Join our community of SUBSCRIBERS and be part of the conversation.
To subscribe, simply enter your email address on our website or click the subscribe button below. Don't worry, we respect your privacy and won't spam your inbox. Your information is safe with us.
The Capital Regional District (CRD) recycling collection service has been cancelled for the day due to adverse weather conditions.
In a media release, the CRD said the cancellation is for all scheduled routes Tuesday, December 28th.
“All scheduled collection has been cancelled today due to unsafe weather and road conditions in the region,” CRD said in its statement.
Residents affected are advised to hold their recycling until their next collection day. There is no limit on how much recycling can be placed at the curb.
If you simply have too much to recycle and not enough blue bins to hold it all in, click herefor a list of free recycling drop off locations in the CRD.
Just make sure to check weather conditions before heading out. Some locations on the list may also be closed due to the weather.
Hartland Landfill is open today, but the weather has impacted road conditions so CRD are asking people use caution and expect delays.
Starting in January, SD61 is hosting a three-week condensed training program designed to get aspiring Educational Assistants classroom-ready, completely free of charge.
In 47 schools serving 19,000 students, SD61’s 3,000 employees are committed every day to ensuring their students’ success in a responsible and safe environment.
The Educational Assistant training program will take place from January 31st to February 18th, 2022 and is free for all accepted applicants.
Acceptance to free Educational Assistant training program will be based on an interview to be conducted over Zoom, based in early January. Though a job offer is not guaranteed at the end of the program, that is the hopeful outcome for all applicants.
Applicants must be interested in working with Greater Victoria School District and able to accept a Monday to Friday position upon completion of the program.
Requirements for acceptance into the program
Desire and ability to be gainfully employed by the School District at the conclusion of the program
Grade 12 or equivalent
One (1) year Education Assistant and Community Support Worker certificate or equivalent combination of post-secondary courses in child/adolescent development, or behavior management including non-violent crisis intervention techniques.
Experience working with vulnerable children
First Aid and CPR certified, or willingness to get certified
Ability to commit to the full three week course (please do not apply if you cannot attend these dates)
Desire to be gainfully employed by the School District at the conclusion of the program
The program includes
Organizational structure of schools
The role of Education Assistants in the classroom
Health and safety (COVID Protocols)
Child development
Indigenous learners and the “First Peoples Principles of Learning”
Inclusion
Supporting learning
Technology and education
Behaviour support
Communication
Boundaries
Social emotional learning
English Language Learners
Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) Training (1 day)
School Visits: Elementary, Middle, Secondary (6 days)
Benefits of working in the Greater Victoria School District
Having an opportunity to work with all students and see their progress in the classroom you support
Having the flexibility to work around family commitments, personal avocations and the school calendar
Competitive wages
Completion of the program could lead to an Educational Assistant position with the Greater Victoria School District, and these positions offer regular call-outs leading to continuing assignments of 24-28 hours per week.
The deadline to apply for the Educational Assistant training is Monday, January 3rd, 2022 at 12 p.m., and to apply, interested applicants can send their cover letter, resume, copies of relevant certification and references to:
Human Resource Services, Greater Victoria School District #61 556 Boleskine Road, Victoria, B.C. V8Z 1E8
You can also email hrs@sd61.bc.ca.
For a detailed job description of the position of the Educational Assistant position, please visit SD61 onlineand head to their Employment section.
The number of new COVID-19 cases in British Columbia continues to soar as health officials report 6,288 cases for a three day total, dating back to Christmas Eve.
The province continues to break its daily record for new COVID-19 case with the following numbers reported over the past three-days:
December 24th to 25th: 2,552 new cases
December 25th to 26th: 2,023 new cases
December 26th to 27th: 1,713 new cases
The latest infections bring the total number of recorded cases in the province to 241,946 since the pandemic began.
In a written statement, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix said the Ministry of Health will return to regular reporting of COVID-19 cases, vaccinations, hospitalizations and deaths, and cases and hospitalizations by vaccination status on Wednesday, December 29th.
New cases were reported in these health regions
3,181 new cases in Fraser Health
1,482 new cases in Vancouver Coastal Health
713 new cases in Interior Health
174 new cases in Northern Health
737 new cases in Island Health
one new case in person who resides outside of Canada
Breakdown of cases on Vancouver Island from December 24th:
South Vancouver Island Active cases: 554 │Total Cases: 6,143
Central Vancouver Island Active cases: 242 │ Total Cases: 6,764
North Vancouver Island Active cases: 156│Total Cases: 2,521
The next COVID-19 update for BC will be provided on Tuesday, December 28th.
Earlier today, the province announced it will be extending the current provincial state of emergency into the new year with multiple highways still sitting damaged.
The provincial state of emergency was officially deployed back on November 17th after extreme rain falls resulted in floods and mudslides across BC.
The extension will run until January 11th, 2022.
“While significant progress has been made in recovery and repair efforts, there is still more to do to reopen our highways and get people back into their homes,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General.
“My thanks go out to all British Columbians for their patience and compliance during these challenging times, and to the crews who have worked tirelessly to get these highways back open.”
The order restricting travel on highways 5 and 99 will remain in place.
This includes:
Highway 5 (Coquihalla) between Hope and Merritt (only commercial vehicles with a minimum licensed gross vehicle weight of 11,794 kilograms, and inter-city buses are permitted)
From the junction of Highway 99 and Lillooet River Road to the BC Hydro Seton Lake campsite access in Lillooet (open to all traffic, but vehicles weighing more than 14,500 kilograms are not permitted)
“Reopening the Coquihalla to commercial trucks and intercity buses was an important step in our recovery from November’s storm damage,” said Rob Fleming, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.
“Repairs to our highway infrastructure are progressing well. However, with winter conditions here and more work to do, some restrictions must remain in place.”
Looking for the perfect date night activity this holiday season?
Look no further than downtown Victoria’s Lights of Wonder!
The outdoor, safe, and free attraction offers a cruise through a literal wonderland of light displays – perfect for perusing with your favourite person.
The light display will illuminate Centennial Square until December 31st, and if you’re planning on visiting, it makes an excellent nightcap to an incredible evening.
Lights of Wonder is open to the public at 4 p.m. each day, giving you enough time to grab a bite to eat or some drinks at one of downtown’s many establishments with your plus one.
Visit the attraction 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday to Thursday, and Friday and Saturday 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. – it’s even open until midnight on New Year’s Eve!
If you’re on the hunt for a happy hour to hit up along the way, don’t forget to check out our list of a few favourites.
Whether it’s cocktails at the luxurious Lure Restaurant & Bar or Steamship Grill for delicious cuisine with a side of breathtaking views of the Inner Harbour, there are so many options to impress your date with in downtown Victoria.
And how about a little help with your date night? We’ve partnered with the DVBA to give away a $100 gift card to a Downtown Victoria business of your choice!
CONTEST
To enter for your chance to win a $100 gift card to your favourite downtown business, complete the following:
LIKE DVBA on Facebookand comment below to let us know you have. (1 entry)
SHARE this article on Facebook and comment below to let us know you have. (1 entry)
COMMENT your favourite downtown Victoria business in the comment section below (1 entry)
Contest entries will be accepted from the time and date of publishing until 11:59 pm on January 3rd, 2022. One winner will be chosen at random and contacted through the platform they used to enter. Make sure to register when commenting below.
Having flashbacks to the blizzard of ‘96, Victoria?
Today marks 25 years since a massive snowfall blanketed the region, which is fitting for today’s weather warning.
According to Environment Canada, the Greater Victoria area is expected to see another 2 to 5 cm of fresh snow as temperatures continue to drop.
In addition to the snow warning, Environment Canada also issued a Arctic air statement saying with the windchill factor could produce -20 temperatures for parts of Vancouver Island until at least Wednesday.
While this statement mostly impacts Comox and Campbell River, the Victoria area will see temps drop as low as -8 degrees.
“An Arctic ridge of high pressure over the B.C. interior will bring strong and bitterly cold outflow winds to coastal communities beginning tonight,” the weather statement reads.
Saanich Police issued an advisory Sunday morning urging motorists to avoid travel if possible.
The BC Ministry of Health reported 2,441 new cases of COVID-19 on Friday, December 24th.
There have been 222,604 cases of COVID-19 since the pandemic began.
New cases were reported in these health regions:
Vancouver Coastal Health: 967
Fraser Health: 1,001
Island Health: 219
Interior Health: 188
Northern Health: 66
Resident outside Canada: 0
To date, there have been 1,613 cases of the Omicron variant confirmed in BC with 347 of those cases being in the Island Health region.
There are currently 10,415 active cases of COVID-19 in the province.
222,604 people who tested positive have recovered.
There are now a total of 192 people in hospital due to COVID-19, 71 of whom are in critical care — ICU or acute care units.
There were four news deaths from COVID-related causes in the past 24 hours, bringing the provincial death toll to 2,414 since the pandemic began.
Outbreaks
There has been one new health-care facility outbreak in the province.
There are a total of 2 ongoing health care outbreaks in the province.
There are currently no health care outbreaks in the Island Health region.
Vaccinations
As of Friday, December 24th 87.8% (4,377,551) of eligible people five and older in BC have received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine and 82.8% (4,126,279) have received their second dose.
In addition, 91.8% (4,256,707) of eligible people 12 and older in BC have received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine, 89% (4,126,185) received their second dose and 17% (807,057) have received a third dose.
Also, 92.2% (3,988,184) of all eligible adults in BC have received their first dose, 89.5% (3,870,981) received their second dose and 19% (806,246) have received a third dose.
The next COVID-19 update for BC will be provided on Monday, December 27th.
As a single person with no kiddies and no roomies (the distinction between those two is blurry), I know all too well how tough these times can be.
All around us, we’ve got holiday cheer, and we’re stuck in our weird, confusing “maximum household” rules that leave us awkwardly half-in and half-out of visitation, just when it seemed like we might have a chance at human contact. It’s like getting blue balled at conjugal visit time in Sing Sing.
I was lucky. I convinced my Calgary-based family to hold a small “early Christmas” around the 10th. This was not due to foresight around a potential fourth wave. It was just my lizard brain latching onto a dirt-cheap flight deal that matched the budget of my wallet.
Nevertheless, I consider myself fortunate to have taken in that visit, and, while I am a lonely heart in a city I still haven’t gotten to fully explore, I do have a tiny furbeast to keep me company. Arguably, the presence of a dog only enhances my inevitable Grinch cosplay, but I’d be lying if I said it didn’t massively help in these pandemic times.
Given, then, that I do have some emotional energy to expend in the aid of others, I want to offer my fellow Victoria singles some suggestions for how to spend these difficult times. And no, this won’t be some empty, vacuous attempt to convince you that “good vibes and good thoughts” are going to get you through this.
This is the real shit. Right here. Let’s do Christmas 2021 right.
Go full Jabba
Yes, I am referring to Jabba the copyrighted Hutt. You see a disgusting crime lord slug boy. I see a wealthy libertine living his best-damned life.
In the short span we saw Jabba, that greasy glorious animatronic that launched a thousand slashfics with his costume fetishes was basically partying constantly. He was surrounded by sex, drugs and (depending on if you see the Special Edition) rock and roll.
Now, you probably can’t engage in all of these, but what you CAN do is let yourself utterly go, and ain’t nobody gonna say boo about it. Eat that turkey. Double-fist that Bailey’s and coffee. Squirt the whipping cream directly into your mouth and forego pie altogether. Or don’t.
The point is: all those body-shaming cretins are going to be out of sight, out of mind for the foreseeable future. Screw them, and their wookie too.
Manifest a manifesto
You’re alone. You’re isolating. You’re angry. You’re sad. You’re more than a little bit drunk.
If those aren’t prime conditions for creating the next version of Das Kapital, I don’t know what is.
I feel like now’s the time for us embittered, lonely and — let’s be honest — a little bit crazy single folks to truly carpe diem and come out with the next wave of revolutionary thought. It’s kind of the “infinite monkey theorem” style of Marx and Engels. Can a thousand bitter COVID shut-ins crank out the next Wealth of Nations or 1984? Let’s find out!
Fall down the infinite vortex of the internet
I do this on most days off, but this is a great opportunity to find out how deep the well goes.
The internet is a wonderful and terrible place. It’s not something easily understood. But if there’s one guiding principle to it, it’s that it wants to give you MORE. Algorithms atop algorithms are linked like Dante’s circles of hell to propagate you to more and more content.
“The feed” is like a Lovecraftian nightmare god, forever singing the song that sends men to madness. And yet, I cannot get enough of it (and that’s ESPECIALLY Lovecraftian).
In some ways, falling down an internet hole, clicking “see also” or “related content” like a sage with a dousing rod looking for the one clean water source, is a lot of fun. It can be perilous. But therein lies the challenge.
I promise you, there is a surprising amount of reward in finding that ONE link that offers something you truly love. Here’s a freebie to get you started.
And never forget
It’s okay to be sad during the holidays. It’s okay to be happy during the holidays. It’s okay to be anything in between.
But whatever happens, I hope it helps to know that I’m here, you’re here, we’re all here, and we’re all in this together.
Merry Christmas.
Welcome to Ford on Fridays: a weekly column where Victoria Buzz staff writer Tim Ford offers his thoughts on life, love, and the pursuit of the perfect joke.
This column is for comedic purposes only. Please feel free to send feedback, thoughts, and [constructive] criticisms to tim@victoriabuzz.com.
A Victoria business owner’s Christmas got a whole lot better thanks to a Good Samaritan.
VicPD were able to return a large sum of money to its rightful owner after it was found on a downtown street earlier this week.
On Tuesday, December 21st, the Good Samaritan found an envelope containing $9,000 while waiting for their friend.
They immediately brought the envelope with the cash to the VicPD headquarters on Caledonia Avenue in hopes that officers could locate the rightful owner.
“A VicPD Special Municipal Constable took the file, stored the cash for safe-keeping, and began the search for the rightful owner,” said police spokesman Bowen Osoko.
The next morning, a business owner called police to report that they had discovered they had lost an envelope containing $9,000 the previous day.
A VicPD officer made the connection between the two files and began the process of confirming rightful ownership.
“The business owner attended VicPD Headquarters this morning with documents confirming the cash was theirs,” said Osoko.
As it turns out, the Good Samaritan’s good deed saved Christmas for many as the money turned out to be Christmas bonuses for the business’ staff.
It is now back in the owner’s hands just in time for Christmas Eve.
“The return is due both to the diligent work of the VicPD Special Municipal Constables and the good Samaritan who did the right thing and turned in a substantial amount of money they discovered on a rainy, downtown Victoria street,” said Osoko.
West Shore RCMP are reminding the public of increased parcel thefts, especially around the holidays.
And thanks to home surveillance one of those porch pirates has been nabbed.
In the early afternoon of December 21st, a View Royal homeowners’ surveillance security system captured a thief snatching a package from their front step.
The footage was handed over to the West Shore RCMP who quickly identified the suspect in the video.
Within days, a search warrant was issued and conducted at the suspect’s residence.
The suspect, 29 year-old Barbara Joseph, was arrested on December 23rd.
She has been charged and arrested for Theft of Mail, Fail to Comply with Probation Order and Fail to Comply with Release Order.
In response to the changing situation of COVID-19 and the rapid spread of the Omicron variant, UVic has announced the beginning of the winter semester will be provided online.
According to a press release issued by the university, classes, which are scheduled to begin on January 10th, will be provided online until January 24th.
The announcement came Thursday, to allow students a chance to finalize their possible travel plans, instructors time to prepare for the start of a new term and coordination and collaboration between Island Health and the university.
Some courses, including those with clinical, performance, studio or lab components will continue to operate in person with appropriate approval and safety protocols.
Besides these specific courses, instructors have been notified to contact students directly if their course includes a face-to-face component to alter the delivery.
The announcement comes after UVic saw an increasing number of COVID-19 cases emerge on campus and ceased in-person exams just this month.
The BC Ministry of Health reported 2,046 new cases of COVID-19 on Thursday, December 23rd.
There have been 233,217 cases of COVID-19 since the pandemic began.
New cases were reported in these health regions:
Vancouver Coastal Health: 880
Fraser Health: 741
Island Health: 248
Interior Health: 123
Northern Health: 53
Resident outside Canada: 1
There have been 975 cases of the Omicron variant of concern confirmed in B.C.:
Fraser Health: 221
Vancouver Coastal Health: 496
Interior Health: 19
Northern Health: four
Island Health: 235
There are currently 8,739 active cases of COVID-19 in the province.
221,872 people who tested positive have recovered.
There are now a total of 195 people in hospital due to COVID-19, 75 of whom are in critical care — ICU or acute care units.
1 new person has died from COVID-related causes, making the provincial death toll 2,410.
Outbreaks
There have been no new health-care facility outbreaks in the province.
There is a total of 1 ongoing health care outbreak in the province.
There are currently no health care outbreaks in the Island Health region.
Island Health:
Island Health reported 248 new cases of COVID-19 in the Vancouver Island region and 884 active cases.
Breakdown of cases on Vancouver Island:
South Vancouver Island Active cases: 500 │Total Cases: 5981
Central Vancouver Island Active cases: 228│Total Cases: 6699
North Vancouver Island Active cases: 156│Total Cases: 2475
41 people remain in hospital with 18 in ICU.
There was 1 new deaths reported in the Island Health region today, and a total of 139 deaths on Vancouver Island.
Vaccinations
As of Thursday, December 23rd:
9,248,433 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered in BC
87.7% (4,372,428) of eligible people five and older in B.C. have received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine and 82.7% (4,124,437) have received their second dose.
91.8% (4,255,333) of eligible people 12 and older in B.C. have received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine, 89% (4,124,353) received their second dose and 17% (785,505) have received a third dose.
92.2% (3,986,940) of all eligible adults in B.C. have received their first dose, 89.5% (3,869,327) received their second dose and 18% (784,714) have received a third dose.
Across the province, the COVID-19 vaccination effort continues, with focus shifting to booster shots.
Starting early January, Esquimalt’s Archie Browning Sports Centre will once again be the site of a vaccine clinic.
The announcement comes after the province unveiled their plans to expand their booster program, with approximately 700 additional pharmacies administering vaccines for everyone eligible through the Get Vaccinated registration and booking system.
Currently, more than 350 pharmacies across 80 communities are administering vaccines.
Archie Browning Sports Centre was first transformed into a vaccine clinic in the spring of 2021 before resuming normal services in the fall.
Now, the centre will reopen to help administer additional vaccines as the province’s booster dose program takes off.
Ice hockey and public skating will be unaffected by the clinic at this time, however, access to the curling rink has been closed as set up is in progress.
“The township is proud to be a part of the public health effort to increase our community’s protection against COVID-19,” said Mayor Barbara Desjardins.
“We know this early ice closure must be truly frustrating for our curling community and appreciate their understanding. Curling has a long history in Esquimalt and we hope for a full season next year.”
The Archie Browning Sports Centre will be added to Island Health’s online site list when the hours of operations are confirmed and appointments are available for booking.
If one of your New Year’s resolutions is finding love in 2022, we’ve got the spot for you – and it’s on the big screen.
Bachelor in Paradise Canada is now casting, and they’re looking for people looking for love – that could be you!
After a successful first season, the reality TV show made its name by offering former bachelors and bachelorettes the chance to mingle with new faces over 4 weeks during the summer.
Though only one couple emerged from that season, the end goal is to find love – and then, naturally, lock that love down with a marriage proposal.
Feel like diving into new love in front of nation-wide audience this year? There are a few things you need to know about snagging your spot on Bachelor in Paradise Canada.
Firstly, filming will kick off in May and June of 2022. That being said, contestants will be whisked off to a super secret destination somewhere in Canada that we know nothing about aside from that it’s the “perfect location to fall in love”.
Even if things don’t work out with your new boo, at least you get a sweet vacation out of it?
You’ll also have to send CityTV a few snaps and one video, including but not limited to:
One Headshot (shoulders up, no filters)
One Full Body Shot (full length, head to toe, no filters)
One Video (2 mins max)
Aside from this, they ask a few probing questions like your dating history, and going a little deeper, “Are you ready to give or get a proposal of marriage?”
Think you have what it takes to find love this summer? Apply through CityTV here, and who knows.. maybe we’ll see you on the big screen?!
Businesses impacted by the latest COVID-19 restrictions could be eligible to receive a new one-time relief grant of up to $10,000.
In a live press conference Thursday, the BC government announced businesses temporarily shut down by public health orders will be eligible to receive a new one-time relief grant.
The COVID-19 Closure Relief Grant will supplement federal support programs and provide up to $10,000 to affected businesses.
Eligible businesses could receive between $1,000 and $10,000, depending on the number of employees.
The grant will help with expenses including rent, employee wages, insurance, maintenance and utilities.
The new fund was fast-tracked by the provincial government after new public health orders were implemented due to surging COVID-19 cases in BC and will cost an estimated $10 million.
“We’re all exhausted by COVID-19, but unfortunately COVID-19 is not done with us,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation.
“The COVID-19 Closure Relief Grant will directly help businesses through these difficult times. I encourage everyone in B.C. to support impacted local businesses, including businesses that have been forced to close by buying gift cards and memberships for future use.”
Applications for the grant will begin in January 2022, with more information on how to apply being made available over the next few weeks.
Applications will be open until the end of February 2022.
Starting in January, business advisors will be able to support and direct applicants via a call center operated by the Province and Small Business BC.
Businesses ordered fully closed include:
gyms, fitness and adult dance centres
bars, lounges and nightclubs
event venues that can no longer hold events
As of now, restrictions are expected to remain in place until at least January 18th.
BC Transit will no longer be offering free transit service in Greater Victoria on New Year’s Eve in light of the recently released COVID-19 restrictions, which include the closure of bars and nightclubs.
BC Transit was set to offer free service after 6 p.m. as they have in the past. The bus schedule will remain the same.
“Due to the recent Provincial Health Officer restrictions, we are cancelling New Year’s Eve service for the Victoria Regional Transit System. We are no longer offering free service after 6 p.m.,” said BC Transit in a statement.
The new measures were put in place with intention of curbing the spread of the fast-moving COVID-19 variant Omicron.
These new public health orders went into effect today and will remain in place throughout the new year until at least January 18th, 2022.
These new orders outline changes to indoor gatherings, fitness centres, sports tournaments and more.
Those hoping to wrap up 2021 at their favourite bar or nightclub will need to rethink their plans.
Restaurants will remain open, however, they will operate under new restrictions – similar to those from earlier in the pandemic.
A maximum of six people will be permitted per table and no mingling between tables will be permitted.
Other orders coming into effect also include the cancellation of all organized indoor events of any size such as weddings, receptions, and celebratory events.
In addition to the closures, all permitted seated events, no matter the size of the venue must operate at 50% capacity, this includes concerts, sports games such as hockey for example, theatres, and movie theatres etc.
All organized events are required to scan the BC vaccine card and everyone must wear a mask during the event.
The province is also urging BC residents to limit indoor gatherings to those who are fully vaccinated, to ensure proper ventilation indoors, to avoid all travel if not fully vaccinated.
Special weather statements, warning of rain, snow, and arctic air, have been issued for most of Vancouver Island, including the Greater Victoria area.
According to Environment Canada, snow will arrive this weekend in Greater Victoria with the first blanket expected Saturday evening.
The Malahat could see snow on Friday.
The weather agency warned of frost bite and hypothermia with temperatures expected to drop as low as -15 C in the Campbell River area, and down to -8 to -10C in Greater Victoria.
“A weather system will arrive over the south coast in the overnight hours of Thursday night where it will remain through Sunday,” reads the special statement.
It is expected the system will bring rain mixed with snow for areas closer to the water and snow for inland areas and higher terrain.
Southeasterly winds will develop ahead of the system over the Strait of Georgia overnight Thursday and could increase snowfall amounts to some areas of the eastern part of Vancouver Island.
Cooler air from the the BC interior os expected to make its way out to the south coast on Friday night, however true Arctic air is not expected to begin making its way out to the coast until later Christmas Day.
As the airmass around the south coast cools, more widespread snow is possible.
Once this cold Arctic air settles in around the south coast, temperatures are expected to be well below seasonal through the end of December.
“There will be an increased risk of frostbite and hypothermia with these conditions. Protect yourself and wear appropriate clothing when outdoors,” Environment Canada warns.
On December 13th, Hailey was accompanied at Mayfair Mall by an unknown male. VicPD are now hoping to identify him to assist with the investigation.
He is described as Caucasian, between 16 and 25 years-old, standing 5’6”, with a medium build.
In the surveillance footage, the male was wearing a black puffy winter coat over a black hoodie, a black toque with a small white logo, dark pants and dark Vans.
Anyone who sees Hailey, should call 911.
If you have any information on the identity of this unknown male or regarding Hailey’s whereabouts you are asked to call the VicPD at 250-995-7654.
Oak Bay Police are warning residents of the danger of giving their personal information out after a series of scams defrauded locals of thousands of dollars.
On Wednesday, December 15th, an Oak Bay resident received a phone call from someone stating they were calling from a courier company.
The caller advised the resident they had received a delivery with some illegal merchandise and to send $20,000 to prevent them from being arrested.
Unfortunately, the resident fell victim to the scam, wiring the requested money through her bank to the Bank of Asia East Hong Kong.
After this, the victim continued to receive phone calls and texts and complied with orders, sending multiple transfers and deleting text threads as requested.
Thankfully, the victim’s parents and landlord intervened, telling the victim to cease all communication with the caller.
On December 16th, Oak Bay Police were informed of another resident falling victim to a scam, this time a “mobile refund” scam.
The victim, who was expecting a $35.00 cheque from Telus in the mail, received a text message from ‘Telus’ informing him to click on a link.
This link then re-routed him to an Interact e-transfer page requiring him to enter his banking information.
After being defrauded of $12,000, the resident realized it was a scam and he contacted his bank to freeze his account.
The BC Ministry of Health reported 1,474 new cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday, December 22nd.
There have been 231,117 cases of COVID-19 since the pandemic began.
New cases were reported in these health regions:
Vancouver Coastal Health: 711
Fraser Health: 435
Island Health: 176
Interior Health: 113
Northern Health: 39
Resident outside Canada: 0
There are currently 7,253 active cases of COVID-19 in the province.
221,280 people who tested positive have recovered.
There are now a total of 187 people in hospital due to COVID-19, 71 of whom are in critical care — ICU or acute care units.
6 new people have died from COVID-related causes, making the provincial death toll 2,409.
Outbreaks
There have been no new health-care facility outbreaks in the province.
There is a total of 1 ongoing health care outbreaks in the province.
There are currently no health care outbreaks in the Island Health region.
Island Health:
Island Health reported 176 new cases of COVID-19 in the Vancouver Island region and 961 active cases.
Breakdown of cases on Vancouver Island:
South Vancouver Island Active cases: 524 │Total Cases: 5877
Central Vancouver Island Active cases: 242 │ Total Cases: 6670
North Vancouver Island Active cases: 195│Total Cases: 2472
38 people remain in hospital with 15 in ICU.
There was 2 new deaths reported in the Island Health region today, and a total of 138 deaths on Vancouver Island.
Vaccinations
As of Wednesday, December 22nd:
9,219,326 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered in BC
87.6% (4,366,010) of eligible people five and older in B.C. have received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine and 82.7% (4,122,434) have received their second dose.
91.8% (4,253,714) of eligible people 12 and older in B.C. have received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine, 88.9% (4,122,360) have received their second dose and 16% (764,498) have received a third dose.
92.1% (3,985,464) of all eligible adults in B.C. have received their first dose, 89.4% (3,867,516) have received their second dose and 18% (763,715) have received a third dose.
Nanaimo RCMP are asking for the public’s help in locating several pieces of clothing that may have been discarded following last week’s “brutal” stabbing of a couple in their 60s.
The incident occurred at approximately 7:15 p.m. on Saturday December 18th at a residence in the 900 block of Northumberland Avenue.
Both victims suffered serious injuries after being stabbed multiple times and remain in hospital.
The victims, who live in central Nanaimo, phoned 911 after the incident and said the suspect had fled.
The suspect was arrested the same night without incident at a residence on Boundary Crescent.
On Monday, RCMP identified the suspect as 20-year-old Anthony Nielsen of Nanaimo. He has been charged and remains in police custody.
According to Nanaimo RCMP, there is a possibility that Nielsen discarded clothing in the 900 block of Northumberland Avenue, including Townsite Road, the 1500 block of Boundary Crescent, and any green space along the Millstone River.
“Investigators searched the immediate area where the stabbing took place, which included dumpsters, ravines and any location where discarded clothing could go undetected. To date, they have had no success,” said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.
The clothing items that police are looking for consists of the following:
men’s black ¾ length winter jacket with a brown fur collar
bright orange/black or red/black gloves
black duffel bag with a strap
Nielsen has been charged with two counts of aggravated assault and two counts of assault with a weapon.
O’Brien told Victoria Buzz he is known to the couple but not related.
If anyone has information on these items, call the Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345, and quote file # 2021-46614.
‘Tis the season to create memories, and a lot of those are made in and around the kitchen during the holidays!
Whether you’re hosting a potluck or dinner party, kitchens are often the gathering place when families and friends come together to celebrate.
This also means that kitchens are responsible for generating a lot of waste during the holiday season.
It’s good to keep in mind the principles of the ‘3R pollution prevention hierarchy’—reduce, reuse, recycle— which can help to reduce the environmental impact of kitchen waste this holiday season.
Thankfully, the CRD has compiled a list of helpful tips on how you can reduce your holiday waste, so you can cut the waste without cutting the cheer this holiday season!
Right-size your dinner plans
Reduce food waste by planning portions appropriately and preparing only what you and your guests will eat. Given the new public health orders and smaller gathering size, consider buying a smaller bird or forgoing those less popular dishes to do so!
Family style, anyone?
Encourage guests to serve themselves. They’ll be able to choose what they want to eat and how much, which makes it less likely that you’ll have to dispose of served but un-eaten food.
Leftovers, leftovers, leftovers!
Already ordered your turkey and are now having a smaller gathering than originally planned? Save leftovers in reusable containers or deliver them to a friend. Going to a family or friend’s house for dinner? Bring your own container with you and if there’s leftover offer to take some.
Avoid single use items
Keep your holiday dinner green by using reusable items. Swap out disposable linens, dishes and cutlery for the real deal. Do not be afraid to mix and match or borrow!
Compost unavoidable food waste
Bones, fruit and vegetable peels, carrot tops, egg shells, tea bags, paper plates belong in your green bin, not your garbage.
Be waterwise
Thaw your turkey in the fridge instead of using running water or reuse the water from cooking vegetables in soups gravies, sauces or for watering the plants.
Keep your sink fat-free
Holiday cooking means more fats, oils and greases—save and store fats for use in future recipes or dispose of them in your green bin. Whichever you decide, be sure they don’t end up down the drain where they don’t belong.
Recycle your containers
After dinner, recycle your aluminum trays, whipped cream cans, egg nog cartons and deli trays in your blue box.
Host a cookie swap
If you find yourself with too much holiday baking or want an excuse to bake more, but worry it might go to waste if you do, invite a few friends and family over for a cookie swap.
DIY your holiday centerpiece
You’ll find many decorations right in your own backyard: pinecones, cedar boughs and sprigs of holly look beautiful as a centrepiece for your holiday dinner. The added bonus? They smell amazing!
Before gathering with friends and family, check the current provincial health officer orders to ensure your gathering is permitted.
We’ve partnered with the CRD to give away a gift basket of low-waste goodies, which will include:
TruEarth Unscented Laundry Strips 32 pk
Three Wool Dryer Balls
Abeego Food Wraps
$50 Good Planet Company Gift Card
Organic Cotton and Hemp Bag
CONTEST
For your chance to win the above gift basket care of the CRD (seen above!), complete one or more of the following:
SHARE this article on Facebook and comment below to let us know you have. (1 entry)
Contest entries will be accepted from the time and date of publishing until 11:59 pm on January 3rd, 2022. One winner will be chosen at random and contacted through the platform they used to enter. Make sure to register when commenting below.
The actions of a Nanaimo woman may have saved her 83-year old neighbour last week.
On December 15th, Nicki Wilson dropped off some Christmas cookies to her neighbour Bob’s front porch.
According to Wilson, Bob lives alone and is a very kind man. Neighbours look out for him.
On December 20th, Nicki noticed the gift she had dropped off for him five days earlier had not been touched.
Nicki quickly called Nanaimo RCMP to check on her neighbour.
Once on scene, Constable Butler went to Bob’s apartment and began looking through the windows where he found Bob lying motionless on his bathroom floor.
Constable Butler forced the door open and called for an ambulance.
Bob was transported to the hospital where he remains. His current condition is unknown.
“This is why Check Well-Being calls are a priority call for our officers. Additionally, if it had not been for Nicki’s parcel and her concern for her neighbor, this may have been an entirely different outcome,” said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.
“As a footnote, Nicki hopes to be able to give Bob his parcel when he leaves the hospital.”
West Shore RCMP are investigating after two separate women were shot with a pellet gun in Langford and Colwood.
The first incident occurred at approximately 10:15 a.m. on December 21st.
The first victim was shot in the face by a pellet gun while standing at the intersection of Jacklin Road and Jenkins Avenue in Langford.
She transported herself to hospital and will have to have the pellet removed from her face.
The second incident occurred about 10 minutes later.
According to the West Shore RCMP, a second woman contacted them stating she had been shot by a pellet gun as she was walking near the intersection of Veterans Memorial Parkway and Latoria Road, in Colwood.
The victim was not physically harmed, and was able to provide a description of the suspect vehicle, describing it as a grey sedan.
Immediate police response was conducted in effort to locate the suspect vehicle, however it has not been located.
In an email statement, West Shore RCMP told Victoria Buzz these incidents are very similar to the those that have happened recently in Victoria; where two women were also shot with a pellet guns.
Authorities haven’t ruled out that these incidents may be connected.
“We are asking anyone who may have video surveillance that may have captured anything in those areas, or any information that could help our investigators with the identity of the suspect(s),” said Cst. Alex Berube, spokesperson for the West Shore RCMP.
VicPD are also seeking witnesses after two women were shot in the downtown area with a pellet gun in separate incidents early Sunday morning.
In those incidents, the vehicle was also described as an older model grey or light-coloured four door sedan.
Both victims in those cases suffered non-life-threatening injuries. However, one victim attended hospital for medical treatment, police said.
Anyone with information on any of the cases are asked to call VicPD or West Shore RCMP.
On Tuesday, the 6th vessel in BC Ferries’ Island Class fleet arrived in Victoria after completing a 72-day transoceanic journey.
The new ship, temporarily named Island 6, departed Damen Shipyards Galati in Romania on October 11th and has now arrived in Victoria.
Upon arrival, the ship could be seen sailing around southern Vancouver Island into Victoria’s Upper Harbour from Dallas Road, Fisherman’s Wharf, the Songhees Walkway, Wharf Street, and the Johnson Street Bridge.
The Island Class fleet features battery-equipped ships designed for future full electric operation. The design of the new vessels also reduces underwater radiated noise and lowers emissions.
Once final inspection has been completed, BC Ferries will take ownership of the vessel and unveil the official name of the ship.
The ferry will be welcomed into service next year, on route between Nanaimo Harbour and Gabriola Island.
A 61-year-old woman who is known to police has been charged with the break and enter of a Nanaimo church.
The break-in occurred on August 30th at the Oceanside International Church located on Jingle Pot Road.
While the woman, Penny Raines, stole many items from the church, the most significant item stolen was a $10,000 espresso coffee machine, police say.
The investigation led police to a home known for criminal activity in north Nanaimo.
“As luck would have it, while there the officers spotted an individual who was wanted on several warrants. As expected this person took off running on foot and although pursued by officers, he was not located,” said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.
Police said the actions of this person assisted the officers in obtaining a search warrant for the residence.
By the end of the day, most of the stolen goods from the church had been located and “sufficient evidence was gathered” to charge Raines for the break and enter.
Her vehicle, an older model Jeep Cherokee, was also seized and was successfully forfeited to the crown by way of civil forfeiture.
Raines was formally charged in November and is currently before the courts.
Along with the coffee machine, police also located a 60-inch TV, loud speakers, security cameras, and various other items.
All of these items were later returned to the church.
The Nanaimo RCMP Community Response Unit continues to hold individuals, such as Raines, and other criminals in our community,” said O’Brien.
Raines next court appearance is scheduled for sometime in January of 2022.
Saanich Police released video after a close encounter between a large dog and cougar in a rural part of Saanich today.
Police said the encounter, which was caught on camera, serves as a good reminder to be aware of these large animals.
The incident occurred around 2:30 p.m on Tuesday December 21st in a rural area of the municipality.
The homeowner was alerted to a cougar on his driveway at the south end of Bear Hill Park.
The video shows the family dog, a large Husky, charged at the cougar but was quickly recalled by his owner.
The cougar fled after the homeowner yelled at it.
The dog was not injured during the encounter.
“We share the environment with large animals such as cougars and bears so residents must take into consideration that encounters with these animals are very likely,” said Saanich Police in a media release.
An encounter with a cougar today in Saanich serves as a good reminder to be aware of these large animals, especially if you live in rural areas of the municipality, says @SaanichPolice .
Police released video showing a large husky dog charge at the cougar.
If you encounter a cougar, remember the following:
Be aware of your surroundings, especially if you live in rural areas.
Keep an eye on your pets when outside or keep them on a leash when possible.
Limit food sources such as garbage, food scraps or compost outside that may be
attractants.
Call the BC Conservation Officer Service if a cougar is seen in an urban area, if it cannot
be easily scared off, or if the animal is near an urban park or school during the day.
The BC Ministry of Health reported 1,308 new cases of COVID-19 on Tuesday, December 21st.
There have been 229,643 cases of COVID-19 since the pandemic began.
New cases were reported in these health regions:
Vancouver Coastal Health: 525
Fraser Health: 419
Island Health: 202
Interior Health: 138
Northern Health: 23
Resident outside Canada: 1
There have been 756 cases of the Omicron variant of concern identified in BC:
Fraser Health: 129
Vancouver Coastal Health: 413
Interior Health: 8
Northern Health: 2
Island Health: 204
There are currently 6,348 active cases of COVID-19 in the province.
220,741 people who tested positive have recovered.
There are now a total of 192 people in hospital due to COVID-19, 76 of whom are in critical care — ICU or acute care units.
1 new person has died from COVID-related causes, making the provincial death toll 2,403.
Outbreaks
There have been no new health-care facility outbreaks in the province.
There is 1 ongoing health care outbreak in the province.
There are currently no health care outbreaks in the Island Health region.
Island Health:
Island Health reported 202 new cases of COVID-19 in the Vancouver Island region and 875 active cases.
Breakdown of cases on Vancouver Island:
South Vancouver Island Active cases: 494 │Total Cases: 5770
Central Vancouver Island Active cases: 196 │ Total Cases: 6600
North Vancouver Island Active cases: 185│Total Cases: 2437
40 people remain in hospital with 15 in ICU.
There were no new deaths reported in the Island Health region today, and a total of 136 deaths on Vancouver Island.
Vaccinations
As of Tuesday, December 21st:
9,190,914 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered in BC
87.5% (4,359,335) of eligible people five and older in B.C. have received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine and 82.7% (4,120,332) have received their second dose.
91.7% (4,252,249) of eligible people 12 and older in B.C. have received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine, 88.9% (4,120,270) received their second dose and 16% (744,549) have received a third dose.
92.1% (3,984,161) of all eligible adults in B.C. have received their first dose, 89.4% (3,865,665) have received their second dose and 17% (743,778) have received a third dose.
In a press release Tuesday, VicPD provided updates in a fatal shooting case that occurred in Esquimalt in 2020.
35-year-old Mathew McTavish has been charged with manslaughter, possession of a loaded prohibited or restricted firearm and possession of a firearm contrary to order in relation to this incident.
At approximately 5:30 a.m. on December 22nd 2020, officers were called to a suite in a multi-unit residential building in the 600-block of Grenville Avenue for a report that a man had been shot.
Once on scene, officers found a victim suffering from life-threatening injuries sustained in a shooting.
The victim was transported to hospital, but succumbed to his injuries.
McTavish had left the scene before police arrived. Officers located and arrested him before transporting him to VicPD cells.
McTavish remains in custody and will appear in court on December 21st.
Come January, the BC government intends to ramp up COVID-19 booster doses with the opening of larger facilities and an expansion to pharmacies across the province.
During a live press conference Tuesday, BC Health officials outlined the province’s next steps in their COVID-19 booster plan.
According to officials, 727,761 boosters/third doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered in British Columbia since the program was announced at the end of October.
The roll-out began with priority first given to those most at-risk and continues to operate on an age-based rollout.
According to officials, 67% of people aged 70 and up have received a booster and more than 50% of those 65+.
Approximately 65,000 healthcare workers have received their booster.
Since initial projections, the booster program is operating at 35% more capacity than previously announced, including expanding to pharmacies and health authority clinics.
Currently, Island Health is securing mass vaccination clinic sites in Victoria and regional centres.
The age-based rollout continues to operate at an accelerated pace with appointment wait times averaging between one and three weeks.
According to early predictions by health officials, the boost program would be completed by the end of April 2022.
However, with the program operating at an accelerated rate and an increase in pharmacy capacity, BC Health officials suggested the program may allow the program to be completed by the end of March.
BC health officials have ordered all indoor gyms and fitness facilities to close at 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, December 22nd — including shared facilities in condo and apartment complexes — due to the potential they create for the spread of COVID-19.
The announcement was made during a live press conference Tuesday afternoon by Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix.
The orders are meant to curb transmission of the virus throughout the holidays, will remain in effect throughout the month of January.
Similar to the rest of the country, the province is seeing a spike in COVID-19 cases as the Omicron variant becomes dominant.
The following restrictions will take effect at at 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, December 22nd until at least January 18th, 2022.
gyms and fitness centres will be closed
dance studios will closed
sports tournaments cancelled
In addition to the closures, all seated events, no matter the size of the venue must operate at 50% capacity, this includes concerts, sports games such as hockey for example, theatres, and movie theatres etc.
All organized events are required to scan the BC vaccine card and everyone must wear a mask during the event.
Other orders coming into effect also include the cancellation of all organized indoor events of any size such as weddings, receptions, and celebratory events. Bars and nightclubs must remain closed and restaurants, cafes and pubs must revert back to only allowing a maximum of six people per table.
In addition to the provincial health officer orders, the province is urging BC residents to limit indoor gatherings to those who are fully vaccinated, to ensure proper ventilation indoors, to avoid all travel if not fully vaccinated.
BC averaged over 800 new COVID-19 cases per day over the weekend.
As of this publication, there are now 5,435 active cases in the province.
Currently, the following restrictions are in effect:
Indoor personal gatherings, including in rental and vacation properties are now limited to one household plus 10 other individuals, or one additional household, but only if all in attendance are fully vaccinated. Unvaccinated people should not be permitted
The province is now requiring all events of any size to scan BC Vaccine Card – the QR code must be scanned at all events
As in the past, movement between tables at food establishments like restaurants will be restricted and masks wearing when not seated must be enforced
Large events and concerts with over 1,000 people in attendance, such as Victoria Royals games, will operate at 50% capacity.
All sports tournaments in BC are to be suspended
All New Year’s Eve gatherings and events will be restricted to being seated-only events, with no mingling or dancing allowed
The provincial health officer is also emphasizing the need for retail stores to have COVID-19 safety plans in place for holiday and Boxing Day sales.
During a live press conference Tuesday, BC Health officials announced new public health orders set to come into effect ahead of the holiday season.
These new public health orders begin at 11:59 p.m. on December 22nd and continue throughout the new year until January 18th 2022.
These new orders outline changes to indoor gatherings, fitness centres, sports tournaments and more.
Under these new orders, restaurants will remain open, however, they will operate under new restrictions – similar to those from earlier in the pandemic.
Once these orders take effect, a maximum of 6 people will be permitted per table. No mingling between tables will be permitted.
Bars and nightclubs will be closed.
In addition to the provincial health officer orders, the province is urging BC residents to limit indoor gatherings to those who are fully vaccinated, to ensure proper ventilation indoors, to avoid all travel if not fully vaccinated.
BC averaged over 800 new COVID-19 cases per day over the weekend.
Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.'s provincial health officer, and Adrian Dix, Minister of Health (Colin Smith Takes Pics)
BC has announced new restrictions surrounding COVID-19 ahead of the holidays, those of which could affect some people’s plans for gatherings for Christmas and beyond.
In a press conference on Tuesday, provincial health officials outlined restrictions on indoor gatherings effective December 22nd at 11:59 p.m., which will continue into the new year until at least January 18th, 2022.
Effective tomorrow, no indoor organized events of any size – parties, weddings, etc. – will be permitted, and personal gatherings will be limited to your household plus one other household or 10 people, all of whom should be vaccinated.
These restrictions have been put in place due to rising cases identified as the Omicron variant of COVID-19, which health officials have confirmed is spreading much more rapidly, and is more easily transmissible than the previous Delta variant.
Data from BC health officials shows that there has been a spike in COVID-19 cases in people aged 18-35.
Additionally, the new variant is also that reinfecting people who previously had COVID-19, as well as infecting people who are fully vaccinated.
In addition to the provincial health officer orders, the province is urging BC residents to limit indoor gatherings to those who are fully vaccinated, to ensure proper ventilation indoors, to avoid all travel if not fully vaccinated.
BC averaged over 800 new COVID-19 cases per day over the weekend.
As of this publication, there are now 5,435 active cases in the province.
Currently, the following restrictions are in effect:
The province is now requiring all events of any size to scan BC Vaccine Card – the QR code must be scanned at all events
As in the past, movement between tables at food establishments like restaurants will be restricted and masks wearing when not seated must be enforced
Large events and concerts with over 1,000 people in attendance, such as Victoria Royals games, will operate at 50% capacity.
Starting tomorrow, the following restrictions will be in effect:
Bars and nightclubs will be closed
Gyms and fitness centres will be closed
Dance studios will closed
No indoor organized gatherings of any size – weddings, parties, etc.
Maximum 6 per table at restaurants, pubs, cafes, etc.
Seated events reduced to 50% capacity, regardless of venue size with vaccination checking, masking (concerts, sports games, theatres, movie theatres, etc.)
VicPD are continuing their search for a missing 37-year-old person who was last heard from on November 27th.
Kevin Henry, who also goes by the nickname Bear, last spoke to family on November 27th. They were reported missing on December 11th.
Police said Henry is believed to be driving a brown 1980 Dodge Royal camper van with BC license plate: NB2 O6H.
They are described as an Indigenous person who stands 6’3” and weighs approximately 300 pounds, with a heavy build. Henry also has short brown hair and green eyes and is known to wear skirts and leggings.
VicPD said investigators believe that Henry may have travelled to the Fairy Creek area.
Anyone with information on Henry is asked to call the VicPD at (250) 995-7654. To report what you know anonymously, call Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
The provincial government has issued a special statement urging residents to prepare for upcoming winter conditions.
According to Emergency Management BC, a series of strong storms will clash with cold Arctic air this holiday season, which means now is the time for British Columbians to prepare for extremely cold temperatures, power outages, slick streets and more.
Currently, weather forecasts predict periods of heavy rain, snow, freezing rain and very cold temperatures in many parts of the province.
Earlier today, Environment Canada issued a special weather statement for parts of Vancouver Island as rain and snow combined with cool temperatures could bring freezing rain tonight.
In addition, inland regions near Courtenay, Comox and Campbell River will see local accumulations of 5 to 10 cm of snow tonight.
“We are once again facing the potential for extreme weather in our province,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General.
“It is imperative that we all watch the weather carefully and look out for those who are most vulnerable.”
In the event of extreme cold temperatures, warming centers may be opened to help protect the province’s most vulnerable populations.
These shelters are available overnight when a community issues an extreme-weather alert.
This winter, the province will be providing more than 1,900 temporary shelter spaces and nearly 360 extreme-weather response shelter spaces to ensure those experiencing homelessness can stay warm and get out of the extreme weather conditions.
If you must travel, drivers are reminded to plan ahead and drive according to weather and road conditions.
“I encourage everybody to travel only if necessary this winter to keep each other safe and keep roads open, so essential goods can be delivered to communities,” said Rob Fleming, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.
“Road conditions can change quickly. If you must travel, check the weather and plan routes before you leave to be as prepared as possible.”
Drivers are advised to reduce their speed and use caution when they encounter poor weather and limited visibility as well as follow winter tire regulations which are in effect on designated routes.
Equip your vehicle with a full tank of fuel, a windshield scraper, snow brush, food and water, a first-aid kit and other emergency supplies.
Always wear winter appropriate clothing, dress in layers and cover as much exposed skin as possible.
Residents are also reminded severe weather can cause power outages. Develop a household emergency plan and put together an emergency kit, preparing you for up to one week without power.
Across the province, the COVID-19 vaccination effort continues, with focus shifting to booster shots.
Currently, more than 350 pharmacies across 80 communities are now administering vaccines.
Come mid-January, approximately 700 additional pharmacies are expected to join, administering the majority of booster shots for everyone eligible through the Get Vaccinated registration and booking system.
“We’re expanding the breadth of our effort and making it more convenient than ever for British Columbians to book a COVID-19 vaccine with their local participating pharmacies,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health.
“Thanks to more pharmacies joining the effort, people can book an appointment for a time that works best for them at a location close to home.”
Pharmacies across the province have been delivering COVID-19 vaccines since April 2021. Now, they join the effort in administering booster shots, to increase access to eligible residents across the province.
The vaccine rollout to pharmacies follows a successful trial that assessed whether pharmacies could connect to the Province’s Get Vaccinated registration and booking system.
Booster shots are approved for those 18-years of age and older.
Once eligible, residents will receive an invitation to book an appointment to receive their booster vaccine. This can be expected approximately six to eight months after their second dose.
“This partnership with pharmacies enhances the provincewide effort to provide community-based and convenient places to get your booster shot,” said Dr. Penny Ballem, executive lead of B.C.’s COVID-19 Immunization Program.
During the week of December 6th, more than 25,000 booster shot appointments were made at B.C. pharmacies.
As of this publication, there are now 5,435 active cases in the province.
Like most of the world, cases of COVID-19 in BC have soared over the weekend with another 2,550 new infections reported with 415 of those being in the Island Health region.
It is believed BC health officials will be implementing additional restrictions during a live press conference Tuesday afternoon surrounding the Christmas holidays.
Starting yesterday, the following restrictions went into effect:
Indoor personal gatherings, including in rental and vacation properties are now limited to one household plus 10 other individuals, or one additional household, but only if all in attendance are fully vaccinated. Unvaccinated people should not be permitted
The province is now requiring all events of any size to scan BC Vaccine Card – the QR code must be scanned at all events
As in the past, movement between tables at food establishments like restaurants will be restricted and masks wearing when not seated must be enforced
Large events and concerts with over 1,000 people in attendance, such as Victoria Royals games, will operate at 50% capacity.
All sports tournaments in BC are to be suspended
All New Year’s Eve gatherings and events will be restricted to being seated-only events, with no mingling or dancing allowed
The provincial health officer is also emphasizing the need for retail stores to have COVID-19 safety plans in place for holiday and Boxing Day sales.
Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for parts of Vancouver Island as rain and snow combined with cool temperatures could bring freezing rain.
The weather agency is warning of freezing rain starting today through tonight for inland areas of eastern Vancouver Island, Nanaimo, Duncan, Coombs, Dunsmuir, the Island Highway, Malahat Highway, Courtenay, Comox, Campbell River.
With incoming rain, many areas will see that rain turn into freezing rain impacting driving conditions, warns Environment Canada.
Two weather systems will merge over the area bringing in milder air, though surface temperatures near the water will remain near the freezing mark, with many inland areas likely remaining below zero well into the night.
In addition, inland regions near Courtenay, Comox and Campbell River will see local accumulations of 5 to 10 cm of snow tonight.
“Warmer surface conditions are expected to spread through the region by early Wednesday morning, however it is possible that freezing rain may linger for some areas,” the special weather statement read.
Victoria is expecting to see a high of 4°C on Tuesday before temperatures change to 2°C later this evening.
Rain and snow are forecast for the rest of the week.
The BC Ministry of Health reported 2,550 new cases of COVID-19 for a three-day period on Monday, December 20th.
There have been 228,335 cases of COVID-19 since the pandemic began.
Day-to-Day Breakdown:
Friday-Saturday: 911
Saturday-Sunday: 832
Sunday-Monday: 807
New cases were reported in these health regions:
Vancouver Coastal Health: 909
Fraser Health: 877
Island Health: 415
Interior Health: 268
Northern Health: 81
Resident outside Canada: 0
There are currently 5,435 active cases of COVID-19 in the province.
220,348 people who tested positive have recovered.
There are now a total of 185 people in hospital due to COVID-19, 77 of whom are in critical care — ICU or acute care units.
3 new people have died from COVID-related causes, making the provincial death toll 2,402.
Outbreaks
There have been no new health-care facility outbreaks in the province.
There is 1 ongoing health care outbreak in the province.
There are currently no health care outbreaks in the Island Health region.
Island Health:
Island Health reported 415 new cases of COVID-19 in the Vancouver Island region and 829 active cases.
Breakdown of cases on Vancouver Island:
South Vancouver Island Active cases: 448 │Total Cases: 5663
Central Vancouver Island Active cases: 198 │ Total Cases: 6559
North Vancouver Island Active cases: 183│Total Cases: 2394
37 people remain in hospital with 14 in ICU.
There was 1 new death reported in the Island Health region today, and a total of 136 deaths on Vancouver Island.
Vaccinations
As of Monday, December 20th:
9,165,398 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered in BC
87.3% (4,352,063) of eligible people five and older in B.C. have received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine and 82.6% (4,118,432) have received their second dose.
91.7% (4,250,903) of eligible people 12 and older in B.C. have received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine, 88.8% (4,118,375) have received their second dose and 16% (727,761) have received a third dose.
92.1% (3,982,962) of all eligible adults in B.C. have received their first dose, 89.3% (3,863,965) received their second dose and 17% (726,994) have received a third dose.
BC Ferries’ sixth vessel in the Island Class series will arrive in Victoria tomorrow.
The Island Class fleet features battery-equipped ships designed for future full electric operation. The design of the new vessels also reduces underwater radiated noise and lowers emissions.
The new ship, temporarily named Island 6, departed Damen Shipyards Galati in Romania on October 11th.
Tomorrow, it will arrive in Victoria, completing a 72-day transoceanic journey to Victoria.
Once arrived, the vessel will transit to Point Hope Maritime.
The vessel will be able to be spotted sailing around southern Vancouver Island into Victoria’s Upper Harbour from Dallas Road, Fisherman’s Wharf, the Songhees Walkway, Wharf Street, the Johnson Street Bridge and more.
Once final inspection has been completed, BC Ferries will take ownership of the vessel and unveil the official name of the ship.
The ferry will be welcomed into service next year, on route between Nanaimo Harbour and Gabriola Island.
Nanaimo RCMP have released the identity of the suspect after a couple in their 60s were stabbed in their home Saturday night.
20-year-old Anthony Nielsen of Nanaimo has been formally charged and remains in police custody.
The incident occurred at approximately 7:15 p.m. on Saturday December 18th.
Both victims suffered serious injuries after being stabbed multiple times and remain in hospital.
“At one point it was life-threatening. Both are stabilized now, but they both have significant injuries,” said Const. Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.
The victims, who live in central Nanaimo, phoned 911 after the incident and said the suspect had fled.
Nielsen was arrested without incident at a residence on Boundary Crescent.
He has been charged with two counts of aggravated assault and two counts of assault with a weapon.
O’Brien told Victoria Buzz he is known to the couple but not related.
He is set to appear in court on Wednesday December 22nd.
VicPD are seeking witnesses after two women were shot with a pellet gun in separate incidents early Sunday morning.
The incidents occurred just after 1:30 a.m. on Sunday, December 19th in two different areas of Douglas Street.
In a media release, VicPD said a woman was sitting in the 1700-block of Douglas Street when she was shot with a pellet gun by an unknown man in a vehicle.
She immediately called police to report the incident.
Moments later, another woman reported that she was standing at the intersection of Douglas Street and Pandora Avenue when she was shot with a pellet gun by an unknown man in a vehicle.
Police said the vehicle stopped alongside the victim before a pellet gun was fired from an open window.
The vehicle was last seen travelling westbound on Pandora Avenue and is described as an older model grey or light-coloured four door sedan.
The occupants of the vehicle were described as four Caucasian men.
Both victims suffered non-life-threatening injuries. However, one victim attended hospital for medical treatment.
This incident remains under investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to call VicPD at (250) 995-7654. To report what you know anonymously, call Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
With the holidays in full swing and the city already looking merry and bright, stopping by downtown Victoria to finish shopping, grab a bite to eat and visit a twinkling light display seems like a no-brainer!
Downtown Victoria’s Lights of Wonder has officially illuminated Centennial Square, and if you’re planning on visiting the free attraction anytime soon, why not make a night of it?
The massive light display is open to the public at 4 p.m. each day, giving you enough time to grab your favourite people and hit up one of the city’s many happy hours before you tour the twinkling lights.
And we want to help you on our merry way, as we’ve partnered with the DVBA to give away a $100 gift card to a Downtown Victoria business of your choice!
Without further ado, here’s a list of happy hours you can catch before visiting Lights of Wonder:
SHARE this article on Facebook and comment below to let us know you have. (1 entry)
COMMENT your favourite downtown Victoria business in the comment section below (1 entry)
Contest entries will be accepted from the time and date of publishing until 11:59 pm on January 3rd, 2022. One winner will be chosen at random and contacted through the platform they used to enter. Make sure to register when commenting below.
After a 2 year hiatus, the Victoria Beer Society’s Beer Week is set to return in March 2022!
Beer? Friends?
Sounds like a perfectly brewed celebration!
The jam packed celebration will feature 14 events and products from 50 BC craft breweries over the course of 9 days.
The 8th annual event will celebrate Victoria’s craft beer culture, opening with their Lift Off! event at the historic Powerhouse building on March 4th.
The full beer school program will be announced in January.
Tickets for all Beer Week events are on sale now! You can purchase your tickets online via the Victoria Beer Society website or in person at their headquarters at 2725 Rock Bay Avenue.
All attendees will be required to show proof of full vaccination in order to attend any of the Victoria Beer Week events by presenting their scannable BC Vaccine Card.
The BC Government has announced that it will be extending the cap on food delivery fees for at least another year.
The temporary cap of 15% temporary was set to expire on December 31st. It was put in place in December 2020 to aid restaurants and bars still struggling during the pandemic.
The temporary legislation limits the total fees delivery companies can charge food establishments, helping restaurants to continue to operate and build their own recovery.
“Over the last two years, the restaurant industry has shown such resilience and tenacity as it has adapted to overcome immense challenges from this pandemic,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation.
In addition to the extension, delivery companies can continue to charge up to an additional 5% for related fees, such as online order processing.
The measure also prohibits delivery companies from reducing compensation for their drivers or retaining staff gratuity, making sure employees will continue to be paid their regular wages.
Small-delivery service businesses that serve less than 500 restaurants will continue to be exempt from the order.
“The extension of the food delivery fee cap is great news for the restaurant industry,” said Warren Erhart, president and CEO, White Spot and Triple O’s restaurants.
“This cap allows us to deliver meals to people on a more financially viable basis and continue to support our staff. We appreciate the extension of the cap as we continue to navigate these unique and challenging times.”
In 2021, the province also amended BC’s liquor- and food-primary liquor licence to allow restaurants to sell and deliver sealed, packaged liquor products alongside the purchase of a meal for off-site consumption.
In addition, any restaurants, bars and tourism operators with liquor licences were able to purchase beer, wine and spirits at wholesale prices permanently.
The province also approved more than 2,000 temporary patios to become permanent under amended provincial liquor regulations.
Our Place Society’s annual Christmas dinner is back and you can enjoy it this week!
This year, Our Place’s event will look a bit different, with the provincial health restrictions in place.
This year, the dinner will move from a seated dinner to a cafeteria style event. The dinner will also be extended by two hours to ensure everyone can enjoy the meal.
“Our chefs are busy cooking turkey, smashing potatoes, mixing stuffing and peeling vegetables,” says Julian Daly, Chief Executive Officer of Our Place.
“All to make sure that we deliver a heaping plate of home-cooked deliciousness.”
Rogers’ Chocolates has also donated chocolate to hand out for dessert!
The Christmas dinner will take place this Wednesday, December 22nd from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
“Our Place has always been there for people going through difficult times — regardless of the reason,” says Daly.
“And this year, perhaps more than ever, people who thought they would never need our services are finding our doors are open.”
A two-year-old dog and her five pups are recovering after being abandoned by her owner in Nanaimo.
Celeste was brought to the SPCA and is now being cared for with her puppies at a foster home.
“She was living outdoors and starving, but she was obviously doing everything she could to try to feed her puppies and keep them safe,” said Bonnie Pequin of the BC SPCA in Nanaimo.
“She is such a sweet, loving dog and a very good mother.”
According to the BCSPCA, Celeste is on a strict refeeding program to reintroduce nutrients to her system and avoid risks associated with overfeeding emaciated animals.
The woman taking care of Celeste and her puppies says Celeste is a “gentle dog who loves being petted and interacting with family members and other animals.”
“I lay on the floor and she comes over and puts her head on me and just looks at me with the most loving and kind eyes,” she said.
“Despite everything she has gone through with lack of access to food, Celeste sits patiently, waiting as her meals are prepared.”
BCSPCA said the dogs will be in their care for at least another month until Celeste reaches a normal body weight, when she can be spayed and put up for adoption.
The puppies will also be ready for adoption in the new year.
The SPCA is seeking donations to support the care of Celeste and the nearly 100,000 animals it provides services for each year.
A couple in their 60s are in hospital after both being stabbed in their Nanaimo home Saturday night.
The incident occurred at approximately 7:15 p.m. on Saturday December 18th.
Nanaimo RCMP say both victims suffered serious injuries after being stabbed multiple times.
“At one point it was life-threatening. Both are stabilized now, but they both have significant injuries,” said Const. Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.
The victims, who live in central Nanaimo, phoned 911 after the incident and said the suspect had fled.
A suspect in his 20s was arrested without incident at a residence on Boundary Crescent.
He is known to the couple, police say.
The suspect is facing a number of charges, including attempted murder.
He remains in police custody.
The home was secured overnight and was examined by officers with the Nanaimo RCMP Forensics Unit on Sunday.
“Investigators are confident there are no other suspects involved and that this was an isolated incident not connected to the recent gun violence that has occurred in Nanaimo,” said O’Brien.
The investigation is continuing and police are asking for anyone who has information relating to this incident, to call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345, and quote file # 2021-46614.
There’s a chance Victoria could see a white Christmas this year, according to Environment Canada.
For most parts of Vancouver Island, a glance at the weather outside is enough to make one harbour hopes for snow this year.
And if you’re eager enough to have checked the latest weather forecast, it looks like Victoria may just be treated to flurries instead of the usual rain showers this December 25th!
Environment Canada is forecasting that the city will see mixed rain and snow on December 24th and transitioning to snow on Christmas Day.
According to the Weather Network, the snowfall could continue until at least Tuesday, December 28th.
Temperatures are expected to drop considerably next week with lows of between -2 to -8 degrees.
For an official White Christmas to be declared, Environment Canada says there must be at least two centimetres of snow on the ground by 10 a.m. on December 25th.
