TUESDAY, MARCH 30, 2021

VOLUME 63, #6 19 WING COMOX

442 Sqn flies to the Top of the World

On March 17 a CH-149 Cormorant departed 19 Lloyd Barrow and Chris Brent, and search and other exercise participants, including a second Wing Comox for a trip to the top of the world. They rescue technicians Sgt Ashley Barker and MCpl Cormorant crew from 103 Search and Rescue were heading to Canadian Forces Station (CFS) Colin Taylor. Squadron from 9 Wing Gander. Alert in support of NORAD Exercise Amalgam Dart. Their route from 19 Wing Comox to CFS Alert was After two days of training at Thule AFB, the con- The crew from 442 Transport and Rescue planned with overnight stops in Churchill, Mani- tingent proceeded on to CFS Alert. During Amal- Squadron completed all required COVID proto- toba, Hall Beach, , , Nunavut, gam Dart, they will provide standby search and cols, including a quarantine period and test, to and on to CFS Alert with fuel stops between each rescue support for exercise participants and con- prepare for the tasking. of these destinations. All along the route, crews duct some training to build familiarity with oper- The crew who boarded callsign CanForce 0894 were careful to maintain physical distancing while ating in the harsh environment that is a reality in was comprised of aircraft commander LCdr taking all health and safety precautions. the Canadian Arctic. The last time a CH-149 Cor- (USCG) Amanda Harris, first officer Capt- Pat When they prepared to depart Pond Inlet, the morant visited the region was in 2016. rick Dibb, and flight engineer MCpl Jeff Durling. weather at CFS Alert was not suitable, so they To follow the North American Aerospace Defense Along to ensure mission success for the exercise diverted to Thule AFB in Greenland. Due to the Command’s Exercise Amalgam Dart, visit face- were two Cormorant maintenance contractors, weather, the 442 Sqn rendezvoused there with book.com/NORADCommand.

 Ne partagez pas votre copie de Totem Times  Do not share your copy of the Totem Times  Ne la remettez pas dans un présentoir Protégeons PROTECT  Do not return it to a display  Déposez-la au recyclage  Dispose of your copy in a recycling bin  Lavez vos mains après usage la FORCE! THE FORCE!  Wash your hands after use

Approved Service Provider to the DND Integrated Relocation Program

Royal LePage In the

Comox Valley 2764 SHEFFIELD CRES., COURTENAY 510 MCPHEE AVE., COURTENAY SEEING IS BELIEVING! The finish and detail, JUST STEPS TO DOWNTOWN COURTE- #121-750 Comox Road, the custom design by one of North America’s Tracy Hopkins NAY you will find this charming character home. Courtenay, B.C. V9N 3P6 premier designers! It all starts with the location Thomas Many upgrades over the years include the kitch- Bus: 250-334-3124 on the signature 13th hole of the Crown Isle Golf Course. You enter this beautifully accented Hart 250-897-2776 en, bathroom, thermal windows, hot water tank, Toll Free: 1-800-638-4226 entrance with hickory floors, wainscoting pan- plumbing and forced air natural gas heating to Fax: 250-334-1901 els and 16’ planked, soaring ceilings, and the 250-218-4278 name a few. This home offers 9 ft ceilings and www.royallepagecomoxvalley.com 19’x17’6 great room covers the center of the includes two bedrooms and a den and one bath. Email: [email protected] home and features a gas fireplace. $499,900 $1,350,000 2 | MARCH 30, 2021 | TOTEM TIMES Centenarian celebrated for lifetime career in aviation took place in Regina, Day 1944 and was NWT, and Kier Air in flying Tiger Moths. discharged in March Edmonton. In 1967 By March 18, 1943 1945. Wally was he joined the com- Elementary Flight awarded the Distin- mercial airline, Ward- Training School was guished Flying Cross air, stationed out of complete with a total (DFC), and he left the Edmonton, serving as flying time of 76 hours RCAF after the war first officer and then 35 minutes. with the rank of Flying captain on each of the Although Wally want- Officer (FO). Boeing 727, 707 and ed to be a fighter pilot, That year he was 747. At age 60, Wally he was assigned to married and started a retired from Wardair Service Flying School family, working for the with over 19,600 fly- in Yorkton, training federal government as ing hours. on Cessna Cranes and a settlement supervi- Forty years of Happy birthday to the Avro Ansons. sor for the Veterans’ retirement His Wings Parade was Land Act. Wally lives indepen- held on July 23, 1943. He rejoined the RCAF dently in Edmonton.

th Wallace James Simp- His mother pinned on when the Cold War A man of many inter- April 1 is the 97 birthday of the Royal Ca- son was born a cen- his wings - a difficult was escalating and ests, he enjoys catch- nadian Air Force and as our earlier motto tury ago – on April 2 but memorable mo- they were recruit- and-release fly fish- Per Ardua ad Astra describes, we have gone - on a small farm in ment. Just weeks earli- ing pilot instructors. ing, deep sea fishing, through considerable adversity on our way Saskatchewan. It was er they had lost George After four years as spotting birds and ani- to the stars this year. in the vast prairie sky - killed in a Wellington a Harvard instruc- mals, and listening to WCWO Colcy and I congratulate you for that Wally spotted an crash in Sierra Leone, tor, he was posted to nature. Many bird- your flexibility and resilience, which were airplane for the first one month short of his #109 Communica- houses have come off key to our ability to execute the RCAF’s mis- time. The roar of its 20th birthday. tions Flight (2 Wing) his workbench over sions over the past year. engine was heard be- Off to war Grostenquin, France the years. Wally’s Whether you were part of the operations fore it could be seen. A month later Wally for another four years, many creative proj- and support at home - like pandemic re- His father called, was aboard the Queen completing daily DC3 ects have kept him lief, or on deployed missions, by staying “Boys, boys, look! Mary, departing Hali- transport flights be- busy during isolation focussed and flexible, you propelled us That’s an airplane!” as fax for a four days tween the four RCAF of the pandemic, and through global challenges we have not seen it flew east above the transit to Gourock, bases in Europe and he uses an iPad to since the last Great War. highway, south of the Scotland. He took a RAF Langor in Eng- keep in touch with There have been changes in leadership at farm. Everyone was train to England and land. family and friends. the highest levels of the Canadian Armed so excited; this sight- was billeted until he Joining 435 Sqn Wally is respected as Forces, long periods of quarantine, our nor- ing was a rare occur- went to Wales for ad- In 1960, the fam- a gentleman of hon- mal gatherings and meetings conducted vir- rence. For Christmas, vanced flight train- ily returned to Can- our by all who know tually, and many other changes. Your abil- their mother offered ing on Oxfords. He ada reporting to 435 him. When questioned ity to master these changes, to adapt and a shared present - a crewed-up at Seigh- Transport Squadron at about being at an age overcome the obstacles, has ensured our book on the theory of ford, No 3 Operations RCAF Station Namao, where many of his success this past year. flight. Training Unit, flying qualifying on the C47 friends and colleagues Looking ahead more change is visible. We As joined the Wellingtons while and C130 Hercules. have left this world, are nearing the post pandemic phase and we Second World War in learning instrument By 1964, Wally quali- with a glint in his eye will get vaccinated as soon as it is available. 1939, there was an flight rules. He was fied for membership and tongue-in-cheek We encourage everyone to do so, as well. opportunity to learn promoted to Pilot Offi- in the Lockheed C130 he says, “Yes, why Other changes are obvious, too. 19 Wing to fly. Wally’s brother cer, and by May 1944, Hercules 2000 Hour don’t they stay here received the new Kingfisher aircraft to re- George had joined his crew moved to No. Flying Club, and put in and keep me com- place the Buffalo, and the base has new the RCAF out of high 1667 Halifax Conver- his release when the pany?” buildings, new facilities, and underground school, and he was sion Unit, Sandtoft. three branches of the His positive attitude, infrastructure. so enthusiastic about Finally they were off Canadian Forces were witty sense of hu- Last year many postings were delayed or being a pilot, he con- to #1 Lancaster fin- downsized and unified mour, and his focus on cancelled; this year we will see some new vinced Wally that fly- ishing school for a into a single service. creativity have been faces on the Wing while we say farewell to ing was the way to go. quick conversion be- He enjoyed his work strengths that have some colleagues and friends. In April 1942, with fore being assigned to in the RCAF; he retired helped him find the Thank you - and happy birthday - to ev- two years of univer- #101 Heavy Bomber as a Flight Lieutenant courage to endure the eryone. You have proven yourselves to be sity completed and di- Squadron at Ludford (F/L). unwelcome changes a diverse, effective, motivated and flexible ploma in hand, Wally Magna Station, from Commercial that life brings; living Defence Team who performed outstandingly applied to the RCAF which his crew would aviation career the motto of the #101 well, and you are ready to tackle the new recruiting office where complete 33 bombing Wally wrote his com- Squadron: Mind Over challenges that await us. he successfully con- missions – 470 hours mercial exams, and Matter. vinced them that he of flight time. then flew air trans- Our thanks to Kathi Col Dany Poitras, Wing Commander was pilot material. He docked in Hal- port with McMurray Jacobson for bringing CWO Kevin Colcy, Wing Chief Warrant Officer Initial Training School ifax on Christmas Air Service in the us this story.

A Division of Personnel Support Programs 19 Wing Comox, PO Box 1000 Stn. Main,Lazo, BC V0R 2K0 [email protected] 250-339-8211, ext 8752

MANAGING EDITOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER EDITORIAL ADVISOR 19 WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS Camille Douglas Gillian Ottaway Capt Brad Little Capt Alexandra Hejduk

The Totem Times is an unofficial publication of 19 Wing Comox, BC. The Editor reserves the right to edit copy and reject advertisements to suit the needs of the publication. Views expressed are those of the contributor unless expressly attributed to DND, CAF, or other agencies. In case of typographical errors, no goods may be sold and the difference claimed against this paper. The paper’s liability is limited to a refund of the space charged for the erroneous item. Material may be reprinted with attribution. Published 22 times a year, every second Tuesday, with permission of Col Dany Poitras, 19 Wing Commander. Publications Mail Registration No.4098. Printed by Ladysmith Press, Ladysmith, BC. Circulation: 1800. MARCH 30, 2021 | TOTEM TIMES | 3

435 Squadron salutes F/L Wallace J. Simpson on his 100th birthday It is not every day that we have the opportunity to celebrate a Second World War veteran from within the 435 Squadron alumni, and even less often that we celebrate a 100th birthday. It is with great honour and pleasure that we commemorate this milestone in Flight Lieutenant (retired) Wallace J. Simpson’s life. F/L Simpson joined 435 Squadron in 1960, when the unit was located in Station Namao, Edmonton. He brought vast experience and great leader- ship to the squadron. He was a key contributor to the success of northern sovereignty operations, as well as overseas missions. In his four-year tenure with the unit, he joined the very select group of aircrews whom have flown at least 2,000 hours on the CC-130 Hercules. He retired from the RCAF in 1964 and will always be a member of the Chinthe family. On behalf of 435 Sqn members – past and present - happy birthday to F/L Simpson, and thank you for your dedicated service. Certi provehendi LCol Jordan, Commanding Officer, 435 Squadron

August 3, 1944: It was a late afternoon mission to help the army at Trossy-St-Maximin, France. Home base was socked in and FIDO was lit. FIDO was a pipe on each side of the runway running parallel its length. Fuel was pumped into the pipes and lit – it was like a mile-long blow torch on each side. When he was cleared to land, Wally looked ahead for a glow in the fog. With fire on each side, runway below, fog above, it was like being in a tunnel – a beautiful sight and feeling. This was short-lived when he realized that he was getting dangerously close to the fire on the right. He overshot the runway and climbed back to wait his turn for a second ap- proach. The second approach was identical to the first. He was rather shook up. Why was an 8 to 10 mph cross-wind cause this lack of control? As he overshot and climbed out the second time, his Glasgow navigator leaned over his shoulder and in his best brogue, said, “Captain of the cloud have yee lost your touch?” They were now very low on fuel. This was it. With excess use of brakes and engines to steer, the Lancaster arrived back at the dispersal pad. The ground crew gathered at the rear; one chap was flipping the right rudder back and forth. “Look skipper, no controls.” Here was the reason it was so difficult to land. An 88 mm shell had passed through the stabilizer, cutting the controls to the right rudder. The tail gunner’s comment, “Why report it? We’ve had lots bigger holes than that.” 4 | MARCH 30, 2021 | TOTEM TIMES New regional coordinator at Soldier On has military roots

Files from Peter Mallett |LOOKOUT NEWSPAPER

Nicole Wray is the new regional coordinator in British Columbia for Soldier On. Working with the Ca- nadian Armed Forces Transition Group, she’s educated in sport and organizational psychol- ogy, is a researcher, a strength and condi- tioning coach, and an avid outdoor athlete. As a member of a mil- itary family, she un- derstands the military community and has a personal insight into Watch for spring intruders service. “I get to combine my Avoid unwanted visitors! Keep your doors shut! areas of passion and Animals such as mink, weasels, beaver, and raccoons are wandering expertise to contribute On empowers mem- as virtual workshops outside of their normal territory during this time of year - in search to the service and sup- bers to overcome chal- for yoga and creative of water, habitat and breeding. It’s the younger ones, looking for port of both currently lenges and find well- arts. Staying connected their own territory. serving members and being through sport means going online, so West Coast Wildlife Control Services reminds all of us to keep build- veterans,” says Nicole. and physical activity. I a Facebook page has ing doors closed at all times, and not to leave them propped open “I look forward to get- value the commitment been established for and unattended. ting to know the British that Soldier On has to ongoing connections in “If you find a critter in an office space, just shut the door and call Columbia members, inspiring people. In the West Coast region. us,” advises Ken Speckeen, wildlife control officer for 19 Wing Comox. strengthening their re- doing so, people can “Ultimately, we want “These animals can be very vicious when cornered.” lationship with Soldier share their experienc- to create a positive On, and growing our es to uplift others, and community, and for presence on the West that contributes to a our members to know Coast.” more powerful military that we are here for Her job is to support community. No matter them.” CAF members with what their story holds, For more tangible physical and psycho- there is always hope.” support, Soldier On 䄀吀吀䔀一吀䤀伀一 䴀䤀䰀䤀吀䄀刀夀 䴀䔀䴀䈀䔀刀匀℀ logical injuries to a path Soldier On is focussed offers a grant program 䌀漀洀攀 漀甀琀 愀渀搀 琀爀礀 漀甀爀 渀攀眀 愀洀愀稀椀渀最氀礀 搀攀氀椀挀椀漀甀猀 愀渀搀 of recovery through on the support and re- that provides fund- 栀攀愀氀琀栀礀 匀琀漀渀攀最爀椀氀氀 䐀椀渀椀渀最 䔀砀瀀攀爀椀攀渀挀攀℀ sport and exercise. covery of ill and injured ing for sporting equip- “My goal has always CAF members and vet- ment, allowing mem- 吀栀椀猀 甀渀椀焀甀攀 ᰠ搀爀礀 挀漀漀欀椀渀最ᴠ 洀攀琀栀漀搀 椀猀 爀攀挀漀最渀椀稀攀搀 愀猀 been to pursue a ca- erans. bers to stay active or 戀攀椀渀最 漀渀攀 漀昀 琀栀攀 栀攀愀氀琀栀椀攀猀琀 洀攀琀栀漀搀猀 愀瘀愀椀氀愀戀氀攀 琀漀搀愀礀⸀ reer where I am mak- “We are dedicated to get involved in healthy 匀椀洀瀀氀攀Ⰰ 栀攀愀氀琀栀礀Ⰰ 搀攀氀椀挀椀漀甀猀 愀渀搀 昀甀渀℀ 䌀漀洀攀 戀礀 愀渀搀 攀渀樀漀礀 ing a positive differ- helping people over- activities. 琀栀攀 戀攀猀琀 猀琀攀愀欀Ⰰ 栀愀氀椀戀甀琀 漀爀 猀愀氀洀漀渀 礀漀甀 洀愀礀 攀瘀攀爀 琀愀猀琀攀⸀ ence and giving back to come challenges and “Many members have people that have sup- improve their well- benefited from this ported me personally being,” says Nicole. support and have ac- ㈀㌀㔀㔀 䴀愀渀猀昀椀攀氀搀 䐀爀⸀Ⰰ [her family] and our “We’ve supported ap- quired sports equip- 䌀漀甀爀琀攀渀愀礀 ⨀䰀椀瘀攀 䔀渀琀攀爀琀愀椀渀洀攀渀琀 䘀爀椀⸀ ☀ 匀愀琀⸀⨀ ⨀䈀攀攀爀 愀渀搀 圀椀渀攀 匀琀漀爀攀⨀ country collectively.” proximately 7,000 ill ment to stay active. ⨀䄀氀氀 漀甀爀 挀漀氀搀 戀攀攀爀 愀渀搀 猀瀀椀爀椀琀猀 愀爀攀 Nicole’s grandfather and injured members This is something we 猀漀氀搀 愀琀 氀椀焀甀漀爀 猀琀漀爀攀 瀀爀椀挀攀猀 漀爀 戀攀氀漀眀⸀ ㈀㔀 ⴀ㌀㌀㐀ⴀ㐀㔀 ⨀ served in the Army through sport and are hoping to continue 眀眀眀⸀眀栀椀猀琀氀攀猀琀漀瀀瀀甀戀⸀挀漀洀 during the Cold War; physical activity, and to build on.” her late father served we continue to register Interested individu- in the Air Force; her new members.” als are encouraged to brother currently works With the limitations visit soldieron.ca to in the Signals Branch of of the COVID-19 pan- determine if they are the Army. Many of her demic, Nicole is busy eligible, or reach out mentors continue to planning events and directly to SoldierOn- serve across all ele- activities that follow BC-CBSansLimites@ ments. provincial health and forces.gc.ca for infor- “I love that Soldier safety guidelines, such mation. CANEX.CA

Find us on Facebook! ㄀㘀㈀㔀 䴀椀氀椀琀愀爀礀 刀漀眀Ⰰ 䰀愀稀漀Ⰰ 䈀䌀 ㈀㔀 ⸀㌀㌀㤀⸀㔀㔀㔀㌀ facebook.com/19WingTotemTimes MARCH 30, 2021 | TOTEM TIMES | 5 2016 file photo

As a Canadian Forces member the Helping your family Bank of Montreal is here to guide and assist with all of your mortgage find a new home. transactions. Pre-approvals for your posting notice. Special Canadian Defence mortgage rates. Victory March Free banking. Purchases, refinances. Honouring Nijmegen at home

Kelly Ham 250-204-9155 [email protected]

Each year since 1952 a contingent of the Canadi- carrying at least 10 kg of dry weight. This 160 an Armed Forces attends the Four Day Marches in km march takes place in and around the Dutch Nijmegen, Netherlands to participate the largest City of Nijmegen in the eastern area of The multi-day march in the world: Liberation March. Netherlands. It began when members of the 27th Infantry It is an international event that draws over Brigade in Germany participated; the CAF now 40,000 civilians from 84 countries in addition regularly sends a contingent of 200 men and to 6,000 military participants to challenge their women from teams all across Canada. physical and mental endurance. For Canada, Of course, that was all halted after COVID-19 the Nijmegen Marches present an opportunity presented itself to the world in 2020 and global to remember our fallen who fought so fiercely travel is on hold. in the region, as Canadian soldiers are credited The Nijmegen Canadian Contin- with liberating that whole area in World War II. gent has responded by offering a challenge to all In the final months of the Second World War, members of the Defence Team: get out and walk! Canadian forces were given the important and The Victory March, presented by the Chief of deadly task of liberating the Netherlands from Military Personnel (CMP) / Military Personnel Nazi occupation. From September1944 to April Command (MPC), aims to support - and share 1945, the First fought German in - our military teams’ preparation for the Ni- forces on the Scheldt estuary - opening the port jmegen Marches that highlight the symbolic of Antwerp for Allied use - and then cleared relationship that unites Canada and the Neth- northern and western Netherlands of Germans, erlands. In fact, the event is open to all Cana- allowing food and other relief to reach millions dians, and upon completion of the challenge, of desperate people. More than 7,600 Canadians participants will receive a Military Personnel died fighting in the Netherlands. Today, Canada Command coin to remember the experience. is fondly remembered by the Dutch for ending Canadians can march alongside members of their oppression under the Nazis. the for any two days between May 1 to 9, and experience the mili- tary tradition of marches on this virtual event taking place in your community. HOW TO PARTICIPATE The Nijmegen “Victory March” enables anyone Between Saturday, May 1 and Sunday, May to celebrate the history of friendship between 9 - participate at any time in any one (or the Netherlands and Canada, and as we march more) of the following challenges: together, we do so in support of Boomer’s Leg- 2 x 2 km Boomer’s Legacy Family March acy. 2 x 5 km Friendship March Boomer’s Legacy 2 x 10 km Gift of the Tulips March The goal of Boomer’s Legacy is to fund humani- 2 x 20 km Liberation March tarian initiatives with the goal of building local 2x 20 km w/ 10 kg weight JTF Nijmegen capacity to provide a lasting impact. Projects Commander’s Challenge vary from helping a family, a school, a hospital Registration is now open: raceroster.com/ or an area, to providing opportunities for wom- events/2021/38945/victory-march-la- en and veterans, and improving health care or marche-de-la-victoire education conditions. Boomer’s Legacy raises Until April 1, register for $15/ individual or awareness of our military’s efforts on deployed $40/ family operations at home and around the globe, and After April 2, $20/ individual or $50/ family provides funds that CAF members can access to Join the 19 Wing team! further help the people in communities where “Anyone who wants to participate in the they serve. Comox Valley is invited to join the 19 Wing The Nijmegen March team when they register,” says Capt Fahim The Nijmegen March – traditionally - is an an- Awan, Nijmegen team leader. “Use the code nual event with four sets of 40 km marches walk4comox when asked for the team pass- completed over four consecutive days. Partici- word. The 19 Wing contingent will be glad pants march in formation and in uniform while to have you join along – if only virtually.” 6 | MARCH 30, 2021 | TOTEM TIMES

Members of RCEME Heavy Vehicle Maintenance took on the high priority task of rebuilding the main water pump for Red 7, our 12,000 litre Airfield Rescue Fire Fighting Vehicle (ARFFV). During the week of March 8 to 12 Cpl Coles and Cpl Logan tackled the repair – a catastrophic failure that occurred when a piece of the one- way check valve broke off and travelled through to the pump, causing extensive damage to the impeller assembly. With some ingenuity and shear strength, this 300 pound assembly had to be disassembled piece by piece and reas- sembled on the vehicle. The technicians had to Cpl Coles works on the carry out this task while squeezing into some water pump assembly, near impossible places. Red 7 ARFFV is integral up inside the right rear to maintaining our airfield category in support wheel well, illustrating to ongoing 19 Wing operations. the challenges faced when conducting repairs in a confined area. 19 Mission Support Squadron MEMBER PROFILE

YQQ announces non-stop WestJet service to Toronto

Comox Valley residents received exciting The announcement followed WestJet’s news on March 26 when WestJet CEO Ed Sims planned resumption of service to the Atlantic announced non-stop Comox (YQQ) to Toronto provinces. (YYZ) service commencing in June as part of “With the addition of the new city pairings, 11 new city pairings. we are cautiously optimistic that our tourism “This is the first-long haul domestic service sector, and broader economy, will be able to for Comox, and we couldn’t be more pleased” benefit from this new capacity as soon as do- said airport CEO Mike Atkins. “The increasingly mestic travel restrictions are lifted.” successful vaccine rollout allows us to envision WestJet has relaxed their change and can- the lifting of travel restrictions, and this new cellation policies to make it easier to manage route will aid in us reconnecting with friends travel impacted by COVID-19. Travellers are and family back east.” encouraged to start planning now, as they can The YQQ Ready plan remains in effect at the book flights confidently with flexible options in airport, to ensure the safety of passengers and the event travel restrictions remain in effect staff, and our air carriers will maintain their beyond the Canada Day weekend. The non- enhanced protocols to ensure onboard safety. stop service is commencing June 26. MARCH 30, 2021 | TOTEM TIMES | 7

WOUNDED WARRIOR RUN BC 2021 CANCELLED Due to the ongoing COVID-19 restrictions in place in BC the 2021 Wounded Warrior Run BC has been officially cancelled. Despite the fact that the event team will not be running down the highway and visiting the many communities along the route, their mission and the cause has not changed. The mem- bers of these communities are the foundation of why the Wounded Warrior Run BC was cre- ated, bringing awareness and support, normalizing the conversation around mental health and PTSD, as well as raising funds. Wounded Warrior Run BC is proud to support ill and injured veterans, first responders and their families and in these unprecedented times the need is greater than ever. The programs put on through Wounded Warriors Canada are still being offered and expanded on, and dona- tions will be collected until the end of April for the WWRBC 2021. Donations can be made at woundedwarriors.ca/events/wounded-warrior-bc-run/ or sent to Wounded Warriors Canada, 15 - 1500 Glentana Road, Victoria, BC V9A 7A1. The team is thankful for all of the encouragement and support they have received over the years and look forward to getting back on the road in 2022. 8 | MARCH 30, 2021 | TOTEM TIMES MARCH IS NUTRITION MONTH Signature garden veggie bowl with lentils and tahini sauce

Canada’s Food Guide suggests that for meals and snacks, half of your plate is vegetables and fruits, one-quarter of your plate is whole grains, Signature Garden Veggie Bowl with Lentils and Tahini Sauce and the last quarter of your plate is protein. Planning your meals in this way can help to Tahini Dressing develop a healthy eating pattern and support 3 tbsp tahini (sesame paste) your overall health. Healthy eating patterns 3 tbsp rice vinegar and planning your plate portions are also sup- 3 tbsp olive oil portive in the management of chronic disease, 1 tsp grated ginger such as diabetes. 1 garlic clove, minced When cooking a mixed dish, it can be more 3 tbsp boiling water difficult to plan your plate as mentioned above. Salt and pepper Canada’s Food Guide recommends thinking about the proportions of the ingredients going Bowl Base into the dish before cooking, and to start by 2 cups cooked brown rice making half of the meal vegetables and fruits 1 cup cooked black or green lentils before proceeding. 3 tbsp chopped dill This Nutrition Month star recipe is the garden Salt and pepper veggie bowl with lentils and tahini sauce. Don’t 2 cups thinly sliced baby spinach let the long name scare you away from trying 1 cup thinly sliced red peppers this one out – it is a simple yet delicious dish! 1 cup grated carrots The base of the bowl includes a brown rice and Modified from diabetes.ca/managing-my-diabetes/recipes/ 1 cup of your favourite sliced mushrooms lentil mixture with dill, and it is topped with fresh garden-veggie-buddha-bowl-with-lentils-and-tahini-sauce ½ cup pumpkin seeds and vibrant vegetables like spinach, red pepper and carrots. Drizzled on top is a garlicky, creamy Directions: dressing to give you the perfect meal! Tahini Dressing: Whisk together tahini, vinegar, oil, ginger, and garlic until smooth. Add boiling water to thin out. Season with salt and pepper to taste and set aside. Health Promotion to gain practical experi- Bowl base: ence for her nursing Toss hot rice and lentils with dill in a bowl, season with salt and pepper to taste, and divide career, and is back equally among serving bowls. again this week to pro- Divide spinach, red peppers, carrots, mushrooms, and pumpkin seeds on top of lentil blend vide her recipe taste in bowls. test. Drizzle dressing on top of veggies and serve immediately. “My favourite part of this dish is the co- lours; the rainbow of and lentil mixture. I lentils, and I saved This recipe is going to with different veg- vegetables draws you ate this dish while the time by using canned be another new staple etables and grains to Marlee Mount in and makes the meal rice was still warm, rather than dried len- in my house! I love see just how versatile taste that much bet- but it would also keep tils. The recipe is also how it is loaded with it is!” Marlee Mount is a ter. Though the sauce really well in the fridge highly adaptable to nutrient dense ingre- Check out 19 Wing third year Bachelor itself is strong, when or packed as a lunch. use whatever veg- dients and it is easy to Comox PSP on Face- of Science in Nursing mixed in you get this The recipe itself was etables you prefer, incorporate into lunch book for more recipe student with North nice balance of sesa- easy to make since though having a range meal prep at the be- reviews and tips, or to Island College. She is me and garlic with the the only things that of colour makes the ginning of the week. learn about a range of completing a place- fresh vegetables and needed to be cooked dish more aestheti- I’m looking forward to health promotion ini- ment with 19 Wing the dill from the rice were the rice and the cally appealing. trying out this recipe tiatives!

Deployment and reunion tips from the MFRC family separation and reunion coordinator The end of a deployment or long term absence can be a double edged sword. It’s great to be together again, but reunions can come with challenges, too. For a smoother transition, go slowly. Don’t try to make up for lost time. Chances are there will be changes at home, it may take some time for everyone to adjust. Talk with each other about your experiences but don’t compete for “Who had it worse!” Accept that things and your partner may be Focus on the good times. different. Curb your desire to take control, and Comox Military Family Resource Centre It is important to reassure your children, allow your new normal to emerge. 250.339.8290 change often frightens them. For more tips on how to have a successful CAFconnection.ca Set aside quality time with each of your chil- reunion please contact the MFRC deployment dren. This will give each child that much needed facebook.com/comoxmfrc services team at deploymentservices@comox- one on one time to get reacquainted with you. mfrc.ca. -Karen Ferland MARCH 30, 2021 | TOTEM TIMES | 9

support for clients, and it’s a privilege to pro- vide this service.” Leah Reichelt | RE/MAX Originally from the Lower Mainland, Leah Leah Reichelt has been serving the military was lured to the beautiful Comox Valley by community as a real estate professional for her mom, who was also a real estate profes- nearly thirty years. And she knows about ser- sional. Leah got her real estate licence while vice. A former registered nurse, Leah’s pas- still working as a registered nurse. Two grown sion – and compassion – shines through in all children and close to three decades later, she she does. hasn’t looked back. “Like with nursing, I have the chance to “I love finding the perfect home for people; I meet and interact with people every day; it enjoy marketing homes and take pride in the requires me to empathize with others, culti- presentation of listings. But, mostly, it’s about vate understanding, and build relationships,” making my clients’ real estate experience as Leah shares. straightforward, easy and enjoyable as I can.” These skills have garnered her an excellent rep- Leah belongs to an exclusive group of top-pro- utation among clients and peers, and resulted ducing RE/MAX professionals and was inducted in recognition from her industry. It’s the dedica- into the RE/MAX Hall of Fame in 2009. tion to others, along with her knowledge of the In 2013, Leah became an Accredited Buyer’s Comox Valley market, that truly sets her apart. Representative (ABR), a coveted designation For 27 years, Leah has worked with Comox Val- that represents the benchmark of excellence ley clients to ensure their every need is met, the and a demonstrated commitment to providing last 25 years at RE/MAX Ocean Pacific Realty in outstanding service. Comox. She is an expert when it comes to the She became a designated Seniors Real Estate challenges of a military move, and she is com- Specialist (SRES) in 2016, a unique qualification mitted to making the experience as positive and to assist seniors and their families with later- stress-free as possible. in-life housing sales and purchases, and a year “Whether buying your first place or downsiz- later received a RE/MAX Lifetime Achievement ing from the family home to something smaller, Award. it’s a time with many questions and emotions,” If this posting season requires a little extra care Leah says. “I work hard to provide answers and and attention, get in touch at LeahReichelt.com.

Seeking nominations for the 2020 CAF Sports Awards! Nominations for CAF Sports Hall of Fame-Honour Roll, Dedication to CAF Sports, Outstanding Contribution to CAF Sports, and the Unconquered Award are due to the CAF National Sports Office by May 3. The 2020 awards will focus on legacy rather than per- formance, since competition was impacted due to the global pandemic. To nominate a member of 19 Wing Comox, contact Paul Wright at [email protected] or at local 8783.

Located in the 19 Wing Fitness and Community Centre at 1575 Military Row Monday to Friday: 6 a.m. to 9:15 p.m. Saturday and Sunday: 7:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Fitness, Sports and Recreation: 250-339-8211, local 7173/ 6989 Sports Stores Counter: 250-339-8211, local 8315 CAFconnection.ca/Comox

& RECREATION facebook.com/19WingComoxPSP FITNESS SPORTS

The Fitness and Community Centre is open to all regular and reserve military members and authorized users by reservation only. Members must call the PSP Customer Service Desk to reserve your gym time slot. Registration will open at 9 a.m. on Mondays for ac- tive military members, and Wednesdays for all other authorized us- ers, one week prior and will close one hour prior to the timeslot. Call 250-339-8211, local 8315 with your full name and contact phone number to reserve. *Military members will be given priority. 10 | MARCH 30, 2021 | TOTEM TIMES Upcoming detours for 5th Street bridge project ment that will allow as many people as pos- City of Courtenay | sible to cross the bridge on foot or with their bikes. This is a key link in the transportation Commuters crossing the Courtenay River are network for the entire Comox Valley, and we’re being encouraged to start planning ahead in doing everything we can to keep traffic flow- anticipation of temporary traffic detours when ing during this necessary bridge work. We en- the 5th Street Bridge Project starts on Thurs- courage everyone to leave extra time for their day, April 15. commutes, especially as work on this project Bridge construction will continue for approxi- gets underway and commuters adjust to new mately six months. traffic patterns.” Vehicle traffic will be reduced to single lane al- The 60-year-old 5th Street Bridge requires ternating for the duration of the project. Brief structural improvements, new coating to repair intermittent periods of full closure may still be and prevent corrosion, and deck repairs. The last required at times. significant investment in the bridge, including Eastbound vehicles leaving downtown Courte- seismic upgrading, was in 2012. Engineers spe- nay will be directed north on Cliffe Avenue, then cializing in bridge construction and rehabilitation to the laneway below the Native Sons Hall, to have determined that upgrades are necessary 1st Street, then right on Anderton Avenue to to preserve its integrity and prevent deteriora- the bridge. This detour will provide a waiting tion. Bridge repair was strongly recommended area for vehicles waiting to cross the bridge – as a cost-effective, faster, less disruptive option or to make their way to the Condensory Bridge compared to full bridge replacement. instead. The project budget to rehabilitate the 5th Street Westbound vehicles heading toward downtown Bridge based on current estimates is $6.5 mil- will stay on 5th Street when exiting the bridge. lion. The construction contract is valued at $5.4 Existing lanes on the east and west side of the across the bridge. The sidewalk underneath the million. Additional project costs include project bridge will be adjusted to create dedicated pri- east end of the bridge between Lewis Park and management, traffic optimizations, and contin- ority vehicle lanes for transit and emergency Simms Park will remain open. The underpass gency. The project will be partially supported services. will be closed to vehicles. by $1.96 million in grants, with the remainder Temporary walkways will be constructed on “We’ve budgeted an additional $700,000 to funded through a combination of borrowing and both sides of the bridge for people who walk keep one vehicle lane open,” said Courtenay reserves. or for cyclists to dismount and walk. Cyclists Mayor Bob Wells. “The temporary walkways To learn more about the 5th Street Bridge proj- may also use the priority vehicle lane and ride on either side of the bridge are another invest- ect, visit courtenay.ca/5thstreetbridge. MARCH 30, 2021 | TOTEM TIMES | 11 Circle Square shapes up Glacier Greens The past year has brought about many chang- with elite player instruction in high level tour- es to Glacier Greens Golf Course – least among nament, and he’s keen to develop the junior them were a result of the global pandemic. program at Glacier Greens. Circle Square Golf took over the management As head professional, Jesse Moussa is pas- of the pro shop in February, only a month sionate about inspiring confidence, enjoyment before shutdowns and health protocols that and progress in his students and fellow instruc- would change our daily experiences. tors. He believes that improving your skills can Jesse Moussa brought 20 years of experi- be as much fun as playing the game. ence as a golf professional to the membership Getting out for a round at Glacier Greens, but nothing could prepare Glacier Greens offers spectacular views - him for starting a new business on the eve of unprecedented. while the golf experience is fun, but challeng- a pandemic. “We seem to have established a new normal, ing, for all skill levels. The course is open to “We feel like we’re finally getting started, as and it’s really exciting,” says Jesse. “With three the public after noon on weekdays; green fee our first year required a lot of adapting and professionals on staff in the pro shop, we’re and membership options are outlined at gla- overcoming,” shares Jesse. “Our members looking forward to an outstanding year.” ciergreens.com. showed a lot of patience, great attitudes, and The pros Whether you’re a member or a first-time friendly support through the last year. Now Nadine Ash understands the joys and frus- guest, Jesse, Nadine, and Nick are looking that all of the COVID-19 regulations and safety trations of learning the game after an 11 year forward to welcoming you to Glacier Greens. procedures are in place, our love of golf grows, professional career as a competitor on tour To book a tee time and cart rental, discuss and so do our friendships at Glacier Greens around the world. She is a member of the lessons, or upgrade your equipment, contact Golf Course.” LPGA teaching division, and has the ability them directly by email at proshop@glacier- The pandemic seems to have revitalized Gla- to turn the science of the swing into an inner greens.com. cier Greens, as golf is a natural fit for a physi- feel and simple swing thoughts. Her goal as an cally distanced activity. instructor is to encourage all of her students “We have seen an increase in membership, to enjoy the process of discovering how good Sports Stores carries a stock of 10 sets of the number of rounds played has more than they can be. clubs. These are available to all military, NPF, doubled, and the grounds are in excellent con- Nicholas Crookall, new to the team and serv- and DND employees for loan, free of charge. dition,” adds Jesse. “It’s off the charts!” ing as the assistant professional, came on from To make an appointment, visit cafconnec- The changes have been driven by new gen- Bear Mountain Golf Club in Victoria. He has tion.ca/Comox/Contact-Us/Fitness,-Sports- eral manager of golf and operations, Michael a modern mind set to the game of golf and Recreation/Sports/Equipment-Rentals to Newton, with direction from the dedicated ad- believes everyone who plays the game is an email the loan form, or call Sports Stores visory committee. athlete, and should be treated like one. Nick’s at local 8782. One thing is for sure – the growth has been teaching philosophies stem from experience

Cadets hosts effective speaking competition

| FCpl Marcel Huber-Stefiuk, Cadet Correspondent

The 363 (Captain Brian Barker) Royal Cana- dian Air Cadet Squadron Squadron of Campbell River hosted a local effective speaking compe- tition – virtually – on March 9 with the help of three guest judges. Most activities have been cancelled this training year, so Effective Speaking may not have hap- pened if not for the help of Warrant Officer 2nd Class Katireddy from 848 Royal Roads RCACS (Victoria). WO2 Katireddy hosted virtual coaching ses- sions for Cadets interested in competing in the local competition that was organized by the 363 Squadron Sponsoring Committee. Since the event was virtual the guest judges joined from their homes: Anne Koebel, Nancy Belliveau and Beth Johnson, joining in from Effective speaking is a critical life skill: we all Campbell River, Quadra Island and Sayward need to know how to communicate effectively respectively. to be successful whether making a presenta- Their task was to score the participating speak- tion, interviewing for a job, or just trying to ers, Flight Sergeant Lillian Huber-Stefiuk and get one’s point across in a discussion. This pro- Leading Air Cadet Joshua Chiu, on the delivery gram provides Cadets with the opportunity to and effectiveness of their prepared and im- increase their self-confidence and their ability promptu speeches. to reason, organize and to express ideas ef- As the evening progressed, the competition fectively by having the opportunity to compete heated up, resulting in a two point difference be- at the local, regional, provincial and national tween the two competitors with LAC Chiu taking levels. the win. LAC Chiu will now go on to the Vancou- To learn more about the cadet program in Brit- ver Island Wing Competition to be held virtually ish Columbia, check out their Facebook page in April against other local squadron winners. at facebook.com/BCCadets. 12 | MARCH 30, 2021 | TOTEM TIMES Spring into action this long weekend Capt Alexandra Hejduk, 19 Wing PAO

It has been one year since the start of our COVID-19 reality. It’s brought many challenges, the least of not which is the sense of physical and mental isolation from our extended fami- lies and friends. With spring now upon us, there are lots of activities that you can make like a crocus and poke your head outside in the sunshine! Enjoy time with your immediate household, and brush off some of the fog of winter together. Provincial restrictions have evolved to permit gatherings of up to ten people (and that’s ten, in- cluding your immediate household) in an outdoor setting. Of course this is provided you continue to wear a mask, maintain your two hockey stick distance, and stick meeting the same people. Here are some outside-the-box ideas for you to embrace during the four-day Easter long weekend!

1. Have a beachcomb along any one of the numerous secret beaches between Campbell River and Parksville. Don’t know where to find them? Many of the little roads and cul-de-sacs that dot the coastline have public right-of-ways cutting to the spectacular views of the Salish Sea and Coastal Mountain range.

2. Put a picnic basket together – and make a day of it at Miracle Beach. The picnic tables there are well-spaced out and there is a nice trail that follows the beach edge from the picnic area to the Black Creek Estuary. Supporting lo- cal is always a good cause, so an ex- cursion to the Saturday Comox Valley Farmers’ Market can help nab some of those foodstuffs for your beach picnic. Otherwise grab a treat from one of the Valley’s amazing bakeries! HELPING FAMILIES FIND THEIR HOME

3. Do you have any rock-

hounds in your household KRYSTAL PARSONS - or maybe some stress that MORTGAGE SPECIALIST could be banged out by ham- mering a rock? The sandstone 250.897.2756 banks at the end of Hamm [email protected] Road and Island Highway are purported to have ammonites.

4. logging roads are often open to the public on week- ends. The roads are almost deserted and a nice day trip to explore some new vistas in the area. Just be sure to check the closing times of gates (posted at the gates) so you don’t get locked in.

Read the Totem Times online! CAFconnection.ca/Comox/TotemTimes TIMES