TRACK THE COASTAL REANAISSANCE TRIP TO BC

BC Ferries’ Coastal Renaissance, the first of three new Super C-class vessels, is on its way. The ship left Flensburg, Germany on Saturday, October 27, bound for its new home in British Columbia.

The trans-Atlantic voyage will take approximately 45 days, depending on weather, and will include stops for refuelling in Brunsbuettel, Germany; Las Palmas, Canary Islands; and Cristobal, Panama before transiting the Panama Canal and sailing up the west coast of North America to British Columbia.

You can see where the vessel is today by clicking this link.

CANADIAN TAX CUTS

OTTAWA REDUCES GST FOR SECOND TIME

Although we won't get the benefit for Christmas shopping, the GST will be reduced by another 1% to 5% effective Jan. 1/08.
The basic personal exemption is also being increased to $9600 for 2007 and 2008 and to $10,100 for 2009.
While any tax reduction is a welcome relief, with bulging tax coffers it is possible the reductions could have been even more generous. That said, any reduction in our taxes is a welcome decision by any level of government.
Now if the province and city hall would just follow suit! Are you listening Mr. Campbell and Mr. Korpan?

DAVID BECKHAM FANS HELPED BY BC FERRIES

BC FERRIES OFFERS LATE NIGHT SAILING
FOR DAVID BECKHAM SOCCER FANS

11:30 p.m. sailing from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay November 7
VICTORIA – BC Ferries is offering a late night sailing from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay on Wednesday, November 7 to enable soccer fans from Vancouver Island to return home after attending the highly anticipated Vancouver Whitecaps – LA Galaxy soccer match featuring David Beckham on the same day.
The extra late night sailing will depart Tsawwassen at 11:30 p.m. bound for Swartz Bay so Victoria area residents can take in all the action of this world class exhibition match.
“We are pleased to enable Vancouver Island fans the opportunity to share in the excitement of watching world renowned soccer star David Beckham and all the other talented athletes at BC Place Stadium,” said Dan Wong, BC Ferries’ Vice President of Corporate Development. “Special late night sailings such as this one are part of our commitment to connect coastal communities.”
BC Ferries reminds customers that this sailing is not just limited to sports fans. Anyone can take advantage of the late night sailing. Reservations are recommended to ensure a space on this sailing and can be made online at www.bcferries.com or by calling 1-888-BCFERRY.

HARMAC FUTURE UNCERTAIN

OWNERS OF MILL FILE FOR
BANKRUPTCY PROTECTION

The local press reports that Pope & Talbot have filed for bankruptucy protection on Monday of this week.
This move is necessary to protect the mill from further action by creditors and gives the company some more time to sell some of it's assets or the company as a whole.
During this time there is no immediate plans to shut the mill or lay off any of the 500+ workers.
Harmac has been an important part of the Nanaimo economy for over 50 years and has a payroll of over $50 million. They are also a major part of the local tax base, so any negative outcome for Harmac will have a negative impact on the local economy.
In the meantime the mill will continue to operate as 'normal' but there is no sense of security for workers at the mill, many of which have never worked anywhere else.

DON'T TURN YOUR CLOCK BACK THIS WEEKEND!

CLOCKS GO BACK ON NOV. 4 THIS YEAR!

If you are used to turning back your clocks on the last weekend of October, because that is ALWAYS when you turned them back, remember this year that is changed!
In an experiment to see if energy saving can be realized, our friends to the south decided to add a couple of weeks to the daylight saving time period.
Therefore this year the clocks do NOT go back on the last weekend of Oct. but the first weekend of November.
If you missed this reminder, and turned your clocks back out of habit, chances are you will be an hour late for work on Monday.

COASTAL RENAISSANCE SETS SAIL FOR B.C.

FIRST NEW SUPER C-CLASS VESSEL

SETS SAIL FOR B.C. TOMORROW

Coastal Renaissance arrives mid-December and will be in service in Spring 2008

BC Ferries’ Coastal Renaissance, the first of three new Super C-class vessels is on its way. The vessel will depart Flensburg, Germany on Saturday, October 27, bound for its new home in British Columbia.

The trans-Atlantic voyage will take approximately 45 days, depending on weather, and will include stops for refuelling in Brunsbuettel, Germany; Las Palmas, Canary Islands; and Cristobal, Panama before transiting the Panama Canal and sailing up the west coast of North America to British Columbia.

Early next week, BC Ferries will launch a webpage for those who want to join the voyage “virtually.” Customers will be able to watch the ship’s progress including course, position and speed from a link on BC Ferries’ homepage at www.bcferries.com.

Coastal Renaissance is scheduled to arrive in Nanaimo mid-December for crew training and familiarization. After a series of public open houses in Vancouver and on Vancouver Island, the ship will start service on the Departure Bay – Horseshoe Bay route in the Spring of 2008.

BC FERRIES TO INCREASE FARES ON NOVEMBER 1

BC Ferries is reminding customers that passenger and vehicle fares will increase effective November 1, 2007. Fares will increase by an average of 2.8 per cent on the three major routes connecting Vancouver Island to the Lower Mainland and an average of 4.4 per cent on the remaining routes.

Prices for prepaid discount ticket books on the minor routes and rates for assured loading on the Lower Mainland – Vancouver Island routes, will also increase November 1, 2007.

Northern route price increases have already been set through September 30, 2008 in recognition of the planning requirements of tour operators.

NANAIMO SPCA FEATURED CAT

MEET GIZMO TODAY AND FALL IN LOVE!

Gizmo is a handsome grey and white three year old Maine Coon cross with the nicest markings on his nose - a lucky three leafed clover shaped smudge of grey. This handsome big boy is outgoing, playful and very loving and wants to get all your attention. You can find him in the second room looking for someone to cuddle and love with. Give him a pet and you won't be able to walk away again. This boy is very special.
The Nanaimo SPCA shelter is located at 2200 Labieux Road, and their phone number is 758-8444. To view a map and get directions click here.

E&N RAIL STATION NANAIMO

RAIL STATION BEFORE AUGUST FIRE

It is reported in the local press that it is believed the historic site will be restored after an arson fire last August.
Spokeman Doug Backhouse said he believed funding for the restoration could come from several different sources. Since the building has heritage status the structure has to follow strict guidelines to retain as much as possible of the original character of the site.
It is still unknown what the insurance from VIA rail will cover or how much could be available from Parks Canada, however the total cost is estimated to be in the two million dollar range.
Presently workers are securing the building to protect it from further weather damage over the winter.

NANAIMO FAMILY NEEDS YOUR HELP

NO FIRE INSURANCE
LEAVES FAMILY WITH NOTHING

A possible electrical fire last Saturday has left a family with four children with the clothes on their backs.
The lack of tenants insurance has left them with no place to turn and are asking the community of Nanaimo to step up and lend a hand.
There are four children in the family aged 9, 11, 12 & 14. The family needs everything we take for granted; food, furniture and clothing.
If you can help out please call Tim Brown at 250-729-5393. Emergency services has provided a hotel room for the past few days, but as of today they are on their own.
Help if you can.

CRAFTERS MARKET NEAR SEASON END

LONE VENDOR 'PACKS IT UP'
SUNDAY AFTERNOON

There is a special Crafters Market downtown beside the Bastion in conjunction with the visiting cruise ships. There are still three more ships to visit Nanaimo this month, Oct. 23, 28 & 30th.
Admittedly visitors to our fair city this past Sunday did not see some of our better weather, but properly dressed souls could be seen taking in the downtown sites and shops.
If the weatherman is correct (and he is never wrong) the ship on the 23rd could be treated to some sunny fall weather. Let's hope so.

NANAIMO CONVENTION CENTER COULD PUT TAXES 'THROUGH THE ROOF' ACCORDING TO MAYOR

NANAIMO'S DOWNTOWN WHITE KNIGHT?
OR WHITE ELEPHANT?

With many months to go before completion it seems that the Mayor and council are starting to attempt some 'blame shifting' over the burden Nanaimo taxpayers will obviously have to bear to pay for the Port of Nanaimo Center.
It was reported in the press recently that Mayor Korpan said taxes could 'go through the roof' if senior levels of government did not come forward with more money to pay for the convention center.
With a new city budget in the planning stages, and no real hard numbers to crunch the initial reports about the potential impact on city taxes does not sound promising at all.
Considering this project was sold as the catalyst that would revitalize downtown Nanaimo, you would think the average taxpayer would expect a reduction in their taxes as a result of the economic benefit the center should provide. That does not seem to be the case.
The Mayor and council and citizens of Nanaimo who firmly supported continuing with this questionable project can hardly expect senior governments to take the blame for the impact this project will have for years to come, on the taxpayers of Nanaimo.
Personally, I doubt if anyone has any idea what the long term fallout will be from this out of control project.
For more current and optimistic updates on the convention center follow either of these links. Link 1. Link 2

SMALL BUSINESS LIKES BRITISH COLUMBIA

VICTORIA – The 2007 Small Business Profile, a report on the status of small business in British Columbia, was released today by the Honourable Rona Ambrose, President of the Queen's Privy Council for Canada, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and Minister of Western Economic Diversification, and Rick Thorpe, Minister of Small Business and Revenue and Minister responsible for Regulatory Reform.

“Small business in British Columbia has seen steady growth, and this trend reflects the West’s strong economic growth and entrepreneurial spirit,” said Ambrose. “Canada’s New Government is creating the right conditions for Canadian businesses to thrive and is reducing barriers to small business growth. This Small Business Profile highlights the success of small businesses in B.C. and can be used as a tool to help guide future entrepreneurs.”

“This year’s Small Business Profile illustrates the continued success of small business,” said Thorpe. “Our government has worked in partnership to listen to small business owners and operators through the Small Business Roundtable, create a competitive tax system, cut red tape and partner with industry to support their need for skilled labour.”

The small business sector continues to make its mark as a key instrument of job creation and economic growth in British Columbia. In 2006, a total of 370,700 small businesses were operating in British Columbia, with just under 57 per cent of private sector jobs derived from small business. By comparison, just under half (49 per cent) of private sector employment in Canada as a whole was supplied by small business.

Between 2001 and 2006, British Columbia’s small business growth was triple the national average and at 11.2 per cent, the only province to boast double-digit growth. Small businesses account for 98 per cent of all businesses in British Columbia.

Other highlights:

· An estimated 1,025,600 people worked in small businesses in British Columbia in 2006.

· British Columbia derives more gross domestic product from small business than any other province – 27 per cent.

· 98 per cent of all businesses in British Columbia are small businesses.

· Small business shipped over $14 billion worth of merchandise to international destinations in 2005, almost 40 per cent of the total value of goods exported from the province.

· The Northeast region continues to record the highest rate of growth in the province in the number of small businesses, with an average increase of 6.3 per cent per year over the 2001 to 2006 period.

The 2007 Small Business Profile is the latest in an annual series of reports prepared by BC Stats with funding from the Ministry of Small Business and Revenue and Western Economic Diversification Canada.

“This government continues to demonstrate its commitment to small business” said Linda Larson, vice-chair of the Small Business Roundtable. “This year’s profile highlights those commitments and achievements and clearly shows why British Columbia is Canada’s most small business friendly jurisdiction.”

Small Business Profile 2007 can be found at www.sbr.gov.bc.ca or www.smallbusinessbc.ca/guides-list online.

October is Small Business Month in British Columbia. Proclaimed by Premier Gordon Campbell for the first time in 2007, Small Business Month recognizes and celebrates the valuable contribution small businesses in all regions make to British Columbia’s growing economy.

FALL STORM EXPECTED TODAY

WIND WARNING FOR
EAST VANCOUVER ISLAND

SOUTH OR SOUTHEAST WINDS AROUND 70 KM/H EXPECTED FOR TODAY AND UP TO 90 KM/H OFF SOUTHERN VANCOUVER ISLAND...THEN SHIFTING TO WESTERLY UP TO 90 KM/H ALONG PARTS OF SOUTHERN VANCOUVER ISLAND LATE THIS AFTERNOON. THIS IS A WARNING THAT POTENTIALLY DAMAGING WINDS ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING IN THESE REGIONS. MONITOR WEATHER CONDITIONS..LISTEN FOR UPDATED STATEMENTS.

A VERY VIGOROUS STORM SYSTEM INCORPORATING THE REMNANTS FROM TROPICAL STORM LINGLING WILL MOVE THROUGH THE SOUTH COAST TODAY. VERY STRONG SOUTHEASTERLY WINDS ARE EXPECTED TO DEVELOP AS THE SYSTEM APPROACHES VANCOUVER ISLAND WITH WIND SPEEDS FORECAST TO REACH UP TO 80 OR 90 KM/H OFF VICTORIA AND THE SOUTHERN GULF ISLANDS. IN GREATER VANCOUVER THE STRONGEST WINDS ARE EXPECTED TO BE FROM THE SOUTH UP TO 70 KM/H IN THE LATE AFTERNOON AND EARLY EVENING WITH THE SOUTHERN PORTIONS OF THE DISTRICT LIKELY TO BE THE HARDEST HIT. VERY STRONG WEST OR SOUTHWEST WINDS WILL FOLLOW THE SYSTEM ESPECIALLY NEAR SOUTHERN VANCOUVER ISLAND WITH SPEEDS UP TO 90 KM/H FORECAST IN VICTORIA NEAR THE STRAIT OF JUAN DE FUCA. WINDS WILL QUICKLY EASE OVER ALL AREAS THIS EVENING. THIS STORM WILL ALSO BRING MODERATE TO HEAVY RAIN WITH GENERAL RAINFALL AMOUNTS ARE EXPECTED BETWEEN 30 TO 50 MM OVER SOUTHERN VANCOUVER ISLAND AND THE LOWER MAINLAND. HOWE SOUND WILL RECEIVE UP TO 60 MM. THE RAIN WILL TAPER OFF TONIGHT AS THE STORM MOVES INLAND.

MY ATTEMPT AT HUMOUR

MY FIRST (AND PERHAPS LAST) ATTEMPT AT A HUMOROUS CARTOON OF SORTS.

BC FERRIES NEEDS TO TEST FOR CANNABIS USE

MANDATORY DRUG AND ALCOHOL

TESTING NEEDED

- CEO David Hahn welcomes TSB statement

and calls for follow up -

BC Ferries President and CEO David L. Hahn issued a statement today in response to a Transportation Board Safety Board (TSB) communiqué regarding potential cannabis use by northern BC Ferries crew members. The TSB issued a notice as part of its investigation into the sinking of the Queen of the North on March 22, 2006.

TSB reported that, “in the course of its investigation into the sinking of the Queen of the North, the TSB conducted extensive interviews and found that a number of crew members regularly smoked cannabis between shifts, both on board and off the vessel.” The TSB has no evidence that the performance of either the fourth officer or the quartermaster on the bridge was impaired. BC Ferries adds that no drug and alcohol tests were done on any crew members immediately following the incident.

Hahn stated that BC Ferries has had a drug and alcohol abuse policy in place since 1997 and a zero-tolerance policy for all crew members since 2005. In isolated incidents, where contravention of the policy has come to the attention of the company, employees have been terminated as a direct result.

The no tolerance live-aboard policy regarding the use of alcohol and drugs states: “Crew members are not permitted to consume nor have in their possession alcohol or any other mood-altering substance, which would render them unfit for duty. This prohibition is considered to include all hours on duty or off duty/watch, from the time an employee joins the ship until the release for rest days.”

Hahn stated that if cannabis was being used by any crew members of the Queen of the North, or any other vessel, it is a clear violation of the company’s zero-tolerance drug and alcohol policy. He stated that BC Ferries has communicated this policy many times and in many different ways to all of its employees, including small group sessions with each employee who works on the northern vessels.

“The safety of the travelling public is paramount” stated Hahn. He urged the Transportation Safety Board to recommend to the Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Federal Minister of Transport, that all ferry operators in Canada be given powers to conduct mandatory drug and alcohol testing on all employees in safety sensitive positions.

Hahn suggested that drug and alcohol testing are both mandatory and random in the U.S. transportation industry and, given the TSB’s conclusions, similar legislation needs to be adopted here in Canada as well. He said management can create and enforce tough zero-tolerance policies, but mandatory and random drug and alcohol testing is the only proven method of ensuring protection for the travelling public.

In conclusion, Hahn stated that the company will be conducting further investigations into the TSB findings.

B.C. PUBLIC SERVICE

ONE OF B.C.'S TOP EMPLOYERS

VICTORIA – For the first time, the province’s largest employer, the BC Public Service, is now also on the list of BC’s Top 40 Employers.

“As we face the impact of an aging workforce and an increasingly tight labour market, it is critical that the BC Public Service is able to retain and recruit the skilled employees needed to meet the expectations of British Columbians,” said Premier Gordon Campbell. “This recognition is a strong endorsement of the actions we’ve taken to increase the competitiveness of the BC Public Service as an employer, and it will further support our ability to attract and keep talented employees who value a rewarding and challenging career.”

In the annual list of BC’s Top 40 Employers announced by Mediacorp, the BC Public Service was recognized for offering a highly competitive pension and benefits package, strong support for employing training and development, and a uniquely wide range of career opportunities. BC Public Service employment policies were also recognized on Mediacorp’s list of Canada’s Top 100 Employers, with the Royal B.C. Museum, whose employees are part of the BC Public Service, being named on the Top 100 list.

“To be recognized as a top employer is really a tribute to the exceptional commitment of the almost 30,000 men and women working in the BC Public Service,” said Ida Chong, minister responsible for the BC Public Service Agency. “We have made significant strides over the past year to increase the competitiveness of the BC Public Service as an employer. You don’t get to be a top employer without having top-notch employees.”

In October 2006, the BC Public Service released its first corporate human resources plan, Being the Best, which set out an ambitious strategy to become a more competitive employer. Significant actions implemented under Being the Best in the last year include:

The Pacific Leaders program, offering forgiveness of B.C. student loans for employees, scholarships for employees and their children, and graduate fellowships to help recruit new employees.

The commitment to make the BC Public Service a carbon-neutral employer by 2010.

The opening of all job competitions to external as well as internal applicants.

Expanded recognition programs to highlight the achievements of award-winning employees.

A unique partnership with CUSO that allows employees to volunteer for overseas service for up to two years with the employer portion of their benefits paid during that time and a job available upon their return.

A new Aboriginal Intern program to introduce Aboriginal youth to career opportunities in the BC Public Service.

Promotion of career paths to help all employees take advantage of the diversity of job opportunities available in the BC Public Service.

A series of new employee fitness initiatives to encourage health and wellness and support the goals of the ActNow BC program.

Increased recruitment efforts, resulting in a 75 per cent increase in the number of employees under age 30 hired into the BC Public Service.

The BC Public Service is the province’s largest corporate employer, with approximately 30,000 professional employees in 280 B.C. communities working in over 100 diverse job streams. Just under half of all BC Public Service employees live on Vancouver Island, one third live in the Lower Mainland, and just over 10 per cent live in each of the Interior and Northern regions of the province.

By 2015, 35 per cent of bargaining unit employees and 45 per cent of managers in the BC Public Service are expected to retire. B.C. currently has the second smallest public service of any jurisdiction in Canada with a ratio of 8.1 public servants for every 1,000 citizens

VI RAIDERS DEFEND THEIR TITLE ON SUNDAY

The VI Raiders will be defending their title this Sunday against the Okanagan Sun at Caledonia Park.

Game time is 1:00PM and the long range forecast calls for good weather, so be sure to get out and support your local team, and watch what will be some exciting football.

PNC HOTEL TO START BY END OF MAY

NEW NANAIMO HOTEL TO START BY MAY 31

It is reported in the local press that the hotel component of the new convention centre will break ground by the end of May of next year, with the contract being signed with a general contractor by the end of January.

The hotel which has been scaled down to a 18 storey hotel from the original 37 storey building originally planned apparently appeals to financial backers.

The hotel will have 170 rooms at a cost of $50 million dollars, with it's financial success being assured by the business generated by conventions, and the fact that hotel rates apparently are on the rise in Nanaimo.

Evan Trembley Missing Person Hoax Email

MISSING PERSON HOAX EMAIL

If you receive an email about a missing person named Evan Trembley, asking you to forward the alert to your address book, just delete it.

Apparently what started as a prank in the US has grown to include an email being circulated in Nanaimo, claiming the person is a missing Nanaimo resident.

There is nothing malicious about the email (at this point) but just do everyone on your list a favour and do not forward the email to anyone. Also, be reminded NOT to open any attachments on emails unless you are absolutely 100% certain they are safe.

Canadian Apprenticeship Grants Available

Canada's Apprenticeship Incentive Grant

The Apprenticeship Incentive Grant, launched on Aug. 24 2007, provides a $1,000 cash grant per year to registered apprentices who have completed their first or second year in a Red Seal trade program, on or after January 1, 2007 . It will help apprentices achieve their goals by offsetting the costs of tuition, travel and tools. It is estimated that, annually, up to 100,000 apprentices in Canada will be entitled to receive this taxable cash grant.

The Apprenticeship Incentive Grant is one of the measures introduced by Canada's Government to assist apprentices, tradespeople and employers in the skilled trades sector. Effective May 2006, the federal government introduced a Tradesperson's Tools Deduction to help eligible tradespeople across the country to save on the cost of work-related tools. It also introduced an Apprenticeship Job Creation Tax Credit to provide employers with up to $2,000 per apprentice for each of the first two years of their contract.

Application forms for the grant are available at Service Canada Centres and on the Internet. Service Canada is responsible for processing the applications and delivering the cheques.

For more information on the Apprenticeship Incentive Grant, visit the following Web site: http://www.servicecanada.gc.ca, call 1-866-742-3644 (TTY 1-866-909-9757), or visit your local Service Canada Centre.

For more information on Red Seal trades, visit www.red-seal.ca.

VANCOUVER ISLAND CONFERENCE CENTRE HOTEL

VANCOUVER ISLAND CONFERENCE CENTRE

HOTEL PROCEEDING

NANAIMO – The City of Nanaimo, Millennium Nanaimo Properties Ltd. and Suro Development Company wish to announce that Millennium and Suro are proceeding with the development and construction of a new hotel adjacent to the Vancouver Island Conference Centre.

The parties had previously agreed that on or before 2007-SEP-30 that Millennium and Suro would confirm the existence of adequate financing to complete the hotel. Millennium and Suro are now confirming that this required financing is in place, and that a construction contract with a general contractor will be signed by 2008-JAN-31.

To demonstrate its commitment to proceed to construction, Millennium and Suro have now placed a deposit of $450,000. with the City which will be forfeited if construction does not start on schedule.

Financing for the hotel will come from a combination of Millennium and Suro’s own funds and bank financing.

Millennium and Suro have requested some changes to the Partnering Agreement which Council believes to be acceptable and which will be formally documented in a further amendment agreement.

Specifically these changes are:

1. Deletion of Clause 7.4 so that Millennium and Suro will no longer be responsible for any cost overruns in the construction of the Vancouver Island Conference Centre. Construction of the Vancouver Island Conference Centre is now well past the half-way mark and the risk of cost overruns that are not exempt from exclusions outlined in the Clause is now considered very low.

2. In return for items 1 above, Clause 7.5 will also be deleted. This clause committed the City to share with Millennium and Suro 50% of any savings realized during the construction period.

3. An amendment to the requirement for the hotel to be a minimum of 170 rooms to reflect the fact that the hotel may include a number of suites which will include more than one bedroom thus potentially reducing the number of separate rooms. Many new boutique hotels utilize this format and both parties believe it will provide a niche not currently available in the Nanaimo market. Suites provide more options for conference attendees and other guests and improve marketability.

The City and Millennium and Suro are very pleased that the hotel is proceeding. Mayor Korpan noted that the hotel is an integral part of the plan for revitalization of the downtown and a key component in the success of the Vancouver Island Conference Centre. The fact that it is proceeding will have a very positive impact on the Council’s downtown revitalization efforts and the success of the VICC. Conference Centre Chair, Councillor Jeet Manhas, has been working diligently on Council’s behalf and expressed his satisfaction that this represents a major step towards realization of Council’s downtown vision. Shahram Malek, speaking on behalf of Millennium and Suro, stated that they are very excited to be proceeding with this project, have great confidence in the future of Nanaimo and intend to have a long and positive relationship with Nanaimo and its citizens.

For more information about the Vancouver Island Conference Center and the Port of Nanaimo Center visit this link for detailed contact information.

VI RAIDERS DEFEAT RAMS 53 - 0

Caledonia Park saw the VI Raiders defeat the South Surrey Rams by a convincing 53 - 0 win allowing them to advance in the BC Football Conference playoffs last Saturday.

This coming Sunday Oct. 14 at 1:00 pm the Raiders will host the Okanagan Sun in the Cullen Cup final at Caledonia Park.

Regardless of the weather, grab your blanket or umbrella or sunscreen, and plan on attending what is sure to be an exciting game.

ALZHEIMER'S DRUG STUDY IN B.C.

B.C. COMMITS $70 MILLION

TO ALZHEIMER’S DRUG STUDY

VICTORIA – As the lead funding partner in a new $78-million study of the effectiveness of Alzheimer’s medications, the Province will provide PharmaCare coverage of three cholinesterase inhibitors for the first time, Premier Gordon Campbell announced today.

“The Alzheimer’s Drug Therapy Initiative will gather clear, clinical evidence on who will benefit from these drugs and what the benefit will be for people in the mild to moderate stages of Alzheimer’s disease,” said Campbell. “This research will help us ensure people affected by Alzheimer’s disease get the best care and treatment, so they, their caregivers and families enjoy the highest possible quality of life.”

The Alzheimer’s Drug Therapy Initiative, which begins this month, is expected to last up to three years and involve more than 25,000 British Columbians diagnosed with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease.

“Alzheimer’s patients who participate in the study will have their drug costs covered,” said Health Minister George Abbott. “Through their participation, we will gather the additional evidence we need to make a decision on whether to add the drugs to our PharmaCare formulary and, if so, under what criteria.”

Clinical evidence to date indicates that cholinesterase inhibitors appear to work best in the early and moderate stages of Alzheimer’s disease. Data collected through the research study will be used to address the gaps in evidence on the effectiveness of cholinesterase inhibitors, identify characteristics of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease who may benefit from treatment with these drugs, and evaluate the resulting impact on caregivers.

The research initiative is a partnership involving the Province, the Alzheimer Society of B.C., the University of Victoria, UBC and drug manufacturers. Based on early analyses, the Province estimates the cost at $78 million over three years, including approximately $70 million from the Province and $8 million expected to be contributed by drug manufacturers.

“With people increasingly diagnosed in the early stages of dementia, it’s critical that those with the disease have access to the right medications at the right time,” said Rosemary Rawnsley, executive director of the Alzheimer Society of B.C. “Quality of life for people with the disease and their caregivers is paramount, and this initiative will help provide solid direction to ensure the resources available are used effectively.”

Alzheimer’s disease, a degenerative brain disorder whose symptoms include loss of memory, judgment and reasoning as well as changes in mood and behaviour, is the most common form of dementia. While some patients may live up to 20 years after diagnosis, the average life expectancy is between eight and 12 years.

The Alzheimer Society of B.C. reports that approximately 64,000 people in British Columbia currently suffer from some form of dementia. That number is expected to grow to more than 74,000 over the next five years.

The Alzheimer’s Drug Therapy Initiative is one of a number of projects the Province has committed to that will positively impact people affected by dementia. Other programs include a Dementia Services Framework, which brings together various stakeholders to improve care and services for those with dementia. In June, the Ministry of Health announced $1 million in funding for the Alzheimer Society of B.C. to support a number of innovative projects that are being implemented to support the framework. In April 2006, Premier Campbell announced $15 million for the Pacific Alzheimer Research Foundation to support new research aimed at eliminating dementia.

Investing in mental health‑related services is part of government’s Pacific Leadership Agenda to improve the health of citizens and renew the public health system.

Those interested in getting more information on how to participate in the Alzheimer’s Drug Therapy Initiative should visit www.health.gov.bc.ca online.

VI RAIDERS FOOTBALL

BC FERRIES ADDS EXTRA SAILINGS
FOR THANKSGIVING LONG WEEKEND

BC Ferries is pleased to announce that it has added extra sailings to meet the demand for increased travel over the Thanksgiving long weekend.
Over the long weekend, BC Ferries will operate four vessels between Tsawwassen and Swartz Bay. Extra sailings will be added on the Horseshoe Bay – Departure Bay route as traffic warrants throughout the weekend. On Monday, October 8, an extra late night sailing will depart Langdale at 10:10 pm bound for Horseshoe Bay. The Earls Cove – Saltery Bay schedule has been adjusted on October 5 and 8 to allow for later departures in the evening. The full list of extra sailings is available at www.bcferries.com.
Traditionally, Thanksgiving is a busy weekend for ferry travel, especially for foot passengers. Almost 50 per cent more foot passengers are carried this weekend than on an average fall weekend. The holiday Monday, October 8, is expected to be the busiest day of the long weekend.
At all locations, foot passengers should plan to arrive early at terminals to allow some extra time for ticketing. However, at the Tsawwassen and Swartz Bay terminals, walk-on customers can now use the new automated ticketing machines to speed ticket purchases. In addition, passengers travelling in vehicles are reminded that vehicle reservations must be claimed at the ticket booths at least 30 minutes prior to scheduled departure times.
Customers who want to avoid the heavy traffic and get reduced fares at the same time should take advantage of BC Ferries’ CoastSaver sailings. CoastSaver fares offer travellers savings of $5.00 per adult and $15.00 per underheight vehicle. On the Tsawwassen – Duke Point route, CoastSaver fares are available on all sailings on October 6 and 7. On the Tsawwassen – Swartz Bay route, CoastSaver fares are available on the 7:00 am and 9:00 am sailings on October 7.
Look for more CoastSaver sailings on the Tsawwassen – Duke Point and Tsawwassen – Swartz Bay routes from now until April 2008. Visit www.bcferries.com for the full CoastSaver schedule and find your time to save.

Tsawwassen - Duke Point Weekend Ferry Savings

BC FERRIES EXPANDS COASTSAVER PROMOTION

Extended campaign gives travellers over 840 opportunities to save

Owing to popular demand, BC Ferries has just announced plans for its largest CoastSaver promotion yet, with over 840 value-priced sailings to choose from over the next seven months. Between October 1, 2007 and April 30, 2008, customers travelling on select BC Ferries sailings will be able to save $5 per passenger and $15 per underheight vehicle through CoastSaver sailings.

From now until the end of April, the CoastSaver fares will be available on the Tsawwassen – Duke Point route on all Saturday and Sunday sailings. Customers will also be able to save on the 7 a.m.9 a.m. sailings between Tsawwassen and Swartz Bay every Sunday morning. and

“CoastSaver sailings provide customers with a value-priced choice,” said Dan Wong, BC Ferries’ Vice President of Corporate Development. “Customers who have some flexibility in their travel schedules can realize some very attractive savings. It’s one more way for BC Ferries to offer our customers greater value and a better overall travel experience.”

For more detailed information about BC Ferry Schedules and sailing times visit this link for full details.

MERCURY CRUISE SHIP VISITS NANAIMO

TENDER BRINGS VISITORS TO NANAIMO

Under cloudy skies and an abundance of liquid sunshine, visitors from the cruise ship Mercury were ferried to the wharf in Nanaimo Harbour on Sunday.
It was quite a contrast to the week before, when almost summer like weather and sunshine greeted guest from the same cruise line.
The cruise ship will be stopping in Nanaimo many more times during the month of October.

OCTOBER BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

EARLY DETECTION OF BREAST CANCER

CAN SAVE LIVES

VICTORIA – October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and a timely reminder of the importance of regular mammography screening as a means of reducing breast cancer rates in B.C. through early detection, Premier Gordon Campbell said today at the 2007 CIBC Run for the Cure in Vancouver.

“Regular screening offers the best chance of detecting breast cancer early,” said Campbell. “B.C. has a comprehensive, provincewide breast cancer screening program. We want to raise awareness of this service and emphasize the importance of all women between the ages of 40 and 79 receiving screening for breast cancer at least every two years.”

An estimated 2,800 B.C. women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year alone, and approximately 635 will die from the disease. One in nine women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. Regular screening for breast cancer has been shown to reduce the number of deaths from this disease by 25 per cent.

Common signs of breast cancer include a painless lump in the breast or armpit, a change in the way the breast looks, or changes in the appearance of the nipple.

“Many British Columbians have had a loved one – a mother, sister, grandmother or friend – who has fought breast cancer,” said Health Minister George Abbott, who also participated in this year’s run. “This is a devastating disease, but survival rates are high with early detection, and we want to ensure that all B.C. women are aware that these free screening programs exist.”

The Screening Mammography Program of B.C. (SMPBC) was established in 1988 through the BC Cancer Agency to increase early detection of breast cancer and to reduce mortality rates. SMPBC provides free mammograms to women between the ages of 40 and 79 across the province. B.C. women can schedule appointments at one of 34 provincewide screening centres. Women living in areas without a screening centre can make use of the BC Cancer Agency’s mobile van, which provides breast cancer screening to an additional 100 communities at least twice a year.

Women aged 40 to 79 do not need to be referred by their doctor in order to set up an SMPBC appointment, and appointments take about 15 minutes. In 2006, SMPBC conducted 266,790 screening mammograms.

“Finding breast cancer early means more treatment options and a better chance for a cure,” said Barbara Kaminsky, CEO of the BC & Yukon division of the Canadian Cancer Society. “Fortunately, B.C. women have the lowest mortality rates for breast cancer in Canada, but we need to continue to raise awareness about the importance of screening programs and the opportunities for preventing breast cancer before it even starts.”

British Columbia is a leader in cancer prevention and treatment. In March 2007, Premier Campbell announced $2 million in funding for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation BC/Yukon to help the foundation continue raising awareness of the need for regular mammograms. In April 2006, the Province provided $4 million to the Canadian Cancer Society to endow a research chair in the primary prevention of cancer at the University of British Columbia. In July 2005, B.C. became the first province to fund the lifesaving drug Herceptin. Clinical trials of this drug show that it reduces cancer recurrence in women who have completed chemotherapy, by almost half.

Eligible British Columbians wishing to book a free mammogram can call 604 660-3639 in the Lower Mainland or toll-free 1-800-663-9203 elsewhere in B.C.

The BC HealthGuide program has information on breast cancer and routine mammography screening. The HealthGuide is available online at www.bchealthguide.org or by calling the BC NurseLine at 604 215-4700 within Greater Vancouver or toll-free at 1-866-215-4700 elsewhere in B.C.