The other day I was chatting with my friend who recently moved to Victoria, and discovered that I was out of the loop (more specifically I was out of touch with Victoria’s social scene), and it all came down to one website: www.MeetUp.com.  This website helps groups of people with shared interests, plan meetings and form offline clubs in local communities around the world.  Here in Victoria there are over 167 meetup groups, which range from the Social Dog Walking Club, to the Victoria Girls Cocktail Group to the more unique Michael Jackson Meetup Group.  If you’re looking to get involved, stay connected or meet new people, this is truly the place to be.

You simply type in your postal code and your topic of interest and all of the related groups will appear.  Since I have a passion for running I tried to search for a group in Victoria, but to my surprise there wasn’t a running group!  Within 24 hours I decided it was time to take charge and I launched the Victoria Running MeetUp Group and I’ve already made 7 new friends!

The idea is to post MeetUp events (so in my case it would be runs) and we meet at different places in Victoria to enjoy an interest that we share with complete strangers (whom will likely become friends).  This is different from joining a running group at a running store or recreation centre, because there is more of a online social component.  You can chat with fellow group members online - something that isn’t available through other groups you might join in the city.  It is a great support network and it is very forward thinking, because it is accessible to more people - the majority of MeetUp groups are FREE to join!!!

Once you join a group you can decide which MeetUp events to attend (most MeetUps are FREE or the group organizer can implement a cost if there are costs to cover, ex. transportation, entrance fees etc).

In the Victoira Running MeetUp Group that I just started, you can join for free and there will be several runs that only require that you turn up and run.  Other events will be more structured (include transportation and guest lectures) and a registration fee is applied.

I hope that you get out into your local communities to see what is offered.  Maybe you’ll even start your own meetup group!

Maybe we’ll meet one day on a run?
- Liz Bonham

The local seniors that I’ve taken out on trips make me laugh, but the questions from tourists really trump everyone.  I could devulge my list of top 20, but while reading the news today I stumpled across this list from Banff National Park.  I just couldn’t resist a re-post…

From an unofficial survey of Banff tour operators, here are the top 20 outrageous questions, some with answers in case you’ve wondered the same thing. As for the rest, well, they stand on their own.

1.Are the animals with collars tame? (These animals have been fitted withtagged collars because they have had incidents with people. It is important to stay a safe distance away from wildlife.)

2. We are going into British Columbia. Do we need to change our money into Euros?

3.Can we drive our car onto a glacier anywhere? (Not to our knowledge,but you might enjoy a trip on the Ice Explorer across the Columbia Icefields.)

4. Do we need snow tires or chains to drive to Lake Louise in July?

5. Where are the igloos and the Eskimos?

6. If the Columbia Icefield melts before we get there, can we do a different excursion?

7. Can you see polar bears at the Columbia Icefield?

8. Can I walk around P.E.I. in a day?

9. Can I get from Vancouver to Toronto by driving in a day?

10. At what elevation do the deer turn to elk?

11. How much does that mountain weigh?

12. Is this all natural?

13. While working at the (Banff) Gondola on a rainy day I was asked to turn the fog off at the top so they could see.”

14.While working at the Gondola, I got asked when we release the animalsso they can start feeding them. I had to remind them that this wasn’t apetting zoo, the animals are wild and come out when they please — andplease don’t feed them.”

15. Where’s that place where I can see the bear in the cage? Can I get a photo with him?

16. If I see a bear when I’m hiking, can I just keep walking past it?

17. Can you guarantee wildlife sightings?

18. Where is the rocky mountain?

19. What’s the best trail to take a bike on to see a cougar?

20. Where are the animals kept at night?

Bonus Question: Where can I find a wife?

For further information about our trips: www.LizardAdventureTravel.com

B.C. will introduce a harmonized sales tax of 12 per cent, replacing the PST and GST effective July 2010, Premier Gordon Campbell announced Thursday morning in Vancouver.

- Obtained from CBC Website. Article dated July 23, 2009.

“I think that before people start talking about tax increases, they should start talking about savings in their own organization,” said Campbell.

- Premier Gordon Campbell, regarding TransLink shortfall and plan for acquiring new revenues, August 1, 2009. Quote obtained from The Vancouver Sun.

Talk out of both sides of your mouth much, Mr. Premier?

The HST is effectively a tax increase for the average consumer. Many things that are now exempt from PST will see the entire new 12% tax put on it. Including things like strata fees.

Oh, and TransLink? You’re screwed.

TransLink had counted on boosting a tax on commercial parking spaces, which now brings in $18 million a year, to raise $57 million annually.

But because the parking tax is a sales tax, it is being eliminated and will be rolled into the HST when it is launched next July 1.

TransLink and transportation ministry officials were scrambling to find a way to fix the problem.

- Vancouver Sun, September 3, 2009.

Good thing there’s a review of operations happening at TransLink, eh? Oh, hey, I have a suggestion for you: reduce the number of (unelected) people on that decision-making board. There are nine members. You don’t need more than 5. That’ll cut the costs pretty much in half.

Oh and if they’re not physically present for a meeting? DON’T PAY THEM. That’s right folks - they get paid even if they only have virtual attendance.

Cross-posted at Resolving Timeline Issues.

West Coast Scrapbook Layout and Hand Made Card Contest Deadline

Submission Deadline is September 8^th, 2009

Surrey, B.C., September 20^th. The theme for the layout contest is “Family“. Handmade cards may be of any theme. Two entries per category are permitted. Finalists will be selected for each category and their creations will be on display at the 3rd Annual Surrey Scrapbook Fair at Sullivan Community Centre in Surrey on September 20th, 2009 from 11am-4pm. All visitors to the Scrapbook Fair will be given one ballot to vote on their favourite layout and card. Voting will take place between 11am - 2:00pm. The winner will be announced at 3:30pm the day of the fair. FIRST PRIZE FOR THE LAYOUT CONTEST IS $100 CASH!

Net Proceeds will be donated to the Surrey Food Bank and canned goods will be accepted.

To enter email a photo or scanned image of the layout/card to: scrapbookfair@hotmail.com

*The following information must be included in your email:  First and last name, phone number and email address.

For full contest details visit:

www.scrapbookfair.blogspot.com

or call Heather Harasymow

604 374-4031

Recently I’ve been taking senior groups out on day trips around Victoria and to more quaint places such as Salt Spring Island, Chemainus and Comox.  I have to say that these have been some of the more entertaining trips that I’ve had all summer!  The seniors are friendly, spontaneous and always up for an adventure!

Favourite quotes from my senior groups…which I’ve graciously kept anonymous:

“Stop for that hunky hitch hiker!  He can sit on my lap” - hollered from the back of the bus

“Where’s the Pot House?” - senior
“You mean the pottery house?” - Liz searching through tourist book
“No, NOT POTTERY…the marijuana house…I want to eat brownies and party on the Lizard Bus!” - senior

“That wine-tasting was delightful, so delightful I decided to keep the wine glass as a memory” - the wine glass was secretly revealed from within the purse, followed by a sly giggle

“I didn’t like the wine, it tasted a bit like cat’s piss…well you’ve gotta give everything a try!”

I look forward to the future senior trips, but in the interim I’ve found some great DISCOUNTS FOR SENIORS:

Air Canada
Many fares allow a Senior Citizen discount for passengers over 60 years of age. Typically, there is a 10% discount off of the base fare before taxes and surcharges. Unfortunately, Senior?s discounts cannot be booked on the web site, but you can call Air Canada Reservations at 1-888-247-2262 for fare type applicability, fare quotes and reservations.

National Parks
Parks Canada Agency is responsiblefor national parks, national historic sites and canals. Those over 65 years of age receive 25% off the entry fees! Contact the individual parks for more information.

VIA RAIL
Seniors, take someone for a FREE ride! Take advantage of the standard 10% discount offered to seniors and get a FREE second ticket for your accompanying spouse, child or friend!

Sandman Hotels
Seniors 55 years or better will find fabulous discounts -approximately 25% off regular rates - at all 26 locations throughout Western Canada all year long.

In addition to the above mentioned areas, you’ll also find a number of beauty salons, health and fitness studios, pharmacies, restaurants and car dealers offer senior discounts.  Don’t be afraid to ask!

For future day trips for seniors, within Victoria and beyond: www.LizardAdventureTravel.com

As I wondered into the inner harbour of Victoria, on Sunday evening I was greeted by the friendly volunteers of the Symphony Splash.  I then made friends with the hoards of people that were occupying the same small, square of grass as us, as we all vied for a great view of the stage floating in the harbour.  For the next 3 hours we all enjoyed the live music and fireworks, while sharing popcorn, chocolate and Belgium waffles…this was truly a ‘Victoria’ experience.  Nowhere else do you find such extreme openess and interest in making new friends.

As we chilled on the hill we overlooked the harbour where we saw all of the kayaks, sailboats, motor boats and miscellaneous floating devices crowd the base of the stage.  Once everyone was settled the central motor boat cooked up a BBQ and served everyone hotdogs…utilizing their paddles as a serving tray between boats!  Surprisingly - not one dog fell into the water!

The following day I ventured down to St.Ann’s Academy to catch some of the BC Day Celebrations, and was blown away by a live performance of Sahara Sloan in the St.Ann’s Chapel.  As a soprano, opera singer she wowed the crowd with her immensely powerful voice.  On the final song, she brought the crowd to tears with ‘Ave Maria’ - truly amazing!  I couldn’t believe that this was a FREE performance.  Something of this caliber is rarely FREE!

On the lawns of St.Ann’s Academy there was a chill beer garden hosted by Vancouver Island Brewery, and a main stage held a range of performances from pop singers to extensive Flamenco workshops.  Truly the highlight of the outdoor area was the Polish food kiosk - homemade perogies and polish sausage…

Below I’ve noted other FREE events coming up in Victoria so you don’t miss out:

Outdoor Movies in Beacon Hill Park (Cameron Bandshell)
Friday, August 7, 14, 21, 28 (9pm) *3D movies: First 1000 people on Fri. Aug.7 receive free 3D Glasses!
Saturday, August 8, 15, 22, 29 (8pm-11pm) *regular movies
Keen to see a flick for free? Don’t fancy being cooped up inside a hot, stuffy theatre for hours? Come & enjoy a movie under the stars. Screenings are free, just bring your own snacks, flashlights & blankets.

Victoria Dragon Boat Festival (Inner Harbour)
August 14-16  In addition to paddling races you can check out various forms of entertainment: Bucan Bucan (14 piece gypsy marching band), Asmira Dance Theatre (set to middle easternmelodies) and much more…

Victoria Symphony in Beach Hill Park (Cameron Bandshell)
Sunday, August 9, 1:30pm

Check out a pic of the boats and fireworks of Symphony Splash:

For other fun events and day-trips in Victoria: www.LizardAdventureTravel.com

This year the Blogathon.org site is back and in full swing.
Get ready to blog for 24 hours on July 25th.

This year I am raising funds for Richmond Animal Protection Agency.

I have some amazing story’s to share with you all about the cats that live at the cat sanctuary. Many of the staff and volunteers have provided the stories and it has been wonderful to read them all, and I can’t wait to share them with you.

I hope you can donate to the cause and help me out.

I was at the cat sanctuary last Friday July 17th, for my usual shift, it was a record heat that day of 30 degrees here, and the cats were lazing in the heat. Got a lot of great photos of the kitties.

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

DONATE NOW:

I have made a personal pledge page to collect donation for RAPS. I hope to raise money for the charity through this blog. I have all ready donated (to fund-raising page) and I donate $25 monthly (separately from my fund-raising page). You can set up monthly donations through CanadaHelps or do a one time gift. You can always pick one specific cat at the shelter to sponsor as well, there is a sponsor program. Every bit helps.

You can also sponsor me directly from the Blogathon website as well.

http://www.blogathon.org/pledge.php?blogid=60

Some folks have all ready donated (thank you) and my donations page will go on - even after the Blogathon - so please donate when you can, if you can and I thank you so so much. I will keep track of what I raised specifically during the Blogathon and post the numbers when I am done.

Read along at THE LOVE BLOG.

UPDATE: July 21/09…TELUS is no longer accepting donations of toiletries, but you CAN donate money through to the end of the week. Call the numbers listed if you have questions.

If a fire raged down a hill toward your house, and you only had minutes to leave for safety, what would you take?

Pictures? Computers? Pets? Would you be forced to leave something valuable behind? Would you have to just flee with the clothes on your back?

This is what 11,000 residents of West Kelowna have had to do this weekend. Take a look at these pictures!

Not sure where I’m talking about? Check out this tracking map.

I’ve seen the power of the Internets and Twitter; how bloggers and other Internet folk have rose to the call of stepping in to help, and so here and now I’m sounding the call:

The people of West Kelowna need our help.

So readers, I’m asking you to tweet or blog about the situation to get the word out there among the blogging community, or if you can, donate. Here’s how to do it:

As I am writing this, the call for donations is for CASH or TOILETRIES. Nothing else. If that changes, I will let you know.

You can drop off your donations at the following TELUS businesses:

TELUS House Vancouver
555 Robson Street,Vancouver

TELUS House Burnaby
4519 Canada Way, Burnaby

Brian Canfield Center
3777 Kingsway Ave
Burnaby

Burnaby Business Center
1795 Willingdon Ave, Burnaby

Abbotsford Plant Center
1648 Salton Road, Abbotsford

TELUS Kelowna
2002 Enterprise Way, Kelowna

Andre’s Mobility Dealership
Orchard Park Mall, Kelowna

If you are like me and don’t live near one of those locations, you can call call 604-697-8184 or 1-866-697-8184 and get information about mailing in a donation.

Checks need to be made out to Telus Community Ambassadors.

Another option is to call the Emergency Social Services Centre at 778-797-2269.

If you would like to donate to the BCSPCA and help out with their emergency shelter services for pets that have been evacuated, call 250-861-7722. You can help with donations of cash, hay, canned pet food, and they are looking for people who can lend some large kennels to house family pets.

I’m trying to follow this closely and will let you know if I hear anything further. In the meantime, I’m boxing up some toiletries to send over to Vancouver!

I think there are quite a few of us who can’t make it to the annual Blogher conference in Chicago this year. With that in mind we are having a bbq and meetup next Friday. Details are here: http://leftcoastmama.net/2009/07/15/i-wish-i-was-at-blogher-bbq-and-pity-party/

If you think you can make it and would like to hang out with some fabulous people and their families drop a comment or email on the Left Coast Mama site. Hope to see everyone there!