David Wiwchar

1 day ago | nanaimonewsnow.com | David Wiwchar

A man who broke into the Alberni SPCA had his fine multiplied by Judge Alexander Wolf, who admonished the man for his actions. 46-year old Shilo Lavalee said he was on drugs the night of May 2nd, 2024 when he went to the local SPCA to retrieve his dog after it had been caught running loose for three days. He smashed the gate locks with an axe, terrifying the staff inside.

1 day ago | nanaimonewsnow.com | David Wiwchar

As dozens of graduates head out into the workforce, they now have increased options to remain in the Alberni Valley thanks to a new aviation training program offered in local schools. Stephanie Coulson has been leading lessons and helping students through aviation experiments designed to encourage interest in the ever-expanding local industry. She says students can eventually enroll in a Coulson Aviation program, getting paid as they learn the basics of aviation mechanics.

2 days ago | nanaimonewsnow.com | David Wiwchar

As the school year ends today, Pacific Rim School District 70 Board has already secured their budget for next year. Officials predict a 5% reduction in revenues from $67 million to $64 million and proposed a 10% reduction in the initial budget allocation for supplies and services. Board Chair Pam Craig says the 10% cut is done each year as protection against any unforseen drop in enrollment, then reinstated once the full number of students is known.

1 week ago | nanaimonewsnow.com | David Wiwchar

Port Alberni RCMP is investigating following the discovery of a deceased person in a local park on Monday. On June 16, 2025, at 5:41 p.m., mounties received the report of a body in Dry Creek Park. Frontline officers responded and located a deceased person with apparent injuries. Forensic Identification Services attended and processed the scene. Police are working with BC Coroner's Service to determine the circumstances that lead to this death.

1 week ago | nanaimonewsnow.com | David Wiwchar

City Council took the first steps towards a $6 million plan to improve two blocks on lower Argyle Street. The widest street in the Province will be dug up between 1st and 3rd Avenue for new sewer and water lines, then pedestrian bumpouts and separated multimodal lanes will be built, and angle parking spots replaced by paralell parking. Mayor Sharie Minions said businesses in the area haven't been consulted yet, but will be approached over the coming weeks.