National Observer, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Legions are as intrinsic to small-town life as the local Tim Hortons or Canadian Tire, but they’re at risk of extinction if Ottawa doesn’t offer COVID-19 relief soon, the network’s top brass says.
Continue reading Legions at risk of becoming extinctNational Observer, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
This summer season was short, and perhaps sweet enough so some of B.C.’s tourism operators were able to weather the pandemic‘s negative impacts.
Campgrounds, parks, restaurants and a range of tourism services reaped some measure of reward from B.C. residents exploring their backyards and following the government’s staycation directive.
But kayaking expedition operators certainly weren’t buoyed by a wave of local vacationers, said Rick Snowdon, owner of Spirit of the West Adventures based on Quadra Island.
Continue reading Tourism pretty dire for Local Kayak OperatorsNational Observer, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Folks from far-flung places land on Cortes Island every summer to swim the lakes, paddle the seas and explore the forests.
Yet a top destination in this B.C. outdoor adventure paradise is a tiny independent bookstore called Marnie’s Books. The red, cottage-like bookstore punctuated by an aquamarine door is a hive of activity whenever it’s open.
Continue reading Marnie’s Books – Small Bookstore with big draw on Cortes IslandNational Observer, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The B.C. government should take its own steps to decriminalize illicit drug use to help stem surging overdose deaths instead of calling on the federal government to do it, say disillusioned advocates.
Continue reading BC should take steps to DECRIMINALIZE illicit drug useNational Observer, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The NDP’s party whip wants Ottawa to take the $900-million budget for WE Charity’s now infamous and defunct volunteer initiative and distribute it to another federal youth program.
It’s not too late to use the funds to employ youth and support businesses and community groups across the country that are struggling economically during the pandemic, said Rachel Blaney, MP for North Island-Powell River.
“We are reminding (the Liberals) that they have avenues to do it if they really care about young people and communities across this country,” Blaney told Canada’s National Observer.
“And we hope they will look at them.”
Blaney wants the federal government to funnel the shelved WE funds into the Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) program, a wage subsidy plan for employers who hire youth and one that is already operational, Blaney said.
Continue reading NDP Want $900 Million Given to Canada Summer Jobs
