Valley Art Gallery.

March to April 12 Maple Pool United by Ron Pogue Photography at the Comox Valley Art Gallery.

March 30 Homeward Bound – Sid Williams Theatre.

There is a wide range of local product at Edible Island.

PHOTO BY JENNIFER COX

We want to ❝ support people fom our Valley, keeping our community alive and healthy and clean.

❞

– Sue Tupper

apart from other businesses.

Knowledgeable nutrition professionals are available to answer food, vitamin, skin care and cosmetics questions.

If a customer comes in feeling like a deer in headlights after being diagnosed with celiac there is staff on hand to guide them through their dietary needs. “We have one staff member in particular who is very knowledgeable about celiac and keeps herself informed

and aware,” says Tupper.

She goes on to explain how each staff member is a product expert, providing different pockets of information throughout the store. If one person doesn’t know the answer there is often someone else who does.

“The staff are really incredible!” says Tupper.

“For a store this size we have a large number of people on staff because customer service is what we do.”

Having long-term staff on hand who specialize in a variety of topics ensures that customer’s needs are met. Professional development opportunities are made available to staff on an ongoing basis.

“That commitment is to the customer,” says Tupper.

“Because the customers need them to have that knowledge.”

March 31 Marigold Pharmacy Seminar on H. Pylori at 7pm.

Please call and register at 250-338-9623.

March 31 to April 2 But Enough Art by Grant Shilling at the Comox Valley Art Gallery.

March 31 Gallery Talk 7 p.m. Amber Dawn author of How Poetry Saved my Life at the Comox Valley Art Gallery

APRIL April 10 On Golden Pond presented

by Courtenay Little Theatre at the Sid Williams Theatre.

Dancers, acrobats, musicians — you name it, it’s going to the part of Elevate the Arts from June 4 to 7 in downtown Courtenay.

Parade. Saturday 5 p.m. on 5th Street.

April 26 Ballet Victoria’s Carmina Buranda at Sid Williams Theatre.

MAY May 7 Led Zepagain presented by Rock It Boy Entertainment at Sid Williams Theatre.

May 8 Ron James presented by Shantero Productions at Sid Williams Theatre.

April 25 Keep It Living Collection & Community Earth Week Celebration. 6 to 9 p.m. – Comox Valley Art Gallery.

May 10 Flashback Fever at Native Sons Hall 7:30 p.m.

Appetizers, cocktails, dancing, entertainment.

Dress code – 1970’s. Tickets available at Silhouette Dance Shop or Val 250338-9279 or email info@ valdance.com.

April 26 Royal LePage Snow to Surf

May 10 Hornby Island Blues Odyssey

April 12 Discover Art Saturday – Comox Valley Art Gallery.

Fun for all ages.

at Sid Williams Theatre.

May 11 Rescuers Down Under at Sid Williams Theatre.

JUNE June 4 to 7 Elevate the Arts, Downtown Courtenay.

June 18 Australia’s Thunder Down Under presented by Showbiz Production Inc at Sid Williams Theatre.

June 21 Kitty’s Big Show with Nikki Payne presented by Parnell Productions at Sid Williams Theatre.

JULY July 19 44th Annual Market Day, Downtown Courtenay 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Check out the Calendar of Events on their Websites

ABOUT TOWN

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

17

DOWNTOWN FLAVOUR

o w t r o f e A tabl You gotta eat at the Mad Chef

y

The Mad Chef’s new location on upper 5th Street promises an upbeat, funky atmosphere with the same insanely good food that has been central to the restaurant’s success since day one.

ou gotta eat here! This isn’t just the name of the Food Network Canada show that filmed the popular downtown restaurant when comedian John Cattuci and his crew visited in late 2013. It is also what you’ll hear if you ask any locals to recommend a great place to eat in the Comox Valley. The restau-

by Jennifer Cox rant has been so popular since it opened in 2009 that it is literally bursting at the seams.

The Food Network show has not aired yet, but owner Shelley Bouchard and Chef Kevin Munroe have not had a moment to rest since the filming.

In early April 2014, Mad Chef

Killer taco salad wrap and brick-seared potatoes topped with beer cheese will make you say wow with each bite. A large and nourishing bowl of miso yummy soup topped with a crispy rice cracker and Eatmore sprouts is a savoury favourite that tastes as just as good as it looks.

PHOTOS BY ERIN HALUSCHAK

will move from a cozy 800 square foot location on Fitzgerald Ave., to a funky 2500 square foot, 100seat capacity restaurant in the old Leung’s building on 5th St. Those who feel nostalgic about downtown will be thrilled to know that they are preserving the old bar stools from Leung’s café counter to create a Mad Chef bar counter at the front of the restaurant.

“I’m really excited about our new location,” says Bouchard. “I think it’s going to be a great atmosphere for larger gatherings, more privacy for conversations and a better chance of always getting a seat.”

Colourful booths line the wall of the funky new restaurant space that will have a checker plated black and chrome floor.

“It’s super nice!” says Bouchard of their new space.

“The kitchen itself is the entire size of the current restaurant.”

The menu is fun to read with great descriptions and creatively named meals. The big bully burger is a top choice for those with huge appetites.

“People always say you’ve got to try our burgers,” Bouchard smiles. “Lots of people say they have the best burgers in town but we know we’ve got the best burger in town!”

Chef Kevin Munroe is the creative force behind the Mad Chef concept.

“His creativity makes the restaurant,” says Bouchard.

“He’ll come in with an idea and I’ll roll my eyes and say no but his enthusiasm rubs off on me.

Food Network host John Cattuci will be profiling the Mad Chef Café on his popular show on a date to be announced in 2014.

They’re going to love it he says and they do!”

She describes a brûlé burger that he made for a recent weekly special. The brûlé-topped burger was garnished with a marinated orange slice, a vanilla bean and flamed brie cheese. It was decadently delicious.

“I took one bite and wow,” exclaims Bouchard. “Where he dreams it up I don’t know!”

After all this discussion of food my stomach has started to rumble. Thankfully, it’s time to meet my friend Erin for lunch.

As server Jasmine Garrett takes our order she tells us that most dressings and sauces are made on site.

I order the killer taco salad wrap and brick-seared potatoes topped with beer cheese because I’ve been told that it is one of the most popular items on the fresh sheet.

The menu describes this wrap as “the first step on the stairway to heaven” and I have to agree.

It’s that kind of nourishing com-

fort food that puts calorie counting on the back burner.

Erin orders a large bowl of miso yummy soup. I’m sure it has less calories than my wrap, but she assures me it has just as much flavour! The nourishing vegetarian dish is topped with a flare of crispy rice cracker and Eatmore sprouts.

Erin is always thrilled when she finds a restaurant with a great selection of vegetarian choices. To make discerning between menu items even easier for those with dietary concerns the Mad Chef will soon have dedicated vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free menus on hand.

As the restaurant expands one thing that won’t change is the commitment to serving insanely good food with a creative menu that you won’t find anywhere else.

As they say at the Mad Chef, “If you’re crazy about great food, the Mad Chef Cafe will make you absolutely insane!”

18

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

ABOUT TOWN

n w o t n w o D HERITAGE

THROUGH THE YEARS BY

JENNIFER COX

PHOTO 989.89.16 COURTESY COURTENAY AND DISTRICT MUSEUM

The landscape we know and love as downtown Courtenay has undergone many changes since Joseph McPhee purchased the land from Reginald Pidcock and laid out the city townsite in 1893.

By the time the City of Courtenay incorporated in 1915 the downtown core was thriving with homes and businesses. Let’s take a trip through the years and look at just a few of the businesses that have served, and continue to serve, our community over the years.

A CENTURY AGO… 1917

Rickson’s Men’s Wear was established by the Rickson family in 1917 (this is the same year that the zipper was patented as a separable fastener). In 1974 bell bottoms were all the rage and this thriving business was purchased by Ron Douglas and his son Blaine. When Blaine retired in 2011 he was thrilled that the tradition of quality men’s fashion could continue in this long time downtown location. Jim’s Clothes Closet continues to serve

the community with a great selection that ranges from casual to dressy. Men have been buying their Sunday’s best at this downtown address for close to one hundred years.

1918 Jas E. Aston built the original Searle’s Shoe Store in 1918. He originally began as a shoe repair business and continued to repair shoes at Searles until he retired in 1946. Cathy and Derek Newness took over the successful business in 1994, and proudly maintain the commitment to quality merchandise and

THE BABY BOOM ERA AND BEYOND

PHOTO 989.69.69 COURTESY COURTENAY AND DISTRICT MUSEUM

customer service that has kept the store a downtown Courtenay mainstay for close to a century.

THE DEPRESSION ERA 1934

Harry R. Francis, late watch inspector to CPR for 25 Years, opened Francis Jewellery on Friday Sept. 7th, 1934. The business stayed in the Francis family for many years before being purchased by Evelyn and Daryl Wright in 1989.

The safe and one of the display cabinets were purchased from T.D. McLean Jewellers in Cumberland in the early 1900.

Piercy and his son Archie opened on April 4th, 1941.

In those days a funeral was a community wide event.

Stores closed (or stayed open with a single clerk) to allow the majority of the community to attend the funeral.

1951 The trademark clock that welcomes shoppers to downtown has been on display in front of Grahams Jewellers since it was purchased by thenowner Walter Crosby in 1951. The store, which is currently owned by Jamie Graham, has been the site of a jewellery store since J.W. Hornby first opened his shop in 1912.

1969

Runges on 4th

Street is a longtime family business. Monika Ferguson has been working on and off in her family’s delicatessen for over forty years. Her parents, Joe and Linda Runge, started the store in April 1969.

1974 The year that the Laughing Oyster opened is the same year author Margaret Laurence won the Governor General’s Award for The Diviners. The store continues to carry a great selection of award-winning Canadian literature.

Bringing Back Smiles FOR 30+ YEARS

1941 Piercy’s Funeral Home has been a Comox Valley fixture since Harvey

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ABOUT TOWN

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

19

Dogs and cats COMMUNITY

Give downtown shoppers a warm welcome

e

golden Curio and her daughxplore Courtenay’s truly dog-friendly business ter Esha. downtown and you community. Jersey Girl also Often costumed, the will discover friendly likes to get out and about in Newnes’s dogs have and personal service, history, the downtown core. She visappeared in a Heart and its stores, samples local resgreat merchandise, many taurant treats from the side- Stroke brochure, as a ‘pupservices – and some muchwalk, and heads kin’ patch window litter, and loved pets!

by Lisa Grant in Christmas attire. around the At Second These dogs have achieved block for regular appointPage Books, golden sibling far more than fifteen minments at Razzamataz Dog cats, Princess Teeka (aka: utes of fame, once even Grooming & Pet Spa where The Boss), and Boo the appearing on National she is treated, as befitting, Magnificent, help owner News. Newnes admits, “It like royalty.

Craig Carson oversee the has gone to their heads!”

The original Shih Tzu at fifteen-year-old used bookBack in the 1950’s Searles Shoes was named store. According to Carson, American singer Patti Page Peeka. She lived above the independent Teeka rules used to sing the popular the family business with the store with an iron paw. song, “How much is that Cathy Newnes’s family Teeka and Boo (coined doggie in the window?” If over twenty years ago. This Teeka Boo by a ten-year-old this catchy tune has you began the store’s tradition customer) have never been wondering- the doggies and of dogs starting conversaseparated and are friendly tions and making people feel kitties in the windows of with all customers from downtown businesses are at home. Former Royston babies to seniors. Carson not for sale. These well-loved Kindergarteners, now twenexplains that the cats serve pets provide Courtenay’s ty-five, recall visiting the as surrogate pets for many downtown core with a warm store with its first litter of regular customers who come window puppies. These days, and reminiscent welcome in just to see them and their home. children come just to see circus acts.

“The kids love it, and the kids in us love it!” he says.

Amanda Delisle purchased her Yorkshire Terrier, Gypsie, just before she took over Winds of Change in 2008. Gypsie loves to welcome all customers, but his favourite is Delisle’s mother, who visits on her motorcycle.

Every time Gypsie hears the motor he gets one of his toys and dances about excitedly.

Down the street at Fifth Street Florist a black and white Shih Tzu, Jersey Girl, reigns like a princess from her chaise lounge over owner Steven Meier’s flower shop. Many customers visit Fifth Street Florist just to see Jersey Girl. The many customers that bring her chicken chewy and other dog treats demonstrate that Gypsie loves to welcome customers to Winds of downtown Courtenay is a PHOTO BY ERIN HALUSCHAK Change.

Once, two dogs lounged in the Christmas window display at Searles Shoes amidst tree and presents, and an older gentleman watched on a bench outside for twenty minutes, occasionally tapping the window to see if their eyes would blink. He finally asked “Are the dogs animated?” and Newnes had to bring him inside to prove they PHOTO SUBMITTED were not!

Boo the Magnificent stands guard over an overflowing shelf of books as Tenzin King, a 12 year old homeschooler, and regular customer at Second Page Books captures the above image.

PHOTO BY TENZIN KING

20

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

ABOUT TOWN

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