Parksville Qualicum Beach News, December 22, 2015 by Black Press Media Group

TUESDAY DECEMBER 22, 2015

Black Press C O M M U N I T Y

N E W S

M E D I A

www.pqbnews.com

CCNA BCYCNA

General Excellence

BUSINESS CONNECTIONS

CALLING FOR ACCORDIANS

Provincial government funding helps chamber take a walk

Qualicum Beach man is trying to round up enough players to form a club

A19

A15

PARKSVILLE COMMUNITY/CONFERENCE CENTRE

Society looks for new prez Operating agreement with city set to expire at the end of month JOHN HARDING

editor@pqbnews.com

The president of the society that operates the embattled Parksville Community and Conference Centre has resigned. Kirk Walper gave the society his resignation letter last week. Walper and PCCC executive director Margaret Spruitt have appeared before city council twice this month and faced a tough line of questioning about the facility’s budget and direction from councillors. The PCCC’s 2016 budget was approved by council this month — the vote was 5-1 with Coun. Sue Powell opposed. The PCCC expects to have $431,258 of income in 2016, $247,294 (57 per cent) of which comes from the taxpayers of the city in the form of a subsidy. Council had a staff recommendation at that same Dec. 8 meeting to renew the operating agreement between the city and the society for five years, but tabled that motion. The current agreement expires Dec. 31. Kirk Oates is the councillor who serves as the liaison to the PCCC society. He said of Walper’s letter of resignation: “it’s not flattering.” He also said he’s hopeful the society’s board “can elect a new board and get on with business.” See A CALL FOR CLARITY, page A6

POSSIBLE SITE FOR A HOMELESS SHELTER

City ponders donation CANDACE WU news@pqbnews.com

A boarded-up building in Parksville that was once Vancouver Island German Jujutsu Systems may become a homeless shelter. Parksville Coun. Al Greir said he would like to see the city-owned building and property donated to the Oceanside Task Force on Homelessness, but fellow councillors expressed hesitation at last week’s budget meeting when Grier introduced the idea. “As everyone knows we’ve talked about doing something for the homeless… and we haven’t come up with very much,” said Greir, borrowing a line from Coun. Kirk Oates: “Doing nothing is not an option.” See TASK FORCE, page A8

Q UALICUM B EA CH OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • WE DELIVER Locally Owned for over 30 Years, Proudly Canadian! MONDAY – FRIDAY 8-6, SATURDAY 9-5:30, SUNDAY 10-5 720 MEMORIAL AVE., QUALICUM BEACH • 250- 752-3011

J.R. RARDON PHOTO

CHRISTMAS ON THE FARM: Laila Hocker, 20 months, of Nanaimo, grins after petting a goose and getting her sleeve pecked as a reward during the annual Christmas on the Farm celebration at Morningstar Farm in Parksville.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year We would like to thank our dedicated staff and valued customers for a wonderful 2015! CLOSED Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day

www.pqbnews.com

Tuesday, December 22, 2015 The Parksville Qualicum Beach News

Holiday

! ! ! H $ A C S U N BO

If you are thinking of buying an automobile before December 31st. You owe it to yourself to visit Parksville Chrysler.

Rebates up to $8500

2015 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE

2015 DODGE RAM 3500

Bonus CA$H up to $2500 Loyalty Rebates of $1500

2015 DODGE JOURNEY CVP

Holiday Bonus CA$H of $1000 Pull Ahead CA$H of $1000

2015 CHRYSLER 200

PLUS 0 % Financing on Many 2015 & 2016 Models

2015 DODGE DART

Truly the greatest incentives in our history! Come see us today, while selection is at it’s best.

Trucks, Cars, Sport Utilities, we have

2015 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN CVP

the vehicle you are looking for.

Dealer #6332

Bruce Alexander Kevin Logeman Trevor Liddicoat Bob Bourgeault

ISLAND HIGHWAY AT SHELLY ROAD

250-248-3281

“Like” us on Facebook

Bert Frost

Daniel Bortoley

Amber Macarthy

Tim Goldade

Steve Austin

Exceptional People • Exceptional Products • Exceptional Service •

parksvillechrysler.com

The Parksville Qualicum Beach News Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Page Three

www.pqbnews.com

The PQB NeWS Team: John, Candace, Auren & J.R. e-mail: editor@pqbnews.com Phone: 250-905-0019

stArtInG Point

Nominate those who make a difference

AUREN RUVINSKY writer@pqbnews.com

Do you know someone who has made a significant contribution to the community? Organizers of the B.C. Community Achievement Awards are looking for people that have made a difference in any area that provides a benefit to the community — as a volunteer or in the course of their work. These contributions may include, but are not limited to, arts and culture, sports and recreation, multiculturalism, environment, healthcare, education, civic duty, business, community volunteerism, philanthropy and youth or senior leadership. In its first 12 years more than 400 people across B.C. have received the award from the Lieutenant-Governor during a ceremony at Government House in Victoria each spring. The Parksville Qualicum Beach region has been well represented with six local winners: Roger Barnsley, Corinne James, Ron Hadley, Gary Brown, Jack Collins and Art Skipsey. The local list highlights the open nature of the award, recognizing people from politics, arts and academics. If you know of someone deserving of this provincial level honour, nominate them before Jan. 15 at www.bcachievement.com/ community.

Scholarships helping aboriginal students More than 300 Aboriginal students in B.C. — including six from the Parksville Qualicum Beach area — will benefit from nearly a million dollars distributed by the Irving K. Barber B.C. Scholarship Society this year. The local university students are Rowan Forseth from Coombs (studying at Simon Fraser University), Breshell Russ from Nanoose Bay (University of Victoria), Jamie Coutts from Parksville (Vancouver Island University) and Emily McKee from Parksville (UVic). Working on post grad degrees are Natasha Wawrykow, from Nanoose Bay, studying at UBC and Andrea Kerr from Parksville, studying at Royal Roads University. The society’s Aboriginal Student Awards program is funded from the returns on an endowment fund established by the province to assist in removing barriers to higher education for Aboriginal people. — Submitted by the Irving K. Barber B.C. Scholarship Society

InsIdE Arts & Entertainment . . A15 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A21 Arthur Black . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A14 wHAt’s onlInE?

Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A10 Letters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A11 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A22-A24

www.pqbnews.com Get the full story. Watch for these icons in our regular articles, then go to www.pqbnews.com for extended content. ONliNE www.pqbnews.com

Add your COMMENTS at www.pqbnews.com

Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/ParksvilleNews and Facebook: www.facebook.com/PQBNews How to rEACH us: General: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Phone 250-248-4341; Fax 250-248-4655 Publisher: Peter McCully . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . publisher@pqbnews .com Editor: John Harding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .250-905-0019 - editor@pqbnews .com Advertising: Brenda Boyd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .250-905-0013 - bboyd@pqbnews .com Production: Peggy Sidbeck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250-905-0016 - team@pqbnews .com Circulation: Laurie Fairbanks . . . . . . . .250-905-0017 - circulation@pqbnews .com Classified display: Pauline Stead . . . . . . . .250-905-0012 - office@pqbnews .com Community Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . events@pqbnews .com #4-154 Middleton Avenue, PO Box 1180, Parksville, BC V9P 2H2

J.R. RARDON pHOTO

SANTA SEES DOUBLE: Twins Callum, left, and Marcus VanderKlippe of Beijing, China, stopped by Fish Tales in Qualicum Beach for Breakfast with Santa while visiting family on the mid-Island Saturday.

LAST WEEK AT THE GARDENS IN QUALICUM BEACH

High Tea helps raise $1,000 Last Friday, almost 100 supporters of the Oceanside Hospice Society (OHS) gathered at The Gardens in Qualicum Beach for their annual High Tea at Christmas. Dressed in their finest Christmas outfits, the tea goers were treated to The Gardens’ tastiest dainties and a visit from jolly old Santa himself. The Gardens’ dining room was warmly decorated with snowflakes, candles and Christmas greenery, and filled with dream-like Christmas music from pianist Sarah Wood. Gaining in popularity over last year, more than $1,000 was raised for OHS, with funds

pHOTO SUBMITTED By OCEANSIDE HOSpICE

Jane, centre above, won a draw for a gift basket, surrounded by OHS directors and staff at the recent High Tea at Christmas at The Gardens.

going to many programs that support people who are at end of life, or those who have experienced a loss. Oceanside Hospice thanks The Gardens at Qualicum

Beach for their support. For more information on hospice visit www.oceansidehospice. com or call 250-752-6227. — Submitted by Oceanside Hospice

CARING FOR KIDS AT CHRISTMAS

Let’s fill that stocking this year! $110,000

$88,948

The SOS Caring for Kids at Christmas Campaign ensures all local children and youth have a special gift to unwrap on Christmas morning. The program also enables families and individuals to enjoy a meaningful meal over the holidays, with dignity. In order to meet the needs of low-income residents who register for the program, the SOS needs to raise $110,000 this Christmas. Check this page weekly until Christmas, as The NEWS posts an update of the money raised, displayed on this stocking. Every donation is helping create magic for our residents in-need. Donate online at www.sosd69.com, by phone at 250-2482093, or in person at the SOS Child, Youth & Family Centre at 245 West Hirst Ave. in Parksville, Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m.4:30 pm. You can also donate at the SOS Child, Youth & Family Centre in Qualicum Beach located at 744 Primrose St. on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1-4 p.m.

www.pqbnews.com

Tuesday, December 22, 2015 The Parksville Qualicum Beach News

W E D N E S DAY, D E C E M B E R 2 3 T O T H U R S DAY, D E C E M B E R 2 4 , 2 0 1 5

TWO DAYS LEFT SHOP GIFTS AT AMAZING PRICES All savings cannot be combined with any other offer.

SAVE

Gold and diamond fine jewellery

Select women’s cold-weather accessories

60%

50%

See below for exclusions.

In our accessories department. Exclusions apply, see store for details.

PLUS, SAVE AN EXTRA 20% OFF

on fine jewellery when you use a Hudson’s Bay MasterCard® or a Hudson’s Bay Credit Card. See below for exclusions.

$ $

1999 TO 3999

SAVE $210

SAVE

75%

389

Reg. $599.95

Reg. $120 to $480 Sale $30 to $120

DYSON DC42 Animal upright vacuum

Reg. $40 to $99

Women’s sweaters by KAREN SCOTT, LORD & TAYLOR, KENSIE, VERO MODA, DEX and I.N.C INTERNATIONAL CONCEPTS

Select luggage collections by WESTJET, LONDON FOG, SAMSONITE, TRAVELPRO, RICARDO BEVERLY HILLS, DELSEY, SWISS WENGER, ANTLER, TOMMY HILFIGER, ATLANTIC and SKYWAY

Dyson cyclones pick up more microscopic dust than any other vacuum. Air-driven turbine head brush bar works on all surfaces. Certified asthma and allergy friendly. 5-year warranty. Available in store and online.

Available in assorted styles and colours. See below for details.

See store for details.

SAVE $45

Reg. $95

SAVE $310

After $50 mail-in rebate

28999

HUDSON’S BAY COMPANY COLLECTION signature stripe throw

Reg. $599.99 Sale $339.99

European made. 60” x 64”. Available in two styles.

Includes stainless steel bowl. Available in 3 colours. Food processor attachment sold separately.

KITCHENAID Architect stand mixer

SAVE $130

After $20 mail-in rebate

$99.99 Reg. $229.99 Sale $119.99

KITCHENAID food processor attachment Slice, shred and julienne. PLUS, UP TO 35% OFF other

KITCHENAID small appliances.

See below for exclusions.

Exclusively ours

CLINIQUE

Holiday gift set $ OVER $260 VALUE

with any CLINIQUE purchase of $31 or more*. Available in store only.

SAVE $50

2499

Regular $75

PERRY ELLIS men’s tops Exclusively ours

PLUS, 40% OFF

other PERRY ELLIS casual clothes for men See below for details.

SHOP THEBAY.COM No rain checks and no price adjustments. No pre-orders or telephone orders. Offer available while quantities last. Selection may vary by store. Savings are off our regular prices unless otherwise specified. Gold and diamond fine jewellery excludes gemstone and pearl fine jewellery, Alor, Concerto, Ginette NY, Ivanka Trump, Judith Ripka, Le Vian, Naledi Bridal and items with 99¢ price endings. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Luggage collections: Off our regular prices and excludes clearance, Bric’s, Herschel Supply Co., Samsonite Black Label, TUMI, Victorinox and items with 99¢ price endings. Women’s sweaters exclude New Spring Arrivals, Polo Ralph Lauren, The Room, Topshop and items with 99¢ price endings. Other exclusions apply, see store for details. Small appliances exclude items with 95¢ price endings. Perry Ellis excludes items with 99¢ price endings.*Before taxes. While quantities last. Values are based on our per mL and/or g price for regular-sized products. Hudson’s Bay, Hudson’s Bay Credit, Hudson’s Bay Rewards, hbc.com and their associated designs are trademarks of Hudson’s Bay Company. Credit is extended by Capital One Bank (Canada Branch). Capital One® is a registered trademark of Capital One Financial Corporation. MasterCard and the MasterCard brand mark are registered trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated. All marks used under licence. All rights reserved.

The Parksville Qualicum Beach News Tuesday, December 22, 2015

www.pqbnews.com

PETER MCCULLY PHOTO

ALL THEY WANT FOR CHRISTMAS will ensure that 100 District 69 families will have a merrier Christmas this year. Rollie Koop, Superintendent of School District 69 and Virginia Worcester of Borealis Hair are ensuring that registered families will receive food staples, clothing, toys, games, books and gift cards. Many of the hampers will fulfill specific children’s toy requests. Funds were raised by the Borealis Hair Bar, a fundraising dance and auction in Qualicum Beach featuring Eddie and the Funk, as well as special angels throughout the community — with special thanks to Quality Foods.

MOVIE WRAPPED UP SHOOTING ON SUNDAY IN PARKSVILLE

Extras included some Beach Club staff TV movie starring Heather Locklear was shot in 12 days CandaCe Wu news@pqbnews.com

December has been full of lights, cameras and lots of action at the Beach Club Resort in Parksville. The waterfront hotel has been bustling with a 65-person film crew, mostly from Vancouver and Victoria, producing a Hallmark-style movie titled The Game of Love, formerly Family Court. “It’s about a glamorous family, lots of money, a family feud about selling the basketball arena, out of that feud comes a love story,” director Farhad Mann explained to The NEWS in a short but all-encompassing plot synopsis making sure not to reveal any spoilers. Heather Locklear, who is well known for her role in Melrose Place, is one of the big stars alongside Canadian actor Lochlyn Munroe who is known for his roles in A Night at the Roxbury, Scary Movie, White Chicks and Freddy vs Jason. Much of the film was shot We Have Happy advertisers! Contact me today.

within the Beach Club and many staff members were chosen to appear as extras, including bartender Dave Paul — who plays a bartender. Beach Club general manager Arthur Wong said it’s been exciting having the film crew around for the last few weeks. Wong said this isn’t the first time the Beach Club has been featured in a film, but it’s definitely the most extensive screen time the resort has landed. Pacific Prime Restaurant, the Beach Club’s pool and a meeting room on the second floor (which was transformed into Munroe’s office) were all used in the film. Assistant director Michele Dutka said the crew also filmed at Tigh-Na-Mara (in the spa and the cabins), Qualicum Beach Memorial Golf Club, Oceanside Place and in parts of Nanoose Bay. Dutka said they used 122 extras from around Vancouver Island, noting they had particular trouble finding ethnic minorities in Parksville. “It was very difficult to find African Americans,” she said with a laugh, noting the film is set in Seattle. “But we managed.” Dutka said the Vancou-

CANDACE WU PHOTO

Lochlyn Munroe runs through a scene in The Game of Love Thursday afternoon at the Beach Club, where much of the movie was filmed this month along with other locations in Parksville, Qualicum Beach and Nanoose Bay.

ver-based film company, Odyssey, shot a movie last summer in Osoyoos using the same hotel company (Bellstar Hotels) that owns the Beach Club. And that’s simply how they ended up filming in Parksville at the Beach Club. “It’s been great,” Dutka beamed about filming in Parksville. “Vancouver is really inundated with films right now so it’s been a nice change… This estab-

PIANO &

ORGAN

SALES • TUNING REPAIRS • RESTORATION sommerspiano.ca Piano Moving & Storage

Steve Weldon 250-905-0023

sweldon@pqbnews.com

At Pine Tree Centre • Open by Appt. or chance #8-1343 Alberni Hwy • 250-248-0889

lishment (the Beach Club) has been particularly amazing and accommodating.” The Game of Love started filming Dec. 6 and wrapped up Sunday. The crew had a few days off to enjoy Vancouver Island — many said they were heading to see the new Star Wars movie on their day off Friday — but the whole film was shot in just 12 days. “Twelve days is a pretty short time to make a movie,” said Dut-

ka, who got into the film industry 21 years ago as a production assistant on the original X-Files, where she worked for 11 days before getting promoted. “I love my job. Every day is different and every day you learn something new.” The Game of Love will air on an American network sometime in the spring but a final release date and network have not yet been confirmed.

Karen E. Stewart B.A., LLB., LLM.

Barrister, Solicitor & Notary Public • Real Estate & Mortgages • Divorce & Separation Agreements • Wills & Estates • Corporate & Commercial Law • Civil Litigation

phone: 954-1445 fax: 954-1430 • kes@shaw.ca

#101-191 Jensen Avenue East, Parksville BC

www.pqbnews.com

Sale in Effect

Tuesday, December 22, 2015 The Parksville Qualicum Beach News

Dec. 26th - 31st, 2015

BOXING DAY SALE CHRISTMAS DECOR ACCESSORIES Ready made napkins, table runners, holiday cushion covers

CHRISTMAS FABRICS - Select stock

HOLIDAY APPLIQUES - Reg $6.98ea to $10.98ea CHRISTMAS RIBBON SPOOLS - All stock CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY MESH & TULLE SPOOLS - Reg $5.98ea to $25.98ea FAUX FUR TRIMS - All stock

JUNGLE BELLS - Shiny & Matte Reg $15.98ea JINGLE BELLS SPARKLE WIRED BURLAP - Reg $15.98ea VALUE PACK (6.5m) DOUBLE FOLD EXTRA WIDE BIAS TAPE Reg $6.90ea

% Off Reg Price

pHoTo SuBmiTTed By aimee falKenBerg

Volunteers load hundreds of backpacks and purses to be distributed to people in-need this holiday season as part of the Backpack Project spearheaded by Qualicum Beach forensic nurse Aimee Falkenberg.

THe BaCKpaCK proJeCT

50 A warm way to help 4.50

CHRISTMAS SPARKLE $ DECOR

Off Reg Price

CandaCe Wu

news@pqbnews.com

Aimee Falkenberg is helping tackle homelessness one backpack at a time. Reg $13.98 per roll The Qualicum Beach forensic nurse runs a program called the Backpack Project. (exclusions apply to Promotional, Clearance, “Special Purchase”, Signature Styles & Yarn) This month, Falkenberg handed out more than 200 backpacks and purses filled with warm socks, toques and scarves among other items to people in-need in the Parksville Qualicum Beach area. Falkenberg hails from Surrey but relocated to Qualicum Beach in 2013. “No community is immune to homelessness problems,” she said. December 2015 - Boxing Day Sale Insert usual basebar at bottom Falkenberg first got involved with the Backpack Project in 2008 in Surrey through her work Ad Size 4.33 X 7.14 Group 1 as a forensic nurse examiner. When she moved SEE INSERTION ORDER FOR PUBLICATION DATE to Vancouver Island, she brought the project The Qualicum Beach Rotary Club and Chamber of with her. Commerce appreciate the generous support of so “I work with women, men and children who have been affected by violence. A lot of these pamany individuals and businesses who supported tients live on the streets,” she said. “They are some the 24th Annual Gala Auction. of the strongest individuals I have ever met.” Falkenberg explains community members stuff backpacks for men full of gloves, toques, scarves, toothbrushes, socks, hot chocolate, mugs and even Christmas cards; and donors Qualicum Beach Rotary & Chamber of Commerce stuff purses for women full of similar items but

Triple Crown Gala

they also include cosmetics like tubes of lipstick, nail polish, necklaces, earrings and feminine products. One year, while she was handing out purses Falkenberg said a woman came up and gave her a big hug. “She said she loved everything in her purse… I was wearing this purple scarf and she said ‘that scarf makes you look like an angel’ and walked away and I said ‘come back, I want you to have this’ and I wrapped it around her and she said ‘I feel so beautiful’ and that woman walked away five feet taller,” recalls Falkenberg. “It was just a simple scarf. That’s what I wanted to do with the purses. I wanted to give these women something to make them feel pretty, so they can feel like a lady.” Falkenberg said often when women arrive at transition houses they have nothing but what they showed up in. This year, Falkenberg said dozens of residents and businesses contributed to the project either stuffing their own backpacks and purses or donating items to be stuffed in a bag. She called the response “astounding.” Falkenberg partners with Island Crisis Care Society and Manna Homeless Society to distribute the bags to homeless men, women and children living in and out shelters in the mid-Island.

A call for clarity on mandate

continued from page a1

We Cannot Forget Our Volunteers! It is said, “Those who can, do. Those who can do more, volunteer. “ We just want to take the time to heart fully thank all of the people who assisted in making Qualicum Beach Rotary/Chamber Gala 2015 a great success. Whether it was making sure the team was fed, setting tables before the event, and breaking things down after the event, or making sure our guests were welcomed, you did your jobs brilliantly! We could not have carried this celebration off without your dedication and hard work. You are too many to name, but you know who you are. Thank you again for your hard work! - The 2015 Gala Planning Committee

Oates also said the roughly $250,000 the society gets in taxpayer dollars every year “jumps out at you in the budget.” He also said he believes the centre could generate more revenue. “Given the amount of time the lights are off over there, it would lead you to believe we could get more revenue out of the place.” Both Oates and Walper said there needs to be a better understanding by everyone, some clarity, regarding the centre’s mandate. In an appearance before council earlier this month, Walper spoke about the differences between a community centre model and a conference centre model, suggesting more focus on the latter to generate more revenue would squeeze non-profit community groups out of the centre. “Maybe this ($250,000 annually) is the cost of doing business and we have to just suck it up,” said Oates. In an interview a day after submitting his res-

ignation letter, Walper said he was “frustrated with how a couple of things were handled.” He also said he resigned because the president’s position was demanding more time recently than he was able to commit. He also defended the centre’s operations. “I don’t think there’s a big problem in what’s happening at the centre,” said Walper. “I think it’s operating very efficiently. I don’t know that there’s much more business out there to pick up. If its duty is to be a community centre, I think it does a good job at that.” “If there are changes to happen here, I’m not the one to spearhead it.” Mayor Marc Lefebvre said “it’s time to revisit the operating agreement” between the city and the society. He also said there may be ways the centre could bring in more business. “I’m just one member of council,” said the mayor, “but I think we have to consider the revenue side.”

The Parksville Qualicum Beach News Tuesday, December 22, 2015

www.pqbnews.com

French Creek Seafood

Located in 1097 Lee Rd. Parksville Store: 250-248-2888 French Creek Harbour

Check out our Boxing Day sales!!!!!!

Order your Christmas/ New Years Lobster now!

Live Crab

$ 36

$15.25/lb

/100gr.

Large Scallops $ 16

$27.95/lb

CandaCe Wu Photo

CHRISTMAS LUNCH: Nearly 100 people showed up for the SOS Seniors’ Are Talking annual Christmas Lunch catered by Spice of Life with donations from Quality Foods, Thrifty Foods and Save On Foods. The lunch was hosted at the Parksville Community and Conference Centre Wednesday at noon with music by Second Wind.

ALTERNATIVE ENERGY

City urged to go solar

Chamber of commerce brings the issue to council, which ordered a report from staff JOHN HARDING editor@pqbnews.com

The Parksville and District Chamber of Commerce is asking the city to spend money on the development of solar power. Chamber executive director Kim Burden presented council with some ideas around community power at a budget meeting last week, including some details on where the money for such a project would come. “The city currently receives $300,000 from the various utility companies, including $110,000.00 from BC Hydro in lieu of taxes,” Burden said in his presentation, which he later provided to The NEWS in text form. “We would like to see a portion of this, preferably half, earmarked for the development of renewable energy and we would like to see a city staff member have responsibility for the development of community power included in their job description.” Burden explained why he thought this issue was in the purview of the chamber. “We want the city to be able to provide a maximum amount of service to residents and businesses without heavy taxation,” said Bur-

den. “A strong business community relies on the addition of new businesses providing both new and competing services and products and in order to attract those businesses we need local government to provide the best services possible while keeping fees and taxes at a competitive rate.” “We are a progressive community in an idyllic setting and in order to remain progressive in the minds of those wishing to come and establish businesses and families here we must continue to move forward.” City council has asked staff to provide a report on the subject. Later last week, Mayor Marc Lefebvre said he believes solar power could be used in city-owned buildings like the fire hall, as a back-up to start in case of power outages. “It’s something I’ve been considering for a long time and it’s going to prove worthwhile,” said the mayor. “Right now staff tell me it’s not cost beneficial but I think that’s going to change in the not-too-distant future.” Lefebvre pointed to the construction of the $8 billion Site C dam — and how it will be funded — as an indicator hydro rates will continue to rise. “Don’t tell me hydro is going to stay cheap,” said the mayor. “Someone is going to have to pay for that (Site C) — You and I are going to have to pay for that.”

Get $250 for buying a new stove The Regional District of Nanaimo is encouraging residents to retire their old wood stoves. The Wood Stove Exchange Program provides homeowners with a $250 rebate when a new wood-burning, pellet or natural gas stove is purchased and an older model retired. “Simply put, smoke is bad for health and older wood stoves contribute to the problem,” said Parksville Qualicum MLA Michelle Stilwell, Minister of Social Innovation and Social Development. “If you own an older stove, do your part, take advantage of the rebate, and

please replace it with one that meets modern emission standards.” According to a news release issued by the RDN, these new emissions-certified wood stoves burn one-third less wood and reduce smoke and particulates entering the atmosphere by 70 per cent or more. The RDN is receiving $18,900 from the province, part of $79,450 the government is doling out to five Vancouver Island municipal governments. — NEWS Staff/RDN news release

/100gr.

Halibut Fillets $ 92

$18.25/lb

/100gr.

BRING THIS COUPON IN TO RECEIVE AN ADDITIONAL 5% OFF THIS WEEK’S SPECIALS. (Please present coupon before ordering) Specials valid from Dec. 22 – Dec. 28, 2015 • WHILE SUPPLIES LAST.

CHECK OUT OUR WEB PAGE: www.frenchcreek.ca

See our FACEBOOK PAGE for further Specials and News!

Winter Hours Mon–Thurs: 9– 5:30 • Fri & Sat: 9– 6 • Sun: 9 – 5

WEEKLY SPECIALS!

GUESTS ARRIVING? We have

spare room beds, cabinet beds, pillows, mattress pads, bed sheets, & MORE! R OO EL E FL OD ANC M AR E CL

MOVE YOUR OLD MATTRESS TO THE GUEST ROOM &

GIVE YOURSELF THE GIFT OF HEALTH! MADE IN CANADA

Clinical studies performed by 8 North American University Medical Centres

Arthritis? Diabetes? Aches and Pains? Sore Back? Not Sleeping? 20 YEAR

WARRANTY

FREE

DELIVERY & SETUP

366

★ NIGHT ★ NTEE

S L E E P G UA R A

Full information and reviews, visit: ironmanmattress.ca

SAVE

an extra

$1,000 on 2015 DEMOS

SPACE SAVER CABINET BED WITH MATTRESS Turn this

Into This... in seconds

MATTRESS SHOP

www.parksvillemattress.com 250- 248-7133 • 291 E. Island Hwy. PARKSVILLE

www.pqbnews.com

Tuesday, December 22, 2015 The Parksville Qualicum Beach News

SOLUTIONS FOR LIFE Ask us about knee injections. Dr. Tara Macart, ND Naturopathic Physician

15 years healing Oceanside.

Opti-Balance Naturopathic Medicine #4-161 Fern Road West, QB • 752-2711 www.opti-balance.com

PLEASE RECYCLE YOUR NEWSPAPER PLASTIC BAGS We’ll reuse them for our next paper delivery. Must not be cut on the ends and preferably not have holes. You can return them to our office @ #4-154 Middleton Avenue in the basket by the front door, leave them out for your carrier or give us a call and we can arrange for them to be picked up.

250-905-0017

THANK YOU for helping us reduce, reuse & recycle!

Knox United Church Parksville Invites you to join us for Christmas worship services Come and celebrate the birth of our Christ Child

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24TH Three Christmas Eve Celebrations 4:00pm AN UNRUSHED HOUR Contemplative Service with music and communion 7:00pm FAMILY SERVICE Traditional Christmas Eve pageant with readings and music; Knox choir, carol singing and candle lighting

Task force welcomes help continued from page a1

Grier seemed eager to make a motion Monday night, but council referred the matter back to staff for a report about the state of the building and property as well as potential liability issues. The building sits behind the Benjamin Moore paint store along McVickers Street and has been empty for at least five years, Parksville and District Chamber of Commerce executive director Kim Burden confirmed with The NEWS. Oates expressed opposition to donating the building, wondering aloud if it was the best use of taxpayer assets. “We’re talking about giving a piece of property away to a group without a plan,” said Oates. “They haven’t come to us and said ‘if you give us this, we will do that’ so I can’t support this without more background information.” Oates said he refused to support “giving away a prime piece of downtown property in an effort to combat an issue for no other reason than to combat an issue.” “If the desire is to do something for the task force, build a parking lot out of it and give them a percentage of the revenue from now until the end of time,” Oates suggested. “There’s lots of ways we can help the task force other than giving away the taxpayers’ assets.” Greir said he has been in conversation with Renate Sutherland, the former co-chair of the task force who recently stepped down and was replaced

CandaCe Wu photo

This building has been empty for at least five years and Parksville city councillors discussed donating it to the Oceanside Task Force on Homelessness at Monday’s budget meeting.

by Violet Hayes, the executive director of Island Crisis Care Society. According to Greir, Sutherland was “ecstatic.” Coun. Sue Powell? Not so much. Powell questioned how “appropriate” is was for Grier to approach the task force before the matter had been discussed privately by council. “What we have now is something that’s already out of the gate and we don’t have enough information,” said Powell. “I’d like to see a report from staff so we can at least make an informed decision.” Mayor Marc Lefebvre said city council has been “frustrated” by this issue

Arrowsmith nurses provide strike mandate

AUREN RUVINSKY writer@pqbnews.com

Nurses at Arrowsmith Lodge and Cokely Manor have voted 94 per cent in favour of strike action during ongoing contract negotiations. According to a B.C. Nurses’ Union news release, the union has been negotiating with Arrowsmith Lodge for 18 months, “during which time the employer has insisted on deleting contract language and forcing concessions in order to meet a funding shortfall that’s largely due to Island Health’s underfunding of non-profit care facilities.”

Rachel Kimler, chair of BCNU’s Pacific Rim region, said they have proposed “a two-year roll-over of the existing contract with no increases in the first two years and only modest wage increases in years three and four.” She said they have also shown how the Arrowsmith Health Care Society (operator of the two neighbouring facilities) can reduce operating costs with a new employee benefits provider they found that Kimler called win-win for employer and employees. Kimler said it would save the employer 29 per cent

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27TH

All Are Welcome

Knox United Church 345 Pym St., at the corner of Pym and Humphrey, Parksville

250-248-3927

office@kucparksville.ca • www.kucparksville.ca

of their premium costs for similar coverage and even allow management to sign onto the plan, but the employer “is not even looking at it, they’re stuck on getting concessions from the nurses.” “With a province-wide shortage of qualified nurses, Arrowsmith would be far wiser to drop demands for concessions and explore potential savings from switching benefit providers.” Bargaining is scheduled to continue early in the New Year. The Arrowsmith Health Care Society could not be reached for comment by deadline. We Have Happy advertisers! Contact me today.

11:00pm MIDNIGHT SERVICE Communion and candle lighting

10:00am CONTEMPORARY SERVICE OF WORD & MUSIC Led by Rev. Brenda Riley and Jenny Vincent

for years. “Sometimes you want to take the bull by the horns,” he said. “We’ll need to look at getting public input… the grenade has gone off.” Sharon Welch, co chair of the Oceanside Task Force on Homelessness, told The NEWS Friday she’s “excited” to hear council is stepping up and trying to come up with solutions. “It would certainly head us toward our goal,” she said about getting the building and property donated. “I think we’ve got some momentum going here and we want to keep riding that. We’re really appreciative to the city for anything they can do to help with this problem.”

Saturday & Sunday Brunch Buffet 9am-12pm • Adults $15.95 • Youth $1 per year

Christmas Day Buffet Prime Rib, Ham, Turkey and all the Trimmings - $48.95

New Year’s Eve Celebrations 5 Course Dinner at 6pm - $69 5 Course Dinner & Live Music at 8:30pm - $99

Reservations Highly Recommended. 250-468-7192 • SmokeNWater.com at Pacific Shores Resort, 1-1600 Stroulger Road Ocean View ~ Fresh Food ~ Great Ambiance

FF O % 0 2 L STOCK AL

DECEMBER SALE SOFA’S - CHAIRS - COFFEE TABLES - RUGS - BEDROOM - OCCASIONAL ANTIQUES - ART - LAMPS FIRST NATIONS ART - LEATHER

Lori Hague

250-905-0020

lhague@pqbnews.com

2nd Annual! A December sale on all in-stock items Open Mon - Fri. 9:30am - 5pm

SALE ON Dec. 1-31st 1-800-665-2833 241 Selby St. Nanaimo www.har tmannandcompany.com

Charles Burden 250-905-0015

charles.burden@pqbnews.com

The Parksville Qualicum Beach News Tuesday, December 22, 2015

www.pqbnews.com

LiFe AFter GrADuAtion

Career education touted Qualicum Beach grad behind the company now residing in Montreal

For Trusted Financial Advice Partner with an Investment Advisor who offers quality investment planning that is clear and relevant to you and your family. Todd Sjogren Investment Advisor #1 – 220 West Island Highway Parksville, BC V9P 2P3

Tel: 250-248-2489 Toll-free: 1-800-330-1644 todd.sjogren@nbpcd.com toddsjogren.ca

AUREN RUVINSKY writer@pqbnews.com

You study hard, get good grades, do what everyone tells you, only to be ejected into the cold hard world at graduation. That was Qualicum Beach’s Clinton Nellist’s experience graduating from UVic, so he and roommate Denis Luchyshyn created Road to Employment to help fellow grads. “Upon graduating we both had a difficult time transitioning into the workforce. I got stuck in a bunch of sales jobs, sidewalk selling, door-to-door, retail at the mall,” he said of his long, hard struggles after graduating with a degree in political science and history in 2013. “I wasn’t stoked about my employment situation, Dennis was having his own challenges and our friends were moving back into their parent’s basements to survive,” he said of his cohort’s general employment hopelessness. “Looking around at the opportunities we had, we knew we had to be better prepared for the labour market, so Dennis and I quit our jobs, packed our lives into the back of a twodoor Chevrolet to drive across the country for four months, couch surfing the whole way, filming a documentary about youth employment in Canada.” The film ended up being a four part series called Road to Employment, which they parlayed into a media production and public speaking company. The first two parts of the film are available on Youtube and on their website (http:// roadtoemployment.ca), which they are developing into an extensive portal for all things youth employment. The film and website are slick productions with a focus on concrete advice. “Our goal was simple, to speak with fellow graduates, employers, career developers and identify actionable strategies to help you find meaningful and relevant work,” the opening narration of the film explains. After their adventures driving from Victoria to Halifax, they stopped on their way home to finish the film in Montreal, and never left. Now based in Montreal, the pair support themselves

® BMO “(M-bar roundel symbol)” is a registered trade-mark of Bank of Montreal, used under license. ® “Nesbitt Burns” is a registered trade-mark of BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc. BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bank of Montreal. If you are already a client of BMO Nesbitt Burns, please contact your Investment Advisor for more information.

Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund and Member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada

EARLY DEADLINES FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON

TUESDAY, DEC. 29 ISSUE

Display: Tuesday, December 22, 5:00pm Classifieds Display: Wednesday, December 23, 12:00pm Classifieds Word: Wednesday, December 23, 2:00pm

THURSDAY, DEC. 31, ISSUE

Display: Wednesday, December 23, 5:00pm Classifieds Display: Thursday, December 24, 12:00pm Classifieds Word: Thursday, December 24, 2:00pm

THURSDAY, JAN. 5, 2016 ISSUE

Display: Tuesday, December 29, 5:00pm Classifieds Display: Wednesday, December 30, 12:00pm Classifieds Word: Wednesday, December 30, 2:00pm

Have a Wonderful Holiday Season! Black Press C O M M U N I T Y

N E W S

M E D I A

#4-154 Middleton Ave, Parksville 250.248.4341 • pqbnews.com

Our office will be CLOSED Friday, DECEMBER 25, & Friday, JANUARY 1, 2016. We will also be CLOSED 3pm Wednesday, DECEMBER 24 and 3pm Wednesday, DECEMBER 31.

WHAT’S ON THIS WEEK To submit your activities into our weekly (Thursday) Calendar of Events: events@pqbnews.com I fax:250-248-4655 I #4-154 Middleton Ave, Parksville

Deliciously Historical Auren ruvinsky photo

Dinner Special: $29/person

Clinton Nellist spoke to a class at Kwalikum Secondary recently about his experiences after graduation and his company Road to Employment.

through the burgeoning company, including a number of high profile speaking engagements. Nellist recently spoke to a class at Kwalikum Secondary, his former high school, “pro bono” while home for the holidays. While critical of the graduation experience, he admits “I wasn’t very proactive with my education, which is a big part of why I suffered so much.” “School teaches work ethic, the fundamentals of reading, writing and arithmetic, basic skills that we need and it teaches you how get down to work, but I think there’s not enough emphasis on career

education and ‘what am I actually going to be doing with my learning’.” “I wasn’t empowered or motivated to actually explore my career options, I was just told to focus on grades, get through your classes and worry about your career when you graduate.” He said the common lack of engagement among students is a key part of the issue, thus part one of the film is “Engage,” hoping to help change that dynamic. “We’re trying to put a very youthful, enthusiastic spin on what career education can be.” Check out the company at http://roadtoemployment.ca.

fine italian cuisine

Tuesday & Wednesday evenings only Regular menu always available.

Potato & leek soup or Caesar salad Linguine with shrimp, scallops & julienne of vegetables in a curry brandy cream sauce

or Snapper filet with baby shrimp in a light shrimp bisque, risotto cake, seasonal vegetables

or Pork tenderloin with a Calvados brandy demi-glace, roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables Amaretto crème brulee or Chocolate swirl cheesecake Regular Menu Always Available.

Casual fine dining • Reservations Recommended

292 Crescent Road East, Qualicum Beach crownmansion.com 250.752.5776

A10

www.pqbnews.com

Tuesday, December 22, 2015 The Parksville Qualicum Beach News

commentary

Black Press C O M M U N I T Y

N E W S

M E D I A

THE NEWS is published every Tuesday and Thursday by Black Press Ltd. #4 - 154 Middleton Ave. Parksville, B.C. V9P 2H2 250-248-4341

Board hands tied

nless there’s talk about school closures, School District 69 and its board of trustees seem to fly under the radar of the public and media. Much attention is paid by all to the councils and staff that run the Town of Qualicum Beach and City of Parksville. The public galleries can be packed for meetings of those august bodies. A school board meeting? You could offer to buy a round for everyone in the audience and pay with the change in your pocket. Or you might have to drink alone. (The NEWS staffs school board meetings. It is rare to see any other media outlet represented at these monthly gatherings. As the paper of record for this region, we believe coverage of the school board meetings is our responsibility.) When one considers some facts and figures related to these governing bodies, this lack of attention for the school board is curious at best. School District 69 is the largest employer in the region. It has a $47 million budget. It spends roughly $35 million on salaries alone. The City of Parksville has a $17 million budget; the Town of Qualicum Beach, $11 million. The numbers don’t tell the whole story, however. We can understand why people who seem to have a lot of time for municipal issues want nothing to do with the school board. The town and city — staff and politicians — are empowered to make real decisions and have real debate. Yes, they have to balance their budgets and yes, they have to deal with increased downloading from senior governments, but they have some power to make decisions on what roads get paved, what roundabout will be constructed next or which community group will get a few bucks in aid. They have the power to increase taxes to fund projects, or not. The poor school board has none of these powers. The provincial government (using taxpayer money, it should always be noted) provided SD 69 with 93 per cent of its $47 million in revenue. School boards have little or no power. The provincial government, regardless of the party in power, dictates most everything related to our schools. Its hands tied, trustees only get to enjoy the flak from parents and unions. Nice set-up for the provincial government. Which gets us back to our original point. It’s understandable why people don’t invest more time and interest in the meetings and affairs of the local school board: under the current rules of engagement, it’s not like the trustees can effect any meaningful change. — Editorial by John Harding

THE PARKSVILLE QUALICUM BEACH NEWS (THE NEWS) is published every Tuesday and Thursday by Black Press. THE NEWS is distributed to more than 16,500 households in District 69. THE NEWS is 100 per cent B.C. owned and operated. THE PARKSVILLE QUALICUM BEACH NEWS #4 - 154 Middleton Avenue, P.O. Box 1180 Parksville, British Columbia, Canada, V9P 2H2 Office hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Phone 250-248-4341; Fax 250-248-4655

www.pqbnews.com

Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement #0087106

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

LAST WEEK’S QUESTION

Are you having a happy holiday season?

Are you happy with the direction of the new federal government so far? YES 45 %

Vote at: www.pqbnews.com before MONDAYS at noon

NO 55 %

PUBLISHER EDITOR OFFICE PRODUCTION CIRCULATION Peter McCully John Harding Pauline Stead Peggy Sidbeck Laurie Fairbanks publisher@pqbnews.com editor@pqbnews.com office@pqbnews.com team@pqbnews.com circulation@pqbnews.com SALES: Brenda Boyd, Steve Weldon, Lori Hague, Lorie Nielsen, Charles Burden EDITORIAL: Auren Ruvinsky, Candace Wu, J.R. Rardon, Tyson Taylor PRODUCTION: Brad Everest, Jeff Westnedge, Terri Reid, Tracy Paterson CLASSIFIEDS: Pauline Stead

The Parksville Qualicum Beach News is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact editor@pqbnews.com or 250-905-0019. If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the web site at mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.

The Parksville Qualicum Beach News Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Letters

Homelessness is a different issue There’s a growing number of people commenting how we should take care of our own country’s needs first before we help other countries or people from other countries. What they often mention is this money should be spent on our veterans and homeless people. To the first I can only say this: if in the 1940s we had that same attitude, we would not have veterans. That attitude should in fact be completely contrary of why we honour them today. Regarding the homeless, this is an entirely different problem that can not be compared with helping refugees due to war or famine. For people who can’t understand this hypocrisy, perhaps a reminder of how able Canada was to house First Nation or Japanese people in our fine history. But perhaps the issue of the homeless was of less importance and close to our big hearts at that time. Erik DuivEnvoorDE Qualicum Beach

CHrist’s message never more relevant In a speech Pope Francis delivered recently at St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican he said that Christmas this year will be a “charade” because the “world continues to wage war” and “we do not understand peace.” It is difficult to argue against the obvious facts of continuing war in the Middle East and other places and our inability as a race to understand and practise peace, but it is untimely and untrue to demean Christmas as a false event represented as true, which

www.pqbnews.com

Quotable:

“Given the amount of time the lights are off over there, it would lead you to believe we could get more revenue out of the place,” kirk oatEs, sEE story paGE a1

is pretty close to the meaning of charade. I would argue the opposite. If ever a dark world needed a glimpse of light that light is in the wonderful message of Christmas. But to make the season significant, you have to cut through the veneer of all the bright lights, ridiculous commercialization, parties and excesses and deliberately focus on the true story and meaning of the event. And make no mistake, this event was the most significant in all of our history. That Jesus was born in history is without dispute. The world may debate the significance of His birth if they like, but I love the words of Oswald Chambers the early 20th-century Scottish Baptist in his Christmas devotional commentary: “Jesus Christ was born into this world, not from it. He did not emerge out of history; He came into history from the outside. Jesus Christ is not the best human being the human race can boast of— He is a being for whom the human race can take no credit at all. He is not man becoming God, but God incarnate— God coming into human flesh from outside it. His life is the highest and the holiest entering through the most humble of doors. Our Lord’s birth was an advent— the appearance of God in human form.” The grim picture the Pope paints of “Ruins, thousands of children without education, so many innocent victims and lots of money in the pockets of arms dealers” is a true picture, but against this dark backdrop the message of the Christ child has never been more relevant. GEralD Hall Nanoose Bay

investors skePtiCal

Well, it is almost two months since Justin Trudeau became our prime minister.

While it is obviously too early for political commentators to base observations on that short a period, it is interesting to note that another group of experts, namely the investment community, have clearly been displaying votes of non-confidence in the new government’s policies and performance. On the last day prior to the election, the Canadian Dollar traded at US$0.7740. As this is written on Dec. 17, Canada’s currency has plunged to US$0.7175 – a drop of 5.65 cents – or a stunning seven per cent against the Greenback since Trudeau took over. In currency trading, that is a massive move within a short time frame of just two months. On the last day prior to the election, the Toronto Stock Exchange Index closed at 13,838. As of Dec. 17, the TSX Index is hovering very near 13,000 — a drop of more than 800 index points or about six per cent, again a stunning decline. I believe there is a sound reason for this demonstrable scepticism among the investment community. One of the major sources for the Canadian government’s tax revenues has been the petroleum complex — and that immensely important industry is contracting at a frightening rate, at least in terms of tax revenues for the government. And yet, despite this sharp decline in revenues, the Trudeau-led Liberals have been announcing one dramatic spending splurge after another. Where do they think the money is going to come from unless the government plans to market horrendous levels of new debt to finance the now-certain onrush of deficit spending? The investment community is clearly ruminating about the same question. lEonarD MElMan Nanoose Bay

almanaC Government Contacts ProvinCial:

sCott FrasEr, Mla, alberni-pacific rim

250-248-2625 e-mail michelle. stilwell.mla@leg. bc.ca

federal:

QualiCum:

GorD JoHns, Mp, Courtenay -alberni

tEunis WEstBroEk Mayor,

1-613-992-0903 e-mail: Gord. Johns@parl.gc.ca

250-752-6921 e-mail: mayor@ qualicumbeach.com

town of Qualicum Beach

Parksville: rdn:

MarC lEFEBvrE, Mayor,

Bill vEEnHoF, Chairman,

City of parksville

regional District of nanaimo

e-mail: mayor@ parksville.ca

250-797-6313 e-mail: bill.veenhof@ shaw.ca

Rules to write by

all lEttErs to tHE EDitor must be signed and include your full name, home town and contact phone number. those without these requirements will not be published. letters must be 300 words or less and are subject to editing. The News retains the right not to publish submissions.

We asked: Would you like to see a White Christmas this year?

MiCHEllE stilWEll, Mla, parksville Qualicum

1-866-870-4190 e-mail: scott.fraser.mla@ leg.bc.ca

250-954-4661

views in the News

A11

I worked outside in it I just love the snow. as long as my family It sets the mood for and lived in it when arrives before the christmas. I was in Fernie. I’ve white stuff and had enough of ‘em. Darcy MacDonalD they’re all safe — I’m all for it. Errington Darrell Vance Parksville DelIse eVans

I’d like it. Then I can eat the snow. Mason MacDonalD

Send them in

Mail: Box 1180, parksville, B.C. v9p 2H2 Fax: 250-248-4655 E-mail: editor@pqbnews.com online: www.pqbnews.com

Parksville

Errington

Seasons Greetings & Best Wishes for the New Year Phone: 1-866-870-4190 • www.ScottFraserMLA.com

Scott Fraser, MLA

www.pqbnews.com

Tuesday, December 22, 2015 The Parksville Qualicum Beach News

for

6oz clamshell

Gravy or Yorkshire Mix

Club House

Raspberries

Saint Agur

Blue Cheese

Per

California Grown 4.39 per kg

21-45gr

Kraft

Stove Top Stuffing Mix

Alymer

120gr

Per Per

398ml

for

San Remo

Del Monte

341-398ml

for

5 G.H. Cretors

Kraft

Pioneer Chips

Schweppes

Popcorn

Philadelphia Dips

Kettle Cooked Potato Chips

Selected, 184-227gr

227gr

142gr

LICABL PP

300gr

California Grown

Sweet Potatoes 2.18 per kg

Per Per

Min. 600gr

O I C

Smoked Ham

Oven Roasted Whole Maple Ham

for

Per

473ml

Family Classic Frozen Dessert

Kraft

Cracker Barrel

900gr

220-240gr

O’Doul’s

Dealcoholized Beer

10 9

3$ for

LICABL PP

Hi I’m Skinny

Quinoa or Sweet Potato Sticks

for

Castello

Cheese Slices

Cheez Whiz

12x355ml

LICABL PP

for

Rosenborg Danish Blue Cheese 125gr

Glass Bottle, 6x237ml

Coke, Sprite or Ginger Ale

Breyers

Per

Whipping Cream

250gr

Hertel’s

Instore Cooked

for

Dairyland

Per

946ml

Shank or Butt Portion, 7.69 per kg

for

Egg Nog

1.66lt

5 2$

4$ for

8” Pumpkin Pie

Dairyland

EES EF

for

12x355ml

EES EF

Ginger Ale, Club Soda or Tonic Water

PLUS A

for

900gr

340-500ml

Homestyle Stuffing

8.80 per kg

350ml

Seven Layer Dip

Butter

Spiral Ham Half

Dressing

Chopped Spinach

Butterball

Cook’s

Newman’s Own

Artichoke Hearts or Roasted Peppers

Vegetables

Libby’s

Fraser Valley

Beets

Made Fresh Instore

Selected

4.39 per kg

Dinner or Crusty Buns

Sourdough Bread

Grade A Turkey

Brussels Sprouts

for

A13

Fresh

12 pack

100 gr

www.pqbnews.com

California/Mexico Driscoll’s

PLUS A

The Parksville Qualicum Beach News Tuesday, December 22, 2015

PLUS A

A12

for

Que Pasa

420ml

454gr

Organic Salsa

2$ Organic Tortilla Chips

170-184gr

Holiday Hours - We will be closing at 6pm on December 24th and closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day! We will be open and ready to serve you with new specials December 27th. Wishing you a Healthy, Happy & Safe Holiday Season, from our family to yours! www.qualityfoods.com Prices in effect December 21st-24th, 2015

www.pqbnews.com

Tuesday, December 22, 2015 The Parksville Qualicum Beach News

for

6oz clamshell

Gravy or Yorkshire Mix

Club House

Raspberries

Saint Agur

Blue Cheese

Per

California Grown 4.39 per kg

21-45gr

Kraft

Stove Top Stuffing Mix

Alymer

120gr

Per Per

398ml

for

San Remo

Del Monte

341-398ml

for

5 G.H. Cretors

Kraft

Pioneer Chips

Schweppes

Popcorn

Philadelphia Dips

Kettle Cooked Potato Chips

Selected, 184-227gr

227gr

142gr

LICABL PP

300gr

California Grown

Sweet Potatoes 2.18 per kg

Per Per

Min. 600gr

O I C

Smoked Ham

Oven Roasted Whole Maple Ham

for

Per

473ml

Family Classic Frozen Dessert

Kraft

Cracker Barrel

900gr

220-240gr

O’Doul’s

Dealcoholized Beer

10 9

3$ for

LICABL PP

Hi I’m Skinny

Quinoa or Sweet Potato Sticks

for

Castello

Cheese Slices

Cheez Whiz

12x355ml

LICABL PP

for

Rosenborg Danish Blue Cheese 125gr

Glass Bottle, 6x237ml

Coke, Sprite or Ginger Ale

Breyers

Per

Whipping Cream

250gr

Hertel’s

Instore Cooked

for

Dairyland

Per

946ml

Shank or Butt Portion, 7.69 per kg

for

Egg Nog

1.66lt

5 2$

4$ for

8” Pumpkin Pie

Dairyland

EES EF

for

12x355ml

EES EF

Ginger Ale, Club Soda or Tonic Water

PLUS A

for

900gr

340-500ml

Homestyle Stuffing

8.80 per kg

350ml

Seven Layer Dip

Butter

Spiral Ham Half

Dressing

Chopped Spinach

Butterball

Cook’s

Newman’s Own

Artichoke Hearts or Roasted Peppers

Vegetables

Libby’s

Fraser Valley

Beets

Made Fresh Instore

Selected

4.39 per kg

Dinner or Crusty Buns

Sourdough Bread

Grade A Turkey

Brussels Sprouts

for

A13

Fresh

12 pack

100 gr

www.pqbnews.com

California/Mexico Driscoll’s

PLUS A

The Parksville Qualicum Beach News Tuesday, December 22, 2015

PLUS A

A12

for

Que Pasa

420ml

454gr

Organic Salsa

2$ Organic Tortilla Chips

170-184gr

A14

www.pqbnews.com

Tuesday, December 22, 2015 The Parksville Qualicum Beach News

COLUMN

You can Banksy on it QUALICUM BEACH INN

NEW YEAR’S Package for 2 People 1 Night Deluxe Ocean View Room (Choice of King Bed or 2 Doubles)

PLUS • Bottle of Bubbly on Arrival • 4 Course New Years Eve Dinner for 2 • Complimentary Champagne at Midnight • Breakfast for 2 • $320 (+ taxes) 2690 W. Island Hwy, Qualicum Beach 250-752-6914 QualicumBeachInn.com

MEMBERSHIP OPPORTUNITY Hurry! Limited time offer!! Pay your Initiation Fee now and play all winter for free.

500

Initiation Fee

BENEFITS INCLUDE:

• DON’T PAY YOUR ANNUAL FEES ‘TIL MARCH 1/2016 • UNLIMITED GOLF YEAR ROUND • 8 days Advanced Online Booking, Reciprocal Rates at other Island Golf Courses, Discounts on Club Events & much more! ONE OF VANCOUVER ISLAND’S DRIEST COURSES LENDING ITSELF TO YEAR ‘ROUND PLAY

ave you ever been subjected to Banksy is decidedly subversive. A few years the Proust Questionnaire? It’s a ago he flirted with counterfeiting, producing personality test made famous by fake British ten pound notes featuring a porthe French writer Marcel Proust. trait of Diana, Princess of Wales in place of the The questions come out of deep Queen. left field -- what is your main fault? Name your Naturally, he changed the printed legend favourite flower – that sort of thing. I got nailed BANK OF ENGLAND to BANKSY OF ENwith the Proust Questionnaire on a live radio GLAND. These limited-edition Banksy fake bill program, which meant no time to think. “Who’s show up on eBay from time to time – usually goyour favourite painter?” my quizzer queried. ing for about 200 quid. “Tom Thomson” I blurted. Which was total BS. That’s the true genius of Banksy. He despisThomson was just the first painter that sprang es the ‘Art World’, the crap it encourages and it’s to mind . insanely inflated prices. He mocks Ask me today and my answer that world in just about everything would be: Banksy. he does. Who’s Banksy? Good question. And yet collectors and dealBy Arthur Black Nobody knows. We’re pretty sure ers are drawn to him like rats to a that he’s a Brit, probably from Brisdumpster. Forbes magazine estol and he’s been ‘painting’ since timates his value at $20 million. about 1990. He signs his work but Banksy couldn’t care less. “Comhe doesn’t do interviews or photo mercial success,” he says, “is a mark ops. His work has appeared in venof failure for the graffiti artist”. ues as various as Barcelona, Paris, That makes Banksy one of the Vienna, San Francisco and New the most successful art failures ever. York. Shepard Fairley, writing in Time Correction: his work has appeared on brick said: “His works, whether he stencils them on walls and board fences in the aforementioned the streets, sells them in exhibitions or hangs locales. Banksy is a graffiti artist. them in museums on the sly, are filled with wit Not to be confused with the knobs and and metaphors that transcend language barrimouth-breathers who spray paint incoherent ers.” ‘signatures’ on public spaces. Banksy is a true Banksy puts it this way: “The thing I hate the artist. His works have purpose and point of most about advertising is that it attracts all the view – usually the point of view of a middle fin- bright, creative and ambitious young people, ger directed toward the establishment. Some leaving us mainly with the slow and self-obfamous ‘Banksys”: Winston Churchill wearing sessed to become our artists. Modern art is a a Mohawk, two British bobbies kissing; a mili- disaster area. Never in the field of human histary helicopter wearing a fluffy pink satin bow. tory has so much been used by so many to say At the Bristol Zoo, Banksy sneaked into the so little.” elephant enclosure and left a message on the Betcha even Tom Thomson would agree wall in seven-foot letters that read: “I WANT with that. OUT. THIS PLACE IS TOO COLD. KEEPER — Arthur Black lives on Saltspring Island. SMELLS. BORING, BORING, BORING – as if His column appears weekly in The NEWS. daubed there by an elephant’s trunk. E-mail: arblack43@shaw.ca

Basic

Black

Grandmothers thank the community The Oceanside Grandmothers to Grandmothers (G2G) is thanking the community and The NEWS for the support that helped their eighth annual Christmas extravaganza a huge success, raising almost $29,000, which representative Rita Kleinfelder called “an absolute record!” With the proceeds going to the Stephen Lewis Foundation for communi-

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year P L AY OUR

FUN FRIENDLY COURSE… REDUCED INITIATION FEE OFFER EXPIRES MARCH 31, 2016 Come enjoy affordable golf year round!

www.golfqualicum.ca

250-752-6312

from

ty organizations providing care and support to women, orphans, grandmothers and people living with HIV/AIDS in Africa, the local group alone has raised more than $330,000 in all. For more check http://oceansideg2g.org under the “past event” tab. — NEWS Staff

Eat in • Take Out

Dynamite Roll �� $5.50 Bento Box �� from $8.99 Rice Bowl (Donburi) �� $7.99 Chicken, Beef or Pork Teriyaki �� $8.99

“Your Strata Management Company of choice for the Oceanside area.” 886 Wembley Road, Parksville, BC admin@thekerrgroup.ca | thekerrgroup.ca

250.586.1100

Party Tray��from $24.00 Now Licensed Enjoy Beer or Sake with Your Meal!

250-951-0752

208 East Island Hwy., Parksville Have your say!

editor@pqbnews.com

The Parksville Qualicum Beach News Tuesday, December 22, 2015

ARTS &LIFE

www.pqbnews.com

A15

Do you have local aRTS newS? contact: J.R. Rardon email: reporter@pqbnews.com Phone: 250-905-0028

Oceanside squeezers

Club of one grows Qualicum Beach retiree seeks fellow accordion players, enthusiasts

he said. “I thought, ‘I should dust it off.’ Turns out, it was in pretty sad shape.” After checking around, Brooker found Tempo Trend Accordions in Victoria, a business that specializes in the sale and maintenance of accordions. Tempo Trend also hosted a club whose members meet monthly, and Brooker joined as a way to polish his skills and meet other enthusiasts. “It was fun, but I thought, I don’t want to drive to Victoria for a one-hour session every month,” he said. “Maybe there’s a group here doing this. I did a walk-around to see if there were other clubs here before I started this. I didn’t want to re-invent the wheel.” His informal canvas of the community, including music stores, did not turn up an active club. So Brooker decided to start his own. The Oceanside Squeezers is open to anybody who enjoys playing or simply listening to accordion music, and to those interested in starting on the complex instrument. Meeting days, times and location will be determined based on a result of polling members, which Brooker plans to do after the New Year. The club is free to join, though there may need to be a small donation if the rental of a hall is required for practices. “Some people are nervous when I do things for free,” he joked. “They think I’m running a scam or something.”

J.R. RaRdon reporter@pqbnews.com

For a guy who spent 33 years in a sales career, Qualicum Beach retiree Court Brooker unveiled a decidedly unpolished presentation to pitch a new accordion enthusiasts’ club on the midIsland. “A lot of people don’t like accordion music,” Brooker said bluntly. “I don’t even like to listen to too much of it.” Still, the 68-year-old retiree recently began a recruiting campaign for a local club, the Oceanside Squeezers, to meet once a month beginning in 2016. On Dec. 6 he posted an invitation to join “this thriving club of one member, me.” Six days later, he had already gathered seven members. “I’ve had some interest; I think it’s gonna happen,” he said of the club. “The idea is, it will be a fun thing, for recreational players. The object is to get people of all skill levels.” Brooker admits his own skill level has developed a coat of rust in the 20plus years since he played regularly. But this fall he decided to locate his old accordion and bring it out of retirement for a test. “It was sitting unused in the garage,”

See New accordioN, page A17

J.r. rardOn phOTO

qualicum beach retiree court brooker has dusted off his old accordion and is trying to round up a local accordion enthusiasts’ club to meet monthly.

TOday aT qualiTy resOrT bayside

Local author hosts signing for debut novel First-time author publishes juvenile fantasy/adventure

Debut author M.K. Wood of Nanoose Bay will host a book signing for her juvenile fantasy/adventure tale Tuesday,

Dec. 22, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Quality Resort Bayside in Parksville. The story, Piper’s Pond, follows a 13-year-old girl who spots a flickering piece of purple foil in an air vent in her bedroom and is led into a world of fairies

TODAY ONLY! Tuesday, December

Save 65%

19ŮŮ

Regular $59

CHAPS 100% cotton ﬂannel shirts for men Available in up to 14 patterns.

Exclusively ours

and magic. The majority of the book was written in long-hand form, by the ocean near her Nanoose Bay home or at the Parksville beach. Self-published through Friesen Press,

Piper’s Pond is available in hardback, paperback and an e-edition. Copies will be available for purchase during the signing, to be held in the lobby of Quality Resort Bayside. — NEWS Staff

IN STORE AND AT THEBAY.COM

FREE ONLINE SHIPPING ON ORDERS OF $99 OR MORE.*

Save $23

12ŮŮ

Regular $36

Boys’ CHAPS long-sleeved knit tees

Available in 4 colours.

No rain checks and no price adjustments. No pre-orders or telephone orders. Offer available while quantities last. Cannot be combined with other offers. Selection may vary by store. Savings are off our regular prices unless otherwise specified. Excludes Hudson’s Bay Company Collection and Kleinfeld. See in store for details. *FREE ONLINE SHIPPING: Receive free standard shipping on a total purchase amount of $99 or more before taxes. Offer is based on merchandise total and does not include taxes or any additional charges. Free standard shipping is applied after discounts and/or promotion code offers. Offer not valid at Hudson’s Bay or any other HBC stores. Additional fees apply for Express or Next Day Shipping. Applies to Canadian delivery addresses only. Excludes furniture, canoes, patio furniture, patio accessories, barbecues and mattresses.

A16

www.pqbnews.com

Tuesday, December 22, 2015 The Parksville Qualicum Beach News

RBC Dominion Securities Inc.

Season’s greetings Thanks to all our clients for your continued support and all the best in 2016

J.R. RaRdon photo

SYMPHONY SING-ALONG: Conductor Tania Miller leads the Victoria Symphony Orchestra and an audience of 550 in a Christmas carol sing-along during a concert with the Victoria Choral Society at Qualicum Beach Civic Centre Dec. 14. For more information, call Oliver Sayah & Associates Wealth Management Team of RBC Dominion Securities at 250-248-2104 or 1-800-675-7240.

Jan. 5 in Qualicum Beach

Museum resumes speaker’s series Historical and Museum Society invites Canadian Federation of University Women

RBC Dominion Securities Inc.* and Royal Bank of Canada are separate corporate entities which are affiliated. *Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund. RBC Dominion Securities Inc. is a member company of RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. ®Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. © 2015 Royal Bank of Canada. All rights reserved.

A division of

The Qualicum Beach Historical and Museum Society will kick off the New Year with another edition of its speaker series Tuesday, Jan. 5. Perry Perry, from the Canadian Federation of University Women, will

provide an historical overview of that group and discuss its current focus on the promotion of education and the improvement of the status of women and human rights. The lecture is scheduled for 7 p.m.

at Qualicum Beach Civic Centre. Admission is by donation, and is free to all QBH&MS members. For more information, contact Netania Waddell at 250-752-5533 or qbmuseum@shaw.ca. — Submitted by QBH&MS

#UsedHelps

The Parksville Qualicum Beach News Tuesday, December 22, 2015

www.pqbnews.com

A17

Wednesday in Qualicum Beach

Storytime for kids

The Qualicum Beach branch of Vancouver Island Regional Library invites kids and their parents to a Holiday Family Storytime session Wednesday, Dec. 23, from 10:30-11 a.m. The event will include both seasonal stories and

crafting activities for the young ones. Admission is free. Qualicum Beach Library is located at 660 Primrose Street. For more information, contact Heather Stevens at 250-752-6121 or hstevens@virl.bc.ca. — Submitted by VIRL

dec. 31 in paRksville

Legion rings in 2016 J.R. RaRdon photo

Court Brooker, left, breaks into a spontaneous rendition of Santa Claus is Coming to Town as Phil St. Luke sings along Friday at Pacific Brimm coffee shop in Parksville.

New accordion club draws interest continued fRom page a15

That doesn’t keep Brooker from putting himself out in the public. He recently strolled into Pacific Brimm coffee shop, a Santa hat perched on his head, string of Christmas lights around his neck and an accordion hung from his shoulders, and led patrons in a brisk sing-along of Santa Claus is Coming to Town. He got his musical start on the piano at 10 years old, he said, but picked up the accordion at age 15 because his father needed an accordion player for his dance band. He also played clarinet in the Sea Cadet band in his native Neepawa, MB. He went on to a career in

sales with General Motors, and also ran several of his own businesses, including a photography business. But while he got away from playing regularly, he never got rid of the accordion. “I’ve dragged it out before, for short periods,” he said, adding that it was hard to find the motivation to play by himself. “My other inspiration was I’m thinking this group will motivate me to play more.” The demographics of a retirement community should be no issue for a local club. In fact, he added, the first responses to his ad came from a particular slice of the population. “The demographic seems to

be older ladies,” he said. “German ladies, in particular. “This is good for seniors. It’s therapeutic; it’s good for your fingers and it’s good for your mind.” If the Oceanside Squeezers succeeds as a club, he’ll be happy to let other members take command. And if it turns out nobody wants to hear him play accordion, he’ll move on. “I was in sales, where rejection is your life,” Brooker joked. “I’ve found rejection quite frequently playing the accordion.” To join the Squeezers or for more information, contact Brooker at 250-951-2572 or brook@shaw.ca

PARKSVILLE SENIORS’ ACTIVITY & DROP-IN CENTRE (P.S.A.D.I.C.) 144 Middleton Ave. Tel:250-248-3200 Monday to Friday 9am-3:30pm

We are closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. SEASON’S GREETINGS

From all of us at Parksville Seniors’ Activity & Drop-In Centre! WEEKLY ACTIVITIES -George Dorsey

MONDAYS

Choir, Bingo, Canasta, Yoga, Scrabble TUESDAYS

Keep Fit, Bag Baseball, Darts, Tile Rummy WEDNESDAYS

Yoga, Qi Gong THURSDAYS

Shuffleboard, Keep Fit, Bag Baseball, Euchre Hand & Foot Canasta, Tai Chi FRIDAYS

Knitting, Line Dance, Bridge, Whist, Mexican Train, Maj Jong Soloway Rivers Law LLP

Coffee is always on & lunches served daily. Special events posted on notice board. Any Questions? Please call

250-248-3200

This ad sponsored by: Bruce K. Soloway Chris Rivers A Family Practice For All Your Family’s Needs

250-248-2226 email: info@soloway.ca

145 E. Hirst Ave., Parksville www.soloway.ca

Ph. (250) 947-9900 susan@susanforrest.com www.propertiesvancouverisland.com

PARKSVILLE QUALICUM BEACH REALTY

Parksville’s Royal Canadian Legion Branch 49 will ring in the New Year with a dinner and dance to live music Thursday, Dec. 31. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., with dinner served at 7 p.m. Starting at 8 p.m. Silk Mischief with Bev Finch will take the stage and revelers may dance the night away. Champagne will be served

and party favours distributed at midnight, and a grand prize draw for two round-trip tickets to Vancouver with Orca Airways will be held. Tickets are $40, ages 19+ only, and may be purchased at the Legion Hall in Parksville, 146 Hirst Ave. West. For more info, call 250-248-5633. — Submitted by Legion Branch 49

Jan. 2 in Qualicum Beach

KSS grads clean up The Kwalikum Secondary School 2016 grads are once again offering Qualicum Beach residents a chance to dispose of their Christmas trees and holiday cheer bottles and cans with a minimum effort this season. The grads will hold a bottle drive and tree chip-up Saturday Jan. 2, by donation.

TOWN OF QUALICUM BEACH Incorporated 1942

Grads and parents will be driving around picking up Christmas trees and recyclables to raise funds for their dry grad. Place trees, bottles and donations at the end of your driveway by 9 a.m. for pick-up, or drop trees off at the Town works yard off Berwick Road. — Submitted by KSS Grad

NOTICE OF PROPERTY DISPOSITION BY WAY OF LEASE

In accordance with Section 26 of the Community Charter, the Council of the Town of Qualicum Beach (the “Town”) gives notice that it intends to lease the premises located at 124 Harlech Road, Qualicum Beach, British Columbia and legally described as Parcel Identifiers: 002-457-792, 002-457-903, 002-457920 LOT A, DISTRICT LOT 58, AND LOTS B, & C, DISTRICT LOT 59, NEWCASTLE DISTRICT, PLAN 26889, and substantially as detailed in the sketch plan below (the “Property”) to Cloudhead Games Ltd. (Inc. No. BC0970706) (“Cloudhead”). The Town will lease the Property to Cloudhead for a term of eighteen (18) months commencing on or about February 1, 2016. Cloudhead will pay base rent of $2,000.00 per month and will be responsible for all costs associated with its occupation of the Property during the term of the lease. For enquiries, please contact Luke Sales, Director of Planning, Town of Qualicum Beach, PO Box 130, 201 - 660 Primrose Street, Qualicum Beach, British Columbia, V9K 1S7. (Phone: 250-752-6921; Email: lsales@qualicumbeach)

NOTICE OF ASSISTANCE In accordance with Section 24 of the Community Charter, the Council of the Town also gives notice that it intends to provide assistance to Cloudhead consisting of the difference between the current market rent that would be payable for the Property and the rent payable under the lease detailed above. In return for any assistance, Cloudhead shall permit the Town and its elected officials, officers, employees and agents to hold meetings and public gatherings from time to time as the Landlord may consider necessary in its absolute discretion in those parts of the Property described in the lease.

A18

www.pqbnews.com

Tuesday, December 22, 2015 The Parksville Qualicum Beach News

It has been our pleasure to deliver to you this past year. We look forward to serving you in 2016.

CARRIERS Spencer Bradbury Emily Beauchamp David Brown Ken Bucyk Natalie & Kyla Button Andrew & Steven Dwyer Sylvia Dzeryk Lukas Forsgren Joe Forsyth Cassius Galdames Focus Group Mathew Green

Louise Gunner Andrea Howarth Shaun-Michael Jewell Mark Lewis Sherida Magas Gail Marsh Lawanna & Ken Moffatt Jackie Parker Ed Patriquin Lorraine Pearson Bernice Prier Harry Reddin

DRIVERS Mark Rosvold Ernie Sankey Lorraine & Ralph Kaptian PDACL Kayla Kyte Nick Therriault Olivia Thomas Jim & Kathy Werdal Angelo Zanchetta

Carla Kyte Mike Hammett Guy Genoe Marcy Holme Al Bahnman Heather Pratt Cheryl Neurauter Dick & Joan Brockway Doug Lohr Terry Kyte Brittany Kyte

Carla Kyte Kayla Kyte

The Parksville Qualicum Beach News Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Business

www.pqbnews.com

A19

We deliver The NEWS! Olivia Thomas, Carrier

2016 ‘Walk on the Wild side’

Funding helps Chamber connect to businesses Volunteers, policy makers to canvas hundreds of region’s businesses in February J.R. RARDON reporter@pqbnews.com

The Parksville and District Chamber of Commerce is going to the dogs. And to the restaurants, auto body shops and as many other businesses as it can during a local business walk in early 2016. The Parksville and District Chamber of Commerce Walk on the Wild Side (WWS) will take place Feb. 16-18, 2016, during national Chamber of Commerce Week. “We’re going to have teams going from door to door with questionnaires,” said Kim Burden, executive director of the Parksville and District Chamber of Commerce. “Really, we have no idea what’s out there. We want to find out if people are doing well, why they’ve chosen this area and what we can do to help them.” The chamber hopes to reach as many as 500 area businesses with about 50 volunteers expected to take part in the walks. The business walk is being aided by a nearly $23,000 grant from the provincial Community and Employer Partnerships program. Parksville-Qualicum MLA Michelle Stilwell, the Minister of Social Development and Social Innovation, announced the funding with Burden on Thursday at Wags Animal Care Centre in Parksville, a dog grooming, training and day care centre opened by transplanted Albertan Diana Eichler in March of 2015. “It’s called walk on the wild side? So that’s why you’re starting with me,” Eichler joked. The Parksville and District Chamber of Commerce has held a business walk once before, about five years ago, Burden said. But that walk was an unsupported effort he described as “loose and fast and rough.” The Community and Employer Partnerships program funding has allowed Burden to hire two temporary staffers who will be devoted to the logistics and organization of the walk. Kathy Kril and Susan Bergmann were hired under a program the government says was designed to connect British Columbians with classroom and on-the-job

J.R. RaRdon photo

From left, Michelle stilwell, parksville Qualicum Mla, kim Burden, executive director of the parksville and district Chamber of Commerce, amanda Martin of Wags animal Care Centre and diana eichler, owner of Wags, look on as leo mugs for the camera during a funding announcement thursday for a chamber of commerce business walk on the mid-island in February.

training, while making it easier for em- rough” business walk, it’s that local busiployers to hire skilled workers. ness owners appreciated the fact some“For me, the excitement lies in meet- body cared and was willing to listen. To that end, he is ening new people, listenThere’s a reason we’ve set listing not only chamber ing to their successes and concerns, and up seven teams of walkers. volunteers, but municiWe’ve got six councillors pal political leaders for working together to do and one mayor. roles in the walk. great things,” Bergmann Kim burden “That’s one of the critsaid in a press release. ical pieces of this,” Bur“My hope is to leave den said. “There’s a reaParksville and District son we’ve set up seven Chamber of Commerce with a comprehensive list of all the won- teams of walkers — we’ve got six (City of derful businesses in our area, and to Parksville) councillors and one mayor.” And Stilwell is not exempt from the have made a positive impression upon effort either, as she demonstrated with a all of them.” Burden said if the chamber learned number of questions for Eichler and her one lesson in its earlier, “loose and exe- staff during Thursday’s tour of Wags.

“I’m really looking forward to participating in this Walk on the Wild Side business walk,” said Stilwell. “It’s a great opportunity to get in touch with local businesses to see how they’re doing. It’s also great work experience for Kathy and Susan who will be making great contacts in the business community and getting experience in marketing, report writing and communications.” Burden agreed, noting the role of Kril and Bergmann will be far from ceremonial. “From marketing, to the preparation of our list of questions to recruitment of volunteers, the logistics of this are fairly significant,” he said. “These two ladies have tremendous skills and good experience, but they just haven’t found the right fit for their job skills. This will be a great opportunity.” The chamber, Burden said, hopes not only to get a more comprehensive list of businesses throughout the region, from Bowser to Nanoose Bay and Hilliers, but also to let the owners know of the many resources the chamber of commerce has at its disposal to help them succeed. “Between Community Futures and a number of business subscriber services, we can make those resources available,” he said. Another part of the survey will be finding out why owners set up shop in the Parksville Qualicum Beach region. For Eichler, it was a natural fit. From the time she opened her doors in the Industrial Park area south of town, her business blossomed. She has already expanded into the formerly vacant space next door, and is contemplating another expansion if business continues at the rate it’s been. “I’ve been doing dog grooming and training for 11 years,” said Eichler, who previously contracted her services to a business in Alberta. “But for various reasons I couldn’t get my own business started there. “My family lives here, and honestly, when I visited the mid-Island, I knew it was perfect. Plus, I have two kids and it’s a great place to raise them.”

Thank You For Your Generosity With your help, our HollisWealth® team donated 28 gifts and $1,050 cash to the SOS Caring For Kids at Christmas Program.

Chris Mohr Neil Watson Brian Hagedorn

Carol Plaisier

Personalized advice to achieve your goals

Neil Watson, Associate Advisor • Carol Plaisier, CFP®, FMA, AMP Investment Advisor Brian Hagedorn, CFP®, Investment Advisor • Chris Mohr, Investment Advisor

Located in downtown Parksville 174 Morison Ave. West • (250) 248-2399 HollisWealth is a division of Scotia Capital Inc., a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund and the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada. ® Registered trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia, used under license.

www.pqbnews.com

top top top top realtors results

A20

Tuesday, December 22, 2015 The Parksville Qualicum Beach News

KEVIN CARL

Joanne Ferreiro P E R S O N A L R E A L E S TAT E C O R P O R AT I O N 250 • 228 • 4231

www.toddstarkey.com

(Moulatsiotis)

“Opening Doors For You and Yours”

Karen Scott

LisaM@Macrealty.com

250.954.9596

250-947-5355

E L L I OT T

Opening Doors For You

Oceanside:

Parksville

Independently owned & operated

Allison Arbanas 250.927.2158

Motion

Oceanside

Give me a call and allow me to demonstrate my Marketing Strategies. aarboj@sutton.com 135 Alberni Highway, Parksville

Jolene Aarbo

250-228-0995

REALTOR®/Owner

w w w. p a r k s v i l l e - re a l e s t ate. c a

IT’S NOT JUST WHERE YOU LIVE, IT’S HOW YOU LIVE.

Team

ANCHOR

Rudi Trish &

REALTY

Widdershoven

250.248.1071

Each office independently owned & operated

team@TeamW.ca

office: 250.752.2466 toll free: 1.800.668.3622 email: tracyrealtor@shaw.ca

Committed... Competent... Connected...

Brenda

Nicolls

250-248-8371

GLENN KARAKOCHUK 250.248.0854

IAN WHITELAW

250.937.7275

Richard Team

Celia Myers

Independently Owned and Operated

c. 250-954-9014

e. celia@VancouverIsland.Properties w. www.VancouverIsland.Properties

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

J John M Milroy

richardgoldney.com

250.248.1071 jmilroy@shaw.ca

1.888.243.1071 www.ronmehan.com

BRAND NEW 3 BEDROOM RANCHER

3733 Melrose Rd, QB

$549,000

• 2053 sqft, 3 bed, 3 bath, new rancher on 3.2 acres • Open concept, wood cabinetry, granite counters, wood floors • To view the many beautiful features of this quality built home, please visit our website at knutsonrealestate.ca

KNUTSON .

THE STRENGTH OF A TEAM THE COMFORT OF FAMILY

250.937.1100 Cell 250.752.6926 Office Unlicensed

Realtor®

Your Guide to Oceanside

Cell 250-248-7777 Office 250-752-2466 Toll Free 1-800-668-3622

Personal Real Estate Corporation

Parksville - Qualicum Beach Realty Each office is independently owned and operated.

stevekari@knutsonrealestate.ca www.knutsonrealestate.ca

www.johnmilroy.com

689 Memorial Ave., Qualicum Beach

ALYCE CARNEY

Central Vancouver Island Specialist

250-607-8886

alycecarney@gmail.com 124 Craig St. Parksville

Marketing designed to exceed your expectations.

SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS, DOWNTOWN LOCATION Lovely home & gardens, includes fully equipped, Kiwicuts Hair Salon

$393,700

184 W. Fern Rd

• High profile exposure in Qualicum Village • Great investment in attractive commercial area • Purchase home with business or bring your own ideas • 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom home with private back yard

Cindy Riera

Successfully serving our Oceanside communities for over

22 years.

250-752-2466 1-800-668-3622 www.pq-realestate.com

OCEAN VIEW BEAUTY

$469,000

3822 Island Hwy, QB

• 2415 sq. ft. 3 bdrms, plus a den 3 bathroom character home • Beautiful wood accents throughout, high ceilings, large windows • Gorgeous ocean & mountain views from most rooms • .64 lot with eagles overhead, swans below & sea lions in the distance

MATT BREEDLOVE

Personal Real Estate Corporation

breedloverealestate.ca sold@mattbreedlove.com

250-954-9033 For Every Move You Make Since 1993

Anchor Realty Qualicum Beach

www.TeamW.ca

Independently Owned and Operated

“Good Service is Not Expensive, it’s Priceless”

250.248.1071

Featured Properties

250-248-4321

REAL ESTATE IN

WHITECAP CAP

allisonarbanas@gmail.com

kmscott@shaw.ca

Tracy

toddstarkeyrealtor@gmail.com

Independently Owned and Operated

12/1/15 1:31 PM

Senior Real Estate Specialist Certified Residential Relocation Specialist

...finding a home to mirror your life

Enthusiastic Responsive Supportive

Followyour yourheart heart with with aa touch touch of of expert expert advise advice Follow

Lisa M.

Todd Starkey Todd Starkey

kevincarl@kevincarl.ca

Creating real estate solutions to match your lifestyle

169 TOP REALTOR AD FAv02-CCH2.indd 1

Parksville-Qualicum Beach Realty

250.240.2745

★ ★★ ★ ★

Independently Owned and Operated

www.pqbnews.com A21 www.pqbnews.com A21

The Parksville December 22, 22,2015 2015 The Parksville Qualicum Qualicum Beach Beach News News Tuesday, Tuesday, December

To advertise in print:

Browse more at:

Call: 1-855-310-3535 Email: classified@pqbnews.com Self-serve: blackpressused.ca Career ads: localworkbc.ca

A division of

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS INFORMATION

PERSONAL SERVICES BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

FINANCIAL SERVICES

HIP OR knee replacement? Arthritic Conditions/COPD? Restrictions in walking/dressing? Disability tax credit $2,000 tax credit $20,000 refund. Apply today for assistance: 1-844-453-5372.

HOME/BUSINESS SERVICES

DRYWALL

PAINTING

Taping/ Texturing/ Painting. Reno & Repair Specialist. 30 years of fast friendly service. Wayne 250-752-4658 QB

GARDENING

EDUCATION/TRADE SCHOOLS CANADA BENEFIT Group Do you or someone you know suffer from a disability? Get up to $40,000 from the Canadian Government. Toll-free 1-888511-2250 or www.canadabenefit.ca/free-assessment IF YOU WANT TO DRINK, thatâ€™s your business. Want to STOP, we can help. Alcoholics Anonymous. 1-800-883-3968

HEALTHCARE DOCUMENTATION Specialists in huge demand. Employers prefer CanScribe graduates. A great work-from-home career! Contact us now to start your training day. www.canscribe.com. Call 1-800-466-1535. Email: info@canscribe.com.

â€œLITTLE AZTECâ€? PaintingProfessional. Good rates. Free quote. Joseâ€™ (250)594-6611.

START A new career in Graphic Arts, Healthcare, Business, Education or Information Tech. If you have a GED, call: 855-670-9765

M OXFORD Home/Commercial Renoâ€™s & Painting. Decks, Sheds, Hardwood & Trim. 25 yrs exp. Quality Guaranteed. Fully insured. (250)228-5204.

HELP WANTED NEW to the area? Call for your FREE package of info, gifts & greetings. Pat: 250-248-7119 Parksville Kamla: 250-752-7458 Qualicum Beach

The most Famous Baskets in the World! www.welcomewagon.ca

LOST AND FOUND Found: on Hirst & McMillan, â€œA gift for youâ€? #250-870-1540 MISSING CAT, Pioneer Cres., Parksville. Short-hair neutered blk male (Angel). White chest & feet. Tatoo WB835. Call (250)757-9125, (250)757-9911

TRAVEL

SECRETARY/ MANAGER Wanted, F/T, Multiple duties. Must have experience with liquor licensing and bookkeeping. Please send request for information to: rcl49@shaw.ca

HEDGES AND SHRUB Pruning. Over 25 years exp. Call Ted (250)228-6682.

MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career! Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get online training you need from an employertrusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855-7683362 to start training for your work-at-home career today!

TRADES, TECHNICAL WATKIN MOTORS Ford, Vernon, B.C. immediately requires an experienced Ford Diesel Technician. Go to watkinmotors.com About us, Employment, to apply and review required qualifications.

PLUMBING FULL SERVICE plumbing from Parker Dean. Fast, reliable, 24/7 service. Take $50 off your next job if you present this ad. Vancouver area. 1800-573-2928.

FITNESS/EXERCISE PILATES, FITNESS & HEALTH COACHING Private & semi-private classes in Parksville. All ages. Gift Certificates Available Body Wellness (250)228-1002

MERCHANDISE FOR SALE APPLIANCES

WANTED DEAD OR ALIVE

HOME/BUSINESS SERVICES

PERSONAL SERVICES

9/52Ă–#/--5.)49 Ă–9/52Ă–#,!33)&)%$3

BUSINESS SERVICES FINANCIAL SERVICES INCOME TAX PROBLEMS? Have you been audited, reassessed or disallowed certain claims by Canada Revenue Agency? Call Bob Allen @ 1250-542-0295 35yrs. Income Tax experience, 8.5yrs. with Revenue Canada. Email: r.gallen@shaw.ca C- 250-938-1944

FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS

DEATHS

ELSIE Madeline Eleanor Mitchell (nee From)

June 6, 1922 â€“ December 13, 2015 Mom passed away peacefully at Fir Park Village in Port Alberni, BC. She was pre-deceased by her husband Murray, her mom & dad, sister Edna & brothers Helge & Ingvall. Left to mourn are her 2 daughters Darlene (Nick), Sayward, BC., Lorraine, Port Alberni, BC and brother Oliver (Inez), Eckville, AB; 5 grand children Darren Seminoff (Shawn), Christopher Seminoff (Maurya) both of Fort St. John, BC, Shauna Larson (Andrew), Black Creek, BC, Michael Nohr (Kristin), Port Alberni, BC & Traci Garnier, Courtney, BC; 6 great grandchildren Brittanny, Chelsea & Brayden Larsen, Desiree & Taylor Granier & Darien Seminoff and many nieces and nephews. Elsie enjoyed her life in Parksville with her many friends playing bridge. No service by request

HAVE YOU been denied Canada Pension Plan disability benefits? The Disability Claims Advocacy Clinic can help you appeal. Call 1-877-793-3222 www.dcac.ca info@dcac.ca

CLEANING SERVICES PROFESSIONAL CLEANING and care giving in Parksville / Qualicum Beach areas. Certified Care Aide. References available. Call 250-586-9967

COMPUTER SERVICES BUYDENS COMPUTERS PC Repair & Personal Tutoring. Call Kevin @ 250-240-7372.

$$ CASH PAID $$ for NEWER FRIDGES, STOVES, WASHERS, DRYERS etc.

HAULING AND SALVAGE WAYNEâ€™S HAUL-AWAY. Will haul away unwanted whatever. Also, small engine repair. Bondable. 250-752-1639.

ALL YOU NEED IN PRINT AND ONLINE

www.used.ca

SERVICE DIRECTORY Handypersons

Seaside HOME

Tile Paint Power IMPROVEMENTS washing MAINTENANCE Carpentry Drywall repair AND REPAIRS Roof demossing Gutter & window cleaning Junk & yard waste removal Decks â€˘ Fencing â€˘ House & yard care Pick up and removal of Xmas trees! HANGING & REMOVAL OF CHRISTMAS LIGHTS If you need it, we can do it.

Your Community, Your ClassiďŹ eds. 1-855-310-3535

POIRIER PAINTING ASK ABOUT OUR INTERIOR SPECIALS. Residential / Commercial. Fully insured, Guaranteed Workmanship, WCB, Call Dan at 250-240-3528. SEASIDE PAINTING Brightening up your world for 15+ years. Free estimates. Call 250-240-2450

MEDICAL/DENTAL

TIMESHARE CANCEL YOUR Timeshare. No risk program stop mortgage & maintenance payments today. 100% money back guarantee. Free consultation. Call us now. We can help! 1-888-356-5248.

AHH, THE HOLIDAYS ARE UPON US! Get a fresh new look with PAINT and bring your home to life this Christmas.... A STROKE ABOVE PAINTING LTDCommercial & Residential. Interior/Exterior. WCB. Insured. Call Dave, 250-240-2310.

250-240-2945

Fencing

BELLEVUE RECONDITIONED APPLIANCES Sales & Service. FULL WARRANTY. Large Showroom

1040 BELLEVUE ROAD Parksville 250-248-8251

HOBBIES & CRAFTS GRINSHEEP FIBRE Productions. Felting, spinning, knitting & weaving supplies. Tues Sat., 1 - 5 or by appt. 250-2486306. grinsheep@gmail.com

Painting

20 yrs. experience. Free estimates.

250-240-4615 blairsfencing.com FAST, FRIENDLY, RELIABLE QUALITY WORK AT A FAIR PRICE.

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE

APARTMENT/CONDO PARKSVILLE- RENOVATED, spacious 2 bdrm apt. Free storage & parking, quiet bldg, heat/hot water included. Quiet tenants need only apply! Refs reqâ€™d. Avail Dec 15. $850. Call 250-248-3350.

SAWMILLS FROM only $4,397 - Make money & save money with your own bandmill - Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. Free info & DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com/400OT 1-800-5666899 Ext:400OT.

THE ART of CAROL EVANS Available at the Englishman River Gallery. (250)248-7372.

Since 2001

NEED PAINTING? 250-240-2450

seasidepainting.merek@gmail.com

PARKSVILLEâ€™S EMERALD Estates offers a unique style of Supportive Living for 50+ age. 1-bdrm patio suite. Available Dec 1st. $1,200/month. Call Lynn (250)303-0098.

COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL BRIGHT PROFESSIONAL space, 200sq ft, shared waiting area/washroom in a Hair Salon. Downtown location w/lots of parking. Available Jan 1, 2016. (250)248-2229.

MOBILE HOMES & PADS MISCELLANEOUS WANTED WANTED old coins of all types. Vintage gold & silver jewelry,rings, chains etc #250-954-9080

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE BY OWNER 240 James St. 1200 sq.ft. 2 bdrm/ 1.5 bath. Large fenced yard, & large deck. Newer roof. 1 car garage. RV or boat parking. 250-248-5246

HOMES WANTED WANTED DUPLEX or 4-plex. Oceanside area preferred. No realtors please.(250)739-1582.

RENTALS APARTMENT/CONDO EMERALD ESTATES 2 bedroom 2 bath(1 walk in shower/1 bathtub) Bright Highly Coveted ASSISTED living for 50 Emerald Estates on Mills St., Parksville Weekly Housecleaning included and Optional Meals 5 days a week. Kitchen with Pantry. Walk to grocery, restaurant, stores, coffee shops Private Parking and Scooter Parking! Call Val 250752-6915

MOILLIET MANOR Clean, Quiet, Secure Senior Oriented Elevator Community Room Wait List Available

Call 250-248-9322 "59).'Ă– Ă–2%.4).' Ă–3%,,).'

Tree Services

W.E.

â€˘Top â€˘Fall â€˘Trim â€˘Chip â€˘Remove

â€˘COMMERCIAL â€˘RESIDENTIAL â€˘ INTERIOR â€˘ EXTERIOR

RENTALS

HIS/HERS 5 speed bikes. $125 for 2. Ping Pong Asking $175. table on wheels $70. Call 250752-2273.

Get ready for your JANUARY SERVICE DIRECTORY Call The News 250-905-0012

BLAIRâ€™S FENCING Cedar panels, farm fencing & chain link. Repairs-Installation Residential Commercial

MERCHANDISE FOR SALE

ERRINGTON MOBILE 2 bdrm, 5 appliances, N/S, N/P, $700/mo. Refâ€™s Reqâ€™d. Avail. Jan 1st. Call 250-228-7237. WHISKEY CREEK: 1309 Chatsworth Rd. 2 bdrm mobile home, private location. Avail. now. $600/mo + DD. Pets ok. Call (250)897-5728.

HOMES FOR RENT MODERN EXECUTIVE HOME w/in-law suite. Fabulous ocean views, landscaped grounds. 3 bed, 2 bath up, 2 bed, 1 bath down, energy efficient. NS. $2600/mo. Call Val Lambert 250-752-6915. PARKSVILLE: 2 bdrm, 2 bath, 5 appls, W/D, on 1 acre, shop space, carport & deck, 331 Molliet St. Avail Jan. 1 or sooner. $1300. + utils. Refâ€™s and credit check reqâ€™d. Call 250-586-5360, 780-444-3495. WHISKEY CREEK area: Older â€˜Aâ€™ frame house, 3 bdrm, shared acreage. Woodstove, new paint, laminate floors. Long term. $875. Dec. 1 or sooner. Refâ€™s. (250)954-1355.

STORAGE MORE SPACE FOR LESS Storage Containers Currently available: 8â€™ x 20â€™ $105. + taxes. Open storage for RVs, cars, boats, trailers: $40. + taxes for first 20â€™ $2 each additional foot.

250-248-7100.

SUITES, LOWER FRENCH CREEK. Lovely 1bdrm suite on upper floor of very private, quiet home. N/S, N/P. 1/2 blk to beach. $950. all inclusive. Call (250)925-4608.

WANTED TO RENT Semi retired quiet responsible cpl with 1 medium sized well behaved dog, looking for a 1 bedroom cottage style apartment for immediate long term rental. Must be walker/wheelchair friendly. We are non smokers/partiers. Please call cell #780-232-6868

PEACE, Hope & Prosperity in 2016

- BUYING - RENTING - SELLING -

Free Estimates. Insured.

752-6154

www.used.ca

Serving our area since 1972.

1-855-310-3535

WILSON ENTERPRISES WISHING YOU

A22

www.pqbnews.com

Sports &Rec

Tuesday, December 22, 2015 The Parksville Qualicum Beach News

Do you have local sports news? contact: Tyson Taylor, Sports Reporter email: sports@pqbnews.com phone: 250-951-3809

www.pqbnews.com

Boys BasketBall

Whalers strike first in rivalry series

Ballenas breaks open see-saw game for 58-38 win over Kwalikum T yson Taylor sports@pqbnews.com

The annual “cross-town” rivalry series between the Ballenas Whalers and Kwalikum Kondors boys basketball teams tipped off at Ballenas Secondary School last week, with the Whalers coming out on top in the first of two meetings between the teams this season. It was a close, back-and-forth game between the teams, whose players have shared the court as either teammates or opponents at one point or another over the last seven years. The Whalers came out on top in the first of the home and home matchups by a score of 58-38. Aaron Paetkau was once again a force to be reckoned with for the Whalers, leading the charge offensively for the Blue and White. Paetkau stands at 6’5” and presents a matchup problem for every team the Whalers have faced so far this

tyson taylor PHoto

liviano Canil of the Ballenas Whalers, left, drives past lucas sposato of the kwalikum kondors during their teams’ game last thursday at Ballenas. the Whalers downed the kondors, 58-38.

season. “He’s a tough matchup,” head coach Kevin McMillen said. “Aaron’s so tall that he can play

against the big guys, which is a problem for them because most big guys aren’t as quick or athletic as he is. So if he’s got a

smaller opponent guarding him, Aaron can use his size to his advantage and exploit the defense that way. He’s a great weapon

to have on our team because he can do so much for us — score, pass, and rebound; you name it, he can do it. Not to mention the fact that he’s 6’5” but has a wingspan that makes him seem like he’s a lot taller.” Leading the way for the Kondors was senior Lucas Sposato, who, like Paetkau, presents a lot of challenges for opposing teams. Sposato has the height but also has the ability to step back beyond the three-point line and knock shots down at will, which causes opponents to have to be near him at all times. “He’s dangerous when he’s on the floor,” McMillen said of Sposato. “For someone his size, his shot is very dangerous. He can shoot it from anywhere once he’s over half court and it has a chance to go in. He can take you down low in the post and hit a turnaround jump shot or he can take a pass out at the three-point line and have just as much of a chance to hit that shot, too. “Luckily for us, we were really able to key in on him as their main threat offensively because they were without their starting point guard.” See kSS eyeS, page A23

Win snaPs four-GaMe skid

Generals freeze Bucs, 4-2 Logan Savard notches three points as Oceanside claims VIJHL victory

We’re a young team, so any time the younger guys can get in on the scoring, it’s always great to see. Cam niCkerson

T yson Taylor sports@pqbnews.com

tyson taylor PHoto

ethan sundstrum and the oceanside Generals looked to make it two straight wins heading into the Christmas break after beating the nanaimo Buccaneers thursday by a score of 4-2. Check thursday’s paper for highlights from saturday’s game against kerry Park.

The Save-On-Foods Oceanside Generals snapped their four-game losing skid with a 4-2 win last Thursday over the Nanaimo Buccaneers in Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League play. Logan Savard had a three-

point night with two goals, including the game-winner, and an assist to lead the charge on offence for the Generals. Also scoring for the Generals were Brandon Roberge, who tallied his first VIJHL goal, and Sebastian Powsey, who had been out of the lineup the last few

games as a healthy scratch for the Generals and was playing as a forward instead of joining the Gens lineup as a defenseman. Goaltender Brandon Ward stood tall in net for the Gens, turning aside 43 of the 45 shots he faced. In the last three games he’s started, Ward has seen more than 150 shots in net for the Generals but he finally managed to pick up his first win in 13 outings for the team this season. See goaltendIng, page A24

Martial arts exaM

Parksville taekwondo student gets belted in Nanaimo Eight-year-old Gabriela Conn proves quick study T yson Taylor sports@pqbnews.com

Achieving a black belt can be tough for anyone at any age, but Parksville’s Gabriela Conn managed just that at age eight.

Conn, who started her training at just three years old at Parksville Taekwondo School, recently achieved her black belt status in Nanaimo. During her testing, Conn successfully broke three target boards in less than seven seconds. According to Nanaimo TKD instructor Steve Large, students normally come to the martial arts school between ages

six and nine and it usually takes about three years to obtain a black belt. Thanks to her start she got here in Parksville, Conn excelled through the colours on her way to her black belt. “It’s good to see that she’s stuck with it all this time,” Large said. “She had to make some transitions when she came here from Parksville, because every

school is different. She did really well in the transition.” After earning her first stripe in Parksville, Conn knew she wanted to continue to pursue higher levels. “I thought it was really cool,” she said. “So I said to myself I’m going to go to the top and I won’t quit.” - With files from Nanaimo Daily News

The Parksville Qualicum Beach News Tuesday, December 22, 2015

www.pqbnews.com

A23

Waterproof. NW1400

WW1400

DISCOVER MORE AT THE NEW BALANCE® STORE

Tyson Taylor phoTo

Lucas Sposato (12) lays one up as the Kwalikum Kondors and Ballenas Whalers battled it out last Thursday night at Ballenas Secondary School in Parksville. The Whalers went on to beat the Kondors, 58-38.

At your local New Balance Store in Nanaimo, you’ll find a lot more than just footwear. We have a wide range of hard-to-find widths and sizes, the latest in shoe design and oneon-one consultations with Fit Specialists-all adding up to a more comfortable fit. Stop by today and discover the expertise you’ve been looking for.

New Balance Nanaimo

KSS eyes rematch continued from page a22

—Starting at point for the Kondors is Grade 11 Dre Dixon, who missed the game on Thursday night. Hoping to have him back for the second matchup between the two teams, Kondors coach Dave Frampton is feeling optimistic about their chances. “If we hit half of our free-throws,

A division of

it’s a different game,” Frampton said. “That being said, if the Whalers did the same thing, it’s a blowout. So it was close, no doubt about that, but with Dre back in our lineup that gives us an entirely different skill set at the point guard position to utilize. It’ll be fun the next time these two teams meet in our house.”

NANAIMO

103-1825 BOWEN RD | NANAIMO, BC 250-591-1995 newbalancenanaimo.ca 10 am - 6 pm Monday - Saturday

ROLL ENDS AVAILABLE For sale at our front counter For packing, kids crafts, storage, and a variety of other uses!

#4-154 Middleton Avenue, P.O. Box 1180 Parksville, British Columbia, V9P 2H2

A24

www.pqbnews.com

Tuesday, December 22, 2015 The Parksville Qualicum Beach News

Tyson Taylor phoTo

Brandon Roberge and the Oceanside Generals looked to make it two straight wins heading into the Christmas break after beating the Nanaimo Buccaneers Thursday by a score of 4-2. Check Thursday’s paper for highlights from Saturday’s game against the Kerry Park Islanders.

163 Alberni Highway Parksville 250-248-6511 rodandgunparksville.com Always Drink Responsibly: Please Plan Your Ride Home Accordingly

TIGH-NA-MARA SEASIDE SPA RESORT

80s

Par ty

$ 110 per person

PROM NIGHT

adults only

Mara a N h at Tig

8s0 80 s

PRO PRO MN M at TNigIGH IGH h-Na-T at Tigh M T -Na-Mara

ara

6:3 0p m 6:30 -1 pm a 1 am m 115 5R es 1155 Parks ort D Reso ville riv rt e D, C Park sville, riBve BC

taxes & gratuities are additional

Dig out your radical ice & dress to the 80s max!

6:30 pm - 1 am 1155 Resort Drive, Parksville, BC

001 00

must be purchased in advance:

250-248-2072

continued from page a22

“It’s nice to see him finally get one,” captain Cam Nickerson said. “Wardo works hard in practice and competes hard in games, too; it’s tough when you’ve got a guy like that in net and we can’t do much to help him out. We found a way on Thursday night to make it happen, though, and I thought our goaltending was what made the difference that night.” Whenever these two teams get together, it’s a rough-andtumble affair. With just 10 penalties called in the game, three of which went to the Generals, the chances to bury the Bucs on the power play were there for the Generals but they weren’t able to make it happen. The Generals were without forward Brodie Smith, who had received a call-up from the Alberni Valley Bulldogs of

It’s nice to see him finally get one. Wardo works hard in practice and competes hard in games, too. cam nickerson

the BCHL to play both Thursday and Friday night against the Victoria Grizzlies. With Smith having been on a tear since his return to the Generals, the scoring had to come from another source. It was found in Savard, who now has six points (four goals, two assists) in eight games. Forward Landon Dziadyk also had two assists on the night for the Gens. “It was good to see guys stepping up,” Nickerson said. “When you can have guys scoring who aren’t on the top two lines, that really boosts their confidence and allows them to see they can be relied on

when it comes to chipping in offensively, too. We’re a young team, so any time the younger guys can get in on the scoring, it’s always great to see.” Saturday night the Generals hosted the Kerry Park Islanders (score not available at press time) in their last game before the Christmas break. Though they still sit at the bottom of the VIJHL standings, the Generals have already surpassed their total wins from last season and sit just five points behind the 8thplace Saanich Braves and eight points behind the Comox Valley Glacier Kings for 3rd in the North Division. “We’re on the right track,” Nickerson said. “This is a completely different team this season and it’s showing on the ice. The break will help us charge our batteries and hopefully we can be even better in the New Year.”

Wishing you and your family a wonderful holiday full of laughter and may the new year bring you peace, love and prosperity.

We Have Happy Advertisers! Contact me today.

Michelle, Family & Staff

Enjoy a 4-course dinner and dance the night away!

00100

Tickets

Goaltending makes difference

with

Michelle Stilwell Johnny Inappropriate + DJ Wade Curry Playing sweet tunes of the 1980s

MLA, Parksville-Qualicum

Brenda Boyd 250-905-0013

bboyd@pqbnews.com

250.248.2625 | michelle.stilwell.mla@leg.bc.ca 2B-1209 Island Hwy. East, Parksville BC