There’s room for a positive thinker and a proven leader on Courtenay city council and Mark Middleton believes he has that much needed skillset. Mark, a small business owner, is the president of the Downtown Courtenay Business Improvement Association (DCBIA), an active member of the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce and is also a retired member of the Canadian Armed Forces. He’s been a Courtenay resident for over 20 years and believes in giving back to the community which has become his home. Middleton has worked closely with a number of charities through the JET-FM Jets charity hockey team and personally with others including the Guardian Angel organization (a cancer research fundraising group) which was started by his daughter, Samantha. Family is extremely important to Middleton, who says one of his main motivations for running for council is his wife Christine and four children. “I want to be a part of shaping the future and be a positive contributor in determining what the city of Courtenay will look like down the road,” says Middleton. "I want to make sure that our children — all of our community’s children — can find a home here in the Valley.” Middleton’s objectives are to be open, accessible, and accountable while focusing on co-operation and leadership by example. “I’ve gained some valuable experience and insight over my years as a business owner and an active community member,” says Middleton. “I think the timing is right to add a positive, proven leader to the table who has the passion and energy to truly give back to our area.” Anyone who has questions or is interested in getting involved in Middleton’s campaign can drop by the Golfer’s Edge on Fifth Street, phone him at 250-218-4653 or e-mail electmarkmiddleton@gmail.com. He also has a Facebook page and a website at www.markmiddleton.ca. — Mark Middleton