Industrial development approved for south end

City council has approved a development permit for a light industrial development at 924 Old Victoria Rd. It will be four building with 17,000 square metres of floor space on the now-vacant lot. MORE

To the dump, to the dump, to the dump

It’s garbage cleanup time and Milner Group is coming to the rescue with a charity residential yard and wood waste recycling day. It’s by donation with the proceeds going to the Nanaimo Child Development Centre. Take your load to the dump on Biggs Road between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. today.

Spectacular Northern Lights show expect on weekend

Northern Lights are expected to put on a dazzling display over our area through the weekend. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reports a severe geomagnetic storm is set to hit Earth. The activity from the sun is expected to be so severe, NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Centre issued an extremely rare storm watch, the first of its kind since 2005. Timing remains uncertain as at least seven earth-directed Coronal Mass Ejections are on their way. MORE

Nanaimo Mountie joins Tour de Rock team

Constable Ian George will represent Nanaimo RCMP in this year’s Tour de Rock bike ride where police and emergency responders bike for 14 days over 1,200 kilometres across Vancouver Island. The team has already kicked off its training and has been starting from the basics to ensure everyone is on the same page. The annual ride has been run since 1997. It raises money for childhood cancer research and for programs likeCamp Goodtimes. MORE

Foreign governments linked to cyber attact

Government websites, networks, and servers, are targeted by approximately 1.5 billion hacking attempts daily and growing. Shannon Salter, head of civil service has revealed that a “state or state-sponsored actor” are behind the incidents. Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth said there's no evidence that any sensitive personal information was accessed and assured that no ransom demands have been made. Police and federal agencies are involved in the investigation. MORE

Growing wildfire forces Fort Nelson evacuation

All residents of Fort Nelson and Fort Nelson First Nation have been ordered to evacuate in the face of an out-of-control wildfire. The blaze broke out Friday afternoon approximately 12 kilometres west of the community and has been growing rapidly since. Residents were advised to drive to Fort St. John shortly after 7 p.m. Friday. The B.C. Wildfire Service said the new blaze was estimated at 50 hectares shortly before 5:30 p.m. Just an hour later, that size had been revised upwards to 400 hectares. By 8 p.m. it had doubled again to 800 hectares. MORE

QUOTABLE – Message to the Gaza protestors, keep those tents, you’re going to need them after you leave university without a degree.

City's spray parks are open now

The water is flowing at the city’s water spray parks, in time for the hottest weekend of the year. Harewood Centennial Park, Departure Bay Centennial Park, Mansfield Park and Deverill Square are expecting thousands over the weekend as temperatures reach near-record levels. City manager of parks operations Charlotte Davis said final tests were completed Friday and the parks are open and ready for use this summer. MORE

Quist wins provincial leadership award

A great big congrats to Breanne Quist for winning the 2024 Women in Sports & Leadership Award from BC School Sports, comprised of 450 schools in the province. Breanne is the athletic director and a high school teacher at the Nanaimo Christian School. The Ladysmith native played virtually any sport she could, with basketball eventually being her preferred passion as she obtained her teaching degree at VIU as a student-athlete. She’s been the athletic director for eight years while doubling as a high school teacher. MORE

Six more supportive recovery beds scheduled

The Island Crisis Care Society will open a six-bed supportive recovery project this summer to provide stable housing, food, mental health resources and individualized support plans for up to 18 months at no cost to the individual. Society Director Corrie Corfield said a referral process is being finalized. MORE

55+ BC Games management confirmed by council

The Board of Directors is no in place for the 55+ BC Games in Nanaimo. President Diana Johnstone and Vice-President Mary Smith have named 11 individuals to serve as directors and all were approved by Nanaimo City Council on Monday, May 6. SEE THE FULL LIST.

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This weather is just perfect

for hitting the waves, but before you do it's wise to sharpen your boating skills. The Nanoose Power and Sail Squadron has a free safe boating day at the Fairwinds Marina Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Coast Guard, Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue, and the Royal Canadian Navy will explain their roles out on the water, as well as offer safety lessons for boaters. You can get information on online or in-person courses, along with checking boating equipment and a marine-themed garage sale. MORE

Arrest warrants have been issued

for a former Nanaimo substitute teacher after he was charged with child pornography. Darrell Gilkes, 31, last known living in Ontario, is charged with possession and distributing and importing child pornography in Nanaimo in 2022. He was a teacher-on-call at a number of high schools during the 2022/23 school year. The charges followed a police raid at his rental suite in which several devices were seized and searched by investigators. He had been granted permission by a Nanaimo judge to relocate to Ontario to live with his parents while the police investigation continued. MORE

The first cruise ship in five years

docked in Nanaimo around 7 p.m. Thursday. The MV Seabourn Odyssey is homeward bound on 80-plus-day cruise which launched in Australia, continuing on to Hong Kong in late March with stops in China, South Korea, Japan and Alaska. It has about 350 passengers, many of whom have pre-booked trips to various activities and destinations across the region, including in Nanaimo. The is the first of two ships schedules for Nanaimo, with four more coming next summer. MORE

Multi-media commentator Rex Murphy has died

at age 77 following a battle with cancer. MORE. Our own commentator and former Newfound and Labrador Premier Brian Peckford reflects on Rex Murphy. HERE

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Organized crime recruitment rises in

Nanaimo high and elementary schools

Nanaimo RCMP are seeing more evidence of Organized crime groups stepping up recruitments in local schools. Insp. Andrew Burton noted the increase in the annual performance plan and future priorities too city council. He said recruiting is going on in high schools and sadly, in elementary schools. They recognize that the penalties for youth involvement in these types of crimes is less than as an adult. Burton said new clothing is often enough to entice youths to start selling items like vapes, cigarettes or even harder drugs. MORE

Government computer networks were recently hit with sophisticated cybersecurity incidents. Premier David Eby said the government is working closely with the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security (Cyber Centre) and other agencies to determine the extent of the incidents. There’s no evidence at this time that sensitive information has been compromised, adding, the investigation is ongoing to determine what information may have been accessed. MORE

Two Vancouver Island campgrounds are expanding. Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Campground is adding eight new walk-in sites. China Beach Provincial Campground near Jordan River will see 33 new campsites added: 22 drive-in sites and 11 walk-in sites. Those should be open for reservations beginning today. Many provincial sites are consistently booked up months in advance, and available spots have been hard to come by. MORE

Shai Ben Eli Illan, 30, has been sentenced to 9.5 years in prison after he pleaded guilty to seven drug trafficking charges and a pair of drug possession offences. Four of the counts involved fentanyl, while other counts included crystal meth, benzodiazepine, MDMA and ketamine. MORE

Go ahead, have a drink. The water supply on the Queen of Oak Bay is safe to drink after cleanup of a toxic chemical cleaner that was accidently poured into the vessel’s potable water supply. The vessel continued service through the day and into Tuesday evening, using bottled water. The water was deemed to be safe to drink and taps had been turned back on. By 7 p.m. Thursday. MORE

One person was taken to hospital after a multi-vehicle crash along the Nanaimo Parkway. Emergency services responded to the intersection with Aulds Road near noon on Wednesday after two vehicles, collided with a semi as they went through the lights. Northbound traffic was closed off and detoured to the Old Island Highway or through Lantzville. MORE

This sounds like a disaster in the making, there’s no minimum off-street parking mandated in the province’s new housing density regulations. The regulations undermine the city’s off-street parking requirements for multi-family developments. Some councillors were not thrilled with the changes but approved the necessary bylaw amendments. The provincial regulation doesn’t ban residential off-street parking in transit-oriented areas, but it does force municipalities to remove off-street parking space minimums, effectively leaving the decision up to developers on how many parking spaces to provide. MORE

It must be election time, ICBC is doling out money. Most drivers in the province will get a $110 rebate this year and rates will remain frozen until 2026. Strong investment and financial returns and the 2021 shift to the “enhanced care” model for providing health coverage for people involved in crashes has put the Crown corporation in a solid position to offer rebates. The last basic rate increase was 2019. President David Wong says preliminary financial results show ICBC will earn net income of $1.5 billion this year, which includes the $400 million cost of the rebates. MORE

Completion of the Trans Mountain pipeline changes the marine safety scenario for the West Coast. The Western Canada Marine Response Corporation heads an enhanced network of bases and staff on standby for the unexpected. The WCMRC base in Nanaimo Harbour is a regional hub with approximately 15 vessels with a maximum six-hour response. WCMRC communications manager Michael Lowry said their network of fulltime staff and vessels is enough to handle a 2,500 ton spill initially, including storage. MORE

Backyard Fest is back and it all goes down May 18-19 behind Sound Heritage. It’s touted as the Nanaimo music festival with tickets at $40 per day or $70 for the weekend, kids under 12 are free. There will be food, drinks and merchandise on site, and an amazing array of talented musicians performing all weekend.

From veteran political observer Alan Forseth here is the weekly candidate count update for each party as of May 6.

• Conservative Party of BC – 61 candidates nominated (+3)
https://www.conservativebc.ca/our_team

• BC United (former BC Liberal) – 51 candidates nominated (+1)
https://www.votebcunited.ca/team2024/

• BC Green Party – 17 candidates nominated (no change)
www.bcgreens.ca/candidates_2024

• BC NDP – 6 candidates nominated (+1)
www.bcndp.ca/releases

The next provincial election is October 19.

FROM THE WEB – The seldom-used city bike lanes are not a total loss – they create safe transit for the homeless with their shopping carts.

Public drug use banned,

'Safe Supply' remains

Open drug use is banned again, effective Tuesday. The federal government has revoked a three-year Criminal Code exemption for personal possession of drugs like heroin, cocaine and methamphetamines in public. "Safe Supply" and simple possession will still remain legal, it's only the open public use that's banned. Federal Mental Health and Addictions Minister Ya’ara Saks labelled it a health crisis, not a criminal one, adding communities need to be safe. Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth said when police are called where illegal and dangerous drug use is taking place, they will have the ability to compel a person to leave the area, seize the drugs if necessary, or arrest the person.  MORE

We’ve been waiting for this – we’re getting another tease of summer. Environment Canada forecasts a high-pressure system continuing well into the weekend, bringing with it a clear sky and higher-than-normal temperatures, reaching the low twenties by Thursday. Overnight temperatures will sit around 10 degrees. Let’s enjoy it while we can, another ridge is on the way with clouds late in the weekend. MORE

Get set to fork over an extra $200 or so after city council adopted the final 2024-2028 Financial Plan and 2024 Property Tax Rates bylaws. It boils down to a 7.7 per cent increase with 6.7 per cent to cover operating costs and one per cent for the General Asset Management Reserve. For the average home this adds up to $204 a year more for the City portion of your tax bill. Other jurisdictions like the school district, regional district and hospital board are on top of that. MORE

JUST A MINUTE – Canada Post has run out of money and digging the hole deeper and deeper – it has lost nearly $750 million year to date. It blames private companies for providing service at lower cost. So, the private companies are making a profit at a lower price while Canada Post is getting huge government subsidies and losing money. Something is bass akwards here.

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Ottawa reverses public drug use decriminalization immediately

Open drug use is banned again, effective Tuesday. The federal government has revoked a three-year Criminal Code exemption for personal possession of drugs like heroin, cocaine and methamphetamines in public. Simple possession will still remain legal, it's only the open public use that's banned. Federal Mental Health and Addictions Minister Ya’ara Saks labelled it a health crisis, not a criminal one, adding communities need to be safe. Premier David Eby said that principle is what the project was about. B.C. Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth said when police are called to a scene where illegal and dangerous drug use is taking place, they will have the ability to compel a person to leave the area, seize the drugs if necessary, or arrest the person if required. He said there are still expectations around safety, public spaces, in the coffee shop, on the bus, in the park, on the beach. MORE

Snuggle up, Nanaimo home owners will be a lot closer in the future. The City is looking to pre-zone 23,500 properties to handle new density legislation. City staff is trying to create new zoning and building amendment bylaw to accommodate new small-scale multi-unit housing legislation. The proposal calls for three new zoning classifications. R5 would cover three- and four-unit residential, for 22,000 properties. R14 is tailored to preserve the Old City Quarter’s character. An interim residential corridor zone meant to create even greater density than three or four units where appropriate. MORE

Nanaimo continues to rate in the top three for drug deaths. Drug use claimed 192 lives in our province in March and at least 572 died in the first three months this year. Nanaimo, Vancouver and Surrey continue to have the highest number of drug deaths in 2024. Fraser Health and Vancouver Coastal health authorities make up 51 per cent of all such deaths in 2024. The March figure shows an 11-per-cent decrease in lives lost from March 2023. The rate of death among females is climbing year over year. Fentanyl has been involved in 85 per cent of unregulated drug deaths.

Nanaimo Regional Transit will get more electric buses and charging infrastructure. Sixty-six electric buses are on order for nine communities that have transit electrification infrastructure projects getting started. BC Transit expects to install approximately 134 charging points over the next two years. The 66 buses will arrive in early 2025, completing in mid-2026. Costs are shared with the federal Government, the province and local governments. For more information about BC Transit, visit BCTransit.com.

Don’t jump out of your skin at 10:55 a.m. on Wednesday. That’s when the province will conduct its semi-annual test of the Alert Ready system. The alert will be sent to cell phones and interrupt radio and television broadcasts. The province uses alerts to send tsunami warnings as well as imminent threats from wildfires, floods and extreme heat. 22 alerts were issued during last year's record-breaking wildfire season, providing potentially life-saving information when people needed it. MORE

Practise makes perfect. That’s the message behind a mock disaster training exercise by Nanaimo Search and Rescue last weekend. More than 100 volunteers responded to an imagined white water rafting incident on the Nanaimo River.A dozen south coast teams took part, with the lead exercise involving 13 distressed rafters. The training exercise included a technical swift water rope rescue and K9 unit.MORE

London Drugs has reopened all of its stores Vancouver Island although there may be limitations at some locations. The company says it will not be able to fill new prescriptions for customers. London Drugs says it will continue to work to bring all of its services and products back to regular capacity as soon as possible. MORE

It may be curiosity but the initial response to the new Evo e-bike in Nanaimo has been positive. Similar to car sharing, Evo rental stations across the city let users log onto Evo’s app to unlock a bike with fees based on length of time. It is operated by BCAA and Evo, with a goal to get more people out of their cars for trips around the city. Leanne Buhler, of Evolve e-bike and e-scooter share for BCAA, says the response in just a few days has been positive. A UBC study found e-bike adoption has surged, reducing vehicle traffic 30 to 40 per cent. MORE

Transit bus riders can have their say on potential fare changes. RDN Transit seeks feedback on changes to various fixed routes.The ever-growing population is increasing demand for service, so a significant expansion is needed to improve accessibility and address service demands. The survey is available online until May 31 HERE. Paper copies are available at the RDN Transit Office on Applecross. For more information about trip planning, schedules and to sign up for customer alerts, visit bctransit.com/nanaimo.

Just so you know, the City is not conducting a phone survey on water quality. If you get a phone call from someone claiming to be from the City saying they are doing a water quality survey, just hang up. (I know, I’m rude, but I whistle into the phone when I get one of these.)

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The history of Japanese people in Nanaimo will come to life in two new exhibits at the Nanaimo Museum. More than 40 Japanese-Canadian families lived in Nanaimo until the War Measures Act was introduced in 1941 forcing many families out.  The exhibits focus on the contributions made by Japanese-Canadians, the tragedy and injustice of the 1940s internment camps. It will be on display until early September. The Museum is working with Seven Potatoes Society,  which is the Central Vancouver Island Japanese Canadian Cultural Society. MORE

A new cancer centre will create the need for additional treatment services at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital. Island Health is seeking funding from the district hospital board for projects, including the oncology network and chemotherapy. The hospital district passed a $48-million budget this year, with a 28.2-per cent increase to prepare for a number of future projects, including the cancer centre and a new patient tower. Chairman Ian Thorpe said the cancer centre and the oncology network requests are not in the hospital district’s 2024 budget.  MORE

WestJet and its mechanics union have reached a tentative agreement, avoiding a possible strike. WestJet had issued a 72-hour lockout notice on Saturday to the union, saying it was response to AMFA announcing a strike vote. MORE

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North Nanaimo London Drugs

store part of gradual reopening

London Drugs North Town Centre store is open as the company begins started reopening some of its stores on Vancouver Island. London Drugs said it was gradually reopening its stores in Western Canada but did not specify which locations had reopened, saying that it wanted to slowly restart its core services. The return to service comes about a week after a cybersecurity incident closed down all locations across Western Canada.

Some with grey hair, some with less hair, 39 graduates of the 1964 graduating class of NDSS recently got together for lunch and memories at a local restaurant. The reunion was on hold since 2020, due to Covid. There were tall tales and funny anecdotes and teachers were remembered and past pranks came to light. Grads came from as far away as Kamloops. And there will be a sixtieth anniversary later this year.

Airline schedule reliability could be tested this week after WestJet issued a lockout notice to the union representing aircraft maintenance engineers. The 72-hour lockout notice affects aircraft mechanics and could result in awork stoppage as early as Tuesday. They have been in negotiations since September 2023. The airline said a potential work stoppage does not necessarily mean travel disruptions will occur, but it is taking some steps to mitigate impacts. MORE

Crews are working an out-of-control wildfire 90 kilometres west of Williams Lake in the Central Interior. The BC Wildfire Service reported the fire was discovered Friday afternoon and grew to 101 hectares by Saturday morning. It is suspected to be human-caused. MORE

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

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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

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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.

‘Precipitation deficit’: rivers recede as B.C. feeling ongoing drought trend

‘Sophisticated cybersecurity incidents’ hit B.C. government networks

Screen saver: how to stop your late-night doomscrolling habit

Garland nets winner as Canucks roar back, stun Oilers with 5-4 Game 1 win

Kelowna city councillor B.C. NDP’s newest candidate

Canadian Premier League’s inaugural

‘On Tour’ series to kick off in Kelowna

RCMP issue public safety warning

due to gang conflict in Kamloops

Fatal floatplane crash near Tofino

caused by unexpected wake or object

Collaboration key in keeping Canuck viewing parties family-friendly

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

City's spray parks are open now

The water is flowing at the city’s water spray parks, in time for the hottest weekend of the year. Harewood Centennial Park, Departure Bay Centennial Park, Mansfield Park and Deverill Square are expecting thousands over the weekend as temperatures reach near-record levels. City manager of parks operations Charlotte Davis said final tests were completed Friday and the parks are open and ready for use this summer. MORE

Quist wins high school leadership award

A great big congrats to Breanne Quist for winning the 2024 Women in Sports & Leadership Award from BC School Sports, comprised of 450 schools in the province. Breanne is the athletic director and a high school teacher at the Nanaimo Christian School. The Ladysmith native played virtually any sport she could, with basketball eventually being her preferred passion as she obtained her teaching degree at VIU as a student-athlete. She’s been the athletic director for eight years while doubling as a high school teacher. MORE

Six more supportive recovery beds scheduled

The Island Crisis Care Society will open a six-bed supportive recovery project this summer to provide stable housing, food, mental health resources and individualized support plans for up to 18 months at no cost to the individual. Society Director Corrie Corfield said a referral process is being finalized. MORE

55+ BC Games management confirmed by council

The Board of Directors is no in place for the 55+ BC Games in Nanaimo. President Diana Johnstone and Vice-President Mary Smith have named 11 individuals to serve as directors and all were approved by Nanaimo City Council on Monday, May 6. SEE THE FULL LIST.

QUOTABLE – A man who knows more than others, becomes lonely

This weather is just perfect

for hitting the waves, but before you do it's wise to sharpen your boating skills. The Nanoose Power and Sail Squadron has a free safe boating day at the Fairwinds Marina Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Coast Guard, Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue, and the Royal Canadian Navy will explain their roles out on the water, as well as offer safety lessons for boaters. You can get information on online or in-person courses, along with checking boating equipment and a marine-themed garage sale. MORE

Arrest warrants have been issued

for a former Nanaimo substitute teacher after he was charged with child pornography. Darrell Gilkes, 31, last known living in Ontario, is charged with possession and distributing and importing child pornography in Nanaimo in 2022. He was a teacher-on-call at a number of high schools during the 2022/23 school year. The charges followed a police raid at his rental suite in which several devices were seized and searched by investigators. He had been granted permission by a Nanaimo judge to relocate to Ontario to live with his parents while the police investigation continued. MORE

The first cruise ship in five years

docked in Nanaimo around 7 p.m. Thursday. The MV Seabourn Odyssey is homeward bound on 80-plus-day cruise which launched in Australia, continuing on to Hong Kong in late March with stops in China, South Korea, Japan and Alaska. It has about 350 passengers, many of whom have pre-booked trips to various activities and destinations across the region, including in Nanaimo. The is the first of two ships schedules for Nanaimo, with four more coming next summer. MORE

Multi-media commentator Rex Murphy has died

at age 77 following a battle with cancer. MORE. Our own commentator and former Newfound and Labrador Premier Brian Peckford reflects on Rex Murphy. HERE

QUOTABLE – I’m not the greatest cook, but I’m good at stirring the pot.

Organized crime recruitment rises in

Nanaimo high and elementary schools

Nanaimo RCMP are seeing more evidence of Organized crime groups stepping up recruitments in local schools. Insp. Andrew Burton noted the increase in the annual performance plan and future priorities too city council. He said recruiting is going on in high schools and sadly, in elementary schools. They recognize that the penalties for youth involvement in these types of crimes is less than as an adult. Burton said new clothing is often enough to entice youths to start selling items like vapes, cigarettes or even harder drugs. MORE

Government computer networks were recently hit with sophisticated cybersecurity incidents. Premier David Eby said the government is working closely with the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security (Cyber Centre) and other agencies to determine the extent of the incidents. There’s no evidence at this time that sensitive information has been compromised, adding, the investigation is ongoing to determine what information may have been accessed. MORE

Two Vancouver Island campgrounds are expanding. Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Campground is adding eight new walk-in sites. China Beach Provincial Campground near Jordan River will see 33 new campsites added: 22 drive-in sites and 11 walk-in sites. Those should be open for reservations beginning today. Many provincial sites are consistently booked up months in advance, and available spots have been hard to come by. MORE

Shai Ben Eli Illan, 30, has been sentenced to 9.5 years in prison after he pleaded guilty to seven drug trafficking charges and a pair of drug possession offences. Four of the counts involved fentanyl, while other counts included crystal meth, benzodiazepine, MDMA and ketamine. MORE

Go ahead, have a drink. The water supply on the Queen of Oak Bay is safe to drink after cleanup of a toxic chemical cleaner that was accidently poured into the vessel’s potable water supply. The vessel continued service through the day and into Tuesday evening, using bottled water. The water was deemed to be safe to drink and taps had been turned back on. By 7 p.m. Thursday. MORE

One person was taken to hospital after a multi-vehicle crash along the Nanaimo Parkway. Emergency services responded to the intersection with Aulds Road near noon on Wednesday after two vehicles, collided with a semi as they went through the lights. Northbound traffic was closed off and detoured to the Old Island Highway or through Lantzville. MORE

This sounds like a disaster in the making, there’s no minimum off-street parking mandated in the province’s new housing density regulations. The regulations undermine the city’s off-street parking requirements for multi-family developments. Some councillors were not thrilled with the changes but approved the necessary bylaw amendments. The provincial regulation doesn’t ban residential off-street parking in transit-oriented areas, but it does force municipalities to remove off-street parking space minimums, effectively leaving the decision up to developers on how many parking spaces to provide. MORE

It must be election time, ICBC is doling out money. Most drivers in the province will get a $110 rebate this year and rates will remain frozen until 2026. Strong investment and financial returns and the 2021 shift to the “enhanced care” model for providing health coverage for people involved in crashes has put the Crown corporation in a solid position to offer rebates. The last basic rate increase was 2019. President David Wong says preliminary financial results show ICBC will earn net income of $1.5 billion this year, which includes the $400 million cost of the rebates. MORE

Completion of the Trans Mountain pipeline changes the marine safety scenario for the West Coast. The Western Canada Marine Response Corporation heads an enhanced network of bases and staff on standby for the unexpected. The WCMRC base in Nanaimo Harbour is a regional hub with approximately 15 vessels with a maximum six-hour response. WCMRC communications manager Michael Lowry said their network of fulltime staff and vessels is enough to handle a 2,500 ton spill initially, including storage. MORE

Backyard Fest is back and it all goes down May 18-19 behind Sound Heritage. It’s touted as the Nanaimo music festival with tickets at $40 per day or $70 for the weekend, kids under 12 are free. There will be food, drinks and merchandise on site, and an amazing array of talented musicians performing all weekend.

From veteran political observer Alan Forseth here is the weekly candidate count update for each party as of May 6.

• Conservative Party of BC – 61 candidates nominated (+3)
https://www.conservativebc.ca/our_team

• BC United (former BC Liberal) – 51 candidates nominated (+1)
https://www.votebcunited.ca/team2024/

• BC Green Party – 17 candidates nominated (no change)
www.bcgreens.ca/candidates_2024

• BC NDP – 6 candidates nominated (+1)
www.bcndp.ca/releases

The next provincial election is October 19.

FROM THE WEB – The seldom-used city bike lanes are not a total loss – they create safe transit for the homeless with their shopping carts.

Public drug use banned,

'Safe Supply' remains

Open drug use is banned again, effective Tuesday. The federal government has revoked a three-year Criminal Code exemption for personal possession of drugs like heroin, cocaine and methamphetamines in public. "Safe Supply" and simple possession will still remain legal, it's only the open public use that's banned. Federal Mental Health and Addictions Minister Ya’ara Saks labelled it a health crisis, not a criminal one, adding communities need to be safe. Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth said when police are called where illegal and dangerous drug use is taking place, they will have the ability to compel a person to leave the area, seize the drugs if necessary, or arrest the person.  MORE

We’ve been waiting for this – we’re getting another tease of summer. Environment Canada forecasts a high-pressure system continuing well into the weekend, bringing with it a clear sky and higher-than-normal temperatures, reaching the low twenties by Thursday. Overnight temperatures will sit around 10 degrees. Let’s enjoy it while we can, another ridge is on the way with clouds late in the weekend. MORE

Get set to fork over an extra $200 or so after city council adopted the final 2024-2028 Financial Plan and 2024 Property Tax Rates bylaws. It boils down to a 7.7 per cent increase with 6.7 per cent to cover operating costs and one per cent for the General Asset Management Reserve. For the average home this adds up to $204 a year more for the City portion of your tax bill. Other jurisdictions like the school district, regional district and hospital board are on top of that. MORE

JUST A MINUTE – Canada Post has run out of money and digging the hole deeper and deeper – it has lost nearly $750 million year to date. It blames private companies for providing service at lower cost. So, the private companies are making a profit at a lower price while Canada Post is getting huge government subsidies and losing money. Something is bass akwards here.

QUOTABLE – If money is the root of all evil, why do they ask for it at church?

Ottawa reverses public drug use decriminalization immediately

Open drug use is banned again, effective Tuesday. The federal government has revoked a three-year Criminal Code exemption for personal possession of drugs like heroin, cocaine and methamphetamines in public. Simple possession will still remain legal, it's only the open public use that's banned. Federal Mental Health and Addictions Minister Ya’ara Saks labelled it a health crisis, not a criminal one, adding communities need to be safe. Premier David Eby said that principle is what the project was about. B.C. Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth said when police are called to a scene where illegal and dangerous drug use is taking place, they will have the ability to compel a person to leave the area, seize the drugs if necessary, or arrest the person if required. He said there are still expectations around safety, public spaces, in the coffee shop, on the bus, in the park, on the beach. MORE

Snuggle up, Nanaimo home owners will be a lot closer in the future. The City is looking to pre-zone 23,500 properties to handle new density legislation. City staff is trying to create new zoning and building amendment bylaw to accommodate new small-scale multi-unit housing legislation. The proposal calls for three new zoning classifications. R5 would cover three- and four-unit residential, for 22,000 properties. R14 is tailored to preserve the Old City Quarter’s character. An interim residential corridor zone meant to create even greater density than three or four units where appropriate. MORE

Nanaimo continues to rate in the top three for drug deaths. Drug use claimed 192 lives in our province in March and at least 572 died in the first three months this year. Nanaimo, Vancouver and Surrey continue to have the highest number of drug deaths in 2024. Fraser Health and Vancouver Coastal health authorities make up 51 per cent of all such deaths in 2024. The March figure shows an 11-per-cent decrease in lives lost from March 2023. The rate of death among females is climbing year over year. Fentanyl has been involved in 85 per cent of unregulated drug deaths.

Nanaimo Regional Transit will get more electric buses and charging infrastructure. Sixty-six electric buses are on order for nine communities that have transit electrification infrastructure projects getting started. BC Transit expects to install approximately 134 charging points over the next two years. The 66 buses will arrive in early 2025, completing in mid-2026. Costs are shared with the federal Government, the province and local governments. For more information about BC Transit, visit BCTransit.com.

Don’t jump out of your skin at 10:55 a.m. on Wednesday. That’s when the province will conduct its semi-annual test of the Alert Ready system. The alert will be sent to cell phones and interrupt radio and television broadcasts. The province uses alerts to send tsunami warnings as well as imminent threats from wildfires, floods and extreme heat. 22 alerts were issued during last year's record-breaking wildfire season, providing potentially life-saving information when people needed it. MORE

Practise makes perfect. That’s the message behind a mock disaster training exercise by Nanaimo Search and Rescue last weekend. More than 100 volunteers responded to an imagined white water rafting incident on the Nanaimo River.A dozen south coast teams took part, with the lead exercise involving 13 distressed rafters. The training exercise included a technical swift water rope rescue and K9 unit.MORE

London Drugs has reopened all of its stores Vancouver Island although there may be limitations at some locations. The company says it will not be able to fill new prescriptions for customers. London Drugs says it will continue to work to bring all of its services and products back to regular capacity as soon as possible. MORE

It may be curiosity but the initial response to the new Evo e-bike in Nanaimo has been positive. Similar to car sharing, Evo rental stations across the city let users log onto Evo’s app to unlock a bike with fees based on length of time. It is operated by BCAA and Evo, with a goal to get more people out of their cars for trips around the city. Leanne Buhler, of Evolve e-bike and e-scooter share for BCAA, says the response in just a few days has been positive. A UBC study found e-bike adoption has surged, reducing vehicle traffic 30 to 40 per cent. MORE

Transit bus riders can have their say on potential fare changes. RDN Transit seeks feedback on changes to various fixed routes.The ever-growing population is increasing demand for service, so a significant expansion is needed to improve accessibility and address service demands. The survey is available online until May 31 HERE. Paper copies are available at the RDN Transit Office on Applecross. For more information about trip planning, schedules and to sign up for customer alerts, visit bctransit.com/nanaimo.

Just so you know, the City is not conducting a phone survey on water quality. If you get a phone call from someone claiming to be from the City saying they are doing a water quality survey, just hang up. (I know, I’m rude, but I whistle into the phone when I get one of these.)

QUOTABLE – Now that April Fool’s day is over for another year, everything on the internet is true again.

The history of Japanese people in Nanaimo will come to life in two new exhibits at the Nanaimo Museum. More than 40 Japanese-Canadian families lived in Nanaimo until the War Measures Act was introduced in 1941 forcing many families out.  The exhibits focus on the contributions made by Japanese-Canadians, the tragedy and injustice of the 1940s internment camps. It will be on display until early September. The Museum is working with Seven Potatoes Society,  which is the Central Vancouver Island Japanese Canadian Cultural Society. MORE

A new cancer centre will create the need for additional treatment services at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital. Island Health is seeking funding from the district hospital board for projects, including the oncology network and chemotherapy. The hospital district passed a $48-million budget this year, with a 28.2-per cent increase to prepare for a number of future projects, including the cancer centre and a new patient tower. Chairman Ian Thorpe said the cancer centre and the oncology network requests are not in the hospital district’s 2024 budget.  MORE

WestJet and its mechanics union have reached a tentative agreement, avoiding a possible strike. WestJet had issued a 72-hour lockout notice on Saturday to the union, saying it was response to AMFA announcing a strike vote. MORE

QUOTABLE – If vegetables are so good for you, why do vegans always try to make them taste like meat?

North Nanaimo London Drugs

store part of gradual reopening

London Drugs North Town Centre store is open as the company begins started reopening some of its stores on Vancouver Island. London Drugs said it was gradually reopening its stores in Western Canada but did not specify which locations had reopened, saying that it wanted to slowly restart its core services. The return to service comes about a week after a cybersecurity incident closed down all locations across Western Canada.

Some with grey hair, some with less hair, 39 graduates of the 1964 graduating class of NDSS recently got together for lunch and memories at a local restaurant. The reunion was on hold since 2020, due to Covid. There were tall tales and funny anecdotes and teachers were remembered and past pranks came to light. Grads came from as far away as Kamloops. And there will be a sixtieth anniversary later this year.

Airline schedule reliability could be tested this week after WestJet issued a lockout notice to the union representing aircraft maintenance engineers. The 72-hour lockout notice affects aircraft mechanics and could result in awork stoppage as early as Tuesday. They have been in negotiations since September 2023. The airline said a potential work stoppage does not necessarily mean travel disruptions will occur, but it is taking some steps to mitigate impacts. MORE

Crews are working an out-of-control wildfire 90 kilometres west of Williams Lake in the Central Interior. The BC Wildfire Service reported the fire was discovered Friday afternoon and grew to 101 hectares by Saturday morning. It is suspected to be human-caused. MORE

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.

‘Precipitation deficit’: rivers recede as B.C. feeling ongoing drought trend

‘Sophisticated cybersecurity incidents’ hit B.C. government networks

Screen saver: how to stop your late-night doomscrolling habit

Garland nets winner as Canucks roar back, stun Oilers with 5-4 Game 1 win

Kelowna city councillor B.C. NDP’s newest candidate

Canadian Premier League’s inaugural

‘On Tour’ series to kick off in Kelowna

RCMP issue public safety warning

due to gang conflict in Kamloops

Fatal floatplane crash near Tofino

caused by unexpected wake or object

Collaboration key in keeping Canuck viewing parties family-friendly

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

City's spray parks are open now

The water is flowing at the city’s water spray parks, in time for the hottest weekend of the year. Harewood Centennial Park, Departure Bay Centennial Park, Mansfield Park and Deverill Square are expecting thousands over the weekend as temperatures reach near-record levels. City manager of parks operations Charlotte Davis said final tests were completed Friday and the parks are open and ready for use this summer. MORE

Quist wins high school leadership award

A great big congrats to Breanne Quist for winning the 2024 Women in Sports & Leadership Award from BC School Sports, comprised of 450 schools in the province. Breanne is the athletic director and a high school teacher at the Nanaimo Christian School. The Ladysmith native played virtually any sport she could, with basketball eventually being her preferred passion as she obtained her teaching degree at VIU as a student-athlete. She’s been the athletic director for eight years while doubling as a high school teacher. MORE

Six more supportive recovery beds scheduled

The Island Crisis Care Society will open a six-bed supportive recovery project this summer to provide stable housing, food, mental health resources and individualized support plans for up to 18 months at no cost to the individual. Society Director Corrie Corfield said a referral process is being finalized. MORE

55+ BC Games management confirmed by council

The Board of Directors is no in place for the 55+ BC Games in Nanaimo. President Diana Johnstone and Vice-President Mary Smith have named 11 individuals to serve as directors and all were approved by Nanaimo City Council on Monday, May 6. SEE THE FULL LIST.

QUOTABLE – A man who knows more than others, becomes lonely

This weather is just perfect

for hitting the waves, but before you do it's wise to sharpen your boating skills. The Nanoose Power and Sail Squadron has a free safe boating day at the Fairwinds Marina Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Coast Guard, Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue, and the Royal Canadian Navy will explain their roles out on the water, as well as offer safety lessons for boaters. You can get information on online or in-person courses, along with checking boating equipment and a marine-themed garage sale. MORE

Arrest warrants have been issued

for a former Nanaimo substitute teacher after he was charged with child pornography. Darrell Gilkes, 31, last known living in Ontario, is charged with possession and distributing and importing child pornography in Nanaimo in 2022. He was a teacher-on-call at a number of high schools during the 2022/23 school year. The charges followed a police raid at his rental suite in which several devices were seized and searched by investigators. He had been granted permission by a Nanaimo judge to relocate to Ontario to live with his parents while the police investigation continued. MORE

The first cruise ship in five years

docked in Nanaimo around 7 p.m. Thursday. The MV Seabourn Odyssey is homeward bound on 80-plus-day cruise which launched in Australia, continuing on to Hong Kong in late March with stops in China, South Korea, Japan and Alaska. It has about 350 passengers, many of whom have pre-booked trips to various activities and destinations across the region, including in Nanaimo. The is the first of two ships schedules for Nanaimo, with four more coming next summer. MORE

Multi-media commentator Rex Murphy has died

at age 77 following a battle with cancer. MORE. Our own commentator and former Newfound and Labrador Premier Brian Peckford reflects on Rex Murphy. HERE

QUOTABLE – I’m not the greatest cook, but I’m good at stirring the pot.

Organized crime recruitment rises in

Nanaimo high and elementary schools

Nanaimo RCMP are seeing more evidence of Organized crime groups stepping up recruitments in local schools. Insp. Andrew Burton noted the increase in the annual performance plan and future priorities too city council. He said recruiting is going on in high schools and sadly, in elementary schools. They recognize that the penalties for youth involvement in these types of crimes is less than as an adult. Burton said new clothing is often enough to entice youths to start selling items like vapes, cigarettes or even harder drugs. MORE

Government computer networks were recently hit with sophisticated cybersecurity incidents. Premier David Eby said the government is working closely with the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security (Cyber Centre) and other agencies to determine the extent of the incidents. There’s no evidence at this time that sensitive information has been compromised, adding, the investigation is ongoing to determine what information may have been accessed. MORE

Two Vancouver Island campgrounds are expanding. Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Campground is adding eight new walk-in sites. China Beach Provincial Campground near Jordan River will see 33 new campsites added: 22 drive-in sites and 11 walk-in sites. Those should be open for reservations beginning today. Many provincial sites are consistently booked up months in advance, and available spots have been hard to come by. MORE

Shai Ben Eli Illan, 30, has been sentenced to 9.5 years in prison after he pleaded guilty to seven drug trafficking charges and a pair of drug possession offences. Four of the counts involved fentanyl, while other counts included crystal meth, benzodiazepine, MDMA and ketamine. MORE

Go ahead, have a drink. The water supply on the Queen of Oak Bay is safe to drink after cleanup of a toxic chemical cleaner that was accidently poured into the vessel’s potable water supply. The vessel continued service through the day and into Tuesday evening, using bottled water. The water was deemed to be safe to drink and taps had been turned back on. By 7 p.m. Thursday. MORE

One person was taken to hospital after a multi-vehicle crash along the Nanaimo Parkway. Emergency services responded to the intersection with Aulds Road near noon on Wednesday after two vehicles, collided with a semi as they went through the lights. Northbound traffic was closed off and detoured to the Old Island Highway or through Lantzville. MORE

This sounds like a disaster in the making, there’s no minimum off-street parking mandated in the province’s new housing density regulations. The regulations undermine the city’s off-street parking requirements for multi-family developments. Some councillors were not thrilled with the changes but approved the necessary bylaw amendments. The provincial regulation doesn’t ban residential off-street parking in transit-oriented areas, but it does force municipalities to remove off-street parking space minimums, effectively leaving the decision up to developers on how many parking spaces to provide. MORE

It must be election time, ICBC is doling out money. Most drivers in the province will get a $110 rebate this year and rates will remain frozen until 2026. Strong investment and financial returns and the 2021 shift to the “enhanced care” model for providing health coverage for people involved in crashes has put the Crown corporation in a solid position to offer rebates. The last basic rate increase was 2019. President David Wong says preliminary financial results show ICBC will earn net income of $1.5 billion this year, which includes the $400 million cost of the rebates. MORE

Completion of the Trans Mountain pipeline changes the marine safety scenario for the West Coast. The Western Canada Marine Response Corporation heads an enhanced network of bases and staff on standby for the unexpected. The WCMRC base in Nanaimo Harbour is a regional hub with approximately 15 vessels with a maximum six-hour response. WCMRC communications manager Michael Lowry said their network of fulltime staff and vessels is enough to handle a 2,500 ton spill initially, including storage. MORE

Backyard Fest is back and it all goes down May 18-19 behind Sound Heritage. It’s touted as the Nanaimo music festival with tickets at $40 per day or $70 for the weekend, kids under 12 are free. There will be food, drinks and merchandise on site, and an amazing array of talented musicians performing all weekend.

From veteran political observer Alan Forseth here is the weekly candidate count update for each party as of May 6.

• Conservative Party of BC – 61 candidates nominated (+3)
https://www.conservativebc.ca/our_team

• BC United (former BC Liberal) – 51 candidates nominated (+1)
https://www.votebcunited.ca/team2024/

• BC Green Party – 17 candidates nominated (no change)
www.bcgreens.ca/candidates_2024

• BC NDP – 6 candidates nominated (+1)
www.bcndp.ca/releases

The next provincial election is October 19.

FROM THE WEB – The seldom-used city bike lanes are not a total loss – they create safe transit for the homeless with their shopping carts.

Public drug use banned,

'Safe Supply' remains

Open drug use is banned again, effective Tuesday. The federal government has revoked a three-year Criminal Code exemption for personal possession of drugs like heroin, cocaine and methamphetamines in public. "Safe Supply" and simple possession will still remain legal, it's only the open public use that's banned. Federal Mental Health and Addictions Minister Ya’ara Saks labelled it a health crisis, not a criminal one, adding communities need to be safe. Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth said when police are called where illegal and dangerous drug use is taking place, they will have the ability to compel a person to leave the area, seize the drugs if necessary, or arrest the person.  MORE

We’ve been waiting for this – we’re getting another tease of summer. Environment Canada forecasts a high-pressure system continuing well into the weekend, bringing with it a clear sky and higher-than-normal temperatures, reaching the low twenties by Thursday. Overnight temperatures will sit around 10 degrees. Let’s enjoy it while we can, another ridge is on the way with clouds late in the weekend. MORE

Get set to fork over an extra $200 or so after city council adopted the final 2024-2028 Financial Plan and 2024 Property Tax Rates bylaws. It boils down to a 7.7 per cent increase with 6.7 per cent to cover operating costs and one per cent for the General Asset Management Reserve. For the average home this adds up to $204 a year more for the City portion of your tax bill. Other jurisdictions like the school district, regional district and hospital board are on top of that. MORE

JUST A MINUTE – Canada Post has run out of money and digging the hole deeper and deeper – it has lost nearly $750 million year to date. It blames private companies for providing service at lower cost. So, the private companies are making a profit at a lower price while Canada Post is getting huge government subsidies and losing money. Something is bass akwards here.

QUOTABLE – If money is the root of all evil, why do they ask for it at church?

Ottawa reverses public drug use decriminalization immediately

Open drug use is banned again, effective Tuesday. The federal government has revoked a three-year Criminal Code exemption for personal possession of drugs like heroin, cocaine and methamphetamines in public. Simple possession will still remain legal, it's only the open public use that's banned. Federal Mental Health and Addictions Minister Ya’ara Saks labelled it a health crisis, not a criminal one, adding communities need to be safe. Premier David Eby said that principle is what the project was about. B.C. Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth said when police are called to a scene where illegal and dangerous drug use is taking place, they will have the ability to compel a person to leave the area, seize the drugs if necessary, or arrest the person if required. He said there are still expectations around safety, public spaces, in the coffee shop, on the bus, in the park, on the beach. MORE

Snuggle up, Nanaimo home owners will be a lot closer in the future. The City is looking to pre-zone 23,500 properties to handle new density legislation. City staff is trying to create new zoning and building amendment bylaw to accommodate new small-scale multi-unit housing legislation. The proposal calls for three new zoning classifications. R5 would cover three- and four-unit residential, for 22,000 properties. R14 is tailored to preserve the Old City Quarter’s character. An interim residential corridor zone meant to create even greater density than three or four units where appropriate. MORE

Nanaimo continues to rate in the top three for drug deaths. Drug use claimed 192 lives in our province in March and at least 572 died in the first three months this year. Nanaimo, Vancouver and Surrey continue to have the highest number of drug deaths in 2024. Fraser Health and Vancouver Coastal health authorities make up 51 per cent of all such deaths in 2024. The March figure shows an 11-per-cent decrease in lives lost from March 2023. The rate of death among females is climbing year over year. Fentanyl has been involved in 85 per cent of unregulated drug deaths.

Nanaimo Regional Transit will get more electric buses and charging infrastructure. Sixty-six electric buses are on order for nine communities that have transit electrification infrastructure projects getting started. BC Transit expects to install approximately 134 charging points over the next two years. The 66 buses will arrive in early 2025, completing in mid-2026. Costs are shared with the federal Government, the province and local governments. For more information about BC Transit, visit BCTransit.com.

Don’t jump out of your skin at 10:55 a.m. on Wednesday. That’s when the province will conduct its semi-annual test of the Alert Ready system. The alert will be sent to cell phones and interrupt radio and television broadcasts. The province uses alerts to send tsunami warnings as well as imminent threats from wildfires, floods and extreme heat. 22 alerts were issued during last year's record-breaking wildfire season, providing potentially life-saving information when people needed it. MORE

Practise makes perfect. That’s the message behind a mock disaster training exercise by Nanaimo Search and Rescue last weekend. More than 100 volunteers responded to an imagined white water rafting incident on the Nanaimo River.A dozen south coast teams took part, with the lead exercise involving 13 distressed rafters. The training exercise included a technical swift water rope rescue and K9 unit.MORE

London Drugs has reopened all of its stores Vancouver Island although there may be limitations at some locations. The company says it will not be able to fill new prescriptions for customers. London Drugs says it will continue to work to bring all of its services and products back to regular capacity as soon as possible. MORE

It may be curiosity but the initial response to the new Evo e-bike in Nanaimo has been positive. Similar to car sharing, Evo rental stations across the city let users log onto Evo’s app to unlock a bike with fees based on length of time. It is operated by BCAA and Evo, with a goal to get more people out of their cars for trips around the city. Leanne Buhler, of Evolve e-bike and e-scooter share for BCAA, says the response in just a few days has been positive. A UBC study found e-bike adoption has surged, reducing vehicle traffic 30 to 40 per cent. MORE

Transit bus riders can have their say on potential fare changes. RDN Transit seeks feedback on changes to various fixed routes.The ever-growing population is increasing demand for service, so a significant expansion is needed to improve accessibility and address service demands. The survey is available online until May 31 HERE. Paper copies are available at the RDN Transit Office on Applecross. For more information about trip planning, schedules and to sign up for customer alerts, visit bctransit.com/nanaimo.

Just so you know, the City is not conducting a phone survey on water quality. If you get a phone call from someone claiming to be from the City saying they are doing a water quality survey, just hang up. (I know, I’m rude, but I whistle into the phone when I get one of these.)

QUOTABLE – Now that April Fool’s day is over for another year, everything on the internet is true again.

The history of Japanese people in Nanaimo will come to life in two new exhibits at the Nanaimo Museum. More than 40 Japanese-Canadian families lived in Nanaimo until the War Measures Act was introduced in 1941 forcing many families out.  The exhibits focus on the contributions made by Japanese-Canadians, the tragedy and injustice of the 1940s internment camps. It will be on display until early September. The Museum is working with Seven Potatoes Society,  which is the Central Vancouver Island Japanese Canadian Cultural Society. MORE

A new cancer centre will create the need for additional treatment services at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital. Island Health is seeking funding from the district hospital board for projects, including the oncology network and chemotherapy. The hospital district passed a $48-million budget this year, with a 28.2-per cent increase to prepare for a number of future projects, including the cancer centre and a new patient tower. Chairman Ian Thorpe said the cancer centre and the oncology network requests are not in the hospital district’s 2024 budget.  MORE

WestJet and its mechanics union have reached a tentative agreement, avoiding a possible strike. WestJet had issued a 72-hour lockout notice on Saturday to the union, saying it was response to AMFA announcing a strike vote. MORE

QUOTABLE – If vegetables are so good for you, why do vegans always try to make them taste like meat?

North Nanaimo London Drugs

store part of gradual reopening

London Drugs North Town Centre store is open as the company begins started reopening some of its stores on Vancouver Island. London Drugs said it was gradually reopening its stores in Western Canada but did not specify which locations had reopened, saying that it wanted to slowly restart its core services. The return to service comes about a week after a cybersecurity incident closed down all locations across Western Canada.

Some with grey hair, some with less hair, 39 graduates of the 1964 graduating class of NDSS recently got together for lunch and memories at a local restaurant. The reunion was on hold since 2020, due to Covid. There were tall tales and funny anecdotes and teachers were remembered and past pranks came to light. Grads came from as far away as Kamloops. And there will be a sixtieth anniversary later this year.

Airline schedule reliability could be tested this week after WestJet issued a lockout notice to the union representing aircraft maintenance engineers. The 72-hour lockout notice affects aircraft mechanics and could result in awork stoppage as early as Tuesday. They have been in negotiations since September 2023. The airline said a potential work stoppage does not necessarily mean travel disruptions will occur, but it is taking some steps to mitigate impacts. MORE

Crews are working an out-of-control wildfire 90 kilometres west of Williams Lake in the Central Interior. The BC Wildfire Service reported the fire was discovered Friday afternoon and grew to 101 hectares by Saturday morning. It is suspected to be human-caused. MORE

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.

‘Precipitation deficit’: rivers recede as B.C. feeling ongoing drought trend

‘Sophisticated cybersecurity incidents’ hit B.C. government networks

Screen saver: how to stop your late-night doomscrolling habit

Garland nets winner as Canucks roar back, stun Oilers with 5-4 Game 1 win

Kelowna city councillor B.C. NDP’s newest candidate

Canadian Premier League’s inaugural

‘On Tour’ series to kick off in Kelowna

RCMP issue public safety warning

due to gang conflict in Kamloops

Fatal floatplane crash near Tofino

caused by unexpected wake or object

Collaboration key in keeping Canuck viewing parties family-friendly

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