Evening News Update for May 12 2020

NANAIMO—COVID-19 figures released today show a steady decline in the number of new cases and hospitalizations in BC. There are just seven new cases of the virus reported over the past 24 hours, and none in the Island Health region. Fewer than 400 people are now suffering from COVID-19 in BC, with just 8 active cases in Island Health. However, the death rate continues to climb, with one new death at a long term care facility in the Fraser Health region. 63 people are in hospital with the virus, with one in Island Health.

The BC Centres for Disease Control has launched an online survey to measure how COVID-19 has affected British Columbians and to inform those leading the pandemic response in their decision-making. BC's Minister of Health, Adrian Dix says it's an opportunity for British Columbians to have a say in improving our health care system. The survey, called "Your Story-Our Future" takes 15 minutes to complete and you can do so online at BCCDC.ca\covid19survey. The online survey is offered in three languages. The survey can also be completed by telephone for those unable to access the internet and where the survey is offered in 150 other languages. The phone number is 1-833-707-1900. The survey is open until May the 31st, and the results will be made available this summer.

The Provincial Health Officer has some advice to people wondering whether they can start dating during the pandemic. Dr. Bonnie Henry acknowledges it is an extra-difficult time for single people who do not have ready-made people in their bubble" but she is urging singles to proceed slowly and with serious thought before embarking on new relationships right now. Bottom line she says "this is not the time for rapid, serial-dating. But if you pick one person, be responsible, no kissing if you or the other person is feeling unwell. Keep your germs to yourself for now."

📷 Seniors on OAS will see a one-time payment of up to $500 / via Flickr (CC BY 2.0) — 📷 NanaimoFirehall #1 / via CHLY File Photos.

The Mayor of Nanaimo is standing behind his council's decision to borrow $44 million dollars to pay for $89 million dollars worth of capital projects in this year's budget. Leonard Krog says "it is precisely during this time of crisis that makes it exactly the right time to invest in infrastructure projects." The projects include the replacement of Firehall #1, and major upgrades to Metral Drive, Bowen Road and the Harewood area. Krog says the infrastructure projects will mean continued employment for city workers and new jobs for companies that win city contracts. However, he could not say how many jobs would be created. City taxpayers will see an average $114 dollars increase to their tax bill this year.

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Lisa Cordasco

Senior Reporter and News Director — Lisa is responsible for creating the station's first morning news current affairs show on CHLY. She is also deeply involved in training and mentoring student and citizen journalists who volunteer their time at the station. Before joining CHLY, Lisa spent 35 years in various roles at CBC Radio, from host to reporter. Her passion for journalism and radio has led her to Nanaimo, where she intends to provide CHLY listeners with news they can use, in an alternative radio environment. Her other not-so-secret passion is costuming for any occasion.

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