Comox Valley Echo, January 08, 2016

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ISSN 1196-9954 9

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COURTENAY, BRITISH COLUMBIA • Friday, January 8, 2016

PRICE: $1.25 PLUS GST

VOL. 22, NO. 2

ARTS

COMMUNITY

20.Feel like

31.Elder College

singing in the new gets ready for a year? new session.

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NEWS

02.Playtime

19.The outdoor

gaming sells casinos, including Courtenay’s, to larger company

03.STAR WARS MARMOTS ADD TO STOCK

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skating rink returns next week, this time to the heart of downtown Courtenay

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.COURTENAY,BC JANUARY 8, 2016

ECHO

NEWS Comox Valley Weather

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Friday Cloudy.

Low 0°C. High 5°C.

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Saturday A mix of sun and cloud.

Low 1°C. High 5°C.

Sunday A mix of sun and cloud.

Low -1°C. High 4°C.

Monday Cloudy with 60% chance of flurries or rain showers.

Low -1°C. High 4°C.

Tuesday Periods of rain.

Low 1°C. High 5°C.

For the latest Comox Valley Weather visit: www.comoxvalleyecho.com

Chances casinos change hands

BY MIKE DAVIES Campbell River Mirror Employees of Chances Campbell River and Courtenay have a new employer, but other than the name on their paycheques, the implications of that change remain unclear.

The gaming facility now falls under the ownership umbrella of Gateway Casinos & Entertainment (Gateway).

Gateway announced,

on Dec. 23, their acquisition of Playtime Gaming, who owned and operated Chances. Campbell River Chances is one of six properties being added to Gateway’s operations - Abbotsford, Courtenay, Langley, Penticton and Victoria facilities being the others - “making it the largest and most diversified gaming company in Canada” according to the release on the acquisition.

“Gateway now has 18 gaming properties with

more than 200 tables, over 6,100 slot machines, and together with business partners, Gateway operates 36 restaurants, 1,000 hotel rooms and has over 3,800 employees.

“This is an exciting day for everyone at Gateway as we welcome Playtime to be a part of Gateway’s growth strategy,” Tony

Santo, CEO of Gateway Casinos & Entertainment Limited, says in the release.

CEO of Playtime Gary Gordon is seemingly happy with the arrangement, as well.

“Gateway is a leader in gaming across Canada,” says Gordon. “I am excited for our employees

Creating Smiles With Care Mike Radeka – Denturist 331B 6 th St., Courtenay

and our customers as we become part of a best-inclass gaming and entertainment company.”

The transition from Playtime to Gateway facilities will be overseen

by Tom Nellis, Playtime’s previous owner, to ensure a smooth transition of operations and employees but Playtime properties, including Chances Campbell River and Courtenay, will now report to Jag Nijjar, senior vice-president of operations of Gateway.

A representative for Chances Campbell River said no comment would be forthcoming from the local facility, directing all questions to Gateway public relations.

250-334-4732 Tanya Gabara, director of public relations for Gateway, says operations at the facility will be “business as usual” while the facility transitions to the Gateway family.

“Right now, our immediate priority is to make a smooth transition,” says Gabara.

“Our customers can expect the same great service from the same great staff as they were getting, just under Gateway, now.”

After that transition takes place, Gabara says, “operations will be reviewed and reassessed” to determine the exact direction each facility will take in terms of offerings and structure.

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 8, 2016

Return of the marmot colony in captivity brings hope to species in the wild

BY MARY LEE Echo Staff

Star Wars themed gifts and paraphernalia were so popular and in such great abundance this holiday season that the Calgary Zoo couldn’t evade the awakening force.

Marmot pups were recently christened in honor of the return of the pop-culture blockbuster sequel. Luke, Leia, Han Solo, Jabba and, Yoda are just some of the names chosen for the recent addition to the growing marmot population born in captivity.

In total, 14 healthy Vancouver Island marmot pups were born at the Calgary Zoo during the 2015 breeding season, which brings “new hope” for the species. The pups will be part of the next

One of the newborn mamot pups at the Calgary Zoo Image Source: Calgary Zoo

NOW OPEN 7

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generation of Vancouver Island Marmots released into the wild in 2016.

Marmot pups are vital to rebuilding the species that is listed as endangered and considered one of the rarest mammals on the planet.

Through The Calgary Zoo’s Captive Breeding Program, along with a partner program at The Toronto Zoo, the Marmot Recovery Foundation has been able to release enough marmots to bring the wild population up from 30 marmots in 2003 to 300 today, which equates to approximately one generation (10 years).

“The Calgary Zoo currently holds two-thirds of the captive population of marmots and this has been an excellent year for us with a healthy population of new pups that will bolster the wild population,” stated Dr. Doug Whiteside, Senior Veterinarian, Calgary Zoo and Vancouver Island Marmot Recovery Team member in a recent press release.

(Continued on page 4)

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Island marmot makes comeback

(Continued from page 3)

This is the eighteenth year of the captive breeding program and sixteenth year of successful breeding. The strategy for increasing wild marmot populations involves increasing colony numbers through “translocations and augmentation,” while critically evaluating the success of reintroduction based on the ability to establish and maintain colonies through survival and reproduction.

Here on Vancouver Island, the Nanaimo Lakes and Strathcona Park are home to the marmot population.

Mount Washington is the

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† having the marmot population come back is a global example that conservation efforts are working and demonstrates how significant Canada’s role is in restoring a species.

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Adam Taylor, Marmot Recovery Foundation Executive Director explains that humans play an important role in to ensure successful adaption and survival in the first year.

“Releasing to the Mount Washington colony for a year gives these marmots a chance to adapt but in a location that is safer, explains Taylor. “We think that having people nearby helps keeps predators away. For this species, ski slopes create a healthy habitat for survivability.”

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4 www.comoxvalleyecho.com

FRIDAY.JANUARY 8, 2016

IUCN SSC Chair, Reintroduction Specialist Group.

Partners involved in the captive breeding program include The Marmot Recovery Foundation, Tony Barrett Mount Washington Marmot Recovery Centre, The Province of British Columbia, the Fish & Wildlife Compensation Program, Toronto Zoo, and the Calgary Zoo. Photo: Marmot Recovery Foundation Donations to help protect the endangered Vancouver Island marmot much of a difference but program.” the problem is we are “Globally, this is can be made through the Club losing so many species,” one of the most rapid Adopt-a-Marmot explains Taylor. Habitats re i n t ro d u c t i o n - b a s e d that also helps support are gone or severely population improvements the captive-breeding and reduced. Here we have an of a critically endangered release efforts to ensure opportunity to celebrate mammal in the their safe return into the bringing a species back wild,” says Dr. Axel wild. Visit http://marmots. through fixing their M o e h r e n s c h l a g e r , org/ or, on Facebook www.facebook.com/ habitat. This is really Calgary Zoo Director of at an incredibly successful Conservation & Science, MarmotRecovery.

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 8, 2016

5

Interactive Walk a hit among Valley guests

BY MARY LEE Echo Staff

It may have rained a total of 348 mm during the month of December but for holiday go-getters and Valley visitors, the wet weather was not getting in the way of enjoying the First Annual Crown Isle Holiday Resort Walk.

For its inaugural year, Jim Gardiner, Director of Operations, is very pleased with the overall success of the event.

“We hit it out of the ball park, expressed Gardiner. “Visitors were filling up Facebook with their pictures and post and spreading the word on our behalf.”

Gardiner says 5,000 guests walked through the grounds during the three weeks that the interactive display was on.

According to Environment Canada, of the heavy precipitation over the Valley, 235 mm fell between December 3 and 20, the same dates of the Resort Walk. Three nights had to be cancelled

Lots of donations collected for the food bank

Crown Isle resort really lit up for the holidays with a least another five nights of poor weather.

Nevertheless, the hard work paid off and the Valley residents

Photo by: Kristy Pedersen, Crown Isle Creative

and visitors responded enthusiastically to the Valley’s newest holiday activity. Close to 1,600 guests walked through

the grounds on the final night alone.

“The S’mores Station, outdoor children’s movie and Elf Hunt set us apart

from the other island holiday activity of this kind,” shared Gardiner.

“An event that has a more interactive approach for

families is very popular with guests.”

Plans are already in the works for expanding on its success, incorporating even more space on the ground to include in the interactive walk next year.

Also popular and well received by guests was the suggested admission by donation.

Several thousand pounds of food were collected for the Comox Valley Food Bank and close to $5,000 raised for Dawn to Dawn.

Thank you! ...To over 5000 of you who made the first inaugural Holiday Resort Walk a huge success ...For raising $3951 for Dawn to Dawn Action on Homelessness ...For donating a mountain of food and household items for the Comox Valley Food Bank ...For making last month our busiest December in recent memory!

Here’s to a lot more Crown Isle year! g fun & community in the comin www.CrownIsle.com Toll Free: 888-338-8439 | 250-703-5000 | 399 Clubhouse Drive, Courtenay, BC V9N 9G3

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7

ECHO

OPINIONS

LETTERS

Giving the gift of time

Advocating action, not just talk, an editorial has brought to the fore youth, homelessness, invasive species, the food bank, etc.

All worthwhile objects to be the focus of positive action.

The plight of many elderly singles, however, by being omitted, stood out almost more than the aforementioned worthy causes.

And so let me add to actionable causes: Give the gift of time to visit the lonely, the shut-ins, the incapacitated or destitute, distraught, pathologically shy, those recently deprived of spouse or partner. Those isolated for whatever reason, feeling desperately lonely..

The Comox Valley is to a great extent a retirement community. Many members of the armed forces owning property do not sell upon deployment. They rent out, intending upon end of service to return to the Valley.

Their pensions do much to maintain the standards of the Valley communities, including Cumberland.

But age takes its inevitable toll. In the end, loneliness intrudes, for many reasons. Lack of mobility and/or transportation is one such reason, and a major one.. The gift of a visit consequently may also include a car ride to some specifically-requested spot – for shopping, medical appointment, a picnic. It may not, of course. But if, then generosity happens to be one

of those virtues that comes around...

The elderly shut-ins will be deeply appreciative, while giving has its own reward. Little is more precious than time, whether to give or receive.

Finn Schultz-Lorentzen Courtenay

100 YEARS BACK It didn’t take me long to get my memory going towards the days of yore. Old Christmas cards bring back memories quickly and lively. It wasn’t hard to replace myself with the boy staring with fascination and desire at Mr. Hope’s toy store window, mingled with the thoughts of today’s shopping facilities.

How different it all is today. The clip clop noise of the horse pulling a family in their sled through the main street of downtown fits well into the whole picture.

The family just passed the warm inviting hallway of the church of the local Salvation Army for their upcoming Christmas Concert.

Tom, the street player is frantically playing melodies to make extra money for his hungry children at home and hopes to buy presents for them. It’s all covered with a new layer of beautiful white snow which dampen the street noise somewhat.

The street lantern which I often used as a watchtower for my own fantasies glittered as well with the fallen

COMOX VALLEY ECHO A division of Black Press Ltd.

407-E Fifth Street, Courtenay, B.C. V9N 1J7 www.comoxvalleyecho.com Phone 250-334-4722 • Fax 250-334-3172 Classifieds 1-866-415-3535 Circulation 250-334-4734 E-mail: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com Publisher Keith Currie Editor Debra Martin Deb Fowler Production Manager Ryan Getz

The Comox Valley Echo is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body governing the province’s newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about the conduct of member newspapers. Directors oversee the mediation of complaints, with input from both the newspaper and the complaint holder. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the B.C. Press Council. Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent to B.C. Press Council, PO Box 1356, Ladysmith, B.C. V9G 1A9. For information, phone 1-888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org. All original content in this publication is copyright material belonging to Black Press. Any re-use or reproduction without the expressed, written consent of the copyright owner is strictly prohibited.

snow. Instantly I loved the sight of the older brother pulling the old sled; it’s easy to replace myself with him.

The little dog patiently wait

for new excitement which will come up soon as usual because she knows. The days of yore, at a hundred years of past memories. It

was a pleasant surprise to receive this beautiful card instead of an e-mail of a beloved friend. Those memories become more precious

as the time presses on.

Thank you old friend for sharing deep-rooted memories once again with me.

Ary Sala, Fanny Bay

City mayor looks back and ahead

BY LARRY JANGULA Mayor of Courtenay Another year is over and 2015 has been a good one for the City of Courtenay. We worked on many strategic priorities, and also had a great celebration year.

Courtenay centennial celebrations took place through the year but were most focused within homecoming week, June 26 – July 5.

In this week over 50 local entertainers and artists performed. Community pride and spirit was evident as many community organizations came together to provide free family fun events. A big thank-you to everyone that helped make it such a special week: the Centennial Committee and volunteers, the event sponsors, and of course everyone who attended events.

The “Captain W.A. Lane MacDonald Fire Training Centre” was officially opened on Tuesday, October 13.

The facility features a training area encircled by a built-to-scale city street, working fire hydrants, and space for driver training and pumper operator training.

The highlight of the facility is a new live fire training building. Constructed from cost-effective sea

containers, the building offers natural gas fire simulation and artificial smoke, and the ability to turn the fire on and off by a switch. Movable walls and floor plans will simulate a residential home, hotel, motel, or commercial building.

Late in 2015 the Maple Pool Campground issues were settled with parties involved coming together for a mutually agreeable solution. The settlement ensures the site will preserve affordable housing, while protecting residents from flood hazards. It also protects the City from future liability for flood hazards and costs, along with environmental and fish protection.

We thank all parties for working together to achieve this mutually agreeable result.

Development processes were improved this past year. These changes pave the way for improved service by having a single point of contact for developers. Any development application services that were provided by Engineering and Public Works Department have been transferred to the Development Services Department, and a new “Subdivision and Development Servicing Division” has been created. Improving the development process and expediting the process

is one of Courtenay City Council’s top five strategic priorities for the current term.

Another strategic priority of council is downtown revitalization.

The city is working on vision for the future of the downtown core. Two public events were on October 27 to gather input.

These sessions were well attended and provided a framework for a work plan approved by council.

There will be more opportunities for public input on the downtown work plan in 2016.

At the beginning of December the city received short notice of potential for flooding due to unexpected storm surges. As a cautionary measure to protect the Puntledge business district, the city deployed new Aqua Dam (temporary water filled barriers) technology in two locations. Fortunately, the flooding concern passed without incident.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thanks the members of Courtenay Council and or City Hall Staff for all of their efforts and cooperation in making these events a reality.

Thanks for the opportunity to reflect on the past year.

Wishing everyone a Happy New Year!

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com

FRIDAY.JANUARY 8, 2016

BEEFS & BOUQUETS THE WEAVERS LEATHER BALLBUSTERS would like to thank Weavers Leather for every thing they did for us during 2015. We couldn’t have asked for a better sponsor with the help of Dave and Kelli Weaver the Ballbusters were able to to donate over $7000.00 to charities in our area. Look forward to seeing what we can do in 2016. From all of us we wish you a Happy New Year!!

THE COMOX VALLEY’S FIRST AND BEST READER’S FORUM Email to: echo@comoxvalleyecho.com

A LARGE BOUQUET to Courtenay Canadian Tire, Auto Dept., for promptly dealing with a minor brake issue on my car. Although it was a week before Christmas they made time the following work day to check the whole braking system and fix the problem. No other problems were “found” in order to inflate the bill. Having now driven the vehicle for about two weeks since, I can safely say the problem is now no more. Well done!

THOSE THAT BURN fires that are hot , Are air quality problems - Not! Those who run stoves all tamped down, Should cause all to Frown.

Developers and loggers continue to burn,

THE VILLAGE OF CUMBERLAND has yet again let the ball drop when it comes to having road access to the Cumberland Cemetary at Christmas! This year the had the gates locked!

Would you not think that they would have had them open for family members to visit loved ones at this special time of year? Thanks Village of Cumberland for yet again dropping the ball on this one! Maybe one of these years you will get it right.

It certainly isn’t for a lack of maintenance crew as when they are repairing something it takes what seems a minimum of 3-4 with one person just watching! Good use of taxpayers dollars!

Cruisewear arriving weekly!

Dresses, Sandals, Hats & More Mon-Sat 8:30-5 Sundays 9:30-5 www.artknappcourtenay.ca This should be of Provincial concern.

It’s not only smoke that is the fear, But CVRD stage four ,which could last all year.

Happy 2016!

WELCOME TO 2016, and increases in ICBC premiums and MSP. ICBC paid out $3565 millionsfor 260,000 vehicle accident claims in 2014.

Slow down, drive straight and pay attention - he life you save may be your own.

Highway 19 is no longer safe.

AS I REFLECTED on my 2015, I wanted to pass on some bouquets to the wonderful community members of the Comox Valley. I want to start with the awesome Paul Colthorpe, the music teacher at Puntledge school, who puts so much heart and patience into teaching and putting on a great Christmas concert! As I enjoyed his concert, I thought to myself that I could not handle his job for 5 minutes, but he has somehow managed to demonstrate real warmth and love of music to so many kids. There are many great teachers, EAs, and support staff at Puntledge. I am grateful for their time when they allow parents who work in the day to

BIG THANK YOU to the Holiday Inn for letting us have our wedding there on New Year’s Eve with such short notice. They were so accommodating and Angela and her team have outstanding customer service! Awesome having such a great hotel with great rates in the valley :)

Comox Valley Ukrainian Cultural Society Presents

Ukrainian New Year Malanka

Headed somewhere warm?

go to an evening concert! Also, there are many friendly and efficient people working at Thrifty’s, Superstore, coffee shops, retail stores, non-profits and people that smile as you pass by! There are so many community-minded people -- like the Rotarians, who have been of service in many ways such as building the beautiful bike trail along the railway--or the dedicated parents who run the school PACs (the Puntledge one is amazing) or the parents who are trying to Keep Puntledge at Puntledge. Moreover, most drivers here are thoughtful and eager to give the right of way. Many people walk their talk by trying to be kind to Mother Nature by cycling, by volunteering with many groups, by walking to school. We are rich in not only the natural beauty of the Comox Valley but also the natural beauty within the very heart of our community. My only hope is for both kinds of beauty to keep growing and growing! Wishing a heartfelt and meaningful 2016 to us all.

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“whatever”....just don’t drive through there, unless you have an embossed Invitation. And are wearing your best clothes. Or I HAVE A NEW YEARS WISH for earn at least six figures. the individual who in the And don’t play golf, like December 25th Beefs & 40% of those who live Bouquets, had lots to say there. Otherwise, stick about “the woman in the to the streets that run white Ford Escape seen through the poor neighdriving on Ryan Rd. with bourhoods. Where people “Icesis” vanity plates”. are used to bad drivers as May 2016 mean less ig- part of the real world. norance and kneejerk IT WILL BE A BOUQUET and judgements, and bring you more proactive un- Happy New Year for Britderstanding, open mind- ish Columbians if Transedness and an increased port Minster Todd Stone, awareness of your com- Justice Minister Susan munity, your world, Anton and Premier Clark and the people driving take a plane ride to Onaround in traffic with you; tario to find out why the whom many of which ded- vehicle fatality rate, seriicate themselves person- ous injury rate and colally and professionally, to lision rate is half that of make both a better place BC. One reason is that for us all. “You ought to the maximum speed on any highway is 100 kph, be” educated. but there is much more ABOUT THE SPEED LIMIT in to learn. With BC health Crown Isle, 40km, 50km, care funding costing 57%

of the budget it is time the BC Government took responsibility for accident prevention on BC roads.

Three highway 19 fatal accidents in just the past few weeks, with speed being a factor in the Comox Valley. Divided high way 19 is no longer safe. Happy New Year

ICBC AND MEDICAL premiums are going up. There are 260,000 car crashes a year in BC – over 700 a day – so we all have to pay.

How ridiculous to raise highway speeds when there is little enforcement and every BC taxpayer will pay the price for injuries, fatalities and increased premiums. The evidence is very clear, speed kills – it costs in lives, serious injuries and cash. It is the Wild West on BC roads, and many innocent folks

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will pay the price. High way 19 is no longer safe.

A GIANT DIAMOND to Francis Jewelers’ staff for putting up with so much during their final weeks. They were nothing but professional - friendly, kind and polite - while facing the closure of their business.

Bravo. Thank you for superb business for all these years. May God bless you with many happy years of healthy and satisfying retirement. We will miss you!

A GREAT BIG BOUQUET to the kind soul who turned in the pearl earring I lost at the rec centre last week.

The earrings were a gift from my dad and carry a lot of sentimental value. I thought it was gone forever! With all the bad news these days, it’s nice to know there are honest, thoughtful people out there. Thanks again.

BOUQUETS to the persons who decorated a small fir tree in the North East woods in Comox at Christmas wth ornaments, tinsel at the top and a silver beaded rope. The dog walkers really enjoyed it, a cheerful sight.

(Continued on page 9)

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FRIDAY.JANUARY 8, 2016

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BEEFS & BOUQUETS (Continued from page 8)

Beef to the persons on Monday who destroyed it. They took the decorations and smashed them on the path where the dogs walk. We picked up the glass we could find.

Who ever did this, please grow up.it seems there is no common sense anymore.

BOUQUETS OF RED ROSES and champagne to the two health care professionals who stopped to assist me after I had a fall on the Courtenay

Riverway Walk on Jan 1, 2016. They were extremely caring and helpful, called the ambulance and waited with me and my husband until the attendants arrived. The paramedics, as you might expect, were very helpful, professional, bandaged me up and took me home as well. How lucky we are to have you all in Courtenay. Thank you

OMG! Want to return a library book? One spot in front--never vacant--15 minute parking. Why not 5 minute parking? I’d like to take some white paint and block out the 1! Try to find a space in the parking lot, but back doors are kept locked and no book return slot here! Only one at the front of the building, so go around the building, down the steps, past the barking dog and the van that’s in the 15 minute spot and finally-you can put your book in the slot! Especially fun (?) when it’s raining or there’s slush on the ground! What a dumb

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A BIG ARMFUL of fragrant BC firs, pine, cedars, holly, salal with one or two perfect sprigs of winter heather to Locals! Tricia and Stephanie have made this an auspicious new year by finding Dad’s engineering ring! He has worn it for 65 years and is one of his most valued possessions. We’d had one of Local’s perfectly delicious meals, but when we got home he realized that it was missing. It is a simple ring of steel and would not have been easy to spot (Canadian engineers wear them on their pinky fingers), but you went out of your way to search and my some miracle, FOUND IT! Thank you, Thank you.

BIG “HUGE” RV HUGS to Caleb Pritchard & staff at Arbutus RV in Merville BC. In a world of intense competition for a person’s business we must say sticking to the basics, showing passion, ensuring proper pricing, we looked no further. Everyone from the Manager, Sales & Service dept, the service

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was outstanding; they sure made us feel like a family member. A further mention needs to go to our sales person Larry Epp - WOW, his old school customer service is something that is not seen anymore thank you for being who you are it was so appreciated! K&K I WOULD LIKE TO SAY “thank you” to three wonderful people for helping me out when I fell on Comox Ave. on

January 9

December 7. Your kind manner was extremely welcome. Merry Christmas to all.

MY HEARTFELT THANKS to all the kind individuals who took so very good care of my carry-on bag that I forgot at the bus shelter at the Driftwood Mall on Dec. 23 at 8:30 am. I was leaving to go on holiday. It was at the transit office when I got back. This senior lady is very grateful. Rich blessings to all.

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THIS WEEK’S WINNER, DRAWN AT RANDOM FROM SUBMISSIONS RECEIVED UP TO TUESDAY, IS: Barry Beardon, of Courtenay Winner of two classic cheese baskets from Dairy Queen Winners, you may pick up your prize certificates at the front desk of the Echo, 407-D Fifth Street, during regular business hours. Thanks to everyone for the great submissions- keep ‘em coming!

I WOULD LIKE TO PUT THIS THANK YOU into the paper for my customers, I am including a picture of Rudolph and his new side kick, my granddaughter Lily, who is probably your youngest carrier as she and her Dad often deliver the papers to a small loop around my home.

I would like to send a heartfelt thank you to all my customers on Mansfield, Cliffe, 26th, Piercy, Stewart and Park Place for the cards, goodies and

HERE’S HOW IT WORKS! Our weekly feature, Beefs and Bouquets, is intended to be a light-hearted forum for you, our readers, to express brief views on issues and events in your lives.

It’s not intended to hurt people or make unsubstantiated and libelous comments.

Names won’t be published with the beefs and bouquets; however, we do need your full name, mailing address and telephone number for verification purposes.

Each week someone will win a 2 Classic Cheese Basket Meals from Dairy Queen.

Have fun with this!

tokens of appreciation over the Christmas season. I enjoy delivering the paper and my customers are all so fantastic it makes delivering fun. I wish all the best to all my customers this new year. My granddaughter would like to also thank her customers on Mansfield and Cliffe for the gifts, goodies and tokens of appreciation. Lily loves to deliver to all of you.

THE BC WORKER death rate has been reduces by 2/3, thanks in large part to WorkSafe BC applying penalties to companies who put workers at risk of dying on the Job. Let’s see the Ministry of Justice penalizing high risk drivers who make highway 19 one of the 6 most unsafe highway in BC. How many more road deaths will it take?

10

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 8, 2016

Police Blotter Comox Valley RCMP responded to the following incidents between Dec. 29 and Jan .4:

■ On December 29th, the Comox Valley RCMP were notified of a break, enter and theft to a residence located on the 2700 block of Penrith Ave, Courtenay. It was reported that an intoxicated male had entered the home, and had stolen a quantity of alcohol. The male was located a short time later, arrested and taken to the Comox Valley RCMP Detachment cells where he was lodged until sober. The male was charged with break and enter and released on documents with a court appearance in the New Year. (2015-16788) ■ A call was made to the Comox Valley RCMP about a vehicle that was possibly being driven by an intoxicated person during the late night hours of December 29th. Patrols for the vehicle were made and it was located in Comox. The vehicle driver was not intoxicated, however, the vehicle had been reported stolen on De-

cember 12th. The driver was arrested, charged with possession of stolen property and released on a promise to appear court in the New Year.

The investigation into this theft is continuing. (201516068) ■ A report of Mischief was made to the Comox Valley RCMP on December 30th. Construction equipment was parked at a work site on the 2400 block of Arden overnight.

Unknown person(s) smashed all the windows in the piece of machinery.

Anyone that may have information regarding this mischief, can report it to the Comox Valley RCMP at 250-338-1321 or Comox Valley Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) (2015-16840) ■ While conducting patrols, on January 1st, a Comox Valley RCMP constable noted a vehicle speeding on Comox Ave, Courtenay. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver was found to be under in the influence of marijuana. The vehicle was impounded and the driver was given a 24 hour driving prohibition and a

WANTED If you have any information about the whereabouts of either of these two people, call the Comox Valley RCMP Detachment at 338-1321, or Comox Valley Crimestoppers at 1-800-222TIPS (1-800-222-8477). You don’t have to give your name and you could be eligible for a cash reward.

www.comoxvalleycrimestoppers.bc.ca Aaron Brandon BRADBURY DOB: 1988-06-28 170 cms, 64 kgs, Brown hair, brown eyes

termined that the business had been broken into and entered. While inside, the unknown person(s) had gone through several desks and cupboards (2016-49). The Comox Valley RCMP were also advised of a shed that had been broken into overnight on the 2400 block of Macaulay Rd, Black Creek. A Gate was damaged to gain access to the property. While inside, the culprit(s) damaged several items and stole an amount of cash, as well as several tools (201650). Also, overnight, unknown person(s) had entered several buildings of

a farm on the 4100 block of Island Highway South, Royston. Several items were stolen, including a bicycle (2016-51).If you have any information regarding these Break and Enters, please contact the Comox Valley RCMP at 250-338-1321 or Comox Valley Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS(8477) ■ The Comox Valley RCMP responded to three more Break and Enters on January 3rd. A business alarm was reported on the 500 block of 5th Street, Courtenay, in the early morning hours.

(Continued on page 11)

Warrants: Theft under $5000 Breach Undertaking Comox Valley file #201510401

December. violation ticket for speeding. (2016-35) ■ A stolen vehicle report was made to the Comox Valley RCMP on January 2nd. The vehicle was taken from the 1200 block of Crown Isle Drive, Courtenay. On January 3rd, a reported sighting of the vehicle led to the vehicle being located and a suspect arrested. The suspect

was charged with the theft of the vehicle and was released on documents to attend court on a future date. (2016-55) ■ The Comox Valley RCMP responded to three Break and Enters on January 2nd. A business alarm on the 2400 Block of Cousins Ave, Courtenay, in the morning hours of January 2nd. It was de-

December

PUBLIC NOTICE

In accordance with Section 127 of the Community Charter the following is a schedule of Regular Council meetings and Committee of the Whole meetings to be held during 2016.

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETINGS - 2016

Regular Council Meetings are scheduled for the first and third Wednesday of each month, commencing at 5:30 p.m. Amendments have been made to allow for summer holidays, conference schedules and statutory holidays. Meetings will be held in the Council Chambers located at 1801B Beaufort Avenue.

The specific dates of the Regular Council meetings are as follows: JANUARY 06 FEBRUARY 03 MARCH 02 APRIL 06 MAY 04 JUNE 01

SEPTEMBER 07 OCTOBER 05 NOVEMBER 02 DECEMBER 07

JANUARY 20 FEBRUARY 17 MARCH 16 APRIL 20 MAY 18 JUNE 15 JULY 20 AUGUST 17 SEPTEMBER 21 OCTOBER 19 NOVEMBER 16 DECEMBER 21

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETINGS - 2016

Committee of the Whole meetings are scheduled for the second and fourth Wednesday of each month, commencing at 4:15 p.m. Amendments have been made to allow for summer holidays, conference schedules and statutory holidays. Meetings will be held in the Council Chambers located at 1801B Beaufort Avenue. The specific dates of the Committee of the Whole meetings are as follows: JANUARY 13 FEBRUARY 10 MARCH 09 APRIL 13 MAY 11 SEPTEMBER 14 OCTOBER 12 NOVEMBER 9 DECEMBER 14

JANUARY 27 FEBRUARY 24 MARCH 23 APRIL 27 MAY 25 JUNE 22 OCTOBER 26 NOVEMBER 23

If you require additional information, please feel free to contact staff at Comox Town Hall at (250) 339-2202.

A copy of this notice is available at Comox Town Hall, 1809 Beaufort Avenue. In addition, the schedule of meetings can also be found on the Town website: www.comox.ca

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 8, 2016 (Continued from page 10)

It was discovered that a business at this location had been broken into and entered. It appears, once inside, the unknown person(s) was checking for items to steal (201681).

The second report of a Break, Enter and Theft was to an unattached garage on the 300 block of 3rd St, Courtenay. The unknown person(s) made entry and it was reported a bicycle and tools were stolen (2016-84).

A third Break, Enter and Theft was also reported this date. A business on the 3900 block of the Island Highway South, was broken into and gone through. A laptop computer and other electronic items were stolen.

If you have any information regarding these Break and Enters, please contact the Comox Valley RCMP at 250-338-1321 or Comox Valley Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222TIPS(8477) ■ A theft of a vehicle from, the 600 block of Salish St, Comox, was reported to the Comox Valley RCMP on January 3rd.

The vehicle, described as a 2013 Grey Hyundai Elantra, British Columbia Plate 147LRT, with a roof rack, dent in the driver side rear bumper and cracked front bumper, was taken from the residence sometime overnight. The investigation to locate this vehicle is still ongoing. (2016-87) ■ A residential break, enter and theft that occurred on the 2500 Block of Cathy Cres, Courtenay was reported on January 4th.

The residence and garage had been gone through. A Red/White CRF Honda 130cc dirt bike and riding gear was taken. This investigation is continuing and if you have any information regarding this incident, please contact the Comox Valley RCMP at 250-3381321 or Comox Valley Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-TIPS(8477) (2016126) ■ On January 4th, during speed enforcement on Pritchard Rd, Comox, a vehicle was stopped for excessively speeding in a school zone. The vehicle, travelling 75 Km/h in the 30 Km/h zone, was subsequently impounded for7 days and an excessive speed violation ticket was issued to the driver.

(2016-140) - Comox Valley RCMP

11

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 8, 2016

Valley’s formation demonstration favorite wins award for capturing hearts and minds worldwide

BY MARY LEE Echo Staff

A simple installation of a camera has earned the Comox Valley’s beloved aviation team the Platinum Award in the Military Performer Category by the International Council of Air Shows.

The Royal Canadian Air Force Snowbirds earned the prestigious award in December for introducing the “TankCam” during the 2015 air show season.

The camera was used for the purpose of generating increased interest in aviation and to promote their public affairs mission. Installed on the lead aircraft of the nineplane formation, the tank cam captured close-up, high-definition video of the team in flight.

“The reaction to this

The breathtaking, never-before-seen images and video generated by the Tank Cam including this formation flight over Niagara Falls, improved not only safety in flight, but air show entertainment value and the team’s overall connectivity with the general public (Source: 431 Air Demonstration Squadron).

project was more than we expected,” said Major Patrick Gobeil, Snowbird 1 during the 2014 and 2015 air show seasons.

“Spectators were able to experience flight with the Snowbirds in a way that had never been seen before.”

Videos taken from the TankCam were overwhelmingly popular on the team’s social Footage of a 15-aircraft formation involving the Snowbirds and U.S. Navy Blue Angels taken earlier this year yielded more than 500,000 views alone.

“It was very exciting having the hard work of the pilots and maintainers acknowledged by ICAS,” said Lieutenant-Colonel Brad Wintrup, 431 Air Demonstration Squadron recently appointed Commanding Officer.

“This project successfully showcased the skill, professionalism, and teamwork of the men and women of the Royal Canadian Air Force to audiences across North America.”

(Continued on page 13)

COMOX LAKE WATER TREATMENT OPTIONS STUDY ALL INTERESTED PARTIES ARE INVITED TO AN INTRODUCTORY WORKSHOP - COMOX LAKE WATER TREATMENT Monday, January 18, 2016 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.

Best Western Westerly Hotel & Convention Centre Ballroom 1590 Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay A presentation of background and study process will be provided at 7:00 p.m. A small group workshop will follow - with input requested on the values that should be considered in evaluating options for Comox Lake water supply and treatment. A backgrounder and response form (available January 12-25, 2016) will be provided at the event and on-line at www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/water.

For further information contact: Dave Leitch, AScT Senior manager of water/wastewater services Email: dleitch@comoxvalleyrd.ca Please RSVP your attendance no later than Thursday, January 14, 2016 by calling 250-334-6056 or email: engineeringservices@comoxvalleyrd.ca.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 8, 2016

(Continued from page 12)

13

New Year’s Baby

The Snowbird team returns to the Valley for their annual spring training April 6 with the Acceptance Show scheduled for April 26. Daily practice times will be announced prior to the commencement of training.

The Snowbirds will not perform at an air show in the Comox Valley this year, but will return to the island August 10 for their annual C.H.I.L.D. Foundation (Children with Intestinal and Liver Disorders) performance in Nanaimo.

British Columbia is well represented on the 2016 team. In addition to Vancouver Islanders Captains Matthew Hart (Parksville) and Ave Pyne (Victoria), new team members Captains Craig Sharp and Greg Hume-Powell also hail from the province.

Finley Tonkin came into the world a little early but very healthy, nonetheless, weighing in at 7 pounds, 7 ounces.

Claire Gusman gave birth to her daughter, the Valley’s first baby of 2016, at St. Joseph’s General Hospital on Jan 1 at 5:22 p.m.

Partner Jordan Tonkin explains that while they never intended to have a New Year’s baby, the timing to induce Gusman happened to make it work out that way.

Mom and dad are thrilled to have a little sister for their son Caius (18 months). Gusman explains he may not understand at the moment but is content with her company.

Photo by: Claire Gusman

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Comox Valley launches ďŹ rst community-based disaster medical care response plan in the province

BY MARY LEE Echo Staff

An untapped resource is ready and available here in the Comox Valley, able to respond to medical emergencies in the event of disaster.

Throughout the region there are approximately 100 physicians and specialists of which a substantial and increasing amount do not carry privileges to perform duties at St. Joseph’s General Hospital.

Physicians not attached to the hospital, however, provide essential treatment and care within the Valley’s medical clinics.

Should a state of emergency be declared, in essence they become a necessary resource to the community.

As a physician belonging to the Comox Valley Division of Family Practice, Dr. Alfredo Tura recognized that the Valley’s physicians and the clinics in which they work are a valuable resource that residents ought to turn to for

(Continued on page 16) The recent 4.7 magnitude quake December 29 serves as a subtle reminder that a major disaster of this kind has the potential to shake the Comox Valley. Dr. Alfredo Tura and Comox Valley Division of Family Practice, like many other responding agencies, are prepared to turn five local medical clinics into Disaster First Aid Stations should the need arise in the wake of a major quake. medical assistance for non life-threatening injuries.

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employed can offset the inux of emergency calls that have the potential to render the hospital overwhelmed and operating at or over capacity.

During a disaster, these clinics should be the ďŹ rst and perhaps only location for the walking wounded.

Determining how these clinics could effectively be turned into satellite emergency stations was key and so Dr. Tura referred to two leading expert in the ďŹ eld of emergency planning and execution, Mike Fournier Comox Valley Emergency Planning Coordinator and John Wong, a retired senior US Army Corps of Engineers service member with extensive experience liaising with municipalities in response to a hurricane.

To promote community and hospital physician engagement, Tura also collaborated with Dr. Charmaine Enns, Chief Medical Health Officer for Island Health and Barbara Marych, Manager of Access and Flow at St. Joseph’s General Hospital, to ensure that

1yr: 1.610% 3 yr: 2.000% 5 yr: 2.270%

Tura explains that medical clinics such as the one where is

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REQUEST FOR ADVISORY PLANNING COMMISSION MEMBERS An advisory planning commission is established in Area ‘B’ (Lazo North) to provide input and advice about planning and land use management applications.

The Comox Valley Regional District is looking for volunteers to participate in monthly advisory planning commission (APC) meetings for a term ending October 2018. If you are a resident of Electoral Area ‘B’ (Lazo North) and are interested in participating LQ PRQWKO\ PHHWLQJV SOHDVH VXEPLW D OHWWHU WR WKH &95' RXWOLQLQJ \RXU TXDOLĂ€FDWLRQV More information regarding duties and responsibilities can be found on our website at: www.comoxvalleyrd.ca.

Applicants will be required to have basic local knowledge of and an interest in planning, land use or environmental stewardship, the ability to attend evening PHHWLQJV WKH DELOLW\ WR H[KLELW HWKLFDO FRQGXFW DQG UHFRJQL]H ZKHQ D FRQĂ LFW of interest may occur. A comprehensive workshop will be provided to APC members outlining their roles and responsibilities.

The deadline for submissions is Thursday, January 14, 2016.

For more information or to submit an application please contact: James Warren, general manager of corporate services Comox Valley Regional District 600 Comox Road, Courtenay, BC V9N 3P6 Tel: 250 334-6000 • Toll-free: 800 331-6007 Fax: 250 334-8156 • Email: administration@comoxvalleyrd.ca The Comox Valley Regional District is a federation of three electoral areas and three municipalities providing sustainable services for residents and visitors to the area.

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www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 8, 2016

Hospice Society announces winner of draw

(Continued from page 15)

outside the hospital, there would be community-based medical response team available to tap into.

Tura’s role was pivotal in piecing together a myriad of interagency responsibilities. As a member of the RCMP auxiliary, he regularly attended meetings with the Emergency Planning Committee, liaising with representatives from all facets within the community responsible for emergency preparedness - policing, firefighting, paramedics, and the Canadian Armed Forces.

It’s now been a year and a half since the initiative was first conceived and in that time Tura, with guidance and liaison assistance from Wong and knowledge and expertise from Fournier, has steadily lead in the development of Disaster First Aid Stations (DFAS).

Today, five medical clinics have been identified as a DFAS - the Comox Medical Clinic, Highland Family Practice, Crown Isle Medical Clinic, Valley Care, and Southwood Medical Clinic. Pharmacies closely located to the clinic are also engaged.

With the DFAS plan ready to launch, this will be the first initiative of its kind on Vancouver Island and is already garnering attention from other jurisdictions. Recently, the Health Emergency Program BC (HEMBC) has started a somewhat conceptual parallel protocol and contacted the Comox Valley Division to collaborate.

Equipped with trained physicians and nurses, medical supplies and medication, these clinics are suitably established to provide triage, first aid, minor emergency procedures, and urgent primary care including acute pain management and stabilization of fragile chronic conditions such as Insulin dependent diabetes.

Each clinic is strategically located in

accessible areas throughout the Valley and can operate independent of each other, using medical staff from any of the other five clinics if the situation dictates it necessary and feasible to do so.

Tura continues to chair an emergency preparedness committee for the Division with support from fellow division members Dr. Peter Moosbrugger and Dr. Daniela Chifor.

Fournier has been instrumental throughout the process sharing his vast knowledge and experience, and fostering commitment from other key responding agencies that will enable these clinics to function in a time of disaster.

“Mr. Fournier was very receptive to the DFAS innovative idea and supported it from the very beginning,” expressed Tura.

“He envisioned the long term value of this initiative and provided us with basic training, sound advice and solid resources.”

Should disaster strike, upon the declaration of a state of emergency, namely an earthquake, one, some or all five DFAS will become active.

Once active, the DFAS’ primary focus is on increasing patient treatment capacity and reducing the distance between residents and medical care.

Patients will be able to identify where and when a clinic has turned into a station by the distinct and visible logo displayed in the window and on signage erected outside the station.

Tura adds that any or all of the DFAS could activate effective immediately, however, the committee will continue to meet regularly with other agencies involved including RCMP and the paramedics who support his initiative and are keen to see it integrate successfully into the Comox Valley Emergency Plan.

The Comox Valley Hospice Society is pleased to announce Brian McLean and Judith Moore as the winners of the Stroke of Midnight gift basket draw for ticket purchasers to their 2015 Phantom Ball—a stay at home gala. The basket included a Vancouver travel package with round trip air fare generously donated by Harbour Air complemented by a stay at the Century Plaza Hotel along with everything necessary for a fun getaway.

Chair Lynn Brandon notes, “By purchasing tickets to the Gala Phantom Ball, the Comox Valley Hospice Society invited people to spend New Year’s Eve at home while generously helping support compassionate care for people living with dying, grieving and caregiving whether at home, in hospital or in Hospice at The Views. In doing so, people received a charitable tax receipt for 100% of the gift. And, the entire gift remains

right here in the Comox Valley.”

“The gratitude we hear and see from patients and families are what make us all so thankful to our generous supporters, the wonderful volunteers and our dedicated staff,” says Audrey Craig, Past Chair. This year’s gold sponsors, Vancouver Island Insurance Centres and Lara Austin, RBC Wealth Management understand that compassionate hospice care is community building at its best.”

With the New Year beginning it’s also the perfect time to make sure you have an Advance Care Plan—whatever your age, making your wishes for medical care clear to those you love in the event you are ever unable to speak for yourself is a gift of love. For more information on free Advance Care Planning workshops visit AdvanceCarePlanningCV.ca or call the Comox Valley Hospice Society at 250.339.5533.

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WHAT'SON In the Comox Valley 8 FRIDAY COURTENAY LEGION • Meat draws every Friday, 5-7 pm.

COMOX LEGION • Meat draws every Friday, 3 p.m. Open to all Legion members and signed in guests. Friday is still drop in darts night 7.30 pm toe line, $2.25 per person.

9 SATURDAY EVERGREEN CLUB PANCAKE BREAKFAST • Kick off your new year with a new tradition...attend the Evergreen Club Pancake Breakfast, Saturday, January 9th, from 7:30 am- 11:00am.

The breakfast includes your choice of beverage, choice of buckwheat or buttermilk pancakes, and bacon or sausages for only $5.00 per person. In the Conference Hall, Florence Filberg Centre (downtown Courtenay!

For more info call Courtenay Recreation – Filberg Centre office at 250-338-1000.

COURTENAY LEGION • Meat draws every Saturday 2-5 p.m. in the lounge. New Saturday afternoon entertainment series kicks off with country music entertainer Denny Eddy, 2-5 pm.

COMOX LEGION • Meat draws are held every Saturday 3 p.m. plus Ace of Spades draw.

COMOX VALLEY FARMERS’ MARKET • Every Saturday, 9 am to noon, at the Native Sons Hall, Courtenay.

11 MONDAY CRIBBAGE • Every Monday night, 7:00, at the Royston Hall, corner of Old Island Highway and Royston Road.

No need to bring a partner.

FRIDAY.JANUARY 8, 2016 FMI: 250-334-1883.

LADIES AUXILIARY DROP-IN BINGO • Comox Legion Ladies Auxiliary Drop-in Bingo, upper hall. Doors open 6 pm, bingo 7 p.m. All money goes to charities. Free coffee and tea.

12 TUESDAY COMOX VALLEY GENEALOGY GROUP • Meeting Tuesday, Jan. 12 at 7 pm. Subject being: Treasures and Stories - Past and Present.

Bring yours along and let’s hear about them. Meeting will take place at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints - 1901 20th St. Courtenay. Everyone welcome. FMI. ontact Marlene 250-334-3080 NORTH ISLAND RHODODENDRON SOCIETY • For its first meeting in 2016, Tuesday, January 12, the NIRS features a presentation by club members Garth and Sue Wedemire that will transport us “Down Underâ€? to visit gardens in New Zealand. NIRS meetings are held every second Tuesday of the month in the Comox United Church hall, 250 Beach with doors opening at 7pm and the meeting starting at 7:30PM. Refreshments are served and guests interested in membership are welcome to attend.

COMOX VALLEY WOOD CARVERS • If you are interested in any type of wood carving please join us at the Royston Community Hall every Tuesday from 9:30 AM to 3 PM for a day of carving and learning about carving. No experience necessary. FMI call Al at 250-331-0156 or Jim at 250-339-5350.

DUPLICATE BRIDGE • Every Tuesday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 1 p.m., Comox Seniors Centre.

13 WEDNESDAY

16 SATURDAY

P L AY B R I D G E • E v e r y Wednesday at 7:00 pm at the Royston Hall, 3902 Old Island Hwy and Royston Road. FMI: 250-334-1883 or roystonhall.com and on Facebook at Royston Community Club FUN DARTS • 1 p.m. on Wednesdays at the Courtenay Legion. More players (Legion members and their signed-in guests) always welcome.

UKRAINIAN NEW YEAR MALANKA • Dinner and dance, Jan. 16, upper level Florence Filberg Centre. Doors open 5 pm, entertainment 6 pm with our very own Dolyna Dancers, traditional Ukrainian buffet 7 pm, dancing with Audio Xcellence 9 pm. Tickets: Adults $35, members $25, dancers $10, youth to 17 years $15. Contact Sue at 250-339-0588, suemagnusson@gmail.com. Presented by the Comox Valley Ukrainian Cultural Society.

14 THURSDAY THERAPEUTIC RELAXATION PROGRAM FOR PERSONS WITH CANCER IN THEIR LIVES • Thursdays, 3-4 p.m., Nursing Centre, 615 10th St., Courtenay. Free.

Sponsored by BC Cancer Foundation, BC Cancer Agency, Pacific Therapy and Consulting. FMI: Diane Davies 250-338-2700.

11:15 am and 3 pm. Workshops include featured speaker Terry Small, “The Brain Guy�; Dr. Deidre Macdonald; Dr. Tom Diamond. Come and learn with the many exhibitors and vendors. Enter to win great prizes.

20 WEDNESDAY

18 MONDAY THE CV HORTICUTLURAL SOCIETY • Welcomes local horticulturalists Dany For-

HEART SUPPORT GROUP • Comox Valley Chapter Monthly Meeting January 20, 2016, 7PM, Comox Rec Centre.

Back to business.

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17 SUNDAY

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BOOMERS AND BEYOND • Trade show, 11 am to 3:30 pm, Sunday, Jan. 17 at the Florence Filberg Centre and Native Sons Hall. Free admission. The Valley’s favourite Elvis impersonator Steve Elliot performs at

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winterJAM Festival gears up for biggest year

Popular outdoor skating rink returning ... to the heart of Downtown Courtenay

With epic snow conditions on Mount Washington, a unique and diversified line up of bands and comedy acts, and the return of the popular outdoor skating rink, the 3rd annual winterJAM Festival will be blowing away the winter blahs this January 15-31.

Together with the Downtown Courtenay Business Improvement Association (DCBIA), Mount Washington Alpine Resort, Courtenay accommodation properties, music and comedy producers, and Comox Valley Economic Development and Tourism (CVEDS), winterJAM is a collaboration to drive increased visitation to the region during the winter season,

partners, is ecstatic to see the rink coming to downtown Courtenay, “The location for the rink puts it right in the heart of downtown, and the CVEDS team and DCBIA members have developed a great line up of things to do for families of all ages.

“That coupled with our amazing restaurants, cafes, shops, and attractions in downtown, this promises to be one of the liveliest and fun Januarys to remember,” said Deana Simkin, President, Downtown Courtenay BIA. For those looking for some music and laughs, there are several great performances being held including Jesse Roper and

as well as to provide a great family-friendly atmosphere in downtown Courtenay during the chilly days of January.

The outdoor skating rink will be set-up in the parking lot on the corner of 5th Street and England Avenue, beside the permanent evergreen Christmas tree, under a marquee tent.

This winterJAM Centre, as it’s known, will have themed skating nights including an ‘80’s Tight and Bright’ (21st), and ‘Be a Super Hero’ (28th), in addition to a Capitan Thunderpants performance, face painting, crafts, Boys and Girls Club activities, and more.

The Downtown Courtenay BIA, one of the event

(Continued on page 20)

All New Completely Redesigned for 2016 Available with: APPLE CARPLAY ANDROID AUTO 10 ELECTRIC PARKING BRAKE STEERING WHEEL-MOUNTED CONTROLS DRIVER INFORMATION INTERFACE 7-INCH DISPLAY AUDIO TOUCH-SCREEN POWER FRONT SEATS HEATED OUTBOARD REAR SEATS NEW SPORTY EXTERIOR

NEW REDESIGNED INTERIOR

20 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 8, 2016

Mamma Mia tickets on sale now

The Kiwanis Club of Courtenay and Square 1 Travel are sponsoring the sing-a- long Mamma Mia movie at the Sid at 7 p.m. on January 16th as a fund raiser for the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation. The funds raised will go for critical care equipment for the paediatric ward.

This wonderful, funny and wildly entertaining story unfolds on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her real father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago.

ABBA’s timeless music such as Dancing Queen, I Have A Dream, Voulez-Vous and Take A Chance On Me keep audiences singing to this enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship. This feel good sing-a-long is made for a celebration so dress in the Greek tradition and take in an evening full of prizes and surprises. Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased at the Sid Williams Theatre.

(Photo by Tim Penney)

Try singing with Just In Time Choirs

Are you looking for a fun and challenging creative outlet? Do you like to SING? The Just In Time Choirs are starting their Spring session on January 13th, and there’s room for new singers in the Unplugged choir of our 3-choir family. [In addition to the Unplugged choir, there are 2 smaller auditioned groups.] Unplugged is a 50 voice, un-auditioned community choir led by the effervescent and knowledgeable Wendy Nixon Stothert.

Although jazz has traditionally been the focus of the three Just In Time Choirs, our repertoire has

been expanded to include contemporary pop, gospel, folk, funk, and world music, as well as jazz forms such as swing and Latin.

The theme for the Spring 2016 session is “Momentum”. The setlist features contemporary music that encourages social consciousness, with songs like “Blood Brothers”, “Listen to the Music”, “Peace Train”, and “What the World Needs Now”.

At our concert in April, we will be performing with an amazing group of instrumentalists.

As every choral singer knows, the toughest demographic to attract is the MALE SINGER! Men! We need

you!! If you have any inclination to sing in the shower, or during your commute to work, or if you would just like to see what singing feels like, we encourage you to come out and give singing in this group a try.

It is FUN and MIND-EXPANDING – Wendy has so much to teach us, and her infectious energy and enthusiasm will make you very glad you’ve stretched your boundaries.

Our first rehearsal will be held in the Highland School music room, from 7:30 – 9:15, on Wednesday, January 13th. We hope to see you there!

For more information, please visit www.justintimechoirs.ca

Go skating right downtown starting Jan. 15

(Continued from page 19)

Towers and Trees (23rd) at the Sid Williams Theatre, Corb Lund and the Hurtin’ Albertans (27th) presented by Cumberland Village Works, and comedyJAM presented at Chances by Kitty’s Comedy Night featuring comedians Kathleen McGee, Howie Miller and Jane Stanton (29th and 30th).

Tickets for all the events are sell-

ing quickly.

The final feature of the Festival is 50% off lift passes at Mount Washington Alpine Resort when packaged with a night’s stay at participating Courtenay accommodation properties including Holiday Inn Express, Old House Hotel and Spa, and the Best Western the Westerly Hotel.

While the first two years of winterJAM saw challenging snow con-

ditions, these epic and stunning snow conditions bode well to see this be one of the best festivals in its history.

The winterJAM Centre is open Monday to Friday 2:30 pm to 8 pm, Saturday and Sunday noon to 8 pm, tickets are $5, include some skate rentals and are available online. To buy tickets and check on the rink and performance schedules visit winterjam.ca.

Amigos play Saturday afternoons at The Mex

Gord Kruger and his Amigos are the new regular Saturday afternoon dance band at the Mex Pub in downtown Courtenay. The guys will be there every Saturday afternoon from 2 ‘till 6 with their well known format of great classic country and oldies dance music. With guitarist and vocalist Barry Polichek, keyboardist Doug Coleman and Darryl Webb on Saxophone, Gord and the guys are all set to provide you with an afternoon of great entertainment. It’s a bit of déjà vu for Gord and Barry as they spent many a great weekend at the Mex during the mid 80’s and early 90’s with their former band Westwind. The food is great, the beverages are chilled and the dance floor is ready, so come on down for an enjoyable Saturday afternoon of dancing at the Mex Pub...... see you there!!

Dec 18th – 24th Dec 8th 18th– 14th – 24th Jan The Royal Ballet: “The Nut Cracker” “In The Heart the Sea 3D”#4 PG: Coarse Language CAPTIVIEW AVAILABLE IN THEATRE #1 &ofTHEATRE Sunday, December 20th at 10:00am, doors open at In theatre # 2 - Friday – Wednesday: 6:30 (8:40) in 2D & “Star Wars: The Force Awakens 3D” PG: Violence 9:30am.

9:30 (11:40) in 3D In Theatre # 1 – Friday –Sunday Night’s: 3D 6:35 (9:00) & 2D 9:30 (11:55) In theatre # 2 - Friday Matinees: 12:00 (2:10) in 2D & Captiview Available #1 &–theatre #4 In Theatre # 1 In– theatre Monday Thursday Night’s: 3D 5:35 (8:00) & 2D 8:30 (10:55) 3:00 (5:10) in 2D In will Theatre 1 –forSaturday SundaytheMatinees: 3D 12:30 (2:55) & 2D 3:30(5:55) We only be#open matinees on&Thursday 24th.

In theatre # 2 - Saturday - Wednesday Matinees: 12:15 “Hateful Eight” PG: Coarse Language “Star Wars: The Force Awakens 3D” PG: Violence (2:25) in 2D & 3:00 (5:10) in 2D Theatre # 2 –- Friday – Sunday InIntheatre # 1- Friday Wednesday: 6:45 (9:10)Night’s: in 3D & 8:00 (11:00) In theatre # 2 - Thursday Matinees: 12:25 (2:35) in 2D & In Theatre 2 – Monday – Thursday Night’s: 7:00 10:00 (12:25) in#3D 3:25(10:00) (5:35) in 2D Theatre # 2 –- Saturday & Sunday 12:10 (3:10) & 3:40 (6:40) InIntheatre # 4- Friday Wednesday: 6:20 (8:45) inMatinees: 3D & “Sisters” PG: 9:45 (12:10) in 3D “Alvin and the chipmunks; The Road chip” G: No Theatre 3 –Friday-Sunday Night’s: & 9:15 (11:25) InIntheatre #1-# Friday Matinees: 12:15 (2:40) in 3D &6:40 (8:50) warning In Theatre # 3 – Monday – Thursday Night’s: 5:40 (7:50)# 3&- 8:15 3:15 (5:40) in 2D In theatre Friday (10:25) - Wednesday: 6:55 (8:30) & 9:10 Theatre 4 –-Saturday Matinees: 12:20 (2:30) & 3:50 (6:00) InIntheatre #3-# Friday Wednesday Matinees: 12:55 (10:50) In Theatre # 4 (6:15) – Sunday 2:00 #(4:10) (3:20) in 2D & 3:50 in 3D Matinees: 11:30 (1:40) In&theatre 4 - Friday - Wednesday Matinees: 1:05 (2:45) violence, nudity course language In“The theatreRevenant” # 1 - Saturday –G: Thursday Matinees: 12:00 & 3:20 (5:00) (2:25) in 3D & 3:15 (5:40) in 2D In Theatre # 4 – Friday - Saturday Night’s: 7:30 In (10:15) theatre # 4 - Thursday Matinees: 12:35 (2:15) & 3:35 InIntheatre # 3 –#Thursday Matinees: 12:15 (2:40) in 2D7:45 & (10:30) (5:15) Theatre 4 – Friday - Sunday Night: 3:05 (5:30) in 3D In Theatre # 4 – Monday – Thursday Night’s: 6:30 (9:15)

In Theatre # 3 – Saturday to Sunday Matinees: 12:00 (2:45) & 3:20 (6:05)

Box Office & Concession Hours

Box Offi–ce & Concession Friday Wednesday: 5:50 – Hours 10:10 Friday – Wednesday: 5:50Thursday – 10:15night • Closed Friday day Closed 11:30 – 4:10 FridayFriday-Thursday - WednesdayMatinees: Matinees: 11:30 – 4:10

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 8, 2016

Harvey Paris Quintet returns to jazz club

Ask The Dentists!

Drs. Manny Karamanis & Brett Burry

Georgia Straight Jazz Society continues its exciting 2016 calendar with a return performance by Harvey Paris Quintet, in response to the terrific demand for a second performance following their show last autumn.

This is your opportunity to listen to this highly talented up-and-coming group of young musicians whose generation carries the beacon for live jazz into the future, and offers you the chance to hear how jazz, as a modern art genre, is evolving.

The quintet comprises Harvey Paris, Vocals; Phil Hamelin, Keyboard; Mikey Clement, Guitar; Andrew Fraser, Bass, and Jesse McNeil on drums.

All dedicated ambassadors, committed to elevating jazz to another level.

Harvey Paris blends jazz and hip hop in a personal style, creating a neo soul fusion that is really too good to be missed.

(Continued on page 22)

“Happy New Year to Your Teeth” Dear Doctors - I kept my resolutions last year and ended up much healthier as a result. Dropped a few pant sizes, and feel great. This year I want to do something about my teeth which have been somewhat neglected as an adult. What are the most common sense things I can do to help this process (aside from the actual dental restorative work which I have planned)?

Answer - The 'New You' does also deserve a

Pipe band putting on Burns Supper A Burns supper is a celebration of the life and the poetry of the Scottish poet Robert Burns.

The suppers are normally held on or near the poet’s birthday, 25 January, although they may be held at any time of the year.

Burns (1759...1796) was a Scottish poet and lyricist. He is widely regarded as the national poet of Scotland.

Burns suppers may be formal or informal and typically include haggis, a traditional Scottish dish, Scotch whisky, and the recitation of Burns’s po-

21

etry.

Our own Comox Valley Pipe Band is sponsoring a Burns dinner on January 16 this year at the RCL, Branch 160, on Comox Ave. Fellowship begins at

Start the new year with pancakes Kick off your new year with a new tradition...attend the Evergreen Club Pancake Breakfast , Saturday, January 9th, 2016 from 7:30 am- 11:00am. This delicious breakfast is served to you at your table by our team of Evergreen Club volunteers. The breakfast includes your choice of beverage, choice of buckwheat or buttermilk pancakes, and bacon or sausages for only $5.00 per person. Gather your friends and family and share in this all age’s feast ! Mark Saturday, January 9th down in your calendar and plan to attend this special event in the Conference Hall, Florence Filberg Centre (downtown Courtenay! For more info call Courtenay Recreation – Filberg Centre office at 250-338-1000.

Puntledge school presents ‘Aladdin’ Join Aladdin as he ventures into a swirling sandstorm of famous Arabian Tales from Ali Baba to Sinbad the Sailor when the Missoula Children’s Theatre and more than 50 local Puntledge school students perform an original musical adaption, Aladdin.

Aladdin Performances are at Ecole Puntledge Park Elementary School, Jan 16 at 2:30 and 6:30 pm.

Tickets $4 for kids, $8 for adults available at the door.

FMI: 250.334.4495

1815 hours followed by a roast beef/haggis dinner catered by the Comox Legion Ladies Auxiliary.

Tickets can be obtained from any band member, by contacting the band President, Gary Usher at 250 339-5904, or via email: info@cvpbs.org The Comox Valley Pipe Band has been a popular member of the local

cultural scene since its inception in 1985. Under the direction of Pipe Major Bill Quigg, the band provides instruction in both piping & drumming, partipates in many community events, pageants & parades, and has also competed in a number of Highland Games. The band wears the modern Sinclair tartan.

SAVE THE DATE!

BIG LOVE BENEFIT Annual Dinner & Auction

Friday, February 26th

Healthy Smile. Congratulations on your resolve.

The best news is that the habits you ask about really make sense for your entire body – not just your teeth. Firstly, consume plenty of fruits and veggies.

Good nutrition is vital to ward off susceptibility to many oral disorders including periodontal (gum) disease. Additionally, the antioxidants and other nutrients that are found in fruits, nuts, legumes, and veggies improve your body's ability to fight off inflammation and bacteria. Raw veggies and crisp fruits such as celery, carrots, and apples will help to clean the plaque from your teeth in addition to improving your breath. Secondly, if you are a smoker, quit smoking or using any tobacco products. They discolour your teeth, and add risk of cavities, gum recession, as well as throat, oral, and lung cancer. Smokers lose their teeth at a ratio much higher than non-smokers. Your body can recover, and quitting smoking will decrease the potential for tooth loss even after using tobacco for a long period of time. While on the subject of 'vices', it is suggested that limiting your alcohol intake can do nothing but good. Research proves that smokers who consume alcohol are far less likely to brush their teeth regularly, and are generally less concerned about basic health issues than nonsmokers. Brushing once a day isn't quite enough – a brushing and flossing regimen that is at least twice daily is necessary. That flossing activity will remove up to 40% more plaque from between your teeth and below your gum line which is where decay and gum disease often originate. Without it, you risk bleeding gums and eventually gum disease which will affect the entire rest of your body. We've said it before – your mouth is the portal to the entire rest of your body. Treat that doorway with the respect it deserves, and try to eliminate or reduce anything unhealthy that enters your body through this portal. Finally, we must put in a plug for regular (at least twice yearly) checkups. Nothing will ever be as inexpensive or straight forward to repair as when it is first discovered. It sounds like you've got a great attitude, and we wish you AND your new mouth a Happy New Year!

Call the Dental Hotline at 1-800-617-2936 and schedule a FREE implant information session.

at the Florence Filberg Center Ticket sales open Sunday, January 24 at 9am

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Mark your calendars and set your alarms!

(Dental Hotline) www.AcreviewDental.com Services are provided by General Dentists

22

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 8, 2016

Choral Society rehearses Faure’s Requiem

BY GRAHAM ARGYLE

The North Island Choral Society, after their best ever attended Christmas concerts featuring five “Magnificats” is now in rehearsals for the Spring 2016 concerts.

Last December, under the baton of artistic director Paul Colthorpe, the Choir with the NICS orchestra (leader Corrine Innes) and accompanist, Elvera Penner met the challenge of demanding works by J. S. Bach, C. P. E. Bach, Buxtehude, Pachelbel and Vivaldi. The five soloists, Megan Skidmore (soprano), Carol-Anne Parkinson (soprano), Tasha Farivar (contralto), David Brown (tenor), and Sam Marcaccini (bass) brought a depth of interpretation clearly enjoyed by the packed audiences.

The two upcoming Spring 2016 concerts will focus on French choral music featuring Gabriel Faure’s Requiem and works by Hector Berlioz, Maurice Durufle, and Charles Gounod. The concerts are on Friday 8th of April at 7.30pm. and on Saturday 9th of April at

Composer Gabriel Faure 2.00pm.

These April concerts have proven to be very popular with the growing audience. This characteristic should be especially true now, following the tragic events of 2015

in Paris, France. Gabriel Faure saw his work as a celebration of life. His Requiem in D. Opus 48 was first performed in 1888, but it was not until July 1900, when the final version was performed in

Paris, that the elegance and essential French character of the music was acknowledged.

In August 1900, Faure wrote in a letter to Eugene Ysaee, the celebrated Belgian virtuoso violinist of the day, who was making preparations to give a concert performance of the Requiem: “I shall be delighted, delighted, delighted to hear my Requiem conducted by yourself with your musicians. An organ would be necessary because it accompanies the whole way through, but a loud harmonium would do instead. As for the number of voices in the choir, that will naturally depend on the size of the hall where you give your concerts. The work lasts about 30 minutes or 35 at most; altogether it is as GENTLE as I am myself!! and it calls for one quiet bass-baritone, the cantor type, and one soprano.”

The NICS repertoire covers a broad range within the classical choral repertory. The sensitivity and sound produced by artistic director, Paul Colthorpe, has been noted for

many years. His approach is with patience and encouraging enthusiasm.

Elvera Penner, accompanist, skillfully provides singers, both experienced and new, with a remarkable sense of tuneful security.

Choir members come mainly from the Comox Valley and from as far as Campbell River. Singers of all skills and ages are invited to join the Choir, and newcomers to the Valley are welcome. This North Island Choir grows and renews on a regular basis and because of the

kind of music sung is a basis for good musical fellowship and friendship.

Most importantly, there are no auditions to scare anyone off ! It is truly a community choir.

The rehearsals are on Tuesdays at Mark Isfeld Secondary School, 1551 Lerwick Road, Courtenay, and usually start at 7.00pm and end at 9.00pm.

Membership is $50 (Students - $35) for the Spring Session. The first rehearsal is free.

For more information: northislandchoral.ca

(Continued from page 21)

enjoy a night of deliciously smooth soul music: come, enjoy, and be inspired.

Show time is 7:30 at The Avalanche Bar and Grill on Eighth Street. Admission is $10 for members, $12 for non members.

Jazz Night Dinner specials, and the regular pub menu items will be available before and during the performance. More information about the Jazz Society’s forthcoming events is available on the web site www.georgiastraightjazz. com, and on Facebook.

The band plays with inspired influences from Robert Glasper, Esperanza Spalding, The Roots, Eryka Badu, Amy Winehouse and the late great J Dilla.

Harvey Paris delivers a musical vibe like no other. His group mixes the sound of Fender Rhodes, mixed with pocket drums, sparse guitar and groove bass to create a soul foundation for his melodic vocals. This is your night to

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 8, 2016

23

Stakeholders workshop for water filtration study is also being planned.

The CVRD at first was looking to build a deep water intake in Comox Lake to minimize the risk of contamination and turbidity. This allowed deferral of the filtration system plan. However, the two rain induced turbidity events that took place in December 2014 and early 2015, led Island Health to rescind the deferral.

Those wishing to take part in the workshop should RSVP their attendance no later than Thursday, January 14 by calling 250-334-6056 or email: engineeringservices@comoxvalleyrd.ca

BY MICHAEL BRIONES Echo Staff

The consultants commissioned to produce a report on a recommended water treatment option for the Comox Lake will hold a workshop for stakeholders in the Comox Valley Regional District’s Watershed Protection Plan.

Opus DaytonKnight Consultants Ltd. is currently doing a study for a water filtration system that was ordered by Vancouver Island Health Authority to the CVRD to establish following the lengthy boil water advisory that took place in the winter of 2014.

The objective of the research is to develop an ideal site and treatment for analysis, evaluation and recommendation to the CVRD. It aims to ultimately address community health, economics and social values while also protecting the valley’s ecosystem.

To achieve these goals, Timothy Phelan, water treatment vice president at Opus told the CVRD’s water committee recently that stakeholder engagement is a key component

of the project.

“We will look at what options are technically feasible and what options can be presented to the stakeholders to initiate discussions,” said Phelan.

“We are going to evaluate those options in a stakeholders consideration approach and then move towards a selected alternative.”

The first of four major workshops that Opus plan to hold will be on January 18 and it’s open to all stakeholders. It intends to inform the community of they type, size, and the

nature of the water infrastructure being considered. Community input will also be collected and a report on the merits about how each potential location for the facilities may affect the social, environmental and economic aspects of the community.

“I feel communities here in the Comox Valley have a lot of shared values and that’s where we’re going to begin the conversations and discussions with stakeholders in these workshops,” said Phelan.

“We are going to focus on what the values are and

overlay those values on a scoring system on what are the evaluation criteria we’ve identified and how do we want to weigh these to reflect the values of communities.”

Following this stage, Opus will move to the evaluate options stage then selecting the preferred options, and this will conclude with a summary report that will highlight the recommended solution including a detailed engineering that will support a reliable cost estimate.

A First Nation workshop

Public hearing held for proposed water and sewer provisions to Puntledge Indian Reserve

BY MARY LEE Echo Staff

Precedent setting was the main concern expressed by two Area C residents who attended Monday’s Public Hearing to object to the Official Community Plan (OCP) Amendment Bylaw No. 2835.

The City of Courtenay held the public hearing as part of a statutory process to amend the provision of municipal water and sanitary sewer services to the Puntledge Indian Reserve No. 2 (IR2), one of four K’omoks First Nation (KFN) reserve lands outside municipal boundaries.

Grant Gordon and Diane Bostock expressed opposition against the amendment, citing a precedent would be set for future opportunities of extending services without annexation and contravening the OCP. Mayor Larry Jangula commented that within Areas A, B and C, some residents have already received access to water, a service provided without annexation.

Policy 6.2.2 of the OCP states the Comox Valley Water System will not be expanded beyond the current boundaries prior to an area becoming part of a municipality and that the City will not support any increase in the capacity or extension of the water system outside a municipal boundary.

As a condition of entering into a servicing agreement, Council must approve amendments to the OCP and the Regional Context Statement.

An amendment to the RCS is, however, consistent with Regional Growth Strategy (RGS) objectives to support economic development opportunities for the K’omoks First Nation.

During the public hearing Councillor Erik Er-

iksson asked Chief Rob Everson if it were possible for the reserve to become part of the municipality.

“If we did sign a treaty it is potential that we would have municipal-like status but at this point in time we haven’t chosen that particular parcel of land to have that status,” responded Everson.

Everson explained that IR2, which has been slated for over 10 years for economic development has been met with stumbling blocks from past administrations in moving forward.

I hope all had a great Christmas season and may I wish all a very happy and prosperous New Year.

Join your family, friends, co-workers in raising funds to end homelessness and provide much need supports to the homeless, hungry and hurting in our community by walking on Feb20th To Register and pledge now at to https://coldestnightoftheyear.org/location/comoxvalley

(Continued on page 24)

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“I have a letter from my grandfather, the late Andy Frank, from the government promising that there will be services provided to IR2. We’re talking over 70 years ago.”

KFN re-engaged in discussions with the City during the previous council’s tenure in office to negotiate provision of services.

Services will facilitate economic development in the form of commercial

retail, a seniors’ housing complex and the expansion of a campground on the IR2 lands.

Everson pointed out that traffic throughways have crossed the IRs ever since settlers first arrived and KFN has always played a big part in the community.

With the provision of services to IR2, KFN can expand the campground, which, in turn, can yield economic benefit to the community, in particular, to the downtown core.

The parties entered into

I’ve just made a resolution to quit smoking. Is there any benefit to eye health with that?

Congratulations on setting your goal! You’ll be happy to know that not smoking reduces the risk of developing cataracts and macular degeneration, two common eye diseases. Cataract (clouding of the internal lens of the eye) can haze or fog the vision in a variety of ways and smoking quickens this normal age-related process. Macular degeneration involves the deterioration of the central retina and does not affect everyone, but occurs more often in smokers compared to non-smokers. Your eyes might feel better too, since smoking can cause ocular irritation and feelings of dryness in the eyes. All of these eye problems can be profoundly annoying, if not disabling. Sometimes people need multiple methods and motivations to quit. Use your eyes as one extra reason to stay smoke-free.

Q: My medication tastes terrible what can I do to make it easier to take them?

A: Certain medications do taste awful. Sometimes, you can ask for a different medication or formulation to make it easier. The following tips can help make them easier to swallow.Plug your nose before you take it, if you cannot sense the odour then tasting is more difficult.Take the medication with a small quantity of food, this can help. With children, avoid putting the medication in healthy or vital food sources as they can associate the food with the medication and develop an aversion to it.Eliminate the bad taste by drinking a liquid or eating a cracker right after.Placing the pills on the back of the tongue can help.Sucking on ice or eating ice cream before can help desensitize the taste buds. Mint flavoured mouthwash or toothpaste can also help.

an Agreement in Principle (AIP) that lays out a number of guiding principles including cost recovery for the provision of services and any associated infrastructure from KFN and restrictions on the use of the land.

A final servicing agreement that would facilitate the expansion of the existing campground will also restrict residential use to an equivalent population of 500 or approximately 200-250 units.

Everson indicated however that to date no de-

tailed development plans have been created.

The AIP also stresses “the provision of services is for the benefit of the K’omoks First Nations and is not intended to be precedent setting” to any other rural areas outside the City boundaries.

Although Gordon and Bostock expressed concern over precedent setting, both see the potential benefit that the expansion of services to IR2 have for the community.

Gordon shared his vision of developing a foot-

What should I be pruning in the winter months?

Winter is a great time to prune fruit trees, wisteria, kiwi, grapes and ornamental trees because they are still dormant and you can clearly see the structure of the branches. Pruning is necessary if the value and quality of the trees in the landscape are to be maintained. The main reasons for pruning are removal of dead, damaged, diseased or crossing/ rubbing branches; to improve the form, shape or size; to stimulate the formation of flowers and fruit buds; to rejuvenate older plants and for safety and convenience. Careful attention to pruning and training young trees will ultimately determine their productivity and longevity. Good pruning and training will also prevent later injury from weak crotches that break under snow or fruit load. Pruning should be done with an understanding of how the tree responds to each cut. Improper pruning can cause damage that will last for the life of the tree, or worse, shorten the tree’s life. Never compromise…...always hire a professional! We will be starting our pruning in January. Call now for a free estimate.

Two days ago, my dog got into a fight with another dog and seems to have been bitten. All I can see is some moist matted fur on the shoulder and a small puncture wound underneath.

How serious is that? Should I see a vet?

Without an examination it is difficult to say how extensive a bite wound actually is. The smallest wound can be just the tip of the iceberg. More wounds might be hidden under the fur. Bite wounds introduce lots of bacteria (the mouth is a dirty environment), and often this will result in an infection which may be serious. Sometimes the effects will not be seen for one or several days – dog (and cat) fur is quite effective in hiding what is going on underneath. You will need to have the area examined and clipped to assess the extent of the damage done. Redness and swelling with possible discharge confirms an infection which needs medical attention. If an abscess has formed, it will need to be opened and flushed. Most often antibiotics are needed to deal with the problem.

Pain medication may also be needed. If your pet becomes lethargic and goes off his/her food after a fight, it may indicate that the infection has become systemic and is affecting the whole body now.

Make sure your dog (and the other animal) is up to date on his/her rabies vaccination. Any bite wound could potentially introduce an infectious disease to your pet, and ultimately you might be affected as well.

Prevention is better than cure – try and remove your pet from stressful situations before conflict arises.

bridge over the existing Puntledge river bed pilings where the former railway bridge once existed, an alternative solution he believes is a “win-winwin” for all parties.

“A bridge that would carry pedestrians and carry the pipes that will allow a synergy between the two halves and enhances the neighborhood, which we all know is incredibly popular,” explained Gordon.

“I can possibly see money coming from all levels of government in order to get a bridge and a pipeline and tourism synergy hap-

pening.”

“I believe once the power and sewer comes over the river to the 500-person KFN development that it must stop there as our rural area is not sown for this type of build out, and specifically because of the riparian values of the properties,” expressed Bostock, sharing her support for Gordon’s suggested proposal of bringing services across the river by way of a bridge that connects the rural and urban trails and bring business to and from the campground.

Tax-Free Savings Accounts – Is there a catch?

Short answer? No. However, there are some issues you should be aware of, including: • If you over-contribute, you will have to pay penalties.

• Transferring your RRSP to your TFSA is a taxable transaction.

• Withdrawals cannot be ‘replaced’ until the following calendar year.

• U.S. citizens living in Canada may not benefit from a TFSA and should consult a tax professional.

This article is supplied by Lara D. Austin, Investment & Wealth Advisor with RBC Dominion Securities Inc. Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund.

Please consult with a professional advisor before taking any action based on information in this article. Lara can be reached at 250-334-5606 or HYPERLINK "mailto:lara.austin@rbc.com" lara.austin@rbc.com.

Wellness

(Continued from page 23)

Q: What products are available to me to help with my discomfort while I'm waiting for surgery?

Paula Granger

A: At The Home Medical Shop® we carry a wide variety of products that can help lessen your discomfort while you wait for your surgery.

Products such as a Thermaphore Moist Heating Pad work wonders on sore aching muscles, providing moist heat therapy that gets deep in to the muscle tissue to combat inflammation and muscle spasms. Knee Bolsters work well to alleviate lower back pain and help you to sleep more comfortably, as well as backrests and cushions to make sitting more comfortable. We also carry a large selection of Orthopaedic Braces for added support of knees, back, ankles and more, plus a private consultation room where you can discuss your own particular needs with one of our knowledgeable staff and we can offer practical solutions to help you be more comfortable in the weeks or months leading up to your surgery. When it comes time for your post surgery recovery, we can help with that as well. Ask one of our friendly and knowledgeable staff to recommend which personal post surgery aids will work best for you, including our clean and well maintained rental equipment. We also offer a Hip & Knee Surgery Kit as a handy resource.Your Extended Health Provider may cover the cost of pre and post surgery products and equipment, as well as rentals.

250.338.0903 www.theHomeMedicalShop.com

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 8, 2016

How often should I have a dental checkup and a professional cleaning?

Plan ďŹ rst, January is a good time. Seeds and all the things you need for growing are starting to arrive now. Good bets for our area are lettuce and greens, peas, carrots, zucchini, green beans and cucumbers. You can start your seeds indoors and plant them out after the last frost date in most cases, which is usually April 1st to the 10th in Courtenay. Seed packages are full of information regarding planting times and West Coast Seed has an excellent planting chart on its website for our area. Pay good attention to the weather and your seed packages, if it’s too wet or the soil is too cold many plants or seeds will rot.

Start small, if the weather is agreeable, dig out a garden bed north to south for maximum sunlight. Remove any grass or plants including any roots. Add more soil, manure, sand, or compost if you have it and dig the whole bed over about a foot deep. Your goal is to raise the bed up for good drainage and to produce loamy soil, not too sandy, not much clay. Yearly fall applications of green manures like fall rye will also help to build good loam and protect the bed from winter rains.

Monday to Saturday - 8.30-5 Sunday 9.30-5

Hair Design

What happens to my heating system when my air filter is Dirty?

We generally recommend scheduling an appointment to have your teeth checked by the dentist and professionally cleaned by the hygienist every 6 months. This will help us to detect changes to the condition of your teeth and gums and keep them healthy. For some, who have signs and symptoms of gum disease, dental cleanings are recommended every 3 months. For those with a very low risk of gum disease and a very low risk for cavities an annual check-up and cleaning is suitable. If you have concerns arise between check-up visits call us to schedule an appointment for a specific exam by the dentist.

Jennifer Frey, Registered Audiologist

Hearing Care Professionals know that hearing loss negatively affects psychosocial health. A British study of 1500 hearing impaired people 55 years and older showed evidence that hearing loss is likely to cause marital strain.

Almost half said that relationships with their partner, family and friends suffered because they could not hear properly. A third had lost touch with friends and in some cases marriages had fallen apart as a direct result of a communication breakdown. Your first step should be to arrange a hearing test. Explore the solutions for hearing loss. Get the facts about hearing instruments and various pricing levels directly from the qualified reputable hearing health provider in your community.

Ask about payment plans, instrument warranties and follow up care before believing that a remedy for your hearing loss is not available or affordable.

1.888.850.9979

Dr. Colleen Clancy and Associates #98-1742 Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay, BC V9N 2K8 Phone: 250-338-2599 Web: www.drcolleenclancy.com

Leanne OWNER

This is the perfect time of year to freshen up your look.... the best thing would be to come in for a complimentary consult.

We will look at your face shape, eye colour, skin tone and lifestyle to ensure your hair design is working for you, not against you. Example: if your hair colour is too blonde it can wash out your skin tone .....having a natural base with subtle balayage highlights around the face and ends is youthful. What is the easiest thing you can do to update your look? Add or change your fringe! Phone for your appointment today!

250 -33 4- 0209 “A beautiful experience�

My Computer keeps asking me to upgrade to Windows 10. Should I? Kyle Corey (Technology Specialist)

That is a great question. The answer is different depending on your situation.

For the average user I would wholeheartedly recommend upgrading. It is a free upgrade (until July 2016) and it allows you to stay current. I strongly urge users to install a free program called Classic Shell (http://www.classicshell.net/) which installs a familiar "Start Menu" and is very similar to the Windows 7 Menu. The upgrade will take some time (1-2 hours on average.) I also recommend backing up your important data before doing any upgrade.

For business environments and people using specialized or older programs (POS, Office, Medical) and older hardware (printers, scanners, cameras, X Ray) you should contact the makers of the programs or hardware to confirm compatibility. If all of your software/hardware is compatible then I would suggest the upgrade.

I hope this brings some clarity. Please feel free to email me at kyle@geektweaks.ca or call me at 250-702-5764 if you have any specific questions.

www.level10eurospa.com

PC Mac Android Apple

250.702.5764

kyle@geektweaks.ca

I wear complete dentures and I am still happy with my upper but I would like a new lower, is it ok to make a new lower denture against an old upper denture?

Jan Lefeber Registered Denturist

DENTURES

Something as simple as a dirty air filter can cause sometimes severe damage to any system. A dirty air filter causes lack of airflow. With lack of air across of the heat exchanger the heating system will run at much higher than designed temperatures. For a heat pump this causes high refrigerant pressures which is stressful on the compressor and could cause premature failure. A gas furnace will run a much higher temp on the heat exchanger which could promote early heat exchanger failure or have the system trip from a safety switch. Electric furnaces have resistive coils that can run too hot and burn out too. Message of the day check your filters! Have a good understanding of how often they need to be changed. If you don’t know how often your filter needs to be changed check it about every 3 months and adjust your time span depending on what you find. For more info on air filters or any other indoor climate solutions contact us by going to tempriteclimatesolutions.com

Dr. Colleen Clancy & Dr. Ann Lu Dentists

How can I update my hairstyle and make sure it isn't ageing me?

My New Year’s resolution is to stop renting and become a home owner.

Any advice?

Buying a property isn’t a simple process, but with some planning and forethought it does not have to be a stressful one! Most often, home buying stress come from the unknown (“I missed the deadline? What deadline? How much money do I need for a down payment? When should I take it out of my RRSP?�).

To make your home purchase dream a reality we recommend you do two things ASAP: get pre-approved for your financing so you know how much you can afford, and learn the process so you have a big picture understanding of “who does what and when� and a realistic plan and timeline so all the pieces will come together smoothly. In our office, we’ve developed our First Time Home Buyer’s Consultation to meet both these needs – in just an hour you’ll be pre-approved and gain a full understanding of the purchase process and a plan and timeline for how to make it happen. Best of all, there’s no obligation, so call today and make your ‘home owner’ resolution come true!

How does hearing loss affect my life?

TECHNOLOGY

Marnie

DENTISTRY

I WANT A VEGETABLE GARDEN THIS YEAR, WHEN AND HOW DO I START IT?

25

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Jan Lefeber Denturist

Ph: (250) 339 7 233 #204-1819 Beaufort Ave, Comox BC

Send your questions for any of these professionals to us by mail, email or fax Professional: Question:

COMOX VALLEY ECHO 407 - E Fifth Street, Courtenay, BC V8N 1J7 or send your question to Keith Currie at kcurrie@comoxvalleyecho.com or by fax to 250-334-3172

26 FRIDAY.JANUARY 8, 2016

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Harvey A. Weiss Born in Edmonton, Alberta on September 23, 1946 Harvey passed away on January 1, 2016 at 5:45am at Langley Memorial Hospital after an 8 month courageous battle with Mesothelioma a rare form of cancer caused by occupational asbestos exposure. Harvey worked as a Journeyman Sheet Metal Worker for 35 years before retiring. He was well respected for his work ethic and reliability to get the job done properly the ďŹ rst time. He loved to hunt, ďŹ sh and camp. He enjoyed many summers camping at Kin Beach in the old motorhome visiting friends and relatives around the campďŹ re. Harvey liked to help others with their mechanical, construction, and technical issues to ďŹ x just about anything. He liked socializing with his friends at the Legion and GrifďŹ n Pub. He and Jessie enjoyed travelling whenever possible. He was a good Dad to Bruce and Louise and a dear Papa to his grandchildren Alannah, Chanel and Martin. Harvey will be dearly missed by his family and many friends.

Predeceased by father Victor and mother Millie, brother-in-law Bill, and many aunts and uncles. Survived by his loving wife Jessie, son Bruce (Jacki), daughter Louise, grandchildren Alannah, Chanel (Tyler), and Martin, brother Bob (Judy), sisters Gloria, Sherry (Moe), Paula (Roger), Susan (Bryan) and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 9 at 1:00pm at the Royal Canadian Legion, 1825 Comox Ave, Comox, BC, V9M 3M3. In lieu of owers, donations may be made to the YANA Fund Society or a charity of your choice. Please join us in remembering Harvey by visiting our memorial at www.piercysmtwashingtonfuneral.com.

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WWW PIERCYSMTWASHINGTONFUNERAL COM

Rosaline Elinor Silzer (nee Dennison) May 11, 1925 – December 21, 2015

It is with great sadness that we say farewell to Rose Silzer who passed away peacefully at St Joseph’s hospital, December 21, 2015.

Rose was predeceased by her mother and father, Minnie and William Dennison, two sisters, Alice and Franceis Dennison, brother Ross, daughter Valerie and son Ross.

Rose is survived by relatives, extended family and many friends who loved her like family.

Rose was born in Denholm, Saskatchewan. She came to the West Coast with her family in 1938. After living in several communities she settled in Powell River where she married Alf Postill and raised her two children.

Rose thought she had the best job ever as a Practical Nurse. She worked in the Powell River hospital for 20 years’.

Rose spent some time in Abbotsford with her second husband Ed Silzer. After he passed away she moved to the Comox Valley to be closer to her daughter Valerie Rose had many passions, gardening, traveling and entertaining. She had a very caring nature and was truly at her happiest when she had people around her.

Rose will be sadly missed by her family, extended family and many wonderful friends.A Celebration of Life/Tea will be held January 16, 2016 at the D’Esterre Senior Centre, 1801 Beaufort Ave, Comox, V9M 1R9, at 1:30 pm In lieu of flowers please donate to your favorite charity.

Sereine Marie Caudwell (nee Richard) August 22nd, 1923 ~ December 25th, 2015

Mark Hamill Mark Hamill passed away on December 18, 2015. He had a short but hard fight battle with cancer. Mark was born on May 7, 1950 in Syracuse, NY to Pauline and Louis Hamill. He graduated from the University of Calgary with a degree in Zoology, and transferred that degree to working at the Calgary Zoo for several years. Mark also thoroughly enjoyed educating people and sharing knowledge. He utilized that skill in his job as Park Interpreter at Fish Creek Provincial Park where he remained until he moved to British Columbia in the late 1990’s.

Mark had a special connection with animals, and he had an infectious sense of humor with people. He has passed that love of animals, his sense of humor and his sense of adventure to his two daughters Meghan and Nicole.

Mark was never afraid to try new things, and he had a thirst for knowledge and learning new skills. He was an avid reader, outdoorsman and boatsman. There was never a dull moment with Mark. Just when his daughters thought the end was near; whether being stalked by a wild cat on a hike, or stuck on a lake in a sailboat with no wind, he would pull a trick out of his custom XL hat and lead them to safety. This made their journey with him, vivid and memorable. He was hilarious, intelligent, strong willed and compassionate. We will remember him as a colorful person who marched to the beat of his own drum.

His epitaph would read: I’ll do it my way, or the highway.

Mark was survived by his wife, Pauline Fox, his mother, Pauline Hamill, his sister, Maura Hamill, two daughters, Meghan Hamill, and Nicole Tremere, and five grandchildren.

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It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Sereine Marie Caudwell at St Josephs Hospital following a brief illness.

Pre-deceased by her husband Wesley, sisters Anna Mae, Delima, Pearl, brothers Henri, Don, her soul sister Jesse Reynen and close personal friend in later life, John Smith.

She will be lovingly remembered by sons Dale (Didre), Grant (Nicole), grand-children Faye Caudwell(Anita), Jamie Caudwell (Caleb), Danna Caudwell (Lawrence), Justin Caudwell, great grand-daughter Taylor Caudwell-Irye, nephew Bob Perry (Willie), close personal friends, Winnie and Jack Morgan, Earl and Sharon Kierstead, Shane Cattrall and a host of other friends not forgotten but too numerous to mention.

Sereine was born in Lawrence Massachusetts and moved to Canada with her father Benjamin after the death of her mother Eveline Richard (nee Bernard) and settled in Tignish, P. E. I. After her fathers death in the Tignish train wreck of 1932, Sereine and Mae were sent to live with her grandfather until they were old enough to leave home and work. This bond was life long and culminated in the two sisters taking care of each other later in life. After WWII she moved to Powell River, following her sister Mae and took a job at the Bosa Mitchell Brothers store in Cranberry where she met Wesley. They were married in July 1953 and left Powell River when Wesley reinlisted in the RCAF after his tour of duty during WWII. They were stationed in Edmonton, Whitehorse, Rivers, Trenton and ďŹ nally the Comox Valley where they stayed when Wesley retired in 1970.

Sereine worked as a waitress at the Arbutus Hotel for many years and was well known in the Valley. After Wesley’s death in 1995, it was then when Mae who had lost her husband Camille, moved to Courtenay to be with Sereine and they became inseparable. Along with their long time friend Jesse Reynen, they became known as the Golden Girls with Sereine behind the wheel with Mae and Jesse along for the ride. After Mae became ill and was hospitalized, Jesse and Sereine both moved into Berwick where she began volunteering at the Views ECU where Mae was a resident. She continued volunteering after Mae’s death in 2012 until she was into her 91st year. She enjoyed her independent living at Berwick, was active in the choir and was an energetic individual known to enjoy her occasional visits to a Casino up until shortly before her death.

We would like to thank Dr. Jonathan Reggler and the nursing staff at St Josephs Hospital for their exemplary care and compassion for Sereine during her short stay in the hospital and a special mention to Roger Kelly and Joseph Thiessen at Piercys Mount Washington Funeral Home for their effort and professionalism when Sereine passed on Christmas day. As per Sereines request, there will be no service. In lieu of owers, individuals may make a donation to The Views ECU in Comox. For anyone who would like to leave a tribute for Sereine, you can go to www.dignitymemorial.ca/piercys-mt-washington-funeral-home

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GRAY, Hazel Mary (nee: GILBERT) September 01, 1921 -December 30, 2015

Hazel passed away peacefully having suffered for many years from the cruel affects of Alzheimer’s disease. She was predeceased by her mother Sarah, step-mother Isabella, father Donald W. Gilbert, brother Alasdair and husband David W. Gray. Hazel was born in Vancouver and raised in nearby Burnaby. Contrary to her father’s wishes, Hazel joined the Canadian Navy and served as a WREN, conducting clerical duties during World War II. With Veteran benefits, she went to Normal School and became a teacher. She was teaching school in Whitehorse, YT when she met David (RCAF), and they were married in 1952. Hazel soon began a family and a lifetime dedication to homemaking filled with love and support for her children and grandchildren. She is survived by sons Tom (Sherry), Steve (Margaret), Michael (Elaine), Ian (Natalie), daughter Caroline (Andrew), nineteen grandchildren and two great grand children.

Hazel began her early married life with brief stops in Edmonton, Summerside and, when David left the RCAF, to Vancouver. As did many young couples of the day, they decided then to move to Prince George (1954). David became a Game Warden and the family moved to Creston (1964) settling in Erickson where Hazel declared it, “a good place to raise a family.� Hazel and children became part of the Covenant Church because originally it was within walking distance of home. Hazel had strong Christian beliefs and she lived her life with faith and the ethics of honesty and integrity. Hazel kept busy with church activities, loved her flower garden and orchard. In 1986, Hazel and David moved to Vancouver to be closer to family and medical facilities. Unfortunately, David died suddenly in November of 1989, leaving Hazel widowed for the remainder of her life. Hazel lived in New Westminster spending her time volunteering, often with the Salvation Army thrift stores.

Early in 2005, Hazel moved to the Comox Valley to be closer to family.

Hazel eventually required residential care and moved into the Comox Valley Seniors Village where she received wonderful loving care. Family would like to thank all those frontline staff at CVSV for looking after Hazel and to Doctor Edward Howard for his care and attention.

No flowers by request. A tea to celebrate Hazel’s life will be held Sunday, January 17th 2016 at 2:00pm, 2350 Anderton Road, Comox, B.C. (250-890-0438). A family graveside service will be held at Mountain View Cemetery in Vancouver at a later date.

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Finley Tonkin came into the world a little early but very healthy, nonetheless, weighing in at 7 pounds, 7 ounces.

Claire Gusman gave birth to her daughter, the Valley’s first baby of 2016, at St. Joseph’s General Hospital on Jan 1 at 5:22 p.m.

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Techno Alpine T40 Snow Gun (Source Mount Washington Alpine Resort)

29

Snow Maker Super PoleCat (Source Dean Stoltz, CHEK News)

Artificial snow falls for first time on Mt. Washington

BY MARY LEE Echo Staff

Two fully automatic, lowpressure fan guns are being tested this winter season at Mount Washington. The Techno Alpine T40 Snow Gun and the Snow Maker Super PoleCat arrived at the resort over the holiday break

A division of

and are being put to the test to determine its snowmaking capability and feasibility.

Temperatures of -2.5 degrees Celsius or colder are required before snow making can begin.

Artificial snow fell on the slopes Sunday, a first in Mount Washington’s history.

“It’s really exciting. Last night

when they fired it up there was quite a crowd around here watching it go off,” Don Sharpe, Director of Business Operations and Marketing at Mount Washington, told CHEK News.

Sharpe explains that as ideal conditions prevail on the mountain more windows of opportunity open up to pump snow that

will enhance natural precipitation and fill in when no precipitation has fallen.

The addition of snow machines are part of plans that new owners, a subsidiary company of Pacific Group Resorts, are introducing to the resort’s operations.

The snowmaking system will

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be expanded throughout the mountain in three phases over a few years allowing more areas on the hill the capability.

“We have a plan that’s being developed as we speak and we’ll expand through a very strategic phased-in approach over the next five to six years,” shared Sharpe.

30 www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 8, 2016

Community Action Award presented

Join the fun with improv soap opera in Cumberland

Attention all performers!

This will be Pleasure Craft’s sixth season of live improv soap opera. A lively and wild form of theatre art.

Characters and plot lines continue throughout the six episode run of the show. There is live musical accompaniment and lighting and on-the-fly direction.

The show will be a satire on high school themed stories such as Archie, Glee, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Degrassi.

If you would like to take part in the show, come up with a character that has something to do with school life, teacher, student, coach etc and show up in costume to the audition/ practice from 6pm to 10pm on Thursday January 14th at the Cumberland Masonic Hall, 2687 Dunsmuir.

The play will run every Monday night from January 18th to February 22nd.

FMI contact director, Kevin Flesher at 250 898 7215

A division of

As 2015 concludes in a review of the year’s events, the Comox Valley chapter of the Council of Canadians had the special honour of awarding its annual Community Action Award to lead organizers of Walking With Our Sisters K’ómoks.

Anne Davis, Lee Everson and Ramona Johnson received the award at the Chapter’s annual potluck holiday dinner on Dec. 17 in recognition of “creative vision and leadership which has expanded and unified our community.”

The Walking With Our Sisters events, held in July and August on the traditional territory of the K’omoks First Nation, included a traditional welcome attended by all other nations, ceremonies and a commemorative art installation at the I-Hos Gallery that honoured and brought awareness to missing and murdered indigenous women and girls.

Thanks to the dedication of families and volunteers across Canada through events like WWOS, the federal government recently announced it will launch a long-awaited national public inquiry.

The Council of Canadians has had the privilege of collaborating with many First Nations groups on environmental and social justice issues.

The local manifestation of this important bridgebuilding between First Nations and non-native people in our community

From left to right: Linda Safford (CV Council of Canadians), Anne Davis, Ramona Johnson, Lee Everson - Walking with Our Sisters was present throughout the months leading up to Walking With Our Sisters, and it continues.

“The importance of our ongoing relationship as we work for climate and social justice cannot be underestimated,” says Linda Safford, Comox Valley Council of Canadians chapter member.

“Respecting the inherent rights and title of the original caretakers of this land is the first principle mentioned in the LEAP manifesto,” a national call to action supported by many organizations including the Council of Canadians.

Organizing WWOS K’ómoks took three

years.

The memorial exhibit drew 4,431 visitors in addition to the many people who attended other events.

“The enormous effort to bring the exhibit, to host so many welcoming events where First Nations traditions were shared, and to include over three hundred volunteers has forever changed those who were fortunate enough to be present,” says Safford.

“We are very grateful.”

Walking With Our Sisters K’ómoks was nominated for the Community Action Award by Wayne Bradley and Janet Fairbanks of World Community, and Sally Gellard.

Rhodo Society will go ‘down under’ at first meeting of year For its first meeting in 2016, Tuesday, January 12, the North Island Rhododendron Society (NIRS) features a presentation by club members Garth and Sue Wedemire that will transport us “Down Under” to visit gardens in New Zealand. Images were taken during tours set up following the 2014 International Rhododendron Conference in Dunedin and include shots from both public and private gardens.

(Continued on page 31)

31

www.comoxvalleyecho.com FRIDAY.JANUARY 8, 2016

ElderCollege information forum coming up Jan. 16

BY ALANA GOWDY For many seniors in the Comox Valley, each New Year brings an especially welcome event. The Comox Valley ElderCollege once again offers its free Information Forum. Held at North Island College, this valuable session heralds a new semester of exciting courses.

The forum is useful both to people who are considering ElderCollege for the first time and to those, like Moya Fleming, who have been members for many years. “I signed up on the very first day that ElderCollege existed,” remembers Moya with a smile. “One of the courses I took was in children’s literature. We all enjoyed it so much, when the semester ended we formed a

book club. It’s still going strong.”

Still thriving, like ElderCollege, after sixteen years.

The major change Moya has noticed over the years is one of growth. ElderCollege has so many more members, courses, course leaders, lectures, and volunteers. Her first volunteer position was as leader of what was then a small but active group, the Social Committee. There are now over 180 volunteers who make ElderCollege happen.

Moya’s involvement with ElderCollege will continue in the Winter 2016 semester.

For, as she emphasizes, “The instructors have always been excellent, the courses are interesting and diverse, and you don’t have to write any exams!”

The semester will run from February to March and classes will be held Monday to Friday during the day, with the lectures series on Saturday mornings. Courses are offered once a week for eight, six or four weeks, or once on a single afternoon. This semester, topics will range from uranium to ukeleles, from environmentalism to local government, from bridge to beer, from hikes to hell [classical underworld!].

Everyone aged 55 or more is invited to attend this useful Information Forum. Course leaders will present a two minute summary of what they have to offer and details of the lecture series will be provided.

The Comox Valley ElderCollege Information

During one of several computer classes, members of Comox Valley ElderCollege foster their interest in the use of iPads.

(Photo by Paul Atterton) Forum will be held on Saturday 16 January, 10.00 a.m. to noon in the Stan Hagen Theatre at North

Island College.

This free popular event fills the theatre every semester.

The equivalent

of a ‘Sold Out’ sign will go on the door when seats are filled, so early arrival is advised.

Ski for MS

selves at Ski for MS. FYI – team members are not required to stay together for the day.

If you are up on Mount Washington on January 31st, stop by our Ski for MS station at the base of the Hawk 6ix Pack Chairlift. We will be holding 50/50 draws throughout the day and The GOAT and 2Day FM will be on site with great music.

Funds raised at this event will be used to (1) provide local programs and services for people affected by MS on North Vancouver Island including information and referral, self-help groups, financial assistance through our Quality of Life: Equipment and Non–equipment funding programs to those who qualify, and the Comox MS Clinic and (2) provide funds for our Chapter’s annual research donation. In 2014, our Chapter donated $16,853 to MS research!

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, debilitating disease of the central nervous system.

Symptoms can include vision problems, extreme fatigue, muscle weakness, loss of balance and coordination, tingling and numbness, cognitive problems and partial or complete paralysis.

Canada has one of the highest rates of MS in the world: an estimated 100,000 Canadians have MS. It is most often diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 40 and affects three times as many women as men.

For more information about Ski for MS go to www. msski.ca or call 250-3390819.

Join the fun Jan. 31 at Mt. Washington and help raise funds to fight Multiple Sclerosis

WINTER PROMOTION

Rhododendrons (Continued from page 30) Dunedin is known for its cooler climate which makes it ideal for growing superb rhododendrons. Two of the public gardens are classified as Gardens of International Significance: the 38-hectare Botanic Garden which is the country’s oldest and has hundred-yearold rhodos plus Larnach Castle with its beautifully designed garden that blends with the 19th century castle.

NIRS meetings are held every second Tuesday of the month in the Comox United Church hall, 250 Beach with doors opening at 7pm and the meeting starting at 7:30PM. Refreshments are served and guests interested in membership are welcome to attend.

Door to Door...Town to Town

Are you a skier or snowboarder who knows someone affected by multiple sclerosis? If you answered yes, then you should come to Ski for MS on Sunday, January 31st at Mount Washington Alpine Resort. A fundraiser for the MS Society of Canada, North Vancouver Island Chapter, Ski for MS is a great way to help people affected

by MS in your community and earn a fun, inspiring and free day on the slopes!

Register online at www. msski.ca or by phone at 250339-0819 and receive everything you need to get started fundraising. Registered participants who raise the pledge minimum for their age group will receive a free alpine day pass or Nordic ski pass for Jan. 31st, lunch at the Hawk Dog Stand, a Ski for MS toque or scarf, entry to our Vertical Challenge – a fun endurance event, and the chance to win some great prizes donated from throughout the community. After a great day on the mountain, join us at 3:30 for a quick wrap up ceremony to find out how much money was raised and maybe claim a great draw prize!

The pledge minimums are: Adult (19 – 64) $150 Student (19 – 64) $125 Senior (65+) $125 Youth (13 – 18) $125 Child (7 – 12) $100 Raise $500 or more and receive a Mount Washington day pass to use another day!

Many of our participants add to the fun by creating a team made up of friends, family, or co-workers. Show your team spirit by dressing up or distinguishing your-

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