Thursday, June 30, 2016

Dale Schulz - Nanaimo - 'As he sees it' - June 30/16


Lifelong Nanaimo resident, professional artist and illustrator Dale Schulz 'sees' much of Nanaimo many of us simply walk by without giving a second thought.

Through the eyes of an artist the everyday can become almost magical and with a few simple photos of his daily walks, Dale captures and shares some of that magic on his Facebook page.

The following is the most recent example of what Dale sees when he walks about our lovely seaside community many of us just take for granted.



To view all images click image above.

Dale's Post - June 30/16

I got a few nice shots on our walk this morning!

Indy and I walked through the South End and Terminal Avenue to the waterfront where we met with Elaine and Deb (who are visiting for a few days - from Alberta) for coffee and a walk along the water and around Maffeo Sutton Park.

Here are the shots: An old door with interesting woven tire-tube panel on Strickland Street as well as some Lilies o the same street.

Downtown on Terminal Avenue I took a couple photos of the Centennial Fountain - one of a granite Salmon and a segment of the mosaic tiles.

At the waterfront I got a nice shot of boats on placid water, and at Maffeo Sutton Park - the Island Queen pulls in at low tide and Elaine and Deb check the view through 'The Porthole'.

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Canada Day Celebrations - Maffeo Sutton Park Nanaimo

Click image to enlarge

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'Drought Level' Not Related To Watering Restrictions


Nanaimo Remains at Stage 2 Restrictions

On June 28, the Province of BC elevated the 'drought level' on south eastern Vancouver Island to 'Level 4 - Extremely Dry'.  This is based on precipitation and stream levels.  'Drought Level' is not related and should not be confused with the City's Watering Restriction Stages.

The City supports the Province's call for practising water conservation, particularly with discretionary outdoor water use. 

Stage 2 Watering Restrictions (every other day watering) have been in effect since May 1, 2016 and will remain in place until the end of September.  The City's water supply at Jump Lake is at its normal storage level for this time of year.

The new watering restrictions have helped ensure consistency across the entire mid-Island area. It is still important that everyone maintain a conservation focus to preserve our precious drinking water and avoid further restrictions.

Similar to last year, we encourage residents to let their lawns go golden. Outdoor watering uses twice the water compared to winter time use.

"We are pleased to report that Jump Lake is still at full storage - exactly where we want it to be at this time of year.  Water use is up slightly over last year, due to the early warm spell.  Efforts at conserving water now will help make sure that Nanaimo's supply will remain healthy throughout the summer, and will allow us to ensure that flows to the Nanaimo River can be supported as well."  -  Bill Sims City of Nanaimo 

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Temporary Art In Maffeo Sutton Park

When you attend the Canada Day Celebrations in Maffeo Sutton Park be sure to take the time to stroll around the park and check out this year's newest temporary art. In addition to the many new pieces the golden picture frame and the large crab continue to please park visitors of all ages.







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Coastal Naturalists Return To BC Ferries

Discover the world beneath the waves 

VICTORIA – BC Ferries in partnership with Parks Canada is pleased to announce the return of the popular Coastal Naturalists program to educate and entertain customers of all ages again this summer. The Coastal Naturalists program runs on board from June 29 through September 5 on select vessels servicing the Tsawwassen – Swartz Bay and Horseshoe Bay – Departure Bay routes. 

Nine enthusiastic Coastal Naturalists will engage with customers during 20-minute presentations on the ships offering a real life coastal experience. The program helps raise awareness about B.C.’s coast and increase appreciation for its wildlife, marine life, geography, culture and history. Approximately 150,000 passengers participate in these presentations each season.

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Wednesday, June 29, 2016

Dale Schulz - Nanaimo - 'As he sees it' - June 29/16


Lifelong Nanaimo resident, professional artist and illustrator Dale Schulz 'sees' much of Nanaimo many of us simply walk by without giving a second thought.

Through the eyes of an artist the everyday can become almost magical and with a few simple photos of his daily walks, Dale captures and shares some of that magic on his Facebook page.

The following is the most recent example of what Dale sees when he walks about our lovely seaside community many of us just take for granted.


 Dale June 29

To view all images click image above.

Dale's Post - June 29/16
Indy and I had a lovely long walk today - though it DID get a tad warm out there! I took quite a few photos, here are the keepers.

First Indy on the trail that crosses the Cat Stream near our house - at the start of our walk he is always way out front leading the pace! Next some nice little poppies on Halliburton Street and a few shots on Irwin Street - including an ‪#‎abandonedchair‬ and table ensemble - marked free - I'm sure they'll be scooped up by tomorrow!

On Cameron Island I took a picture of a 'modified' sign that made me smile (in a sad way); and a few shots of the harbour and downtown with the Pacifica Tower featured in one, the Bastion in another - and lastly a small boat moored in quiet spot at the docks.

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CPP Deal Lacks Public Consult - Jobs In Jeopardy

CFIB files Freedom of Information requests
across Canada on CPP deal
Small business urges delay, amendments and compensating measures in open letter
Vancouver/Toronto, June 29, 2016 – Did any government do an economic impact analysis before signing on to the CPP agreement in principle? That’s the question the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) seeks to answer, after filing Freedom of Information (FOI) requests with all eight provinces that signed the agreement, as well as the federal government this morning.
“It’s disappointing enough to see finance ministers put Canadian jobs in jeopardy,” said CFIB president Dan Kelly. “To do it behind closed doors, without the public consultation promised in the 2016 federal budget or any economic impact analysis, on a short and arbitrary deadline, is irresponsible.”
CFIB also issued an open letter to premiers and the Prime Minister, encouraging them to share any analyses they did on the CPP deal, before the July 15 signing deadline.  The letter urges governments to delay finalizing the deal until consultation can take place, make amendments to soften the impact of any CPP enhancements and implement compensating measures to help small firms adjust. CFIB advised governments that it has just launched a survey of small business owners to gather their views on the new deal.
Proposed Amendments
CFIB recommended governments consider a number of amendments to the agreement in principle to reduce the negative impact it will have on small business owners and low-income Canadians, particularly Quebec’s proposal to exempt additional employer and employee premiums on the first half of pensionable income - $27,500 in 2016 dollars. CFIB also urges an exemption for the self-employed who already pay double the rate of CPP than other Canadians.
Compensating Measures
“It appears many governments are underestimating how close to the line a lot of small firms are operating,” said Kelly.  “If governments are determined to gamble with the economy on a CPP hike, we ask them to commit to measures to lessen the negative impact on small business, such as reinstating the small business corporate tax cuts cancelled in the last budget, cutting provincial small business and payroll taxes and freezing minimum wages. The CPP is too big, and affects too many Canadians, to rush an agreement to please Ontario,” added Kelly.

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Colliery Dams Park Spillway Design Feature?


Note: email subscribers may have to visit Nanaimo Info Blog to veiw video.


Was a diving platform part of the design??
Is is a safe design???

Perhaps the million or so spent on engineering costs involved with the auxiliary spillway in Colliery Dams Park was not out of line, if designing a safe, user-friendly diving platform to enter the refreshing waters of Colliery Dams Park was part of the package.

Clearly these young folk appreciate the new feature added to their park which I am sure would not result in any cracked coconuts as wet feet slip on concrete. Unlike Westwood Lake Park there are no lifeguards on duty in this park, which at one time did have at least one guard on duty over the summer months many years ago.

I wonder if lifeguards had to be cut out as a means of being able to continue to pay middle and upper management some of those attractive wage and benefit packages they have managed over recent years?


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BC Ferries Canada Day Weekend Nanaimo Sailings




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Tuesday, June 28, 2016

Canada Day Weather Forecast - Nanaimo



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Dale Schulz - Nanaimo 'As he sees it' - June 271/6


Lifelong Nanaimo resident, professional artist and illustrator Dale Schulz 'sees' much of Nanaimo many of us simply walk by without giving a second thought.

Through the eyes of an artist the everyday can become almost magical and with a few simple photos of his daily walks, Dale captures and shares some of that magic on his Facebook page.

The following is the most recent example of what Dale sees when he walks about our lovely seaside community many of us just take for granted.


 Schulz june 27

To view all images click image above.

Dale's Post - June 27/16

A handful of shots from downtown today. Indy and I had to stop at the City Hall Annex to pay our property taxes and then cut through the City Hall Gardens on our way to the waterfront for coffee.
I stopped on the path in the garden to try and get a picture of Indy but he wasn't cooperating! It was too hot there and he wanted to keep moving, so I got only one picture with him in the frame and not too blurred. Next I turned to face uphill and took a picture of City Hall. It looks quite imposing from near Wallace Street.

Down on Gordon Street there was more filming (or taping) going on. I believe for the same production that was working in town a couple weeks ago - 'Chesapeake Shore'. This time it's the back of the Conference Centre that is posing as a New York building.

I thought that the big square 'diffuser' on the crane was pretty cool!

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Bowen Road Farmers' Market - June 29/16



Bowen Road Farmers' Market
 Open Wednesday
Open Saturday
May - Oct.

The Bowen Road Farmers' Market is open every Wednesday from 4:00 - 6:30 pm and beginning this year they are also open on Saturday from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm. This market is 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 & Saturday'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!

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Council Meeting Summary - June 27/16

Source: Nanaimo City Website
 

 Council Meeting Summary - June 27, 2016

Proposals for Beban Park

The Nanaimo Equestrian Association, Vancouver Island Exhibition, Island Roots Market Cooperative and Indigenous Peoples Place of Culture brought a proposal for a new concept for the centre of Beban Park. The development would see multi-purpose facilities and amenities that would be easily accessible for vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians. An open house will be held where residents can review the site plans and provide input.

Section 8a

Motion carried: Unanimous.

Council sets priorities

Council provided their vision for Nanaimo over the next two-plus years: Developing the south downtown waterfront, a sport and entertainment centre, redevelopment of Beban Park, a connected waterfront walkway, a Georgia Avenue pedestrian/cycle bridge, property acquisition and affordable housing were all identified as priority projects and initiatives for Council going forward until the end of the current term. The next step will be to get feedback from residents at an e-Town Hall.

Section 6a

Motion carried: Unanimous.

City engineering standards updated

The City’s Manual of Engineering Standards and Specifications received an update using feedback from the public, staff and engineering consultants. The amendments reflect best practices for current design and construction.

Section 8c

Information was received.

Energy study for Beban’s boilers

The City will apply for an $11,975 grant from Fortis BC for an energy study that will look at energy efficient replacement options for the 40-year-old boilers used to heat the pool and recreation centre at Beban Park. The total cost of the study is an estimated $23,950.

Section 8b

Motion carried: Unanimous.

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Nanaimo City Parks Open Flame & Smoking Banned

To report a fire in a Nanaimo park or trail call 911
To report a wildfire call 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 cellular

The City of Nanaimo would like to remind residents and park users that smoking, campfires and bbq's are not permitted in City parks. Propane bbq's, however, are permitted within the approved locations of the picnic shelters in Bowen Park and Maffeo Sutton Park and on picnic tables within all parks. Signs are being posted in City parks.

For further details or clarification on the notice please contact Nanaimo Parks, Recreation and Environment at 250-756-5200.

All users of the parks and trails systems are urged to use caution when in the parks and on the trails, and to be aware of all fire hazards.

"Our parks and trails are not irrigated for the most part which means fires can easily being started especially during the dryer summer months. Please help ensure the enjoyment and safety of Nanaimo's parks for everyone."  -  Al Britton City of Nanaimo 

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Canada Day 2016 Celebrations In Nanaimo

Click image to enlarge

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Monday, June 27, 2016

Dale Schulz - Nanaimo - "As he sees it" - June 26/16


Lifelong Nanaimo resident, professional artist and illustrator Dale Schulz 'sees' much of Nanaimo many of us simply walk by without giving a second thought.

Through the eyes of an artist the everyday can become almost magical and with a few simple photos of his daily walks, Dale captures and shares some of that magic on his Facebook page.

The following is the most recent example of what Dale sees when he walks about our lovely seaside community many of us just take for granted.


 schulz jun 26

To view all images click image above.

Dale's Post - June 26/16


Hey folks - just four shots from my Sunday morning walk with Indy - Some poppies on Halliburton Street - I think these are very cool little poppies - love the colours. Then the 'Island Queen' and the 'Triple M II' from on the docks; and a bunch of plastic clothes-hangers that were placed in a couple boxes out on the side of Albert Street.

It was a beautiful day for walking but got hot out there real quick!

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Is Paralysis by Analysis Finally Over In Nanaimo?

Will this Council actually DO something with their priorities?

As a serious observer of the past two city councils I always had the suspicion that previous council's and administration's were willing to fund a never-ending stream of reports and studies. After the expenditure of considerable tax dollars it appeared once being received by Council, those expensive reports and studies were just added to the growing pile to gather dust with many others which had gone before.

The idea of actually using those reports to formulate and inform a forward moving action plan seemed almost a foreign concept. It was almost as if when the study had been complete, the work was also complete, and then on to the next study. Very lucrative proposition for engineers and consultants of all stripes.

A recent example was a $50,000 consulting bill apparently approved by the Mayor which now seems to have disappeared when the consultant was asked to produce documentation to support their invoice.

We (that is you and I fellow taxpayer) also coughed up about a million bucks to engineer that ditch in Colliery Dams Park.

If memory serves we spent $25,000 to some outfit to help reorganize the city website, we also spent a considerable amount for someone to do graphics for the website. As a regular user of the City website, I fail to see any fruit these two expenditures have brought to the website. 

This Council seems to be adopting a GIT - R - DUN attitude, to the point some seem willing to jump ahead of the public consult process vis a vis the Strategic Plan update. 

An example of your tax dollars at work ......

January 2011 Study ------ whatever became of it?

If you would like to view/download this 103 page report which cost many thousands of tax dollars to see what kind of long term benefit we actually got for our money click HERE.

I am convinced there is a vault in the bowels of city hall where studies and reports are simply sent to die, never actually being the basis for anything except more paralysis by analysis.

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Organizational Structure Changes At City Hall

Administrative changes introduced to support roll out of Core Services Review
Click to enlarge

 In preparation of supporting Council with the implementation of any recommendations contained in the City's recently completed Core Services Review, senior management have introduced changes to the City's organizational structure by reallocating budget resources previously aligned with vacant management roles to create five new positions.  


The positions include roles in the areas of strategic planning and policy, culture and heritage, IT, freedom of information and social and multiculturalism.  Additional changes include the introduction of a Chief Financial Officer position which combines the leadership responsibilities of the current Director of Finance with strategic duties previously held by the vacated roles of Director of IT and Senior Director of Protective Services.

The changes being introduced are cost neutral to the City. Costs associated with the new positions are drawn from budgeted 2016 management roles that were recently vacated.

The City is following a phased approach when introducing changes to its organizational structure. Changes introduced earlier in June involved realigning various business units within revised reporting lines.



"A preliminary examination of the recommendations contained in the Core Services Review reveals the complexity of the decisions Council and administration will face over the coming months.  To be in a position to implement any recommendations endorsed by Council while concurrently supporting them in carrying out their Strategic Plan Update, staff and resources must be situated in the best places possible."   -   Tracy Samra CAO City of Nanaimo 

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Family Fun Night & BBQ - June 29 - Nanaimo



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Buttons Help Support Fire Recovery Fundraising



KEEP CALM AND ART ON


NAC is selling buttons! As part of our fire recovery fundraising efforts we're selling these "Keep Calm and Art On" buttons, $2 each or 3 for $5. Available at NAC's Network Hub office - 256 Wallace St. - and more locations coming soon. Get them while you can! 

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150' Hammond Bay Boat Pier Opposed

 Petition
To view/sign petition click above image

Online petition seeks to stop private pier in Hammond Bay

By June 30th, if we don't protest the placement of a 150' long PRIVATE pier into Hammond Bay, by Pipers Lagoon, along with gravel to cover the oyster bed, and the erection of concrete pillars, we will be too late forever. 

Before June 30th, email (petitions are really listed to, private email is best): Authorizing Agency.Nanaimo@gov.bc.ca, bonita.wallace@gov.bc.ca (Ministry of Forests) info@dfo-mpo.gc.ca (Department of Fisheries) mayor&council@nanaimo.ca info@snuneymuxw.ca (Snuneymuxw First Nations) The precious area that would be scarred forever!

The private yacht pier would extend from the shore on the right into the water 150', with a bed of gravel and moorage area around the landing deck. Don't let this happen

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Sunday, June 26, 2016

Art Around Town Call for 2-D Artwork - Port Theatre


We are accepting original works from Nanaimo area artists for a two-month Exhibition in the Port Theatre, 125 Front Street.  One piece per person please. Hanging date will be Monday, July 4, 2016, 10:00 am.

As our Art Around Town program expands, we have implemented some new procedures.  In addition, the various locations have different requirements so please read the Submission Form carefully.

Fill out and bring the signed Submission Form with you on hanging day.  Your work will be juried at that time

Pre-register by email to nowaste@shaw.ca with the following information to confirm your participation: 

Title of work:

Medium:
Artist:

Price:


Details:
·         Work will be juried by the hanging committee on the day of installation
·         Work may be for sale. Commission is 20%.
·         Outside dimensions must be no larger than 36 inches in the longest dimension.
·         All work must be hanging-ready with braided-wire hangers.

For more information, contact nowaste@shaw.ca or 250-729-3947

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Dale Schulz - Nanaimo - "As he sees it" - June 24/16


Lifelong Nanaimo resident, professional artist and illustrator Dale Schulz 'sees' much of Nanaimo many of us simply walk by without giving a second thought.

Through the eyes of an artist the everyday can become almost magical and with a few simple photos of his daily walks, Dale captures and shares some of that magic on his Facebook page.

The following is the most recent example of what Dale sees when he walks about our lovely seaside community many of us just take for granted.


 Schulz June 24

To view all images click image above.

Dale's Post - June 24/16
Hi Folks!

Here are a few photos from our walk today. We captured a few abandoned chairs (one in my own yard LOL); some nice Day Lilies and another orange flower of some sort on Bruce Avenue; Indy checking out repairs on 'The Frame' at Maffeo Sutton Park; and some looming clouds over Mt. Benson from Port Place Shopping Centre (formerly Harbour Park Mall).

The first ‪#‎abandonedchair‬ is on 5th Street - and the ‪#‎abandonedsofa‬ with chair in background is behind the Diplomat Motel on Nicol Street.

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Saturday, June 25, 2016

Nanaimo COW Meeting June 27/16


Regular
Committee of the Whole Meeting
Mon., June 27/16
4:30 pm 
Shaw Auditorium VICC



AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS

  •  Strategic plan update
  •  Beban Park central facility development opportunities
  • Beban Park rec centre boiler plant review and thermal energy study
  • Subdivision control bylaw
  • Colliery Dam Park improvement process and action plan 

Democracy Is Too Important To Leave To The Politicians
Do Your Civic Duty By Getting Informed and Getting Involved

If you say: " I'm too busy just trying to keep it together to get involved, consider that perhaps, if you were more involved you might not be having so much trouble keeping it together "!

You can view this Council Meeting Agenda here - - -  Agenda .

If you can't attend council meetings in person (preferred) you can watch regular council meetings on Shaw cable channel #4. You can also watch the meetings live on the city website using this link. 

The regular city council meetings are the only ones broadcast live on either Shaw Cable or streaming video from the city website. The Committee of the Whole meetings, while not broadcast live on Shaw Cable are live streamed on the city website and are recorded and can be viewed on the city website HERE.







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Lots Of Summer Fun In Nanaimo This Year

To view/download events poster click HERE

City offers free family fun throughout the summer


Parks, Recreation and Environment invites children between the ages of 5 to 12 years old and their parents to participate in the Summer Playground Program from July 4 to August 26. This free program running Monday through Friday in six of Nanaimo's parks is fun for the whole family and includes music, crafts, games and sports.

Also, in Nanaimo's parks throughout the summer are Family Fun Nights on Wednesday evenings starting July 13 and running until August 17 at a different park each week.

The Summer Playground program runs from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm in Harewood Centennial Water Park and Mansfield Park Mondays through Fridays; Carmanah Park and Country Hill Park Mondays through Wednesdays; and in Groveland Park and Deverill Square Park on Thursdays and Fridays.


Family Fun Nights run on Wednesday evenings from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm in Mansfield Park on July 13 and August 3, Carmanah Park on July 20, Country Hills Park on July 27, Groveland Park on August 10 and Deverill Square Park on August 17.


The Summer Playground Program is in partnership with Harewood Neighbourhood Association and Nanaimo Foodshare.

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Friday, June 24, 2016

Nanaimo Weather Forecast June 26 - 30

Break out the SPF 45 sunscreen

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Lifeguards On Duty At Westwood Lake

Outdoor fun at Westwood Lake
Lifeguards on duty starting June 26
It's officially summer which means spending more time outside. The City of Nanaimo would like to remind residents and visitors to Nanaimo that lifeguards will be on duty daily at Westwood Lake starting June 26.
Throughout the summer, the City will be offering swimming lessons and day camps in Westwood Lake Park. In August, join staff for an afternoon of Hawaiian-themed games with the Hawaiian Holidaze Aquatic Event. More information on summer programs and events can be found in the Spring and Summer Activity Guide.

Lifeguards will be on duty at Westwood Lake daily from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm starting June 26 until September 5, including Canada Day, BC Day and Labour Day. 

To register for swimming lessons and day camps, visit ireg.nanaimo.ca or call 250-756-5200.
       

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Bowen Road Farmers' Market - Sat. June 25/16



Bowen Road Farmers' Market
 Open Wednesday
Open Saturday
May - Oct.

The Bowen Road Farmers' Market is open every Wednesday from 4:00 - 6:30 pm and beginning this year they are also open on Saturday from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm. This market is 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 & Saturday'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!

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Thursday, June 23, 2016

Nanaimo Multicultural Festival June 25/16

11th Annual MULTICULTURAL Festival
Old City Quarter
Wesley Street, Nanaimo
Saturday June 25/16


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Nanaimo Downtown Farmers' Market fri. June 24/16



Dates: Fridays, May 6 – Oct. 14/16
Time: 10am – 2:00pm
Location: 90 Front Street



Come for the fresh, stay for the fun! It's that time of year again. Find fresh produce, meats, eggs, dairy, baked goods, artisan crafted products, special events and activities and much more located in beautiful Waterfront Plaza.


Find more information

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Wednesday, June 22, 2016

Dale Schulz - Nanaimo - 'As he sees it' - June 22/16


Lifelong Nanaimo resident, professional artist and illustrator Dale Schulz 'sees' much of Nanaimo many of us simply walk by without giving a second thought.

Through the eyes of an artist the everyday can become almost magical and with a few simple photos of his daily walks, Dale captures and shares some of that magic on his Facebook page.

The following is the most recent example of what Dale sees when he walks about our lovely seaside community many of us just take for granted.


https://www.facebook.com/dale.schulz.79/posts/486189148256839?__mref=message_bubble

To view all images click image above.

Dale's Post - June 22/16
I shot 85 frames on my walk with Indy this morning but will only bore you folks with the best Baker's Dozen!

We start out with a little portrait of Indy standing beside an aging skateboard ramp at the end of Farquhar Street - I loved the blue and yellow in this scene!

Next on to Hecate Street where I shot some lovely Chicory flowers in a vacant lot near Milton Street - and an ‪#‎abandonedchair‬ on the other side of the street. Then one of my favourite rocks in Nob Hill Park and another chair on Hecate - this one may be yard art rather than abandoned.

As we descended the stairs at the end of Hecate to Cavan Street I shot a picture of a beautiful Arbutus Tree.

Downtown on Commercial Street we saw one of our favourite downtown folks - Riel - who is a most pleasant fellow and always has a smile and kind words for us.

At the waterfront we got down onto the docks for a black and white photo of the pilings that support the Lighthouse Bistro; and captured the orange floats that have been capturing my eye the last few days. In Maffeo Sutton Park I took a pic of the footbridge over the lagoon.

Back into downtown we paused to shoot a 'Commercial Street Morning' scene - folks enjoying coffee and breakfast at Gabriel's Café. I also took a picture of the Vault Café - this lovely building was designed by Francis Rattenbury and was originally the Merchant's Bank of BC.

The last shot is of some beautiful flowers on Victoria Road. I'm not sure what they are - but they look like a kind of lily to me.

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