Comox Valley Record, May 14, 2025

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 14, 2025 | VOLUME 40 | NO. 20

Friday May 30th, 2:30-6:30 Location: 1475 Noel Ave, Comox BC v9m 3h8 (at the school) Tickets at the door or online

■ NEWS RCMP seeking witnesses Comox Valley RCMP are asking for assistance from the public after a serious crash occurred around 5:15 p.m. on May 8, 2025, on Huband Road in Courtenay.

A3

A few good recruits The Courtenay Volunteer Fire Department is accepting applications for the 2025-26 training year, and will be holding an open house on June 5.

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Kickers retain title The Comox Valley Kickers have once again etched their name into the BC Rugby history books, defending their Women’s Division 2 Championship title in commanding fashion with a dominant 61-0 shutout over Island rivals Nanaimo Hornets RFC. A23

■ FEATURES Comox Valley Schools hosted its inaugural High School Enduro Mountain Bike Race at Village Park in Cumberland. Supplied photo

Inaugural enduro champion crowned Marc Kitteringham

Over 130 mountain bikes were crowded into the staging area at Village Park in Cumberland, in various

stages of preparation for the inaugural Comox Valley Schools Enduro Mountain Bike Race.

The race was open to student athletes from grades

8 through 12, representing five school districts. Students travelled from as far afield as the Gulf Islands to compete on the trails in the Cumberland Forest.

Enduro races have timed multiple timed stages sepastages, with transfers be- rated by un-timed transfer tween each stage that are sections.

The course started at the not timed. Participants competed in a true EnContinued on Page A15 duro-style format, tackling

Letters A&E Sports Classifieds

A15 C1 A23 A29

The Comox Valley Record recognizes and respectfully acknowledges that it is produced on the traditional unceded lands of the K’ómoks First Nation.

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Wednesday, May 14, 2025 A3

40K For Them raises funds to build RCMP seek witnesses to homes for WeCan Shelter Society serious crash in Courtenay Comox Valley Record Staff Comox Valley Record Staff

WeCan Shelter Society is pleased to announce 40K For Them, a community fundraiser on Sunday, June 15 at 40 Knots Winery in Comox.

The event will be held on Father’s Day with net proceeds going to WeCan Shelter Society in its continuous effort to provide for those in need of a safe, warm, dry home.

WeCan Shelter Society is nearing completion of its 14th home at Maple Pool Campground and aspires to purchase additional land to continue its mission.

WeCan Co-founder Charlene Davis says, “After 3 years of great success at the campground, WeCan has run out of land due to increasing demand. We’re currently looking for the right property to help additional people by providing practical, functional, affordable housing.”

40K For Them Organizer Jennifer Knox says 40 Knots

A few of the WeCan Shelter’s units at Maple Pool Campground. Terry Farrell Winery is excited to host the event that offers participants the opportunity to cycle 40K, run or cycle 10K or walk 1K on a nature route in the vineyard at 40 Knots Winery.

“No matter what style of activity you’d like, this is a great chance to celebrate Father’s Day with Dad with the whole family and help those less fortunate” says Knox.

She adds, “A community

after-party will feature live music, wine, ciders, beer and a gourmet BBQ for purchase.”

Registration is only $40.

Children 12 and under are free. For more information or to register, visit the 40 Knots Winery website: www.40knotswinery.com.

40K For Them is a collective community effort on behalf of 40 Knots Winery, the Rotary Club of Comox

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Valley and Integra Homes, who have supplied lumber packages for many of the homes built at Maple Pool Campground.

The WeCan Shelter Society homes cost approximately $30,000 to build a 20’ x 8’ residence that includes a shower, toilet, sink, mini fridge and built-in bed. A small water tank heats the home, and a deck provides additional space for the resident.

Comox Valley RCMP are asking for assistance from the public after a serious crash occurred around 5:15 p.m. on May 8, 2025, on Huband Road in Courtenay.

At 5:11 p.m. Comox Valley RCMP received a report of a single vehicle crash between Cliffe Road and Island Highway North in Courtenay. As officers made their way to that crash with emergency lights and sirens activated, a vehicle ahead of them suddenly accelerated and appeared to speed through the intersection at Veteran’s Memorial Parkway.

Officers stopped at the original collision scene; however, it appears the speeding vehicle continued driving recklessly, eventually losing control, flipping several times, and crashing on Huband Road.

“Witnesses reported seeing two males exit the crashed vehicle on Huband Road, one of whom was bleeding from the head,” said Cst. Monika Terragni, Media Relations Officer for the Comox Valley RCMP. “Police located one of the males nearby and he was transported to hospital. We are still actively searching for the second male.”

The second individual is described as Caucasian, bald, with a goatee, and was last seen wearing a long-sleeve black shirt and black pants. Police are concerned he may be injured and in need of immediate medical attention.

A thorough search of the area was conducted by frontline officers, Police Dog Services, an RCMP drone team, and the RCMP Air Services helicopter, but the second male has not yet been located.

Anyone who was in the area of Veteran’s Memorial Parkway, Island Highway North, or Huband Road around 5:15 p.m. on May 8 and witnessed anything related to this incident is urged to contact the Comox Valley RCMP at 250-338-1321 and reference file number 2025-6221. To remain anonymous, contact Comox Valley Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at comoxvalleycrimestoppers.bc.ca.

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Police watchdog investigating RCMP seek witnesses after officer-involved car crash and victims after assault Marc Kitteringham

The Independent Investigations Office of B.C. (IIO) has opened an investigation into the Comox Valley RCMP after a motor vehicle incident sent one man to hospital.

According to a case report published by the IIO, on April 29, an officer was driving an unmarked police SUV. While responding to a call, the officer was involved in a collision with an unrelated vehicle. The car crash occurred at the intersection of Piercy Avenue and 26 Street.

The IIO states that the officer continued driving to the initial service call, but later returned to the collision scene and spoke to the man who had been driving the other vehicle.

The RCMP reported this separately to the IIO. The man who was driving the other vehicle was taken by ambulance to the hospital for assessment.

“The IIO was notified on May 2, and is now investigating,” the report says.

There are two factors that the IIO takes into account at the beginning of each investigation: 1. If there has been an injury that meets the threshold of serious harm, as defined by the Police Act, or a death; and 2. If there is a connection between the serious harm/ death and police action or inaction.

Under the Police Act, “serious harm” is defined as “injury that may result in death, may cause serious disfigurement or

may cause substantial loss or impairment of mobility of the body as a whole or of the function of any limb or organ.”

“When a notification from police is received, the on-call Director or the Chief Civilian Director will determine whether a case is within the jurisdiction of the IIO. If it is not immediately apparent if the injuries meet the threshold to be considered serious harm, initial investigative steps will seek to determine this,” the IIO website says.

If there is a connection to police action or inaction and the person’s serious harm or death, the chief civilian director will determine if there are reasonable grounds to believe an offence has been committed.

Comox Valley Record Staff

Comox Valley RCMP are seeking witnesses and potential victims following an assault reported on the 2700-block of Cliffe Avenue in Courtenay, on the afternoon of April 29, 2025.

At approximately 2:28 p.m., police received a report that a man was walking around the Driftwood Mall assaulting people and had allegedly punched a customer. The suspect was described as a male in his mid30s, wearing a beige hoodie with his pants around his knees, and accompanied by a female wearing a blue

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denim jacket.

Responding officers located a man nearby matching the suspect description.

When he was approached by police, he attempted to flee but was quickly arrested without further incident.

While one person reportedly told a security officer they had been punched in the chest, that individual left the area before police arrived, and no identifying details were obtained. As a result, investigators have not been able to locate or speak with the victim. It’s possible there were other witnesses or individuals affected who have not yet

come forward.

Investigators are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who may have been assaulted to speak with police.

If you were in the area of Driftwood Mall around 2:30 p.m. on April 29, 2025, and saw what happened or have any relevant information, please contact the Comox Valley RCMP at (250) 338-1321 and refer to file 2025-5700.

If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Comox Valley Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at comoxvalleycrimestoppers.bc.ca.

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A Courtenay Fire Department firefighter battles a trailer fire in 2023. Photo by Terry Farrell

Courtenay Fire Department looking for new recruits Marc Kitteringham

Did you dream about being a firefighter when you grew up?

If so, the City of Courtenay has an opportunity for you.

The Courtenay Volunteer Fire Department is accepting applications for the 2025-26 training year, and will be holding an open house on June 5 for those who are interested in learning more.

Prospective applicants are invited to visit the Courtenay Fire Hall at 650 Cumberland Road from 6 until 8 p.m. Meet members of the department, ask questions and explore what it means to become part of a progressive, inclusive and highly trained fire department.

Courtenay Fire is aiming to recruit approximately 12 new members this year. Applications are due by June 19, with physical ability testing scheduled for June 26. Interviews will follow in July and August, and the new recruit class will officially begin training in September. Over the course of

12 months, recruits will complete a comprehensive training program and graduate with NFPA 1001 Level 2 Professional Firefighter certification, an internationally recognized certification.

“We’re excited to welcome a new group of recruits for this year’s training program,” said Deputy Fire Chief Jonathan Welsh. “Our department takes pride in offering top-tier training and a strong team culture. This is a great opportunity for anyone who’s ever thought about becoming a firefighter to come out, meet our team and see what we’re all about.”

Welsh added, the open house gives people the chance to get a real feel for the training, the gear, and the commitment involved. “If you’re even a little curious, we encourage you to come down and have a conversation with us.”

To be eligible, applicants must: - Be a City of Courtenay/ Courtenay Fire Protection district resident

- Be at least 18 years old - Hold a valid B.C. driver’s licence - Be willing to submit a driver’s abstract and criminal record check - Be in good physical condition - Be available for weekly Wednesday night training sessions Training is held at both the Courtenay Fire Hall and the W.A. Lane MacDonald Fire Training Centre on Waters Place, with some specialty training delivered at off-site facilities. Recruits will receive instruction and hands-on practice in: - Confined space rescue - Auto extrication - Live fire suppression - First responder medical training - Self-rescue techniques - Wildfire operations - Hazardous materials awareness For full details on how to apply, visit www.courtenay.ca/ fire or contact the department at 250-334-2513.

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A6 Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Comox Valley Record

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CVRD Update Weekly News & Information May 14, 2025

Celebrate Local Government Awareness Week Local Government Awareness Week (May 11-17) is an annual initiative to build public awareness of local government roles and services, while encouraging the public to participate in local government processes. The theme this year is Infrastructure. The Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD)

Upcoming Meetings Comox Strathcona Waste Management Board Thursday, May 15 | 9:30 am Regional Parks & Trails Committee Tuesday, May 27 | 3 pm Comox Valley Regional District Board Tuesday, May 27 | 4 pm Start times can vary, visit the website on Friday to review agendas. All events and meetings are subject to change.

Please consult the calendar at: comoxvalleyrd.ca/calendar

Upcoming Events Welcome to the Goo Zone (all ages) CV Aquatic Centre Saturday, May 17 | 2 - 4 pm Cost: Regular Admission

has invested heavily in infrastructure advancements and is currently undergoing several significant projects aimed at enhancing wastewater management, transportation, recreational facilities, and active transportation networks.

For more information, visit: comoxvalleyrd.ca/projects

Community Highlights May 19 Statutory Holiday Closure • CVRD Main Office • Comox Valley and Campbell River Waste Management Centres • Comox Valley Sports and Aquatic Centres

Stage 1 Water Restrictions In Effect

CV Sports Centre Sunday, May 18 | 3 - 5 pm Cost: Free

For map of construction zones and detours, visit: engagecomoxvalley.ca/ conveyanceproject

Residents are encouraged to download the summer watering schedule from:

comoxvalleyrd.ca/restrictions Have Your Say on Maris Nature Park The CVRD is looking for feedback on the future of Maris Nature Park. Take our short survey until May 30 at:

engagecomoxvalley.ca/maris Water Conservation Tip

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Check out career opportunities and learn more about the CVRD at: comoxvalleyrd.ca or call: 250-334-6000.

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Comox Valley Record

Wednesday, May 14, 2025 A7

SD71 hosts canoe blessing, naming ceremony Black Press Submitted

Members of Comox Valley Schools and greater community were recently invited to witness a meaningful and memorable canoe blessing and naming ceremony at Comox (Pentlatch) Lake.

The event marked the official awakening of two canoes, purchased by Comox Valley Schools Indigenous Education, which will be used in partnership with the Lake Park Society.

Indigenous Education district staff hosted the event, with hereditary and elected leadership in attendance, as well as members of the K’omoks First Nation, the Indigenous Education Council, and various members of the district community. All those present were invited to witness the cultural work led

by Jessie Recalma and

The two canoes St’ixim and Spilus were blessed and named at Comox (Pentlatch) Lake. Courtesy of Comox Valley Schools Carrie Reid, who conducted Coast Salish protocols and brought the events of the day to life.

Andy Everson, Karver Everson, Anne Billie, and Susan Savoie shared in the cultural bless-

ing of the canoes with cedar boughs before Jessie Recalma gifted the canoes the Pentlatch names St’ixim

(Sun) and Spilus (Moon). Jessie, who is a language worker within his nation, chose these names

to represent the deep connections between the natural world and the teachings that will take place on and

near the water in the future. The ceremony was a powerful expression of respect, culture, place, and

community.

The day concluded with witnesses being invited to share what they had seen and experienced. Many reflected on how they would carry the story of the canoes forward within the broader community and their happiness at being called to witness. The Indigenous Education team was honoured to see years of community building, collaboration, and cultural teachings culminate in the blessing and naming of the canoes.

They look forward to continuing the story of St’ixim and Spilus and working with local knowledge holders to continue this good work.

Comox Valley Schools is deeply grateful for the teachings shared and looks forward to seeing students engage in landbased learning with the new canoes, St’ixim and Spilus.

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Comox Valley Record

Wednesday, May 14, 2025 A9

Walk the Vanier Nature Park Garry Oak Restoration Project Black Press Submitted

Comox Valley Naturalists (CVN) invites the public to a forest of knowledge and a natural urban adventure on Saturday May 17 between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m..

A series of one hour guided walks will take place in the City of Courtenay Vanier Nature Park off Vanier Drive, where a new Garry oak restoration project is underway. This project is being co-managed by CVN and the City of Courtenay.

Choose between three walk times that each have a different leader who will share their expertise about Garry oak trees, forest ecosystems and the ongoing work in the park.

This project has funding from CVN, the City of Courtenay and Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.

Nick Page, who leads the first walk at 10:00 a.m., is a professional biologist who works on the assessment, restoration, and management of species

Courtenay Fire Department quickly put out a fire in the 200 block of Puntledge Road on Saturday, May 3. Gord Kurbis / Facebook

Fire quickly extinguished

by Courtenay firefighters

A Garry Oak tree at Vanier Nature Park in Courtenay. Supplied and ecosystems in coastal B.C.. His professional work focuses on urban sustainability, biological monitoring, watershed assessment, environmental design, and landscape ecology.

Leading the second walk at 11:30, Fred Newhouse is a Registered Professional Forester who has worked in forest consulting as well as

having stewarded a woodlot for many years. As a Comox Valley Nature member, he is working on both the Vanier Garry oak Restoration Project and Trees of the Year.

Verna Mumby leads the walk at 1:00. Mumby has 30 years of working in arboriculture as an ISA Certified Arborist and Consulting Arborist. She is still learn-

ing every day from the trees.

When not hugging trees, she is knee deep into microscopy looking for microbes in the soil. Verna is the coordinator for CVN’s Trees of the Year event.

For more information and to register for one of the walks, see the CVN website Event tab comoxvalleynaturalist.bc.ca/events/.

Raynee Novak

On the morning of Saturday, May 3, the Courtenay Fire Department responded to a fire in the 200 block of Puntledge Road, the building that contains Yummies and Gyros Greek Cafe.

Fire crews arrived shortly before 8:15 a.m. to find a pile of debris burning next to the wooden staircase of a commercial

Comox Valley physician empowers women to take control of their health ‘Generational shift’ sparking solutions for menopause symptoms, sexual health concerns and more When Dr. Alexandra Bascom discovered the MonaLisa Touch laser treatment at a conference in 2019, it sparked a journey that may help redefine women’s health in the Comox Valley.

“I’m very much a person who needs to see that something works,” Dr. Bascom says of the innovative therapy that treats the symptoms of Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause, which can include vaginal dryness and discomfort “The clinical results were undeniable.

The treated vaginal tissue reverted to looking pre-menopausal, even under microscopic slides.”

Fast-forward to today, Dr. Bascom’s clinic, Bascom Medical Therapy, is the only practice in the region offering the MonaLisa Touch laser, complemented by an array of urologic and sexual health services. Located in Comox, the clinic serves Northern Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast, addressing the

needs of its aging population.

“Women’s health has lagged behind men’s health for decades,” Dr. Bascom explains. “Men have access to medications like Viagra, but women have often been left with few solutions.

My goal is to change that.”

Bascom Medical Therapy integrates technology with personalized care, empowering women to take control of their health, by managing menopause symptoms, addressing incontinence or improving sexual function.

“For many, it’s the first step in reclaiming their comfort and confidence.”

Bridging a gap in care With Comox Valley’s average age nearing 60, the demand for specialized care is clear. Dr. Bascom’s unique qualifications as a urologist allow her to address a wide range of issues from bladder dysfunction to pelvic organ prolapse.

“Being able to provide holistic care for vaginal and bladder symptoms is a

game-changer,” she says. “Patients often tell me, they never knew their symptoms could be caused by menopause.”

Many women also struggle with misinformation or silence around menopause and sexual health.

“There’s a generational shift happening,” Dr. Bascom adds. “Baby boomers often accept discomfort as a fact of life.

Generation X is questioning that, and millennials won’t tolerate it. They want answers, and we’re here to provide them.”

“My work is about empowering patients to feel in control of their aging process,” she says. “When someone realizes they don’t have to live with pain or discomfort, it’s life-changing.

“Our patients leave happier and healthier, with a renewed sense of confidence – that’s what makes this work so fulfilling.”

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building. The fire was quickly extinguished, and damage to the structure was minimal. Fire fighters caught it quickly as they spotted the smoke as they were on their way to the Courtenay Farmer’s Market.

The fire is believed to be human-caused and is considered suspicious. The Comox Valley RCMP attended the scene and are currently investigating.

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A10 Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Comox Valley Record

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Comox Valley Record

Wednesday, May 14, 2025 A11

Hydro to test Puntledge warning system mid-May Black Press Submitted

BC Hydro put out an advisory about upcoming tests of the public waring system on the Puntledge River.

“We are advising the community of our annual public warning system tests that will take place from May 13 to May 15,” the advisory says.

“Temporary signage advising of the siren tests will be placed along the river system.”

Crews will manually test each siren on May 13 and 14. During the tests, the sirens may engage for a few minutes.

The full siren system test will take place on May 15 and includes releasing a pulse of water from Comox Dam to trigger the warning system.

BC Hydro staff will also be along the river to monitor the warning system.

“This test also serves as a reminder of potential hazards along the Puntledge River. Public safety is very important to BC Hydro, and it’s one of the primary reasons we communicate regularly about our operations,” the notice says.

Awareness of the potential hazards from the Puntledge River hydroelectric system is through our public warning system. The sirens and strobe lights are placed along the Puntledge River from the Comox Dam to Puntledge Park to warn of river flow increases. Permanent river safety signage is in place to advise what the siren sound means, and when heard, to move out of the river channel.

The Puntledge River is part of a hydroelectric system where river flows may change quickly, whether planned or unplanned. As the weather warms, it is natural for people to want to escape the heat and cool off in the water. About 500 people may be along the Puntledge River system at any given time on a summer day.

It takes only 15 to 30 centimetres of fast flowing water to knock a person off their feet.

The Puntledge River hydroelectric system includes the Comox Dam, where the water released travels 3.7 kilometres down to the Puntledge River Diversion Dam. From there, a minimum fish habitat flow is provided down the river with the majority of water directed down a 5-kilometre BC Hydro places sirens and strobe lights along the Puntledge River from the Comox Dam penstock to the generating station. to Puntledge Park to warn of river flow increases. Black Press file photo

Comox hill gardens to be replanted after construction Marc Kitteringham

The Town of Comox has sent out a clarification, addressing a number of emails and inquiries received about the gardens along Comox Hill, and how the Sewer Conveyance Project will impact them.

The Record received a story tip from Valley resident Kevin McCarthy, who wrote that he was concerned about the gardens.

“This is one of the best things about driving into Comox along the dyke road in any season,” he wrote. “Noth-

ing was ever mentioned to the public about this.”

“In response to online messages directed to the Town, the original message shared online did not include all the facts and the scope of work being completed,” the release says.

“Relocating the storm main

into the roadway is not feasible due to existing underground utilities and the need to avoid placing storm manholes within the cycling lane, which would pose safety concerns.

“We recognize the value and significance of the gardens along Comox Hill,” it says.

“Every effort will be made to minimize the impact on the plants on the boulevard, and the construction team is working carefully to preserve as much of the green space as possible. Where disturbance occurs, the area will be replanted and restored with climate-re-

silient plant species and native plants wherever possible, with the goal of restoring the natural beauty and biodiversity of this entrance to the Town.”

“We appreciate the community’s passion and commitment to protecting our shared spaces,” the statement says.

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Wednesday, May 14, 2025 A13

City of Courtenay celebrates Public Works Week Comox Valley Record Staff

The City of Courtenay will join communities across North America in celebrating National Public Works Week (May 18 to 24, 2025) with a series of fun and educational activities aimed at showcasing the vital role public works plays in daily life.

This year’s theme, “People, Purpose, Presence,” recognizes the dedication and community impact of public works professionals who help keep our city running smoothly every day.

Courtenay’s Operational Services Department will mark the occasion with school tours, a student art initiative, a children’s colouring contest, and a public Open House at the City’s Operational Services Centre.

Public Open House is on Saturday, May 24 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., the community is invited to get a behind-the-scenes look at city operations during a family-friendly open house.

Free public parking for the event is available at 1094 McKenzie Avenue. Visitors can enjoy: Heavy equipment displays and live demonstrations, interactive exhibits highlighting essential city services, guided facility tours, tree and plant giveaways, free hot dogs, a display of student-painted snow plow blades, children’s colouring contest entries and prize announcements.

“Public Works Week is a wonderful opportunity to recognize the dedicated individuals who keep Courtenay running smoothly every day,” said Courtenay Mayor Bob Wells. “From maintaining our roads to beautifying our parks and keeping our tap water flowing, their work often goes unseen but is essential to our daily lives. Public Works Week is the perfect time to give a high five to the amazing folks who keep Courtenay bustling and buzzing every single day!”

In collaboration with School District 71, students in Grades 6 and 7 will tour the Operations yard between May 20 and 23, taking

The City of Courtenay will join communities across North America in celebrating National Public Works Week. City of Courtenay / Website part in hands-on learning experiences tied to curriculum themes like civics, career planning, and environmental awareness.

A highlight of this year’s student engagement is the Snow Plow Painting Initiative, where local elementary students will decorate snow plow blades with themes that reflect community pride, environmental stewardship, and school spirit. These uniquely painted plows will be featured at the Open House—and later put

into active winter service near the students’ own schools.

The City is also hosting a children’s colouring contest, with entries distributed through local schools and displayed at the Open House. Prizes will be awarded in multiple age categories.

Adding to the festivities, City staff will take part in the inaugural Operations Cup, a friendly skills competition that celebrates teamwork and operator expertise with lighthearted challenges

using city equipment.

National Public Works Week is an opportunity to learn more about the people and services that support Courtenay’s infrastructure every day. The City looks forward to welcoming residents of all ages to the Open House and recognizing the essential work of public works professionals.

To learn more about Operational Services, visit www.courtenay.ca/operations.

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A14 Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Comox Valley Record

VIEWPOINT

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Email: editor@comoxvalleyrecord.com

Sci fi: allegory, not instructions Marc Kitteringham

A division of Black Press Ltd. 407D Fifth Street, Courtenay, B.C. V9N 1J7 www.comoxvalleyrecord.com The Comox Valley is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact: editor@comoxvalleyrecord.com or call Terry Farrell directly at 778-225-0029. If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the web site at mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information. 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.

Planning ahead to cope with future growth British Columbia’s provincial government is requiring communities to address housing needs.

Under present legislation, local governments were required to have a housing needs report completed by Jan. 1 of this year. These reports are to look ahead to needs for the next five years and the next 20 years.

This information will also be used in official community plans, which must be updated by the end of this year.

The 20-year forecast figures will be uncomfortable in some communities, especially those where the concept of small-town charm has been embraced.

When the forecast for a small community shows thousands of new homes are needed, the number can be staggering, and there can be a fear that a small town will lose its distinctiveness.

Despite these concerns, planning for growth is necessary. If a community does not find strategies to cope with future population growth now, there will be challenges later, when housing is either unavailable or unaffordable and when services and amenities are too small to meet community needs.

A wise strategy now can set the direction for the future.

It is easy to see the need for growth planning in communities throughout British Columbia.

Provincial legislation does not allow communities to adopt zero-growth policies. Besides, it would be unwise to attempt to restrict growth. People are continuing to move into communities around the province.

The province has been working to address its housing supply and anticipated housing needs to accommodate expected growth.

Recent provincial legislation is in place to address housing supply, and Bill 44, adopted in 2023, requires municipalities to allow higher-density housing in single-family zones.

This year, as the deadline approaches for updated official community plans, there is plenty of work for local government staff as they update this document.

The efforts now may feel uncomfortable, but the planning will help in the years to come.

— Black Press

If I were to ask you to choose a work of fiction which best resembles 2025 so far, the easy answer is some dystopian nightmare.

You wouldn’t be far off from the truth, especially when looking at our neighbours to the south. Octavia Butler’s The Parable of the Sower, Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale, and honestly the entire genre of political dystopia books and movies are looking more and more like documentaries instead of works of fiction.

But, if you’ve been paying attention to science news, there are a lot of other things that have happened this year that are on the cooler side of things. So far, despite funding threats, AI slop and tech bros trying to take over the world, real scientists are doing a lot of interesting work, and moving us closer to a few cool works of sci-fi.

For example, there was a chance for us to be living through the plot of Don’t Look Up when asteroid 2024 YR4 had a 3.1 per cent chance of impacting the Earth sometime in the 2030s. However, we dodged that cosmic bullet when NASA continued monitoring and calculated that there was a less than onein-59,000 chance that the big space rock end it all on Earth, meaning a planetary defence mission to intercept and deflect the object planned for 2028 is no longer necessary.

In more human-caused cool science news, we are a step or two closer to Jurassic Park being a reality, now that de-extinction company Colossal Biosciences has actually been able to clone animals with characteristics of extinct species. So far, four dire wolf-esque modified grey wolves have been born, and

Space may be the final frontier, but science fiction has lessons to learn closer to home. ESA/Hubble & NASA / Wikimedia Creative Commons a “woolly mouse” was cloned as a step towards bringing the Woolly Mammoth back to life. The fact that one of Jurassic Park’s most famous lines is “Your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didn’t stop to think if they should” seems not to have been a deterrent to the scientists there.

In March, the large language model GPT4.5 was reported to have passed the Turing Test, which tests a machine’s ability to imitate a human. In the test, a person is given a task of trying to determine whether another speaker is either a machine or a human, using written questions. A machine “passes” the test when the person on the other side isn’t able to tell if they are talking to a machine. While GPT4.5 isn’t the first AI to pass the test, the idea that more and more can is bringing us a lot closer to futures

like those in Terminator and Ex Machina.

Finally, in what I think is the coolest science news lately, astronomers have figured out that an exoplanet 124 light-years away has an atmosphere containing dimethyl sulfide and dimethyl disulfide. Those two compounds, on Earth, are only known to have been produced by life. So far, that is the strongest evidence we have of biological activity beyond the solar system. While we have a lot more work to do to prove that, it’s pretty freaking cool. There are many, many science fiction works that involve aliens, too many to count. However, the Three-Body Problem series comes to mind as a relatively modern example.

While all of this is cool, eight-year-old me is very excited. I think a lot of times we forget that science fiction stories are often cautionary tales, and allegories for things going on in the real world. Don’t Look Up is a bold-faced commentary on us barrelling towards climate change, Jurassic Park is about human hubris, Terminator is a cautionary tale about giving machines control of our lives, and the Three Body Problem is an allegory about colonization, and ignoring the problems that we have here on Earth in favour of interplanetary exploration.

All science fiction is actually about the time when it is written. It removes our real-world issues, puts them into a context that we don’t relate to, and tells it back to us so we learn something from it. Heck, even Star Wars is about the rise of fascism and corporate control.

So while all this cool science stuff is cool, let’s make sure we remember science fiction is allegory, and we have a lot to learn from it.

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LETTERS to the Editor Send your letter to editor@comoxvalleyrecord.com.

Please keep letters to a maximum of 350 words and sign with your name and

hometown.

We reserve the right to edit for space/ clarity, as well as the right to refuse publication of any letter.

Please keep letters topical. We will not run letters advocating for or against individual businesses (those associated with published news articles notwithstanding).

Wednesday, May 14, 2025 A15

Email: editor@comoxvalleyrecord.com Opinions expressed in Letters to the Editor are the sole opinion of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the paper.

6th Street Bridge bad idea during affordability crisis I read with some shock the letter written by former Councillor and Mayoral candidate Erik Eriksson exposing our Mayor and Council’s decision to fund the 6th Street Bridge with $ 6.1 million of long term debt without any electorate approval by deeming it an “Approval Free Zone” under Part 2, Section 7 of the Municipal Liabilities Regulation.

The biggest issues facing most people in the

Comox Valley are housing and food security, a.k.a affordability. Hello? Anybody home at City Hall? Hello?

In the same issue of the Record the Comox Valley Food Bank is quoted as noting: “With 110 new clients signing up each month, we’re facing a perfect storm of Inflation, Poverty and Food Insecurity” So, Mayor and Council, faced with a food

and housing affordability crisis believe the best move is to debt us all up with an $11 million bridge. Let’s just guess what is going to happen with property tax for the next few decades.

Wow. I guess the homeless can sleep under it and the hungry can panhandle users of the bridge?

Lets rename this thing and call it what it

really is. I propose the following, but I’m hoping others can be more creative than I: “The Mayor Bob Wells Vanity Project Bridge” “The Lets just debt up when there’s an affordability crisis bridge” “The Mayor Bob Wells tone deaf bridge” Mike Grinsell Comox Valley

The energy on the course trails was electric Continued from Page A1 park, and riders headed into the trail network, hitting the New Vanilla, Field of Dreams, Old Vanilla, Middle Vanilla and Vanilla Bottom trails.

“The energy on the trails was electric, with students demonstrating incredible skill, resilience, and camaraderie,” a release from the school district says.

The course was well marked and had safety stations with first-aid volunteers along the way.

Volunteers Mike Tunnah, Lisa Ludwig, Brett Whitehead and Jana Buckle, teacher sponsor whose efforts were instrumental in making the event happen, the school district said in the release.

Top Three Finishers by Category: Boys Junior (Grades 8-10) 1. Ben Jamieson – Cumberland Community School 2. Taylor Grieve – Aspengrove School 3. Tiernan Vasseur – Brooks Secondary School Girls Junior (Grades 8-10) 1. Echo Slobodzian – Mark R. Isfeld Secondary 2. Meirah Honeysett – Lake Trail Commu‘The energy on the trails was electric, with students demonstrating incredible skill, resilience, and camaraderie.’ – SD71. Supplied photo nity School 3. Joanna Mussalem – Brooks Secondary School Boys Senior (Grades 11-12) 1. Nolan Weiss – G.P. Vanier Secondary 2. Rylan Purden – Mark R. Isfeld Secondary 3. Finn Amar – G.P. Vanier Secondary Girls Senior (Grades 11-12) VOTED BEST SANDWICH IN THE VALLEY 250.897.2106 1. Mya Wing – Lake Trail Community School 2. Rhyley Durand – Carihi Secondary 2729A MORAY AVE Greig Dry 3. Sunny Hillier – Brooks Secondary School COURTENAY Owner/Operator Boys U15 (Under 15) 1. Ethan Jamieson – G.P. Vanier Secondary We provide great 2. Davi Schettino – G.P. Vanier Secondary service with HOURS: Monday-Friday 3. Sam Schum – Mark R. Isfeld Secondary top of the line 8:30am to 5:30pm Girls U15 (Under 15) diagnostic Learn more Closed on Holidays 1. Talia MacPhail-McGrady – Mark R. Isfeld equipment to heartandstroke.ca Secondary We Service All keep your 2. Annabelle Whitehead – Mark R. Isfeld © Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, 2022 | ™ The heart and Makes & Models / Icon on its own and the heart and / Icon followed by another icon or vehicle running Secondary COME TRY OUR DAILY SPECIALS words are trademarks of the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.

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Comox Valley Record

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Wednesday, May 14, 2025 A17

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A16 Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Comox Valley Record

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A18 Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Comox Valley Record

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NIC Costa Rica field school explores climate resilience Comox Valley Record Staff

North Island College (NIC) students Keelan Gamble, Mason Smith and Kellan Vos, along with instructor Matt Neuwirth, attended a field school in Costa Rica with groups from partner institutions like Coast Mountain College and Northern Lights College from Feb. 22 to March 2.

This trip was a once-in-alifetime experience for the students and gave them valuable knowledge and insights on climate action, community resilience and sustainable practices in forestry and other industries, including coffee and cacao production.

While there were environmental issues in Costa Rica— for example, water pollution from plastic—from industry like large-scale forestry or farming, the group did get to see the conservation work happening in the Central American country. Gamble said he wondered if an approach like a collective at the coffee farm they visited could be applied here.

There were many other aspects to the trip that resonated

NIC forest technology students Keelan Gamble, Mason Smith and Kellan Vos, along with instructor Matt Neuwirth, pose with cacao tree seedlings at the Bri Bri village. The group helped transport seedlings upriver to a more isolated village site where they planted them. Cacao is sacred to the Bri Bri people, but their plantations were severely affected by a pathogen (Monilia fungus), so this planting was a meaningful contribution to their restoration efforts. North Island College / Submitted with the students, such as appreciating simplicity more. For Smith, it was the rich scenery and wildlife of Costa Rica.

“It’s been a lot of fun,” he

said. “Seeing it in person was awesome.”

Instructor Matt Neuwirth too was inspired by the trip.

He noted that there were still

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areas there that needed more work, alongside the efforts to promote conservation. The group also took note of projects to promote Indigenization

and make housing for people who need it.

Neuwirth was especially inspired by a guide on the coffee tour who shared valuable

insights into the realities of sustainability, including some of its unintended consequences. The guide discussed the challenges and limitations faced by organic farming and permaculture, such as reduced yields, increased pest pressures and the difficulty of balancing ecological ideals with economic viability. The tour highlighted the complexities behind sustainable agriculture and emphasized the importance of critical thinking when evaluating environmental practices.

“I was floored. I had goosebumps when that guy was talking,” Neuwirth said.

He is now looking at his own professional development, as he said there are forestry research opportunities in Costa Rica, including internships during the summer months.

The trip for the students was made possible because of funding via Global Skills Opportunity Scholarship.

The field schools are part of NIC’s Office of Global Engagement, which provides Study Abroad options and co-ordinates education opportunities here for international students.

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Comox Valley Record

Wednesday, May 14, 2025 A19

Overdose advisory issued for Comox Valley, Campbell River

Ask the Dentists!

Drs. Manny Karamanis, Sarah Dhalla, Airell Klopp & Brett Burry

Marc Kitteringham

Island Health has issued a drug poisoning overdose advisory for the Comox Valley and Campbell River.

“Overdoses are increasing,” the advisory says. “Family and community members using opioids and stimulants face increased risk from injection and inhalation.”

If someone overdoses, Island Health advises to call 911 and stay with the person. Give Naloxone and administer one breath every five seconds.

Mixing substances increases the risk of overdose. This includes alcohol and prescription drugs. For people using drugs alone, Island Health advises that they let someone know and ask that person to check in on them. The Lifeguard app (lifeguarddh.com) can also help.

The National Overdose Response Service line is 1-888-688-6677.

Tolerance can be lower if people are ill or have not used in a while.

Island Health says to start low and go slow, using small amounts and seeing how it feels. Staggering use with a friend also allows one per-

Are Bleeding Gums Problematic?

Dear Doctors:

My husband and I are in our 50’s, and just married this year. He seems to have periodic bleeding of his gums. He doesn’t think it is serious, and claims it is intermittent and goes away on its own without special treatment. I’m doubting any parts of our body cure themselves. What is causing it, and what is the appropriate treatment?

Answer:

Some of the harm reduction supplies, that OPS providers distribute consists of naloxone kits and pipes. (Photo/AVI health and community services) son to be able to respond if needed.

For safer drug use, people can visit local overdose prevention service in Campbell River at 1330 Dogwood Street, Unit 5. The OPS is open daily from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m The Comox Valley OPS is at 941C England Ave., open from

9:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. on weekdays, and 11 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. on weekends.

The OPS also offers drug checking. Samples can be dropped off daily during opening hours. Island Health also advises people carry Naloxone, and visit naloxonetrain-

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To receive text alerts for overdose advisories, text “JOIN” to 253787.

To connect with mental health and substance use resources, call 1-888885-8824.

More resources can be found on the Island Health website.

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Your doubts are likely well-founded. We don’t see anything in our dental world that cures without some encouragement. Gums that bleed can occur from a variety of causes, and gingivitis and periodontitis are the two prime reasons. Gingivitis and periodontitis are typically caused by a buildup of dental plaque around the gums. Other non-dental problems may be diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, stress, blood-clotting disorders, and even hormone fluctuations. Generally dental problems are poor or lax personal oral hygiene. Smoking is something some are reluctant to stop even if it contributes to oral problems. Oral herpes may cause it, as well as leukemia and even blood-thinning medications like anticoagulants. We’re not attempting to alarm you by fearing the worst, so firstly we suggest you pay attention to oral hygiene. Does he have a regular family dentist he visits annually? Does he brush at least twice daily, and floss at least once daily?

This can be a big step forward if he has become somewhat lackadaisical about that. We see patients whose oral care becomes less diligent as they age, but he isn’t likely in that category. If he hasn’t had a recent checkup, or doesn’t have a family dentist – encourage a comprehensive exam. This will provide a benchmark and will encourage a full set of X-rays (which should be done every 4-5 years regardless).

If his toothbrush is too ‘stiff’ that can contribute to problems if he brushes too diligently. Mouthwash is often considered to be a help, but most will not be a beneficial as regular brushing and flossing.

The ‘downside’ to ignoring his present situation is gum disease advancing. It may erode tissue, and bone as well which support the teeth. Bad breath is a side effect with any cause or cycle of infection.

The most common vitamin problems are a deficiency of vitamin C or vitamin K. The duration of his bleeding ‘period’ is also an indicator that he should mention to his dental provider. Any period in excess of a couple of weeks warrants special attention.

Bleeding gums can be an ‘early warning sign’ for some of the other health problems mentioned above. We recommend anyone with this occurrence seeking advice about solving it. When you broach it with him, your concern should be his continued overall health. Good luck!

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A20 Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Comox Valley Record

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Nurse returns to love of nursing after retirement Comox Valley Record Staff

Barb Bock is one of those very special people in the healthcare field who retires after a 40-year nursing career and returns to the frontline after only a couple of months away.

Bock’s last day as Clinical Nurse Leader in Minor Day Procedures at Comox Valley Hospital was February 12.

On May 5, she began orientating as a Healthcare System Navigator for the Surgical Services Department in a casual capacity. To no one’s surprise, a friendly conversation with a colleague at her retirement party ended with words Bock has likely said thousands of times throughout her career: “Let’s get it done.”

During National Nurses Week, the Comox Valley Healthcare Foundation is delighted to share Bock’s nursing story and shine a light on one of the hundreds of outstanding nurses dedicated to caring for us here at home in the Comox Valley.

Bock grew up in the small town of Fort Frances in Ontario. She always loved helping people and was familiar with nursing through her mother, who was a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), a role once called a Registered Nurse Assistant (RNA).

Right after high school, Bock trained as an RNA in her hometown and worked in that nursing assistant role while pursuing her 2.5-year nursing diploma in Thunder Bay. She later obtained her full nursing degree through BCIT. Bock moved from Ontario to Tsawwassen in 1987, working on an orthopedic unit at Richmond General Hospital and as an IV nurse at Vancouver General Hospital. After taking coursework in intensive care,

Registered Nurse, Barb Bock, surrounded by her Endoscopy and Cystoscopy colleagues at the Comox Valley Hospital celebrating her recent retirement.

Comox Valley Healthcare Foundation / Submitted she worked part-time in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Richmond and St. Paul’s Hospital. She continued to pursue additional training in cardiac and emergency care and worked in the Emergency Department (ED) at both hospitals. Eventually, she became a Critical Care Educator, supporting the ED and ICU at Richmond General.

In 1996, Bock reluctantly followed her spouse to the Comox Valley and instantly fell in love with the community. She was hired at St. Joseph’s General Hospital in Comox, where she worked in the ED, ICU,

and as a nursing supervisor.

She later became the Clinical Nurse Leader in the ED, which led her to become an instructor for Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Basic Life Support within Island Health. For many years, even after the transition to the new Comox Valley Hospital, Bock and another well-loved nurse, Carol Tinga, worked together as Nurse Educators responsible for the entire hospital.

One of Bock’s career highlights was starting a Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Program in the Comox Valley with Respiratory Therapist Craig

Dickson, local kinesiologists, and local respirologists Dr. Penner, Dr. Lundy and Dr. Dawadi. This program had a significant impact on patients with heart and lung issues, enhancing their access to care and treatment locally, and improving their quality of life.

Almost three decades of Bock’s nursing career supported healthcare in the Comox Valley.

She speaks of her colleagues as people who always go above and beyond, providing patient-focused care with inspiring dedication and compassion.

“I feel a mixture of gratitude, honour, admiration, and

a sense of shared community and camaraderie when I think of the thousands of caring spirits within Canada and around the world during National Nurses Week. I feel an overwhelming sense of pride to have worked with such remarkable people. I truly believe that nurses are the backbone of our healthcare system.”

Bock found herself on the “other side” of healthcare when she was 39 years old.

She was diagnosed with cancer in both breasts, requiring multiple surgeries and intense treatment. This personal experience, described by Barb

as humbling and frightening, inspired her future nursing practice and led her to join the Hope Afloat Dragon Boat Team.

Bock defines her teammates and experience with Hope Afloat as life-changing: “We are a team of survivors who have had a life-changing experience, and when we are on the water, our fears and anxieties drift away. Our mission is to encourage breast cancer survivors and women with any other cancer diagnosis to live full and active lives by participating in dragon boat racing. Hope Afloat is a cocktail of passionate, feisty, caring, hard-working, determined, and wonderful beings. Being a part of this team—being surrounded by such positive and enthusiastic women—changed my life… I love them to pieces!”

During her retirement, when she isn’t “dabbling” in her new casual nursing role, Bock hopes to spend more time travelling and with her two beautiful granddaughters.

The Comox Valley Healthcare Foundation would like to offer Bock a huge thank you for not only her incredible service to our collective health but also for her volunteer efforts with Hope Afloat and their significant contributions in support of cancer care and palliative care in the Comox Valley. Congratulations on your retirement, Barb!

On May 12, International Nurses Day and the anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth, MNP and the Foundation are hosting Espresso Our Gratitude. Nurses and all staff at the Comox Valley Hospital will be treated to a warm beverage as a small token of our huge gratitude. Learn more at cvhealthcarefoundation.com or follow @cvhealthcarefdn on social media.

When we come to St. George’s, we can leave our fancy clothes at home and just be, the important thing is to be there. St. George’s lives its message: No matter how hard or messy life can be, no matter how imperfect or incomplete we may feel, we have a place there and are always welcome.

The men’s study group is a reflection of our continued seeking. In these uncertain times, we feel the gift of hope.

It’s not about religion....It’s about relationship Sunday Worship Service : 10:30 am

St. George’s men’s faith study group

Family Friendly - Thriving Children’s Program 505-6th Street Courtenay | 250-334-4961 www.stgeorgesunited.com

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Comox Valley Record

Wednesday, May 14, 2025 A21

Siobhan Humston is this year’s artist in residence at the University of Victoria and Jeffrey Rubinoff Sculpture Park.

Artist gets Hornby Island-based residency Black Press Submitted

The University of Victoria (UVic), in partnership with the Jeffrey Rubinoff Sculpture Park (JRSP), announced that Canadian artist Siobhan Humston has been selected as the inaugural recipient of the University of Victoria and Jeffrey Rubinoff Sculpture Park Artist-Scholar Residency for 2025-2026.

During her time at the Rubinoff Sculpture Park on Hornby Island, she will develop new work combining themes involving music, synesthesia and humanity’s entanglement with the natural world.

“I hope to tie together the circles of music and visual art, drawing what I refer to in my relationship to the beauty and mystery of nature as ‘poetics of place’,” says Humston, who has an international practice.

“This residency will also allow me to reconnect to this area of Canada, putting fuel to fire for my deep love for the Canadian west coast.”

Following an international call in late 2024, 57 people applied for the six-week residency to be held annually at the Jeffrey Rubinoff Sculpture Park on Hornby Island, followed by a week at UVic. After her residency, Humston will present an exhibit of the

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work and offer a public talk in October 2025 at UVic (date to be announced).

“Jeffrey Rubinoff held that art was an existential necessity — an expression of mature conscience, evoking our innate sense of the sacred and the sublime. Far from diminishing individual conscience, such art elevates and inspires it,” says Karun Koernig, Curator of the Rubinoff Sculpture Park.

“Humston’s work exemplifies this vision, quietly co-mingling distinct form-worlds — the natural and the human.

In her hands, everyday materials sourced from the land sublimate into visual poetry.

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was Humston’s ambition to integrate a soundscape into her residency, resonating deeply with Rubinoff’s profound connection to music.”

Humston’s art has been exhibited in over 70 solo and group exhibitions in commercial, artist-run and public galleries, and is held in private and corporate collections in England, Europe, Australia and North America. She is the recipient of a Pollock Krasner Foundation Fellowship, a City of London arts bursary, Ontario Arts Council grants, a BC Arts Council education grant and, most recently, an Ontario Arts Council exhibition assistance grant for a 2024

solo exhibit. She has been featured on City TV Vancouver and Calgary, the Vancouver Sun and CBC Radio’s Arts Report.

Originally from London, Ontario, she graduated with a BFA in printmaking and painting from Crawford College of Art and Design in Cork, Ireland, followed by an MFA with a distinction in Art & Environment from Falmouth University in Cornwall, England. She then held a series of international artist residencies, including two years at Marlborough College in Wiltshire, England and a month at Hugo Burge Foundation at Marchmont

Estate, Scotland. She returned to Canada to set up a studio on the shores of Lake Huron, where her ongoing research about the connection between environmental art, nature, spirituality and science culminated with a solo exhibit, In the Garden of Exquisite Unknown, at the Judith & Norman Alix Art Gallery in Sarnia, Ontario.

See her work at siobhanhumstonart.com or on Instagram @siobhanhumstonart or @ siobhan.humston.artist.

Keep an eye out for updates on the residency and event dates at jrsp.uvic.ca, @uvic_ rubinoff and finearts.uvic.ca/ research/ and @uvicarts.

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Comox Valley Record

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*Applicable to Lease and Loan only. $500 Spring Bonus applies only to new and previously unregistered 2025 Sportage select models that are financed or leased through Kia Finance (on approved credit) from an authorized Kia dealer in Canada between May 1, 2025, and June 2, 2025. Bonus will be deducted from the negotiated vehicle selling price before taxes and can be combined with other offers. Bonus cannot be applied to past transactions. No cash surrender or other value. Offer subject to change or cancellation without notice. See your participating Kia dealer or visit www.kia.ca for details. **Limited time finance offer on select new 2025 Sportage models through participating dealers to qualified retail customers, on approved credit, who take delivery from May 1, 2025 to June 2, 2025. Representative finance example based on a new and previously unregistered 2025 Sportage. Selling Price is $32,395. 4.49% finance APR for 84 months, with a zero down payment or equivalent trade-in, equals 84 monthly finance payments of $244 – which includes: $ 2,100 delivery and destination fees; Total paid $44,584 $100 A/C charge (where applicable); regional fees dealer administration fee, lien registration fees; and all other applicable fees and levies (all of which may vary by region and dealer). Excludes licensing, registration, insurance and applicable sales taxes. Dealer may sell for less. Dealer order/trade may be required (but may not be available in all cases). Offer ends June 2 and is subject to change and extension without notice. While supplies last. See your participating Kia dealer or visit www.kia.ca for details. °Unlimited roadside assistance is only applicable on 2017 models and onward. For more information on our 5-year warranty coverage, visit kia.ca or call us at 1-877-5422886. Information in this advertisement is believed to be accurate at the time of printing. International models and features shown. Kia is a trademark of Kia Corporation.

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Comox Valley Record

Wednesday, May 14, 2025 A23

SPORTS

Email: editor@comoxvalleyrecord.com

CV Kickers retain title with statement win Natalie Nguyen

The Comox Valley Kickers have once again etched their name into the BC Rugby history books, defending their Women’s Division 2 Championship title in commanding fashion with a dominant 61-0 shutout over Island rivals Nanaimo Hornets RFC at the 2025 BC Rugby Senior Club Finals.

The North Island showdown was highly anticipated, with both teams boasting strong playoff runs and splitting results during the regular season which team had the upper hand on the day.

The Kickers set the tone early with clinical execution and relentless pressure, storming to a 25-0 lead by halftime.

Nanaimo’s defence attempted to regroup in the second half, but Comox was simply unstoppable, adding try after try while keeping a clean sheet in a statement victory.

Try scorers for the Kickers

showcased the team’s offensive depth throughout the match.

Fullback Cali McKay led the charge with a standout performance, scoring three tries and consistently breaking through the Nanaimo defensive line.

Eight-man Kristin Johnson and outside centre Sienna Stigant each added two tries, demonstrating strong support play and finishing ability. Inside centre Shayla Stigant, hooker Natalie Nguyen, and flanker Amelia Gallow also found the try zone, capitalizing on sustained pressure and precise ball movement. In addition to her trio of tries, McKay added three points with a well-taken penalty kick and two successful conversions.

Jojo Offerein stepped up with a steady boot as well, slotting two conversions to round out the Kickers’ 61-point tally.

“The girls played with heart, grit, and incredible cohesion.

To hold a team like Nanaimo scoreless in a final speaks volumes about our defensive

The 2024/2025 Rugby Champions - Comox Valley Kickers. effort as well,” said Kickers’ Head Coach JB Nikkel. “Our success this season is a testament to the hard work, commitment, and passion of every player, coach, and supporter.

ANCHOR Chiropractic Anchor Chiropractic of 362A 10th Street, Courtenay is excited to announce the opening of their clinic.

Dr. Larry Kozuback is an experienced doctor that has a passion for healing and seeing patients feel better after each treatment!

He uses hands on spinal and extremity therapies and compliments the treatments with diversified specialty techniques including soft tissue, SIQT/Activator & modality methods.

We’ve built something special here in the Comox Valley, and while we’re proud of what we’ve achieved.”

Comox’s path to the final included impressive wins over

Vancouver Rowing Club and Kelowna Crows RFC. Meanwhile, the Nanaimo Hornets battled past SFU Rugby and Chilliwack Crusaders RFC to reach the championship match, setting the stage for a North Island clash of titans.

In the end, the Kickers proved too strong, too fast, and too unified, returning home to Comox Valley with the Division 2 trophy and back-to-back titles in hand.

The Comox Valley Kickers would like to extend heartfelt thanks to all of their sponsors for their unwavering support throughout the season: Courtenay Nissan, The Buddery House, Beaufort Ave Pub, RLR Lawyers, Pod Creative, Mowi Canada West, Nelson Roofing & Sheet Metal, Pilon Tool Rentals, and Triceratops Electrical Services. Your contributions have played a vital role in the team’s success, helping to cover travel, equipment, and field rentals. Thank you for being part of our journey

and for investing in the growth of rugby in the Comox Valley – where champions are made!

As the 2024/25 rugby season comes to a close, the Comox Valley Kickers are proud to reflect on a year filled with growth and unforgettable moments on the pitch. With a new championship title, strong team bonds, and unwavering community support, it’s been a season to remember.

While we hang up our cleats for now, the excitement continues as we shift gears into the upcoming Touch Rugby season—an inclusive, fast-paced game perfect for players of all levels.

We also invite all to attend our upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at the Comox Legion on Wednesday, May 14 at 7 p.m. where we’ll review the season, celebrate achievements, and look ahead to shaping the future of the club. Please visit comoxvalleyrugby.ca for the latest news and updates.

Join us at Crown Isle for a day of golf, fun, and friendship while supporting great care, close to home. All golf levels welcome.

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A24 Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Comox Valley Record

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Comox Valley United women’s team takes silver at provincials Comox Valley Record Staff

This past weekend the Comox Valley Division 1 women’s team went to Richmond B.C. to compete in the provincial finals.

After being unbeaten through the whole season starting last fall, fate dealt the team a cruel blow. Into the

final four minutes of extra time of the second half, the team was up 1-0, when the opponents scored, taking the game into penalty kicks and only their second loss.

The players are still proud to have made it this far, and were very well supported by their kids, partners, families and other Comox Valley fans.

Many fans living in Vancouver came out and, as the game was being broadcast live online, fans across the country and even in Europe were watching, and cheering.

The team was led by the talented coaches Mike Oldale and Curtis Cameron, who, along with the team, will now be taking a well-deserved rest.

The Comox Valley Strikers U15 Boys Volleyball team have a lot to be proud of after a successful weekend at the Provincial Championships. Supplied

U15 Boys Comox Valley Strikers team wins Provincial Championships Marc Kitteringham

Continuing their successes, the Strikers 15U Boys volleyball team took home gold in the provincial championships this past weekend.

“After winning all six games we played in Burnaby in April and

coming first at the Lower Mainland Super Series, we attended the Provincials Championships this past weekend and won all six games we played AGAIN, winning GOLD MEDAL!” said coach Taciana Segatto Moreira.

The team is heading to Nationals on Thursday morning.

The women’s Comox Valley United team at the provincials in Richmond. Comox Valley United / Submitted

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Wednesday, May 14, 2025 A25

The Courtenay Lawn Bowling Club competed in Nanaimo during May 3 to 4. Courtenay Lawn Bowling / Submitted

Courtenay teams shine at Nanaimo Lawn Bowling Tournament Comox Valley Record Staff

The Courtenay Lawn Bowling Club demonstrated exceptional skill and sportsmanship at the recent lawn bowling competition held in Nanaimo on May 3 and 4. Four teams from Courtenay participated,

showcasing the club’s depth of talent and commitment to the sport.

The team of Dean Penny, Frank Lo and Shelley McCollum delivered a standout performance, clinching first place in the tournament. Their strategic play and cohesive teamwork

were evident throughout the event. Seasoned lawn bowlers Dean Penny and Shelley McCollum, already etched on the trophy from past victories, were joined this year by newcomer Frank Lo, who earned his name on the first place on the trophy.

Another Courtenay team,

consisting of Brian Scherr, Glen Greenhill and Cindy Greenhill, also made a notable impact by securing fourth place. Their performances are a testament to the skill development fostered within the club. Other Courtenay teams competing were Vern Green-

hill, Henri Saucier and Denise Hooper (6th place) as well as Heather Divine, Gary Carson and Joan Matheson (2-2 result).

The Courtenay Lawn Bowling Club extends its heartfelt gratitude to its sponsors for their unwavering support. Special thanks go to Ramsay Lamp-

man Rhodes Lawyers, APH Solutions Canada Inc., Kerri Major of TD Wealth Financial Planning, Lucie Wood and North Island Dental. Their contributions are instrumental in enabling the club to participate in such events and continuing the sport within the community.

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A26 Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Comox Valley Record

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Help shape the future of Downtown Courtenay

Blaise and Lochlann were the winners of the two balls donated by Happy’s Source for Sport. Supplied

Comox Valley youth soccer tournament a success Black Press Submitted

Downtown Vitalization Local Area Plan – Public Open House Courtenay is growing and our downtown is evolving with it! The City of Courtenay invites you to be part of shaping the future of downtown and Harmston Park.

No registration needed, just bring your ideas!

Wednesday, May 14 4 to 7 p.m.

Florence Filberg Centre, 411 Anderton Avenue, Courtenay Drop in anytime to explore draft design concepts, ask questions, and share your thoughts with City staff and consultants. A short presentation will begin at 5 PM. Childminding is provided.

Participants will have the opportunity to: • Share feedback on early design concepts for each planning district - Riverfront, Downtown Core, Fitzgerald Corridor, and Harmston Park.

• Explore “Big Moves” for downtown through key directions and bold opportunities to enhance public spaces, mobility, housing, and community life.

• Dive into concepts for density, placemaking, and circulation that will shape how people live, move, and connect.

• Interact with engagement stations and boards to share priorities and what matters most to you.

Learn more and sign up for project updates: engagecomoxvalley.ca/courtenay-downtown-plan

A soccer tournament organized by a local student was a great success.

The tournament was held at Ecole-Au-Coeur-de-L’île, and organized by student Mérrick Kuhn.

“We commend Mérrick for his planning and coordi-

nating,” says a press release sent by Dominique McGrady from Conseil scolaire francophone de la Colombie-Britannique.

“The tournament was also made possible by our referees Otto, Gavin, Emma, Marc, Mr. Mathieu, Mrs. Alexandre, and Mrs. Kiki,” the release says, adding that the organiz-

ers wanted to thank the referees for their time and support.

“We would also like to extend our thanks to our generous sponsors: Happy’s Source for Sport and Comox Tim Hortons. Your support was greatly appreciated!

Congratulations to the Yellow Tigers team, the big winners of the tournament!”

Summer basketball camps Comox Valley Record Staff

Attention all you basketball enthusiasts out there who love the game, and want to improve your fundamentals. Are you between the ages of nine and 18? Boy or Girl? Then the best basketball camp west of the Mainland is coming again to the Comox Valley, and a good time will be had by all who attend.

There will be prizes, giveaways, incentives and awards.

The Grade 4-7 Camp coaches are thrilled to assist our upand-coming Comox Valley basketball players in enhancing their skills this summer.

This year’s grade 4-7 coed camp promises to be packed with exciting competitions, skill-building activities, fun themed days and prizes.

This camp will be held at Mark Isfeld Secondary School in the evenings from June 23 to 26 and is open to all skill levels.

For registration to this camp, please visit: https://forms.office. com/r/2j093VVycp or, contact us via email at blaketobacca@ icloud.com. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to work with your child with the hopes of helping them develop a passion for the game of basketball.

The Head Coaches for the older kids (Grades 8 to 12 next year) will be Coach Larry Street of G.P. Vanier, and Tristan Carriere-Bela of Olds College, and a former Towhee. Coach Street has 53 years of camp experience. He has taken numerous teams to Provincial Championships in their respective schools and is outstanding at teaching the fundamentals of the game.

Coach Street has coached eight Provincial teams. Coach Street has coached over 116 teams and has had 67 former players play university or college basketball, more than any

other high school coach in the Province. He is also a long-time NCCP course conductor who certifies coaches in various sports.

The older kids (Grades 8 to 12) will take in the camp at G.P. Vanier in Courtenay – July 7 to July 10, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., each day, boys and girls. Once again, we will keep the long-standing tradition of creating skilled athletes with an emphasis on fundamentals. That tradition has been displayed by decades of great players from Courtenay, Cumberland and Comox, as well as outlying regions of the Comox Valley.

Forms will be available at all local schools, at G.P. Vanier’s main office, and at local Community Centres. For more information email Larry Street at larrystreetcar@gmail.com or phone at 250 703 3646.

The camps are filling up fast.

Get your registrations in soon.

Comox Valley Record

www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

Wednesday, May 14, 2025 A27

Zoning Amendment Bylaw

First Reading at Regular Council Meeting WATCH THE MEETING in person, at Council Chambers, 1801B Beaufort Ave, Comox, or at youtube.com/@TOComox/streams

on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 starting at 5:00 pm Application RZ 24-3 Subject Property: 2123 Hector Rd Legally described: Lot 4 District Lot 170 Comox District Plan VIP60685 Proposed Comox Zoning Amendment Bylaw 1850.48 to rezone the subject property from R3.3 Single-Family Large Lot to RM7.1 Townhouse

LUSH volunteers on a farm glean pick blueberries to be shared amongst themselves, the farmer, and the community via LUSH Valley’s food access programs. LUSH Valley / Submitted

LUSH Valley aims to raise $25,000 to celebrate their 25th birthday Comox Valley Record Staff

Since 2000, LUSH Valley Food Action Society has been working to support community wellbeing in the Comox Valley through nourishing, local food. Over the past 25 years, the organization has grown from a small grassroots group of community volunteers to a 20+ person team touching the lives of nearly 5,000 people in the community each month.

While celebrating this milestone birthday and incredible growth, the organization continues to grapple with higher-than-ever rates of food insecurity and massive barriers for local farmers and growers. The need for LUSH’s programs is greater than ever, but rising costs and a decrease in available grant funding are creating a squeeze.

The generosity of the Comox Valley community has had a big hand in the growth of the organization, and this season LUSH has set a bold fundraising goal: raise $25,000 in total donations by June 30 and increase recurring, monthly donations to $2,500.

A LUSH Valley supporter says, “Providing financial support to LUSH Valley is one of the ways in which I am able to support my local community in a way that matches my values.”

Local entrepreneur Grant Powers of Coastwood Private Wealth agrees, and has offered to double every donation, up to $5,000, in May and June to kick-start LUSH Valley’s spring fundraising drive. Join Powers and many others in growing a strong, resilient community and celebrating local food by supporting LUSH Valley: visit lushvalley. org/donate to set up a monthly donation today.

Help LUSH Valley Share the Harvest for another 25 years!

Your support is crucial. Every dollar contributed is more than just a donation; it’s a seed that will grow into nourishment, support, and connection. A monthly donation of just $25 will support LUSH to provide nourishing meals to a senior for a full month.

“With enthusiasm, creativity, and integrity, LUSH Valley bridges the gap between local food needs and the supply of fresh, locally-grown foods. A local organization, run by and for local people, it is a major contributor in making the Comox Valley such a wonderful community,” says a LUSH Valley supporter.

LUSH stands for Let Us Share the Harvest, and the non-profit organization does just that by rescuing, gleaning and purchasing local fruit

and vegetables and distributing the bounty to individuals and families across the Comox Valley through several community food access and education programs. In 2024, over 100,000 pounds of produce came through the LUSH Valley warehouse! This included $192,300 worth of food purchased from local farmers and over 20,000 pounds of fruit picked from backyard trees across the Valley, harvested with the help of over 250 volunteers. The dollars donated to LUSH Valley stay in the Comox Valley, supporting local farmers and strengthening the local food system while stimulating a resilient local economy and ensuring the community has access to nourishing food, no matter what the future may bring.

There are many ways to support LUSH Valley: individuals can set up a monthly donation through CanadaHelps, make a one-time donation, or spearhead a community-led fundraising event such as a market, concert, trivia night or fun run.

Organizations may choose to become sponsors, donate portions of sales for a particular item, make a donation or collect donations from staff or customers. Visit lushvalley.org/ donate to learn more or make a donation today.

DETAILS In general terms, the purpose of Comox Zoning Amendment Bylaw 1850.48 is to rezone the subject property (shown shaded on the map) to permit townhouse development.

Per Local Government Act, s. 464(3) a municipality must not hold a public hearing if the proposed rezoning bylaw is consistent with the Official Community Plan and the purpose of the bylaw is to permit residential development.

MORE INFORMATION Copies of proposed bylaw, as well as existing relevant reports and documents are available for inspection at Town Hall, 1809 Beaufort Ave, Comox, between the hours of 8:30am to 4:30pm Monday through Friday (except Statutory Holidays) and at comox.ca/applicationnotices commencing on May 7, 2025.

For more information email planning@comox.ca WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS send by mail or email, as long as the submission: • Is received before 12:00pm on May 21, 2025 • Is addressed to Mayor and Council • Identifies the bylaw under consideration in the subject line; and includes the name and address of the person making the submission Each person is solely responsible to ensure that the submission is received on time. The Town will not issue any acknowledgement of receipt of such submissions. Written submissions, including any personal information, will be made public and provided to Council. Further information on the collection of information may be obtained from the Corporate Officer at Town Hall.

Mailing Address: 1809 Beaufort Ave Comox, B.C. V9M 1R9

Tel: 250-339-2202 email: council@comox.ca

WE ARE BUILT TO HEAL Donate today at bcchf.ca

A28 Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Comox Valley Record

www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

Students place in top 3 at semi-finals for French public-speaking contest Marc Kitteringham

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Three Comox Valley students placed in the top three for their categories in the semi-finals for this year’s Concours d’art oratoire.

The semi finals were held on May 3 at Simon Fraser University’s Surrey campus.

Béatrice Sauvageau took third prize for grade 9/10 French Immersion with her speech “La réalité des femmes afghanes.”

Hudson Van Tongeren took second in the grade 8 early French immersion category, with his speech called “Pourquoi toiut le monde a besoin d’un animal.” Kate Szkwarek also took home second place for her grade 6 early French immersion entry “Comment l’intelligence artificielle a un impact sur la vie de tous les jours.”

“We were thrilled to welcome nearly 200 students from across B.C. and the Yukon, representing school districts throughout the region,” said a release from Canadian Parents for French, B.C. and Yukon.

“Whether you won a medal or simply took to the stage, your dedication, preparation, and courage to speak in French are something to be proud of.”

The annual Concours d’art oratoire semi finals took place in Surrey on May 3, 2025. Supplied The Concours is an annual French-language public speaking contest, held across Canada, open to youth from grades 6-12 who are learning French in school. Student participants choose, develop, and present an “en français” three to five minute speech.

The competition typically progresses through the following stages: 1) Students participate in their local classroom 2) Top students move on to the school district competition 3) Top students move on to the provincial competition 4) Top students in grade 11 and 12 move on to the national competition.

“It is said that one of our

biggest fears is public speaking. And what’s the best way to get over our fears and become more resilient and confident?

By facing them head-on!”

CPF’s BC and Yukon website says. “It is a great way to celebrate our participants’ many hours of hard work and official language bilingualism in Canada!”

Select winners will receive a cash prize from Canadian Parents for French B.C. and Yukon. Winners in Grade 11 and 12 go on to compete at Nationals. CPF estimates that around 85,000 students take part in the competition across Canada each year.

Comox Valley Ukrainian Cultural Society welcomes back Dr. Yekelchyk Comox Valley Record Staff Putin’s illegal war in Ukraine has transplanted over 300 Ukrainian survivors to the Comox Valley over the past three years. Some are men and a few are grandmothers, but the majority are women and school-aged children. What we can be certain of is that all have left their homes and jobs, their families and friends and the country they love. They are also deeply grateful for the support from Comox Valley residents.

We, in the West, cannot be certain why the illegal war was initiated in the first place. You are not alone if you are trying but failing to make sense of the invasion. Did it start in 2014, when Russia first invaded Crimea, or even before?

Is it solely Putin’s War or is it shared by the Russian people?

Has Russia always thought of the area of Ukraine as a vassal Russian- controlled colonial state? Does this ugly war have its roots in history?

Is Putin distorting history to

provide what he considers a valid rationale to take all of Ukraine followed by the rest of Europe? Or is his intention to claim only the Ukrainian regions of Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia?

Those of us living in the West have difficulty separating outright media lies from partial truths and distortions when considering events in Eastern Europe. The Comox Valley Ukrainian Cultural Society (CVUCS) is pleased to announce that Dr. Serhy Yekelchyk, a professor of History and Slavic Studies at the University of Victoria has accepted an invitation for a return Zoom engagement.

Dr. Yekelchyk’s specialty is Russo-Ukrainian relations.

Understanding why Ukraine was illegally invaded will not change nor stop the pain endured because of this war.

However, understanding it might assist us in focusing on strengthening the elements central in evolving and maintaining a vibrant functional democracy, here at home in

Canada.

Yekelchyk, born and educated in Ukraine, received a bachelors from Kyiv University, his masters from the Ukrainian Academy of Sciences and a doctorate from the University of Alberta. He is the author of eight books on modern Ukrainian history and Russo-Ukrainian relations including the award-winning Stalin’s Citizens: Everyday Politics in the Wake of Total War. In addition, Yekelchyk is current president of the Canadian Association for Ukrainian Studies.

Please bring your interest and questions on June 10 to the Multipurpose Hall A at the Comox Community Centre (1855 Noel Ave). Doors open at 7:00 p.m.

Admission is by donation.

CVUCS members are free.

All proceeds will support the ongoing integration of Ukrainian newcomers living in the Comox Valley. Donations gratefully accepted via e-transfer to cvukrainianculturalsociety@gmail.com.

www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

ASK YOUR ONLY LOCALLY OWNED CANADIAN INDEPENDENT FUNERAL HOME

Comox Valley Record

Wednesday, May 14, 2025 A29

Remembering Loved Ones Place your condolences online.

(Visit your local newspaper website, obituary page) In loving memory of Elizabeth Anne Friesen (Price)

When I’m Gone

December 12, 1940 - April 17,2025

When I come to the end of my journey And I travel my last weary mile, Just forget if you can, that I ever frowned And remember only the smile.

Forget unkind words I have spoken; Remember some good I have done, Forget that I ever had a heartache And remember I’ve had loads of fun.

Forget that I’ve stumbled and blundered And sometimes fell by the way.

Remember I have fought some hard battles And won, ere the close of the day, Then forget to grieve for my going, I would not have you sad for a day,

Elizabeth (Beth) Friesen passed away at the age of 84 on Thursday April 17th, 2025, at the Views, Providence Living, in Comox.

KENT AND ROSEMARIE RODUCK

Beth was born on December 12, 1940, in Borden, Saskatchewan, to Florence (Finney) and Archie Price. She married Sam Friesen as a young woman and they were married for 61 years.

Beth is predeceased by her parents Florence and Archie, brothers, William (Bill), Edward (Ted), Reginald and David.

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She is remembered lovingly by her husband, Samuel R., and sons, Raymond J. and Wayne S.

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One of Beth’s proudest moments was winning the Senior Summer Games for soft ball as a catcher in 2012. She was a lifelong farm girl, animal lover and especially, a cat lover.

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There is no service at this time as family is planning a Celebration of Beth’s Life at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Beth’s honor to the Comox SPCA.

In Loving Memory Of Vida May Ross March 9, 1928 ~ March 29, 2025 Colleen,

Karen,

Kerri,

Shannon,

nine

grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and her brother Dayton Ross. Predeceased by her brother Ivan (Skip) and her life long childhood friend (Dot).

When Mom retired from the accounting department at BC Ferries, she bought her first Golden Retriever and went on to own four more. She successfully trained her dogs for hunt and obedience trials achieving

But in summer just gather some flowers And remember the place where I lay And come in the evening When the sun paints the sky in the west, Stand for a few moments beside me And remember only my best.

an OTCH (Obedience Trial Champion) with Wyn (Zaniri- Bear -Me -In -Mind). Vida was well known in the neighbourhood, making

Comox Valley

many friends when out walking her dogs or working in her flower gardens. Her

Funeral Home

neighbours/neighbourhood were a great

and crematorium

250-334-0707

Vida passed away peacefully March 29th at the age of 97 having lived her life on her own terms. She was raised in North Bend and moved to Vancouver Island in the 1950s with her husband Gordon (Cal). They settled into a farm on Dove Creek Road and became self -taught farmers. Vida had a green thumb and was excellent cook and baker.

Mom resided in Victoria, Nanaimo and the Comox Valley, always saying the island was the best place to live.

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She is survived by her loving daughters

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source of support. The family also thanks the Kinney’s from Zaniri Kennels, Paula and the Golden Retreiver Club of BC for their friendship and support.

A special thanks to the staff and residents at Glacier View Lodge for the kindness, humour and caring they shared with mom in her last year and a half.

Donations in Vida’s name may be made to Glacier View Lodge or the SPCA if so desired.

“What the caterpillar perceives as the end, to the butterfly is just the beginning.”

A30 Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Comox Valley Record

www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

Remembering Loved Ones Place your condolences online. (Visit your local newspaper website, obituary page)

John Enns

Our Loving Dad and Opie, went to be with his Lord on April 26, 2025.

John passed away at the age of 95 in the presence of family and is survived by his daughters Gloria Cashman (Gary), Brenda Nelson (Bob), 4 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. He also has 2 sisters and 1 brother residing in Manitoba.

A special thank you to the Casa Loma staff and the many friends he shared his days with. John especially enjoyed the bus outings, bean bag toss and the socializing.

Raeburn Pridy We are deeply saddened to announce the sudden passing of Raeburn Pridy on April 2, 2025.

John was born in Moscow, Russia, Nov 20, 1929, to Aron and Maria and was the 8th of 12 children. Due to political unrest the family immigrated to Glenbush, Saskatchewan when he was 4 months old. In 1946, the family moved to Elm Creek, Manitoba. where he worked on the family farm until 1949 when he ventured out and moved to Black Creek, BC. This is where he met the love of his life Helen Penner, marrying her in the spring of 1952.

John and Helen walked in harmony for 70 years until Helen passed away in 2022.

They shared a love for God and family and were an inspiring example for many. John enjoyed life. He had a great work ethic, loved sports, fishing and family vacations. He had a gentle spirit and a quick sense of humor.

John started his working life planting trees, logging and worked for 35 years at the Campbell River pulp and paper mill as a millwright.

In Loving Memory of

Born in Comox to John and Eva, Raeburn spent most of his life in the Comox Valley. In 1967, he began his studies at the University of Victoria but after two years decided that university wasn’t the right path for him at the time. He went on to work in various trades throughout the Valley, Port Hardy, and Kitimat before settling in Royston with his wife, Wendy, where together they built their home and raised their children, Reed and Raena.

Appreciation to the Doctors and nursing staff in the purple group on 3A at the Comox Valley Hospital for your compassion as you cared for John and supported the family in his final days.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to a charity of your choice.

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 24, 11 am at the United Mennonite Church, 2277 Enns Road, Black Creek.

In time, Raeburn returned to university, earning his Bachelor of Education from UBC in 1988. Upon returning home, he began his teaching career at Courtenay Junior and later at Isfeld Secondary, where he taught until retirement. Respected for his dedication, Mr. Pridy consistently went above and beyond to support his students, leaving a positive and lasting impact on many. His kind and patient nature, paired with a dry sense of humour, earned him respect and genuine affection from both students and colleagues alike.

In later years Raeburn was a cherished member of The Cumberland Community Church. Left to carry on his memory are his wife Wendy, children Reed (Sarah), Raena (John), grandchildren; Levi, Audra, Aoife, Rían, his sister Geri and many nieces and nephews.

Celebration of life will be held at the Fallen Alders on July 30, 2025 at 2:00PM

When not in the school shop, Rae could be found in his own workshop — building, fixing, or tinkering with something. He was always up for a challenge, constantly juggling multiple projects, and never hesitated to help others.

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Comox Valley Record

Remembering Loved Ones

In loving memory of Annette Elizabeth Moran

Place your condolences online. (Visit your local newspaper website, obituary page)

In Loving Memory Of Walter Joseph Hetman September 16, 1939 – May 5, 2025

Walter Hetman passed away peacefully on May 5, 2025, surrounded by love. Born in Fort St. John, Walter was a pioneer, proud farmer, welder, and storyteller. He shared 63 beautiful years with his beloved wife, Rose, and was a devoted father, grandfather, greatgrandfather, and friend.

behind a legacy of kindness, hard work, and quiet strength.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Peter Kelly, and the nurses and the care aides at Ocean Front Village.

Walter was a well known welder across BC and Alberta. He was a gentle soul who found joy in growing gardens, walking the trails of Courtenay, and sharing stories.

Funeral services will be held Friday, May 16th at 11:00 AM at Christ the King Catholic Church, 1599 Tunner Dr, Courtenay, BC. Committal to follow at Courtenay Civic Cemetery.

He had a deep love for nature, dogs, and family. Walter never forgot a birthday and always made time for others. He leaves

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the We Can Shelter Society: wecanshelter-society on CanadaHelps.org.

Comox Valley Funeral Home 250-334-0707

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Courtenay Antiques & Collectibles Sale 5352 Island Hwy North (behind the Courtenay Country Market) We have expanded the size of our shop!

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Wednesday, May 14, 2025 A31

Garage Sales Garage Sale

1689 Brook Cres.

Saturday May 17th 8:00 am - 3:00 pm Large outdoor garage sale-cancelled if raining!

Moving Sale On Saturday May 17th 9:30am to 4pm selling most of the contents of 150-4714 Muir Rd Courtenay, in Valley Vista Estates. Various Furniture, Garden Tools, miscellaneous Stuff, also some free items.

With sadness, but in loving memory, we mourn the passing of Annette Elizabeth Moran, aged 86 years on the 17th day of April, 2025 at Comox, B. C. She is predeceased by her parents, Mary and Frank Newlands, brothers, Frankie and Roderick and her husband, Patrick.

Annette is survived by her sister Marie Hale (Robert), her three sons Colin (Kathy), Kevin (Sherri), and Sean (Kim), six grandchildren: Conal, Caitlin, Anika (Aidan), Morgan, Meaghan (Josh) and Josephine and great grandchild, Onyx. Nephews, Micheil (Shawna), Ian (Marta), Cameron, and niece Megan. Great niece Charlotte, great nephew, Lucas, Sisters-in-law Suzie and Tere.

Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, Annette came to Canada in 1956 and worked for the Ross family at Government House in Victoria. She started at an entry level position and eventually rose to household manager. It was there she met her dashing R.C.A.F. officer-pilot, Patrick Moran and they were married at Nelson, B. C. on September 23, 1961.

After their marriage they traveled to various air force postings in Canada and the United States, along with the addition, intermittently, of three sons. Along the way Annette’s cheerful personality and gracious hosting contributed to deep friendships over the years, in particular her lifelong friend Margaret Luke of Edinburgh, Diane and Dave Oliphant and Gracie and Bob McPhail of Comox.

Their postings included Sea Island, BC., St. Hubert, PQ., North Bay, Ont., Big Springs, Tx., Ottawa, Ont., Petawawa, Ont., Comox, BC., Edmonton, AB., and Comox, BC., where they retired.

In the children’s early years, Annette, a loving and amazing stay-at-home mom, also ran a homebased ceramics business, offering workshops, and producing beautiful and novel objects. As the children grew older Annette worked part time at the Wise Owl gift store in Comox and the Touch of Class Ladies wear in Courtenay where again she made memorable connections with customers and colleagues.

Rentals

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SEEKING LONG TERM RENTAL: Our current landlord is selling after 4 years of residency and we are looking for a long term rental (minimum 1 year lease with option to renew).

Ideally, 2 bedroom with den on one floor (no stairs). Debi loves to tend flowers and grow herbs, so access to a deck/small yard would be great! Prefer east Courtenay or Comox but open to other areas from Union Bay to Miracle Beach.

Gil: 71 year old semi-retired consultant who works ½ days from home. Member of Comox Golf Club.

Debi: Fully retired former BC Government employee (30+ years) Preferred move in date Sept 30, 2025 however earlier date negotiable for the right place

In retirement Annette and Patrick enjoyed their walking group, entertaining friends, international travel and visiting their grand children of whom Annette was deeply fond.

Annette, Patrick, and the family would often be gathered, amidst much hilarity, around the fondue pot at home. Annette never forgot her Scottish roots and often amused family and friends recalling the “Scottish years.”

In her later years Annette struggled with ongoing health issues and deeply appreciated the support of her extended family, her sons and sister and particularly her son Kevin and wife Sherri.

Annette very much grieved the passing of her husband Patrick in 2023, and we hope she is hanging out with him now.

Annette Elizabeth Moran a loving and kind wife, mother, grandmother, sister, auntie, and friend will be remembered with deep fondness.

Thank you to V.I.H.A. for their care and professionalism and particularly to Carol of Classic Life Care.

No service at Annette’s request. Cards and flowers gratefully declined.

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Drive to Save Lives

A32 Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Legal Notices

Comox Valley Record

Legal Notices

Legal Notices

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Legal Notices

Notice is hereby given that Klahoose Limited Forestry Partnership is seeking public review and comment on Forest Operations Map (FOM) within Forest Licenses FOM named KLAH010 in Klahoose FSP - 948 for a 30-day period between May 09, 2025 and June 08, 2025. This FOM consists of approximately 70 hectare of crown land located in Homfray Creek in the Sunshine Coast region of BC. Please email FOM@forbiddentimber.ca to arrange a viewing of this FOM during the hours of 9:00am-12:00 pm and 1:00pm-3:00pm, Monday to Friday at the Forbidden Timber Ltd. office: 1782 D Comox Ave, Comox, BC, V9M 3M8.

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B2 Wednesday, May 14, 2025

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BUILD YOUR OWN BURGER Mitchell’s Heritage Bacon 1 kg

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Comox Valley Record

Wednesday, May 14, 2025 B3

Goodness from the Ground Up

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B4 Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Comox Valley Record

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Comox Valley Record

Wednesday, May 14, 2025 B5

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B4 Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Comox Valley Record

www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

Comox Valley Record

Wednesday, May 14, 2025 B5

garden centre

MEAT & SEAFOOD

WESTERN CANADIAN - AAA - AGED 21 DAYS

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At Quality Foods we take pride in our partnership with numerous diverse producers in BC, championing locally sourced products.

B6 Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Comox Valley Record

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DAIRY & FROZEN

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www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

Comox Valley Record

Wednesday, May 14, 2025 B7

GROCERY The Great Gentleman Ginger Beer 6 x 250 mL

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B8 Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Comox Valley Record

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NATURAL

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Email: editor@comoxvalleyrecord.com

Heartwood Trio to teach, perform in the Valley Comox Valley Record Staff

Beloved musician, song leader, and creator Sarina Partridge is returning to the Comox Valley on Sunday, May 25 at the Little Red Church. This time she’ll be joined by her two pals, Heidi Wilson and Willy Clemetson.

Together they form the Heartwood Trio.

There will be two Choral Valley events: a Vocal Workshop (all experience levels welcome) from 2:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. and a 7:00 p.m. performance of “The Well Tree”, an original musical written

by Heartwood. Tickets can be purchased for one or the other, or there’s a bundle ticket for both.

“Singers in the Comox Valley will be thrilled to know that Sarina is returning to teach more of her wild and precious songlets,” says Choral Valley event producer, Wendy Nixon Stothert. “We now have over 200 singers participating in four different Song Circles in The Heartwood Trio will be performing and teaching in the Comox Valley on May 25. Choral Valley / Submitted the valley that have sprung up in the last 18 months! This wild journeying and rememformat for community singing bering kinship — the tale of a is different than a traditional young woman moving beyond choir in that songs are taught the fog of isolation to meet by rote, participants can drop songbirds, snails and ancient in as their schedule permits, trees as she travels through and there are no performanc- these unravelling times, findes. The leaders of these circles ing her way home. The three are regularly teaching songs members of Heartwood are that Sarina has composed.” the actors, musicians and the “The Well Tree” is an all-ag- crew that runs the crankie Wendy Nixon Stothert es, immersive, participatory —created by paper cut artist journey through song and Jennifer Jones – and audiences story. It’s a three-person mu- help sing pieces of the story. sical, illustrated by a ‘crankThe Heartwood Trio is song-leader and educator in songs for community singing. ie’ - an illuminated, papercut, Sarina Partridge, Heidi Wil- Minneapolis, Minnesota, and She has a passion for connecthand-cranked scroll. It is an son, and Willy Clemetson. feels most alive when learning, ing people with their own creoriginal ‘singing story’ about Partridge is a musician, creating and sharing original ativity and with community,

Singers in the Comox Valley will be thrilled to know that Sarina is returning to teach more of her wild and precious songlets.”

and uses singing to help folks develop a sense of wonder for this wild world around us.

Wilson lives in Vermont and has been leading community singing for the past 14 years.

She also loves to share songs in service to community and the wild world; songs that celebrate the seasons, bring groups together, offer thanks, muster courage, make room for healing and grieving and those songs that send us on our journeys and welcome us back home. She is drawn to the potent and surprising journey of deep-listening and

collaborative emergent music making.

Clemetson comes to us from Maine where he’s a fiddler and song crafter with a passion for living traditional music and the growth and change that can happen within a tradition.

He has a deep gratitude for the genuine connection and community that music inspires.

For tickets to these wonderful offerings, please visit www. choralvalley.ca. If the price is a barrier to participation, please contact Wendy directly at choralvalley@gmail.com to make arrangements.

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C2 Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Comox Valley Record

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HELP HELP KEEP KEEP YOUR YOUR COMMUNITY COMMUNITY SAFE SAFE FROM FROM CRIME CRIME If you have information, speak up.

If you have information, speak up.

100% anonymous. Always 100% anonymous. Always

www.comoxvalleycrimestoppers.bc.ca www.comoxvalleycrimestoppers.bc.ca SUBMIT CRIME TIPS 1-800-222-8477 OR BY P3TIPS APP SUBMIT CRIME TIPS 1-800-222-8477 OR BY P3TIPS APP

Gordie Tentrees and Jaxon Haldane will celebrate the release of their first collaborative album, Double Takes. JSM / Submitted

Tentrees and Haldane hold record release show at The Big Blue House (Paul Kelly, Archie Roach, and brother of Kasey Chambers), Gordie Tentrees and Jaxon with the all-star supporting Haldane will celebrate the re- cast comprised of the one lease of their first collaborative and only Charlie McCoy, fidalbum, Double Takes, in Courtenay on May 15 at the Big Blue House.

After playing over 1,100 shows together in 11 countries over the past decade, Canadian roots artists Gordie Tentrees and Jaxon Haldane have finally captured their dynamic musical partnership in the studio on their first collaborative album, Double Takes.

Containing 10 original songs, the album was recorded during a whirlwind dler Tania trip to Nashville, where the Elizabeth (Avett Brothers, pair managed to corral some Mary Gauthier), bassist Steve of Music City’s top players.

Mackey (Dolly Parton, The Double Takes was overseen Wallflowers) and drummer by the legendary Australian Shawn Fichter (Peter Frampproducer Nash Chambers ton, Tim McGraw). In their Comox Valley Record Staff

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typical no-nonsense fashion, Tentrees and Haldane had the album completed within a matter of days and were ready to get back on the road.

“This album was kind of a bucket list project for both of us,” Tentrees says. “Going to Nashville, working with a studio stud like Nash, and hearing Charlie McCoy play harmonica on your record—the same man who played on Elvis Presley and Bob Dylan records—you feel great in realizing this is what can happen if you stick with something.

We have been working hard for years and enjoying the beautiful possibilities that come with it.”

For reservations for the show on May 15, email: neslok@ telus.net or call 250-334-8843.

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Comox Valley Record

Wednesday, May 14, 2025 C3

Art and Bloom Festival transforms Woodland Gardens Black Press Submitted

The Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens Art and Bloom Festival, May 17 to 19, is more than just another Valley event; it is an experience.

As you stroll through the gardens, not only will you come across unique works of art created by some of the best artists and artisans in B.C., you will also discover the awe-inspiring handiwork of Mother Nature.

With more than 3,000 rhododendrons and thousands of Indigenous plants, the gardens themselves are a work of art covering nearly 25 acres of what was once a Christmas tree farm. Working with nature, owner Bryan Zimmerman has carefully crafted a setting unlike any other of British Columbia’s spectacular botanical gardens.

“My objective is to work with the land as I find it,” says Zimmerman. “I try not to disturb the natural growth and attempt to create an environment that looks as if it was always there.”

Zimmerman takes this to heart. For example, to minimize the impact of vehicles, he hand-spreads tons of bark

mulch each year on the pathways.

While the gardens are indeed spectacular, they are certainly enhanced by the art that you will find spread throughout the gardens. From colourful paintings in a variety of mediums, to hand-worked glass that sparkles like the dew, these works are a visual treat and blend in so perfectly with the blossoms that are the highlight of the gardens at this time of the year.

A walk along the pathways or a stroll over the lawns reveals a cornucopia of talent that is second to none. Works in stone, wood, and clay are a natural fit for the gardens. Photographs capture the essence of the land and nature’s colourful palette is transformed into paintings that cover a broad spectrum of subjects.

Visitors will also find some unique works that are perfect for displaying in a garden setting. There are unique garden sculptures and other ornaments that will give your home garden a personal touch.

In addition, there are also fantastic displays of pottery and exquisite pieces of jewelry that would even make Mother Nature envious.

The Woodlands Gardens Art & Bloom Festival is a May long weekend tradition. Photo supplied To further enhance the experience, you will find musicians playing at several locations throughout the gardens. Each one of them performs in their unique style with a sound that seems to blend with nature.

This year’s featured musicians are some Valley favourites such as Luke Blu Guthrie, Bruce &

Judy Wing, Anela Kahiamoe, David Somers and Canuck Country.

No festival would be complete without food vendors to help keep the energy flowing.

From wood-fired pizza to healthy Dragon Bowls and of course festival favourites

such as hot dogs, burgers and pretzels.

Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens is located a 15-minute drive north of Courtenay and just off Highway 19a. The Art and Bloom Festival takes place May 17 to 19 and is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 5

p.m. on Saturday and Sunday and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday. Regular special event admission applied. Only cash is accepted at the gate.

For more information about the gardens and the festival, visit the website www.woodlandgardens.ca

C4 Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Comox Valley Record

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Strathcona Symphony Orchestra presents Bravo!

Comox Valley Record Staff

For the close of the Strathcona Symphony Orchestra’s (SSO), 20th Anniversary Season, Music Director Helena Jung has chosen the pieces for the Bravo! concerts. Performances are on May 24 at 7:00 p.m. and May 25 at 2:00 p.m. at Courtenay’s Filberg Centre.

Winners of the SSO Concerto Competition, local flutists, Antonia Mahon and SSO musician, Christine Constabel, will be playing Cimarosa’s first movement, Concerto for Two Flutes. Elliott Nakagawa, a talented young violinist from Nanaimo, is also a winner of the event, and he will be performing the first movement of Bruch’s Violin Concerto.

The Bravo! performances mark the final concerts for Jung’s involvement with the local community orchestra.

“It is a deeply personal milestone for me, as it marks my last concert as SSO Music Director, ending this inspiring chapter in my life,” said Jung.

“The SSO’s journey has been one of growth and achievement. Before my time with the SSO, the orchestra

performed an arrangement of Mahler’s Symphony No. 1, Third Movement. When I first listened to the orchestra play that piece, I felt a strong resolve to hear the musicians perform the original work, rather than an arrangement.

That dream came true for my final concert as Music Director with the orchestra, fulfilling a long-held promise to myself and the musicians.”

Jung has also chosen classical masterpieces, such as the powerful fourth movement from DvoYák’s New World Symphony, the Allegro vivace movement from Grieg’s Holberg Suite, Op. 40, and Rossini’s William Tell Overture, to a lush orchestration from Hisaishi’s Merry Go Round of Life from Howl’s Moving Castle and a nod to K-pop megastars, BTS with the song, Dynamite.

“When I introduced DvoYák’s original score to the SSO in 2021, all members, including myself included, were daunted by the challenge. Was this piece truly within our reach?” said Jung.

“The performance outcome was astonishing which led

me to introduce works like Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5, and soloists, such as violinist Gregory Lewis, to our musicians and audiences.”

Jung’s passion and commitment to excellence will be missed by the SSO members and the local community. Her tenacity for the musicians to stretch their abilities while still enjoying the process of rehearsing and performing, is a fruitful continuation for the success of the SSO for years to come.

“Bravo to all SSO musicians, sponsors, and fans,” said Jung . “Now, I step back and join the ranks as your most enthusiastic fan. Thank you for allowing me to share this journey with you - it has been one of the most memorable and meaningful experiences of my life.”

Tickets for Bravo! can be purchased at strathcona-symphony-orchestra.tickit.ca.

Ticket prices are $25 for adults and $15 for children twelve and under. The SSO’s raffle fundraiser tickets can also be purchased online.

For more information, please visit www.strathconas- This will be Musical Director Helena Jung’s last show with the Strathcona Symphony Orchestra. Strathcona Symphony Orchestra / Submitted ymphony.ca.

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Welcoming New Patients BEST AND BRIGHTEST Join us in celebrating this year’s graduates!

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Wednesday, May 14, 2025 C5

Get immersed in virtual reality at the Comox Valley Art Gallery Comox Valley Record Staff

The current exhibitions at the Comox Valley Art Gallery include unique virtual reality experiences that provide visitors with new understandings of the natural world.

“Immersed – Return to Water” marks the gallery’s fifth year of inviting visitors to programming and community activations that explore the enduring relationship we have with this watery region.

The program includes “Uninterrupted-VR”, an ambitious project by Nettie Wild, Betty Carson, Rae Hull and Michael Brockington. Wearing virtual reality headsets, visitors are immersed in the spectacle of migrating Pacific Salmon.

“Texada”, a VR experience created by Josephine Anderson and Claire Sanford, is a portrait of Texada Island.

It explores the elasticity of time, and the nature of how we spend ours.

Author J.D. Carswell will be signing his new book at the Blue Heron on May 31.

Supplied

Immersed runs at CVAG until May 24. Comox Valley Art Gallery / Submitted “ChronoScapes”, led by Sarah Crawley, showcases the results of a pinhole camera project that involved 100 community participants.

People placed pinhole cameras at various locations in the Comox Valley for sixmonth long exposures. The specular results are now being screened on the large

LED wall facing the CVAG plaza.

Seating is limited for the VR experiences, which last about 40 minutes including orientation. CVAG staff assist visitors with getting in and out of the headsets.

Drop-ins are welcome, but to guarantee a viewing experience without a wait time you

are encouraged to register at register@comoxvalleyartgallery.com. The exhibit runs until May 24.

CVAG is open Wednesdays to Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., admission is free, with donations gratefully accepted.

For more details visit www. comoxvalleyartgallery.com.

Comox man publishes his second novel Black Press Submitted

A Comox author has published his second novel.

Writer J.D. Carswell has released the sequel to The Big One, his first book.

In Sarah’s Story, Surviving the Tsunami, readers finally discover what happened to Sarah after the big earthquake. They also find

themselves in a post-disaster Vancouver Island to see the damage and the rebuild.

In the end she is able to complete the kayak trip around The Island.

Both books are available from Blue Heron Books in Comox and The Laughing Oyster in Courtenay. There will be a book signing at Blue Heron on May 31.

C6 Wednesday, May 14, 2025

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Step dancing, fiddle and guitar on deck at Merville Hall Black Press Submitted

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Step dancing, fiddle and guitar!

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The explosive Pierre Schryer Trio, (fiddler Pierre, folk dancer Danielle Enblom, and International guitarist Adam Dobres) brings together three diverse music careers laden with nominations and awards including JUNOs and Canadian Folk Music accolades.

Pierre Schryer is one of Canada’s leading traditional fiddlers.

A recipient of numerous titles and awards, including Canadian Grand Masters Champion and North American Irish Fiddle Champion, Pierre truly captivates an audience with his energy and genuine warmth. His ability knows no bounds, covering styles from Irish, Scottish, Québecois, and Cape Breton to Canadian Old Time, American Swing and more.

Minnesota step dancer Danielle Enblom, with Red River Métis, French Canadian and Swedish ancestral roots, will dance and perform the old Irish dancing master traditions, along with some flavours of her own Métis and Québécois heritage.

Fiddler Pierre Schryer, folk dancer Danielle Enblom and International guitarist Adam Dobres are playing at Merville Hall this month. Bill McQuarrie / Danielle Thérèse Enblom Facebook Guitarist Adam Dobres plays Bluegrass, Celtic, Jazz, Gypsy, Country, Folk, Old Time, Rock, Blues, and more. He has travelled and performed throughout North America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.

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So, Friday, May 23, make your way to the cozy Merville hall for an evening of the best live music on the Island. Doors open 7:00 p.m., show starts 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25/$15 (youth) at Long & McQuade, Courtenay and Blue Heron, Comox, and at the door.

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Wednesday, May 14, 2025 C7

animal talk Plan ahead for your pets if disaster strikes Tricia Leslie

When disaster strikes, we know we should have emergency kits ready, just in case.

But it’s just as important for humans as well as their furry family members.

When people plan for an emergency, they need to think of any animals in their care, the BC SPCA reminds all animal guardians.

“Making a plan for your pet not only ensures their safety, it also plays a role in the safety of emergency

responders and families,” BC SPCA manager of emergency response Bill Penhallurick said.

He added that studies have shown that having pets was the most significant reason households failed to evacuate during

Preparing for your pet in the event of an emergency is key. (Unsplash)

major events, and the risk of not evacuating nearly doubled with each additional animal in the home.

During a wildfire evacuation, there often isn’t much time to get out of your home and on the road, he continued, as there are a lot of open doors and noises that can scare your pet and cause them to run away.

Having sturdy carriers handy to safely contain your pets can make a big difference, he said.

“Often, with only minutes to evacuate, there is no time to look for a dog or cat, and having to leave your beloved pet behind only adds to the trauma of an evacuation.”

He reminds pet guardians to ensure their pets have a reg-

istered microchip with current contact information, so that if they do go missing, they can be more easily reunited with their family. He also recommends having a grab-and-go container with a two- to four-

week supply of food, water, and treats, plus bowls, as well as any pet medications and medical records.

“People forget that during an emergency, accessing a pet store for food and supplies may be impossible,”

Penhallurick said.

The BC SPCA has a number of resources on their website to help guardians prepare for an evacuation, including an emergency checklist.

In past emergency response efforts, the

BC SPCA has helped find, feed, and reunite hundreds of farm and companion animals and have provided pet food and supplies to pet guardians forced out of their homes, he noted.

For more information, visit spca.bc.ca

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C8 Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Comox Valley Record

PRING

IN THE

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ARDEN

Some amazing long-blooming perennial for the sun Ellen Presley

When creating a perennial sun garden or adding to an existing one, it’s helpful to know which ones will bloom the longest and add continuous colour throughout the season.

A darling hardy plant is Armeria (Sea Thrift). It only grows 10-12” and has long-lasting bright pink pompom flowers. Armeria ‘Dreameria Daydream is a new variety that is a vivid pink and has a lovely tidy habit in the garden and blooms from late spring to late summer. They attract butterflies and are deer resistant.

Gallardia (Blanket Flower) is a true workhorse, blooming all season. They attract butterflies and are deer and drought tolerant. Usually yellow and orange, Gallardia ‘Spintop Red Star Blast’ (812”) is a gorgeous red variety with yellow tips and makes a good cut flower.

Another good filler for the garden is Coreopsis (Tickseed).

A hardy plant is Armeria. Submitted They are a terrific pollinator, attracting bees and butterflies and are drought tolerant and require little care. They usually come in many forms and shapes of yellow, but the new one this year is Coreopsis ‘Solar Fancy’, which has large cherry red flowers with bright yellow edges. It

is a real show stopper at 18-20” and has a neat mounded habit in the garden.

Not many people seem familiar with Echium amoenum ( Red Feather) (10-14”), which has bottle brush-like plumes with russet red flower spikes along each long bloom. It’s a

super easy keeper and drought and deer tolerant. This unusual plant has an architectural quality to it that adds interest to the garden or containers. It becomes a hum of activity as it attracts hummingbirds, bees and butterflies all summer.

Everyone loves Dianthus(-

Carnations) with their spicysweet fragrance and continuous blooms throughout the summer when dead-headed.

Two lovely varieties are Dianthus ‘Everlast Orchid (12-14”), which has double bubble gum pink flowers with fringed edges and Everlast Violet Blue, which

is quite striking with its greygreen compact foliage. They make great cut flowers and can be placed in the garden or containers. My absolute favourite is Rudbeckia ‘Goldsturm (Black-eyed Susan) with its sunny yellow daisy-like flowers. It brightens up any area, is low maintenance, deer and rabbit resistant and attracts a variety of pollinators.

Remove spent flowers and it will bloom all summer. The new variety is Viette’s Little Suzy (1218”), which is a petite version, making it ideal for the front of the border or in containers. All Rudbeckia look spectacular when mass planted along borders, the seaside or tucked in amongst the cottage garden.

Creating a perennial garden becomes easy when you choose to anchor your design with hardy long long-blooming perennials. There are many to choose from and aiming for low-maintenance varieties frees up your time to enjoy the summer. Happy Gardening.

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Wednesday, May 14, 2025 C9

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C10 Wednesday, May 14, 2025

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May flowers, tomatoes and epsom salt Wouldn’t you just know it - mere hours after I had submitted the article for my last Duchess of Dirt column, I was “shown up.” By a friend, no less!

I am referring to my skepticism about leaving your dandelion flowers for bees. Truthfully, neither John nor I were lying when I claimed we had never seen a bee gorging itself on a dandelion flower. And yet, when I signed into Facebook to send a celebratory birthday greeting to a family member, the first message that popped up was my friend’s photo of a bumblebee on a dandelion flower. Just figures, doesn’t it?! So, I admitted to egg on my face and we both had a delightful chuckle over her incriminating evidence.

Onwards and upwards: I am pleased with the growth of my tomato seedlings, considering I was a little later than normal with my seeding schedule this year. I am lucky I have a wonderful shelf unit that John built me many years ago. Outfitted with fluorescent lights, which are suspended on chains from hooks, makes it very easy to raise the lights as the seedlings grow.

But disaster struck! On a routine morning check, I discovered one of my newly emerged cucumber seedlings had been beheaded! What the heck? A search of all the seedling cells in the tray, unfortunately, did not reveal the culprit. Frustrating! So, it was with trepidation that I checked over my seedlings the next few days. Thankfully, no further casualties. Until a week later.

I discovered two of my broccoli seedlings damaged…one beyond any hope of recovery.

■ Leslie Cox DUCHESS OF DIRT

And still no clue as to who the culprit is…other than the small-sized chew marks on the broccoli leaves, which were not completely devoured.

Thinking about it, they are roughly on a par with the chew marks root weevils make. And leaf-cutter bees, come to think. However, I do not believe either one of these suspects is active right now in the garden. But if they are, how did they get into my house? A mystery to be solved.

Switching gears and because I mentioned tomatoes earlier, how many of you use epsom salt as a home remedy as a deterrent against blossom end rot? Or use it to make your tomatoes produce more fruit or make your horticultural plants bushier and covered in more flowers? You are likely creating more harm in your garden and for your plants than good.

For instance, some may not know that blossom end rot is caused by a deficiency of calcium in your soil. Surprise! Epsom salt does not contain any calcium at all. The predominant components are magnesium and sulphur. Granted, magnesium is necessary for plant health as it aids a plant’s ability to generate chlorophyll, much-needed in the photosynthesis process.

(Yellow streaks between a plant’s leaves indicate

Rhododendron ‘Scintillation’. Leslie Cox

the plant lacks magnesium.)

To treat blossom end rot, scratch some dolomite lime into the soil around the plants. Not only does the lime contain calcium, but it will also raise the soil acidity (pH) level. This is also a very important health factor because soil with a pH below 5.8 or above 7.0 effectively “locks up” calcium, making it inaccessible to the plants. (Most vegetables prefer a soil pH of 6.0 to 6.8.)

As for epsom salt producing healthier plants

and higher yields, there are several published studies by university agricultural extensions which have proved there is no truth to this so-called fact.

Since it is May, I must mention May flowers: in particular the ones opening up all over my Rhododendron ‘Scintillation’. Aren’t they positively scintillating? So well named!

Leslie Cox co-owns Growing Concern Cottage Garden in Black Creek. Her website is https:// duchessofdirt.ca/

A SPLASH Comox Valley Horticultural Society’s May E K A M meeting welcomes Chris Southwick Moving water attracts birds

Comox Valley Record Staff

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Chris Southwick is the guest speaker at the Comox Valley Horticultural Society May 26 meeting. Southwick’s passion for rhododendrons and azaleas started early as her grandparents, Ted and Mary Greig were pioneering rhododendron and alpine enthusiasts at Royston Nursery. The topic is All About Rhododendrons!

Southwick was a co-chair of the 2012 Fall ARS Regional Conference and was honoured with the NRS Bronze medal in 2008, the ARS Silver Medal in 2022. Southwick serves on a committee which helped create

Chris Southwick. the Greig Rhododendron Species Garden at Milner Gardens and Woodland in beautiful Qualicum Beach.

After retirement, Southwick became a certified Master Gardener and is a past president of the Vancouver Island

Master Gardener Association.

Southwick currently serves as an Executive of the Nanaimo Rhododendron Society and is also on the Board of the Milner Garden and Woodland and Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden. Southwick lives on a half an acre property and enjoys sharing her garden of several hundred rhododendrons, including many dwarf species, many native flowering plants, ferns, Japanese maples, dogwoods, primulas and vegetables.

Want to attend? If you’re joining us in person, we’ll be at the conference hall in the Florence Filberg Centre in

Courtenay. Doors open at 6.30 p.m. and the meeting will begin at 7:15 p.m. If you want to join us via Zoom see below for registration details.

Advanced registration for Zoom is required for both members and non-members.

Current members will receive a separate Zoom invitation.

Registration for non-members ($5.50) is very simple – visit our website at www.comoxvalleyhortsociety.ca by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 23, as it requires two days to process.

CVHS 2025 memberships are now available to purchase from our website or download a registration form and mail it in.

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Wednesday, May 14, 2025 C11

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23rd

MAY 17,18 & 19

MAIN PATH

SANTAS BARN

Joe Smith - Acrylic & Watercolour Artist

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FOOD COURT SATURDAY MAY 17 SUNSET GARDENS

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