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A total of seven vehicles were damaged after the elderly driver of a blue Subaru briefly lost control in a parking lot near the Beacon Hill Children’s Farm on Sunday.
At roughly 3 p.m., the single blue hatchback collided with 6 other parked vehicles in a Circle Drive parking lot before coming to rest on top of another vehicle, crushing its hood and part of its windshield.
No bystanders were injured in the incident, but sources who were at the scene say that an elderly female passenger in the Subaru was taken to hospital.
The series of crashes temporarily closed Circle Drive while crews investigated and cleaned up the debris.
Police are investigating the possibility the driver may have mistaken the accelerator for the brake pedal.
Four seasons after her husband’s disappearance, Colette remains emotionally motionless, isolated in a country cottage, waiting for word, or perhaps even more significantly, a connection. A young stranger in a jean jacket waves to her from the frozen lake—a sign? She emerges to give him her husband’s parka—strangely, the boy has a likeness to Tom. A moving story of vanished love enlivened by Panych’s trademark humour.
This Spring Break, March 18th – March 31st, the Robert Bateman Centre is offering free entry to all youth, aged 18 and under!
From our interactive Birdsong Gallery to the Virtual Reality Experience and multi-media video, there is something for everybody – as well as a scavenger hunt and art exploration map!
When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: The Robert Bateman Centre, 470 Belleville Street
Social gaming night – play new games, meet new people. This time, come and play in the ancient civilizations of the Mediterranean (Mare Nostrum, if you speak Latin, but you don’t need to).
Play: Traders of Carthage, 7 Wonders, Ave Cesar!, Downfall of Pompeii, Concordia and Imhotep
When: 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: The Robert Bateman Centre, 470 Belleville Street
Saanich Police are seeking witnesses in an incident where a man broke into a home and sexually assaulted a 22-year-old woman.
In a release, police said the suspect entered the townhouse located in the 3900 block of Wolf Street in Gordon Head at around 2 a.m. on Sunday morning.
He then brandished a knife and proceeded to sexually assault the victim before fleeing the scene.
Although the home was dark at the time of the attack, the woman was able to describe her attacker as a tall male with short blond hair, athletic build, and may have been wearing glasses.
The suspect is not known to the victim, who is from the lower mainland and was staying overnight with her friends who attend UVic.
“It has become known to investigators that some residences in the area, where multiple University students are living together, are not being secured,” says a statement from Saanich Police Sgt. Chris Horsley.
“Although police do not feel the public at large are in danger, we remind everyone to ensure their homes are locked as it is possible the suspect had prior knowledge of the home being insecure.”
According to police, the victim is currently recovering, and has the support of her friends and various social services.
Anyone who may have observed suspicious activity around this time in the area surrounding the Gordon Head Townhouse complex is asked to contact Saanich Police at 250-475-4321.
The new federal program allowing parents to take an extra 5 weeks of shared parental leave will come into effect starting Sunday, March 17th.
According to Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, the program will allow new parents to receive extra weeks of parental benefits in an “effort to encourage more parents to share the work of raising their children more equally.”
The Employment Insurance parental sharing benefit adds five weeks to the existing 35-week standard option, and eight weeks to the 61-week extended option.
This move was announced in the 2018 federal budget and is intended to shift the “disproportionate” responsibility of child care away from primarily women, and to make sure that new mothers have the option to return to work sooner if they so choose.
“The introduction of the new five-week parental sharing benefit is welcome news for Canadian families. This additional leave will encourage all parents to be engaged in full-time caregiving for their infants, helping to create greater financial security for women, and stronger bonds between fathers or second parents and their babies,” said Maryam Monsef, Minister of International Development and Minister for Women and Gender Equality.
“By encouraging a more equitable distribution of child care within the home, this new parental leave benefit gives families more flexible child care options and advances gender equality both at home and in the workplace.”
The extended leave will be available for all new parents, including adoptive or same sex couples, of a child born or placed for the purpose of adoption on or after Sunday, March 17, 2019.
The federal government has also promised corresponding changes to the Canada Labour Code to ensure that all private sector employees feel free to take advantage of this new benefit without fear of losing their jobs.
This year’s annual flower count, which took place between March 6th and March 13th, saw a whopping 44 billion blooms counted in the Greater Victoria area.
After Victoria, the municipality that has the second-most number of blossoms is Saanich, at 14.5 billion blossoms.
We are SO EXCITED to announce that 44 billion blooms were counted during this year's Greater Victoria #FlowerCount! Victoria won the title of 'bloomingest' community with 19.9 billion flowers counted! Thank you to all who participated and made our 44th #flowercount a success! pic.twitter.com/bCyNJc6Icg
— Greater Victoria Flower Count (@FlowerCount) March 15, 2019
The Greater Victoria Flower Count is an annual event that began in 1976 and inspires people to count blooming spring flowers in communities across the island for one week.
The program hopes to boost community pride, promote tourism to the City of Gardens, and highlight Southern Vancouver Island’s temperate climate in contrast with the rest of the country.
If you’ve been considering making the West Shore your new home, now is the time to take the plunge!
The beautiful community of Royal Bay sits right at the edge of the water, with panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains to south and the skyline of Victoria’s iconic inner harbour just to the east.
GableCraft Homeshas just rolled out a new phase of residences in this scenic community, promising that being indoors will look just as good as being out! The West Commonstownhomes feature style, convenience, and worry-free living, right in the heart of the up-and-coming Royal Bay area in Colwood.
West Commons offers floor plans with 2 bed, 2 bed + flex, 3 bed and 3-bed + flex, ranging from 1292 to 1499 square feet. Each home promises inviting interiors, gourmet kitchens, beautiful bathrooms and modern conveniences. The townhomes start at $449,900 plus GST.
Without further ado, here’s a peek into two of GableCraft Homes’ brand new townhomes in beautiful Royal Bay!
Townhome 1:
(GableCraft Homes)
(GableCraft Homes)
(GableCraft Homes)
(GableCraft Homes)
(GableCraft Homes)
Townhome 2:
(GableCraft Homes)
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(GableCraft Homes)
If you missed the grand opening event showcasing these two brand new West Commons show homes on Saturday, stop by today (Sunday) from noon to 5 p.m.
Victoria fire crews have extinguished a large brush fire that broke out off of Dallas Road and Cook St on Saturday afternoon.
The fire, which authorities say was started accidentally, spread at around 1 p.m. on March 16th.
Crews say the blaze was started by a woman who was attempting to ignite a beach fire, but quickly tried to put it out when it got out of control.
She was taken to the hospital with minor injuries after suffering burns on her head.
The public is reminded that beach fires are banned in the City of Victoria, and with warm, dry weather coming up soon, it takes very little for a campfire to get out of hand.
The federal government and BC have teamed up to establish a five-year partnership program in order to protect and restore wild salmon habitat and stocks.
The Federal Fisheries department will contribute $100 million to the program, while the provincial government will invest $42.85 million.
The B.C. Salmon Restoration and Innovation Fund will also support fisheries innovation, science and infrastructure, so that BC fish stocks can be harvested more sustainably in the future.
The program is open to proposals from Indigenous groups, conservation groups, commercial organizations in the wild fisheries and industry sectors, recreational fisheries, as well as non-commercial organizations such as universities and academia, industry associations and research institutions.
Interested groups that have wild salmon restoration or protection projects in mind can find out if they’re eligible to apply for funding at this website.
“Wild salmon are a part of who we are in this province. Over the past 20 months, our government has been working with First Nations, communities, commercial and recreational fisheries, environmental organizations, and other experts to develop a path forward, towards a sustainable BC fishery that supports wild salmon,” said Premier John Horgan in a release.
“By dedicating resources to habitat restoration and salmon runs, this fund will build on that work to make sure wild salmon stocks thrive in BC.”
According to Fisheries and Oceans Canada, this initiative will not only help protect and restore priority salmon stock in BC but also ensure that Canadians have access to high-quality, sustainably sourced fish and seafood products.
CLT Home Foliage Collective is one of the many vendors at Crafted Farmhouse Market/Instagram
Handcrafted goodies, live music, and food trucks, oh my!
After a truly buzz-worthy kickoff on Friday night, theCrafted Farmhouse Market is back for its second and last day this year, and their lineup of carefully curated vendors is sure to impress once more!
Held at the Mary Winspear Centre in beautiful Sidney by the sea, this event showcases the best of the best of modern and vintage goods from local-makers in Victoria.
Along with the over 90 local handmade and vintage exhibitors, you can enjoy delicious eats from a selection of Victoria’s finest food trucks, sweet treats from places like Pammiecakes Bakery and Cupcake Boutique, and Hoyne Brewing will even be there to provide beer on tap!
You can enjoy live, local music as you indulge in a unique market experience like no other. With everything from hand-poured candles from Lit Soy Candles, to things like The Wooden Fox Shop and their adventurous creations, and even cute chic kid’s consignment at Thistle & Wren, the Crafted Farmhouse Market has a little something for everyone!
On its final day, the event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can purchase your Day Pass tickets online here, or at the at the door for $5 each.
If those affordable prices aren’t enough to sway you, the first 50 people through the door today will receive a free swag bag!
These include a Crafted Farmhouse Market shopping tote and gifts, as well as a selection of vendor goodies and offers. Also, it pays to stay a while! The Crafted Farmhouse Market will be doing live on-site giveaways and multiple draws on Saturday.
They’ve also got a vintage selfie station which gives you another way to win even more goodies! Post a snap on Instagram and use the hashtag #craftedfarmhousemarket to win!
Victoria Buzz will be on location at the market, and you could win a sweet gift basket if you stop by to say hi!
There’s plenty to do in and around town! Join Victoria Buzz in Colwood for GableCraft Home’s West Commons grand opening, take part in one of the many St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, get up close and personal with exotic reptiles, and more!
Without further ado, here’s 14 things to do in and round Victoria this weekend.
TheCrafted Farmhouse Market is back once more, and this year’s lineup of carefully curated vendors is promised to impress!
Held at the Mary Winspear Centre in beautiful Sidney by the sea, this event showcases the best of the best of modern and vintage goods from local-makers in Victoria.
When: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: Mary Winspear Centre, 2243 Beacon Ave, Sidney
It’s no secret how much everyone loves the west coast – and for good reason! Victoria remains one of the island’s most popular places to call home, and beautiful Colwood is no exception.
GableCraft Homes’ Grand Opening of their West Commons show homes is happening this weekend and you could be among the first to walk through their two brand new homes. Stop by and say hi to the Victoria Buzz crew, grab some good eats and enter to win some sweet prizes!
Join the critically acclaimed Bachand siblings for a remarkable night of music and celebration to help ring in St. Patrick’s Day!
The folk music siblings have won two Irish Music Awards and are sure to bring an authentic sound to their performance. Their concerts usually sell out quickly so pick up your tickets soon!
When: 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Where: Oak Bay Recreation Centre – Upper Lounge, 1975 Bee Street
Paper Street Theatre’s 4th annual Improvathon has continues
Come down to Intrepid Theatre to watch as improv comedians flex their skills for the remaining hours of this comedy marathon. Entrance is by donation and all funds raised will go towards the theatre and its improv festival next month! The event is also live streamed online for viewers at home.
Learn everything you’ll need to know about growing your own food in this veggie-growing crash course!
The lesson will cover garden site selection, timing, starting seeds, diseases and pests, and more! Don’t forget to purchase a ticket before you arrive.
When: 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Where: Compost Education Centre, 1216 North Park Street
Ever wanted to try out dragon boat paddling for FREE?
The Fairway Gorge Paddling Club is offering free dragon boat outings during this open house, and will match newcomers with experienced paddlers! All you need to do is sign a waiver to participate.
Fans of contemporary dance won’t want to miss Internal Rhythms, a performance inspired by the movement of a conductor and the romantic period of orchestral music.
InternalRhythms marks the sixth fully independent work created by the local dance company, Broken Rhythms Victoria Society.
The 2nd annual St. Patrick’s Family Fun Day has arrived!
Throw on something green and head down to Market Square for live music and Irish dancers, food vendors, an Irish Crafting Station, Irish-themed vendors, balloon art, face painting, a bouncy castle, and more!
Don’t miss your chance to see Safari Jeff for FREE as he makes his way to the island as part of his North America tour.
With two shows a day, Safari Jeff also performs exciting and educational live shows that feature rare and beautiful reptiles plus full multimedia displays and more. The interactive experience will bring audiences up close and personal with captive-born exotic animals and environmental messages.
When: 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. & 2:30 p.m. to 3:15 p.m.
Join the Victoria Accordion Club for the Shoal Centre’s Seniors lunch program. Throw on something green and feel free to dance to your favourite Irish tunes!
On Friday afternoon, thousands of students all over the world marched out of their classrooms and took to the streets to demand that our leaders take action to avoid climate catastrophe.
In Victoria, hundreds of high school, college, and university students headed to the B.C. Legislature with posters in hand, chanting slogans like ‘Climate change is not a lie, please don’t let our planet die’, in solidarity with their counterparts in nearly 100 other countries.
The event featured youth and international speakers who called on local governments to pass laws to limit global warming, invest in more renewable energy sources, and stop investing in fossil fuels.
Activists also called for governments to respect Indigenous law and sovereignty, stop logging old-growth forests, and to say no to the Trans-mountain Pipeline.
The ‘Global Student Strike 4 Climate‘ movement was inspired by 16-year-old Swedish student activist Greta Thunberg who started staging the first climate change-related walkouts in front of Sweden’s parliament every Friday.
Her weekly protests were quickly joined by students around her, culminating in a powerful youth movement in cities around the world including Victoria.
Without further ado, here are 33 photos and videos from today’s youth climate change inaction strike in Victoria:
A beautiful walk in my city today, the youth are fueling our future. Stand up and look at the simple changes you can make for our children and their children. You can make a difference. pic.twitter.com/1U1mE4tORc
The cherry blossoms have begun to bloom again, and you know what that means! Spring is nearly here – and it’s a perfect time to get back to (or learn!) gardening!
For both budding and blooming plant lovers, Victoria offers a wealth of wonderful workshops.
This FREE workshop is a great way to learn the basics of food cultivation and get growing! Pre-registration is required, but this workshop will cover all the key elements of growing your own food.
When: Saturday, March 16, 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Where: Compost Education Centre, 1216 N Park St, Victoria
Admission: Contact the organizers at 250 386 9676 or via email at office@compost.bc.ca to register
Explore the island’s Indigenous plant systems with this workshop on Garry Oak ecosystems. Traditional plants are often far better suited to thrive in a West Coast climate, and are a wonderful alternative to imported plants.
When: Saturday, March 23, 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Where: Compost Education Centre, 1216 N Park St
Admission: Tickets cost up to $20. Click here to purchase.
If you’re limited to a smaller, indoor space, there are still workshops that apply to you!
This beach-themed terrarium workshop offers a chance to create a mini-indoor landscape, and included in the ticket cost is admission to the Maritime Museum.
When: Saturday, March 23, 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Where: Maritime Museum of British Columbia, 634 Humboldt St
Admission: Tickets are $34.99. Click here to purchase.
This is the start of a longer term, 4 month workshop series that offers an in-depth opportunity to learn all of the ins and outs of growing your own food.
When: Saturday, March 30, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Where: Mary’s Farm & Sanctuary, home of Blossoming at The Farm, 1128 Finlayson Arm Road
Admission: Tickets start at $180. Click here to purchase.
Wanting to learn more about plants, but not quite ready to start your own garden? Check out this informative talk on Vancouver Island’s living history with biologist James Miskelly.
When: Wednesday, March 27, 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m
Where: Esquimalt United Church, 500 Admirals Road
Admission: Free for members. Non-members drop in for $5.
This FREE workshop is a great way to learn about how to deal with garden waste in a sustainable way, and how to create compost that will help your garden grow!
When: Saturday, April 6, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Where: Compost Education Centre, 1216 N Park St
Admission: FREE
Know any gardening events we missed? Comment below to let us know!
Over 80% of homeowners in British Columbia have already submitted their speculation and vacancy tax declarations, 2 weeks ahead of the March 31st, 2019 deadline.
According to the Ministry of Finance, over 90% of the people who filled out their exemption declarations did so online at www.gov.bc.ca/spectax.
Between January 18th and February 28th, 2019, people who own property in areas subjected to the SVT were sent a letter detailing how to register for the exemption.
Municipalities subjected to the Speculation and Vacancy Tax include:
Capital Regional District (excluding Salt Spring Island, Juan de Fuca Electoral Area and the Southern Gulf Islands)
Nanaimo
Lantzville
Metro Vancouver Regional District (excluding Bowen Island, the Village of Lions Bay and Electoral Area A, but including the University of British Columbia and the University Endowment Lands)
Abbotsford
Mission
Chilliwack
Kelowna
West Kelowna
All property owners living in these areas are expected to fill out a declaration form. If a property has more than one owner, each person has to fill out their own declaration form – this includes spouses and common law partners.
Those who do not fill out their exemption claims by April 1st, 2019 will receive a tax notice of assessment. Moreover, owners whose property is not exempt from the tax have until July 2nd 2019, to pay their assessed tax.
If you own property in the aforementioned areas and have not received a registration package by the end of February, contact the speculation and vacancy tax call centre at 1 833 554-2323 (toll-free Canada/U.S.) or 604 660-2421 (international), from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week.
Brief history and overview of the SVT
British Columbia’s new speculation tax is a part of the NDP government’s 30-point plan in the 2018 budget meant to ease the housing affordability crisis in the province.
The SVT is meant to target people who own secondary housing units in designated urban areas and leave them vacant for long periods of time, causing inflation in real estate prices.
“We are going after speculators who are clearly taking advantage of the market, leaving homes vacant and driving up prices,” said Minister of Finance, Carole James in a press release in October 2018.
Specifications and amendments to the original tax were announced after considerable protests arose from developers and people – not speculators – who own secondary vacation homes.
However, not everyone was satisfied with these amendments:
“After trying to implement taxes by trial and error, the NDP are now scrambling to come up with a plan,” says BC Liberal leader, Andrew Wilkinson.
“The updated version of this tax still doesn’t focus on speculators who are flipping homes and condos. Instead, the NDP introduced arbitrary boundary changes to exempted areas that appear to be politically motivated.”
A candle-light vigil is being held this afternoon in downtown Victoria to honour the victims of a deadly mosque shooting in New Zealand that took place on Thursday, (Friday, New Zealand local time).
The ceremony will be held in Centennial Square at 3 p.m., and organizers are inviting everyone to attend and support the Muslim community.
“As a way to stand against Islamophobia, and white supremacy, while also remembering those who were murdered and showing support for their families and communities, this event is to show solidarity with the Muslim community, as well as any other impacted communities,” reads the Facebook event description.
The vigil will include candle lighting and supportive note writing.
One of New Zealand’s “darkest days”
On Thursday, a mass shooting at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, claimed the lives of 49 people and injured 48 more during the community’s Friday prayers.
New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Arden described the shooting as “one of New Zealand’s darkest days”, and condemned the act of “unprecedented violence”.
What has happened in Christchurch is an extraordinary act of unprecedented violence. It has no place in New Zealand. Many of those affected will be members of our migrant communities – New Zealand is their home – they are us.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has shared his condolences for all of the victims of the attack, and BC’s legislature has lowered its Canadian flag to half-mast.
Victoria Mayor Lisa Helps has also issued a message expressing solidarity with the city’s Muslim community.
Attacking people during prayers is absolutely appalling, and Canada strongly condemns today’s shootings in New Zealand. Our thoughts and hearts go out to the victims and their families, and we join New Zealanders and Muslim communities around the world in grieving.
In light of the horrible mosque shootings in New Zealand, I stand in solidarity with our Muslim community against racism, Islamophobia and discrimination and for #diversity, #inclusion and #love.
— Lisa Helps – Victoria Mayor (@lisahelps) March 15, 2019
“As a parent, I understand first-hand how tough it can be for schools and parents to find the time and volunteers to fundraise for playground equipment and activities,” said Rob Fleming, Minister of Education in a release.
“Our government is committed to improving the learning environment at B.C. schools — safe, fun and accessible playgrounds are very much part of delivering on this commitment.”
Funding for the playgrounds comes from the province’s Playground Equipment Program which is investing $5 million this year. Construction on the projects will begin soon and all the new playgrounds are expected to be ready for kids to use by Fall 2019.
For the second year in a row, we’re providing $5m for new playgrounds, so kids like these will have fun & safe places to play & learn.#bcedpic.twitter.com/vPQe1GOmVn
A Nanaimo man, Roger Hannigan, is hoping that his family’s fishing rod will be returned after thieves broke into his truck and stole several items from it last week.
On Thursday night, Nanaimo RCMP say that thieves broke into a pickup truck parked in Hannigan’s driveway on Girvin Street. The thieves swiped three fishing rods and a pair of green coloured neoprene hip waders from his vehicle, one of which was given to the owner by his father just before he died.
“Two of the rods are replaceable but the one from my Dad is not as it holds countless childhood memories for me,” Hannigan told Nanaimo RCMP.
Stock images of the fishing rod have been provided.
(Image / Nanaimo RCMP)
Hannigan says that the vehicle may have been unlocked at the time, but holds out a sliver of hope that the opportunistic thieves will return the sentimentally valuable fishing rod, which was named the “Ugly Stick”.
“Maybe the thieves will have a change of heart,” he added. “I’m not holding out hope but it sure would be nice to have it back.”
The rod is described as a Redington Path 11 Outfit Fishing Rod with a Crosswater reel. Hannigan’s father had inscribed “Ugly Stick” on the side of the handle.
Anyone with information on the stolen items is asked to contact the Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345 or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Two Vancouver Island communities are among the first to try out a new provincial immigration support program, which strives to help new residents establish their own businesses in BC.
Alongside 30 other BC communities, Courtenay and Comox have joined BC’s new Provincial Nominee Program (PMP) Entrepreneur Immigration Regional Pilot, which is focusing on attracting entrepreneurs to more rural areas of the province.
“Due to an aging workforce and a preference for city living, some smaller towns can face challenges growing their local economies,” said Bruce Ralston, Minister of Jobs, Trade and Technology.
“This pilot will attract new businesses that create jobs and spread investment around the province so more British Columbians can benefit from shared prosperity.”
The BC PNP is the first and only direct economic resource for immigrants looking to start a business, and the province hopes that the program will attract experienced entrepreneurs and “high-demand” foreign workers.
The City of Courtenay and the Town of Comox were some of the first to sign on to the new program.
“It is important to expand economic and employment opportunities in the Comox Valley,” said Bob Wells, chair of the Comox Valley Regional District. “By supporting foreign entrepreneurs, we are one step closer to a stronger, more dynamic community.”
Smaller towns can face challenges growing their local economies. A new pilot program will attract entrepreneurs from around the world to create jobs and spread investment to benefit communities throughout the province. https://t.co/lB69UrkqNJ#bcpolipic.twitter.com/HmZaEBpiWO
While BC already has existing PNP Entrepreneur Immigration resources, this new pilot program will have different financial criteria requirements to reflect the lower cost of starting a business in a smaller community.
“After looking throughout BC we saw great potential to run a business here in Courtenay,” said Zhengfu Zhao, local business owner. “My family was able to start this wonderful journey because of the BC Provincial Nominee Program, and we’re incredibly proud to have established roots here and grown our restaurant in Comox Valley.”
Black and Blue playoff hockey is nearly here, Victoria!
After almost two weeks away from the Save-On Foods Memorial Centre, our very own Victoria Royals are back in town to face the Everett Silvertips in an almost SOLD OUT game that promises to be a spirited bout and get the barn on Blanshard rocking once more – Victoria style!
The Royals officially close their regular season with another back-to-back competition with the Silvertips in Everett tomorrow night, with Everett currently holding the top spot in their U.S division. Victoria is slotted at #2 in the BC division, ensuring that these two games will be as exciting and emotionally-charged as ever!
Though tonight’s game is almost sold out, don’t fret! You don’t have to say goodbye to WHL hockey just yet – Victoria Royals playoff packs are still available, and they can be purchased either online or in-person at the box-office.
As a final farewell to the regular season, the Royals are also hosting their eighth annual awards ceremony, happening this Sunday, March 17th at Save on Foods Memorial Centre – the event starts at 4:00 p.m. with a mix and mingle available for guests, players and staff in attendance, and the awards portion will begin at 5:00 p.m. The much-anticipated event still has tickets available for purchase, so if you’d like to give our boys an official send-off into the playoffs, this is your chance!
Also, as a thank-you to fans for their continuous support throughout the 2018-19 season, the Royals are going out with a bang while hosting Fan Appreciation Night tonight, offering the first 1,500 fans to arrive an official Royals’ Team Poster. There will also be thousands of dollars in prizes will be given out throughout the evening, so this won’t be one to miss!
There is nothing in the world like playoff hockey, so don your black and blue, get that face paint out and bring your loudest cheering voice as we embark on what promises to be an epic run for the ages – the Memorial Cup is calling their name!
Victoria Royals defenseman Scott Walford. (Jay Wallace/Victoria Royals)
A Victoria woman is being charged with animal cruelty after her dog, Ava, died in a hot car last July, according to the BC SPCA.
Stephanie Skinner allegedly left her Boston Terrier, Ava, in her car for roughly seven hours with all of the windows rolled up, while temperatures outside reached 30° celcius.
At the time, Environment Canada had issued a special weather statement, advising of an “extended stretch of very warm weather” hitting BC’s south coast.
“This is such a tragic and preventable case,” said Eileen Drever, senior office, protection and stakeholder relations for the BC SPCA in a statement.
“Every year, the BC SPCA and other animal welfare groups warn people about the dangers of leaving their pets in hot cars. Even 10 minutes in a hot, unventilated car can be fatal for an animal – an animal left for seven hours in those temperatures would not have stood a chance.”
Following the incident, West Shore RCMP stated that they responded to the call, and arrived to find Skinner trying to resuscitate the dog. She was described as being upset and was being comforted by bystanders.
Skinner makes her first court appearance on March 28th, at the Western Communities Courthouse. If she is convicted, she could face a maximum fine of $75,000, up to two years in prison, and a lifetime ban on owning animals.
Handcrafted goodies, and live music, and food trucks, oh my!
Join the Victoria Buzz crew down at the Crafted Farmhouse Market to check out this year’s lineup of carefully curated vendors! Held at the Mary Winspear Centre in beautiful Sidney by the sea, this event showcases the best of the best of modern and vintage goods from local-makers in Victoria.
12 talented artists will step up to the easel tonight to battle for artistic supremacy in 3 fast-paced rounds.
Watch the creative process unfold before your eyes and help vote for the winner, featuring great music and even better company. You can also purchase the paintings after the battle!
Paper Street Theatre’s 4th annual Improvathon has arrived!
Come down to Intrepid Theatre to watch as improv comedians flex their skills for hours upon hours straight. Entrance is b donation and all funds raised will go towards the theatre and its improv festival next month! The event will also be streamed online for viewers at home.
The Sidney/North Saanich RCMP are warning residents of a recent spike in thefts from vehicles, especially from cars parked in underground parking lots.
In the past five days, there have been nine reported thefts from vehicles, according to police. Four of these thefts took place in underground parkades, and one instance saw thieves breaking into a condo resident storage area.
Police also say that thieves are using new methods to access vehicles, including five thefts that involved “punching” the locks of car doors.
“The last few days has seen a dramatic shift in the approach of thieves on the Peninsula,” reads the police warning.
Items stolen include wallets, personal identification documents, security passes for places of employment, electronics, and binoculars.
Previously, all thefts from vehicles that took place in the area this year were from unlocked vehicles. The aggressive shift to locked vehicles is “concerning”, says Sidney/North Saanich RCMP.
Police say all of the thefts occurred in the downtown residential core of Sidney.
“We have seen a change in the method of these crimes and need to make the public aware,” said Cst. Meighan de Pass, Sidney RCMP Crime Prevention Officer.
“Recently the vehicles targeted have been in secure underground parking lots so we are asking residents to take a moment when returning home to ensure no one enters their parkades behind them. Wait for the gate to close, and don’t let any vehicles or pedestrians enter behind you.”
Anyone who observes someone acting suspiciously in the area is asked to contact Sidney/North Saanich RCMP at 250-656-3931.
One man was arrested in Langford after police found illegally stored ammunition and three firearms, one of which was heavily modified, in his residence earlier this week.
On March 2nd, the West Shore RCMP discovered a man who was trying to trade firearms for street drugs.
An investigation was launched which eventually lead to a search warrant being executed at a residence in Langford. Inside the home, police found three firearms and hundreds of rounds of ammunition, none of which was stored properly under the Criminal Code of Canada.
Moreover, one of the firearms was found to be a modified semi-automatic SKS rifle, which had been altered to include an aftermarket synthetic stock and illegal 21 round magazine.
“This seizure of firearms and ammunition is a direct result of street level drug trafficking,” said Cst. David MacDonald, West Shore RCMP Crime Reduction Unit member.
“The dangers of drug trafficking effect all communities in the Victoria area. The West Shore Crime Reduction unit will continue to aggressively investigate drug traffickers.”
The investigation is ongoing with evidence still yet to be examined.
At this time, police are recommending charges of weapons trafficking and unsafe storage of a firearm.
Over 200 tiny tremors rumbled between Victoria and Seattle on Monday and Tuesday, according to Canadian seismologist, John Cassidy.
The tremors were so small that they were “not felt”, but the sheer amount of them occurring in 24 hours could potentially signal a larger seismic event, according to Cassidy.
An ETS is a colossal process that occurs deep below the Earth’s surface along fault lines between the boundaries of tectonic plates.
The tremors occur as a faults repeatedly slip slowly against each other for several centimeters over a period of several weeks. The tremors appear on seismic records as prolong, intermittent ground vibrations as opposed to earthquakes which create large, sharp, shockwaves that subside very quickly.
In BC, an ETS stresses the boundaries between the Juan de Fuca tectonic plate and North American plate. While an ETS is not dangerous on its own, it does raise the likelihood of a large earthquake occurring, though only slightly.
(Graph / Natural Resources Canada)
Episodic tremor and slips occur roughly every 14 months in the province.
In 2018, 2179 earthquakes were recorded in BC and western Alberta. The majority of them occurred offshore.
Changes to the BC building code will allow wood construction buildings to reach 12 storeys, up from six storeys.
The change will provide an alternative to traditional concrete buildings, with both economic and environmental benefits.
Large wooden buildings will use mass-timber technology, which means that the structure will have primary load-bearing elements made of solid or engineered wood. The mass timber may then be encapsulated in fire-resistant materials like drywall.
Mass timber buildings will also be one-fifth of the weight of comparable concrete buildings and easier to construct, according to the province.
“Mass timber technology allows faster construction where large sections of a building can be manufactured in a plant and then assembled on site,” said Selina Robinson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “The faster we can deliver the homes that people need, the better for communities right across B.C.”
The BC building code will ensure that these new wooden buildings will still meet performance standards for safety, structural resilience, and fire protection.
Additionally, the timber used in the structures will have environmental benefits and absorb carbon from the air. A large mass timber building can remove carbon equivalent to taking 511 cars off BC roads for one year.
“Changes to the national building code that allow for taller wood buildings take effect next year, but we’re not waiting to get started,” said Premier John Horgan in a statement. “Our government is ready to work with communities to build safe, secure and green tall wood buildings that will create jobs, grow B.C.’s value-added sector and realize our low-carbon future.”
The inclusion of 12 storey mass timber buildings will come into effect in next year’s 2020 federal National Building Code.
The Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing said that it will work with local governments who express an interest in taking part in the voluntary program.
Police are continuing their appeal for public assistance to help locate a man missing from the West Shore who mysteriously disappeared after leaving Langford Lanes on the weekend.
Joshua Bennett has now been missing for five days and police have released new images in hopes of ‘sparking someone’s memory’.
The 31-year-old was last seen leaving Langford Lane’s on foot Saturday night at approximately 9:30 p.m., and has not been seen or heard from since.
RCMP released a video still showing Bennett leaving the Cascadia Liquor store earlier in the day. He was seen wearing a green jacket and blue jeans.
West Shore RCMP also released an image of Bennett walking in the industrial area near Langford lanes shortly after 9:30 p.m.
Bennett is described as a Caucasian male standing 6’ tall and weighing 160 pounds. He has black hair and brown eyes, and was last seen wearing an olive green “Volcom” jacket, blue “Levi’s brand” jeans, and black shoes.
Friends and family say it is out of character for him to be out of contact for this long.
Anyone with information on Bennett’s whereabouts is asked to call 911 immediately.
Video still showing Joshua Bennett leaving the Cascadia Liquor store earlier in the day.
Image of Joshua Bennett walking in the industrial area near Langford lanes shortly after 9:30 p.m. Saturday.
Nanaimo RCMP are seeking the public’s assistance in locating missing 59-year-old woman, Karen Linda Clark.
Clark has not be seen or heard from since February 16th, 2019, and was reported missing by her sister on March 13th.
Clark had most recently been living with a family member on Metral Drive and had talked about possibly travelling to Vancouver, but this has not been confirmed. Police say that Clark’s cellphone is not connected to any network and she has not responded to any emails, calls, or texts from friends or family in the last month.
Police say that her disappearance is “totally out of character” and that her family is extremely worried for her safety and well-being.
Clark is described as a Caucasian woman standing 5’ 6” and weighing 150 pounds. She has long blonde/grey hair and blue eyes. The picture of her is not recent.
Anyone with information on Karen Clark is asked to contact the Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Hungry? First 200 guests at the Bay Centre get lunch on us!
Victoria Buzz’s very own Nicole Bentham and Adam Chan will be on site in the food court with Bay Centre staff from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. handing out $10 Bay Centre gift cards to each person (aged 16+ years) that drops by while supplies last!
Visitors can also enter a contest to win ‘Lunch for a Mont’ from the Bay Centre!
Everyone is welcome to bring a sketchbook, pencils, and pens, (or whatever you’d like to draw in) and join Nate Davis at the Greater Victoria Public Library for a free sketching night. Open to all ages and skill levels.
When: 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Greater Victoria Public Library, 735 Broughton Street
While the Capital Regional District (CRD) is in support of alternate highways to the Malahat route, the CRD Board has opposed two recent infrastructure projects pitched by the province.
According to an announcement made by the CRD today, the local government board has “placed itself on record” as opposing new highway projects that would would run through Sooke Hills Regional Park and the Greater Victoria Water Supply Area and Drinking Water Protection Zone.
The CRD cites environmental and community concerns as the main reason why they oppose the two projects.
“We don’t want the roads to be in the park or in the watershed,” said Andy Orr, Senior Manager of CRD Communications.
Meanwhile, the CRD Board has approved of two motions that call for highway development through crown land as an alternate route for the Malahat. Plans for these alternate routes are in their preliminary stages, and have not yet been made public.
“The Board has very carefully considered the motions that were brought forward today,” said CRD Board Chair Colin Plant in a release. “We heard clearly from residents on their concerns of an alternate route through these lands, but will continue to work through this process with our partners at the Province.”
In January, the provincial Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure launched a southern Vancouver Island transportation strategy. The CRD has been working with ministry staff to evaluate current transportation demands and develop a plan for future investments by the province.
The CRD is also creating a report to assess options for an emergency bypass route for the Malahat section of Highway 1.
Thousands of dollars have been recovered from an international fraud and money laundering scheme that made its way to the island, according to Victoria Police.
In Spring 2018, a Victoria woman reported that she had become a victim of an online scam that offered to clean her computer of viruses for $1,400. A few months later, after parting with the money, the same victim was contacted by the scammer again over email.
The scammer then told the victim that the company they worked for had fired the employee that charged her $1,400 and promised that the money would be returned to her.
She then followed a series of directions to try reclaim her money until eventually the scammer convinced her that she would receive the money but would have to re-send it due to Canadian tax laws.
Police say that the scammers were laundering money from other fraud victims at the same time through this victim, explaining why the money needed shuffled through her account and re-sent.
Once the original victim reported the scam, her bank placed a hold on the payments.
Since then, VicPD investigators have identified victims of the scam from all across North America, including Victoria, Ontario, New York, Wisconsin, and New Jersey.
With the assistance of banks and other law enforcement departments, over $35,000 was recovered from a bank account in India and has been returned to its rightful owners.
$23,000 was returned to a victim in Ontario, and $12,000 was returned to an individual in Wisconsin.
No criminal charges have been laid, but investigators are continuing to look for victims in both Canada and the US.
If you have been a victim of fraud, especially in a case that resembles this one, VicPD recommends you contact them at 250-995-7654.
North Cowichan politicians and Cowichan Tribes leaders have joined together to condemn recent heated racial remarks and “suspicious acts of violence” on Cowichan reserve lands, as a high-profile trial of animal abuse continues to unfold in Duncan.
The trial centres around a Duncan couple who were caught keeping a dog in extremely poor conditions on their property in February 2018.
The BC SPCA found the dog, who rescuers named “Teddy”, emaciated and on top of a pile of mud and feces. He was kept there on a tight rope, and his collar had dug deep into his neck, causing a severe infection and making his head swell up to two to three times its normal level.
Two days after he was found, he died from his injuries.
As the trial continues, local politicians have released a statement asking for an end to heated racial comments and concerning behaviour by crown supporters.
North Cowichan Mayor Siebring has been quick to support the Cowichan Tribes, and said “racism and intolerance have no place in our community, and it’s truly lamentable that a press release such as this would have to be issued.”
The Cowichan Tribes press release explains a concern for the safety and welfare of residents living on the reserve, and asks that the everyone “ratchet down the tension and allow the justice system to do its’ job.”
“Recent suspicious acts of violence and reports of intimidation on Cowichan reserve lands have Chief and Council concerned for the welfare of community members living on Reserve,” said Chief William Seymour.
“This backlash against community is clearly stemming from the tragic circumstances surrounding the death of a dog (known as Teddy”.
Seymour also noted that he is concerned that recent acts could “drive a wedge between local indigenous and non-indigenous communities.”
We are sharing this on behalf of Cowichan Tribes, with the following comment from Mayor Siebring:"Racism and…
Last month, one of the accused, Melissa Tooshley, pleaded guilty to one charge of failing to provide necessaries for an animal. Her co-accused, Anderson Joe, pleaded not guilty to all charges back in June, 2018.
Island Health has announced it will be providing all home-care services for seniors by the end of 2019, replacing the current care provider of 15 years, Beacon Community Services.
The shift from privately-run care to government-run comes as Island Health’s contract with Beacon Community Services comes to an end this October.
Both organizations are hoping for a seamless transition, and Island Health is confident that they will be able to offer the best care possible for residents.
“Home support helps people live independently in their home and be safe,” reads a release by Island Health. “For clients and their families, it makes a real difference in people’s lives by bringing care to their doorsteps and supporting them to live at home and in their communities longer and safely.”
Home support for clients in @VCHhealthcare, @Fraserhealth & @VanIslandHealth are being strengthened. The new model will provide better integration w/ team-based care and more reliability, quality, & continuity that many clients and families depend on. @AnneKangMLA@SrsAdvocateBC
Everyday, Beacon Community Services visits 2,600 different clients across 3,000 homes on Southern Vancouver Island. Starting November 1st, 2019, these thousands of clients will transition to Island Health care.
Meanwhile, Beacon Community Services will continue to operate its other charitable community services and programs across the island.
“We want to thank Beacon Community Services for their 15 years of service in home support delivery,” said Kathy MacNeil, Island Health President and CEO. “They have been a valuable partner and we look forward to continuing our partnership in key areas of shared focus.”
Care workers from the non-profit service agency have also been offered positions on the new Island Health team to continue working in the same capacity.
While Island Health operating home support care is new to Victoria and South Vancouver Island, the government health service already delivers home support to North and Central Vancouver Island.
“This innovative, team-based approach will allow care providers to assist one another to respond to unpredictable, changing needs of clients, meet unscheduled client needs through frequent communication and ensure that changes in client conditions are recognized in a timely way, allowing early intervention,” reads the release.
“The community neighbourhood teams will also work in partnership with local family physicians to support clients and their families.”
If you were left feeling frustrated over Facebook and Instagram’s downtime earlier, you’re certainly not alone – users all over the globe were affected by the popular platforms’ apparent hiccup, and some of their reactions were downright hilarious.
In a tweet this morning, Facebook reports, “We’re aware that some people are currently having trouble accessing the Facebook family of apps. We’re working to resolve the issue as soon as possible.”
They later go on to say, “We’re focused on working to resolve the issue as soon as possible, but can confirm that the issue is not related to a DDoS attack.”
While the masses flocked to Twitter to commiserate, the Victoria Buzz office was basically immobilized without the use of our Facebook and Instagram accounts – so what did we do? Used this as the perfect excuse to go get ice cream!
We just want to report the news!
At least misery loves company, so without further ado here are some of the greatest Twitter reactions in response to the Facebook and Instagram outages:
Facebook and Instagram being down is causing quite the internet storm. But don't worry guys, we can weather this one together… on @Twitter! 🐦 #FacebookDown#InstagramDown
A married couple from Duncan are getting ready to pack their bags and travel the world after winning a Set For Life Scratch & Win top prize earlier this month.
The Set For Life Scratch & Win grand prize gives winners the option to accept weekly payments of $1,000 per week for 25 years (which amounts to $1.2 million), or an immediate lump sum of $675,000.
Vancouver Island resident Ken Motherwell and his wife have excitedly chosen the latter.
“I bought ten tickets, and my wife bought two,” Motherwell told the BC Lottery Corporation. “I was scratching my second ticket and I told her she needs to grab her glasses and come look at my ticket. We both started screaming!”
The excitement continued all the way to their local grocery store, Cobble Hill Grocery, where they got the ticket scanned for confirmation.
“The girls validated it and they were like, ‘Oh my God’ and we all took a picture together,” said Motherwell.
The couple enjoys travelling and are already planning future trips to come.
“We want to go to Belize and then maybe an African Safari,” explained Motherwell. “We have a motorhome and we plan to do more traveling in the U.S. with it when the weather is warmer.”
“It’s really amazing. I’m very happy about this and, of course, very grateful.”
*Note: Victoria Buzz is not affiliated with BC Lottery Corporation and does not advocate gambling or taking part in lotteries. If you choose to participate, remember to play responsibly.
(Exterior Rendering, Artist Impression E.& O.E. GableCraft Homes)
If you’ve been considering making the WestShore your new home, now is the time to take the plunge!
The beautiful community of Royal Bay sits right at the edge of the water, with panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains to south and the skyline of Victoria’s iconic inner harbour just to the east.
GableCraft Homesis rolling out a new phase of residences in this scenic community, promising that being indoors will look just as good as being out! The West Commons townhomes feature style, convenience, and worry-free living, right in the heart of the up-and-coming Royal Bay area in Colwood.
A sneak peek into one of GableCraft’s brand new show homes!
West Commons offers floor plans with 2 bed, 2 bed + flex, 3 bed and 3-bed + flex, ranging from 1292 to 1499 square feet. Each home promises inviting interiors, gourmet kitchens, beautiful bathrooms and modern conveniences. The townhomes start at $449,900 plus gst.
This weekend, GableCraft Homes is hosting of a one-of-a-kind Grand Opening event to showcase two brand new West Commons show homes – andVictoria Buzz will be on location to join them! On Saturday, March 16th, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., you could be walking through your future home for the first time!
Coastal Lunchbox will also be serving up delicious eats at the event, so you can stop by and say hi to the Victoria Buzz crew, grab some lunch on them AND enter to win some sweet prizes!
Three Vancouver Island commuters are being credited with saving the life of one man following a dramatic crash near Port Alberni on Tuesday morning.
Just after 7:15 a.m., the Port Alberni Fire Department was called to a section of Highway 4 known as the ‘Alberni Hump’ for reports of a two vehicle collision.
“When we arrived on scene there was a pick-up truck fully engulfed in fire and an SUV with serious front end damage in the ditch,” said Port Alberni Fire Chief, Mike Owens.
But before authorities arrived, a rescue had already taken place. The young female driver of the SUV involved in the collision is being credited with initiating the rescue of a man still trapped within the burning pick up truck.
“The driver-side door of her vehicle was crushed so she had to shimmey out of the passenger side door and had to run around [the SUV] to aid the driver of the pick up truck whose feet were stuck inside of the cab,” said Owens.
The Fire Chief told Victoria Buzz that the trapped man also had a pre-existing broken leg, which made the rescue even more difficult.
More help on the way
While trying to get the man free, the woman’s brave efforts and the vehicle’s rising flames attracted the attention of two more motorists who were passing by the scene.
“…There was another motorist that had stopped and who had jumped out to help,” said Owens. “So he was at the window and he saw another motorist and between the three of them they managed to free [the trapped man’s] foot and pull him out of the driver side window.”
Working in communities throughout B.C., our crews can sometimes run into situations where someone needs help. Thank you to our employee Nick, along with members of the public, who helped pull a man from a burning vehicle near #PortAlberni this morning. pic.twitter.com/XPXMBzvuX7
Authorities have been quick to commend the passing motorists for their bravery and credit them with saving the trapped man’s life.
“The civilians were just incredible,” said Jay Patovirato, Port Alberni RCMP Watch Commander. “They ended up saving the guy in my opinion. I’m so impressed by the actions of the civilians.”
“This is the story of everyday commuters putting their lives at risk to help someone in need,” said Fire Chief Owens. “All the recognition in the world to these three individuals. Without them we could’ve had a different outcome yesterday and they deserve to be known as heroes.”
Police say that weather conditions were a factor in the crash, and that the area is marked with steep hills that can become very slippery.
The injured man was transported to hospital for serious but non life-threatening injuries, and the female driver and one passing motorist were sent to hospital for treatment of minor burns that were sustained while pulling the man free.
Police are recommending impaired driving charges against a driver in connection with a fatal crash that happened in Central Saanich in the summer of 2018.
Central Saanich Police are recommending the 26-year-old driver be charged with impaired driving causing death and impaired driving causing bodily harm – both drug related.
On August 27th, emergency officials responded to a single vehicle collision in the 7600-block of Central Saanich Road that resulted in the death of 51-year-old Kim Ward and seriously injuring her sister, 48-year-old Tracy Ward.
The two women were walking their dog around 7 p.m. when they were struck by a 2019 red Jeep Grand Cherokee. One of the dogs died at the scene, while the other managed to run home.
The driver was also involved in another crash that occurred just 20 minutes before the fatal collision; the driver of the red SUV rear-ended another vehicle near Mountain Newton X Road and Lochside Drive. Police later determined that the driver of the red SUV was involved in both collisions.
Kim Ward was a massage therapist and member of Triathlon Canada’s Integrated Support team. She served the team for both the Beijing Olympics in 2008 and the London Olympics in 2012.
The family is requesting privacy as Tracy Ward continues her recovery.
Canada is banning all Boeing 737 Max 8 and Max 9 model aircrafts from arriving and departing and from its airspace until further notice in the wake of the Ethiopian Airlines crash.
On Sunday morning, a deadly plane crash in Ethiopia claimed the lives of 157 people,18 of them being Canadian citizens. The federal government said it has decided to ground all commercial flights of Boeing 737 MAX 8 airlines in the country as a precautionary measure.
Federal Transport Minister Marc Garneau announced the grounding in a news conference this morning, stating that the safety notice is coming into effect after new information was recently received.
“My thoughts continue to go out to all those affected by the tragic aircraft accident involving an Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia,” said Garneau in a statement. “Following advice from Transport Canada Civil Aviation experts, as a precautionary measure, I am issuing a safety notice to address this issue.”
“This safety notice restricts commercial passenger flights from any air operator, both domestic and foreign, of the Boeing 737 MAX 8 and 9 aircraft – from arriving, departing, or overflying Canadian airspace.”
The Minister stressed that the grounding is a temporary precaution, while incoming evidence and information is reviewed. He also noted that the ministry had the utmost confidence and “trust” in Canadian pilots.
“Canada has an enviable aviation safety record because of the professionalism and safety-first focus of Canada’s aviation industry – those who design and manufacture aircraft, those who maintain them, our airports, our air traffic controllers and of course those who operate and fly the aircraft,” said Garneau.
“It also due to the world-class knowledge, expertise and relentless focus on safety by Transport Canada officials who are responsible for developing regulations and ensuring compliance with those regulations.”
Canada’s move to temporarily ban Boeing 737 Max 8 planes echoes decisions made by other countries, including China, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the entirety of the European Union.
The United States, meanwhile, remains a hold out and has not issued any grounding of their Boeing planes.
“It is too soon to speculate about the cause of the accident in Addis Ababa, and to make direct links to the Lion Air accident in Indonesia in October 2018; however, my department has been closely monitoring the investigations by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority,” Garneau added.
“My departmental officials continue to monitor the situation and I will not hesitate to take swift action, should we discover any additional safety issues.”
The minister is encouraging airlines to allow passengers to rebook or cancel their tickets if they had purchased flights on these specific aircrafts.
The snow has melted and we’re looking forward to sunshine and cherry blossoms, and with that comes the fun and freedom of Spring Break.
If you haven’t solidified your Spring Break plans yet, Tsawwassen Mills Shopping Centrecould literally be your one-stop shop for the perfect family getaway. With almost 200 stores on site, entertainment, dining and restaurant options, there’s definitely a little something for everyone – even the pickiest of shoppers!
One of their biggest perks for us islanders is the shopping centre’s exclusive 42-passenger shopping shuttle. The shuttle offers free round-trip transportation from Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal to Tsawwassen Mills daily, coordinating with the Nanaimo and Victoria ferry sailing times, during mall hours.
Tsawwassen Mills is even offering up some GREAT incentives to take part in their survey about the complimentary shuttle use, including a chance to win a $150TsawwassenMillsgiftcard just for completing it!
You can take part in the survey here and win yourself some sweet shopping cash – Tsawwassen Mills would love to hear from you, whether you’ve experienced the shuttle or not!
Without further ado, this is why Tsawwassen Mills Shopping Mall needs to be on your list of places to visit this Spring Break:
1. You can take advantage of their new VIP Visitor Card program
You can visit Guest Services to obtain your very own VIP Visitor Card and take advantage of up to 30% off participating retailers! This offer is for visitors to the area only, and the list of discounts at BC’s premiere shopping destination is impressive – with more than 180 stores, it’s a well-curated mix of premium fashion brands, outlet stores, and first-to-market retailers.
2. Several levels of free gifts!
Shopping centre entrance
With another offer exclusively for visitors to the area, if you spend more than $350 in one day you can take all of your receipts to Guest Services to redeem a free gift! The ultimate shopping experience is completed with this signature gift, with even more exclusively tiered rewards, each gift more rewarding than the next. Redeem your same day receipts at Guest Services, near Entry 3.
One of the most convenient features of Tsawwassen Mills, this service is seriously something you need to take advantage of. You can just park your car at the Swartz Bay Terminal and board the ferry as a walk-on passenger. On the other side, hop on their Ferry Shuttle for a free ride to the mall. Once you’ve shopped until your heart’s content, take the same shuttle back to the ferry terminal for your trip back home. The schedule even coordinates with ferry times!
4. Even MORE free gifts!
If you save your ferry ticket and show it to Guest Services, you’re also eligible to pick up a FREE gift, as a thank you for making the trip. Between March 18th and April 1st, just show your ferry ticket and claim your free gift, courtesy of Tsawwassen Mills.
5. There’s so much more than just shopping
Bowling at Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl & Grill
With fun activities like the skate park at West49 and even bowling at Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl & Grill, the list of family friendly activities is endless! You can also enjoy unique experiences like Stuffy Riders, Playscape and Virtual Land, all without leaving the shopping centre. For dining options there is Boston Pizza, Milestones, Uncle Buck’s, Montana’s or South Street Burger – and this is aside from the 15 food retailers in their food hall!
Tsawwassen Mills Food Hall
It’s worth mentioning again that Tsawwassen Mills shopping shuttle is one of the greatest perks of visiting the outlet shopping centre. Kids and parents alike love a good road trip, and its made even better when you can leave your car at the ferry terminal for a walk-on ferry trip, all thanks to the complimentary service. The fact that it will be waiting for you on the other side when you get off the ferry is the cherry on top!
Don’t forget to throw your name in the hat for a chance to win some serious Spring Break spending money – just for completing Tsawwassen Mills’ survey about their shuttle service! You can check out the survey here – the potential winner gets a $150 gift card to the shopping centre.
Iconic rock star and eight-time Juno Award winner, Tom Cochrane and Red Rider will perform for the second night in a row at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney.
Sunset on Vancouver Island. Photo by Instagrammer outerlimitsdigital
After a chilly second half of winter full of snowfall and a mix of unpredictable weather conditions, it looks like Victoria is finally heading into spring conditions.
According to Environment Canada, next Monday, March 18th, the city will receive highs of up to 17°C.
Temperatures in the city will finally hit double digits this Wednesday at 10°C, and with the exception of showers and 8°C weather on Thursday, the rest of this week will be full of sun.
(Environment Canada)
This February was one of the coldest in Victoria’s history with the chilly weather and flurries persisting well into early March.
So for those of you who are ready to unfreeze and hit up some old favourite outdoor spots on the island, now’s your chance!
BC Ferries is preparing to build up to five new vessels next year, and the crown corporation is inviting local residents to share what they would like to see added to the fleet of new ferries.
The vessels will replace four currently operating ferries that run between Vancouver Island and Metro Vancouver.
Designs for the new ferries include minimizing underwater radiated noise (URN) to mitigate environmental impacts, and changes to vessel size, capacity, speed, maneuverability, and other technological abilities.
“Each new class of ship BC Ferries builds is quieter than the ships they replace,” said BC Ferries in a news release.
People can share their thoughts through an online survey, or during community meetings that will take place on board sailings next month. The full schedule of pop-up meetings can be found online here.
We’re thinking about you, the environment and the future of travel as we design ferries that will serve Metro Vancouver and Vancouver Island for future generations.
The corporation is interested in hearing the community’s thoughts on how to improve the entire experience, and suggests areas where people could put forward ideas, including:
Improvements and services related to accessibility (e.g. hearing induction loops, removing barriers to customer access and travel, etc.).
Food, beverage, and seating options.
Design of children’s play areas.
Design of the pet areas.
Enhancements to outdoor areas, seating types, and new ideas.
Enhancements for foot passengers and cyclists.
Innovative technologies BC Ferries might adopt.
Any new or innovative ideas to enhance the customer experience.
“This is an exciting project and we invite our customers to join the conversation,” said Mark
Collins, BC Ferries’ President & CEO in a release.
“There is still a lot to be decided as we work to keep fares affordable, reduce our environmental impact, plan for future flexibility and enhance the onboard experience for customers. We want to hear your thoughts on the project, and your ideas about how we can improve your experience when travelling with BC Ferries. This is an opportunity to get informed and provide feedback on the newest additions to our fleet as they are being designed.”
The new vessels are expected to come into service by mid-2020.
West Shore RCMP have arrested a woman who was found slumped over the wheel of a parked vehicle and had suspected opioids in her possession.
The arrest occurred at around 1 a.m. on March 12th, and the vehicle was parked at the curb on Hoffman Avenue at Winster Road.
When the patrol officer pulled over to check on the woman’s well being, he observed signs of drug impairment and noticed a bag of white powered substance (suspected to be an opioid) in her possession.
He then initiated a search and found 14 grams of the suspected opioid on her person, after which he arrested her for Possession of a Controlled Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking.
“Opioid’s are known to be highly addictive and can often be deadly,” said Cst. Nancy Saggar, Media Relations Officer for the West Shore RCMP.
“This amount of suspected Opioid was likely going to be trafficked into the West Shore community and was stopped solely due to the frontline officer’s investigation.”
The patrol officer also commenced an impaired driving investigation and, with the help of a Drug Recognition Expert, concluded that the woman was heavily impaired and not able to operate a motor vehicle.
After her arrest, the woman was released, given a 24 hour ban from driving and her vehicle was also impounded.
She is expected to appear in court for the aforementioned charges once the police investigation has been completed.
The provincial government is investing over one million dollars in education services this year to help keep teenage boys away from crime and gang activity.
The new program, ERASE (Expect Respect and a Safe Education) is a school-based gang prevention strategy that will be implemented at schools in 12 BC communities, including Victoria and Nanaimo.
ERASE hopes to provide boys aged 12 – 19 with alternatives to crime, like after-school programs, new local elective courses, and mentorship programs that encourage leadership and offer career development opportunities.
“If boys do not understand and value themselves and their human potential, and make enduring connections with positive adult male mentors and role models within their primary spheres of influence — family, school, extracurricular — they will seek connection elsewhere,” said Walter Mustapich, president and co-founder of Boys Club Network in a statement.
“All adolescent boys, not just boys conventionally identified as being at-risk through social or economic circumstance, benefit demonstrably from the consistent fortification of mentorship, moral courage and authentic hope offered in our after-school clubs and local curriculum. We are by no means the only solution, rather just one arrow in the quiver of targeted programs.”
The Boys Club Network is a privately funded BC charity run by secondary school administrators, teachers, counsellors, and youth and wellness workers.
It offers a variety of programs and services for young boys and men aged 12-18 across 12 school districts in the province.
Support for parents and teachers
Besides creating more resources for students, ERASE will also offer gang prevention and awareness training sessions to 1,500 parents and 2,500 educators, law enforcement officials, and representatives of community-based organizations.
These comprehensive sessions will provide an overview of the current gang landscape, how gang members recruit, the myths and realities of membership in a gang, and how to help those who are being recruited or are already involved in gang-related activity.
The program will also cover topics such as mental health and wellness, substance use, social media, and sexual orientation and gender identity education.
“Ending the gun and gang violence that’s taking young lives and threatening our communities will continue to require strong, strategic prevention and enforcement efforts,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General.
“Early intervention and prevention programs like ERASE are vital to ensuring our young people are both knowledgeable and resilient to the lure of gangs and gang violence — helping them make their own positive life choices.”
It’s not every day a Juno award-winner AND Grammy-nominee visits our fair city – and tickets are still available to see him!
Tom Cochrane and his band Red Rider are back in town for two nights only at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney, and with shows happening tonight as well as tomorrow night, now is your chance to see this iconic rock star in what promises to be an intimate theatre-style performance.
The past few decades, Tom Cochrane and his band have taken Canada by storm as a popular arena touring act across the country. This Spring though, Cochrane and Red Rider will be performing a more intimate style of theatre shows across our province, as well as in Alberta.
The popular artist touts an impressive lineup of awards such as 8 Juno Awards, as well as multiple songwriter awards from SOCAN, CAPAC, and ASCAP. Tom Cochrane is also an esteemed member of the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, and the Canadian Music Industry Hall of Fame. Along with being a Grammy nominee, he holds an honorary doctorate, and has a coveted place on Canada’s Walk of Fame.
Just hours after Nanaimo RCMP posted a picture of a suspected thief on Tuesday, police were tipped off to the suspect’s location and arrested him.
A 48-year-old Nanaimo resident was located in downtown Nanaimo, and was arrested for posession of stolen property, theft, and fradulent use of credit cards.
He was released on a promise to appear and has a court date set for May 7th, 2019.
“A number of tips were provided by the public via social media, phone calls, and other means, which ultimately lead to the arrest of the person allegedly responsible for these crimes,” said Cst. Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.
“The investigators have asked that we let the public know they are extremely grateful for all their assistance.”
Earlier:
Nanaimo RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying a man who is suspected of stealing a woman’s purse and fraudulently using the credit cards inside it last week.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, March 5th, at approximately 11 a.m., when a woman was walking through the parking lot at Costco. The suspect then passed by the woman, grabbed her purse and fled on foot.
Police arrived shortly after the theft and tried to locate the man, but were unable to find him.
Inside the stolen purse were several personal items, including a wallet that contained multiple credit cards.
Before the cards could be cancelled, police say that they were used at two locations on Turner Road in Nanaimo: Quality Foods and the North Ridge General Store.
Surveillance footage from the Quality Foods shows the suspect leaving the grocery store, and matches the description of the man who stole the purse.
The suspect is described as Caucasian male standing approximately 6’ tall with a thin build. He has a scruffy salt and pepper beard and was wearing a dark coloured windbreaker and blue jeans at the time.
Anyone with information about the suspect or the incident is asked to contact Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345 or report what they know anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477
Chocolats Favoris knows what it means to indulge, and this treat is no exception. Their chocolate poutine is a combination of donut fries and marshmallow “cheese curds” doused in melted chocolate (there are twelve flavours to choose from).
It’s all served on top of a layer of soft serve so finishing this might be a two person job. Then again, maybe not.
If you don’t mind getting a little messy with your chocolate, then The Cookie Guy has you covered with delicious, melty ice cream sandwiches. They’ve got three varieties of chocolate chip cookies plus a gluten-sensitive option.
You can even mix and match two different cookies in one sandwich! For true chocolate devotees, we recommend chocolate ice cream between two chocolate chip cookies drizzled with chocolate sauce. Now that’s what we call pure bliss.
Bernard Callebaut chocolates come in all sorts of unique flavour combinations. However, their new salted habanero rosemary chocolates (available in milk and dark) are particularly memorable.
This spicier than the average chili-infused chocolate is aromatic and contains complex flavours that leave you wanting more. Perfect for adventurous chocolate connoisseurs.
Where: Chocolaterie Bernard Callebaut, 621 Broughton St
While everything at Pure Lovin’ is vegan, chocolate cremes are where their innovation shines through. Available in peppermint, maple, and orange, you’d never guess that these sweet treats are completely dairy-free. Delicious and ethical!
Where: Pure Lovin’ Chocolate, 3 Fan Tan Alley #102
A chocolate shop might not be the most obvious place to sell dog treats. But that hasn’t stopped Rocky Mountain Chocolate from creating white chocolate dipped dog bones (without a trace of theobromine, making it safe for your fur baby to eat).
Satisfy your pup’s sweet tooth and pick up a “Barker’s Dozen” today.
Where: Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, 909 Government St
(USS Zumwalt/Photo by Justin Robertson - Facebook)
The Esquimalt naval base is currently playing host to the U.S. Navy’s largest warship, the USS Zumwalt.
The destroyer vessel pulled into the shipyard at around 3 p.m. on Monday, March 11th, after departing from San Diego on April 8th for its first operational underway.
We’re live for the arrival of USS ZumwaltCommander, U.S. Third Fleet
USS Zumwalt is the U.S. Navy’s newest destroyer and features a state-of-the-art electric propulsion system, wave-piercing tumblehome hull, stealth design and the latest war fighting technology and weaponry available.
“My crew has been looking forward to continued testing and operations at sea, leveraging the newly installed capabilities of this platform,” said commanding officer, Captain Andrew Carlson.
“Our primary focus is executing a safe underway, while building both competence and confidence in operating Zumwalt across the spectrum of naval warfare.”
The Zumwalt is a part of the U.S. Third Fleet which leads naval forces in the Pacific and provides the relevant training necessary for an effective global Navy.
It is 610 ft long and has the capacity to accommodate a wide array of surface, submarine, and aviation missions.
A senior citizen in Oak Bay woke up from a nap to find a woman leaving her suite with an armful of stolen goods.
Oak Bay Police are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the woman who entered the Care Facility on Bee Street at approximately 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 7th.
The suspect entered the senior citizen’s suite through an unlocked front door and stole cash, her purse, and her passport.
When the victim woke up, she tried to confront the thief who then promptly fled from the scene.
The woman is approximately 25 years old and is described as Caucasian, standing 5’6″ tall, with dark hair, and was wearing dark clothing and tight pants at the time of the incident.
“Entering the residence of a vulnerable senior and stealing their property is disgusting,” says Deputy Chief Ray Bernoties.
“Someone will know who this suspect is and we strongly encourage them to call us or Crime Stoppers.”
As of approximately 9:20 a.m., the police department reported being sent a good tip on the identity of the suspect from their social media post on the subject, and encouraged individuals to keep coming forward.
Their tweet also included a cheeky message to the suspect: “You can drop by our office today if you like or just give us a shout & we’ll come and getcha! 😉”
Why do we love social media? We've already got a good tip on the identity of our suspect! 👍Please keep them coming! To the suspect: You can drop by our office today if you like or just give us a shout & we'll come and getcha'! 😉 See ya' soon! https://t.co/KQRrnDQIHi
Anyone who recognizes the woman in the image above or has any information about this incident should contact Oak Bay PD at 250-592-2424, or to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
We hope you’ve all adjusted to the new time change and are ready to tackle the week! Today we have provincial curling championships to watch, dramatic but hilarious shows to see, and more!
Without further ado here are 5 things to do in and around Victoria today, Tuesday, March 12th.
Watch the best male and female curlers the province has to offer compete in at the Juan de Fuca Curling Centre. Today will also include the competition’s opening ceremonies, which starts at 4:30 p.m.
When: 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Where: Juan de Fuca Curling Centre, 1767 Island Highway
One part stand-up comedy, one part storytelling, and one part documentary film, award-winning comedian Franco Nguyen will take the stage to share stories about growing up, living with his Mom, and one remarkable trip to Vietnam.
Get your thinking cap on it’s time for Benji’s weekly Fernwood Quiz! Gather your four smartest friends and compete for gift cards to the Fernwood Inn, a personal photograph, and of course, “general smugness and satisfaction.”
Or if you want to take on the world by yourself, that’s good too! Teams of 1 – 5 are accepted.
