BC FERRIES FINANCIAL RESULTS

BC FERRIES RELEASES

SECOND QUARTER FINANCIAL RESULTS

British Columbia Ferry Services Inc. (BC Ferries) today released its second quarter financial results with net earnings before extraordinary gain of $61.0 million and $75.4 million for the three- and six-month periods ended September 30, 2007, down from $68.9 million and $83.8 million for the three and six months ended September 30, 2006.

“These earnings allow us to continue our extensive fleet and asset renewal program to ensure the ongoing safety and reliability of our operations,” said BC Ferries’ President and CEO, David L. Hahn. “Our commitment to rebuilding our infrastructure is already showing positive results with two new ships added to the fleet last year and significant upgrades well underway at many of our terminals, including extensive modifications to prepare for the arrival of our three new Super C-class vessels entering service next year.”

For the six months ended September 30, 2007, $80.2 million was invested in BC Ferries’ fleet, terminals and information systems, including:

• $56.8 million in new vessels, vessel upgrades and modifications;

• $12.4 million in terminal marine structures;

• $8.5 million in terminal and building upgrades and equipment; and,

• $2.5 million in computer hardware and software development.

For the three months ended September 30, 2007, total revenue increased from $202.9 million to $220.2 million, while total expenses increased from $134.0 million to $159.2 million, compared to the same period last year. The increase in expenses was primarily due to a:

• $7.7 million increase in operations expenses, including a $5.0 million increase in wages and benefits;

• $7.3 million increase in maintenance costs, reflecting BC Ferries’ ongoing significant investments in its fleet and other infrastructure; and

• $6.9 million increase in interest and amortization expenses resulting from new vessels and other assets entering service.

Total revenue for the six months ended September 30, 2007 was $379.9 million compared to $349.3 million for the six months ended September 30, 2006. Expenses for the six-month period were $304.5 million, up from $265.5 million for the six months ended September 2006.

At September 30, 2007, the balance in BC Ferries’ deferred fuel cost accounts was $13.5 million, down from $18.3 million at June 30, 2007. The reduction is due to the highly seasonal nature of ferry travel whereby BC Ferries carries the majority of its passengers during its second quarter. The fuel deferral account balance is expected to rise again during the last two quarters of the fiscal year.

Despite the reduction in the deferred fuel cost accounts, BC Ferries continues to be concerned about the high cost of fuel. The company has implemented a wide variety of fuel reduction measures and is continuing to look for ways to further reduce its fuel consumption.

The full financial statements, including notes and Management’s Discussion and Analysis, are filed on SEDAR and will be available at www.sedar.com.

COASTAL RENAISSANCE PROGRESS

BC FERRIES NEWEST SHIP ON THE WAY

This snapshot of the current position of the Coastal Renaissance taken the morning of Nov. 28/07 shows the ship off the Mexican coast.
The next scheduled stop for the newest BC Ferry is Ensenada Mexico. The ship is making good time and currently travelling at 15 knots.
To view the Coastal Renaissance progress visit the BC Ferry website here.

NANAIMO COULD GET MORE SNOW TODAY

MORE SNOW ON THE WAY

Environment Canada has issued the following snowfall warning:

A TOTAL OF 10 TO 20 CM OF SNOW IS EXPECTED BY THIS EVENING FOR INLAND VANCOUVER ISLAND AND OVER HIGH TERRAIN OF EAST VANCOUVER ISLAND. A TOTAL OF 5 TO 10 CM OF SNOW IS EXPECTED BY THIS EVENING OVER HIGH TERRAIN OF GREATER VANCOUVER. THIS IS A WARNING THAT SIGNIFICANT SNOWFALL IS EXPECTED OR OCCURRING IN THESE REGIONS. MONITOR WEATHER CONDITIONS..LISTEN FOR UPDATED STATEMENTS.

It would be a good idea to make alternate travel plans if your car does not have good snow tires or chains. Make sure you have a snow brush and scraper in your car, and a small snow shovel in the trunk can always come in handy.

Be sure to pick up some hot chocolate and wood for the fireplace on the way home, that way you can enjoy the winter wonderland to the maximum, should the weatherman be right.

BC GETS TOUGHER WITH SMOKERS

British Columbia is taking steps to reduce the health effects of tobacco use through new regulations that restrict the promotion and sale of tobacco products, as well as a ban on smoking in all indoor public spaces and workplaces, announced Health Minister George Abbott today.

“We are working to reduce tobacco use across our province and ensuring that British Columbians are protected from the deadly effects of second-hand smoke,” said Abbott. “Stricter regulations about public and workplace smoking are part of our strategy to reduce the impact of tobacco on our health system and prevent chronic diseases associated with tobacco use.”

The new regulations fall under the Tobacco Control Act and will take effect on March 31, 2008. The new tobacco regulations will ban:

· Smoking in all indoor public spaces and work places, with exemptions made for the ceremonial use of tobacco by Aboriginal people;

· Smoking within three metres of public and workplace doorways, open windows or air intakes;

· Tobacco sales in public buildings including: hospitals and health facilities, universities and colleges, athletic and recreational facilities, and provincial government buildings;

· Display of tobacco products in all places where tobacco is sold that are accessible to youth under 19; and

· Tobacco ads that hang from the ceiling, countertop tobacco displays, self-serve tobacco displays and outdoor tobacco signs.

These new provincial regulations will establish a baseline of regulation that landlords, businesses, municipalities and health authorities can choose to exceed to fit the needs of their community, clients and population. Unless prohibited by municipal regulations, smoking will still be allowed on the outdoor patios of restaurants and bars.

The new regulations will take effect on March 31, 2008, allowing retailers and other businesses four months to ensure that their premises comply with the changes required by the Tobacco Control Act. In June 2007, the Province held a six-week public consultation to allow the general public and stakeholder groups, such as retailers, the hospitality sector and health advocacy groups, the opportunity to provide feedback on the proposed tobacco regulation.

“Eliminating smoking in public spaces and all workplaces will have a positive impact on indoor air quality and the overall health of British Columbians,” said provincial health officer Dr. Perry Kendall. “Most smokers start before the age of 18 and limiting youth access to advertising is also an important step in protecting the public health of this province.”

Tobacco use kills over 6,000 British Columbians each year, and is estimated to cost the B.C. economy $2.3 billion every year. Cigarette smoking is the primary risk factor for diseases of the circulatory system, cancers and respiratory diseases, and exposure to second-hand smoke kills approximately 100 people in B.C. each year.

“Tobacco use is the single most preventable cause of disease and death in British Columbia and, unfortunately, the number of new cancer cases is estimated to rise this year in the province,” said Barbara Kaminsky, CEO of the BC and Yukon Division of the Canadian Cancer Society. “Exposure to second-hand smoke increases our risk of cancer and implementing regulations that restrict exposure to the harmful effects of tobacco use is a significant step in our fight against cancer.”

In September 2007, legislation took effect that banned tobacco use in schools and on school grounds and in October 2008, implementation of smoke-free premise policies in all health authorities will be complete.

The Ministry of Health currently funds smoking cessation programs such as QuitNow.ca and QuitNow by Phone, which are available, with translation services in 130 languages, 24 hours a day, seven days a week to all British Columbians.

The new legislation supports the Province’s larger tobacco control strategy and programs such as ActNow BC. This tobacco strategy aims to further reduce B.C.’s smoking rates and to improve the health of British Columbians. ActNow BC works with provincial government ministries, the health sector and a variety of health promotion partners to deliver programs designed to encourage healthy choices by all British Columbians.

The new tobacco control regulation will be available on-line at www.health.gov.bc.ca/tobacco/.

FIRST TASTE OF WINTER FOR NANAIMO

YES....THAT WHITE STUFF IS CALLED S N O W

For some peculiar reason the precipitation falling on Nanaimo late yesterday decided to change form into a rare looking white substance. I am told other parts of Canada are very familiar with this strange material and have adapted different means of dealing with it.

For Nanaimo residents adopting some of these habits could be helpful, however it is easy to forget since snow is such a rare occurence. A few reminders which could be helpful:

If your tires are bald, you might want to consider taking a cab or bus.
Footware with good traction are a great idea.
Clearing any snow or frost from your car windows makes for safer driving.
Remembering you can not control your car on snow or ice the same as you can on dry pavement.
Putting a bit of salt or sand on walkways can avoid nasty slips.
Allowing yourself extra time to get to your destination so you can slow down.

Be of good cheer as we all know this 'snow stuff' seldom last for more than a day or two.

B.C. FUNDS NANAIMO ABORIGINAL NURSING PROJECT

Government has awarded $30,703 to the Snuneymuxw First Nation Health Centre as part of B.C.’s Aboriginal Nursing Strategies, a provincewide program that this year will provide $500,000 to 15 Aboriginal nursing projects across B.C., Nanaimo-Parksville MLA, Ron Cantelon announced today.

“That this project has received funding from Aboriginal Nursing Strategies is exciting news for the Snuneymuxw community and for the people of this riding,” said Cantelon, speaking at today’s cheque presentation. “Improving the health care outcomes for Aboriginal people is one of the goals of this government, and providing information about nursing careers to Snuneymuxw youth and supporting Aboriginal students who are already in nursing school are important steps in this direction.”

The Snuneymuxw First Nation Health Centre project will use the funding to build on its established coaching programs. The project will focus on providing educational supports to Aboriginal youth with an interest in nursing and to Aboriginal students already enrolled in nursing programs. The Snuneymuxw First Nation Health Centre also aims to strengthen its ties with Malaspina University-College.

Aboriginal nursing projects receiving funding through the Ministry of Health’s Nursing Directorate must focus on at least one of four main goals:

· Recruiting and/or supporting Aboriginal students.

· Recruiting and retaining Aboriginal nurses.

· Supporting nursing in Aboriginal communities in B.C.

· Developing health promotion and disease prevention materials for B.C.’s Aboriginal communities.

Since 2001, the Province has invested $174 million towards B.C.’s Nursing Strategy with a focus on educating, recruiting and retaining qualified nurses.

“Through this project we will work to empower our youth and to assist them as they move forward in their nursing careers,” said Sandra Good, health administrator for the Snuneymuxw First Nation Health Centre. “By offering information about nursing as a career and providing culturally appropriate coaching, we hope we can emphasize the importance of community-based responsibility for the health of our people.”

The Ministry of Health issued a Request for Proposals for Aboriginal nursing projects for 2007/2008 in June 2007. A total of $500,000 was available to Aboriginal groups, post-secondary institutions, nursing associations and other organizations. All projects must be completed by March 31, 2008 and each project organizer must submit a final evaluation report to the ministry by April 15, 2008.

“It is wonderful that the Snuneymuxw First Nation Health Centre coaching program will focus this year on Aboriginal youth who have expressed an interest in becoming nurses,” said Laureen Styles, dean of the Faculty of Health & Human Services at Malaspina University-College. “This coaching program grows stronger each year and by including tutoring and tips for juggling the balance between life and school, this project will provide Aboriginal youth with confidence in their ability to become successful nurses.”

For more information about Aboriginal Nursing Strategies, please visit www.health.gov.bc.ca/ndirect/.

EMERGENCY PLANNING GUIDE

HOW PREPARED ARE YOU FOR AN EMERGENCY?

The Regional District of Nanaimo has an Emergency Preparedness Guidebook available which you can download from their website. This is a 700kb file, so it will take some time if you have a dial up connection to the internet.
The file is a PDF format which you can save to you computer for future reference.

This guidebook explains how you and your family can prepare for major emergencies. The guidebook includes sections on earthquakes, power outages, forest fires, floods, how the elderly and the disabled can access their needs, and much more.

You can download your copy of this valuable resource by clicking here.

NANAIMO CONVENTION CENTRE

COMMERCIAL STREET CLOSED FOR RESURFACING

Commerical Street between Wharf and Terminal Ave. have been closed this week to allow for resurfacing of Commerical Street and the adjacent sidewalks.
The area has been obviously in rough shape during the construction of the Port of Nanaimo Centre (aka Nanaimo Convention Centre).
Once again, it looks like parking spaces are giving way, to nice wide pedestrian crossings, not unlike at Departure Bay Beach.
It will be good to drive down Commercial Street again, without having to watch out for large potholes.
The outside brickwork on the convention centre is moving right along and will probably be finished before much longer. It is unusual to see brick being used in Nanaimo as a siding material.

For more current updates follow either of these links. Link 1. Link 2.

NANAIMO TAXES UP 7% NEXT YEAR

EXPECT MAJOR INCREASE IN TAXES NEXT YEAR

It was reported in the local press that city manager, Jerry Berry is warning residents to expect tax increases of up to 7% next year. This is up nearly 3% from the increase predicted by staff last year.
Saying that a number of factors are contributing to the predicted increase, and that if something does not change, taxes will continue to increase for years to come.
The cost of the Port of Nanaimo Centre (Nanaimo convention centre), Oliver Road Community centre, new firehall, an increase in demand for services are some of the reasons cited for the recommended large increase in taxes.
The possible loss of the Pope and Talbot mill as one of Nanaimo's largest taxpayers is also a cause of concern.

Comment: City taxpayers only borrowed $30 million dollars for the convention centre, and since it is costing in the neighbourhood of $100 million, the other $70 million has to come from somewhere. I would suspect, the large tax increase is owing to the burden of the new convention centre.

IS YOUR DIET WORKING FOR YOU?

Why Your Diet May Not Be Working

Nishanth Reddy

Jennifer, a middle-aged single mother with one six-year-old daughter, has been skipping sweets for a few weeks now. She’s also become a stickler for portion control. She feels as if she’s eating less than ever, and she’s been diligently exercising for an hour at a time at least four days a week. Yet, she hasn’t lost a single pound. The question is, “Why?”

This is a dilemma which affects dieters the world over. They think they are taking the steps necessary to lose weight, but nothing seems to be happening. In essence, they are trapped in a dieting rut and they don’t know how to free themselves. As a result, they become frustrated and depressed and may then engage in binge eating.

One of the problems with diets is that they are often standardized. As a result, they don’t take into consideration your individual physiology and metabolism. They provide a cookie-cutter approach to weight loss—an approach which may not work in your individual case. As a result, an increasing number of people are turning to dieticians to formulate a person weight loss strategy for them. This process has been made easier through the Internet, where you can correspond with a dietician any time of the day or night via e-mail. The dietician can also act as your personal coach, helping you through your dieting dilemmas.

Another reason that you may be failing at your diet is because of a lack of support. You may have family members who can eat whatever they want and seemingly not gain a pound. As a result, they may fill your refrigerator with junk food, leading you into temptation. Also, you may feel as if you have no one to turn to in order to discuss your weight problems. In order to solve this problem, many individuals look to psychotherapists to help them with their food-related issues. This can be particularly important if an individual has turned to purging in an effort to combat their weight problems. Bulimia is a serious disease which must be treated in order to ensure the good health of the patient. Thankfully, there are a number of treatment programs specifically focusing on bulimia.

Yet another reason for diet failure is hidden calories. You may literally be consuming calories and not even realize it. For instance, the frappucinos that are so popular today are loaded with calories—as many as 600 in a single serving! You may also be indulging in sugary sodas—another source of extra calories. By taking a few simple steps, such as eliminating the exotic coffee drinks from your diet and substituting skim milk for whole milk, you may be able to eliminate the hidden calories that are denying you dieting success.

Lack of consistency can also be a diet-killer. You might go on a diet for a while, then quit before you’ve made any measurable progress. It’s only natural to want to see quick results. The problem is that healthy weight loss involves losing only a couple of pounds a week. That means you’ll have to stay on your diet for months before you see appreciable weight loss. Discouraging? It can be, but if you keep a positive attitude you can achieve your ideal weight.

You may also be more successful in your dieting if you consider it to be a lifestyle change. Therefore, your diet becomes a meal plan for life. This means that you must change the way you look at food. It is designed to be fuel for your body, and nothing more. As a result, you should not turn to food to make you feel better or to provide you with a sense of comfort. A lifestyle change implies commitment; it means that you are prepared to follow the plan for the long haul. If you feel as if you cannot be on your diet for any appreciable length of time, perhaps it’s time to consider a different diet. Your aim ultimately should be not simply to lose weight, but to become healthier. A fad diet will not allow you to reach that milestone. Therefore, you must choose your diet carefully.

Nishanth Reddy is an Author and Publisher of various health related websites. For more articles on Weight Loss Diet Tips visit http://www.weightloss-diettips.com.

BUY FISHING LICENCE ONLINE IN BC

GET YOUR BC FRESHWATER
FISHING LICENCE ONLINE

Purchasing a freshwater fishing licence is easier than ever with the Province’s new e-licensing system, Environment Minister Barry Penner announced today.

Penner marked the occasion by purchasing a fishing licence at Robinson’s Outdoor Store in Victoria, B.C.’s first e-licence-equipped vendor.

“Freshwater anglers will now have a greater range of choices about how, where and when they purchase their fishing licences,” said Penner. “Resident anglers and out-of-province visitors will now be able access licences and fishing information online before they head out for their next great B.C. fishing adventure.”

Under the new e-licensing system, developed in partnership with Service BC and the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC, anglers can purchase their basic freshwater fishing licence, classified water permit or conservation stamps through any computer with Internet access or from any e-licence-equipped vendor.

While the online system has been operational since Sept. 6, 2007, government has been working with Robinson’s in Victoria and Highwater Tackle in North Vancouver through the fall to pilot the new system for vendors.

During the transition period, anglers can still purchase traditional paper licences from their favourite tackle shop. In addition to giving anglers greater choice and flexibility about how they obtain licences, the new system will greatly improve the efficiency of the freshwater licensing system and provide government with better information about recreational effort and angler preferences. This information will be used to help ensure that recreational fishing programs and lake and stream stocking activities are tailored to meet angler demand.

Anglers can purchase fishing licences at www.fishing.gov.bc.ca/ or at one of one of four e-licence-equipped vendors. More e-licence-equipped vendors will be added to the system during the next several months.

COASTAL RENAISSANCE PANAMA UPDATE

REVISED SCHEDULE:

COASTAL RENAISSANCE NOW TO

TRANSIT PANAMA CANAL THIS WEEK

BC Ferries’ newest vessel, Coastal Renaissance, is now expected to transit the Panama Canal on Wednesday, November 21.

Originally, the ship was expected to pass through the Panama Canal on Saturday, November 17, however due to the high volume of traffic transiting the channel the date has been rescheduled.

The voyage is going well, and Coastal Renaissance is expected to arrive in B.C. in mid-December.

COASTAL RENAISSANCE IN BC BY MID-DECEMBER

COASTAL RENAISSANCE

TRANSITS PANAMA CANAL

BC Ferries’ newest vessel, Coastal Renaissance, is scheduled to transit the Panama Canal tomorrow, Saturday, November 17, starting at approximately 4:30 a.m. PST. The journey through the canal is expected to take 11.5 hours.

To view the ship passing through the Panama Canal, visit http://www.pancanal.com/eng/photo/camera-java.html.

The voyage is going extremely well and the ship is expected to arrive in B.C. in mid-December.

Everyone can watch the ship’s progress including course, position and speed from a link on BC Ferries’ homepage at www.bcferries.com. This Super C tracker page has been viewed over 39,000 times since it went live on October 29.

NANAIMO STOP THE JOHNS RALLY

FRUSTRATED RESIDENTS
TAKE IT TO THE STREET

Frustrated by the inability of police and local government to solve the problem of drug users and johns cruising for prostitutes; residents staged a half hour protest on Friday evening.

The area of concern is Victoria Rd., 500-600 Prideaux, Selby and Robarts Street, where local residents peaceful enjoyment of their homes is constantly interfered with by drug pushers, hookers and johns.

A Nanaimo blog which has more to say about the problem can be viewed by clicking here.

It seems the downtown security patrols have perhaps helped local merchants but the problem has simply been moved down the road and now is a problem in a residential area.

It would seem no one clearly has the answer as to how to deal with those caught in the clutches of drug addiction. Methadone clinics and feeding programs and the like, don't really seem to set these people free, rather these programs seem to enable people to continue in this destructive lifestyle. It used to be that churches had the answers to some of these ills.

The liberal court system does not seem to take the crime of drug pushing very seriously either, with it taking very little time for those arrested, to be out and back in business quickly.

The whole thing is like a little play, with everyone playing there part, but nothing ever really changing.

In an effort to take their neighborhood back residents hope the publishing of a 'shame the johns' website will make johns think twice before cruising their neighborhood. It can be seen at http://www.dearjohnnanaimo.blogspot.com. They intend to publish pictures of cars and johns 'doing business' on their streets.

NEW HOMES IN NANAIMO WILL BENEFIT

BRITISH COLUMBIA IMPROVES

PROTECTION FOR NEW HOME BUYERS

Amendments to the Homeowner Protection Act to increase protection for buyers of new homes in B.C. will come into effect on Nov. 19, Minister responsible for Housing Rich Coleman announced.

“Buying a new home is the most significant purchase many British Columbians will make. These changes will help protect their investment and will improve confidence in the residential construction industry,” said Coleman. “The amendments follow extensive consultation with the residential construction industry, local governments and consumer representatives.”

The amendments to the Homeowner Protection Act:

· Strengthen licensing requirements for residential builders;

· Require anyone wishing to build a home under the owner-builder exemption to meet more stringent criteria;

· Strengthen enforcement provisions including compliance orders and penalties;

· Provide an internal review and independent appeal process for licensed residential builders and owner builders; and

· Provide prospective home buyers with more information about homebuilders and homes through an online public registry.

The changes are based on recommendations from the discussion paper Raising the Bar: Enhancing Professionalism in B.C.’s Residential Construction Industry. Consultation included community meetings across B.C. to allow consumer groups, and industry representatives to comment on the changes.

More information about the changes is available on the Homeowner Protection Office website at www.hpo.bc.ca in the What’s New section.

BRITISH COLUMBIA GOVERNMENT URGES DIABETES AWARENESS

WORLD DIABETES DAY

DECLARED BY BRITISH COLUMBIA

For the first time ever, British Columbia has declared Nov. 14 World Diabetes Day to help people be more informed about how to prevent diabetes and manage the disease, Health Minister George Abbott said today.

“Government is involved in many different programs and initiatives to help address the health needs of chronically ill people, such as those living with diabetes,” said Abbott. “As our population ages, we know we are moving in the right direction as we work towards a more planned integrated approach to delivering health care.”

The Province is supporting the United Nations General Assembly, which has designated Nov. 14 as World Diabetes Day, in order to raise public awareness of diabetes and its related complications. This builds on the already established declaration in British Columbia of November as Diabetes Awareness Month.

“The Province is pleased to support the United Nations in declaring this World Diabetes Day,” said John Nuraney, MLA for Burnaby-Willingdon, who made the proclamation at an event for Juvenile Diabetes. “As the first year of recognizing this important day and as we look towards the future and the health of our youth, it is most fitting that this year’s theme be Diabetes in Children and Adolescents.”

Chronic conditions now affect approximately one in three British Columbians. The prevalence of diabetes in the general population has grown from one in 22 people in 1997/98 to one in 14 people in 2005/06. However, over the same period, mortality rates for people with diabetes have decreased by three times compared to patients who do not have diabetes, meaning that people with diabetes are living longer.

“Diabetes is a serious health problem and that’s why the prevention and management of diabetes is a high priority for government,” said Gordon Hogg, Minister of State for Act Now BC. “Through ActNow BC, we encourage all British Columbians to be aware that this disease can often be prevented through leading a healthier lifestyle.”

Government has implemented a number of high-impact, system–wide initiatives such as the Primary Health Charter that will help patients with a planned approach to health care with measurable health outcomes. These include:

· Approximately 3,000 doctors now receive incentive payments to improve the quality of care for patients with chronic conditions including diabetes.

· Patient self-management support – over 1,500 patients have now been trained as leaders and have graduated from patient self management training.

· With the majority of family physicians now involved in providing guideline-based care for patients with a variety of chronic conditions including diabetes – health outcomes such as reductions in hospitalizations, lower limb amputations and renal failure are starting to be realized.

· Renewing health system delivery through initiatives such as the $31 million investment through the Health Innovation Fund into Integrated Health Networks is responding to British Columbians’ input with regard to coordination of services. Forty-nine networks are currently under development. An integrated health network is a set of resources formally linked around the partnership of complex, high-need patients, their family doctors and their practice teams.

· Clinical information systems such as the chronic disease management toolkit, which helps clinicians improve the quality of chronic care, as well as significant investments in technology through the eHealth program. Currently, around 1,000 physicians are using this tool. Nurse practitioners and nurses have recently received permission to also become users of this patient management system.

· Partnering with many community organizations including the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Healthy Heart Society and the Canadian Diabetes Association to support and meet patients’ needs.

“The Canadian Diabetes Association would like to thank the government of British Columbia for supporting World Diabetes Day. Raising awareness about diabetes has become increasingly important as the numbers of those being diagnosed continues to rise dramatically”, said Jean Blake, executive director of the Canadian Diabetes Association, Pacific Area. “For over 250,000 people in our province currently living with diabetes and the many thousands more that are at risk, the government’s priority on diabetes prevention and management is very welcome.”

ActNow BC is a health promotion platform and works together with government ministries, the health sector and health partners to deliver programs and services designated to encourage healthy choices for all British Columbians.

HELLS ANGELS PROPERTY SEIZURE

WHAT IS THE COST TO LOCAL TAXPAYERS?

In the local daily press today it is reported that the RCMP are stationed at the Hells Angels clubhouse on Victoria Road Nanaimo, to secure the building.
It is also reported that the Hells Angels legal team is mounting a court challenge of the seizure of the property, and that challenge could take 'years'.
Does this mean the taxpayers of Nanaimo are going to have to pick up the tab for the RCMP manpower being used to 'babysit' the Hells Angels property until this matter is resolved?
Ironically, in the same issue it is reported that Nanaimo will recieve the needed funding from traffic fines to hire four new police officers next year.
If babysitting property is going to be the use of these resources, you would be forgiven for wondering, if it makes a lot of sense.

NEW LAW FREEZES HELLS ANGELS CLUBHOUSE

GOVERNMENT SEIZES HELLS ANGELS

PROPERTY AND OTHER POSSESSIONS IN NANAIMO

NANAIMO – A commercial property known to police as the Hells Angels Nanaimo clubhouse has been seized by the Province, under B.C.’s Civil Forfeiture Act, Solicitor General John Les announced today.

Under the new legislation, government sought and was granted a preservation order against the property in civil court. The order means the building and its contents are legally frozen and can’t be used, mortgaged or sold.

As this matter has just been initiated and is before the courts, no further comment will be made at this point.

Under the act, where it is proven in civil court that property has been acquired as a result of unlawful activity, or been used for unlawful activity, the Supreme Court can order forfeiture of the property. This enables proceeds from the sale of any forfeited asset to be paid into a special account to:

· compensate eligible victims of unlawful activity

· prevent unlawful activities by funding crime prevention activities

· counteract the effects of unlawful activities

· cover costs related to the administration of the act

There are currently more than 60 additional cases being actively pursued, on behalf of British Columbians, by government’s civil forfeiture office. To date, over $2 million in cash and assets obtained through illegal activities have been turned over to taxpayers over the past 17 months.

The act came into force in May 2006 with the purpose of suppressing conditions that lead to illegal acts, including the profit motive.

Comment: It looks like the 'good guys' are now stealing from the 'bad guys' and the 'bad guys' don't like it much. There seems a very thin line as to whether this law is a righteous one.

If it can be proven the property was acquired as a result of illegal activity or is being used for illegal activity.......why can't it be proven in criminal court?

DEPARTURE BAY FERRY DELAYS

WIND STORM CAUSES TWO SAILING FERRY WAIT

The wind and rain storm which ripped through the west coast yesterday resulted in a two sailing wait at the Departure Bay ferry terminal.
By noon the ferry traffic was backed up on Stewart Avenue all the way to Townsite Road. It is presumed the reduced parking in the ferry terminal added to the traffic collecting on Stewart Avenue.
The weather did turn nice by mid day, and long weekend travelers at least had lovely sunshine to bask in, as they waited for the BC Ferry to Horseshoe Bay.
The storm also knocked out power to about 5000 Nanaimo residents, which was restored later in the day

NANAIMO WIND AND RAIN WARNING

ISSUED BY ENVIRONMENT CANADA

The weather office has issued a further wind and rain warning for the east coast of Vancouver Island which of course includes Nanaimo.
We can expect southeast winds of up to 90 km/h shifting to southwest 60km/h gusting to 90 km/h this morning.
The weather office also issued a rainfall warning forecasting 20 - 30 mm of further rainfall today. For anyone who is still not familiar with metric that is approx. 3/4 to 1 1/4 inches of rain.
For further weather forecasts for Nanaimo you can visit this link.

BC FERRIES NANAIMO DEPARTURE BAY TERMINAL IMPROVEMENTS

SIZE OF VEHICLE HOLDING COMPOUND TEMPORARILY REDUCED AT DEPARTURE BAY

Terminal improvements enter next stage of construction

NANAIMO – BC Ferries’ Departure Bay terminal improvement plan is moving into a new phase of construction which will ultimately provide better service to our customers by next summer. In the meantime, the size of the holding compound and the short and long-term parking areas will be reduced while work is underway.

Water main and sewer line installation will begin at the terminal this week and construction on an expanded retail facility and upgraded passenger walkway will continue. As a result of these projects, various areas of the terminal property will be unavailable for vehicle parking while waiting for a ferry.

BC Ferries reminds vehicles and foot passengers to arrive at the terminal early to allow extra time to navigate any traffic pattern changes or construction detours. Cut-off times for sales of foot passenger, vehicle, reservation and assured loading tickets remain in effect to ensure on-time departures. Traffic controllers will be on hand to assist motorists at the terminal.

Due to the temporary reduction in size of the long-term parking lot, the use of public transit and carpooling is strongly encouraged for customers travelling as foot passengers from Departure Bay. Customers with flexible travel plans may consider sailing to and from Vancouver Island via the Duke Point – Tsawwassen or Swartz Bay – Tsawwassen routes at peak times.

“The overall plan for the Nanaimo terminal will provide many benefits for our customers by redesigning the terminal holding compound and alleviating traffic congestion on local streets in front of the terminal at peak times,” said Manuel Achadinha, BC Ferries’ Vice President of Terminal Operations. “The size of the holding compound will increase from 365 to over 625 spaces while maintaining the area in the pre-ticket zone, and the short and long-parking will increase from 300 to 550 spots. Customers are going to love the new Departure Bay Quay retail facility when it opens next summer.”

To view Nanaimo B.C. Ferry Sailing Schedule or check the current conditions at either Nanaimo Ferry Terminal use this LINK.

BC FERRIES HONOURS VETERANS

B.C. SENIORS TRAVEL FREE ON

REMEMBRANCE DAY

Plus: CoastSaver fares offered for weekend

On Sunday, November 11 and Monday, November 12, B.C. seniors will be able to travel for free as passengers on most of BC Ferries’ routes in recognition of Remembrance Day. All customers can take advantage of value-priced CoastSaver fares for themselves and their vehicles on this holiday.

Throughout the year, free passenger travel for B.C. seniors is offered from Monday to Thursday except on holidays. This year, Remembrance Day falls on a Sunday and BC Ferries will join communities around the province in honouring our veterans and their peers by extending the discount to the Sunday as well as the holiday Monday.

In addition, BC Ferries is offering its popular CoastSaver fares on all sailings on the three major routes between Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland on Remembrance Day. Customers will be able to save $5 per passenger and $15 per underheight vehicle all day on Sunday, November 11 on the Tsawwassen – Swartz Bay, Tsawwassen – Duke Point and Horseshoe Bay – Departure Bay routes. That’s 48 sailings with an opportunity to save.

Extra sailings have also been scheduled between Tsawwassen and Swartz Bay on Monday, November 12 to provide more options for customers travelling home at the end of the Remembrance Day long weekend. These sailings will depart Swartz Bay at noon and 4:00 pm and from Tsawwassen at 2:00 pm and 6:00 pm.

On BC Ferries’ northern routes between Port Hardy, Prince Rupert and Skidegate on the Queen Charlotte Islands, the daily discount for B.C. seniors remains in effect.

For details on schedules and CoastSaver Sailings, visit www.bcferries.com.

HONOUR OUR VETERANS

In Flanders Fields
By: Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, MD (1872-1918)
Canadian Army

Most of us are familiar with the poem 'In Flanders Fields'; today, as you read what the poem says, 'listen' to what the poem says and consider the awful price paid for the freedom we so much take for granted.

IN FLANDERS FIELDS the poppies blow
Between the crosses row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep,
though poppies grow In Flanders fields.

VETERANS' WEEK NOV. 5 - 11

PREMIER’S STATEMENT ON VETERANS’ WEEK

Premier Gordon Campbell released the following statement today to mark the beginning of Veterans’ Week, Nov. 5-11, a time to honour and remember those who have served their country in times of conflict.

“There are few greater sacrifices than the one made by someone who says goodbye to friends and family to serve their country. It is an act of extreme bravery that deserves respect, admiration and eternal remembrance. It is only because of their sacrifice in defence of our way of life that we continue to live in a free and democratic society.

“Earlier this year, the British Columbia legislature was honoured to host a ceremony to commemorate the 90^th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge. There are few more powerful examples of courage and determination than the story of those brave Canadian soldiers at Vimy Ridge, leading us to victory during that pivotal battle.

“Veterans’ Week is a time we set aside to reflect back on those who fought for us during military conflicts such as the two World Wars and the Korean War, and in peacekeeping missions around the globe. But it is important to know that remembrance isn’t limited to November. We can incorporate acts of remembrance into our lives throughout the year. We can all do our part to remember and to encourage others to never forget.

“It is often said that freedom is not free. And in many cases, these men and women paid the ultimate price for our freedom. In return, we owe them vigilance and dedication to the ideals they fought to safeguard.”

TURN BACK CLOCKS THIS WEEKEND

BACK TO STANDARD TIME TONIGHT

When you go to bed tonight remember to turn your clocks back one hour which means you will get an extra hour of sleep, kinda.
This is the first year the clocks have gone back the first weekend of November rather than the usual last weekend of October.
It remains to be seen if this actually saves any energy.

CANADA REVENUE AGENCY WARNING!

Beware of email scams

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is warning the public to beware of email scams that are falsely identified as coming from the CRA. The CRA advises individuals who receive the unsolicited emails to delete them immediately. Do not go to the websites listed in the messages as some of these sites contain harmful software.

For more information on how taxpayers can protect themselves, please visit the Important Security Information on the CRA's web site at http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/eservices/tax/epassservices/important-e.html

For information about this and other fraud schemes, or to report deceptive telemarketing activity, visit www.phonebusters.com, send an email to info@phonebusters.com, or call 1-888-495-8501 (toll free).

FLU IMMUNIZATION IN BRITISH COLUMBIA

IT'S FLU SEASON

NOTE: This article is dated 2007!

For 2009 Swine Flu Vaccine Use this LINK.

Influenza immunization clinics will begin across the province over the next few days, providing more than 1.2 million doses of free vaccinations to eligible British Columbians, announced Ida Chong, Minister of Community Services and Minister responsible for Seniors’ and Women’s Issues.

“Getting vaccinated against influenza is a smart investment of time for seniors and other members of at-risk groups,” said Chong. “A few moments are all it takes to avoid a week or more of bed-ridden illness, potential visits to the doctor or hospital, or the possibility of spreading the virus to friends, family and co-workers.”

British Columbians eligible for free immunizations include:

• People 65 and over and their caregivers;
• Adults and children over six months with chronic health conditions, and their household contacts;
• Health-care workers;
• Emergency responders;
• Healthy children aged six-23 months;
• Household contacts and caregivers of infants aged 0-23 months;
• Pregnant women who will be in their third trimester during the influenza season;
• Residents of nursing homes and other chronic-care facilities;
• People who work with live poultry and swine;
• Employees and inmates at B.C. correctional facilities.

“Influenza is a potentially fatal infection,” noted Provincial Health Officer Dr. Perry Kendall. “In fact, over 1,400 British Columbians die from influenza or its complications every year. Immunization, coupled with good hygiene practices such as frequent hand washing can significantly reduce the chances of catching the virus.”

In addition to these groups, many employers recognize the benefits of having a healthy, flu-free workplace, and offer free immunizations for their employees. For other British Columbians wishing to be vaccinated, many pharmacies, doctor’s offices and clinics also provide the service for a small fee.

Finding a nearby immunization clinic is also easier for 2007, with the launch of a new flu clinic locator service available at www.immunizebc.ca. Visitors to the site can enter their postal code or community name to see a list of clinics operating in their area. Information on clinics is also available through the BC NurseLine, in Vancouver at 604 215-4700 or toll-free across the province at 1-866-215-4700.