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According to the most recent rental report by Zumper, a platform for finding and leasing rentals throughout North America, rent is up by nearly 7% across Canada.
Specifically, the one-bedroom rate climbed 6.8% ($1,889 per month) and the two-bedroom rate increased 6.7% ($2,335 per month); however, these numbers are low compared to what the going rate for rent in Victoria is.
Holding onto the fourth most expensive major Canadian market title, Victoria’s current average rate for a one-bedroom home is $2,080 per month while a two-bedroom home will cost around $2,620.
Month-over-month, Victoria’s rent rate has increased by 2.5% for one-bedrooms and 2.2% for two-bedrooms.
On a year-over-year basis, the rate at which rent is increasing in Victoria is low when compared to other cities at 4% and 3.1% for one-bedrooms and two-bedrooms specifically.
Cities like Edmonton have been the reason why the yearly rates of increase are around double what they are monthly.
Over the last year, Edmonton’s average rent for a one-bedroom has gone up by 28.2% while two-bedroom homes have increased 22.3%.
Despite this rate of increase, rent in Edmonton will cost around $1,320 for a one-bedroom and a two-bedroom goes for approximately $1,590 per month.
This makes Edmonton the third least expensive major Canadian city, according to Zumper.
The most expensive city to rent in remains Vancouver.
In Vancouver, a one-bedroom costs around $2,650 per month, while a two-bedroom will cost someone $3,790 per month to rent.
Close behind Vancouver are Toronto and Burnaby, followed by Victoria with Halifax trailing closely.
Celebrations are in store as the Royal Canadian Air Force commemorated 100 years of service as a unique military entity on April 1st.
And what better way to do that than with the comeback of the Comox Air Show on May 18th, hosted by 19 Wing Comox.
“With just over a month to go, the excitement over this event is palpable. The Royal Canadian Air Force has a long and distinguished history with many proud traditions that merit recognition by all Canadians. Generations have served with distinction over the past century, and we look forward to honouring that history and celebrating our exciting future with the return of the Comox Air Show,” said Colonel JP Gagnon, 19 Wing Commander.
This free event will be held at 19 Wing/CFB Comox, with the gates opening from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Members of the public are invited to come and enjoy aerial displays, tour static displays, and meet the personnel of 19 Wing Comox.
The event will feature military displays, food trucks, a Kids Zone, and more.
Aerial performers will include the CF Snowbirds, the CF-18 Demo Team, CH-149 Cormorant, and CP-140 Aurora, as well as the CC-130 Hercules performing a Search and Rescue para-drop.
Other performance aircraft include the KC-135 Stratotanker and CH-146 Griffon.
Invited static aircraft include the CH-148 Cyclone, the new Airbus 330, United States Coast Guard Jayhawk and Dolphin helicopters, as well as a USCG Hercules, and a PBY Canso from Canadian Heritage Warplanes.
Hey thrift shopping enthusiasts, get ready for some exciting news!
Another Value Village is set to open soon in the capital region.
The thrift store chain is expected to open a curated selection of goods in a boutique-style retail concept, providing a more streamlined shopping experience.
The new store will open later this year at Colwood’s Colwood Corners development.
Victoria Buzz has reached out to Value Village for more specific details on what customers can expect with this new location but did not hear back in time for publication.
According to details online, the company’s “boutique” offering will have fewer categories of items than the main Value Village in downtown Victoria because it’s a smaller space.
Most Value Villages require loading bays and warehouse-like square footage to accommodate all of the receiving and sorting that takes place.
The company, well-liked by bargain hunters and thrifty shoppers, has faced criticism in recent years due to its elevated prices and disassociation from charitable causes.
“We are a for-profit company that champions reuse. Shopping in our stores doesn’t support any nonprofit,” the company notes on its site. “We pay nonprofits for your stuff, helping them fund programs in our communities.”
Are you looking forward to the second location opening in Colwood? Let us know in the comment section below.
Victoria and Vancouver Island have a lot of musical talent, and Victoria Buzz wants to highlight some of the best and brightest local artists and bands.
Every Monday, there will be a fresh ‘New Music Monday’ article to help people find and support local artists and bands that are up-and-coming, well established or hidden gems!
For this endeavour, Victoria Buzz has partnered with our good friends at CFUV 101.9 FM, UVic’s campus radio station, to find and select the musicians and bands for this regular column.
This week, Blush. is the New Music Monday highlight!
The band has been playing together for only six months with the full lineup of Anton Wilson on guitar and vocals, Eric Josephs on drums, Renata Baldwin on keys and Rosie Said on bass.
In that time they have managed to record and release their first EP, Still Wet.
This EP is a nostalgia-fueled take on shoegaze and alternative indie rock that has been a favourite on the CFUV airwaves since its February release.
The band started with Wilsons and Josephs before getting a couple of their coworkers in on the Blush., as all four members work at The Courtney Room in downtown Victoria.
According to Wilson, Still Wet was inspired by music he had been writing on acoustic guitar before he had help from the rest of the band on fleshing out a fuller sound.
“I’ll kind of come to the band with an idea for a song and it’s actually really cool to see how they transfer from acoustic to plugged in with distortion,” Wilson told Victoria Buzz.
Wilson says he was listening to a lot of acoustic focussed artists such as Big Thief and Alex G as well as melodic “floaty and ethereal” bands like Built to Spill while writing Still Wet and that sound really translates to the EP.
With their first release, the band said they really just wanted to get something out there and even though they love these songs and continue to play them in their live set, they feel as if they have already grown so much since their February release.
“It really felt like a timestamp situation,” Wilson said.
“They aren’t exactly who we are now, but that’s who we were and we just wanted to capture that.”
Josephs and Wilson decided that of the songs they recorded on Still Wet, they wanted to highlight “Software Update.”
“We wrote this song when we first started jamming and it was such a bad song,” Wilson laughed.
He says the lyrics were not resonating with himself or the band and it was too fast when they wrote it, so the band decided to take it back to the drawing board.
Wilson and Josephs worked together to slow the song down by coming up with a slower drum beat and then Wilson says he got a new pedal that offered his guitar tone additional delay and reverb.
As for the lyrics, Wilson completely rewrote them and set the song in a different direction.
“I really wanted to capture Victoria with it,” he said.
“I wanted it to be more chill, laid back, you know, take it in, I just kind of pictured being by the water.”
Themes of rebirth also worked their way into this song which Blush. says is ultimately what they wanted Still Wet to be about—as if the band is still wet from being reborn as a group through this project.
They also say that they are really proud of the song “a snail house for big dog.”
“I think that one is a cool song to pick out of the EP as well because it is very indicative of the music we’re playing more recently,” Josephs explained.
“It’s a lot more rock and roll maybe.”
Josephs says that in their earlier written songs he was hitting the drums softly to compliment the more folk-focussed songs, but with “a snail house for big dog” he gets to hit a bit harder and the dynamics of their songs change.
“It’s like woah, this is fun, this is cool—look at how much space this makes and how we can open it all up,” said Josephs.
“It was a fun song to tape and I think it’s a lot more the style of music we’re playing now.”
Blush. will be playing a couple shows this summer after taking a short hiatus in May to tighten up some songs and work in order to get back in the studio whenever they have the opportunity.
In June, they are heading up-island to play a show at Tofino Brewing Company on the 27th, but before that, they’ll be playing a smaller show here in Victoria on June 7th at Little Fernwood Gallery.
CFUV is a non-profit campus and community radio station that plays a ton of local music of all kinds across Vancouver Island. If you like to support local music they are an amazing resource with a plethora of new local tunes in their arsenal.
Both Wilson and Josephs say that CFUV is a huge part of the Victoria music community and that they couldn’t be dining what they are dining without a resource like them.
“CFUV is a staple in our community for live music,” Wilson told Victoria Buzz. “They’ve taken us in with open arms and been really encouraging to us.”
“They’ve taken the time to uplift such a broken music community here in Victoria.”
He also says that he believes there will be a revival of the music scene since so many venues have been lost and that CFUV will be at the forefront of that revival because of their programming and the shows they put on.
“Their community, they’re just a really great organization that fills a much needed niche in Victoria’s music scene,” Josephs added.
Tune into CFUV 101.9 FM on air or online!
Let us know what you think of Blush. in the comments below.
For families with children 0-5 years old. Join for story time! Each week, the facilitator will read a story and lead the group in songs and rhymes. Sign-up weekly.
Where: Esquimalt Recreation Center, 527 Fraser Street
From the minds behind The Intouchables comes a comedy. The film centres on Albert and Bruno, two friends with compulsive spending habits who are drawn into environmental activism by the promise of free food and beer rather than any political conviction.
In September of last year, the VEC launched a new project, ‘Bands!Bands!Bands!,’ that would help foster new relationships within the local music scene and because of its successes, it has been expanded.
This event is a music series that takes place once per month on a Tuesday night.
Where: The Victoria Event Centre, 1415 Broad Street
When: Tuesday, April 16th from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Following their memorable tour to three renowned UK cathedrals and churches last summer, the Christ Church Cathedral Young Choristers are now gearing up for an exciting journey to Grace Cathedral in San Francisco. Enjoy a night of music bingo, where proceeds will contribute towards their upcoming trip in summer 2025.
Indulge in a complete food and drink menu throughout the evening.
Victoria’s passion for soccer is infectious, and if the packed stands at Pacific FC’s home-opener this past weekend were any indication—we’re only just getting started.
The buzz around town is real, and a lot of that has to do with Pacific FC’s more-than-stellar roster—but did you know that along with their impressive game play on the pitch, a few of the players have an incredible social media game too?
Many of the PFC’s players have some intriguing backstories to go along with their attractive Instagram feeds, and we’re bringing you 5 PFC players you should absolutely be following on Instagram AND on the pitch—that is, if you’re not following them already!
A recent addition to the Pacific FC Roster, Aly Ndom joins Pacific FC for the 2024 season. Hailing from just north of Paris, France, Ndom brings some international flair to the Trident’s squad. Having launched his career in France playing against some of the biggest names in world soccer—including Brazilian superstar Neymar—Ndom will certainly be a big addition to the Island team.
Plus, he’s worth a follow on Instagram for his carefully curated black and white aesthetic alone.
Kicking off his 5th season with the team, Josh Heard grew up playing soccer in Victoria with Lakehill Soccer Association before being drafted by the Vancouver Whitecaps in the 2016 MLS SuperDraft.
Heard made his way back to the Island to join Pacific FC in 2020 and hasn’t looked back, becoming the captain of the team in 2023. Heard also helps coach in the Pacific FC youth programs and is always happy to stop for a photo or an autograph!
A fan favourite due to his high-flying play and unique on-field look, sporting a signature headband, Kunle Dada-Luke is a player who will get you out of your seat. T
he fastest player in the Canadian Premier League, Dada-Luke has drawn comparisons to fellow Canadian speedster Alphonso Davies. Dada-Luke’s headband has become iconic and you can find fans sporting their own KDL Headbands at Starlight Stadium on game days.
Affectionately known as TMG amongst teammates and fans alike, Thomas Meilleur-Giguère is entering his fifth season with Pacific FC while stepping into a leadership role within the squad. Born and raised in Repentigny, Quebec, TMG is a no-nonsense figure on the pitch, leading the Tridents’ backline into battle each week. A Canadian Youth Team International Player, Meilleur-Giguère brings a level head and a wealth of experience to the PFC squad.
Off the pitch, Meilleur-Giguère is a proud doggy dad to his pup Whisky and can often be found at local dog parks in Langford!
Okay, so he’s not technically a player, but you’ll still find him on the pitch every game—and on Instagram!
The first employee of Pacific FC, Head Coach James Merriman has been with the club from day one. Starting off as the Assistant Coach, he took over the reins as Head Coach in 2022 and has led the team into a playoff spot under his two seasons in charge.
Born and raised in Cedar, Merriman embodies the easy-going yet hard-working spirit of Islanders. His passion for his community is shown through his work as a Board Member of Hope & Health who work to bring access to sport for development and social impact opportunities to Indigenous youth on Vancouver Island.
Pacific FC’s season has quite literally just kicked off, but season and single game tickets are still available. Join the hype and take part in all the action this season with 15 home games at Langford’s very own Starlight Stadium!
(What the future location of Cedarwood Inn & Suites will look like / GMC PROJECTS)
The time has come to bid farewell to Sidney’s Cedarwood Inn, a cherished staple of the community for 49 years.
For almost half a century, the inn had stood as a beacon of hospitality along the waterfront, its walls echoing with the laughter and stories of guests from far and wide.
The iconic hotel situated along the waterfront was sold in 2020, and since then, there have been ongoing plans to develop the property into more homes for the community.
Plans are in motion to transform the property into a vibrant residential and commercial hub. Acquired by GMC Projects, the future vision quickly materialized with a mix of condominiums, townhomes, and commercial spaces.
Located at the corner of Lochside Drive and Weiler Avenue, this project introduces a three-storey condominium building accommodating 49 units, complemented by a café or eatery overlooking the intersection.
The condominiums will offer a range of one-bedroom to three-bedroom plus-den layouts, catering to various preferences and needs.
Adjacent to the condominiums, along Weiler Avenue, will see a collection of 48 two-and-a-half-storey townhomes. These residences, featuring two to three bedrooms, are tailored for families and will feature ocean views.
Last week, the Cedarwood Inn announced they would be closed for good as of Sunday April 14th. Throughout the entire weekend, the motel sold off items ranging for picture to chairs that would go towards the Sidney Food Bank.
As part of the conditions of Sidney council’s approval, the developer will be contributing approximately $167,800 to community park acquisition and improvement.
Council has approved a residential development with different types of housing options at the current site of Cedarwood…
While details remain sparse, VicPD have confirmed another stabbing investigation is underway near the intersection of Douglas and Yates Street in downtown Victoria.
Footage from the scene shows emergency responders attending to an individual, who is later transported away in an ambulance.
The incident occurred just before 10:30 a.m. Monday morning. Photos sent to Victoria Buzz also show two other sections of Douglas Street closed, including outside of Shoppers Drug Mart.
“Officers responded to a report of a stabbing near Douglas Street and Yates Street. The victim was transported to hospital and no arrests have been made at this time,” police said in a statement.
“As the investigation is in the early stages, further details are not available but we may have more to share later,” said VicPD in a statement.
Traffic is not being impacted by the closure between Yates and Johnson Streets.
Victoria Buzz has reached out to BC Emergency Health Services for condition on the victim.
No arrests have been made.
This stabbing comes after two other fatal stabbing in the downtown area over the last month, once which occurred last week.
On April 10th at around 4 a.m., VicPD were called to a report of a stabbing in the 2900-block of Douglas Street.
Officers arrived at the scene to find one man suffering from stab wounds. Officers and BC Emergency Health Services paramedics provided emergency medical treatment to the victim, but he succumbed to his injuries—the suspect remains at large.
Since March 12th, there have been five stabbings in total.
On April 16th, 2016, a public health emergency was declared by the BC government regarding the amount of British Columbians dying of toxic drugs.
Since that time, month-over-month and year-over-year the numbers of toxic drug-related deaths have only increased, despite several efforts made by the Province.
With tomorrow marking the eighth anniversary of this public health emergency, Sonia Furstenau, Leader of the BC Greens and MLA for Cowichan Valley has come out to decry the policies and efforts made by the BC NDP government.
“Eight years ago, our province was forced to confront the grim reality of the unregulated, highly toxic, and lethal drug supply,” said Furstenau.
“Yet, despite the ongoing severity of this emergency, the response from this government remains woefully inadequate. I am deeply concerned about the politicization of the crisis and the unwillingness of government to scale up the response.”
“If it’s an emergency, treat it as one,” she added.
This equates to 1,776 deaths per year, 34 deaths per week and around 5 deaths per day for the eight year time span.
“We cannot ignore the underlying factors that contribute to this crisis. Deepening poverty and despair are driving more British Columbians into situations where they are at risk,” Furstenau continued.
“We must remain focused on dismantling the conditions that lead to such vulnerabilities and on combating the deadly nature of the illicit-toxic drug supply that is taking too many lives.”
She says that Indigenous communities have been hit especially hard by the public health emergency and toxic drug deaths.
According to the BC Greens, between 2015 and 2021 in Canada, life expectancy for First Nations has decreased by seven years.
“Even more alarming, between 2019 and 2021, there was a further decline of nearly six years—a stark contrast to the one-year decrease experienced by other BC residents,” Furstenau explained.
“The time for half-measures is over. We need serious, compassionate, and evidence-based solutions that address both the supply of toxic drugs and the social conditions that fuel this crisis,” she concluded.
The current BC government has invested millions into supportive housing facilities for substance-users and rehabilitation initiatives across the province.
The Conservative Party of BC would see substance users forced into mandatory rehabilitation while completely reverting any harm reduction-based approaches.
Similarly, the BC United Party would see substance users put into ‘compassionate involuntary treatment and end any harm reduction safe supply programs currently operating in the province.
Do you think enough is being done about the toxic drug crisis in BC? Let us know in the comments.
The BC government and Council of the Haida Nation (CHN) came to an agreement over land disputes that have lasted decades this weekend as the Province has officially shifted the ownership and jurisdiction of Haida Gwaii to the Haida Nation.
The Province says this is a historic agreement as it is the first of its kind which will provide a staged implementation of the land transfer to ensure stability and certainty for all those living on Haida Gwaii.
This agreement has been in the works since 2021.
An important aspect of this agreement is that it explicitly protects and maintains private property rights and existing government services and infrastructure operating in Haida Gwaii.
This includes private properties, local governments, public infrastructure, programs and services, highways, airports, ferry terminals, health care and schools.
Additionally, Haida Gwaii residents will continue receiving municipal services and paying property taxes in the same way they do prior to this agreement.
Lastly, the agreement stipulates that Provincially issued leases, permits and other approvals to use Crown lands and recreational access will remain in effect over a several-year transition period.
The Province says that future management of these permits, leases and approvals will be negotiated down the road with input from communities, businesses and residents of Haida Gwaii.
“Reaching this agreement has been no small feat,” said Gaagwiis Jason Alsop, President of the Haida Nation.
“It’s really a monumental stride, building on the work of past leaders of the Haida Nation and BC. We have always asserted our sovereignty to Haida Gwaii and the surrounding waters.”
Alsop says that with this agreement in place, the Nation is able to work toward implementing our title without conflict, based on respect.
Now that this agreement has been made, the BC government will be introducing legislation to uphold the deal later this month.
Another unsuccessful attempt was made to rescue the stranded and recently orphaned orca calf near a Vancouver Island community on Saturday, April 13th.
kʷiisaḥiʔis, also known as Brave Little Warrior, has been stuck in a lagoon near Zeballos since March 23rd when her mother was beached and died, despite efforts to save her from Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), the Ehattesaht First Nation and surrounding communities.
The main deterrent of getting the young calf out of the lagoon has been a sandbar which blocks the mouth of the lagoon—kʷiisaḥiʔis’ only way out of the body of water.
During Saturday’s operation, six vessels and fifty personnel were on site for the rescue operation, including Ehattesaht First Nation, DFO and Vancouver Aquarium marine mammal rescue experts, equipment operators and ground staff.
The DFO says their plan was to coax the calf into shallow waters from the deeper parts of the lagoon she has been spending most of her time.
From there, they would put her in a sling and transport her by truck onto a barge which would take her 19 kilometres out of the lagoon entrance and into the open ocean waters.
The operation began at 6 a.m., but reportedly was shut down at around 12:45 p.m. because the DFO said it became clear that she would not leave the deeper parts of the lagoon.
According to the DFO, she is incredibly intelligent and spirited for a juvenile orca. She has learned from the attempts to corral her over the last three weeks and has actively avoided capture.
“She is remarkably adaptable to the tools and tactics we have used to date. And we should never underestimate the intelligence of these animals,” said Paul Cottrell, the DFO’s expert on marine mammal rescue.
Despite the failed effort, the operation gave veterinarians from the Vancouver Aquarium’s Marine Mammal Rescue Society say it gave them an opportunity to observe the orca’s breathing and swimming.
They determined she is in good health, has normal breathing, is swimming well and doing long dives lasting up to six to eight minutes.
The DFO added that it is unclear if she is feeding, although food is available to her in the lagoon.
Following the latest rescue attempt, the DFO say they and their collaborators are rethinking their next steps and strategies.
In the lagoon the orca is trapped in, weather, remoteness and tides continue to be obstacles that make timing difficult in any attempt to coax the calf out.
More to come as the DFO continues to try to rescue kʷiisaḥiʔis.
A brand new era is about to begin for the Royal Canadian Navy with the arrival ceremony for HMCS Max Bernays, the first Harry DeWolf-class Arctic Offshore Patrol Vessel to be transferred to Canada’s Pacific Fleet.
The vessel departed Halifax on March 11th. Its journey took it through the storied Panama Canal and along the Pacific coast and is expected to arrive at its new homeport in Esquimalt at around 10:30 a.m. on Monday morning.
The vessel is the first of four being built at Irving Shipyards in Halifax and is the first Harry DeWolf-class Arctic Offshore Patrol Vessel to be transferred to Canada’s Pacific Fleet.
Residents can expect to spot the ship in Esquimalt Harbour roughly 11 a.m.
Enjoy a little snippet of our transit of the Panama Canal!🇵🇦🇵🇦🇵🇦Profitez d'une petite vidéo de notre passage du canal de Panama!🇵🇦🇵🇦🇵🇦#RCN #MarineRoyaleCanadienne #WeTheNavy
The Capital Regional District (CRD) has approved an amendment to the water conservation bylaw which impacts the entire Greater Victoria region.
According to the CRD, the high and instantaneous demand for water at 4 a.m., 5 a.m. and 6 a.m. has gotten out of hand on residential watering days.
This could be from many people starting their sprinklers to water their gardens at the same time, as dictated by the CRD’s current rules.
“These demands impact the drinking water system’s ability to maintain adequate flow, pressure, and highwater quality standards,” said the CRD in a media release.
“To reduce peak demand during summer morning periods, the Bylaw has been amended with a new overnight lawn watering schedule for timed irrigation systems and changes to the watering day for public, institutional, and community playing fields.”
The CRD says that specifically they would like people to avoid having their watering system start at exactly 4 a.m., 5 a.m. and 6 a.m. to mitigate the issue.
So, the new allowable watering time for timed/automatic irrigation is anytime from 12:01 a.m. to 10 a.m. on the established watering days.
Additionally, the new watering time for municipalities to water public, institutional or community playing fields is any day other than Wednesday. This has been decided in an effort to eliminate overlap with residential lawn watering days where the largest peak demands are seen.
“We continue to have ample water supply to meet the needs of the communities that are supplied drinking water by the Regional Water Service”, said Gord Baird, Regional Water Supply Commission Chair.
“Adding an overnight watering window under the Bylaw and encouraging landowners and
residents to switch timed irrigation systems to this new expanded window will help to better manage peak morning flows, reduce the possibility of turbidity events, and help alleviate impacts related to high demand due to heat events.”
The new bylaw amendments will come into effect on May 1st.
Saanich Police has released a traffic advisory on Friday afternoon for the 3800 block of Wilkinson Road.
The busy Saanich road has been closed to traffic as they investigate an accident involving two vehicles, and traffic is being diverted at both intersections of South Valley Drive.
The call came in at around 1:30 p.m., and officers are currently asking people to avoid the area and find an alternative route.
No further information has been provided at this time. Police have confirmed that updates will arrive once Wilkinson reopens.
At around 12:45 p.m. the DFO and Ehattesaht First Nation decided to cancel the operation last minute.
This is because according to the Ehattesaht, kʷiisaḥiʔis simply decided that she is not ready to be moved.
“There were a number of methods employed this morning to coax her into the shallow end of the lagoon and at each coordinated manouvre she evaded and returned to the area she has been hanging out in,” said the Ehattesaht First Nation in a statement.
“It is during efforts like this that many of us are truly humbled at the intelligence, adaptability and resilience of the orca.”
“No matter how much we study these amazing creatures the more we realize how little we know. We are always amazed us with how quickly they learn,” the Nation added.
Experts who were on site this morning say that kʷiisaḥiʔis appears to still be in good health, and breathing well.
For the remainder of the afternoon, the Nation’s cultural leaders will sing to the whale from a canoe.
ORIGINAL:
Brave Little Warrior, also known as kʷiisaḥiʔis, has been stuck in a lagoon near Zeballos for over two weeks now after her mother died while showing her how to hunt.
The lagoon has just one entrance and exit which has been blocked by the very sandbar which her mother was beached and died on.
Countless efforts have been made by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), the Ehattesaht First Nation and their neighbouring communities to aid the young, orphaned orca calf get out.
So far, all attempts have been unsuccessful, in large part due to the challenging location, weather conditions and tides.
In the interim, kʷiisaḥiʔis has been being fed seal meat and has been seen eating birds she hunted in the lagoon.
In the last major update, the DFO said that her skin pigment was beginning to change, which may alarm some people upon first glance, but this is simply because the salinity of the lagoons waters are different than that of kʷiisaḥiʔis’ regular habitat in the ocean.
Today, on Friday, April 12th, the DFO announced that after many long days of planning, an operation will be conducted to airlift the young whale out of the lagoon so she can be reunited with her family pod which has been spotted and tracked nearby.
“The rescue team is working to initiate the rescue and relocation of the whale in the lagoon near Zeballos,” said the DFO in a media release.
“We appreciate the level of interest we all have in a successful rescue operation. However, the rescue team needs their focus to do this.”
The DFO asks all interested parties near the location to respect all road closures and to keep away from the area to ensure the operation’s success.
Following the operation, the DFO will announce the status of kʷiisaḥiʔis’ rescue, but said that until the mission is complete, no updates will be provided.
VicPD have reported the arrest of a woman for allegedly embezzling millions from a non-profit organization she worked for in 2023.
Galyna Kulykova, a former bookkeeper at a non-profit organization in Victoria, has been arrested and charged with defrauding the organization of a staggering $1.7 million.
The arrest, conducted by officers from the VicPD’s Major Crime unit in December 2023, came after an extensive investigation into financial irregularities.
According to reports, Kulykova allegedly orchestrated the scheme by systematically wiring funds from the non-profit’s accounts to her personal ones, a practice that went unnoticed for an extended period.
VicPD said the fraudulent activities were uncovered during a routine audit conducted by the organization in early December last year.
With the assistance of various agencies, including the RCMP, Canadian Border Services Agency, and US Customs and Border Protection, officers were able to intercept Kulykova at Vancouver International Airport as she attempted to re-enter Canada.
Subsequently, charges of Fraud Over $5,000, Theft Over $5,000, and falsifying documents were laid against her.
“I’m proud of the officers involved for their prompt investigative work and coordination with other agencies to make this arrest and recover funds,” said VicPD Chief Del Manak.
“This is a clear example of how our efforts put money back into the hands of citizens and businesses in Victoria and Esquimalt.”
While progress has been made in recovering stolen assets, investigators are continuing their efforts to retrieve the remaining amount.
It has been revealed that a significant portion of the embezzled funds was utilized to acquire various assets, including gold, cryptocurrency, and a new vehicle.
Moreover, concerns have been raised regarding the possibility of additional organizations falling victim to similar fraudulent schemes orchestrated by Kulykova.
Police are urging any potential victims or individuals with pertinent information to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. Those with information can contact the E-Comm Report Desk at (250) 995-7654 extension 1, referencing file number 23-45435.
Alternatively, anonymous tips can be submitted to Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or online.
Immerse yourself in the fabulous experience of carnival wonder and goodies this month!
Mayfair Shopping Centre has announced the return of the annual West Coast Amusement fair for its third consecutive year, and will once again provide entertainment for young thrill seekers and families alike!
Enjoy the tasty treats and carnival rides at this family-friendly outing from Thursday, April 25th to Sunday, April 28th.
This year the fair will return to its popular location at the corner of Finlayson and Blanshard Street, in the Mayfair Shopping Centre parking lot.
If you’re only looking to explore the fair, you’re in luck—the fair is free to enter with fees only charged for the use of the Midway rides, food and games!
The ‘unlimited ride’ wristband is $47 per person and can be purchased here, just remember that the wristband cost does not include food or games.
They’ll be selling wristbands at the door too—the price for this is to be announced soon!
West Shore RCMP are currently investigating numerous complaints of fraud involving the resale of concert tickets on Facebook.
In a media release, police said they have received at least four complaints regarding a fraudulent scheme occurring on Facebook Marketplace and within local Facebook Community Groups.
Those who fell for the scam told police that they contacted the seller who purported to have Taylor Swift concert tickets for sale, and subsequently sent money to the seller, only to not receive the tickets.
Police believe that the Facebook account used to advertise the tickets for sale was hacked.
“Unfortunately, this fraud has multiple victims who have lost money, along with the real Facebook user whose account was hacked and their identity assumed and used to defraud people,” said Cpl. Nancy Saggar, West Shore RCMP Media Relations Officer.
Police are continuing their investigation and asking other potential victims and anyone with information regarding the suspect to come forward by calling West Shore RCMP at 250-474-2264.
With a hop, skip and a jump, we’ve arrived at the weekend, Victoria!
It’s predicted to be a little sunny this weekend, so make sure you soak in some much-needed rays between marvelous events happening around the city.
Some highlights include the Pacific FC’s home opener game at Starlight Stadium, the much-anticipated Island FanCon, a massive youth entrepreneur market, and more!
Plus, tune into Intrepid Theatre’s ‘Incoming Festival’ if you haven’t already! It launched on Thursday, April 11th and will run until Saturday, April, 20th.
For all of this and more, here’s 11 things to do in and around Victoria this weekend—April 13th and 14th:
Keepers of book lore, TV series obsessors, comic book collectors, and everyone in between—this is an event you won’t want to miss.
Langford’s inaugural Island FanCon event is coming to City Centre Park this weekend, from Saturday April 13th to 14th, featuring big-name visitors, workshops, cosplay galore and much more.
Their celebrity guests feature ‘The Mountain’ Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson from Game of Thrones and Mandalorian star Emily Swallow!
Jess Darrow from Encanto, Jon Cor from The Flash, UFC star Forrest Griffin and more will also be present!
Take a look at the daily schedules to find your must-try workshops and experiences. Day passes are $32 or you can get a weekend pass for $55—tickets can be purchased here.
Returning for its second year, Intrepid Theatre is thrilled to present their Incoming Festival, a new festival with brand new performances promised to inspire, shock and excite.
It will take place from Thursday, April 11th to Saturday, April 20th at Metro Studio Theatre, located downtown!
The festival will feature a mix of local and touring artists, including some people that regulars may recognize and others that are making their debut!
Ticket prices vary by show, so you can purchase individual tickets or buy their three-day pass.
Similar to other Intrepid Theatre shows, Incoming Festival will offer their “Pay-What-You-10” tickets—which means that 10% of show tickets will be only $10.
(Ingrid Hansen / Photo by Helene Cyr)
Where:
Metro Studio Theatre, 1411 Quadra Street
Intrepid Studio, #2 1609 Blanshard Street
Festival Hub, #2A 1609 Blanshard Street
When: Thursday, April 11th to Saturday, April 20th—showtimes vary
Don’t miss the opportunity to miss an iconic award-winning Australian pop-rock band, Lime Cordiale, at Capital Ballroom for two back-to-back shows!
Known for their clever lyrics and catchy hooks, members of Lime Cordiale are thrilled to bring more of their infectious melodies to North America for their headline tour.
The tour follows the release of their newest single, “Pedestal”—attendees can expect to hear it come to life on stage as well as previous hits.
Tickets are $29.50, you can find Saturday’s here and Sunday’s here.
This marvelous event celebrating the beauty of sculpture is being put on by the Township Community Arts Council (TCAC) in collaboration with the Vancouver Island Sculptors Guild (VISG)!
Sculpture Splash show and sale kicked off on Thursday, April 11th and will run until Sunday, April 14th—so there’s still plenty of time to check it out if you’re unable to on Friday.
This Saturday, April 13th, over 200 middle and high school youth will be taking over the Bay Centre to present what they’ve spent months making and repurposing.
The market is filled to the brim with unique and exceptional talent, and most importantly, you’ll be supporting local young entrepreneurs!
This exciting day will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.—plenty of time to take in everyone’s work and find some new goodies to take home.
Known as ‘Kidovate,’ attendees will get the chance to learn about what these intelligent minds have been up to and the dozens of business decisions they’ve had to grapple with to get there.
Gavin working on preparing his Dhalia tubers for Kidovate 2024 (Courtesy of Dr. Claudia Smith)
Stunning vocalists Diane Pancel and Kim Greenwood are thrilled to present “Doris and Judy – Together” at Hermann’s Jazz Club!
This double-tribute for Doris Day and Judy Garland will feature Ashley Wey on piano, Ryan Tandy on bass, Barrie Sorensen on saxophone and Jon Miller on drums.
Together, the musicians will showcase a mix of energetic Broadway duets, soulful ballads, enchanting harmonies, and powerful solo performances!
Tickets are $30 and can be purchased online or in person.
(Hermann’s Jazz Club / Facebook)
Where: Hermann’s Jazz Club, 753 View Street
When: Saturday, April 13th from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. (doors open at 5:30 p.m.)
Pacific FC’s home opener officially kicks off this weekend—and you’re invited.
This Saturday, April 13th, the club will face the Halifax Wanderers in a Coast-to-Coast matchup—a rematch of the first-ever Pacific FC match, won by Pacific FC with a score of 1-0.
In fact, Pacific FC have won every home opener match in their history, outscoring their opponents 6-1 all-time. The proof is in the stats—this is a game you don’t want to miss.
You can grab your tickets for the home opener online here—but don’t wait, they’re selling fast!
April represents many things: a new beginning, the blooming of flowers or disappearance of snow, and honouring community in a number of ways!
Plus, as many of you may already know, it is also Earth Month—the time to celebrate the natural beauty we enjoy every day being on this planet.
There are many ways in which we can do this too, including going for a spring walk, helping the Victoria Green Team with invasive species removal, beach cleanup and more!
If you have time this Sunday, take the time to look into how you would like to participate, or just take a moment to enjoy the outdoors.
Born in Victoria, but now based out of Lethbridge, Alberta, Shaela Miller is returning home for the first time since 2019 as she tours across the country.
This tour is in support of her most recent release—her third album, After The Masquerade, which came out this March.
Miller is an accomplished and widely renowned presence in Canada’s alt-country and Americana music scene and has also found success abroad.
Her latest release is a firm step in a different direction as After The Masquerade is a synth-infused, 80s nostalgia take on modern alternative-country music.
Some of her big successes through the years is she’s had her music featured in several popular TV programs, such as HBO’s True Blood and CBC’s Heartland.
Miller has also toured through top-tier festival circuits and has had the well-deserved opportunity to support Matthew Good on tour.
Now she’s midway through her Canadian headlining tour to share her new sound and record with the country.
Miller and her band will be in Victoria coming up on Thursday, April 18th at Lucky Bar.
“It’s been too long,” Miller told Victoria Buzz. “It is my home town after all.”
“The last few times we played in Victoria, we played at the Northern Quarter. We loved playing there, but sadly it is my understanding that it no longer exists.”
Miller says she and her band have also had the opportunity to play at fellow island-based, alt-country icon Carolyn Mark’s Farm Fest in both 2018 and 2019.
Their opening act at the Lucky Bar show are locals as well, Sail Cassidy.
They are self-described indie-rockers who are influenced heavily by acts such as The National and Lou Reed.
“We asked Sail Cassidy to support our shows because we love what they’re doing and think their overall sound and vibe aligns with ours,” Miller said.
“I’m really excited to share the stage and get to know them.”
In addition to the show at Lucky Bar, Miller and her band are playing up-island. They are playing at The Duncan Showroom in Duncan on April 15th and The Queen’s in Nanaimo on April 17th.
Miller says she is excited to bring her band to Vancouver Island and show them some of her old haunts and see some fold she hasn’t seen in too long.
“Me and the guys are going to dip our bodies in the freezing cold ocean,” she exclaimed. “Or maybe just drive out to the Sooke potholes, which should be slightly less freezing, but just as beautiful.”
“I also hope to see some friends and family. Maybe do some record and vintage clothes shopping. Buy some fudge.”
Listen to her new record, After The Masquerade below and make sure to catch one of her shows while she is back on the island!
SENĆOŦEN information display at SMONEĆTEN Campground (Gulf Islands National Park Reserve / Facebook)
If you’re looking to expand your knowledge of the Indigenous peoples whose traditional territory we live, work and play on, this is for you!
The Sidney Museum is thrilled to host the travelling exhibition, Our Living Languages: First Peoples’ Voices in BC from April 15th to July 24th.
There will be a blessing ceremony from the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council on opening day at 10 a.m. on Monday, April 15th.
This special exhibition has been collaboratively designed by the First Peoples’ Cultural Council and the Royal BC Museum, celebrating the resilience and diversity of Indigenous languages.
In Our Living Languages, you will learn what communities across the province are doing to actively ensure the survival of 34 different Indigenous languages and the importance of keeping them alive and thriving.
In turn, you will also expand your own vocabulary and appreciation for these languages, as they are a vital part of culture, identity and connection.
“Languages, especially the languages we grow up with, are powerful and potent markers of identity and culture,” a media release reads.
“BC, one of the planet’s most linguistically diverse regions, is known as a linguistic “hotspot” because of the diversity and vitality of the First Nations languages in BC.”
Visitors will weave through interactive stations, both video and audio, creating an immersive opportunity to capture the complexity of these languages and the communities that work tirelessly to document and revitalize them.
To note, the Sidney Museum wanted to specifically highlight the local W̱SÁNEĆ language, SENĆOŦEN.
Dave Elliot noticed a decline in the use of SENĆOŦEN amongst his people due to government policies and residential schools.
So, in 1978, he created the SENĆOŦEN alphabet and since then, W̱SÁNEĆ communities have undergone tremendous efforts to carry this forward through school programs and adult lessons.
Learn all about that and more at the Sidney Museum!
As the weekend arrives, Victoria residents have every reason to rejoice as Environment Canada is calling for a week of sunshine and double digit temperatures.
With a forecast calling for 16°C, it’s shaping up to be the perfect opportunity to soak up some Vitamin D and revel in the beauty of the outdoors.
Kicking off the weekend, Friday’s weather may start off on a slightly cloudy note. However, the clouds are expected to dissipate by noon, making way for clear skies. With winds shifting to the north at 20 km/h in the afternoon, the mercury is forecasted to climb to a high of 13°C.
The arrival of truly glorious weather will start on Saturday, with the sun taking center stage.
Victoria can expect a high of 16°C, though areas near the water may experience slightly cooler temperatures around 13°C.
(Environment Canada)
Sunday continues the trend of splendid weather, with clear skies and abundant sunshine. However, be prepared for some gusty winds accompanying the sunny conditions. Despite the breezy weather, temperatures are expected to get to a high of 14°C during the day.
As the night falls, Victoria can anticipate clear skies and a low of plus 4°C,, providing ideal conditions for stargazing or evening strolls.
Looking ahead, the remainder of the week promises to be equally delightful, with sunny skies prevailing and temperatures ranging from 11°C to 16°C.
Whether it’s enjoying a leisurely walk in the park, basking in the warmth of the sun at the beach, or simply relishing the beauty of nature, Victoria residents have an abundance of opportunities to savour the outdoor splendor that this forecast brings.
That’s it for the late night hangs, cheap corndogs and good vibes that were so well curated by those who ran Smith’s Pub on Courtney Street.
On Thursday, April 11th, one of downtown’s best watering holes, Smith’s Pub officially and permanently closed after posting a notice on their door thanking their patrons for their support.
The notice they left on their door read:
“It’s been a great run, a very great run, and we’re so appreciative to all our staff, friends and customers and everyone who supported us over the last 17 years.”
“We didn’t want to go out like this but things happen.”
As soon as word got out on the closure, people turned online for answers and speculation as to why one of the city’s favourite spots had closed.
Earlier in the week, the business had posted on Instagram about trivia night taking place on Thursday at the pub, and has yet to post anything on social media about the closure.
Some people have been speculating online claiming Smith’s Pub’s assets were frozen overnight and they were forced to close immediately, giving their staff same day notice of termination.
Many have expressed that 2024 will be a year in which many small local businesses may be forced to close.
This is in part due to the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) loans being due in January, which made several businesses have to pay back money they didn’t have, or not pay them back at all.
Aside from the speculation, most people have been expressing true and heartfelt loss over the pub closing its doors.
Until the owners or management come out and say what happened to force their hand like this, it is unclear why exactly the abrupt close came about.
As part of the 2017 exhibition at Royal BC Museum, visitors could see the customized van (with sleeping compartments, a kitchen and carpeted interior) that followed Terry Fox as he ran across the country to raise money for cancer research. (Photo ItkasanImages/Victoria Buzz)
Today, the Terry Fox Centre and the Royal BC Museum (RBCM) announced they have entered into a long-term partnership that will bring an extensive collection of national treasures to Victoria.
The collection that the RBCM will become stewards of contains belongings and keepsakes of Fox’s, gathered throughout his short life, as well as memorabilia from the 1980 Marathon of Hope.
In this collection are a number of iconic items owned and worn by Fox, including the shoes and prosthetic leg he wore on his daily marathons.
The iconic van that was used for the Marathon of Hope is also a part of this extensive collection.
“For 44 years, Terry Fox has been an inspiration to Canadians and we are thrilled to be entrusted with the stewardship of this important collection,” says Tracey Drake, CEO of the RBCM.
“The Royal BC Museum is proud to work alongside the Terry Fox Centre and Fox family to safeguard and preserve Terry’s legacy, and dream, for future generations.”
According to the Terry Fox Centre, they have been looking for a suitable steward of the ‘All Things Terry’ collection and the opportunity to partner with the RBCM was too good to pass up.
Fox moved to BC from Manitoba when he was just 8-years-old and spent the better part of his life here, to both the Centre and the RBCM saw it fitting that they take care of his collection.
“We are excited by how our partnership with the Royal BC Museum will assist us in our efforts to engage Canadians and people worldwide with Terry’s story of hope, courage and determination,” says Darrell Fox on behalf of the Terry Fox family and the Terry Fox Centre.
“Terry is not with us physically, but his shoes, leg, sock and Marathon of Hope t-shirts, together with thousands of other artifacts, will inspire future generations to pursue their dreams while giving back.”
Friday, April 12th marks the 44th anniversary of Fox setting out on his Marathon of Hope, in which he would run the equivalent of a marathon a day until he ran from St. John’s, Newfoundland to Vancouver.
His cancer spread and he had to halt his efforts in Thunder Bay, Ontario on September 1st.
In total he ran 5,373 kilometres and inspired millions of people to continually run the ‘Terry Fox Run’ which has become the biggest one-day cancer fundraiser in the world.
This collection is considered part of a 20-year long-term partnership and will officially remain in the ownership of the Fox family, while the RBCM can display the memorabilia as they choose during that time.
As of this publication, they have not yet announced official plans to display the collection.
The featured photo of this article is from the 2017 exhibition at the RBCM where some of the many items acquired were on display, including Fox’s custom van.
Nanaimo RCMP are seeking witnesses after a teen was attacked with a baton during an altercation last month.
On March 21st at around 10:40 p.m., in the 2500 block of Labieux Road, a 15-year-old girl was assaulted by another young woman.
According to police, the 15-year-old knew her assailant. She sustained non-life threatening injuries after being struck with a baton.
Investigators believe a group of young people witnessed the altercation and that someone allegedly recorded the incident on video.
As the investigation continued, police noted that the young woman and another female fled by flagging down a passing motorist on Labieux Road, who then drove them to a residence on the 600 block of 2nd Street in Nanaimo.
On March 22nd, officers arrested the young woman, who was also a minor and had received minor injuries from a bladed weapon used during the altercation.
Police are now requesting the help of anyone who may have witnessed the altercation or have video footage of the incident to come forward.
Additionally, if you gave a ride to these two young women from Labieux Road to the residence on 2nd Street, contact Nanaimo RCMP at (250) 754-2345.
According to the Church of Latter-day Saints, a Mormon temple may be getting built in Greater Victoria in the coming years.
The Mormon Church reportedly announced their intention to build a temple her at their annual general conference this year, in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Victoria’s temple was among 14 other temples they announced they will be building.
According to the Church, this will be the 11th temple across Canada when completed and it will be just the second for BC.
In a media release, the Church of Latter-day Saints said that the first of their members, William and Maria Copley, came to Vancouver Island in 1875.
They came from the religion’s then-headquarters of Fillmore, Utah and claimed to have made their first Christian convert in 1887 when a member of the legislative assembly, Anthony Maitland Stenhouse chose to be re-baptized as a Mormon.
The Church says that now, they have around 2,000 members in Victoria alone and thus, the congregation requires a new place of worship.
One Victoria-based member of the Church, Christine Hitchmough, said in a release that she travels monthly by ferry to worship in the Vancouver temple.
“I can hardly wait to walk through the doors of the house of the Lord in Victoria,” she said.
The Vancouver temple was finished in 2010 and other Canadian temples are located in Calgary, Edmonton, Regina, Winnipeg, Montreal, Toronto and Halifax with a future temple in Lethbridge being announced in April of last year.
The specific location, or municipality they plan on building in around Greater Victoria has not yet been announced.
(Tony Wrestles a Stranger, Incoming Festival / Courtesy of Intrepid Theatre)
Happy Friday, Victoria!
If you’re looking to spend your evening dancing, Lucky Bar has an extra special pop punk night with three multiple local bands, and OK Charlie is back at Darcy’s Pub for their weekly jam!
In more of an observational mood? No problem! Head down to the Gorge Park Pavilion to check out some sculptures, or sit back and watch another amazing Intrepid Theatre show for their Incoming Festival.
Here’s 5 things to do in and around Victoria on Friday, April 12th:
This marvelous event celebrating the beauty of sculpture is being put on by the Township Community Arts Council (TCAC) in collaboration with the Vancouver Island Sculptors Guild (VISG)!
Sculpture Splash show and sale kicked off on Thursday, April 11th and will run until Sunday, April 14th—so there’s still plenty of time to check it out if you’re unable to on Friday.
This event is free for the public to attend!
Where: Gorge Park Pavilion, 1070 Tillicum Road, Esquimalt
Returning for its second year, Intrepid Theatre is thrilled to present their Incoming Festival, a new festival with brand new performances promised to inspire, shock and excite.
It will take place from Thursday, April 11th to Saturday, April 20th at Metro Studio Theatre, located downtown!
The festival will feature a mix of local and touring artists, including some people that regulars may recognize and others that are making their debut!
Ticket prices vary by show, so you can purchase individual tickets or buy their three-day pass.
Similar to other Intrepid Theatre shows, Incoming Festival will offer their “Pay-What-You-10” tickets—which means that 10% of show tickets will be only $10.
Where:
Metro Studio Theatre, 1411 Quadra Street
Intrepid Studio, #2 1609 Blanshard Street
Festival Hub, #2A 1609 Blanshard Street
When: Thursday, April 11th to Saturday, April 20th—showtimes vary
Popular local band OK Charlie rocks Darcy’s Pub every Friday!
They bring the best of both modern and retro to the stage, always playing songs that fill dance floors, excite crowds, and leaves people feeling fantastic.
No tickets necessary, just arrive ready to have a great time!
Celebrate visual artist Amy Frank’s new exhibition, The Wisdom of Wonderland at the Arts Centre at Cedar Hill.
Within this powerful collection of pieces, she explores her own experience with mental health struggles and addiction to create a surreal adventure for her viewers.
“This show is not just about my journey—it’s an invitation to start a conversation. My story is one of resilience, personal empowerment, and hope, evocatively showcased by both my visual and written works,” Frank notes on the event page.
The Wisdom of Wonderland opened on April 3rd and will remain on display until April 28th.
Where: Arts Centre at Cedar Hill, 3220 Cedar Hill Road
When: Friday, April 12th from 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Carmine playing at the VEC for Bands!Bands!Bands! on March 19th. (Photo by @_ezee_/Instagram)
Ever since 2003, the Victoria Event Centre (VEC) has been a pillar of the local music scene in Victoria and those who run the non-profit venue make sure to be constantly innovating the ways in which they support artists getting their start.
In September of last year, the VEC launched a new project, ‘Bands!Bands!Bands!,’ that would help foster new relationships within the local music scene and because of its successes, it has been expanded.
This event is a music series that takes place once per month on a Tuesday night.
It is meant to feature bands of different sounds and backgrounds in order to allow the artists to have an accessible launchpad for their music, as well as to ensure bands were being paid a fair price so they can better invest in themselves.
“We felt like there was a gap in the community for new and emerging bands to really get a chance to grow their audience and perform in larger venues,” said Leyla Sutherland, Executive Director of the VEC.
“It’s really nice to see different artists meet and collaborate.”
This endeavour was originally launched because the City of Victoria provided them with project funding through the Victoria Music Strategy, and now it has received additional funding from Creative BC.
Now they have additional funding and are expanding the music series through December, when originally, their City funds would have run out after April, according to Sutherland.
Sutherland told Victoria Buzz that because of this new funding, they are doing a second call-to-action for local bands and musical artists to apply and play a Bands!Bands!Bands! show.
“The Creative BC money has really allowed us to expand the artists’ fee so now we are offering what essentially works out to $150 per band member,” she explained.
That amount is paid to each band member up to around five or six members, according to Sutherland. She joked with Victoria Buzz that number is the most people the stage can fit anyhow.
In order to make the shows as accessible as possible, every Bands!Bands!Bands! show is all-ages and the VEC provide the backline to artists so all they need to bring are their instruments and drum sticks, plug in and play.
Sutherland says the VEC also tries to choose bands or artists through a lens of equity, ensuring that members of the BIPOC and 2SLGBTQIA+ communities don’t get pushed to the back of the line.
There is an online application online for those who want to play a Bands!Bands!Bands! showcase.
“We need some pieces of information like people’s stage plot, images, some links to some recording of their music—it doesn’t have to be professional, we just want to make sure the band is real,” Sutherland laughed.
In the form, applicants have the option of self-identifying themselves as a member of one of these groups.
“The project is really trying to focus on presenting and supporting more artists of colour, more BIPOC, queer and trans performers as well as people with disabilities and just a broader range of perspectives,” she added.
Sutherland says this process is to ensure that the VEC is maintaining a really balanced and diverse music series which reflects what the community looks like.
She also says the benefits of this project allow for not only community building and paying artists well for their work—for which the night was intended—but it has also had other benefits that were not necessarily intentional, however are beneficial to the music scene.
“We’ve recommended some of our Bands!Bands!Bands! bands to play as openers when we have touring acts come through,” she explained.
“We benefit tremendously from knowing who’s out there, who’s trying new stuff, who’s making cool music.”
Over the past eight months, a total of 32 bands have played Bands!Bands!Bands! and another 28 will have the opportunity before the project’s funding ends and the last showcase takes place in December.
Next week on Tuesday, April 16th, the featured bands for volume eight of the series will be:
Silverton are a hard blues-grunge power trio from Colwood who describe themselves as “a trip, a journey to the past, with raging overdriven guitars, punchy bass that will shock you to the floor, booming drums that rattle your soul like cannons and haunting vocals that will swirl your mind.”
Anne Martina is a singer-songwriter who says she makes heartfelt music with meaningful lyrics and catchy melodies. She writes songs with themes of love, loss and coming-of-age. Martina recently released her debut EP, If I Could Talk About It.
Black Treacle is a self-described alternative rock duo who hail from Esquimalt. They say they are inspired by the experimentation of Brian Eno and the emotional vulnerability of The Cure and Elliott Smith.
Sweet Delirium is a four-piece project who play “an eclectic blend of shoegaze, dream pop, post-punk and R&B who try to incorporate atmospheric soundscapes into their live show.
Check out the next showcase and if you play in a band or perform as a singer-songwriter, apply to play one of the next Band!Bands!Bands! showcases.
Gavin working on preparing his Dhalia tubers for Kidovate 2024 (Courtesy of Dr. Claudia Smith)
Prepare your wallet and your heart, this is a wholesome and exceedingly impressive event you won’t want to miss!
This Saturday, April 13th, over 200 middle and high school youth will be taking over the Bay Centre to present what they’ve spent months making and repurposing.
The market is filled to the brim with unique and exceptional talent, and most importantly, you’ll be supporting local young entrepreneurs!
This exciting day will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.—plenty of time to take in everyone’s work and find some new goodies to take home.
Known as ‘Kidovate,’ attendees will get the chance to learn about what these intelligent minds have been up to and the dozens of business decisions they’ve had to grapple with to get there.
Kidovate is a free youth entrepreneurship initiative through UVic’s Gustavson School of Business that mentors kids typically aged 11 to 17.
Aurora making dog treats for Kidovate 2024 (Courtesy of Dr. Claudia Smith)
The program launched in 2019 with 26 participants and has since grown exponentially.
“I’m so excited about joining the Kidovate community, and Saturday’s Market Day. It’s something I’ve been looking forward to all year,” said Isla Solbakken, age 11, who has been preparing succulents and other botanicals to sell.
“Kidovate is my first time selling goods with other kids and I look forward to learning from, and potentially collaborating with, other young entrepreneurs like me.”
In addition to Solbakken’s succulents, other entrepreneurs include 13-year-old Savannah Levins selling her greeting cards and colour changing glasses; 13-year-old Rafael M. with 3D keychains for sale; 17-year-old Jayden Pleasants with a mix of vintage clothing; and 11-year-old Marliss Ahokas will be selling canvases and notebooks.
Plus, 9-year-old Anders has decided to sell baked goods and will be donating all proceeds to the Victoria Hospital Foundation in memory of his dad.
Cofounder Dr. Brock Smith commented on Canada needing more entrepreneurs, and that Kidovate allows the space for youth to learn-by-doing and grow into themselves and their ideas—taking those skill sets into adulthood and continuing to inspire others.
“It takes a community to create an entrepreneur,” added Cofounder Dr. Claudia Smith.
“Kidovate is all about helping kids try entrepreneurship on for size, and helping them discover that it is a skill that can be learned and not a personality trait.”
Last year, hundreds of customers are said to have visited the Kidovate Market Day, and they’re hoping this year will draw in more!
The more people that these youths get to interact with, the more social skills they gain and the more successful they become.
Additionally, the kids are taught that giving back to the community and having social responsibility is an important part of becoming a good entrepreneur. So, they’re encouraged to choose a local charity to support by donating a portion of their earnings.
The resources that are provided through Kidovate include a graphic novel workbook, access to UVic student mentors and a learning guide for teachers and parents.
To learn more about this entrepreneurship initiative, you can visit the Kidovate website.
There’s a new Netflix series that features the feet that washed up on Vancouver Island, which began occurring in 2007.
The docuseries breaks down eight seemingly inexplicable tales of ghost hauntings, alien encounters, and the mysterious feet washing up on shores around Vancouver Island and Washington State.
The Netflix series was the most-watched show on the charts last week, becoming the most popular non-fiction series on the streamer.
All eight episodes were released on April 3rd and run between 30 and 48 minutes apiece.
Produced by Vox, the segment on the mysterious feet can be watched on the last episode, which features interviews, reenactments, and speculation about what may have happened.
“This isn’t an unheard-of phenomenon in BC,” said a spokesperson for the BC Coroners Service last year. “In fact, there is a map of previous discoveries investigated by our agency.”
See the map below from 2021:
(BC Coroners Service)
Between 2007 and 2019, there were 15 severed feet inside shoes that washed up on BC’s coast. Five were also discovered along Washington state waters.
As of October 2021, 15 feet found in BC between 2007 and 2018 had been identified — all belonging to people who had gone missing, some several years prior.
In Victoria’s Committee of the Whole meeting on Thursday, April 11th, city council will discuss giving Higgins Street a new name to honour a former City employee and influential member of the local baseball community.
Doug Hudlin passed away in 2014 at the age of 91-years-old after a lifetime of creating change in Victoria through his love for baseball.
In 2017, the City declared June 11th as ‘Doug Hudlin Day to honour him as a long serving employee of Victoria and an umpire of 40 years.
He worked with adults and kids in Victoria’s little league community, teaching people to play baseball and acting as umpire for countless games.
Hudlin was chosen to be the first non-American umpire in the Little League World Series and was the first international umpire to be asked to call the game more than once.
In addition to these feats, Hudlin was a founding member of the British Columbia Black History Awareness Society and he has been inducted into the Greater Victoria Sports Hall of Fame, the B.C. Baseball Umpires Association Hall of Fame, the Little League Umpire Alumni and the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame.
Now, because of his years of service as an umpire at Jerry Hale field, located at Hillside and Cook Streets, Mayor Marianne Alto and City Councillor Chris Coleman are bringing forward a council member motion to rename an adjacent street in his name.
He already has a plaque at the Jerry Hale field that was installed in June 2017 and the motion would see that this June, on the seventh anniversary of that first recognition, the city may mount three commemorative memorial street signs beneath the regular street signs marking Higgins Street.
The additional signs, which would not legally replace the current street name, would read Doug Hudlin Memorial Way.
They would be mounted at the corners of Higgins at Hillside, Higgins at Basil and Higgins at Cook Street.
Mayor Alto and Councillor Coleman stipulate in their motion that the cost of this endeavour would not exceed $1,000 and would come out of the parks department’s allocated budget.
Council will vote whether or not to go ahead with the additional street signs on Thursday afternoon.
Beloved local musician Daniel Lapp will be bringing his annual Joy of Life Concerts back to Alix Goolden Performance Hall at the Victoria Conservatory of Music (VCM) this month!
This year will bring two concerts—one on Friday, April 26th and a second on Saturday, April 27th, both to begin at 7:30 p.m.
The wondrous Joy of Life Concerts have been celebrating life and all of the wonders it brings us for over 20 years, each year bringing a renewed sense of inspiration, dedication and love for each other and nature.
As described, Lapp is bringing together a delightful mix of performers, including the young fiddlers of the BC Fiddle Orchestra and the Old-time Danceband.
They’ll be joined by alumni to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the BC Fiddle Orchestra!
Guest performers, Ed Peekeekoot and Marin Patenaude, backed by the Joy of Life House Band, will also be sharing the stage.
For those that are unfamiliar, Peekeekoot is a multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter and story-teller with true charm and wit that appeals to audiences of all ages.
Patenaude is a musician and creator that puts deep care into what she releases into the world. She has three albums, her most recent one having hit the shelves in early 2023.
Lapp’s Folkestra! and the Joy of Life Choir will play a multitude of favourite Canadian tunes and hopes to bring the excitement of spring to all who hear them!
Tickets are just under $33 for adult general admission and just under $22 for youth admission.
Just ahead of the Pacific FC (PFC) home opener this weekend, the City of Langford and the football club solidified a one-year contract for Starlight Stadium use.
Contract negotiations for this deal have been ongoing since June 30th of last year when the previous five-year deal expired and the team decided not to automatically renew their deal with the City.
Langford’s city council says they were hoping for a long-term deal like they had before, lasting five years at least, but settled on a one-year deal for the time being because they know how important the team is to the community.
PFC was not willing to sign a deal any longer than one-year’s time.
Langford says that in the coming months, City staff will be working with PFC to secure a new five-year deal that will kick in when this one-year contract expires, securing the team in the West Shore.
“The City of Langford and PFC have a longstanding, collaborative partnership, and we’re excited to see the contract signed,” said Langford Mayor, Scott Goodmanson.
“PFC brings an array of community benefits related to economic development and social impact.”
Mayor Goodmanson says that the city council recognizes these benefits and the contributions that PFC offers the community.
“Langford is Trident territory, and we look forward to cheering on PFC throughout the 2024 season and beyond,” he concluded.
According to the City, part of the recent negotiations were in regards to the usage of Langford’s Indoor Training Facility (ITF), which was built in part to serve the team as well as to expand the City’s capacity for youth soccer development.
PFC pays a nominal fee of $1 per year to use ITF as part of their contract.
In the ITF usage review requested by PFC, the City says they will consider wider community recreation opportunities, gaps, and needs.
Langford says that in addition to exploring options for the ITF, City staff will also explore opportunities and costs associated with expansion of Starlight Stadium in the coming months.
This may include a potential referendum to gauge Langford residents opinions on the matter. This part of the deal hinges on whether or not PFC will sign a five-year deal by the fall, according to the City.
PFC’s home opener is this Saturday, April 13th, at 4 p.m. at Starlight Stadium in Langford.
The Province just announced that going forward, the BC Building Code has been amended to allow buildings to be constructed taller than ever before while using mass timber.
Mass timber is comprised of multiple solid and load-bearing wood panels bound together to create extraordinary strength and stability.
This wooden material is much lighter than steel or concrete, requiring smaller foundations in new builds and allowing for easier, cheaper construction that the government hopes will contribute to easing the burden of the housing crisis going forward.
This is in an effort to increase sustainability, affordability and ease of construction.
According to BC, the update to the building code also will extend to schools, libraries and retail spaces.
“These changes will help reduce carbon pollution, support the forestry sector, create jobs, build more homes and lead to more vibrant communities,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing.
“We know mass timber looks great, and now we can use it in larger buildings and more types of buildings.”
Specifically, the new updates allow:
Mass timber constructed buildings to have as many as 18 storeys, an increase from the previous limit of 12
For the expansion of the scope of mass timber constructed buildings to include schools, libraries, retail, light- and medium-industrial occupancies and care facilities
Mass timber to be exposed on a residential building’s exterior, up to eight storeys tall
The Province says that these code changes were developed by a national joint task group co-chaired by BC and Quebec.
They also say that the code changes had to be reviewed by an expert technical advisory group comprised of representatives from numerous provinces, fire services and safety engineers, building code experts, regulators and industry members prior to their implementation.
In the coming years, the BC government anticipates other provinces will follow suit.
Going forward, the Province also says they will submit these changes into the national code system for future national building code consideration.
Victoria’s Inner Harbour was the vibrant epicenter of hockey excitement from January 17th to 20th as Hockey Day in Canada descended upon the city.
When the major event was awarded to Victoria, those behind the push for the three-day event didn’t expect it to generate as much money as it did.
According to the Destination International Economic Impact Report from the Greater Victoria Sport Tourism Commission, the event delivered a significant economic boost to the region, tallying nearly $4 million in economic activity.
The numbers speak volumes: the event not only generated revenue but also contributed to job creation and tax revenue. With 2,369 jobs supported and $627,025 in taxes generated, the impact rippled through the local economy.
“We knew that Greater Victoria really came together for a super successful celebration of hockey and community, but these numbers show that hosting events like this benefit everyone,” said Victoria Hockey Legacy Society chair John Wilson.
“I’m thankful for the Greater Victoria Sport Tourism Commission for crunching the numbers, and excited to see how our destination continues to benefit from the excellent exposure we received on Sportsnet.”
The event drew impressive crowds, with upwards of 20,000 people flocking to Ship Point during the main festivities. The Alumni Game at Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre was a sell-out success, while the Gala Banquet at the Victoria Conference Centre attracted a full house.
The reach extended far beyond the local landscape, with Sportsnet’s 13-hour broadcast capturing the attention of 8.5 million Canadians nationwide.
The Inner Harbour served as the picturesque backdrop for the broadcast aired across the nation, featuring esteemed hosts like Ron MacLean, Jennifer Botterill, and Kevin Bieksa.
“There is a power in sports that goes far beyond the confines of an arena or playing field,” Sport Tourism Commission Executive Director Keith Wells said. “We’re always working on opportunities for sport to add vitality to our region, and the commission looks forward to working with John and the Victoria Hockey Legacy Society on future endeavors.”
According to organizers, Scotiabank Hockey Day in Canada focused on making sure everyone felt welcomed celebrating Canada’s sport.
Proceeds from the event helped the Courtnall Society for Mental Health, which promotes understanding of mental health through awareness and educatio
The West Coast Trail spans the western coastline of Vancouver Island from Bamfield to Port Renfrew, but wasn’t always the sought after recreational challenge it is today.
Now, it can be hard to book yourself a slot on the trail and if you do get in, it feels like winning the lottery.
In the past however, to be walking that trail meant you may as well have lost everything.
The Maritime Museum of BC has a brand new exhibit coming to their Douglas Street space that explores how the trail went from what it was initially intended to be, to what it is in present day.
Post-colonization, the trail was constructed by the federal government in the 1900s so that survivors of shipwrecks that occurred off the coast could hike to a settlement
This section of the ocean which was dubbed the ‘graveyard of the pacific.’
While some sections of this 75 kilometre trail were sandy, level and easy to traverse, much of it was extremely difficult terrain to navigate.
Following these somewhat dark origins, the trail’s purpose has shifted through the years and its story is one that continues to shape Vancouver Island’s future.
“No Walk in the Woods explores how part of Vancouver Island’s uniquely deadly coastline went from a place of tragedy to one of the most popular and acclaimed hiking destinations in less than a century” said Heather Feeney, Collections and Exhibits Manager for the Maritime Museum of BC.
“The exhibit looks at the history of the trail, starting as a lifeline for shipwreck survivors, through the establishment of the telegraph line, all the way to current stories submitted to us by those who have taken on the challenge of trekking the West Coast Trail.”
The exhibit is called No Walk in the Woods, and is on from Thursday, April 11th until October 26th.
('Deafy' at Intrepid Theatre / Photo by Andrew Williamson)
Hold your breath, it’s nearly Friday!
This Thursday brings a thrilling mix of performative and creative events, including a substance-free DJ party and Intrepid Theatre’s 2nd annual Incoming Festival.
If you haven’t already heard, the Thursday Esquimalt Farmers Market is back on too—so, trek on over there and take a look at the local goodies!
For all of that and more, here’s 5 things to do in and around Victoria on Thursday, April 11th:
Returning for its second year, Intrepid Theatre is thrilled to present their Incoming Festival, a new festival with brand new performances promised to inspire, shock and excite.
It will take place from Thursday, April 11th to Saturday, April 20th at Metro Studio Theatre, located downtown!
The festival will feature a mix of local and touring artists, including some people that regulars may recognize and others that are making their debut!
Ticket prices vary by show, so you can purchase individual tickets or buy their three-day pass.
Similar to other Intrepid Theatre shows, Incoming Festival will offer their “Pay-What-You-10” tickets—which means that 10% of show tickets will be only $10.
Where:
Metro Studio Theatre, 1411 Quadra Street
Intrepid Studio, #2 1609 Blanshard Street
Festival Hub, #2A 1609 Blanshard Street
When: Thursday, April 11th to Saturday, April 20th—showtimes vary
This Thursday, Quadratic Sound is offering an alcohol and drug-free party environment for those that love dancing and live DJs but want to avoid intoxication in all forms and late-nights!
Featuring DJ Barbie Aphelion, who openly shares her recovery journey and applauds those in similar positions.
Tickets are on a sliding scale, starting at $10 plus an additional $5 membership fee if you don’t already have one.
A relaxing and inspirational trip to the Art Gallery of Victoria can be accessible too!
If you’ve been looking for an excuse to visit the gallery now’s your chance—the evenings on Thursdays are completely free. Grab your family and friends and take a moment to appreciate local art and beauty.
Check out their current exhibitions, Afroquatics, Crossing, Tender Touch and Kali Spitzer Bodies of, Bodies Within.
Where: Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, 1040 Moss Street
A man is facing ten charges, including unlawful confinement, after Saanich Police responded to a report of a person being held against their will over the weekend.
On Saturday, April 6th, Saanich Police, supported by the Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team, were called to the 300 block of home on Ker Avenue near Pearkes Recreation Centre on Saturday.
Police cordoned off the vicinity and began negotiations to secure the release of the captive. After tense moments, the individual was successfully extricated from the premises, unharmed but doubtlessly shaken by the ordeal.
The person who was being held against their will managed to escape safely. Police used flash bangs during the arrest of the suspect to create a distraction.
A search warrant was executed at the home and several firearms, imitation firearms and a cache of ammunition were located.
Police said Vincenzo Colantonio has been charged with unlawful confinement, pointing a firearm, careless use or storage of a firearm and possession of a firearm without a licence or registration.
If you’re looking for game day eats, Domino’s has you covered! Whether it’s pre-game fuel or post-game celebrations, you can easily order online today (score 25% off) for delicious pizza, wings, and more. Enjoy the game with Domino’s!
It’s official, Jake Heisinger is now the official General Manager of the Victoria Royals.
In an announcement Wednesday, the Victoria Royals announced they promoted Jake Heisinger as the team’s General Manager
Heisinger was brought in by the Royals last offseason as the Associate General Manager.
Prior to him joining the Royals, he served as the Vice President of Hockey Operations and Assistant General Manager of the ICE, after the team’s relocation from Kootenay where Heisinger had served as the club’s Manager of Hockey Operations and Director of Scouting since 2017.
During his tenure with the ICE, the team captured the Scotty Munro Memorial Trophy in back-to-back seasons for the best record in the WHL as well as trips to the Eastern Conference Final and WHL Championship.
“Last summer, we began the process of charting a new direction for the Victoria Royals, which included a new leadership structure with Jake’s onboarding” said Vice-President of Hockey Operations, Joey Poljanowski.
“This move represents another step forward for the team in promoting an individual who’s proven leadership and vision will best guide us towards our ultimate goal of bringing a Memorial Cup to Victoria.”
When he was brought in last year, his primary responsibility was scouting and player development, an area he excelled in with the Ice, helping to identify and nurture top talents like Connor Geekie, Matthew Savoie, Carson Lambos, and Zach Benson.
Before venturing into the Hockey Operations side of the sport, Heisinger had a successful playing career, both in major junior and NCAA III hockey.
While short lived, the Royals returned to the post season this year for the first time since 2019 under new leadership of Poljanowski, Heisinger and James Patrick.
“I am looking forward to continuing to work collaboratively with Joey, Jeep (James Patrick) and the rest of our staff as we strive towards becoming one of the top programs in the CHL,” said Heisinger.
“We have taken some good steps in the right direction this season, but we still have a ways to go to get to where we want to eventually get too.”
With the announcement, Heisinger will become the third General Manager in Royals history.
Heisinger and the staff will now turn their attention to the WHL Prospects Draft which is slated for May 9th.
The Royals head into the 2024 Draft with 7 picks in the first 4 rounds including 2 first round selections, 8th, and 18th overall, the most picks in the top 4 rounds in the organization’s history.
The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria (AGGV) has announced the opening of two galleries to showcase selected pieces from their permanent collections.
One gallery will feature world-renowned Asian art, and the other will be devoted to works by both Indigenous and Canadian artists from the nineteenth century to the present.
Titled, A View From Here: Reimagining the AGGV Collections, this impressive accumulation of art is co-curated by AGGV Chief Curator and Director of Collections and Exhibitions, Steven McNeil; AGGV Curator of Asian Art, Dr. Heng Wu; and AGGV Assistant Curator, Mel Granley
These galleries will open on April 27th and will run through until April 2029—plenty of opportunities to visit multiple times and see the rotating selection of art.
“We have planned these galleries to increase the visibility of our vast collections, and to connect those collections with some exciting upcoming traveling exhibitions the AGGV will host in 2024 and 2025,” said McNeil.
“There will be a common approach to interpreting the collections within these galleries: to look at key historical works through a contemporary lens.”
McNeil added that the interpretive approach is intentionally broad because their collections themselves are quite broad—spanning the continent of Asia and the lands that make present day Canada, with strong emphasis on Coastal British Columbia art.
Visitors will be given the chance to reconnect with treasured objects that the AGGV is well-known for, including works by Emily Carr and Frederick H. Varley.
In addition to the works of Carr and Varley, the Indigenous and Canadian gallery will feature art by Arthur Lismer, A.Y. Jackson, J.E.H. MacDonald, Lawren S. Harris, Meryl McMaster and Dylan Thomas.
The Asian Art exhibition will include around 400 objects—the pieces organized according to their material and medium.
(Dragon Finial, Bronze / AGGV)
Guests will gaze upon fine examples of jade, bronze, ceramics, prints, ivory, Yixing purple clay pots and more.
“We hope visitors will also find some surprises amongst the extraordinary objects that have had less public exposure or, in some cases, have been very recently acquired,” added McNeil.
Habitat for Humanity announced a new endeavour they plan on bringing to the Gordon Head area called ‘Ferguson Place.’
The home development will be able to provide 14 stacked homes to families in need of affordable living options who have been dealing with housing insecurity.
The two rows of seven stacked homes, totalling 14, will be located at 1864 Feltham Road.
This marks the largest scale project the organization has taken on in the Greater Victoria area.
“With the current housing crisis continuing unabated, we’re doing our part to help families,” states Scott Dutchak, Habitat Victoria CEO.
“This project is the largest we have undertaken so far, but it doesn’t feel ambitious. It feels right-sized for the generosity of this community in a time of crisis.”
Habitat for Humanity has already submitted the plans to the District of Saanich and is now waiting for approval before they can start getting to work on the project’s construction.
They say that this should hopefully be an easy process as the development will be a perfect example of solutions for the “missing middle.”
Of the 14 homes that will be built, 13 are meant for families with three bedrooms apiece and one will be a single bedroom home that is fully accessible.
Habitat for Humanity says the development is ideally located close to schools, recreation, transit as well as green space.
Those who are allowed into this complex will have the ability to own their new homes in a way that is affordable and accessible, according to Habitat for Humanity.
As for a timeline of this project, the organization anticipates receiving their permits from Saanich before the end of 2024, with construction beginning in early 2025.
They hope to have families moving in by 2027 if all goes according to plan.
As of this publication, Habitat for Humanity has built 34 homes in Greater Victoria and served 39 families.
Anti-fracking demonstration held at the Government House in Victoria in December 2022 (Torrence Coste/Frack Free BC)
Thus far, a total of 88 climate organizations issued an open letter addressed to Premier David Eby to put an end to fracking, halt any work toward new liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals and to phase out gas extraction as a whole in BC.
According to one organization on the list, the Wilderness Committee, BC is one of the few places on earth that is building a “new fossil fuel industry” as climate change worsens, causing disasters such as last year’s record breaking wildfire season.
“Today, the climate movement—from grassroots groups across the province to established national organizations to international allies in the US, Asia and Europe—are calling on Premier Eby to align with the global effort to salvage a safe climate and abandon plans for a massive expansion of fracking and LNG,” said Peter McCartney, Climate Campaigner for the Wilderness Committee.
The organizations who have signed the open letter represent not only environmental groups, but also gas industry representatives from around the world with whom the Province hopes to sell LNG to, including Japan, South Korea and Indonesia.
One Japanese environmentalist group says that the more LNG there is on the market, the harder it is for any government to move towards greener alternatives.
“Governments and companies pouring more money into fossil gas infrastructure on both sides of the Pacific are literally sucking the wind out of renewables and delaying decarbonization efforts,” said Ayumi Fukakusa, Deputy Executive Director of Friends of the Earth Japan.
“If BC goes further along the LNG path, it just makes it harder for Japan and other Asian countries to do the right thing.”
According to Economic modelling from the International Energy Agency (IEA), the global demand for LNG is expected to fall by 2% annually until 2030, then it will fall by 8% afterwards.
These figures are based on the assumption that governments like BC’s keep their promises to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.
BC’s current net-zero target is set at 2030.
In addition to this, more and more communities in BC and beyond are moving away from using natural gas as a method of energy, following the new Zero Carbon Step Code recommendations.
These communities include Central Saanich, Colwood, Esquimalt,North Cowichan, Saanich, Oak Bay, View Royal, Nanaimo and Victoria on Vancouver Island alone.
Another point raised in the letter is the accusation that the LNG industry is raising the cost of living for British Columbians the same way that it has in the UNited States and Australia.
According to the open letter, with higher exports of gas, could come higher utility bills for gas and hydro.
“More LNG means higher bills for Fortis customers and BC Hydro ratepayers,” said Kai Nagata, Communications Director for Dogwood, an anti-fracking advocacy group based in BC.
“People are already choosing between groceries and paying their utility bills. Raising those costs to boost oil and gas company profits is just wrong.”
The open letter was penned in a collaborative effort by Frack Free BC, an alliance of organizations who share the goal of bringing an end to fracking practices and LNG production in BC.
This alliance is led by Dogwood, Stand.earth and the Wilderness Committee.
Embark on an epic journey at the Belfry Theatre at the end of the month!
From April 23rd to May 19th, Tony Award-winning play, The Lehman Trilogy, will be taking over the stage in a flurry of intoxicating adventure.
The story takes place in 1844 and follows Heyam, a young man from Bavaria, as he stands on a New York dockside dreaming of a new life.
He is soon joined by Mendel and Mayer, and the Lehman brothers’ journey begins—together navigating the Civil War, the Great Depression, and generations of ethical dilemmas.
“There is nothing more exciting than reading a play and knowing instantly that it has to be seen on our stage! That was my experience with The Lehman Trilogy. I couldn’t put the script down,” said Belfry Artistic Director Michael Shamata.
“In literary terms—it’s a ‘page-turner.’ In theatrical terms—it is a stunning high-wire act.”
The Lehman Trilogy will feature Brian Markinson, Celine Stubel, and Nigel Shawn Williams. Both Markinson and Stubel are returning Belfry stars, whereas this will be Williams debut as an actor on the Belfry stage, who has directed previous shows!
You can also catch Markinson in the Netflix series, Painkiller, and Williams in CityTV’s new series, Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent.
“Three exceptional actors play three brothers and three generations of the Lehman dynasty. It’s a wild ride…” Shamata added.
(Left photo: bughunter47 / Right photo: Brittany Gilbert)
VicpD are seeking witnesses after another fatal stabbing occurred near downtown Victoria late Tuesday night.
Shortly before midnight last night, VicPD were called to a report of a stabbing in the 2900-block of Douglas Street.
Officers arrived at the scene to find one man suffering from stab wounds. Officers and B.C. Emergency Health Services paramedics provided emergency medical treatment to the victim, but he succumbed to his injuries.
According to police, investigators believe this is an isolated incident and there is no ongoing risk to community safety.
No arrests have been made. No details on the victim have been released.
This is the second fatal stabbing in just over a week. At around 4 a.m. on March 31st, police responded to a report of a stabbing in the 700-block of Pandora Avenue, near Blanshard Street.
Officers arrived at the scene to find one man dead and another victim who was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
A suspect was arrested in that incident but no details have been released on what transpired ahead of the fatal stabbing.
Investigators with the Vancouver Island Integrated Major Crime Unit (VIIMCU) are asking anyone who may have information about this incident to call the VIIMCU Information Line at (250) 380-6211.
The Office of the Police Complaint Commissioner (OPCC) have announced that a public hearing will be held, just over four years after Lisa Rauch was shot and killed by a VicPD officer firing “less-lethal” projectiles.
The incident occurred on Christmas Day 2019, when Rauch, a woman in a Victoria-based supportive housing facility, threatened her peers with a weapon, barricaded herself in a room and reportedly lit a fire within.
At that point a VicPD officer with the Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team (GVERT) performed an “emergency entry” and fired three rounds from an ARWEN (anti-riot weapon, enfield) less-lethal launcher.
The rounds fired at Rauch struck her head and neck areas and according to the IIO she was knocked unconscious.
The Independent Investigations Office of BC (IIO) say that following her being knocked out, she was given medical attention and taken to hospital.
There, Rauch was kept alive via life support and never woke up from the wounds to her head.
She was taken off life support four days later and died in hospital.
The IIO’s investigation was concluded in October 2020 and found that the police officer had acted within the parameters of his duties in the moment when he fired the rounds at Rauch.
Regardless of this, the OPCC initiates mandatory investigations whenever death or serious harm results from an incident involving police officers.
These investigations are separate and distinct from investigations by the IIO and are not restricted to evidence gathered by the IIO.
The officer responsible for her death has yet to be named in the OPCC, IIO and VicPD reports on the matter.
On Monday, April 15th, the public hearing will take place for this VicPD officer in Victoria and will continue through until the 19th.
Other dates allocated to this public hearing are April 29th to May 3rd and May 6th to 10th.
The adjudicator for an OPCC public hearing will be a retired judge. The appointed adjudicator will review the evidence, hear sworn testimony and arrive at a decision as to whether there is misconduct.
If necessary, they will determine the corrective and/or disciplinary measures to be imposed and their decision will be final and conclusive.
A Vancouver Island man is looking to break not one, but three Guinness World Records this summer.
In June, an avid electric skateboarder, Bradley Smith, will attempt to win:
Longest Journey by an Electric Skateboard – currently set at 1440.53 kilometres with Smith intending on going 3,500
Longest Journey in a 24-Hour Period by an Electric Skateboard – not a current world record, but Smith intends on setting one
Longest Journey by an Electric Skateboard in a Single Country – currently set at 1260 kilometres
Smith will achieve these feats of courage, strength and willpower by travelling the entire distance from Saskatoon to Victoria.
He has been documenting his progress as he works his way up to achieving these three goals on Instagram and aims to do the same as he tries to break the records in order to highlight the natural beauty of Canada.
Smith says he has been riding the relatively new means of transportation for the past eight years and through that time he has always aimed to push his boundaries.
“I’ve always been fascinated by the possibilities of electric skateboarding, and after eight years of exploring different landscapes, I am excited to take on this new challenge,” said Bradley.
“Breaking not one, but three Guinness World Records is a dream I’ve been working towards, and I am thrilled to turn it into a reality.”
He says he will use this opportunity to not only challenge himself personally, but he also wants to inspire others to embrace new adventures and pursue passions, no matter how big they are.
Follow along with Smith’s journey on his Instagram account.
The stunning orca statue currently residing inside the Mary Winspear Centre will soon be given a new home!
In hopes of allowing more viewers to connect with the piece, the 8’ tall statue, known as ‘Florca,’ will become a more central Sidney landmark—greeting community members and visitors traveling down Beacon Avenue.
It will be positioned in front of the Visitor Information Centre, where people are there to provide guidance for guests getting to know Sidney.
“This delightful statue is sure to create a sense of arrival for people approaching Sidney’s downtown,” said Sidney Mayor Cliff McNeil-Smith.
“We are so fortunate to live alongside pods of orcas and the community takes incredible pride in our floral displays. Florca is a great addition to Sidney’s varied and vibrant public art.”
Florca was created by Victoria-based artist Anne Swannell as a part of the 2004 ‘Orcas in the City’ public art project, which involved a total of 70 orca statues speckled across Victoria and Vancouver.
Following the project display, the statues were auctioned off to support the BC Lions Society for Children with Disabilities Easter Seals.
The Mary Winspear Centre is donating Florca to the Town of Sidney as well as covering installation costs with the help of the Sidney Business Improvement Area Society.
Florca is covered in a mosaic pattern of tiles, including a floral wreath from pieces of broken china. It was originally installed on Fort Street in downtown Victoria.
A new website has launched in order to provide information about and advocate for the return of the ferry which used to travel between Sidney and Anacortes, WA.
According to anacortes2sidney.org, the ferry operated from 1922 to 2019 in a mostly seasonal capacity—just shy of 100 years.
They claim that Washington State Ferries (WSF) has acknowledged the Sidney ferry run was profitable just after the ferry route was shuttered, but despite this, it was one of the first casualties in an overhaul due to short staffing and availability of vessels.
As conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic improved and borders reopened, many in Sidney hoped that the ferry line would reopen between the two communities, but it was announced in 2022 that the ferry wasn’t expected to reopen until at least 2030.
Just one year later, Sidney’s Mayor, Cliff McNeil-Smith penned a letter to Jay Inslee, Governor of Washington State to call on him for the ferry to enter service on the Sidney-to-Anacortes route once more.
In it, McNeil said not only was the ferry route important economically speaking, but also culturally.
“This ferry service is a significant contributor to our regional economy; it also plays an invaluable role in facilitating cultural preservation and connection among Coast Salish people on both sides of the border,” McNeil-Smith wrote.
He spoke to the history and importance of the two communities being bonded as sister cities—which was made official in 1966—and Sidney’s downtown hurting from the lack of tourists.
“During the ferry’s most recent year of service in 2019, it transported approximately 136,000 passengers,” he continued.
Governor Inslee did not publicly reply to this letter from Mayor McNeil-Smith.
In a February, 2023 media release, a group of legislators in Washington State said they have been working hard to convince WSF to hire staff and acquire vessels for the route.
They say that a historic $350 million USD had been allocated to recruit, train and retain the workforce needed for the next decade. In addition to this, over $1 billion USD has been put toward new vessel construction.
Despite this, they also acknowledged that the State’s transportation budget has been hindered by the pandemic due to less gas tax revenues.
Last February, these American legislators urged WSF to find short-term alternatives such as leasing additional vessels or providing passenger-only service to Vancouver Island, but no change has been seen since that time.
On the website for the ferry’s reinstatement, there is also a form to fill out in order to stay in the loop and show support to the cause.
It is unclear how many individuals or organizations have filled out the form to try and get the ferry back, as that information is not available on the website.
