All the individuals and organizations who have been selected as finalists for the 2008 Leading EDG Awards are in their own way working to build a prosperous future for Nanaimo.

As you read about the finalists, you will understand how they are playing key roles in Nanaimo’s economic development.

Committed Leadership - Individual

u Bill McGuire has been the longtime face of the Nanaimo Marine Festival, serving as commodore since its inception in 1976.

u Camela Tang’s efforts resulted in Nanaimo being named a 2008 Cultural Capital of Canada. She paved the way for critical new cultural infrastructure.

u Russ Burke served on many committees, and is a past president of the Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce and Nanaimo Airport Commission.

Committed Leadership - Business

u Atlas Truss mentors young athletes by raising funds to send football players to Vancouver Island University while they play for the VI Raiders.

u The Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation, through fundraising, carried out projects such as the recent $2.3-million renovation to the palliative care unit at the Nanaimo Regional General Hospital.

u Island Radio ensures local events are promoted and supported through their two Nanaimo stations. They sponsor many organizations and community events.

Excellent Foundation

u BOSA Properties is undertaking a $2.5-million renovation of Harewood Mall, soon-to-be-transformed into University Plaza.

u CAPE Developments is undertaking the $50 million Pacifica project on the former Malaspina Hotel site, including contributing $100,000 toward the commission of public art on the waterfront walkway.

u Sprott-Shaw College is the largest trainer of resident care nurses in B.C. With high demand for workers in the health care profession, local training keeps these professionals in our community.

Quality Infrastructure

u Harbour Air Seaplanes offers regular flights to Vancouver and Vancouver International Airport from Nanaimo’s harbourfront, while also offering unique tourism products.

u Kristo Zorkin has invested in the Old City Quarter over the last 20 years by renovating and maintaining many heritage buildings and constructing new ones.

u WildPlay Element Parks, the former Bungy Zone, has invested in new activites such as TreeGO which is affordable and unique.

Positive Image - Individual

u Ron Hopper is a long time volunteer and plays a crucial role in Nanaimo Empire Days.

u Bill Robinson founded the Hidden Heroes Education Society, which teaches Nanaimo’s youth to be positive role models.

u Debbie Trueman’s commitment and vision for the new museum contributes to Nanaimo’s cultural quality of life.

Positive Image - Business

u The Nanaimo Clippers attract audiences and visitors to Nanaimo and recruits players and their families internationally.

u The Port Theatre has been stimulating and enhancing artistic, cultural and economic activities of central Vancouver Island for 10 years.

u WildPlay Element Park extensively promotes its unique activity offerings and has received editorial coverage as far away as Mexico and Scotland.

To find out more about our finalists, and to celebrate their hard work and dedication to our community, you are invited to attend the Leading EDG Awards on Wednesday (Oct. 15) from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Coast Bastion Inn.

To purchase individual tickets for $30, or a full table, please contact Katie Ferland at 250-755-4465 or katie.ferland@nanaimo.ca.

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Sherree Walter is co-chairperson of the Nanaimo EDG.