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Did you know 14 billion cups of coffee are consumed in Canada every year?
Coffee is integrated into our everyday lives. It is energy, a morning tradition or a midday pick-me-up.
Coffee is also social—a perfect excuse to get together with friends or talk business.
If you’re looking to support local while enjoying your morning brew, there’s a place you can find a ton of local roasters all in one place!
The Vancouver Island Coffee Tour Map highlights over 50 independent coffee roasters across Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands, meaning you could try a coffee from a different local roaster every week of the year!
And the list doesn’t stop there.
“The list continues to grow as I get recommendations from adventurous coffee lovers around the island and up the strait,” Joshua Gillingham, the creator of the map said.
So how did it start?
When the COVID-19 pandemic began and cafes closed, Gillingham’s fascination with coffee led him down a rabbit hole that included coffee origins, roasting methods, brewing devices and more.
Gillingham wanted to learn more and, with travel out of the picture, set out to explore Vancouver Island.
“While we have enjoyed exploring this incredible part of the world, from road trips down to Port Renfrew to back-backing out to the Cape Scott lighthouse, I had the idea that seeking out local coffee roasters might help us uncover more hidden gems,” Gillingham said.
“What began as a personal summer travel itinerary blossomed into the Van. Isle Coffee Tour – a self-guided community tour map of local coffee roasters on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.”
During his exploration, Gillingham realized there was superb coffee both in Vancouver and right here on Vancouver Island.
Gillingham, wanting to share his love of coffee and spread the word of the amazing roasters he had discovered, created the Vancouver Island Coffee Tour Map.
The map allows users to see all the local roasteries across Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands, inviting them to try something local and close to home or try something new while exploring.
The map is divided by North Island Roasters, Gulf Island Roasters, Mid Island Roasters, South Island Roasters and Wild Coast Roasters.
The website also includes some articles to help with coffee and brewing basics, as well as practical resources for Islanders such as how to brew a good cup of coffee on the beach.
Upon launch on Victoria Day Long weekend, the site already had over one hundred people subscribed to the newsletter, the Vancouver Island Coffee Quarterly.
“There is clearly a lot of excitement around discovering and celebrating local coffee so I hope to continue down that path by building bridges between local roasters, coffee lovers, and seasonal visitors.”
Ready to get out and discover all the best locally roasted coffee? You can take a look at the map here.
Big changes are planned for a popular park in Saanich.
Sprawled over two hectares, Rutledge Park on Cloverdale Avenue already has walking trails, tennis courts and a playground. But come next year, its playground will be upgraded, and a new splash pad and changeroom will be installed.
That’s according to the District of Saanich, which announced the upgrades Tuesday, saying it’s all thanks to joint federal, provincial and municipal funding through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP).
The district says existing playground equipment will be replaced with a more modern design, as a new seasonal splash pad features inclusive elements for children of all abilities.
Freshly paved pathways and new furniture like benches, chairs and picnic tables, plus a drinking fountain/water bottle filling station will also be added to the park, states a press release.
“These park improvements have long been supported and much desired by our community, and I’m delighted to see the project come to fruition with partnership funding,” said Mayor Fred Haynes.
“The upgrades and new components will rejuvenate this well-used asset in Saanich’s core and offer accessible recreation opportunities for children and youth.”
The district explains that the original concept plan for Rutledge Park in 1998, which included a splash pad for children, was deferred due to budget shortfalls.
But in 2015, the Quadra Cedar Hill Community Association requested Saanich Parks investigate the possibility of providing a splash pad at the park. The district recalls “strong support” for the project during public engagement.
Coming in at a cost of around 1.235 million, the District of Saanich adds that park construction should start early next year, with an expected opening in fall 2023.
Anyone who’s shopped at Costco prior to the pandemic knows the joy of turning the corner of an aisle to feast your eyes on a free sample for you to enjoy.
Back in March 2020, Costco eliminated their signature samples to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
While it was a sad day when that announcement came, it was the best decision at the time for the health and safety of both the employees and Costco members.
Costco did eventually bring back their free samples, but only for dry and packaged goods.
This meant that the fully-cooked versions of items were displayed behind a glass case, while packages were available for customers to pick up.
With the current lease expiring next month, the District of Oak Bay is putting out a call and seeking non-profits to operate two district-owned properties.
In September 2020, the Victoria Immigrant and Refugee Centre Society (VIRCS) signed a three-year agreement to operate houses at 1531 Hampshire Avenue (two bedrooms, one bath) and 1538 Monterey Avenue (six bedrooms, two baths) through its Welcome House project.
According to the VIRCS, the project was the first on Vancouver Island to provide interim affordable housing to refugees, helping them transition to long-term housing all over the island.
But last December, the district agreed to end the lease early. At the time, the VIRCS said that the COVID-19 pandemic had forced its team to re-evaluate programs and terminate the Welcome House project come May 7th, 2022.
Several residents have since addressed Oak Bay council, asking they make the Welcome Homes available as transitional housing for Ukrainian refugees fleeing the war-torn country.
“Their biggest challenge is finding rental accommodation,” said Anne Piazza during an April 11th council meeting.
“Not only is Victoria a very competitive and high-cost rental market, but landlords may be reluctant to rent to Ukrainian refugees as they will not be able to provide credit history, former landlord reference letters, or personal references,” added Piazza.
“What I propose is to open up the Welcome Homes for Ukrainian refugees and allow the families to live in the homes for a period of possibly four or six months. At the end of the rental term, the families could move into new rental accommodation, and perhaps the District of Oak Bay could issue a letter of reference that the families could give to a prospective landlord.”
According to the district, once vacated, crews will undertake some basic repairs and maintenance to prepare the houses for new occupants.
The district is now seeking expression of interest in one or both properties from non-profit operators positioned to provide supportive housing for a lease term of up to 36 months, starting this September.
“We look forward to hearing from interested non-profit organizations and learning more about ways they might use these two properties to the benefit of the less fortunate,” said Mayor Kevin Murdoch.
“We hope to find a partnership (or partnerships) to ensure these buildings are providing real community value in the near term while their long-term future is decided.”
Non-profit operators interested are invited to complete the form found online here by May 20th. Oak Bay council then plans to review expressions of interest before determining the next steps.
A 43-year-old Nanaimo educator had their car impounded on Monday, after testing over the legal limit for alcohol while driving a group of students to an event.
At approximately 11 a.m. on April 25th, a Nanaimo RCMP officer observed what they suspected to be a suspended driver near Milton and Fitzwilliam Street.
The officer conducted a traffic stop and identified the driver as a local educator.
At the time of the incident, the educator was escorting four youths to an extracurricular event in Nanaimo.
The officer conducted an impaired driving investigation and the test confirmed the driver was beyond the legal limits of alcohol in her body to drive a motor vehicle.
She was issued a 90-day Immediate Roadside Prohibition (IRP) and her vehicle was impounded.
A new means of transportation was arranged for the students and they were able to continue on with their day.
“The officer in this case did exactly what the people of Nanaimo expects from their law enforcement officers in that he observed a suspected driving offence, investigated the matter fully and took an impaired driver transporting vulnerable youth off the road,” said Constable Sherri Wade of the Nanaimo RCMP.
“Nanaimo parents can sleep soundly knowing that this officer and many more like him are on the roads 24 hours a day looking for impaired drivers.”
A first-of-its-kind cable from tech-giant Google, stretching from BC’s Lower Mainland and across the Pacific Ocean, aims to enhance Canada’s connectivity with Asia starting next year.
Work is now underway on Topaz, a massive subsea fibre-optic line that will run west from Vancouver, through Port Alberni on Vancouver Island, and overseas to the Mie and Ibaraki regions of Japan, explains Bikash Koley, Google’s head of Global Networking.
Measuring the width of a garden hose with 16 fibre pairs at 240 Terabits per second, Koley says Topaz will speed up access to Search, Gmail, YouTube, Google Cloud, and other Google services.
He says the project is spearheaded by Google with several local partners in Canada and Japan teaming up to deliver the extensive subsea cable system.
“Other networks and internet service providers will be able to benefit from the cable’s additional capacity, whether for their own use or to provide to third parties,” states a blog post.
(Google)
According to Koley, Topaz is built alongside the traditional territories of the Hupacasath, Maa-nulth, and Tseshaht. He notes that Google’s team consulted and partnered with the three First Nations “every step of the way.”
“Tseshaht is very proud of this collaboration and our partnership with Google, who has been very respectful and thoughtful in its engagement with our Nation,” said Elected Chief Councillor Ken Watts of Tseshaht First Nation.
“That’s how we carry ourselves, and that’s how we want businesses to carry themselves in our territory.”
And while Topaz may be the first trans-Pacific fibre cable to connect to Japan, Google says it’s not the first communication cable to land on Canada’s west coast.
In the 1960s, the since-decommissioned Commonwealth Pacific Cable System, a copper undersea cable, helped expand the Vancouver area’s international phone connectivity with Honolulu, Sydney Australia and Auckland New Zealand.
Displaced Ukrainians will be receiving additional support upon arriving in BC, the provincial government announced on Monday.
The province revealed that Ukrainians that have fled the war-stricken country will have access to immediate MSP coverage upon their arrival, under the federal Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET).
The CUAET, an accelerated temporary residence pathway which allows Ukrainians to work and stay in Canada, was introduced by the federal government due to Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
Under the CUAET, Ukrainians and their family members can apply for a three-year Temporary Resident Visa or Open Work Permit.
“We anticipate that some individuals arriving in British Columbia from Ukraine will need medical services immediately,” said Nathan Cullen, Minister of Municipal Affairs.
“That’s why our government is working across ministries to ensure that eligible newcomers who arrive will have access to the service and support they need, when they need it to ensure the softest landing possible after an unimaginable ordeal.”
Now, the province is working alongside the federal government to ensure those feeling the conflict in Ukraine are welcomed to the province as efficiently as possible, including receiving MSP coverage upon arrival.
“While actively working on assessing and supporting the most essential needs of displaced people from Ukraine arriving in British Columbia, our community support groups indicate that many of those who choose our province as a safe temporary home – mothers with children, students, elderly people – need to see physicians and medical specialists, to access prescription drugs, and to receive mental health counseling,” said Natalie Jatskevich, president of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, BC Provincial Council.
“We welcome the B.C. government decision to provide Medical Service Plan coverage for Ukrainians who enter into B.C. under the CUAET. This important step guarantees that displaced Ukrainians will have access to the most vital services and have their immediate health care needs addressed in our province.”
There will be no limit to the number of Ukrainians who can apply for the CUAET and receive date-of-arrival MSP coverage.
The provincial government is encouraging those arriving in British Columbia from Ukraine under the CUAET to submit their application for MSP enrolment as soon as they arrive.
Applications can be completed online or by calling 1-800-663-7100.
During his latest stop in BC’s capital, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau not only met with several local officials but also Winston, the Fairmont Empress’ canine ambassador.
“Just another super fan wanting a picture with me,” states a recent post to Winston’s Instagram page, @winstonattheempress.
According to the Empress Hotel, Winston, a Labrador/Golden Retriever cross, joined its team back in early 2019 at 5-years-old and has since made headlines across Canada and worldwide for his expertise in wellness travel.
“Winston welcomes guests, reduces travel stress, takes guests (human and furry) out for walks of Victoria, plays and walks with visiting dogs and makes everyone feel right at home,” staff say.
Rebranded with the prefix ‘Fairmont’ more than 20 years ago, the global hotel chain continues to manage the historic and pet-friendly Empress Hotel well over a century after it opened in 1908.
The Independent Investigations Office of BC (IIO BC) are investigating after a man sustained serious injuries during an altercation with police while in RCMP cells on Friday.
At approximately 3:30 p.m. on April 22nd, Nanaimo RCMP responded to a complaint of an intoxicated man being verbally aggressive to a fellow tenant at a home in the 400-block of Wesley Street.
The man was arrested for uttering threats and was transported to the RCMP detachment.
Upon arrival, the man allegedly became aggressive.
According to reports, an altercation ensued between the man and one of the attending police officers which left the man with injuries to his arm and leg.
Paramedics were called and he was transported to hospital.
All circumstances of the incident are the subject of independent investigation by the IIO BC.
Anyone with relevant information regarding the incident is asked to contact the IIO witness line at 1-855-446-8477 or via the online contact form.
It also comes with a $50,000 furniture package, a 2022 Audi e-tron Progressiv Quattro PLUS a massive $175,000 cash.
Located at Crown Isle Resort & Golf Community, if you choose this package as your grand prize, you could enjoy luxury golf course living.
Tickets for the Hometown Heroes Lottery are on sale now, but don’t wait on this one – with prizes like this, they won’t last long!
Want to see even more of this incredible Grand Prize package? Take a look at these 17 photos of the beautiful Courtenay home:
Grand Prize winners will have their pick of one of nine gorgeous BC homes, including the above, plus – for the first time ever – two home options in Vancouver. The 10th option is a whopping $2.2 million tax-free cash!
The Hometown Heroes Lottery supports both VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation and the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund.
This includes BC’s health care heroes, like doctors, nurses, front line workers, first responders—as well aspatients that need life-saving care, and who benefit from all the work and research the lottery funds.
Tickets to the lottery—which come with a chance to win one of the 10 grand prize packages—start at 3 tickets for $75, and go all of the way up to a 40-ticket pack for $500.
On top of all of this, Hometown Heroes has some incredible bonus draws happening before the Grand Prizes are drawn, which include brand new vehicles, gift cards and more.
The grand prize draw will be Thursday, July 28th, 2022, and deadlines to enter the various draws are:
Welcome Bonus Draw: Midnight, Friday, May 13th
Heroes Bonus Draw: Midnight, Friday, May 27th
Summer Bonus Draw: Midnight, Friday, June 10th
Early Bird Draw: Midnight, Friday, June 24th
Main Draws and Grand Prize: Midnight, Friday, July 14th
50/50 PLUS™: Midnight, Friday, July 14th
Daily Cash PLUS™: Midnight, Friday, July 14th
Know your limit, play within it. Must be 19+ to play.
The Independent Investigations Office of BC (IIO BC) have been activated to look into the circumstances surrounding the death of a man while in custody in Courtenay over the weekend.
At around 4:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 23rd, Comox Valley RCMP attended a residence in the 3300-block of Kentwood Road and arrested a man who was alleged to be trespassing.
Officers located and arrested one man who was believed to be intoxicated and brought him to RCMP cells without incident.
At about 1:15 p.m. the same day, the man was found to be in medical distress during a wellness check.
According to RCMP, a guard noticed that the man was sitting against a wall and was not responsive. Officers provided first aid until paramedics arrived and took over providing medical aid before transporting the man to hospital where he died on April 24th.
The IIO BC were notified shortly thereafter and are investigating to determine what role, if any, police’s actions or inactions may have played in the man’s hospitalization, prior to his death.
Due to the ongoing investigation by the IIO BC, police said no further information will be released.
This is the second case in which the IIO were called to investigate on Vancouver Island this weekend.
On Friday, an allegedly intoxicated man was seriously injured while at the Nanaimo RCMP detachment. The man was arrested earlier that day after he became verbally aggressive to a fellow tenant at a home on Wesley Street.
According to RCMP, the man became aggressive while being checked in to the cells and an altercation ensued between him and a police officer.
The IIO is asking any person with relevant information of the incident to please contact the Witness Line toll-free at 1-855-446-8477 or via the contact form on the iiobc.ca website.
The Oak Bay Police Department (OBPD) is marking a significant milestone in its announcement of a new deputy chief of police.
Sgt. Julie Chanin has been selected as the detachment’s next deputy chief constable, becoming the first female to hold the position in Greater Victoria.
She’ll be assuming the role from current Deputy Chief Const. Mark Fisher, who’s replacing outgoing Chief Const. Ray Bernoties this summer.
“It’s such an honour and privilege to take on this role but still get to work with this amazing team in this incredible community,” said Chanin.
A 22-year veteran in policing, Chanin joined the OBPD as a constable from West Shore RCMP in 2011, serving as an acting sergeant and sergeant in subsequent years.
“In that time, Chanin has demonstrated clear professional excellence as well as a firm commitment to best practices in community policing,” states a press release.
Const. Fisher is thrilled Chanin will be filling his shoes, calling her dedication to the community “remarkable.”
“She is the type of progressive and engaged leader that will continue to move our department forward. There is no doubt in my mind that the department and the community will be well served by having her in this leadership role,” said Fisher.
According to the OBPD, Chanin is also the first internal candidate promoted to leadership in over a decade. The detachment says people from across Canada applied for the job, noting an “extensive” interview and evaluation process ensued.
“Sgt. Chanin cares deeply about this community and OBPD employees,” added Chief Bernoties.
“I’m excited for her and thrilled for OBPD. She is exactly the kind of person anyone would want in charge of their police department.”
OBPD has selected a new Deputy Chief. Congrats to Sgt. Julie Chanin @obpd79, an amazing leader w/ tremendous values. She'll be the 1st ever female Deputy Police Chief in the CRD. An awesome person who cares deeply about our community. I'm so proud of her. Great day for Oak Bay. pic.twitter.com/bPcQ52rMDT
Are you ready to get outside and explore, Victoria?
This week, the CRD and partners are hosting the Greater Victoria arm of the global City Nature Challenge—the perfect opportunity to hunt for wild plants, animals and fungi within the capital region and record them using iNaturalist.
Citizens from over 400 cities around the world are participating in this international bioblitz to celebrate urban nature. Help showcase Greater Victoria’s amazing biodiversity to the rest of the world.
From April 29th to May 2nd, nature lovers across the region will have the chance to spot pollinating insects, migrating birds, native wildflowers, and towering trees while enjoying neighbourhood parks, beaches and more!
Not only does getting outside and observing the natural world surrounding us boost mental health and well-being, it’s also a key step in conserving nature for future generations.
Biodiversity supports clean air and water, food security, recreational and cultural opportunities, and is key to the high quality of life we enjoy in the region.
It’s as simple as a few easy steps, and you’ll be joining a large community of local nature buffs who are helping to inventory and celebrate the capital region’s amazing flora and fauna – plus you can win some incredible prizes while you’re at it!
Head online to join the Greater Victoria City Nature Challenge project for a chance to win prizes and receive project updates
Join the hunt! Search for local nature in your backyard, neighbourhood, or favourite park or beach between April 29th and May 2nd. Observations of wild native plants, animals, fungi, insects, tracks, or even scat are all welcome.
Use a digital camera or smart phone to capture your sightings, and upload to iNaturalist
Identify your findings as best you can and have people from the iNaturalist community help confirm your identifications
What you could win:
By joining the CRD’s Greater Victoria City Nature Challenge project, you’ll have the chance to win one of three prizes, including a smartphone macro lens to take close-up photos of tiny creatures.
(Capital Regional District)
Of all the provinces, BC has the most biodiversity in Canada. Insect species alone number between 50,000 and 70,000. Other species in BC include (at least) 143 mammals, 454 birds, 20 amphibians, 19 reptiles, 2,850 vascular plants, 1,600 lichens, 522 attached algae, and over 10,000 fungi.
The great abundance of life found in many of BC’s marine areas rivals the biodiversity of tropical rain forests. Around 7,000 marine species have been identified in the region off the coast of BC, and at least as many unidentified species are believed to exist.
An off-duty West Shore RCMP officer was in for an unexpected surprise when he boarded a flight in February.
On February 20th, Constable Rob Renner boarded a flight and, having just completed a graveyard shift, fell asleep shortly after takeoff.
Soon, Renner was awoken to the sound of the flight crew requesting any doctors or nurses onboard to identify them.
Renner immediately let the crew know he was a former nurse and learned there was a passenger on board who had possibly gone into labour.
28-year-old Sadie Ussak, from Arviat, Nunavut, told Renner she was only 31 weeks pregnant.
Renner, realizing the severity of the situation, took over responsibility and drew on his previous medical training to assist.
Together with the flight crew, Ussak was taken to a safe location on the plane to ease her discomfort and provide some privacy while medical care was provided.
Renner monitored her contractions, confirming she was in premature labour which poses many possible risks and a proper neonatal team is essential to premature infant survival.
As a result, Renner directed the pilot to divert to the nearest hospital.
“He was calming me down and telling me I was going to be okay, it felt good to have him there,” said Mrs. Ussak.
The plane diverted to Thompson, Manitoba successfully where it was met by an ambulance and Ussak was transported to the Thompson General Hospital immediately.
“I was really happy to be in the right place at the right time and able to help Mrs. Ussak get to the hospital as quick as possible to have her baby,” said Constable Renner.
Baby Larissa Ussak was born just after 1 a.m. the next morning, weighing in at 3 ½ pounds.
Both baby and mom are healthy and are now home and thriving.
The home commentator for a minor league hockey team on Vancouver Island is under fire and out of a job after voicing a racist remark during a game last week.
Alberni Bulldogs commentator Bruce MacDonald was removed from Friday’s broadcast after asking if the opposing team’s forward, Langley Rivermen’s Owen Kim, could speak English.
“Ah, Kim… give it a break. Get on a ladder and talk to him,” said MacDonald, following a second-period scrap on the ice.
“Does he speak English? Anyhow, maybe that’s the problem,” he said.
MacDonald’s comment was quickly met with backlash, including from play-by-play announcer Evan Hammond.
“C’mon, that’s too far,” Hammond said to MacDonald during the broadcast, which aired on 93.3 The Peak, a Port Alberni-based radio station.
According to the BC Hockey League (BCHL), following the comment, the Bulldogs were immediately informed and took action by axing MacDonald of his duties.
BCHL and Alberni Valley Bulldogs statement regarding a racist comment on tonight's broadcast. pic.twitter.com/X23QvZYnaF
“We have a zero-tolerance for this type of behaviour, and Mr. MacDonald is banned from any future broadcast involving the Bulldogs or any other BCHL team,” reads a statement from the BCHL.
The league, together with the Bulldogs, apologized to Kim, a 17-year-old from North Vancouver, as well as his family and anyone else who may have heard the comment.
Pattison Media owns 93.3 The Peak, and on Saturday, general manager Rob Bye issued a statement apologizing to listeners, saying MacDonald’s comments were “extremely offensive” and “inappropriate.”
“Racism has no place in hockey. Racism has no place on our radio stations nor in our company,” said Bye.
MacDonald issued his own apology after the incident, saying, “I take full responsibility for my racist words. I’m deeply sorry for the hurt that I have caused Owen Kim, his family and anyone else who was affected by what I said.”
MacDonald wrote to Twitter that the Bulldogs had been a part of his life “since day one.” He says he’s “heartbroken” and “truly sorry.”
Netflix has some exciting things coming to your screens next month! In May, the streaming platform is bringing new seasons of shows you’ve been waiting patiently for, like Season 4, Volume 1 of Stranger Things.
The last season of the popular series was released in 2019!
Movie classics such as Casper will also be added, to fulfill all the nostalgia.
Ready to watch something new or reminisce over a childhood favourite? Here are 78 new movies and shows coming to Netflix Canada this May:
Whistle Buoy Brewing is celebrating their birthday, and they want you to be a part of it.
This June, Whistle Buoy will be hosting ‘Whistlemania’, a celebration of beer, music and community in the courtyard of Market Square.
The event will serve cold beers and other beverages all day long in the fully licensed venue, food provided by Wandering Mollusk, Los Panas Kitchen, Hey Happy and giveaways!
The birthday celebration will also feature entertainment by Downtown Mischief, The Projectors, Juice, Neighbourly, and Alle with more to be announced.
Tickets are on sale now, so grab them quick before they’re gone.
UPDATE: 16-year-old Shirita Beans has been found “safe and sound,” according to West Shore RCMP. “Thanks to the media and public for your assistance,” police said.
—original:
West Shore RCMP are calling on the public’s help to find a missing 16-year-old girl last seen in Greater Victoria, noting they’re concerned for her well-being.
Described as Indigenous, standing at five feet and weighing around 106 pounds, Shirita Beans was reported missing on Tuesday, April 19th.
Beans has glasses, blonde and black hair, and goes by the alias Simone, according to police.
She was last seen wearing a green sweatshirt, black and silver tank top, red nurse scrub pants and black Nike Air Force 1 shoes. She also had a yellow Van’s bag.
Last week, Beans’ sister, Melody Bruce, said she was “hoping and praying” for a positive outcome.
“I’m so worried,” said Bruce. “She needs to be home safe with her family.”
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Beans is urged to call police. Tipsters can remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 222-8477 (TIPS).
K my friends from Victoria and people from Victoria. My daughter is missing and in vic. The police have been notified…
An investigation targeting a Saanich home resulted in three arrests last week.
In a media release, Saanich Police say they had been monitoring suspicious activity at a residence in the 300-block of Vincent Avenue for several months.
In June 2021, two people were charged for possession of trafficking at the residence following the execution of a search warrant.
Last month, in March, Saanich Police attended the home and seized firearms that were located inside.
On April 13th, the Saanich Police Street Crime Unit executed another search warrant of the property with assistance from the Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team.
During the search, police located and seized illicit drugs and evidence to support charges of possession for the purpose of trafficking against three people, two of whom were the same individuals facing charges from the investigation back in June.
Two of the suspects were held in custody and are set to appear in court later this month.
Ruth Sabourin, 42, Kenneth Harris, 45, and Nathan Todd, 40, are all facing two counts each of possession for the purpose of trafficking
“There had been considerable police activity on Vincent Avenue for several months and we knew the neighbourhood had been concerned,” said Cst. Markus Anastasiades.
“We made every effort to be responsive to the needs of the community.”
BC Health Care Matters is preparing to host a rally outside BC’s Legislature in Victoria next month to bring more awareness to ongoing doctor shortages locally and across the province.
The rally, set for Family Physician Day on May 19th, encourages participants to stand “shoulder to shoulder” with organizers and medical professionals from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
A poster promoting the event is stamped with the words, “Everyone deserves a family doctor.”
“BC Health Care Matters’ mission is to campaign for timely access to appropriate in-person health services for every resident of British Columbia,” the group said.
“We are petitioning you for an immediate response that will include an action plan to rectify this crisis. Many individuals have been waiting for years to secure a family doctor, without success,” states a post to Change.org.
“Now, with recent news of more departures and closures on Vancouver Island and elsewhere, many more of us who were fortunate enough to have had a family doctor in our community are left without,” the group said.
“Walk-in clinics are disappearing, and families are being abandoned in their care of the sick and the vulnerable.”
Several Greater Victoria walk-in clinics have announced permanent closures this year, including the Cook Street Village Medical Clinic walk-in, James Bay Medical Treatment Centre, Colwood Medical Treatment Centre, and View Royal’s Eagle Creek Medical Clinic.
The latter estimates around 100,000 locals are without a family doctor due to “the severe shortage of community-based, longitudinal doctors in the Capital Regional District.”
With this in mind, it may be no surprise that Victoria is seeing the longest walk-in clinic wait times in Canada.
That’s according to tech company Medimap, as it points to its recently released walk-in clinic wait time index—using 2021 data collected from more than 1,200 clinics across the country.
Of Canada’s top 10 cities with the average longest wait time, seven are in BC, with Victoria scoring first at 161 minutes.
“I think in Victoria, it’s a well-known problem that people have a difficult time finding a family doctor,” Medimap CEO Blake Adam told Victoria Buzz.
On April 8th, the BC government said it was investing $3.46 million in short-term measures to combat the local doctor shortage, including funding to keep five walk-in clinics up and running.
Still, looking to the future, Adam expects the region’s walk-in clinic wait times to continue on an upward trend and climb even higher.
We are in a healthcare crisis, says Premier Horgan
BC Premier John Horgan says the province is in a “healthcare crisis.”
“It’s not just doctors,” Horgan told reporters Friday. “It’s nurse practitioners, it’s registered nurses, it’s care aids, it’s the continuum of care. We need more social workers; we need more psychologists.”
According to Horgan, a “massive infusion of cash” is needed from Ottawa to deliver public healthcare programs.
“One of the proudest elements of our social safety net here in Canada is public healthcare. But it will continue to erode if we don’t have a massive infusion of federal capital,” he added.
“The challenges, whether in long-term care, doctor shortages, primary care issues, acute care, hip replacements, knee replacements… you name it. The lineups are getting longer because we don’t have the resources to manage them.
“I’m confident that [Health Minister Adrian Dix] has a plan, but the plan will take resources, and I’m working with other Premiers and the federal government to get those dollars in place.”
To mark Earth Day, Victoria residents will be able to hop aboard public transit for free on Friday in a push to have fewer cars on local roads.
On April 22nd, BC Transit and the Greater Victoria Transit Commission (GVTC) will offer complimentary rides on both conventional routes and HandyDART services.
The Victoria Guitar Show is a celebration featuring talented builders from Vancouver Island alongside premier luthiers from throughout Canada.
The exhibition will showcase the best of their trade for patrons to discover some of the best manufacturers of acoustics, electrics, basses, pedals, amps and hardware.
This free event will be held on Saturday at the Victoria Conference Centre.
Where: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday April 23rd
When: 720 Douglas Street, Victoria Conference Centre
After being closed for nearly two years, Hecklers is back to fulfill your comedy needs. Every Saturday night, enjoy a comedian followed by Comedy Here Often?’s The Late show.
Where: 123 Gorge Road East, Hecklers Bar and Grill
When: Sterling Scott: 7 p.m., Saturday, Comedy Here Often? The Late Show: 10 p.m., Saturday, April 23rd
Tickets: $20. Tickets can be purchased online here.
Lace up those running shoes—one of Victoria’s most spectacular and scenic community events returns in person following a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In its 33rd year, the Times Colonist 10K is back with the motto “Better Together!” and is set for this Sunday, April 24th, with athletes gearing up to hit the start line at 8 a.m. sharp.
As well, a virtual TC10K race is happening this year as organizers look to welcome participants from across the globe.
A complete list of road closures can be found online here, with more details about the TC10K and Thrifty Foods Family Run found on RunSport.ca.
When: April 24th, 2022, 8:00 a.m. start time
Where: Start line is at Government and Belleville streets near the Empress Hotel and BC Legislature
Popular comedian Jim Jefferies is on tour and has just announced a stop in Victoria this fall.
Australian-American stand-up comedian, actor and writer Jim Jefferies is making his way across North America and soon, you will be able to see him live right here at the Save on Foods Memorial Centre.
General sale begins at 10 a.m. this Friday, April 22nd.
As the weather gets warmer, many begin their hunt for the city’s best fish and chips.
Perfectly battered, hot, crispy and delicious, served with a side of coleslaw and fries, it is the prime summer food to enjoy while sitting outside in the sunshine.
So what’s the best place in Victoria to get the classic dish?
Two protesters with Save Old Growth remain in custody after blocking entry to the Malahat on Wednesday and leaving the Trans-Canada Highway (TCH) backed up for four hours.
West Shore RCMP say 33-year-old Derek Hugh Menard and 23-year-old Elizabeth Helen Stewart, both from Victoria, were arrested in relation to the protest.
They now face intimidation and mischief charges, with Menard also facing a charge for failing to comply with undertaking conditions, according to police.
Activist group Save Old Growth had warned earlier that day they’d be blocking northbound TCH lanes at West Shore Parkway in Langford starting at around 3:30 p.m.
Five protesters had managed to keep the blockade in place, but when RCMP arrived on scene, all left the road, except for Menard and Stewart.
Police say the pair had attached themselves to a large concrete-filled metal barrel to slow down their removal process, with specialized officers called in to safely get them off the highway.
“Even though we managed to have traffic routed around the protesters, those individuals caused a significant traffic backlog that, without a doubt, created a lot of frustration amongst motorists who needed to attend medical appointments, child care services, etc.,” said Staff Sgt. Chris Boucher.
“Those types of illegal demonstrations will not be tolerated, and those committing these criminal acts will be arrested promptly and held accountable.”
When speaking with reporters, BC Premier John Horgan addressed the protesters’ actions, saying their objective isn’t to save old growth—it’s to make people angry.
“That’s not how you affect change in a civil society,” said Horgan.
“I’m profoundly disappointed that this small group of people are so self-absorbed and think so highly of their options and so-called rights that they feel it’s okay to intrude in the rights of other British Columbians.”
Video captured prior to police arrival shows fed-up commuters attempting to physically remove the barrel, as one tosses traffic cones and another tears a banner from a protester’s hands after yelling, “I’ve got kids in the car [who] are sick.”
Save Old Growth posted the footage to Twitter, saying its members “remained peaceful and calm when faced with violence from the public.”
As of Friday afternoon, West Shore RCMP say both Menard and Stewart remain in custody. They appeared in BC Provincial Court yesterday.
According to Save Old Growth, over 80 protesters have been arrested on BC highways in Vancouver, Revelstoke, Victoria, and Nanaimo since January.
Still, it notes that it won’t stop blocking routes until the BC government passes legislation to end all old-growth logging.
BC SPCA Wild Animal Rehabilitation Centre (Wild ARC)
A reminder to arborists to climb up and thoroughly check for wildlife before cutting down a tree, as squirrels, birds, and other critters may be hiding in the branches.
That’s according to BC SPCA Wild Animal Rehabilitation Centre (ARC) manager Ginelle Smith, who says 19 baby squirrels have been admitted in recent weeks after falling from trees cut down or due to windstorms.
“This time of year, there are animals in those trees,” explained Smith.
“It’s spring, and we’re in British Columbia. There are birds up there, and there are eagles up there. There are lots.”
With 35 animals currently in its care, the Metchosin-based centre would expect the bulk to be baby birds. Only this time around, they’ve got more squirrels.
“It’s the first time that’s happened,” Smith told Victoria Buzz.
“We have more this year because of construction. Trees are being fallen, and some squirrels are coming from construction sites.”
Last week, a trio of Eastern Grey baby squirrels were admitted. Two saw their nest destroyed by high winds, while the third fell from their nest after their home tree was cut down.
And the aftermath was both traumatic and painful.
That’s because they couldn’t be reunited with their moms, with x-rays finding all three suffered broken legs, meaning intensive daily care, including pain medications and a specialized diet, is required.
It’s prompting Wild ARC to launch a fundraising campaign, seeking $1733 in donations from the public via its websiteto help cover medical costs.
“Our supporters are amazing,” said Smith, noting nearly $800 has been raised so far.
“We have a great community of really generous people who always provide funding to us to help us with our everyday work.”
According to Smith, the centre has a permit to rehabilitate Eastern Grey squirrels, with requirements to ensure their safe release back into the wild.
Smith says the injured squirrels will likely be in Wild ARC’s care for several months until they’re old enough to be on their own.
This July, the highly anticipated Colwood’s Eats & Beats Beach Party will return to Lagoon Beach on Ocean Boulevard.
All day, you will be treated to live music, a food truck festival, craft beer garden, street market, climbing wall, paddling, cycling and much more!
Basically, the ultimate summer day.
The event is free to attend with views of Hatley Castle on one side and Fisgard Lighthouse on the other.
Food trucks include favourites such as Deadbeetz Burgers, Mama Rosie’s, L’Authentique Poutine, Greek on the Street, Kattia’s Kitchen and more! A blend of international flavours to enjoy under the hot sun.
After you’ve purchased your food, enjoy an ice cold beer or cider on the beach from the Victoria Beer Society’s beachside beer service.
A selection of taps will be offered, allowing you to enjoy a sample of local favourites throughout the day and into the evening.
The party will also include a street market, featuring unique Vancouver Island gifts, crafts, treasures, and treats as well as a climbing wall, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding and e-bikes!
If that’s not enough, grab a group of friends for a game of oversized beach pong with Wild Play Element Parks and West Shore Parks and Recreation.
While you’re there, be sure to keep an eye out for Harvey the Harbourcat, Rocky from the Shamrocks and Marty the Marmot!
A space for Saanich locals to engage in community policing and prevention programming is now officially open to the public.
This week, the Saanich Police Department marked a big milestone as it cut the ribbon to its new Community Safety Office at Uptown Shopping Centre, near Carey Road.
At a grand opening celebration Thursday, Mayor Fred Haynes was thrilled and echoed police chief Dean Duthie, who said it was “a really important day in Saanich history.”
“This is a great opportunity for us to continue our drive and goal to enhance and strengthen relationships with all community groups in Saanich to educate, learn from each other and make our community as safe as possible,” said Duthie.
— Fred Haynes in Saanich (@HaynesSaanich) April 22, 2022
Serving as the flagship of Saanich PD’s Community Engagement Division, the office will help police offer more community-based safety initiatives, projects, and programming.
“We truly believe that this will be a community office, run by the community, and for the benefit of the community,” said Saanich PD.
Police say the new volunteer-run office will deliver current core programming like Block Watch, Speed Watch, Cell Watch, Lock Out Auto Crime, plus “Ace” mascot programming.
The space will also offer several information and resources, including fraud prevention, elder abuse, victims of crime programs, cyber-crime, cyber-bullying, home security, and pedestrian and bike safety.
Saanich’s Community Safety Office is open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saanich PD says it’s regularly looking for volunteers to join its team.
Almost 140,000 Canadians will have to find an alternate way of cooking after one brand of a popular kitchen appliance has been recalled due to potential fire hazard.
On Thursday, Health Canada issued a recall on Insignia Digital Air Fryers, Insignia Analog Air Fryers, and Insignia Digital Air Fryer Oven.
According to the health inspection agency, the products can overheat, posing a potential burn and fire hazard.
The products were sold by Best Buy, eBay, and Amazon between November 2018 and April 2022.
In addition to the recall in Canada, about 634,522 Insignia air fryers were recalled in the US.
As of March 25th, there have been 36 reports of incidents including one report of minor injury in Canada. In the US, the company has identified 68 reports of incidents including one report of minor injury.
“Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled air fryers and air fryer ovens, check to see if their model is included in the recall and return the product through the return process of the original place of purchase,” Health Canada said on its website.
Best Buy has said customers will receive credit at the store if they return the items.
To participate in the recall consumers can register online or call 1-877-650-5411 from 8 am to 5 pm ET, Monday through Friday (except statutory holidays).
VicPD arrested an armed man Friday morning after he barricaded himself inside a multi-unit residential building and threatened to light it on fire.
Shortly after 3 a.m. on April 22nd, officers responded to a report that a man was breaching court-ordered conditions in the area of Hillside Avenue and Quadra Street.
The man had previously been arrested for charges including assault causing bodily harm and had been released by the court pending trial with conditions that barred him from certain areas.
Officers arrived to the area and located the man in a multi-unit residential building in the 2800-block of Fifth Street.
The man had barricaded himself in a suite in the building.
Police said the suspect was alone, armed with a knife and indicated he was in possession of gasoline and allegedly threatened to set fire to the building.
VicPD officers, GVERT, Crisis Negotiators, Victoria Fire Department firefighters and paramedics responded and evacuated the residents from the building.
Crisis Negotiators worked for several hours to get the man to surrender himself to police safely.
Just after 7 a.m., in response to threats of the building being set on fire, GVERT officers used a series of non-lethal tools including noise devices and chemical irritants.
The armed man exited the suite and officers deployed an ARWEN less-lethal round, disarmed him and took him into custody.
The man was cleared medically on scene and was returned to cells where he is currently being held.
Evacuated residents were allowed to return home. Officers are thanking them for their patience during the high-risk incident.
Anyone with information regarding this incident that has not yet spoken with officers is asked to contact the VicPD at (250) 995-7654.
A GoFundMe for a Ukrainian pastor and his family whose Fernwood house was ravaged by arson this week has surpassed $27,000 in under a day.
“Whatever amount you may donate—we appreciate anything,” said Andriy Fabrikov.
Ukrainian Cultural Centre board member Fabrikov launched the fundraiser hours after flames erupted at 1112 Caledonia Avenue and damaged the over 100-year-old heritage home.
VicPD and the Victoria Fire Department were called to the fire shortly after 1 a.m. on Wednesday, April 20th.
Fire crews put out the blaze, but it left the house’s front porch, second-floor balcony and surrounding areas destroyed and charred in black soot.
“Our Ukrainian community was shocked and saddened by the outrageous act,” wrote Fabrikov to the GoFundMe page.
“A family of five barely managed to save their lives last minute, and apparently, all the kids had to jump from the second floor. Their eldest daughter had been badly injured. She’s had to go in for surgery,” he said.
“The rest of the family only has mild injuries. We are raising funds to help buy the first necessities (food, clothing, etc.) and support their cat, now recovering in a vet clinic.”
Ukrainian Canadian Congress president Devon Sereda Goldie echoes Fabrikov, saying it’s great to see the community support the Vyshnevskyy family after this “horrific attack.”
“Their family is an integral part of our local Ukrainian community, and supporting them in this way is the least we can do,” Goldie told Victoria Buzz.
Yuriy Vyshnevskyy, who lives in the house with his wife and three young daughters, is a pastor at the Ukrainian Catholic Church of St. Nicholas, located next door.
Vyshnevskyy said his wife awoke moments before the fire broke out to find gasoline poured through the mail slot next to their front door.
According to VicPD, Major Crimes Unit detectives continue their investigation into the arson, calling on any witnesses, dashcam footage or video from the area between midnight and 1:30 a.m. on Wednesday.
Investigators seek to identify and speak with the vehicle’s driver, asking anyone with information to call VicPD at (250) 995-7654. To stay anonymous, call Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 222-8477.
A 27-year-old man has been arrested after he scaled a Nanaimo heritage building and broke into a business.
Just after 10 p.m. on Tuesday, April 19th, police were alerted when several local residents reported they could hear foot stomps on the roof of a downtown building located on Church Street.
Officers quickly arrived on scene, determining the unknown person had used a stolen ladder to gain access to a heritage building.
The suspect had then unlawfully entered several businesses located on the second floor of the building.
Officers surrounded the building, attempting to de-escalate the man who would frequently stick his head out through the windows that he had previously broken.
The officers attempted to have him leave the property peacefully, however, he did not comply.
While some officers kept an eye on the suspect via the nearby Coast Bastion hotel rooftop, others were working with Nanaimo fire crews in breaching the front door to the business.
During the apprehension, police service dog Knight was utilized to subdue the uncooperative male.
PD Knight sustained several minor injuries to his paws and required medical treatment at a local animal hospital.
“This was an extremely dynamic situation where investigators were faced with apprehending a highly unpredictable and violent offender who appeared to be under the influence of unknown substances,” said Constable Gary O’Brien.
“Police Service Dog Knight and his handler were instrumental in bringing this critical incident to a relatively quick conclusion.”
The suspect, who is not from Nanaimo, was taken into custody with minor injuries that were treated on scene by paramedics.
He was later released from custody with his first appearance in Nanaimo Provincial Court set for June 2022.
He is facing recommended charges of break and enter, theft under $5000 and mischief.
VicPD are seeking the public’s help in identifying the owner of a vehicle that was spotted driving past a home in Victoria moments before it was set on fire.
Shortly after 1 a.m. on Wednesday, April 20th, VicPD officers responded to a fire at an occupied family residence in the 1100-block of Caledonia Avenue.
When emergency crews arrived on scene, most of the family had escaped the flames, police say. However, one person required ladder rescue by firefighters from a window ledge on the second floor.
Yuriy Vyshnevskyy, who lives in the house with his wife and three young daughters, is a pastor at the Ukrainian Catholic Church of St. Nicholas, located next door.
Vyshnevskyy told CTV News that his wife awoke moments before the fire erupted to find gasoline poured through the mail slot next to their front door.
When emergency crews arrived on scene, most of the family had escaped the flames, police say. However, one person required ladder rescue by firefighters from a window ledge on the second floor.
As a result of the fire, the occupant suffered potentially life-threatening injuries.
VicPD officers provided first aid and that person was transported to hospital. Their injuries are now considered non-life-threatening.
Detectives with VicPD’s Major Crimes Unit are now investigating this incident as arson and are asking the public for assistance in the case.
Video footage nearby the home caught a light-coloured, possible white, four-door vehicle driving past the scene moments before the fire was set.
The vehicle is shown once at full speed and then a second time at half-speed for ease of identification of the vehicle.
Investigators are seeking to identify and speak with the occupant of the vehicle.
In addition, investigators are asking any other witnesses with dashcam or video footage within a two-block radius of Cook Street and Caledonia Avenue area between midnight and 1:30 a.m. on Wednesday, April 20th to come forward.
If you have information about this incident, call VicPD at (250) 995-7654.
To report what you know anonymously, call Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
(Dr. Bonnie Henry/Province of British Columbia Flickr)
The BC Centre for Disease Control has released its weekly COVID-19 update, reporting seven new deaths in the Island Health region and 27 province-wide.
The report released Thursday shows that between April 10th to 16th, BC saw 2,036 new cases of COVID-19, including 379 in Island Health, bumping the island’s total case count to 34,133 since the pandemic began.
Currently, BC’s COVID-19 Dashboard shows 485 people in hospital with the virus, an increase of over 100 from the previous week. Across the province, 38 people are in critical care, with 66 in hospital on Vancouver Island.
The seven additional deaths in Island Health increased the region’s overall COVID-19 death toll to over 250, but health officials note changes have been made to how these deaths are reported.
All deaths within 30 days of a person’s positive COVID-19 lab result are now reported, regardless of whether COVID-19 was the actual cause of death.
“All-cause mortality is being used because cause of death takes approximately eight weeks to be recorded,” the BCCDC said.
“Retrospective evaluations of underlying cause of death will be done by the BCCDC, in addition to the data provided in this report, to better understand true COVID-19 mortality.”
BC scrapped its daily COVID-19 reports on new cases, hospitalizations and deaths earlier this month.
According to the Ministry of Health, the new weekly COVID-19 reporting approach aligns with a shift away from a ‘case-management’ model to a ‘surveillance’ approach.
Officials say the approach focuses on identifying changes in COVID-19 trends over time across different regions of the province, similar to how the government monitors for other serious respiratory illnesses.
Weekly #COVIDBC update: In the week of Apr. 10-16, there have been: 2,036 new cases reported, for a total of 361,034 cases in BC 238 hospitalizations, for a total of 20,585 in BC 27 deaths, for a total of 3,077 in BC
BC Premier John Horgan considers it “a badge of honour” that he’s now one of over 60 Canadians indefinitely banned from entering Russia.
On Thursday, the Russian Foreign Ministry released its “stop list” of 61 Canadian government officials, military personnel and journalists, including Horgan and fellow Premiers Jason Kenney, Heather Stefanson and Doug Ford.
In a statement, the ministry said the group is “directly involved in the development, substantiation and implementation of the Russophobic course of the ruling regime in Canada.”
But the ban doesn’t faze Horgan.
“I am proud to stand with Ukraine, and I am proud to stand with British Columbians who are working together to make life better for people who are fleeing violence,” Horgan said at a Thursday press briefing.
“If the Russians don’t want me to visit, I had no plans to go. But I guess I’ll scratch that off my list of things to do.”
Russia's decision to ban me and others is another signal to Ukrainians that BC and Canada will be a welcoming place for them.
I have no intention of visiting Russia but I do intend to keep helping Ukrainians forced to flee the violent war perpetrated by a dictator. pic.twitter.com/6PDCd5v0qm
“The fact that we were able to catch the attention of a brutal dictator in the middle of an illegal invasion of a neighbour tells me that British Columbians stood up immediately,” added Horgan.
“[They] said we are going to boycott Russian products, we are going to stand up and open our hearts and our homes to the Ukrainian people.”
The Russian Foreign Ministry says that in the near future, “a new announcement is planned on the next expansion of the Russian ‘stop list’ in response to the hostile actions of the Government of Canada.”
Spring is here, which means the return of one of Victoria’s most popular running events after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
It also means drivers may have to be a little more patient this weekend.
In its 33rd year, the Times Colonist 10K is back with the motto “Better Together!” and is set for this Sunday, April 24th, with athletes gearing up to hit the start line at 8 a.m. sharp.
Taking racers around downtown Victoria and Dallas Road, the TC10K kicks off at Government and Belleville streets near the Empress Hotel and the BC Legislature buildings.
Along with the race comes temporary road closures in downtown Victoria and surrounding areas.
This year’s route will head north on Government/Wharf to Yates, east on Yates, south on Cook, east on Richardson, south on Moss, east on May, south on Memorial to Dallas Road, then along Dallas to Erie, finishing back in front of the Legislature.
According to organizers, all intersections along the run route will be closed to traffic, with roads inside the route remaining open. Still, motorists will have to cross under the direction of VicPD.
Below are the planned road closures for Saturday, April 23rd and Sunday, April 24th:
Belleville Street, between Menzies Street and Government Street, will be closed from 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 23rd to 3 p.m. on Sunday, April 24th.
Belleville Street, between Oswego Street and Menzies Street, will be closed from 5 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday, April 24th.
Menzies Street, between Quebec Street and Belleville Street, will be closed from 3 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, April 24th.
Government Street, between Belleville Street and Superior Street, will be closed from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. on Sunday, April 24th.
In a media release Thursday, VicPD said they’ll be working to help minimize traffic disruptions and keep those participating safe.
In addition, they will be deploying temporary CCTV cameras to ensure public safety during the event.
Individual and team registration fees start at $59 for TC10K or $49 for teacher and student teams; $20 for Thrifty Foods Family Run; $59 for TC10K virtual run
Cook Street Village Medical Clinic walk-in announced its closure this month (Victoria Buzz)
As a doctor shortage plagues southern Vancouver Island, it may be no surprise that Victoria is seeing the longest walk-in clinic wait times in Canada.
That’s according to tech company Medimap, as it points to its recently released walk-in clinic wait time index—using 2021 data collected from more than 1,200 clinics across the country.
Of Canada’s top 10 cities with the average longest wait time, seven are in BC, with Victoria scoring first at 161 minutes, followed by Kelowna in second and White Rock in third.
Medimap
BC’s average wait time was the longest of all provinces and jumped 15 minutes to 58 minutes in 2021 compared to 2019—more than double the time for neighbouring Albertans, who waited around 18 minutes last year.
Medimap
According to Medimap CEO Blake Adam, the company decided not to do a wait time index in 2020 due to COVID-19.
“So we wanted to look at 2019 as a full-year pre-pandemic and 2021 as a full-year post-pandemic and compare,” Adam told Victoria Buzz.
“We had a bit of an expectation that across the board, wait times were going to be lower because people were staying home, not going to clinics and doing virtual visits, which are quicker.”
And while that was true for most provinces, it’s a different story in BC. “It went up around 35% between 2019 and 2021,” explained Adam.
Looking at Victoria’s ranking specifically, he says he was “blown away” by the results but not entirely shocked.
“I think in Victoria, it’s a well-known problem that people have a difficult time finding a family doctor,” noted Adam. “In the past four months, there have been several clinics that have closed as well.”
This year, multiple Greater Victoria walk-in clinics have announced permanent closures, including the James Bay Medical Treatment Centre, Colwood Medical Treatment Centre, and View Royal’s Eagle Creek Medical Clinic.
The latter estimates around 100,000 locals are without a family doctor due to “the severe shortage of community-based, longitudinal doctors in the Capital Regional District.”
More recently, Cook Street Village Medical Clinic walk-in has closed up shop.
A sign taped to its front door earlier this month stated, “We have made the difficult decision to close the walk-in portion of our clinic. This means we longer offer walk-in services to the community.”
On April 8th, the BC government said it was investing $3.46 million in short-term measures to combat the local doctor shortage, including funding to keep five walk-in clinics up and running.
Still, Adam expects the region’s walk-in clinic wait times to continue on an upward trend and climb even higher.
“That is what you would expect, unfortunately. We’ll have to see when we do the next report for 2022, but I don’t think it’s a promising thing,” he added.
Get ready to buy some fresh produce, check out some homemade goods and support local in the sunshine.
There are plenty of markets across Vancouver Island and many are ready to kick off their market season! Check out this guide to all the farmers markets on Vancouver Island this summer:
Summer 2020 marks the 31st season of the Moss Street Market. The family favourite offers local and organic produce, handmade crafts, artisan clothing as well as community education.
Moss Street Market now offers an online market with delivery and pick up options. The organization also runs a Winter Market (November through April).
When: 10 a.m.to 2 p.m., every Saturday May through October
Where: 401 Moss Street, Sir James Douglas school grounds, surrounding boulevards and Porter Park
The James Bay Market has been in operation for 28 years. Visitors can still support local farms, food producers and craft vendors when they visit the James Bay staple.
When: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays from May 7th to September 24th
Everything at the Goldstream Farmers Market is homemade, handmade or home grown.
Vendors offer local fruits and vegetables, fresh-baked breads and goodies, unique and quality crafts and textile creations. There is also live music, a water park and food trucks.
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturdays from May to October
The Sooke Night Market is back for its 7th season, selling products that are made, baked, raised, caught, and wild harvested or 100% grown by the approved vendor.
When: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Thursdays from June 2nd to September 1st
The Peninsula Country Market has more than 50 vendors weekly offering farm fresh products, jams and jellies, honey, homemade bread, cut flowers, assorted meats, organic produce and a fine selection of arts and crafts.
The Oaklands Sunset Market began as a community celebration, a space for neighbours and local businesses to come together and build community connections.
Now, the annual market features a selection of local farm & food vendors from June to August.
When: 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., Wednesdays from June 29th to August 31st
The Duncan Farmers’ Market is located in historic downtown Duncan, selling a full array of produce, in-season fruit, honey, eggs, cheese, meat, seafood, wines and spirits, baked goods, plants and flowers, amazing local artisan creations, pastas, jams, pickles, food trucks and more.
The market runs year round, with different operating hours for the fall and winter.
When: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays, April 2nd throughout the Summer.
The Cedar Farmers’ Market features locally grown fruit & vegetables, ethically raised meat, sustainable seafood, potted plants, fresh-cut flowers, pottery, jewelry, food trucks, hot locally-roasted coffee, handmade gelato, all-natural bath & beauty care, home decor, and more!
The market will open at 9:30 a.m. for reserved Shopping for seniors and those with physical and/or neurodevelopmental challenges.
At 10 a.m. live music will begin and the market will open for the general public.
When: 9:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Reserved Shopping, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., General Public, Sunday from May 8th to October 31st
The Pier Street Farmers Market and Arts Fair in Campbell River offers a variety of homemade wares, arts and crafts, and fresh produce with live music, hot food and a vibrant atmosphere.
The annual event sees an average of 4,000 visitors weekly!
When: 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Sundays from May to September
Where: 540, 560, 580 10th Avenue, Campbell River Community Centre
Since 1973, the Errington Farmers’ Market has served the communities of Errington, Coombs, Hilliers, Whiskey Creek and Parksville with a goal of “Make it, Bake it, Grow it”.
When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturdays from May to the end of September
The Pender farmers market is sponsored by the Pender Island Farmers’ Institute, bringing together local farmers, craftspeople and food vendors for a fun summer market.
When: 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturdays from May 21st to September 3rd
The Salt Spring Island Market is a popular market for locals and tourists!
The market operates rain or shine from April all the way through to October and features world class potters, jewellers, fibre artists, woodworkers, fine art & photography, body care, clothing and accessories, island tours and more.
When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday April 2nd to October 29th
Where: Oceanside at Centennial Park in the heart of Ganges
Did we miss a market? Let us know at tips@victoriabuzz.com
Jesse and Violet Bennett (North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP)
A 7-year-old old girl who was reported missing on January 23rd, after father Jesse Bennett failed to return her as ordered by Family Courts has been located and is safe.
Three months after the ordeal began, North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP said someone known to Violet Bennett was dropped off at the detachment on the evening of April 20th.
Violet is back with her mother, according to police.
In an interview with Victoria Buzz in February, Violet’s mother, Roget Hall, told Victoria Buzz she last saw her daughter on January 3rd.
That’s when Jesse sent her a message, saying Violet wouldn’t be returned to her because she was wearing a face mask to school.
“The only option he gave me to get her back was to take her out of school to be homeschooled—something I refused to do,” Roget explained, “as Violet has resources set up at school that I believed she needed, something I was unable to provide for her.”
“So I took him to court.”
According to Roget, the January 20th court date was the last day she heard from Jesse—the same day the courts ordered him to return Violet into her custody.
Violet’s father, Jesse Bennett is still wanted on a Canada Wide Warrant for abduction in contravention of a custody order.
“This investigation came to a positive ending, thanks to the work of our partnering police agencies, the media and ultimately the public who provided tips in hope to safely locate Violet,” RCMP said in a release.
Described as a Caucasian man, Jesse is 36-years-old, 5’10” and 160 pounds with blue eyes and brown hair (possibly shaved head or wearing a hat). He also has a beard.
Police say they will not release any further details to respect the family’s privacy.
Anyone with information on his whereabouts should call local police or the North Cowichan RCMP at (250) 748-5522.
Tensions were high along the Trans-Canada Highway (TCH) on Wednesday after Save Old Growth protesters set up a road blockade at the Malahat, leaving traffic backed up for hours.
Video from Save Old Growth shows a pair of fed-up commuters attempting to physically remove a barrier, as one tosses traffic cones and another tears a banner from a protester’s hands after yelling, “I’ve got kids in the car [who] are sick.”
The activist group posted the footage to Twitter, saying its members “remained peaceful and calm when faced with violence from the public.”
Save Old Growth had warned they’d be blocking the highway starting at around 3:30 p.m. They say members managed to keep the blockade in place for four hours, which eventually led to two arrests.
Meanwhile, similar incidents captured on cam in Vancouver this morning show old-growth protesters blocking the TCH being dragged off the road by commuters.
But these road blockades are nothing new.
In Greater Victoria last Friday, April 15th, heading into the Easter long weekend, Save Old Growth disrupted traffic on the TCH at West Shore Parkway.
Eighty-four people have been arrested on BC highways since January in Vancouver, Revelstoke, Victoria and Nanaimo, the group said Thursday.
Still, it notes that it won’t stop blocking routes until the BC government passes legislation to end all old-growth logging.
Earlier this month, the province of BC said it was working with First Nations to defer logging of old-growth and develop a new approach to sustainable forest management.
“Deferrals have been implemented on nearly 1.7 million hectares of old-growth, including approximately 1.05 million hectares of BC’s forests most at risk of irreversible loss,” states a press release.
⚠️ Traffic alert: The northbound lanes of the Trans Canada Highway are currently blocked at West Shore Parkway due to a…
Handcrafted seasonally-inspired menu by an executive chef, wine presented and poured by guest winemakers, and the sound of a live piano performance floating in the air.
All while overlooking the Seaside Gardens.
Sound like everything you’ve been waiting for?
From May until September, Oak Bay Beach Hotel is celebrating the return of in-person events with their 6th annual Winemaker’s Dinner Series.
(Oak Bay Beach Hotel)
“We are thrilled to have our Winemaker’s Dinner Series return to our Grand Lobby this year,” says Christian Sealey, Director of Food and Beverage at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel.
“British Columbia features so many amazing wineries, and our dinners are the perfect way to find a new, local favourite or discover a hidden gem, all to be enjoyed in a beautiful location.”
Each Winemaker’s Dinner features the best of a featured British Columbia winery, paired with a seasonally-inspired menu created by Executive Chef Kreg Graham.
After being personally seated to their reserved table, guests will enjoy a multiple course meal and wine from the event’s featured winery.
You can view a full list of the featured wineries below:
Dirty Laundry Vineyard: May 5th
Spearhead Winery: June 9th
Anthony Buchanan Wines: June 23rd
Liquidity Wines: July 7th
Blue Grouse Vineyards: July 21st
Hester Creek Winery: August 11th
Phantom Creek Winery: August 25th
Little Eagle Wines: September 15th
Tickets for each dinner are $189+tax per person with a minimum purchase of two tickets.
Tickets will not be available at the door, and with seating limited to 35 guests per dinner, they are sure to sell out fast.
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Contest entries will be accepted from time and date of publishing until 11:59 p.m. PST on April 28th, 2022. One winner will be chosen at random and contacted through the platform they enter within 24 hours of the contest closing. Good luck!
Windy weather has shattered one cruise ship’s plan to dock at Ogden Point in Victoria this afternoon, the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) says.
While the Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Bliss was scheduled to arrive at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, GVHA CEO Ian Robertson says the stop has been cancelled due to high winds.
That means the ship, which the CDC says has COVID-19 cases on board, will skip BC’s capital and make its way to Vancouver earlier than expected.
“She (Norwegian Bliss) has a specific arrival time into Vancouver very early tomorrow morning,” explained Robertson, “so she’s probably doing a series of donuts out in the Juan de Fuca Strait to kill time before she heads to Vancouver.”
But Robertson notes that missed ship calls happen all the time. In fact, he says the GVHA budgets for a certain number each year due to weather events.
“This is the first time it’s happened this year, and I’m sure it won’t be the last,” he said.
And while the start of Victoria’s 2022 cruise ship season faces choppy waters, Robertson notes he’s still thrilled to see its long-awaited return.
Earlier this month, the first cruise ship docked in Victoria since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, ushering in thousands of passengers who were met with environmental protesters.
The Holland America Koningsdam sailed in on April 9th with 1,200 passengers on board, becoming the first ship to be called to a Canadian port since October 2019.
All passengers and crew must be fully vaccinated to board ships entering Canada—a regulation and requirement put in place by Transport Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada.
The delay ultimately pushed the time passed since the return of a cruise ship to Canada to 905 days, according to the GVHA, which says over 350 ship calls and around 780,000 passengers are expected in Victoria this year.
The next cruise ship set to arrive is Princess Cruises Grand Princess, docking this Friday, April 22nd.
A Victoria graphic designer says the flag soaring outside his home has been misrepresented in recent months, prompting him to create a sticker to help it return to its original glory.
“I was appalled by how our Canadian flag had been adopted and used in the wrong way. It became a symbol of action against the government, and I thought, ‘That’s not why we wave flags,’” said Victor Crapnell.
“We wave flags in happiness and support of our leaders,” he told Victoria Buzz.
Crapnell recalls flag-waving “Freedom Convoy” protests from earlier this year that saw crowds opposed to COVID-19 mandates storm Ottawa’s Parliament Hill.
It was a wave that eventually made its way across the country, including Victoria, where protesters gathered week after week out front of BC’s Legislature.
According to Crapnell, it bothered him “immensely” that people waved the Canadian flag to support an agenda he calls “ignorant and twisted.”
“It really started to bug me that if I put a flag on my car, would I be lumped in with these people? I’ve flown a flag in the front of our house for years, and my wife asked me, ‘Should we take our flag down?’”
“I said, ‘Absolutely not!’”
That’s when Crapnell took it upon himself to design a sticker featuring the Canadian flag crushing a semi-truck, paired with the words, “Canada—take back your flag”.
“I started this about one month ago. I initially had 100 stickers printed out,” said Crapnell.
“For the first two weeks, I thought, ‘Well, it’s really not getting much steam.’ But when Jack Knox recently ran an article in the Times Colonist, it just exploded.
“Things do have a slow burn to them at times, right?”
Crapnell says sticker inquiries have been coming in droves, noting he’s received hundreds of emails this week alone from people across Canada wanting a sticker of their own.
He’s asking people to reach out via takebackyourflag@gmail.com.
“People are offering donations to help me cover my costs, but to be clear, I’m not trying to make a profit here,” explained Crapnell.
“I just need my costs to be covered—the stickers cost me about $1 each, plus the postage. I’m just looking to recoup that.”
And while most of the feedback has been positive, some hate has poured in as well: “One guy phoned me early this morning and said, ‘If you want your flag back, you’ll have to take it off my cold dead body.’”
But Crapnell says he was expecting negative feedback.
Early this morning, at around 1 a.m., VicPD were called to 1112 Caledonia Avenue, near Cook Street, as officers assisted local fire crews battling the structure fire.
Built in the late 1800s, the house is well over a century old and was designed by former Victoria mayor John Teague. He’s the same architect behind City Hall, notes the Victoria Heritage Foundation.
A photo captured by Victoria Buzz shows the house’s front porch, second-floor balcony and surrounding areas completely destroyed and charred in black soot.
Ethan Morneau / Victoria Buzz
Yuriy Vyshnevskyy, who lives in the house with his wife and three young daughters, is a pastor at the Ukrainian Catholic Church of St. Nicholas, located next door.
Vyshnevskyy told CTV News that his wife awoke moments before the fire erupted to find gasoline poured through the mail slot next to their front door.
When emergency crews arrived on scene, most of the family had escaped the flames, police say. However, one person required ladder rescue by firefighters from a window ledge on the second floor.
They were then sent to hospital with potentially life-threatening injuries, which are now considered non-life-threatening, according to VicPD.
A section of Caledonia Avenue between Cook and Chambers Streets remained closed to vehicle traffic for hours as investigators combed through evidence.
Currently, VicPD says Major Crimes Unit detectives are continuing the investigation into the arson, calling on the public for help and seeking any witnesses, dashcam footage or video from the area between midnight and 1:30 a.m.
Anyone with information is urged to call VicPD’s report desk at (250) 995-7654. Tipsters can submit an anonymous report by calling Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 222-8477.
Major Crimes Unit detectives are seeking dashcam or video footage & witnesses after an arson to an occupied home in #yyj early this morning.
As the weather gets warmer, many begin their hunt for the city’s best fish and chips.
Perfectly battered, hot, crispy and delicious, served with a side of coleslaw and fries, it is the prime summer food to enjoy while sitting outside in the sunshine.
The English dish is most often served with halibut or cod, but flounder, tilapia, haddock and even salmon are also options.
So what’s the best place in Victoria to get the classic dish?
According to a recent Reddit thread by u/faithoft, the people of Victoria have voted on their local favourites.
Ready for summer? Here are 13 places to get the best fish & chips in and around Victoria:
Finns Seafood Restaurant is prepared the traditional British way with a generous portion of sustainably caught Haddock in a local craft beer batter, fresh cut fries, coleslaw, house made tartar sauce.
To mark Earth Day, Victoria residents will soon be able to hop aboard public transit for free in a push to have fewer cars on local roads.
On Friday, April 22nd, BC Transit and the Greater Victoria Transit Commission (GVTC) will offer complimentary rides on both conventional routes and HandyDART services.
Earth Day came to be in 1970 and highlights the importance of sustainability, encouraging people to make choices that reduce greenhouse gases (GHG) and help protect the environment.
“Taking public transit is one way to make a difference,” BC Transit said Wednesday.
The company points to its goal of having a zero-emission fleet by 2040 through its Low Carbon Fleet Program, supporting provincial targets for GHG emissions and aligning with CleanBC.
“The current province-wide fleet has more than 240 Compressed Natural Gas buses, and the first battery-electric buses will be coming to Victoria,” added BC Transit.
Free rides on Earth Day come as a staff shortage plagues BC Transit, prompting some service reductions to roll out earlier this month along local routes.
On April 4th, the company said it was actively recruiting transit operators in several systems across the province and working to hire more drivers.
BC Transit says it will increase capacity as more operators are hired, and encourages transit-goers to visit its website for a detailed look at bus schedules, routes and service alerts.
Shawnigan Lake RCMP are investigating after an increase in mischief in the area and are asking anyone with information to come forward.
According to RCMP, they have investigated six separate reports of graffiti in the last month, some of which include hate speech and vulgar images.
Officers also reported a blockade on a roadway using picnic tables and chairs which, although intended to be a prank, could have caused major delays for emergency responders.
Other incidents in the area include tampering with street signs, which has resulted in many having to be repaired or replaced, an estimated cost of over $500.
Investigators are reviewing video surveillance of the areas in an attempt to identify potential suspects.
“With the nicer weather that comes along in the spring and summer months, we anticipate that there will be people enjoying the village and lakefront areas later into the evening,” said Constable Jill Woodley of the Shawnigan Lake RCMP.
“Our hope is that everyone can do their part to keep our village clean and be respectful of the local businesses and parks.”
According to RCMP, the rise in crime in Shawnigan Lake is affecting local businesses and community spaces.
Anyone with information relating to these incidents is asked to contact the Shawnigan Lake RCMP at (250) 743-5514.
The Wednesday morning blaze in Fernwood that left a two-storey heritage home ravaged by fire has been deemed arson, according to Victoria Police.
—original:
A Wednesday morning blaze in Fernwood has left a two-storey heritage home ravaged by fire.
Early this morning, at around 1 a.m., VicPD were called to 1112 Caledonia Avenue, near Cook Street, as officers assisted Victoria fire crews battling the structure fire.
One person was sent to hospital with potentially life-threatening injuries, which are now considered non-life-threatening, according to VicPD.
Officers are assisting Vic Fire in the 1100-blk of Caledonia Ave after a structure fire at a home early this morning. One person was transported to hospital w potentially life-threatening injuries, which are now considered non-life-threatening. The investigation is ongoing. #yyj
The Victoria Heritage Foundation says the home was built in the late 1800s and designed by former Victoria mayor John Teague, the same architect behind City Hall.
Police say the investigation into the fire is ongoing, and as of 9 a.m., a section of Caledonia Avenue between Cook and Chambers Streets remained closed to vehicle traffic.
Victoria Buzz has reached out to the Victoria Fire Department for more information.
Have you got your hands on the hottest tickets in town yet?
This year’s Hometown Heroes Lottery promises to be hotter than ever, and with 10 incredible Grand Prize options to choose from, the hardest part is choosing which one you’d take!
The Grand Prize winner will have their pick of one of nine gorgeous BC homes, including two options on Vancouver Island or – for the first time ever – two home options in Vancouver. Or, choose the 10th option – a cool $2.2 million tax-free cash.
The Hometown Heroes Lottery supports both VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation and the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund.
This includes BC’s health care heroes, like doctors, nurses, front line workers, first responders—as well aspatients that need life-saving care, and who benefit from all the work and research the lottery funds.
BC’s Hometown Heroes come to the aid of people in life-threatening situations every day. Healthcare teams at Vancouver General Hospital—where 60% of the province’s trauma surgeries take place—are always on duty for severely injured and critically ill patients from all across BC.
Every year, VGH performs more than 30,000 surgeries and treats more than 600,000 patient visits.
Additionally, Foundation fundraising serves the Vancouver Coastal Health system, which sees over 94,000 emergency room visits each year and provides 158,000 home support hours every month.
Tickets to the lottery—which come with a chance to win one of the 10 grand prize packages—start at 3 tickets for $75, and go all of the way up to a 40-ticket pack for $500.
Check out these photos of the 9 grand prize homes you could win, and grab your tickets before they’re gone!
On top of all of this, Hometown Heroes has some incredible bonus draws happening before the Grand Prizes are drawn, which include brand new vehicles, gift cards and more.
The grand prize draw will be Thursday, July 28th, 2022. Purchase your tickets here!
Deadlines to enter the various draws are:
Welcome Bonus Draw: Midnight, Friday, May 13th
Heroes Bonus Draw: Midnight, Friday, May 27th
Summer Bonus Draw: Midnight, Friday, June 10th
Early Bird Draw: Midnight, Friday, June 24th
Main Draws and Grand Prize: Midnight, Friday, July 14th
50/50 PLUS™: Midnight, Friday, July 14th
Daily Cash PLUS™: Midnight, Friday, July 14th
Know your limit, play within it. Must be 19+ to play.
Lace up those running shoes—one of Victoria’s most spectacular and scenic community events returns in person following a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In its 33rd year, the Times Colonist 10K is back with the motto “Better Together!” and is set for this Sunday, April 24th, with athletes gearing up to hit the start line at 8 a.m. sharp.
Taking racers around downtown Victoria and Dallas Road, the TC10K kicks off at Government and Belleville streets near the Empress Hotel and the BC Legislature buildings.
What began in 1990 under “Garden City 10K” was renamed “TC10K” in 2001 after the Times Colonist newspaper became the title sponsor of the annual event, organizers recall.
This year’s route will head north on Government/Wharf to Yates, east on Yates, south on Cook, east on Richardson, south on Moss, east on May, south on Memorial to Dallas Road, then along Dallas to Erie, finishing back in front of the Legislature.
According to organizers, all intersections along the run route will be closed to traffic, with roads inside the route remaining open. Still, motorists will have to cross under the direction of VicPD.
They say no on-street parking will be allowed from 4 a.m. to 11 a.m., with all cars parked on the race route towed at the owner’s expense.
RunSport.ca
Meanwhile, the 1.5-kilometre Thrifty Foods Family Run is also set for Sunday, taking racers along a shortened route around the Legislature buildings.
As well, a virtual TC10K race is happening this year as organizers look to welcome participants from across the globe.
A complete list of road closures can be found online here, with more details about the TC10K and Thrifty Foods Family Run found on RunSport.ca.
Individual and team registration fees start at $59 for TC10K or $49 for teacher and student teams; $20 for Thrifty Foods Family Run; $59 for TC10K virtual run
UPDATE: A woman wanted for randomly assaulting a man in downtown Victoria has been identified and arrested, according to VicPD.
The incident happened yesterday on Blanshard Street when the suspect kicked a man to the ground, causing the hot tea the man was holding at the time to spill over him, causing significant burns.
The woman then fled the scene.
UPDATE | Thanks to a tip from a member of the public, a suspect in this file is now in custody. https://t.co/070N8X9lhh
VicPD are looking to identify a suspect after she randomly assaulted a man in downtown Victoria Tuesday morning.
At approximately 8 a.m. on April 19th, a man was approached by an unknown woman as he walked northbound on Blanshard Street, across the crosswalk at Fort Street.
The woman kicked the man to the ground, causing the hot tea the man was holding at the time to spill over him, causing significant burns.
The suspect, who is described as an adult, Caucasian woman with a thin build, left the scene.
At the time of the incident she was wearing a grey hooded sweater with the hood up, a green sweatshirt, green sweatpants, sneakers with a yellow marking and a black backpack.
The victim was taken to hospital and treated for non-life-threatening injuries related to the burns.
Anyone who recognizes the suspect or has information regarding this incident who has not yet spoken with officers is asked to call the VicPD non-emergency line at (250) 995-7654.
To report what you know anonymously, call Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
A downtown Victoria eatery got more than it bargained for at breakfast time, after a man forced his way into its kitchen and assaulted a staff member before spitting on jail staff.
VicPD says officers were called to the restaurant in the 800-block of Douglas Street shortly after 8 a.m. on Tuesday.
Initial reports indicated that an unknown man had forced his way through the back door and then hit a staff member with a metal bowl when asked to leave.
The victim did not require medical attention for their injuries, according to police, who note restaurant staff were eventually able to escort the man out of the building.
When officers arrived on scene, they found and arrested the 29-year-old suspect, a Victoria man, in the area of Douglas and Courtney streets.
As officers transported him to VicPD cells, he spat on jail staff, according to police.
The suspect now faces recommended charges of forcible entry, assault with a weapon, uttering threats, mischief and assaulting a peace officer and was held in custody for a bail hearing.
The file remains under investigation, and VicPD asks anyone with information about the incident to call (250) 955-7654. Tipsters can remain anonymous by calling Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 222-8477.
