101 things to see & do in nanaimo

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Things Things to seeto seeand doand do in in NanaimoNanaimo

in co-operation with Tourism Nanaimo

Published by the

Windsurf on Georgia Strait.+ +

Go for a swim with the harbour seals.

+ +

Strap on some skates and roll with the citys roller derby teams.+ +

Take in the sights, sounds and excitement at the Vancouver Island Exhibition.

+ +

Get your yoga on.+ +

2 Nanaimo News Bulletin - 101 Things to See and Do in Nanaimo 2011

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Nanaimo News Bulletin - 101 Things to See and Do in Nanaimo 2011 3

Lets make it abundantly clear rightfrom the get-go there are more than 101 things to see and do in Nanaimo. Hundreds, more. Thousands more. Probably even more than that.

The items, activities, events and adven-tures outlined in this annual compilation are our choices as some of the best, someof the most interesting.

This city of some 90,000 people, withthousands more just outside city lim-its, offers one of the most spectacular waterfronts in all of Canada, and is sand-wiched between Georgia Strait on one side and rugged wilderness, both on and beyond Mount Benson, on the other.

Weve got lakes, weve got parks, weve got trails and sports and history and ...we could go on virtually forever.

Mitch Wright, News Bulletin managing editor

101 things? 101 things? Theres a lot Theres a lot more than that.more than that.

Look inside for these feature storiesLook inside for these feature stories

Page 4Page 4

Page 5Page 5

The Bastion

Empire Days

Page 7Page 7 Get youryoga on

Page 10Page 10

Page 13Page 13

Roll with it

Get in a tub

Page 16Page 16 Sail away

Page 26Page 26 Ships of fools

Page 29Page 29 Artwalk across Nanaimo

Page 31Page 31 Dragonboating adynamic festival

Page 33Page 33 Gabriola ~Its good to go

Page 3Page 35 Island jewel

Page 32Page 32 For the birds

Page 3Page 36 Climb in a kayak

101 Th ings to see and do inThNanaimo is an annual publica-tion of the Nanaimo News Bul-letin. Contributors: Jan Beecher,Chris Bush, Melissa Fryer, Toby Gorman, Jenn McGarrigle, JessicaRaymond, Mitch Wright.

NAVYNAVY

Ships Crests/Naval History Display

AIR FORCEAIR FORCEModel aircraft display/Uniforms/Squadron

Crests

MEDALS DISPLAYMEDALS DISPLAYExtensive medal

collection, Boer War to Afghanistan.

COME VISIT AND EXPERIENCE CANADASCOME VISIT AND EXPERIENCE CANADASMILITARY HISTORY

ARMYARMY

Weapons thru the ages display.

More than 100,000 men & women served in every corner of the

globe from 1950.

VANCOUVERISLAND

MILITARYMUSEUM

YOU WILL BE AMAZED BY WHAT YOU SEE AND LEARRN

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(250)756-2554www.vimilitarymuseum.ca

More than 100,000men & women served

PEACE KEEPERSPEACE KEEPERS

MERCHANT MERCHANT NAVYNAVY

The Allies lifeline to Fortress Europe.


CORNER OF RUTHERFORD ROAD @ ISLAND HIGHWAY, NANAIMO

250-758-8111nanaimonorth.com

open April...Fairway Market & Nanaimo Medical Clinic2 more great names added to compliment your shopping experience!

1Nanaimo1111mark is1111and rea1111year of renovat11The 158-year1111oldest building1111down to remov1111southeast-facin1111it to lean three 1111coat of paint.To complete t1111neers had to re1111buildings roof,1111sight for many 1111the support of t1111The Hudsons1111originally built the Bastion in Nanaimo to 1111defend its coal mining operations, donatedi d d$80,000 while local philanthropist SidSharman added $50,000. The Nanaimo Lions Club contributed $10,000.

The result is a success. Its wonderful, said Debbie Trueman,

manager of the Nanaimo Museum, whichis responsible for the Bastion. I think itwill last at least another 100 years, espe-cially with its winter coat.

r coat is nter1111ion that diti1111thosect t1111imbers e ti1111lingvail1111tions.ndi1111ll be wil1111ually fornu1111r andter1111thein t111111on willtio1111gain for the summer season e ag1111and visitors will be able to see 9, a1111exhibit inside as well as where d e1111bers and steel beams were imb1111Trueman.added, said T11Almost all of the original square logs Al ll

as much as 95 per cent remain intact in the structure.

The three-storey Bastion took two yearsto complete from 1853 to 1855 and was originally located on a small hillamong a smattering of wooden homes andbusinesses, not far from where it standstoday.

Fortified with cannons in each of its

square windows, it was a formidable defence against any hostile forces of thetime, though its not known if those can-nons were ever fired in an act of aggres-sion or defence.

Considered Hudson Bays oldest free-standing fort in North America and one of only a handful of similar structures, ithas been moved twice, in 1891 and 1979, before taking up its current residence at Front and Bastion streets downtown.

Today, cannons located just outsidethe Bastion fire at noon in the summermonths to serve as a tourist attraction and reminder of its original task.

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Bastionn1111BaastionIts the Harbour Citys most iconic structure and one of the provinces oldest buildings. How could we not start this list with ...

By Toby Gorman


2151 Bowen Road (at North eld) Nanaimo, 250-758-7219

On a warm, spring day in lateMarch, streets in Nanaimo wouldbe filled with footraces, sporting events and the singing of God Save theQueen.

This day was in the mid-19th century and it was the start of an annual tradition of Empire Days, which would stretch for almost 150 years.

The tradition continues this year withfestivities planned for the May 20 week-end.

This year we promise to have good weather, said Ron Hopper, president of the Nanaimo Empire Days CelebrationSociety.

Empire Days began as a patriotic holi-

day, where families gathered to celebratetheir homeland, as many of the settlers and workers in Nanaimo were from theUnited Kingdom.

Activities were family friendly and fea-tured sporting events and banquets, muchof which continues today.

Earlier in the month wereMay days, which includedactivities like choosing the May Queen and dancing the Maypole.

Although May Daysdidnt endure, some of theactivities did, with the May Queen and Maypole dance incorporated into Empire

The annual Empire Days weekend includes theMay Queen crowning on Friday night, as wellas Sundays parade downtown and the eveningfireworks over Nanaimo harbour.

May 20-22 celebration

Empire Days

2D2222rty for22222011 were selected from Park Avenue 2222Community School. She will be officially 2222crowned on the Friday night of festivities.2222val of HMCS v2222acific Gael Nanaimo, welcomed by the Pa2222pen all week-pipe band. The ship will be op2222end for the public to view.2222The main event, however, still takesTh i t h t

place Sunday with the annual parade through downtown and evening fireworks.

The parade features local service clubs,sports teams and businesses, plus visiting bands and organizations.

This year as a special treat we have the Seattle Police motorcycle drill team,Hopper said.

The parade will also feature some eques-trian entries. In years past, the horses wereplaced at the end of the parade.

The weekend wraps up with fireworks over the Nanaimo harbour. Hopper saidthe Empire Days committee met with their fireworks provider, who is excited to try out new displays this year.

For more information, please visit www.nanaimoempiredays.com.

ssa Fryer

2222


You are new to yoga and want to start slow. You seek a relaxing class with minimal challenge in a low-pressure setting.

Yoga for you: Hatha yogaWhy: The pace of a hatha yoga class

is slow, typically beginning with gentle, rhythmic breathing and ending with stu-dents relaxing on their backs in savasana or corpse pose. The postures and breathing techniques used help the body energize and warm itself in preparation for class.

You seek a deep stretch in a meditative setting.

Yoga for you: Yin yogaWhy: The purpose of yin yoga is to

stretch the deep connective tissues in the

body with abstrong focus onstrong focus onthe hips, pelvis and lower spine. Yin yoga is beneficial for students who sit for longperiods in their daily life. Students areencouraged to adhere to the three tattvas,or fundamentals, of yin: depth, stillness and time.

You prefer high-intensity workouts. Youwant a challenge and expect to feel ener-gized during and after class.

Yoga for you:Power yoga

Why: In poweryoga students are ledthrough a rigorousseries of postures thatare meant to buildstrength and flex-ibility. The posturesgradually increasewith difficulty andbecause there are nobreaks, breath is used to link movements.

You seek an intermediate-level class withan element of meditation.

Yoga for you: Vinyasa yogaWhy: A vinyasa class is a flowing

sequence. Though it is not as vigorous as

Most people associate yoga withstretching, but stretching is just oneelement of a yoga practice. Yoga incor-rporates flexibility, strength and meditation andtapromotes physical, mental, emotional and spiri-l tual balance.

Its versatile so it can be tailored to all ages, body atypes and activity levels. There are dozens of yogaozstyles offered in Nanaimo, whether you are inex-operienced, seek a challenge or are somewhere inmbetween.

The basic styles available are outlined below.e power yoga, it is no less chal-lenging. As in power yoga,there is a strong focus on link-ing breath to movement withing breath to movement with

no breaks between postures.

You prefer a vigorous workout. You want to sweat, strengthen, tone and detox.

Yoga for you: Hot yogaWhy: This vigorous style of yoga is prac-

tised in a heated room to soften the body,making it more flexible, and helping the body more easily rid itself of toxins.

You seek a therapeutic class and stressrelief.

Yoga for you: Iyengar yogaWhy: Iyengar yoga classes use props

(blankets, bolsters, belts, etc.) to aid stu-dents in the postures. The series can be quite rigorous and is meant to improvealignment, increase strength particularly in the legs and improve circulation, co-ordination and balance.

Interested in trying every style? Why not mix-and-match? Awaken body and mindin hatha; align breath with movement invinyasa; energize and strengthen in power yoga and then stretch it out in yin; and sweat it out in hot yoga.

For every body type, fitness level and agethere is a yoga style that you can slip intoas comfortably as savasana.

Check out these reputable Nanaimo studios:Red Door Yoga www.reddooryoga.caMoksha Yoga http://mokshayoga.caBikram Yoga www.bikramyogananaimo.comOmTown Yoga http://omtown.caBend Over Backwards www.iyengaryogananaimo.com

Ready to get your yoga on?

Getyourryyogaon

By Jessica Raymond 33


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WATER PARKS Take the kids to chill out on a hot summer day at the Kiwanis Bay WaterPark located near Departure

Bay beach, the Haliburton Water Park near Princess Royal School or Hare-wood Mining Community Water Park on Howard Avenue.

FARMERS MARKETS Arelaxing way to find some of fithe Islands freshest produce, food and crafts. Thft e Down-Th

town Farmers Market is open May 6 to early October on Fridays from 10 a.m.to 2 p.m. The Cedar Farmers Market, Thopen from mid-May to October, can be found at 2313 Yellow Point Rd. TheThnewly created Bowen Road Farm-ers Market will take place from 4-7 p.m. late May to early October every Wednesday at Beban Park.

GOLF Golf can be played inFNanaimo almost year round,and with seven local coursesthere is no shortage of options.

Local courses include Nanaimo Golf Club, Fairwinds, Gabriola, Cotton-wood, Pryde Vista, Eagle Quest andWinchelsea View. Beban Park featuresa pitch-and-putt course for those whowant to work on their short game.

DINGHY DOCK PUB Canadasonly floating pub is on Protec-fltion Island, a 10-minute ferry ride from the Nanaimo Boat

Basin. Chow down on pub fare andseafood. Th e Protection Connection Thferry leaves 10 minutes past the hourbeginning at 7:10 a.m. weekdays, 8:10 a.m. Saturdays and 9:10 a.m. Sundays. A walk around Protection Island is a popular post-meal activity.

READ A BOOK Visit the Van-Kcouver Island Regional Library,grab a book, kick back andenjoy. Th e library also offTh ers ffff

summer reading programs for children. For hours and information call 250-753-1154 (Harbourfront) or 250-758-5544 (Wellington).

TENNIS Tennis, anyone?Beban and Bowen parks bothfeature six public tennis courts that operate on a first-come, fi

fi rst-served basis. Bowen also has threefinighttime token-operated courts for nocturnal enthusiasts. Tokens cost $8per hour from the Bowen or BebanPark offi ces or the Nanaimo Aquatic ffiCentre.

GAMBLING CasinoNanaimo, as its now known, in downtownNanaimo has plenty of

options for bettors. With more than17,000 square feet of gaming floor, it flhas 380 slot machines, all your favou-rite table games and more. It also has a 56-seat restaurant and free coff ee, teaffffand soft drinks for players. Thft e whole Thfacility, including gaming floor and flrestaurant, are fully licensed.

HORSESHOES A greatway to spend an afternoon. ftSix public pitches are main-tained at Bowen Park near

the tennis courts.

THE WESTWOOD LAKERELAY A cross-country fun event for individualsand teams of four run-

ners to enter. Individuals can also run the whole 22 kilometres. Aft er threeftyears running at the end of October, the2011 event takes place June 28.

CEMETERY TOURS A great way to learn about Nanaimos history. Guid-ed cemetery tours take

place in July and August with stories about our earliest residents.

FITNESS GYMS The ThNanaimo Aquatic CentreGym and Beban Park Gym offer state-of-theffff

art fitness equipment, including rowing fimachines, treadmills, stair climbers anduniversal gyms. Call 250-756-5200.

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Darwin MahlumBroker Owner

Dave DinhSales Associate

Bill SoregAssociate Broker

Jazz SohalSales Associate

Anu GuptaSales Associate

Joe BuxtonSales Associate

Sharon JensenSales Associate

Martin DinhSales Associate

Robert BordenSales Associate

Dan GrondinManager Broker

Dave ArmstrongManager Broker

NANAIMOand Central Vancouver IslandToll-Free: 1.800.817.7717

Of ce: 250.760.1066Fax: 250.760.1077

www.century21.ca/harbourrealty

Residential Commercial New Homes Oceanfront Acreages Business Building Lots

Fresh seafood right out of the ocean can be found at the Boat Basin below

Front Street.

MILLSTONE RIVER SALMON SIDE CHAN-NEL Th is new channel,Thlocated in Bowen Park,

is the perfect place for a stroll and to learn more about the environment welive in. Ducks, otters and a beaver in-habit the channel year round, and lateSeptember through December are thebest times to see coho salmon.

EXOTIC, COLOURFULAND ARTISTIC is the only way to describe the Coast Body Painting Champi-onships, scheduled to be

held on Sept. 17 at Beban Park Recre-ation Centre. Event also features a gala dinner. Organized by Glitter Machine and English Entertainment. Visit www.coastbodypaintchampionship.com.

1515 1616

1717 VANCOUVER ISLAND EXHIBITION Nanaimos annual agricultural celebration and fair takes place Aug. 19-21 in 2011. Crowdsfrom around the Island come to see the live-stock exhibition with live music, carnival rides,games and other events at Beban Park. Call250-758-3247 or visit www.viex.ca.1818


Roll with itCCCoutfits, kooky names andCCes are features of the latestCCtator sport to come to CCroller derby.CCst couple years, two teams haveCCn the Harbour City Nanaimo CColler Girls and the Harbour City CCCCThe contact sport features fishnets, CC

booty shorts, alter egos and bruises, saidJennifer Wigmore, aka Jenesis, president of the Nanaimo Nemesis teams board of directors.

Its kind of like lingerie on wheels,she said with a touch of violence and aggression thrown in.

The two rookie teams from Nanaimo face off against rookie teams from acrossthe Island in their first tournament at theNanaimo Ice Centre July 2-3.

Theres so many women who want tobe involved right now, said Wigmore. Itsvery inclusive for women of all shapes andsizes.

Its nice to have the hometowncompetition, said Amanda Webb, coach of the Harbour City Rollers. Its sprouting up all over the Island.

The Nanaimo teams were born whenWigmore and a neighbour who had skatedwith the Eves of Destruction team inVictoria began meeting in the Beban Park parking lot.

The July 2-3 tournament willinclude rookie teams from Nanaimo, Saltspring, Comox Valley, Cumberland and whatever other teams Wigmorecan find on the Island.

For many of the teams, it will betheir first tournament ever.

July tournament

19By Jenn McGarrigle

Two rookie roller derby teams competing in Nanaimo

tch19191919191After the photos hit Facebook, otherhit F b

women started getting involved.Soon after, the girls split into two teams.She describes roller derby as much like

rugby on skates with one woman servingas the ball.

Five people from each team participate at a time. The girl at the front of the packis called the pivot, followed by threeblockers and then a jammer. Eight of the women the pack start on one start lineand the two jammers start on another linebehind the pack.

The goal is for the jammers to getthrough the pack and then lap the pack.For each member of the opposition the jammer passes, the team gets a point.

And thats where things get aggressive, said Wigmore.

Pivots and blockers try to assist their jammer in getting through the pack whilealso trying to stop the opposing teams jammer from exiting the pack. Players canblock using their hips or the sides of theirbodies, as well as their backsides called a booty block and can only use their arms and hands to help their own players.

All girls are required to wear an array of safety equipment, including helmet, wrist guards, elbow guards, knee padsand mouth guard, which Switchback Longboards provides to Nanaimo Nemesis girls at cost.

Players need to be able to jump on skates, avoid fallen players and skate 25laps in five minutes.

Weve had injuries, weve had bruises,said Wigmore. Its always a spectacle when youve got women in crazy outfits bumping into each other. This is almost like a gladiator-type sport.

The Harbour City Rollers alsohope to put on some fundraisers and demonstrations in the coming months toshow people what the sport is all about,said Webb.

Its very different than what it used to be in the 70s, she said.


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By Jan Beecher

Get in a tubOr at least be a spectator at the annual Great Race

What better way for a city to put itself on the map than toinvent its own sport? Nanaimos first bathtub race was a publicity stunt now its a challenging and internationally renowned sport.

From a mayor in pirates clothing and 212 bathtubs splashing across the Georgia Strait to sanctioned races with official rules, class restrictions and international notoriety, the bathtub raceshave come a long way in the past 45 years.

Originally a crazy idea to celebrate Canadas Centennial and putNanaimo on the map, the first bathtub races were held in 1967.

Now, Nanaimo is the bathtubbing capital of the world and hostto the Great International World Championship Bathtub Race; with entrants from New Zealand, Australia, Japan and the U.S.

On Sunday, July 24, at 11 a.m. sharp, tubbers will race out of Nanaimo Harbour, head up past Schooner Cove and circle Winchelsea Island. The 58-kilometre race ends back in Nanaimos Departure Bay where participants have to park their tubs, run up the beach and ring a silver bell.

Bathtub and driver combined must weigh a minimum of 350

pounds (158 kilograms) and the boats engine can be no more than eight horsepower. Minimum racer age is 14. Three classes run the race: stock, modified and unlimited.

Finish times range from just over one one hour to two hours,depending on the class of tub and the weather. Last years weather was particularly brutal, with only 13 out of 49 racers making it through the rough waters to complete the course.

The Great International World Championship Bathtub Race ispart of the Nanaimo Marine Festival.

The four-day festival starts on Thursday, July 21 at MaffeoSutton Park with a kids carnival, mainstage entertainment and beer gardens. On Saturday, the Sail Past On Wheels Parade willtravel through the downtown core, starting at 10:30 a.m.; and at night the sky will light up with one of the biggest fireworks dis-plays on Vancouver Island.

2020


FRIDAY, APRIL 22nd, 2011The Port Theatre, 125 Front St., Nanaimo

Tickets at the Port Theatre Box Of ce, Ph. 250-754-8550or online at www.porttheatre.com

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SNORKEL WITH THESEALS Spend a few hours swimming with theharbour seals at Snake

Island. Call Sundown Diving at 1-888-773-3483 or Divers Choice Charters at 1-866-716-8867.

WILD PLAY ADVEN-TURE PARK WhatKgets your adrenaline pumping? Maybe a leap

off of North Americas only legal bungy ffbridge toward the roaring NanaimoRiver? How about a two-hour tree-top adventure on Wild Plays TreeGo course, where adventurists challengethemselves 30 feet off the forest flff oor on flan aerial obstacle course. Its safe, funand a total rush. Call 1-888-668-7874 orvisit www.wildplayparks.com.

PARKWAY TRAIL A 20-kilometre paved path. For a trail map, contact Nanaimo Parks,

Recreation and Culture at 250-756-5200or visit www.nanaimo.ca.

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BEACH VOLLEYBALL The beach courts atBowen Park are a popu-lar place throughout the

summer, whether its for a fun pickup game with friends or as part of a league.For more information, go to www.nanai-mosport.com.

JACK POINT/BIGGS PARK Biggs Park Kstarts with a trail along the water just west of

the Duke Point Highway with excellent views of the Nanaimo River estuary andthe City of Nanaimo. The pathway leads Thto a trail through woods and rocky shoreline.

CANSTRUCTION An annual fundraiser for the Loaves and Fishes Food Bank. Participants

build creative structures or sculptures out of canned goods. Back in the Old City Quarter this year, taking place inearly September. For information, call250-754-8141.

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B.C. Lottery & Variety Lottery Tickets Available Here

Mon-Fr 9 - 9 Saturday 9 - 6 Sunday 10 - 5

1816 Bowen Rd, Nanaimo, B.C.Westhill Centre

Ph. 250-740-3880 Fax 250-740-3889

FREE Delivery of Prescriptions & HHC Products

rrs TM

For All YourHealth & Beauty Needs We Offer:

Pharmacist on duty all open hours Full service cosmetics, specializing in skincare Home Health Care Services with certi ed tter on staff for Compression Stockings, Mastectomy Bras, Ostomy products & Diabetic devices

Phone Phone 250-756-0108250-756-0108email: email:

[email protected]@telus.net

Beban ParkBeban ParkGolf CentreGolf Centre

9 Hole -9 Hole -Par 27Par 27

Driving Range Golf LessonsDriving Range Golf LessonsClub RentalsClub Rentals

GOING HIKINGON VANCOUVER ISLAND?STAY IN TOUCH, STAY SAFE! WE HAVE RENTALS!

TM/MC

SPOT gives consumers a vital line of communication, independently of cellular coverage, with emergency services, co-workers, friends and family.

2540 Bowen RoadNanaimo

250-758-7301

COMMUNICATION SPECIALISTS Industrial 2-way radio systems

Portable & Mobile Repeater Services Satellite Telephone Sales & Rentals

PLAYGROUNDS Dur-ing July and August, playgrounds host freeprograms for children

aged six to 12. Join in for games, sportsand craft s. Call 250-756-5200.ft

NANAIMO THEATREGROUP In its 50th year, the NTG owns the175-seat Bailey Studio

on Rosstown Road. Call 250-758-7246 or go to www.bailey.nisa.com for a listof current performances.

DINING Nanaimohas a wide variety of culinary options. From Indian or Th ai food,Th

sushi, Mediterranean or traditional burgers or wings, there are plenty of op-portunities. Check out listings at www.tourismnanaimo.com.

SQUASH Th eThNanaimo Squash Club features four interna-tional squash courts,

weight room saunas, public lounge and pro shop. Call 250-754-3123 or go to www.nanaimosquash.com.

FERRIES Spend anaft ernoon aboard a vesselftthats part of one of thelargest ferry fleets in thefl

world. B.C. Ferries has one of its largest hubs in Nanaimo, with major termi-nals at Departure Bay and Duke Point, as well as the smaller Gabriola Island route.

E&N TRAIL Th isTheight-kilometre trail runs alongside the E&Nrailway track from

Rosehill Avenue to Mostar Road.

HARBOUR CITY HALF MARATHON The News ThBulletin helps present this annual run, which

includes a kids run and pre-event train-ing clinics through the Running Room.For information and registration, pleasego to www.tryevents.ca. Th is years Thmarathon takes place on Sept. 4.

BEBAN PARK KNanaimos premier recreation facility offers ffffswimming, skating, ten-

nis, playgrounds and multi-use trails. Home to the Canadian national cyclo-cross championship in November, withhockeys Nanaimo Junior A Clippersalso calling Frank Crane Arena home.

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SAIL AWAYWITH VAN ISLE SAILING CO-OP

By Mitch Wright

Of course, while I did get a short stint at the helm and even got a crash course ontacking into the wind, much of the credit (OK, all of the credit) for not falling into the salt chuck, causing stomach somer-saults or sinking the 27-foot Catalina go to my guides, Van-Isle Sailing Co-ops Tony Sherer and Doug Mowatt, who agreed to take me and a friend out on what turned out to be a gorgeous February day with aperfect mild breeze.

Sherrer is president of the six-year-old sailing co-operative, which boasts some six-dozen members and has now has four vessels, all 27-footers.

The co-op is one of five such organiza-tions in B.C. The model offers numerousbenefits, not the least of which is afford-able access ($405 annual fee; $475 for afamily) to several boats year-round fora fraction of the cost of owning a vessel individually.

Then theres the opportunity to learn sailing at your own pace from expertswith years of experience Sherer earned his skippers ticket in 1980, while Mowatt got his in 85, and theyre just two of the dozen-or-so qualified skippers among the membership.

The co-ops main focus is on getting more people sailing, or at least givingpeople the opportunity to try it without breaking their bank accounts.

Iitial fears of making a fool of myself and getting

IIsick, falling overboard or simply steering the boatIIastrously into the path of an oncoming seaplane IIde, my first-ever taste of sailing was fairly .... well, IIooth sailing.IIll hands remained on deck. No one retched over IIrails. And the boat itself returned to dock intact.II


Computerized Score Keeping Enjoy your game, let the computer do the math Bumper Bowling - Takes the gutters out of the game. Great for little tots Birthday Parties - Bowling Birthdays are a BIG HIT!

1870 E. Wellington(250) 753-2341

www.brechinlanes.ca

Want a great social activity for your organization or staff? Give bowling a try! We can offer Bingo Bowling, and Fun Games.

5 Pin Bowling is a great family recreation.Our regular (weekly) bowlers range from 6 years to 95 years.

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BRECHIN LANESBRECHIN LANESCheck out our Special Boards for more Daily Food and Drink Specials250-754-4220

STEWART AVENUEon the WaterfrontGIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

MONDAY & THURSDAYMONDAY & THURSDAYBasks et ooof f Wingggs & & SlSleeeeveve o of DraftBasket of Wings & Sleeve of Draft

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By co-operative ownership,basically its just to keep thecost down, says Sherer.

Its not a sailing club, its a co-op. We want people to enjoy this andlearn to sail and be competent and safe.

While I dont feel entirely competentas I take my nervous turn at the helm, I do feel safe under the watchful eye of my two guides, who tell me my white-knuckle handle on helm is definitely notuncommon for first-timers.

Everyone has a death grip their firsttime out, Mowatt assures me, though Iremain not entirely convinced.

Still, the pairs subtle suggestions and patient guidance help me (once I get ahandle on the sailing nomenclature) tosafely steer the little boat safely past a few massive anchored container ships into Nanaimo harbour.

And then Mowatt tells me were going to tack.

Cue the return of the death grip.Yet, even with my heart in my throat

and my mind envisioning our inevitable collision with the crab dock off Maffeo Sutton Park, Mowatt and Sherrer both

appear completely cool asthey talk me through the tacking process and theassociated commands a half-dozen times until Im still not

even remotely approaching competentand the helm, but might pass for margin-ally comfortable.

If nothing else, my full white-knuckle death grip has relaxed a little and might now be classed instead as firm choke hold. Apparently, my ear-to-ear grin isalso telling as to my increasing level of comfort and enjoyment.

After a few more tacks with my friend at the helm, we haul in the sails and motor leisurely back to the marina, here we leave Sherer and Mowatt to secure theboat and ready it for its next trip out.

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More information about the Van Isle Sailing Co-op is available by e-mailing [email protected]

Sail away

SALTWATER FISHING May to September is the best time to fish forfithe areas indigenous

species that include salmon, halibut,ling cod, sole, rockfish and crab. A copy fiof the B.C. Freshwater and Saltwater Sports Fishing Guide is handy, and a valid fi shing licence is mandatory. Thfi ereThare also many deep sea charters avail-able. Visit www.bcfi shing.com.fi

GUIDED TOURS Th ereThare many ways to getaround Nanaimo and its waterways. Various

companies host guided tours of the area on foot, bus, boat or plane.

VANCOUVER IS-LAND SYMPHONY Nanaimos own profes-sional symphony offersffff

a season of concerts from Septemberto May at the Port Theatre. For concertThinformation call 250-754-0177. For tickets call the Port Theatre box offiTh ce offi fgo online at http://vancouverislandsym-phony.com/

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Pawn Paintball

Nicol St. Pawnbrokers124 Nicol Street

753-3355www.nicolpawn.ca

Open 7 Days per week

Northwest Native Art Tools

Jewellery Musical Instruments

Electronics & Paintball SuppliesCollateral Loans

Telephone: [email protected]

Leonard Krog M.L.A.(Nanaimo)4-77 Victoria Cres.Nanaimo, B.C.V9R 5B9Hours:Monday to Friday10:00 a.m. to 12:00,1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Proud to Serve Nanaimo

100% Community Owned - www.midisland.coop100% Community Owned - www.midisland.coop

The Co-op Advantage - Save with a Co-op Loyalty CardThe Co-op Advantage - Save with a Co-op Loyalty CardSave 3% when you purchase $100.00 or 4% when you purchase $300.00 or more

Savings are on all fuel products at Mid Island Co-op locations

VAN ISLE 360 TheThVan Isle 360 interna-tional yacht race showsup on the calendar

every two years, and when it does, its abig deal. Skippers come from around thecontinent to navigate their vessels 580nautical miles around Vancouver Islandover 10 legs. This years race goes June Th4-18, starting and ending in Nanaimo Harbour. For more information about the prestigious race, visit www.vanisle360.com.

BITE OF NANAIMO Nanaimos 18th annualgourmet food fair pre-sented by TheatreOne Th

at Beban Park will be held on Oct. 21 in2011 from 4-9 p.m. Call 250-754-7587or visit www.theatreone.org.

ISLAND CHASE 2011 Canada Day long weekendthis year (July 1-3). Hosted by Nanaimos English En-

tertainment, this adventure combines the thrill of a car rally with the strategy of a scavenger hunt, all for a grand prize of $5,000 cash. The fiTh rst annualfievent begins at Country Club Centreand takes participants from Campbell River to Victoria. For details visit www.islandchase.ca.

NANAIMO AQUATICCENTRE Stay in shape or just cool down,the Nanaimo Aquatic

Centre has it all. A 52-metre pool, three water slides, a leisure pool, wave pool,steam room, hot tub, lazy river, spa-cious weight room and restaurant willkeep you busy and healthy all day.

CANADA DAY CELEBRA-TIONS July 1 at MaffeoffffSutton Park. Nanaimo celebrates Canada and

its diversity with all kinds of music, food, entertainment and family events. Call 250-756-5200 or visit www.nanaimo.ca.

HIT THE DIRT Th eThMarie Davidson BMX Park has its ups anddowns, and thats a good

thing when it comes to BMX racing.The Nanaimo BMX Associations track That Beban Park hosted world champion-ship races, yet anyone on two wheels is allowed to use the facility. Regular racesgo Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings all spring and summer long. For more information, visit www.nanai-mobmx.com.

VANCOUVER ISLANDMILITARY MUSEUM Memorials, medal displays, books and

military records can all be found atthe Vancouver Island Military Mu-seum, located at Nanaimo North TownCentre. Nanaimo has an important military past and it can all be learnedand viewed at the museum. Call 250-756-2554.

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Package Special

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$249

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S.V. LENSES & FRAMES

FLAT TOP BIFOCALS & FRAMES

PROGRESSIVES & FRAMES

CDs RECORDS TAPES IMPORTS COLLECTABLES MOVIES [VHS - DVD]51 COMMERCIAL STREET

NANAIMO, BC, V9R 5G3PHONE: 250-716-9997

BUY, SELL& TRADE

3612 North Island Hwy(Beside Country Club Mall)

www.newcastlenissan.comONLINE CREDIT APPLICATION DL. 30776

250-756-15151-877-688-1515

FROM SUMMER FUNto HAULING A TON

Visit us at:

NEWCASTLE NISSANNEWCASTLE NISSAN

FRESHWATER FISHING People from all over the world come to Nanaimo to fl y fifl sh some of the fi

globes best streams and rivers, includ-ing the Nanaimo River. Fly fishermanfiare on the rivers year-round and many lakes are annually stocked. Call a retail-er for the best fi shing holes, or try thefiNanaimo and District Fish and GameProtective Association at 250-754-2846.

FIRST NATIONS CUL-TURE Learn aboutthe fi rst people on the fiIsland at the Nanaimo

Museum or shop for aboriginal art at Art of Siem on Front Street or at Hills Native Art on Bastion Street.

DISC GOLF An 18-Fhole disc golf course is located in Bowen Park. Borrow discs from the

administration offi ce Monday to Friday ffi8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

CHECK OUT THE LOTUS PINNATUS It was adopted in 2010 as Nanaimos of cial oral

emblem. The rare ower, also known asthe bog birds-foot trefoil, is located in only a handful of places in Canada all in the Nanaimo area. The delicate bloom is best spotted at the Harewood Plains, located in south Nanaimo between WhiteRapids Road and McKeown Way.

ARTS ALIVE SUMMERSCHOOL OF FINE ARTS Featuring arts, drama, mu-sic and dance, Arts Alive

is a low cost, high quality instructionfor both beginners and intermediates of any age. Call 250-753-9423 or visitwww.nanaimoartsalive.com.

DEPARTURE BAY BEACH Grab a snack and watch the ferries come and go at one of

Nanaimos most popular areas.

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SCUBA DIVING Clear water,colourful marinelife and a rich underwaterenvironment

lure diving enthusiasts from all overthe world to Nanaimos waters. SnakeIsland, Orlebar Point and Neck Pointare some hot spots, and artificial reefs filike the sunken HMCS Saskatchewanor HMCS Cape Breton are popular. For local knowledge, call a dive shop or visit www.bcdiveguide.com.

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250 753 1821www.nanaimomuseum.ca

Discover AWARD WINNING exhibits and ENGAGING displays that feature the LIFESTYLES of NANAIMO. Explore the GIFT SHOP for UNIQUE keepsakes.SUMMER: Daily 10 to 5 WINTER: Mon-Sat 10 to 5Downtown next to Serious

Coffee on Commercial St.

8AM - 10PM7 DAYS A WEEKPORT PLACE

Smiles Every DaySmiles Every Day

Eat in or Take-out, View online menu at:

www.thirstycamelcafe.ca or call: (250) 753-9313

Vegan & Vegetarian Middle Eastern Kitchen & Organic Hot Drinks


Cross Stitch ~ Embroidery ~ Needlepoint Lace Making ~ Classes and Assistance

Books ~ Charts ~ Fibres ~ Fabrics ~ Notions

#7, 70 Church StreetNanaimo 250-591-6873

www.thestitchersmuse.com

#2 Empire Days - May 20-22 #53 Floating Boat Show June 3-5 #39 Van Isle 360 Yacht Race June 4 #75 Multicultural Festival June 24/25 #20 Marine Festival July 22-24 #26 CANstruction Early September

For all the latest on these exciting Downtown Events, simply visit the corresponding # in 101 Things to Do...

www.dnbia.ca 250-754-8141


Whether you golf or not, theCotton Club is open to everyone

for lunch, dinner, meetings, weddings and celebrations.

Our 18-hole championship course promises a challenging and rewarding golf experience

f p y ffor players of all skill levels.

1975 HASLAM ROAD, NANAIMOLocated behind the Nanaimo Airport

250.245.5157www.cottonwoodgolfcourse.com

The BeautyExperience...Whale Watching

Only 45 Minutes South of Nanaimo!

www.OceanEcoVentures.comLocal - 250 748 3800 | Free - 1 866 748 5333

Cowichan Bay!

OpOpOpenenen TT Tooo ThThhTheee PuPuPuPuPublblblblblicicicicicwwwww.w.NaNananaimimoFoFisishahandndGaGaGaGaGaGamememmmme.c.comom

Inn Rockkk CCCCiiiitttty CCCCCennnttttre (behind Earls)250-729-7044250-729-7044

HHomemadededede S SSSSSouououuuup/p/p/p/p/SaS ndwichesDDutch LiicoriiiicececeGGourmet MeMeMeMeMeatatatata /V/V/VV/ eegegee etable/PiesHHomemadededed DD DDeseesesesseseseeses rtrtrtsssEEat innn o o oor r r TaTaaTaakeee oooo outututtt

Euroooopepepp ananann FFF Foods & Imports

FLOATING BOAT AND MARINE TRADE SHOW Th e seventh annualThshow takes place June

3-5 at the Nanaimo Boat Basin. The Thpopular event features everything forboat enthusiasts. Call 250-754-5053 orvisit www.npa.ca.

SKATEBOARDING Th eThNanaimo SkateboardPark can be found on the corner of Comox

Road and Wall Street while the PioneerSkate Park can be found behind Cana-dian Tire in the north end.

HARBOURFRONTWALKWAY Whatsa waterfront city if you cant stroll along

the shore? The walkway leads fromCameron Island all the way to the B.C.Ferries terminal at Departure Bay and is a popular attraction. Along the way, strollers get a look at the downtown Boat Basin and can stop in for coffee or ice cream, or browse the shopsclustered below the Bastion.

PORT THEATRE Nanaimos 800-seatperforming arts centre is located at 150 Front

St. , with more than 250 scheduled events each year. Call 250-754-8550 orvisit www.porttheatre.com.

SPRING ART FEATURE The Spring ShowcaseThis a display of art fromNanaimo and area paint-

ers, photographers, potters, sculptors and others. The show can be viewedThduring April at the Nanaimo Arts Council gallery in Nanaimo NorthTown Centre.

FESTIVAL OF BANNERS Now in its 24th year, runs May 1 to Thanks-Thgiving. Artists create

banners on a common theme and they are displayed on street lamps through-out the city. Its a symphony of colours that can be seen right through the fallseason before being sold. Proceeds goto charity. 250-740-6350 or www.nanai-mogallery.ca.

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westwoodlakecampgrounds.com250-753-3922

C A M P I N G R . V.

C A B I N S

LICENSEDReservations Welcomed

5291 Rutherford Rd250-729-2376

Th ere areThfi ve popular running fifiroutes in Nanaimo. TheThHarbourside Walkway,

Westwood Lake trail loop, Parkway Trail, E&N Trail and the Jack Point/Biggs Park route. Most of the localrunning clubs and specialty stores host drop-in groups, and some even runregularly to raise money for charity.

EXPLORE THE ISLANDS Gabriola Island, Protection Island and Newcastle Island are all

just a short ferry ride away. Gabriolafeatures parks, beaches and galler-ies, as well as a popular outdoor craft exhibit on weekend mornings in the summer. Newcastle features beachesand hiking trails as well as places

to camp while Protection is a quietresidential community with severalsmall parks.

SUMMERTIME BLUES FESTIVAL ThL eThNanaimo Blues Society hosts a talented lineupof local, national and

international blues artists at Maff eo Sut-ffffton Park Aug. 26-28.

6060 6161 6262

NANAIMORIVERSALMONHATCHERY October toDecember is

the best time to visit the hatchery but juvenile salmon in their outdoor channels can be seen from Febru-ary to May. The public is welcome Thto use the walking trails. Turn righton Beck Road just north of the Haslam Creek Bridge then go left onftRugby Road. 250-245-7780 or www.nanaimoriverhatchery.ca.

5959


400 Newcastle Avenue/www.nanaimoyc.ca / For more information call 250.754.7011CELEBRATING OUR 80TH ANNIVERSARY!

wcastle IslandASTER EGG

HUNTApril 24th

With Bobbie The Safety Boat

80th Anniversary

OPEN HOUSEJUNE 18th

Everyone Welcome!

FREE YOUTHSAILING ON LONGLAKE

May 29thKids, Parents Welcome Too!

CUTTY SARKSnake Island

Nanaimo RegattaJuly 1st, 2nd & 3rd

Register and Compete!

CHRISTMAS LIGHT CRUISE

December 3rdWatch from Departure Bay!

Nanaimo Yacht ClubNANAIMO YACHT CLUB IS PROUD TO BE HOSTING THESE EXCITING PUBLIC EVENTS

NewEA

With B

NANA

www.nanaimoartgallery.com

We specialize in West Coast Art!Campus Gallery900 Fifth Street250-740-6350

Thought Provoking Local & National Exhibitions

Children & Adult Workshops

Festival of Banners

Art Sales & Rental Program

Gift Shops full of Elegant & Eclectic Gifts

Celebrating ART

on the West Coast!

Downtown Gallery150 Commercial Street

250-754-1750

The power of knowledgeThe advantage of experience

H E L E N F O R D EH E L E N F O R D EOOO

OF NANAIMO

250-616-4748250-751-1223www.helenforde.ca

RelocationSpecialist

6581 Aulds Road, NanaimoAcross from BCAA and near StaplesAcross from BCAA and near Staples

250-390-4242

An exquisite boutique An exquisite boutique offering unique and offering unique and ne casual to formal ne casual to formal apparel, jewelry and apparel, jewelry and other accessories.other accessories.

Petite, Regular &Petite, Regular &Plus Sizing.Plus Sizing.

WINDSURF With dozensof places to put in, the HarbourCity has great

opportunities to get out on Georgia Strait and enjoy the breeze.

6363 YELLOW POINT DRAMAGROUP Th e oldestThtheatre group in west-ern Canada. Based at

the Cedar Community Hall, the groupoffers shows in the spring and fall. Con-fffftact 250-245-7882.

BEBAN PARK POOL Th is pirate-themed Thpool features a 61-me-tre waterslide, leisure

pool and a unique pirate ship interac-

tive play feature. The facility also has a Th25-metre pool, weight room, hot tuband steam room. A great place to cooloff or keep in shape. Call 250-756-5200 ffor visit www.nanaimo.ca.

BREWERY TOUR Th eThLongwood Brew Pub atLongwood Station of-fers tours of its unique

in-house process. Call 250-729-8225 orvisit www.longwoodbrewpub.com and be sure to leave enough time to try theirfood.

OLIVER WOODS COM-MUNITY CENTRE Nanaimos newest com-munity centre features

city programs and recreational facilities.Call 250-756-5200 or check the Leisure Guide for programs.

CONCERTS IN THE PARK Bring yourKlawn chair to the Lions Pavilion at Maff eo Sut-ffff

ton Park Sundays in July and August.

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NOWBuy 4

Get the55thth Ticket Ticket FREEFREE

G t thhGG t thhGift TicketsGift Tickets

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Offer does not includeMovie Money Certificates or Nite of Entertainment

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250-390-5021250-390-5021WOODGROVE CENTRE

Hot and Cold Refreshments! Hot and Cold Refreshments! Birthday Party Bookings! Arcade! Birthday Party Bookings! Arcade!

Have an event? Ask about our theatre rentals!! Have an event? Ask about our theatre rentals!!

DAILY MATINEESDAILY MATINEES

Open 7 DaysA WeekA Week

Fun For TheFun For TheWhole Family!Whole Family!

Woodgrove Centre(Located outside between Walmart & Reitmans)

Buy 6 BagelsGET 3 FREE

Expires June 30, 2011

BBBBB

WoodgroveW Centrecated outside between Walmart & Reitmans)(Loc

$1.99 BreakfastAll Day

DougRoutley,MLANanaimo~NorthCowichan

ENJOYALLTHEGREATTHINGS

NANAIMOHASTOOFFER

Unit11250TenthStreetNanaimo,BCV9R6L1Tel250.716.5221Fax250.716.5222

5241stAvenue|Box269Ladysmith,BCV9G1A2Tel250.245.9375Fax250.245.8164

[email protected]|Webwww.dougroutley.ca

IN-LINE SKATING There are plenty of Thsmooth, paved trails toget out for an in-line

skate. Try the E&N Trail, the Parkway Trail or the old Grandview Bowl race-track.

CRABBING Get alicence and compete withresident seals for sup-per at local crabbing hot

spots. One of the most popular places in Nanaimo to catch crab is the crabbing dock on the Harbourfront Walkway.

CABLE BAY TRAIL Agreat place to spot sea lions from October to April or seals playing in the rapids

at Dodds Narrows. The two-kilometreThtrail leads through mixed forest beforecrossing a small stream by the ocean.

SEE A MOVIE Nanaimo has several big-screen theatres with comfort-able seating and sur-

round sound. Try the Galaxy TheatreThat Nanaimo North Town Centre at250-729-8000 and Avalon Cinema atWoodgrove Centre at 250-390-5021.

NECK POINT Th is Th17.5-hectare waterfrontpark features stunningviews and a real West

Coast feel. A popular place for snorkel-ing in the summer, the park also hasbenches and several lookout points. TheThparking lot is accessible off Hammond ffBay Road. Be sure to visit the recently opened expansion on the south side of the park.

BOATING Brechin Boat Ramp near the B.C. Fer-ries terminal at Depar-ture Bay is Nanaimos

main public boat ramp. A smaller boatramp is located off Hammond Bay ffRoad.

NANAIMO MULTICUL-TURAL FESTIVAL Livemusic, cultural dem-onstrations and family

entertainment in the Fitzwilliam Streetarea. June 24-25 all day. Call 250-754-8141.

GO-KARTING Check out the 200cc Honda-powered go-karts that power you around a

NASCAR-type track at Cyber City. Double-seater karts are also available toenable small children to ride safely with their parents.

OUTDOOR RECREATION With one of the warm-est climates in Canada,Nanaimo has always been

a destination for outdoor enthusiasts.From the ocean to the mountains,there is something here for everybody. For the best local knowledge on any outdoor activity, visit www.nanaimoin-formation.com.

6969

7070

7272

7373

7171

7474

7575

7676

7777


Voted Nanaimos

6550 Island Hwy.

(across from Woodgrove)

breakfastomelettesbennies

breakie bowls

lunchsandwiches

burgersbig bowl salads

dinnerribs pizza

steakhalibut

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77777777777777777777 777 YYYYEYYYYEYEEYYYEYYYY AAAARARARARRRRRRRRRRRARRRARARRAAARS!S!SS!!SS!S!S!SSS!S!SSSS!S!SSSSS!SS!SSSSSSSSS!7 YEAEARRSS!

Ships of foolsImagine not just one ship of fools but 45 of them. Thats how many teams hit the water for the Silly BoatRegatta last year.

Lots of duct tape, plenty of teamwork,and very little time are the hallmarks of Nanaimos most accessible boat race.

The regatta is a fundraiser for theNanaimo Child Development Centre a full day of silliness smack-dab in betweenJulys more regimented weekends of drag-on boat and bathtub racing.

Participants have four hours to assem-ble a floating concoction of craziness.Recycled materials are welcome no kitsor motors allowed.

The race distance is 150-200 metres,depending on the wind, from Swy-a-lana Lagoon to the buoy in Nanaimo Harbour and, hopefully, back. There are

eight heats and one grand finale.Participants vie for trophies ranging

from Most Pledges and Best Spirit to Super Silliest Sailors and First to Sink.

Last year, the Buccaneer Inn won the Super Silliest trophy.

We had a water cannon hidden and

78 d look at us d787878am memberea787878787878eaker, own 78788the Buccaneer Inn. This will be their thirdeer Inn This888

year involved in the Silly Boats.Our goal every year is to raise as much

money as we can, said Ilyn, adding they love that the regatta is accessible to every-one. Its not rocket science.

In 1984, the first Silly Boat Regatta was held to help families of children whoneeded kidney transplants travel to theU.S. That first event raised more than $4,000.

Twenty-seven years later, the regatta is still afloat and still pulling in a boatload of cash for the Child Development Centre. In 2010, the event raised $107,000.

The Nanaimo CDC is a non-profit orga-nization that offers programs and services to help children develop successfully. Their services include speech, language, physical and occupational therapies. Last year the CDC worked with more than 1,700 local children and families.

The 2011 Silly Boat Regatta is on Sunday, July 17 at Maffeo Sutton Park. Boat building starts at 8 a.m., activities and games start at 10 a.m. and races begin at 1 p.m.

To register or volunteer call 250-753-0251 or visit the website at www.sillyboat.com.In addition, a Mini Regatta, where kids can build toy-sized boats, will be hosted by Woodgrove

Centre and McDonalds Restaurants will operate the Sports Zone with various sporting events.

2011 regatta take place Sunday, July 17

By Jan Beecher


St. Pauls Lutheran Church250-754-9082 394 Shepherd AvenueSt. Pauls Lutheran Church is a Biblical andConfessional church that proclaims Jesus Christ as Lordand Saviour for all people, forgiving the sins of all who believe in Him, and giving them eternal life.http://stpaulslutheran.tripod.com

ET Family Curch250-753-0258 1300 Princess RoyalA place where individuals and families can take a fresh step on their spiritual journey and experience Gods love. Our passion is to love God, love others, and serve the world. Our gatherings focus on energetic worshipand relevant teaching, in an informal atmosphere. Everyone is welcome!www.nanaimoet.com

Lighthouse Bible Baptist Church250-716-7283 520 Prideaux St. (100F Meeting Hall)We are a Bible based church that believes in theimportance of building strong families and lives through the preaching of the Word of God, through ministryopportunities, and through fellowship with other believers. We believe youll see a difference!www.lighthousebbc.com

Calvary Fellowship Nanaimo250-729-0698 1951 Estevan Rd., (Ecolee Ocean School)At Calvary Fellowship our desire is to know God and Hispurposes for us. To do that we carefully study week by week chapter by chapter, the most popular and most widely readbook of all time, Gods handbook for humanity, the Bible.We invite you to come and join us as we learn Gods word,fellowship and worship God together!www.cfnanaimo.weebly.com

St. Andrews United Church250-753-1924 311 Fitzwilliam St.Built in 1893, St. Andrews has 115 years of service to the commu-nity of Nanaimo. We hold traditional church services acoompanied by our pipe organ and Senior and Junior choirs. We are a friendly,welcoming church offering tea and coffee after church. We have aSunday School for children and teens, a thrfi t shop offering house-hold goods and clothes and an Outreach program that includes theNanaimo Food Banks, Brannan Lake, Haven House.email: [email protected]

St. Pauls Anglican250-753-2523 29 Church StreetProclaiming Gods love and the faith of Christ crucifi ed and resurrected through Christ centered music, preachingand liturgy. We welcome you to join us in knowing JesusChrist as Saviour and Friend. A spiritual oasis in the middle of the city.www.stpaulsnanaimo.shawbiz.ca

St. Andrews Prebyterian250-758-2676 4235 Departure Bay RoadCome worship with us! Join us in prayer and praise as we learn to walk more closely with our Savior, Jesus Christ. Hear Bible-based messages that are challenging and relevant. Feel Gods love grow in Sunday school, Bible studies, activities and mission projects.www.sapcnanaimobc.ca

SERVICE TIMESSt. Andrews Presbyterian ChurchSunday 9 am and 11 amyChristian Science SocietySunday 10:30Reading Room Fri. 11-4gSt. Pauls AnglicanSunday 8 am, 9:15 am or 11 amWed. 11 amW

St. Pauls LutheranSunday 11 am ET Family ChurchSunday 10:30 amFirst Baptist ChurchSunday 9 am or 11 amSt. Andrews United ChurchSunday 10:30 am

Calvary Fellowship NanaimoSunday 10:30 am Bible Study, Prayer Meeting Wed. 7 pmBrechin United ChurchSunday 9 am and 10:30 am

Lighthouse Bible Baptist ChurchSunday 10 am, 11 am & 6 pm- Wedesday 7 pm Prayer & Bible yStudy

Thank you and GOD Bless!Thank you and GOD Bless!

Christian Science Society250-753-8036 20 Chapel StreetA church designed to commemorate the wordand works of our Master, which should rein-state primitive Christianity and its lost element of healing. -MB Eddy.

of

Nanaimo Welcomes You

Attend the Church

Your Choice

to

But those who hope the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on winds like eables; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint - Isaiah 40:31

First Baptist Church250-753-0241 1650 Waddington Rd.Established in 1891 and newly expanded, First Baptist Churchs vision is To Know Christ... and to Make Him Known. Visitors are welcome at our two Sunday morn-ing services, 9 am and 11 am. Oh come, let us worship!www.fbcnanaimo.ca


Nanaimo Bakery

#1-2025 Bowen Rd.250-758-4260

European

Style Bake

ry

& CONFECTIONERYLIMITED

RAMSAY LAMPMAN RHODESLegal Excellence. Island Values.

250-754-3321Toll Free: 1-800-263-3321L A W Y E R S

r l rwww.rlr-law.com [email protected] 111 Wallace Street, Nanaimo

IF YOUVE BEEN INJURED, WE CAN HELP.

Best Authentic Chinese Smorgasbord

In The Area!

#3 - 508 8th Street, Nanaimo, B.C.

250-753-9541

All you can eatTuesday to Sunday

NoMSG

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Delivery and Take-out available

22Air

conditioned

Fun for then for theWHOLE FAMILY

ff

AUGUST 19, 20 & 21 FREE Kids Zone 4-H Petting Farm

Amusement Music & More!BEBAN PARK FAIRGROUNDS

www.viex.ca 250.758.3247

NANAIMO CANOE-KAYAK CLUB The clubThhosts several regattas over the summer at Long Lake. The club also hosts learn to Thpaddle programs from May to September on Saturdays from 1-3 p.m. Call 250-741-1200 or visit www.nckc.ca.7979

STROLL THROUGH A PARK Nanaimo has Kmany parks within itscity limits to take a

stroll through. For more of a nature feel try Bowen Park or Colliery Dam. Foran urban feel try Maffeo Sutton Park ffffalong the seawall. For a complete listof city parks visit www.nanaimo.ca or check out the other listing on this page.

PETROGLYPH PARK KA two-hectare pro-vincial park featuringprehistoric sandstone

rock carvings depicting mystical animal and human figures. Parking lot is offfi ffthe Island Highway between HaliburtonStreet and Highview Terrace.

PIPERS LAGOONPARK A trail leads to Ka rocky headland be-tween a shallow lagoon

and an outer beach. It features severallookouts across the Georgia Strait and has several benches for watching ma-rine life or birds.

WESTWOOD LAKE Walk, jog or cyclethe six-kilometre trailaround the lake in this

106-hectare park. Trails connect withothers leading up Mount Benson orover to Morrell Sanctuary. The popular Thswimming beach has a lifeguard onduty in the summer. No power boatsare allowed.

8080 8282

8383 8181


GENERATIONSMarble statue

created by DanielCline represents

four generations of women.

CENTENNIAL FOUNTAINC OCENTENNIAL FOUNTAINItalian stonemasons

took three years to buildthe fountain in 1958 in honour of B.C.s 100th

anniversary as a colony.

PACIFIC SAILSPAohn CharnetskiJo

created thetainless steelstsails on theHarbourfrontHWalkway torepresentNanaimos

marine legacy.m

MALASPINA MURALE.J. Hughess mural of

Alejandro Malaspina wassaved from demolition and

installed in the Port of Nanaimo Centre.

GALLERY ROWOutdoor art gallery on

Fitzwilliam Street, in the alley next to Gates and

Gifts, features local artists.,

A t lk

C

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a

across Nanaimo 84By Melissa Fryer

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Map courtesyof Downtown Nanaimo Business Improvement Association


Tickets at The Ticket Centre.Call 250-754-8550 or buy

on-line at www.porttheatre.com

SATURDAY,SEPTEMBER 10, 2011 - 7PMTHE PORT THEATRE - NANAIMO

OUTRIGGER CANOE Th e Nanaimo Canoe Thand Kayak Club hostsits annual outrigger

canoe race on the second last weekendof February. Teams from all over the Island and Lower Mainland take part.Call the boathouse at 250-758-4052 fordetails.

YELLOW POINT SCE-NIC DRIVE Just southof Nanaimo, the rural communities of Cedar

and Yellow Point off er stunning coun-fffftryside vistas. Maps are available fromwww.tourismnanaimo.com.

SOS POKER DIVE Sink or Swim Scubas fiftfi hftannual Great NanaimoPoker Dive takes place

June 5 at Neck Point Park. The event, Thwhich raises money for the Nanaimoand District Hospital Foundation, features a cash jackpot, great prizes anda barbecue. Call 250-758-7946 or go towww.sosscuba.ca.

BOOKFEST Vancou-ver Island Childrens Book Festival cele-brates its 25th anniver-

sary May 7 with a move to downtownNanaimo and Diana Krall Plaza. Th eThfun-filled day features authors, illustra-fitors and storytellers entertaining kidsfrom five to 12. Noon-hour entertain-fifiment includes the Kerplunks. Go to www.bookfest.ca for more information.

8585

8686

8787 8989

BOWLING A greatactivity for rainy days. Brechin Lanes

at 1870 East Wellington Rd. offersfffffi ve-pin bowling with automatic fifilanes and scoring, and bumpers forthe kids. Call 250-753-2341. Splits-ville at 171 Calder Rd. offers 10-pin fffffun, call 250-754-2442.

8888

Go aheaeadadanandndd drereaeam

plan yoyour nexextxt vavacacacatatiion.


can help

Unit 106 - 2517 Bowen Rd, Nanaimo (250) 756-9875 t 1-800-667-1406

MEDIchairWatch a face glow with pride... as someone who has been housebound gets back to afternoon shopping or returns to strolling down the seawall.

We carry a line of affordable products to rent or purchase, that allow you or a loved one to continue getting out there and enjoying all the wonderful experiences Nanaimo has to offer.

mobility scooters t walkers manual & power wheelchairs canes t crutches and more!!!

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CopperKettle B&B

English Garden & PatioEuropean or English Breakfast15 min walk along Seawall to downtown boutiques & cafs

5 MINUTES TO FERRY465 Stewart Avenue, Nanaimo

250-740-3977www.copperkettlebc.com

Over the years, dragonboating has become synonymous with thebravery and courage that it takesto be a cancer survivor. It is also becoming synonymous with a big party in Nanaimo.

The Save-On-Foods Dragon Boat Festival continues to grow, attracting teams from all over North America. Thisyears event expects to have 90 teams.

Beautiful weather, entertainment for all ages and the pure spirit of its participantshave made Nanaimos races a premiere destination for the dragonboat community over the past nine years.

The plan for 2011 is to ride on the suc-cesses of the previous eight years.

The theme for the 2011 festival is Caribbean Carnival so expect plenty of steel drums.

It doesnt take much for a team to quali-fy for the dragonboat races.

You just have to be breathing and ableto sit upright, said Dragonboat Society past president, Frank Mazzei.

A team must have a tiller and a drum-

mer, and up to 20 paddlers. There are two divisions, mixed and womens only; with the mixed division requiring a minimum of eight female paddlers.

Although its OK to race with fewer than 20 paddlers, the disadvantage is obvi-ous. Besides, the dragonboaters motto is,Twenty paddlers One heart.

All paddles have to move together, saidMazzei. The team that can do that willwin.

Dragonboating a dynamic festival 90

By Jan Beecher

m. to 4 p.m. Saturda.m90909900 yaaew race every eighte90909900minutes. m9090990The success of the Dragon Boat Festival

is a gift to Nanaimo. Not only do down-town businesses benefit from thousandsof participants and spectators, but thenet proceeds raised go to the Nanaimoand District Hospital Foundation and arededicated to the purchase of diagnostic equipment to help detect breast cancer at its earliest stages.

The three-day Save-On-Foods DragonBoat Festival will run July 10-12 withopening ceremonies commencing at Maffeo Sutton Park on Friday, July 10. Formore information visit their website at www.nanaimodragonboat.com.

July 10-12 festival


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Birdwatchers from all over the world flock to Nanaimo to get a glimpse or snap a photo of the huge variety of avian wildlife.

Buttertubs Marsh, Nanaimo RiverEstuary, Colliery Dam Park, Neck PointPark, Chase River Estuary Park, HemerPark, Morrell Nature Sanctuary and atleast a dozen other sites offer everything from wrens to raptors.

The Birdingpal, a guide to worlds best birding locations, lists Nanaimo and itssurrounding areas for the best birdwatch-ing on Vancouver Island.

Great birding spots are also good areasto just get out and enjoy the outdoors andmost offer paths, facilities and natural fea-tures for picnicking, hiking, cycling, rock climbing and nature photography.

Nanoose bird photographer Mike Yiptook up the craft in as a hobby in 2003 after he retired from teaching. He has pub-lished several books, which help cover thecosts of photography, but are also a vehicle to share his work and skills to encourageother photographers.

Theres a lot of good photographers out there, Yip said. But they dont get their stuff out.

Yips goal is to ultimately photograph all 400 of the Islands listed bird species.

Buttertubs Marsh is among his favouritespots for easy access to plenty of birds.

There are American bittern, green heron, Virginia rails, soras, a lot of dif-ferent ducks like hooded mergansers, hesaid. The last rare duck I heard here wasa tufted duck about six or seven years ago,but theres always the potential for finding a rare duck around here because its a greathabitat.

Keith McDonald, retired deputy firechief, took up birdwatching and photogra-phy a year ago. One of his favourite localspots is the Nanaimo River estuary, where, along with waterfowl, birders can catch

site of a variety of owls, American tree sparrows, western meadowlarks and eagles that migrate through or make permanent homes there.

Every time its a decent day, you wantto get out there, MacDonald said. Youre always out trying to find that new bird the one that you havent got.

The Backyard Wildbird & Nature Store has been Nanaimos birdwatching focalpoint since it opened in 1995.

The store maintains a blog with infor-mation about recent bird walks, organized bird walk schedules and locations, plus links to useful bird publications and local trails and parks.

Colin Bartlett, store owner, said bird-watchers are always looking for places toget information, but are somewhat solitary by nature.

Its always a competition in birding, because youre going out there looking to see birds and enjoy, but you always want to find that rare one nobody else has seen something different and then leteverybody else know, Bartlett said.

for the ffbirds

Nanaimo is

(and birdwatchers)

By Chris Bush

9191

Birdwatching 101For more information, please go to

www.thebirdstore.blogspot.com or Mike Yips online magazine at http://vancou-verislandbirds.com.


By Bruce Mason

92 GabriolaIts good to go!

929292929292929292999Th929292gettaw929292opptio929292Islaan92992specc929292and 92992dozens of well established, year-round art-of well established, ound artist studios and a culture, community andhost of friendly characters, hard at work and play.

The island is the size of Manhattan, with a park as big as Central and almost as much to do as in the Big Apple, in high season. The climate is Mediterranean andthe population, 4,000-plus, doubles insummer.

Before you set your sights on Gabriola(pronounced GAY-briola), first visit the website www.gabriolaisland.org, filled with regularly updated information on attrac-tions and accommodation, photos andFAQs, by chamber of commerce manager Carol Ramsay.

Too many visitors just drive aroundthe perimeter of the Island, skimming thesurface instead experiencing the heart of

s hidden gems, she says.222ong list for a jam-packed, 222day-trip or plan an extend-da222major events.m222tart early, with the Islest222val (April 8-10) and the iv22colourful 13th Annual Silva Bay Shipyardcolourful 13th ASchool Launch Festival, (April 15-17).Thefirst showcases one of highest per-capitaconcentrations of artists in Canada andthe second celebrates the countrys only full-time wooden boat building school.

More information on these and other events is on the website, such as a home

and garden tour, theatre and poetry festivals, Concert on the Green, theCommunity Salmon BBQ, going strong formore than 50 years and the ThanksgivingStudio and Gallery Tour, one of the largest and oldest on the west coast of the conti-nent.

But first a taste of a few new hitattractions among locals, which will inter-est anyone wanting to make a return visit thats slightly different and even morememorable.

Woodfire is hot and a first for Gabriola a restaurant, open until 10 p.m. daily, areal treat for visitors who want to lingerover glorious sunsets and board a laterferry. Classically trained, award-winningchef Chris Hooton is attracting attention all over the region with authentic wood-fired pizzas and fine Italian pastas.

Recently keeping with the Woodfiretheme a state-of-the-art char-broiler was added, along with Alberta AAA steaks, succulent Island pork ribs, Ocean-wiseseafood and free range chicken, again with secret spices and sauces.

MARINA COTTAGES CAMPING RENTALS

3350 COAST RD, GABRIOLA 250.247.8931 WWW.PAGESRESORT.COM

EXPLORE KAYAK FISH SAIL HIKE DIVE RELAX

PPages Resort & Marina

Gabriola Island(250) 247-8255www.rdn.bc.ca

DESCANSO BAYREGIONAL PARK

Camping Year Round32 sites / $15 per night

Beautiful 40-acre ocean front.Launching site for kayakers & canoers.Day use picnic, hiking trails, swimming

1 km from Ferry Terminal1 km from Ferr


5299 Rutherford Road250.758.4806

The Quilted DuckGift Cottage

A gift cottage where you are welcomed like a friend

Open 7 days a week: 9:00 am to 5:30 pm

JIMSKAYAKING

Discover the Gulf IslandsLESSONS RENTALS DAYTRIPS

www.jimskayaking.com250-247-8335 or 250-751-5887

In the Old City Quarter309 A Wesley St.754-5110

A unique shoppingexperience with anIndonesian are!

Casual and Elegant Womens Apparel

Exotic Jewellery Hats and Accessories

Belly Dance Supplies & more!

Plus Sizes Now Available

From page 33The restaurant is part of the recently

opened Madrona Mall, at the summit of Ferry Hill, home to the likes of Mad Ronas, a contemporary big-city coffee bar, Slice of Life Gallery and North Road Sports, which stocks fishing, camping and cycling gear, along with clothing.

Another popular Gabriola gourmet experience is Slow Rise Bakery. PaulMacEwen and Dimitri Tzotzos created a massive Cob and brick oven and equally unique wood frame building where they now hand-craft artisan breads, everything from 100 per cent spelt to olive and rose-mary, baguettes and white chocolate andblueberry scones.

They also create long line-ups at the Gabriola Saturday Farmers Market and, because of demand, have expanded off-Island to the Bowen Road and NanaimoFarmers Markets.

Some folks savor more than outdoors orart and visit Gabriola for an educational experience.

People from around the world study at the Silva Bay Shipyard School, theIsland School of the Building Arts (nearDrumbeg Park) and The Haven (at Davis Bay).

Other educational opportunities include

John Rogers 8 Dragon Kayaks, wherehe assists students in building their ownunique craft, one at a time, in as little as three weeks.

People often start from scratch in late spring with little woodworking experienceand are enjoying their very own light, safeand eye-popping kayak by early summer, he reports, adding: A major attraction is bragging rights when asked: Who builtthat beauty?

He also sharpens knives and saw bladesfor anyone who is tired of being dull, including many folks from town.

There is much to see by water and land. Gabriola has more than its share of renowned Gulf Island scenery, including four waterfront parks, endless trails anda golf course carved around tiny LakeHoggan.

Surveys have shown that visitors enjoy: The largest number of beach accesses

on the Gulf Islands, more than 30. Drumbeg Park, an easy walk beneath

Garry Oaks, along fascinating sandstone formations leading to a panoramic view of Flat Top Islands.

Pages Resort and Marina, a short hopaway, with a charming bookstore, special-izing in a surprising selection of Island authors.

Paradise Island Alpaca Farm, wherekids and adults get up close and personal.

Petroglyph Trail is perennially popu-lar, but on the museum grounds you willfind exact replicas in one spot.

If you interested in agricultureor want to stretch your legs, visit theCommons, which has just earned ground-breaking zoning.

Other favourites are: magnificent Malaspina Galleries, Gabriola SandsProvincial Park (aka Twin Beaches), Sandwell Provincial Park and spectacularBerry Point, overlooking Entrance Islandlighthouse, with the roar of the sea and sea lions at your feet.

Folklife Village, one of the worlds only recycled shopping malls a pavilionduring Expo 86 is where you will findArtworks, a gallery displaying work by Island artists, Raspberrys Jazz Bar, the local hangout and an irresistible real estate board

The heart and soul of Gabriola is The Roxy Lounge and Culture Club, an intimate 50-vintage-seat theatre withsuperb acoustics, described by the CBC as, a national treasure. Also check out the Gabriola Theatre, where legendary 92-year-old actor Antony Holland stagespopular performance readings.

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The moment you step onto Newcastle Island, you can feel the layers of his-tory it holds come alive.Today, it sits like a jewel in the Nanaimo

Harbour, a place to unwind, relax andenjoy at a slow pace. Whether its a dip in Kanaka Bay named for Hawaiianimmigrants who worked on the island orbirdwatching at Mallard Lake, the island is one of Nanaimos most cherished destina-tions for tourists and residents alike.

Newcastle Island provides a reflec-tion of Nanaimos early years, said Bill Merilees, author of Newcastle Island: A Place of Discovery. From the discovery of coal, followed by sandstone quarrying, herring salting by Japanese Canadians, and a pre-Second World War dancehalland picnic destination brought Nanaimoher early prosperity and a place where Nanaimoites could forget their cares.

But in the years before 1930, when theIsland was purchased by Canadian Pacific Railway as a getaway resort for its employ-ees and their families, Newcastle was a place for hardworking men and several industries.

The first people to make use of the 336-hectare island were the Coast Salish,

who, from January to April, lived on theisland to take advantage of the herringthat spawned between Newcastle andProtection islands.

In the early 1800s, at a time when the Coast Salish had moved on to other hunt-ing grounds, Europeans arrived, andin 1852 sunk the first coal mine theNewcastle Mine to help provide fuel for

its fleet of steamships on the west coast.A second mine, the Fitzwilliam Mine,opened from 1872-1882, and has the unfortunate honour of being the site of an infamous accident, when a gas explosion took the lives of three miners on Sept. 15,1876. Coal seams from both mines ran toNanaimo, and as a result both NewcastleIsland and Nanaimo are honeycombed with the remnants of coal shafts today.

Visitors can still see the remnants of the mines entry point today.

Coal, however, wasnt the islands only gift to industrialists. In 1869 Joseph Emery of the United States Mint in San Francisco began searching for the perfect sandstone to build the new mint. He found it onNewcastle, where over several years thou-sands of tons of sandstone was removed

On Sept. 22, 2007, the province and city signed a deal with Snuneymuxw First Nation to create a management board to preserve the historical, cultural and scientific interest of the island.

Newcastle remains and island of recreation, complete with excellent bird and wildlife watchingnear Mallard Lake. Overnight camping spo

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