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.
Netflix knows you’re out there enjoying your summer but that isn’t holding them back from releasing more show time favourites.
The fun doesn’t stop when you come home, even after a fun day of hitting up the beach, going on hikes, and indulging in brunch with friends you haven’t been able to see in a while.
To make sure those evenings are relaxing, Netflix is adding 43 new movies and shows to their lineup next month!
Although there are not as many new additions compared to past months, there are still plenty of new titles to keep you busy in August.
Without further ado, here are 43 new movies and shows coming to Netflix Canada this August:
August 1st
44 Cats (Season 3)
Darwin’s Game (Season 1)
Five Feet Apart
Hunter X Hunter (Season 6)
I missed you: Director’s Cut
Poms
The Losers
August 3rd
Ijé: The Journey
Shiny_Flakes: The Teenage Drug Lord
Top Secrets UFO Projects: Declassified (Season 1)
August 4th
’76
Aftermath
American Masters: Inventing David Geffen (Limited Series)
Fire crews in Colwood contained a potentially dangerous fire Monday night and have deemed it as suspicious.
At approximately 11:30 p.m. on July 19th, multiple reports from neighbours and bystanders were received of a fire at a house on Betula Place in Colwood.
When emergency crews responded, the house was vacant and no one was believed to be harmed in the fire, according to neighbours.
According to the RCMP, a neighbour helped contain the fire by using his water hose to keep the flames under control until emergency crews arrived.
Firefighters sought to extinguish the flames and were able to contain the fire to the back portion of the home.
Upon investigation, Colwood Fire Rescue Service determined that the source of the fire was suspicious in nature.
“If this had caught and spread we would be dealing with a very different, possibly tragic situation,” said Constable Meighan Massey.
“It is due to the swift actions of the neighbour who spotted the fire that this did not spread and cause further damage.”
Investigators have returned to the scene Tuesday to continue their investigation into the arson.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the West Shore RCMP at (250) 474-2264.
A new poll has found that Canadians are pleased with how federal and provincial governments have handled the vaccination process against COVID-19.
The poll from Research Co. found that in their representative national sample, more than seven-in-ten Canadians (73%) are satisfied with vaccination plans and phases outlined by their province, and with the pace of vaccination efforts in their province as well.
72% of Canadians are now happy with the procurement of vaccines, despite the low supply the federal government struggled with early on, though earlier polls suggested far less Canadians were happy with it at that time.
“In February 2021, only 45% of Canadians expected the vaccination goal outlined by the PHAC to actually be met,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co.
“This month, practically three-in-four Canadians (74%) believe the milestone will be reached.”
Also this month, almost nine-in-ten Canadians (88%) acknowledge that they have already been inoculated against COVID-19, or plan to have their first shot when it becomes available to them.
Fewer than one-in-ten Canadians (8%) say they will “definitely” or “probably” not get vaccinated.
This is the first time since April 2020 that the proportion of Canadians who plan to refuse a COVID-19 shot is in single digits.
(Research Co.)
Meanwhile, across the country, seven-in-ten Canadians (70%) say that they wear a mask every time they go out, including 76% of women and 75% of Canadians aged 55 and over.
As of yesterday, in BC, 79.9% of eligible people 12 and older in B.C.received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine and 53.2% have received their second dose; 80.9% of all eligible adults in BC received their first dose and 56.6% received their second dose.
In Canada, close to 51% of all Canadians have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 with 45.7 million doses of a COVID-19 vaccine being administered.
The latest vessel in BC Ferries’ fleet is entering the second half of its journey to a berth in Canada after it transited the Panama canal this weekend.
Island 4, as the ship is temporarily named, is a hybrid electric ferry that was constructed in the Damen Shipyard Galati in Romania.
It departed the shipyard in June, and is expected to arrive in B.C. by mid-August.
The newest vessel joins a group of similar battery-equipped ships which are intended to operate fully on electrical power, once shore power technology is in place. Until then, they will be able to utilize hybrid power for their journeys.
Island 4 will be renamed later this year along with Island 3. These two ships will then enter service in 2022 on the Campbell River – Quadra Island route.
The tracking website vesselfinder.com last showed Island 4’s position on Monday as 8.44515 N / 79.45424 W.
The Independent Investigations Office of British Columbia (IIOBC) has been called in to look into an incident involving a police dog biting a person on Quadra Island.
Quadra Island RCMP say they were called for a complaint on July 18th shortly before 7 p.m. According to the report, a person had been yelling and screaming all day.
Police say they drove to the location and were met by a person allegedly holding a weapon. The RCMP claim that the person refused to exit a trailer they were in.
Additional police units were called to the scene, including the Vancouver Island Emergency Response Team (ERT). The RCMP say that when ERT arrived, the person left the trailer.
Police claim the person then attempted to go back inside, and a police dog was deployed. The person was bitten by the dog.
The individual was given first aid and was later taken to hospital.
The RCMP say that the matter is now under investigation by IIOBC and they will now be providing any other information. They did not say if the person who was bit by the police dog was charged, arrested, or otherwise detained.
A VicPD officer is being treated for non-life-threatening injuries after being bitten by a woman over the weekend during an arrest.
The assault occurred when the officer was arresting the suspect for two random assaults in downtown Victoria on Sunday, July 18th.
Officers were called to the intersection of Government and Wharf Streets at approximately 10 p.m. for a report that a woman had randomly assaulted two people and was being held there.
Witnesses reported that the woman had approached two people unknown to her, confronted and then assaulted each of them.
The two victims worked together to bring the random assaults to an end and detained the woman while nearby witnesses called police.
While witnesses were holding the woman to prevent further assaults and wait for officers to arrive, she spat in both of their faces.
When the first officer arrived he located the women – being held by two people – and moved to take the woman into custody.
The woman fought with him and then bit him.
Without suffering any further injury, the officer took the woman into custody.
She was returned to cells where she was held until sober then released on conditions with a pending court date.
VicPD said the two assaulted individuals and the officer required additional medical treatment, as injuries that involve biting, spitting and bodily fluids can also carry the potential risk of complications.
The woman was not injured during the incidents.
VicPD are asking anyone with information to call them at (250) 995-7654.
Starting August 9th, Canada will begin to welcome fully-vaccinated travellers from the USA.
The move will enable fully-vaccinated travellers originating from the USA to enter Canada for non-essential travel, removing the mandatory quarantine hotel requirements.
Foreign travellers entering Canada will need to present proof of vaccination in either English or French with one of the vaccines authorized for use in Canada — either the Pfizer, Moderna or AstraZeneca products, or one dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, at least 14 days before arriving.
Children under the age of 12 or who are not yet eligible for vaccination in the USA will have to travel with a fully vaccinated parent, step-parent, tutor or guardian who is eligible to enter Canada.
Travellers must use the government’s ArriveCAN portal to submit their information, as well as get a COVID-19 test result before arriving.
If they meet the government’s criteria, they will not have to be quarantined upon arrival in Canada.
Last week, BC Premier, John Horgan, said the province will be ready for the August border reopening.
The government said it then plans to open Canada’s borders to fully vaccinated travellers from all other countries on September 7th.
The US government has yet to put a statement out regarding health requirements for Canadian travellers going to the USA and when they will welcome travellers.
Both Canada and the USA agreed to restrict non-essential travel between the countries since March 2020.
Air Travel
After the government announcement, Air Canada announced its current summer transborder schedule including 55 routes and 34 destinations in the US, with up to 220 daily flights between the US and Canada.
Air Canada has developed a digital solution which will enable customers to fly from the US to Canada, and select European destinations, more conveniently and securely.
Via the Air Canada App, travellers can upload their COVID-19 test results to validate compliance with government travel requirements prior to arriving at the airport.
Did you catch a glimpse of iconic planes overhead this afternoon?
Around 1 p.m. on Monday, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds flew over Greater Victoria as they made their way from Comox and Sooke all the way to the inner harbour.
The Snowbirds, the air show flight demonstration team of the Royal Canadian Air Force, flew to show support for front line workers.
Their flight path saw them soar over Victoria General Hospital, CFB Esquimalt, the downtown core, Royal Jubilee Hospital, Saanich Peninsula Hospital and up to Sidney.
Many locals looked to the skies ahead to catch a glimpse or photo of the event.
Check out some photos of the Snowbirds in flight below:
The BC Ministry of Health reported 156 new cases of COVID-19 for a three-day period from Friday, July 16th to Monday July 19th.
There have been 148,487 cases of COVID-19 since the pandemic began.
Day-to-Day Breakdown:
Friday-Saturday: 56
Saturday-Sunday: 60
Sunday-Monday: 40
New cases were reported in these health regions:
Vancouver Coastal Health: 27
Fraser Health: 63
Island Health: 4
Interior Health: 58
Northern Health: 3
Resident outside Canada: 1
There are currently 653 active cases of COVID-19 in the province.
146,062 people who tested positive have recovered.
There are now a total of 49 people in hospital due to COVID-19, 12 of whom are in critical care — ICU or acute care units.
2 new people have died from COVID-related causes, making the provincial death toll at 1,763.
Outbreaks
There is currently 1 outbreak in long-term care (Holyrood Manor in Fraser Health) and 1 outbreak in acute-care facilities (Laurel Place at Surrey Memorial Hospital in Fraser Health).
Island Health:
This section will be updated with Island Health updates at 4 p.m.
Vaccinations
79.9% of eligible people 12 and older in B.C. have received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine and 53.2% have received their second dose.
In addition, 80.9% of all eligible adults in B.C. have received their first dose and 56.6% have received their second dose.
To date, 6,173,328 (+168,816) doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered in BC; 2,464,201 (+153,313) of which are second doses.
The highly anticipated Malahat Skywalk opened last week, with an incredible opening weekend which saw over 5,000 guests.
If you’ve somehow missed photos of the Skywalk on social media and everyone eagerly awaiting an announcement of a grand opening, here is what you need to know!
The Malahat Skywalk offers scenic views of Mt. Baker, Finlayson Arm, the Saanich Peninsula, and islands in two countries from a viewing platform 250 meters above sea level.
The attraction is also easily accessible, even for strollers and wheelchairs.
Once you reach the top, the brave can walk across the sturdy, 84 square meter ‘Adventure Net’ offering a full view of what’s below your feet.
Enjoy the sights as you walk across the Treewalk and nature trail, taking in the incredible views of the peninsula.
Be sure to snap a photo of yourself at the top!
At the end of your adventure, visitors have a choice of either walking back down as normal or opting to enjoy something a bit more exciting – the Skywalk includes a 20-metre Spiral Slide that gets you back down to the bottom of the Skywalk in 13 seconds!
What a rush!
Check out some photos of the all-new attraction below:
VicPD are crediting the public after a woman went on a crime spree which included her starting several grass fires using a torch in Beacon Hill Park.
In a media release, VicPD thanked the public for extinguishing a bunch of small grass fires while officers responded to a string of other incidents committed by the woman, including an attempt to steal a vehicle and breaking into a nearby residence.
VicPD were dispatched around 5:30 p.m. to Beacon Hill Park near the 200-block of Simcoe Street for a report that a woman was walking in the area, using a small torch to light sections of grass on fire.
Several people were following the woman and extinguishing the flames before they spread out of control.
An arriving officer found the woman sitting near a van in the area and recognized her as being wanted on a warrant from Duncan.
As the officer attempted to take the woman into custody, she fought back and leaped into the nearby van, which did not belong to her.
While still fighting with the officer, the woman started the van and attempted to drive away. The officer then deployed pepper spray, impacting both their visions and causing the woman to flee the van.
The officer radioed for additional units to assist and helped secure the running vehicle.
As additional officers arrived, a person in the 200-block of Douglas Street flagged them down after they had to flee their suite in an apartment building with their dog after a woman broke in.
To person told officers the suspect had entered their suite, taken clothes from their bedroom closet, and was taking a shower.
Police located the woman in the bathroom and were able to take her into custody without further incident.
In addition to being wanted on a warrant out of Duncan, investigating officers learned the woman is also awaiting disposition of several charges related to a number of incidents including an alleged assault of staff at a multi-unit temporary housing facility, as well as mischief and break and enter files.
She now faces additional recommended charges related to arson, breaking and entering, attempted theft of a motor vehicle, flight from police, and resisting arrest.
“Given the tinder-dry conditions, VicPD would like to thank the members of the public who extinguished the numerous small grass fires that the woman had started,” said Victoria police spokesman Bowen Osoko.
Anyone with information 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.
Saanich police arrested a 36-year-old Nanaimo man for impaired driving in the early hours of Monday morning.
At 1:50 a.m. on Monday, July 19th, officers parked near the intersection of Shelbourne Street and Cedar Hill X Road heard a loud crash.
As they approached the scene, officers saw evidence that a vehicle crashed into a concrete centre island on Cedar Hill X Road.
Police said the car left a trail of debris and fluids which Saanich PD followed into a parking lot on Ophir Street.
The responding officers said they saw the man get out of the driver’s seat, and run from the vehicle as they approached.
One of the officers was able to catch the driver as he failed to climb a nearby fence.
Upon investigation, it was discovered the driver was prohibited from driving a motor vehicle, was in breach of probation stemming from a break and enter conviction, and later provided breath samples that were twice over the legal limit.
The man faces charges of impaired operation of a conveyance, breach of probation, and driving while prohibited.
A white metal cross, which usually sits on top of Mount Tzouhalem, has been removed and possibly vandalized, says Mayor of North Cowichan.
On Saturday, Mayor Al Siebring wrote in a Facebook post that he suspects a grinder was used to lop off the cross at the base.
Siebring called the act a “sad piece of vandalism,” but cautioned people not to conflate the removal of the cross with other recent acts of vandalism until the motive is known.
Siebring speculated that the cross removal is related to recent acts of vandalism involving the removal of the Captain James Cook statue in downtown Victoria and the vandalism of a totem pole on the Malahat.
Recent vandalism around the island is being linked to the investigations into mass graves discovered at residential schools around Canada.
“It could be a random act, but I suspect there will be speculation that this is in line with the church burnings, statue destruction, and the attempt to set fire to that totem pole at the Malahat Summit earlier this month,” Siebring wrote.
“In our present cultural context, that’s where our minds go.”
The letter specifically condemned “the damaging of property including statues and totem poles,” and said that everyone in the region needs to respect each other.
Last week, over 160 undocumented and unmarked graves have been confirmed at the site of a former residential school in the Gulf Islands.
The removal of the cross has yet to be reported to the North Cowichan RCMP and it’s unsure what the intention of its removal was, despite Mayor Siebring’s comments.
Mount Tzouhalem is four kilometers away from Duncan, and is a popular destination for those who want to see or take a picture with the cross which looks out upon the Cowichan Valley.
This isn’t the first time the cross has been removed though.
In 2014, the cross was removed from a sudden and extreme windstorm.
Earlier, the District had been tight-lipped about who their chosen partner was, referring to them in documentation as “Proponent 1.”
“The District of Oak Bay put together a thorough RFP process and it was handled professionally,” said Oak Bay Marine Group CEO Brook Castelsky.
“We greatly value all the community input that we received and we will continue to work closely with all stakeholders, including First Nations.”
The new plan for the area includes a revision for the parking layout, a widening of the Turkey Head walkway, and the installation of First Nations interpretive signage.
Respect for First Nations culture has been stipulated as a lease objective, according to the District of Oak Bay, as well as a guiding principle. Proponents were encouraged to engage with First Nations during the request for proposals.
Oak Bay Marine Group counts among their holdings the marinas at Pedder Bay, North Saanich, Ladysmith and Oak Bay, as well as a resort in the Bahamas and two restaurants in Victoria.
The full technical proposal from the Oak Bay Marine Group for the Turkey Head marina is now available online.
In partnership with the province and the Capital Region Housing Corporation (CRHC), The Capital Regional District (CRD) has begun construction on a five storey wood-framed building at 2782 Spencer Road in Langford.
Located near Langford’s urban centre, the building will be a mix of unit sizes from studio to 2-bedroom, providing homes for low to moderate income seniors, individuals and families, including those with disabilities for $375 a month.
BC Housing is providing $5.9 million through the Community Housing Fund towards the $19.9 million project.
The project at 2782 Spencer Road is part of a larger redevelopment that includes the Tri-Way Mobile Home Park lands and a mixed-use commercial area along the Trans-Canada Highway.
“As the most liveable city in Canada, we have provided the opportunity for development to occur which looks after all segments of our population – that’s what builds healthy communities and we are proud to see this project go forward,” said Langford Mayor Stu Young.
The CRHC will operate the building, providing day-to-day management of housing,property management services, and providing services to residents.
“As the largest non-profit housing provider on Vancouver Island, the CRHC is a strong community partner that can make a real difference in people’s lives by delivering affordable housing and services to over 3,500 residents,” said Lisa Helps, Capital Region Housing Corporation Chair.
The building will feature studio, one bedroom, one bedroom accessible, one bedroom plus den, and two bedroom units; 11 units will be subsidized at $375 a month; and there will be a 1,000 square foot amenity room for residents’ use.
Construction is anticipated to be completed in fall 2022.
The province has announced an investment into community-based mental health and addictions counselling services for adults in the Greater Victoria area.
The $85,000 investment was announced Monday, July 19th and will be led by the Esquimalt Neighbourhood House Society.
The society offers free, short-term, community-based counselling for adults dealing with challenges, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss.
The new investment will provide individuals support and guidance from trained volunteer counsellors without needing a referral.
During the pandemic, the demand for counselling services doubled. The province said that due to the society’s volunteers and support from the province helped meet that need.
Within a year, about 15 new qualified diverse volunteers are trained, completing a 10-month training program.
“This is great news for people living in Esquimalt and throughout Greater Victoria who are looking for affordable mental health and addictions counselling,” said Mitzi Dean, MLA for Esquimalt-Metchosin and Minister of Children and Family Development.
“By investing in more counselling services, our government is bringing help and hope to even more people and families, free of cost, which supports our vibrant community.”
If you missed the CF-18 Demonstration team flyovers Sunday, you now have a chance to see the Canadian Forces Snowbirds fly over Vancouver Island today.
There are two parts to Monday’s flyover, each lasting about an hour.
The first part will see the team leave Vancouver International Airport at about 10 a.m. and go to Nanaimo, where they will pass over Nanaimo Regional General Hospital, Qualicum Beach, Port Alberni (West Coast General Hospital) and Tofino (Tofino General Hospital) before landing in Comox.
At 1 p.m., the team will take off from Comox and head to Sooke and Greater Victoria, where they will pass over the following locations before returning to Vancouver:
• Victoria General Hospital
• CFB Esquimalt
• Downtown core
• Gorge Road Hospital
• Glengarry Hospital
• Royal Jubilee Hospital
• Queen Alexandra Centre for Children’s Health
• Saanich Peninsula Hospital
• Sidney
Keep in mind, times may change based on the weather.
The Canadian Forces Snowbirds first returned to the island in May to conduct their spring training in the Comox Valley.
It marked their first return to the island after a tragic incident last year.
On May 17th 2020, in the midst of their cross-country tour aimed at boosting morale during the COVID-19 pandemic, tragedy struck when an engine failure caused by a bird strike killed one person and seriously injured another during their tour in Kamloops.
The plane was bound for Comox from Kamloops, however, the tour was cancelled while investigators determined the remaining planes were safe to fly.
Canadian Armed Forces member, Capt. Jennifer Casey, a public affairs officer from Halifax, was killed while another, Capt. Richard MacDougall, who was piloting the aircraft, sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
The Snowbirds returned to air three months after the crash.
VicPD arrested a prolific car thief after they found him in a vehicle he stole the previous day.
Officers spotted a stolen Volkswagen Westfalia van parked in the 900-block of Mason Street just after 7 a.m. on Friday, July 16th.
Recognizing the van, officers investigated and discovered a broken window and that the van was sporting stolen plates; they then conducted a security search of the van and discovered a man inside.
Police ordered the man out of the vehicle and took him into custody.
Despite sporting stolen BC plates and the few alterations the suspect made, VicPD confirmed the van was stolen.
The van, from Alberta, was the subject of VicPD social media posts.
Have you seen this cream-coloured Volkswagen van? It was reported stolen from the area of Pembroke & Store St overnight.
VicPD reported that upon identifying the man, they learned he was violating court-ordered conditions not to be inside a vehicle without the vehicle’s registered owner – a condition that stems from a series of previous vehicle theft convictions.
The man has since been transported to cells and awaits court, while the vehicle has been transported for forensic processing, after which it will be returned to the registered owner.
The suspect faces recommended charges for possession of stolen property and for violating court-ordered conditions.
VicPD are asking anyone willing to share information about the case to call (250) 995-7654.
The CF-18 Demonstration team have announced that they will be conducting flypasts over southern Vancouver Island on July 18th, as part of this year’s Operation Inspiration.
According to Captain Dan Deluce, the CF-18’s will will begin the flypasts at approximately 1:15 p.m. over Nanaimo and head northwest towards Tofino, then down along the West Shore before they land at the Victoria International Airport.
No specific times were given for when they will fly over Victoria, but keep your eyes peeled – they move fast!
The CF-18 Demonstration Team, which will be flying at an altitude no lower than 1,000 feet, will be flying over various hospitals to recognize the hard work and sacrifices of frontline workers throughout the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Flypasts by the Royal Canadian Air Force are conducted in support of special events, and are carefully planned and closely controlled to ensure public safety.
The CF-18 Demonstration team represents the aviators of the Royal Canadian Air Force who conduct and support operations at home and around the world every day.
Showcasing the abilities of Canada’s multi-role fighter through an impressive aerobatic routine, the team attends air shows and conducts flypasts across Canada and the United States.
They are also dependent upon weather and flying conditions.
(pictured at centre: an elusive, furry face | photo by Tim Ford)
I’m not a hunter by nature.
I mean, some will likely say I’m a hunter-gatherer by ancestry, but what I mean is that socially, I’m not the type to trek out to the woods and murder an animal for fun. I also try not to slag too much on those that do, at least when it comes to making deer jerky or duck confit or whatever.
But I’ll admit that when I first heard about Roger, something instinctual took over.
If you haven’t heard that name before, I’ll explain as it was told to me.
Roger is a yellow-bellied marmot. The yellow-bellied marmot is not native to Vancouver Island. It is believed he came here hitching a ride on a truck, like some kind of rodent hippie.
Once settled in Victoria, he found himself a home at the Fairmont Empress — which, hey, totally reasonable, if I could just pick a home like that, absolutely go where the fancy folk go.
This was 2008. Staff at the hotel attempted to capture him. Multiple times.
They failed.
And now he just…lives there. He is a fixture of the Empress, with signage nearby his burrow and everything. Sometimes people feed him, but mostly he keeps to himself and bothers no one, and is hopefully unbothered in return.
When I heard this story, it awoke something primal in me. I decided then and there I would hunt Roger.
I would capture him.
On film, I mean.
Criminy, it’s the age of social media, not the middle ages.
Hunter’s log: Day One
I begin my hunt for Roger accompanied by a pair of co-workers. We are all eager for our chance to spot this majestic creature in his chosen hotel habitat.
We make small talk to keep our spirits up. I learn a lot from my companions. Is this the camaraderie of a hunt? Am I getting in touch with my primitive ancestors, sharing stories around the fire of a great wooly Roger hunt?
Will we, too, catalogue our success with the modern-day cave painting of a selfie with Roger?
Hunter’s log: Day Four
A series of subsequent visits to the site have proved fruitless. Roger remains unspotted, and not just because he is a yellow-bellied marmot, not a spotted marmot.
Are there spotted marmots? If not, why not? Must research further.
Hunter’s log: Day Ten
The small talk has dwindled away. Spirits are low. I greet fun facts about the area from my co-workers with scorn and irritation as I focus on the prize.
I play a marmot-call on my phone, confusing some nearby sparrows and causing a near-fatal midair collision. Roger fails to materialize to assess the damage.
“You know they raise honey here?” one of my co-workers says.
“Unless that honey is furry, adorable and also a marmot, I don’t give two bumblebee barfs,” I say.
“Yeesh,” they say.
Hunter’s log: Day 13
I am now visiting the site of Roger’s home alone.
A hummingbird appears to me. It is the first time I have seen a hummingbird in person.
Is it magical? Of course. It is magical AF. It is glorious and cool and trippy.
But it is no Roger the Marmot.
The sight of the hummingbird now repulses me. It’s like growing out of Coldplay.
Hunter’s log: Day 24
I have attempted to alter my thinking. Training may be required. Unfortunately, the video logs of similar incidents I can turn to — Caddyshack, Ratatouille, Mouse Hunt — largely portray human vs. rodent relations as a matter of lethal force. Not quite what I have in mind for my Roger moment.
I spend several hours on Pokemon Go. Slowly, though, a terrible thought begins to emerge: I may never catch them all.
I may never even catch one.
Hunter’s log: Day 32
Roger appears to me in a dream.
“‘Sup,” he says, ethereally, as only a dream-marmot can.
“Hi,” I say.
“Why you so worked up about all this?”
My mouth feels clammy. Maybe, back in the meat-space, I forgot to drink enough water before going to bed. “I don’t know,” I say. “I just really want to share in something fun.”
“I get that,” says Roger, idly floating overhead to rest on my bedside table. “But if you stress out about something, are you really having fun any more?”
“That’s deep, man.”
“Darn straight.” Roger bobs up towards the ceiling, on his way back out of my dream space. “Also, you forgot to water the plants today.”
Crap.
Hunter’s log: Day 42
I have stopped making regular trips to the fenced-in area where Roger’s burrow is. It is summer, and I’ll be off from one of my jobs for most of the next few months.
Idly, I pilot my bicycle into the Empress’ parking ring, and walk down the path.
The familiar sight of the little garden, the bees buzzing about, instills a sense of calm. I stand there in silence. This is fine. I am fine. It’s been a hell of a ride.
Then, I hear it. Not a marmot. But humans. Making distinct, “chi-chi-chi” and “here, Roger,” noises as only humans can do.
They are up above me, on the higher side of the path. I walk around to them.
Two men, equipped with broccoli, crackers, and fruit, are cooing into the bushes. I watch in rapt awe.
And then it happens.
He is about the size of a cat. He is rotund. Brown. Furry. And very, very cute.
He takes up some of the offered produce. Spots me. I can feel his eyes roll, even if they don’t do so literally. He shuffles away.
The two men are not offended by my presence. We chat. I learn that they have taken a long time to befriend Roger. Clearly, though, he does not yet trust or see me in the same light.
They, on the other hand, have done this for months. He knows them.
I am shook.
Hunter’s log: day infinity
I realize now what Roger has taught me. The things worth having in this life are not trappable. You can’t nail them down to a specific timeline, have them appear on cue and pose for pictures. You have to work at them, have patience. And accept failure.
This is the tao of Roger.
Also: be nice to your co-workers. And the hummingbirds.
Those guys are cool.
Also also: for real, don’t harass the marmot. He’ll come to you if you give him time, patience, space, and plenty of broccoli.
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-based fashion line is breaking with industry norms and is inviting people to see how their clothes are made up close.
Ecologyst, a company started in 2013 as Sitka by René Gauthier, is expanding downtown with a new outlet that serves as an all-in-one factory and storefront.
At their new location on Store Street in the historic Powerhouse building, ecologyst’s stitchers and sewers will be upfront and visible, making the products that are sold in-store and shipped worldwide.
This visibility is a business practice that Gauthier says is about raising people’s awareness of where their products come from.
“A big part of what we’re trying to solve with this space is, we find people are very disconnected to a lot of the goods that they purchase, but clothing, particularly,” he says.
“And hence, they’re willing to pay $20 for a T-shirt, right? But they don’t see the true cost of that.”
Roughly eight full-time workers will be employed at the new store specifically to make clothing. Gauthier says the profession requires a great deal of training to become proficient, with thousands of hours needed to become an expert.
In addition to creating the clothes that ecologyst sells, these employees will also offer services in repairing and maintaining the company’s products after they’re in the customer’s hands.
It’s part of a philosophy of sustainability that is key to Gauthier’s business.
“Your average garment, they say these days in North America, lives two years from purchase to in the landfill,” he says. “That’s something we’re trying to change too.”
The CEO of ecologyst says his worldview was deeply affected by an accident that nearly claimed his life in 2013. Gauthier was riding his motorcycle on Bay Street and Douglas and was hit head-on.
He was rendered unconscious in the incident but miraculously escaped without any life-altering physical injuries. His outlook on life, however, was permanently changed.
“One of those areas was around business and just how we were doing it, and how the values of myself and our company just totally didn’t align with how we were making our goods,” says Gauthier.
“At that point in time, we were protesting a pipeline… Yet, we were making clothes with polyester and nylon. Those two don’t go together, right?”
Ecologyst now uses all-natural materials, sourced from locations like New Zealand, Ireland and the United States. In addition to their Victoria factory/storefront, they also produce goods with partners in Ontario, Quebec and the U.S.
But perhaps most importantly, Gauthier feels that this new store can be an industry-setting example for how to conduct ethical business in fashion.
“I’m quite proud of it,” he says. “Our industry is a really messed up one right now. I think people know the solutions, but it’s so entrenched in a way of doing things. We’re proof that it can be done in a different way.”
Ecologyst’s new store and factory opened to the public on Friday, July 16, at 2110 Store Street.
(Dr. Stanwick receiving the COVID-19 vaccine / Government of BC)
Over one million doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been distributed on Vancouver Island.
Island Health also reported that 48% of people 12 and over are fully vaccinated with two doses.
Island Health made the announcement on Friday, July 16th and to mark the milestone, Dr. Richard Stanwick made himself available to the media.
Dr. Stanwick reported the vaccine supply will no longer be a limiting factor in getting vaccines into Canadians’ arms. And with that, Island Health has been making conscious efforts to vaccinate more people through mobile and walk-in clinics.
During the media availability, Stanwick said he was hopeful that BC is ready for Phase 4 of the reopening plan.
With an average of 2 to 3 cases per day and not a single death on the island since May 30th, Stanwick said that it was international travel that made up a third of the cases on the Island.
While he said most cases last week were the Alpha and Gamma strains of COVID-19, he noted that the Delta variant was detected last month, but nothing to be concerned about.
The potential for a fourth wave is unlikely since Canada has such a high vaccination rate, but COVID-19 booster shots, either annually or bi-annually, are a potential that Canada’s health officials are watching over, said Stanwick..
“We’ve been trying to develop scenarios where boosters may be needed — will it be like SARS and disappear? The virus may change so we may need to top up our vaccinations. Some pessimists say it will mutate beyond our control, but right now, there’s no evidence of that,” Stanwick said.
“But we do not want to be caught flat footed. We are staying on our toes. Canada has a higher vaccination rate which would fight the potential of a fourth wave.”
Still, concerns over the delta variant, which vaccines are only 33 percent effective against after one dose, and new variants of concern, like the Lambda variant, remain.
The following have received at least one dose in the Island Health region:
92% of people aged 70 and older
84% of people aged 50-69
71% of people aged 30-49
65% of people aged 12-29
92% of physicians and nurse practitioners
88% of all Island Health employees
In collaboration with First Nations and First Nations Health Authority, more than 21,000 people in approximately 50 First Nations communities have received at least one dose. This includes rural and remote as well as urban First Nations communities.
Yesterday, Island Health reported 5 new cases of COVID-19 in the Vancouver Island region and 28 active cases.
2 people remain in hospital with 1 in ICU.
There have been a total of 41 deaths on Vancouver Island since the pandemic began.
Fork’n Pork has take out macaroni and cheese, for when you need it on the go. Build your own or choose from their variety of options and flavours such as regular, poutine mac and cheese and butter chicken mac.
Location: 1221 Wharf Street
Hours: 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday, 5:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., Friday and 6:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., Saturday
Be Love’s plant based mac and cheese is made with coconut cashew cheese sauce and includes field greens broccoli, sweet onion and a walnut and herb parmesan.
Location: 1019 Blanshard Street
Hours: 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Tuesday to Friday, 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., Saturday
Both Darcy’s Pub locations serve their baked mac and cheese favourite. The dish is made with white cheddar sauce, bacon and topped with a garlic panko mix.
Locations: 1127 Wharf Street and 737 Goldstream Avenue
Hours: 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m., Sunday to Thursday, 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m., Friday and Saturday
CANOE’s mac is a cheese lover’s dream, packed with cheddar, gouda, mozzarella and swiss cheese. The dish also includes poblano peppers, house made cheese sauce, paprika-parsley breadcrumbs and is served with focaccia.
Location: 450 Swift Street
Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Monday and Tuesday, 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 a.m., Wednesday to Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Sunday
Avery Oye, 11, was pronounced dead at the scene after he collided with a pick-up truck towing a boat at the corner of Benko Road and Kearny Place.
In a GoFundMe campaign, Avery is described as a brilliant young boy who was greatly creative.
“He spent his free time building models, painting and drawing, as well as learning to play the cello. He lived with his mother Sarah and father Kiyo at their hobby farm in Mill Bay,” read the GoFundMe.
“He was very involved in the farm, and most loved their bunnies and his dog, Charlie.”
We are devastated to share the tragic and unexpected passing of DJBA U11 player Avery Oye on Monday July 12th.Avery…
The collision remains under investigation, however, police believe the cyclist failed to stop at the stop sign and made a left (northbound) turn onto Benko Road.
“The driver of the pickup truck was unable to stop in time, and collided with the cyclist,” said Commander Tim Desaulniers Shawnigan Lake RCMP Detachment.
Shawnigan Lake RCMP said the investigation is still ongoing and they’re being assisted by the Vancouver Island Integrated Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Service (ICARS).
“Victim Services was called out immediately, and anyone who saw this incident and is having difficulties is encouraged to reach out to them, or the Shawnigan Lake RCMP for assistance,” adds Desaulniers.
“The driver is co-operating with the investigation, and initially it does not appear to be any criminality in this tragic collision.”
(GoFundMe)
Money raised from the GoFundMe will go towards helping Oye’s parents with funeral expenses and giving them time and space to grieve their son.
As of this publication, $30,278 has been raised with a goal of $75,000.
A new BC Centre for Innovation and Clean Energy is set to open, funded by the BC government, the Government of Canada, and Shell Canada.
Intended to open in fall 2021, the centre will be a member-based, non-profit corporation operating independently from government or private entities; it intends to bring together innovators, industry, governments and academics to accelerate the commercialization and scale-up of BC-based clean-energy technologies.
The province and Shell Canada both committed $35 million to the centre and the Government of Canada has committed up to $35 million for the centre’s innovative projects.
The centre’s focus areas for funding and project delivery will include carbon capture, utilization and storage; the production, use and distribution of low-carbon hydrogen; biofuels and synthetic fuels (including marine and aviation fuels); renewable natural gas; and battery technology, storage and energy management systems.
The centre is delivered through funding from Budget 2021 and Natural Resources Canada’s Energy Innovation Program; it will help Canada meet its climate change targets and build a low-emissions energy future.
The province said that the centre intends to initiate new technology pathways to accelerate larger reductions on the path to net-zero emissions by 2050.
“Climate change is the greatest challenge of our time, and we are already seeing its devastating effects. Shifting from our reliance on fossil fuels to low-carbon energy requires an all-hands-on-deck approach,” said Premier John Horgan.
“That’s why we are working together with industry and government partners to create a centre for innovation and clean energy that will build on B.C.’s strengths as a climate leader. By supporting new technologies, we will stimulate investment and create the good jobs of the future.”
Nanaimo RCMP have released a photo showing two women who are allegedly responsible for stealing a nearly $2,000 camera in Nanaimo.
According to police, the theft occurred at approximately 11:45 a.m. on Wednesday, June 23rd, near Seto Sushi, located at 4286 Departure Bay Road.
The owner, an insurance adjuster, told police he was taking pictures of the sushi restaurant when he realized he forgot something in the restaurant.
He placed the camera on the ground for less than a minute, while he went inside. When he returned the camera was gone.
Investigators reviewed the security footage of the parking lot which shows the two suspects walking in the direction of the camera moments later.
The two were seen picking up a small black object, then walking away. Police are confident the black object they picked up was the camera.
The stolen camera is a black Nikon D90 valued at nearly $2,000.
The two suspects are described as Indigenous women in their early to mid-20s. Both had long dark hair and were wearing dark pants.
Anyone with information on this incident or the identification of the two suspects, are asked to call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345, and quote file # 2021-22893.
A group of Sikh motorcyclists will hit the road for a trip across Canada in support of the Make-A-Wish foundation this weekend.
Legendary Sikh Riders will depart from Mile Zero in Victoria on Saturday July 17th at 12 p.m., which will commence their cross-Canada ride raising funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
The group intends to project the values of their Sikh faith while pursuing their love of the open road and doing so for charity.
Recently, they had a solidarity ride supporting the Indigenous community following the confirmation of 215 unmarked graves in Kamloops; and last year they rode to support farmers in India, who have been protesting against controversial agricultural laws.
Their 2020 road trip across Canada was postponed due to COVID-19.
This year, they decided to raise funds for the Make a Wish Foundation, who grant wishes to children with critical illnesses.
“As a group we voted on facilitating the next generation, which is our children, because children are the future of every nation and race,” said the Legendary Sikh Riders’ website.
“We decided to go with the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Canada and our trip will take us across Canada asking for donations.”
Any funds received will be distributed towards each province that they collect money from.
To donate online click here and follow their journey here.
VicPD arrested a man after a crime spree where he attempted two carjackings while armed with a knife.
He also tried to steal a scooter, and attempted two separate break and enters.
On July 15th, at around 10 a.m., a man reportedly broke into a suite of a multi-unit residential building in the 1800-block of Fern Street and stole several items.
Responding officers received additional reports that the same man, now in the 1500-block of Pandora Avenue, attempted to enter an occupied vehicle while armed with a knife.
The victim of the attempted carjacking stopped the suspect from entering their vehicle and then locked their doors.
The suspect was unable to enter the vehicle and then attempted to steal a nearby scooter. A witness interrupted the theft attempt, and the suspect fled the area.
Following this, the suspect broke into another suite in a multi-unit residential building in the 1300-block of Stanley Avenue. Officers located the suspect as he departed the building and advised him that he was under arrest.
He then attempted to break into a separate ground floor suite in the same building from which he had just departed.
Officers arrested the man and transported him to VicPD cells where he was held in custody.
No one was injured in the attacks.
The 33-year-old Victoria man faces recommended charges of robbery with a weapon, assault with a weapon, and break and enter.
The suspect was on conditions of an undertaking not to possess weapons after recently assaulting a police officer. The suspect also faces recommended charges of breach of an undertaking.
VicPD are asking anyone with more information to call them at (250) 995-7654.
If you’re having one of those weeks, don’t worry, so is Comox Valley RCMP.
The detachment reported two instances that would have anyone scratching their head.
On Tuesday, July 13th, an off-duty Oceanside RCMP officer saw a goat on the loose in Courtenay.
RCMP reported that the goat was on a walkabout along 29th Street when the call came in.
Before they could arrive, the off-duty officer put the goat on a leash, until the owner of the goat could claim the prize.
The next day, on Wednesday July 14th, Comox Valley RCMP responded to a 911-call reporting several gunshots from a residence on Fitzgerald Avenue in Courtenay.
When police went to the area they immediately blocked off the road and surrounding area.
Residents inside the home cooperated with the investigation, ensuring nobody was hurt.
According to the RCMP, someone had been playing loud music and gunshots rang out in one of the songs.
While the event had no injuries, Comox Valley RCMP are still asserting that they need respect in order to fulfill their duty.
“While we had the area blocked off, several people tried to pass-by pylons and police vehicles designed to keep residents out of danger,” said Cst. Monika Terragni, Media Relations Officer, Comox Valley RCMP.
“One woman even stood at the side of the road yelling at police as people were exiting the residence. It is very important that while these situations unfold to respect the blocked off areas and allow us to do our job – do not try to interfere or pass through an area that could be dangerous.”
Well, let’s just hope residents can appreciate the screaming vocals of metal music.
As Canada’s vaccination program continues to see impressive numbers and COVID-19 active case numbers continue to fall, we are seeing changes to the country’s ban on cruise ships.
In a statement today, the Minister of Transport, the Honourable Omar Alghabra, announced cruise ships will be able to enter Canadian waters earlier than previously expected.
Starting in November, cruise ships will be able to operate and dock in Canada once again, pending operators will be able to fully comply with public health requirements.
In March 2020, in a response to the threat of COVID-19, Transport Canada announced their initial ban on cruise ships with more than 500 passengers from entering the country. The ban has been extended several times since.
Although the regulations were put in place in order to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, the GVHA emphasized the impact this could have on the cruise ship industry which contributes more than $130 million to the Greater Victoria economy and is responsible for more than 800 jobs.
In addition, American lawmakers unanimously approved a bill allowing Alaska-bound cruise ships to skip BC ports, such as Victoria back in May. This bill and the possibility of it becoming a permanent decision was met with more concern as to how it could impact the Victoria tourism industry even further.
With the announcement of an earlier return of cruise ships, the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) is optimistic of the future. They say this announcement comes in time to properly prepare for the full resumption of cruise ships in Canada in time to welcome the 2022 cruise season.
The GVHA says this announcement also allows plans for short and long-term capital infrastructure needs.
Transport Canada has stated they will continue to work with the Public Health Agency of Canada, other levels of government, the United States government, transportation industry stakeholders, Indigenous Peoples, and Arctic communities to help ensure Canadians and Canada’s transportation system remain safe and secure.
The Government of Canada continues to advise Canadians to avoid all travel on cruise ships outside the country until further notice.
Dreams do come true.. and sometimes all it takes is a few simple clicks.
The season’s biggest home lottery is back – with more than 3000 prizes to be won worth over a whopping $4 million.
With the BC Children’s Hospital Dream Lottery, you’ll have the option of 8 Grand Prizes, with homes in South Surrey, Vancouver, Kelowna, Penticton, Victoria and Courtenay.
Even better? New this year, the Dream Lottery is offering up their biggest cash Grand Prize option yet – a tax-free $2.3 million.
The proceeds from ticket sales go towards research initiatives at BC Children’s Hospital — where researchers translate their discoveries directly into improved healthcare for children.
Buying a ticket (or 10, or 25!) supports the only hospital in the province devoted exclusively to children, and with your support, they can help improve their lives and define the future of children’s health care for generations to come.
Tickets to the main lottery – and a chance to win one of the 8 Grand Prize options including two gorgeous homes on Vancouver Island – start at 3 tickets for $100, and go all of the way up to a 20-ticket pack for $500.
Grabbing your tickets ASAP is looking better than ever – the last three lotteries sold out in record time, so get yours while you still can!
If you’re chosen as a grand-prize winner, you could be the proud new owner of a stunning sub-penthouse in Vancouver or, even closer to home, an incredible James Bay townhome – the possibilities are endless.
You could also choose 1 of 6 other Grand Prize choices – which feature homes in Kelowna, Penticton, two in Morgan Creek (in South Surrey) and one in the island’s own Courtenay – OR choose the tax-free $2.3 million cash.
Keep your eyes peeled for even more ways to win big, with bonus draws, cash prizes and much more.
Deadlines to enter the various draws are:
Appreciation Reward Draw: Midnight, Friday, August 20th
End of Summer Bonus Draw: Midnight, Friday, September 3rd
Fall Bonus Draw: Midnight, Friday, September 17th
Early Bird Draw: Midnight, Thursday, October 7th
Main Draws and Grand Prize: Midnight, Thursday, October 14th
The BC government announced that it is phasing in a new policy for expanded access to prescribed safe supply, becoming the first province in Canada to do so.
The policy was announced Thursday, July 15th and was developed within the limits of the federal Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, which requires controlled substances be provided by prescription.
“At the start of the pandemic, BC provided access to some prescribed safer supply medications to save lives from overdose and protect people from COVID-19. Building on what we’ve learned, we’re expanding access to prescribed safer supply to reach more people and save more lives,” said Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, Sheila Malcolmson.
Over the next three years, as part of Budget 2021, $22.6 million dollars will be directed to health authorities to lay the foundation for this new approach.
This new prescribed safer supply policy will roll out through a phased approach, beginning with implementing the policy in existing health-authority funded programs that currently prescribe alternatives to illicit drugs and through newly created programs such as service hubs and outreach teams.
People who want to access these services will not have to be referred by a doctor and will be assessed by a prescriber using a typical assessment similar to any other health condition.
Once fully implemented, people who use drugs or are at a high-risk of drug-toxicity, will be able to access a broader range of opioid and stimulant replacements like fentanyl patches and tablets, as well as access to alternatives covered by Pharmacare.
The first phase of this new policy is expected to be in place for 18 to 24 months as data is collected to assess this approach.
The program will be available in existing programs with substance use services, newly created services, and through existing federally funded Safer programs.
Expansion is currently underway with every health authority.
Further phases will expand on what is learned and expand broader access once the clinical guidance is developed based on findings from the monitoring and evaluation process.
In response, Sonia Furstenau, Leader of the BC Greens and MLA for Cowichan Valley, agreed with that the move was a step in the right direction, but iterated that because of the low number of prescribers and family doctors in BC, this model isn’t as effective as it could be.
“Communities on both sides are being clear that a prescriber model comes with many complications. This government should listen to those consulted, and immediately find a path outside of the medical system to provide a safe supply of drugs,” Furstenau said.
“A compassion club or co-op model is one such low-barrier model that can provide immediate benefits for drug users across B.C., and that model is scalable.”
The BC Coroner has reported that, since the beginning of January, 851 BC residents have died due to a toxic drug supply.
According to the report, an average of 5.2 opioid-related deaths occurred every day in May.
The 851 lives lost between January and May of this year are the most reported opioid-related deaths ever recorded in the beginning of a calendar year.
Decriminalization in BC
In April, the BC government announced they applied for a federal exemption from Health Canada to decriminalize personal possession of drugs in BC.
The agreement would determine and define simple possession, allowable drug amounts, and ensure the readiness of law enforcement, health and social services to support decriminalization.
In June, Mayors across BC, including three from Vancouver Island, expressed their support for Vancouver’s request to Health Canada to decriminalize drug possession.
The Summer Nights Market in Fernwood is an outdoor, pop-up market under the sunset sky. Meet the local makers who will be bringing you Indigenous medicines, Ceramics, Botanicals, Skin Care and more!
SKAM is back and hosting it’s 13th annual SKAMpeded Festival!
Sixteen Vancouver Island/Vancouver theatre companies will perform in various venues spread out across central Victoria, the inner harbour and along the Galloping Goose Trail.
Where: Varies on ticket purchase (Cecelia Ravine, Central Spur Rd, Songhees Walkway, or Harbour Downtown)
When: Friday July 16th to Sunday July 18th, various tour times available
Price: Pay what you can ticket model. Tickets can be purchased online
Visiting Sooke Country Market is a perfect Saturday morning activity. Browse through the vendors selling everything from fresh produce, jewelry, gardening supplies and more.
2021 marks Moss Street Market’s 30th season in operation. If you prefer contactless pick up, you can visit the online Moss Street Market to pick up your order.
No, you haven’t been transported back in time, this is real! Legacy Drive-In has announced showtimes for their outdoor theatre at Westshore Motorsports Park.
This weekend, see Grease and Rango from the comfort of your car as you enjoy food by Westshore Burger Co.
Tickets must be purchased in advance and it is recommended patrons arrive 30 minutes before showtime to ensure they get the best spot.
Where: Westshore Motorsports Park (formerly Western Speedway) 2207 Millstream road
When: Grease: 11:00 p.m., Saturday July 17th, Rango: 9:30 p.m., Sunday July 18th
The Sidney Street Market is back! After a prolonged COVID-19 absence, the market has returned to a new location at the Mary Winspear Centre. While you’re there, be sure to check out Glory Bakehouse for some delicious brownies.
Where: Mary Winspear Centre, 2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney
When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., every Sunday through October 10th
Local artist Samantha Paul, and Hololabs have collaborated to bring an interactive mural to downtown Victoria.
Mounted on the side of the Save on Foods Memorial Centre, the 20’ X 40’ basketball mural is not just something to look at. Visitors can scan the QR code to experience an augmented interactive element to the artwork including 3D animals, hidden puzzles and thematic content related to basketball and the Pacific Northwest.
As restrictions ease, workout classes are finally re-opening and going back to regular capacity.
If you are interested in trying something new but want to try out some different workouts before committing to a lot of money we have a list of 15 new-member deals at local fitness studios!
BC was recently named Canada’s #1 staycation destination! Which means we are envied by the rest of Canada for our beautiful views, nature and relaxing environment.
Plan a staycation on our very own island with this list of 10 unique Airbnb getaways right here at home!
As the Tokyo Olympics kick off later this month, one local student will be doing her part for team Canada.
Julia Greenshields is studying a bachelor of sport and fitness at Camosun College and is also a member of the Canadian women’s national rugby sevens team.
“I don’t know if it’s hit me yet—I’m anxious and nervous and excited and focussed on training like we always do,” says Greenshields.
“I think the reality of it all will set in when we’re all actually at the airport.”
Greenshields grew up in Sarnia, Ontario. While attending high school there, she was given the opportunity to attend a class field trip to North Carolina — provided she joined the rugby team.
“I was told I had to play rugby, and I didn’t even know what that was, but I said ‘sign me up, let’s play rugby then’ because I really wanted to go to North Carolina!”
The trip ignited an interest in the sport for Greenshields, and she later moved to B.C. to train for 10 years with the national rugby team in Victoria.
When the pandemic hit, she elected to enroll in classes while most athletic activities were curtailed.
“When the pandemic happened, I thought, I really need to get back to school,” Greenshields says.
“I need to focus on getting my education and preparing for what’s next in life, after rugby.”
With the Olympics now scheduled, she’ll be flying to Tokyo to compete on the world stage.
COVID-19 protocols will remain in place, including banning spectators, but the rugby star is prepared for that change.
“One thing we prepare for when going into international competition is to anticipate that the crowd is going to be really really loud, and not letting that become a distraction, so it will be very interesting to be in a completely quiet stadium,” explains Greenshields.
“What I’m most disappointed about is that my family won’t be able to come with me and be there to watch, but I do hope to continue and compete in the next Olympics in Paris and I’ve told them—you’re going to come and watch me play then!”
The Women’s Rugby Sevens pool is set to kick off on Thursday, July 29. In Pacific Standard Time (Victoria local time), Team Canada will be taking to the field for their first game at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 28.
Matches will continue until July 31, with the gold medal match airing in local time at 2 a.m. on Friday, July 30.
(Dallon Johnstone suffers from complex regional pain disorder)
A GoFundMe has been organized by the friends and family of a patient who will undergo the Medically Assistance in Dying (MAiD) program.
Dallon Johnstone suffers from complex regional pain disorder — a form of chronic pain that usually affects an arm or a leg which is out of proportion to the severity of an initial injury.
The fundraiser will help to cover funeral costs for Dallon’s mother and sister.
Dallon was first diagnosed with complex regional pain syndrome five years ago and unfortunately, the cause of complex regional pain disorder isn’t clearly understood and is incredibly painful for those experiencing it.
“This is a rare disorder that causes him to be in endless severe pain, without any cure,” the fundraiser read.
“There have been many failed attempts to relieve any amount of pain; including amputation, various pain killers, infusions and nerve blocking.”
Organizer, Fiona Formby, noted that Dallon has had a criminal past, but has since learned and owned up to his mistakes.
In October 2014, VicPD reported that Dallon Kyle Johnstone was wanted by police after bilking a local woman out of thousands of dollars.
More than a year later in March 2015, Calgary Police reported that Dallon was wanted on an Alberta-wide warrant for fraud under $5,000.
Dallon had allegations of fraud through which women were being approached through online dating websites and solicited for money.
Formby, forwarded a statement from Dallon to Victoria Buzz on his past and how he’d like to be remembered.
“I’ve been asked a few times how I’d like to be remembered when I’m gone, and I think I’d like to be remembered as a caring, loving and forgiving person, a good son, friend, brother and uncle, and as someone who took responsibility for his mistakes and learned from them.”
Dallon announced the date for his medically assisted death on TikTok, where he has close to 40,000 followers.
On July 22nd, Dallon will pass away and donate his organs.
Since 2016, it has been legal in Canada for an eligible person suffering intolerably from a grievous and irremediable medical condition to access Medical Assistance in Dying.
MAiD permits a doctor or nurse practitioner to assist an eligible patient in voluntarily ending their life.
Shawnigan Lake RCMP are investigating a young cyclist killed in a collision with a pick-up truck towing a boat in Mill Bay.
The crash occurred just after 6:30 p.m. Monday night at the corner of Benko Road and Kearny Place.
Upon arrival, officers found that the youth cyclist had been fatally injured, and was pronounced deceased at the scene by BC Emergency Health Services.
“This collision remains under investigation, however, the initial investigation leads us to believe the cyclist failed to stop at the stop sign and made a left (northbound) turn onto Benko Road,” said Commander Tim Desaulniers Shawnigan Lake RCMP Detachment.
“The driver of the pickup truck was unable to stop in time, and collided with the cyclist.”
The Shawnigan Lake RCMP are continuing their investigation assisted by the Vancouver Island Integrated Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Service (ICARS).
“Victim Services was called out immediately, and anyone who saw this incident and is having difficulties is encouraged to reach out to them, or the Shawnigan Lake RCMP for assistance” adds Desaulniers.
“The driver is co-operating with the investigation, and initially it does not appear to be any criminality in this tragic collision.”
The BC Coroners Service is also conducting a separate investigating.
Tensions are heating up at the Fairy Creek blockades this week, as three separate assaults involving protest groups, RCMP, and logging workers occurred.
A shocking video of an assault on non-violent blockaders at Fairy Creek was captured and posted to social media this week.
The assault took place on the night of Monday, July 12th.
Earlier that night, Lake Cowichan RCMP received a complaint that blockaders and several vehicles were preventing workers from entering the Honeymoon Bay area.
In response to the protests, several loggers working for the Teal-Jones Group approached the area on Gordon River Road near Honeymoon Bay.
RCMP reported that a verbal argument had taken place earlier which escalated to a physical dispute later in the night.
The suspect of the assault, Glen, is seen punching a male protester who chained himself to the gate on Gordon River Road – other protesters are heard crying for the suspect to stop.
WARNING – The video below contains graphic content
According to the social media post from the Fairy Creek Blockade official social media page, the RCMP hung up the phone when they called to report the assault.
Emergency Health Services was called and one male was assessed but declined to remove himself from the locking device or to be transported to hospital.
Three individuals were ultimately removed from their locking devices and arrested for mischief, two of whom were minors.
Lake Cowichan RCMP are investigating the physical assault and ask anyone with information to please call them at(250) 749-6668.
Victoria Buzz has reached out to the Fairy Creek Blockade for more information.
In a separate incident on July 12th, The Rainforest Flying Squad also reported an assault via their social media.
According to the social media post, the protester was surrendering to arrest when RCMP officers “roughed him up” on the ground while they were arresting him.
Victoria Buzz has reached out to both The Rainforest Flying Squad and Lake Cowichan RCMP more information.
Assault on an Officer
RCMP also reported that an officer was assaulted and struck by a vehicle.
RCMP said that while officers were arresting one of the individuals on foot, the vehicle containing three individuals broke through the access control point, lost control and drove into a ditch.
The driver refused to stop, and while driving out of the ditch, struck an officer who was arresting an individual, and continued driving up Braden Mainline FSR.
The officer reported no injuries.
With the assistance of RCMP Air Services’ Air 5, the vehicle was located, approached by additional officers and stopped. Three individuals were arrested, the driver and one other individual for Assaulting a Peace Officer and Obstruction, and one for Resisting Arrest and Obstruction.
“Assaulting an officer with a vehicle is a potentially life threatening act of violence. Peaceful protest can take place without a risk of harming others. Criminal acts of violence will not be tolerated,” says Chief Superintendent John Brewer, Gold Commander of the RCMP Community-Industry Response Group.
Tensions at Blockades
Conflicts have been exasperated as of late.
RCMP reported that protests are going to dangerous physical lengths to hold the blockade, and meanwhile protestors report RCMP using aggressive and dangerous means to extract protestors from their positions.
Protestors at Fairy Creek near Port Renfrew have been locking themselves to PVC pipes and gates, as well as creating a pulley system in trees or tree structures as a form of blockade against logging.
RCMP have been using excavators to extract some protestors.
There have now been 403 arrests since police began enforcing the injunction in May, including at least 27 people who have been arrested more than once.
Last month, the BC government approved the request of three Vancouver Island First Nations to defer logging in about 2,000 hectares of old-growth forest in the Fairy Creek and central Walbran areas for two years.
Still, the protests continue.
This week also saw Victoria City Councillor, Ben Isitt, resign in his position of Vice Chair of the CRD First Nations Relations Committee after a video went viral online depicting the councillor offering money to a tow truck driver to stop towing vehicles belonging to protestors.
The Chief Council of the Pacheedaht Nation, who are the title land owners of the Fairy Creek watershed, condemned the councillor’s actions.
“It has recently come to our attention that Councillor Ben Isitt, a CRD Board member, has been actively supporting and involved in exactly the type of disrespectful behaviour that PFN (Pacheedaht First Nation) has strongly objected to,” wrote Chief Jeff Jones in a letter to the CRD on July 8th.
“We take the view that this is deplorably unacceptable behaviour for an elected official who is in a position of power and influence, and is capable by vote or behaviour of imposing negative impacts on our nation,” he said.
The BC government announced that it is working to improve ambulance response times and support emergency workers amidst the heatwave and worsening opioid crisis.
On Wednesday, July 14th, Health Minister Adrian Dix said the province is acting immediately to reinforce ambulance operations by providing funding for:
85 new full-time paramedics;
30 full-time dispatchers;
22 new ambulances; and converting 22 rural ambulance stations to 24/7 ALPHA stations to enhance ambulance coverage for these communities.
Six are scheduled to be running by October 2021.
Plans for up to an additional 16 stations will be ready by October 2021.
Minister Dix also said he will be reconstituting the BC Emergency Health Services board of directors to focus solely on ambulance services and returning to the pre-COVID-19 first-responder dispatching practices for 911.
Appointed to chair of the board is Jim Chu, former chief constable of the Vancouver Police Department; to service as a special adviser to the board, Darren Entwistle, president and CEO of Telus; and to serve as BC’s new chief ambulance officer on an interim basis, Leanne Heppell.
BC Emergency Health Services will now be led by a chief ambulance officer responsible for the day-to-day management of the BC Ambulance Service.
Additionally, the province said it is directing health authorities to add additional staff to receive patients and care for them when they arrive at the emergency department.
To aid health-care workers, the province is contracting a team of mental health and wellness professionals to work directly with dispatch staff and paramedics to address chronic stress, fatigue and support wellness among staff (including access to trauma-informed therapy).
The province said that continued collaboration between the BC Emergency Health Services and the Ambulance Paramedics of BC will ensure a constructive and cooperative approach to protect their employees.
Since January 2021, 271 paramedics have been hired by BC Emergency Health Services and since 2017, the province has increased the BC Emergency Health Services annual budget from $424.25 million to $559.12 million a year.
The highway connecting Vancouver Island to the central Island communities of Tofino and Uclueclet is currently closed due to the danger of a potential rockslide.
Highway 4 at Kennedy Lake is estimated to reopen at 5 p.m.
The announcement came at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 14th from the BC transportation ministry.
DriveBC says the road was closed due to a rock fall hazard between Toquart Bay Road and the Taylor River Rest Area.
CLOSED #BCHwy4 – Due to rock scaling safety concerns between Toquart Bay Rd and Taylor River Rest Area. Assessment in progress. Estimated time of re-opening 5:00PM PDT. No detour available, next update at 3:00PM PDT. More info: https://t.co/4aDpdm2c1Jpic.twitter.com/2n44F4zJZC
For many, summer means warmer weather, taking time off for vacation and travelling.
For the BC SPCA it means a considerable increase in vulnerable, orphaned, pregnant and displaced animals being brought into shelters.
“In the spring and summer months, we see an influx in kittens and nursing cats,” Michelle Rodgers, senior manager of volunteer resources says.
“We could not provide the level of care and support these animals need without our foster program and the volunteers who provide a safe, comfortable home for them.”
Not only do the summer months see an increase in incoming animals, the SPCA also sees a decrease in available foster families or long term, stable availability as many people take time off for vacation.
This summer, the Vancouver Island SPCA is currently seeking additional foster families to help home these additional shelter animals.
“Foster volunteers provide thousands of vulnerable animals with care, support and, more importantly, a place to thrive and recover every time they open their homes to an animal from a shelter,” says Rodgers, senior manager of volunteer resources.
“It also helps prepare animals for adoption by giving them a chance to live in a home where they can fully express their personality, work to overcome fears or recover from trauma.”
Yogi, a foster dog from the Cowichan & District shelter, is a recent example of a foster success story.
Upon arrival, “[Yogi] was afraid of people, noises and pretty much everything” says Rodgers. However, after he was brought into the foster care of Rosalie Scheffer he evolved into a confident and happy pup.
Rosalie was so taken with Yogi she ended up adopting him herself.
(Yogi & Rosalie/BC SPCA)
If you are interested in applying to be a foster, you can apply via an application form here.
For additional information on other ways you can volunteer with the BC SPCA, you can take a look at the BC SPCA’s website or email volunteers@spca.bc.ca.
The live sights and sounds of the Victoria Symphony and Pacific Opera have returned once more, this time under the splendor of the summer sky.
Situated on the stunning grounds of St. Ann’s Academy, and the former shores of xwsзyq’әm (Whu-SEI-kum), two picturesque locations will bring you a series of concerts this summer that will surely not disappoint.
Enjoy instrumental chamber music, opera arias, show tunes, and family friendly programs dreamed up to delight your senses spread across ten days of performances.
Tickets are now on salefor the over 50 performances happening this summer, which will feature everything from Baroque era’s greatest hits to the Canadian classical music canon’s newest gems.
Programs feature a combination of Victoria Symphonymusicians along with Pacific Opera’ssingers Lara Ciekiewicz, Simran Claire, Marion Newman, Kaden Forsberg, Adam Luther, and Bruce Kelly.
The Open Air series will also include Music in the Meadows, which are surprise ‘pop-up’ musical events happening throughout the festival, celebrating the diversity of artists from many cultural traditions that now co-exist on these territories, including Indigenous performers, visiting artists, young musicians, and programs designed especially for families.
The pop-up performances will be up to 10 minutes, and are free for everyone.
The serene sanctuary of The Butler’s Garden will host The Wind in the Woods on Saturday, July 24th, and the Oh the Drama! will be performed on Sunday, July 25th at the Victoria Foundation Courtyard stage.
Tickets for each of the above performances are available now, but even better, we have partnered with Victoria Symphony and Pacific Opera to give away a pair of tickets to each show – contest details are below!
The Wind in the Woodsfeatures a trio of wind instruments that explores an array of short chamber works for winds by Bach, Tchaikovsky and Mozart, a few gems by iconic American composers Scott Joplin, Stephen Foster, and George Gershwin, as well as works by Jacques Ibert and Georges Auric.
Oh the Drama!will allow you to let your emotions run wild as the sounds of Stravinsky and Massenet take to the sky. Tunes from Carmen and Tosca will pull your soul through the heat of our hot summer sun, into the cool sting of the ocean’s crisp breeze, and back again.
CONTEST
For a chance to WIN a a pair of tickets to The Wind in the Woods or OH the Drama! from Victoria Symphony and Pacific Opera, complete one or more of the following:
SHARE this post on Facebook and/or Twitter and leave a comment below telling us once you have. (1 entry)
Contest entries will be accepted from the time and date of publishing until 11:59 pm on July 21st. Two winners will be chosen at random and contacted through the platform they used to enter.
It’s unclear if this prompted the resignation, but Pacheedaht Chief Council, Jeff Jones said he “strongly objected” to the behaviour.
“It has recently come to our attention that Councillor Ben Isitt, a CRD Board member, has been actively supporting and involved in exactly the type of disrespectful behaviour that PFN (Pacheedaht First Nation) has strongly objected to,” wrote Chief Jeff Jones in a letter to the CRD on July 8th.
“We take the view that this is deplorably unacceptable behaviour for an elected official who is in a position of power and influence, and is capable by vote or behaviour of imposing negative impacts on our nation,” he said.
Since May, the Pacheedaht First Nation has asked protestors in the Fairy Creek area to leave its traditional lands and for the CRD to respect their wishes.
On May 10th, The Pacheedaht First Nation sent a notice to the CRD board, asking that they “show an appropriate level of respect to the sovereignty and wishes of our nation.”
On June 20th, the Nation once again asked the CRD to respect its authority after several Island First Nations’ and the BC government put forth a two-year deferral on old-growth logging in the Fairy Creek watershed and central Walbran valley areas.
A petition has also garnered over 3,500 hundred signatures calling on the suspension of Isitt for “interfering with the Community Charter of British Columbia.”
“Mr. Isitt continuously puts forward motions at Victoria City Council that interfere with the peace and good governance of the City of Victoria,” read the petition.
“Mr. Isitt has also drawn and helped pass motions over the Cruise ship industry and The Greater Victoria Harbour Authority of which the City of Victoria does not have the jurisdiction.”
Isitt has served the public as a City Councillor and Regional Director since 2011 and will remain a director on the committee.
British Columbians living in rural, remote, and Indigenous communities will continue to have access to free and low-cost support for mental health and substance-use challenges.
The government announced the investment of $2.4 million on Wednesday, July 14th.
The funding will provide counselling services provincewide for populations in rural, remote and Indigenous communities and include expanded funding for community-based counselling programs, including virtual sessions.
Twenty community agencies will receive funding to extend the low- and no-cost mental health and substance use services started during the pandemic, which continues a funding which the province began in 2019 and will continue until March 2022.
News of the investment comes as the province reported that 21% fewer Canadians reporting good or very good mental health since the pandemic began.
According to the government, in the first year of funding, participating agencies held 60% more counselling sessions and provided counselling for 58% more people than in the previous year.
“Now, more than ever, British Columbians need help with mental health and substance use,” said Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions.
“Free and affordable counselling is an important part of the system of care we are building, and this additional funding will ensure people get the counselling help they need.”
The expansion of affordable community counselling services is a key pillar outlined in A Pathway to Hope, BC’s roadmap for creating a seamless comprehensive system of mental health and addictions care that works for everyone.
An expedition that will test an ocean plastic cleanup invention will depart from Victoria in two weeks.
The test campaign for The System 002 (aka Jenny) piloted by The Ocean Cleanup — a non-profit organization developing advanced technologies to rid the world’s oceans of plastic — is set to depart Victoria on July 27th.
The voyage will set off to The Great Pacific Garbage Patch — a collection of marine debris in the North Pacific Ocean between California and Hawaii.
If the test is successful, The Ocean Cleanup will apply what was learned towards future technology that intends to remove 50% of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch in five years.
The Ocean Cleanup’s main objective is to rid the ocean of 90% of its plastic.
Jenny is designed to be a fully operational plastic retention and cleanup system with a focus on autonomous navigation, long-term plastic retention, and durability at sea.
According to AzoCleanTech, the developed technology creates a drag that allows swirling plastic to be captured and concentrated for effective removal from the ocean. Huge anchors floating hundreds of feet below steady the system while it moves more slowly than the plastic, scooping it up from behind.
The new system takes from the learnings of System 001/B, which left on a voyage from Vancouver’s coast in 2019, and creates a system intended to clean the area the size of a football field every 15 seconds, according to founder and CEO of The Ocean Cleanup, Boyan Slat.
The voyage will consist of testing the system in four ways — overall functioning and environmental impact, plastic extraction, defining optimum towing speed, and impact of longevity.
After three months, post-deployment, The Ocean Cleanup will have answers that will define the future of their cleanup systems.
System 003 is intended to be more than double the size of System 002, if the test is successful and the demo goes as planned.
Watch the full video about the pilot project here.
Central Saanich Police, Fire and Public Works worked together to rescue a horse who found himself in an uncomfortable situation Tuesday afternoon.
What started as a nice trot quickly turned into a daring rescue.
When crews arrived, they found Simon stuck and unable to move in a nearby swamp. Teams began working together quickly to resolve the issue and free him.
It is believed Simon veered off the dirt path into the overgrown grass with no way of knowing what was waiting for him on the other side.
The grass is dense and prevents view of the swamp ahead.
Central Saanich Police assisted our community partners, CS Fire and CS Public Works with the rescue of Simon, a local…
Banfield Park (Garden City Electronic Music Society)
Victoria will welcome a free, live performance series towards the end of this month and heading into the August long weekend.
Wonderment will take place over all four days of the BC August long weekend
at outdoor venues in Victoria.
The event is a live performance series featuring ambient and electroacoustic music presented on multi-channel sound in public green spaces and hosted by the Garden City Electronic Music Society.
The festival offers a range of live ambient and electro-acoustic live performances in family-friendly environments throughout the city, and its sixth edition will present four days featuring six unique showcases.
Features of the festival include:
An audio-visual installation throughout the festival at Open Space Gallery,
featuring indigenous artist and Polaris Prize nominee, Matthew Cardinal (Edmonton), and multimedia artist Stephanie Kuse (Saskatoon).
Electro-acoustic performances in the afternoon on July 30th and 31st, featuring artists using electronic instrumentations along with traditional instrumentation including harp (Elisa Thorn), violin (Meredith Bates), and classical guitar (Alexander Klinke).
Friday, July 30th also features Meteoric Twin, who employ ethereal vocals amidst electronics, sung in Láadan, a woman-centered constructed language created by Suzette Haden Elgin for her Sci-Fi series called Native Tongues in the 1980s.
All events are free to attend, and select events will be concurrently live-streamed for those who can’t make it.
The full schedule will be released in the coming days, but performances are set to take place at these venues:
Friday, July 30: 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.: Beacon Hill Park Cameron Bandshell
Saturday, July 31: 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.: Fisherman’s Wharf Park (James Bay)
Saturday, July 31: 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.: West Bridge Plaza (at the Johnson St
Bridge)
Sunday, August 1: 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.: Beacon Hill Park Cameron Bandshell
Sunday, August 1: 7:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.: Beacon Hill Park Cameron Bandshell
Monday, August 2: 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.: Banfield Park (Vic West)
A thief at a Sooke liquor store is in custody after he allegedly swung a sword at staff before fleeing with stolen items.
Sooke RCMP say they were alerted to a robbery in progress at approximately 5:30 p.m. on July 11.
According to the report, a liquor store in the 6800 block of West Coast Road in Sooke had been robbed.
An employee at the store told police that a man had entered the store and taken three bottles of wine. When staff tried to stop the man as he left, the man allegedly brandished a two-foot sword and swung it at employees.
Police say he then fled the scene on foot.
Staff pursued the man at a safe distance in a vehicle while contacting 9-1-1 and directing police to the man in the 6900 block of West Coast Road.
Officers intercepted the suspect, who they say was non-compliant. He was taken into custody and found to be in possession of stolen items and a sword.
Sergeant Kevin Shaw says while the situation was resolved safely, people could have been hurt in the incident.
“In situations like these, we always recommend to call the police immediately and then, only if safe to do so, provide us with updates of the suspect from a safe place,” said Shaw.
The suspect is now facing a charge of robbery. Anyone with information on the incident is asked to contact the Sooke RCMP at 250-642-5241 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.
