Motorcylist airlifted to Victoria after collision

A 23-year-old man was airlifted to Victoria with after his motorcycle crashed with a car in Nanaimo last Thursday night. The incident happened shortly after 7:30 p.m. at Howard Avenue and Fifth Street, when an older model Suzuki motorcycle and a Hyundai Sonata collided. R/Cont. Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP said the driver, a 70-year-old woman, remained at the scene and cooperated with police.

Arson suspected in fire at motorhome

Arson is suspected after a motorhome went up in flames Wednesday evening. Emergency crews responded to the 600 block of Albert Street  around 8:30 p.m. and got the fire under control. There were no injuries. A man was reported to have fled the scene as flames shot from the motorhome. MORE

Special police enforcement unit brought in

Nanaimo RCMP teamed up with the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit of B.C. last weekend to target people in weapons and gang-related crimes. That followed recent high-profile and violent incidents, local Mounties teamed up with a uniquely trained unit over the weekend. The unit regularly travels the province, supporting duty officers and providing valuable training and experience. Staff Sgt. Lindsey Houghton said any time there are flare-ups or increases in gun and gang-related violence. MORE

Dedicated phone line for mental health services

Community-based mental health and substance use services are now just a phone call away afrter Island Health established a dedicated phone number. The new Mental Health and Substance Use Service Link (1-888-885-8824) helps people navigate and connect to the right resources such as harm reduction services, drug-poisoning prevention, addiction medicine, withdrawal management, and treatment and recovery services. MORE

Gabriola Island students will not be shuffled

Gabriola Island students are staying where they are – at NDSS despite crowding at the school. NDSS has 1,636 students, nearly 100 above capacity, with forecasts of 1,680 student for 2023-24 and 1,700 in 2024-25. SD68. After initial public consultation staff has recommended more time for further consultation and information-gathering. Changing Gabriola Island’s catchment high school from NDSS to Cedar Secondary was an option, but Gabriolans opposed it overwhelmingly. MORE

Hiring challenges hit recreation programs

No matter where you turn, there are staff shortages. The city’s parks and recreation department is having a tough time filling vacancies in the aquatics department. Businesses, industries and municipalities continue to struggle with as a result of the pandemic. That plays havoc with scheduling spring and summer sessions due to a shorage of lifeguards and instructors. Some aquatic fitness program have not been included in the spring-summer activity guide. However, to days, no programs have been cancelled. MORE

When they run out of news, some media outlets just recycle old stories. Such appears to be the case with residents being alarmed over asbestos cement pipes in our water system. People are expressing alarm on social media.

I reported on this a couple of years ago when the story first came to light, and there is nothing to worry about. Bill Sims, the city’s director of engineering and public works, told me at the time that our water supply was as safe as we could wish for. He was head of the water department for many years and nobody would know more about the topic than he would.

I recall the late Coun. Larry McNabb, when was chairman of the water board, constantly boasting Nanaimo has the best tap water in North America.

Nanaimo has more than 100 kilometres of asbestos cement pipes, but the city has tested for asbestos in the drinking water since the 1990s. We have a multi-million dollar water treatment plant just to make sure.

Mayor Leonard Krog agrees with McNabb, he’s confident residents are safe. He told media that the risk to the public is zero to nil.

“People are safe to drink Nanaimo's water, which is frankly, and I say with pride, about the best water you'll find anywhere in North America,” said Krog.

So chill out, our water is safe. Larry said so.

Community safety officers keeping busy

The dozen community safety officers hired by the City last year have been busy, handling 3,465 calls for service between last October and February. They were tasked to address the out-of-control social disorder and strengthen connections with homeless populations. Bylaw Services Manager Dave LaBerge updated councillors on  Monday. He suggested doubling the size of the team would still keep them all busy. “MORE

Car crashes through worksite at 131 km/h, driver arrested

Almost like a movie script, a suspected impaired driver faces multiple charges after a car crashed through a highway work site and a police officer was assaulted Wednesday morning. Police say the car was clocked at 131 km/h in 50 km/h construction zone. The driver sped past traffic control flaggers. R/Const. Gary O’Brien said an officer was monitoring traffic because the Third Street exit was closed. “The driver continued through the construction site where there’s a ditch in the road,” O’Brien said. The car went through the ditch, became airborne and landed, blowing out all four of its tires. The suspect then tried to flee, chased by the cop who was then confronted into fighting. Construction workers helped out and additional police soon took the man into custody. MORE

VI Raiders inject new vitality on board of directors

Vancouver Island Raiders will field a team of veterans and some rookies – in the board room this year. The club has appointment of 11 new directors bringing the number to 15, including Luke Antrim as Director of Technology and Social Media. He brings his leadership and expertise from Amazon Canada. Josh Williams was re-elected for the eighth year and promoted to VP and Director of Football Operations. On the field, activities and operations are fronted by the new specialists, General Manager Shawn Arabsky and Head of Football Operations Andrew Harris,, along with the rest of the coaching staff. Kabel Atwall remains as president.

House fire claims life at Northwest Bay

One person has died in a house fire in the Northwest Bay area early Wednesday morning. Nanoose Bay Volunteer Fire Department had multiple vehicles on the scene around 5:00 a.m. to a home in the 2200 block of Northwest Bay Rd. When fire crews arrived, people living in the home met them outside and said one of their family members was still unaccounted for. Once the fire was extinguished, police confirmed that one person died in the fire. MORE

Sex assault ends in quick arrest with social media help

A sex assault suspect was identified and arrested within ninety minutes with the help of social media. The incident occurred at midday near 55 Victoria Road. The 27-year female victime told police the suspect grabbed her around the neck then groped her. She broke free and ran to her nearby workplace. A fellow employee took a picture of the suspect before he ran away. She posted the picture of the suspect to social media. Numerous police officers responded and within minutes tips poured in leading to the suspect being identified, resulting in him being located at a nearby home and arrested without incident. MORE

Temporary fire structure won’t go to waste

Recycle and reuse appears to be the plan for the temporary structure set up during construction of the new downtown fire hall. It will be permanently set up to house firefighting vehicles behind Fire Station 2 on Labieux Road. With new equipment on the way and a need for more storage space, it will be set up permanently behind in the Vancouver Island Emergency Response Academy training facility on Labieux Road behind Fire Station 2. MORE

Man in homeless camps suffers burns in tent fire

A man suffered burns in a fire in a homeless encampment Tuesday morning. Nanaimo Fire Rescue responded after reports of heavy smoke and the sounds of explosions coming from the camp  in a wooded area between Wisteria Place and Albion Street. The man suffered burns on his hands. MORE

Fire destroys home in rural south Nanaimo

A home in the Extension area was destroyed by a fire Tuesday morning. Cranberry Fire Department attended along with North Cedar Fire Department, to provide mutual aid to Extension Volunteer Fire Department. Cranberry Fire Chief Ron Gueulette said structure fire completely engulfed the roughly 3,000-square-foot home. MORE

Hospital Foundation makes record donation

Nanaimo Regional General Hospital got a record cash injection Monday. The Nanaimo Hospital Auxiliary presented $600,000 to purchase essential equipment for patient care and comfort, as well as hospital departments. The hospital has designated $174,500 for a new state-of-the-art ultrasound machine for maternal-fetal medicine services. Other allocations include $80,000 split between 23 hospital departments and $344,000 for 22 different patient comfort items from wi-fi services to new transport chairs and beds. MORE

Work has begun to upgrade Albert Street

Albert/Fourth Street is getting a full makeover. City crews have begun replacing aging water mains, a new fish-friendly culvert for Cat Stream, sanitary sewer mains, and safety and roadway improvements on Albert Street between Pine and Milton Streets. That includes replacing an aging steel watermain and adding a new one on Pine Street to improve water quality and available flow for firefighting. It might be a good idea to find an alternate route while work is under way. FULL REPORT

Mid-Island athletes bring home Winter Games medals

Mid-Island athletes scored well in the BC Winter Games in Vernon. More than two dozen athletes from Ladysmith to Qualicum Beach competed at the three-day event beginning Friday, March 24. Local athletes brought home two gold, five silver and four bronze medals from competitions in an array of sports. Check out all the WINNERS.

It never ceases to amaze that neophyte politicians come out in high dudgeon on issues expressing concern without offering solutions. It’s always easier to deflect blame onto someone else.

A recent staff-written news release from a politician expounded about how the crime, homelessness, drugs and mental illness is all Stephen Harper’s fault. News flash, Harper has not been prime minister since 2015.

Talk is cheap. Not to let a good smear go to waste, that news release switched gears and tried to double down by targeting Pierre Poilievre, the new leader of that party. Blame the past and the future while offering no solutions for the present.

Anyone can find issues, finding solutions is the hard part. The real question is what are you going to do to offer solutions, and when?

Fatality reported in fire at empty former clinic

One man died in a fire at the former Caledonian Clinic at the corner of Wallace Street and Campbell Street early Sunday morning. Several others escaped the fire which was spotted by two RCMP officers on regular patrol. Nanaimo Fire Rescue responded with three engines and two trucks to douse the flames. Forensic investigators are sifting through evidence near an entrance. MORE

600-home development taking shape

Oyster Bay will be the future home of 600 homes in a phased development. The first stage will have 35 serviced building lots – one single-family home under construction and 10 of the lots have been sold to date. The Owl’s Hollow development has been in the works for some time by the Coast Salish Development Corporation, the economic development branch of the Stz’uminus First Nation. Lot prices start at $275,000. MORE

Man charged in downtown shooting of businessman

Craig Edward Truckle has been charged with one count of pointing a firearm at another person in relation to a shooting which left a business owner in serious condition in hospital. Clint Smith, who was shot several times on March 12, praised hospital staff for saving his life. He has gone through three surgeries and was in a medical-induced coma while the professionals at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital worked to save his life. MORE

Local Rotary Clubs establish endowment for VIU students

Greater Nanaimo’s five Rotary Clubs have established a $32,000 endowment fund. The VIU Foundation added $16,000. Bursaries between $1,000 and $2,000 will be available to students who have demonstrated academic achievement as well as service to their community.

Lantzville tax increase reduced to zero

A provisional 11-per-cent tax increase has dwindle down to zero for Lantzville taxpayers. District council unanimously passed third reading of the 2023-27 financial plan after whittling down the initial proposed tax increase of 11 per cent. Coun. Jonathan Lerner said the zero pe cent sends a message that councillors care about the tough times people are experiencing. Her added that zero doesn’t mean that nothing is happening; there’s a lot happening in the community. MORE

Resident Alien shines spotlight on Ladysmith

You can’t just randomly drop in at a movie set and expect to become a movie start. Production crews are back Ladysmith to film the third season of Resident Alien, a sci-fi comedy TV show depicting an alien sent to Earth to wipe out humanity and who takes the identity of a physician. From now through to March 31, downtown Ladysmith transform various locations along First Avenue and Roberts Street. They’re using multiple locations around town motorists can expect delays and temporary closures in filming areas downtown. MORE

Here's some good news for a change

it’s a great restart for the COCO Café on Cedar Road which has reopened after a little down time. The café is popular for its community service  employing people with varying abilities. General Manager Marc Taschereau says they wanted to refocus on the core cause which was providing employment and socialization opportunities to people of varying abilities,” he said. There’s a men of breakfast and lunch menu items, which  are easier to repare, making a better fit for their mix of 25 full and part-time staff.

Nanaimo woman sought after ATM thefts

RCMP are looking for a Nanaimo woman believed to be involved in several automated banking machine thefts in the Fraser Valley. Investigators seized cash and high-value assets from a residence in the 2600 block of Barnes Road in Nanaimo. Four incidents involved a woman pretending to be a janitor. Each time she reportedly stole large amounts of cash from the ATMs. Anyone with information is asked to call the Chilliwack RCMP at 604-792-4611 and reference file No. 2021-32517. MORE

Hospital getting high-acuity care unit

Patients at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital will soon have greater access to critical care. Construction has begun on a new 12-bed intensive care unit which will include a 12-bed high-acuity unit. That will add six new critical care beds over all. The ICU is for patients with life-threatening cases while an HAU requires fewer resources but provides more acute care and closer monitoring than other hospital wards. The $18.5-million cost brings the total price tag to $60.1 million. The three local MLAs were on hand for the launch. MORE.

Province alots $45 million to upgrade libraries

Public library users are getting modernized technology, enhanced programs and services, and better access to information through $45 million in provincial funding. All 71 B.C. public libraries and organizations that help libraries deliver their services will get one-time grants totalling $45 million. This will give libraries flexibility to address local priorities, including longer hours, bigger digital collections and better access to literacy and lifelong learning opportunities. Nanaimo councillor Erin Hemmens is the chair of the Vancouver Island Regional Library board.

Inflation drives up cost of new fire truck

Inflation hits everywhere, and the city is no exception. It has driven up the price for a new fire truck for the city. The same basic vehicle as other trucks already in service is now nearly $400,000 more at $1.6 million from the previously budgeted $1.2 million. Fire chief Tim Doyle said market pressures are skewing prices. He said the costs  to build fire trucks is sharply increasing. He cited  supply chain issues, new emissions standards and global industrialization that has triggered a boom in demand for fire trucks. MORE

Brother 12 returning to Nanaimo stage

The Cult of Brother 12, a musical dark comedy, returns to Nanaimo in an expanded new production, March 30 to April 2. It is a witty, irreverent, and very tuneful take on the story of the spiritual leader and con man who, in the 1920s, drew acolytes to Valdes Island from around the world. Malaspina Theatre at Vancouver Island University. For tickets, go HERE

Mayor Leonard Krog is no lone voice in his calls for help from higher levels of government. Brain injury researchers and advocates are joining Krog’s repeated calls for help with mental health, addictions, brain injury and the homeless crisis. The mayor said municipalities need help dealing with he significant mental health issues, and they need firm announcements and secure facilities and treatment. The Nanaimo Brain Injury Society fully supports those calls for action, saying the number of people with brain injuries in the criminal justice system is high. MORE

The City is looking for 11 volunteer members-at-large for the Advisory Committee on Accessibility and Inclusiveness. The committee promotes social and political equity within existing and proposed City plans, policies, bylaws and infrastructure and make recommendations to ensure that the City is inclusive and accommodating to citizens of all ages, abilities and walks of life. The term for the committee will end October, 2026. If you are interested in serving, visit the City website to review the terms of reference before submitting an application. MORE

You could say Gary Korpan is as stubborn as a mule, and you might be right when it comes to gas franchise fees some British Columbians have been paying while others haven’t. Gary is fed up with inaction by politicians so now he’s taking his case directly to major investigative bodies such as W5, The Fifth Estate, MarketPlace, and journalists at national publications. He's hoping they trigger some action that politicians have not. MORE

It's not as though the legal system has no place to send offenders, the province’s largest jail has lots of room. The jail in Oliver is at only 20 per cent of capacity despite an increase in intakes. But the city of Penticton wants to know how many prisoners are being released in Penticton since the beginning of last year. The report indicates most of the released prisoners are sent back to their own communities, but council issn’t buying it. MORE

Stan Pottie doesn’t take guff from anyone, and now he’s facing a count of mischief under $5,000 as a result. It seems Stan’s truck was stolen and when he saw one that looked like it he reportedly took matters in his own hands and smashed the window of the truck, which turned out not to be his. Stan’s first appearance in provincial court is scheduled for April 25. MORE 

We saw all the reports from the U.S. last summer of massive scams based on Cryptocurrency. British Columbia is not immune, losses soared to nearly $24 million in 2022, reports the B.C. Securities Commission. That was almost triple from the year before. But experts say the numbers are likely much higher. Always remember, if promises of high returns on investment seem too good to be true, they probably are. MORE

Don’t take the law into your own hands. That’s the advice from RCMP for people trying to reclaim their stolen property. R/Cst. Gary O’Brien said it’s not worth the risk, regardless of where it’s located. “That’s an extremely dangerous, volatile situation that people are putting themselves in, and it’s not worth it. At the end of the day, you’re safety and well-being are more important than anything else,” O’Brien says. Police want people to call the local detachment for help getting stolen property back, because it must be done in a lawful way. MORE

A school district employee may have been ensnared in a child predator-shaming Facebook group trying to make contact with a 14-year-old boy. The employee has been put on leave by the school district. Screenshots of text messages and a video of the meeting were posted to the South Island Predator Publishing Facebook group, where members lure child predators, catch them on video and publicly out them on social media. RCMP were contacted by the school district. MORE

The City's Engineering and Public Works department begins its annual water main flushing program on March 20, 2023. Flushing is expected to start in the south end of Nanaimo. While this program is underway water users may see short periods of low pressure and water may be discoloured. Water discolouration during the flushing program is temporary and is not a health hazard. For more information about the water main flushing program, visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/waterflushing.

When opportunity knocks, kick the door down. Lantzville goaltender Dyan Ferguson was called up from the minors by the Ottawa Senators and he promptly put an exclamation mark as he made 48 saves in his first NHL start as Ottawa beat the Pittsburgh Penguins 2-1. Senators defenceman Jake Sanderson was in awe. “They got 50 shots or something? He was dialed in right from puck drop. I could tell just looking at his eyes.” MORE

You may have seen what looked like a spectacular accident on the highway south of Nanaimo yesterday afternoon. Two pickup trucks were involved in a T-bone crash. Both drivers were examined by paramedics, and thankfully neither needed hospital treatment. MORE

Your luck may change for the better if you're into lake fishing – the Freshwater Fisheries Society has been stocking lakes around Nanaimo and Oceanside since the start of March with nearly 9,000 fish. Most of the fish are about a year old, a quarter kilogram, 15-20 centimetre ready to be caught. MORE

Lantzville is not sitting still on its village core revitalization. Windley Contracting has been awarded the contract for just over $1 million for the second phase of the revitalization. Council also boosted the budget by $110,000 to just over $1,080,000 – with $487,500 from the Canada Community Revitalization Fund and nearly $593,000 from the gas tax grant.  MORE

Mayor Leonard Krog says he’s frustrated with the violence on our streets after the second shooting in less than a week. A 39-year-old man was shot in the face in the downtown area on Saturday night and remains in hospital. A week earlier, Clint Smith was shot and seriously injured when a group went to retrieve stolen equipment from an encampment and were met with gunfire. Smith remains in hospital and is now off a ventilator. Krog says it’s very concerning, many people living in the streets carry weapons of some kind for protection. He added that is just a reality. MORE

Vancouver Island University researchers have received a $577,575 grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research to study pelvic health and inequities in health care. It is led by Whitney Wood, VIU’s Canada Research Chair in the historical dimensions of women’s health. She believes studies on women’s health tend to focus on reproduction, leading to gaps and inequities in care. The team will look through a range of sources to tell these stories, from medical journals, popular magazines and oral history interviews with those who have lived experience of pelvic pain. MORE

A car at a repair shop caught fire after an arsonist threw a flammable material at it. It happened at Pure Gold Automotive Monday morning. RCMP have surveillance video that shows a suspect tossing the substance onto the car then walk away. A video from a witness shows the aftermath of the apparent arson, with flames shooting from the car’s roof. MORE

A 39-year-old man is in hospital with serious non-life threatening injuries following a weekend shooting at approximately 8 p.m. on Saturday in the vicinity of the Coast Bastion Hotel. The incident was reported by Community Safety Officers on patrol when they were flagged down by the victim who was bleeding heavily from a facial injury. He told the officers that he had been shot. Attending BCEHS provided emergency care and transported the victim to the Nanaimo hospital. MORE DETAILS

Nanaimo Fire Rescue crews quickly doused an apartment fire in downtown Nanaimo Sunday night. The fire was on the ground floor of Sea Crest apartments at Front and Chapel Streets. Assistant Fire Chief Stu Kenning said the fire was on the outside of the building. When crews got there they made quick work of it by spraying water on it. MORE

Gabriola Island students are staying put, they will not be shuffled to Cedar Secondary School in September. The school board has taken that option out of consideration due to opposition from affected families for the move. Secretary Treasurer, Mark Walsh said the consultations showed the community did not support the transfer. The move was in response to overcrowding at NDSS. MORE

The Junior All-Native basketball tournament kicked off Sunday at Frank Crane Arena with an elaborate ceremony. It’s the largest event of its kind in the province with 91 teams.  Games are set for boys and girls divisions at two age levels. Boys U17 assistant coach Isaac Thomas told NanaimoNewsNOW the tournament experience is generational for the community. He said there’s been strong Snuneymuxw representation at the youth Junior level for the past 12 to 15 years. MORE

The RCMP need help to identify two women who are suspected of stealing a number of beauty products from Sally Beauty, 6894 Island Highway North in January. Police spoke with an employee who said  the two women selected a number of items which included a blow dryer and hair products, then left without paying for the merchandise. Closed circuit pictures were obtained and to date, but the suspects have not been identified. MORE WITH PHOTO.

The Nanaimo Parkway will be closed over night March 26-30 between the Jingle Pot and Third Street intersection and the College Drive to Fifth Street intersection to install a water pipeline crossing. The closures will be in effect from 7 pm to 7 am. for four days as work continues on the Midtown Water Supply Project. Various detours will be in place. Nanaimo residents on the Voyent Alert system, will get an informational alert to remind of the overnight closure.  MORE

Nanaimo RCMP continue to investigate the shooting on Sunday that sent a Nanaimo man to hospital with serious injuries. No arrests have been made in the incident near Barsby Avenue and Mill Street. Investigators have been reviewing numerous videos provided by businesses, witnesses, and dash cam evidence. Numerous witness statements have also been taken and the team of investigators have also consulted with neighbouring police and other agencies.

All you have to do is shop for groceries to feel the impact of inflation. It’s no different for the city, and budgetary reserves have helped bail out the City. The budget committee has approved extra spending on four items for about $1.6 million. Full city council has to give the final stamp of approval. Bill Sims, general manager of engineering and public works, said staff are conscious of the increases. A lot of these prices were put in less than a year ago and we felt confident at that, we had some contingency built in and we’re still coming in over budget, it’s quite discouraging, it’s very difficult to pin down, Sims said. MORE

Learn about Alzheimer symptoms. When people think about dementia, they usually think about its impact on memory, ability to communicate or unusual behaviour. You can get useful information on how sensory changes affect the ability to interact with the surrounding environment and perform routine tasks. It’s on Wednesday, March 29, at 2 p.m. To register for the webinar, CLICK HERE. 

Regional District of Nanaimo residents will have to cough up a 8.9-per-cent tax increase this year. Directors had originally looked at an 11.3-per-cent hike but settled on the lower amount when they passed the 2023-27 financial plan. The typical tax requisition will be $629, a $53 increase from last year. In the Lantzville it will be $617, a $24 increase. MORE

Island rail service may be on its deathbed, but there’s hope on the horizon. A partnership with governments and First Nations is being floated to establish a $1-billion modern freight rail service between ports in Port Alberni and Nanaimo, with barges carrying cargo to the Lower Mainland. Dave Hayden, president of Island Rail Corp. said the goal is to provide seamless rail transport from Port Alberni, with its deep sea port, to Nanaimo and then by barge over to the Lower ­Mainland, to North American rail networks. Hayden ­previously worked in senior management with Canadian Pacific Railway. MORE

Supporters from across the province joined local demonstrators Wednesday demanding action on crime from the provincial and federal governments. It was a response to the  shooting at a homeless encampment on Sunday. Surrey South MLA Elenore Sturko, the B.C. Liberal Party critic for mental health, addictions and recovery and also a former RCMP officer, said the catch-and-release of chronic offenders isn’t working. Coun. Sheryl Armstrong, another former RCMP officer, said it's not a policing problem, but rather focussing on addiction treatment with follow-up. MORE

Tens of thousands of items, including food, were destroyed in the arson fire at Walmart on Feb. 22. The small fire in a box of diapers was extinguished by employees by the time firefighters arrived, but damage from fire extinguisher chemicals and smoke contamination forced the store to close for five days. Items required to be destroyed included baby essentials like infant formula, baby food and diapering items. The fire remains under criminal investigation. MORE

So much for that. The Bank of England is cutting funding for climate change initiatives championed by Mark Carney, the Bank’s governor from 2013 to 2020. Carney led several sustainability efforts including climate change insurance risks, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) scores and more.  According to Bloomberg, inflation and current fiscal challenges means that those projects will no longer get the same priority as the Bank of England dedicates more resources to traditional economic concerns. Net Zero Watch welcomed the shift, saying that it’s long overdue. Its obsession with climate change by Carney and government ministers has for years distracted it from its main responsibilities.

Nanaimo Regional General Hospital is installing early warning radar motion sensors in its washrooms after pilot projects at two mental health and substance-use sites in Courtenay. Island Health credits the Courtenay trials with likely saving at least one life after a health-care worker was alerted by the sensor system to an unresponsive washroom occupant. Island Health has 12 more on order. MORE

BC Ferries is conducting a hiring blitz looking for more than 500 people to work for the company. The recruiting launched in late February, with new workers being sought to fill casual positions for the shoulder and peak seasons. Today is the second day of a job fair at the Victoria Greek Community Centre on Elk Lake Drive from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. They’re looking for customer service and terminal attendants, sales and service representatives, and ticket agents for the Swartz Bay terminal and head office in Victoria. The company continues to face staffing shortages which often results in sailing cancellations.

Joel Good and Margot Holmes have been named winners of the 2023 Culture Awards which the city has staged annually since 1998. The awards honour extraordinary achievement and raise awareness and pride for the calibre of arts and culture activity in Nanaimo, as well as the dynamic impact of the sector on our community’s economic, social and cultural well-being. Mayor Leonard Krog said their talent, imagination, long hours of dedicated effort and leadership contribute to the beauty and richness of our arts and culture community and benefit all of us. The awards will be presented at a public celebration at the Port Theatre on April 25. MORE

A security guard was stabbed at a construction site near Ladysmith on Wednesday. He was taken to hospital in Nanaimo for treatment. Reports stated there was a dispute with a homeless man over an illegal fire. MORE

Federal Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre popped in to rally of local supporters yesterday and zeroed in on a major issues – bail reform and the drug toxicity crisis. He told NanaimoNewsNOW a Conservative government would look to immediately reform the criminal justice system by dealing with repeat, violent offenders. The packed-house crowd cheered when Poilievre spoke about defunding the CBC, and prohibiting any of his MPs from participating in anything to do with the World Economic Forum. MORE

Comox Valley RCMP are trying to identify a man who reportedly attacked another man while skiing on Mt. Washington last week sending the victim to hospital. Police say the victim was able to take a photo of the attacker. Mounties are now looking got the man in the picture, between 20-25 years old, approximately 5'8" tall, having light-coloured skin, and shoulder-length, dirty blond hair.MORE

It must be true, CNN says so. Vancouver Island has been named one of the most beautiful places in the world by the network. Our Pacific Paradise was the only Canadian destination to make the list, and stood shoulder to shoulder with the likes of Rotorua in New Zealand, Petra in Jordan, Positano in Italy and Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in China. CNN seemed most interested in our natural appeals, highlighting our wildlife and eco-tourism. With more than 2,000 miles  of coastline, almost 10,000 lakes and acres of soaring mountains, Vancouver Island is like Canada in miniature, wrote CNN.

It's the end of the line for VIA Rail, or is it? The federal government is returning part of the Island Corridor land back to Snaw-Naw-As First Nation after a Court of Appeal decision stemming from the First Nation’s lawsuit. “In support of the shared ongoing commitments to reconciliation, our governments have decided that reversion of the land is the first step in the process of developing a shared vision for the future of the corridor with First Nations,” Transport Canada and B.C. said in a joint statement. Meanwhile, the provincial government has committed $18 million in funding for “future corridor planning involving affected First Nations and regional districts.” MORE

The man who was shot while trying to get back items stolen from his business remains in hospital. Clint Smith’s family says his prognosis is good, but his recovery will be lengthy. While the shooter hasn’t been identified or arrested, the community is stepping up to help. Smith was one of six people who went to the encampment near the Millstone River, just below Terminal Avenue, to retrieve auto mechanic equipment. Smith runs Ernie’s Blackpoint Repair, a few blocks away. MORE

A reader asks for an update on the proposed fast ferries. “Or has it been another dream, seems that the principles indicated they had a vessel under construction, it should be finished by now,” says Jim Craigdallie

A Nanaimo business owner trying to retrieve stolen property was taken to hospital with gunshot wounds Sunday afternoon. A confrontation was reported near a homeless camp near the former Nanaimo White Spot. The 49-year-old victim was part of a group who entered the camp to retrieve tools stolen from his shop and spotted at the encampment. Reserve Cst. Gary O’Brien said a firearm was seized at the camp and several people were taken into custody on outstanding warrants unrelated to the shooting. MORE

Some Nanaimo residents are calling on the provincial and federal governments on to take of public safety after a businessman was shot in the stomach on Sunday after trying to retrieve equipment stolen from his shop a few days prior. Collen Middleton of the Nanaimo Area Public Safety Association said the province has to step in, this has gone on far too long. Enough was enough so long ago. Civil society cannot sustain this burden, it’s just not possible. MORE

BC Ferries has launched a new mobile app which provides easy access to an array of information quickly while also allowing travellers to view, make or change their bookings. The app is available for a free download on both the Apple and Google app stores.

Equal justice for all? Attorney General Niki Sharma says the province is treading carefully to ensure the over-incarceration of racialized groups is not made worse by proposed changes to the bail system. She says the province needs to be very watchful to ensure bail reform doesn’t step on the toes of other initiatives, like the BC First Nations Justice Strategy that aims to reduce the number of Indigenous people involved in the criminal justice system. Some are more equal than others? That sounds more like social engineering than equality MORE

Nanaimo RCMP have an IPad which was found and turned over to police for safekeeping in December. The IPad was found in the Northfield area. The screen is locked with a 6 digit PIN which prevented police from searching its contents, and when located, the device was dry and in relatively good condition. If you have information on who may own it, please contact the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345. File #2022-43010

March 11, 2023

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry is not about to give up on her vaccine campaign. A new booster program focuses on the elderly and vulnerable. Dr. Henry stated the next round of boosters will target people at the highest risk of severe illness – ­ people at least 80-years-old and Indigenous people at least 70-years-old and seniors in long-term care settings. MORE

One-stop service begins next week for all walk-in service for mental health and substance use patients in Nanaimo. Single-session mental health and substance-use assessments, counselling and referrals will available at only the Brooks Landing site, at 203-2000 Island Highway. Service will be offered week days from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and “will create consistent walk-in hours for … services and improve over-all access to the continuum of services to help more people access the care they need,” says Island Health. MORE

Money, money, money. We told you last month about someone finding a stash of cash on a sidewalk in the Labieux Road area. The finder turned it over to the cops. If it belongs to you, the Nanaimo RCMP have it waiting for you. Anyone with information can call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345, citing file No. 2023-6466.

The Sealand Market building on Stewart Avenue will get a fadcelift. City council has approved a development permit for exterior alteration to the two-storey buildings. The buildings will be reclad in cementitious panels, corrugated metal, aluminum panels and cedar and faux wood-plank siding. New front canopies and patios will be constructed on the front and rear along with new canopies. MORE

First in Canada. The post office has gone electric with its delivery vehicles. Nanaimo is the first Canada to swap out its entire fleet. Doug Ettinger of Canada Post said Nanaimo was chosen partly for our climate. “When you charge them, they can take you between 150-190 kilometres on a full charge, and we’re thinking about winter, how’s winter going to affect the batteries? But all the routes here are 50 kilometres or less, so we know that we’re probably good, we can charge them overnight, it takes about eight hours to charge them.” MORE

The addition of inhalation facilities has created a sharp increase in the number of users. Inhalation users make up more than 80 per cent of the approximately 700 weekly clients at the Canadian Mental Health Association’s facility on Albert at Dunsmuir Street. MORE

A Federal Court judge has approved a $2.8-billion settlement agreement between the Canadian government and 325 First Nations whose members went to residential day schools. Justice Ann Marie McDonald said in her ruling issued Thursday that the settlement is intended to help take steps to reverse the losses of language, culture and heritage through an Indigenous-led not-for-profit body. MORE

It’s cherry blossom time in Victoria and that only means our city will be in the pink any day now. The capital’s parks, streets and boulevards begin to be flooded by rows of colourful cherry blossoms in pink and white flowering petals. There are nearly 5,000 of them for onlookers to enjoy. MORE

It takes time to change the time. The annual spring time change to daylight saving time happens Saturday night/Sunday when you set clocks ahead one hour. British Columbians support scrapping seasonal time changes, but the U.S. federal government has to rubber stamp such a move. The governors of Washington, Oregon and California agreed to permanent daylight time on the West Coast. The premier of Yukon was also on board. Just remember, this weekend, one hour forward. MORE

A $600,000 grant from Environment and Climate Change Canada will ensure the Island Trust Conservancy’s species-at-risk program can continue over the next three years. The species-at-risk program launched in 2021 with a three-year grant of $643,000 from the Canada Nature Fund’s species-at-risk stream. MORE

Craig Evans who founded the Growing Opportunities non-profit farming co-operative died on Monday. Craig played a critical role in the development of the farm project, with an all-volunteer crew of beginner farmers on a plot of land at Providence Farm. In 2012, Growing Opportunities set up operations at Wyndlow Farms in Yellow Point. There are two active farming locations, Five Acres Farm and Cline Agri-Health Centre. A private memorial will be held for close friends and family. If you would like to be informed about any plans for future public celebrations of Craig’s life, please send a note to info@growingopportunities.org.

The Nanaimo RCMP are looking for help to find a stolen motorcycle. The red Suzuki GSXR street bike was taken sometime between Sunday night and Monday morning from a carport  in the 100 block of Kerr St. The bike had no plates as it was off the road for the winter, and was parked in the back of the carport behind two vehicles. The door to the carport door was held closed by two zap straps that were found cut and lying on the ground.  MORE, WITH PHOTO

It’s embarrassing when your own rules tie you up in knots. The city of Vancouver is held up by its own red tape on construction of a massive detox and social housing project approved by city council more than four years ago. The rules have changed in that four years, so now it requires a fresh start. This comes as the BC Coroners Service reports rising illicit drug overdose deaths in January. The potentially-game-changing facility will be built on city-owned land in partnership with BC Housing and Vancouver Coastal Health for a mixed-use development which was touted as the largest of its kind in B.C. when it was approved by council on Feb. 21, 2019. MORE

Man gets four years for

Campbell River beating death

A 32-year-old Campbell River man has been sentenced to four years in prison for the beating death of a 59-year-old homeless man in 2020. Justin William Arnet was sentenced on March 7 for his role in an assault that left Dean Dool dying on the sidewalk outside a Campbell River bank. Arnet has been in custody since January 2021, five days after he was arrested for robbing a woman who was sleeping outside the Campbell River library. MORE

Woman in custody afer

two fires in Port Alberni

A woman who is known to police was arrested on Wednesday evening following a pair of suspicious fires in Port Alberni. Police were called to the 4800-block of Wallace Street by the Port Alberni Fire Department after two fires were extinguished in the area in about an hour. As police investigated the scene, witnesses described the same woman being seen at both fires, Mounties say. MORE

Snow warning issued for

Coquihalla Highway

Drivers on the Coquihalla Highway are being warned to prepare for a heavy snowfall through Saturday. A special weather statement has been issued for the area, as well as for Highway 3 from the Paulson Summit to Kootenay Pass. Up to 25 centimetres is expected as a frontal system starts to spread light to moderate snow, which will intensify in the evening and persist through Saturday. Warming road surfaces in the beginning could mean significant snow won't accumulate until later this evening.

Shaw takeover by Rogers

Gets final approval

The largest telecommunications deal in Canadian history will go forward after Rogers Communications’s $26-billion takeover of Shaw Communications Inc. received approval from Ottawa on Friday. The green light means the deal has cleared its final regulatory hurdle just over two years after it was first announced. MORE