Nanaimo News Bulletin, February 7, 2024 by Black Press Media Group

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Nanaimo hit with ‘weather whiplash’ so far in 2024 Month colder than normal, but enough warmth to melt mid Island’s snowpacks CHRIS BUSH NEWS BULLETIN

GO BY BIKE Dan Shaw continues with his commute after a visit with Alex Stanciu, Bike to Work event coordinator with Hub City Cycles, and Sadie Robinson, City of Nanaimo active transportation product specialist, at a Winter GoByBike Week celebration station at Metral Drive and Mostar Road the morning of Monday, Feb. 5. For the story, see page A27. (Chris Bush/News Bulletin)

Vancouver Island Exhibition will become a fall fair moving its event a month later than in recent years, to Sept. 20-22. The VIEX is becoming a According to a press refall fair. lease from the VIEX, the Nanaimo’s Vancouver Is- fair changed its dates in land Exhibition announced 2019 to be able to partner Friday, Feb. 2, that it will be with its preferred mid-

STAFF WRITER NEWS BULLETIN

way operator, West Coast Amusements, but the date change meant that the past few years, the VIEX has been on the same weekend as the Comox Valley Exhibition, which has led to fewer entries in livestock

and 4-H divisions. Organizers say since the agricultural component of the fair is so important, the VIEX will go back to its roots as a fall fair, 130 years after it was first held in October 1894. Continued on A14

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The new year has rung in its first month with extreme temperatures and precipitation, breaking records that had stood in Nanaimo-Ladysmith for more than a century. An arctic vortex that brought sub-freezing air and snow from the Arctic one week was countered days later by the balmy winds of a Pineapple Express from the Pacific Ocean that swept away ice and snow with heavy warm rains. “This has been one weather whiplash of a month, I’ll say that much,” said Armel Castellan, Environment Canada meteorologist. Despite recent warm air flowing over B.C.’s south coast from the south Pacific

Ocean, January was actually 0.7 C cooler than normal, overall, at 2.8 C compared to the month’s normal average of 3.5 C. And it was wet. “We started with some pretty big snow events and a lot of rain, as well, at the start of the month and at the end,” Castellan said. Storms dumped 273 millimetres of rain and snow for the month, about 45 per cent more than the normal 188mm, making January 2024 the 13th wettest since record-keeping started in 1892. “Of course, that’s coming on the heels of dryness in November, December, so that’s one thing of note. What I’ll also say is with the extremes … the devil’s in the details,” Castellan said. Continued on A31

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NEWS

B.C. Ferries aims for better reliability by cancelling plans for summer re-fits Officials planning for all major vessels to be available for three busiest months Emergency services were called to a report of an individual who was stabbed near the Great Canadian Casino in downtown Nanaimo on Sunday, Feb. 4. (Photo courtesy Kevan Shaw)

Man stabbed near casino in downtown Nanaimo CHRIS BUSH NEWS BULLETIN

Police in Nanaimo are investigating a stabbing that sent one man to hospital with serious injuries. Nanaimo RCMP and B.C. Ambulance were called to the Great Canadian Casino in downtown Nanaimo on Sunday, Feb. 4, shortly after 8:30 p.m., where they found a 22-year-old man suffering from several stab wounds. “He was knocking at the back door of the casino. Two employees went to his assistance,” said reserve Const. Gary O’Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesperson. “They did first aid and contacted [B.C. Emergency Health Services] … He was taken to hospital with serious, but non-life-threatening injuries.” The victim said he was stabbed, but police had very little further information as of press time Monday, Feb. 5. “We looked at some very grainy video footage,” O’Brien said. “We couldn’t see much other than there was a group of people in the area near him. We haven’t had a chance to speak with him yet, but we certainly will when he’s able to.” Anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information regarding it is asked to call the Nanaimo RCMP detachment non-emergency line at 250-754-2345 and quote file No. 2024-3803. chris.bush@nanaimobulletin.com

JAKE ROMPHF BLACK PRESS MEDIA

Public frustration over vessel breakdowns and crew shortages has B.C. Ferries looking to quell concerns about reliability. Ferry officials gave a briefing Jan. 31 in Victoria on their plan to have all of the fleet’s major vessels running during the busy season. The plan includes not scheduling any vessel refits for the upcoming summer, when a record number of passengers is expected. Those regular maintenance refits used to see ferries being worked on into June. Substantial vessel parts are repaired or replaced during refits, which take four to six weeks. The 20 refits scheduled for 2024 include 15 major vessels. “Preventative and scheduled maintenance is a core component of delivering reliable, dependable and safe service that British Columbians expect as a critical component of the transportation system,” said Brian Anderson, B.C. Ferries’ vice-president of strategy and planning. Scheduling no refits for the summer will provide better service, but it will put pressure on maintenance operations that are now compressed into the remaining nine months of the year, said Stephen Jones, vice-president of engineering. Last week’s briefing came after the Coastal Renaissance – which services major routes between Vancouver Island and

Stephen Jones, B.C. Ferries’ vice-president of engineering, gives a briefing on vessel refits and repairs during a press conference Jan. 31 in Victoria. (Jake Romphf/Black Press Media) the Lower Mainland – broke down unexpectedly last August. The vessel’s return is now slated for March after its repair timeline has been extended multiple times. Issues affecting the fleet’s three diesel-electric Coastal class ferries pertain to the rotors in their drive motors. The rotors create noise and vibrations that can disrupt neighbours and terminal infrastructure. B.C. Ferries has responded by shutting off the in-shore propeller when those vessels are docked. That strategy has cut the 25year service life of the Coastal class ferries in half because they’re having to start up twice as often, says the ferry corporation – the ferries have 30,000 starts in them when they’re brand new. Jones said there are no other

ways to mitigate the noise and vibration issues, but B.C. Ferries is installing variable speed motor controls in all Coastal class ferries that will prevent rotor failures from reoccurring. “These have been incredibly reliable vessels for us so we’re very confident [they’ll run this summer],” the engineer said. “The key to getting more resilience into our system is ultimately getting more vessels.” B.C. Ferries’ plans call for replacing legacy vessels with slightly larger ferries that will help incrementally increase passenger capacity, said Anderson. The fleet currently includes six Queen class ferries that range from 42 to 59 years old. Anything older than four decades is considered beyond its designed life, which increases the risk of irreparable failure, according to

the ferry corporation. B.C. Ferries tries to swap other ships into busy routes when a vessel breaks down, but Anderson said crews may not be certified to work on every vessel and boats don’t fit into every berth. That’s why long-term plans will push for more standardization as fleets and terminals are upgraded, he added. But new vessels also bring other challenges as those models have shifted away from being entirely mechanical to having more electronic and digital systems. “We are going to have to rethink, to some degree, the way that we think about maintenance in order to keep costs under control and ensure we deliver the reliability and safety that our customers need,” Jones said. jake.romphf@blackpress.ca

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Wednesday, February 7, 2024 A5

The Highest-Rated Family-Owned and Independent Hearing Care Experts in Nanaimo Nanaimo Search and Rescue volunteers search along the banks of the Millstone River for a missing woman Friday, Feb. 2. (Chris Bush/News Bulletin)

Search teams scour riverbank to try to find missing woman CHRIS BUSH NEWS BULLETIN

The Nanaimo RCMP and Nanaimo Search and Rescue searched along the Millstone River last week for a woman who went missing. Nancy Gagne, 48, was last seen at approximately 6:30 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 1, according to a Nanaimo RCMP press release. Based on evidence, search efforts focused on the area of the Millstone River from Bowen Road to Nanaimo Harbour. RCMP say their officers, in conjunction with Nanaimo Search and Rescue and West Coast Marine Services, spent three days

searching the park and river without any success. The search has now been suspended due to “water levels and the associated turbidity of the river,” say RCMP, adding that the missing person investigation is continuing. The missing woman is 5-foot-7, 150 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing multi-coloured pyjamas. For a photo, access the online version of this article at www.nanaimobulletin.com. Anyone who has information regarding her whereabouts is asked to call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345. chris.bush@nanaimobulletin.com

Police and passersby help man in crisis on bridge railing in downtown Nanaimo STAFF WRITER NEWS BULLETIN

Nanaimo RCMP officers, with the help of passersby, were able to pull a man in crisis from the railing of a downtown bridge. According to a Nanaimo RCMP press release, the incident happened at 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 3, on the Bastion Street Bridge. Officers called to the scene came across several pedestrians speaking with a man who had climbed over the

bridge railing and was holding onto a lamppost. “Responding officers immediately started de-escalation communication with the man while another was able to pull him back over the railing with the assistance of a pedestrian,” the release noted. RCMP detained the individual under the Mental Health Act and transported him to Nanaimo Regional General Hospital. Const. Mike Thompson, Nanaimo RCMP spokesper-

son, said in the release that the incident was an example of community members coming together to help a citizen in need. “The quick and timely actions of those who called 911 as well as our officers’ immediate response helped bring this situation to a positive conclusion,” he said. “Our officers proved yet again that they are willing to put their own lives at risk to help those in need and were thankful for the extra help.”

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Nanaimo RCMP officers block off a section of Nicol Street south of Needham Street where a cyclist was involved in a collision with a truck on Jan. 30. (Chris Bush/News Bulletin)

Cyclist hospitalized after collision with truck in Nanaimo’s south end A section of Nicol St. a truck in the 700 block of several witnesses and the Nicol Street at approximate- driver. It was determined was closed to traffic ly 4:20 p.m. that the cyclist rode out of a parking lot onto the roadReserve Const. Gary following incident

O’Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesperson, said Jan. 31 that the 43-year-old cyclist was recovering in hospital. Emergency crews respond“He’s in hospital in serious ed to a vehicle collision condition. The investigation involving a cyclist in south is continuing and investiNanaimo last week. gators are looking to speak According to a Nanaimo with eyewitnesses or anyone RCMP report, Nicol Street who may have dash cam between Needham Street video,” O’Brien said. and the south end of HalThe cyclist, who was ridiburton Street were closed ing an electric assist bicycle, to traffic on Jan. 30 after a was not wearing a helmet. cyclist was reportedly hit by Investigators spoke with CHRIS BUSH NEWS BULLETIN

way, where he was struck by the southbound pickup. “Drugs and/or alcohol and speed were ruled out as contributing factors on the part of the driver,” O’Brien said. Any motorists who witnessed the collision or have dashcam video are asked to contact the Nanaimo RCMP detachment non-emergency line at 250754-2345. chris.bush@nanaimobulletin.com

RDN suggests federal health transfers should factor in B.C.’s aging population KARL YU NEWS BULLETIN

The Regional District of Nanaimo will seek support from other local governments across the country for changes to federal health-care allocations in light of an aging population. At a meeting Jan. 30, RDN directors endorsed a resolution seeking age adjustments to the Canada Health Transfer and will forward it to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. The money from the Canadian government is distributed to provinces and territories to support health care, but with

statistics suggesting B.C. will have one of the highest populations of seniors in the country in the coming decades, change is needed, noted an RDN staff report. As people age to 85 years and older, a growing number will face limitations and long-term health challenges, the report stated. “These disparities in both the percentage of the older senior population and the rate of growth in this population mean that equal per-capita funding from the CHT is unable to provide comparable funding for each citizen from year to year. Differences in

the growth rates of the senior population … will continue to create disparities and challenges as well,” the report said. As suggested by the Canadian Medical Association, a funding model is sought that takes note of each province’s demographics, according to the report. “With an age-adjusted per-capita allocation, provinces and territories with older populations would receive a larger share of the [health transfer] to address their greater health-care expenditures,” the report added. At the meeting, directors debated

whether to forward the resolution to the Association of Vancouver Island and Coastal Communities and the Union of B.C. Municipalities. Tyler Brown, City of Nanaimo director, was among those suggesting it go to FCM only. “There is overlap here obviously when it comes to health care, but this is really speaking to something that is national and a federal program and I think the process is most appropriately directed to FCM,” he said. RDN staff will submit the resolution in time for a fall FCM board meeting. karl.yu@nanaimobulletin.com

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Black History Month being recognized Gala dinner planned for Bowen Park on Feb. 24 GREG SAKAKI NEWS BULLETIN

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It’s Black History Month and there will be plenty of opportunity over the coming weeks to listen, learn and celebrate. The Nanaimo African Heritage Society is again taking the lead on co-ordinating a slate of events and activities culminating in a gala dinner Feb. 24. Next year will be the 25th annual celebration in Nanaimo, but for now, reaching 24 years, society president and founder Shalema Gantt is proud to see the tradition that’s been built in the community. “It’s so surprising that the years have

Nanaimo African Heritage Society president and founder Shalema Gantt is looking forward to Black History Month celebrations in Nanaimo, including a gala dinner on Feb. 24. (Greg Sakaki/News Bulletin) caught up…” she said. “You start looking back at some of your memorabilia, you [say] ‘wow,’ because you forget. You’re building and you’re building and you keep doing it.” When she was planning the first

event in 1999, she said she didn’t know if Nanaimo was interested in embracing black history. But that first event surprised her with the crowd it attracted, and she’s remained motivated to keep it going ever since.

“I’ve noticed change throughout the years. Nanaimo is quite a remarkable little town; people here are very supportive,” Gantt said. “Nanaimo has always surprised me in the participation that they give to the

Nanaimo African Heritage Society and to myself. Now, other community groups and organizations reach out to her at this time of year. The Nanaimo Museum is featuring a Black History Month ex-

hibit until March 2, for example, and Vancouver Island Regional Library’s Harbourfront branch will be displaying the work of black writers, poets and artists. The Nanaimo Art Gallery is hosting a free drop-in hands-on family activity Feb. 18 from 1-4 p.m., and the Nanaimo Blues Society is partnering on shows Feb. 4, 11, 18 and 25 from 3-7 p.m. at the Queen’s. The month’s main event is the Feb. 24 gala, an evening of dinner, entertainment and dancing starting at 6 p.m. at the Bowen Park Activity Centre. There will be speakers, music, drumming, a fashion show, and more, and dinner will include variety of cuisines. To reserve tickets to the gala, call 250729-9332. editor@nanaimobulletin.com

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Maskless shopper lodges human rights complaint Habitat for Humanity attempted B.C. tribunal denies to have the complaint dismissed, Habitat for Humanity’s but on Jan. 26, the tribunal denied application for dismissal. application to dismiss theAccording to the tribunal’s decicomplaint from 2020 sion to hear the case, Forbes said BAILEY SEYMOUR NEWS BULLETIN

The B.C. Human Rights Tribunal has decided it will hear a case about a customer without a face mask who was denied entry to a Nanaimo thrift store during COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. In November 2020, Lawrence Forbes attempted to enter the Habitat for Humanity Mid-Vancouver Island store without a mask, claiming a medical exemption; however, he was denied entry. He later filed a human rights complaint against the non-profit.

he asked to speak with the manager of the store, but they were unavailable. “Forbes said he called the manager to discuss what happened and see if he could be accommodated during a future visit but got the manager’s voicemail. He says he left a detailed message and asked for a call back but never heard back,” noted the report. The store had complimentary masks and complimentary face shields, allowed customers to stay outside and request products, and accommodated mask-free shopping after regular store hours. The tribunal noted the store has

he has a physical disability, that he was adversely impacted by the incident, and that his disability was a factor in the adverse impact, the tribunal noted. “A medical report [from 2021] states that Forbes has a respiratory condition which causes some shortness of breath and could be aggravated by some protective masks. Forbes says he is working with a respirologist to confirm a diagnosis,” noted the tribunal. The store disputed that Forbes has a disability that prevented him from wearing a mask, saying his medical reports note he was never (Stock photo) diagnosed with chronic obstrucnot provided any evidence that tive pulmonary disease, though it informed Forbes of any of its his symptoms are “in keeping with accommodation options or its COPD.” process. The tribunal noted that denyTo prove his complaint at a hearing the application to dismiss the ing, Forbes will need to prove that complaint does not mean that a

complaint will succeed at a hearing, only that there is more to the complaint than conjecture; as well, Habitat has not persuaded the tribunal that it did not cause the complainant undue hardship. “To establish an improper motive or bad faith, a respondent must do more than present a different version of events and say the complainant is wrong,” noted the decision. “Habitat argues that Mr. Forbes wishes to make an example out of a local business and is looking for a ‘payday.’ Based on the materials before me, I am not persuaded by Habitat’s argument. Habitat has not provided evidence beyond its own version of events to demonstrate that Mr. Forbes did not have an honest and reasonable belief that Habitat violated his rights.”

Woman loses $4,000 through texting scam A woman who thought she was texting with her son ended up being scammed out of several thousand dollars. According to a Nanaimo RCMP press release, the incident played out on Jan. 23 and involved a phone number from Quebec. The victim told investigators she had been texting with her adult son who lives out of province, but a short time afterward, she received a text message from an unknown number. The message began with the sender saying “I’m stressed, can you help pay some bills for me.” The woman assumed the text came from her son, responded to the unknown number and asked why he was using a different number. The scammer replied he had been having issues with his phone and had purchased a new phone. The woman e-transferred approximately $4,000 to a scammer’s e-mail address. The next day, she received another text from the scammer asking for more money. At that time, she contacted her son and discovered she had been scammed. “This scam could happen to anyone,” said reserve Const. Gary O’Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesperson, in the release. “The best course of action is to always slow down, give it some thought … and always verify who you are communicating [with] before making any financial decisions.” The woman’s bank has since reimbursed her for almost 50 per cent of her losses. chris.bush@nanaimobulletin.com

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A10 Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Nanaimo News Bulletin

opinion

www.nanaimobulletin.com

Vol. 36, No. 41 777 Poplar St., Nanaimo B.C., V9S 2H7

EDITORIAL

Putting phones down not a bad idea sometimes Back in the 1990s and early 2000s, there was an unfounded panic about the notion that cellphones caused cancer. Science never found any strong link between phone use and physical illness, though over the past decade and a half we have found that cellphones aren’t always great for mental health. When Premier David Eby an-

nounced new restrictions on the use of phones by students in B.C. schools, he was flanked by the parents of Carson Cleland, a 12-yearold boy from Prince George who died by suicide after he was subjected to online sextortion. Smartphones have forever changed how people interact with others. A quick text can add an item to the family grocery list, or

allow us to reach out to tell a loved one we care. But the downsides are obvious. Whole new frontiers in bullying, sexual exploitation and extortion have emerged, and many of them are targeted at children. Many school districts already limit cellphone use during school hours, but the province will now ask all districts to restrict their use

during instructional time. In his announcement Eby took a particular potshot at social media companies. “Their interest is in keeping kids online, engaged in their apps with ever more extreme content, so that they can serve them ads, so that they can make money for their shareholders,” Eby said. It should be noted that social

media companies are interested in keeping adults online as much as they are kids. If we think it’s bad for kids to have complete access to smartphones all day long, and we think social media is toxic, what does that say about how many adults use their phones and social media? Most of us might do well with a little less screen time.

COMMENT

Resisting the iconic McRib is a test of willpower The pings kept coming and back to Canada (for a limited time at participating restauI was a little concerned. I was at a recent medical rants). appointment, on the special If you’re wondering what chair in a, shall we say, vulthe McRib is, allow my fornerable position. ever 12-year-old palate to fill From the pocket of my you in. jacket came the repeated Directly from McDonald’s: pings. “The McRib starts with a “Do you want to check tender and juicy boneless that?” I was asked, politely. pork patty dipped in tangy “No, it’s all good,” I said BBQ sauce, topped with with a bit of false slivered onions and bravado. tasty pickles, all BETWEEN A few minutes THE LINES served on a toasted later, I was headed homestyle bun. It’s PHILIP WOLF back to my car, no surprise this when I see the little sandwich is an icon, red ‘6’ beside the with its uniquely texts icon on my delicious balance phone. Now, six new of sweet, tangy and text messages might savoury flavours.” not be a lot for you Sold yet? young folks out there, but for A little back story. My an old guy, that’s blowing up. ‘love’ for the McRib is a bit So, what could it be that of an inside joke among famwas so pressing? Turns out it ily and friends. I routinely was indeed huge news. The hype up its gloriousness and McRib is coming back. they mock me for my lack of I’ll give you all a minute to culinary sophistication. contain your joy. Thus, the texts, noting how That’s right, after being happy I must be and reminddeprived of its glory for a full ing me how they’d never try decade, the McRib is coming one. Their loss.

make Lemony Snicket blush, I really shouldn’t be eating a McRib, or any fast food. I’ve done a reasonable job of altering my diet accordingly the last few months. But this represents the biggest test along my newfound nutritional path. Last time the McRib rolled around, my then-teenaged son and myself (important to pass along the legacy, right McDonald’s?) made way too many trips to the drive-thru. The McRib sandwich has made a comeback. (McDonald’s via AP) This time, I’ll be taking his 12-year-old little brother, from very passionate CanaTruth be told, it’s more since he’s only ever heard the dian McRib fans asking to about the humour of it all bring it back here,” said Alys- legend. (routinely reminding everyI’ve resolved to eat only a sa Buetikofer, vice-president one of the McRib’s greatcouple of bites. And after and chief marketing officer ness) than it is the actual at McDonald’s Canada. “The those couple of bites, and the product itself. I can actually McRib is truly a fan favour- passing along of the legacy, get along just fine without ite. It appeals to guests of all I’ll continue my routine, with any McRibs. But, like many the sole goal of ensuring I’m ages – from loyal followers 12-year-olds with unrefined in peak health the next time palates, I’m a sucker for mar- who have patiently waited a the McRib makes its grand decade for its return, to our keting. re-return. McDonald’s knows absence newer fans who have only I’ll be ready, Ronald. makes the heart grow fonder, heard the legend.” Now, there’s only one probso they withhold the McRib Philip Wolf is the editor of lem this time around. As I from us. the Parksville Qualicum Beach “In the last year alone, our continue recovery from surgery following a series of un- News and the V.I. Free Daily. team received thousands of philip.wolf@blackpress.ca fortunate events that would inquiries on social media

How to reach us: Circulation, delivery, carriers: Graham Shonwise 250-734-4605 circulation@nanaimobulletin.com Publisher: Sean McCue 250-734-4612 publisher@nanaimobulletin.com Editor: Greg Sakaki 250-734-4621 editor@nanaimobulletin.com Classifieds: BCClassifieds.com 1-866-865-4460 bcclassifieds@blackpress.ca General: Nanaimo News Bulletin 250-753-3707 nanaimobulletin.com/contact-us

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QUOTE OF THE DAY

“

Love can be many things – uplifting, heartbreaking, joyful, frustrating, hilariously funny, and more.

– Brenda Bell of the Chemainus Art Group on an upcoming variety show ‘Love Bites in Cedar’ presented by the Yellow Point Drama Group, page B4.

The Nanaimo News Bulletin is published every Wednesday by Black Press Media. The News Bulletin is distributed to more than 31,000 households in Nanaimo, Gabriola Island, Lantzville and Nanoose Bay. Copyright and/or property rights subsist in all advertisements and in all other material appearing in this edition of the News Bulletin. Permission to reproduce wholly or in part and in any form whatsoever, particularly by a photographic or offset process in a publication, must be obtained in writing from the publisher. Any unauthorized reproduction will be subject to recourse in law. The News Bulletin is a member of the National NewsMedia Council, an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, contact the editor at 250-734-4621 or e-mail editor@nanaimobulletin.com. If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint,visit http://mediacouncil.ca or phone 1-844-877-1163.

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Nanaimo News Bulletin

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 A11

LETTERS

WEATHER

Newcastle neighbours ‘aghast’ at housing announcement To the editor, Re: City and province partner on more social housing, Jan. 31. These are tenuous times that we live in. The number of people without adequate shelter is appalling. The rise in mental health and addiction challenges is unspeakable. The residents of Newcastle have been full partners in supporting services that enable the most vulnerable among us to regaining their lives. In doing so we do not want to continuously be held hostage to government plans that change on a dime and empty promises that affect the ability of our neighbourhood to be resilient and positive about the future. The temporary supportive housing at 250 Terminal Ave. was to be a “short-term solution to meet an urgent need until permanent supportive housing is developed at this site.” At the outset, B.C. Housing gave us their assurance that the development at 250 Terminal would result in minimal disruption for the neighbourhood. Our neighbourhood has not been the same since. Crime and social disorder erupted in the area around 250 Terminal. The

B.C. Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon, left, and Nanaimo Mayor Leonard Krog sign a housing agreeent last week. (Bailey Seymour/News Bulletin) bank of the Millstone River across Terminal became an armed camp for drug dealers actively supplying the residents of 250 Terminal. We have lost important neighbourhood businesses which may never come back. The culmination of all this was the shooting of a local businessman while he was trying to retrieve stolen property. The neighbourhood thought we had a bit of a respite as B.C. Housing officially submitted a re-zoning application to allow for permanent supportive housing on the site in early 2023. Now we find out that the City of Nanaimo and B.C.

Housing have signed an agreement to continue with the temporary housing at 250 Terminal for another three years. We are aghast that, as usual, the neighbourhood is the last to know. Not being consulted probably angers our residents more than facing another three years of trailers and nine-foot fencing and continuous neighbourhood decline. Going forward, it will take a tremendous effort in community engagement on the part of B.C. Housing and Nanaimo city council before we can begin to believe anything promised. Newcastle Community Association executive

To the editor, In 2018, the NDP provincial government announced that a temporary supportive housing facility would be set up at 250 Terminal Ave. Residents of the City of Nanaimo were assured by B.C. Housing and the city that the facility was temporary and would be replaced by a permanent facility. Five years and four months have now elapsed since that announcement was made and the permanent facility which was promised has not been realized. Last week, the current B.C. Minister of Housing, Ravi Kahlon, and Mayor Leonard Krog made a further announcement that although 50 temporary housing units would be built at Chase River, the construction of a permanent facility at 250 Terminal will be delayed. Despite the failure to follow through on the commitment to build a permanent facility at 250 Terminal, the announcement was characterized

by the politicians as a great achievement. The mayor and the minister claimed that as a result of the announcement, a total of 100 additional beds of supportive housing would become available. Although this is the case, the number of new beds being created is only the 50 that will be constructed at Chase River as the other 50 beds announced are those that already exist at Newcastle Place. In 2020 the city entered into an agreement in which the province pledged to construct 315 units of supportive and affordable housing. To date only 102 units have been built. The NDP government, our MLA and our city have failed dismally in providing adequate housing for the homeless living on the streets of Nanaimo. The promises made have not been kept. Their promises cannot and should not be relied upon. Peter Giovando Nanaimo

Wednesday Periods of rain. High 5 C Low -1 C Thursday Rain. High 5 C Low 3 C Friday Mix of sun and cloud. High 6 C Low 1 C Saturday Cloudy. High 6 C Low 1 C Source: Environment Canada

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A12 Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Nanaimo News Bulletin

www.nanaimobulletin.com

NEWS

B.C. top doc calls for more ‘prescribed alternative’ drugs Minister says province won’t be considering non-medical model for ‘safe supply’ drugs

ple who use drugs to access a safer supply without a doctor’s prescription, was also recommended last November by a death review panel convened by the B.C. Coroners Service. Both then and again last week, WOLF DEPNER the recommendation was immeBLACK PRESS MEDIA diately shot down by B.C. Mental Health and Addictions Minister B.C.’s top doctor says the provJennifer Whiteside. ince’s prescribed safe supply pro“We are not moving to a gram is a life-saving tool in the on- non-medical model [for safe going toxic drug crisis, and is recsupply],” the minister said. “We ommending that the government are going to continue to work expand what substances people are with frontline providers with our able to access. health-care system to improve the Provincial health officer Dr. current model.” Bonnie Henry released a 96-page If the province is to stick to review of the program on Thursmedical-only models, Henry said day, Feb. 1, about four years after it needs to start offering more opprescribed safer supply was first tions of safer supply substances. rolled out. Henry said that re“The medical models, in my recsearch is still ongoing to determine ommendation, must be expanded. the evidence-based effectiveness of They must be more of a holistic prescribed safe supply, but that the integrated care model, where you studies that do exist and the concan have … expanded access to sultations she has done indicate it different medications that meets should be continued. people’s needs alongside treatment Beyond this, she also recommedications.” mended that the province explore Henry added that despite the additional medical models to province’s rejection, her office expand access and, crucially, is currently looking at what the non-medical options as well. This provision of safe supply without approach, which would allow peo- a prescription might look like. “I

British Columbia’s provincial health officer Bonnie Henry defends B.C.’s safe supply program, while recommending changes to the program itself as well as other measures to fight the toxic drug crisis. (Chad Hipolito/Canadian Press) think there are models out there that we need to look at,” she said. “I think we need to keep this conversation going.” She added that her office will be releasing a special report on this in the future. Henry’s call for an expansion of alternatives also appears in another key recommendation in her report. She said that the province should work with manufacturers and distributors to expand opioid

medication options available to people at risk of opioid overdose, with priority in supplying prescription heroin and fentanyl, including smokeable versions. It is not clear yet how much such a program would cost or whether government would agree to it. Henry’s report, commissioned in spring 2023, came one week after the B.C. Coroners Service confirmed that 2,511 people died from toxic drugs in 2023 – roughly seven

deaths per day. The province first started making safer supply available in 2020. The program mainly involves prescribing hydromorphone, a morphine-based opioid for severe pain. As of September 2023, 4,331 people had access to safer supply – a fraction of the 115,000 individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorder. Estimates from the B.C. Centre for Disease Control, however, peg the number of British Columbians who use unregulated drugs at 225,000. “Given the unpredictability of unregulated drugs, each of these 225,000 individuals is at risk of death,” said Lisa Lapointe, the former chief coroner, last month. The safer supply program, which is part of a broader response to deaths caused by unregulated drugs, has faced scrutiny over the years. One criticism has been the issue of diversion, with the possibility of prescribed safe supply falling in the wrong hands or being used to secure harder drugs of unknown quality. “We need to recognize that diversion in this context is a recognition of unmet needs, a variety of needs,” Henry said. Continued on A31

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Nanaimo News Bulletin

Paper operations get curtailed indefinitely at Catalyst Crofton Mill’s pulp operations continuing

have materially impacted the current and future financial viability of the paper operation. The decision affects DON BODGER about 75 employees BLACK PRESS MEDIA who are members of Unifor Local 1132. Paper Excellence “We recognize the Canada has andifficulty this decinounced the indefision has placed on nite curtailment of both our employees paper operations at the Catalyst Crofton and the Cowichan Valley community,” mill. The present curtail- said Blair Dickerson, Paper Excellence’s ment was supposed vice-president to be in effect until the end of February, of public affairs. “We will work to but the extension minimize negative beyond that has impacts wherever already been deterpossible.” mined. The mill’s pulp The company cited market dynamics, in- operations, which employs about 400 flationary pressures on raw materials, en- Public and Private ergy costs and a lack Workers of Canada Local 2 members of local domestic fibre supply resulting and salaried staff, will continue proin substantial induction during the creases in operating paper curtailment. costs as the reasons The Crofton team is for the decision. It focusing on making says those pressures

CHEST PAINS visit the emergency department immediately or call 9-1-1

the remaining pulp operations cost-competitive and aligned with overall business strategies and direction. Paper Excellence says it will continue to supply customers with products typically made at Crofton from other mills within the company group where possible. “This is devastating news for these workers and their families, who were already facing months of uncertainty about their future employment at the site,” said North Cowichan Mayor Rob Douglas. “Many have deep roots in the community, and understandably are not keen to uproot their families and move elsewhere for work.” A year ago, it was announced that $18.8 million in fed-

eral and provincial funding would be provided to re-tool one of the paper machines to manufacture new products to reduce the use of single-use plastics. The company acknowledged government support for its paper operations at Crofton and says it will respect the terms and conditions of contribution agreements affected by the indefinite curtailment and work with the appropriate government agencies on the next steps. The curtailment of paper operations started for a perceived one-month period last June and has been extended ever since. To read an expanded version of this article, visit www. chemainusvalleycourier.ca.

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A14 Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Nanaimo News Bulletin

VIEX knows Beban Park busier in fall Continued from A1 “The VIEX recognizes this change has a significant impact to how the park operates in the fall and is committed to planning the event with careful thought and consideration given to the other community organizations that will be using the park on this weekend,” the press release noted. “In order

to ensure that all activities and events are accommodated, the VIEX will continue to work closely and collaboratively with the City of Nanaimo and other community user groups that use Beban Park.” For more information about the Vancouver Island Exhibition, visit www.viex.ca. editor@nanaimobulletin.com

Your Mayor & Council

Upcoming Meetings February 5

Regular Council Meeting

February 15

Special Council Meeting (Public Hearing)

February 26 Regular Council Meeting The Regular and Special Council Meetings commence their open portions at 7:00 p.m. in the Shaw Auditorium, Vancouver Island Conference Centre, 80 Commercial Street. As the schedule is subject to change, please check Nanaimo.ca for updates. www.nanaimo.ca NANAIMO CITY HALL 455 Wallace Street Nanaimo, BC, V9R 5J6

250.755.4405 www.nanaimo.ca

Leonard Krog, Mayor .................................... leonard.krog@nanaimo.ca Sheryl Armstrong, Councillor ....................... sheryl.armstrong@nanaimo.ca Tyler Brown, Councillor ................................ tyler.brown@nanaimo.ca Hilary Eastmure, Councillor ......................... hilary.eastmure@nanaimo.ca Ben Geselbracht, Councillor ......................... ben.geselbracht@nanaimo.ca Erin Hemmens, Councillor ............................ erin.hemmens@nanaimo.ca Paul Manly, Councillor ................................. paul.manly@nanaimo.ca Janice Perrino, Councillor ............................ janice.perrino@nanaimo.ca Ian Thorpe, Councillor .................................. ian.thorpe@nanaimo.ca mayor&council@nanaimo.ca

www.nanaimobulletin.com

Nanaimo man acquitted of interfering with minor, but guilty of child-luring court in Nanaimo on Jan. 31, justice Catherine Wedge Warning: This arfound that the ticle contains details accused had been related to sexual intrying to pursue a terference. relationship with A Nanaimo man the victim via text has been acquitted messages, but the of charges relating judge had doubts to sexually interferabout the sexual ining with a minor, but terference evidence. was found guilty of The victim reported attempted luring. the incidents in May Craig Allen Sims 2020, after she rewas charged of flected on the events single counts of sex- during the COVIDual interference of 19 pandemic; a trial a person under 14, took place in Nosexual interference vember. of a person under The victim testi16, sexual assault, fied that Sims had and communicating touched her breast via computer to lure while she was sitting a child under 18 for on his lap while he incidents between was playing a World 2007 and 2009. of Warcraft video The victim is 28, game. The judge but her identity is said the victim felt protected, as she confused and fluswas a minor at the tered. time of the alleged Another incident, offences. which the judge said In B.C. provincial formed the basis of the the first three

KARL YU NEWS BULLETIN

counts, took place while the two were with others en route to a camping trip in 2008. At an overnight stay at a house, Sims was alleged to have touched the victim beneath the waistband of her pyjamas, but she rolled over on her side to avoid being touched and went back to sleep. This was alleged to have happened a few more times, the judge said, and each time, the victim shifted and went back to sleep. Other evidence included messages between the accused and the victim, which he admitted to sending, and clearly established his liability for luring, according to the judge. Sims had appeared at the door of a bedroom where the victim was changing,

and in a later text message, he asked her why she kicked him out. The judge said in these instances, the victim would respond negatively or not at all. When confronted with the messages by police, the judge said Sims was taken aback, and denied consciously trying to pursue a sexual relationship with the victim, but also acknowledged he was likely attracted and pursuing a relationship that would not take place till she was older. The judge said the messages demonstrated an infatuation, but witness testimony did not clearly show touching took place. Some of the touching was described as slight, and witnesses did not remember an overnight stay at a

house during the camping trip. The judge said it wasn’t witness credibility that was at issue, but reliability. Testimony came from events that happened years ago, she said. Mental assessment and pre-sentence reports were ordered and a date for sentencing is scheduled to be established on March 25. Nick Acker appeared as defence counsel and Neal Bennet was Crown counsel. Bennet appeared on behalf of Sabrina Avery, co-Crown counsel in the trial of Paris Laroche in Vancouver, who is accused of first-degree murder and interfering with a dead body. Acker was appearing on behalf of Cheyne Hodson’s office. karl.yu@nanaimobulletin.com

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Hospital foundation campaign fundraises a record $1.8 million STAFF WRITER NEWS BULLETIN

The Nanaimo and District Hospital Foundation raised $1.8 million from 1,800 donors for their Winter Giving campaign, the most successful winter campaign in the charity’s history. Starting on Nov. 1, the campaign aimed to raise funds to provide urgently needed equipment at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital, the Oceanside Health Centre and three long-term care facilities in the mid-Island region. “This phenomenal show of support from our incredible donors means we can fund equipment on the priority list that the government

can’t and take some of the strain off our health-care workers that are doing their absolute best,” said Barney Ellis-Perry, the foundation’s CEO, in a news release. He said the charity is starting the allocation process immediately, and “2024 is full of opportunity.” The donations are expected to buy medical equipment for the new high acuity unit at NRGH, new x-ray suites at the Oceanside Health Centre, and “many items on the long list of urgently needed medical equipment throughout NRGH.” This year, the release noted, the foundation plans to play a more The Nanaimo and District Hospital Foundation active role in advocating for funding raised more than $1.8 million for health-care for better health-care delivery. improvements during a campaign that started bailey.seymour@nanaimobulletin.com last fall. (News Bulletin file photo)

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 A15

Thousands in merchandise stolen from home improvement stores merchandise. According to the release, police workPolice in Nanaiing with loss prevenmo are asking for tion officers learned the public’s help the suspect allegedly to identify a man buys several items, they say is a suspect then steals other in multiple thefts items. He then reand frauds at home turns to the business improvement stores a short time later to on Vancouver Isobtain refunds on land and the Lower the items he legitiMainland in recent mately purchased. months. “Based on video According to an obtained from RCMP press release, security cameras, incidents at Lowe’s investigators have stores in Nanaibeen able to narrow mo, Saanich and the suspect pool New Westminster down; however, have resulted in the they are hoping the theft of upward of public can help to $30,000 worth of positively identify

STAFF WRITER NEWS BULLETIN

the suspect,” said reserve Const. Gary O’Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesman, in the press release. The images police provided, from last June, show a suspect about 5-foot-10 with dark receding hair and a beard. To see the photo, access the online version of this article. Anyone with information that can help identify this individual is asked to call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345 and quote file No. 202320220. www.nanaimobulletin.com

BLOCK WATCH NANAIMO FEBRUARY 2024 COMMUNITY UPDATE With the days getting longer and spring just around the corner, more and more of us are bringing out our bikes to hit the trails and roadways. Unfortunately, thieves are also ready as bike thefts are increasing by the week. Here are a few points for you to consider around bike safety; 1.

Always lock your bike and don’t cheap out on a $5 lock. Cheap locks are easily defeated and offer little to no protection. Do some research or better yet, drop into a local bike store and seek out advice on what you need and what you can afford Never lock only the wheel. The frame is the most important part of the bike and should always be secured to an immovable object Don’t leave your bike out over night. You may think because it’s locked its ok. Well, it’s not. This give thieves all night to figure out how to steal it

Don’t leave your bike unattended in isolated areas. Even if you have purchased a decent lock and are using it, if thieves have the time they will eventually defeat any lock. The old adage strength in numbers applies; so, try to lock your bike in visible areas where there is lots of foot traffic

Remove any valuables if you are able to, such as lights and other accessories

For e-bikes, remove your battery as it is the most important part of your bike

Register your bike at www.project529.com It’s free and it works and gives you a fighting chance to get your bike back if is stolen Reserve Cst Gary O’Brien Media Relations Officer Nanaimo RCMP 250-713-0701 gary.obrien@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

The Nanaimo Block Watch program continues to expand throughout Nanaimo and surrounding areas. By creating a Block Watch, you will: reduce crime in your neighborhood, develop a sense of community with your neighbors and increase communication with not only your neighbors but also with the police. To find out more about this excellent community based, crime prevention program, contact the Nanaimo RCMP Community Policing Section at 250-755-4469. Find Nanaimo RCMP Block Watch information, steps to creating a block watch, forms and videos at

htps:/w w.na imo.ca/ ity-services/ mergency-services/police-crime-prev ntion/block-watch

This important message brought to you by these generous sponsors:

A16 Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Nanaimo News Bulletin

www.nanaimobulletin.com

Nick's Game Day Chili WESTERN CANADIAN - FRESH GROUND INSTORE

Enjoy Fresh Ground Instore Steakhouse Quality, Western Canadian Black Angus Beef at home

When I was a kid, I remember growing up and watching football with all my folks. My mom loved it as much as we did, and we loved it when she watched the big games with us because she would always make Nick's Game Day Chili; at least, that's what she called it. It was perfect because she always made lots, so if any of our friends dropped in, they could just grab a bowl and some Garlic Bread from the oven. Nick has been with Quality Foods for 16 years, the second generation of the Woz family to work at QF. His dad, Lyall, retired a few years ago, and quite a few years before that, he retired from professional football after an 8-year career in the CFL; no wonder the Woz family loves Nick’s Favourite Recipe "Tasty No Fuss Chili with Jack Cheese" his mom uses for Game Day Chili; they must have a Grey Cup Recipe, too!

To make life easier, come in this week and pick up a pack of our Black Angus Extra Lean Ground Sirloin. TRY IT! No Fuss Beef Chili with Jack Cheese Get the recipe at qualityfoods.com or on our app

Get Ready for the Big Game DINNER FOR FOUR Chow Mein - Large Sweet & Sour Pork - Medium Vegetable Chop Suey - Medium Chicken Balls - Medium Fried Rice - Medium *PLUS One Medium Meat Dish Of Your Choice

www.nanaimobulletin.com

Nanaimo News Bulletin

February 8 to 14, 2024

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 A17

Black Angus AAA Outside Round Oven Roast 10.76/kg

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A18 Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Nanaimo News Bulletin

PRODUCE

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Goodness from the Ground Up

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www.nanaimobulletin.com

Nanaimo News Bulletin

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 A19

FOR YOUR VALENTINE shop online at https://theflowerstand.qualityfoods.com/

Roses with Red Hearts

Roses

or Pink & White Speckled with Flowering, 4 Inch

with Gypsophelia & Greens, Dozen

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Hershey's Chocolate Hearts Selected Varieties, 165g

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Lindor Chocolate Heart Selected Varieties, 108g

99 ea

A20 Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Nanaimo News Bulletin

www.nanaimobulletin.com

VALENTINE'S DINNER

www.nanaimobulletin.com

Nanaimo News Bulletin

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 A21

BAKERY

Sugar Plum Cheesecake 550g

Black Angus AAA Strip Loin Grilling Steak

Canadian Lobster Tail

2 x 10 oz

Previously Frozen or Frozen, 3 to 4 oz

Sunrise Farms Chicken Breast Boneless, Skinless, Avg. 800g

Grimm’s Sausage Ring

Golden West English Muffins

Selected Varieties, 300g

Canadian Black Angus Lean Ground Beef

Avg. 1 kg

for

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with Orange, Pomegranate & Pistachios

or Drumettes, Avg. 1 kg

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Sunrise Farms Chicken Wings

Pacific Rockfish Fillets

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Multigrain Bread 450g

100g

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Original Cakerie Cake Slice

for

Villaggio Bread (510g) or Buns (528g), Selected Varieties

Grimm's Bavarian Smokies or Sizzlin', 450g

Sole Ground Fillets Fresh

100g

Flavoured Smoked Salmon Nuggets Selected Varieties, Previously Frozen

100g

Sourdough Sandwich Bread

Wonder Bread Selected Varieties, 570g

for

A20 Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Nanaimo News Bulletin

www.nanaimobulletin.com

VALENTINE'S DINNER

www.nanaimobulletin.com

Nanaimo News Bulletin

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 A21

BAKERY

Sugar Plum Cheesecake 550g

Black Angus AAA Strip Loin Grilling Steak

Canadian Lobster Tail

2 x 10 oz

Previously Frozen or Frozen, 3 to 4 oz

Sunrise Farms Chicken Breast Boneless, Skinless, Avg. 800g

Grimm’s Sausage Ring

Golden West English Muffins

Selected Varieties, 300g

Canadian Black Angus Lean Ground Beef

Avg. 1 kg

for

Find this recipe on our website or app

Fully Cooked, 568g

with Orange, Pomegranate & Pistachios

or Drumettes, Avg. 1 kg

390g

English Bay Cookies Pack of 8

Rockfish

TRY IT!

Fort Hardy Pork Back Ribs

Sunrise Farms Chicken Wings

Pacific Rockfish Fillets

Wild, Fresh

Multigrain Bread 450g

100g

Strawberry Cream Pie 8 Inch

Original Cakerie Cake Slice

for

Villaggio Bread (510g) or Buns (528g), Selected Varieties

Grimm's Bavarian Smokies or Sizzlin', 450g

Sole Ground Fillets Fresh

100g

Flavoured Smoked Salmon Nuggets Selected Varieties, Previously Frozen

100g

Sourdough Sandwich Bread

Wonder Bread Selected Varieties, 570g

for

A22 Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Nanaimo News Bulletin

www.nanaimobulletin.com

supporting local products

Portofino Golden Potato Buns 540g

Natural Pastures Camembert

or Brie

99 100g

Yellow Flesh Potatoes No. 1, BC, 10 lb Bag

99 ea

Arbutus Farms Kitchen Garlic & Chicken Pasta Salad

Island Farms Sour Cream

or Broccoli & Grape

500 mL

49 100g

Tree Island Yogurt 325g or 350g

99 ea

Hertel Smoked Ham Shank or Butt Portion, 8.80/kg

99 lb

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Yeshi Dressing Selected Varieties, 350 mL

99 ea

Karma Coffee 400g

99 ea

www.nanaimobulletin.com

Nanaimo News Bulletin

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 A23

DAIRY & FROZEN Siggi's Yogurt 750g

49 ea

International Delight Coffee Whitener 473 mL

$ 2 for

Olympic Krema Yogurt (500g), Also Iogo Nano Drink (6 x 93 mL)

Silk Creamer 473 mL

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Island Gold Free Run Eggs Medium, Dozen

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Amy’s Entrée Selected Varieties, Frozen, 255g or 269g

Holy Napoli Pizza Frozen, 365g

7 Island Farms Ice Cream Selected Varieties, 1.65 Litres

99 ea

Nestlé Frozen Novelties 4 x 125 mL or 10 x 50 mL

A24 Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Nanaimo News Bulletin

www.nanaimobulletin.com

GROCERY

Triscuit Crackers Selected Varieties

99 ea

Cheez-It Snapped (213g) or Kellogg's FlipSides (260g)

99 ea

Pepperidge Farm Goldfish Crackers Selected Varieties, 200g

99 ea

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2for$

Kellogg's Vector Cereal (400g) or All Bran (525g)

79 ea

Leclerc Celebration Cookies 240g

Old Dutch Restaurante (295g), Also Arriba (245g)

99 ea

Smucker's Jam Selected Varieties, 500 mL

2for$

49 ea

www.nanaimobulletin.com

Nanaimo News Bulletin

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 A25

Nanaimo could hit 157,000 population by 2046 “strictly maintains its annual B.C. Stats reports immigration targets” as interon population trends national migrants account for 100 per cent of provinacross the province almost cial population growth. B.C.’s low fertility rate of 1.11 children WOLF DEPNER per birth parent is the lowest in BLACK PRESS MEDIA Canada. Not only is B.C.’s rate below the national rate of 1.33 B.C.’s population could reach children per birth parent, but almost eight million people by also below the replacement level 2046, an increase of 44 per cent of 2.1. compared to its population of “Since 2021, the number of 5.5 million in 2023. But as the deaths in B.C. has exceeded provincial population grows, it the number of births,” it reads. will also age and become more “[Natural] population change diverse. These projections are emerging has been negative for the first from a new report titled Sustain- time in the province’s history.” In other words, B.C.’s populaing Growth: Population and Demography for B.C. and Canada. tion would be shrinking were it not for newcomers from outside. The report prepared by B.C. Between 2016 and 2022, B.C. Stats draws on public figures to welcomed almost 350,000 new offer a high-level summary of The City of Nanaimo, already home to 100,000, is on its way to 157,000 by 2046, immigrants, with more than demographic data to support according to new B.C. Stats projections. (News Bulletin file photo) 150,000 alone in 2022. Data for program, policy and service dethe period 2016 to 2021 suggests velopment across government. that most residents preferred In the City of Nanaimo, the B.C.’s urban core with 78 per population is expected to reach cent settling in Metro Vancou157,000 by 2046. B.C.’s projectver. ed population of 7.9 million by Continued on A26 that year assumes that Canada

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Nanaimo Operations Centre Project

Nanaimo has grown. Our facilities need to catch up. As the second-largest city on Vancouver Island, Nanaimo’s Public Works yard, built in the 1960s, was not designed to support a community of this size. The proposed Nanaimo Operations Centre project will upgrade aging facilities to match our city’s growth.

St. Andrew’s ZOOM United SERVICE AVAILABLE Suzanne Sykes Jenny Vincent Organist/Choir Director

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Hol y Tr i n ity C at h ol i c C hu rc h Ma s s Ti m e s Sat. 6pm | Sun. 8 & 9:30am Mon. 6pm | Tue. to Fri. 9am 250.390.2612 6234 Spartan Rd. Nanaimo holytrinity@rcdvictoria.org

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PROVIDE A HOME FOR YOUR BIRDS Great selection of locally made nest boxes. Attract: Chickadees, Wrens, Nuthatch, Woodpeckers, Swallows, Bats & more

Join us at the following opportunity to learn more about this project and the services Public Works provides to keep Nanaimo running:

“The Jesus Revolution”

FEBRUARY 7, 4:30-6 PM

Calvary fellowship Nanaimo

Pop-up Info Session Stop by our booth in Country Club Centre to chat with us about the project.

To do this project, we are seeking approval from resident electors to borrow $48.5 million through an Alternative Approval Process (AAP), which runs from January 18 - February 20, 2024.

lives on at

a Calvary Chapel Association member

For a chapter by chapter verse by verse study of the Bible come to

LOOKING FOR MORE INFORMATION? Get the facts about the project:

Learn more about the AAP:

Sunday worship service 10:30 am Childrens’ church held at the same time

See the experts for all your backyard nature needs

Fairview Elementary School 205 Howard street 250-390-3669 6314 Metral Dr, Nanaimo

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www.nanaimo.ca/goto/NOC

www.nanaimo.ca/goto/NOC-AAP

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL

250-729-0698

.nanaimo.ca • 250.754.4251 @cityofnanaimo

www.cfnanaimo.com

A26 Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Nanaimo News Bulletin

Life expectancy projected to rise to 86-90 years Continued from A25 Countries located in eastern Asia have historically sourced the largest share of immigrants, accounting for 22.8 per cent of B.C.’s total immigrant population. But immigrants from South Asia are catching up. Put together, both regions accounted for 45 per cent of all immigrants to B.C. between 2016 and 2021. B.C.’s low fertility rate and reliance on immigration has broad implications. It means that B.C.’s society is aging. In 2022, people aged 65 and older make up almost 20 per cent of B.C.’s population, having surpassed the one-million mark in 2021. Current trendlines also point in only one direction: up. “Life expectancy is projected to increase over the coming decades to as high as 85.8 years for men and 89.6 years for women in 2041,” the report notes. Growing demands on health care and fewer people of working age mean potential labour shortages. Policy-makers starting at the federal level have been countering these developments by encouraging more

economic immigration from abroad, but immigration will only ease, not reverse aging. “As international migrants tend to be of working age, the recent high rate of immigration has slowed the rate at which Canada is aging, but it is not sufficient to reverse the trend,” it reads. “Statistics Canada projects that between 21.3 per cent and 22.9 per cent of the population will be people aged 65 and over by 2034. Beyond 2034, the direction of change in the overall age will depend on several key factors, including fertility rates and the intake of young migrants.” Aging, in turn, impacts what experts call the dependency ratio, the proportion of people aged 15-64 to the number of children and people of retirement age. The smaller the ratio, the more people of working age. At the same time, population growth creates a demand for more housing and other services, including education in its various forms. wolfgang.depner@blackpress.ca

TEMPORARY USE PERMIT APPLICATION NO. PL2023-129 The Board of the Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) intends to consider a resolution to issue a temporary use permit for the subject property identified in the map below.

2701 Alberni Highway Electoral Area F PURPOSE OF PROPOSED PERMIT

BOARD MEETING DETAILS Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at 1 p.m. RDN Board Chambers - 6300 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo, BC

www.nanaimobulletin.com

Record-breaking number of organs were donated in B.C. during 2023 JANE SKRYPNEK BLACK PRESS MEDIA

A record-breaking 563 people were given a second shot at life in B.C. last year, thanks to organ donors. The Provincial Health Services Authority says it’s the largest number of successful transplants on record, bettering 2021, when 529 people received an organ. The donated kidneys, livers, lungs, hearts and pancreases came from 77 living donors and 160 deceased ones in 2023. While the number of living donors has fluctuated from year to year, the number of deceased ones is steadily rising. In 2015, 95 British Columbians donated their kidneys after death. The 160 deceased donors recorded last year is a record in B.C. One of them, Michael Brown, was a 36-year-old Vancouver man who died in a surfing accident in Tofino. His wife, Jaclyn Ko, said in a press release that Brown was always unwavering in his desire to care for people in need.

A record-breaking 563 people received organ transplants in 2023 in B.C., according to the Provincial Health Services Authority. (Stock photo) “Now, through organ donation, his legacy of compassion lives on,” Ko said. The number of British Columbians signed up to donate organs if they die has also increased over the years. In 2023, close to 1.6 million people were registered organ donors, compared to 967,918 in 2015. Health Minister Adrian Dix called the decision to donate “truly inspiring.” He added that the behind-thescenes work that goes into organ donation is enormous.

At least 150 health care professionals are involved in every donor case, according to Dr. John Yee, the provincial medical director of the lung transplant program. The provincial health authority says 2023’s numbers make B.C. the leader in organ donation in Canada, with 28.8 deceased donors per million people. Despite B.C.’s recordbreaking year, 514 people remain in need of organs as of the start of this year. jane.skrypnek@blackpress.ca

In general terms, the purpose of the proposed permit is to allow a primary care clinic use within an existing building on the subject parcel for a period of three (3) years.

HAVE YOUR SAY Submit your comments: In Person - Attend the board meeting at the RDN Administration Office at 6300 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo. In Writing - Comments and questions may be submitted by email to planning@rdn.bc.ca or by mail or in person to 6300 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo, B.C., V9T 6N2. Written submissions must be received at the RDN office by 4:30 p.m., Monday, February 12, 2024, to ensure their inclusion in the public record. At the Virtual Meeting - Please call or email for more information. Following the Board meeting, there will be no further opportunity to comment on this application. Just Want to Watch? View the webstream at or www.rdn.bc.ca/agendas-minutes-videos attend in person at 6300 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo.

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WHERE CAN I INSPECT THE APPLICATION?

For more information please contact:

250-390-6510 or 1-877-607-4111 planning@rdn.bc.ca ww.rdn.bc.ca/public-notices rdn.bc.ca/public-notices

A copy of the proposed Temporary Use Permit and application information may be inspected in person from the date of this notice until February 13, 2024, at the RDN Administration Office located at 6300 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo, B.C., open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding public holidays.

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www.nanaimobulletin.com

Nanaimo News Bulletin

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 A27

City’s cyclists get pedalling for Winter GoByBike Week CHRIS BUSH NEWS BULLETIN

Environment Canada has called for sunny skies for cyclists participating in Winter GoByBike Week. Monday through Friday, Feb. 5-9, commuters are encouraged to leave their cars at home and hop on their bikes to cut emissions and get some fresh air and exercise. The City of Nanaimo, in a press release, shared information on local GoByBike Week plans. Every day throughout the week cyclists and anyone choosing to walk or travel on other human-powered alternative transport can plan their routes to stop by at GoByBike celebration stations for snacks, refreshments, swag and sign up to win prizes from local sponsors. Cyclists are also encouraged to register online at www.gobybike. ca to record their kilometres and get more chances to win prizes. More than 50 cyclists and

Gaye Brown, Nanaimo Community Policing volunteer, chats with rider Dean Matt at a Winter GoByBike Week station at Mostar Road and Metral Drive on Monday, Feb. 5. (Chris Bush/News Bulletin) pedestrians braved the 2 C temperatures and cold wind to stop for snacks, swag and prize draws at a celebration station at Metral Drive and Mostar Road on Monday, Feb. 5. GoByBike week in Nanaimo wraps up with the Lights Up Night Ride on Friday, Feb. 9, from 4-6 p.m., starting from the Beban Park Social Centre. The 7-9-kilome-

tre loop takes riders from the park along the E&N Trail, through nearby neighbourhoods and back to Beban for refreshments. To register for the night ride, find out about celebration station times and locations or register for Winter GoByBike Week, visit the City of Nanaimo website at www.nanaimo.ca.

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A28 Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Nanaimo News Bulletin

www.nanaimobulletin.com

New loan and grant program helps open doctor’s office Thrive Family Health held opening ceremony last month in north end used to offer “full-spectrum family medicine services for the community,” the press release stated. Dr. Shirin Madjzoub and Dr. A new family practice has opened in north Nanaimo thanks Diana Ruffell opened the clinic and Madjzoub said the program, in part to a new forgivable loan along with recent changes to proand grant program. vincial payment models, were of Thrive Family Health, which great benefit. opened last week, was the first to “Without this grant program, receive a $30,000 forgivable loan through a partnership between the combined with the longitudinal family physician payment model Nanaimo and District Hospital Foundation and the Nanaimo Di- rolled out last year, this clinic vision of Family Practice, accord- would not have been possible,” ing to a press release. The program Madjzoub said in the press release. Nanaimo Division of Family is meant to foster more family Practice hopes the grant program practices on the mid Island and can help remedy the lack of family north Island. The money was used to purchase doctors. “We need more family practice an examination table, autoclave offices in Nanaimo and the greater machine and other critical equipcentral and north Island comment at the clinic, which will be STAFF WRITER NEWS BULLETIN

munities, and seeing this grant program in practice is an exciting step for us as we aim to support family doctors and remove barriers to help open more practices to meet the growing demand our community has,” said Beccy Robson, Nanaimo Division of Family Practice executive director, in the press release. Thrive Family Health is not accepting new patients. Anyone seeking more information about the program is asked to contact the Nanaimo Division of Family Practice through http://divisionsbc.ca/nanaimo. Those seeking a family physician can go to www.healthlinkbc.ca/ health-connect-registry for more information.

NOTICE OF FIRST READING ZONING AMENDMENT APPLICATION NO. PL2023-036 Pursuant to Section 464(3) and 467(2) of the Local Government Act, the Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) advises that a Public Hearing will not be held for proposed “Regional District of Nanaimo Land Use and Subdivision Amendment Bylaw No. 500.446, 2024” (Bylaw 500.446). A Public Hearing is not being held as an Official Community Plan applies to the area that is subject to Bylaw 500.446 and the RDN Board considers Bylaw 500.446 to be consistent with “Regional District of Nanaimo East Wellington – Pleasant Valley Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1055,1997”. Additionally, the purpose of the bylaw is to permit residential development.

3817 Gilfillan Road Electoral Area C Bylaw 500.446 affects the property as shown on the map to the left. The RDN intends to consider first reading of Bylaw 500.446 at its regular Board meeting:

karl.yu@nanaimobulletin.com

A new family health centre, Thrive Family Health, has opened in Nanaimo thanks in part to a forgivable loan and grant program from Nanaimo and District Hospital Foundation and Nanaimo Division of Family Practice. (News Bulletin photo)

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY

A Gift for the Special Person In your Life! Flowers from TURLEY’SS last longer - natur naturally.

Time & Date: Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at 1 p.m. Location:

RDN Board Chambers 6300 Hammond Bay Road Nanaimo, B.C.

PURPOSE OF PROPOSED BYLAW The purpose of Bylaw 500.446 is to rezone the subject property from Rural 1 (RU1), Subdivision District ‘D’ (2.0-hectare minimum parcel size) to RU1 zone, Subdivision District ‘F’, (1.0-hectare minimum parcel size) to facilitate a two-lot subdivision.

WHERE CAN I INSPECT THE BYLAW?

For more information: planning@rdn.bc.ca www.getinvolved.rdn.ca/pl2023-036 www.rdn.bc.ca www.rdn.bc.ca/public-notices

A copy of the proposed bylaw, the Board resolution to not hold a Public Hearing, and other relevant documents may be inspected at www.getinvolved.rdn.ca/pl2023-036 or at the RDN Administration office. The office is located at 6300 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo, B.C., open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding public holidays.

Get Involved RDN!

60 Terminal Ave., Nanaimo 250-754-6344 www.turleysflorist.com

Download free font at nationalnewspaperweek.ca

www.nanaimobulletin.com

Nanaimo News Bulletin

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 A29

Nanaimo RCMP officers will come bearing Add a Little Spice for your Valentines… ‘trauma bears’ to help in delicate situations NO TAX

awareness about the value that stuffed animals have in Children who have comforting children undergone traumatic who have witnessed experiences will have or experienced trausomething to hold ma. The bears will onto when police ar- be distributed in rive at the scene. detachments so that Central Vancouofficers can give the ver Island Crime toys as gifts to calm Stoppers has children and ease the bought more than interview process. 700 trauma bears The majority of the for RCMP detachbears are earmarked ments in Nanaimo, for the Nanaimo Ladysmith, Lake detachment while Cowichan, Port the remaining will Alberni, Oceanside, be taken to the other Gabriola, Ucluelet, detachments by Tofino, Salt Spring Crime Stoppers volIsland, North Counteers. wichan/Duncan and “It’s amazing how Shawnigan Lake. something so small According to an can have such a RCMP press release, significant impact a civilian employee … Having worked approached the orga- the front line for nization and raised many years, I have STAFF WRITER NEWS BULLETIN

seen first-hand the impact these bears can have,” said reserve Const. Gary O’Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesperson, in the release. “They are a tried and proven calming mechanism for young children who may be traumatized or simply overwhelmed when speaking with a police officer.” Central Vancouver Island Crime Stoppers serves communities from Mill Bay to Bowser and the west coast of the Island. To submit a tip to Crime Stoppers, call 1-800-222-8477, or submit a tip online at http://cvicrimestoppers.com.

SALE! Feb 10 & 11

Cupids Store of Playful Things!

2149-B Bowen Rd. Nanaimo 250-756-4023 whispersadultsuperstore.com https://www.whispersadultsuperstore.com/ Regular Store Hours: (Open 7 Days a Week) Sun. 12-6pm, Mon-Wed 10-6pm, Thu-Sat 10-9pm

More than 700 Crime Stoppers trauma bears will make their way to central Vancouver Island RCMP detachments to help police comfort children who’ve undergone traumatic experiences. (Photo submitted)

• Fresh air & exercise • Extra cash • Job experience

chris.bush@nanaimobulletin.com

Permit Improvements for New Buildings The Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) is working to improve the steps for approving new coastal development. The proposed development permit area (DPA) outlines requirements to reduce the impact of coastal flooding as early as possible. The RDN Board gave two readings to official community plan amendment bylaws for Areas A, E, G and H and Zoning Bylaw No. 500 in 2023, and is seeking public input. How Can You Get Involved? Residents are invited to review and provide feedback on the proposed bylaws to create a new DPA by attending an upcoming open house below. The core information provided will be the same at each one. Thursday, February 1, from 6 to 8 p.m. Electoral Area H Lighthouse Community Centre 240 Lions Way, Qualicum Bay Monday, February 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. Electoral Area A Cedar Community Hall 2388 Cedar Rd, Nanaimo

Tuesday, February 6, from 6 to 8 p.m. Electoral Area E Nanoose Place 2925 NW Bay Rd, Nanoose Bay

And you will be delivering local news to your neighbours! At the Nanaimo News Bulletin, we work hard to provide local news and information to every home. And we rely on great carriers to deliver to those doors. Whether you are 8 or 80, a paper route is great way to be a part of your community. Your neighbours get their weekly paper and you earn some cash, get some exercise or maybe get that first job experience. It’s a win-win. Most routes take about an hour, just once a week. We provide supplies and training. Payment is dependent upon the number of papers on the route.

Unable to Attend an Open House? Scan the QR code or go to www.getinvolved.rdn.ca/coastal-flood-hazard-dpa for further information. Have questions for the project team? 250-390-6510 Toll Free: 1-877-607-4111 askplanning@rdn.bc.ca

What can a Newspaper Route do for you?

Permanent routes and substituting opportunities are available.

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Phone: 250-734-4605 or email: circulation@nanaimobulletin.com

Never miss a headline Keeping you informed with news that matters to you most! #1 Community Newspaper Website in Canada in 2023 with a circulation over 10,000

A30 Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Nanaimo News Bulletin

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Firefighters rescue dog stuck PUT YOUR MONEY WHERE inside construction equipment YOUR HOUSE IS

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Cranberry firefighters responded to an unusual call after a local Labrador retriever found itself stuck in a piece of equipment at the Nickel Bros. property south of Nanaimo. On Jan. 25, firefighters rescued a three-year-old dog named Tanker which got stuck in a hydraulic apparatus that was once used to do maintenance on Vancouver’s Lions Gate Bridge. According to Garry Hein, deputy chief with the Cranberry Volunteer Fire Department, Tanker got wedged inside the equipment while chasing a rabbit, and responders were unable to reach the animal. A member of the department with

Cranberry firefighters rescue a Labrador retriever from a piece of equipment once used to do maintenance on Lions Gate Bridge at an industrial property south of Nanaimo on Jan. 25. (Photo courtesy Garry Hein) welding experience, Tyler Yarocki, ended up cutting the side of the machine with a torch provided by Nickel Bros., and when the side was open and cooled off, another department member crawled in the hole, untangled the dog’s legs and released the pet to its

concerned owner. “I’ve cut people out of a vehicle, I’ve done all kinds of things, but I’ve never gotten this much response from a dog rescue,” said Hein. “Even the dispatcher, they phoned an hour later and said ‘we need an update on the dog, can you

give us an update?’ Even though there’s injuries and airlifts and evacuations, they want to know about the dog.” Tanker was calm throughout the ordeal and when he was released, he “eagerly” accepted a treat, rescuers reported. www.nanaimobulletin.com

GET US WORKING SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO Talk to an advisor today about a plan that helps you retire on your terms.

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Wednesday, February 7, 2024 A31

Nanaimo News Bulletin

Provincial government re-branding safer supply program Continued from A12 Whiteside said her ministry will be reviewing the report, but has already implemented some of the recommendations, including changing the name from “prescribed safer supply” to “prescribed alternatives,” on Henry’s recommendation that safer supply means different things to different people.

Other immediately implemented recommendations include reducing the risk of misuse of prescriptions by working to expand medication options, making ‘witnessed’ dosing the default for new medications and updating clinical guidance on hydromorphone for select patients. Elenore Sturko, B.C. United’s shadow minister for mental health, addiction, recovery and education,

sees portions of the report as vindication. “Months ago government officials called diversion an urban myth,” she posted on social media, quoting part of the report noting that, “emerging evidence indicates diversion of prescribed substance(s) is occurring and may be causing harms.” She said she will continue to ad-

vocate for stricter safeguards and recovery-oriented practices in B.C. The Nanaimo Area Public Safety Association issued a press release on the topic on Sunday, Feb. 4, saying that administering prescribed-alternative drugs to those already in active addiction will worsen street disorder. NAPSA has called for an end to drug decriminalization.

“The B.C. government has stopped using ‘safe’ to characterize addictive drugs. But however they word it, it’s still addictive drugs that the government is handing out on taxpayer dime, without nearly enough focus on prevention, treatment and recovery,” said Collen Middleton, NAPSA president, in the release. wolfgang.depner@blackpress.ca

NOTICE 2024 PARCEL TAX ROLL REVIEW FOR PROPERTY OWNERS WITHIN THE FOLLOWING SERVICE AREAS DRINKING WATER & WATERSHED PROTECTION - Electoral Areas A, B, C, E, F, G and H CRIME PREVENTION & COMMUNITY JUSTICE SUPPORT - Electoral Areas E, F, G and H WATER SERVICE AREAS

Snow being cleared at Nanaimo Airport last month. January saw extreme cold and snow, but also plenty of balmy weather. (Chris Bush/News Bulletin)

Weather impacts water supply Continued from A1 Jan. 8 saw 51.5mm of rain, which eclipsed the previous 47mm of rainfall recorded for the day in Nanaimo in 1953. Jan. 12 set temperature records for the lowest high temperature at -6.3 C, breaking the -5.3 C record from 1950, and the low temperature for the day was -14.8 C versus -10 C set in 1998. Jan. 13 the mercury plummeted to -15.8 C, eclipsing the -13.9 C record set for the day in 1950. Just as temperatures started to rise, Jan. 16 dawned to see 17 centimetres of snow fall at Nanaimo Airport, breaking another daily record of 10cm set in 2000. “[At] the end of the month, in the last few days, we’ve been pummelled with this subtropical feed,” Castellan said. “The west side of the Island saw the most dramatic rain amounts, well upwards of 600mm for five days for places like Kennedy Lake … but the Nanaimo side a lot of it came as warmth, so that’s where the records were broken.” On Jan. 29, there was a new daily high temperature record of 16.9 C, besting the 14.6 C recorded in 1995. “Maybe more impressive still, the minimum temperature was down only to 9.4 C, whereas the previous high minimum was in 1912 at 7.2 C,” Castellan said. He said multi-year drought conditions started in 2022 and continued in 2023 with July-like

temperatures in May that set up extremely difficult conditions for wildfires, agriculture and the ecosystem in general and there is a “high probability” for warmer temperatures in February, March and April. Warm temperatures and rain have already impacted the area’s water supply for the coming summer season. Bill Sims, the City of Nanaimo’s general manager of engineering and public works, said residents can expect to see earlier-than-usual watering restrictions in the event that the late-season snowpack does not develop. “The snowpack has been seriously depleted with this latest round of pineapple expresses,” Sims said in an e-mail. “We are preparing for it to be a wintertime drought as far as snow is concerned. There’s lots of liquid water, which we’ll start storing earlier than normal in case we don’t build our usual late-season snowpack.” He said snowpack levels and the south Nanaimo River watershed around Jump Lake – the city’s water source – can rise quickly when snowstorms happen in February, March and April, which is hoped for again this year. “We’re always concerned and, as the saying goes, planning for the worst, hoping for the best,” Sims said. chris.bush@nanaimobulletin.com

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A Parcel Tax Roll Review Panel will be held on Friday, February 23, 2024, at 11 a.m., for the purpose of hearing complaints as to one or more of the following grounds per section 205(1) of the Community Charter: (a) there is an error or omission respecting a name or address on the parcel tax roll; (b) there is an error or omission respecting the inclusion of a parcel; (c) there is an error or omission respecting the taxable area or the taxable frontage of a parcel; (d) an exemption has been improperly allowed or disallowed. A complaint shall not be heard by the Parcel Tax Roll Review Panel unless notice of the complaint has been made in writing at least 48 hours prior to the first sitting of the Parcel Tax Roll Review Panel. Complaints can be submitted through one of the following options: - In person or by mail: Regional District of Nanaimo, 6300 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo, B.C., V9T 6N2 - email: Finance1@rdn.bc.ca Parcel tax assessment rolls may be inspected at the Regional District of Nanaimo administration building 6300 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo, B.C., Monday through Friday, by appointment, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., starting Thursday, February 1, 2024, or by emailing the Regional District of Nanaimo.

250-390-4111 or toll free at 1-877-607-4111 inquiries@rdn.bc.ca https://rdn.bc.ca/board-appointments www.rdn.bc.ca

www.rdn.bc.ca/public-notices www.rdn.bc.ca

Get Involved RDN!

A32 Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Nanaimo News Bulletin

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SEARCH. BROWSE. BUY. Vancouver Island’s #1 source for new & used vehicles.

https://autos.nanaimobulletin.com/ autos.nanaimobulletin.com http://www.autos.nanaimobulletin.com https://autos.nanaimobulletin.com/ Buyers Advice & Car Reviews We keep you informed with the latest auto news and reviews

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Nanaimo News Bulletin

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 A33

In loving memory of Lorna Irene Simpson

In loving memory of Wesley Douglas Briggs

December 26, 1944 to January 23, 2024

March 12th, 1986 – January 2nd, 2024

It is with profound sadness that the family of Lorna Simpson announces her passing on January 23, 2024. Lorna was predeceased by her parents, Amil and Dollie Salmon and her brother John Salmon. She is survived by her loving husband Tom of 59 years, her daughter Amie, grandsons Kaden and Devyn, brother Jim Salmon (Lisa), sister-in-law Lori Salmon and brother-in-law Ron Simpson, as well as numerous cousins, nieces and nephews, along with many other extended family and friends. Lorna was born in Nanaimo and married her sole mate, Tom, in 1964. She worked many years in the meat department at both the Harewood SuperValue and Hub CoOp, before changing her career to operate her hair salon in her home until her retirement. Lorna and Tom enjoyed many trips with family and close friends and have great memories of holidays spent at their Time Share in Phrump, Nevada. Lorna also enjoyed the time spent with family and friends at their property at Northwest Bay where she loved to organize and host many wonderful events. Many thanks to the wonderful compassionate team in the palliative

“Family First” unit at the Nanaimo Hospital who cared for Lorna and her family during this difficult time. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In loving memory of Gabriele Ilse Erika Achilles 1953 - 2023 It is with profound sadness that we say goodbye to our beloved angel, Gabriele, who fought valiantly against a brain tumor, losing the battle on October 15, 2023, in Nanaimo, B.C. Gabriele was born in Espenschied, Germany and is predeceased by both parents (Alexander & Helga), brother (Dieter) and her beloved dog Emma. She is survived by her sister, Waltraud, brothers Klaus and Alexander and numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews and many, many friends around the world. Among many vocations, Gabriele worked as an interpreter, was employed in hotel management, served in the Canadian Military and was an exceptional real estate entrepreneur. Gabriele, inspired by her grandmother who was an opera singer, loved the opera and indeed, many other art forms. In April, some friends took her to Live at the Met, at a local Nanaimo movie theatre, to see “Champion”. She continued to be enthralled by the provocative storytelling and brilliant voices of newly created operas as well as the classics. A special 70th Opera themed Birthday Party was held for Gabriele on May 31st at Avenir Memory Care Home where she was surrounded by friends, family, cards, video calls, presents, flowers, good food, and yes, some selections of La Traviata, sung by a local opera singer! Gabriele lived in Canada, for over 40 years, including the communities of Red Deer, Alberta and Moncton, New Brunswick until finally settling in Nanaimo, BC on beautiful Vancouver Island in November 2020. Gabriele felt she had arrived home, with a stunning view of Departure Bay and the near-by woods to walk her dog, Sasha. As per Gabriele’s generous heart, she asked that her body be donated to UBC’s Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences.

A memorial and spreading of Gabriele’s ashes, along with Emma’s, will commence upon the end of her exceptional gift to our living world and once she is cremated (1 to 3 years). Her Nanaimo friends (Ron, Darold, Lynda, Al and Cydney), friends Edith from Sri Lanka/ Germany, Brenda from Atlanta, Georgia, Mary Ann from Calgary, Janice from Sydney, Australia and Koren from Red Deer and especially her beloved family in Germany, would like to thank Gabriele’s neighbours on Elk Street and the staff at Nanaimo District General Hospital, Victoria Cancer Centre, Island Health and Nanaimo Home Care for the many months of care and monitoring previous to Gabriele’s admittance into a care facility in January, 2023. A special thank you, to Sarah, who adopted Sasha and to the many other supporters who helped along the way and especially to the exceptional care giving staff at Avenir Memory Care, in Nanaimo. We are all so grateful for the love, respect and generosity of authentic care, and yes, fun, that you brought to Gabriele’s last nine months. She was an exceptional human being and you all recognized that! THANK YOU!

With heartbreak and sadness as vast as Wesley’s life, the family announces the sudden passing of a loving and carefree - father, son, brother, nephew, uncle, cousin, and friend to many. Wesley was born in Springdale, Ark. and passed away in St. Albert, AB. Wes was raised in Ladysmith. Graduated LSS in 2004. He also resided in Nanaimo and was instrumental in starting TREW Beginnings. Wesley owned and operated TREW Excavating and went to Alberta to work in Construction. Wesley is survived by his mom -Jerri (Wes was thought to be her “Golden Child” by the family). Tears will now and forever flow. The light is on and the “shoebox” is unlocked for when you come home. It’ll be alright. Wesley will be forever remembered by the light of his life -his DaughterJasmine Carolyn (Punkin’). Jasmine’s mother, Trish (his confidante) and Jasmine’s sister and brother. Tay (Mark) and Lucas (Pariya). Predeceased by his father-Bill Blokhuizen in April of 2023, Bill faithfully called Wes “Junior”. Also predeceased by his Gramma in 2020 and his Aunt Lynn 2022. These losses affected him deeply. Wes leaves to mourn his passing and celebrate his life- his sisters: Kelsey-whom Wes shared a special bond with, laughed at her ways and respected her, (Caleb-his brother-in-law who was always there for Wes and had a friendship with Wes that was unwavering), Kyley (his little sister with who he acted as a protector for and she looked up to him) and his stepsister Stacey. His adopted brother: Curtis Crandon who was Wes’s best ally, supporter, and critic (Chrissy) and stepbrother Chris (Elizabeth). We mourn with Natasha in Alberta for her loss. Wes also leaves behind many nephews, nieces, aunts, uncles, 1st and 2nd cousins. Wes had a very large and loving extended family. He believed in “Family First”.

FOR WES FROM KELSEY Hey Wes remember that time you took me on the back of your bike I’ve never held on so tight Get out of that lane Wes, stop living so fast, you promised you would be alright. You figured this one out- you’ve got to the top Now stay and you’ll be fine. You’ve achieved something new Wes, how’d you do that so fast, Look at all the people you’ve impressed. You’re risky with everything Wes, I can’t worry like this, but you lived your own life. You walked the line and I didn’t have enough time. The thrill could be here. You could live like us, That way you would be ok. you promised you’d be ok. I’m sorry I couldn’t keep you safe. Wes, you said I love you, don’t worry, stop stressing I’ll be fine. Do you remember that time Wes you took me on the back of your bike? I promise I’ll hold on tight. The family is asking that you join them in a “Celebration of Life” – On March 16th, 2024 at Cedar Community Hall, 2388 Cedar Road, Nanaimo , BC- between 12 Noon and 4 PM- to share memories and come together to remember the times of Wes’s life. Wesley’s Interment will be at Cedar Memorial Cemetery where he will be placed alongside his grandparents. Date to be determined.

A34 Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Nanaimo News Bulletin

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MAKING SENSE OF YOUR FINAL ARRANGEMENTS.

When did we stop asking Questions?

Our new address as of November 1, 2023

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Remembering Loved Ones Place your condolences online. (Visit your local newspaper website, obituary page)

In loving memory of John Richard Lawrence Wulff May 3, 1930 - January 16, 2024

John passed away peacefully with family, including 3 very special dogs, at his side and in the care of the skilled and caring staff at Eden Gardens. John immigrated from Argentina to Canada as a young man, having chosen Canada rather than Australia as his destination so that he could walk home if need be. That is the kind of person he was. He never gave up; always finding a way to get things done and done properly. He had a quirky sense of humour, a great sense of fun and loved music, travelling, hiking, sailing, fishing and tennis, which he played until he was well into his 89th year. John was a master builder as well as a skilled artisan, working with stained glass and various metals. He has left the family a wonderful legacy with the cabin he built for all of us on Hornby Island. We will sorely miss him, but he remains in our hearts and in so many tangible ways. We will have a private celebration of his life at his cabin. John is survived by his wife (Wendy), stepdaughter (Susan), twin sister (Sylvia), brother (Kerril), sister (Christl) and several nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in John’s memory to the music program at Eden Gardens, Nanaimo.

Place a loved one’s Memoriam or Obituary

In loving memory of Hawkins, Dawna Dawna was born and raised in Port Arthur, now Thunder Bay. Following high school she earned a diploma in Laboratory Technology. Over the years she worked in Labs in Fort William, Medicine Hat, Edmonton and Calgary. She also earned a specialist diploma in laboratory histology. Dawna is survived by husband Matt of Nanaimo, daughter Wendy of Brisbane, Australia, son Doug of Melbourne, Australia, sister Margaret Wheeler of Port Coquitlam B.C., sister-in-law Joan of Thunder Bay and a number of nieces and nephews throughout western and eastern Canada. Dawna was known for her easy smile, pleasant personality and genuine love of people. She was a talented cook who loved gatherings of friends and an accomplished needle worker with many examples of her work decorating her homes. She could do anything she put her mind to and had a habit of getting things done, always in a pleasant manner.

Her memory will live on and she will be missed forever.

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Nanaimo News Bulletin

Remembering Loved Ones Place your condolences online. (Visit your local newspaper website, obituary page)

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 A35

Memorial Service for Adeline Sowden Will be held on Friday, February 16th at 2 pm At St. Philip by-the-sea, Lantzville 7113 Lantzville Road

In loving memory of HOSKINS, Flora Margaret 1937 - 2023, Nanaimo, B.C. Flo is remembered with deep love and affection by her daughters Kenna and Diana (Will) and her grandchildren Eric, Callum and Kenna. She is predeceased by her beloved husband Gary Hoskins, sister Jean Dawson, brother John Dawson and son-in-law Gary Rhode. Flo spent her early years in Woodfibre, B.C., where her Nova Scotia born father, John Dawson, worked as an electrician. These happy years ended when her father first lost one leg then his life to the effects of diabetes. Her Scottish mother, Isabel, moved her young family to Cambridge Street in Vancouver Heights where she raised Flo and her siblings through the war years on a tailor’s wages. Upon graduation from King Edward, Flo trained as a lab technician at VGH. It was at her job in New Westminster where another lab tech, Gary Hoskins, captured her heart. After marriage, the young couple moved first to Jasper then to Edmonton, where Flora supported her husband in completing his university degree. Three weeks after the birth of their first daughter, the couple moved to Nanaimo for Gary to work at the Pacific Biological Station. Soon after, Flo had a second daughter and devoted herself to raising her girls. When they were older, she went to work for the Nanaimo Regional Library where she stayed until retirement. Flo is remembered by her daughters as a loving mom whose quiet demeanour hid a fierce affection for her family and strong principles. She was practical, thrifty and independent minded. When the girls were young she volunteered as a Brownie leader and in retirement spent numerous years volunteering in the thrift store for the Nanaimo Hospice Society. Flo enjoyed music and singing and was an active member of Sweet Adelines and the Malaspina Choir. She was also an accomplished needlework artist and made many friends through her guilds. Some of Flo’s happiest

In loving memory of Shirley Tague March 31, 1940 – December 23, 2023 It is with great sadness that the family of Shirley Tague announce her passing on Dec. 23, 2023. Predeceased by her husband David in 2006, Shirley is lovingly remembered by her children, Kathleen Parrish (Mike), Darleen Tague (Al), and Kelly Tague (Wendy), as well as numerous grandchildren & great grandchildren. A private service was held with family. Memorial donations can be made to B.C. Children’s Hospital.

times in retirement were spent travelling with her husband. They visited eastern Canada researching Hoskins and Dawson family history, and travelled to Scotland and Wales where two of her grandchildren were born. After the death of her husband in 2016, Flo moved to Berwick on the Lake in Nanaimo where she appreciated the many good friends she made there. She continued to live an active life until seven months ago when a debilitating stroke changed her life. Her daughters want to thank the caring health workers at NRGH and the Gardens at Qualicum Beach who made her remaining time as easy as possible.

She is sorely missed and will long be remembered by her loved ones.

Grieving the loss of a loved one? We are here for you.

In loving memory of David Michael Kleisinger David Michael Kleisinger, born in Zweibrucken, Germany April 6, 1957, while his father was serving in the Airforce has passed away unexpectedly on the morning of January 11th, 2024. He is pre-deceased by his father Doug Kleisinger and survived by his daughters Michelle (Matt) Fournier and Serena (Ryan) Busch, 8 grandchildren, his exwife whom he considered his best friend, Susan Landry, his mother Joyce Kleisinger, brothers Terry (Laurie) Kleisinger and Darryl (Laurie) Kleisinger, 1 niece, 4 nephews, 2 great nieces, 1 great nephew and 2 stepchildren Melissa (Ruben) Berta, and Christopher Turner. Dad had a passion for RCcars and helicopters, stereos and fancy cars, and anything electronics. He always remained a kid at heart. He was generous with everyone he met. In his last year and a half of life he got to live the bachelor dream at Kiwanis where he made many friends. Dad will be greatly missed. A small intimate family service will be held.

A Celebration of Linda Mae White Jan 24, 1950 – Nov 7, 2023

House 1080 St. George Crescent Thrift Shoppe #35 – 1925 Bowen Road Tel 250-591-8811 Fax 250-591-1858

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Saturday February 24th 1:00-4:00pm Cavallotti Lodge 2060 East Wellington Rd Nanaimo

A36 Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Nanaimo News Bulletin

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Nanaimo News Bulletin

Legal Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTIFICATION DU PUBLIC PROPOSED ROGERS 31.0 METER TALL WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS MONOPOLE TOWER INSTALLATION

EMPLACEMENT PROPOSÉ PAR ROGERS POUR L’IMPLANTATION D’UNE TOUR AUTOPORTANTE D’ENVIRON 31.0 MÈTRES DE HAUTEUR

The proposed installation is composed of a 31.0-meter monopole telecommunications tower, including the antennas and a lightning rod. Rogers will comply with marking and lighting requirements in accordance with Transport Canada protocols.

Le site de télécommunication proposé sera composé d’une tour de type autoportante d’une élévation horstout d’environ 46.0 mètres incluant les antennes, le balisage aérien et le parafoudre. Propriété: 6675 Mary Ellen Drive, Nanaimo, BC V9V 1T7 (Woodgrove Crossing Shopping Centre) Les coordonnées géographiques: 49.240320, -124.0561713 Objectif: Améliorer la couverture sans fil à Nanaimo et répondre à la demande croissante de services sans fil. Détails : Un complexe d’équipement sera également installé à la base de la tour proposée et l’ensemble du site sera entouré d’une clôture de sécurité avec un point d’accès verrouillé. Les citoyens sont invités à faire part de leurs commentaires, avant la fermeture des bureaux de Rogers le 18 mars 2024 soit à l’adresse indiquée (avec une adresse de retour).

Property: 6675 Mary Ellen Drive, Nanaimo, BC V9V 1T7 (Woodgrove Crossing Shopping Centre) Geographic Coordinates: 49.240320, -124.0561713 Objective: To improve wireless coverage in Nanaimo and to meet rising demands for wireless services. Details: An equipment compound will also be installed at the base of the proposed tower and the entire site will be surrounded by a security fence with a locked gated access point. The public is invited to provide written comments by end of business day on March 18th, 2024 to the contact information shown below. Please include a return address.

Tower Installation Project: Projet d’installation de communication sans fil Reference: W5729 – Woodgrove Centre Contact Information for Rogers’ Representative: Brian Gregg, SitePath Consulting Ltd. PO Box 20138, Vancouver RPO, Fairview, BC V5Z 0C1 Phone: 778-870-1388 Email: briangregg@sitepathconsulting.com

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 A37

Legal Notices

Warehouseman’s Lien Act Under the terms of the Warehouse Lien Act, Goods and Personal Property of these persons listed below, deposited at AA Mini Storage, 2399 Cienar Drive, Nanaimo BC, Have been seized and WMI be sold on or after date: February 19, 2024 to recover the cost for unpaid storage rent, Aaron LaFlam

$793.00

Catlin Rogers

$1,101.60

Warehouseman’s Lien Act By virtue of the Warehouseman’s Lien Act and on behalf of Consolidated Civil Enforcement , we will dispose of goods belonging to Lloyd R. Ernest, namely a 2010 Ford Focus recover $262.50 plus accruing storage and any/ all other expenses related. These goods will be made available for sale after Feb 14th,2024. Goods are currently being stored in Nanaimo BC. Contact 604-434-2448 for further information.

NOTICE OF DISPOSITION TO: Gail Beaudoin Gisele Beaudoin Daniel Beaudoin, formerly of Space 13, Seabreeze Mobile Home Park, Nanaimo, BC Take notice that pursuant to section 37(3) of the Regulation to the Manufactured Home Park Tenancy Act, the landlord of the Seabreeze Mobile Home Park at 25 Maki Road, Nanaimo, BC, intends to dispose of a 1994 Moduline Industries Ltd., Gibraltar 24077, 44’ x 24’, and its contents, (“the Property”) located in Seabreeze Mobile Home Park, Nanaimo, BC, 30 days after the publication date of this notice, unless you take legal possession of the Property. After the expiration of the 30 day period, the Property will be disposed of with no further notice to you. Landlord: Lisa Buchanan, Seabreeze Mobile Home Park, 25 Maki Road, Nanaimo, BC

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Nanaimo News Bulletin

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Nanaimo News Bulletin

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 A39

sports VIU basketball teams win in their final home games Mariners women back on track, M’s men solidly in first place KARL YU NEWS BULLETIN

Like recent Nanaimo weather, Vancouver Island University Mariners women’s hoops team made it rain in their last home game of the season. The VIU women, playing against the Columbia Bible College Bearcats on Saturday, Feb. 3, scored a 83-64 win. With a 37-31 half-time lead, the Mariners poured it on in the second, outscoring the opposition 46-33. The M’s helped their cause by going 13-of-34 (38 per cent) from three-point range. Guard Mackenzie Cox led the Mariners with 14 points. Tony Bryce, VIU women’s coach, told the News Bulletin

the team heated up from beyond the arc in the second half. “In the second half, we were moving better and that ended up getting them running around and our shots were wide open shots, practice shots,” he said. “We were fortunate enough to make some and that helped us pull away.” The Mariners were mired in a four-game losing streak in January, but have rebounded, posting a 4-0 record their last four. Players have been buying in, the coach said. “Often a loss is an eye-opener, so to get into that funk, now you’re breaking down tape a little bit more, you have people asking questions, it needed to happen and now there’s just

a better level of focus in what we’re doing, even during the week,” said Bryce. Mariners’ guard Chloe Scaber played the last home game of her collegiate career, chipping in with eight points and a teamhigh six assists. The win was special, she said. “I mean, I’m not a crier, but in my heart this is huge,” said Scaber. “It was a huge transition [transferring to VIU] and Tony had to put a lot of trust in me to develop as a player and develop into what he described as one of the pieces of the puzzle instead of the piece of the puzzle … it ended bringing me so close to my team and my coaches and it’s VIU women’s basketball guard Kiayra Hohlweg drives hard to the hoop in an 83-64 home win hard to say goodbye.” Continued on A40 over the CBC Bearcats on Saturday, Feb. 3. (Karl Yu/News Bulletin)

Clippers lose one, win one as BCHL officially expands STAFF WRITER NEWS BULLETIN

Nanaimo Clippers forward Mike Murtagh tries to bang away at a loose puck at the edge of the crease during a game against the West Kelowna Warriors on Saturday, Feb. 3, at Frank Crane Arena. (Greg Sakaki/News Bulletin)

The Nanaimo Clippers lost one game and won another on a weekend when they paid tribute to past champions. The Clippers lost 6-3 to the West Kelowna Warriors on Friday, Feb. 2, then doubled up the Powell River Kings 4-2 on Saturday, Feb. 3, in B.C. Hockey League action at Frank Crane Arena. The first game of the

weekend was alumni night at the rink and past Clippers players and coaches were there for the occasion and the Fred Page Cup was in the building. On the ice, the Clippers got goals from Samuel Boisvert, Connor DeTurris and Andrew Brown and Chazz Nixon stopped 26 of the 31 shots he faced. The next night, Dylan Kinch scored his first as a Clipper and added his second for good measure, and DeTurris and Mike

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February Hours: Tuesday to Friday 9-5, Sat 10-4, Closed Sun & Mon

pion to take on the BCHL champion this spring. Chris Hebb, the BCHL’s chief executive officer, welcomed the new additions in a press release. “All five are strong organizations from great communities and we look forward to the immediate boost they will give our league,” he said. GAME ON … The Clippers host the Surrey Eagles on Friday, Feb. 9, at 7 p.m. at Frank Crane Arena.

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Murtagh were other scorers. Nixon made 35 saves for the win. In other BCHL news, the league expanded last week – effective this current season. Alberta’s Blackfalds Bulldogs, Brooks Bandits, Okotoks Oilers, Sherwood Park Crusaders and Spruce Grove Saints have signed franchise agreements and will play out the rest of the 2023-24 season as an Alberta division, with an opportunity to determine their own cham-

THE BEEKEEPER (Not Rated) RESERVED SEATING FRI 4:10, 7:30, 10:20; SAT 1:00, 4:10, 7:30, 10:20; SUN 1:00, 4:10, 7:30; MON-THURS 4:10, 7:30

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A40 Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Nanaimo News Bulletin

www.nanaimobulletin.com

Minor football brings the ‘boom’

TUBBERS’ CUP Nanaimo Vipers player Gord Lennox wins a faceoff during a game against the Victoria Islanders on Saturday, Feb. 3, during the Tubbers’ Cup old-timers’ hockey tournament at the Nanaimo Ice Centre. (Karl Yu/News Bulletin) Continued from A39 The team will close its regular season with four road games – two games against the Camosun Chargers and a pair versus the Langara Falcons. The M’s women (16-4) also defeated the Bearcats 56-47 in a home win on Friday, Feb. 2. Scaber scored a game-high 18 points in that one.

VIU’s men’s basketball team (19-1), meanwhile, won both their games against Columbia Bible College on the weekend, scoring an 80-30 blowout Friday, Feb. 2, then following up with a 92-84 decision. Kaeleb Johnson scored 30 points in the first game, while in the rematch, Adam Anhold scored 22. karl.yu@nanaimobulletin.com

South of the border, excitement is building as the American professional football season is about to reach its conclusion this weekend with Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas. Meanwhile, here on the local scene, local football excitement revolves around both an ending and a beginning… Football Nanaimo has been very much on the upswing in recent years, involving hundreds of boys and girls ages 7-18 in youth tackle football. The association never rests, as there are really two separate seasons each calendar year: a spring season from March to June and then a fall season from September to December. At the start of last month the organization held its annual general meeting, where an incoming executive was elected and player awards from the past fall season were presented. At the peewee (age 11-12) level from the Beast-Mode team, Reid Phillip was named best defensive player, Tyson Rainey the best offensive player and Dominique Wesley-Atleo as best linesman. Henry Lutz

award and MVP was Alex was the most improved Tsembelis. player and Ryker Jecklin the most sportsmanlike. This past fall’s bantam The team leadership award (ages 15-16) team finished went to Mason Elliott and second in the province in team’s most valuable player playoffs. The team was led was judged to be Lucas by MVP Everly Knudsen, Leslie. best offensive player Hunter Minor football’s Legion Smyth and best defensive of Boom peewee team had player Elijah Johnstone. a super season, capped off Doug Mandalik was recby winning a provincial ognized as most improved championship. Individual and Ethan Krampl as most awards went to sportsmanlike. Jayden Ellingson as Best defensive THORPE team MVP, Liam lineman was REPORT Kosowan as best ofParker Cutler, IAN THORPE fensive player, Marbest offensive kos Tsembelis top lineman was defensive player and Dominic McRae Liam McCaghren and Deon Hovbest linemen. Marind took home lon Aitken won the the leadership leadership award, award. Phoenix Heppell was most Football Nanaimo also improved and Reid Wilson fielded a midget (ages 17most sportsmanlike. 18) team last season. From From the junior bantam that squad, awards went to (age 13-14) team, Jacob Matthew Erickson as best Gregory was chosen as best offensive player and Ryder defensive player, Benjamin Mount as best defensive Stahl best offensive player player. Top offensive lineand James Coco as best man was Xavier Inscho, top lineman. Most improved defensive lineman Camplayer was Leo Lin, with eron McElroy and most Ethan Murphy most sports- sportsmanlike Tobias Tio. manlike. Will Lindsay reJoshua Willcock was most ceived the team leadership improved, Brett Powell re-

ceived the leadership award and MVP was Christofer Ciccone-Torres. The Football Nanaimo board of directors for the 2024 season features Wanda Currie returning as president, assisted by vice-president Natalie Brown, registrar Alisha Keck, secretary Nadine Beaudoin, treasurer Carlie Krampl, and others. The new board is now busy preparing for the upcoming spring tackle season for atom, peewee and junior bantam teams which will begin at the end of this month. At this point the junior bantam team is full, peewee level has two teams and atom level has three with room for more if additional coaches step forward. Practices and home games are played at Pioneer Park and all football equipment is provided except for cleats. No prior football experience is required. New players can contact footballnanaimoregistrar@gmail.com or visit Football Nanaimo’s Facebook page. Whatever your sport, a reminder in closing to play your hardest, play fair, and show good sportsmanship.

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Nanaimo News Bulletin

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 A41

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A42 Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Nanaimo News Bulletin

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Nanaimo News Bulletin

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 B1

arts & entertainment Theatre group stages ‘campy and kitschy’ melodrama Raymond Salgado Drag Queens on Trial will show at the OV Arts Centre starting Feb. 9

sings the national anthem at NBA game

MANDY MORAES NEWS BULLETIN

Western Edge Theatre’s latest production will force three drag queens to face the music while on the witness stand. Drag Queens on Trial, by Sky Gilbert, is the theatre group’s second production of its current season and will be staged at the OV Arts Centre on Victoria Road, opening Friday, Feb. 9. The artistic director for the theatre company, Johnathan Greenway, knew he wanted to do an all-Canadian season, and sought to stage a play that was in balance between serious and funny for the midway. He had fallen in love with Gilbert’s work about the courtroom melodrama approximately a decade ago while studying Canadian theatre history, and learned it was considered one of the country’s greatest modern plays. “With the social and political events going on in the States and also right here in Canada, with rallies and protests about queer identity, and in general, about safe spaces for LGBTQ-plus, I thought that this was a really important time,” Greenway said. Although the play is set in 1985 – the year it was first staged in Toronto – the artistic director said it’s amazing to see how relevant it still is for a modern audience.

MANDY MORAES NEWS BULLETIN

Anya Kennedy, Randy Humchitt and Darrian Gaetz during rehearsal on Jan. 31 for Drag Queens on Trial. (Mandy Moraes/News Bulletin) “While this will be 40 years old next year, this play is still incredibly topical, especially with what’s been going on the last few years with drag queens and the persecution they’ve been getting by trying to do reading in schools,” he said. However, Drag Queens on Trial should not be compared to readings in schools, since it’s suggested for audiences 16-plus because of extreme language, violence and sexual themes. “It showcases three people – not drag queens, not homosexuals – it showcases

three individual people. And to promote the love that they have for each other and that we need to have for other people,” Greenway said. The artistic director noted that the play is not a drag nor burlesque performance, but a staged production done in the form of a German melodrama and is structured like a courtroom drama. Although, it does have its “campy and kitschy” moments. “It’s a bit of a blend between the flair that drag queen shows can have, and a really staunchly, dry melodrama … It slaps you in the face with

if t

Im B ag e yo in n d at io n A

comedy and then socks you in the gut with some harsh reality,” he said. The three queens on trial, Lana Lust, Marlene Delorme and Judy Goose, will be played by Randy Humchitt, Darrian Gaetz and Anya Kennedy, respectively. The actors not only portray their queens, but also “extensions of their characters” as a judge, prosecuting attorney and surprise witness. “These three people are also representative of the larger community, in the sense that they get resurrected every time this play would be put on …

They’re three spirits that exist, perpetually within the show that represent three facets of queer culture,” Greenway said. Audiences are advised there will be a protection policy in place and that anyone exhibiting disrespectful behaviour will be asked to leave the venue. Drag Queens on Trial will run at the OV Arts Centre from Feb. 9-10 and Feb. 15-17 with staging at 7:30 p.m., and 2 p.m. on Feb. 18. Tickets can be purchased at www.westernedge.org. mandy.moraes@nanaimobulletin.com

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A Lantzville singer’s dream became reality when he flew across the country and sang the national anthem at an NBA game in January. Two days before the game, Raymond Salgado, a finalist in last year’s season of Canada’s Got Talent, was asked to take centre court at Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena for the Toronto Raptors versus Chicago Bulls game on Jan. 18. The opportunity was a twist of fate since the scheduled singer was unable to perform and the request came on short notice. “I feel like if I didn’t say yes, there wouldn’t have been that opportunity to do it again …” Salgado said. “Being able to sing both the Canadian and American anthems, you just really felt the love of the stadium and crowd.” Continued on B4

B2 Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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Nanaimo News Bulletin

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 B3

Playwright bases new work on true events of a widow’s dating life STAFF WRITER NEWS BULLETIN

Olivia Etey will hold a public reading for Woman Against Gravity, presented by TheatreOne, at the Port Theatre on Feb. 11. (Submitted photo)

The play is inspired and based on the true events of a woman the playwright personally knew named Evie Wallace. She met Wallace during a women’s meetup at a remote The second show in TheatreOne’s series of mountain chalet that was accessible only by workshops and public readings of original helicopter. plays is about a senior woman entering the “They were all incredible women there. dating world. Woman Against Gravity by Olivia Etey arms The very first time that they met and all asthe main character with the motto, “suck life sembled together, Evie had put a whoopee dry,” and her late husband’s words, “you have cushion on every single woman’s seat and they all sat down as a congregation and it was energy and only one life, so use it.” Tessa, unbelievable.” the main character, launches herself into the Etey grew up without any grandparents, as world of seniors’ online dating, and examines they all died before she was born, and was her fierce battle against gravity as she yearns completely captivated by Evie and her life to master the art of living in the moment. story. Etey started writing the play roughly six “I’ve always romanticized and fantasized years ago, and previously it had been a part grandparents … and I think getting the of the Stage One Festival of new Canadian chance to spend time and hear the stories work for the Lunch Box Theatre in Calgary. of people from the baby boomer age demoDue to the COVID-19 pandemic; however, it hasn’t yet been read out loud in its entirety graphic for me is a really fascinating place for me. I have so much admiration and respect before a live audience before.

for that age group,” she said. Woman Against Gravity’s public reading will be held at 2 p.m. on Feb. 11 in the Port Theatre’s Harmac Pacific Room. Admission is by donation and seating is limited. This year, the Emerging Voices program is being led by TheatreOne Artistic Associate, Tamara McCarthy, who works as a dramaturg with the playwright and directs a cast of professional actors in each public reading. The group will join the playwright for two days in Nanaimo, examining each script and asking important questions that can only be discovered through the deep dive offered through this process. The goal is to provide questions and comments that will help the playwrights move their scripts to the next level. The final part of the program involves bringing the scripts to the public with a reading. Those attending will be able to give feedback to the playwright as well. arts@nanaimobulletin.com

Nanaimo actor appears in Florida play depicting power struggle between professor and student “The play is so intense and provocative … People often side with one of the characters A Nanaimo-raised actor will vehemently … They’ll often watch the same performance headline a play at a top repeand come out with completely tory company in the United different opinions about the States this spring. Ella Olesen will star as Carol two characters,” Olesen said. The play will open April 16 in Pulitzer Prize-winning and run until May 19 at the playwright David Mamet’s Artstage Studio Theatre. two-person play, Oleanna. STAFF WRITER NEWS BULLETIN

Last year, Olesen joined the same company in a leading role as Cecily Cardew in Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest. As part of the actor’s educational background, she graduated from the University of Michigan’s musical theatre program, where she was the only Canadian in her class,

the second-ever Canadian in the program, and the first British Columbian to be part of the program. Olesen has also supplemented her education last year with Shakespeare studies at England’s renowned University of Oxford, for an “opportunity of a lifetime.” arts@nanaimobulletin.com

Nanaimo actor Ella Olesen, second from right, as part of the cast of The Importance of Being Earnest last year. (Submitted photo)

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Singer prepares to debut new song Group celebrates many facets of love in show Continued from B1 “People came up to me and were so complimentary,” Salgado said. Last month’s performance wasn’t his first time singing at a sporting event – he sang the anthem at a Vancouver Canucks game in 2021 – but as a member of the LGBTQ community, he was especially honoured to start off 2024 by singing on Pride night. The singer will perform live in Nanaimo this month as a headliner for ‘The Power of Love’ concert with Jona Kristinsson and Jonah O Connor. The show will include original material from all three performers, as well as some familiar staples. “With everything that’s happening in the world, music is so vital in a lot of our lives … it brings us together, brings us peace and gives us the chance to unite with our loved ones,” Salgado said. At the concert, the singer plans to debut a song titled Filter which he wrote before performing on Canada’s Got Talent last year and is the first original song he’s writ-

STAFF WRITER NEWS BULLETIN

Lantzville’s Raymond Salgado sang the national anthems at Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena for the Toronto Raptors versus Chicago Bulls game on Jan. 18. (Submitted photo) ten in a long time. “Filter was almost a song that I needed to write to get out of where I was emotionally. I was in a rut. And the song really just talks about surrounding pressures of society and social media,” Salgado said. “I think a lot of people need this type of song to know that they’re

not alone, especially when it comes to the seeking of approval from others.” ‘The Power of Love’ concert takes place at St. Andrew’s United Church on Fitzwilliam Street on Saturday, Feb. 10, at 7 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online at www.tixr.com. mandy.moraes@nanaimobulletin.com

Songs, poetry, skits and art will all be incorporated in Yellow Point Drama Group’s upcoming Valentine’s Day celebration at Cedar Community Hall. From Feb. 9-11, the drama group will present ‘Love Bytes in Cedar,’ a mix of original poetry and skits, as well as an art show and sale from the Chemainus Art Group. “Love can be many things – uplifting, heartbreaking, joyful, frustrating, hilariously funny, and more. This will be a chance to celebrate the variety of loves in our lives,” noted Brenda Bell, a member of Chemainus Art Group, in a news release. “How wonderful and such an inclusive idea to celebrate the many ways love weaves itself into our lives.” The Konsorados will also bring their own renditions of love songs and there will be prizes for a special audience participation challenge. Tickets are $25 for adults or $15 for youths under 19. The shows on Feb. 9-10 start at 7:30 p.m. and the matinee on Feb. 11 is at

Francesca Reside during rehearsals for ‘Love Bytes in Cedar’ from the Yellow Point Drama Group that starts on Feb. 9. (Chrissy Kemppi photo) 2 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online at http://yellowpointdramagroup.org, can be reserved by calling 250-722-2459, or may be purchased at the door. bailey.seymour@nanaimobulletin.com

Theatre continues children’s series with singing and magic Nanaimo’s TheatreOne will present an exciting multimedia experience as part of its Just Kidding for Kids series. Penny Pom Pom will entertain young children with music, storytelling and magic as they sing and dance along to her catchy and original

guitar music about creativity, nature and the seasons. “Penny is a colourful ball or energy who embodies creative confidence and artistic freedom,” noted a release for the show. “Penny’s wish is for everyone to leave the show with a big smile, a song in their

head, and a desire to share their own special magic with the world.” Penny Pom Pom will entertain at Malaspina Theatre on Saturday, Feb. 10, at 2 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at www.theatreone.ca. arts@nanaimobulletin.com

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What’sOn MUSIC Michael Patrick Blues Band will play at the Queen’s, 34 Victoria Cres., on Feb. 9 from 6-9 p.m. Tickets $25 at the door or $20 in advance through jazznfunknsoul@ hotmail.com. Shindigs, Sweet Delirium, and The Ticks play at the Queen’s, 34 Victoria Cres., on Feb. 9 starting at 10 p.m. Tickets $15 at www. eventbrite.com. Allen Dobb, country-folk singer, will hold an album release show for Alone Together at the Nanoose Library Hall, 2489 Nanoose Rd., on Feb. 10 starting at 7:30 p.m. Tickets $30 online at www. allendobb.com. Sunset Strip will play ’80s rock ‘n’ roll at the Queen’s, 34 Victoria Cres., on Feb. 10 starting at 10 p.m. Tickets $10 at the door. Vancouver Island Symphony will perform ‘Amor’ at the Port Theatre, 125 Front St., on Feb. 10 staring at 7:30 p.m. Tickets $33-$54 at www. porttheatre.com.

Nanaimo News Bulletin

STORYTELLING Coffee concert with Buwa at the Port Theatre, 125 Around Town Tellers presFront St., on Feb. 13 at 10:30 a.m. Tickets $43.50 at www. ents ‘Taking the Leap’ as part of their Stories on Friporttheatre.com. day series at the Unitarian Hall, 595 Townsite Rd., on Doug and the Slugs will Feb. 9 starting at 7:30 p.m. play the Port Theatre, 125 Front St., on Feb. 14 starting Tickets $10 for in person or at 7:30 p.m. Tickets $53.50 at Zoom attendance, either at the door or online at www. www.porttheatre.com. eventbrite.com. Lavender and Lefty will ART perform an eclectic mix of music at Wolf Brewing Co., ‘Stories that animate us,’ a 2-940 Old Victoria Rd., on group show that highlights Feb. 16 from 7-10 p.m. No oral histories, knowlege syscover. tems, cosmologies, as well as personal memories and DANCE imaginings on paper and animations, will be shown at Unity Retro Dance Party, the Nanaimo Art Gallery, with celebrity host Jennifer 150 Commercial St., during Robertson from Schitt’s operating hours until April Creek, takes place at the 7. Nanaimo Yacht Club, 400 Newcastle Ave., on Feb.17 Pâkicihew (she has swollen from 7:30-10:30 p.m. Fun hands) by self-taught intermusic from the ’50s-’80s disciplinary artist bailey mawith DJ Josh Holloway. cabre will be installed at the Tickets $25 online at www. View Gallery at Vancouver eventbrite.com. Island University, Building 330, 900 Fifth St., until Feb. COMEDY 16 between 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closing reception and artist Moe Ismail performs talk on Feb. 15, 5-7 p.m. stand-up comedy at the Sip Free event. Neighbourhood Pub, 601 Bruce Ave., on Feb. 13 from 8-10 p.m. Tickets $25 at E-mail What’s On listings www.ok-dope.com. to arts@nanaimobulletin.com.

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 B5

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Nanaimo News Bulletin

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 B7

Chemainus Theatre maps out its 30th anniversary season

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The Chemainus Theatre reaches its 30th season this year and looks forward to celebrating with theatre-goers. “We would have hit the 30th season in 2022, but we lost two seasons,” said managing director Randy Huber. Those COVID-19 pandemic restrictions are a distant memory now, but the effects are still being felt at the box office and the theatre hopes 2024 will be a big rebound year for ticket sales. Those pre-pandemic levels have yet to be attained since the theatre resumed programming again the last two years. Behind-the-scenes work has long been underway for the 2024 season and

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Now Open Saturdays 9am to 4pm Chemainus Theatre managing director Randy Huber, left, and artistic director Mark DuMez display pamphlets for the season’s shows. (Don Bodger/Black Press Media) some preparations have already started for 2025. That’s how far ahead the necessary groundwork must be laid. But first things first, it’s on with the shows that will be coming this calendar year. It all begins with a curling comedy Hurry Hard from March 22-April 14 followed by a

comedic adventure Jeeves at Sea from May 10-June 2, the summer musical 9 to 5 from June 28-Aug. 25, award-winning drama The Piano Teacher from Sept. 27-Oct. 20 and then the holiday romance Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley Nov. 22-Dec. 22. Hurry Hard is a comedy by Canadian

playwright Kristen Da Silva. When Bill and Sandy’s marriage splits up, so does their curling team. A medical emergency leaves the men’s team a player short on the day of the big regional bonspiel. Bill, Sandy and friends put aside their differences for the sake of the team. Continued on B8

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FEBRUARY BOARD CALENDAR

REBATE APPLICATIONS OPEN

RDN Electoral Area Services Committee 1 p.m. RDN Board Meeting 1 p.m. Nanaimo Regional Hospital District Board Meeting 11 a.m. RDN Board Meeting 1 p.m.

As part of our commitment to mitigating climate change and supporting environmental stewardship, homeowners can apply for the following property improvement rebates. Water Stewardship For all RDN residents (electoral area and municipal residents) • Irrigation Upgrades and Soil Improvements - up to $675 • Rainwater Harvesting - up to $1,000 • Septic System Upgrades - up to $700 • Wellhead Upgrades - up to $650 • Well Water Testing - up to $300 (open March 1 for applications) Green Building RDN residents (electoral area and municipal residents except City of Nanaimo which has its own program) • Woodstove Exchanges - up to $1,500 Electoral Area residents only • Sustainable Development Checklist - $500 and $1,000 • Home Energy Assessments - up to $350 • Graded Site-Cut Timber Use - up to $250 • Fossil Fuel to Heat Pump Replacements - $1,000 • Renewable Energy Systems - up to $650 • Residential Electric Vehicle Charging Stations - $150 Rebates are first-come, first-served to qualifying applicants until available funds are spent. Apply early as funding is limited. For more information on the RDN rebates, eligibility criteria and how to apply, visit www.rdn.bc.ca/rdn-rebates or scan the QR code.

All Board, Electoral Area Services Committee and Hospital District Board meetings take place in the Board Chambers at 6300 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo and are also webstreamed. www.rdn.bc.ca/agendas-minutes-videos

VOLUNTEER AND ACT FUNDING The Acting for Climate Together (ACT) initiative relaunched on February 1. ACT is a volunteer initiative that empowers residents to collaborate on impactful local climate actions. Explore our toolkit for ideas, from small actions to large projects. New this year! We are offering Climate Action Seed Funding for community-based projects to groups participating in ACT. Each project can receive funding up to $1,000! Conditions apply. Find out more www.rdn.bc.ca/acting-for-climate-together at www.rdn.bc.ca/acting-forwww.rdn.bc.ca/acting-for-climate-together climate-together. www.rdn.bc.ca/acting-for-climate-together

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GET INVOLVED RDN The RDN delivers many services and programs within our region – from transit and wastewater management to solid waste management, regional parks and more. Keep up to date, ask questions and provide input on current RDN projects and initiatives that matter to you on our Get Involved website. Visit www.getinvolved.rdn.ca or scan the QR code. www.getinvolved.rdn.ca

ELECTORAL AREA A RECREATION PROGRAMS Explore exciting spring recreation programs in Cedar and South Wellington. From after-school programs and day camps to pickleball and fitness classes. Join us for a season of fun and learning. Registration is now open for Spring programs – visit www.rdn.bc.ca/ area-a-recreation for details. www.rdn.bc.ca/area-a-recreation

PARKS, RECREATION AND CULTURE COMMISSION The next Parks, Recreation and Culture Commission meeting is: EA A: March 6 at 7 p.m. Cedar Heritage Centre 1644 MacMillan Rd, Nanaimo The meeting will also be webstreamed. For more information, visit www.rdn.bc.ca/recreation-and-parks-advisory-committees. www.rdn.bc.ca/recreation-and-parks-advisory-committees https://www.instagram.com/rdnanaimo/

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B8 Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Nanaimo News Bulletin

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Theatre’s productions cover a range of genres

To all Nanaimo Area Residents and Businesses: Nanaimo Forest Products would like to let all our neighbours and surrounding businesses know that the Harmac Pulp Mill will be conducting its annual Mill Wide Emergency Evacuation Drill on Thursday morning February 15, 2024. The purpose of this drill is to test our emergency systems and preparedness. This drill is part of our ongoing commitment to keep our community and employees safe. The drill will require that our audible emergency alarm system be activated. This siren can be heard in the area surrounding the mill. The alarm will be activated for a few minutes during the morning and will be silenced as soon as our emergency systems allow. We thank you in advance for your understanding.

Continued from B7 In Jeeves at Sea, Bertie Wooster revels in life aboard the Vanderley yacht, accompanied by his peerless valet Jeeves. When Bertie’s pal Crumpet assaults a prince, a madcap case of mistaken identities ensues, leading to Bertie’s doom or marriage? Jeeves will sort it all out – maybe. The musical 9 to 5 is based on the 1980 hit movie, a hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era. Pushed to the boiling point, three female co-workers plot to get even with their egotistical boss. Violet, Judy and Doralee live out their wildest fantasy by giving their boss the boot. The Piano Teacher is a play about loss, love, friendship and the healing power of music. When classical pianist Erin

experiences a family tragedy, she’s unable to play music or even touch a piano. She meets an unconventional piano teacher who gives her new hope for the future. Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley is a sequel to Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, set at Christmas two years after the novel ends. Miss Bennet continues the story, but with middle sister Mary as its unlikely heroine. When the family gathers for Christmas at Pemberley, an unexpected guest sparks Mary’s hopes for independence, an intellectual match and possibly even love. There will also be an Indigenous film festival March 8-9. To read an expanded version of this article, visit www. chemainusvalleycourier.ca. www.chemainusvalleycourier.ca

Bulletinboard Mid Island Floral Art Club meets Feb. 8 at 2 p.m. at St. Stephen’s Church, 150 Village Way, Qualicum Beach. The theme is ‘stretch design.’ Guests $6. For information, call Joanne at 250-757-8969. Nanaimo Rhododendron Society meets Feb. 8 at the Beban Park Social Centre. Cindy Hampton and Jim Roberts will talk about growing native plants. Doors open at 7 p.m. Everyone is welcome and there is no charge. Nanaimo Historical Society meets Feb. 8, 7-8:30 p.m., Bowen Park Activity Centre. Robert Janning, a Saanich-based author, will discuss his second book History That We Share, looking at the relationship between the Methodist Church of Canada and the Snuneymuxw First Nation. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and all are welcome. Nanaimo Family History Society holds its annual general meeting Feb. 19. Following business, attendees are encouraged to share ‘aha!’ moments from their genealogical journeys. All monthly meetings are free to our members and held via Zoom. Session starts at 6:45 p.m. Visit http:// nanaimofamilyhistory.ca or e-mail infonfhs@gmail.com. Prostate Cancer Support Greater Nanaimo meets the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. via Zoom and in person at Quality Foods Harewood. Visit http:// pcsnanaimo.ca or e-mail torchard120@ gmail.com.

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Nanaimo News Bulletin

Beefs & bouquets BOUQUET To Nanaimo Regional General Hospital’s emergency department. I was there three times in September and your service was exceptional. Thank you for all you do. Sorry this has taken me so long to write. BEEF I just read in the newspaper that the city has already used the AAP for the new fire hall. I read this paper every week and didn’t know the city used this process for borrowing money already. We should expect better from our council. BOUQUET At a liquor store in Ontario in the 1960s, you filled out a piece of paper with your personal information just to buy liquor, wine, etc. We purchased three bottles of wine at 90 cents each, a special bargain. In the afternoon, the store phoned us to ask us to bring the bottles back. We were told they were not for the public, only for the Catholic church mass. They made a mistake. But we had consumed one bottle already. It was a splendid, forbidden treat. BEEF to Ryan. BOUQUET To our volunteer drivers on the runs to and from the cancer clinic in Victoria. Sun, rain and snow, no complaints from these wonderful people. Pickup and drop-off on time for appointments. So appreciated. Thanks, with hugs.

wool socks people could use as mitts. All items were given out by hand when the temperature was very cold. People were so appreciative and delighted to have these precious gifts. BEEF To the Xmas beefer, the use of X to identify Christ goes back centuries. It is not disrespectful. Christmas is the only religious holiday that has statutory status. No other seasonal holiday has that esteem. BOUQUET I would like to say how wonderful the staff on the NRGH day surgery ward were when I went in recently for a procedure. Warm blankets, constant reassurance and a hand to hold when the anesthetic was being administered. Truly a five-star service. BEEF To the beefer who thinks using xmas instead of Christmas is disrespectful. The letter X has been used as a substitute for Christ for centuries. BOUQUET To Central Island Veterinary Emergency Hospital. There is a little glass block with the light in it that says something like ‘if this light is on, someone is losing their pet. Please be respectful and quiet.’ What a wonderful way to show respect to your client at a difficult time.

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 B9

BEEF To the driver who closely cut us off, and with no signal, on the highway. You must have been going at least 20 over the limit. Beef to another driver shortly after who kept trying to push us into an intersection, without considering someone was already sliding into it ahead. Although I’m not proud of flashing you the finger, it should be considered that driving is a privilege, not a right – it’s everyone’s responsibility to be safe on the roads.

BOUQUET To beefers beefing about those who wear too much perfume, those who do not pay to ride city buses, and those who charge admission to enter craft fairs. Life isn’t just, is it. So depressing.

BOUQUET A very big thank you for bringing me supper in September when I was laid up. It was very kind.

BOUQUET To Milano’s Ristorante for its fantastic Christmas decorations and displays. It’s a pleasure to dine there for their fine food and festive atmosphere. Much appreciated.

BEEF To the RDN for missing garbage/recycling collection and requesting we take it to the landfill ourselves. BOUQUET To Nanaimo Fire Rescue, you have made five littles at the family child care very happy. When attending to a false alarm in our neighbourhood, your firemen, fire truck and lights were an awesome hit. You even took time out of your call to stop and come over to introduce yourselves to them and gave them all highfives. This was definitely the talk of the children for the rest of the day. BEEF To the logging company consistently leaving dangerous amounts of mud on the road, and failing to keep their promise to clean it up. Someone is going to get hurt, or worse.

BEEF To the City of Nanaimo for again doing half a job. Fix the bump in the road by the East Wellington road bridge. Also, they have no forethought and didn’t put a turn light at Dufferin and Bowen.

BEEF To neighbours with horribly loud heat pumps blaring all day and night till they go to bed at 10 p.m. Scarcely a moment’s peace in my own home. BOUQUET To the staff at the Regional District of Nanaimo landfill on Cedar Road. The landfill is well-organized for people to drop off refuse and the staff are pleasant and helpful. BEEF To the person who hit and killed a family dog on Hammond Bay Road. Accidents happen. However, by leaving the scene and the dog’s body in the middle of the road, you showed that you are a coward. The first person to discover the dog was a 10-year-old girl.

Submit your own Beef or Bouquet Beefs & Bouquets is a free forum to give thanks or express views. The News Bulletin reserves the right to edit or refuse submissions. Length may be limited to 40 words. A winner will be selected from the bouquet submissions to receive a floral bouquet from Turley’s Florist. Mail or deliver to 777 Poplar St., Nanaimo, V9S 2H7 or e-mail to editor@nanaimobulletin.com. Fax to 250-753-0788. ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________

BEEF Just a question: Whatever happened to people taking responsibility for themselves? Why is it that some seem to think that their troubles and woes are other people’s fault? Grow up.

BEEF To all ‘thrift’ stores that have slyly turned into online auction houses and specialty boutiques. You aren’t fooling anyone. Your managers, boards of directors and ‘stock’ pricers digging around the internet for inflated values have subverted your claim to the word ‘thrift.’ I am embarrassed for you to be honest.

BOUQUET We acknowledge the generous assistance from Value Village for Nanaimo’s homeless community. This year, Sheila, the manager, provided us with four huge bags of warm jackets and blankets in addition to 50 pairs of warm

BOUQUET To the City of Nanaimo. This is the reality. I love the dedicated bike lanes. My hope is that I can travel all over Nanaimo on bike lanes and that sidewalks are everywhere to encourage walkers and slow down cars.

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Nanaimo News Bulletin

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BEEF Record inflation, housing crisis, drug BOUQUET To Central Island Veterinary crisis, health care crisis, all levels of governEmergency Hospital. I have been trying to ments running deficits and constantly borget my semi-feral cat in for an antibiotic rowing and never making budgets. Is there shot for a couple of weeks, with no success. any part of this country managed well? Thanks for being so understanding. BEEF To whoever is responsible for the mess around the old fire hall downtown. Clean this up and make it something on the inside that reflects its history on the outside. Just deplorable.

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BOUQUET To city council for not putting housing on the last five-acre farm in the city. Green spaces and protection of our environment were foremost for survey respondents. Affordable housing can be put BEEF To my Rottweiler for never going No. 2 in the same place. Seriously dude, pick a up in many places; it need not be on the spot and stick with it. It’s like mine sweeper last five-acre farm. out here. BEEF To Elections Canada which announced BOUQUET To the house with the vulgar/ a new tool to help voters to manage “dis political display. Your creativity and and misinformation” and “voter misconhumour was thoroughly appreciated by our ceptions.” The real “misconception” about family. elections is thinking that our vote matters and makes a difference. BEEF Why does city bylaw continue to ignore the constant humming noise emitted BOUQUET Thanks to the person who put in the middle of the night that’s apparently the lost Honda key on my car mirror. coming from a south-end business? It continually disturbs the sleep of many. I am BEEF People curtail their outdoor activities legally deaf, use a white-noise fan, and can because of rain, walking groups cancel. For still hear the noise. You are literally impactwalking in the rain one needs waterproof ing the health of people. trousers. Waterproof boots and gloves are more difficult to find. I sometimes put BOUQUET To whoever cleared the sidewalk plastic bags over my gloves. Many jackets with a blade all along Labieux Road. You are only rainproof for a time. Umbrellas have no idea how much it means to me to are useful if there is no wind. There is a be able to walk all along my road on the quotation “there is no inclement weather, sidewalk with my walking poles. Thank only inadequate clothing.” you so much. You have made an enormous difference for me and our community. BOUQUET To Waywest Mechanical staff Sherri, Kyle, Jace and David for their proBEEF Property taxes are increasing at an fessionalism and generosity while deliveralarming rate. From 2014-2018, the total ing and gas fitting three gas stoves in one tax increase was 7.1 per cent. From 2019month. The three visits could have been 2023, the total increase was 25.7 per cent. very expensive but they chose to reduce The projected increase for 2024 is eight per my bill out of the kindness of their hearts. cent. I received this information from the Thanks to all of you. City of Nanaimo. BEEF Why do we all pay taxes, and yet some BOUQUET Snow angels did their magic on people get a nice doctor and great health Reynolds Road. Thank you to Dave who care because of it and the rest of us get delivered the Bulletin. The garbage man no doctor and virtually zero health care backed up the road to collect the garbage because our doctor retired or we just hapwhen he was unable to turn around, and pened to need to move because of work? then a thoughtful neighbour shovelled the I’m literally dying here. I want my tax top of the road where the snow was deep money back so that it can at least pay for and packed in. Very grateful to live in such funeral costs. a great neighbourhood and city. BOUQUET To Kiel Lukaniuk of RE/Max of Nanaimo. Thank you so much for your BEEF Here we go again. Parent parking, really? Whatever did your parents do in patient approach and excellent communitheir day when there was no such thing? cation with the sale of our first home and They managed quite nicely without them. purchase of our second home. You are And because some of us have no children truly fabulous at what you do. we should not get a close parking space? Some people may have use for that space if BEEF To those customers out there who are all the disability parking is in use and they bitter at service employees. We have enough have a need for a close spot. to deal with. BOUQUET To the friendly neighbour who, with his young son, plowed all the trails and sidewalks in our north Nanaimo neighbourhood.

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BOUQUET I shovelled out my driveway, and then the flashing lights of the snowplow came. Sigh, normally this means I must go back out to clear the thick ridge of plowed snow away from my driveway. Bouquets to the wonderful city driver who cleared our small circle – not one of our driveways is blocked. They showed skill and efficiency and consideration. Thank you.

BOUQUET To the City of Nanaimo snow removal team that came down Kentucky Place. Wow, you guys did an amazing job. Thank you for all your hard work.

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CROSSWORD CLUES DOWN 1. A way to board 2. Get down 3. Highly seasoned sausage 4. First day of month 5. Eurasian shrubs 6. The organ that bears the ovules of a flower 7. Small lake 9. Belief 10. Sunrooms 12. Metric weight unit 14. Vasopressin 15. Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! 17. One-time family room staple

25. Human being 39. God associated 26. Malaysian isthmus with dissolution 27. The “Blonde 40. Blemished Bombshell” 41. Flow or leak 34. A gland slowly 35. Bluish greens 42. Disco legends The 36. Endangered Bee __ 37. Three43. Midway between dimensional south and 38. In a way, precipitated southeast

15. Study again 1. One point south of 16. Covered with hoarfrost due east 17. Opening 4. Coagulated blood 18. Legendary 8. Fortifying ditch Rolling Stone 10. Devotee 21. Stray of Hinduism 22. Computer 11. Trunk of a tree storing system 12. Bank note 23. Signal 24. Pitching statistic 13. Capital of Guam

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B12 Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Nanaimo News Bulletin

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HOROSCOPES ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 There is a new person in your life who may become a source of inspiration, Aries. ItÕs a new year and you are ready for all the novel experiences you can encounter.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, use whatever opportunities you have to speak to older family members and jot down the memories they have. Time is fleeting and you want to learn all you can.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, you could be feeling more grounded in your personal life than you have in some time. The people you surround yourself with accept and love you unconditionally.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Surround yourself with people who bring positivity into your life, Scorpio. It is alright to take inventory and distance yourself from others who do not generate positive vibes.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, if a suggestion goes against your instincts this week, give it careful consideration nonetheless. This person may have some good ideas that you may not have thought of.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 People who believe they have a lot of power are going to be all around you this week, Sagittarius. Don’t fall prey to any intimidation tactics. Continue to do your own thing.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, you tend to be good about not letting work life bleed into your personal affairs. However, this week you may need to have some carryover to accomplish all that lies ahead.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Dreams have been entertaining and awfully vivid lately, Capricorn. But you canÕt put too much stock in them. They may simply be your subconscious mind trying to work through things.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Some good news may arrive this week that will put you on cloud nine, Leo. Just donÕt let this enthusiasm distract you from getting all of your business wrapped up on time.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Express gratitude when you are gifted something both thoughtful and expensive, Aquarius. This is something you have had your eye on for some time but never purchased yourself.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 A charming person may come into your life this week, Virgo. At first he or she may be a whirlwind and confuse you for some time. Eventually, you may catch on and go with the flow.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 You’re likely to be very busy soon enough, Pisces. Some loud and busy people may come into your life in the next few days. It may prove hard to find a quiet moment afterwards.

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