August 19, 2014

August 2014

PAPER COVER TO COVER ON-LINE

COMOXVALLEYRECORD.com

This About Town edition is available online

Fashion made in Canada

bout A TOWN

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A potters co-operative

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Tuesday, August 19, 2014

ABOUT TOWN

DCBIA Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Zena Williams Sales manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Liz Royer Advertising SalesRep . . . . . . . . . . .Donna Lafontaine Feature editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jennifer Cox Photography . . . . . . . . .Jennifer Cox, Erin Haluschak Cover Photo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jennifer Cox 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.

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The president’s message

hen I first moved to the Comox Valley from Alberta about four years ago, I didn’t discover the downtown core for the first little while.

When I finally did, I thought wow, what a great little downtown. I want to run a business here. Now I’m the President of the Downtown Courtenay Business Improvement Association (BIA), loving running a pub and being at the heart of this wonderful community.

There have been other changes to Downtown Courtenay, as we see some new businesses opening up with fresh ideas, younger faces finding their places in the local business community, and some older folks retiring. These new business owners and managers contribute a new vibrancy to the downtown core.

Did you know that there are over 240 businesses, including grocery stores, restaurants, boutiques, pubs, cafes, professional services, cultural associations, plenty of free car parking, bike racks, and more in the downtown core? Just park and it’s an

Market Day downtown. This easy walk to all of them. long-running market has been a Bring your visitors downstaple provided by the Downtown town and explore the Courtenay Business Improvement Courtenay Museum, the Association (BIA) for all these Comox Valley Art Gallery, years. The event has transformed new businesses that have somewhat over the decades of opened lately, and enjoy course, as we adapt to changes in the ambience and conveour world and the expectations nience of having a real of our community. The same community centre that can be said for the Comox Valley remains the heart of the DCBIA president Christmas Parade. We’re already Comox Valley. There’s Deana Simkin working on it, so start thinking a friendly face waiting about your entries now; it will to give you personalized be one of the highlights of WinterFest that service here. starts in mid-November.

Downtown people have been busy with Downtowns everywhere reflect the diverse projects and events this year. Back souls of their communities, give back in in June we celebrated all things wildly many ways to local charities, circulate creative with the Elevate the Arts event in money throughout the local economy and our back alleys, and then July 1st brought provide many jobs that support families. the Canada Day Parade down Fifth Street. There’s something wonderful about Downtown Courtenay continues to thrive in doing this thanks to people shopping seeing the crowds of people celebrating and doing their business here. Thanks for our country that way. We had a massive shopping locally! turn-out of vendors for the 44th Annual

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ABOUT TOWN

Tuesday, August 19, 2014

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DCBIA

When you see this icon on your favourite destination’s website all you have to do is click it, type in where you are coming from and Google Transit’s Trip Planner will do the rest.

Downtown Courtenay is one of the Comox Valley’s top transit accessible destinations with dining, shopping, the library, Courtenay Museum and Paleontology Centre, Comox Valley Art Gallery, Sid Williams Theatre and the Florence Filberg Centre.

For more information on Google Transit’s Trip Planner and great destinations accessible by Comox Valley transit, visit: www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/googletransit follow comoxvalleyrd

We carry a wide range of designers such as Michael Kors, Cole Haan, Blondo, Pikolinos, Roberto Capucci, as well as Nine West.

The 2014 DCBIA Board of Directors meets regularly to plan initiatives to improve the downtown core. Pictured from left to right are: Bill Anglin (Courtenay Councillor Liaison), Jorden Marshall (Director), Kim Stubblefield (BIA Executive Director), Mark Middleton (Director), Alana Pearson (BIA Treasurer), Dr. Colin Wilson (Director), Christine Wilson (Director), Jenny Deters (BIA Vice President), Haeley Campbell (Director), Lorna Hughes (BIA Secretary), and Deana Simkin (BIA President).

PHOTO BY JENNIFER COX

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DCBIA board brings downtown businesses together

community spirit is fostered. Events such as Market Day are extremely popular, creating orking together to build community a festival atmosphere with a great mix of shopping and entertainment. is what the Downtown Courtenay Busi“We have heard a lot from our membership ness Improvement Association (BIA) is all that they want more events like Market about. The board meets regularly to develop Day but it takes a lot of work to make these campaigns and initiatives that showcase events happen,” says Simkin. downtown.

BIA Executive Director Kim Since being voted in last June,

by Jennifer Cox BIA President Deana Simkin Stubblefield would love the comand Vice President Jenny Deters have been munity to see the downtown core as a venue. dedicated to walking around downtown, “The BIA is very encouraging of events introducing themselves to the community. such as Go Smart Day, the Classic Cruisers, “I feel that a lot of our membership don’t Elevate the Arts, and the Farmer’s Market,” know who we are or what we do,” explains says Stubblefield. “If a group came up with Simkin. “We would be able to help each other something that was interesting, this board and build a stronger downtown if we all would be very open to looking at it and workknew each other and had each others back.” ing with them.”

One of the strengths of this year’s BIA For groups interested in hosting a downtown Executive is the fact that members represent event, there is an application form on the a cross-section of businesses and services; a BIA website under sponsorships. Stubblefield restaurant, a coffee shop, a retail store and points out that sponsorship is not necessarily an accounting firm. financial.

Downtown Courtenay is a one-stop shop for “We have pretty limited funds,” she explains. everything from chiropractic care, accounting “Events like Go Smart and Classic Cruisers services, clothing, housewares, books, theatre, are great examples. We sponsored them by arts and delis (to name a few!). being welcoming, by approving the down“You can get anything downtown that you town venue for their event and helping to think you have to drive far away to get,” says promote the event to the public.”

Simkin. “You just have to walk in the stores.

If groups are interested in hosting events It’s there.” downtown they can contact info@downtownThe BIA sees downtown as a place where courtenay.com to learn more.

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Tuesday, August 19, 2014

Made in Canada

ABOUT TOWN

FASHION

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Erin Dean of be: Solely Canadian Clothing & Accessories is passionate about supporting sustainable locally made clothing.

PHOTO BY JENNIFER COX

favourites. ore and more consumers are concerned “I love We3 and Melow for their flattering silhouettes, soft about how and where their clothing is made, draping fabrics, and stylish comfort,” she says. “and I’m especially after the horrific 2013 tragedy in afraid that I might be slightly addicted to the merino wool Bangladesh, where garment workers were forced to work Erdaine sweaters we get in the fall!” in conditions so unsafe that the building

by Jennifer Cox The Erdaine collection is an eco-conscious, sothey were working in collapsed killing over cially responsible clothing line manufactured in one thousand workers and injuring thouVancouver. Extra-fine merino wool gives the sweaters a soft, sands more. luxurious feel.

At be: Solely Canadian Clothing & Accessories customers do When Dean took over be in 2009, the store featured Canadinot need to worry about checking labels. Knowing the clothan-made yoga lines but it did not have the range of product ing they are purchasing is sourced locally with a commitment to product made in safe, ethical working conditions pro- now available.

“I’ve brought in over 30 Canadian clothing lines, most of vides assurance that it has not been made in a sweatshop. which are designed and made right in BC, as well as several Erin Dean is passionate about supporting sustainable locally made jewellery and accessory lines,” she says proudly.

Canadian-made clothing designs. As the owner of be: Solely Canadian Clothing & Accessories, she is diligent in searching “Actually there’s only one line still remaining from the original store so I guess it’s been pretty much totally transout merchandise from small independent artists and entreformed.” preneurs across the country.

The clothing and accessories sold at be are typically produced “I wanted to bring more ethically, sustainably made clothing in small batches as limited edition, one-of-a-kind styles. options to the valley and also showcase these incredibly “We get a wide range of styles in but always lots of classic talented Canadian designers,” she says. “I love knowing that and timeless designs,” Dean says. “When someone is new to my small business is supporting other small independent the shop they will often tell us how impressed they are that Canadian artists and entrepreneurs, many of whom I’ve we are able to have such a great selection of products all gotten to know personally.” made in Canada.”

Brands such as We3, Erdaine and Melow are some of Dean’s

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ABOUT TOWN

Tuesday, August 19, 2014

Saving

Q. What have your parents taught you about the importance of managing your money and saving for the future?

A. My parents taught me to spend half and save half.

Q. Why is this important to you?

A. Because I want to have a good future and a nice house with a Jacuzzi tub.

Q. What do you like/dislike about having a bank account of your own?

A. I like it because I can put money in any time I want pretty much.

Q. Do you have anything special you are saving up for?

A. Yes, in 2018 my family and I are going to Italy.

Q. Do you or your parents talk about saving for your future education?

A. Yes. I want to have a good education and get a good job.

Q. What do you like better, saving money or spending it?

A. Well, I like to spend some of it and save up the rest.

Q. What kinds of treats do you like to buy yourself?

A. I like buying really cool beads to make jewelry and I like buying art supplies, like canvases to paint on.

Q. Were you intimidated or nervous about opening up a bank account or did it feel easy for you?

COMMUNITY

FOR A RAINY DAY

Sydney Gilchrist is a young entrepreneur whose mother Kristina has worked at the Coastal Community Credit Union for the past decade. Sydney has grown up learning the importance of managing money and saving for a rainy day. When her 11th birthday party at a local bead shop introduced her to the art of jewelry design last year, she took the opportunity to become a young entrepreneur, starting her own business making and selling jewelry.

At her first craft fair she counted close to $100 in profit and didn’t hesitate to take her mother’s advice to save half her earnings before splurging on something new.

Q&A

Q. How old were you when you opened your first bank account?

A. 8 years old

Courtenay 5th Street Florist

Sydney Gilchrest puts away half her earnings every time she makes money.

PHOTO BY JENNIFER COX

A. It felt easy and nerve wracking at the same time because I didn’t know what was going to happen. After it was done I thought,

‘that was easy!’

Q. What have you learned from your experiences so far?

I’ve learned that being dedicated to something pays off!

••• The Coastal Community Credit Union is very supportive of youth initiatives to gain real-life business experience. In addition to the opportunity for youth to become credit union members and open their own bank accounts, the credit union offers educational programs that encourage entrepreneurship amongst youth in grades four to seven.

There are representatives available to attend local schools, presenting educational material and resources. Elementary students learn how to develop and run a business, from research and market strategy to creating and selling their product at a school wide sale.

Sydney did not take part in this program in her school, but her mother has always encouraged her to use her creative talents to become an entrepreneur, and continues to teach her the value of saving her earnings.

The skills Sydney has developed over the past year, running her own business and setting short-term and long-term savings goals, will serve her for a lifetime.

More info on the Young Entrepreneurs Educational Program is available at: bit. ly/1oNuHGp

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Conscious

ABOUT TOWN

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Clothing & Accessories

by Jennifer Cox

ndividually we are one drop. Together we are an ocean,” said the Japanese poet, Ryunosuke Satoro. This quote speaks to the importance of collaboration and co-operation; attributes that members of the Potters Place know well.

The 13-member co-operative works together to maintain a dynamic venue to display and retail member pottery as well as the designs of 21 consigners. The Potters Place is unique in the Comox Valley for being the only artist-run co-operative pottery store in the region. It was established by a group of local potters and artists in 1991. Three of the founding members are still with the group; Sue Taylor, Elizabeth Raynor, and Irene Miles.

By running their business co-operatively, the potters are able to maintain a gallery of work in a central location. Visitors from

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ABOUT TOWN

near and far appreciate being able to access a wide variety of locally crafted wares, and because members work hands-on in the store, customers are able to interact directly with the artists.

The potters who work in the store are thrilled to have an opportunity to share stories with their customers, whether selling their own or a fellow potter’s work.

Tuesday, August 19, 2014

“We are always very supportive of one another,” says Taylor. “You are just as happy to sell someone else’s pot as you are your own.”

Fellow member of the co-operative, Joe Stefiuk, has a strong appreciation for his fellow potters.

“You are always wanting to experiment,” he says. “Always getting ideas.”

Stefiuk is a skilled potter and avid collector.

He has hundreds of pottery tea bowls acquired in his travels and finds new inspiration in each one.

“They are the same but different,” he explains. “They might be fired different, or use different techniques. Some are made in ways that I know I could never replicate.”

Each of the potters at the Potters Place has their own individual techniques. Some use raku, while others prefer salt glazing. Some use electric kilns while others prefer the dynamic effects of pit firing.

Maeva Collins has created an exquisite collection of pit-fired pots. Some are on display in the Potters Place while others have been shipped to Australia for a special exhibit, as part of a book launch she is featured in.

She explains the process for pit firing, how the pit is layered with organics beneath a glowing wood bonfire.

“With all the organics and copper, the natural colours come forth,” she says, noting that her pots are not glazed despite their smooth, shiny finish.

Stefiuk creates unique adaptions of local wildlife (pictured to the left).

“It’s a take off on constructing,” he says pointing to one of his pieces on display. “It’s sort of a cow but it’s not. It’s a little more dramatic.”

These unique pieces are created through wood firing, a time-consuming method that

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A display of pottery eggs by Ellen Statz requires a group of potters to work together, stoking and feeding the fire every 5-10 minutes for 35 hours.

“One thing about ceramics is that it’s labour intensive all the way through,” explains Stefiuk. “Working communally at times is the only way you can accomplish that.”

“We all joke that in our next life we’ll work with feathers,” laughs Collins. “But when you find the results that are unique, that work for your vision, it’s a passion! You can’t stop.”

The potters all agree that the work is gruelling and labour-intensive, but they are not deterred. They share a passion for their craft that is evident in their commitment to the store and to one another.

“It’s not just a store,” says Collins. “It’s a community of potters.”

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Tuesday, August 19, 2014

S

ABOUT TOWN

TRENDS

park, no kateboarding has one boos gone mainstream. you if you “It’s now a cool kid thing to don’t land a do whereas before we used trick. But if to get ripped on for skateyou do land boarding,” says Trevor Weir, manager of OneThirtyThree. something you hear Weir, 27, has been working everyone in the store since he was cheering you on,” Weir ex14. He started out doing plains. “It’s pretty cool!” odd jobs in exchange for The first trick merchandise

by Jennifer Cox Weir ever learned and worked was the nollie pop his way up to shovit, where you go off the store manager. nose of the board and spin “When I started out I was it in a half circle. This is a just a little punk kid skating standard beginner’s trick around,” he says with a but Weir is quick to point smile.

The skateboarding culture in out that skating is not just about the difficulty level of the Comox Valley embraces the trick. a strong sense of comradery.

“It’s all about style,” he This vision extends from the explains. “Everybody skates OneThirtyThree storefront different. Someone might to the skate park where do a really basic trick but young and old come together to learn new tricks and cheer they do it on something that makes it look way cooler and each other on. with such style that it’s the “When you go to the skate

SKATER STYLE IS ALL

About Attitude

and huge cheers when you best trick ever.” land a trick.

Karl Wilson, full time em“It definitely helps motivate ployee at OneThirtyThree, you as a skateboarder beagrees. cause you work hard and try “There’s such a wide variety your best. You’re of tricks and combinations,” Skateboard- practicing and practicing, he says. “One ers are very tough so when you guy might people. You fall finally land like to skate and get back up your trick and street stuff all your friends like ledges and and keep skating. are around you rails. Another cheering… It’s guy might Trevor Weir a great accomskate vert stuff plishment!” like bowls and Choosing the right clothes quarter pipes and jumps.”

Like Weir, he appreciates the for skateboarding is all about personal preference. culture of encouragement Supra Stacks are a lightamongst skaters. Friends weight and affordable shoe offer support when you fall

❝ ❞

The skateboarding culture in the Comox Valley embraces a strong sense of comradery.

PHOTO BY ERIN HALUSCHAK

popular with skaters but everyone likes something different.

“There’s no good, bad, right or wrong,” says Weir when asked what shoes are best to skateboard in. “Some people like big giant bulky shoes

while others want Vans.”

OneThirtyThree is a great place for kids to go if they want tips on starting out in skateboarding. The store has a huge selection of brand name clothing, snapback hats, shoes and boards.

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ABOUT TOWN

“Our inventory is huge compared to what it used to be!” Weir says pointing to the Landyacht, DGK, Sector 9 and DB decks and accessories that line the back wall of the store. “This is what we call the candy aisle!”

When asked if he has any advice for young skateboarders, Weir is quick to say safety.

“We sell tons of helmets to kids. You learn to fall really well when you skateboard,” he says. “Skateboarders are very tough. You fall and get back up and keep skating.”

Weir likes to keep some premade skateboards on display.

He encourages customers to try them out.

“At first you just stand on the board,” he tells new skaters. “You’ve got to play around on the board to get a feel for it and go from there.”

One thing that Weir says is a must for skateboarders wanting to take their sport to the next level is attitude.

Weir loves working with

Tuesday, August 19, 2014

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OneThirtyThree carries many popular brand names, including Skidlords; a company that has strong roots in the Comox Valley. The t-shirts worn Photo by Erin Haluschak in the above photo sell for $35 each. talented skateboarders to help them achieve sponsorship but he points out that it

takes more than talent.

“It doesn’t matter how good you are at skating,” he says.

“If you have a bad attitude and go into it with no respect, no-one’s gonna want to

sponsor you! The whole work ethic with skateboarding is similar to school. If you want

to do good in school you have to try. It’s the same with skating.”

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Tuesday, August 19, 2014

ABOUT TOWN

Steeped in tradition COMMUNITY

J • E • W • E • L • L • E • R •S

Pioneer Days at the Comox Valley Exhibition

A

by Jennifer Cox

griculture has been an important part of the Comox Valley since the first settlers arrived in 1862. Modern concepts of eating local and sustainability were not at the forefront of farmers’ minds in those days. It was simply a way of life.

A commitment “to the protection and advancement of agricultural interests within the district, including the holding of a fair” is at the root of the first agricultural society, which began in 1873 and registered as an official organization on July l6, 1874.

The first few decades of the agricultural society were tumultuous. A hall was built on a two-acre property adjoining the old schoolhouse at Sandwick, where dances and public functions were held until the building was destroyed by a heavy snowfall in 1889 and not rebuilt. Though there would have been opportunities for farmers to show off their wares, history records do not show a consistent annual fall fair in the community until 1893.

Discord amongst the membership may have inhibited planners from forming an annual fair sooner. According to the field notebook of surveyor, George Drabble, an agricultural meeting on October 18, 1873 ended with W.R. Robb taking

The dust and dirt of the fairgrounds did not stop attendees from arriving at the annual fall fair in their Sunday best. PHOTO COURTESY COURTENAY AND DISTRICT MUSEUM P55-113A

his coat off and challenging members to a fight. By January 1883, the society was defunct. But interest in the association persisted, and in 1893, the society entered into a lease agreement with William Lewis securing property for the annual fall fair that is now a Comox Valley tradition. Before an agricultural hall was built on the property, exhibits were displayed in a booth made of fir boughs. Over the years the fair has undergone many changes, but the commitment to agriculture has remained at its root.

The first annual fair was a popular community event, a huge success according to the Oct. 4, 1893 edition of the Weekly News, which stated that, “many of the oldest residents appear to be surprised at the fine character and number of exhibits and the universal interest manifested.”

Among the days highlights, John J.R.

Miller, of Little River, showed off corn that had grown over ten feet tall and Alex Urquhart took home a silver cup prize valued at $50 for the best ‘division A’ animal; a jersey bull named Riot Act. The best dairy exhibit was awarded to Mrs. W. Lewis for packed butter (which would have been a competitive exhibit as this region was known to produce such high quality butter in those days that Comox Creamery Butter retailed for five cents above other brands on the market).

According to Leila Carroll, who wrote the historical book, Wild Roses and Rail Fences, the most exciting event “was burling a floating log on the river. The expert at this lively competition was Bob Martin, who defeated all his opponents by burling them into the river.”

(According to Land of Plenty, Martin lost his winning streak in 1925 when Wallace Baikie claimed first prize.)

The fun continued as energetic boys raced to climb a greasy pole, or tried their best to catch a pig that had been covered in grease and let loose for the chase.

The Comox Valley Exhibition Fall Fair has been a popular community event for generations as pioneer families and newcomers continue the legacy of celebrating local agriculture.

This year’s event will take place August 22-24. More info can be found at www.cvex.ca

Made in Canada

DOW N TOW N C O U RT E NAY 2 5 0 - 3 3 4-4523

Nowadays, the midway is a family favourite

PFILE PHOTO

ABOUT TOWN

Tuesday, August 19, 2014

The Wednesday downtown farmers’ market has been a hit with locals.

Urban Harvest

PHOTO BYJENNIFER COX

COMMUNITY

FARMERS’ MARKET COMES DOWNTOWN ON WEDNESDAYS

F

by Jennifer Cox

oodies don’t have to travel further than Downtown Courtenay to fill their pantries with locally grown agriculture.

From 9 a.m to 1 p.m. every Wednesday until the end of September, vendors line England Avenue on the blocks between Fifth and Sixth streets, providing an opportunity for shoppers to interact directly with farmers and food producers.

According to Market Manager Vickey Brown, the mid-week market serves close to 600 people each week, and surveys indicate that those consumers are staying downtown to do more shopping with local merchants.

“The downtown business association has been super supportive, encouraging us to host markets downtown,” says Brown. “The people that work downtown love it! Lots of people can’t get to the market on Headquarters road so

the mid-week market gives another option.”

The downtown location makes locally grown, farm-fresh food accessible to a wider population, including lower-income families who may not have the means to travel to a market located in the country.

The B.C. Association of Farmers’ Markets, through Healthy Families BC, has a nutrition program that provides participants with weekly coupons to purchase fruit, vegetables, meat, cheese and other products.

Brown is thrilled that the Comox Valley Farmer’s market is able to participate in this program.

“It helps local families access farm fresh food,” she says. “Some don’t have cars, or with five kids can’t get to the Saturday market, so they are thrilled to have a downtown market.”

For shoppers who forget to bring cash, tokens are available to purchase with debit or credit cards. Vendors treat these tokens as cash, making it easy to shop for what you need without having to rush to the bank first. Downtown residents and merchants are committed to shopping local, understanding first-hand the importance of keeping resources in the community. Farmers’ Market vendors share this philosophy.

“We’re finding that there is more of a connection with local retailers and vendors who believe in shopping local,” says Brown. “It is a good match with local businesses who believe in and are committed to keeping dollars in town.”

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Tuesday, August 19, 2014

ABOUT TOWN

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Trail running for fun and fitness Every Thursday night from March through September a group of runners carpool from Extreme Runners in Downtown Courtenay to explore the many recreational trails that surround the Comox Valley. The large group of runners has a wide range of ability.

Whether a person needs to walk periodically or is working on increasing speed and agility this weekly fitness run provides an opportunity to discover the joys of local trails such as Seal Bay, Nymph Falls, the Northeast Woods, and the popular Cumberland hills.

The workout lasts one hour, but there is a pace for everyone. No one is left behind.

While the fastest group might log 13 km over gnarly, rocky trails, there are walkers and slow runners who cover five kilometres on easier trails.

The Thursday night trail initiative, which participants call TNT, began eight years ago.

Lene Curtis, owner of Extreme Runners, started the running group as a venue for

The Comox Valley offers some of the best running trails anywhere in the country. safe, fun community trail runs. They began with a small cohort of runners and have grown to see as many as 93 participants at a time.

“Nobody was born on the trail,” says volunteer leader, Frank Graham. “We all had to be shown the trails. There were many people that showed me trails, so I show people trails

and they share the trails and it’s a great way to give back to the trail running community.”

Program leaders are all volunteers committed to trail running and familiar with the local trail networks. Graham has been running with the group since it started. He volunteered to help lead for four weeks and had so much fun with the group that he is still on the trails eight years later. When he had to stop running due to an injury he formed a walking group and found new leaders to keep the walkers involved once his injury healed and he was back to running.

“I try to keep the groups around ten to twelve so depending how many people show up I need eight to twelve leaders,” he explains. “We have leaders who started out as beginners, not knowing the trails and now they have been running for a few years and know the trails well, so have become leaders.”

Graham loves the strong sense of community that is formed on the trails.

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ABOUT TOWN

Tuesday, August 19, 2014

13

Alongside new runners, there are at least a dozen who have been running with TNT ever since it started.

“People come out because they want to learn all these beautiful trails they hear about, but what keeps people coming back is the social side of it,” he explains.

“After 26 weeks of meeting every Thursday with the same pace and the same love of the trails, friendships are formed.”

Throughout the year, TNT leaders organize potlucks and pub nights and as in the summer heat, they encourage runners to stick around for a cooling lake or river swim after the run. The group loves opportunities to share food and socialize.

“I think that is what really keeps Thursday night trails together,” says Graham.

TNT runs are free and open to all. For info call Extreme Runners at 250-7039544 or go online, bit.ly/1pslkMh

Upcoming TNT Runs: August 21: Twister August 28: Cumberland Hills September 4: Comox Lake Dam Septmeber 11: Seal Bay September 18: Nymph Falls September 25: Comox Lake Dam

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Tuesday, August 19, 2014

ABOUT TOWN

Rawthentic Eatery

Butcher’s Block

It is hard to pick my favourite thing from here but their ‘Classic Wrap’ is one of my regular lunches.

They have an amazing deli selection for a quick lunch and the quality selection of local products make shopping for dinner at the same time easy too.

They have a salad called ‘The Best Salad Ever,’ which is very good!

Cardero’s Ski Tak Hut The most convenient place for me to rent my snowshoes and winter equipment.

My 10fect picks per Who: Alana Pearson Where: In our beautiful Downtown Courtenay What: Chartered Accountant, MNP

Red Living I am looking forward to taking a chalk painting class in the near future.

Rattan Plus I love their collection of reclaimed wood furniture. I could find a place in my home for all of it! The sundried coffee tables are on my wish list!

Downtown Courtenay has an endless supply of gluten free meals, snacks and treats but if I had to pick a favourite it would probably be the ‘made to order’ gluten free sandwiches at Carderos. They put a delicious breakfast sandwich together for me one morning.

Cakebread Their ‘Chocolate Florentine’ is one of my favourite treats.

Shoebiz Comox Valley Farmer’s Market

This market brings so much life to downtown! It is a one-stop shop for all things local.

I really enjoy walking around the market and picking up fresh mixed greens for salad.

My new Nine West pumps are a staple.

There are always so many fun shoes and accessories here.

Sid Williams Theatre The North Island Festival of Performing Arts followed by the Dance Gala is a must see each year!

ABOUT TOWN

Tuesday, August 19, 2014

Aug 16 - Sept 20 Comox Valley Art Gallery

The Waste Land Aug 16 - September 13 Comox Valley Art Gallery

Reclamation Aug 16 - September 13 Comox Valley Art Gallery

NIC Fine Art Students Aug 19 - Aug 20 Courtenay Museum

The Nature Lab & Studio for Children. (ages 6-10) Aug 19 - Aug 21 Courtenay Museum

Discovery Camps. “Happy Feet” - ages 6-8 and “Science I.D.” - ages 9-12

Oct 3 - Oct 11 Sid Williams Theatre 7:30pm 2:00pm

Enchanted April - A Courtenay Little Theatre presentation Oct 17 - Oct 25 Sid Williams Theatre

Gypsy - A Rainbow Youth Theatre Production Oct 26 Sid Williams Theatre 7:30pm

The Strombellas - Blue Circle Series Oct 27 Sid Williams Theatre 10:30am

Mattina Music featuring Krzysztof Kaczka Oct 28 Sid Williams Theatre 7:30 pm

Sept 18 Sid Williams Theatre 7:30 pm

Elvis - The Moments with Pete Paquette

Chicago Experience featuring Kenny Cetera

Oct 30 Sid Williams Theatre 7:30 pm

Sept 19 Sid Williams Theatre 7:30 pm

The Matinee & Good for Grapes Sept 20 Sid Williams Theatre 7:30 pm

Evalyn Parry’s Spin Sept 22 Sid Williams Theatre 10:30 am

Mattina Music featuring Rebecca Wenham

By A Thread

Sept 27 - Nov 1 Comox Valley Art Gallery

The Blues Project Sept 27 Sid Williams Theatre 7:30 pm

Checo Tohomaso & The Victoria Soul Gospel Choir

Oct 31 Downtown Courtenay

Halloween Nov 2 Sid Williams Theatre

Comox Valley Child Development Association Telethon Nov 8 Sid Williams Theatre 1:00pm

Max & Ruby in the Nutcracker Suite

Nov 15 Sid Williams Theatre 7:30pm

Avenue Q

For more information on these events please check out their websites: www.downtowncourtenay.com www.sidwilliamstheatre.com www.comoxvalleyartgallery.com www.courtenaymuseum.ca

T

AT THE LIBRARY

by Jennifer Cox

he Vancouver Island Public Library, Courtenay Branch at the corner of 6th Street and Duncan Avenue downtown is a refuge and resource for book lovers. It is also a space for creativity to flourish.

Throughout the year, the library hosts Lego clubs, dedicated craft times, and fun exploratory events such as the cardboard challenge where kids and adults come together to build structures from cardboard, recycled material and a whole lot of imagination. The 2014 Cardboard Challenge will take place Saturday, Oct. 11. It is the second year the library has hosted this event.

“All we did was provide raw material, and people spent hours creating,” explains Library Manager Colleen Nelson remembering last year’s event.

“We just want kids to come create whatever they like.”

The library has many resources available to foster learning and creativity. In addition to shelves lined with books, there is a wealth of information available through electronic resources.

“You don’t’ need to be in the library to use resources,” says Nelson. A library card gives community members access to online databases, e-books, journal articles and research materials accessible from home computers.

When students are working on projects the library is a great starting point for inspiration but many youth do not know where to begin. The librarian is there to help.

ol o h c S o t Back

“A librarian is professionally trained in research skills and knows resources well,” says Nelson explaining that children’s librarian Darcy Crum is available to help student’s navigate information.

There are homework help databases available for kindergarten to grade twelve. Before students begin a research project they can book time with a librarian to talk about resources, strategies, and how to use a catalogue. They will be given a tour of resources, and information on how to access the library from home. This is available to individual students as well as entire classes.

With Lego clubs, early literacy games, and a wide selection of electronic resources and databases the library is a constantly evolving centre for innovation and inspiration.

The Courtenay library covers evrything from Lego to literacy.

PHOTO BY JENNIFER COX

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COMMUNITY

15

• New Balance • New Balance • New Balance • New Balance • New Balance •

16

Tuesday, August 19, 2014

ABOUT TOWN

Renovate, restore, redesign COMMUNITY

A

Façade improvement program committed to revitalization

by Jennifer Cox

vibrant downtown with unique Duncan Ave. But it is important to note that shops and a lively atmosphere façade improvement funding is available for more than just paint. cannot be taken for granted. The Downtown Businesses can replace or upgrade doors, Business Improvement Association (BIA) windows, lighting, architectural details and works hard throughout the year to plan many other features. initiatives that support existing businesses In 2014, the grant will support two very while attracting new enterprises to the area. different projects, demonstrating the diverse The façade improvement grant program is a range of undertakings eligible for funding. program dedicated to revitalizing downtown One grant has been awarded to Ski Tak businesses, providing funding for property Hut to upgrade store signage with a new, and business owners to renovate, restore or sandblasted sign, while another project has redesign their commercial building façades received funding to resurface the patio area and storefronts. outside Mudsharks, on the corner of Fourth “We work a lot with the city on the beautiStreet and Cliffe Ave. fication of downtown,” says Deana Simkin, Al Dunnet of Ski Tak Hut has already set BIA president, pointing to the flower boxes, plans in motion to have new lights and banners that line signage installed before the downtown sidewalks. Like the We work a lot store reopens for the season. façade improvement program, with the city on “It’s a beautiful new handthese features are part of an carved cedar sign that will add ongoing vision to keep the down- the beautification character to our store,” he says. town environment vibrant. of downtown.

“The façade improvement pro“As a BIA, our mandate is to supDeana Simkin gram has definitely helped us. port businesses downtown,” she Plans for the sign have been in says. The façade improvement the works for a while but our biggest priority program is a tangible way that the BIA can has been paying bills before investing in help businesses make improvements they improvements.” otherwise might not afford. This program is The façade improvement program has been an example of the BIA’s commitment to revivery successful since being initiated in 2013. talizing and beautifying the downtown core.

Though funds are limited, this initiative is For many small business owners, this kind important to BIA board members who are of grant funding is the only way to make committed to the revitalization of downtown. necessary improvements affordable. According to the BIA website, 50 percent of upgrade “Applications are online and can be submitcosts are available per project, to a maximum ted anytime but they will only be reviewed once a year in the spring,” explains Kim of $5,000.

Stubblefield, BIA Executive Director. For Last year the program provided resources detailed information on how the Façade Imfor the painting of two corner buildings; the provement Program works and a link to the McConochies building on the corner of Fifth grant application form, visit www.dowtownStreet and England Ave; and Codes Councourtenay.com/about/facade try Lanes on the corner of Sixth Street and

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The patio at Mudsharks will be getting resurfaced, and Ski Tak Hut will be getting new signage (artist’s rendition to the left), all thanks to the façade improvement grant program

ABOUT TOWN

Tuesday, August 19, 2014

17

ARTS & CULTURE

Date night at the Sid

by Jennifer Cox

W

in and offered to go along. It was his first-ever experience attending the ballet and it surpassed his expectations.

The Sid Williams Theatre Society hen Travis Ruttan attended brings a diverse range of performances his first ballet performance last spring, to the Comox Valley throughout the he admits feeling slightly nervous. year as part “I had all these preof their Blue conceptions going in, I thought it was going to Circle Series. of what a ballet was be a bunch of girls in tutus “The mandate going to be,” he says. behind our Blue “I thought it was prancing around. What I Circle Series is going to be a bunch of actually ended up seeing about providing girls in tutus prancwas something like cirque de our community ing around. What I soleil! with the opporactually ended up seeing was something Travis Ruttan tunity to see a diverse range like cirque de soleil! of professional I was very surprised artists who typically only visit large because it’s not what I thought. urban centres,” explains Tara Murphy, He hadn’t expected to be attending marketing & development co-ordinator. the ballet that evening. Tickets for the “You cannot put a price on the value Ballet Victoria performance of Carmina of a first-time theatre experience. As Burana had been purchased for his human beings, it’s in our nature to fiancée, Jacqueline Lafontaine and her separate ourselves from those who are mother to attend. When the original different and live in different situaplans fell through, Ruttan stepped

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tions. Experiencing the theatre and the performing arts breaks that separation barrier.”

If the ballet had not come to the Sid Williams Theatre, Ruttan would never have attended. His work schedule does not typically allow him to book time off at the spur of the moment, not to mention the financial investment of travelling to the city.

“At work I told them that I went to the ballet and they all laughed but it was actually really good,” he says remembering the performance. “I used to be in kickboxing and some of these guys could kick higher than I could. It was amazing!”

Lafontaine was thrilled that her fiancé was willing to give the ballet a try and even more thrilled when he loved it as much as she did. She smiles broadly as she shares advice for other first-time theatre-goers: “Don’t be afraid to try something new because you never know what you’re going to experience.”

Travis Ruttan has his fianceé, Jacqueline Lafontaine, to thank for introducing him to ballet.

PHOTO BY JENNIFER COX

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Tuesday, August 19, 2014

ABOUT TOWN

RETAIL

A passion for community

S

tories have surrounded Craig Carson his entire life but the ones that fascinate him the most are the personal stories shared amongst the customers, colleagues and friends that he connects with on a daily basis.

“I’ve informed myself through any number of books but for the most part my information comes from having conversations with my customers,” he says.

A 13-year old youth was in the store recently looking for books on classic philosophy.

“He was asking for books that I can’t even imagine reading,” Carson exclaims. “It is one of the highlights of the store to run into people who are absolutely passionate about knowledge.”

There are many long-term customers, some who have shopped at the store since it opened thirty-five years ago.

“I have customer’s kids who are shopping here as adults now,” he says of the long-term connections made in the store. “It’s fun because it’s a store where customers are repeat customers. We have all these wonderful conversations.”

Carson literally grew up surrounded by books. As a child he lived in an apartment above the library where his mother worked in Mission, B.C. He would arrive home from school, greet his cat at the door, and head downstairs to the library to help his mother shelve books.

“I knew the Dewey decimal system by the time I was twelve,” he says reminiscing.

When his mother, Mali Carson, opened Second Page Bookstore with business partner, Dorothy Carmichael in 1979, Craig was a young man working as a tree-planter and logger. He often came home to visit his mother, feeling a strong sense of community in the second hand bookstore. So when his mother called him in the year 2000 with news that Carmichael wanted to sell her half of the store, he jumped at the chance to become his mother’s business partner.

“I was here within days,” he says. “The timing worked out very well.”

Craig and his mother worked together until, at age 87, health problems forced her to retire. Craig continued to call on her for advice and inspiration until she passed away in 2006.

These days, when he is looking for inspiration or advice, he turns to a younger generation of entrepreneurs whose passion for building the downtown core energizes him.

“I’m here for the long haul,” he says explaining that he has no plans to retire any time soon. “With that in mind I’ve pushed myself to see how the next generation is going to market themselves. What changes are they bringing to downtown core and how can I fit in with them? We have everything to learn from the next generation because the world will be theirs in the future decades.”

MAD CHEF CAFE Craig Carson, owner of Second Page books, is passionate about the power of community to build a dynamic downtown.

PHOTO BY JENNIFER COX

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ABOUT TOWN

Tuesday, August 19, 2014

19

DOWNTOWN FLAVOUR

o w t r o f e l A tab New era for union street grill A hearty healthy lunch at the Union Street Grill, as long-time owners hand over the restaurant to new Comox Valley residents.

by Jennifer Cox

I

t is a new era for the Union Street Grill, as long-time restaurateurs, Mark and Danielle Duncan hand the reigns over to new owners, Zhao Zhengfu and Liu Weihong, who have just recently moved to the Comox Valley from Shenzhen City, China (a large, modern city situated

just north of Hong Kong.)

What attracted the couple to move from a large, dynamic city to a small city on Vancouver Island?

“The friendly people and the wonderful life,” says Zhengfu.

The couple took over the Union Street Grill on July 31, 2014 and look forward to building on the strong sense of community that the Duncan’s have instilled.

“Is the menu going to change?”

I ask fearfully as I sit down to lunch.

My server, Emily Cummings, assures me that the new owners are not planning to make big changes right away. The extensive menu, including a separate gluten-free menu, will stay consistent.

My long-time favourite, the walnut mushroom burger will The walnut mushroom burger is a popular menu item. remain on the menu as Zhengfu PHOTOS BY ERIN HALUSCHAK and Weihong take possession of the popular downtown eatery.

Yams are known to be rich in I have been ordering the walnut As much as I love my walnut fibre and have a low glycemic mushroom burger for close mushroom burger and stand index in spite of their sweetness to twenty years. I am not a behind it being one of my favouso it’s a healthy choice. vegetarian. I just really like rite menu items, Erin’s quinoa One of the things I love about the flavor of the patty, which avocado salad looks stunning; the Union Street Grill is their is a delicious combination of grilled baby romaine lettuce and focus on local food producers. roasted walnuts, mushrooms roasted red peppers sprinkled and garbanzo beans topped with The refreshing and thirst with goat cheese served over quenching pomesautéed a bed of organic quinoa salad granate soda mushlayered with a fresh stack of rooms, Eatmore sprouts. Her meal is My long-time favourite, made by Island Soda Works is the lettuce, low in fat and high in flavor. the walnut mushroom burgperfect accomtomato, Quinoa has so many health er, will remain on the menu paniment to my and a benefits that some people call it meal. tasty gar- as Zhengfu and Weihong the new superfood. take possession of the popu- The restaurant lic herb It has more protein than other lar downtown eatery. carries one mayo. grains, is gluten-free and is It is a filled with nutrient-rich antioxJennifer Cox soda variety at a time, desatisfying, idants. pending on what is available. savory choice every time, and in Erin finds the meal energizing, The wild-crafted, naturally my opinion the best vegetarian which is important as she heads fermented soda is delicious. burger in town. back to work for a busy afterMy friend and colleague, Erin The burger comes with a choice noon after our lunch date ends.

Haluschak, ordered the soda as of soup, chili, fries or greens.

As we finish our meal, we both well, and she agrees that it is a I love fresh greens but on this agree: there’s nothing better refreshing treat in the middle of occasion, I choose yam fries, than good conversation over which are a slightly higher price a hot summer day. a nourishing meal to set the This is when I admit I have but they are so tasty it is well course for a productive afterlunch envy! worth it! noon.

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Island Soda Works pomegranate soda is refreshing, paired with quinoa avocado salad, for a healthy, nourishing lunch.

20

Tuesday, August 19, 2014

ABOUT TOWN

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