Sunday, August 31, 2014

BC Ferries Parking Lot is Full

Please be advised that the pay parking facilities at Horseshoe Bay and Departure Bay terminals have reached capacity. For traffic updates or more information please call us toll free at 1-888-BCFERRY (223-3779), check our website at www.bcferries.com or go to mobile.bcferries.com on your mobile device.

allvoices

Saturday, August 30, 2014

Worth Repeating - Spin Doctor Costs $140,000

This article first appeared in Feb. 2012 a few months after this trio was elected to city council.We now have the benefit of 20/20 hindsight and can assess the value this costly position has brought to city hall. Many city hall watchers wonder aloud if we actually have a spin doctor as he seems to be nearly invisible. Word on the street has it, that his primary job is to coach our city council so they don't embarrass themselves or the city.

Clearly he must have been on vacation during the LeaderGate Fiasco, when this city council made Nanaimo infamous from coast to coast and even internationally.


Councillors George Anderson, Diane Brennan 
and Bill McKay Clearly Tax & Spenders!

It is a little discomforting to realize that our three newest city Councillors have adjusted quickly to council's true calling....... find as many ways as possible to spend YOUR tax dollars!

The first example of these new Councillors attitude to spending tax dollars creatively came at the recent FPCOW meeting where veteran tax spender Councillor Brennan led the charge to see the city hire a $143,000.00 a year SPIN DOCTOR so we can be told with OUR tax dollars what a wonderful job they are doing.

Can you imagine having to spend nearly $3,000 a week so some city hack can write propaganda designed to make you think they are spending your tax dollar wisely. Hiring a spin doctor to tell us how wisely they are spending money is one of things that is so ironic you just have to laugh at the absurdity of it all.

The new TAX & SPENDERS were joined by the seasoned spenders of Councillor Johnstone and Mayor Ruttan in making what is arguably the most symbolic example of a complete lack of concern over how much we are already being taxed for the privilege of living under this city administration.

allvoices

Friday, August 29, 2014

WHAT IS REALLY BEHIND THE COLLERY DAM SAGA?

DID CITY HALL SCREW UP?

For a long time one of the biggest mysteries is what was really driving the city agenda to get rid of the Colliery Dams. Being a total skeptic I never believed the official line about seismic safety from the beginning. I had already observed how city staff play the 'safety' card to manipulate city council and public opinion to get what they want. Remember the shiny new, $16 million office they had us build without going to tender? That was all predicated on the idea the old annex was such a death trap.

What I offer here is pure speculation that I think has enough merit for others with more resources than I to investigate. The new water treatment system has changed how Nanaimo water is treated and delivered. It will now be treated before leaving that fancy new $70 million treatment plant and is then kept in a closed system all the way to the new enclosed reservoir built on the Colliery Dam Park property.

Before this new system was put in place, there would be fresh water arriving at the old, open reservoir which could safely be diverted into the Chase River, and also supply ample fresh flowing water to maintain the two lakes in Colliery Dam Park. With me so far?

The  supply of fresh water has been so drastically changed with the new closed system that the salmon hatchery operated by VIU for years, has had to now be closed. Still with me?

What if, this whole new system has effectively robbed the Chase River and Colliery Dam lakes of a clean, fresh, free flowing supply of water, which is now replaced with chlorinated water flowing in this new closed system.

If the result of this lack of fresh water supply does what I speculate it might, then before long the lack of fresh water flowing into Colliery Dam Lakes and the Chase River will create two dead bodies of water, which would not be nearly as noticeable if it did not produce two huge, stinking pools of stagnant water, where two fresh bodies of water have been for 100 years.

Something to think about? Something to investigate? I certainly hope so. I would also hope that SFN takes a keen look at this hypothesis before they make decisions that could change the Chase River, fish bearing habitat forever.

allvoices

McKay Wants To Spend $10,000 On Conference

McKays' Motion Would Cost $10,000

Councillor Bill McKay has given a notice of motion that he intends to support the city taxpayer sponsoring the Zero Waste Conference to the tune of $10,000.

If you are interested in attending the four day conference the first three days can be attended for only $160.00 and you can register here.

This motion does raise a few questions:

  • Since the conference is not dependent upon City tax dollar support, and is being sponsored by those attending the event, you have to wonder why Councillor McKay is so eager to spend $10,000 on this event?
  • This couldn't possibly be a political ploy to curry favour with those opposed to the WTE at Duke Point?
  • If this conference is fully funded by registration fees etc. and the organizers did not apply to the city for funding, who will benefit from what is likely going to be a surplus $10,000? 
  • Is this organization required to open their books if they are in receipt of $10,000 from the city taxpayer?

allvoices

City Offers Options For Parents

Camp Firefly Returns Sept. 2


The City of Nanaimo Parks, Recreation and Environment department is pleased to announce that Camp Firefly will be offered starting September 2 at both Beban Park and Oliver Woods Community Centre. Children age 6-12 are welcome to join us for a variety of games and activities during their unexpected time off from school.

Nanaimo Ice Centre will also be offering a Cool Kids Skate Camp from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm for kids aged 6-12 years.

The cost for the camps is $35 per child per day. Registration is now available for Camp Firefly and Cool Kids Skate Camp by visiting www.ireg.nanaimo.ca or calling 250-756-5200.


allvoices

PUBLIC SUPPORT SPLIT BC TEACHERS STRIKE


BC parents resigned to no school Tuesday

89% respondents say it’s unlikely both sides will reach a deal by Sept 2nd


 A softening of public support for teachers in the ongoing labour dispute between BCTF and the BC Government now puts backing for both sides in a virtual tie with just days to go before the scheduled start of the new school year.

These were the findings of a new survery commissioned by Angus Reid Global that also show British Columbians have little hope for a deal before schools are supposed to open on Tuesday Sept. 2.

Angus Reid Global (ARG) conducted an online survey among 800 randomly selected BC adults who are Angus Reid Forum panelists on August 27-28, 2014. A probability sample of this size carries a margin of error of +/- 3.5%, 19 times out of 20.



allvoices

Thursday, August 28, 2014

JIM TAYLOR ASKS FOR READERS HELP


Wearing Three Hats
Asking For Readers Help

I started as the blogger guy who thought the local press was giving city hall a free ride. As time passed I felt the need for an organized taxpayer group that might actually get city hall to listen, so Don Graham and myself founded the Nanaimo Ratepayers Association which now is closing in on 200 members. Not enough to get the heads-down, butt-up, straight ahead group we have on council to listen since they have proven they don't listen to anyone except staff and Douglas White.

I have now finally come to the conclusion the only way to bring about any meaningful change at city hall is to jump into the fray and try to get elected which would at least give me some real say as to how the city is governed.

The result is now I am wearing three hats - the blogger - the Ratepayers Pres. and now a candidate for city council. The motivation for all three is the same ---- a concern for the future of Nanaimo and the direction city hall has taken us.

I have had some people ask if I am elected would I quit the blog, while others have asked if I intend to use the blog as my own bully pulpit to try and get myself elected. Both fair questions and both reasonable concerns. A third concern is the appearance that the Ratepayers Association was just a vehicle to try and get myself elected.

To the first question, if elected I do not intend to discontinue the blog, if anything I would hope it could become even more valuable when it comes to understanding how city hall operates. I would like to think it could open up the lines of communication between Nanaimo taxpayers and city hall and bring greater understanding as to how things really get done at 455 Wallace Street.

To the second question about turning the blog into my own personal election propaganda machine. I will give Jim Taylor the council candidate no more space than I would make available to any other candidate. In fact I intend to have one page on the blog available for all candidates to supply their bios and their election platforms. I have set up a Jim Taylor For Council website which will be devoted solely to trying to get myself elected to council. That site is at www.JimTaylorForCouncil.com.

To the question of using the Ratepayers Association as a ploy to get elected, nothing could be further from the truth. Seeking a seat on council when Don and I launched the Ratepayers Association was about the furthest thing from my mind. I will remain as the President of the Nanaimo Ratepayers Association and will continue to do what I can to make it a 'voice for the typical Nanaimo taxpayer', a voice that gets as much attention as the special interest groups council currently panders to.

WHERE I NEED YOUR HELP

I ask the readers of this blog to keep me honest when it comes to not using this blog as my own self-serving media and if you see me crossing any ethical lines I invite you to 'call me on it' via the comments section available on every post.

In the end, the reason for putting on all three hats, is rooted in a concern for what I see happening at city hall and what I describe as out-of-control taxing and spending with no attention paid to what the taxpayers of Nanaimo can afford. That is not a campaign speech, but a belief I have held for over three years now.

I thank you for keeping me honest in my approach to election coverage on this blog.

allvoices

Nanaimo Farmers' Markets Last In August


 Nanaimo & Area Farmers' Markets

Nanaimo Downtown Farmers' Market
Open Friday ( May 11 - Oct. 5, 2012)

We are proud to say that we believe our market is one of the prettiest on the island. We have a large base of drop in vendors which keep our market ever changing. We enjoy watching the eagles fly overhead, the boats coming and going and the planes taking off every Friday. Our vendors always have a smile for our visitors. Open from First Friday in May to Friday before Thanksgiving.

Also open for all cruise ship dates Fri 10:00am to 2:00pm.

90 Front Street, Nanaimo. On Pioneer Waterfront Plaza  For more information visit their website at www.nanaimofarmersmarket.com or call 250-754-1998.


Bowen Road Farmers' Market
Open Wednesday (May 16 - Oct. 2012)

The Bowen Road Farmers’ Market is brand new! It was started by a group of people concerned about our ever quickly changing world, the loss of rurality, food production, food sustainability and the connection to the earth. Our market is fun and vibrant market. Weekly we feature musicians and of course a wide variety of friendly vendors and excellent products produced by organic growers who transport their food within a 50 mile radius. Come to the Bowen Road Farmers’ Market and meet the person who grows and produces the food you eat. See you soon!

Open from May 16 to October 31, 2012, Wed 4:00pm to 6:30pm. Located at 2300 Bowen Road Behind Beban Park,in the VIEX fairground. For more information call 250-390-5199 or visit their website HERE.


 Lantzville Farmers' Market
Open Sunday (May 27 - Oct. 2012)
Located in the parking lot of St. Philips Church, 7113 Lantzville Road this new market will be open from 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm on Sundays from May 27th through to October.
The new market promises to be a meeting place for friends and neighbours giving access to healthy, local food.
For information contact lantzvillefarmersmarket@gmail.com.




Cedar Farmers' Market
Open Sunday (May 13 - Oct. 28, 2012)

Take a Sunday drive out into the country, park in the fields of the Crow and Gate Neighbourhood Pub, feel grassy field below your feet and talk with the farmer that grows your food.

Open from May 13 to October 28, 2012 Sun 10:00am to 2:00pm.  Field of the Crow and Gate Pub, 2313 Yellowpoint Road, Nanaimo, B.C.

For more information visit their website at www.cedarfarmersmarket.com or call 250-668-5783


allvoices

Gallery Row - Art Festival

Saturday Aug. 30 Noon - 4:00 PM
308 Fitzwilliam Street
Old City Quarter

allvoices

STOCK THE LOCKERS NANAIMO



allvoices

Wednesday, August 27, 2014

PARKSVILLE STREET MARKET

Lineups at the food carts................
Streets shoulder to shoulder with shoppers
Craig Street Market bustling from one end to the other

CAN NANAIMO LEARN ANYTHING FROM PARKSVILLE?

This is the second time my wife and I have gone up to Parksville to check out their Tuesday Night Street Market and I must say we have been equally as impressed both times.

The sheer orgnanization is something to observe as an instant market springs up in short order when at least 100 (most likely many more) merchants set up their tents and set out their wares offering just about anything you can imagine, and some stuff you can't imagine.

The market officially opens at 6:00 pm and by 6:20 pm when we arrived the street was already crawling with shoppers. This was the last market of the season which is organized by the Parksville Chamber of Commerce.

What could Nanaimo learn from Parksville?

allvoices

THINGS ON THE NET THAT MAKE YA' SMILE

He finally caught one ..... but the rest of it got away..........

allvoices

DOWNTOWN MUSIC SERIES - AUG. 28

LAST ONE FOR THIS YEAR!
BE SURE TO CHECK IT OUT!

allvoices

GOOGLE MAPS STREET VIEW IN NANAIMO



Google Maps street views are likely in for some updates soon as the Google Maps car complete with roof-mounted camera was spotted in the Townsite area of Nanaimo on Tuesday afternoon.

allvoices

Tuesday, August 26, 2014

Jim Taylor For Nanaimo City Council 2014


JIM TAYLOR SEEKS 
CITY COUNCIL SEAT


The civic duty of every member of a community is to engage in its governance. That belief compels me to announce my candidacy for a seat on Nanaimo City Council.

I face a tough, uphill battle as many candidates have wider recognition and potential support in the community, particularly the incumbents and those with lots of 'other people's money'.

I have attended nearly every City Council and Committee of the Whole meeting in person for the past six years, speaking as an independent delegate at many. I attended over 80 hours of budget review meetings. I have used my blog to question many, many spending decisions of this Council including major opposition to the $16 million city annex in-camera contract awarding in 2011. Most recently I have asked tough questions about the Lantzville water deal and the renovations to 25 Victoria Road and other issues not proven to be cost-effective or wise investments for Nanaimo taxpayers.

My hours of observing city hall convinces me there is a tax and spend mentality amongst council and staff that simply thinks the taxpayers’ purse is bottomless.

I operate the website www.nanaimo-info-blog.com and am a co-founder and president of the Nanaimo Ratepayers Association.

All this time I have been apprenticing for the honor of being a Nanaimo City Councillor and have earned a good understanding of how city hall works, or doesn’t work depending on your point of view.

In the coming weeks I will be introducing myself on the campaign trail for what I believe is one of the most important elections, Nanaimo has held in many years.

Platform bullet points:
  • ZERO TAX INCREASES FOR 5 YEARS ARE POSSIBLE
  • SENSIBLE SPENDING - WHAT TAXPAYERS CAN AFFORD NOT WHAT CITY HALL CAN IMAGINE
  • SENIOR STAFF WAGES, BENEFITS & GOLDEN HANDSHAKES ARE OUT OF CONTROL 
  • COUNCIL HAS TO START RUNNING CITY HALL NOT CITY STAFF 
 I look forward to your questions and ideas. www.JimTaylorForCouncil.com .

You can also visit and ask questions on my Facebook page.
 

allvoices

NEW VIHA OFFICE IN TERMINAL PARK


OUTSIDE WORK COMPLETE 

The outside work including the landscaping and parking lot changes are now complete on the new VIHA office buidling at Terminal Park Plaza.

When finished later this fall the building will house administrative staff working with the Vancouver Island Health Authority. The building and dedicated parking has removed a considerable amount of parking from this area of the plaza.

allvoices

THINGS ON THE NET THAT MAKE YA' SMILE

You really can herd cats ...... and even put little hats on them......

allvoices

BURGER KING BUYS TIMMIES

Burger King Buys Tim Hortons
WARREN BUFFETS' COMPANY 
PUTS UP $3 BILLION IN DEAL

The Financial Post reports a $12.5 Billion merger deal that will see Burger King acquire Tim Hortons Inc making it the third-largest fast-food company and will see the company move it headquarters to Canada.

It has been reported that Canadian tax advantages are one of the reasons for the merger which will see combined business of about $23 Billion US in sales and more than 18,000 restaurants in 100 countries.


allvoices

BOWEN ROAD FARMERS' MARKET Aug. 27



Bowen Road Farmers' Market
 Open Wednesday

The Bowen Road Farmers' Market which is open every Wednesday from 4:00 - 6:30 pm has become a very popular spot for those seeking local produce, meats, bread, baking, cheese, preserves etc. etc.

Musicians add to the 'flavour' of the market which is truly a unique experience in Nanaimo offering a wide range of specialty products and quality food items.

There are many vendors offering locally grown produce that is as fresh as it can be, unless you grew it yourself. You will also find artisan bread, meat products, soaps, honey, organic bird seed (for your feathered friends) to name a few items.

So put a big circle on your calendar for Wednesday's and be sure to arrive early as some of the most popular vendors, simply sell out of product.

The market is located at Beban Park on the VIEX grounds ....... you can't miss it!

allvoices

Monday, August 25, 2014

BOAT FLIPS PUTS 9 IN WATER



A boating accident near Entrance Island resulted in 9 people ending up in the water Monday afternoon. Apparently for reasons not yet clear the boat flipped spilling the occupants into the chilly water, where they were rescued by the Entrance Island light keeper.

They were brought to the inner harbour docks by the Port Authority vessel where several were treated for hypothermia and given dry clothing.

The cause of the accident will be under investigation by Transport Canada Marine Safety. The above photos show two ambulances in attendance and several people being treated on the pier after coming off of the Port Authority vessel.

allvoices

NANAIMO DAILY PUBLISHER MOVES ON


Hugh Nicholson Daily News Photo
PUBLISHER HUGH NICHOLSON 
LEAVES NANAIMO DAILY NEWS

It was reported in the Daily that publisher Hugh Nicholson will be leaving the Daily and Nanaimo headed for his 'dream job' in Toronto with NRS Media.

Commenting on Nanaimo Nicholson is quoted as saying: "Nanaimo needs strong leadership and more people willing to get engaged. I don't think that I've ever worked in a place where taxpayers were held in such contempt by senior city staff and most of council. It's been wonderful from a newspaper standpoint: it's the gift that keeps on giving. There is never a dull moment."

We wish Mr. Nicholson all the best in his new position and since he is moving to Toronto from Nanaimo we feel compelled to offer our heartfelt condolences.

allvoices

STOCK THE LOCKERS PROGRAM NEEDS SUPPORT

Karma van der Goes, 8 years old, donates $10 of her birthday money

STOCK THE LOCKERS CAMPAIGN 
Aug. 14 - Sept. 4, 2014

You can help Stock the Lockers for local students in need by making your cash or cheque donations at:
  • Staples
  • Ladysmith & District Credit Union
  • Nanaimo Coastal Community Credit Unions
  • Nanaimo - Ladysmith Shools Foundation
The foundation hopes to raise $50,000 this year to help local students in need. Your donation can buy school supplies as follows:
  • $25 for Kindergarten
  • $40 for Grade 3
  • $50 for Grade 7
  • $50 - $200 for high school, depending on courses

Phone 250-753-4074 or visit the Foundations' website.

allvoices

Yup ----- IT DOES LOOK LIKE THE NEW COMMERCIAL ST.


The new 'street' that now goes through Port Place Mall from Terminal Ave. to Front Street looked every bit the commercial street on Saturday afternoon with pedestrian traffic everywhere and a steady stream of cars taking advantage of the angle parking in front of the shops.

Commercial Street at the same time did have some activity but I dare say there was far more trade and commerce transacted in Port Place than along Commercial Street. The one thing the new commercial street has that the old Commercial Street is sadly lacking is a mix of merchants that attract you to the area.

Now about that Italian Fountain ....... when are the owners of Port Place Mall going to pony up and restore it to it's former glory like they should?

allvoices

Sunday, August 24, 2014

Nanaimo Lawn Bowling Since 1923


Lawn Bowlers enjoying perfect weather on Saturday afternoon at the bowling green located in Bowen Park.

The club is always looking for and welcoming new members who are interested in the benefits the sport provides such as fresh air, friendship, competition and co-operation.

For more information about the Nanaimo Lawn Bowling Club you can visit their website.

allvoices

Must Live Close By



This looks like the same cute fellow I saw on the fence the other day. This time he/she was playing hide and seek in the backyard tree. He is the reason I have to put a screen over my fish every night.

allvoices

Saturday, August 23, 2014

CHROME WRAPPED FERARRI SHOW STOPPER


NOTE: Email subscribers may have to visit Nanaimo Info Blog to view video.



It took six days and $13,000 to wrap this Ferarri in a shiny chrome 'wrap'. It is the same process as you usually see with vehicles covered with advertising or other messages. Apparently the material lasts about five years and can easily be removed.

An upside to the wrap is that the paint underneath stays protected and retains it original finish. It is owned by a nightclub owner in Victoria who makes a habit of stepping outside the box.

Obviously sunglasses are a must if you are driving this beauty on a nice bright sunny day.

allvoices

NOT NANAIMOS' COMMERCIAL STREET . . . . . . OR IS IT ?


PORT PLACE MALL 


The renovations to the old Harbour Park Mall have clearly been a big improvement to the tired old mall that had been the centre of shopping for years. It gradually fell into decline as the commercial-march-north forever changed Nanaimo shopping habits. Once upon a time downtown Nanaimo was crawling with shoppers on a Saturday morning as Sears and Eatons offered up their wares from Harbour Park Mall. That trend of course now has changed and the same hordes head for Woodgrove, Nanaimo North Town Centre and Country Club Mall.

The same company that has renovated Port Place Mall are also the owners of the retail space on Commercial Street beneath the conference centre. Of note is the fact that Port Place Mall is all but leased out, while there are still many vacancies along Commercial Street. I dare say a traffic count on any given day would reveal that Port Place 'Mall' has replaced Commercial Street as the commercial street downtown.

It is unfortunate that city hall did not insist on the developer making the needed improvements to the Italian Fountain which arguably is a potential show piece for the new mall. Now it would appear the Nanaimo taxpayer is going to be fully on the hook for the repairs resulting from years of neglect.

allvoices

CALEDONIA READY FOR RAIDERS SUNDAY



The new bleachers and change rooms are ready for the second VI Raiders home game this weekend when they host the Langley Rams on Saturday Aug. 23 at 4:00 PM. The Raiders will be looking to even the score after losing to the Rams on their home turf 36 - 44 last July 26.

The new digs failed to work magic at the Aug. 16 home opener against the Okanagan Sun when they were trounced 64 - 20 at home which followed a 38 - 0 defeat on the Suns' home turf August 9th.

allvoices

NAC Closes For Maintenance Aug 30 - Sept. 29



The Nanaimo Aquatic Centre (NAC) will be closing for annual maintenance and upgrades starting Saturday, August 30 and will reopen Monday, September 29.

The work being done in the pools this year include maintenance of the boat play feature, moveable floor, bulkhead, tanks and wave machine. Just as with the Beban Park pool, NAC will be converting the pools from chlorine gas to chlorine pucks. New showers will be installed in the disabled change rooms.

Beban Park pool and weight room will reopen Tuesday, September 2 with extended hours during the NAC shutdown. Please note all facilities are closed on Labour Day, Monday, September 1 however, lifeguards will be on duty at Westwood Lake from 12 pm to 6 pm that day.

allvoices

Friday, August 22, 2014

YOUNG ANGLER TRYING HER LUCK

 FISHY FISHY ON MY HOOK

While checking out local fishing the other day I observed a pleasant site. The young lady on the right was being instructed in the finer points of angling (by her father or brother) as she tried her luck at the mouth of the Millstone River downtown.

Large numbers of pinks are expected back this year which is great news for local fishing fans. Some folk turn up their nose at pinks, claiming they are only good for smoking, but I tend to disagree. I seldom have complaints when I add some lemon, butter, brown sugar, garlic powder and Worcestershire sauce to a filet, and then lay it skin down of the BBQ. I make sure to oil the skin, and put the filet into a basket to make it easy to lift off the grill.

Should there be some leftover (not likely) it makes for a great salmon sandwich when you mix the cold salmon with your favourite mayo and spice.

allvoices

NOT SOMETHING YOU SEE EVERY DAY

SMALL MOTORCYCLE COMPLETE WITH SIDECAR

Not something you see everyday cruising around Nanaimo, this small motorcylce and sidecar caught my attention the other day on the Highway just before the Brechin Road intersection.

If you look closely at the sidecar you can see the top of a yellow helmet worn by a young passenger. From what I could see the sidecar could only accommodate very small people.

(In case you are wondering, yes we were stopped, and no I did not take the picture while driving.)

allvoices

DEPARTURE BAY RD. CONSTRUCTION

 One Lane Traffic Each Way

Construction on Departure Bay Rd. right behind Brook's Landing has two lanes closed temporarily. It creates a few bottlenecks from time to time as normal two lane traffic has to squeeze into one lane.

It is a tricky place to control traffic as you have a very busy spot with traffic heading into or out of Departure Bay all day long and it is close to the Island Highway intersection as well, so it can get quite congested quite quickly if they don't keep traffic rolling along.

allvoices

MORE TEMPORARY ART IN NANAIMO


A carving of an Octopus by local artist Dan Ritchie adorns a corner in the popular downtown waterfront park which is also home to the Dunganess Crab carving installed last year by the same artist. If you look closely you will see a young visitor getting close up and personal with Mr. Crab.


allvoices

Thursday, August 21, 2014

VI Raiders Fundraiser This Sunday

FORD DONATES $20 FOR EVERY TEST DRIVE

This Sunday, August 24 from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Steve Marshall Ford will be at the Country Grocer on Bowen Rd. helping raise money for the Vancouver Island Raiders.

Steve Marshall is teaming up with Ford Canada who will donate $20 to the Raiders for every person who drives a Ford vehicle during the event.

You can come out and test drive a Focus, Fiesta, Fusion, F-150 and Escape and help out the VI Raiders Football club. Great cars ............... great cause!

allvoices

Nanaimo Farmers' Markets This Weekend


 Nanaimo & Area Farmers' Markets

Nanaimo Downtown Farmers' Market
Open Friday ( May 11 - Oct. 5, 2012)

We are proud to say that we believe our market is one of the prettiest on the island. We have a large base of drop in vendors which keep our market ever changing. We enjoy watching the eagles fly overhead, the boats coming and going and the planes taking off every Friday. Our vendors always have a smile for our visitors. Open from First Friday in May to Friday before Thanksgiving.

Also open for all cruise ship dates Fri 10:00am to 2:00pm.

90 Front Street, Nanaimo. On Pioneer Waterfront Plaza  For more information visit their website at www.nanaimofarmersmarket.com or call 250-754-1998.


Bowen Road Farmers' Market
Open Wednesday (May 16 - Oct. 2012)

The Bowen Road Farmers’ Market is brand new! It was started by a group of people concerned about our ever quickly changing world, the loss of rurality, food production, food sustainability and the connection to the earth. Our market is fun and vibrant market. Weekly we feature musicians and of course a wide variety of friendly vendors and excellent products produced by organic growers who transport their food within a 50 mile radius. Come to the Bowen Road Farmers’ Market and meet the person who grows and produces the food you eat. See you soon!

Open from May 16 to October 31, 2012, Wed 4:00pm to 6:30pm. Located at 2300 Bowen Road Behind Beban Park,in the VIEX fairground. For more information call 250-390-5199 or visit their website HERE.


 Lantzville Farmers' Market
Open Sunday (May 27 - Oct. 2012)
Located in the parking lot of St. Philips Church, 7113 Lantzville Road this new market will be open from 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm on Sundays from May 27th through to October.
The new market promises to be a meeting place for friends and neighbours giving access to healthy, local food.
For information contact lantzvillefarmersmarket@gmail.com.




Cedar Farmers' Market
Open Sunday (May 13 - Oct. 28, 2012)

Take a Sunday drive out into the country, park in the fields of the Crow and Gate Neighbourhood Pub, feel grassy field below your feet and talk with the farmer that grows your food.

Open from May 13 to October 28, 2012 Sun 10:00am to 2:00pm.  Field of the Crow and Gate Pub, 2313 Yellowpoint Road, Nanaimo, B.C.

For more information visit their website at www.cedarfarmersmarket.com or call 250-668-5783


allvoices

Activity Guide Out Aug. 23/14



It's that time again - the City of Nanaimo Fall and Winter Activity Guide will be ready for pick up starting August 23.

The guide features a variety of programs for all ages at facilities and parks throughout Nanaimo as well as information on other community programs. Starting Wednesday, August 27, registrants can sign up for programs such as Parent and Tot Floor Hockey, Learn to DJ, Creative Christmas Cards, Thai Cooking, Adult Hip Hop, Spanish Conversation, African Drumming, Spin Class, Circus Yoga, Streetwise Cycling, Dodge Ball, Skating Lessons and Swimming Lessons.

The public can also try out a variety of classes and activities for free during one of two Sampler Weeks being offered in the Fall and Winter. The first Sampler Week will be held Sunday, September 7 to Friday, September 12 and the second will be held Monday, January 5 to Saturday, January 10.

The Fall and Winter Activity Guide will be out Saturday, August 23 and can be picked up at all City of Nanaimo recreation facilities, local grocery stores, malls and libraries.

For online registration login information, contact the City at 250-756-5200.

allvoices

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Concept Plans For Downtown Ferry Submitted




DESIGN CONCEPT – ISLAND FERRIES’ NANAIMO TERMINAL

August 20, 2014 – Nanaimo, BC – Island Ferries submitted a Development Permit application to the City of Nanaimo’s Planning and Design Department on Monday, Aug 18th. The application is for the development of a temporary facility to serve as a terminal for a passenger-only ferry service between downtown Nanaimo and downtown Vancouver. We expect the concept plans to be reviewed by the Design Advisory Panel within the next 10-14 days.

Currently referred to as the “Gadd Site”, the terminal is situated between the Nanaimo Port Authority property and the barge/rail trestle operated by Seaspan. Director of Operations Dave Marshall said, “The design is based on re-use of an existing heavy timber building completely renovated with new translucent cladding, sea views from within the building, an outdoor public viewing area, covered walkways, public washrooms, a small concession, and drop-off and pick-up points for small buses, taxis, and passenger vehicles.” Ample parking will be available nearby.

The design effort is being led by architect Christopher Rowe of Low Hammond Rowe and supported by a team largely made up of Nanaimo-based consultants.  “The terminal concept is based on that of a train station, where passengers are not expected to spend a long time in the terminal.  A limited number of passengers will use the waiting room, as the ship will be available for boarding almost 30 minutes before the sailing time,” noted Marshall.  Island Ferries believes the terminal facilities will be used as much for arriving passengers waiting for pickup.

The design proposal will provide arriving passengers a fresh and inviting introduction to the City of Nanaimo.  Similarly, within its short lifespan as a temporary facility, Island Ferries hope it will allow Nanaimo residents to feel some pride in this new piece of important transportation infrastructure.

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