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Cyclists in BC’s capital are getting the royal treatment as the City of Victoria rolls out a valet service for bicycles, strollers, and other active transportation starting this week.
On Friday, June 24th, city officials are launching a staffed valet service located in a secure, covered zone at City Hall along Pandora Avenue.
The city says the service will be free for users and open seven days a week until early November, with hours likely extended for select special events this summer.
Bicycles, including cargo, recumbent, e-bikes, and adaptive bikes, along with push scooters, strollers and other modes of active transportation are welcome, with users able to leave their lights, helmets and panniers securely attached.
(City of Victoria)
The pilot project, operated by Better Environmentally Sound Transportation (BEST) and Capital Bike, aims to improve bicycle parking, attract new riders and deter bike theft in the city, according to Mayor Lisa Helps.
All valet users will be offered free registration with Project 529 Garage, the bicycle recovery system used by the Victoria Police Department, states the city in a press release.
“The valet service will offer exceptional convenience and peace of mind for those looking to ride downtown, particularly for families, commuters, and visitors,” added Helps.
Jeff Bray, executive director of the Downtown Victoria Business Association, echoes Helps and says the new service will also help attract people to shop, dine, visit, and park their bikes downtown confidently.
Inspired by successful public bike valets in cities like Vancouver and Portland, Oregon, other initiatives in Victoria include bike parking upgrades in the Yates Street parkade and new covered bike shelters coming to schools and community centres this fall.
The crash resulted in a woman being sent to hospital with significant injuries.
Just after 3:20 p.m. on Friday, March 4th, police, EHS and Lantzville Fire responded to reports of two pedestrians and their dogs being struck by a vehicle which fled the scene.
Upon arrival, officers were met by Geoff who told police that he, his wife June and their two dogs Marley and Taz had been struck by a black SUV.
According to Geoff, the family was walking single file along the shoulder of the road facing oncoming traffic with June at the back of the line.
Both he and June had control of one dog each, who were on short leashes.
According to Geoff, without any advance warning, a vehicle approached from behind and drove directly into June.
The force pushed June into Geoff and all four of them fell into the ditch.
Geoff managed to crawl out to the roadway and saw that the suspect’s vehicle had stopped a short distance from them.
He yelled for the driver to help, however, the vehicle sped off toward Superior Road.
Police said Geoff was able to flag down another vehicle and the driver called 911.
When officers arrived on scene, June had already been triaged at the scene by paramedics and transported to hospital with significant non-life threatening injuries.
One of the couple’s dogs was seriously injured and required surgery to repair one of its legs. The other dog suffered serious bruising.
The suspect’s vehicle sustained damage to the driver’s side as pieces of the vehicle were found at the scene.
According to Geoff, it was a clear day with no other vehicles or pedestrians in the area and neither he nor June heard the vehicle approaching.
The ongoing investigation lead Nanaimo RCMP to a home in Lantzville where a vehicle was seized for a forensic investigation. The owner of the vehicle was identified and provided a statement to investigators.
“The victim was notified of these developments and is grateful that the investigation is moving forward,” said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.
“Police are also confident in saying that there are others in the community who have knowledge of this incident but for unknown reasons, they have not come forward,” said O’Brien.
Police said no charges have been laid.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345.
UPDATE: In a Thursday update, RCMP say they’re pleased to announce that, thanks to help from the public, a suspect has been identified in this incident, and police are investigating further.
“Police believe this to be an isolated incident and that there is no further danger to the public,” Sidney/North Saanich RCMP said.
—original:
Sidney/North Saanich have released photos of a man they say is alleged to have inappropriately touched two underage girls at a restaurant in Central Saanich last weekend.
The incident happened at the McDonald’s in the 2400-block of Mt. Newton Cross Road on the afternoon of June 13th.
The surveillance photos from the restaurant were released to the media in hope’s the public can help identify the man.
It is alleged the man spoke with the two girls briefly before he inappropriately touched them.
He then left the area in a grey Dodge Ram Pickup truck which had damage to the right-side chrome running boards.
The man is described as a Caucasian man with a thin build and short light hair. He was described as being about 40 years of age.
At the time of the incident, he was wearing a faded green baseball cap, eyeglasses, a black long-sleeved shirt, blue jeans, and blue Nike running shoes.
Police are requesting that anyone with information which could help identify this man please call the Sidney/North Saanich RCMP at 250-656-3931.
Amid sailing cancellations and repealed federal vaccination policies, BC Ferries says it’s working to hire back hundreds of unvaccinated workers on unpaid leave.
Last week, the federal government announced that, as of June 20th, vaccination requirements for domestic and outbound travel would be suspended, including for federal government employees and federally regulated transportation sectors.
“This last segment applies to us at BC Ferries,” spokesperson Deborah Marshall told Victoria Buzz, noting that, as a result, the corporation was able to suspend its vaccine policy on Monday.
“This action will support Canada’s transportation system as we recover from the pandemic,” said Transport Minister Omar Alghabra in a statement.
BC Ferries currently has around 150 employees on leave without pay due to the policy, and according to Marshall, management is in the process of reaching out to them to check on their intention to return.
It was in January when BC Ferries’ vaccination policy came into effect. Since then, the corporation has been plagued by sailing cancellations and revisions with “crewing challenges” to blame.
Ferry-goers were warned in March to expect delays and altered sailing schedules this summer due to staff vaccination policies, troubles recruiting international candidates, and a lack of professional mariners.
“We require a specific number of crew members on board the vessel to ensure the safety of our passengers in the unlikely event of an emergency and to comply with Transport Canada regulations,” stated a recent service notice.
Last week, BC Ferries advised of cancellations leading into and during this past weekend on the Queen of New Westminster, which sails from Sidney’s Swartz Bay to Tsawwassen and vice versa.
The federal government adds that it will make adjustments based on the latest public health advice, meaning public service and transport vaccination mandates could return this fall.
Over the past year, Save Old Growth demonstrators have executed multiple protests, blocking traffic during peak hours.
The short clip, posted to Twitter, shows the front doors of the government office splattered with red cedar shavings. Amongst the shavings, one protestor sits with a ‘Save Old Growth’ sign.
Sophie, the protestor, said completing her action was very satisfying.
“I just want to say the government doesn’t care that I’m doing this,” Sophie said.
“The government doesn’t care that we’re blocking you in traffic. They don’t care. They don’t care [that] my friend was hurt in traffic last Monday and they sure as heck don’t care about Old Growth forests.”
Last week, a demonstrator against old-growth logging was taken to hospital with a “life-changing” injury after falling from a ladder erected along the highway’s northbound lane, near Tsehum Harbour Park in North Saanich, after a commuter snapped a support beam.
“If you want them to do something about that and you want them to get us out of traffic and on your way on the road, and protect old growth forests, you have to do something about it,” Sophie pleaded to the public.
This Canada Day, the City of Langford has the event for you—and it’s as fun-filled and delicious as it sounds!
On Friday, July 1st, you could be a part of the City of Langford’s first-ever Canada Day celebrations at Starlight Stadium, which will include a Pie Contest among many other exciting events.
Interested in submitting your own delicious creation? You can sign up online here, and pies are to be delivered to the Concession at Starlight Stadium by 1 p.m. on July 1st, tasted at 1:30 p.m., and will be awarded at 4 p.m.
Judges for the contest include Vicki from Lighthouse Cake Company, Castro from House of Boateng, and Langford’s Mayor Stew Young.
If you’re in it to win it, prizes include:
1st Place Blue Ribbon, $100 GC to Lighthouse Cake Company & $100 GC to House of Boateng
2nd Place Ribbon, $75 GC to Lighthouse Cake Company & $75 GC to House of Boateng
3rd Place Ribbon, $50 GC to Lighthouse Cake Company & $50 GC to House of Boateng
Langford residents will be able to enjoy the first annual Canada Day celebration at Starlight Stadium from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m, which will include a long list of events such as:
Pancake breakfast by donation
Face painting
Hot wing eating contest
K9 Unit demonstrations by Westshore RCMP
Firefighter Obstacle Course by Langford Fire
Concession, food and beer vendors
A movie under the stars
Kid’s Corner
Rugby Canada Course & PFC Inflatable Game
The city is also currently working with indigenous relations and communications consultant, Charla Huber, to coordinate a special presentation with local First Nations.
The concession and beer garden will be open all-day and the fun continues on into the evening.
Following an outpouring of public backlash, the BC government announced its plans to halt the $789-million rebuild of Victoria’s Royal BC Museum (RBCM) on Wednesday.
“We made choices based on the best information at hand, and we thought we had it right. Clearly, we did not,” said Premier John Horgan during a June 22nd press conference.
“I’ve heard the people of BC quite clearly that we were making the wrong decision at the wrong time.”
In mid-May, BC officials said the RBCM on Belleville Street would close this September to make way for a state-of-the-art, seismically safe building expected to open in 2030.
At the time, Horgan summed it up as a “historic investment” to build a safer, more inclusive and accessible modern museum—replacing the aging facility people have flocked to for decades.
Now, Horgan says it’s “back to the drawing board.”
That means the RBCM, including the IMAX Theatre, gift shops and food trucks, will stay open to visitors as museum staff rethink long-term plans and lead a broad public engagement to consider all options for the facility’s future.
I always try to act in the best interests of British Columbians. That involves always listening, and taking responsibility when you make the wrong call. This is one of those times.
The announcement comes following a recently released Angus Reid poll that found out of 615 respondents, a majority of British Columbians, or 69%, weren’t behind a new RBCM, including BC Liberals leader Kevin Falcon who called it a “vanity project.”
A Vancouver Island First Nation also suggested the BC government curb building a new museum and instead develop museums within First Nations, returning artifacts to their respective territories.
“It’s my responsibility to say to you today that I made the wrong call. That’s not to say that work that needs to be done at the RBCM should be suspended indefinitely,” said Horgan.
“What it means is that I made a call at a time when British Columbians were talking and thinking of other concerns—primary care for their families, education, the cost of living, a range of other issues as we came out of a global pandemic.”
Public engagement will seek input on what BC residents want to see in a modernized museum and also address structural and safety issues identified with the current buildings, according to officials.
“At the end of the day, this museum belongs to the people of British Columbia, and their voices will determine its future,” said Tourism Minister Melanie Mark.
Meanwhile, construction of a new Collections and Research Building in Colwood, set to open in 2025, will continue and house museum artifacts once complete, the government adds.
Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt’s military hospital has reopened and people are returning to their duties after a bomb scare prompted an evacuation on Wednesday morning.
At around 9:30 a.m., CFB Esquimalt said a military explosive ordnance disposal team, as well as military police, were at the Colville Road hospital due to a suspicious package left outside the building.
At the time, the public was asked to avoid the area until further notice.
Just before 11 a.m., public affairs officer Lt-Cmdr. Anthony Wright said the “ongoing incident” was deemed over after the disposal team’s investigation concluded.
“They determined that the package was not explosive in nature,” Wright told Victoria Buzz, noting there’s no risk to the public. “It could be that someone forgot their bag at the bus stop.”
Police remain on scene and continue to investigate the nature of the package, Wright adds.
We all love a good night out, but it means something very different for each person.
For some, a night out on the town means enjoying delicious food and drinks, for others it means dancing the night away in a nightclub.
A good city has a mix of both. So where does Victoria rank compared to other Canadian cities?
According to a new ranking, which analysed 2,048 reviews from city locals and 4,431 reviews from tourists via TripAdvisor, Victoria is well known for its nightlife, including music venues, nightclubs, casinos and bars/pubs.
Downtown Victoria tied 5th with Vancouver’s Chinatown in the ‘Best Neighbourhood for a Night Out’ ranking by locals, and tourists ranked the city 6th.
When it comes to the City of Victoria, locals voted it 2nd best city for a night out on the town, while tourists voted it number 1!
When broken down by category, locals voted the city 7th for music venues, while tourists voted it 3rd.
Locals and tourists ranked Victoria 3rd for nightclubs, meanwhile, the city clocked in at 4th for casinos as voted by locals, and 6th by tourists.
However, when it comes to bars and pubs, both locals and tourists ranked Victoria’s variety and selection 1st place!
Just in time for summer, a public dock within a popular park has been expanded to give swimmers and paddlers better access to Victoria’s Gorge Waterway.
More than doubling dock space to reduce crowding, upgrades at Banfield Park allow for safer deep-water access and accommodate limited watercraft access at low tide, according to the city.
The expansion adds a five-by-10-metre platform, plus new rescue equipment, including a reaching pole and life ring device, new signage, two swim ladders, and flip-up dock cleats to temporarily secure kayaks.
“Banfield Park has become one of the most popular spots in Victoria to swim and paddle year-round,” said Mayor Lisa Helps.
“The expanded dock gives people more room to stay active and safely enjoy this special part of Victoria’s waterfront.”
Led by the Gorge Swim Fest Society, local residents worked with the city on the dock expansion design, which aligns with the Official Community Plan and Victoria West Neighbourhood Plan.
The city says the project also included an aquatic assessment to mitigate impacts on the marine habitat and a safety assessment, with plans to enhance other parks along the Gorge Waterway.
Catching the last bit of the sun on Chesterman Beach. Photo by Matt Ferguson Photography
Environment Canada issued a special weather statement Wednesday morning stating that the first heat of the season will start later this week.
The weather agency warns the south coast will experience a stretch of warmer than average temperatures.
On Friday, inland temperatures will reach into the mid to upper 20s. Through the weekend and into early next week, temperatures will remain in the upper 20s until Tuesday.
There will be some respite from the elevated daytime temperatures as overnight lows fall into the mid-teens.
In addition to that statement, Environment Canada is reminding outdoor enthusiasts that freezing levels will rise throughout this stretch of heat and will lead to an increase in snowmelt and snowpack instability—causing increased stream flows due to run-off are possible.
Although heat is expected, bodies of water still remain cool for this time of year and may pose a risk of hypothermia when exposed to cold water for a prolonged period of time.
Daytime maximum temperatures are expected to reach high 20’s on Saturday and Sunday.
Temperatures are expected to return to near-nomal values by the middle of next week as a cooler, unsettled air mass pushes onshore.
By Tuesday temperatures will start to lower as the ridge weakens.
After last year’s unprecedented heat dome, the City of Victoria several new strategies to ensure the safety of the public, including deploying 12 misting stations around the city.
Campbell River RCMP are investigating a double shooting Tuesday night that left one man dead.
Police said the shooting took place at Robron Road and Upland Drive area. No specific time frame was released.
Campbell River RCMP confirmed one woman is in hospital after sustaining gunshot wounds, and a man is dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Police would not confirm at this time if the shooting was a murder-suicide attempt.
“There is no ongoing threat to public safety,” said Campbell River RCMP media liaison Cst. Maury Tyre.
“Our officers will be continuing the investigation through the night and we will provide the public with further information when it is prudent to do so.”
Victim services have been called in to help assist the families involved. Police are asking that people to avoid discussing or posting photos about the incident on social media channels “in order to allow families to have time to process and privately grieve.”
On Monday, June 20th at around 10 p.m., Comox’s Miranda Fowler was driving home from work when she spotted something crossing the road.
“At first, I thought it was a dog. And then, as I got closer, I realized it was slinking and not walking like a normal dog,” Fowler told Victoria Buzz.
That’s when she realized it was a cougar, and according to Fowler, it appeared as though it was “window shopping” along Comox Avenue.
“It paced back and forth a little bit and actually went on its back legs outside a nail salon,” she recalled. “There’s a tin foil heart on the door, and I think that may have caught its eye, and there’s a cage of birds in the window.”
As Fowler drove past, pulled out her camera and started recording the encounter, the cougar darted through a bank parking lot.
Thank you to Miranda Fowler for sharing this video with us of a cougar walking through Downtown Comox yesterday evenin at around 10:30 pm (June 20 2022).
On Tuesday, the City of Langford, in partnership with multiple stakeholders, announced they had purchased an additional 1.35 acres of land to expand Veterans Memorial Park.
The land, located at 679 Goldstream Avenue, 2815 Aldwynd Road and 678/680 Fairway Avenue were previously owned by the Masonic Lodge.
The expansion will not only double the size of the existing park, but also protect it as a greenspace for Langford residents.
“The additional one-acre of parkland in downtown Langford will provide Langford residents with more greenspace and creates another area for public markets and events. We are grateful to the developers who have been investing in Langford as it allows us to purchase this land at no cost to the taxpayer,” said Langford Mayor, Stew Young.
“The expansion of Veterans Memorial Park will give community organizations such as the Langford Legion a place to hold notable events like Remembrance Day. This project is another example of Council’s commitment to adding more greenspace in Langford for all to enjoy.”
Park expansion will begin in 2023 and include the closure of Aldwynd Road to Goldstream Avenue. Only construction traffic will be permitted through Aldwynd Road access to Goldstream Avenue.
There are also plans to install a sidewalk along one side of Fairway Avenue to provide safe pedestrian access to and from the park.
The expansion will protect the large sequoia tree located next to the existing Lodge as well as all mature trees on-site, which will be retained and incorporated into the new park design.
“The Goldstream Masonic Hall Association and its associated Goldstream Masonic Lodge is pleased to announce it has agreed to sell its Lodge Hall and land located at 679 Goldstream Avenue, along with three adjacent lots to the City of Langford. This will allow the City to expand Veterans Memorial Park for the enjoyment of the entire community,” said Aaron Weisgerber, President, Goldstream Masonic Lodge.
“The Association wants to thank the citizens of Langford, and the City administration for working on this collaborative project, and for their support over the past 75+ years. We look forward to continuing to contribute to the benefit of this great community.”
The Masons will relocate to Bryn Maur Road, and feature a Masonic Lodge room, dining, and meeting hall on the second floor of the building, available for rent by the public.
Construction on the new building will commence in the coming months.
The park expansion will be completed by the end of 2024, with the goal to be done in time for the annual holiday light-up.
With BC’s capital bordered by water, it may come as no surprise that the city is in the running to host an upcoming Sail Grand Prix (SailGP) competition.
SailGP calls it the “most existing racing on the water” and says the 2023/24 event, anticipated to attract visitors from across the globe, could be coming to one of four Canadian cities, including coastal Victoria.
“It would also generate significant economic impact, enliven the sailing community and produce international media coverage that would elevate the host city as an iconic waterfront destination…” SailGP said.
Following a competitive domestic bid process with interest from over ten potential cities, Halifax, Nova Scotia; Kingston, Ontario; and Montreal, Quebec, are also shortlisted to host SailGP season four.
“It’s a great testament to the impressive growth of our championship to see so much interest from coast to coast in hosting the first Canada Sail Grand Prix event,” said Sir Russell Coutts, SailGP CEO.
Coutts finds Canada has “a passion for high-level sport” and says during last weekend’s United States Sail Grand Prix in Chicago, the support poured in for the Canadian team, which includes Victoria’s own Jareese Finch.
According to SailGP, the host city selection process will close in late October to give the winning locale enough time to prepare for the event.
“Our vision is to create a catalyst for the growth and fan accessibility of the sport of sailing in Canada,” added Fred Pye, founder of the Canada SailGP team.
“Bringing a SailGP event to Canada for the first time, on home waters, would be an extraordinary experience for Canadian fans and our athletes.”
The Canadian Garden council has named the 100 Garden Moments in Canada, in celebration of this year’s Year of the Garden, and a popular spot in Victoria made the list.
The gardens at Government House, created in 1911, have been named one of 100 Garden Moments in Canada.
In 2002, the Estate of the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia was designated a National Historic Site due to the beauty of 36 acres of mature trees and flowering bushes, two rose gardens and a 22-acre native Gary oak ecosystem known as the Woodlands.
The grounds also include a volunteer-run tea room and costume museum.
Today, the gardens are maintained and supported by over 400 Friends of Government House Gardens, with additional non-gardening members contributing thousands of hours to support the Government House archives and special events.
“The gardens at Government House are a wonderful treasure that I am delighted to share with visitors locally and from all over the world,” said Janet Austin, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia.
“I am grateful for the recognition from the Canadian Garden Council of the significance of our gardens, thanks largely to the extraordinary stewardship from The Friends of Government House Gardens Society volunteers, whose dedication enhances the magic of this beautiful landscape.”
Visiting the gardens at Government House is free-of-charge and open daily to the public from dawn to dusk.
For hungry visitors, Rudi’s Tea Roof offers refreshment and picnics, located in the Cary Castle Mews.
The grounds also host special events, including three free outdoor concerts on July 7th, 14th and 21st at the Government House bandshell.
Be sure to stop by and check out the gardens for yourself!
One person is in police custody following a fatal Monday night altercation at a home on Vancouver Island, Nanaimo RCMP say.
On June 20th at around 10 p.m., police were called to a home on Eighth Street in south Nanaimo for a disturbance report. Upon arrival, officers found a woman dead.
A short time later, a male suspect was taken into custody without incident, according to Nanaimo RCMP Const. Gary O’Brien.
“At this time, investigators do not believe there is any further risk to the public,” added O’Brien, noting the suspect was initially arrested for murder, though charges have yet to be laid.
This isn’t Nanaimo’s first homicide of 2022.
In late March, Buzz Coffee House in Nanaimo reopened after an on-site murder closed the Rutherford Road café for several weeks, co-owner Phil Baker told Victoria Buzz at the time.
It was back on February 12th when Baker’s grandfather, 79-year-old Eric Kutzner, was working a shift at the café.
That morning, RCMP were called to do a well-being check, and when officers arrived at around 9 a.m., they found Kutzner dead.
It’s almost time to let your Pride flags fly, Victoria!
The Victoria Pride Festival kick-off is just days away, and this year, organizers are gearing up for a celebration like never before, according to the Victoria Pride Society (VPS).
That’s because the festival returns in person following a pandemic pause with a brand-new parade route and festival experience, mixed in with the signature free Pride events the community already knows and loves.
Just in time for summer and driven by the theme ‘Pride In You,’ the 2022 Victoria Pride Festival launches this Thursday, June 23rd, until Saturday, July 2nd.
“The pandemic has been hard on 2SLGBTQIA+ communities and we are looking forward to connecting again,” the VPS exclaims.
Starting at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Youth Pride Kick-off offers a ‘Queer Prom’ night of dancing, music, local performance, and art opportunities for ages 15 to 21 at E & N Roundhouse.
Then on Friday, June 24th, the Big Gay Dog Walk hits Dallas Road at Cook Street from 6:30 until 8 p.m., with dog owners and their furry friends invited to mingle and participate in a trick and costume competition.
Come Sunday, June 26th at 11 a.m., the highly-anticipated Victoria Pride Parade will take marchers on an all-new route east over the Johnson Street Bridge and south onto scenic Wharf Street before turning onto Government, Belleville, and Menzies Streets.
“The colourful march, with as many as 140 entries and 40,000 plus spectators, will envelop the downtown Inner Harbour, and opening ceremonies will include Songhees Nation and other Indigenous Two-Spirit guests of Honour,” the VPS said.
Foot traffic only will march down Kingston, Oswego, then onto Niagara Street to enter the popular Pride Festival in the Park.
That’s happening at James Bay’s MacDonald Park from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m., where thousands are expected to gather and take part in the multifaceted queer-themed festival!
“Programming includes an early afternoon family-friendly festive atmosphere with music, fun activities, bouncy castle, drag story time, and surprises,” the VPS explains, noting admission is a suggested $5 donation.
“Later transitions into an experiential afternoon of music, dance, live bands and some of the best drag talent in Canada.”
For the first time, festival grounds will be entirely fenced in and licensed, “creating a dynamic, festive atmosphere where you can take in all the action, walk throughout the venue and have room to social distance,” the VPS added.
Other Pride events include Queen Activism Night on Thursday, June 30th from 5 until 8 p.m. at the Bay Centre; the Memorial Drag Ball Game on Friday, July 1st at noon at Victoria West Park; and Pride in the Word on Saturday, July 2nd from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at the Victoria Conference Center’s Lecture Theatre.
Victoria Pride Society revamps for 2022
Since the last live Pride event in 2019, VPS has undergone several changes, including electing nine new board members, naming a new president, and hiring Deirdre Rowland as its inaugural executive director.
Aside from Rowland’s role, all Pride events are 100% volunteer run!
“I’m excited to collaborate with both an invigorated board of directors and our first-ever executive director to ensure 2SLGBTQIA+ communities are the focus of our parade and festival, especially after two years of living in isolation,” said VPS president Britton Kohn.
The complete Pride 2022 overview can be found online here!
Only one week until the Victoria Pride Parade! 🏳️⚧️🏳️🌈This year's parade features a new route across the Johnson…
Not only is today the first day of summer, but it’s also National Indigenous Peoples Day.
In cooperation with Indigenous organizations, the Government of Canada chose June 21st, the summer solstice, for the observation.
National Indigenous Peoples day is a time for all Canadians to recognize and celebrate the unique history, diverse cultures, and remarkable contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.
There are several events being hosted around the region today including:
Royal Roads University – Lək̓ʷəŋən Homelands
Residing on the traditional lands of the Lekwungen (Songhees) and Xwsepsum (Esquimalt) peoples, a full day of activities are planned beginning at 10 a.m. and going until 3 p.m. today.
Schools and community members of all ages are encouraged to take part in canoe challenges, field games and a guided nature walk.
In addition to the events, there will be Indigenous food, art, storytelling, interactive showcases, field games, craft workshops, vendors market, performances, traditional plant walks and more.
If you can’t make it, you can watch the livestream here.
Where: Royal Roads University, 2005 Sooke Road
When: Tuesday, June 21st, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Explore the Songhees
Explore Songhees National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrations get underway at 3:30 p.m. at the Inner Harbour Lower Causeway and goes until 6 p.m.
The community is invited to honour and celebrate the many strengths, achievements, language, knowledge, culture, songs, dances, and traditions of the Songhees people. “We are a strong, sovereign Nation with rich history and extraordinary leadership and vision.”
Enjoy a traditional bannock, cold drinks and orange shirts for sale at the Explore Songhees kiosk.
In addition to those events, Explore Songhees, the Nation’s tourism initiative, is expected to re-launch this month after a three-year hiatus with canoe rides, walking tours, storytelling and more.
Where: Inner Harbour Causeway, Ship Point
When: Tuesday, June 21st, 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Tsawout First Nation
Tsawout First Nation has a full day of activities planned which got underway at 9 a.m. today and will until 7 p.m. this evening. The day of events will conclude with fireworks at 9:30 p.m.
Event organizers say there will be Kids’ activities, painting, music bingo, eco-activities, a photo booth, canoe rides, community dinner, Tzinquaw dancers, the bone game and much more.
Where: 7728 Tetayut Road, Saanichton
When: Tuesday, June 21st, 9 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
There are also several events happening further up island, those events include:
Cowichan Tribes Homelands
Beginning at 11 a.m., the Cowichan community is invited to join in for a day of activities including Cedar Rose making, drumming for medicine, painting paddles and canvases, making a drumstick and more.
There will also be opportunities to learn the language of the Cowichan peoples, Hul’qumi’num.
Where: Si’em Lelum Soccer Fields, 5574 River Road
When: Tuesday, June 21st, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Ladysmith – Stz’uminus Homelands
The Stz’uminus First Nation is hosting an event full of culture, dancing and learning. Starting at Transfer Beach starting at 10 a.m.
Event organizers says there will be performances by the Tzinquaw Dancers, Nate Harris, and the Young Wolves Dance Group. There will also be arts, crafts, food, a bouncy castle and Knowledge Keepers and Holders, and vendors to explore and learn from.
Where: Transfer Beach Park, Stz’uminus Homelands in Ladysmith
When: Tuesday, June 21st, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Port Alberni – Hupačasath First Nation
People around the Alberni Valley and across Nuu-chah-nulth territories have come to Hupacasath ha’houlthee to celebrate the unveiling of the artwork on the Harbour Quay Clock Tower.
HFN will gather to celebrate the heritage, and artwork significant to the living culture continuously observed in the hupačasath ha’houlthee.
City residents and visitors alike are encouraged to come out and experience this event to participate in an exciting day celebrating the vibrant Nuu-chah-nulth culture across the west coast of Vancouver Island.
“We look forward to unveiling the refurbished clock tower that spotlights artwork from Tseshaht First Nation artist Willard Gallic Jr., which signifies the sacred Wolf Ritual.”
Hupacasath is eager to share Kleekhoot Gold, Bigleaf Maple Syrup, as a vendor at the event.
“Having works of Indigenous art available in the public eye is vital to the rich living culture experienced daily in the hupačasath ha’houlthee. As Indigenous Peoples, we honour ourselves, families, communities, lands, and cultures daily and look forward to sharing this experience with others on National Indigenous Peoples Day.”
Where: Alberni Harbour Quay in Port Alberni
When: Tuesday, June 21st, times were not provided
Know of another community event celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day? Let us know in the comment section below!
Have you ever dreamed of stepping into a painting? Do you wish you could see your favourite artwork come to life around you?
Now is your chance.
A date and location has been set for the immersive Beyond Van Gogh experience!
In February, Beyond Van Gogh announced they would be making a stop in Victoria, following an incredibly successful Vancouver exhibit.
At the time, however, they did not announce dates, location or a timeline for when tickets would go on sale to the public.
Now, the immersive experience has confirmed they will host their Starry Night Pavilion at Bayview Place in Vic West, starting October 14th.
The immersive art experience combines still and moving art from Dutch painter Van Gogh, allowing you to step inside a painting.
The experience features over 300 iconic artworks, including instantly-recognizable classics such as “The Starry Night”, “Sunflowers” and “Café Terrace at Night”, now freed from their frames.
The three-dimensional art exhibit comes to life through appearing and disappearing artwork which flows across multiple surfaces. Guests will be able to walk freely through the exhibit to take it in for themselves.
As you move, Van Gogh’s own voice, set to a symphonic score will accompany you.
The exhibit has seen incredible success, with over 2.5 million tickets sold worldwide. The event began in Europe before making its way to North America.
Prices for Van Gogh Victoria will start at $31.99 for adults and $23.99 for children (ages 5-15), plus ticketing fees.
Have you checked out the new Walmart at Hillside Centre yet?
The Supercentre and anchor tenant officially opened its doors to the masses on Thursday, June 16th and welcomed shoppers to a whole new level of ‘one-stop shopping’ at the popular Victoria mall.
To enter to win the above prize packages, visit Hillside Centre online and follow the contest steps on their website!
The new Walmart at Hillside Centre marks the first new store of its kind in BC since 2018, and boasts two floors and 145,000 sq. ft. of convenient shopping.
They’re proud to offer a fresh assortment of affordable groceries, including 100% Canadian produce, beef, chicken, pork and seafood, general merchandise and convenient services.
The Victoria Hillside Supercentre also created 550 jobs within the community, and employs approximately 350 associates—renovation also created roughly 200 trade and construction jobs.
New features and offerings at the Victoria Hillside Supercentre include:
An expansive international section including Asian, Southeast Asian, British, German,
Latin and Italian foods
Express Pickup service with online grocery orders ready in two hours or less
Grocery Delivery service with local on-demand delivery
A pharmacy slated to open in the coming weeks
A 4,000 sq. ft. Jack Nathan Health medical centre with paramedical services such as
chiropractic, physiotherapy and a medical spa, expected to open in the summer of 2022
Open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily, the new addition of Walmart elevates Hillside’s already impressive anchor line up, which includes Canadian Tire, Shoppers Drug Mart, Marshalls, Sport Chek / Atmosphere, Thrifty Foods, Dollarama and Bolen Books.
The daylong event, will kick-off with a traditional First Nations canoe protocol, and there will be an Official Welcoming Ceremony, followed by a lineup of diverse music and dance performances on the main stage—the rest of Ship Point will be filled with a Multicultural Street Market with artisans, a kid’s zone, food trucks and even more interactive activities!
Following the full lineup of performances and fun, the day will be capped off by a spectacular fireworks display.
This year’s event has been designed to honour the Lekwungen people and their lands and culture and to offer a fun, family-friendly, and inclusive event that reflects the diversity of our community and our country.
Without further ado, here are 7 things to know about this year’s Canada Day celebrations in Victoria:
1. There will be all-day entertainment on the main stage
The Victoria Real Estate Board Main Stage will feature an exciting lineup of talent, kicked off with a performance by the Lekwungen Traditional Dancers just after 12 p.m., and Metchosin singer-songwriter Jesse Roper will end the evening with a 75-minute show—you can check out the day’s full lineup of performances here!
2. You could be a part of it all!
This year, Canada Day Victoria will be featuring a Share Your Heritage Photo Contest!
Help to create a photo gallery representing the diversity of Victoria and Canada, and by sharing your cultural heritage you enter to win one of two $100 Mayfair Mall gift cards!
3. There will be an epic kid’s zone for the little ones
There were be plenty to do and to see for the little ones in your life this Canada Day, with a kid’s zone which will run from noon to dusk! Check it out:
Tickles & Yowza the Clowns at 1:30 p.m., then balloon twisting until 4 p.m.
Volunteer Victoria will be offering face painting and tattoos from
Fun & Giant Games featuring hands on fun
Bouncy Castle & Bouncy Obstacle Course
The Bug Zoo, an interactive exhibit to learn about bugs
Pacific FC will have a soccer shot activity on-site
🍁 We are building our Volunteer team for Canada Day 2022! If you are interested in one of the positions below, you can…
4. The best of the Victoria food truck scene will be there
Hungry? You won’t have to leave the Canada Day Celebrations to get your eats and treats! You’ll find the best of the best of Victoria’s food trucks will be there for all of your cravings, including:
Whistler Wood Fired Pizza
Mama Rosies Kitchen
Cup-A-Roni
Greek on the Street
Sub-Zero Ice Cream
Lemon Heaven
Road Treasure Treats
The Ice Cream Truck
Hotdog Hustlin’
Taco Revolution
Sunset Island
Yummy Food Truck
Candytime Victoria
Hungry Bubbas
Deadbeetz
FreshCoast Health Food
Kattia’s Kitchen
Bru Bike Expresso Bar
5. Local Indigenous arts, culture and craft will be woven throughout the day
The day will begin with a traditional First Nations canoe protocol and an Official Welcoming Ceremony, followed by a performance by the Lekwungen Traditional Dancers on the main stage.
This year’s Canada Day festivities will include live, multicultural entertainment on the main stage and a Multicultural Street Market filled with artisans, including:
1Kind
Aniska Crafts
Cove Creativity
Exclusive Brazil
Friends of Gashora
Grandma’s Apothec
Karmik Henna Art
Kindred Coast
Otter & Emma
Raincoast Jewelry
Roger Jackson Fine Arts
Sea Leaf Products
She Did Knot
Syriana Catering
Tanis Designs
Tinast Canada
URU.INSPIRE
Where Wild Things Glow
6. Canada Day is going green
Victoria’s Canada Day is going zero waste! There will be a Green Team of volunteers and members of the DVBA’s Clean Team supporting recycling efforts at the street market and throughout the day, and free bike parking for anyone cycling to and from the event.
7. There WILL be fireworks!
As in past celebrations, there will be a spectacular firework display following the day’s live entertainment at around 10:20 p.m.—we can’t think of a better way to end the day!
The fireworks will be presented by Reliance Properties.
You can stay up to date and view the full Canada Day schedule online here.
Starbucks has officially welcomed the warm weather, announcing a collection of brand new menu items to kick off the first day of summer.
Starting June 21st, the summer menu features two new refresher beverages, a pineapple passionfruit and paradise drink.
The new Pineapple Passionfruit Starbucks Refresher is inspired by the nostalgic flavours of pineapple popsicle or passion fruit shaved ice, bringing all the summer vibes with every sip.
The drink includes real diced pineapple pieces and is hand shaken by baristas. Customers can also order it with lemonade for an extra burst of flavour!
The Paradise Drink Starbucks Refresher is a non-dairy summer addition, adding coconut beverage to the Pineapple Passionfruit Starbucks Refreshers beverage for a creamy, tropical sip.
Starbucks has also added a few new menu items for those hungry visitors.
The new Cookies and Cream Cake Pop combines chocolate cake with creamy sandwich cookie buttercream and cookie bits, dipped in white chocolatey coating, and finished with dark chocolate cookie crumb.
Breakfast lovers can also try Starbucks’ new Bacon, Sausage & Egg Wrap or Southwest Potato, Black Bean and Egg Wrap, both made with cage-free scrambled eggs.
A Victoria man is walking home a millionaire and thanking his lucky numbers after scoring big.
Avid hockey-fan Beau Williams won the June 7th $1-million Maxmillions prize, meaning he’s one step closer to his ‘goal’ of buying a home, according to the BC Lottery Corporation (BCLC).
“It takes a lot of stress off of me—it’s unreal!” said Williams, who purchased the winning ticket at a Shoppers Drug Mart in Saanich.
“I was at a Save-On-Foods and had to check my ticket five times because I didn’t believe it. I gave it to the cashier to check, and I was in disbelief.”
Williams says his girlfriend was the first person he shared the news with and tells the BCLC that he also plans to travel with his winnings.
“I’ve always wanted to do a road trip across Canada. A couple years ago, my girlfriend and I were going to drive across the country, and then COVID hit,” added Williams.
So far in 2022, BC lottery players have claimed more than $52 million in prizes from Lotto Max, a nationwide lottery game drawn on Tuesdays and Fridays after 7:30 pm.
At FreshCoast, all the smoothies are named after popular southern Vancouver Island locations: Saanich Fair, Little Tribune Bay, Alert Bay, Funky Monkey, Girl Talk, Carmanah Rainforest, Mile 0, Sprout Lake and Witty’s Lagoon.
Enjoy a variety of smoothie options with almond milk, coconut water, peanut butter and more.
Rebar’s slogan is ‘eat really well’, so you know their smoothies are going to be fantastic!The vegetarian restaurant’s smoothie menu includes 10 different flavours and combinations, including options for almond milk, soy milk or yogurt.
Location: 50 Bastion Square
Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday
Morning people good truck offers 2 vegetarian and wheat free smoothie bowl options, an açai smoothie bowl made with oat milk and topped with granola and a peanut butter bowl with hemp hearts
Location: 325 Cook Street
Hours: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday to Thursday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Friday to Sunday
Eight decades after vandals forced the site’s former tea house to shutter, a new pavilion now open at Esquimalt’s Gorge Park restores a deep-rooted history.
On Saturday, the public and local officials celebrated the grand opening of Gorge Park Pavilion—an over 6,000 sq. ft space covering two floors, each with views of the water and renewed surrounding gardens.
According to township officials, the building’s design is inspired by the original tea house, The Japanese Tea Garden, a popular park spot around 80 years ago.
It was designed in 1907 by Isaburo Kishida for his son, Yoshihiro Kishida and Yoshihiro’s business partner, Hayato Takata, after being contracted by the BC Electric Railway Company build an authentic Japanese Tea Garden.
However, in 1942, the tea house was vandalized during the Second World War when Japanese Canadians were forced into internment, the township recalls.
Japanese Tea House at Gorge Park, 1912 (City of Victoria Archives)
Years later, after public consultation showed community support for a new facility on the site, the project moved forward with the pavilion funded through a portion of the $17-million McLoughlin Amenity Funds.
By the summer of 2020, construction was underway after Esquimalt received funding from the Capital Regional District in exchange for using McLoughlin Point for the region’s wastewater treatment plant.
(Ethan Morneau/Victoria Buzz)
The township says the pavilion and grounds, accessed via Tillicum Road, are intended to be a community gathering space and notes that programming like art and yoga classes will be provided, as well as renting the building for events.
Today, the garden remains the oldest Japanese Garden in North America, with Kishida also known for designing the Japanese Gardens at Royal Roads and Butchart Gardens.
Amid construction and the busy summer tourism season, service changes are coming to the Victoria Regional Transit System starting next week, according to BC Transit.
Effective Monday, June 27th, Route 11 Tillicum Centre/UVic will no longer serve the Gorge-Admirals-Cowper-Obed loop due to construction work on Gorge Road between Tillicum and Admirals Roads.
Routes 24 Cedar Hill/Admirals Walk and 25 Maplewood/Admirals Walk will be extended from Admirals Walk to Tillicum Centre to support the route 11 change, BC Transit explains.
In anticipation of tourist needs, it says service improvements are also being made to routes 70 Swartz Bay/Downtown and 75 Saanichton/Royal Oak/Downtown, with Routes 54 Metchosin and 55 Happy Valley operating along the Chidlow Connector.
BC Transit adds that as part of summer-only changes, Route 17 Cedar Hill will be discontinued, Route 81 Brenwood/Saanichton/Sidney/Swartz Bay will see increased capacity and select school trips will be scrapped from several routes.
Victoria Regional Transit System maps and schedules can be found online here.
Police are recommending charges against an impaired driver who allegedly pointed a replica gun at another vehicle near Mayfair Shopping Centre this weekend.
VicPD said the victim, who was on his way to meet his daughter for breakfast Saturday morning, called 911 to report that someone had aimed a handgun at them near the intersection of Douglas and Finlayson Streets.
The incident began around 9:45 a.m. near that intersection when another vehicle began driving dangerously in front of the victim, who told police the suspect was “brake-checking” him and preventing other traffic from passing.
As the man passed the erratic driver, the suspect began yelling and pointed a handgun at him.
The victim managed to take photos of the of the suspect vehicle, and once in a safer location, called 911.
With the photos, police began searching the area for the suspect and his vehicle.
Not long after, VicPD said they received a call that a vehicle matching the description was parked in front of a business in the 3000-block of Shelbourne Avenue, and that the driver was displaying signs of being impaired.
Arriving officers arrested the man at gunpoint.
Police said the vehicle was searched and a fully-functional pellet gun which resembled a high-calibre handgun was located, as well as drugs and drug paraphernalia.
The driver failed a standard field sobriety test and was taken into custody for an additional drug-impaired driving investigation, according to VicPD.
Police said the vehicle was also reported to have several deficiencies that made it unsafe to be on the road.
“The driver of the vehicle was released with conditions and a future court date for recommended charges for pointing a firearm and impaired driving,” said VicPD in a media release.
The vehicle was towed to impound and the suspect was also issued a 24-hour driving ban tickets for traffic offences and offences under the Cannabis Act, as well as notice an order to repair the vehicle deficiencies.
VicPD are asking anyone who has information on the incent to call them (250) 995-7654.
Police on the West Shore are investigating and seeking witnesses following a fatal collision that killed one man on Father’s Day.
At around 7:15 a.m. on Sunday, June 19th, West Shore RCMP responded to a single-vehicle crash in the area of Goldstream Avenue at Kristina Place in Langford.
When officers arrived on scene, it appeared that the 59-year-old driver, the only occupant of the car, had collided with a parked industrial vehicle.
According to RCMP, BC Emergency Health Services and Langford Fire Rescue rendered first aid on scene; however, the driver succumbed to his injuries.
“This tragic incident is still under investigation by the BC Coroners Service and RCMP Collision Analyst,” added West Shore RCMP Const. Meghan Groulx.
“No further information is available at this time as the investigation continues, and a name will not be released.”
Anyone who witnessed the crash and has yet to speak with police or has dashcam footage is asked to call West Shore RCMP at (250) 474-2264.
The second Phillips Backyard Music Festival of the season is just around the corner and will feature international headliners mixed with rising local and Canadian talent.
The Phillips Brewing’s weekend concert series kicked off back in mid-May, marking the return of backyard parties!
The first weekend of music, known as GLITTERBOMBER, included performances by Future Islands, Bryce Vine, Durand Jones and The Indications, The Zolas, Begonia, Astrocolor, Murge’s Golden Era of Hip Hop and more.
As expected, there will be a variety of cold, crisp, refreshing Phillips Beers as well as non-alcoholic options. Refillable water bottle stations will also be available for festival-goers.
There will also be several food trucks on location to keep you topped up for dancing the day away!
The next event, known as TILT!, will take place on July 9th and 10th and will feature a lineup of Half Moon Run, The Beaches, Current Swell, Snotty Nose Rez Kids, Fleece, Hotel Mira, Old Soul Rebel, Witch Prophet and more.
And better yet, we’re offering a chance to win a pair of weekend passes, so you can check it out for yourself—you’ll find those contest details below!
If you want to grab your tickets now, single-day tickets are $70 each and weekend passes go for $125 and you can get them online.
Each festival designed to offer a diverse mix of music genres, artists, food and experiences.
Saturday July 9th lineup:
Half Moon Run
Current Swell
Fleece
Old Soul Rebel
Born Reckless
Juice
DJ Boitano
+more
Sunday July 10th lineup:
The Beaches
Snotty Nose Rez Kids
Hotel Mira
Witch Prophet
DJ Boitano
+more
Check out this recap video of the Phillips Glitterbomber event:
Ready to get even more hyped for TILT!? Phillips has put together this playlist to help you do just that.
IMPLOSION EXPLOSION will close out the summer on August 13th and 14th and feature artists such as St. Paul & the Broken Bones, Charlotte Day Wilson, Sampa the Great, Andy Shauf, Zella Day, Carmanah, Nicky Mackenzie and more.
CONTEST
For a chance to WIN a a pair of weekend passes to tickets to Phillips Backyard Music Festival TILT! edition, complete one or more of the following:
SHARE this post on Facebook and/or Twitter and leave a comment below telling us once you have. (1 entry)
Contest entries will be accepted from the time and date of publishing until 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, June 30th. One winner will be chosen at random and contacted through the platform they used to enter.
Nanaimo RCMP are looking to identify a thief who stole a bicycle from a local high school in early June.
Just before 3:30 p.m. on June 2nd, the individual allegedly stole a bike chained outside Wellington High School on Mexicana Drive.
The bike was owned by a grade nine student at the high school.
Officers reviewed video surveillance and observed the suspect walk up to the bicycle, remove a set of bolt cutters from his backpack and cut the lock before riding off on the bike.
The suspect is described as Caucasian man, between 25 and 30 years of age.
He stands 5’10” tall with a muscular build and short blonde hair.
At the time of the incident he was wearing a black mask, sleeveless grey colored shirt, blue jeans and was carrying a backpack.
The bike that was stolen is a black and red Supercycle mountain bike with serial number AH15E087496.
Anyone who has information regarding this incident or to the identity of the suspect is asked to contact the Nanaimo RCMP at (250) 754-2345.
A Victoria woman is reeling and warning dog owners to stay wary this summer after water intoxication claimed the life of her beloved Border Collie.
Last week, Jessie Weninger took to social media, saying her 18-month-old dog, Winter, passed away on Saturday, June 11th, after playing for an hour in a kids’ pool filled with roughly four inches of water.
“I will miss him dearly,” said Weninger.
“The events from [Saturday] can only be explained as a freak accident,” she wrote on Instagram. “None of it truly makes sense, but somehow this time spent splashing around in the pool became fatal.”
Weninger says her post came to advocate on Winter’s behalf, share the details surrounding his death and help spread awareness about the dangers of water intoxication for dogs.
According to the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC), water’s hidden danger to dogs often has nothing to do with its depth or tide but rather repeated ingestion.
The club says it goes to show that sometimes, too much of a good thing can prove fatal.
“Water intoxication, also known as hyponatremia, happens when too much water is consumed and causes the body’s sodium levels to drop, followed by water filling and swelling the brain, as well as other organs,” states a CKC post.
“While it’s most likely to occur from playing in deeper water, like diving to retrieve toys or sticks, water intoxication can also occur from simply playing with a backyard sprinkler or water hose.”
CKC says initial signs in dogs include excessive salivation, nausea, vomiting, lack of coordination, lethargy, bloating, dilated pupils, and lightened gum colour, while advanced symptoms can include seizures and coma.
Pet owners who suspect their dog has water intoxication should call their vet immediately, as urgent and aggressive veterinary care is needed once intoxication takes place.
“With that being said, please be careful with your dogs this summer—especially on hot days or during potential heat waves. We do not need another innocent pup passing away tragically from this,” said Weninger.
She says Winter’s passing has left her “deeply saddened” as she continues to grieve and adjust to life without him.
“I cannot even comprehend the fact that he is never coming back,” added Weninger. “I am so grateful for the time I had with Winter, and I truly hope he brought as much joy to everyone else as he did to me.”
Did you spot the pirate ship docked in Victoria’s Rock Bay area?
Don’t worry, we’re not under siege.
The world’s only Tall Ship Theatre arrived in Victoria this weekend, ahead of its series of nightly performances by dancers and trapeze artists.
The Amara Zee, docked in Rock Bay, is being preparing for its world premiere of a production called Virtual Rogues.
The Caravan Stage Company, the production company behind the show, says the performance focuses on the ethos and ethics of the digital future, and is described as “experimental cirque opera.”
“A Tale of Love & Loss in a bizarre yet prophetic forthcoming world when the Earth is populated and ruled by AI Dataist Automates with the few remaining organic species, Virtual Rogues, preserved on the Caravan Stage Theatre ship, the Amara Zee,” reads a description on the company’s website.
Nightly shows will begin on Thursday, June 23rd at 10 p.m. through 11:30 p.m., and run until July 10th.
A group of travelling performers will dazzle crowds with a high-flying spectacle from a makeshift stage aboard a pirate ship.
Admission is pay what you can, at the gate, located at the north end of Store Street.
When: Previews of the show run from June 23rd to 26th, with the official opening scheduled for the following week and shows on June 28th and 29th, July 2nd and 3rd and July 5th through 10th. Performances begin after dark, at 10 p.m. each night.
BC SPCA shelters across the province are overwhelmed due to an influx of cats in care, prompting staff to slash select adoption fees to free up space.
From June 20th to 30th, the BC SPCA is offering 50% off adult cat adoption fees at its locations, including Victoria, to combat an ongoing strain on facilities and resources, especially after large-scale intakes.
“Just this month, we took in 120 cats from a property in northern BC, and these kinds of cases are happening all around the province,” said Lorie Chortyk, general manager of communications for the BC SPCA.
Through the promotion, Chortyk says society staff is hoping to find homes for the cats already in its care to bring in more cats and kittens in need of urgent help.
While adoption fees vary from location to location, in Victoria, the price of an adult cat is $149. That includes a microchip and lifetime registration with the BC Pet Registry, according to the BC SPCA’s website.
Chortyk says some of the cats available for adoption have flocked from recent cases, including more than 70 cats brought to the SPCA’s Surrey facility and numerous Himalayan cats surrendered to its location in Squamish.
“COVID, the rising cost of living and mental health challenges are all playing a role in this increased need for help,” added Chortyk.
“We encourage anyone who has been thinking about adopting a pet to take advantage of this promotion. You will not only be providing a loving home for a deserving animal, but it will also allow us to create capacity to help more abused and neglected animals.”
Interested in adding a furry friend to your family? More adoption details can be found online here.
We’re halfway through June and the sun finally got the memo!
According to Environment Canada’s forecast, temperatures will climb throughout the week, starting on Monday with sun and clouds and a high of 18 degrees.
The warm weather doesn’t stop there though. On Tuesday and Wednesday, temperatures will reach 20 degrees, but the clouds will be sticking around.
On Thursday, the clouds clear, and temperatures climb to 24 degrees on Friday, 26 degrees on Saturday and 25 degrees on Sunday.
If you have been dreaming of the sun finally coming out of hiding, this week is for you.
Get outside, remember your SPF and take it all in.
According to the forecast, the sun will continue throughout most of next week and into the Canada Day long weekend.
What are your plans now that the sun is finally making an appearance?
A 13.8-pound black bear cub who its found way into a Campbell River home through a cat door earlier this week is now being cared for by a Vancouver Island wildlife rescue centre.
The now-orphaned bear cub snuck into the home after becoming separated from its mother.
Staff with the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre said the bear was scared and looking for safety.
Once inside the home, the bear took refuge behind a house plant.
The homeowner called the BC Conservation Officer Service, which retrieved the orphan and brought it to the rescue centre.
Staff say the cub appears to be a good candidate for rehabilitation, and shows no signs of habituation to humans.
It’ll likely spend at least a year at the facility before being released back into the wilderness.
The non-profit organization relies on public donations and is asking for hthe form of blankets, sardines and fresh eggs.
Anyone interested in donating is asked to drop items off at the centre or visit its website for more information.
Sadly, West Shore RCMP confirmed late Friday evening that missing 35-year-old Lily Zahariev has been found deceased.
Zahariev was reported missing to police earlier today.
When the initial missing person report was released, police stated that they were concerned for Zahariev’s health and well-being.
Criminality has been ruled out.
“We are deeply saddened of this outcome and our hearts go out to the family who is grieving the loss of a loved one,” says Constable Meghan Groulx, spokesperson for the West Shore RCMP.
“The family will be given support through this difficult time.”
UPDATE: Sadly, West Shore RCMP confirmed late Friday evening that missing 35-year-old Lily Zahariev has been found deceased.
— original:
West Shore RCMP are asking for the public’s help in locating Lily Zahariev, who was reported missing on June 17th.
Zahariev is described as Caucasian, standing 5’3″ tall with a slim build and long dark brown hair.
“We are very concerned for Lily’s health and well-being and are looking for public assistance to locate her,” said Constable Meghan Groulx, spokesperson with the West Shore RCMP.
“If you have any information regarding her whereabouts please contact the police.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact the West Shore RCMP at 250-474-2264 or their local police.
Victoria Police are seeking witnesses and information after a pair of thieves robbed a grocery store and attacked a man on Thursday before fleeing the scene.
According to VicPD, officers responded to the James Bay store, located in the 300-block of Menzies Street, at around 4:45 p.m. on June 16th.
Once on scene, officers reportedly found a man who had been assaulted and suffering serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
“Officers learned that the victim had attempted to stop a theft in progress after noticing a woman attempting to leave the store with unpaid items,” VicPD said in a statement.
“As the victim struggled with the theft suspect, a man attacked the victim and assaulted him several times. The suspects then fled the scene together on foot with the stolen items.”
Police say paramedics with BC Emergency Health Services transported the victim to hospital for medical treatment.
The first suspect, a Caucasian woman around 40 years old, stands at 5’6” with brown hair. At the time of the robbery, she wore grey sweatpants and a dark sweatshirt.
Meanwhile, the second suspect is a Caucasian man also around 40 years old, standing six feet tall and last seen wearing a black jacket, black hooded sweater, and blue jeans.
VicPD say the incident remains under investigation and ask anyone with information to call (250) 995-7654. To remain anonymous, contact Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 222-8477.
Although it may not feel like summer yet, soon we will have the perfect weather to enjoy a good book in the fresh air.
To encourage you to get started, Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) has announced reading clubs and challenges for library lovers of every age are about to begin!
Kids Summer Reading Club: All Together Now
Each year, VIRL takes part in Summer Reading Club (SRC), a province-wide initiative sponsored by the British Columbia Library Association (BCLA) and local public libraries, encouraging children to connect with the library to help build and maintain their reading skills during the summer months.
From July 5th to August 22nd, readers keep track of their reading records while taking part in fun activities and events along the way.
Each participant keeps track of their progress in a customized VIRL SRC package that includes reading records and can be picked up at any VIRL branch.
At the end of the summer, readers celebrate their achievements with a SRC medal!
Registration for SRC opens June 21st in branch or online here.
Teen Summer Challenge (TSC): VIRLmanjia- Welcome to the Library
For teens aged 12 to 18, VIRL will host VIRLmanjia, a series of activities that encourage them to read, learn new skills, experiment and think critically.
There will also be prizes to win!
This year’s challenge theme is based on the popular Jumanji movies. You can check out a trailer here!
Registration for TSC opens June 21st in branch or online here.
Ongoing “crewing challenges” are to blame for BC Ferries’ decision to scrap multiple sailings between Vancouver Island and the Mainland this weekend, according to the corporation.
BC Ferries issued service notices advising of cancellations leading into and during the weekend on the Queen of New Westminster, which sails from Sidney’s Swartz Bay to Tsawwassen and vice versa.
Friday, June 17th cancellations include the 4 p.m. departing Tsawwassen and 6 p.m. departing Swartz Bay, while upcoming Sunday, June 19th cancellations include:
4 p.m. departing Tsawwassen
6 p.m. departing Swartz Bay
8 p.m. departing Tsawwassen
10 p.m. departing Swartz Bay
BC Ferries says it’s contacting affected customers to let them know if space is available on alternate sailings or if their booking must be cancelled and refunded.
“We appreciate your patience and apologize for any inconvenience you may experience as a result of these cancellations,” it said.
But sailing cancellations may come as no surprise.
As a staff shortage continues to plague BC Ferries, it prompted a warning to customers earlier this year to expect delays and altered sailing schedules into the peak summer season.
In March, BC Ferries said vaccination policies, troubles recruiting international candidates, and a shortage of professional mariners were fueling hiring challenges.
“We require a specific number of crew members on board the vessel to ensure the safety of our passengers in the unlikely event of an emergency and to comply with Transport Canada regulations,” reads the latest notice.
Earlier this month, BC Ferries also cancelled multiple June 6th sailings between Tsawwassen and Swartz Bay due to a “crewing issue.”
“The decision to cancel a sailing in these circumstances is made when we have exhausted all options to find replacement crew. That said, if circumstances change and replacement crew become available, we would notify customers immediately,” it added.
For the latest on route statuses, visit the BC Ferries Service Notices page for details.
Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers and Sooke RCMP are asking for the public’s help in identifying a suspect accused of committing an indecent act on a BC Transit bus on May 26th.
The suspect is described a male, between the ages of 17 to 25, standing 5’11” tall with a slim build.
According to reports, he is Southeast Asian, clean shaven with short black hair. The suspect is said to speak with a South-East Asian accent, possibly Filipino.
At the time of the incident the suspect was wearing a green camouflage ‘Champion’ brand baseball hat, a black ‘Champion’ brand sweatshirt, light grey ‘Puma’ sweatpants, white sneakers, and a dark coloured backpack.
As the City of Victoria celebrates Pride month by raising the Pride flag outside city hall, Mayor Lisa Helps is condemning the actions that led to the cancellation of an upcoming drag show.
In a pledge of support, Helps dressed in drag on Friday morning and joined city councillors Charlayne Thronton, Stephen Andrews, as well as Sarah Potts, who was also in drag, to raise the flag and kick off Pride week locally.
“In June, Canadians from coast to coast to coast come together to celebrate Pride month. Here in Victoria, we do the same,” said Helps.
“After two years of not being able to gather in person for Pride events and the annual parade, Victorians are keen to come together again to celebrate.”
Helps’ comments come amid frustration in the 2SLGBTQ+ community after a Quadra Village coffee shop set to host a family-friendly drag show this Saturday was targeted with hateful and homophobic phone calls and threats of violence.
According to Caffe Fantastico owner Ryan Taylor, one caller suggested someone should “shoot up the place and everyone in it.”
“In the past week, our staff here have been harassed by callers, who have been ignorant to what a drag show is, and have berated us for hosting a family-friendly drag show event,” said Taylor.
The upcoming show, Sashay Cafe: Emo Edition, was a dance performance to be hosted at his cafe—a welcoming, open and accessible venue for artists and performers to showcase their talents, Taylor explains.
He says the Wednesday gun threat was “very upsetting” to his staff and scheduled performers, as well as the event’s organizer, For The Love Of Drag, who ultimately decided to pull the plug.
The caller incidents have been reported to police, with VicPD launching an investigation and seeking anyone with information to come forward.
Victoria Pride Society (VPS) president Britton Kohn attended the Pride flag-raising event and said the society stands in solidarity with those impacted by “this senseless outpouring of hate, and against hate, violence and discrimination of any kind.”
Kicking off next Thursday, June 23rd, there’s less than a week to go until the Victoria Pride Festival, which includes the popular Pride Parade, makes a triumphant return.
“The safety of our communities is our first priority and we have been in conversation with Victoria Police, our event security provider Elite Security, and all of our crew and volunteer leads to make sure precautions are in place to ensure the safety of everyone at our upcoming events,” added VPS in a statement.
Today, Mayor Helps, members of Council and @VictoriaPride raised the Progress Pride Flag outside of City Hall in honour of PRIDE Week. We're proud to be a welcoming & inclusive community for all people regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or expression. 1/2 pic.twitter.com/mK4zRvrpKe
Another case of avian influenza has been detected in a poultry flock around Vancouver Island, according to the Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN).
On Wednesday, June 15th, the BC Animal Centre confirmed to the RDN that avian flu, or the highly pathogenic H5N1 virus, was found in a local backyard poultry premises.
In a statement, the province says the site was placed under quarantine by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) back on April 23rd, after it was deemed a “Suspect Premises.”
According to the province, the CFIA and the BC Ministry of Agriculture and Food continue to implement additional response measures to address the situation.
On Thursday, Somerset Farm on Gabriola Island, located about 5 kilometres east of Nanaimo, took to Facebook, saying the avian flu outbreak was at another farm on the island.
“We will be quarantined until a control zone is set,” wrote Somerset Farm.
“For now, you are still able to come to the shop for meat purchases but not eggs. As we learn more about the restrictions, we will let you know.”
* WE ASK THAT YOU COOPERATE WITH THE CFIA AND FOLLIW THEIR GUIDANCE TO MINIMIZE THE DURATION AND IMPACT OF THIS OUTBREAK…
The announcement comes over a month after a small flock in the Comox Valley tested positive for the virus.
Since mid-April, 17 avian flu outbreaks have been detected in both small and commercial flocks across BC, including in Kelowna, Richmond, Armstrong and the central Kootenays.
Often referred to as “bird flu,” the province says signs of avian flu include sudden death, decreased food consumption and egg production, and excessive thirst, among other symptoms.
Bird owners must notify authorities of serious bird diseases such as avian flu and refrain from taking sick birds off their property, according to BC officials, who find no evidence eating cooked poultry or eggs transmits the virus to humans.
Nanaimo RCMP have revealed they are coming across more individuals in possession of modified weapons, with two separate seizures occurring earlier this week.
Just after 9 a.m. on June 14th, RCMP bike patrol officers came upon several people sitting on the steps leading to the Nanaimo Military Museum on Cameron Street.
According to reports, one officer noticed one person in the group was in possession of a jeweler’s hammer.
The unique item led to a conversation between the officer and the individual, as they questioned the methods in which they would be able to acquire it.
Moments later, officers found what they suspected to be a sawed off shotgun in the suspect’s waistband.
47-year-old Robert McGeorge of no fixed address was arrested and the firearm was seized.
A search of his items located 16 additional rounds of ammunition. The firearm was a modified single-shot calibre rifle.
McGeorge was transported to the Nanaimo RCMP cells and charged for weapons, drug possession, possessing break in tools and breach against charges.
(Nanaimo RCMP)
Later that same day, at approximately 3 p.m, officers responded to a report of a man who appeared to be passed out behind the wheel of a motor vehicle parked on Rosamond Street.
Upon waking the individual, officers suspected he was impaired by drugs and detained him.
A check of his clothes revealed a black bag that held various amounts of suspected crack cocaine, powdered cocaine, MDMA and fentanyl.
Officers also searched a backpack on the floor of the vehicle, which had been within arms reach of the individual, which revealed a loaded sawed off shotgun.
The 48-year-old Nanaimo man was held in police custody overnight before being released the next day on an undertaking for weapons charges.
The man, who cannot be named as charges have not been formally laid, will appear in court late July.
(Nanaimo RCMP)
“These two interactions speak volumes to the inherent dangers police officers face on a daily basis,” said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.
“Disturbingly, officers are finding more and more criminals who have taken to arming themselves with these dangerous modified weapons.”
A half dozen vehicles were damaged or destroyed after a blaze, deemed arson, ripped through a James Bay apartment complex parking lot late Thursday.
Just before midnight on June 16th, the Victoria Fire Department called VicPD officers to Menzies Street, near Dallas Road, where firefighters were dousing a fire engulfing multiple vehicles.
It was the area’s second fire of the night, coming not long after a smaller fire, about 100 metres down the street, was deliberately set outside an apartment building and extinguished by residents, according to police.
At around 11:45 p.m., fire crews were preparing to leave the scene of the first fire when a resident of another building flagged them over to a carport blaze at Seaview Towers Apartments.
Firefighters contained and extinguished the fire before it spread further.
VicPD officers were on scene and noted the second fire’s aftermath to be “significant,” as the carport was damaged and six vehicles were damaged or destroyed.
No injuries were reported in either incident and at this time, VicPD say both fires remain under investigation.
Investigators ask anyone with dashcam, doorcam or other video footage from the area between 11:30 p.m. Thursday and 12:30 a.m. Friday to call (250) 995-7654.
To remain anonymous, tipsters can reach Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 222-8477.
Nanaimo RCMP are asking for the public’s help in identifying two suspects involved in a store robbery early Sunday morning.
At 6:12 a.m. on June 12th, officers responded to an alarm at the Winners Homesense located at 6950 Island Highway North.
When they arrived on scene, officers noted that the front sliding glass doors had been breached, with several glass cases inside the store containing jewelry smashed with most of the contents taken.
Surveillance footage captured two suspects entering the business at 6:07 a.m. and running directly toward the jewelry cases.
The suspect’s faces were covered and one was seen rolling several suitcases out of the store.
The estimated loss of the stolen jewelry is unknown at this time.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Nanaimo RCMP at (250) 754-2345.
The show is described as a colorful intrusion into a new day in the life of insects; a non-stop riot of energy and movement.
Through show-stopping acrobatics highlighting the unique personalities and abilities of selected insect species, OVO explores the beauty of biodiversity in all its contrasts and vibrancy.
From mighty crickets bouncing off trampolines to a hypnotic spider contorting inside her web, OVO exudes extraordinary showmanship to tickle the imagination.
Funny and chaotic, yet adorable and wonderful, OVO charms our inner child with its sweet exuberance. With 100 people from 25 different countries, including 52 artists, OVO brings to the stage high-level acrobatic acts redefining the limits of the human body.
Since its opening in Montreal in 2009, OVO has thrilled more than 7 million people in 155 cities in 26 different countries.
Limited tickets are still available but if you can’t make it or just want a sneak peek into the show, here are 15 photos take by Victoria Buzz photographer, Rob Porter of RMS Media:
