Visualize 50 ecstatic campers, staff and volunteers tubing the Puntledge River as one huge flotilla. Catch a glimpse of campers in kayaks and canoes riding the same river on an outgoing tide to the ocean. Witness the sheer excitement of these kids as they prepare to surf the waves at Tofino or skim board the tidal pools at Saratoga Beach.

For anyone driving through Courtenay, a bright red and white awning is the latest attraction at 2440 Cliffe Ave. That awning marks the new location for UB Diving, relocated recently from downtown to across from Tim Hortons.

From knickerbockers to bell bottoms and everything in between, Rickson's Menswear has been through many men's fashion trends. But after 94 years of business, the Fifth Street store in Courtenay is closing its doors.

Local governments in B.C. have shown "a sliver" of improvement in their tax policies, but still place too heavy a burden on business, the Canadian Federation of Independent Business says in its annual survey.

Q: I’m bored at work! Every day is tedious and predictable. I sometimes think about making a career change, but then I get nervous. I’m a single mom in my early 40s. Do you have any advice for me?

The Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce received unanimous support for their agricultural policy at the BC Chamber annual general meeting in Prince George, where the policy was presented for approval.

Looking for or creating work is full-time work itself. Online tools and digital technology give job hunters, career changers and entrepreneurs ways of implementing effective personal marketing strategies that were unavailable only a few years ago.

The Vancouver Island/Coast’s economy showed strong signs of recovery throughout 2010. Growth in the region’s key sectors and industries, job creation, increased building permits, and major project development will ensure our region’s economic revival continues to gain momentum into the coming year.

Q: There is a woman in our office who practically dominates all our departmental staff meetings, which I chair. She frequently interrupts and employees seem to be intimidated by her overbearing style. I am thinking of speaking with her. Your suggestions?

B.C. cities and towns still charge businesses almost three times the residential rate on average, according to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business.