June 10, 2014 by Black Press Media Group

A Special Supplement to the COMOX VALLEY RECORD | SUMMER 2014

INSIDE

MEET OUR PROFESSIONALS THURSDAY NIGHT STREET MARKET FILBERG PARK ROTARY STAGE TUESDAY NIGHT PADDLE

SS E L RD 3 0 T H

O UST C E FRE A U G T I L U N

From cordless manual and motorized operating systems, retractable lift cords, cord tensioners and wand controls, we offer a wide array of innovative lifting system options for enhanced child and pet safety as well as especially easy operation.

221C Church Street, Comox, BC

250-941-7824 blindsandbubbles.com

www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

Comox by the Sea ◗ Summer 2014

Coming this Summer Weekly events

Tuesday 6pm: Wednesday 5pm: Thursday 5pm: sunday evening:

special events June 16 - July 26: June 20 - June 22: June 21: June 24Th - July 13Th: July 3: July 5&6: July 17: augusT 1 - 4:

Tuesday Evening Paddle at Comox Marina Men’s NIght at Comox Golf Course Ladies League Golf at Comox Golf course Live Music Night at Martine’s Bistro Every Third Thursday of the month from JunE To SEpTEmbEr 4- 7pm Comox By The Sea Night Market on Comox Ave

10am to 4pm One War Two Victories. The Alberni Project. Comox Cup Road Hockey Tournament 12pm to 5pm Shellfish Festival Celebration Pearl Ellis Art Gallery People Choice Awards Show 7pm Filberg Park Summer Concert “Blackberry Woods” Men’s’ North Island Golf Tournament at Comox Golf Course 7pm Filberg Park Summer Concert “Fish and Bird” Festival Weekend in Comox: Filberg Festival, Nautical Days, IHOS Gallery Night Market and Comox by the Sea Sunday Street Market aug. 3: 9am to12pm Comox by the Sea Sunday Street Market aug. 14: 7pm Filberg Park Summer Concert Des Larson

4 Comox by the Sea ◗ summer 2014 www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

A message from the comox bia

Welcome to Comox By The Sea Comox is a great community for so many reasons. Located on the east side of Vancouver Island, the area enjoys a very moderate climate. Temperatures are relatively warm in the winter, and not excessively hot in the summer. More than that, the living conditions are very comfortable for those who have discovered Comox. Prices for residential properties are quite reasonable compared to many other areas in Canada, and particularly so compared to Vancouver and Victoria. This puts the “livability index” at a comfortable level. Comox preserves a smalltown feel complete with safety, accessibility and modern conveniences. The downtown area offers a range of shopping and service options for locals, within

a compact, walkable area. Comox is a small town which is fully connected to the world via electronic and physical connections. Highspeed Internet connections are plentiful. Free Wi-Fi services are available at many establishments. Locals can use cloud services virtually anywhere. This has given rise to many employment opportunities such as journalism and fine arts. In fact, the area is home to many writers, artists and other positions where creative talents are necessary. Physical connections to the area also help to instil vibrancy to Comox. The airport and harbour offer many daily flights which put Vancouver 20 minutes away; jetting to Calgary and Edmonton takes around an hour.

BC Ferries operates a nearby route which whisks travellers to the Sunshine Coast. Modern highways connect Comox to the rest of Vancouver Island and beyond, via the many Island ferry terminals. Comox is well connected, and residents no longer feel isolated here. The downtown Comox area offers residents more connection opportunities. Local businesses are well represented on Facebook, Twitter and other social media platforms. Locals can interact with friends, family and others who share similar interests. Many people can walk to shops and services within the compact downtown core. Travel to nearby cities and towns is quick and easy, both via public transit and personal vehicles.

comox bia president Vaughn Smith

Many residents who could choose to live anywhere in the world, choose Comox. When asked, they are quick to share the diversity of local experiences such as area walking trails, scenic viewpoints, accessibility and many other local features. They have discovered a truth which has long been known to Comox locals: Comox by the Sea is a great place! Vaughn Smith President, Comox Business in Action

Do you Need Help with Your Hearing?

✔ Service: ❏ Owner operated by Audiologist ✔ Selection: All Hearing Aid Brands, not just one ❏ ✔ Value: ❏

No gimmicks, low everyday pricing

Jason Gordon, M.Sc., R Aud Certified Audiologist, owner

250-941-8378 #102-1723 Comox Ave., Comox www.gordonhearing.ca

Locally Owned • Independent • DVA & WCB Accepted

This gallery has featured exhibitions and sales by established and emerging local artists since 1977. It is a registered non-profit Society composed and operated entirely by volunteers. Tuesday - Saturday 10am-4pm, Sundays 1-4pm, and closed Mondays. Free Admission. New members are always welcome.

1729 Comox Ave., Comox 250-339-2822

June 3 to June 22 Highland Secondary Senior Art Show June 24 to July 13 Pearl Ellis Gallery Members’ People Choice Awards Show July 15 to July 27 Hans Larsen “Impressions in Oil” July 29 to Aug 17 Pearl Ellis Gallery Photo Members’ Vicki Lapp Memorial Award Show Aug 19 to Sept 7 Susan Schaefer & Jill Paris Rody Sept 9 to Sept 28 Pearl Ellis Gallery Members’ Anniversary Show Sept 30 to Oct 19 Gordon Greenhough Oct 21 to Nov 9 Comox Valley Camera Club

www.pearlellisgallery.com

www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

Comox by the Sea ◗ Summer 2014

Propel with PaDDLeS Erin HaluscHak Record Staff

St. ta gus Au

rdi

ve.

afterwards.” robinson noted a $5 donation per person includes a BBQ afterwards in Marina Park. A sign-in begins every week at 6 p.m. at the marina and robinson invites anyone “from kids to senior citizens” to join, and offers some rentals for those needing a boat or board. For more information, contact Compass Adventure at: contact@compassadventure.ca. photos@comoxvalleyrecord.com

BREAKFAST ALL DAY HOMEMADE SOUPS S U FAMOUS CHEESECAKE O L U FAB ES DELICIOUS GLUTENFREE K A H S K MIL CHOCOLATE TORTE SERVE & SOFT EAM R SENIORS, KIDS & ICE C GLUTEN SENSITIVE MENUS BEER & WINE, PATIO & TAKEOUT

Por t

It could be a way to cool off from the summer heat, a chance to practice paddling skills or just enjoy the camaraderie of friends, but Stuart robinson is hoping a regular Tuesday night event in the Town will draw participants of all ages and skill levels. robinson, of Compass Adventure, is hosting in conjunction with the Comox Business In Action a regular night event — Tuesday evening paddle — every week throughout the summer. “We’re hoping to get a lot of user groups together. There will be a recreational version and an elite version for all skill levels with a timed event,” he explained. “Anyone with a kayak, outrigger, SUP (stand-up paddle board) can come out and enjoy the water and a social

1747 Comox Ave., Comox BC ■ 250-339-3911 Hours: Mon. 7:30am - 2pm, Tues. to Sun. 7:30am - 8pm

CUT OUT THIS PORTION

WOOFY’S

KICK START

FREQUENT BUYER POINTS

WEIGHT LOSS in just 30 Minutes

VALID WITH THIS COUPON AT ALL WOOFY’S LOCATIONS • EXPIRES NOVEMBER 30, 2014 • ONE COUPON PER CUSTOMER, PER VISIT

LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU BETTER

250-339-6643

201-1761 Comox Ave. Comox, BC V9M 3M2

www.woofys.ca

2400 Cliffe Avenue,Courtenay 250.338.0455 2056S S. Island Highway, Campbell River 250.923.5881 795 Ryan Road, Courtenay (beside Superstore) 250.338.0424 46-1760 Comox Ave. Comox (Lower Level Comox Mall) 250.339.2272

Comox by the Sea ◗ Summer 2014

www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

Welcome to

COMOX!

Ann was delighted to discover

HER HAPPINESS OUR BOTTOM TOM LINE was

Our experts took a genuine interest in helping Ann achieve her goals and dreams, and great things happened for her. Our experts are ready to help with your banking, insurance, wealth management or business services needs. Visit us at the Comox Community Branch or online at cccu.ca. COMOX COMMUNITY BRANCH 1797 Comox Avenue Credit Union: 250.703.4234 | Insurance: 250.703.4201

The Town of Comox, in partnership with the Comox BIA, welcomes both residents and visitors alike to our beautiful revitalized downtown. Come browse in the many shops in the downtown core, participate in the mix of special events in and around the marina, and experience the uniqueness that is…

Town of Comox

CREDIT UNION | INSURANCE | INVESTMENTS | BUSINESS SERVICES

www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

Comox by the Sea ◗ summer 2014

Comox is the place to be on Thursday nights Erin Haluschak Record Staff Building on the success of last year’s market, the Comox Business In Action is making Thursday nights the night to be in downtown Comox. “The feedback (last year) from locals was amazing. We were expecting out-oftowners to embrace the idea, which they did, but we had a huge amount of local people visiting,” said Holly Grant, executive director of the Comox BIA. “The Sunday Street Market (during Nautical Days) is running again, and the Thursday night markets are going to be the same format.” Grant said the market will take place on the third Thursday of the month beginning in June and running until September, and will feature many vendors from the Comox Valley Farmers’ Market — including a stage — along with local BIA vendors. A block will be closed off to traffic and Grant said the market will also

The popular Comox market will be returning regularly monthly throughout the summer. Photo Submitted appeal to locals who want to visit the Saturday farmers’ market but sometimes can’t physically make it to the Exhibition Ground location. The market will run from 4 to 7 p.m. and will feature local musicians.

“We want it to be the place to be on Thursday nights,” added Grant. For more information, search Comox By the Sea Third Thursday Night Market on Facebook. photos@comoxvalleyrecord.com

Comox Recreation COME PLAY WITH US!

OPENS JUNE 16TH!

• Summer Care Program • Preschool • Group Childcare • School Age Program

NEW

• ECE Qualified Staff • Integrated specials needs care • Affordable Group Childcare - Part Time & Full Time Rates • Contact us and apply for government childcare subsidy

COMOX

215 Church Street Email: iecc1@telus.net

Tel: 250-890-9388

www.islandearlychildhoodcentre.com

8 Comox by the Sea ◗ summer 2014 www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

New stage for Filberg Festival Donors, 19 Wing volunteers come together for build Mandy Larade Record Staff The 32nd annual Filberg Festival is coming up, and with it are some new changes. One of the most notable changes is the new Comox Rotary Stage, an upgrade from the usual tent-like canopy. The Rotary Club of Comox has given $15,000 towards building the stage. The Comox Valley Community Foundation and Coastal Community Credit Union have each donated $5,000 towards the project. The 191 Construction Engineering Flight subunit of 19 Wing Comox has volunteered to build the stage. 191 CEF commander, Lt. Teslin Bruhn, works on site with crews five days a week. The goal is to have it completed by mid-June, weather permitting. “That’s somewhat dependent on the weather for the pour of the main slab,” Bruhn said. Aside from the usual construction work on the base in Comox, community projects are often a priority for the 191 CEF crew. “We definitely like opportunities to work in the community and give something back to the community that supports us,” Bruhn says, adding that this project’s location makes it accessible to all. The concrete stage will have four pillars and a timber frame structure, covered with a slanted metal roof for a sturdy, open design. The electrical work will be mostly concealed by the new structure,

ensuring a safer and more esthetically pleasing look. The Rotary Club of Comox will also pitch in their labour doing stone work. Performing on the new stage will be a lineup of entertainment both locally and from across Canada. Tiller’s Folly, Royal Wood, Jesse Peters, and Ken Lavigne are some crowdpleasers that will be appearing throughout the festival. Local artists and 2014 Juno nominees Phil Dwyer and Lt. Teslin Bruhn David Gogo will also be present. Musical entertainment is not limited to adults as there will be several children’s performers including Aunt Bobbi, The Kerplunks, and 2014 Juno winner for Best Children’s Album, Helen Austin. Wendy Sears of Lewis & Sears Mar-

We definitely ❝ like opportunities

to work in the community and give something back to the community that supports us.

❞

keting and Event Management says that there’s a focus to have a wider variety of music for this year’s festival, adding the majority of the talent is local. “Seventy-five per cent of the entertainment is from Vancouver Island, which we are very proud of. There are exceptional musicians and singers on the Island,” Sears said. Musical entertainment will be throughout the entire festival at the Garden Stage and the new Comox Rotary Stage. “We have a number of new artisans at this year’s festival as well as the returning favourites,” Sears added. The guest artist this year will be Tracy Kobus, an acrylics painter who lives in the Comox Valley. Along with the arts and entertainment offered, there will be a myriad of food options this year. From Greek to Japanese, and lemonade to mini-donuts, there is no shortage of choices. “I would come just for the food - it’s all so good!” noted Sears.

www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

Comox profeSSionalS

Comox by the Sea ◗ Summer 2014

Amongst the boutique shops in downtown Comox is a large variety of professional offices. Comox offers practices ranging from medical care to business and legal services.

PROFESSIONALS Sigma Systems Spine-Align Ultra

Tami Varney, RMT

This computer-assisted technique provides on-screen analysis, automated computer-assisted adjustments, and a computerized reassessment that compares pre-adjustment with post adjustment to show the improvements in an on-screen readout (graphs).

Registered Massage Therapist My massage practice is your source for health, healing, and meditation. I am committed to providing you with the opportunity to reach your optimum potential through my hands on care.

Spinal Decompression Therapy

Spinal decompression is a non-surgical, computerized, traction-based treatment for herniated disc and low back pain. The TRITION DTS is a leader in spinal decompression therapy systems and is available at Comox Chiropractic.

Dr. Douglas Price

Dr. Jeremy Buhay

We are now offering Saturday Appointments

‘... to create Opportunities for those individuals who choose to reach for their Optimum Human Potential.’

Our Intention: MASSAGE THERAPY

250.941.7722

250.339.4433

#203-1723 Comox Ave., Comox BC • www.comoxchiropractic.com

203-1723 Comox Ave. www.tamivarneyrmt.com

Contact a VIIC Marine Specialist Today Ask about boathouse coverage and commercial marine policies REQUEST A QUOTE ONLINE @ VIIC.CA

COURTENAY

364 8th Street

250-338-1401

COMOX

17282a Comox Avenue

250-339-4847

CROWN ISLE

Unit 205, 444 Lerwick Road

250-338-5656

10 Comox by the Sea ◗ summer 2014 www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

comox professionals

Heather Mayhew, RDH (Res. Care) Heather Mayhew is a Registered Dental Hygienist and the owner/operator of Floss Dental Hygiene Services. Heather has a Psychology degree and her dental career has spanned 16 years, with the last 11 as a dental hygienist. “Floss” was opened in 2009 and provides care from the downtown Comox clinic, and to residents of the Comox Valley’s long term care facilities. Floss offers a relaxing environment, featuring a soothing waterfall, aromatherapy, warm pillows and blankets. Each visit ends with a warm towel. No referral is necessary to become a client at Floss. Remember floss, brush, and smile.

Floss Dental Hygiene Services Inc. #101A – 1771 Comox Ave., Comox, BC T: 250 941-0488 F: 250 941-0490 www.flossdentalhygiene.ca Follow us on Facebook!

Dr. Lee Olsen, Family Dentist I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself. I practice comfortable, healthcentered dentistry with a strong emphasis on getting to know each of my patients. I believe it is important to be a careful listener and to explain beforehand what treatment is best for your individual needs. After earning a bachelors degree in education from the University of Lethbridge, I received a bachelor of science degree and doctor of dental surgery degree from the University of Alberta. I have since taken many continuing education courses with special interests in oral surgery and orthodontics. During the past 15 years I have traveled to countries in Central and South America providing emergency dental care for several weeks each year. I lived for several years in Peru where I did some charity work and also was head of biology for Cambridge College in Lima. When I returned to Canada I worked with children in a pedodontic practice in Prince Edward Island. I am bringing to this practice considerable experience in all avenues of dentistry and I am looking forward to serving you.

Dr. Lee Olsen ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS 250-339-4111 | Unit C 1710 Comox Avenue Hours: Tuesday - Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm

Val Wright, Royal LePage in the Comox Valley Realtor Val brings service and results that only a REALTOR® born and raised in the Comox Valley can deliver. With an intimate knowledge of The Valley, Val understands each area, its history, highlights, concerns and, most importantly, its direction. With nearly a decade of experience as a REALTOR®, Val is dedicated to meeting the needs of buyers and sellers in the Comox Valley. A positive work and family balance has always been important to Val. She and her husband, Guy, are the proud parents of two young boys. Val successfully stick handles her family’s needs while also being available to her clients night and day. Val is a dynamic young woman who is honoured by her military heritage and ties to the K’ómoks First Nation. She is an active member of this vibrant community and a strong negotiator who, through creativity and dedication, is driven to see her clients succeed.

IN THE COMOX VALLEY

250-334-7460 | www.valwright.ca | valwright@royallepage.ca

www.comoxvalleyrecord.com comox professionals

Comox by the Sea ◗ summer 2014 11

Jeanie Bruneau, Owner/Operator Jeanie and her staff at Jeanie’s Vitamin Centre firmly believe that the key ingredients to a happy, healthy life are positive attitudes, good nutrition and exercise. They believe that prevention means choosing a lifestyle you can life with, a lifestyle that will benefit both body and mind. As a recognized practitioner in her field, Jeanie is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist (RHN), a Registered Nutritional Consulting Practitioner (RNCP), a Breast Health practitioner and a Cancer Coach. She is fully qualified to profile nutritional guidance. Jeanie is currently registered in the International Organization of Canada and is a Certified Healthy Breast Practitioner. Her credentials are upgraded annually through numerous courses and meets professional regulatory and registration guidelines as a Registered Nutritional Consulting Practitioner and Cancer Coach.

Jeanie’s

Jeanie’s Vitamin Centre Ltd.

VITAMIN CENTRE Ltd.

215 Port Augusta St. Comox Centre Mall 250-890-0037 www.jeanies-vitamins.com

Jason Gordon, M.Sc., R Aud, Certified Audiologist, Owner Gordon Hearing Services is 100% locally owned and operated. We are not a franchise, and, because we are not owned by a hearing aid manufacturer, we are able to offer all major brands of hearing aids. This enables us to provide a wider selection to our customers. Owner and operator, Jason Gordon, opened Gordon Hearing Services approximately 5 years ago and is a long time Comox Valley resident. He attended school right here in the Valley from kindergarten to grade 12. Jason graduated from the University of British Columbia with a Masters of Science degree in Audiology, and has been a Registered Audiologist for 14 years. As an owner-operator, Jason has a vested interest in ensuring that his clients receive the best possible value and results. He strives to provide the absolute best service to his clients. Jason has lived in the Comox Valley for over 30 years, and can often be found enjoying one of the Valley’s many golf courses or playing with his wife and 2 year old daughter.

Gordon Hearing AUDIOLOGY AND HEARING CENTRE

250-941-8378 #102-1723 Comox Ave., Comox www.gordonhearing.ca

Dr. P Nasralla, Advanced Cosmetic, Neuromuscular & General Dentistry Dr. Phil Nasralla has been delivering dental care to the Comox valley for the past 20 years. In 2013, Dr. Nasralla earned a prestigious Fellowship degree for his years of dedicated training in treating jaw pain and migraine headaches related to bite and jaw joint dysfunctions. In addition, Dr. Nasralla continues to offer family, general and advanced cosmetic dentistry in a spa-like environment where patient comfort and excellent standard of care are paramount. Dr. Nasralla’s clinic offers many amenities including: a food and beverage counter, heated massage pads, warm and cozy blankets, music and TV, a drug-free method to relax patients before treatment procedures, and refreshing scented hot towelettes following each appointment.

Come and experience caring dentistry and let Dr. Nasralla give you something to smile about.

Dr. Phil Nasralla #4-1841 Comox Ave., Comox BC 250.339.2252 | www.DrPhilTheDentist.com

12 Comox by the Sea ◗ summer 2014 www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

Showcasing the ocean’s best products Scott Stanfield Record Staff The annual Comox By The Sea Shellfish and Seafood Celebration will showcase the best shellfish and seafood products in B.C. — presented by world class chefs and innovative producers — June 21 at the Filberg Lodge and grounds. There will be chef demonstrations, tasting booths, a beer garden, a competition to determine the best oyster shucker in B.C., and the Best Chowder Competition. New to this year’s event are interactive displays including live touch tanks and educational booths. “We’ve got some pretty exciting exhibitors and some awesome food booths as well, and some first-class chefs,”

festival co-ordinator Holly Grant said. The event, which had run about seven years at Marina Park, used to be organized by the Shellfish Growers Association. Comox Business In Action now takes care of logistics but the event is largely under the auspices of the Comox Valley Economic Development Society. “It’s grown over the years to the point where they needed to take it to the next level with the marketing, and make it more of a destination-type affair,” Grant said. CVEDS has broadened the festival to allow for various events over a two-week period, she notes. Organizations including the Vancouver Aquarium and North Island College are involved this year. The event will raise funds

world class chefs and innovative producers come together for the Shellfish & Seafood Festival. file photo for a new aquaculture technician program at NIC that supports a holistic approach to aquaculture training. The celebration runs from noon to 5 p.m. Tickets are $15, available at discovercomoxvalley.com. Admission is

free for children 10 and under. The celebration is a signature event of the Shellfish & Seafood Festival, which runs June 13-22 at various locations. For more information, visit bcshellfishfestival.com. reporter@comoxvalleyrecord.com

independent ndependent JOHN’S

YOUR INDEPENDENT GROCER

O P E N S E V E N D AY S A W E E K 8 A M T O 1 0 P M .

AT JOHN’S YOUR INDEPENDENT GROCER, YOU WILL FIND ALL OF YOUR GROCERY NEEDS, along with a wide assortment of fresh items including organic produce, meat and seafood, bakery and deli offerings. The “MEALS TO GO” department features a great selection of items prepared daily including pizzas, hot entrees, salads, soup and sandwiches. Rounding out the store is a FULL SERVICE PHARMACY.

PHARMACY HOURS: Open Seven Days A Week, Sunday 10am – 6pm, Monday –Friday 9am – 8pm, Saturday 9am -6pm.

STORE PHONE: PHARMACY PHONE:

250-339-7651 250-339-6626

LOCATED AT COMOX CENTRE MALL 215 Port Augusta Street, Comox

www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

Comox by the Sea ◗ summer 2014 13

Boating, culture come together with new canoe Erin Haluschak Record Staff He’s given second life to a canoe, and in doing so Stuart Robinson of Compass Adventures in Comox is paying respect to the culture around him. Robinson recently acquired an OC4 outrigger canoe — a 32-foot long boat steeped in traditional Hawaiian culture giving young athletes in the Valley the ability to train yearround. “I wanted something to train on in the winter, and to supplement the Ocean Racing Academy,” he explained. “It happened to be the right time. The boat wasn’t actually a boat, but a mould from which other canoes would be built.” Robinson brought the boat

stuart robinson of Compass Adventures recently acquired an OC4 outrigger steeped in Hawaiian culture Photo Submitted to the Island from Abbotsford, and installed buoyancy tanks and seats, two new lakos — pieces which join the hull to the ama — the outriggers. The hull had to be sanded, and with volunteer hours from local businesses, the boat was finished, added Robinson. “The boat is designed for rougher water conditions and

Dr. Olsen’s DENTAL OFFICE

ACCEPTING

can hold a number of kids,” he explained. Friend Zo Norcross-nu’u donated eight paddles to the racing academy, and Andrew Robinson, master paddler, refinished the paddles with a special addition. “Since the paddles originated in Hawaii and needed some work done, I thought

this was a great chance to do something in honour of their roots,” he said. “We took some Hawaiian grains of sand and put it into the under side of each handle in order to respect the tradition and origins of this great sport. Now anytime this boat goes out, the persons paddling will be holding a piece of Hawaii in their hands and connecting themselves through the Pacific Ocean.” Stuart Robinson said the boat has really helped the training programs for all paddlers, and looks forward to using it in the upcoming summer months. For more information on lessons, the Ocean Racing Academy or water sport camps, visit www.compassadventure.ca. photos@comoxvalleyrecord.com

a delicious

kick in the pants!

NEW

PATIENTS

Call Today to Schedule Your Appointment

LE GENT E CAr

250-339-4111 Unit C 1710 Comox Ave. Comox

LCRoAcaZYl

US DELICIO FOOD H END WITH HIG QUALITY

If you would like a flavorful breakfast and lunch with wine, coffee, chocolate, LEMON POACHED CINNA’S, delicious sandwiches and our great smiles, YOU GOTTA GET DOWN HERE... AND IT’S FUN TOO!

146 Port Augusta St., Comox (250) 941-3474 www.twistedishes.com

14 Comox by the Sea ◗ summer 2014 www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

Variety of styles Renee Andor Record Staff Whether looking for women’s clothes, accessories, home decor or a gift for someone special, The Cottage has plenty of selection on offer. Located in the heart of Comox on Comox Avenue, Susan Tordon’s shop first opened about five years ago. From then until now, Tordon says the comment most new customers make when they enter her business is that the clothing is unique, and there’s lots of styles to choose from. “There’s streamlined things and then there’s soft, flowy kinds of things,” she says, noting made-in-Vancouver brand Sympli is a prominent line in the store, as well as American brands Cut Loose and Bryn Walker. “We carry a lot of European lines, too, made in Denmark, Turkey, India, Portugal and France.” Tordon says prices vary at The Cottage, too. “There’s lots of different price ranges,

at The Cottage

like there’s dresses for $40 right up to dresses for $300 so there’s a big range,” she explains. Accessories like purses, scarves and jewelry are also spread throughout the shop. Meanwhile, The Cottage offers huge variety of home decor with Indaba being a main brand for these items. From dinnerware and glassware, to throw pillows, scented candles, to furniture like a pine lamp table or wine cabinet, a large selection of home decor items are arranged around the periphery of the shop. Tordon says there’s a strong emphasis on customer service at The Cottage, whether one of two “lovely girls” who work at the shop or Tordon herself, helps customers find what they’re looking for. “We help people pick outfits for themselves because there’s so much in here,” she says, noting it would take some time to go through all of the items in the shop. “So, we try to figure out what style they’re comfortable in, what their body shape is like, so that we can dress them and make them look good.”

Susan Tordon’s downtown Comox business The Cottage offers a wide array of clothing, accessories and home decor. Photo by renee andor The Cottage is located at 204-1797 Comox Ave. and is open Monday to Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. For more information, visit http://www.cottagegardenercomox.com/ or call 250-941-2001. writer@comoxvalleyrecord.com

Dine with an ocean view Fully licensed Look for us on Facebook Call: 250-339-0747 for reservations 61 FILBERG RD. COMOX • WWW.FILBERG.COM

COMPLETE MARINE SUPPLY & SERVICE

Power, Sail & Brokerage Services POWERED BY SERVICE

Gift Certificates

for Products & Services

250-941-7373 103 - 1797 Comox Ave. Below the Credit Union with parking access off Beaufort Ave.

www.willsmarinesupply.com

Blue tes Heron r A li p p Su Books A great selection of • • • •

Books Cards Nautical Charts Journals

1775 Comox Ave., Comox • 250-339-6111

www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

rEnEE andor Record Staff After its overwhelming success last year, the welcome package for transient boaters will be back this summer. “It’s a win-win for the boaters and it’s a win-win for our businesses,” says Comox by the Sea co-ordinator Holly grant, who notes the welcome package includes information about things to do in Comox and what businesses are in town, plus some business coupons. Businesses “see the results of the coupon coming back into their stores so they know that they’ve got a boater, so it’s kind of neat.” She notes Wills Marine Supplies & Services as one example, pointing out staff there had coupons from the welcome package coming in most days last summer. Due to its success, grant says the package will be larger this

Comox by the Sea ◗ Summer 2014 15

Boaters package back

year, with about 25 vendors featured, up from about 15 last year. “So the package is even better this year, and the other thing we did was put the walking tour brochure into it as well because the feedback from all the marinas was how much (visitors) really liked that walking tour brochure,” adds grant. “It just gives them ideas of some cool walks to do in downtown Comox and some of the highlights and so forth.” She notes tourism from visit-

ing boaters is significant, with about 2,000 transient boats mooring at the government dock last summer. Meanwhile, Comox Valley Harbour Authority wharfinger robert Clarke says boat rendezvous could become more frequent in Comox. Last summer 56 ranger Tug boats stopped off for one night in Comox on their way up to Cortes Island for a multi-day rendezvous. “This year, they asked if they could come here (for the

rendezvous) because they liked it so much,” says Clarke, noting he expects the same number of boats to attend and the group will be moored at Comox Fisherman’s Wharf from July 17 to 20. “We’re looking at trying to get a few more of these rendezvous happening in Comox,” he continues. “Whether powerboat or sailboat there’s all sorts of different styles of these boats that have these rendezvous.” writer@comoxvalleyrecord.com

ONE WAR,

TWO VICTORIES STORIES OF THE CHINESE CANADIAN MILITARY IN WORLD WAR II

BY SPECIAL PERMISSION FROM

TUESDAY EVENING PADDLE COMOX MARINA PARK 6PM! $5 DONATION PER PERSON INCLUDES BBQ ALL SMALL CRAFT AND LEVELS WELCOME

EVERY TUESDAY STARTING MAY 20TH

THE CHINESE CANADIAN MILITARY MUSEUM VANCOUVER BC WHERE:

THE ALBERNI PROJECT COMOX CENTRE MALL HOURS:

TUESDAY - SATURDAY 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM ADMISSION:

FREE ADMISSION - DONATIONS ACCEPTED SPONSORED BY: THE COMOX CENTRE MALL THE COMOX VALLEY RECORD FULL CIRCLE MEDIA - SALSBURY HOUSE B&B

HOSTED BY CONTACT@COMPASS ADVENTURE.CA

THE ALBERNI PROJECT - HMCS ALBERNI MEMORIAL 250-339-4322 - TAP103@ALBERNIPROJECT.ORG WWW.ALBERNIPROJECT.ORG

16 Comox by the Sea ◗ Summer 2014

www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

delish dish twisted Dishes

One of Life’s most beautiful gifts is your smile. Photo by terry farrell

NEW PATIENTS WELCOME If you wish to become a patient, please visit www.DrPhilTheDentist.com and fill out our questionnaire.

owner and Chef Devon Sexton begins every workday at 4 a.m., making his bread for the day’s business, and putting a roast in the oven. The clientele are the benefactors of Devon’s attention to detail. Devon’s personal touch has had customers raving for nearly a year. His restaurant is open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

the

cottage ~Clothing ~Gifts ~Pretty Things

Inc.

Advanced Cosmetic, Neuromuscular & General Dentistry

250.339.2252

#4-1841 Comox Ave., Comox BC www.DrPhilTheDentist.com

2041797 COMOX AVE., COMOX • 250.941.2001 MONDAY TO SATURDAY: 9:30 TO 5:30

www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

The Great Comox Valley

Comox by the Sea ◗ Summer 2014 17

Let’s Get Ready! To order go to: www.cvemergencykits.com FMI Tim Cowan, Comox Rotary Member

250-339-5050

Emergency Pr Preparedness Kit

for 1

7695

plus tax

Sushi Kobo Take-Out Sushi

FRESH made to order Tues. - Sat. 11:00 am - 7:00 pm CLOSED Sunday, Monday & Holidays

FINE ART SHOW & SALE Over 50 Vancouver Island and Outer Islands

PAINTERS & SCULPTORS exhibiting in a spectacular outdoor setting

Saturday & Sunday, August 9th & 10th, 10 am to 5 pm Marina Park, Comox www.originalsonly.ca

Like us on facebook