Now that the warmer weather is here, the Rubber Association of Canada is launching a "Be Tire Smart" campaign. Antonia Izza says under-inflated tires will affect the efficency of your vehicle and will cost you more for fuel. Izza says a recent survey found that one-in-three vehicles had at least one under-inflated tire. She says it's a good idea to check your tire pressure as the seasons change.

          Starting at noon on Friday - Coastal Fire Centre is banning all backyard burning in the region. Campfires will still be allowed. Fire Information Officer Marg Drysdale says the ban will remain in effect until September 15th. Those caught breaking the ban face a fine or jail time. Firebugs linked directly to a wildfire could be ordered to pay all the firefighting and associated costs.

          B-C legislature has struck a special committee to examine the province's timber supply. Leaked report warns that up to 12-thousand jobs could disappear within five years partly because of the loss of wood to the pine beetle. Committee will conduct public consultations to look for ways to expand the timber supply.

          Conference Board of Canada says B-C's economy will join the rest of the west in leading the country in economic growth next year. It says B-C's economy is forecast to grow by 2.4 per cent this year and a further 3.4 per cent in 2013 - led by a solid performance in the mining, manufacturing, and construction sectors. Board says the forest industry is also expected to gain ground thanks to a reviving American housing market.

          Linda Oprica has been appointed chair of the Comox Valley Airport Commission Board of Directors. She took over the job at the end of March and will serve a two-year term. Oprica says she's optimistic about what lies ahead for the airport. Oprica says one of the board's top priorities is to find a new C-E-O to replace Shirley de Silva.