NANAIMO'S COMPREHENSIVE NEWS SOURCE

Dragon Boat Festival

is back with one-day event

The Nanaimo Dragon Boat Festival is getting a second life with a one-day show. The festival had been moved to Victoria but VI Paddling came to the rescue for an event July 13 with the help of Nanaimo Downtown Business Association and local dragon boaters. Non-profit VI Paddling confirmed it’s hosting a one-day event on Saturday, July 13. Tom Arnold of VI Paddling said strong support from Nanaimo area dragon boaters, along with corporate and community partners were instrumental in saving the popular event. MORE

Single family house prices were up two per cent in April over 12 months. John Cooper reports 109 single-family homes sold at an average price of $840,784. Single-family unit sales volume is up four per cent. Average days on market decreased by three per cent to 33 days. The average condo sold for $442,436 with unit sales up 23 per cent over the year. The average row/townhouse sold for $581,307. Row/townhouse unit sales are up 44 per cent. Lot sales volume is up 27 per cent with a 15 per cent drop in prices. Average lot sale price was $470,296.FULL REPORT HERE.

The Parks department has announced the schedule for the 2024 Concerts in the Park series starting May 12 and runnning until August. The free concerts showcase local talent against the backdrop of some of our most beautiful parks. Concert-goers will have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of music genres, including Motown, indie rock, folk/blues, and Celtic. Bring a chair or a blanket and dress for the weather. New this year are a number of double or triple feature shows which will allow families to enjoy a variety of entertainment along with a picnic or dinner in the park. MORE

A new long-term care home in Nanaimo is one of three that will focus on livability in their design and operation. They will emphasize liveability in their design. Health Minister Adrian Dix said the project will enable more access for individuals especially seniors to the care they need and ensure that individuals receive compassionate support and comfort during their final stages of life, closer to home. Standardization is the theme and to that end, Island Health has selected Stantec as the sole consultant to design three new long-term care homes here and in Campbell River and Colwood. The new long-term care homes will feature easy-to-reach gathering places, gardens, childcare centres and design elements that ensure residents feel connected and active. MORE

Bust that broom – the city is hosting weekly invasive plant removal parties until along the Parkway Trail and several city parks including Bowen and Diver Lake to mark invasive plant removal month in May. Volunteers, city parks and rec and members of BroomBusters held the first invasive plant removal party of the year on Thursday when they broke out the hand saws and limb loppers along the Parkway Trail near Northfield Road and the Nanaimo Parkway. If you want to get involved visit the City’s invasive plant management page.

Pedaling is hard work, derailing a lot of people from cycling around our hilly community. Well, cheer up ladies and laddies, E-bikes are here. The City  is partnering with BCAA’s Evolve E-Bike Share with 16 stations downtown, in the Old City Quarter, Maffeo Sutton and Bowen parks and key commercial and residential centres with plans to expand to areas such as Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo Regional General Hospital, and B.C. Ferries and Hullo ferry terminals. It’s all digital, beginning with downloading the Evo mobile app. Riders can pay by the minute or hour, or opt for a monthly subscription for reduced rates. Rental rates are 35 cents per minute, $13 per hour, or 10 cents per minute for users who sign up for a $10 monthly subscription.  Find the Evo app at www.evo.ca. MORE

Taking matters into your own hands to save the planet are not an excuse for breaking the law. Two environmental activists, who said they had no choice but to break the law to draw attention to the dangers of climate change re now awaiting sentencing after being found guilty on numerous charges. Howard Gerald Breen, 70, and Melanie Joy Murray, 48, who faced multiple charges for highway blockades and other protests in Nanaimo from late 2021 to early 2022. MORE

Province offers up to $40,000 

to build secondary suites 

There may be a treasure in your basement after the province launched its latest measure to tackle the housing crisis. The province offers homeowners up to $40,000 in forgivable loans to build a suite or laneway home on their primary property, but they must agree to rent it out at below market rates for five years. The rents will be set by the province, based on the community. B.C. United leader Kevin Falcon points out that despite a flurry of housing announcements since last fall, real estate prices and rents have inched up in Vancouver. Premier David Eby pointed to the large numbers of people moving into the province – about 10,000 people every 37 days. MORE

Flags are flying at half mast Flags at City facilities will fly at half mast today to mark the anniversary of the coal mining disaster of 1887 that took 150 lives. The explosions of the No. 1 Esplanade Mine are known as the worst mining disaster in British Columbia's history and second worst industrial accident in Canada. Explosions started 260 meters below sea level with a blast so forceful it rocketed through the underground shafts for almost a kilometre and the underground fire burned for two weeks. The disaster took 150 miners’ lives in the community of approximately 2,000.

There was a significant rumble off the coast of Tofino as a 5.0 earthquake hit the area at 7 p.m. Thursday. It was registered 200 km West South West of Tofino at a depth of 10 km.

Let’s hear it for Clippers play-by-play man Dan Marshall on being named Jim Hughson BCHL Broadcaster of the Year for the fourth time. The award is selected by the 17 fellow league broadcasters. Dan has been the voice of the Clippers on 106.9 The Wolf since 2007 and won the award in 2012, 2015 and 2016 when he was a co-winner with Alex Rawnsley who is now his color commentator for most home games.

It will cost you a pretty penny to help reforest the city. It will take $1,500 to pay tribute by planting a tree in the city’s new tree donation pilot program. You can apply until July 26 to dedicate a tree in Beaufort Park. It’s a takeoff on past traditions of sponsoring park benches or trees with plaques. Applications are limited to 30 trees to be planted by a certified horticulturalist. MORE

It’s easy to have a heavy foot once the cold and wet winter weather gives way to May. The cops know that May is high-risk driving month, and Island drivers are reminded to take it easy on the gas pedal. The Highway Patrol is cracking down on excessive speeding and distracted and impaired driving. Keep in mind that if you’re more than 40 km over the speed limit the fines range between $368 to $483 and you can be without wheels for seven days, also having to pay hefty impoundment fees. MORE

Take me out to the ball game, enjoy the fresh air and get paid for it. The NightOwls baseball team has openings for game day staff. The team is huge on personality, mindset, and making sure fans have a good time. Previous experience is an asset but the team is willing to train newcomers. To get all the info, contact ben@nanaimonightowls.com

Gas prices in Vancouver fell yesterday with another dip expected before the weekend. Island prices don’t compare to Lower Mainland, but any price drops provide at least a ray of hope for us. Last night, Nanaimo prices ranged between $1.919 and $206.9 while some Vancouver stations dropped by about six cents per litre and are now hovering around $2.109. And they are expected to drop another nickel today to around $2.059. MORE

QUOTABLE – We’ve become a place where entertainers and professional athletes are mistaken for people of importance.

Rain has not been enough

to snuff out wildfire threat

It’s been wetter than a baby’s diaper but the threat of wildfires remains high across the province.We had 85 per cent of normal precipitation last month with 56.8 mm of rain, below the average of 67.4mm. Meteorologist Brian Proctor called it a much more normal summer but because of the existing moisture deficit already there, we’re not going to see a sharp abatement of the wildfire risk. The mean temperature in Nanaimo in April was 8.6 degrees, about half a degree below normal. Proctor believes this month may be pretty similar to April across the Island, with some more showers anticipated for early in the month. MORE

You may want to stay away from Norwell Drive in your travels this morning as city crews work on a major water line break at 104 St.

The London Drugs shutdown is dragging on so the company has come out with help for pharmacy clients. Pharmacists are available by phone to support customers with urgent pharmacy needs. Just call the local store's pharmacy to make arrangements.

City Council has locked in a 2024 tax rate increase of 7.7 per cent. That’s about $200 extra for a typical home in the city, 17 bucks a month. Thanks to Coun. Sheryl Armstrong, here’s what some other municipalities did this year so you can compare.

• West Kelowna Council increased the tax rate 6.85 per cent;
• Langford approved a 15.63 per cent increase;
• Langley Township set a 6.88 per cent increase;
• Abbotsford went up 5.12 per cent;
• Courtenay went up by about 7.5 per cent this year;
• Victoria budget includes tax increase of 8.37 per cent;
• Saanich council approved a 7.91 per cent;
• Kamloops up 9.55 per cent.

Bill Sims

Hats off to Bill Sims, General Manager of Engineering And Public Works at the city for earning the prestigious Terry Pile Effect Award from the Municipal Insurance Association of B.C. The award recognizes dedication and leadership in advancing risk intelligence in local government. Bill's advocacy for responsible risk management shines through the environment he creates, encouraging and allowing managers and staff to tackle risk management in a proactive and responsible manner.

Scammers are calling from numbers that display on your phone as "City of Nanaimo." They are not City employees and they are not calling from the City. Employee will not call to ask for a credit card, account name, or password. Protect your information and if you suspect someone who is calling you may be a potential scam artist, hang up the phone and call the main number at 250-754-4251 for verification.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Vancouver Island has its Eco Elegance spring fundraiser on June 8. They have a runway show showcasing breathtaking designer and name brand finds from Big Deals Boutique, their social enterprise store. Stay tuned for more over the next month.

Adrian Dix

Health care professionals are hard to find so the B.C. government is luring them with more money to recruit and retain, especially for rural and remote communities. Health Minister Adrian Dix announced $155.7 million has been set aside as the province has a significantly increasing population and more skilled health care staff are needed. Many health occupations will benefit from the funding, including audiologists, dietitians, lab technologists and radiation therapists. About $73 million will go to keep health and clinical support workers in rural areas and giving signing bonuses for those who fill high-priority vacancies. Another $60 million will be set aside for professional development supports and mental health and wellness services for workers. MORE

QUOTABLE – He has suffered from amnesia for as long as he can remember.

Have you seen Allenby Tinn Wadden?

RCMP is asking for public help in locating 56-year-old Allenby “Tinn” Wadden, who was last seen at work on Tuesday afternoon. Wadden has not had contact with his family since Tuesday morning, which is extremely concerning. He is 5’6” and weighs approximately 232 pounds. He has short brown and grey hair, a brown and grey beard, and brown eyes. Anyone who spots Wadden or who has information on his whereabouts is asked to call Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345.

Tim Horton has sweet campaign
to raise cash for operating rooms

Welcome the Cookie Monster, the annual Smile Cookie campaign is back at Tim Horton’s all week until Sunday. The money raised is going to a great cause, the Nanaimo and District Hospital Foundation for lighting upgrades to operating rooms. The perinatal operating room needs upgraded equipment and the specialized maternity ward is especially important, as it means a quicker transition for newborns needing specialized care. All that is going to cost most of the $60,000 target, so go ahead, spend a buck and a half for a cookie and indulge yourself. Or buy a couple, who will know? MORE

The number of people relying on food banks is still rising. Loaves & Fishes use continues to climb as people are unable to make ends meet. If there’s any good news the demand is up only 14 per cent from a year ago compared to 30 per cent the year before. About 10,000 monthly visits fed 4,500 people in March. Executive director Peter Sinclair credits the food bank’s food recovery program that collects food from grocery stores with the help of volunteers to sort it. MORE

Kerry Wallace Chang, 55, was judged guilty Monday of drug possession for the purpose of trafficking. The verdict came on charges from a raid four years ago at a south Nanaimo home. Chang has a lengthy criminal record with 35 convictions, including offences involving drugs, property crimes and violence. MORE

Cock-a-doodle-doo. There is a way to fight soaring grocery prices – grow your own. A city bylaw that has been around for about a decade allows 12 poultry birds on some residential properties. The city’s governance and priorities committee is happy to keep the current rules, with a little tinkering. One negative from when the bylaw was originally passed and it was a concern over vermin, specifically rats. Councillors heard some people are flouting the bylaw with as many as 150 chicken and roosters, which are a no-no. Any changes will go to full council for approval. MORE

While we’re talking food prices, if you own shares in Loblaws your quarterly dividend rose by 15 per cent as first-quarter profit and revenue rose compared with a year ago. The combined Loblaws and Shoppers Drug Mart says it earned a profit available to common shareholders was up 9.8 per cent from the same quarter last year. Revenue for the quarter was $13.58 billion, up from $13 billion a year earlier. MORE

How much garbage do we leave behind? Ladysmith is a lot cleaner after more than 120 tonnes was collected in the Sportsmen’s Club’s ninth annual outdoor cleanup on Saturday. It focussed on Spruston Road, Timberlands area and Peerless Road. More than 140 volunteers picked up refuse including building material and even some abandoned vehicles. Co-ordinator Dave Judson has a message, if you see anyone disposing of garbage in the bush or on the side of the road, turn them in, call the Ministry of the Environment’s hotline at 1-877-952-7277. MORE

Private property rights take another hit today as new rules on short-term rentals come into effect, limiting where people can book short-term accommodation. The government is using the bans to free up housing in the province. The new short-term rental ban affects more than 20 communities on Vancouver Island. The rules apply for any community with a population of at least 10,000 and some communities under that can opt into the program as 10 communities have. MORE

Hurry up and wait, the federal government wants more information before deciding whether to revise British Columbia’s pilot project on drug use. Premier David Eby asked Health Canada to recriminalize drug use in public spaces, such as hospitals and parks. Mental Health and Addictions Minister Ya'ara Saks says she's asked B.C. to respond to Ottawa's questions quickly, but would not say what information she's requested. MORE

It remains to be seen whether we get relief at the gas pumps as the $34-billion Trans Mountain oil pipeline expansion finally starts pumping crude oil. The government-owned expanded pipeline runs from Alberta to the B.C. coast, twinning the existing pipeline. The expansion increases capacity to 890,000 barrels a day from 300,000 and will help open up global export markets for Canadian oil. MORE

The price tag for a couple of 2026 FIFA World Cup games in Vancouver could be more than half a billion dollars. An updated estimate shows the cost is now pegged at between $483 million and $581 million, nearly double the original range when Vancouver was named a host city two years ago. Inflation and updated FIFA requirements contributed to the increased costs. The province expects to offset much of the expenses with $116 million in federal funding. MORE

Female athletes in B.C. will have to continue to compete against transgender competitors in their sports. B.C. Conservative leader John Rustad’s bill to use biological sex to classify participants in publicly-funded sports teams and events was shot down at first reading in the Legislature on the strength of NDP and Green party opposition. MORE

QUOTABLE – Motto at Boeing – when one door closes another one opens.

Report outlines community safety but who will pay?

City Council knows it needs more community safety measures but it’s a question of who’s going to pick up that tab. Council reviewed an independent consultant’s report on Monday, that examined the Downtown Nanaimo Community Safety Action Plan implemented in 2022. It costs $2.5 million annually with 12 Community Safety Officers. Among the recommendations in the report was an expansion to 20, 24 or 30 CSOs and covering more than

just downtown. Mayor Leonard Krog said we would see

a cleaner downtown, but it still would not be enough. The real solutions to save us from the misery on our streets is not going to come from the City, Krog said. MORE

On that topic, Victoria has had enough of paying for services under the province’s jurisdiction. The city will begin billing the province for the costs incurred. In March, council approved $100,000 for Our Place’s storage facility and operation of their community centre. When Coun. Stephen Hammond asked if there was any indication that the province will pay, Mayor Marianne Alto replied, “Absolutely none. I’m being very frank, this is a new direction.” MORE

It will be business almost as usual while Downtown Nanaimo goes Hollywood and stars in a major television series, The Last of Us. Production crews have begun hauling in equipment and closing areas in Diana Krall Plaza. Work is expected to focus around the Plaza, Commercial, Skinner and Wharf Streets for a month. Filming is scheduled for May 12 to 14. Crews will then spend the final two weeks of May cleaning up the area. Some Commercial Street businesses will close for short periods to allow for final preparations and filming. MORE

Nanaimo News NOW has an excellent feature about 82-year-old Charlie Pickard who has been hand-crafting gnome doors and bird houses, a hobby turned passion. Speaking from the garage of his Brechin Hill home, he said the reason he’s dedicated himself to this cause is simple: to make people smile. It makes for uplifting reading amid a lot of gloom. MORE

Farmers markets are a big deal for local economies. An analysis from the B.C. Association of Farmers Markets points to the economic impact. Kate Poirier, of Cedar Farmers Market, says Vancouver Island was far above average in almost every metric. The Cedar market, from mid May to late October, brought $3.6 million of economic impact, $2.4 million in direct sales and $626,000 in spending at local businesses in 2023, says Poirier. There were 58,900 visits last year, she said.

The Day of Mourning for the 175 lives lost to injuries or illnesses suffered at work didn’t capture the headlines. WorkSafeBC reported work place death statistics for the year on Sunday. More than two dozen ceremonies were held in communities across B.C. MORE

Politcal parties are now conducting nominations based on new federal electoral district boundaries that come into effect for the next election. So in the meantime, some people may be losing their MPs or some may be gaining one they never voted for. However, the new ridings take effect after next year’s election.

Cucaracha! A pest control contractor is monitoring Saanich Peninsula Hospital after cockroaches were recently spotted inside. Island Health says there haven’t been any since April 22. The contractor  continues to visit the site twice a week to monitor traps. The roaches measure about 1.3 to 1.6 cm long, are tan to light brown and have wings, but cannot fly. MORE

RCMP are monitoring a pro-Palestinian protest encampment at the University of British Columbia where protesters erected tents outside the UBC Alma Mater Society building early Monday. Protester Naisha Khan says the demonstrators are calling on the school to divest from a variety of companies they say are complicit in the war since the Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7.

Premier David Eby has joined other politicians denouncing remarks at a demonstration in Vancouver where protesters chanted “long live Oct. 7.”  The rally on Friday was told by a speaker that the attacks by Hamas that killed more than 1,200 people were heroic and brave. Eby says it was the most hateful he could imagine. Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim posted on social media that people who spew this vile hatred are not welcome in the city. MORE

Today is a very special day – my Aunt Margaret is 100 years old. She is the first ever on both sides of my family to reach the century mark. Happy Birthday.

QUOTABLE – A lot of people don’t like holding hands in public, especially when they don’t know you.

Kelowna business owner denies gang ties, sued again by government

B.C. adopting recommended mobile home-owner protections, 6 years later

‘Decriminalization changes cause more chaos’: Kelowna MLA Merrifield

4 excessive speeders nabbed by West Shore RCMP in the last week

‘Tough pill to swallow’: Bear & Joey in Victoria set to close permanently

B.C.’s Sam Reinhart scoring at historic rate as he chases Cup with Florida

$1.8M awarded to Penticton woman in lawsuit over Osoyoos head-on crash

Canada’s emissions their lowest in 25 years, still have long way to go

Vancouver Island’s Funkanometry boogies into ‘Canada’s Got Talent’ semifinals

Electricity demand raises
questions about data centre

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Why we have such

a shortage of doctors

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DEI – all about finding the

lowest common denominator

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Longer amortization will be

expensive in the long run