5 things to do in an around Victoria this Friday November 18th

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
(Victoria Royals/twitter)

Welcome to Friday, Victoria!

From Royals hockey to Festival of Trees, today is full of things to see and do around town, here are 5 things to do in an around Victoria this Friday November 18th:

Victoria Royals vs Portland Winterhawks

The Royals will hope five days of rest at home will do them well in a home set against Prince George Cougars this weekend.

Puck drops Friday at 7:05 p.m., and Saturday at 6:05 p.m. at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre.

  • When:
    • Friday, November 18th, puck drops at 7:05 p.m.
    • Saturday, November 19th, puck drops at 6:05 p.m.
  • Where: Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre, 1925 Blanshard Street

Festival of Trees

Bring your family and friends and be immersed in the festive season as you tour a lush forest of one-of-a-kind decorate trees to raise funds for BC Children’s Hospital Foundation. A must-see event known as Victoria’s unofficial kick-off to the holiday season

  • When: On display daily from now until January 3rd, while the mall is open
  • Where: The Bay Centre, 1150 Douglas Street

A Night of Bowie – The Definitive Bowie Experience

David Bowie is one of music history’s most praised and successful artists, with a career that spanned four decades. Bowie continuously sought to reinvent himself, while selling an estimated 140 million albums. His genre-defying journey through a vast array of musical styles, from rock to funk, dance to ballad, always kept fans guessing what he would do next.

A Night of Bowie is a celebration of Bowie’s extensive list of memorable hits, focusing primarily (but not exclusively) on his peak years from the early ’70s to the early ’90s. The show is eerily close to hearing and seeing Bowie himself.

  • When: Friday, November 18th, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
  • Where: Alix Goolden Performance Hall, 907 Pandora Avenue

Jason Verners: live at ecologyst

Jason Verners will be live at ecologyst will be his most intimate production to date with a limited number of seats in a space not normally used as a venue.

Verners has appeared regularly on local and national television and has performed across North America and his show is only getting better. His shows that are nearly sold-out on November 18th and 19th at ecologyst are testament to that fact.

Verners has won multiple international magic awards and he is bringing his talents to an unlikely downtown venue this weekend, ecologyst.

  • When:
    • Friday, November 18th at 6:30 p.m.
    • Saturday November 19th at 6:30 p.m. (SOLD OUT)
    • Saturday November 19th at 9 p.m.
  • Where: ecologyst – 552 Johnson Street

Friday Night Skate

Friday Night Skates are back at Pearkes Recreation Centre. Enter through the main doors of the community centre! Skate rentals and protective gear are available!

  • When: Friday, October 7th, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Where: 3100 Tillicum Road

Police dog rescues lost woman suffering from hypothermia in Duncan

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
(BC RCMP)

A 58-year-old Duncan woman was safely located by police dog Halla after getting disoriented during a cold and foggy evening walk yesterday.

On November 16th, shortly after 5 a.m., RCMP in Duncan were notified by the roommate of a woman who had not returned home from an evening walk the night before.

Frontline officers immediately attended the area and began searching with the assistance of the police canine Halla and her human handler, as well as the Search and Rescue team.

After about an hour and a half of searching, PSD Halla located the woman who was suffering from mild hypothermia in an open field near Westholme Road, in Duncan.

“Our police dog services are an invaluable asset to our operations, including searches for missing persons,” said Cpl. Alex Bérubé, spokesperson for the BC RCMP.

The woman was transported to hospital by ambulance to be further assessed medically.

Here’s how Victorians can save on their energy bills this winter

By
Branded Content
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(File photo)

It’s that time of the year again—the air is cooler and crisper, and the urge to stay cozy and warm inside our homes is stronger than ever.

But unfortunately, those creature comforts come with a price—and it could show up on your energy bills.

Thankfully, the Capital Regional District (CRD) has launched the Home Energy Navigator program which is designed to streamline home energy upgrades in the region’s single-family homes.

The Home Energy Navigator Program aims to support Greater Victoria residents to undertake low carbon home energy retrofits and take advantage of government and utility incentives.

Participants are connected with an Energy Concierge, who is then available throughout a retrofit project to answer questions, provide support, and give local, expert advice and guidance to navigate the complex world of home energy retrofits.

“Whether you need help identifying energy saving opportunities, comparing insulation or heat pump quotes, or applying for rebates and grants, this program is here to help,” said Nikki Elliott, Manager of Climate Action Programs for the CRD.

“This program has been designed to give residents the knowledge and confidence to improve the efficiency of their homes.”

The Home Energy Navigator Program is a free program created by the CRD and local government partners in the capital region and informed by industry experts, including numerous local contractors. It is being executed by City Green Solutions, a local non-profit with decades of experience helping homeowners save energy.

Here are just a few perks of upgrading your home this winter:

  • Improved comfort: upgraded insulation levels and air-tight homes with appropriate ventilation controls the air from entering or exiting your home, maintaining warm temperatures in the winter, and cool temperatures in the summer.
  • Reduced noise: upgraded insulation, air-tightness, and high-efficiency windows can reduce unwanted outdoor noise in your home. This is especially beneficial for homes built in busy or noisy areas or for individuals who enjoy peace and quiet.
  • Energy efficiency: modern heat-pumps and upgraded insulation help you use less energy to heat and cool your home, which reduces the ongoing monthly and annual operating costs of the home.
  • Lower carbon pollution: buildings are a significant source of energy consumption and carbon pollution in the region. Completing home energy upgrades reduces carbon pollution and reduces your personal household environmental footprint.
  • Future proofing: energy efficient homes have improved quality and can better withstand climate change impacts. For example, the combined effect of a tighter building envelope, high-efficiency heating system such as a heat pump means your home can offer better air quality and cooling as the world around you changes.

Residents can participate in the program for free by filling out a registration form online.

Investigation underway after body recovered from Long Lake in Nanaimo

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
(Photo by Jay Wallace Images)

Nanaimo RCMP have confirmed that a body was recovered from Long Lake this morning.

The body was spotted about 40 meters off of a swimming area around 10:30 a.m. Thursday by a walker who was passing by.

A fire rescue vessel was called in to assist in recovering the body.

Const. Gary O’Brien of Nanaimo RCMP says it is too early to determine the cause of death.

BC Coroners is on scene and the area has been closed off while the investigation continues.

Investigators do not believe there is anything suspicious about the death and are currently attempting to identify the deceased.

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345, and quote file # 2022-40475.

Victoria’s annual Santa Claus Parade has a brand new route this year

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(GVFS)

Believe it or not, holiday season is upon us and that means it is parade season!

This year will mark the 40th annual Peninsula Co-op Santa Claus parade.

Due to changes along Government Street with the new pedestrian closed areas, the parade will have a new route this year.

According to a map released by the Greater Victoria Festival Society (GVFS), the parade will kick off from its usual area, however, a portion of the route has been moved to Douglas Street.

Santa, his elves and all the participating parade floats will begin their crawl along Government Street at Belleville Street before taking a right onto Humboldt Street and his entourage will follow. 

Next, the parade will turn left on Douglas Street until they finish the route at the intersection of Fisgard Street and Douglas Street.

The parade will take place on November 26th after the sun goes down at 5 p.m. 

(GVFS)

Following the parade, Santa will be making an appearance at the Hudson Holiday Plaza at the Victoria Public Market.

There he will be taking pictures with naughty and nice kids alike. There will be vendors, food, beverages and entertainment there for parents and their children.

40th annual Peninsula Co-op Santa Claus Parade

  • Where: Corner of Belleville Street and Government Street
  • When: November 26th at 5 p.m.

Editor’s note: The post-parade gathering was originally supposed to take place at the Car Shop at Bayview Place will now be held at Hudson Holiday Plaza at the Victoria Public Market.

Victoria’s basic living wage has reached an all time high of $24.29 per hour

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(File photo)

Victoria now officially has one of the highest basic living wages in BC.

According to the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternative (CCPA), a basic living wage in Victoria is $24.29 per hour. 

It is calculated to the standard of the hourly rate that each of two parents working full-time need to earn in order to support a family of four. 

This amount is enough to cover the costs of having two young children and the ability to cover all the necessities for the healthy development of those children.

It also accounts for the ability to escape financial stress and the ability to be a part of social, civic and cultural activities in their communities.

Food and housing costs have been rising at an unprecedented rate in 2022 and those costs are the reason for the living wage rising accordingly. 

In 2021, the living wage for Greater Victoria was calculated to be $20.46 per hour by the CCPA. So 2022’s living wage of $24.29 per hour is $3.83 higher than last year’s. 

This jump is an 18.7% increase from 2021’s living wage. 

The gap between this calculated living wage versus the current minimum wage in BC of $15.65 per hour leaves a distinct gap that causes many families to struggle making ends meet.

Only bare-bones essentials are what the CCPA takes into account for a family of four with a dual income. 

Most notably for Victorians in the CCPA’s study is that Metro Vancouver’s living wage was actually calculated to be less than Victoria’s. Their living wage was set at $24.08 per hour for 2022. A 17.3% increase from 2021’s $20.52 per hour.

The following image portrays what Metro Vancouver’s basic living wage income could cover in an estimated budget made by the CCPA. 

(CCPA)

Not covered as part of this basic living wage are costs relating to:

  • Paying off credit card debt, loan payments or student loan debt payments
  • Saving for a comfortable retirement
  • Home ownership
  • Organized sports or anything more than minimal recreation
  • Anything beyond minimal entertainment and holiday costs.
  • Costs related to caring for a disabled, ill, or elderly family member
  • An emergency fund to cover costs in hard times 

Employers and government agencies are being called on to put in the work to give people a fighting chance to support their families properly. 

“At a time of a sharply increasing cost of living, it is essential that both public and private sector employers take a closer look at the earnings of their lower-paid workers and consider how far these earnings stretch in our most expensive regions,” said the CCPA in their 2022 living wage study. 

Paying a living wage to employees has even been proven to benefit employers. The study shows that less people won’t show up for work, there will be less staff turnover, people will be more skilled in their roles and positive morale will improve productivity. 

Employers will also pay less toward recruitment and training when living wage policies are implemented. These contributing factors aid employees in affording to effectively support themselves and their family and also helps improve businesses’ customer satisfaction, meaning higher profits.

Search and Rescue assisting RCMP in finding missing 14-year-old boy in Duncan (UPDATED)

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
He was last seen in the Duncan area.

UPDATE: Nathan has been located and is safe, according to Cowichan/Duncan RCMP.

— earlier:

Search underway for missing 14-year-old last seen in Duncan

Cowichan Search and Rescue confirmed in a Facebook post that they are assisting RCMP in the search for a missing teen.

According to the agency, 14-year-old Nathan did not return home from school and was last seen near the post office in downtown Duncan at 6 p.m. on November 16th.

He was wearing a black winter coat, white knit beanie, tan pants, black shoes and blue glasses.

As of this publication, no official media release has been sent out by North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP on the missing person case.

Victoria Buzz has reached out to RCMP for more details and will update this story as soon as more information comes available.

https://www.facebook.com/CowichanSaR/posts/pfbid0iAGtBpc6UB7xNsb46cwhfppanVt2H85uhNTz6onzP5Whq1eDn814no5mrpzCgNjGl

 

Anyone with information or if you see Nathan should call 911.

More to come.

VicPD seek help identifying person of interest in October BC Transit incident

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(VicPD)

VicPD investigators are asking for the public’s help in identifying a person of interest in an incident that took place on a BC Transit bus last month. 

Police say the man was riding a bus on October 17th when the incident took place. 

Details surrounding the incident were not revealed. 

The man is described as being six feet tall with a slim build, having curly hair on top with the sides of his head shaved and he has a tattoo on the back of his right hand. 

Police ask that anyone who recognizes him, call VicPD at (250) 995-7654.

‘Sextorition’ scams becoming a problem in Duncan and North Cowichan: RCMP

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(File Photo)

A public warning has been issued by the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP this week after they’ve said ‘sextortion’ cyber scams are becoming an issue for the area.

Police say the scammers are creating fake social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat to get close with their victims. 

The scammers will then convince their victims to send nude photos or sensitive images and videos. 

According to police, once the scammer obtains these sensitive images and videos, they will demand money from their victims by threatening to share the photos/videos with family, friends and the public.

Police warn that victims of this scam will feel fear and shame that may have long lasting effects on their mental health. 

North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP say these reports in their jurisdiction have increased by 163%.

Victims of these crimes are predominantly male and 25% of the victims who have reported are youths. 

Police say that investigating and prosecuting these offences are difficult as the perpetrators often have techniques to hide their identity. Oftentimes they don’t even live in Canada.

Police believe the best way to combat these kinds of scams is awareness and safe social media practices. 

Parents and guardians are encouraged to have conversations with their children and to closely monitor their social media usage.

“The details revealed in the case of Amanda Todd’s death highlight the tremendous impact online abuse can have on mental health,” said Cpl. Jennifer Morgan of the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP General Investigation Section. 

“Social media awareness will prevent further victimization of our community by online scammers. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” 

Amanda Todd was a 15-year-old British Columbian girl who hanged herself as a result of similar crimes in 2012. 

The man who blackmailed her was a Turkish man who was imprisoned in the Netherlands for similar crimes. He was extradited to Canada and sentenced to 13 years in prison for his crimes in October, 2022. 

Anyone who has been a victim of this crime is encouraged to report it to the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP by calling 250-748-5522.

Impaired driver in Langford thanks West Shore RCMP officer for catching him

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
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RCMP Cruiser Generic
(File photo)

A 23-year-old impaired driver was handed a 90-day roadside prohibition in Langford yesterday and thanked the officer for catching him and asked for a hug.

According to West Shore RCMP, an officer was in the 2600-block of Sooke Road for another incident on Wednesday when they spotted a Jeep Cherokee drive over the grass median and head westbound.

The officer turned his attention to the erratic driver and pulled over the Jeep. Police say the driver was “exhibiting signs of alcohol intoxication” and a roadside test was conducted.

The 23-year-old male driver failed the test and was issued a 90-day immediate roadside prohibition and the Jeep was impounded for 30 days.

The officer then drove the man home, who “thanked the officer for keeping the streets safe and asked the officer for a hug,” said West Shore RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Nancy Saggar.

“We don’t often get thanked for the job we do especially by those who find themselves on the opposite side of the law. It was nice for the officer and for the rest of us at West Shore RCMP to hear this,” said Saggar.

With holiday season around the corner, West Shore RCMP are reminding drivers to expect more roadside impairment checks.

VicPD seek information in stabbing and robbery investigation from September

By
Curtis Blandy
-
VicPD Cruiser Downtown
(VicPD)

VicPD detectives continue to investigate a stabbing and robbery that occurred in September, but need more information.

On September 18th just after 2 a.m. in the 300-block of Gorge Road, a security guard discovered a man suffering from multiple potentially life-threatening stab wounds and other injuries. 

Police say they arrived and located the victim and the security guard who had found him providing immediate medical attention to the man who had been stabbed. 

Paramedics arrived shortly after police, took over medical treatment of the victim and transported him to the hospital. 

It was determined by paramedics that although significant, the man’s wounds were considered non-life threatening.

Police say the victim was approached by two men and a woman. He reported to police that he had bought cigarettes from the woman and continued walking. That’s when the two men attacked him.  

According to police, the victim tried to flag down a passing car which caused the assailants to stop attacking. 

The victim told police that once they fled the scene, he sat on nearby stairs and realized he had been stabbed. 

Police say one of the attackers returned to cut the man’s backpack from him and fled the scene once more. 

According to police, the security guard found the victim approximately 30 minutes after the attack and called 911 immediately.

Police say there are two suspects. 

The first suspect is described as an Indigenous man, around 35-years-old, with a short “buzz cut” style haircut. He was wearing dark clothing. 

The second suspect is described as a tall, heavy-set Caucasian man, with light hair, who was wearing a cloth mask with a design on it.

This stabbing and robbery remains under investigation by VicPD.

Anyone with information about this incident who has yet to speak with officers, should call VicPD at (250) 995-7654. 

To report anonymously, call Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

How population growth will affect Victoria now that there are 8 billion people on earth

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(AGGV / Paint-In)

This week the United Nations (UN) announced that the world officially has 8 billion people living on it. 

No exact number can ever be deduced regarding the world’s human population as it fluctuates every minute of every day. What we do know is that this number has been steadily on the rise since the dawn of the human.

The UN released a document called the World Population Prospects 2022 that shows detailed information about the past, present and future of the world’s human population. 

The world’s population

According to the UN, in 1950 the world had just over 2 billion people. 

By 1975 there were about 4 billion people, in the year 2000 we reached a benchmark of 6 billion and now we have reached 8 billion. 

The projections from the UN predict the earth will have 10 billion people walking its surface around 2050. 

(UN’s World Population Prospects 2022)

This steady population increase brings with it numerous hurdles our species will have to overcome, but how will it affect us here on the island?

Victoria and Vancouver Island’s population

Records show Vancouver Island and Victoria’s populations have also both also been rising steadily since colonization.

According to BC Stats and Stats Canada, in 1986 the population of the island was 534,516. Now, in 2022 that number has grown to 864,864. 

According to the UN’s new data, the population for Greater Victoria in 1950 was about 100,000. In 2022, the population of the Greater Victoria Area is approximately 394,000. 

Our 25% population increase in the time between 1950 and 2022 is exactly the same as the global increase in human population the UN has published a report on. 

(UN’s World Population Prospects 2022)

Given the UN’s data, it is predicted that when the world’s population reaches the next milestone of 9 billion people, Greater Victoria will boast a population of approximately 443,000.

Award-winning magician hosting three intimate shows in downtown Victoria

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(Jason Verners)

At 24-years-old, local magic legend, Jason Verners, is already being hailed as “the next David Blaine.”

Verners has won multiple international magic awards and he is bringing his talents to an unlikely downtown venue this weekend, ecologyst.

“The whole ethos of of what I want to be is unconventional to the core,” Verners told Victoria Buzz when asked why he chose ecologyst.

“I linked up with ecologyst as people who value the same things as me when it comes to sustainability and I like high fashion clothing.”

“I don’t come out in a tophat and a suit,” said Verners. “I used to wear a jacket because I thought I had to, and now I’m like, I’m just going to wear a t-shirt because I like wearing black t-shirts.”

“I like pulling from teams and communities that I vibe with, that’s where the fun is.”

Live at ecologyst will be his most intimate production to date with a limited number of seats in a space not normally used as a venue. 

Verners has appeared regularly on local and national television and has performed across North America and his show is only getting better. His shows that are nearly sold-out on November 18th and 19th at ecologyst are testament to that fact. 

His shows will consist of his “greatest hits” which will be a combination of up-close magic, audience participation and he no doubt has countless surprises in store for the show’s attendees. 

“The way we start the show is just so strange,” Verners said to Victoria Buzz about just how unconventional this show will be. 

“It’s super against the grain and feels kind of weird and uncomfortable, and I think that framing puts people in a really cool position to experience magic right.”

Verner’s shows at ecologyst on Lower Johnson seat 50 each and one show is already sold out. 

Tickets are available on Jason Verner’s website. 

Jason Verners: live at ecologyst

  • Where: ecologyst – 552 Johnson Street
  • When: 
    • Friday, November 18th at 6:30 p.m.
    • Saturday November 19th at 6:30 p.m. (SOLD OUT)
    • Saturday November 19th at 9 p.m.
  • Admission: $38

Swartz Bay to Tsawwassen: BC Ferries expands alcohol sales on major routes

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
(BC Ferries Twitter)

Fancy a beer or wine while you sail aboard a major route on BC Ferries?

Well, you’re in luck. As of November 9th, travellers aboard BC Ferries vessels travelling between Victoria and Vancouver can now purchase alcoholic drinks from the Coastal Café.

This comes after a successful pilot project where BC Ferries sold wine and beer at its Pacific Buffet for five months without incident back in October 2019.

Travellers aged 19 or older can now purchase up to two alcoholic beverages on board sailings between Swartz Bay and Tsawwassen, from the Coastal Café.

“We’ve heard from many passengers that they would like to enjoy an alcoholic beverage with their meal while on board,” the website reads. “We are adding alcoholic beverages to the menu in select Coastal Cafes as a way to improve the customer experience.”

The drink options include 355 millilitre cans of beer, cider, or a “refreshment beverage,” as well as a 250-millilitre glass of wine.

These are the drink options that will be available:

  • 12-ounce glass of cider costs about $7.49 plus tax
  • 12-ounce refreshment beverage costs about $7.49 plus tax
  • 8.5-ounce (250ml) glass of wine costs about $13.99 plus tax
  • 12-ounce (355ml) glass of beer ranges from $6.99 plus tax to $7.99 plus tax

Customers won’t be allowed to take their alcoholic drinks out of the Coastal Café area, and children are still allowed to sit in the cafeteria area, just as they would at a typical restaurant.

Currently, alcoholic drinks are only available between Swartz Bay and Tsawwassen, however, BC Ferries says it plans to expand the sale of alcohol to sailings between Tsawwassen and Duke Point, and between Departure Bay and Horseshoe Bay.

Here’s how you can join Pacific FC in cheering on Canada at the World Cup

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(Pacific FC)

Team Canada is in the 2022 FIFA World Cup and their first two matches are coming up soon.

Local football club, Pacific FC, is ready to cheer on our national team and they want their fans to join them as they chant and watch the games on a screen in a local pub. 

Pacific FC are hosting watch parties for Canada’s first couple games at the Sticky Wicket and Bard and Banker. 

Due to the time difference between Canada and the game’s hosting country of Qatar, some games will be quite early in the morning for Victorians. 

A watch party at Wicket Hall for Canada’s first game against Belgium will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, November 23rd.

The second watch party that Pacific FC is hosting will be at the Bard and Banker to watch Canada take on Croatia at 7 a.m. on Sunday November 27th. 

Fans will be joined by Pacific FC staff, players and support groups in these pubs thanks to the BCLC allowing liquor-primary establishments to extend their hours of operation.

Related:

Victoria bars and pubs can extend their hours for this year’s FIFA World Cup matches

Canada’s World Cup Squad will have to fight their way through ‘Group F’ before advancing in the competition. Along with Croatia and Belgium, they will have to face Morocco.

After the group stage, they will enter the ‘Round of 16’ where the winners of each group will play each other to advance. 

The Canadian team is ranked 41st in the tournament and according to BCLC, on their legal gambling website, PlayNow.com, 33% of bets are on Canada to win the entire World Cup tournament.

Pacific FC’s Canada vs. Belgium watch party

  • When: 11 a.m. on November 23rd
  • Where: Wicket Hall – 919 Douglas Street

Pacific FC’s Canada vs. Croatia watch party

  • When: 7 a.m. on November 27th
  • Where: Bard & Banker – 1022 Government Street

Suspects sought after money stolen from ATM during break-in at Chemainus gas station

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
(North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP)

RCMP are searching for two suspects after a large amount of money was stolen from an ATM in Chemainus last week.

According to North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP two men broke into the Co-op gas station in Chemainus on Thursday, November 10th.

During the break-in, police said an ATM was broken into and a large sum of money was stolen.

The suspects are believed to be associated to a customized white Ford pick-up truck Super Duty, possibly a F250 or F350 model with unknown licence plates.

Both men appear to be Caucasian, approximately 20-30 years old, standing 5’10″ tall. They were wearing dark clothing along with masks and gloves during the incident.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP at 250-748-5522.

BC Liberal Party officially changing their name to BC United

By
Curtis Blandy
-
Doug Clement Photography/Facebook

The BC Liberals will soon have a new name.

Over 8,000 members of the BC Liberal Party cast a vote on whether or not to change the name of the party to between Sunday and Tuesday this week. 

In the end, 80% of the party members that voted on the name change voted in favour of their new name, BC United. 

“For more than twenty years, our party’s name has been a constant topic of debate. A strong vote for BC United marks a new beginning,” said Kevin Falcon, Party Leader. 

“I’m excited to move forward as BC United because it really reflects our big tent party, united for a common purpose of making life better for British Columbians.”

The BC Liberals engaged with its membership on the topic of a name change and asked them for submissions on what the party should change its name to. They received over 2,000 suggestions from their members. 

Of those suggestions BC United was the favourite among party members across the province. 

Related: 

BC Liberals could change their name by the end of the year

“In keeping with the commitments we’ve made, all of our members had the opportunity to vote as to whether they wanted to change the party name to BC United, or to remain as the BC Liberals,” said John Yap, President of the BC Liberal Party. 

“After extensive consultation, and with 80% approval from our membership, I’m pleased to see support for the new name surpassed all expectations and is the clear choice of our members.”

The party says that a new name is just one aspect of an overhaul the province’s Liberals are currently implementing. 

“From new, dynamic leadership to talented, passionate candidates and smart, outcomes-based policies, we’re working hard to demonstrate real, comprehensive renewal right across the board,” said Caroline Elliott, Vice-President of the BC Liberal Party. 

Now that the vote is complete on the name change, the party will put ‘BC United’ through a constitutional ratification process. This is expected to happen early in the new year according to the party. 

After that, the party will implement new logos and branding for the new name. 

The party says that BC United has already been registered with Elections BC. They will retain ownership of the domains and all associated properties relating to the BC Liberal name to avoid others gaining ownership. 

On Wednesday, November 17th the BC NDP shared their thoughts on the name change.

“Kevin Falcon can change his party’s name but not his 12-year record of choices that made life harder for people,” said Niki Sharma, BC NDP MLA.

“He handed tax giveaways to the richest 1% and big corporations and made everyone else pay for it. He cut funding for hospitals and schools. He hiked MSP premiums and ICBC rates.”

“No matter what he calls his party, he’s still working for the wealthy and well-connected and would make everyone else pay the price.”

Currently in the Legislature, the BC Liberals hold 27 seats compared to the BC NDP’s 57, the BC Green’s 2 seats and one independent MLA seat. 

Victoria Royals feeling absence of captain Gannon Laroque

By
Jeremy Weeres
-
Gannon Laroque (Marissa Baecker/Shoot the Breeze)

The Victoria Royals put up a fight against the Western Conference leading Portland Winterhawks during last weekend’s Friday-Saturday set, refusing to go away after succumbing multi-goal leads during Saturday’s game.

Despite refusing to throw in the towel, the effort wasn’t enough to come away with any points, and the Royals find themselves in the basement of the Western Conference.

Riley Gannon had a nice start to the home stand, contributing to the scoresheet in both weekend games.

He tallied an assist Friday and buried two goals on Saturday to lead the team in points over the weekend. He’s been one of the main catalysts offensively of late (alongside Jake Poole) and has found the scoresheet in four of his last six games (3 goals, 2 assists).

The Royals will hope five days of rest at home will do them well in a home set against Prince George Cougars this weekend.

Puck drops Friday at 7:05 p.m., and Saturday at 6:05 p.m. at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre.

Royals feeling absence of captain Gannon Laroque in every way

Whether a defenceman scores a point per game, can reliably kill penalties, or is someone you can  trust to chew up 22 minutes of ice time, replacing those minutes can be difficult to do by committee.

Vancouver Canucks fans wouldn’t have to look any further than the loss of Chris Tanev to the Calgary Flames via free agency in 2020. Tanev has never been flashy, but he’s a stalwart on the penalty kill, could comfortably play over 20 minutes per night, was hard to play against, and was capable of making a first pass.

You could argue the Canucks are still trying to replace him.

That is the conundrum head coach and general manager Dan Price faces right now with the absence of Gannon Laroque. Laroque is the captain, the team’s leader, and the squad’s only NHL drafted prospect (2021 4th round, San Jose Sharks). 

NHL drafted players are the talismen of junior hockey; the beacon of hope that every player can look toward. They’re often the best player on the ice, and elevate entire teams with the pace and skill they can demand in training. They’re hugely important and can shoulder the media attention through both good and bad and are leaders in their work rate. These young men take the task of improving at their craft seriously. 

The Royals don’t have that right now.

It’s unfortunate for the Royals—clearly, as the team can’t buy a win right now—but it’s even more unfortunate for Laroque himself. A 6’2″ bruising defender with excellent offensive instincts, Laroque had an outstanding season last year, scoring 10 goals and 52 points in 63 games and finishing top 10 in the league in power play points by a defenceman. That’s a heck of an 18-year-old season on a team that didn’t score a ton and wound up missing the playoffs.

Ideally, Laroque, 19, would get to build on last year’s breakout campaign and start showing the Sharks’ management that he is ready for the American Hockey League next year. The 19 year old season is the time an NHL prospect is supposed to completely dominate the WHL, when their hockey IQ and skill that got them here is finally merged with the physical development of becoming a young man. Think of a 19 year old Matthew Phillips scoring at will and tallying 112 points back in 2017-18.

Alas, Laroque won’t be able to do that. Victoria Buzz reached out to the Royals for an injury update, and Laroque is still month-to-month with an undisclosed injury.

The Royals will just have to keep plugging along without him.

Honour the Canadian Armed Forces this Saturday

The Victoria Royals will be honouring the Canadian Armed Forces this Saturday, with specially designed jerseys for the occasion. Join the Royals for an evening of Remembrance.

The Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt will be on site with military vehicles and activations for the family to enjoy.

Puck drop is at 6:05 p.m.

 

(Victoria Royals)

 

Victoria Royals vs Prince George Cougars

  • When:
    • Friday, November 18th, puck drops at 7:05 p.m.
    • Saturday, November 19th, puck drops at 6:05 p.m.
  • Where: Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre, 1925 Blanshard Street

7 Vancouver Island Métis communities to benefit from $7.1 million funding announcement

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(Susan Arens / Pinterest)

Métis residents of BC will be receiving a large chunk of money from the province that is intended to support job-ready skills training within the province.

BC’s Minister of Advanced Education and Skills, Anna Kang, announced that $7.1 million will be allocated to the Métis Nation British Columbia’s (MNBC) to support Métis students and learners.

Kang made this announcement during a reception commemorating Louis Riel’s life and legacy.

“We honour Louis Riel’s sacrifice and courage,” said Kang. “We honour the significant contributions of the Métis people to British Columbia, and we acknowledge the struggles that Métis people continue to face.”

“Our government is committed to working together to make life better for Métis people throughout BC, including through critical investments in education and skills training.”

This new funding for Métis learners will mainly give them easier, more affordable access to occupational skills training programs. The Métis students will get access to trades apprenticeships, upgrades, trades, certifications and other courses that may lead to gainful employment. 

The province’s new funding program for Métis learners will help around 1,000 people advance their learning and equip them with the tools necessary to get well-paying jobs in BC. 

“At a time when we see such a large investment in infrastructure from the Province, it is paramount that we can equip our citizens with the job-ready skills needed for these projects,” said Paulette Flamond, MNBC’s Minister of Skills Training, Employment, and Post-Secondary Education. 

“This additional round of funding will pay dividends and benefit our Nation for generations to come.”

Vancouver Island has seven Métis communities within the MNBC. The Métis Nation Of Greater Victoria Association, the Alberni-Clayoquot Métis Society, the Cowichan Valley Métis Association, the Mid-Island Métis Nation Association, the Miki’siw Métis Association, the North Island Métis Association and the Métis Nation Powell River will all benefit directly from this funding. 

This program is part of the provinces StrongerBC’s Future Ready Plan, an initiative to make education and training easier and more accessible.

As of September 2022, the MNBC has supported 1,825 Métis British Columbians get training or post-secondary education. A record setting number for the MNBC.

Fog warning in effect for Greater Victoria Wednesday morning: Environment Canada

By
Curtis Blandy
-
Vancouver Island Fog (Marty Borsboom / Instagram)

Visibility is very low in Greater Victoria this morning for the second day in a row.

The good news is that the dense fog is only expected to last through until the late morning. Until it lifts though, Environment Canada is warning there will be near-zero visibility in some areas. 

“Dense fog has developed due to a ridge of high pressure that is trapping moisture near the surface. The fog is expected to dissipate late this morning,” Environment Canada said in its weather advisory Wednesday morning.

When fog conditions impair visibility for drivers, the government agency urges morning commuters to take extra caution on their commute.

“Visibility may be significantly and suddenly reduced to near zero. If visibility is reduced while driving, slow down, watch for tail lights ahead and be prepared to stop.”

The fog advisory is currently in effect for much of eastern Vancouver Island. Courtenay to Campbell River, Duncan to Nanaimo and Nanoose Bay to Fanny Bay all have similar fog warnings to Greater Victoria. 

Some flights at Victoria International Airport have been delayed due to the foggy conditions. The airport’s website has details on which flights have been affected. 

BC Ferries routes all appear to be unaffected by the fog this morning. 

Police seek help locating missing 23-year-old Victoria man

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
(Riley Norman Jones)

VicPD are seeking the public’s help in locating a missing 23-year-old man.

Riley Norman Jones was last seen in the Esquimalt area on November 5th and was reported missing to VicPD on Saturday, November 12th.

Police describe Jones as 5’9″ tall, with a slim build. He has blue eyes and short blonde hair.

No other details were available surrounding the missing case.

Anyone with information about where he may be is asked to call VicPD at (250) 995-7654.

New police unit in Saanich will focus on sexual offences of the past and present

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(Saanich Police / Facebook)

The Saanich Police Department is launching a new investigative unit dubbed the ‘Special Investigations Unit’ (SIS).

The SIS will be primarily responsible for investigating all current and past sexual offences against people of every gender, sex and background. 

The new unit will be comprised of two sergeants and seven constables. Most of these officers and the unit’s resources will be reallocated from existing resources.

Only one new officer will join as per the Saanich Police Department’s 2022 budget.

Police say that the SIS will receive specialized, trauma-informed training to ensure sexual violence survivors are cared for and allegations are investigated properly.

“The creation of the SIS is a vital step forward that clearly demonstrates our commitment to continuous improvement, service and investigative excellence, and survivor support, care, and wellbeing,” said Chief Constable Dean Duthie. 

“This highly experienced team of investigators will ensure that survivors of sexual offences are supported and kept informed throughout the entire investigative process.” 

This new unit is a collaborative product of the Saanich Police Department, the Saanich Police Board and the Saanich Municipal Council.

Victoria’s Soup Kitchen sets out to make 4,000 meals in 40 days

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(St. Andrew's Cathedral / Photo by Michal Klajban)

The Soup Kitchen has been providing meals to the city’s most vulnerable for 40 years and to celebrate, they’ve set a lofty goal of raising $24,000 to make 4,000 meals in 40 days for their patrons. 

Since 1982, the Soup Kitchen has made meals every day for the people in Victoria who need food the most. They say they haven’t missed a single day of service, even through COVID-19 shutdowns. 

Now, they’ve bought themselves a new bread slicer to help them achieve their goal that now resides in the basement of the St. Andrew’s Cathedral. This new piece of machinery will significantly help volunteers achieve that which they’ve set their sights on. 

Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the 100% volunteer powered organization has been making 3,000 balanced, healthy sandwiches per month. With the help of their new slicer, that will surely be so much easier. 

The Soup Kitchen was able to get this 250 pound slicer with a generous $5,000 donation from the Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Knights Hospitaller, Victoria Commandery.

On Tuesday, November 15th, Bob Plecas, of the Sovereign Order joined volunteers and donors to christen the new slicer that will help them raise $24,000 as well as make 4,000 meals in the next 40 days. 

Plecas presented the Soup Kitchen with an additional $1,000 to start them off on the right foot in their fundraiser at the christening.

“We are thrilled to support the Soup Kitchen,” said Plecas. “This small, yet mighty, volunteer-based organization has consistently provided warm meals to people at risk for 40 years in the downtown core.” 

“Today, with food inflation, we are seeing more suffering; our neighbours are suffering, and the vulnerable in our community are suffering.”

To the volunteers at the Soup Kitchen, every donation is tangible and means a community member they know will have a fresh, healthy meal. 

“We are so very grateful. These charitable contributions are extremely valuable to us, and to the people who come through our doors each weekday in search of kindness, respect and a healthy meal,” said Teri Hustins, a long standing volunteer for the Soup Kitchen.

“Our volunteers have spent countless hours hand slicing bread. This automated bread slicer will save time, allowing us to transform the fresh loaves of bread, that are donated from Cobbs Bakery, much faster into sandwiches for our hungry guests.”

Every meal the Soup Kitchen makes costs about $6. This means that if they are able to raise $24,000, the 4,000 meals will all be paid for in full. So far, the organization has raised over $3,040 of their goal. That means over 506 meals have been paid for.

“Today’s generous $1,000 financial contribution from the Sovereign Order will feed over 160 people and we hope that others will step forward to assist us in meeting our goal of 4,000 meals in 40 days,” said Hustins.

Donations to the Soup Kitchen can be made through their website. 

5 things to do in and around Victoria this Wednesday, November 16th

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
Gorge Road (Chris Allan Photography / Instagram)

The sun is shining and we’re at the midway mark of the week!

As we inch closer to the weekend, more Christmas events will be announced, in the meantime, here are 5 things to do in and around Victoria this Wednesday, November 16th:

 

Around the World in 80 Days

Blue Bridge Repertory Theatre is inviting audiences to rediscover a sense of discovery and adventure with Toby Hulse’s adaptation of Around the World in 80 Days!

Join Phileas Fogg as he races from continent to continent after wagering an incredible sum of money that he can travel around the world in 80 days.

Based on a novel written by Jules Verne in 1872, Around the World in 80 Days! explores Victorian era’s fascination with innovations that opened a world of possibilities to travelers and adventurers.

  • When: Wednesday, November 16th, 1 p.m., doors open at: 12:30pm
  • Where: Blue Bridge Repertory Theatre, 2657 Quadra Street

Robert Bateman: Heart and Home Exhibit

he Robert Bateman: Heart and Home exhibit illuminates the inspirations, connections and soul of an artist steeped in nature. The collection is comprised of extraordinary artwork and pieces, some never-before-seen and meant for an audience of one. It captures the intimate occasions of birthdays, holidays, and the love that Robert Bateman shares with his close family and friends. Just like capturing the fleeting moments of light in the natural world, Robert savours the moments of creating gifts to express his care.

Step into Robert’s studio and be immersed in the artist’s space. In the next room, you’ll enter a Bateman Christmas in the 90s with a 54” sculpted Nutcracker with a mischievous grin standing beside a handcrafted Christmas crèche. The journey continues with paintings, drawings, and furniture pieces gifted to loved ones.

  • When: Wednesday, November 16th, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Where: The Bateman Gallery, 470 Belleville Street

Fall Food & Whisky Release

“Summer is finally over and we are ready to unveil the latest rendition of the culinary menu from Chef Josh Chilton. On top of that, we will be releasing our own whiskies in collaboration with Stillhead Distillery.”

Piercy’s Rye is a blend of five different ryes specifically chosen by the Clive’s team, blended then finished in a Vancouver Island Petit Milo cask.

Best of Both Worlds is a cask strength single malt aged in ex Cognac Barrels. Head down and experience Chef’s new menu along with some fantastic new whiskies.

  • When: Wednesday, November 16th, starts at 5 p.m.
  • Where: Clive’s Classic Lounge, 740 Burdett Avenue

Music Bingo at Fernwood Inn

The NTS is hosting another Music Bingo night with prizes and raffles. We are raising funds to support the creation and connecting of more environmentally sustainable, safe and fun local trails. Please come out and join in on the fun and tell your friends too!

  • When: Wednesday, November 16th, starts at 7:30 p.m.
  • Where: Fernwood Inn, 1302 Gladstone Avenue

Comedy Night at the Mint

The funniest way to spend a Wednesday is Phillips Comedy Night at The Mint! Each week Morgan Cranny and Drew Farrance bring the most hilarious comedians in the city together for a wonderful evening of food, drink and fun!

Wildly popular and always new, Phillips Comedy Night is a hilarious night out. Come downstairs and enjoy the delicious west coast Himalayan cuisine that the Mint is famous for.

Seating is limited, be sure to book your table early!

  • When: Wednesday November 15th, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
  • Where: The Mint, 1414 Douglas Street

This time capsule will take you on a Vancouver Island trip from Victoria to Qualicum in the 80s (VIDEO)

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(sailcat662/YouTube screenshot)

A video has surfaced that shows Vancouver Island in a simpler time with bigger hair and less Starbucks—the 80s.

In this video you can see a snapshot of several municipalities along the Trans-Canada Highway from Victoria to Qualicum and everything in between. 

The video starts out in what would become the West Shore. Six Mile Pub can be seen looking similarly to how it still looks now, only with less around it. 

The time capsule then takes you along the Malahat to a totem pole and Wippletree Junction. A place that also hasn’t changed that much since the 80s. 

A sign can be seen in the video saying the population back then was 14. 

According to a picture of that very same sign taken in 2018, the population remains the same. 

Next, the viewer is taken through Chemainus to view several of the murals that are still there today.

On to Parksville, the Kalvas Loghouse remains there, although with different signage and an updated decor. Also, in the 80s the epic Paradise mini golf course did not yet exist across the street from Kalvas. 

After a trip through some restaurants of days past, Parksville’s Park Theatre can be seen in a state of closure. The single screen cinema opened back in 1952. It was then open intermittently through the years until 1992, when it was demolished. 

Various parks and beaches can be seen in the video until the viewer is taken back to the streets of Victoria. 

The face of St. Andrews Presbyterian can be seen next on Courtney Street. The church would have received heritage building status in 1979, just before this video was taken.

Toward the end of the video the old Classic Car Museum can be seen sporting several vintage cars out in front. 

Check out the footage below:

West Shore RCMP investigate attempted abduction of 17-year-old girl

By
Curtis Blandy
-
Man shot dead in Beiseker
(West Shore RCMP)

West Shore RCMP are investigating after an attempted abduction took place in the parking lot of the Shoppers Drug Mart at the Westshore Town Centre in Langford. 

Police say on Monday, November 14th, sometime between 5 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., a 17-year-old girl was leaning into the back seat of her own vehicle when a male suspect pushed her into the vehicle and closed the door. 

According to police, a second male suspect then approached the vehicle and tried to get into the driver’s seat. 

“The victim reacted quickly and hit the lock button on her key fob, preventing the male from entering her car,” said Cpl. Nancy Saggar, West Shore RCMP Media Relations Officer.

Fortunately, police say a young male bystander witnessed the incident and shouted at the men who then left on foot.

The suspects were last seen headed around the side of Jacklin Road’s Shoppers Drug Mart toward Kelly Road. 

Police describe the first suspect as having a darker complexion who is in his late 20s or early 30s. He is approximately 6’ tall to 6’2” tall, he has a beard and he was wearing dark coloured pants and a dark coloured hoodie. He may have a possible tattoo on one hand/wrist in the pattern of swirls. 

The second suspect is described similarly as a man with darker complexion in his late 20s or early 30s, wearing dark coloured pants and a dark coloured hoodie with facial hair.

“We would like to make the public aware of this as it is a concerning investigation into an attempted abduction,” said Cpl. Saggar. “We have had no similar complaints of this nature, we believe this incident is isolated.”

“The investigation is ongoing, and police would like to speak with the bystander who scared away the suspects.”

Police also ask that anyone who was in the area at the time and witnessed this crime take place, or has possible dash camera footage that captured this incident, call the West Shore RCMP at 250-474-2264.

Polls show most British Columbians are changing their lifestyle because of rising food costs

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(File photo)

Food prices rising have been hard to ignore in 2022.

A recent poll by BC based Research Co. shows that not only have most BC residents noticed the price increases, they are changing the way they live their lives as a result of the price hikes. 

Those changes are also proving to be detrimental to the health of British Columbians. 

The majority of the sample of BC residents who partook in the poll agree that food prices are higher across the board, be it lunch or dinner at a restaurant, food delivery or grocery shopping.

More than four-in-five people (82%) say that grocery store prices have noticeably risen. 13% said they believed costs have stayed the same, 4% said they’ve decreased and 1% said they were unsure of cost shifts at the grocery store. 

When it comes to having lunch or dinner at a restaurant, the results of this poll were strikingly similar. 69% think lunch prices have risen and 71% think dinner prices have risen, 14% say lunch and dinner costs have remained steady, 10% said that lunch costs are down while 9% said that dinner costs have decreased and lastly 7% believe that lunch costs are down compared to the 6% who believe dinners out have been cheaper. 

Notably, these price increases are being predominantly noticed by females over the age of 55-years-old. 

(Research Co.)

When food budgets increase, most BC residents agree they have been changing the way they live their lives, and not for the better. 

According to this poll, more than half of British Columbians are doing things like cutting back on dining out, not buying coffee from cafes and cutting back on treats. Only 14% claim to have done nothing to change their lifestyles as a result of rising food prices.

(Research Co.)
(Research Co.)

When asked, “All things considered, would you say your diet has been healthy over the past two months,” only 43% of BC residents said theirs probably has. Over one-quarter of respondents said that they were eating worse foods as a result. 

Of that one-quarter of respondents, 61% said that it was because they could no longer afford healthier food. 

(Research Co.)

In general, this poll shows that women pay slightly closer attention to rising food costs and their effects on day-to-day life than men. 

Teen arrested for threatening to kill people with knife at Langford McDonald’s

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
(West Shore RCMP/Twitter)

Police arrested a 14-year-old boy who allegedly brandished a knife and threatened to kill several people on a transit bus and inside a McDonald’s restaurant in Langford.

West Shore RCMP say they were called to the McDonalds at 854 Langford Parkway on October 23rd after receiving reports a young teen was threatening to kill several people inside the restaurant.

The teen had already left the establishment before police arrived and had boarded a transit bus headed to Sooke.

Sooke RCMP joined the search for the suspect and intercepted the bus, arresting the youth suspect who was still in possession of the knife. He has since been released with conditions.

On Tuesday, police said two people who were passengers the bus that day have since come forward to the RCMP and allege the teenager brandished the knife and threatened to kill them while they were on the bus.

As a result of those details, the young suspect was arrested again and is now facing a variety of charges including two counts of assault with a weapon, one count of possession of a concealed weapon and one count of possession of a weapon for dangerous purpose.

Police say he has been placed on conditions including not to have any contact with the victims, not to attend the McDonald’s or any BC Transit bus or property and not to possess any weapons including knives.

He is set to appear in court in early January 2023.

Nanaimo man sentenced to life in prison for drug-fuelled murder in Brentwood Bay

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(Central Saanich Police/Emily Caruana)

Warning: This story contains graphic content that may not be suitable for everyone. 

A 51-year-old Nanaimo man who broke into a Brentwood Bay home and brutally murdered a 20-year-old woman in 2019 has been sentenced to life in prison.

In May of 2019, Alan Charles Chapman broke into the home of 20-year-old Emily Caruana’s grandmother and severely stabbed three people while intoxicated on crack-cocaine and nitrous oxide, killing Emily.

On November 14th, a judge heard the gruesome recounting of events at the sentencing and victim impact hearing by those who were there with Emily on the night she was killed.

Related:

The night of the murder

On May 11th, Emily and her boyfriend were visiting her grandmother to celebrate Mother’s Day. While she was there, in the middle of the night Emily, her boyfriend and another family member were brutally attacked by Chapman. 

Chapman had travelled from Nanaimo to Brentwood Bay to confront another person of accusing him of sexual assault. That person cannot be identified due to a publication ban. He also confessed to the court he had consumed crack cocaine and nitrous oxide that evening. 

The family heard shattering glass around 12:30 a.m. They got out of bed to find Chapman inside the house. 

Chapman armed himself with a knife he got from the kitchen and stabbed Emily’s family member, John Caruana when he tried to prevent him from entering the room where Emily and her boyfriend were in. 

He was stabbed in the neck and the back. 

Emily’s grandmother managed to flee the home and call the police while Chapman was progressing through the Central Saanich home.

Next Chapman managed to break into the locked room that Emily was in with her boyfriend, Justin Booth. Booth was attacked first by Chapman. He was stabbed in the hands and the head multiple times. After the attack, Booth needed several surgeries and a massive amount of blood transfusions.

Emily was attacked next. Chapman stabbed her several times while she laid in bed. Chapman told courts he believed her to be someone else during the attack. 

Paramedics arrived and pronounced Emily dead at the scene. 

Chapman fled the home before emergency crews could arrive and drove back towards Nanaimo. 

North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP had been tipped off by Central Saanich Police about Chapman’s direction of travel and they positioned themselves to catch him on the highway. 

Police gave chase to Chapman as he fled down the Trans-Canada Highway reaching speeds of up to 160 km/h. 

He was eventually stopped by use of a spike strip on the highway and he was brought into custody by police at that time. 

Sentencing

Chapman originally faced one charge of first degree murder and two charges of aggravated assault. 

At a hearing in August, he plead guilty to one charge of second-degree murder and two charges of aggravated assault. 

More than three years after this gruesome murder, Emily’s family and loved ones had their opportunity to speak about the events of that night at court on Monday November 14th.

Now, Chapman has been sentenced to life in prison with no hope of parole for a minimum of 10 years. 

Kick off your holiday shopping this weekend with Hillside Centre’s ‘Night of Lights’

By
Branded Content
-
(Hillside Centre)

Have you got your tickets for Hillside Centre’s Night of Lights yet?

If so, you can expect an evening full of shopping, deals, food, drinks, door prizes and fun!

And if not—there’s still time to grab them.

Shoppers are invited to join in on the fun from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. this Sunday, November 20th. The evening includes great retailer offers and discounts available ONLY during the event.

In between all of your shopping, you’ll have the chance to fuel-up with drinks and appetizers provided by The Bubble Bus Co. and Little Piggy Catering!

On top of this, there will be over $10,000 in door prizes to be won, including:

  • 5 x $1000 Hillside Centre shopping sprees!
  • Gift baskets ranging from $100 – $500
  • Gift cards over $100
  • … So much more!

Tickets are only $5 each and can be purchased from the non-profits listed below—every penny goes towards supporting a charity of your choice:

Burnside Gorge Community Association  –  Capital Region Female Minor Hockey Association  –  Castleview Child Care Centre  –  Crystal View Elementary School  –  Discovery School  –  Falcon Gymnastics Parents Association  –  Global Village Store  –  Island Deaf & Hard of Hearing Centre  –  Island Ukuleles ‘A’ Music Society  –  James Bay Community  –  Kerry Park Minor Hockey Association  –  Lambrick Park Secondary School  –  MOVE Adapted Fitness  –  Our Children’s Centre Society  –  Peninsula Young Performers  –  Royal Oak Middle School Music Program  –  Ruth King Elementary School Pac  –  Saanich Skating Club of Victoria  –  Victoria Chinatown Lioness Lions Club  –  Victoria Hand Project – Victoria Minor Hockey Association  –  Westcoast Rhythmic Gymnastics – Not Too Late

Tickets are also available at Hillside Guest Services—the revenue from tickets sold at Guest Services will be donated to the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation.

Hillside Centre’s Night of Lights

  • When: Sunday, November 20th – 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
  • Where: Hillside Centre, 1644 Hillside Avenue
  • Tickets: Can be purchased from Hillside Centre Guest Services or from the list of non-profits here

Motorists travelling over the Malahat this week can expect delays due to overnight closure

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
Fog
Foggy morning on the Malahat (Cecile Brisebois Guillemot)

Just a heads up if you’re travelling over the Malahat in the wee hours later this week.

In a media release, the province said drivers travelling overnight on Highway 1 through Goldstream Provincial Park this Thursday, November 17th should expect delays as crews undertake geotechnical work.

Work will commence around 10 p.m. Thursday night and wrap-up around 6 a.m. on Friday, November 18th.

The highway will be down to single lane alternating traffic, to allow crews to measure the depth of the bedrock for planning purposes.

Drivers may experience delays as long as 20 minutes.

“Drivers are reminded to drive according to conditions and to observe traffic management personnel and signage,” reminded the province in their media release.

6 ‘late night’ cafes in Victoria where you can grab a hot beverage after the sun goes down

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(File Photo)

Greater Victoria is a notoriously sleepy city that closes up shop early and switches from Blundstones to slippers at about 7 p.m. 

The city has around 1,000 bars and pubs where you can go to get some evening work done or read a book on any given night, but what about if you don’t want a noisy pub environment?

Or maybe alcohol just isn’t your thing.

For the purposes of this article and given the context of Victoria, anywhere that doesn’t close until 8 p.m. will be referred to as a “late night” spot. Most bars close at 10 p.m. here anyway, so that seems like a fair designation. 

Here are six places you can grab a coffee, tea or a pastry in the evening and get some work done:

Moka House Coffee

Nuzzled in the heart of Cook Street Village, Moka House Coffee puts an emphasis on building community in their space. 

They also have a location in Cadboro Bay near the University, but the Cook Street location keeps their doors open to caffeine junkies until 8 p.m. and that is what makes them a “late night” spot. 

They source their coffee from Sacred Acre Coffee that is roasted weekly and brewed with care in all three locations. 

  • Where: 345 Cook Street, Victoria
  • When: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday to Sunday

Soupa Cafe

Both their original downtown location and their new location in the old Esquimalt bingo hall are open “late” until 8 p.m. 

They have soups, sandwiches, flatbreads, salads, hot drinks, pastries and most importantly, a cozy calm vibe.

Right now their cafe also features a big Christmas tree to give you a nice living room feeling. 

This is the perfect spot to grab a late night cup of coffee, have a heart-warming bowl of chili and a Turkey sandwich while getting some work done or reading a book. 

  • Downtown:
    • #145 – 736 View Street
    • 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday to Friday, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. on Saturdays
  • Esquimalt: 
    • 820 Esquimalt Road
    • 11am – 8pm Monday to Friday

QV Cafe & Bakery

In the heart of downtown on Fisgard, right beside the iconic Chinatown archway, QV has some of the best cakes and sweet treats in town. 

They also keep their doors open extremely “late” for Victoria, maybe the latest cafe in town! They shut their doors at 10 p.m. every day. 

Lots of room to read a book or bring your laptop if you are feeling like having a workaholic evening. 

Grab a warm drink, a cozy corner and a delicious pastry here any day of the week!

  • Where: 1701 Government Street
  • When: 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday to Sunday

Cat’s Coffee and Cake

A truly brilliant bakery and a beautiful place for students to congregate as it is located so near to the university. 

Are there actual cats? Sadly no. Are there cat themed treats? Absolutely, yes. 

Cat’s downtown stays open until 9 p.m. on the weekends and 7:30 p.m. on weekdays. Their Cadboro Bay spot is open until 7:30 p.m. throughout the week. 

That gives plenty of cozy vibe time in the evening to cram for the upcoming finals or just meet up with friends and spend some student loan money.

  • Downtown:
    • 1213 Douglas Street
    • 7:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Monday to Thursday, 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., Friday to Sunday
  • University:
    • 2560B Sinclair Road
    • 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday to Sunday

Caffe Fantastico / Tre Fantastico

Caffe Fantastico is the roastery in Quadra Village that serves warm food, delicious pastries and some of the best locally roasted coffee in the capital region. They also have beer for those who dabble in that kind of thing. This cafe is open “late” from Thursday to Saturday. 

Tre Fantastico is a more bistro style spot but it is ‘Fantastico’ at heart. It’s downtown and keeps its doors open “late” as well. 

  • Caffe Fantastico:
    • 965 Kings Road
    • 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Sunday to Wednesday
  • Tre Fantastico:
    • 810 Humboldt Street
    • 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday to Tuesday

Did we miss something? Let us know if you have a cozy late night destination that isn’t on our list in the comments!

100 acres of twinkling lights: The Christmas Express is returning to Duncan this December

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
Choo choo your way to the Christmas Steam train at the Forest Discovery Centre in Duncan, always a hoot to see and hear! (Cecile Brisebois Guillemot‎)

The holiday season is about to get a whole lot more magical!

This season, you can board a magical train decked out in lights and take a 30-minute journey through the 100-acre park that’s lit up with lights and displays.

The Christmas Express, a hidden holiday gem event, take place at the BC Forest Discovery Centre is returning to Duncan this holiday season.

Board the Christmas Express passenger cars pulled by the Green Hornet locomotive and embark on a festive voyage through thousands of enchanting lights.

Thousands of visitors over the years have made a Christmas tradition of attending this colourful and entertaining event.

“We love hosting the Christmas Express and seeing the magic of the holiday on the faces of everyone that attends,” said Chris Gale, General Manager of the Centre.

“Because of the tendency for the Christmas Express to sell out we have added a few dates giving everyone the opportunity to visit the Centre on any of the 16 days now included in the festivities. We invite islanders to come and enjoy the festivities, the light displays and of course a magical train-ride on the Christmas Express.”

Attendees can enjoy activities like Christmas crafts, the fire pits, indoor entertainment, the miniature Christmas Village, concession goodies and you can cozy up in our festive photo area and take your own family photos with our 7-foot lifelike Santa Claus.

The well-known Green Hornet locomotive (with a little help from Santa’s reindeer) will take you on a journey of music, lights, and wonder that has become a Christmas tradition for so many families on Vancouver Island.

Kids of all ages will be singing along to their favourite carols as they take in the whimsical displays along the train ride.

Tickets must be purchased online and won’t be available at the door.

The Christmas Express runs from Friday, December 2nd to Monday, December 5th, Friday, December 9th to Monday, December12th, Thursday, December 15th to Sunday, December 18th, and Tuesday, December 20th to Friday, December 23rd for a total of 16 magical evenings.

The BC Forest Discovery Centre opens at 3:30 p.m. on these dates with train departures every 30 minutes beginning at 4 p.m.  The last train departs at 8:30 pm.

For more information on schedules and tickets, visit the centre’s website.

 

The Christmas Express

  • When: The train operates on the below dates from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Train leaves every 30 minutes from 4:30 to 9:30. Last train is at 9:00 p.m.

    • Friday December 2nd, Saturday December 3rd, Sunday December 6th and Monday December 5th
    • Friday December 9th, Saturday December 10th, Sunday December 11th, and Monday December 12th
    • Thursday December 15th, Friday December 16th, Saturday December 17th, and Sunday December 18th
    • Tuesday December 20th, Wednesday December 21st and Thursday December 222nd, and Friday December 23rd
  • Where: BC Forest Discovery Centre, 2892 Drinkwater Road

Environment Canada issues fog advisory for Greater Victoria Tuesday morning

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
Selkirk Trestle on a foggy day (ItkasanImages)

Dense fog is obscuring views of nearby buildings in Greater Victoria Tuesday morning, making for spooking scenes all around town.

Environment Canada issued a fog advisory for the region Tuesday morning, saying visibility could suddenly be reduced to near-zero.

The weather agency says a fog advisory is in effect for Greater Victoria and eastern Vancouver Island — Courtenay to Campbell River, Duncan to Nanaimo, Nanoose Bay to Fanny Bay.

“Visibility may be significantly and suddenly reduced to near zero. If travelling, be prepared for areas of near-zero visibility. If visibility is reduced while driving, turn on your lights and maintain a safe following distance,” the weather agency said in a statement posted on its website.

The dense fog is expected to stick around for the morning all morning before dissipating in the afternoon.

 

5 things to do in and around Victoria this Tuesday, November 15th

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
(The Wonder/Vic Theatre)

It’s Tuesday, the sun is shining all day long and you’ve got nothing to do but enjoy the city.

Must be nice!

Here are five things you could do on this glorious day:

The Wonder

This film is directed by Academy award-winning director Sebastian Lelio and it is starring Academy award-winning actress Florence Pugh.

Adapted from the haunting and beguiling novel by Emma Donoghue, Florence Pugh is riveting as the woman sent to the Irish countryside in 1862 to determine if a young girl who claims she has not eaten for 4 months is a trickster or a saint.

It’s certified fresh with an 85% on Rotten Tomatoes and only in theatres for a limited time.

  • Where: Vic Theatre, 808 Douglas Street
  • When: 7:30 p.m., November 15th

Learn about Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers

Find out how Crime Stoppers work, how they help keep you safe, and how much they do in our community. Meet Crime Stopper Gillian Millan who heads up this informative workshop and can answer all your questions about this significant organization.

Register for this free workshop in advance! Call SHOAL reception at 250-656-5537 to register.

  • Where: SHOAL Centre, 10030 Resthaven Drive, Sidney
  • When: 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., November 15th

Speakeasy at the VEC

Join the Victoria Event Centre every Tuesday for swing jazz and cocktail culture in a vintage, prohibition era setting.
Live jazz by the city’s favourite swing jazz musicians, with rotating bands each week and occasional pop-up features.
  • Where: Victoria Event Centre, 1415 Broad Street
  • When: 7:30 p.m., November 15th
  • Admission: $10

Hot Garbage with Behaviours and ex-cowboy @ Lucky Bar

The fifty fifty arts collective and The Action Index bring you Toronto Psych band Hot Garbage at Lucky Bar!
Nanaimo’s Behaviours join them on this Tuesday evening along with locals ex-cowboy.
Hot Garbage – Toronto Psych, Mothland Records

Behaviours – Nanaimo Freak Surf

ex-cowboy – new band, new demo
  • Where: Lucky Bar, 517 Yates Street
  • When: 7:30 p.m., November 15th
  • Admission: $15 plus fees advance of $20 at the door

Indigenous Disability and Wellness Gathering 

The Gathering brings together Indigenous and non-Indigenous governments, leadership, service providers, community members and others to learn, connect, and collaborate in addressing the unique barriers Indigenous peoples with disabilities face.

We will continue to take the necessary steps forward in dismantling both historical and current barriers, and the attitudes and perceptions that negatively impact Indigenous peoples living with disabilities.

By forming new and expanded partnerships, we can collaborate and identify the best practices for the broader disability and health sectors.

  • Where: Victoria Conference Centre, 720 Douglas Street
  • When: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., November 15th

 

 

Whooo done it: Owl suspected in two Oak Bay home ‘invasions’

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(Oak Bay Police Department)

Things are getting weird in Oak Bay.

An owl is suspected to be the culprit in two separate home break-ins over the span of three days. 

In an incident earlier this week, an Oak Bay resident had a rude awakening when they found an owl in their home in the early hours Friday.

Oak Bay Police responded to the scene at around 4 a.m. and found their avian suspect perched on a couch in the living room. 

The resident and police worked together to encourage the owl to vacate the residence. After a short while their efforts were successful and the owl walked out an open patio door.

No animals or people were hurt in this incident. 

In its latest break in, during the early hours of Monday, an owl made its way into another Oak Bay residence. It’s suspected to be the same culprit as Friday’s break and enter. 

Lucky for everyone, former Oak Bay Police chief Ray Bernoties was on hand to lend his advice to the resident and the owl was once again safely removed from the home without police having to assist.

Oak Bay Police are just thankful it wasn’t a bald eagle or a more vicious bird of prey that found its way into these residences. 

Police will keep an eye out for this repeat offender, but Oak Bay residents are being cautioned to keep their windows and patio doors closed and their chimney flues shut.

In October, another owl was getting mischievous in Greater Victoria.

On the Galloping Goose, a runner had her hat snatched off her head by an owl trying to build a nest.

Related:

Winged thief steals hat off runner’s head on the Galloping Goose

Win $30,000 in travel credits with this massive lottery bonus

By
Branded Content
-
(File photo)

Dreaming of flying away?

With this year’s VGH Millionaire Lottery, travel could be in your future—plus so much more!

The lottery’s Fall Bonus includes that and then some, featuring your choice of a $30,000 Travel Best Bets gift card PLUS $5,000 cash, a 2023 Subaru BRZ MT OR just $25,000 straight cash.

This bonus deadline is coming up quickly on November 18th though, so grabbing your tickets sooner than later is a no-brainer!

And this bonus draw is just one of the many prizes you could win—this year’s lottery features 10 incredible grand prize packages, including 9 stunning homes, with two right here on Vancouver Island—and the 10th prize is a massive $2.1 million!

One of the Vancouver Island Grand Prizes features a stunning 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 2,946 sq. ft. home in Courtenay—check it out below!

VGH Millionaire Lottery supports specialized adult health care and research at Vancouver General Hospital, UBC Hospital and GF Strong Rehab Centre.

When you buy a VGH Millionaire Lottery ticket, you’re supporting life-saving care at British Columbia’s largest hospital and helping our doctors, nurses, staff, health care workers, and all the patients who visit VGH every day.

The grand prize draw will be held on February 1st, 2023. Tickets for the VGH Millionaire Lottery will be available until Thursday, January 12th, 2023 (or until tickets sell out). Purchase your ticket (or packs of them!) here.

Deadlines to enter the various draws are:

  • Fall Bonus Draw Deadline: Midnight, Friday, November 18th, 2022
  • Christmas Bonus Draw Deadline: Midnight, Friday, December 2nd, 2022
  • Early Bird Draw Deadline: Midnight, Friday, December 23rd, 2022
  • Main Draws and Grand Prize Deadline: Midnight, Thursday, January 12th, 2023

Know your limit, play within it. Must be 19+ to play.

Invasive species removed from Sidney and Saanich by volunteers over long weekend (PHOTOS)

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(Greater Victoria Green Team)

The Greater Victoria Green Team (GVGT) organized a busy weekend of environmental work on the peninsula on the long weekend. 

Cuthbert Holmes Park in Saanich and Peter Grant Park in Sidney got a makeover from the GVGT and their mighty group of volunteers of all ages. 

(Greater Victoria Green Team)

On Saturday, 35 volunteers, including a group of students from Spectrum Community School banded together to clean up Cuthbert Holmes Park. Their goal and focus was to remove detrimental invasive species from the park and learn about the native species of the area.

The group managed to clear out over 10 cubic metres of English ivy, English holly and Daphne from the park. 

These three species make it difficult for local species of flora to grow and thrive in their natural habitats. In some cases, plants can go extinct or become endangered due to invasive species moving into their habitats. 

(English ivy, Daphne, English holly via Invasive Species Council of BC)
(Greater Victoria Green Team)

The students and volunteers who came to help out on Saturday also had the opportunity to go on a tour with the park’s lead steward to see some restoration work going on in the park. 

On Sunday, the GVGT had another invasive removal initiative that 12 community members of all ages and backgrounds came to assist with. 

They were able to remove 4 cubic meters to invasive English ivy from around Peter Grant Park in Sidney. 

This event marked the GVGT’s third visit to the park. In September they removed invasives and planted trees for Sidney’s tree appreciation day. 

(Greater Victoria Green Team)
(Greater Victoria Green Team)

The GVGT is an organization that runs on volunteer power and they are always looking for more green-thumbed volunteers who are interested in invasive species removal, tree planting and environmental learning.

Their goal is to connect communities with nature by introducing people to environmental stewardship and empowering them to make a real difference in their local parks.

A new high-speed ferry service from Nanaimo to Vancouver is launching this summer

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(Photo provided by Port of Nanaimo)

In the summer of 2023, the Vancouver Island Ferry Company (VIFC) will connect the people of Nanaimo to the mainland with two high-speed catamaran ferries.

The new ferry service will skip the Tsawwassen to Vancouver commute because the ferry will go from downtown to downtown between the Nanaimo Port Authority Terminal and the Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre (at the Vancouver Convention Centre).

VIFC claims their sailings will provide commuters with reliable sailings taking only 70 minutes, start to finish, refreshments onboard and it will provide reservable seats. 

“Islanders and Mainlanders have been asking for a modern, fast and cost-effective way to travel between the Island and Vancouver,” said Alastair Caddick, CEO of Vancouver Island Ferry Company.

“We are so excited to be bringing forward an essential transportation service to the region and are committed to its long-term success.” 

“We can not wait to welcome guests aboard in Summer 2023.”

VIFC has been cooperating and collaborating with the Snuneymuxw First Nation, the Nanaimo Port Authority and Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre throughout the process of setting up shop on Vancouver Island.

“The creation of the Vancouver Island Ferry Company in Snuneymuxw territory provides amazing employment opportunities, diversifies the economy and ultimately brings people to this beautiful community to play and live,” said Bill Yoachim, (Acting) Chief of Snuneymuxw First Nation.

“We are truly excited for people to come and learn about the Snuneymuxw people, territory, and our culture.”

VIFC and the people of Nanaimo hope this fast ferry service will bring economic opportunities and tourism to the city from the mainland. 

“This service means increased economic activity and easier access to everything that is important to all of us,” said Nanaimo Mayor Leonard Krog.

“It means business and commerce can flow smoothly across the Salish sea—which is good for Nanaimo, good for Vancouver Island and a really important step in securing a prosperous future for all of us.”

VIFC’s inaugural fleet consists of two Dutch made vessels, each with the capacity to carry 350 passengers. 

According to VIFC, more details about launch plans, sailing schedules, and fare prices will be shared in early 2023.

A similar ferry company called V2V attempted to serve the people of Victoria a downtown to downtown ferry option.

Related:

V2V ferry service from Victoria to Vancouver ceases operations after three years

V2V was an Australian-owned company who operated for three years beginning in 2017. 

The Australian company’s vessels only had a capacity for 242 passengers, so the new service will be able to accommodate more travellers than their predecessor.

V2V struggled to keep consistent sailings due to its luxurious nature. Ticket prices were too much and people opted to travel with the more affordable BC Ferries instead. 

After a few short months of operation, they switched gears in how they provided service to their customers by pivoting from a luxury ferry to be able to accommodate more travellers. 

Just prior to the 2020, V2V ceased all operations and left their vessels docked in Victoria’s inner harbour, where they remain now. 

New substance-use recovery facility for women opening in Victoria

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
(BC Government / Elaine Cheung)

The province has announced a new substance-use treatment and recovery facility will be opening for women in Victoria in the new year.

In a media release, the BC government said the facility, called Coastal Sage Healing House, will include six treatment beds for women and non-binary people who are looking for help with substance-use challenges, as well as concurrent social, mental and physical health needs.

“When women make the courageous decision to come forward and get help, we want supports to meet them,” said Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions.

“These new beds will help more women access life-saving treatment and recovery supports and fill a gap in services right here on Vancouver Island.”

Once open, the facility will have clinical supports, support groups, self-care activities, outings and other “wraparound services.”

Residents will be able to stay at the Coastal Sage Healing House for up to 90 days depending on their individual needs.

“Island Health’s Mental Health and Substance Use (MHSU) team is committed to ensuring eligible participants have timely, appropriate access to this important new service, which will help meet the needs of women, transgender women and non-binary individuals living with significant substance-use concerns,” said Leah Hollins, chair, Island Health’s board of directors.

“Recovery is unique for everyone and this client-centred program will support participants with an environment and approach that are safe, welcoming and inclusive.”

The province expects the centre to open its doors in early 2023.

Those looking to be admitted to Coastal Sage Healing House will first need to get a referral from a clinician, which will then be sent to a triage committee for review.

Anyone living in the Island Health region can apply, and transportation might be available.

 

Uptown’s annual tree light-up and holiday show is happening this weekend (CONTEST)

By
Branded Content
-
(Uptown Shopping Centre)

You’re not going to want to miss out on this quintessentially Victorian holiday tradition!

One of the tallest Christmas trees in the region will be lit during a festive celebration happening this weekend at Uptown Shopping Centre on Saturday, November 19th.

Santa Claus will light up the 54-foot-tall following a family-friendly holiday show on Uptown Boulevard, and you’re invited to watch it happen.

We’ve also partnered with Uptown to give away an incredible prize package for the evening, including a private indoor viewing of the tree light-up, a $200 gift card to Browns Socialhouse, and $500 Uptown Shopping Centre gift card—you’ll find those contest details below!

Uptown’s official kickoff to the holidays will run from 5 p.m to 7:30 p.m., with the stage show taking place until around 7 p.m. before the magical tree light-up begins.

Families are welcome to arrive early to get a good spot by the stage, get a warm beverage or a snack, or even check out a firetruck up close—plus, there will be holiday characters on-site for a meet and greet!

There will also be stunning holiday vignettes to take your photo in front of to cap off the picture-perfect evening.

Check out the night’s full schedule below:

5 p.m. – Protégé Dance

5:15 p.m. – The Purple Quartet

5:45 p.m. – BC Fiddle Orchestra

6 p.m. – Saanich Peninsula Pipe Band

6:15 p.m. – Ukrainian Veselka Dancers

6:30 p.m. – South Island Harmony

6:45 p.m. – Vibestreet Dance

7 p.m. (approximately) – Tree Light Up

7:05 p.m. – Pony Gold

CONTEST

For a chance to WIN an incredible prize package including a private indoor viewing of the tree light-up, a $200 gift card to Browns Socialhouse, and $500 Uptown Shopping Centre gift card, please complete the following:

  1. LIKE Uptown Victoria on Facebook and comment below to let us know have (1 entry)
  2. FOLLOW Uptown Victoria on Instagram and comment below to let us know have (1 entry)
  3. SHARE this post on Facebook or Twitter and comment below to let us know have (1 entry)

The winner will be drawn on November 17th. Good luck!

Contest Rules

(Uptown Shopping Centre)

Uptown Christmas Tree Lighting and Parade

  • When: Saturday, November 19th
    • Holiday show starts at 5 p.m.
    • Christmas tree light up starts at 7 p.m.
  • Where: Uptown Shopping Centre, 3440 Saanich Rd
  • Admission: Free

Facebook | Instagram | Website

 

Don’t be alarmed: Canada will test its public emergency alert system this week

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
(Emergency alert test/Victoria Buzz)

Don’t be alarmed!

Phones, TVs and radios across British Columbia and the rest of the country will blare one tone in unanimity this this week, as Canada tests its wireless alerting system.

On November 16th, a public test message will be distributed through Alert Ready, Canada’s Public Alerting System, in most provinces or territories over television, radio, and compatible wireless devices.

The only province without a scheduled test is Prince Edward Island.

The system is tested twice per year, the first of which came back in May. The sound will simulate an emergency alert.

In addition, radio and television broadcasters may use an audio version of the test alert message generated through a text-to-speech (TTS) software. The TTS functionality on wireless is managed by the device manufacturer and may be read to the recipient if the device supports this feature.

The message will indicate that it is a test and does not require action from the public. Due to its importance, Canadians do not have the option to opt-out of the the alerts.

So far in 2022, the Alert Ready system has delivered more than 800 public emergency alert messages to Canadians.

Here are 4 ways to keep your dog safe in regional parks

By
Branded Content
-
(CRD / PAWS in Parks)

One of the best things about living in the Capital Region is the abundance of green space to explore with our furry friends.

Pets are welcome at most regional parks and regional trails, though there are some rules surrounding the friendly companions, such as on/off-leash areas and respecting other park-goers’ space. 

Thankfully, the CRD has provided a few tips and tricks for park pooches and their humans through PAWS:

  • PROTECT nature by keeping your dog away from wildlife and sensitive areas (i.e. stay together on sanctioned trails).
  • ALWAYS RESPECT other park visitors and pets, who may not want your dog’s attention (even if your fur baby is friendly).
  • WATCH that your pup is in sight, under control, and on a leash where required (an out-of-sight, off-leash dog could spook or attract a bear, get hurt on rough terrain or ingest harmful materials like animal scat and poisonous mushrooms).
  • SCOOP your dog’s poop and take it to the trash (dog poop can contain harmful bacteria that should not be left in parks, and abandoned waste bags are choking hazards for wildlife).

PAWS in Parks is an on-going awareness campaign that seeks to educate park visitors on pet etiquette so that everyone can have a safe and enjoyable experience in our region’s natural spaces.

Why is pet etiquette important?

Keeping your pooch in sight, under control, and on a leash where required will protect you, your pet, and other park visitors from hazards that naturally occur in regional parks. Some regional parks, like Sooke Hills Wilderness, require that pups are always on-leash for their own and others’ safety. Other parks have seasonal prohibitions zones or on/off-leash areas. 

Following pet etiquette will also protect our region’s parks and the animals that call them home. You and your pup can enjoy nature and protect it by following PAWS and by staying on sanctioned trails, which factor in a buffer zone between visitor activity and sensitive areas.

For more tips to help keep your pup safe outdoors, and for a list of on/off-leash regional parks, head to CRD’s website.

Police officer who ‘doored’ cyclist in Esquimalt being investigated by VicPD

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(Josh Hylden/twitter)

VicPD officers are investigating a collision between a cyclist and a VicPD cruiser on Thursday.

Around 9:15 a.m. on November 10th, a VicPD officer was responding to a call for service in the 900-block of Esquimalt Road. 

The officer parked their vehicle on the corner of Esquimalt Road and Head Street and opened their driver’s side car door without checking for cyclists passing by first. A cyclist then collided with the door of the vehicle.

Police say the officer provided immediate medical care and called paramedics to the scene. The cyclist was transported to hospital with non-life threatening injuries shortly after the incident occurred.

According to VicPD, traffic officers attended the scene and documented as they normally would in this situation. They will have oversight in their investigation from VicPD’s Professional Standards Section (PSS).

The Office of the Police Complaint Commissioner (OPCC) will also be involved as they have received an automatic notification due to the nature of this injury. 

On Saturday, a group of cyclists convened at VicPD headquarters to “serve” the police with a citation they made by hand. They taped the handmade document onto the front door of the main entrance to the building. 

This incident remains under investigation currently. 

Police ask that anyone with video footage of the incident or anyone with information who hasn’t yet spoken with officers, call VicPD at (250) 995-7654.

Shawnigan Lake Road closed after truck crashes into train overpass bridge

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
(Emcon)

Heads up motorists if you’re heading to Shawnigan Lake today.

Shawnigan Lake Road is closed between Recreation and Radway roads after a crane truck struck the train overpass bridge.

Photos from the scene showed the bridge sustained extensive damage.

The is known for having a low clearance and requires large vehicles to travel along the western perimeter road of the lake.

Vicotria Buzz has reached out to RCMP for details on how long the road is expected to be closed for.

More to come.

Power outage: Brake failure leads to truck crashing into hydro pole in Esquimalt Monday morning

By
Curtis Blandy
-
(Curtis Blandy/Victoria Buzz)

A couple hundred BC Hydro customers are without power in Esquimalt near Head Street after a truck carrying two trailers to a construction site crashed into a power pole.

At about 7:48 a.m. Monday morning, residents of Esquimalt may have heard a loud crash.

The ongoing construction for a new condo building on Head Street and Esquimalt Road was receiving a delivery from the truck that crashed.

(Curtis Blandy/Victoria Buzz)

According to construction workers on site, the truck carrying two trailers with a full load suffered a brake failure while coming down the steep hill on Head Street.

BC Hydro was able to get to the site of the crash within 10 minutes and is currently working on restoring power to the affected residents. 

The truck appears to be wrapped around the power pole due to the accident, so the process of returning power to buildings and businesses in the area may be more complicated than normal given the size and weight of the truck. 

(BC Hydro)

According to BC Hydro, nearly 200 residents were affected by this outage. 

BC Hydro estimates that power will be returned to the area at noon on Monday.

Cineplex is hosting a FREE movie day in Victoria and across Canada

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
(Photo by Jay Wallace Images)

Did someone say FREE, Victoria!

On Saturday November 19th, Cineplex theatres across the country—including in Victoria—will be offering free movies for their Community Day celebrations.

“We are thrilled to welcome guests back for our annual Community Day event,” said Ellis Jacob, President and CEO, Cineplex.

“We believe in giving back to our local communities and we are so happy to be able to support BGC Canada and the important work they do to empower our future generations and provide the resources they need to succeed.”

The event runs from 9 a.m. -11 a.m. at Cineplex Odeon, Cineplex Odeon Westshore Cinemas, and SilverCity at Tillicum Centre.

For its 10th edition, Cineplex Community Day will offer guests a selection of popular movies, including:

  • Sonic the Hedgehog 2
  • Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank
  • The Spongebob Movie
  • The Lost City

There will also be $2.50 concessions and every $1 from a concession order will go toward supporting youth programs like BGC Canada (formerly Boys & Girls Clubs of Canada).

Showtimes will begin at 9:30 a.m. and locations will return to regular programming in the afternoon. Tickets will be on a first come, first serve basis.

Cineplex Community Day

  • When: Saturday, November 19th, doors open at 9 a.m.
  • Where: Cineplex theatres in Victoria and across Canada

5 things to do in and around Victoria this Monday, November 14th

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
Image by Frazer Constable (eff.daddy Instagram)

Welcome back to a new week, Victoria.

This week will see the rollout of many great annual Christmas events but before we get ahead of ourselves, let’s enjoy what Monday has to offer.

From scrabble to live music, here are 5 things to do in and around Victoria this Monday, November 14th:

Scrabble Drop-in

Join in for fun and friendly competition!  Scrabble sets available or bring your own set if you have one. All skill levels welcome! Scrabble mentor present.

  • When:  Monday, November 14th, doors open at 8 p.m., show starts at 9 p.m.
  • Where: Sidney / North Saanich Library, 10091 Resthaven Drive

Pete’s Variety Show at The Mint

From guitar solos to classical piano, to spoken-word poetry to comedy sets, Pete’s Variety Show truly has it all! Free and all ages welcome.

  • When:  Monday, November 14th, doors open at 8 p.m., show starts at 9 p.m.
  • Where: The Mint, 1414B Douglas Street

A Night In Wakanda

A celebration of African culture, music and a VIP screening of Wakanda Forever.

  • When:  Monday, November 14th, starts at 7 p.m.
  • Where: SilverCity Victoria Cinemas, 3130 Tillicum Road

The Helen Davies Band

The Helen Davies Band perform blues and R&B, alongside some originals.

  • When:  Monday, November 14th, starts at 7 p.m.
  • Where: The Loft, 229 Gorge Rd E 

Check out the Salmon Run at Goldstream Park

After being slightly delayed due to the drought this year, current rain levels make it the perfect time to check out the to watch thousands of salmon make their way back to Goldstream to spawn and die, thus completing their lifecycle.

  • When:  Monday, November 14th, during the daylight
  • Where: Goldstream Park, 16 km northwest of Victoria on southern Vancouver Island on the Trans Canada Hwy (Hwy #1)

Police arrest man who disrupted Remembrance Day ceremony in Victoria (VIDEO)

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
(Remembrance Day ceremony 2022 / Kris Edwards )

One man was arrested Friday after briefly disrupting Remembrance Day service at the provincial legislature.

On Friday, November 11, as people gathered in Victoria to honour veterans, video shows a the man walking up to the cenotaph and yelling about the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine, Saudi Arabia, and Israel.

Following the incident, VicPD confirmed two officers escorted the man out of the area where the ceremony was being held, he was then arrested, and then began trying to “fight with officers.”

Video from Times Colonist reporter Cindy E. Harnett shared a video of the incident on Twitter:

The video shows the man pacing in the cenotaph area while screaming before two officers escorted him out of the ceremonial area.

“He was transported to cells and faces recommended charges of assaulting a police officer and mischief,” said VicPD.

Despite the brief disruption, the ceremony continued on where thousands were able to pay their respects to Canada’s veterans.

(Remembrance Day ceremony 2022 / Kris Edwards )

(Remembrance Day ceremony 2022 / Kris Edwards )
(Remembrance Day ceremony 2022 / Kris Edwards )

8 things to do in and around Victoria this weekend, November 12th-13th

By
Victoria Buzz Staff
-
(Skate with the Players / Victoria Royals)

Welcome to the weekend, Victoria.

While there isn’t much happening around the city this weekend, the Victoria Royals are back in town for a back to back match. In addition, hockey fans will have a chance to skate with the players on Sunday!

So without further ado, here are 8 things to do in and around Victoria this weekend, November 12th-13th

 

Victoria Royals vs Portland Winterhawks

The Victoria Royals have earned a much needed homestand this week, as they return home to start a three week, six game homestand for the remainder of November.

The Royals take on the Winterhawks this weekend in back-to-back games.

  • When:
    • Friday, November 11th, puck drops at 7:05 p.m.
    • Saturday, November 12th, puck drops at 6:05 p.m.
  • Where: Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre, 1925 Blanshard Street

Creative Craft Fair

One of Vancouver Island’s favourite craft fairs is back this month for their 43rd consecutive year!

The Creative Craft Fair offers a true extravaganza of outstanding arts, crafts, and demonstrations at this popular 3-day event at Victoria’s Pearkes Arena, happening from November 11th to November 13th.

  • When:
    • Friday, November 11th: 11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
    • Saturday, November 12th: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
    • Sunday, November 13th: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Where: Pearkes Recreation Centre – 3100 Tillicum Road

Capital City Stomp 2022

Get ready to dance off both of your shoes, when they play the Jelly Roll Blues at the Capital City Stomp!

  • When:
    • Saturday, November 12th: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
    • Sunday, November 13th: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Where: White Eagle Polish Hall, 90 Dock Street

Hecklers: Live Stand up Comedy

Live Stand-up Comedy from local favourites and the funniest Touring Pro Stand up Comedians Across North America

  • When: Saturday, November 12th, 7 p.m. show and 10 p.m. show
  • Where: Hecklers Bar & Grill 123 Gorge Road East

Victoria Royals and VicPD scrimmage 

VicPD and Royals players will be mixed together and play a game at Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre on Sunday, November 13th, all in the name of charity.

Following the scrimmage, those in attendance can skate with the players.

  • When: Sunday, November 13th at 1:05 p.m.
  • Where: Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre, 1925 Blanshard Street

Book signing with Jack Knox at Russell Books

Meet Victoria’s favourite humorist Jack Knox and pick up a signed copy of his new book, “Fortune Knox Once: More Musings from the Edge”.

A hilarious collection of observations on Island living, “Fortune Knox Once” gathers together Jack’s favourite columns that best sum up the absurdity of our times.

  • When: Sunday, November 13th, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Where: Russell Books, 747 Fort Street #100

Check out the Salmon Run at Goldstream Park

After being slightly delayed due to the drought this year, current rain levels make it the perfect time to check out the to watch thousands of salmon make their way back to Goldstream to spawn and die, thus completing their lifecycle.

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