On July 26, Jerry Hughes and his coach, Yana Hempler, will be running 60k from Duncan to Victoria in order to raise funds and awareness for Help Fill a Dream Foundation.

Hughes and his siblings were born with a rare disease called Gardner’s Syndrome – which took their father’s life at the age of 33. Gardner’s Syndrome is both a rare and aggressive genetic disorder; if it’s not detected early, the prognosis is not good, with the average life expectancy of 35-45 years old.

Help Fill A Dream is a charitable foundation, whose goal is to “inspire hope, help and happiness for Vancouver Island children under the age of 19 with life-threatening conditions by fulfilling their dreams, improving their quality of life and assisting their families with care and financial support.”

Jerry’s fitness journey began about 2 years ago, with bootcamp. He then participated in Fight 4 The Cause, which transformed his life both physically and mentally. Shortly thereafter, he participated in the TC 10k and then Oak Bay half, completing them in 44:43 and 1:40:43, respectively. “These are not typical times for first time 10k and half marathon runners,” said coach Yana Hempler.

“I have done a series of runs since then and I keep on getting better. Now, I’m doing marathons and ultra marathons as well as many other races. I’m doing it to show my sons, who have a 50% chance of getting my disease, to not let the illness define their life but that they should carve their own path regardless of the circumstances,” said Hughes.

Jerry’s goal is to inspire other people who have rare disorders to believe in themselves and to follow their dreams.”The mind is a powerful tool and you can do anything you want in life. Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t. Carve your own path and you will inspire the world.”

Those interested in making a donation or sponsoring the run can do so through Canada Helps or contact Jerry Hughes at jhugh30 (at) hotmail (dot) com

It all began with a complaint which identified the suspect, his vehicle, and the fact that he was believed to be under the influence of drugs, and behaving aggressively.

Around 3:50 pm on July 12th, police spotted the suspect vehicle travelling on the Trans Canada Highway near Aspen Road and attempted to intercept it, however the vehicle fled. Officers chose not to pursue based on a thorough risk assessment of traffic volume and patterns at the time.

Later the same day, at around 6:00 pm, police received a complaint that a man driving a similar vehicle had pointed a shotgun at at another motorist during a ‘road rage’ incident. Police responded and located the vehicle in the area of Leigh Road and Goldstream Avenue in Langford. Officers once again attempted to stop the vehicle, but the driver continued on, reaching speeds up to 140 km/h while travelling on the Trans Canada Highway.

The man surrendered to police without further incident a short time later, when he found himself stuck in traffic on the Island Highway near Wale Road in Colwood. A shotgun was recovered from the vehicle along with a large knife.

Police later learned that the suspect vehicle was alleged to have backed up into another occupied vehicle, multiple times, at the intersection of Jacklin Road and Jenkins Avenue just before 6:00 pm. The suspect is alleged to have intentionally backed into another vehicle, causing the driver to suffer whiplash. The victim sought medical attention later at the hospital, and was released.

“It’s a great relief to have arrested this guy,” said Const. Alex Berube. “Obviously he was causing quite a scene throughout the day, causing injuries to one of the drivers and putting other people’s safety at risk.”

The man, who is well known to police, is facing multiple firearms, driving, breach, drug and other Criminal Code related charges. He has been held in police custody, and is scheduled to appear later today in West Communities Provincial Court.

UPDATED:  Sooke Rd reopened after RCMP spent several hours investigating a serious head-on collision

Original article with updates:

West Shore RCMP are currently investigating a head-on collision in the 2700 block of Sooke Rd in Langford after one driver was sent to hospital with serious injuries.

At approximately 8:40 am, a white Pontiac Sunfire was travelling east on Sooke Rd when it collided head on with a Shaw utility vehicle, sending this one in the ditch. The driver of the Shaw utility vehicle escaped the collision without visible injuries whereas the female driver of Sooke, who is in her mid 40’s, was transported to hospital by BC Ambulance to be treated for serious injuries.

Langford Fire Dept. and Mainroad also attended the scene. An RCMP traffic analyst has been contacted and will assess the scene for evidence collection.

Sooke Rd will remain closed to traffic between Happy Valley Rd and Luxton Rd foran estimated time of 4 to 5 hours.

“We encourage motorists to avoid the area during that time”, states Cst. Alex Bérubé of the West Shore RCMP.

https://twitter.com/WestshoreRCMP/status/619620957653577732

Our traffic analyst is now at the scene of the collision in the 2700 block of Sooke Rd. The road remains closed during the examination. #yyj

— West Shore RCMP (@WestshoreRCMP) July 10, 2015

Head-on collision on Sooke Rd at Glen Lake Rd. Sooke Rd closed with traffic detoured onto Luxton #yyj #yyjtraffic pic.twitter.com/URAuZLKXQV

— CFAX1070 (@cfax1070) July 10, 2015

Head on collision in the 2700 block of Sooke Rd in Langford. Expect delay and congestion. Emergency crews on scene. #yyjtraffic — West Shore RCMP (@WestshoreRCMP) July 10, 2015

Traffic alert! In #yyj routes 54,55, and 61 are affected by an accident on Sooke Rd. http://t.co/jWt5t83IH6 #yyjtraffic

— BC Transit (@BCTransit) July 10, 2015

Calling all shoe lovers! Designer Shoe Warehouse is opening in Victoria at Island Home Centre! We are searching for an enthusiastic team that wants to join Canada’s favourite place to work!

Do you have a love affair with shoes?  Then check out their fabulous incentives and apply today by heading here: www.DSWCanadaCareers.ca

What’s better than birthday cake? A FREE 7-Eleven Slurpee! It’s that time of year when 7-Eleven celebrates  its birthday by handing out thousands of freebies across the country for 7-Eleven Day.  Celebrate 7-Eleven’s Birthday with a Free 12oz Slurpee at your local 7-Eleven, between 11am and 7pm local time. First 1500 guests to the store. Get it while it lasts!

Free Slurpee Day 2015

What: Free Slurpees on 7-Eleven Day
When: Saturday, July 11, 2015 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: 7-Eleven locations across Canada
Website: www.slurpee.ca/7elevenday

The CRD and T’Sou-ke Nation have announced the reopening of the 67-site RV and tent campground at Sooke Potholes Regional Park this Friday, July 10, 2015 until October 5, 2015. “Sooke Potholes Spring Salmon Place” campground will be operated by T’Sou-ke Nation under a pilot project with the CRD for the 2015 season.

The Land Conservancy of B.C., had been managing the facility, however due to financial difficulties faced by the trust, the campground was closed in 2014. In spring 2015, the CRD took over the management of the grounds and incorporated them into the regional park.

Under the pilot project, the CRD will take care of infrastructure at the site such as water tanks; lines; building and shelters. T’Sou-ke Nation will be responsible for campground operations, including public safety; camper registration; visitor services; and operations and maintenance.

“Our joint goals are to provide a high quality camping experience, build positive government-to government relationships and share information about the cultural significance of these lands with aboriginals and non-aboriginals,” said CRD Regional Parks Committee Chair Susan Brice. “It also provides an opportunity for T’Sou-ke Nation to share their stories, their language and their deep connection to the waters and lands in this part of their traditional territory with members of their community and camping visitors.”

“The Sooke Potholes is known to our people as KWL-UCHUN, (Spring Salmon Place), the place where the spring salmon give themselves back to mother earth – these are the teachings of our ancestors,” said T’Sou-ke Nation Chief Gordon Planes. “We are the salmon people and our language follows the salmon route, we are directly connected to the resource; it’s a part of our identity. The spring salmon have taken care of us since time immemorial, and today we all need to do the same. We are here to ensure that the salmon are taken care of for our future generations and our children not born yet.”

Campground and Park Rules

• Campground operates on a first-come first-served basis
• Fees $25/night; $10 extra vehicle; $7 firewood payable by cash only
• Stay is limited to 14 days a year
• Quiet time 10pm – 7am
• Generator use permitted 9 – 11am and 6 – 8pm
• Check out time by 11am
• Visitors must leave campground by 8:30pm
• Alcohol not permitted outside campsite
• Fires permitted in designated fire rings unless a ban is in place during high to extreme fire hazard ratings
• Smoking prohibited
• Dogs on-leash in campground
• Leave no trace and carry out litter

The 2015 water supply outlook is being monitored daily by the CRD. Sooke Lake Reservoir is 84% full (July 7, 2015) which is still within the normal range, although near the low end of the range as a result of summer demand conditions arriving about a month early this year. The reservoir was full at the start of the summer demand period which started at the end of April. The Stage 1 water conservation bylaw is currently in effect, though the CRD may consider starting a higher level of conservation as Sooke Lake Reservoir level projections change.

CRD saythe high temperatures and low rainfall in May and June, and now July, will have an impact on our water supply. Residents are encouraged to reduce outdoor discretionary water use to maximize the amount of water in our reservoirs for indoor use and fire protection. The demand for water doubles this time of year to as much as 220 million litres a day. The Sooke Lake Reservoir has been at lower levels at this time of the year in the past. In 2009, the reservoir was 75.3% full on July 7. The CRD has not implemented Stage 2 water restrictions since the Sooke Lake Reservoir dam was raised in 2002.

To support the important fish populations in the Sooke River, Goldstream River and Charters Creek, the CRD releases water from our reservoirs to supplement flows in these rivers through the summer and during the early fall which is a critical time for fish spawning.

Stage 1 of the Water Conservation Bylaw Use Schedule is in effect May 1 through September 30, each and every year.

The CRD appreciates your water saving efforts and would like to thank all residents in the Capital Region for your continued support.

 Water Conservation Bylaw Lawn Watering Schedule

Water Conservation Bylaw Information

The Water Conservation Bylaw applies to any customer of CRD Integrated Water Services receiving drinking water from the Sooke Lake Reservoir, including residents, businesses and municipalities in the Greater Victoria area.

• Trees, shrubs, vegetable and flower gardens may be watered by hand using a hose with a shut-off device or hand held container, or micro/drip irrigation system, on any day at any time.
• Trees, shrubs, vegetable and flower gardens may be watered with a sprinkler on any day, but only during the designated watering times.
• The Water Conservation Bylaw prohibits the waste of water, caused by, but not limited to, the damage or deterioration of any water-using appliance that results in water waste, or using more water than required to provide a service or complete a task, including over watering plants, and allowing a tap or hose to run unnecessarily.
• Frequently Asked Questions about the Bylaw
• Stage 1 Water Conservation Fact Sheet

For complete bylaw information, please see the full version of Water Conservation Bylaw 3061.

Source: CRD

On the morning of July 3, 2015, West Shore RCMP received information that a 29 year old Highlands man was illegally in possession of a firearm and other weapons at a property in the 1800 block of Millstream Rd in the Highlands.

West Shore RCMP General Duty members attended the residence and arrested the man without incident. A search warrant was obtained and executed later in the evening.

The search yielded a handgun, ammunition, stolen cellphone, body armor and other prohibited weapons, including brass knuckles and a switch blade. An undisclosed amount of heroin, cocaine and marijuana products were also seized.

“The safety of our communities is paramount, which is why we aggressively pursue cases involving illegal firearms”, states Cst. Alex Bérubé of the West Shore RCMP. “We encourage the community to support us in these efforts by sharing any information they have about criminal activity by calling us, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIPS”

The man, who is known to police, was held overnight for a telebail hearing the next morning. He is facing charges of Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm, Possession of Property Obtained by Crime, and Possession of a Scheduled Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking. He was released on an Undertaking to a Justice and is set to appear on August 6th, 2015 at the Western Communities Provincial Court.

Saanich Council have approved funding for the installation of a juried work of art in connection with the 2014 reconstruction of the Craigflower Bridge.  The theme for the competition was “bridging perspectives.”   A request for submissions was made in January of this year, with twenty pieces reviewed by the Jury. The Jury was comprised of artists, an art curator, community representative and a Saanich staff representative.  Submissions were rated on a set criteria.

The winning work was submitted by artist Blake Williams – a Vancouver based artist who’s pieces are installed in several Western Canadian cities.  He specializes in kiln-fired ceramic porcelain and glass – merging colour, imagery and text.

Part of Blake’s concept for the competition is to engage the community in his research for the imagery and text. Blake will have studio photos available on his website during the construction of the artwork, so that people may check on the work in progress.

The piece is intended to be completed and installed by October of 2015.

Saanich Police are notifying users of Rithets Bog Conservation Area to be aware that a cougar was once again observed within the park boundaries.

The Maritime Museum of BC has found a home in Nootka Court, located at 634 Humboldt St. The new location will have a Society Office and small exhibition space. The Museum took possession of the 3600-square foot space on July 1, and will be making it ready for the public in the coming weeks. The projected opening date is early August 2015.

The new MMBC Society Office, will be located directly across from the Empress Hotel and steps away from Victoria’s Inner Harbour. It will be developed in a phased approach and will feature administrative offices, a research lab, and a gift shop in its first phase. Expected to be a hub of activity for volunteers, the museum invites the public to visit the space and engage in conversations about the new vision and goals for the future.

“As additional resources become available, attention will be placed on the development of engaging, fluid exhibits designed to share, inspire and connect our rich, diverse collection with our members, visitors and community at-large.” (MMBC press release)

The MMBC was able to obtain the location with the help of the Lindholm Family of Victoria who donated $10,000 to support improvements and infrastructure at the Nootka Court location. Gerald Hartwig and Hartwig Industries also facilitated in the process, and Wottrich Holdings Ltd. provided the space at a substantially reduced rate. The Province of British Columbia have kept the collection at an off-site storage facility while a new location was sought.

Admission will be by donation. Details of an opening date and launch event will follow in the coming weeks.

Featured Photo Source: Colliers Canada

A recent story that captured national media attention and resulted in thousands of dollars being donated by people across Canada, has provided yet one more surprise. After hours of searching for the homeless man who turned in over $2000 in found cash, Cst. Alex Bérubé was successful in locating him on June 22nd, only to learn that while very grateful for the generosity of strangers, the man does not want to accept the thousands raised for him. Instead he asked that Victoria Buzz help find him a new job! (submit job opportunity here)

“After hearing this story and seeing how this case touched so many people, I took a personal interest in finding this man, looking for him everywhere while on and off shift. It’s not easy tracking down a person of no fixed address and no phone, but I kept trying because I needed to tell him about how the community had rallied together to help him,” states Cst. Alex Bérubé, of the West Shore RCMP. “I finally caught up to him on Monday and told him about the fund-raising organized by Mike Kelly of Victoria Buzz, and that he had thousands of dollars waiting for him. His response surprised me yet again, when instead of asking how to collect it, he asked me how to donate it to Our Place and other food service providers for people in need.”

Realizing that the news may have been overwhelming for the man, investigators asked him to think about it overnight, and meet them at the West Shore Detachment the next day. The man came back the next day, and stuck to his original request that the funds raised in his name be donated, adding that what he really wants is a job. Mike Kelly has been advised of the man’s decision, which he provided in writing to officers. Mike will continue to manage the raised funds and see that the right groups receive them. As for the man’s request for help finding a job, Mike is spearheading that effort as well.

“When I first heard about this man and what he had done, I started thinking of how we could help him”, said Mike Kelly of Victoria Buzz. “Here is a man who is facing many challenges, yet despite that, he chose to do the right thing and see that another person wasn’t left short thousands of dollars and facing the challenges that would bring them. Now I’m going to do everything I can to help find him a job that fits his personal situation, and will hopefully move him closer to overcoming his current challenges.”

The man, who will not be identified at his request, did not want to be part in any public or media attention, choosing instead to acknowledge the generosity of the community by paying it forward.

To cap off this story, the rightful owner of the original $2400 found on the street has been identified. The man, who does not want to be identified publicly, has answered a series of specific questions posed by investigators, clearly identifying himself as the rightful owner. He has since collected his money from the detachment.

If you have a job opening please contact us at info@victoriabuzz.com.

Update: VicPD officers have identified a suspect after a man was captured on surveillance video allegedly breaking into and vandalizing the Beacon Hill Park Children’s Farm Petting Zoo.

VicPD officers are asking for the public’s help in identifying a man captured on surveillance video allegedly breaking into and vandalizing the Beacon Hill Park Children’s Farm Petting Zoo.

The suspect is described as a Caucasian male, between 20 and 30 years of age, with a slim build and curly brown hair. Standing 5’9” tall, the male wore blue jeans, no shirt and a dark ball cap with a white triangular logo in the front centre. The male also has a small cross-style tattoo on his right upper arm. Images of the male are attached.

The male is alleged to have broken into the Beacon Hill Children’s Farm Petting Zoo after 9 p.m. last night. He is alleged to have engaged in acts of mischief, including turning on hoses and leaving the water running, which flooded several pens. The owners of the petting zoo are still assessing the damage, but were able to open this morning after a substantial delay. No animals were hurt.

If you know who this man is, or have information about the incident, you are asked to call the VicPD non-emergency line at (250) 995-7654, or report it anonymously through CrimeStoppers at 1-877-222-TIPs (8477).

UPDATE: The snake has been safely located and Victoria Police say it has been turned over to Animal Control.

VicPD officers are advising the public to be aware of a missing non-venomous corn snake that was last seen at the Fernfest community celebration.

The snake, named “Snake”,  went missing from its owner’s guitar case in the afternoon of Saturday, June 20th at Fernfest, near the intersection of Fernwood Road and Gladstone Avenue. The snake is described as a five-and-a-half-foot long, one-and-a-half pound coral-coloured corn snake. The snake is well-fed and described by its owner as “a bit chubby”.

Corn snakes are not venomous, but do pack a powerful and painful bite. If you see the snake, you are asked to not try to capture it yourself. Instead, if you see the snake, you are asked to call the VicPD non-emergency line at (250) 995-7654, or Animal Control  at (250) 414-0233.

From BC SPCA:

Rambo could barely walk when he arrived. He was vomiting and, in only a matter of days, had lost a substantial amount of weight. What was making Rambo so ill?

A golf ball he had been playing with before swallowing it.

He learned the hard way that golf balls are best left on the golf course. Rambo, a lovable six-year-old pit bull mix, could barely walk when he came into BC SPCA care in Victoria. He was vomiting and lost a substantial amount of weight in a matter of days, so when an X-ray showed he had swallowed a golf ball, emergency surgery was performed to remove it.

“The first surgery went well, but Rambo was still having problems walking, and the vet discovered that he also needs cruciate ligament surgery on his leg so that he can move without pain,” says Victoria BC SPCA Branch manager Annie Prittie Bell. “He is so easygoing and such a snuggler! He just wants to be anywhere you are.”

The estimated cost of Rambo’s medical care is $8,000. A non-profit organization, the BC SPCA relies primarily on public donations to carry out its life-saving work in helping British Columbia’s animals.

Rambo underwent the cruciate surgery Tuesday. When he has recovered, Rambo will be ready for a loving forever home.

“This guy is a total lap dog and loves to cuddle – definitely a bed hog!” says Prittie Bell. “We just want him to be able to live a mobile, pain-free life and hopefully, he has learned not to swallow any more golf balls.

Staff at the BC SPCA have setup a fundraiser page, if you can help Rambo, visit give2gether.com/projects/rambo.

The British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is a not-for-profit organization reliant on public donations. Our mission is to protect and enhance the quality of life for domestic, farm and wild animals in B.C.

If you can help Rambo and other animals like him in need at the Victoria BC SPCA Branch, visit spca.bc.ca/medicalemergency or drop by to donate in person, at 3150 Napier Lane, Victoria.

Update: We did it!!! A great big thank you to everyone that donated, we made our goal in under 24 hours.  We’ll leave the fund-raiser open for a few more days. As we said yesterday, every amount that you help us raise – over $2,400 – will be split evenly between the intended recipient and the Our Place Society in downtown Victoria. Thanks again for being so kind, everyone!

Victoria is coming together to reward the honesty of a homeless man in Langford. After the positive public response we received on the story, we at Victoria Buzz wanted to do something to help this individual.

On Monday June 15, The Westshore RCMP put out a press release about a senior, who had turned in over $2000 he’d found. It was later discovered that the man was homeless. The police described the act as “an incredible display of honesty and selflessness.”

Although he could have used that money for food or clothing or to get him by, for him to head to the police station and turn it over says quite a bit about his character.
A Go Fund Me page has been set up by Victoria Buzz to reward his good deed and donations have already reached $1630 in less than 24 hours. We can’t think of a better feeling than handing this man $2,400 — no strings attached — and telling him it’s a gift from the entire community. A token of our appreciation for his thoughtfulness.
Although someone sent us a photo of an envelope that turned up in a Langford parking lot with a message regarding a lost $2,400, the Westshore RCMP have stated that no one has come in to claim in the money yet.
The Go Fund Me site can be found here: gofundme.com/x2y2ajk.

Did you lose $2,000? Well you are in luck because of an honest homeless man!

Members of the public often come to the Detachment front counter to turn in found property, in hopes we’ll be able to track down the rightful owner. Recently, a man came by and turned over a large sum of money that he’d found on a street in Langford. The sum was just over $2,000!

It is unusual for such a large amount of money to be turned in, but perhaps what is more surprising about this situation is that the man who found it is self-described as being in his 60’s and currently homeless. Despite his current situation, the man realized the money belonged to someone out there and turned it in because he felt it was the right thing to do.

This is an incredible display of honesty and selflessness, states Cst. Alex Bérubé, spokesperson of the West Shore RCMP. “If we are not successful in identifying the rightful owner within 90 days, this good Samaritan will receive the cash.”

Anyone wishing to lay claim to this found cash can contact the West Shore RCMP at 250-474-2264. Specific details of the amount, denominations, and location where the money was found will be required, and thoroughly vetted by investigating officers.

UPDATE: Owner of money possibly found:

If the post above isn’t working click here.

Early Thursday,  Metchosin Fire Department and West Shore RCMP responded to a barn fire in the 1300 block of Neild Road, Metchosin. Upon investigation, police determined that there was grow operation and a distillery on the property.

A 43 year old male was arrested at the scene without incident and is cooperating with investigators. He is well known to police and has a history of marijuana cultivation.

“The structure was fully engulfed upon arrival at scene”, states Metchosin Fire Chief, Stephanie DUNLOP. “Our priorities were to ensure any occupants were out of all surrounding buildings, to protect any and all exposures (i.e. additional structures/property) and extinguishing any spot fires started from the flying embers.”

West Shore RCMP Major Crime Unit members executed a search warrant at the Neild Road address in the late afternoon of June 11. Police seized 950 plants in various stages of growth; a drying room with a quantity of dried product was also seized. Of interest, approximately 700 litres of distilled alcohol was seized from inside the residence. The suspect has since been released from custody facing drug and Custom and Excise related charges.

Police secured the scene and West Shore RCMP Major Crime Unit and Street Crime Unit have taken over the investigation.

The43 year old man is scheduled to appear at Western Communities Courthouse on September 3rd, 2015.

Source: West Shore RCMP

Drivers should think twice about hogging the left lane on high-speed highways or  will need a good reason why they were traveling in the left lane on high-speed, multi-lane highways throughout the province of British Columbia.

Beginning today, new regulations will come into effect that will clarify rules regarding travelling in the left lane. Drivers on multi-lane highways where the speed is more than 80 kilometres per hour must stay to the right unless they are:

• Overtaking and passing another vehicle.
• Moving left to allow traffic to merge.
• Preparing for a left hand turn.
• Moving left to pass an official vehicle displaying a flashing light.

During periods of congestion, the actual travel speed drops to 50 kilometres per hour or less, drivers are encouraged to use left left-most lane to keep traffic flowing.

Police can ticket drivers who should not be travelling in the left-most lane. The fine is $167, with three driver penalty points.

In addition, new laws will allow the ministry to define winter tires, studded tires and traction devices such as chains in regulation.

Another change will permit local governments to permit motorcycle parking within six metres of intersections with stop signs or signals, as long as drivers’ views are not impeded. This will allow more efficient use of space that is not large enough for a car.

Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Todd Stone says during the Rural Highway Safety and Speed Review last year, he heard that one of the top driver frustrations across the province was being prevented from passing because someone won’t leave the left lane. “We have strengthened the law to give police better tools to crack-down on left-lane hogs,” he said”

Quick Facts:

• Drivers cannot use the left-most lane of a highway with two or more lanes of traffic in the same direction and having a posted speed limit 80 kilometres per hour or greater, unless they are performing a specified action set out by the act.
• The left-most lane does not include bus lanes or HOV lanes. On Highway 1 through Burnaby, for example, the left-most lane is the one next to the HOV lane.
• When traffic is minimal and no one is approaching from behind, a driver can travel in the left-most lane. This allows drivers on four-lane highways in rural areas to keep a greater distance from the road sides where they might encounter wildlife.
• Drivers may use the left-most lane if it is unsafe to use the right lane – for example, if there is debris in the lane.
• This legislation allows for drivers to move to the left lane if they are passing a stopped official vehicle displaying red, blue or yellow flashing lights, such as police cars, ambulances, tow trucks and highway maintenance and construction vehicles.

Focus Equities Inc., the master developers of the 20 acre Bayview Place site, are pleased to announce that Victoria City Council, at public hearing Thursday June 11, approved the redevelopment of a Canadian National Historic Site, The Roundhouse at Bayview Place.

The Roundhouse at Bayview Place will realize the restoration of the Esquimalt & Nanaimo (E&N) historic 1913 Roundhouse, Car Shop and Stores buildings. Three new retail buildings will be added to the site along with eight repurposed box cars, one dedicated to performing arts and special events, the others offering local retail, food and beverage.

Envisioned to be a unique retail destination and a community gathering place featuring grocery, craft beer, local food, specialty retailers and artisans, The Roundhouse at Bayview Place is also approved as a craft beer and distillery manufacturing zone in the Car Shop, a first for Victoria.

“The plan for the Roundhouse at Bayview Place is a shared community vision to see the brownfield National Historic Site revitalized into a vibrant gathering place,“ states Patricia A. Mariash of Focus Equities Inc. “Approval of this application helps ensure the preservation of these nationally significant heritage buildings for generations to come.”

The approval is a culmination of many years of careful planning and design by owners Kenneth W. Mariash, Sr. and Patricia A. Mariash of Focus Equities Inc., and a key milestone and catalyst for the ongoing master development of the 20 acre Bayview Place community.

“Timing is critical,” states Kenneth W. Mariash, Sr., “we’re moving on all fronts. Along with our commitment to rail heritage restoration, a third tower will get underway at Bayview Place this summer and our senior’s site is also approved. With 1.5 million square feet of density on our 20 acre site, the culmination of these important components sets the table for additional residential development.”

BACKGROUNDER

About Bayview Place:
Bayview Place is a 20 acre urban neighbourhood located on the Inner Harbour of Victoria, British Columbia. The development vision is to create a vibrant, complete community incorporating a mix of uses to welcome residents of all ages and to serve as a focus of community gathering and retail activity for the local Victoria West neighbourhood. The property is characterized by its hilltop location adjacent to the waterfront of Victoria’s Inner Harbour and by the historic landmark formed by the Esquimalt & Nanaimo (E&N) Railway Roundhouse buildings.

About Focus Equities:
Focus Equities, a Canadian corporation, provides development, investment and project finances in real estate, infrastructure and natural resources. Founded over 40 years ago, Focus Equities and its associated companies (“Focus”) have developed, purchased, or sold more than 15 million square feet of real estate and more than 15,000 residential/condominium units in North America.

Saanich Fire say the brush fire is contained at Maplewood Rd and Camrose Cres but the there is still lots of smoke in area and are asking residents in the area to stay indoors.

The cause of the fire is still unknown.

Social media lit up around 3:30pm this afternoon with reports people could smell and see plumes of smoke  as far away as UVIC.

For more on the story: http://vancouverisland.ctvnews.ca/firefighters-contain-grass-fire-residents-asked-to-stay-indoors-1.2418362

UPDATE: #Saanich grass fire shuts down residential street http://t.co/YbnshTxp3Q pic.twitter.com/1pNQNoOvfp

— CTV News Vancouver Island (@CTVNewsVI) June 11, 2015

Police incident of sorts closed Maplewood & Blenkinsop. Diverted traffic backed up on Cook to Quadra. #yyjtraffic @1073Koolfm @TheZone913

— Jer ???????? (@BoozeDonkey) June 11, 2015

Firefighters on scene of grass fire in Saanich. Causing heavy smoke throughout region. http://t.co/2ABlPs08AO pic.twitter.com/u2MwieofhE

— CHEK News (@CHEK_News) June 11, 2015

The West Shore RCMP is focusing a significant amount of resources towards targeting prolific offenders in our community.  Between May 7 and June 9, 2015, investigators with the Street Crime Unit, Major Crime Unit and General Duty watches have arrested and recommended charges on 5 individuals deemed Prolific Offenders .

In the last year, there were 78 police contacts between the five of them.

•  On May 7, 2015, Colin Daniel CLARK was arrested by West Shore RCMP Street Crime Unit, and charged with Possession of Property Obtained by Crime.
• On May 7, 2015, a 54 year old Victoria male was arrested and charged with being unlawfully in a dwelling and possession of a controlled substance. He was released on a Recognizance with conditions and curfew. On June 3rd, he was arrested by VicPD for breaching his Recognizance.
• On May 26, 2015, Gerid GREGORY-ALLEN was arrested and held in custody, for allegedly possessing a stolen vehicle on May 19 in Langford. He was charged with possession of property obtained by crime over $5000, possession of property obtained by crime, theft under $5,000, and fail to stop for police. His next court appearance June 11, 2015 at the Western Communities Courthouse.
• On May 15, 2015, General Duty members responded to a suspicious vehicle complaint in the 3000 block of Jacklin Road in Langford. Garion Ronald DELDAY was arrested and charged with possession of property obtained by crime. He has since been convicted, and sentenced to 4 months in jail.
• On June 9, 2015 Jamie DOLPHIN, was arrested on an outstanding warrant out of Sooke and also for theft after a thorough investigation was conducted in the recent rash of thefts from vehicles in Langford.

Sgt. Steve Wright, Operations NCO of the West Shore RCMP Detachment says they will continue to focus on the few criminals who commit many of the crimes.

TELUS is making free public Wi-Fi available at more than 8,000 hotspots across B.C. and Alberta with approximately 160 hotspots throughout Greater Victoria.

Unlike other Wi-Fi networks, TELUS’ free Wi-Fi is open to everyone – not just TELUS customers. TELUS smartphones will automatically establish a secure connection to the #TELUSdirect network when they are in range. Non-TELUS customers can connect to #TELUS through a simple splash page to enjoy the same service.

TELUS   is working with thousands of businesses, including brands like 7-Eleven, Fountain Tire and Vancity credit union, to provide public Wi-Fi at locations throughout B.C. and Alberta.

TELUS Wi-Fi is also available at many  major sporting and entertainment venues, including  Victoria International Airport.

To make it easy for people to find a location that offers TELUS Wi-Fi, TELUS has launched the TELUS Wi-Fi app, which is available as a free download through iTunes, the Google Play store and online at http://wififinder.telus.com/.

Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands and Haida Gwaii are being urged to reduce water consumption. These regions are currently experiencing Level 3 drought conditions, which call for voluntary water use reductions of 20% or more from all municipal, agricultural and industrial users.

With weather conditions expected to remain dry in the coming weeks, staff with the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations anticipate that the region will likely experience significant water supply shortages in 2015, unless there is substantial precipitation between now and the end of June.

Ministry staff are closely monitoring river levels and may upgrade the drought level if the weather continues to have a negative effect on stream flows and water supply. Residential, agricultural and industrial users within municipalities and regional districts are encouraged to observe local water conservation bylaws.

Level 4 drought conditions, the highest rating, are determined by factors including regional stream flows, water storage capacity, ecological concerns, weather forecasts and impacts on water users. Should conditions reach Level 4, provincial water managers may exercise their authority to temporarily suspend short-term water permits or industrial water licences in affected watersheds.

Water conservation tips:

At home:

• Limit outdoor watering.
• Don’t water during the heat of the day or when it’s windy.
• Consider planting drought-tolerant vegetation.
• Take shorter showers.
• Don’t leave the tap running.
• Install water-efficient showerheads and toilets.

On the farm:

• Implement an irrigation scheduling program using real-time weather data.
• Schedule irrigation to match crop needs and soil storage capacity.
• Improve water system efficiencies and check for leaks.
• Focus on high value crops and livestock.

Industry:

• Reduce non-essential water usage.
• Recycle water used in industrial operations.
• Utilize water-efficient methods and equipment.

Learn More:

B.C. Drought Information: http://www.livingwatersmart.ca/drought/

Point Ellice House has traditionally been a heritage sit and tea house but have now expanded their business to include a restaurant. The official grand opening of their restaurant O’Reilly’s at Point Ellice House was May 30th.

Located at 2616 Pleasant Street  just outside of downtown Victoria, they are open for breakfast from 8am to 11am and for lunch from 11am to 4pm (Thursday to Monday).

Codiac RCMP has released a video salute to the people of Moncton thanking them for the outpouring of support in the wake of the tragic shooting deaths of three officers last year.

Thursday marks one year since Constables David Ross, Fabrice Gevaudan and Doug Larche were killed while responding to a lone gunman prowling the streets of Moncton. Constables Eric Dubois and Darlene Goguen were also injured in the attack, which prompted a massive manhunt and partial lockdown of the quiet Maritime city.

To those of you who have left gifts, cards and flowers, thank you. Codiac RCMP are bringing them inside. pic.twitter.com/2cVn27OAdS

— RCMP New Brunswick (@RCMPNB) June 4, 2015