Sidney/North Saanich RCMP are looking to identify a man believed to have stolen a suitcase from a woman on a BC Transit bus in November.
According to a Facebook post by Greater Victoria Crimes Stoppers, the incident occurred on BC Transit bus number 70 on Sunday, November 20th.
The photo released, which was taken from surveillance footage on the bus, was captured around 1:25 p.m. that day.
The man is accused of stealing a red soft sided suitcase from as bus passenger flying home to Ontario.
The victim put her cases on the bus and stored them in the row behind her. When she went to change buses so she could get to the airport, she discovered the red suitcase had been taken.
“Thankfully she still had her personal documents, so could get her flight but returned home to Ontario without the rest of her belongings,” the Facebook post read.
“Sidney-North Saanich RCMP would like to speak to the person pictured.”
Anyone who recognizes the suspect is asked to contact police or if you wish to remain anonymous, call Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Thanks to the combined effort of American and Victorian based search and rescue teams a man and his two dogs have been returned to safety following their ship being run aground.
The sailor and his two pups were sailing in a small sailboat were travelling through the Juan De Fuca Strait when their vessel was run aground.
The King Tide and high winds may have been contributing factors to the ship’s crash.
The vessel was being consistently struck by larger waves and the two canines and their master were desperate to be saved from a potentially life-threatening scenario.
A US Coast Guard helicopter was the first on the scene to rescue the trio.
The Port Angeles aircrew quickly sprang into action and were able to get the sailor and one of his dogs to safety in Victoria at the Canadian Coast Guard station.
The American aircrew then returned to the scene and located the second dog, which was brought to safety by a rescue swimmer and the use of a basket deployed by the helicopter’s crew.
This was a combined effort by Canadian and American Coast Guards as well as the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) Victoria.
A U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Port Angeles helicopter aircrew rescued 1 person and 2 dogs from a sailboat near Vancouver Island, British Columbia. The sailboat ran aground and was being battered by large waves. The Port Angeles aircrew quickly responded. They arrived on scene and transported the mariner and 1 dog to the Canadian Coast Guard Station in Victoria, British Columbia.The aircrew returned to the area and spotted another dog within the wreckage. The aircrew deployed a rescue swimmer, recovered the dog and transported it to the Canadian Coast Guard Station.Awesome work to everyone involved, including the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre Victoria!Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast GuardCommandant of the U.S. Coast GuardCoast Guard Sector Puget SoundU.S. Coast GuardGo Coast Guard
In his debut with the Victoria Royals, goaltender Braden Holt made his presence known after saving all 35 shots on the net, shutting out the Vancouver Giants 3-0 on Wednesday, December 28th.
Before donning the blue and black, Holt joined the Royals a day before the big game.
“They played super hard for me, and I just couldn’t be happier,” Braden Holt told Marlon Martens after the win.
Holt’s performance earned him the first star of the game.
“???????????????? ???????????????????????? ???????????????????? ???????????????? ???????????? ????????, ???????????? ???? ???????????????? ????????????????????????’???? ???????? ????????????????????????????.” -Braden Holt after shutting out the Giants 3-0 in his Royals debut: https://t.co/uLgzYeNoGr@victoriaroyals@TheZone913pic.twitter.com/vfPi3PR826
Last night the Royal’s offence came to play with a first period goal from forward Jake Poole, moving his current record to 33 (18 goals,15 assists) on the season.
Poole’s early success would be followed by forward Brayden Schuurman (7), bringing the score to 2-0 at the 7:38 mark of the third.
Schuurman (8) would then cap off the night by adding an unassisted empty net goal at 19:33 of the third period, securing the 3-0 victory for the Royals.
Relive all the saves, goals, and cellys from last night's win in Langley!
The Royals and Giants will face off for the third and final time this week on Friday, December 30th in Victoria. The puck-drop is set for 7:05 p.m. at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre.
(Highway 4 Kennedy Hill improvements / Province BC)
If you’re a planning a trip to Tofino this weekend, you will be happy to hear that Highway 4 will be open to two-way traffic traffic as crews shut down the Kennedy Hill construction project for the holiday weekend.
The stretch of highway will return to single-lane alternating traffic after Monday, January 2nd at all times until January 12th.
On January 13th, the province says single-lane alternating traffic will be in place from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., and open to two-way traffic at the end of each workday.
The project has reached several major milestones, including the placement of two cantilever bridges, slope stabilization and grading required for the final road width.
Highway 4 has been the source of delays for many drivers on their way out to Tofino and Uculet for more than three years while construction was being completed.
The province says the timing of the full reopening of Kennedy Hill section of Highway 4 that connects Port Alberni to the west coast of Vancouver Island is weather dependent.
The section of highway crews were working on is now a safer, more reliable road for all those who use it, especially for truckers and commercial vehicle drivers.
The 1.5-kilometre road has been straightened and flattened to improve visibility and traction when rain and snow are present. The lanes were also made wider along with the highway’s shoulders and there are new roadside barriers between the road and Kennedy Lake.
To achieve all these improvements, 180,000 cubic metres of rock had to be blasted, stabilization bolts were drilled into the hillside, water retaining structures were installed downslope to catch rainwater and the whole thing cost approximately $54 million.
The new section of highway also has a new rest stop area complete with new washroom facilities and a viewpoint of Kennedy Lake which will be accessible for all vehicle types.
Road flooding and hydroplaning will no longer be a concern to drivers either because of a new drainage system that was installed during construction.
This drainage system meets new standards of resilience to survive longer given the changing climate.
“When both lanes are open, traffic impacts will be reduced to nighttime closures and minor interruptions during the day while the contractor continues to work toward final project completion in the spring,” said the province.
The project was slated to be completed in 2020 but ran into several delays. The project is now slated to be complete in spring 2023.
Renters and landlords within BC will soon see benefits from the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) with the hiring of more staff to help deal with disputes.
The increase in staff comes after a $15.6 million funding announcement from the province over the next three years which the government says will improve wait times for active disputes.
The newly created Ministry of Housing has put forth a hiring initiative to the RTB so that disputes can be dealt with in a more timely manner as when they go unresolved, tensions between landlords and tenants can escalate quickly.
The province says that each year, the RTB receives approximately 200,000 calls for information and guidance from staff and they process more than 20,000 dispute applications.
According to BC’s Minister of Housing Ravi Kahlon, application numbers have increased by 21% since 2018 with the influx of people moving to BC.
“Renters and landlords have been clear that the current residential tenancy dispute resolution process isn’t working fast enough to address their needs,” said Kahlon.
“We hear you and we are taking action to speed up service and strengthen enforcement to address things like repeat or serious offences like illegal evictions, so renters and landlords can get the fair treatment and timely support they deserve.”
The new funding will allow RTB to bring in 50 new full-time employees by increasing their operating budget for staffing by 40%.
The province is promising to cut down wait times for disputes with the new hires. The additional hires will double the size of the Compliance and Enforcement Unit (CEU).
The CEU was created in 2019 and it is responsible for investigating and taking action in situations of repeat or serious residential tenancy offences, such as illegal evictions. They also have the power to impose monetary penalties when necessary.
According to the Ministry of Housing, a result of the COVID-19 pandemic was the overall demand for housing from people moving to BC increasing. This has created more competition in the renting market which has driven up the number of dispute applications to the RTB.
“As tenants grapple with the ongoing housing and eviction crises, it is essential that they can access and enforce their rights at the RTB,” said Robert Patterson, lawyer, Tenant Resource and Advisory Centre (TRAC).
“This additional support for the RTB will mean that tenants whose landlords are ignoring the law can have their urgent concerns addressed sooner. TRAC hopes that adding more staff will mean not only that tenants’ cases will be heard more quickly, but also that arbitrators will have the time and support they need to give well-reasoned decisions.”
“We also applaud the government’s investment in the CEU, which has been an incredible resource for tenants, by preventing illegal evictions and taking meaningful action against bad-faith landlords.”
The new funding will also benefit landlords whose tenants are refusing to pay them via the CEU’s workforce being doubled.
“Not only will this new investment alleviate financial concerns for landlords by allowing them to solve rental disputes faster, but it will also ensure that their unit is available to provide housing to people in B.C. at a time when it’s needed most,” said David Hutniak, CEO, LandlordBC.
“We are pleased to see this government take action to resolve a process they recognize isn’t working. We look forward to continuing to work alongside them to create better solutions for landlords and renters in our province.”
In addition to increasing their workforce, the RTB’s new funding will aid them in revitalizing their processes to make them more user-friendly. Part of this will be to improve the early intervention process that resolves blatant disputes without a hearing and to improve their online service portal.
Victoria’s own classic holiday ballet to Tchaikovsky’s timeless Nutcracker score played by the Victoria Symphony. Follow Clara’s adventures into a world of unexpected wonders, filled with colourful costumes, magic, humour, and dazzling dancing. Come and create enchanting memories with friends and family.
Where: Royal Theatre, 805 Broughton Street
When: Thursday, December 29th, 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Imagine walking into a bar in the early 70’s, and Pink Floyd is in the corner playing their iconic Rock music…That is the vibe that “Relics” will be presenting at their show at Hermann’s Jazz Club (downstairs).
Songs from Pipers at the Gates of Dawn, Atom Heart Mother, Umma Gumma, Meddle, and of course, Dark Side of the Moon will be performed by these rabid Pink Floyd fans…
Charlie Fox, Keyboards, Phil Albert, Bass, Tom Bowler, guitar, Matt Pease, Drums, and special guest Paul Wainwright, sax.
For all the K-pop lovers in Victoria, tonight is your night! All your favourite K-Pop idols, all your favourite videos! It’s the Lucky Bar K-Pop Night…
Tonight the Great Divide are set to perform the music of The Band from their careers with Bob Dylan, through Music From Big Pink and up to The Last Waltz.
Performing with their true instrumental line-up, The Great Divide celebrates the music of The Band with an authenticity that is unmatched.
Two young Vancouver Canucks fans lost their newfound prized possession in a flight with Flair Airlines over the Christmas break.
The two boys had travelled to Edmonton and gotten tickets to see the Canucks face off against the Edmonton Oilers on December 23rd.
They had made a sign that read, “Hey Bo Horvat, All I want for Christmas is your signature… Want to rock, paper, scissors for it? Go Canucks!”
Horvat obliged the young fans and gifted the boys with the hockey stick he used in the game that Vancouver bested Edmonton 5-2. In that game, Bo Horvat scored twice along with getting two assists.
Upon flying home on a Flair Airlines flight into the Abbotsford International Airport, the airline lost the stick and left the two boys devastated.
The boys’ mother, Janelle Staite, who is Deputy Director of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure tweeted at the Canucks and Flair Airlines to ask for a Christmas miracle upon their arrival back home.
Staite claims that Flair Airlines was not responding to her pleas for rectification in the matter and her aim in tweeting what she did was to make her sons have a happy Christmas instead of a disappointing one.
The Vancouver Canucks replied to the tweet on December 28th stating they can help the Staite boys get their hands on a new stick from their favourite player.
Whatever they get may not be the stick that scored twice with two assists in the hands of Horvat and it may not be the stick they’ll remember their trip with, but the Canucks assured the family they’d make something happen for the boys.
The Vancouver Canucks told Victoria Buzz they are “in the process of working with the family and have nothing to share at this time.”
If you’re planning to head to the mainland tonight, it might be best to double-check your sailing.
BC Ferries says evening ferry sailings between Swartz Bay and Tsawwassen are at risk of being cancelled due to lack of crew.
The company said it has been unsuccessful in securing the required number of crew to sail the Coastal Renaissance, causing the potential risk of sailing cancellations for today, Wednesday, December 28.
“While our crewing teams are working hard to source replacements,” said BC Ferries, the following sailings are at risk if they are unable to do so:
8 p.m. departing Swartz Bay
10 p.m. departing Tsawwassen
“We require a specific number of staff members on board the vessel to ensure the safety of our passengers in the unlikely event of an emergency and to comply with Transport Canada regulations,” said BC Ferries.
“Should any sailings be impacted, we will notify customers via service notice as soon as the information is confirmed.”
BC Ferries says they exhausted all options to find replacement staff before cancelling any sailings. If circumstances change and replacement staff become available, they would notify customers immediately.
North Cowichan has officially lifted the evacuation alert as of 11 a.m. on Wednesday, December 28th.
The municipality was forced to issue an evacuation alert for a small area of North Cowichan near Pinson’s Corner (the corner of Chemainus Road at Crofton Road) due to heavy rain, snow melt, King Tide and higher than normal levels of Chemainus River.
The alert was initially activated via CowichanAlert on December 26th as the King Tide event began and the snow melt progressed.
In a statement today, North Cowichan officials said the King Tide event and rainfall did not make matters worse in regards to the flooding. They posted on Twitter and alerted residents through CowichanAlert of the evacuation cancellation as soon as circumstances had been able to be properly assessed.
Dec 28, 11am: Overnight rain and this morning’s king tide event did not impact water levels on the Chemainus River, and roads in the area have now reopened to motorists. The evacuation alert for select properties has been cancelled. ???? 1/2 pic.twitter.com/vDxy63zZ1I
One of Canada’s most famed and prolific artists is coming to Victoria on a tour to support his latest release, Rarities.
Rarities is a collection of some of Bruce Cockburn’s B-sides and even songs that never saw the light of day over his career of more than 50 years.
Cockburn is an active musician, activist and author who has sold more than nine million records throughout his career.
“My job is to try and trap the spirit of things in the scratches of pen on paper and the pulling of notes out of metal,” said Cockburn in a statement about his career.
The Ottawa born songwriter’s accolades include being a member of both the Canadian Songwriter and Canadian Music Hall of Fame, a winner of Folk Alliance’s People’s Voice Award as well 13 Juno Awards from more than 30 nominations.
The new compilation became available on November 25th along with three re-pressings of his most famous albums; Bruce Cockburn S/T, the Charity of Night and Breakfast in New Orleans Dinner in Timbuktu.
He will have copies of all four of these vinyl pressings and CDs at his show at Victoria’s Royal Theatre on February 2nd, 2023.
Tickets are now limited and the Royal Theatre expects this show to sell out well before the performance in February.
Remember to lock your vehicle’s door overnight if you live in Oak Bay.
On December 20th at approximately 10 a.m., Oak Bay Police officers attended a home in the 2500-block of Lansdowne Road for a report of a stolen vehicle.
According to police, a 1998 white Jeep Cherokee had been stolen from the residence where it was parked in the driveway overnight.
While investigating this incident, neighbouring residences of the house in which the car was stolen from reported that their vehicles had been broken into overnight and some items were missing from the vehicles.
CCTV footage caught a lone suspect in a black hooded jacket, although police have yet to determine their identity.
Police found the stolen Jeep Cherokee two days later on December 22nd. VicPD identified the vehicle as stolen after locating it in downtown Victoria on Douglas Street.
The vehicle in question was not damaged and has since been returned to the owner.
Oak Bay Police will continue their investigation into the matter.
Police ask that anyone with information regarding this crime, call Oak Bay Police at (250) 592-2424 or to report anonymously, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Ready to say goodbye to 2022 but don’t have a designated driver this New Year’s Eve?
Plan to take the bus instead!
As always, BC Transit and the Victoria Regional Transit Commission are offering free bus service on New Year’s Eve, starting at 6 p.m. on Saturday, December 31st.
????#YYJ#RiderAlert – Enjoy a free bus ride after 6:00pm on New Year’s Eve (Saturday, Dec. 31) until the end of service #VictoriaBC ! To view schedules including late night service, please visit our website: https://t.co/3yGvHAetKs
Besides the initiative to help people celebrate the end of the year safely, transit hours will operate on regular hours this Saturday, including in the evening.
Click here to view the entire BC Transit Holiday schedule.
Nanaimo RCMP are asking for the public’s help in locating a missing 17-year-old boy who never made it home for Christmas as planned.
Connor Beckett has not been seen since December 23rd and was officially reported missing to police on December 27th.
His family have told investigators that this behaviour is out of character for the teen and they are all very concerned for his well-being.
Police say that Beckett was living in a Nanaimo youth shelter prior to his disappearance. He was last seen there on December 22nd.
According to police he told his family he would spend Christmas with them in their Bowser home but never arrived.
Last contact with Beckett was over the phone on December 23rd when he told his family he was in Port Alberni.
Police say his parents reported that they had sent him an e-transfer but to date the money has not been withdrawn from his accounts.
Attempts to contact Beckett via call or text have all gone unanswered.
Police say Beckett is a Caucasian youth, standing 5’8” tall, weighing 145 pounds, with blonde hair and blue eyes. No clothing description was available.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Connor Beckett is asked to contact Nanaimo RCMP at (250) 754-2345.
The province is setting in motion new regulations regarding the types of work that are not suitable for youth workers.
The new regulations come into effect on Sunday, January 1st.
According to WorkSafeBC, between 2012 and 2021 more than $26.4 million was paid out in job-related disability claims for workers who were aged 16 to 18-years-old.
BC has held consultations with members of the public and stakeholders to present analysis of workplace injury data and have identified a number of jobs that are being deemed too hazardous for young workers.
BC previously announced the amendments to the Employment Standards Regulation in October.
Primarily the jobs deemed too dangerous are in construction, forestry, food processing, oil and gas and power, and asbestos removal.
The province will now require young workers to be at least 18-years-old to work in logging, using a smelter, oil drilling or anywhere there may be risk of exposure to harmful materials.
A minimum age requirement of 16-years-old has been applied broadly to the construction industry, fish processing plants and some other animal work.
BC has stipulated that to ensure youth will still have access to industry apprenticeship and training programs through SkilledTradesBC, age restrictions will not apply to these situations.
Specifically, a minimum age of 16-years-old is required to undertake the following activities:
construction
silviculture
forest firefighting
working from heights that require fall protection
A minimum age of 18-years-old is now required to undertake the following employment activities:
tree falling and logging
using a chainsaw
work in a production process at a pulp, paper, saw, shake or shingle mill
work in a production process at a foundry, metal processing or metal fabrication operation, refinery or smelter
powerline construction or maintenance where an electrical hazard exists
oil or gas field servicing and drilling
work with dangerous equipment in fish, meat or poultry processing facilities
silica process/exposure to silica dust
work in which a worker is or may be exposed to potentially harmful levels of asbestos
exposure to harmful levels radiation
working in a confined space or underground workings
work requiring a respirator
The province says that with an effective date of January 1st, 2023, employers have been provided ample time to adjust the work performed by existing young employees.
Depending on when you like to pack up your decorations and take the tree down, you may be trying to figure out where you can get this year’s tree chipped!
Before recycling, don’t forget to remove all screws, nails, lights and ornaments from the tree. These items may be potentially hazardous if passed through chipping equipment.
When you are ready to wrap up your holiday celebrations, here are 35 places to get your Christmas tree chipped in and around Victoria:
Central Saanich Lions Club
Donate during operating hours, or a donation box will be provided for after hours drop offs.
Where: 1700 Keating Cross Road, across from Municipal Works Yard
When: 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., December 28th, January 2nd, 3rd, 7th, and 8th
The Easter Seals Christmas Tree Recycling Fundraiser
This holiday, donate your tree and also support Easter Seals Camp Shawnigan, an overnight and day summer camp program for children and adults with disabilities.
You can drop off your tree with a cash donation to Tillicum Shopping Centre, Save-On-Foods (Fort & Foul Bay), Westshore Town Centre, University Heights Shopping Centre and Broadmead Village Shopping Centre. There are also drop off locations in Mill Bay, Shawnigan Lake and Duncan.
Pick up is also available for the Greater Victoria area for a minimum $20 donation. Registration is on a first come, first serve basis. You can register here by December 30th.
Where: 4 locations throughout Victoria and 3 locations in the Cowichan Valley. You can view a list of locations here
Victoria area:
Tillicum Shopping Centre
Save-On-Foods – Fort & Foul Bay
Westshore Town Centre
Broadmead Village Shopping Centre
When: January 7th and 8th, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
McKenzie Elementary School
McKenzie Elementary School and Bartlett Tree Excerpts are teaming up for their annual Christmas Tree Chipping Fundraiser.
The event runs by donation, with proceeds going to the creation of Outdoor Learning Spaces.
Tree pick up is also available within 3km, please email tracylee16@hotmail.com by January 2nd to arrange.
Where: Back parking lot of McKenzie Elementary School, 4005 Raymond Street North
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., January 7th and 8th
Colwood Volunteer Firefighters Association
By donation. Proceeds go to the Colwood Volunteer Firefighters Historical Fund.
Where: Colwood Fire Hall, 3215 Metchosin Road
When: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., January 7th and 8th
Compassionate Resource Warehouse
By donation. Proceeds go to youth programming and community.
Where: Archie Browning Sports Centre Parking Lot, 1151 Esquimalt Road
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., January 7th and 8th
Oak Bay Fire Tree Recycle
By donation. Proceeds go towards the Oak Bay High School Bursary Program.
Where: 1703 Monterey Avenue, Fireman’s Park (behind the Fire Hall)
When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., January 7th and 8th
Castaway Wanderers Rugby Club
By donation. Trees will be chipped by Bartlett Tree Services.
Where: Currie Road next to the Windsor Park Rose Garden
When:
1 p.m. to 4 p.m., on December 31st
10 a.m. to 4 p.m., January 1st and 2nd, January 7th and 8th, and January 14th
Community Living Victoria
By Donation to Community Living Victoria.
Where: 3861 Cedar Hill Cross Rd
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., January 7th and 8th
Victoria Judo Club – Lochside Elementary School
By donation. Proceeds will support youth and community athletics. Garden City Tree and Landscape will be doing the chipping.
Where: Lochside Elementary School, 1145 Royal Oak Drive
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., January 8th
Victoria Judo Club – Scout House
By donation. Bottle collection as well. Proceeds will support youth and community athletics. Garden City Tree and Landscape will be doing the chipping.
Where: Scout House – 505 Marigold Road
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., January 7th and 8th
Reynolds Secondary School
Raising funds for its music program with their annual tree chipping fundraiser. By donation. The music program also hosts a bottle drive Jan. 7.
Where: 3963 Borden Street, Reynolds School parking lot
When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., January 7th and 8th
Juan De Fuca Search and Rescue
By donation. Proceeds will go to search and rescue volunteers. Legendary Tree Services will be donating their tree chipping services.
Where: 1210 Childlow Connector (Slegg Lumber)
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., January 7th
Ellice Recycle Ltd.
$16.50 + tax per tree.
Where: 524 David Street yard
When:
7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday,
8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday
Claremont Key Club
By donation ($10/tree recommended), proceeds will go toward the club’s charitable donations.
Where: 4980 Wesley Road, Claremont Secondary School (student parking lot off Claremont Ave)
When:
10 a.m. to 4 p.m., January 7th
10 a.m. to 2 p.m., January 8th
Central Middle School – Central Music Parents Association
By donation. Proceeds are used to support music at Central Middle School.
Where: 1280 Fort Street, École Intermédiaire Central Middle School
When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., January 7th and 8th
Knights of Columbus
Fundraising event. By donation.
Where: St. Joseph the Worker Parish, 753 Burnside Road West
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., January 7th
Sidney Lions Club
By donation. Stay in your car, they will grab the tree. A bottle drive will also be held between 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Saturday.
Where: Overflow parking lot of Iroquois Park on Ocean Ave
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., January 7th and 8th
Hartland Landfill
Christmas Trees accepted. Yard and garden material (less than 3″dia) – $59/tonne, $10 minimum. Branches and stumps (greater than 3″ dia) – $110/tonne, $10 minimum
Where: 1 Hartland Avenue
When:
9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday
7 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday – closed Sundays and Stat Holidays
Greater Victoria BC Lions Society
Chip in for the Kids Tree Pick-up Service. Register for pick up online before December 31st. Minimum $20 donation for Easter Seals programs.
Victoria Gizeh Shrine Clown Unit
Funds raised will go to the Montreal Shriner Children’s Hospital.
Where: Canadian Tire parking lot on Admirals Road
When: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., January 7th and 8th
Oaklands Elementary School – PAC
Suggested minimum donation of $10 per tree. All funds raised will support school projects funded by PAC. In the Oaklands Elementary parking lot.
Where: 2827 Belmont Avenue, In the Oaklands Elementary parking lot
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., January 7th
Sidney Elementary PAC
The Sidney PAC is hosting a Christmas tree chipping by donation. Get rid of your Christmas tree and your holiday bottles for a great cause. Proceeds will to pay for the Reflex Math Program used at Sidney Elementary.
Where: 2281 Henry Avenue, Sidney Elementary parking lot
When:
1 p.m. to 3 p.m., January 7th
8 a.m. to 9 a.m., January 8th
St Patrick’s Elementary School
By donation to support the services of the PAC.
Where:2368 Trent Street
When:
1 p.m. to 3 p.m., January 7th and January 8th
Municipal Yard Waste Depots:
Contact municipalities directly regarding hours of operation, restrictions and charges before drop-off. Click here for more details.
Colwood Public Works Yard
Where: 3300 Wishart Road
When: 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the first and third Saturday of each month (December, January and February)
Esquimalt/View Royal Yard & Garden Waste Transfer Station
Where: 605 Canteen Road
When: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m Tuesday to Sunday – excluding stat holidays
North Saanich Public Works Yard
Where: 10180 Littlewood Road
When: 8 a.m. to noon on specific days, click here for dates
When: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturdays excluding stat holidays
Do you know of another tree chipping event or fundraiser in your area? Send us an email to tips@victoriabuzz.com to be included on our list! Make sure to include Tree Chipping in your subject line.
Though it may be hard to believe, 2022 is coming to a close.
This year, we have the opportunity to gather with loved ones and celebrate the new year to come—and what better way to do it than under a blanket of dazzling lights in downtown Victoria?
DVBA’s Lights of Wonder officially kicked off on December 15th, and the free, accessible, and all-ages outdoor light display welcomes guests to experience a variety of activities and entertainment each day.
On New Year’s Eve, this Saturday, December 31st, you’ll have the opportunity to ring in the New Year at Lights of Wonder in Centennial Square!
There will be two countdowns to the New Year:
9 p.m. – Want to celebrate the New Year and have the kids in bed before midnight?
The 9 p.m. countdown is perfect for families (or just those of us who like to go to bed early!)
12 a.m. – Honouring traditional New Year’s AND closing out Lights of Wonder for the year with the countdown to midnight!
Whether you choose the 9 p.m. or the 12 a.m. countdown, wear you shiniest, sparkliest, brightest outfits!
DVBA will be handing out glow sticks and prizes, and the 360-degree camera will be on site with some fun accessories, so you can get the coolest videos of your friends and family.
The best part? This event is FREE, and you’re welcome to stay for as long or as little time as you like.
RCMP have laid charges in a hit-and-run that occurred earlier this year near Nanaimo.
On March 4th at approximately 3:30 p.m., a 54-year-old woman was struck while walking her two dogs on Lorenzen Lane in upper Lantzville.
According to police, the woman reported that she and her husband were walking their dogs in a single-file line when the vehicle approached from behind and struck her.
Police say the collision sent the woman, her husband and their dogs into the ditch. Her husband managed to get a partial licence plate and a description of the vehicle as it drove away from the victims.
Paramedics arrived on the scene shortly after and the woman was transported to hospital.
Police say the dog required a full knee replacement.
“The investigation was complicated and time consuming; however, investigators from the Nanaimo RCMP Traffic Unit were tenacious and were able to identify the alleged driver and the vehicle involved”, said R/Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.
34-year-old Joel Salazar, who is a resident of Lantzville, has now been charged with one count of failing to stop and failing to offer assistance as well as one count of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing bodily harm.
Police say that Salazar has been served with a summons and is expected to be in Nanaimo Provincial Court to face his charges on January 31st, 2023.
(Flooded Cowichan Bay - December 28th - Chris Sadler/Facebook)
On December 26th, with the arrival of strong winds and a King Tide, melting snow and high rivers caused an evacuation alert for some residents of North Cowichan.
The people most affected by this evacuation are those that live on properties near the Chemainus River.
As of December 27th at 5 p.m. the evacuation alert was extended and will be reassessed on December 28th.
(Chris Sadler/Facebook)
When the heavy rain was joined with the melting snow and a King Tide, localized flooding near Pinson’s Corner (the corner of Chemainus Road at Crofton Road) needed to be evacuated.
North Cowichan says that the river levels have been dropping since the evening of December 26th, but water gauges along the Chemainus River still show increasing volume of river flow.
Rainfall continued in the region until approximately midnight and December 28th has another King Tide projected for Vancouver Island.
“Residents can be prepared for flood events by ensuring storm drains near their property are cleared of snow or leaves, and check your home’s eaves and downspouts to ensure water drains properly,” said the Municipality of North Cowichan in a statement.
“Localized flooding can be expected during heavy rain events. Never drive through a flooded road, even if signs are not yet in place.”
North Cowichan is encouraging residents to sign up for CowichanAlert for information about road closures, significant weather events and evacuation alerts.
????⛔ Never drive on flooded roads, even if signs are not in place. Sign up for https://t.co/pUZbaAiSNO for roads, weather, and to learn about road closures, significant weather events, and evacuation alerts https://t.co/hKvIC0vV2A ???? 3/3
Here are some recommendations from North Cowichan of what to do in the event of an evacuation:
Locate all your family members and identify a ‘muster point’ outside the evacuation area, just in case an evacuation takes place while the family is separated.
Have a go-bag ready. Take only essential items such as ID, medications, eyeglasses, valuable papers (i.e. insurance, credit, and mortgage information) and immediate care needs for dependents. If there is time, take some keepsakes.
Prepare to assist neighbours.
Be prepared to take pets with you. Move livestock to a safe area if possible.
Have a transportation plan ready for all family members. Fill the gas tanks of personal vehicles.
Have a backup plan for alternate accommodations for all members of the residence.
Wait for the evacuation order to be given before evacuating.
Monitor local news sources, radio stations and CowichanAlert for additional information.
If an evacuation order is announced, reception centres’ locations will also be communicated.
Everyone deserves to have the tools they need to feel safe.
Yvette André is the creator and head instructor of Sixth Sense Self Defence, a Victoria company wanting to help young women and female identifying individuals feel safe through setting boundaries and learning how to navigate a boundary being broken.
Sixth Sense Self Defence’s vision as an entity is to provide a trauma-informed approach to embolden and empower women providing confidence, resourcefulness and awareness.
Sexual assaults, sex trafficking, harassment and gender-targeted violence all occur more frequently in Greater Victoria than one may believe. The subjects remain taboo in most households because many wish to not think about these topics, and thus not speak about them.
Sixth Sense Self Defence has the ability and the language to talk about these topics in a way that empowers instead of instilling fear.
André has been trained in several forms of martial arts and has a passion for passing along knowledge to as many women as she can. She has learned through knowledge passed down to her and through her own experience that it all boils down to boundaries and the danger that can come with breaking them.
“[Female identifying] women and girls have a very different challenge because we’ve been groomed to be quiet, don’t make a scene, don’t be rude, all of these factors play into a sort of societal grooming of how to hold a boundary or not hold a boundary,” André told Victoria Buzz.
“It really lit a fire under me about education.”
Inspired by her passion, André created Sixth Sense Self Defence to pass along tools and knowledge to women and young girls.
“Of course we need to have our basic self-defence skills, but what happens when you’re in an adrenaline-induced situation,” asked André. “You forget all your training. You just need a very primal response; fight, flight freeze or fawn.”
André learned through her research that over 90% of women have a freeze response as a default due to conditioning and societal grooming. The tools and knowledge she is looking to provide through her courses are to lessen the number of women who will default to freeze.
“We live in what we consider to be a very socially safe environment and for the most part it is, and I don’t want to instill fear,” André told Victoria Buzz.
“It’s really about awareness.”
André has taken numerous self-defence and martial arts training but realized that most of these practices are largely designed for male bodies. So she has designed several programs for female physiology using what she has learned.
“I cannot fight male strength with my strength,” said André. “That will not work.”
“It’s why there is a paradigm thought in women and girls that we’re too weak or we’re too small, so we cower.”
“I have seen the techniques that men use and readjusted these for women to teach how to use your entire body to defend yourself, using these techniques.”
André conducts her business and seminars mostly in a private environment to provide an added layer of safety with her clients.
She has a ‘mobile dojo’ that she brings with her to instruct young girls and women in places like their own living rooms, backyards, garages to make them feel safe. André says lots of her clients are mothers who get their children’s friend group together to learn alongside their peers in a comfortable environment.
Recently she has also partnered with the Capital Regional District (CRD) to offer her courses publicly in their 2023 programming.
Her programming and courses are being offered in a couple of communities throughout Greater Victoria because the CRD has recognized the importance of André’s vision and teachings.
Here’s when Sixth Sense Self Defence’s CRD courses are taking place:
When: Tuesday and Thursday, March 21st and 23rd from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Price: $140 for two classes
André teaches from a trauma-informed point of view and strives to create a safe space amongst her clients in an environment that has potential to be triggering for women who are survivors of assault.
André’s devotion to the subject matter she teaches was so clear and apparent, she really wants to provide women, girls and female identifying individuals with everything they need to survive in a world that can be a dangerous place.
“I feel a great responsibility as an older woman to give this information to kids because they’re just going to say, ‘why didn’t anybody tell us?’” André told Victoria Buzz.
“I can just weep sometimes at what a privilege it is to share this information.”
Winner of five Academy Awards, including best picture, The Sound of Music returns in December to the Vic Theatre!
Set against the most beautiful alpine scenery, sing along with Maria (Julie Andrews) and the rest of the Von Trapp crew. Add your voice to music by Rodgers and Hammerstein and escape to a wonderland of uplifting spirituality.
Sit in with or be supported by Kelly Fawcett or come as an individual, a duo or a group to showcase a special songs for the first time on stage in a supportive environment.
Where: Hermanns’s Upstairs Lounge, 753 View Street
Habitat for Humanity Victoria’s premier fundraiser, The Gingerbread Showcase is opening for its 14th year! Located in the atrium of the Parkside Hotel & Spa, the event will run from November 26th to January 2nd.
Stop by this local holiday treasure to view the fantastic 100% edible creations made by volunteer bakers, and don’t forget to donate to vote for your favourite! This year, they’ve asked bakers to interpret some magic into their creations with the theme: “Magical.”
100% of donations to the Gingerbread Showcase will help Habitat Victoria support affordable homeownership in Victoria.
Can’t make it in person to see these amazing creations? View and vote for your favourite creation online.
Immerse yourself in the season as you stroll through over 70 one-of-a-kind festively decorated trees in support of BC Children’s Hospital during the Festival of Trees, sponsored by Scotiabank.
Festival of Trees is free and open daily during Bay Centre shopping centre hours. Closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Where: The Bay Centre, 3125 Douglas Street
When: From now until January 3rd, view during shopping centre hours
The Victoria Royals have swapped goaltenders with the Everett Silvertips.
Tyler Palmer played 61 games for the Royals but after a string of losses with Palmer between the posts, he hasn’t been in the team’s line up since mid-November.
Around that time, there were rumours swirling that Palmer requested a trade, however, the team remained quiet on the reason for his absence.
The Royals listed Palmer’s absence under ‘personal leave.’
Palmer is a 2003-born 19-year-old player with only one season left in the WHL before he ages out. He came to the Royals from the Spokane Chiefs in 2021 after a couple seasons as their backup goaltender
The Royals have acquired Braden Holt from the Everett Silvertips in the trade. The Montana born player has been the ‘Tips’ backup goalie since 2019 with 75 WHL games under his belt.
TRADE ALERT: The Royals have acquired goaltender Braden Holt from the Everett Silvertips, in exchange for goaltender Tyler Palmer.
According to the ‘Tips, he was an integral part of Everett placing first in the western conference last season.
Holt has played 28 games this season with a record of 13-13-1 with one shutout victory and a save percentage of .892. Comparatively, Palmer has a save percentage of .876 and has only played 16 games in the 2022-23 season with a record of 3-10-3.
“We’d like to thank Braden for his time and efforts in Everett,” said Silvertips general manager/head coach Dennis Williams in a farewell to the goaltender.
“He has been a staple in our community. Braden is a model citizen and we wish him all the best in Victoria.”
It is unclear whether Holt will play his first game in the upcoming three-game series against the Vancouver Giants with away games on December 27th and 28th and a home game on December 30th.
That decision will be up to Victoria Royals General Manager and Head Coach, Dan Price.
Currently, the Royals are on a two-game winning streak after defeating Tri-City Americans in back to back thrillers before the Christmas break which saw the team score 13 goals.
One man is in custody following a fire at a residential building under construction in Sidney in the early morning hours Tuesday.
According to Sidney/North Saanich RCMP, at around 4:30 a.m. on December 27th, officers were dispatched to a report of a break and enter at a unfinished construction project in the 9700 block of Third Street.
Arriving officers discovered the building was on fire and dispatched Sidney Fire Rescue to the scene— firefighters from North Saanich and Central Saanich were also called to the scene to provide assistance.
The multi-residential building is still under construction so nobody was residing in the building.
The fire was knocked down by the buildings sprinkler system, and while the fire was contained to a small area, the structure did suffer water damage.
One man was located at the scene of the fire and was arrested for arson.
Police believe that this fire was intentionally started and the suspect is being held at this time pending a court appearance.
“Thanks to the swift response of both Police and Firefighters, this event was quickly resolved. I am thankful that the building was not occupied at the time and that our first responders were able to manage this event safely and professionally,” said Cpl. Andres Sanchez, spokesman for Sidney/North Saanich RCMP.
Due to the ongoing investigation, police said they would not be releasing any further information but did say they believe this was an isolated incident.
“There are no outstanding suspects or further danger posed to the public,” said Sanchez.
Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact Sidney/North Saanich RCMP at 250-656-3931.
Time to clean up the holiday decorations and start planning for a new year ahead!
And there’s no better, more invigorating way to start 2023 fresh than with an icy polar bear swim on New Year’s Day to get your heart rate up as you dive deep into the ice cold pacific ocean.
Every year, hundreds of eager swimmers meet at beaches across Vancouver Island to dive into the icy cold waters marking a fresh start to the new year.
Here are 10 places on Vancouver Island where you can make the plunge this January 1st:
This year Cold Water Addicts invited you to attend the 90th Sunday Adventure at one of our
With this being the first polar swim of the new year, participants are asked to wear appropriate New Year attire aka new years hats, dresses, umbrella hats, and bring party blowers, etc.
This is weather permitting, but CWA members will swim in rain, sleet, hail and snow.
Where: Cold Water Addicts, Willows Beach
When: January 1st, 2023, 11 a.m. arrival, 12 p.m. swim
The Otter Point Volunteer Fire Department hosts their annual Polar Bear Swim at Whiffin Spit. Registration starts at 11:30 a.m. with a cannon start at noon!
When: Saturday, January 1st, 11:30 a.m. registration. 12 p.m. swim
Where: Whiffin Spit, Sooke
Rather take a plunge without a crowd? Below are places you can take the new year tradition on your own time:
If you can’t stand the cold, but you want to participate in the tradition, Esquimalt lagoon is the ideal place to pull over, dive into the water and then run right back in your vehicle.
Considered one of the most visited regional parks in Greater Victoria, Thetis lake is one of the largest regional parks which is home to well over 40 kilometres of recreational trails.
The beach area of Thetis Lake is perfect for a family picnic or a refreshing swim. The main beach features public restrooms and change rooms. A designated dog beach along the north side of the lake is perfect for our four-legged friends.
Where: Thetis Lake, View Royal
Durrance Lake
Located in the Mount Work Regional Park area, Durrance Lake is a popular swimming hole in the summer months and a fishing lake throughout the year.
Eagles Lake is a secluded little swimming hole located off Woodridge Place Road and is a popular cooling off spot for Highlands locals.
Where: Eagles Lake, Woodridge Place
Elk Lake
If you’ve driven between Victoria and the ferries, you’re familiar with Elk Lake. It lays just to the west of the Patricia Bay Hwy and is often one of the first impressions visitors from the mainland receive when visiting the island for the first time.
Where: Elk Lake, Patricia Bay Highway 17 in Saanich
Do you know of another polar bear swim happening in your area? Send us an email to tips@victoriabuzz.com to be included on our list!
A deep passion for Pakistani and Indian cuisine and a lifetime spent making food with love is the foundation behind Biryani Palace, a newly opened Pakistani and Indian restaurant, now calling Victoria home.
As a storm swept over Greater Victoria last week, shutting down many services throughout the region, Saqib Cheema, Mona Saqib, Pradeep Nagam, and Jahir Sheikh didn’t allow that to get in their way.
On Monday, December 19th, as many Victorians battened down the hatches for a heap of snow, 30 cm deep, the small team serving big meals opened their doors and fired up the grills.
By the end of the week, the newly founded restaurant was met with praise from customers impressed with the quality of food they were served from the local restaurant.
This is reaffirmation the partners are taking in stride as they chase their culinary dream.
“Food is our passion, we want to serve all the communities. That’s our dream,” Saqib tells Victoria Buzz.
Known for cooking authentic dum biryani. Saqib and Pradeep decided to fill a culinary void in Victoria by opening a restaurant that serves quality Pakistani and Indian meals.
In the process of bringing Biryani Palace to life. Saqib, Pradeep and Mona hired Jahir as the head cook and partial owner of the newly minted restaurant.
As first time restaurant owners, Saqib and Mona originally considered opening a franchise restaurant.
After a great deal of thought, everyone agreed their vision for a Pakistani restaurant needed to offer creative freedom. An essential quality a franchise business couldn’t offer.
“Whatever they say, we have to do it. In the restaurant business, we can change our menu. We can serve whatever we want to people,” says Mona.
For those looking to try something new on their next culinary excursion, Mona suggests newcomers taste their signature chicken, goat or veggie dum biryanis.
For the Victoria residents of 17 years, Biryani Palace represents a place for friends, family and new guests to connect by sharing memories over a plate full of delicious Pakistani food.
The introduction of Biryani Palace is a passion project Saqib, Pradeep, and Jahir have spent several years working on.
With a global pandemic throwing a wrench in their plans. This month, the trio decided there was no better time than the present to take the risk. “One day we all were sitting and we just suddenly thought, let’s just open it,” says Mona.
As the cost of food continues to rise, Mona says their vision of building Biryani Palace as a community hub representing Pakistani food culture in Victoria, far exceeds the day to day stress of running the business.
Biryani Palace now fills the former home of the popular Victoria restaurant, Pluto’s Diner, and before that, Sam Remo.
After 34 years of serving food, beer and smiles, on October 29th, Pluto’s Diner closed its doors for good.
As the team settles into their location on 2709 Quadra street, they look forward to the new faces they will serve throughout the years to come.
“Five students from UVic are sitting here and they are so excited. There are so many students coming down and they are like, we are so excited to finally have authentic Biryani here,” Mona tells Victoria Buzz.
Now in the soft launch phase of its opening, Biryani Palace currently offers takeout and limited dine-in options for those keen on dining in person. A grand opening is expected in the new year.
A 10-month-old blue heeler named Sinbad was taken in by the BC SPCA just before Christmas and they are seeking financial donations to aid in caring for the animal who was found bloody and abused.
Veterinarians with the BC SPCA are unsure of what exactly happened to Sinbad but they do know he was badly hurt in his last living situation.
He was found in the wilderness alone with wounds all over his body and his face. He was rushed to the BC SPCA to receive life-saving medical care upon being found and is now on a long road to recovery.
One of his front paws was especially hurt with incisions through his foot pads, straight down to the bone and more incisions on the top of the same paw. BC SPCA says one of the paws has swelled to three times the size of his other paws.
(BC SPCA)
Through his recovery, veterinarians have determined his paw was becoming necrotic, meaning his flesh around the wound was beginning to rot and needed constant and continuous monitoring.
Sinbad has required many veterinarian visits since coming into the care of the BC SPCA for regular wound cleaning that they say can be excruciating for the blue heeler. He has also been on a strict medication plan and needed several examinations to ensure his healing journey is on the right track.
He will need another two months of veterinarian care due to how severe his wounds are and the BC SPCA says his costs are climbing constantly.
Although he did not get to be with a forever family through the holidays, the BC SPCA says he was being cared for by loving foster parents.
The BC SPCA deals with cases similar to Sinbad’s daily. Donations to help Sinbad and other animals can be made online or by calling 1-800-665-1868.
‘Tis the season for spending time with friends and family, enjoying the little things and slowing down.
It’s also the time of year where a lot of residual household waste is created—think wrapping paper, old Christmas trees, holiday dinner food scraps, etc.
Correctly sorting your holiday waste can make a big difference during the season, and the Capital Regional District has provided a few tips to help you do just that.
And this year, we’ve partnered with CRD to give away a little gift of our own—a $100 grocery store gift card to one lucky winner! You’ll find those contest details below.
To help keep as much material as possible out of the Hartland Landfill, here are some tips to help sort your holiday waste:
Recycle/Blue Box: clean tin containers, aluminum trays, whipped cream cans, paper cups, plastic deli trays and tops (coloured or clear)
Recycle/Blue Bag: paper gift wrap, cardboard
Compost/Green Bin: paper plates, napkins and food scraps
Return to depot: refundable beverage containers, eggnog cartons, wine boxes and bags, Styrofoam, plastic bags, batteries, chip bags and string lights
Garbage: plastic tablecloths, ribbons, bows and foil gift wrap
Over the next decade, the CRD’s new Solid Waste Management Plan has a target of reducing regional waste to 250 kg/capita, a one-third reduction from the current levels.
Properly sorting your holiday waste will help keep recycling out of the Hartland Landfill and help the region achieve that 250 kg/capita target.
For more tips on how to sort holiday waste please visit CRD online.
CONTEST
For your chance to win a $100 grocery store gift card care of the CRD, complete one or more of the following:
SHARE this article on Facebook and comment below to let us know you have. (1 entry)
Contest entries will be accepted from the time and date of publishing until 11:59 pm on January 4th, 2023. One winner will be chosen at random and contacted through the platform they used to enter. Make sure to register when commenting below.
The King Tide has officially arrived on the shores of Greater Victoria.
On December 27th at around 9 a.m., a King Tide is expected to peak on the shores of Vancouver Island and Southern Gulf Islands.
This means flooding is expected and could be already affecting certain areas near the shoreline.
The higher-than-normal tides can occur due to the orbit of the earth and the alignment of the sun and moon. King Tides typically take place two or three times per year on the coast of BC.
According to a spokesperson for the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness (EMCR), they are monitoring forecasts closely and working directly with First Nations and local authorities to support any precautionary measures needed.
On December 26th, the King Tide combined with high winds brought harsh waters to North Saanich causing damage to some private docks.
Footage from North Saanich shows the King Tide in full effect as it damages docks during a windstorm today. Susan Ko who captured the video said the storm took out her lower deck. Another windstorm is expected throughout the day Tuesday and with the King Tide expected around 9 a.m., authorities are warning of possible flooding in some areas.
Posted by Victoria Buzz on Monday, December 26, 2022
“Communities are taking precautionary actions and making sand and sandbags available if needed,” said the EMCR in a statement.
“At this time, there are no outstanding requests to EMCR from communities on this matter but we’re in communication with local partners and ready to support if required.”
Greater Victoria has a wind warning in effect for the region, which will add fuel to the King Tide’s fire and cause larger waves in the already high waters.
Environment Canada also has a special weather statement in effect for Eastern Vancouver Island due to the high waters and wind.
According to the meteorological authority, coastal flooding is to be expected.
“There is a high confidence of coastal flooding near the Strait of Georgia near high tide this morning,” said Environment Canada.
“These water levels can cause damage to coastal infrastructure in low lying areas, especially at locations prone to impacts during similar events in the past.”
“Swells and enhanced wave action carrying debris may cause damage to coastal infrastructure. East to southeast facing coastline may see larger waves and higher localized flooding.”
The King Tide is estimated to last into the late afternoon on December 27th.
While the snow may be gone, the winter weather storms are still kicking around as windstorm alert remains in place Tuesday.
Environment Canada issued a warning of high winds Tuesday morning and overnight for Greater Victoria and the Southern Gulf Islands.
The weather has already forced the cancellation two BC Ferries sailings between Swartz Bay and Tsawwassen this morning with two at risk of cancellation.
The 8 a.m. leaving Tsawwassen and the 10 a.m. leaving Swartz Bay have been cancelled.
BC Ferries also warned the noon sailing departing Tsawwassen and the 2 p.m. leaving Swartz Bay are both at risk of cancellation.
According to the weather agency, southeast winds of up to 70 km/h gusting up to 90 are expected during the morning with overnight winds shifting to westerly at 70 km/h gusting to 90.
In addition to the storm, the King Tide have arrived bringing potential of flooding.
In an email, the province told Victoria Buzz he Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness (EMCR) is monitoring forecasts closely and working directly with First Nations and local authorities to support with any precautionary measures needed.
“Communities are taking precautionary actions and making sand and sandbags available if needed. At this time, there are no outstanding requests to EMCR from communities on this matter but we’re in communication with local partners and ready to support if required,” a spokesperson with the province said.
During Monday morning’s storm, video sent to Victoria Buzz show docks being damaged in North Saanich caused by the high tide and wind.
Footage from North Saanich shows the King Tide in full effect as it damages docks during a windstorm today. Susan Ko who captured the video said the storm took out her lower deck. Another windstorm is expected throughout the day Tuesday and with the King Tide expected around 9 a.m., authorities are warning of possible flooding in some areas.
Posted by Victoria Buzz on Monday, December 26, 2022
According to the meteorological authority, coastal flooding is to be expected.
“There is a high confidence of coastal flooding near the Strait of Georgia near high tide this morning,” said Environment Canada.
“These water levels can cause damage to coastal infrastructure in low lying areas, especially at locations prone to impacts during similar events in the past.”
“Swells and enhanced wave action carrying debris may cause damage to coastal infrastructure. East to southeast facing coastline may see larger waves and higher localized flooding.”
The King Tide is estimated to last into the late afternoon on December 27th.
With another Christmas in the books and a few more days before New Year, you have time to kill and what better way to enjoy your time off than with an event.
From Harbour light ferry tours to breathe taking light displays at the Butchart Gardens, here are five things to do in and around Victoria this Tuesday, December 27th:
Bundle up and stroll through the Twelve Days of Christmas display, sing along to the sounds of the season with Traditional Carollers or listen to the Festive Brass, then stop in at the Coffee Shop to warm up with a hot chocolate and gingerbread by the fire.
Where: The Butchart Gardens,
When: December 1st to December 31st, 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.
IQ 2000 Trivia is one of the funniest quiz nights in Victoria!! Round up some friends to prove your intellectual excellence, mental mettle, and cerebral superiority!!
Exclusive to Victoria Harbour Ferry, the 45-minute narrated upper harbour voyage tells the story of a child’s Winter Dream with 3-dimensional projected animations and sound-reactive lighting installations. The story inspires warm thoughts of the people we treasure, reminding us that this time of year is meant to be shared with those that we love.
The Ralmax Group of Companies, owners of Victoria Harbour Ferry, invite you to see Victoria from a different viewpoint – to look from the water to the land.
“Our thanks to Limbic Media for their beautiful story-telling and light creations, and to PaintScaping for bringing their internationally acclaimed 3-D light mapping from Los Angeles to Victoria Harbour.”
Where: Tours depart from the Empress Dock on the Inner Harbour Causeway (across from Empress Hotel)
While not like the good ol’ days, thousands of shoppers have lined up since dawn to take advantage of some of the best deals and some of them are expected to last all week!
Whether you’ve been saving up for a new TV or want to touch up your wardrobe, now is your chance to capitalize on the best deals we’ve seen all year!
A tragic collision involving a bus travelling in adverse weather in BC left four people dead and 53 people hospitalized on Christmas Eve.
At approximately 6:14 p.m. BC Highway Patrol and Merritt RCMP responded to a single vehicle collision near Loon Lake on Highway 97C.
Police say a commercial passenger bus had gone off the highway on the left side of the road. It flipped and rolled onto its side and was left flipped in oncoming traffic. According to police no other vehicles were involved in the collision.
Merrit RCMP have not released the exact number of passengers who were on board, but they have said that approximately 53 passengers were sent to hospitals for treatment in Kamloops, Kelowna and Penticton.
(Google Maps)
Over the couple days since the tragic collision, police have been trying to locate and speak with all passengers.
According to police, four passengers have been confirmed dead. Merritt RCMP is attempting to contact the next of kin for the deceased and will not provide any further details about them until their families have been notified.
Victoria Buzz has reached out to Merritt RCMP to inquire if any of the passengers were locals to Vancouver Island, but are waiting to hear back from their team who is busy dealing with the aftermath of the collision.
At the time of the collision, the road conditions were described as being, “very poor with ice and snow on the road surface along with rain and hail falling.”
RCMP collision re-constructionists are working to determine what may have happened to cause the bus to crash in the way that it did.
Police say the incident remains under investigation.
Local authorities have set up a central phone line for friends and family seeking information as to the location of passengers at (250) 545-2211.
Police ask that anyone who witnessed the collision or has dash-cam footage of the bus travelling westbound on Highway 97C prior to the collision, contact their local RCMP.
Our hearts go out to everyone impacted by the accident on Hwy 97C last night, especially the loved ones of the four people who tragically died. @BCEHS transported 52 patients to 4 @InteriorHealth hospitals with minor to life threatening injuries. 8 patients remain in care this AM
King Tides can be a great opportunity for storm watching along Dallas Road. Residents interested in storm watching are reminded to do so from a safe distance due to the heightened risks of coastal erosion and seawall collapse caused by strong winds and waves.
Move over snow, another storm has arrived.
Environment Canada issued a wind warning for Greater Victoria Monday that could see strong southeast winds batter the region for parts of the day.
Complicating matters is the arrival of the King Tides around the same time which could cause flooding in some areas.
Coastal areas, especially those adjacent to the Strait of Georgia, Haro Strait and Boundary Bay will see southeast winds gusting between 70 to 90 km/h with the King Tides.
King tides occur two to three times a year when the sun, moon and earth are aligned such that gravity has greater force on the water.
“King Tides will coincide with the approach of this frontal system,” said Environment Canada in its warning. “Swells and enhanced wave action along the Strait of Georgia could lead to flooding, while wave action and debris may cause damage to coastal infrastructure. Coastal sections with a southeast exposure will be the most vulnerable to wave action.”
The weather agency also warning of another storm that could arrive by Tuesday.
“We now have high confidence in a more significant storm surge event occurring with the King Tide on Tuesday morning.”
The strong southeast winds will diminish mid-morning before they become southwesterly easing this afternoon.
A King Tide is a popular, non-scientific term people often use to describe exceptionally high tides that occur during a new or full moon.
Until December 31st, the free, accessible, and all-ages outdoor light display will welcome guests to experience a variety of activities and entertainment each day.
This year, Lights of Wonder will also include nightly performances every night except for on Christmas Day. A schedule of event for each night can be found on the Downtown Victoria Business Association website.
‘Tis the season of Holiday Magic! Enjoy a cozy beverage, warm fire, their massive holiday tree, crafts, and a visit from Santa! You may even see Luke the Sasquatch partaking in the holiday fun! Here you can find more details on each activity.
When: December 3rd to January 1st, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (see list of times)
This year the Light House Church is inviting friends and family to a special Christmas Eve service!
Those attending will gather at 4:00pm to sing Christmas hymns and carols, and hear the story of Jesus’ birth— a true story, with great purpose! Service finishes around 5:00pm.
The 9th annual Christmas Lights map is now available! Grab hot chocolates for the family, hop in the car, and crank up the Christmas music as you head out on the Christmas trail!
With so many light displays around the capital region, we wanted to narrow down some of the best spots to catch the lights around town.
Let’s face it, you’ve worked hard all year and just as Christmas comes around you realize, oh snap! I need to prepare a holiday feast for the family.
If hours spent prepping that perfect meal are not of interest to you, there’s no need to stress.
From traditional family feasts to festive wine and dines, you’re invited to treat yourself at these local restaurants in and around Victoria, serving Christmas dinners over the holidays!
Bundle up and stroll through thousands of twinkling lights featuring the Twelve Days of Christmas display, sing along to the sounds of the season with Traditional Carollers and Festive Brass, then stop in at the Coffee Shop to warm up with a hot chocolate and gingerbread by the fire.
When: December 1st to January 6th, 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. daily
Immerse yourself in the season as you stroll through over 70 one-of-a-kind festively decorated trees in support of BC Children’s Hospital during the Festival of Trees, sponsored by Scotiabank.
Festival of Trees is free and open daily during Bay Centre shopping centre hours. Closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
When: From now until January 3rd, view during shopping centre hours
Habitat for Humanity Victoria’s premier fundraiser, The Gingerbread Showcase is opening for its 14th year! Located in the atrium of the Parkside Hotel & Spa, the event will run from November 26th to January 2nd.
Stop by this local holiday treasure to view the fantastic 100% edible creations made by volunteer bakers, and don’t forget to donate to vote for your favourite! This year, they’ve asked bakers to interpret some magic into their creations with the theme: “Magical.”
100% of donations to the Gingerbread Showcase will help Habitat Victoria support affordable homeownership in Victoria.
Can’t make it in person to see these amazing creations? View and vote for your favourite creation online.
Exclusive to Victoria Harbour Ferry, the 45-minute narrated upper harbour voyage tells the story of a child’s Winter Dream with 3-dimensional projected animations and sound-reactive lighting installations. The story inspires warm thoughts of the people we treasure, reminding us that this time of year is meant to be shared with those that we love.
The Ralmax Group of Companies, owners of Victoria Harbour Ferry, invite you to see Victoria from a different viewpoint – to look from the water to the land.
“Our thanks to Limbic Media for their beautiful story-telling and light creations, and to PaintScaping for bringing their internationally acclaimed 3-D light mapping from Los Angeles to Victoria Harbour.”
When: December 2nd to December 31st
Where: Tours depart from the Empress Dock on the Inner Harbour Causeway (across from Empress Hotel)
Christmas gifts could be late due to the ongoing weather on Vancouver Island.
As several public services throughout Victoria are currently cancelled or suspended due to extreme weather conditions, mail delivery is being impacted as well.
In its latest update, Canada Post says most of the country is currently under red or yellow alert.
A red alert means delivery is cancelled, yellow means it may be delayed.
As of Friday, December 23rd, Victoria is included in the yellow alert with deliveries either cancelled or delayed for today.
Freezing rain is forecasted to affect many parts of Vancouver Island including Greater Victoria, the Southern Gulf Islands and the Malahat.
Environment Canada advised taking extra care when walking or driving today as surfaces including highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery.
Mail deliveries will resume once road conditions improve. To stay updated on service interruptions you can follow Canada Posts delivery alerts.
Canada Post delivery service alerts for all regions across the countryWith Environment Canada’s winter storm warning…
Police said the items were recovered during a recent search warrant.
The search uncovered various pieces of jewelry, some of which appear to be family heirlooms.
Officers are trying to re-unite jewelry and other personal items with their owner(s.) These items were recovered from a recent search warrant and some appear to be family heirlooms.https://t.co/5kFW9dEBeupic.twitter.com/drvH8cAhAH
WARNING: Must be 19+ to read this article. No kiddos allowed.
The internet has been obsessed with the negroni sbagliato since that lady from that fantasy show mentioned it in a weird interview segment that went viral, but I want to give you another option in the classic negroni realm.
A boulevardier is literally a negroni, made the exact same way except with bourbon instead of gin. This gives the cocktail a bit more of a sweetness and smokey quality rather than doubling down on the bitterness from the other two ingredients; vermouth and Campari.
A boulevardier is and has been my favourite cocktail for ages because of three reasons:
It’s easy – equal parts three things, this is a cocktail you could train your children to make for you (please don’t do this).
It’s delicious – the marriage of flavours is perfect, better even than a classic negroni in my opinion.
It does its job – pure alcohol is a crutch many of us lean on whilst spending days with family.
Here’s how to make a boulevardier:
Ingredients:
Bourbon whiskey of your choice! My go to is Buffalo Trace
Sweet vermouth! I like using local ingredients as much as possible so try and find some Esquimalt Rosso Vermouth.
Campari! You can also use Aperol in a pinch but Campari is best.
Orange peel! As long as you have one orange on hand you should be good.
Process:
In a mixing glass add ¾ ounces of all three ingredients: bourbon, vermouth and Campari.
Add a couple ice cubes.
Stir! Only for like, 30 seconds. You are just trying to get that alcohol nice and cool.
Strain into a coup glass if you prefer your cocktails served “up,” or pour over a couple new ice cubes in a rocks glass. I prefer the “on the rocks” method.
Peel a bit of an orange peel, trying your hardest not to get the white stuff too. You just want the flesh.
Squeeze the peel with the inside of the peel close to your drink to release some of its oils.
Throw that peel in the beverage after you give it a couple squeezes.
Drink up! Enjoy!
A boulevardier is a classic for a reason! Try it out if you are over 19-years-old and let me know what you think about boulevardiers versus negronis in the comments!
Gordon Head area (Travis Devonport / Victoria Buzz)
The snow isn’t going anywhere soon and the roads are becoming really slick due to freezing rain across the island.
Environment Canada is calling for freezing rain and ice pellets all day on Friday, December 23rd with more rain to come heading into the weekend.
“A layer of above freezing temperatures has formed above the cold arctic air persisting near the surface. Ice pellets and freezing rain will become intermittent later this morning as a pacific front moves through,” said Environment Canada in a weather statement
“Ice accretion of 2 to 5 mm is possible before temperatures rise above freezing late this afternoon.”
“Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery. Take extra care when walking or driving in affected areas. Utility outages may occur.”
Collisions are bound to happen in weather like this and that affects everyone’s commutes as they traverse the snow covered highways and city streets.
Highway 1, Highway 17 and Sooke Road (Highway 14) can be especially dangerous.
The province says that winter tires are a must while travelling through BC throughout the next week. Drivers are encouraged to check the treads on their tires and make the best judgement call as to whether they are safe enough to travel on.
BC also requires commercial vehicles over 5,500 kgs to carry chains and anticipate that mandatory chain-ups will be in effect.
Highway 1 on the Malahat now has strictly enforced chain-up rules for commercial vehicles in effect that began on Thursday afternoon.
If you’re concerned of the road conditions before heading out, here are the latest images from DriveBC on the highways with a high frequency of commuters—these images will update every 15 minutes:
Highway 17 at Mount Newton X Road (N camera):
Highway 17 at Sayward Road near Elk Lake (S camera):
Highway 17 at Royal Oak Drive (N camera):
Highway 17 at Carey Road in Saanich (NW camera):
Highway 1 at Admirals Road and McKenzie Avenue (W camera):
Highway 1 near Burnside Road and Island Highway exit (W camera):
Millstream Road at Highway 1 overpass (N camera):
Highway 1 at Spencer Road (W camera):
Highway 1 at West Shore Parkway (W camera):
Highway 1 at Goldstream Park (N camera):
Highway 1 at Tunnel Hill (N camera):
Highway 1 at Okotoks Drive (N camera)
Highway 1 at Malahat Drive (N camera):
Highway 1 at Malahat Summit (N camera):
Highway 1 near Mill Bay Road, Bamberton Park entrance (N camera):
Highway 1 at Butterfield Road (N camera):
Highway 1 at Shawnigan Mill Bay Road, Mill Bay (N camera):
Highway 1 at Cobble Hill Road (S camera):
Highway 1 and Trunk Road in Duncan (S camera):
Highway 1 at South Davis Road, south of Ladysmith (S camera):
Sooke Road (Highway 14) at Suyer Road (W camera):
Sooke Road (Highway 14) at Kangaroo Road (W camera):
Sooke Road (Highway 14) at Lazzar Road, near Sooke (W camera):
Victoria International Airport (YYJ) is once again seeing numerous cancellations as snowfall, freezing rain and cold temperatures are looming over Greater Victoria.
On Friday morning, WestJet preemptively cancelled all flights in and out of Victoria and Vancouver.
Due to a winter storm scheduled to impact Vancouver and Southern BC, we've cancelled all flights arriving and departing Vancouver, Abbotsford, Victoria, Nanaimo and Comox until the afternoon of December 23, pending conditions. https://t.co/XBmt9J5qR0
Winter weather conditions continue to disrupt travel to and from YYJ with cancellations and delays expected throughout the day. Travellers should check with their airlines for the latest flight info.
Other airlines have followed suit, but Air Canada, Swoop, Pacific Coastal and Flair airlines are all cancelling or delaying flights on a case by case basis.
Air Canada has put a ‘goodwill policy’ in place which allows customers to cancel flights online and receive a full refund between December 22nd and 26th.
With winter storms, a new goodwill policy lets customers cancel flights online and receive a full refund or voucher on tickets purchased on or before Dec. 21 for any flight between Dec. 22-26.
BC Transit has suspended all routes until at least 1:30 p.m. in the Greater Victoria region and BC Ferries has cancelled its early morning sailings as well following the province’s travel advisory early on Friday morning.
Environment Canada is calling for freezing rain and ice pellets all day on Friday with more rain to come heading into the weekend.
“A layer of above freezing temperatures has formed above the cold arctic air persisting near the surface. Ice pellets and freezing rain will become intermittent later this morning as a pacific front moves through,” said Environment Canada in a weather statement
“Ice accretion of 2 to 5 mm is possible before temperatures rise above freezing late this afternoon.”
“Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery. Take extra care when walking or driving in affected areas. Utility outages may occur.”
On Thursday afternoon, the province held a press conference asking British Columbians to stay home and not drive on the roads if they can.
Friday’s weather system that is causing a winter calamity so close to Christmas began in the interior, sweeping through the mountain ranges and making their way through the province to the coastal fjords and out to Vancouver Island.
“I strongly encourage everyone in these areas to travel only if necessary,” said Bowinn Ma, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness.
Significant freezing rain is being predicted and will cause icy road conditions all through the province.
According to the province, highway maintenance workers will be working 24/7 through the rest of the week in an attempt to keep up with the weather system by plowing, sanding and salting.
Environment Canada has issued a freezing rain warning for Greater Victoria, the Southern Gulf Islands and Malahat.
The weather agency says a layer of freezing temperatures have formed above the cold arctic air causing periods of ice pellets and freezing rain to come down throughout the morning.
Before the Pacific front passes, 2 to 5 mm of freezing rain is expected to fall before temperatures rise above freezing late this afternoon.
The public are advised to take extra care when walking or driving today as surfaces including highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery.
As of this publication, BC Transit and BC Ferries services remain suspended due to the weather.
All post-secondary schools took proactive measures by cancelling school ahead of the day after the province issued a warning for motorists to halt non-essential travel over the next two days.
BC Ferries has cancelled service on all major routes between Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland, including the first four sailings on either side of the Swartz Bay-Tsawwassen route, due to the potential of roads and terminals being impacted by the storm.
The company said they would be contacting anyone with reservations on those sailings to let them know if a later sailing has space for them, or if they’ll have to cancel their booking entirely.
“The safety of our passengers and crew is of primary importance to us. We apologize for any inconvenience as a result of these cancellations,” said BC Ferries.
Passengers are urged to check BC Ferries website or Twitter page for the latest sailing information.
Meanwhile, BC Transit also took proactive measures by cancelling all services until at least 1:30 p.m Friday, December 23rd, when they can safely re-evaluate road conditions.
Environment Canada anticipates hazardous winter conditions continuing throughout Friday, including heavy snow, freezing rain, and arctic temperatures—they are strongly urging people to refrain from driving in the current road conditions.
Human trafficking is alive and well on Vancouver Island despite best efforts from dedicated social workers and police officers to eradicate it.
Victoria filmmaker and counsellor, Mia Golden, is trying to put a dent in the continuously climbing statistics regarding youths being sex trafficked or falling into a criminal lifestyle by joining a gang.
Inspiration for Tied to a Lie/Tug of War
“My mandate is working with youth who are at-risk of or involved with either being sexually exploited, sex trafficked or recruited for gangs,” Golden told Victoria Buzz.
“I decided to sort of meld both of my focusses.”
Golden is taking on these issues by shooting a short film to use as a tool to educate teens and youths who may be at-risk and a long-form documentary that delves a bit deeper into the subject matter.
The short-form documentary will be called Tied to a Lie and the long-form version of this project will be called Tug of War.
(Mia Golden/Tied to a Lie)
“My driving force is to get the word out,” said Golden. “To get parents and caregivers more educated and to get young people aware of what to look for.”
“Bad guys don’t present themselves as bad guys, they present themselves as friends or potential suitors and they hook these young people in that way.”
Mia Golden’s Background
Golden is employed day-to-day by the Pacific Centre Family Services in the Crime Reduction and Exploitation Diversion (CRED) program. In this role, Golden is the sole CRED employee. She rides along with a police officer via the Mobile Youth Services Team (MYST) and together their scope of work is vast.
(Cst. Gord Magee – VicPD’s MYST program/Tied to a Lie)
“The two of us work together,” said Golden. “One minute we are actively looking for a missing youth, another we’re walking the beach for outreach, another minute we’re parked surveilling if we think there might be some sex traffickers working and other times we’re doing presentations in schools.”
“Anything that falls under that umbrella, that’s what we’re doing. So it’s very busy,” stated Golden.
Production process
The main reason Golden felt she needed to produce these films is to educate the public on the ongoing gang and trafficking that occurs on Vancouver island.
“When people think of Victoria, they think it’s a beautiful town surrounded by ocean, with tourism and it’s lovely and quaint with retirees,” Golden told Victoria Buzz. “But when I go to a dinner party and people ask me what I do, it always brings on a lot of questions.”
“The questions are always, ‘What? There’s exploitation, there’s trafficking, there’s gangs in Victoria?’ and then by the end of the dinner party people’s jaws are on the ground.”
Golden told Victoria Buzz she realized that she knows how extensive these issues are, but the general population of Vancouver Island have no clue.
“It made me realize that it’d be good to get everyone educated.”
Golden managed to get some funding from a small grant to make the film and decided to collaborate with Empress Avenue Media, a Vancouver Island production company she has worked with before.
She then put the word out through her connections working with people who have fallen victim to sex trafficking and asked if anyone would be keen on doing interviews and being in these film projects.
“For some it was quite cathartic,” said Golden. “We hid a lot of the people’s appearance for their own privacy so you can’t see their faces but you can still hear their stories.”
Her partner from the MYST program, Cst. Gord Magee also joined her as an interviewee, as did a number of victims and their families, an officer of the Vancouver Police, a former gang member and others.
In 2020, actress Danica McKellar–best known for her work in the Wonder Years and West Wing–was in Victoria shooting a Hallmark movie and got wind of Golden’s film project. McKellar is an activist and a philanthropist, especially when it comes to matters of exploitation and trafficking.
She approached Golden on social media and asked if she may lend her voice and recognizable name to the project.
(Danica McKellar/Tied to a Lie)
“She too was amazed at how prevalent the issue is,” Golden told Victoria Buzz. “So anytime she comes to a city to shoot she does some research into what resources are available in that city.”
She was interviewed for the documentary by Golden, who now hopes the notoriety of McKellar’s name will help her film be seen by more people and the film will resonate with them the way the topic resonated with the famous actress.
“We received the funding just before COVID, then we had to shut things down for a while,” Golden told Victoria Buzz. “We resumed filming last year when things opened up and now finally we’re coming to a close.
“So it’s much longer than anticipated, but I think we’ll have a good final product.”
The long-form documentary, Tug of War, requires a bit more funding to get through the editing and post-production process, but Golden hopes that will be completed by summer, 2023.
Tied to a Lie will be finished post-production near the end of December and will be ready in January for distribution to schools and non-profits that deal with youths who may benefit from the film.
Keep an eye out for Tied to a Lie and Tug of War at the Vic Theatre and in Film Festivals across Canada in 2023!
During a special meeting Monday, Langford council voted unanimously in support of a temporary tree protection bylaw in response to several trees that have been cut down throughout the district.
Without a permit, the new bylaws ban the cutting down of any tree with a trunk diameter greater than 20 cm, as measured at a height of 1.4 metres above the ground.
“Bylaw 2115 prohibits the cutting down of any tree (with a trunk diameter greater than 20 centimetres measured at a height of 1.4 meters above the undisturbed grade of the land), anywhere within Langford,” reads the bylaw.
Exceptions include the cutting down of trees for city walkways and trails and those authorized under a development permit.
Residents addressing the council said up until now they’ve been concerned by the number of trees being removed in the municipality.
In order to discourage this from happening, those in favour agreed existing tree-protection measures were previously inadequate and fines should be significant enough to prevent residential owners from cutting.
The new bylaw, which is now in effect, is set to last for six months, with minimum fines set at $5,000 and go as high as $10,000 for those found violating the new rules.
The bylaw is the city’s response to several property owners removing trees that could have been retained through existing city processes, without seeking the required approvals.
Dozens of Langford residents took part in the two-hour meeting and stepped up to the podium on Wednesday, December 12th to share their opinions on the new bylaw.
As the majority were happy to see the council enforcing measures to preserve the trees in Langford, those opposing the bylaws expressed concern about how the enforcement will affect taxpayers while others fear the large fees required to obtain arborist reports if a property owner wishes to remove a tree.
Others expressed their concern that the policy would affect jobs and development, especially during an economic downturn. However, the city clarified that trees can still be removed through the permit process.
Mayor Scott Goodmanson said the bylaw protects trees in the 25-30% of the district not covered by development permit policies.
“There is vast tracts between downtown and forested areas that already have a process to remove any trees, whether it’s a single tree, a dozen trees or a thousand trees,” said Goodmanson.
“When people are asking or suggesting that this is going to kill jobs and so on, this isn’t changing those existing rules that are already there. Those are the same rules that have been used by businesses and development previously.”
Three West Shore RCMP officers were injured this week in two separate incidents.
The first incident occurred on December 17th, when officers were called to the 2700 block of Spencer Road in Langford, after receiving reports of a suspicious man trying door handles and looking into cars.
RCMP officers located the man who they say appeared to be under the influence of drugs.
When they told him he was being detained during their investigation, he became violent and began fighting with the officers.
During the arrest, the first two officers on scene were injured. The man was eventually taken into custody with the help of additional officers.
One of the injured officers underwent surgery to repair a broken hand while the other officer had a severely sprained hand, both are recovering at home.
According to police, the suspect was released on an undertaking once sober and must appear in court in the new year.
The second incident where a third officer was injured occurred on December 19th, at a home in Colwood.
Police said they responded to a 911 call from a woman in distress.
Arriving officers found a man in the home who was currently on court ordered conditions to not be in the presence of the women at the residence.
Police say the imposed conditions stemmed from a prior report of intimate partner violence.
The man began fighting with officers when they informed him he was being placed under arrested for breaching his conditions.
He was eventually taken into custody after additional officers arrived, however, one officer was injured after being hit in the head.
Police say the woman who called police was uninjured.
“The suspect was brought before the court and charged with 2 counts of breaching conditions, 1 count of resisting or obstructing a police officer and 1 count of assaulting a police officer,” West Shore RCMP said in a statement.
He was brought before the court and was remanded into custody until his next hearing on January 3rd, 2023.
“Police officers often encounter violent situations and put themselves at risk in the execution of their duties. Regardless of the risk, our police officers will show up when you call for help because they are dedicated individuals who work hard in keeping our community safe,” said Todd Preston, Superintendent in Charge of West Shore RCMP.
“We want to thank our officers for the work they do and we will continue to support them throughout their recovery.”
We may be in the eye of the storm as more snow, freezing rain and winter conditions approach Vancouver Island once again.
Environment Canada is calling for snow with a risk of freezing rain lasting from Friday to Sunday (Christmas Day) in BC’s interior.
Southern Vancouver Island has a similar forecast with more snow and conditions leading to freezing rain predicted from Friday to Saturday (Christmas Eve).
The weather system that will cause a winter calamity so close to Christmas will begin in the interior, sweeping through the mountain ranges and making their way through the province to the coastal fjords and out to Vancouver Island.
“I strongly encourage everyone in these areas to travel only if necessary,” said Bowinn Ma, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness.
As of Thursday afternoon, road conditions in Victoria continue to be dangerous due to heavy snow and icy conditions. Highways look to be mostly clear and Victorians can find a summarized list with updated images of highway conditions via Victoria Buzz’s current road conditions article.
Significant freezing rain is being predicted and will cause icy road conditions all through the province.
According to the province, highway maintenance workers will be working 24/7 through the rest of the week in an attempt to keep up with the weather system by plowing, sanding and salting.
The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure may opt to close some highways proactively in the interest of public safety.
“Travellers should expect rapidly deteriorating conditions, consider changing travel plans and be prepared for closures on short notice,” said BC’s Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, Rob Fleming in a media statement.
“People who choose to travel should ensure they are well-prepared for the weather and the possibility of short-notice closures, ensure vehicles are fuelled up and charged, and have extra water, food and necessary medications.”
Cold, snowy conditions are on the way in BC. Whether you're driving or using public transit, remember to plan ahead and…
BC’s interior is expected to have an increased risk of avalanches due to the storm and the Province may be required to close certain routes due to avalanche control.
In addition to road maintenance, BC Hydro workers will be ready and able to patch up the power grids should outages occur, which they are expected to.
“BC Hydro is also warning that freezing rain is likely to cause power outages, particularly on Vancouver ISland and in the Fraser Valley,” said Ma.
“Their crews are ready to respond as quickly as possible.”
The province says that winter tires are a must while travelling through BC throughout the next week. Drivers are encouraged to check the treads on their tires and make the best judgement call as to whether they are safe enough to travel on.
BC also requires commercial vehicles over 5,500 kgs to carry chains and anticipate that mandatory chain-ups will be in effect.
Highway 1 on the Malahat will have strictly enforced chain-up rules for commercial vehicles in effect beginning at 11:30 p.m. on Thursday.
Meteorologists are predicting as much as 20 cm of snow in some areas overnight Thursday, with temperatures near freezing causing ice pellets. As much as 10 mms of freezing rain will arrive by Friday for a significant time before switching to rain, which will create an ice glaze on top of the snow.
Affected areas include Highway 1 over the Malahat, the Alberni summit on Highway 4, and other parts of Vancouver Island.
“To ensure compliance with provincial regulations, the ministry’s Commercial Vehicle Safety and Enforcement (CVSE) staff will be checking commercial vehicles northbound on Highway 1 entering the Malahat at West Shore Parkway, and vehicles southbound on Highway 1 at Bamberton Interchange,” said Fleming.
“Vehicles not in compliance will be turned away.”
Maintenance workers will be working on highways and drivers are asked to refrain from passing slow moving equipment, such as snow plows, and follow these vehicles at a safe distance that should be posted on the rear of the vehicles.
Relax and unwind is the philosophy of a new tourism initiative that encourages vacation goers coming to the Southern Gulf Islands to enjoy the simple things in life.
For those that spend a large part of their working day behind a screen or on social media the Nothing is the New Something campaign is designed to give people a much-needed break from the stress of life.
Nothing is the New Something invites travellers to take time away, curl up and enjoy the cozy season.
Featuring luxurious accommodations, comfort food served to your door, as well as wellness activities such as yoga, spas, and massages. The new project is intended to relieve stress in the minds of stressed individuals.
Marketing Coordinator, Jamie Sterling says the effort is part of a broader tourism incentive for the local region.
“Folks coming to the Southern Gulf Islands are finding special places where they can re-charge, re-connect and re-generate,” said Sterling.
“This invites visitors to sync with the islands’ values; respecting nature, celebrating creative expression, slowing down and giving back to the community.”
Through a series of humorous short videos, the doing nothing campaign offers curious visitors a glance at what un-mastering one’s life actually looks like.
At the heart of this campaign is an unconventional mindset that prioritizes nature, creativity and individuality over the 9 to 5 grind. This experience is intended to share the values of each of the five Southern Gulf Islands with guests looking to recharge.
“This invites visitors to sync with the islands’ values; respecting nature, celebrating creative expression, slowing down and giving back to the community,” said Sterling.
If you’re in need of a much-needed break in the new year. Clear your schedule and enjoy the subtle art of not showing up.
The restaurant released a statement Thursday afternoon confirming the restaurant was completely destroyed by the fire.
“We don’t know what caused the fire yet. But we do know that no one was in the building at the time, there were no injuries and the fire did not spread. For all of the, we are relieved and grateful,” read the statement.
“Shelter is more than a business, we’re a close knit family. We know how stressful this new is for our team, but we will get through this difficult time together.”
A Saanich woman is out thousands of dollars after trying to purchase a puppy from an online site which turned out to be a scam.
After responding to a Facebook Marketplace listing a Maltese puppy for sale, the seller – who claimed to reside in America – directed the Saanich buyer to a website listing dogs for sale.
To purchase the dog, the scammer requested a money transfer.
Once received, the scammer continued to request additional money transfers for fees such as medical shots, licencing, and registration. The seller would threaten that if more money wasn’t sent, the welfare of the puppy would be at risk.
Following the transaction, the victim’s credit card company notified her that the purchase was likely fraudulent.
After the Saanich woman questioned the seller, the scammer then told her to purchase and send pre-paid Visa gift cards or else they would notify the police.
“These scammers often resort to threats to defraud their victims of as much of their money as possible,” said Cst. Markus Anastasiades in a press release.
Out of fear, the victim purchased 15 gift cards that had been tampered with containing altered barcodes.
Once these cards were loaded by the teller, the money was directly sent to the scammer.
“We have recently started to see these altered gift cards being reported to police, which demonstrates the level at which these criminals will go to defraud the general public,” said Anastasiades.
Saanich police are advising the public to purchase pets locally from a credible breeder that can be met in person before payment is made.
With Christmas shopping now in full swing, police also advise shoppers using gift cards to inspect the barcodes on the back to ensure it hasn’t been tampered with before making a purchase.
In this case, the actual card was replaced with a blank card with a barcode sticker.
Around $100,000 of approximately $200,000 in stolen goods has been recovered by police.
West Shore RCMP’s Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) is finishing an investigation into a theft crime spree that began in September that took several months.
The CRU investigated six separate robberies that occurred between September and November. Five of the six robberies involved breaking and entering and mostly took place at numerous construction sites and businesses throughout the West Shore.
The bulk of what was stolen in these five cases were high-value tools.
In the sixth investigation, the CRU was investigating a stolen five tonne moving truck which contained approximately $90,000 worth of stolen goods. It was taken out of the West Shore and found in Shirley later by Sooke RCMP.
Here is a crime map of the approximate areas where the break-ins and robberies occurred:
(Crime map of six investigations/West Shore RCMP)
West Shore RCMP’s CRU investigators found the stolen moving truck and determined the contents had been taken from a residence in the 2300-block of Sooke Road in Colwood.
Police say it was then that investigators determined that the six investigations were connected and they had multiple suspects colluding in the robberies and break-ins.
The CRU executed a search warrant on the residence of one of the three suspects they had and uncovered a “plethora of stolen items” from many of the six investigations.
According to police, the stolen goods were being taken to and from this property using a stolen Chevy Silverado that was also recovered by investigators during the search.
(Stolen goods in truck bedWest Shore RCMP)
Police have arrested 36-year-old Nicolas Banks, who has been charged with four counts of possession of property obtained by crime, two counts of theft over $5,000 and one count of trafficking stolen property.
Two others, a 51-year-old male suspect and a 38-year-old female have been arrested as well. Together they face six charges related to the robberies as well as breaking and entering.
All three suspects will appear in court and face a judge in January 2023.
“This was a complex investigation involving many moving parts,” said Cpl. Danny Grieve West Shore RCMP Crime Reduction Unit.
“Approximately $200 000 worth of stolen items were reported to police in these investigations. Of that, we were able to recover approximately $100 000 worth of stolen items.”
“Our Crime Reduction Unit tracked down and arrested 3 suspects as well as recovered the stolen property. The majority of the stolen items have been returned to the rightful owners. This investigation is ongoing, and we are still looking for a number of outstanding stolen items.”
Police say they are still searching for some outstanding items that have been reported stolen and are believed to be connected to this case.
Two larger value items that have yet to turn up are a S70 Skid Steer Loader and an E20 Excavator Bobcat sitting atop of Flat Deck Trailer. They were reported as stolen from Deckadence Construction.
According to investigators, the Bobcat and Skid Steer may or may not still have the Deckadence logo on the body.
RCMP arrested a 32-year-old man following an unprovoked attack at Nanaimo mall on Tuesday.
Shortly after 6:30 p.m. on December 20th, police were called to Country Club Mallafter a security officer and another person were attempting to restrain an assailant who allegedly had punched and slashed a man in the face with a razor.
RCMP said officers arrived within a few minutes and arrested the suspect, who spat in one officer’s face and kicked at others.
The victim told police he didn’t know the suspect prior to the attack and opted not to go to the hospital after sustaining a shallow cut across his left cheek.
Police spoke with several witnesses adding that prior to the assault the suspect appeared to be acting strange and that his behaviour was causing them concern.
The 32-year-old man is currently in police custody and faces charges of assault with a weapon, assault of two police officers, and breach of probation.
He is expected to appear in Nanaimo Provincial Court later this afternoon.
BC Transit remains haunted by the snowfall of two days past.
Over 60 routes are still affected by Tuesday’s snowfall that saw 29 cm or more accumulate across the region.
To keep transit-riders updated, BC Transit has posted a customer advisory on their website that will be updated every hour.
The advisory is intended to keep customers informed of what routes are operating and if those routes have been slightly changed due to snowy conditions.
“We are advising customers of potential impacts to transit due to snow and freezing temperatures on Thursday, December 22nd,” said BC Transit in the advisory.
“Customers are strongly encouraged to check before they travel for any impacts to their routes. Please leave plenty of time for your journey as we will work hard to get you to your destination.”
BC Transit’s 9 a.m. active routes:
2 South Oak Bay/James Bay
3 Royal Jubilee/James Bay
Not servicing May, routing via Fairfield in both directions.
4 Downtown/UVic
Will finish/start from Government and Superior.
5 James Bay/Willows
6 Downtown/Royal Oak
Not servicing Chatterton & Emily Carr, routing Royal Oak Mall.
7 Downtown/Uvic
10 Royal Jubilee/James Bay
11 Tillicum/UVic
Not servicing Uplands, routing via Cadboro Bay in both directions.
14 UVic/Vic General
Not Servicing Wharf St or Fort between Wharf and Douglas
15 Esquimalt/uVic
Not Servicing Wharf St or Fort Between wharf and Douglas
21 – Not servicing Viaduct/Markham Tech Park – using Camosun College Loop, No 21N Staying on Interuban between Burnside and Wilkinson.
25 Maplewood/Tillicum
26 Dockyard/UVic
27/28 Majestic/Gordon Head
Not servicing Ferndale/Tyndall & Blanshard Terminus, routing from Shelbourne to McKenzie, trip ending at UVic.
31 Downtown/Royal Oak
Not servicing Carey, routing right on Saanich, left on Vernon to Carey.
39 Interurban/UVic
50 Downtown/Langford
Not servicing Langford Parkway/Phipps, routing via Kelly, Veterans Memorial, Meaford to the Langford exchange.
52 Bear Mountain/Colwood
Not servicing Bear Mountain/Stornoway/Lagoon/Latoria, routing via Millstream roundabout & Cairndale in both directions.
Not servicing Langford Parkway/Phipps, routing via Kelly, Veterans Memorial, Meaford.
61 Downtown/Sooke
Not servicing Langford Parkway/Phipps, routing via Kelly, Veterans Memorial, Meaford to the Langford exchange.
70 Downtown/Swartz Bay
Not servicing Vernon/Carey – routing via Blanshard, Saanich to Douglas Southbound only.
72 Downtown/Swartz Bay
75 Saanichton/Downtown
Not servicing Tanner Ridge, routing via Keating Cross Roads & no Benvenuto/Wallace, or Verdier Loop.
81 Brentwood Bay/Swartz Bay
Not servicing Wallace/Benvenuto
83 Sidney/Royal Oak
Not servicing Beaver/Quail, routing via West Saanich, to Interurban.
Not servicing Benvenuto/Verdier loop.
88 Sidney/Airport
⚠️????️ #YYJ#RiderAlert – We are continuing to provide limited service on some routes. Buses will not be adhering to a schedule. For details visit: https://t.co/zt57BIYGYe Need assistance? Contact customer service at 250-382-6161.
