Thursday, March 28, 2024

Two arrested after explosives found at the scene of East Sooke Road collisions

(File photo)

Sooke RCMP have now elaborated on why East Sooke Road was closed to the public in both directions this morning. 

In the early morning hours of Friday, March 22nd, police responded to a single vehicle collision near Yates Road and East Sooke Road in Beecher Bay.

There, officers say they found one injured woman and soon after found out that the male driver of the vehicle had fled the scene before they could arrive. 

Police arrested the woman and began a criminal investigation based on the circumstances of the collision. 

Shortly after this all happened, Sooke RCMP say they received another report from a nearby security guard having his truck stolen. 

The truck was found near the first collision, crashed down an embankment and the driver who allegedly stole the truck was the same driver who crashed the first vehicle, according to police. 

The man was also arrested for charges which include theft of vehicle and assault with a weapon.

Meanwhile, police that were still back at the site of the first collision who were still dealing with the arrested woman discovered there was an explosive device on the scene. 

Sooke RCMP alleges it is connected to the woman in their custody. 

The RCMP Explosive Disposal Unit was called in for assistance and to safely remove the device.

Because of the explosive and the police investigation, East Sooke Road had to be closed from around 4 a.m. until 10:30 a.m.

Police say both vehicles have been towed and seized for evidence and the man and woman will remain in their custody as the investigation continues. 

Sooke RCMP ask that anyone with information, call Sooke RCMP at (250) 642-5141.

New Hallmark series ‘Young Aurora Teagarden Mysteries’ filming in Victoria

(File Photo)

A new Hallmark TV movie mystery series is being filmed in downtown Victoria this week!

Young Aurora Teagarden Mysteries will be a spinoff of the popular Hallmark mystery movie series, Aurora Teagarden Mysteries. 

Aurora Teagarden was originally a book series created by author Charlaine Harris. 

In the 11 books about Teagarden’s adventures, she acts as the protagonist. The books were published between 1990 and 2017. 

Then in 2014, Hallmark began making a TV movie series based on the novels. 

The basic synopsis of the series of movies is that Teagarden is a professional librarian at the Lawrenceton Public Library.

She belongs to the Real Murders Club, which is a group of true crime enthusiasts who meet up monthly to study famous crimes from the history of their Georgia town and solve them.

Thus far there have been 19 Aurora Teagarden Mysteries films made. And the prequel series of tv movies was announced in 2023. 

Now, the young Aurora Teagarden mystery TV movie series will delve into the origin story of the series’ beloved protagonist. 

Filming has been taking place in Victoria for this project over the month of March. 

According to Creative BC, filming for this project will be taking place between March 4th to April 16th and locations may span throughout the Greater Victoria area. 

On Reddit, someone posted a question after seeing some set pieces related to the filming of this project. 

“Looks like lots of trailers are set up and some fake police cars. Anyone know what’s being filmed,” they asked. 

While there was some speculation in the forum’s thread, it would appear that Young Aurora Teagarden Mysteries is the only ongoing project right now in the city of Victoria, according to Creative BC.

Have you seen any filming around town?

Missing 45-year-old woman has ‘significant mobility issues’: Nanaimo RCMP (UPDATED)

(Trina Daigle / Nanaimo RCMP)

Update:

Nanaimo RCMP have confirmed she’s been safely located.

Original:

Nanaimo RCMP are seeking the public’s help in locating a missing 45-year-old woman who has “significant mobility issues.” 

According to police, Trina Daigle is of no fixed address and is described to have “considerable personal issues.”

She was last seen at around 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 20th in the vicinity of the Protection Island ferry.

Police believe Daigle is in the Nanaimo area but she’s known to frequent emergency shelters in the North Cowichan area. 

She’s described as a Caucasian woman, standing at 5’5”, with blonde hair containing red highlights and she has green eyes. 

She was last seen wearing a white coat, black leggings and sandals. Police noted she uses a pink cane to assist with walking. 

“Given her struggles, including significant mobility issues, there is concern for her overall well-being,” reads a media release. 

If anyone has information on the whereabouts of Daigle or knows where she may be, call Nanaimo RCMP at (250) 754-2345. 

Surveillance camera captures high-impact crash on Douglas Street (VIDEO)

(Screengrab / Budget Brake & Muffler)

A multi-vehicle crash that left one person with serious injuries was captured on video surveillance camera.

The footage from Budget Brake & Muffler shows a speeding car running a red light at Bay and Douglas streets and smashing into a pickup truck, which then collided with a BC Transit bus, at around 10:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 20th.

A VicPD officer can be seen turning right onto Douglas seconds before the crash, with the speeding car blasting past the officer in the opposite direction.

Police say that when they arrived at the crash scene, the front end of the car was engulfed in flames and bystanders were aiding in removing the driver and passenger from the vehicle.

One witness told Victoria Buzz that one of the assisting bystanders was an unhoused Victorian who has aided in situations like this before.

Two people could be seen waiting at the crosswalk just feet from the bus narrowly escaped the flying debris. After running quickly from the crash, they can be seen going back to check on the burning car.

Due to the force of the impact, the truck was pushed into the front end of the BC Transit bus involved, which was headed northbound on Douglas Street.

“There were passengers on board the bus at the time of the collision, but no significant injuries were reported from the bus,” BC Transit confirmed.

The footage below shows multiple people exiting the bus.

“The bus suffered significant damage to the front end during the incident, and there was lost service as a result. BC Transit thanks emergency services and their Transit Supervisor for their fast response.”

Police say the truck driver received serious and possibly life-altering injuries, while the driver and passenger of the car only sustained minor injuries.

All three were transported to hospital.

Surveillance footage from Budget Brake & Muffler captured a significant crash on Douglas Street Wednesday night, leaving one person seriously injured. The black car was observed traveling southbound at a high speed before running the red light and colliding with the truck. Fortunately, two pedestrians narrowly avoided being hit by the truck.

Posted by Mike Kelly on Friday, March 22, 2024

The crash is eerily similar to an incident that occurred back in August 2019.

In that case, police were attempting to stop a pickup truck minutes before causing a high-speed crash involving three other vehicles and a cyclist.

The driver failed to stop for officers and fled at high-speed colliding with three other vehicles at Douglas and Bay Streets causing significant damage to all the vehicles involved.

That crash was also caught on a video by surveillance camera at Budget Brake and Muffler.

The footage shows the white truck entering the intersection from Bay Street at high-speed colliding with three vehicles in the intersection. The first vehicle hit can be seen flipping and landing upside down a distance away – the cyclist managed to stop amidst the chaos and is seen falling backwards before he gets up and runs from the debris.

Another cyclist can also be seen crossing the intersection just before the collision.

The suspect driver managed to exit the truck and can be see fleeing on foot. Officers were able to arrest him nearby.

The three other drivers were all transported to hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Crash Bay@Douglas August 24 12:12am. White truck driver unconfirmed estimated speed of 140kms ran full red and fled scene. Video shows on another camera and police have in custody charges pending including under the influence. Lucky no fatalities and driver caught. Absolutely avoidable!! Getting your vehicle home is not worth innocent peoples lives!!!!

Posted by Ryan Burghardt on Saturday, August 24, 2019

 

Playoff-bound Victoria Royals expected to see injured players return

(Victoria Royals)

Victoria Royals coverage presented by:


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After dismantling the Wenatchee Wild to the tune of a 7-3 victory at the Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre Wednesday night, the final battle of the long, 68-game season awaits.

On Friday, March 22nd, the Victoria Royals will host the Wenatchee Wild for Fan Appreciation Night, where the stars are you, the fans.

Gates open at 6 p.m. with puck drop at 7:05 p.m.

Given it’s the final game of the season for the Royals, let’s get you caught up on the Western Conference playoff picture.

WHL standings as of March 21, 2024. (WHL)

There’s a glut of teams ranging from 4th to 7th who are all within three points of each other, with the Royals sitting in 7th.

Unfortunately, Vancouver and Kelowna are playing each other through the final weekend, so they are each guaranteed points, making it unlikely Victoria can pass them.

In a perfect world, one team sweeps the other, leaving Victoria ready to play leapfrog with a win Friday night.

That means the highest Victoria can finish is 6th place, which would put them on track to meet Everett in the first round. If Victoria loses tomorrow night and Spokane earns at least 3 points from their final two games, the Royals could end up as the 8th seed.

So there’s a lot to play out over the final few games of the season here.

But who, in theory, would the Royals want to face?

Here are their head-to-head matchups against the three top seeds:

  1. Prince George: 1-7-0-0
  2. Portland: 0-2-1-1
  3. Everett: 0-4-0-0

Frankly, the top teams in the league are at the top for a reason, as Victoria has struggled to beat them.

But we could caveat that three of the four matchups against Portland were played in late February/early March when the Royals were at the peak of their injury problems.

The same was true with two of the matchups against Everett.

Though, of course, anyone on the Royals will tell you that injuries are no excuse.

If we got to choose an opponent, it would be Everett—they’re a little looser defensively than the other two—which may work in the Royals’ favor.

And though all three possible opponents are easily categorized as ‘elite’ based on the appreciable gap in the standings, you might be able to call the Silvertips ‘less elite’ than their two counterparts.

Prince George has had the Royals’ number all season long, and that would certainly be a matchup the players would like to avoid.

Royals finding their health at the perfect time

There was a game in mid-February where the Royals played the Kamloops Blazers and lost 3-1. Missing from that game were defencemen Nate Misskey, Austin Zemlak, Ryan Spizawka, and Hudson Bjornson, which is three of the Royals’ top four defencemen.

They were only able to dress 17 of 18 skaters, were also missing Robin Sapousek, and had to use Dawson Pasternak as a defenceman to help out the blue line, which obviously hurt their forward group.

All of this is to say that the Royals have endured a muck of injuries but appear to be finding reasonable health once more—and at the perfect time.

Reggie Newman had missed four games with an upper-body injury and returned last night, bringing his usual competitive fire and spending six minutes in the sin bin.

Nate Misskey had his brilliant season interrupted in early January, missing nearly two months. But he returned on March 15th and is winding his way back into form.

He scored Wednesday night, giving him 7 goals in 43 games so far.

Austin Zemlak also returned on March 15th, bringing his signature brand of sandpaper back to the blue line. He had missed roughly a month and a half, and his steadying presence will be felt immensely on the penalty kill again.

That leaves Ryan Spizawka, Robin Sapousek, and Hudson Bjornson still on the injured list.

Bjornson is still week-to-week with an upper-body injury, while Spizawka has been skating and could return during the first week of the playoffs.

If Spizawka returns and the Royals can escape further injury, it would be the first time they’ve iced their 6 best defencemen since December.

Sapousek, meanwhile, is still recovering from a shoulder injury suffered at the World Juniors back in December. The sense from management is that if the Royals can make it through the first round, he could possibly suit up in the second round.

Playoffs are the ultimate fan appreciation

It’s been a while since dedicated Royals fans have had the playoffs to look forward to following Fan Appreciation Night.

Over the past three seasons, it has basically been, “thanks for coming out, hopefully we’ll do better next year.”

But this year, the Royals have been able to offer more than just appreciation; they’ve iced the best hockey product this city has seen in years.

The franchise has had a strong bounce back season while producing thrilling third period comebacks, enjoying outstanding production from the blue line while playing a fast, fore-checking style.

Cole Reschny’s star has begun to shine—and who knows how bright it will become—and the team’s older, homegrown core of Justin Kipkie, Nate Misskey, Robin Sapousek, Tanner Scott, and Reggie Newman have all shown that they are capable of being top players on a good team.

Oh, and the Royals also made a blockbuster trade in October where they sent away Kalem Parker and Brayden Schuurman, acquiring a heap of draft capital and somehow the team got better.

Which is also in part thanks to Dawson Pasternak being the perfect early-season acquisition, bringing high skill and a veteran presence to play alongside Reschny.

He’s also helped head coach James Patrick out a bit by being able to play on the blue line in a pinch.

All of that is to say that while the team has struggled to play through injuries over the past few months, there are also clear signs of a franchise evolving and being ready to take the next step.

This season hasn’t felt like years previous.

We all remember the hayday of Matthew Phillips and Tyler Soy scoring points at will. We remember the peak of the Royals, when Joe Hicketts was the stalwart on the blueline and Griffen Outhouse was the brick wall guarding the cage.

The Royals aren’t quite back to being there yet. But fans have playoff hockey upon us, an exciting young core, and reason to believe that next year should be another step up the WHL’s competitive ladder—make sure to grab your playoff tickets!

In the meantime? One last regular season game before we get to the playoffs and see what this team is made of.

With Friday night’s game being Fan Appreciation, the Royals are offering massively discounted tickets for $8.50 (plus $4 service fee) to the final game of the season against the Wenatchee Wild—click here for the exclusive deal!

Fan Appreciation Night – Victoria Royals vs. Wenatchee Wild

  • Where: Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre, 1925 Blanshard Street
  • When:  Friday, March 22nd, puck drops at 7:05 p.m.

East Sooke Road closed in both directions following multi-vehicle crash (UPDATED)

(DriveBC)

UPDATE:

The road was reopened at around 10:30 a.m. and police say that they made two arrests related to the “police incident.”

ORIGINAL:

Those commuting into Greater Victoria from Sooke can expect some major delays and detours following a collision on East Sooke Road.

At around 4:18 a.m. Friday, March 22nd Drive BC reported a collision involving multiple vehicles between Rocky Point Road and Sutiacum Road, near Matheson Lake. 

Emergency vehicles are reportedly on the scene and the area is being assessed. 

The road has been closed since the collision and will continue to be closed with the next update coming at 10 a.m.

Sooke RCMP are also on the scene, investigating what occurred as a “police incident,” but have not provided any further details.

Elderly pedestrian killed after being struck by vehicle in Walmart parking lot: Nanaimo RCMP

RCMP Cruiser Generic
(File photo)

Nanaimo RCMP have confirmed a fatal pedestrian collision took place in a Walmart parking lot this afternoon, Thursday, March 21st.

The incident occurred at around 1:40 p.m. in the parking lot directly in front of the Walmart located in the Woodgrove Centre. 

Police and other emergency personnel responded to the scene and determined an 80-year-old victim was struck by a pickup truck operated by a 21-year-old driver.

The driver remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators—police have ruled out alcohol and drugs as contributing factors. 

The 80-year-old victim died at the scene and BC Coroners Service have been notified. 

The truck has been seized and will undergo a mechanical inspection. 

Anyone with eye-witness evidence and/or dashcam video is asked to call Nanaimo RCMP at (250) 754-2345.

As the investigation is ongoing, no further details have been provided.

VicPD seek public’s help locating missing man who may require medical attention

(Niilo / VicPD)

VicPD are seeking the public’s help in locating a missing 47-year-old man that has been deemed ‘high-risk.’

He’s described as a Caucasian man standing 6’4”, with a slim build and a bald head. 

Niilo was last seen in the James Bay area wearing black fleece pants and travelling on foot in either black crocs or barefoot. 

He was reported missing this afternoon.

Officers and loved ones are highly concerned for his well-being and have stated that he may require medical attention. 

Anyone with information on Niilo’s whereabouts or knows where he might be is asked to call police at (250) 995-7654.

View Royal committing $30,000 grant to hire physician amid doctor shortage

(View Royal Town Hall)

View Royal is taking the doctor shortage into their own hands, setting aside a large sum of money to recruit a physician. 

On Tuesday, March 19th, View Royal’s council decided to commit $30,000 to recruiting a foreign-trained maternity and primary care physician. 

The grant is going to the Westshore Primary Care Society (WPCS) to help GROW Health, a View Royal family practice and maternity clinic which has lost three family physicians in two years.

Grow Health operates as a non-profit clinic. 

“The shortage of primary care physicians is one of the greatest challenges facing residents of our town and region,” said View Royal Mayor Sid Tobias. 

“Community wellness is a town priority and with many of our residents now lacking prenatal and primary care, Council is proud to respond to WPCS’s request for funds to recruit a new physician.”

Up until 2022, the clinic had nine family physicians serving around 7,200 patients, many of whom were “orphaned” by a doctor retiring or moving.

“The importance of recruiting family doctors cannot be overstated,” said WPCS president, Dr. Spencer Cleave. 

“It has become a regular occurrence that women are delivering babies with no prenatal care and hundreds of patients, many of them in View Royal, are now without a family doctor.”

In addition to this funding, the View Royal council awarded the following grants this Tuesday:

  • $50,000 grant to School District 61 for a crossing guard program
  • $7,500 for a food security organization called LifeCycles Project Society
  • $3,000 for View Royal Out of School Care Society
  • $3,000 for Victoria Sexual Assault Centre
  • $2,500 for Vancouver Island South Film and Media Commission
  • $2,000 for Juan de Fuca Performing Arts Society
  • $725 for ReImagine West Shore Community Society
  • $500 each for Capital Region Food and Agriculture Initiatives Roundtable, View Royal Elementary School PAC, and Victoria Brain Injury Society
  • $250 for Access West Shore Society.

Those who want to share their thoughts on the View Royal Budget for the next fiscal year can still do so online, up until April 1st. 

Overall, the municipality plans on bumping property taxes up by 6.4% this year to account for some of this spending. 

This is an estimated $164 per residential property per anum. 

Redeveloped library branch in Saanich to include affordable housing

(Rendering of Nellie McClung library site / Zac de Vries, Saanich Councillor & CRD Director)

Some more good news for Greater Victoria!

As a part of BC’s Community Housing Fund (CHF), CRD and The Capital Region Housing Corporation CRHC have released further information regarding affordable housing developments in the city. 



CRHC in particular has received funding for four of the affordable rental projects, which will enable them to build 593 new homes.

Two of the approved projects that have been highlighted include Brentwood Bay Village in Central Saanich and the Nellie McClung Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) location in Saanich.

“This is sensational news for the region,” said Zac de Vries, CRHC Chair. 

“This partnership funding allows us to quickly advance these projects, to work with local governments where the developments have been identified and, most importantly, bring these much-needed affordable rental homes to the region.”

The District of Saanich has partnered with CRHC for the redevelopment of the Nellie McClung GVPL site, located at 3950 Cedar Hill Road.

This is a huge initiative that will bring a larger library for surrounding residents, as well as an additional 200 rental homes located above it. 

This proposed development is still in the preliminary stages and the next steps in planning include working in support of the District of Saanich to begin rezoning. 

The Brentwood Bay Village development will include the CRD, CRHC and the District of Central Saanich—all working towards bringing a total of 110 new homes and around 2000 square feet of commercial space that the CRHC is proposing to use as daycare.

“The CRHC is constantly working to both protect and preserve its existing housing, while also looking at opportunities to provide more affordable homes to those in-need through redevelopment,” said de Vries. 

“We know how impactful it may be for affected households, which is why CRHC staff will be working closely with those households at all key stages of the redevelopment process to support them through their upcoming transitions.”

The Community Housing Fund is one $3.3 billion piece of the $19 billion BC Builds investment by the BC government which has seen almost 78,000 homes built since 2017—8,400 of which are located on Vancouver Island. 

Saanich considers reducing parking minimums to account for less vehicle reliability

(File photo)

With an expanding active transportation network in Victoria, changing Provincial housing requirements and an ongoing housing crisis, the District of Saanich is opting to update their residential parking requirements. 

Councillors Zac de Vries and Teale Phelps Bondaroff brought the motion, along with a detailed report, before the municipal council on Monday, March 18th. 

“Our current parking minimums were made when David Bowie was still Ziggy Stardust,” Phelps Bondaroff noted during the Committee of the Whole meeting. 

The purpose of the motion is to reduce the minimum parking requirements so when new buildings and homes are developed, less space and consideration has to be enveloped in parking space. 

The current parking minimums call for the following types of units to have their respective number of spaces:

  • Single family dwelling – two spaces
  • Secondary suite/garden suite – one space
  • Two family dwellings – two spaces
  • Attached housing – two spaces
  • Apartments – 1.5 spaces

de Vries and Bondaroff would like to see District staff prepare a bylaw that would comply with newly updated Provincial legislation on transit-oriented development, reduce the parking minimums in any building which has less than 12 units to one parking space per unit and convert the current parking minimums listed above to the new parking maximums.

They would also like to see Transportation Demand Management (TDM) strategy be developed by residential developers who build in residences which have more than 12 units, introduce loading zone requirements for buildings with more than 12 units and see that all other parking requirements not outlined in this bylaw remain intact. 

The benefits de Vries and Phelps Bondaroff outlined in their report are: 

  • Less urban sprawl due to less space being allocated to vehicles
  • Cheaper construction because less land and space will have to be acquired for vehicular requirements 
  • A positive impact on the environment—less parking could mean less cars which would reduce air pollution and greenhouse gases
  • Less unused space as many parking spots go unused by tenants and those who use active transportation or transit
  • Increased flexibility because parking minimums can hinder development processes for projects meant to serve communities with different needs
  • Less creative urban design due to builders developing around the parking requirements
  • Uptick of people using different modes of transportation

The Councillors concluded by saying that there would be no financial implications tied to this bylaw being drawn up and voted in.

There would still be opportunity for a public hearing on this potential bylaw before it was voted on by council. 

The council member motion was carried with only Councillor Nancy Chambers opposing, so now staff will put together a comprehensive report to bring to a future meeting.

5 things to do in and around Victoria this Friday, March 22nd

(Vancouver Island Brewing / Facebook)

Happy Friday, Victoria!

Celebrate another successful workweek by engaging in one or many of the fun events the city has to offer.

Ranging from an IPA beer launch, a garage music clubbing night, a hockey game and more!

For the Victoria Royals fans out there, this is the last official regular season game before they dip into playoffs, so come and cheer them on.

Here’s 5 things to do in and around Victoria on Friday, March 22nd:

Wenatchee Wild vs. Victoria Royals Fan Appreciation Night

Not only is this the last regular game in the season before we head into playoffs, it’s also Fan Appreciation Day!

Get hyped for some special giveaways, a live DJ and an epic game of hockey. This is the second back-to-back game against Wenatchee, the first marking another win for the Victoria Royals!

With Friday night’s game being Fan Appreciation, the Royals are offering massively discounted tickets for $8.50 (plus $4 service fee) to the final game of the season against the Wenatchee Wild!

Bound to be a good game, make sure you get your tickets as soon as you can.

  • Where: Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre, 1925 Blanshard Street
  • When: Friday, March 22nd at 7:05 p.m.

A Toast to the Coast

Join the Vancouver Island Brewing team for their toast to the coast West Coast Trail IPA launch—celebrating the iconic West Coast Trail on the island.

Not only will they be selling their beer for $1 a pint, Wandering Mollusk will be shucking up the freshest oysters at a pop up oyster bar and Ryan Tidman will be showcasing his amazing coastal photography collection!

This event is free to attend! Just bring your love for beer!

  • Where: Vancouver Island Brewing, 2330 Government Street
  • When: Friday, March 22nd from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

‘Black & Rural’ Performance

After making its local debut at last year’s Incoming Festival 2023, Intrepid Theatre is thrilled to bring back Black & Rural, created and performed by Shayna Jones and produced by Pi Theatre.

This dazzling and thought-provoking performance kicked off on Thursday, March 21st and will run until Saturday, March 23rd.

This narrative that Jones has created is derived from over 40 conducted interviews with Black individuals located across the Canadian countryside—using their reflections and blending them with elements of folkloric tales, personal experience and unique storytelling.

General admission tickets for Black & Rural are $25 and can be purchased here.

This performance will also feature Intrepid Theatre’s “Pay-What-You-Ten”— $10 tickets, wherein 10% of tickets for shows will be on-sale for just $10.

  • Where: Metro Studio Theatre, 1411 Quadra Street
  • When: Friday, March 22nd at 7:30 p.m.

B.C. Cancer Foundation Fundraiser

Tapestry will be hosting a “Hearts for Giving” fundraising campaign in support of the new BC Cancer – Victoria Integrated Care and Research Pavilion.

They’re hoping to raise $20,000 towards this new and improved cancer care.

If you wish to attend the event, you can RSVP here.

  • Where: Tapestry at Victoria Harbour, 777 Belleville Street
  • When: Friday, March 22nd from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

It’s Garage Not Garage

Head downtown to Hermann’s Upstairs for some unique UK energy featuring, It’s Garage Not Garage.

They promise some bouncy drums and wobbly basslines—sure to keep you dancing all night long!

Support local talent and satisfy your craving for garage music! Tickets are just over $33 and can be purchased here.

  • Where: Hermann’s Upstairs, 753 View Street
  • When: Friday, March 22nd from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.

BC says nearly 870 ‘affordable homes’ being built on Vancouver Island in the coming years

(Ethan Morneau / Victoria Buzz)

The BC government announced that Vancouver Island has eight projects on the way which are dedicated to affordable housing for renters. 

This will bring a total of 867 new rentals to the market over the next few years. 

These new units are the result of the third round of funding from BC’s Community Housing Fund (CHF). 

According to the Province, the new affordable rentals will be run by non-profits, such as BC Housing and will be built with individuals, families, seniors, people living with disabilities and Indigenous people in mind. 

“These projects will meet the diverse needs of residents throughout Vancouver Island, including seniors, growing families and intergenerational families who want [to] stay together in the neighbourhoods they love,” said Rob Fleming, MLA for Victoria-Swan Lake. 

“Communities are telling us what they need and we’re listening—working hard to deliver the affordable homes they deserve as quickly as possible, while preparing for future growth.”

The Province made this announcement on Thursday, March 20th at the  Luther Court Society’s Campus of Care on Cedar Hill X Road. 

Adjacent to that property is the site in which the Luther Court Society will receive funding to build 95 units of affordable intergenerational housing. 

The Community Housing Fund is one $3.3 billion piece of the $19 billion BC Builds investment by the BC government which has seen almost 78,000 homes built since 2017—8,400 of which are located on Vancouver Island. 

Vancouver Island beach scores spot on list of 100 best beaches in the world

(Long Beach / BeachAtlas)

What’s up, beach bums?

If you’ve ever been to Long Beach in Tofino, you won’t be the slightest bit surprised that they’ve made it onto a list of top beaches worldwide!

BeachAtlas releases a list every year detailing the top 100 beaches that stretch out across the globe—using a list of criteria to dictate placement. 

Long Beach scored 52nd place out of 100 beaches, topping beaches from travel hotspots such as Columbia, Portugal, Cyprus and more. 

Did you know that it’s the largest and longest beach on the west coast of Vancouver Island?

With its stunning stretch of shoreline and importance to the surfing community, this beach attracts visitors all year round!

Whether it’s to catch some impressive waves or run down the length of this gorgeous sand-stretched beach, there’s an allure for everyone. 

Coming in first place was Bora Bora in French Polynesia for its crystal-clear waters, Boulders Beach in South Africa for the abundance of African Penguins (also affectionately known as Jackass Penguins) received 2nd place, and Waikiki Beach in the US for its Indigenous heritage and significance got 3rd place. 

BeachAtlas is a particular travel website that prides themselves on going beyond the typical visual allure criteria, and embraces a “richer tapestry of what makes a beach remarkable.”

This includes diverse selection process that takes lifestyle offerings, cultural significance and value to the local community into account. 

Using this criteria, BeachAtlas invites selected travel experts and influencers from around the world to cast their votes and assist in the list curation. 

This broader perspective allowed them to shine light on some beach gems that don’t usually make it onto a ‘best beach list’ and will then give readers a unique look at what is out there. 

If you wish to take a look at the full list as well as their selection process, you can read about it here.

Details emerge from police involved shooting on Pat Bay Highway last year

(Victoria Buzz)

Details have emerged from a police-involved shooting that occurred on the Pat Bay Highway in Saanich last year.

The Independent Investigations Office of BC (IIO) released a report that detailed the events leading up to the incident and after, as well cleared any officers of wrong doing.

The incident occurred on April 28th, 2023, in the southbound lanes of the Pat Bay Highway, near Vanalman Avenue—prompting the closure of the highway in both directions for multiple hours.

Motorists that were in the area as it unfolded said they were told to leave their vehicles and escape to a safe area.

Several others said they had to take refuge in the Red Barn Market, while others reported hearing a gun shot.

Leading up to the shooting

According to the four page report, the suspect who has not been identified, has little memory of what occurred that evening between him and Saanich Police.

At the time, the suspect was subject to court-orders, including a curfew and wearing of an electronic monitoring device.

He told investigators he was in a dark spot on the day of the shooting. Earlier that day, he had his monitoring bracelet removed that day and was required to regular check-ins with his probation officer.

After having the bracelet removed, he stopped by a friend’s home where he obtained a recently purchased 9mm gun and also bought alcohol. He did not recall if he loaded the gun, but he does remember pointing the gun at his head at one point as he sat in a car in the driveway, according to the report.

He admitted to going home and drinking, as well as ignoring phone calls regarding his curfew. He also doesn’t recall leaving his house or anything afterward until he woke up in the hospital three days later, the suspect told investigators.

The shooting incident

After failing to respond to probation officers, police stopped by his residence to do an in-person check to ensure he was abiding by his curfew.

After seeing a BMW SUV leave the area,  a check on the vehicle determined the vehicle belonged to a family member of the suspect. Officers followed the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop on the Pat Bay Highway.

According to the report, the suspect declined to exit the vehicle when asked by the officer, and when additional officers arrived, the suspect pulled out a gun and pointed it at his own head.

Police took cover behind their cruisers and immediately stopped traffic in both directions and evacuated people from their cars.

The Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team were called to come and assist, however, the suspect began “racking his firearm” and turning the lights of the vehicle on and off, and appeared to be preparing to drive off.

After multiple requests to exit the vehicle, the suspect eventually exited the SUV and began making his way to the back the vehicle with the gun in hand.

An officer on scene told IIO investigators he had clear view of the suspect brandishing the weapon and was walking towards officers taking cover behind a police cruiser.

That officer than fire one single rifle shot at the suspect from across the highway striking the suspect and causing them to fall to the ground.

The suspect continued to move around and attempted to get up with his gun within reach, so a police dog was deployed. The K9 bit the suspect and dragged him away from the gun, according to the report.

Officers then moved in and offered immediate first aid to the suspect. He was then transported to hospital, where he underwent surgery.

The following day, officers could be seen along the Pat Bay Highway searching the area for evidence.

Report conclusion

Because police force was used which led to an injury, the IIO launched an investigation to ensure the officers involved were not using force unjustly.

There were no eyewitnesses to the case, so the IIO had to rely on information from officers at the scene, police radio traffic and evidence from the scene.

“While there is no way to know what AP intended when he exited his vehicle and walked towards police with a pistol in his hand, disobeying their commands, it was not unreasonable for SO1 to consider those actions as posing an immediate and critical threat to officers and to deploy lethal force in their defence,” said the IIO in its report.

It was also determined the use of a K9 was justified.

“Given AP’s previous behaviour, it was reasonable to view him as a continuing threat to officers’ safety while still within reach of the firearm (the officers, of course, had no way to know it was not loaded). The limited use of the dog to move him away from the gun was justifiable, and was certainly preferable to further use of lethal force.”

With that information on hand, the IIO cleared all officers of any wrongdoing, citing that there was no further use of force against the suspect, and he received immediate medical assistance from police as soon as it was safe to do so.

The full report can be read here.

Car ignites after three vehicle crash involving BC Transit bus at Bay and Douglas

(Keylee Jaimes)

VicPD had crash analytics teams and forensic investigators on site last night after a serious motor vehicle incident occurred involving a car, a truck and a bus. 

At around 10:30 p.m. on Wednesday March 20th, at the intersection of Bay Street and Douglas Street, police responded to the incident. 

Police say that when they arrived, the front end of the car was engulfed in flames and bystanders were aiding in removing the driver and passenger from the vehicle. 

One witness told Victoria Buzz that one of the assisting bystanders was an unhoused Victorian who has aided in situations like this before. 

According to VicPD, several witnesses stated they saw the car travelling southbound on Douglas Street at a high speed.

They reported the car ran a red light and collided with the side of a truck travelling eastbound on Bay Street. 

Because of the force of the impact, the truck was forced into the front end of the BC Transit bus involved, which was headed northbound on Douglas Street. 

“There were passengers on board the bus at the time of the collision, but no significant injuries were reported from the bus,” BC Transit confirmed. 

“The bus suffered significant damage to the front end during the incident, and there was lost service as a result. BC Transit thanks emergency services and their Transit Supervisor for their fast response.”  

Police say the truck driver received serious and possibly life-altering injuries, while the driver and passenger of the car only sustained minor injuries. 

All three were transported to hospital.

Investigators attended the scene and collected a blood sample from the driver of the car to determine if impairment was involved. 

VicPD say that further details are not available at this time because the investigation is ongoing.

Decades old Victoria Art Gallery packs up and moves back to Edmonton next month

(West End Gallery/Facebook)

Last week, the popular West End Gallery on Broad and View Street announced they will be closing up shop after 30 years in Victoria.

However, they say they are doing so in order to focus on their second gallery location in Edmonton, Alta. 

The gallery is owned and operated by a family of art enthusiasts, Dan and Lana Hudon. 

Dan and Lana opened up shop in Edmonton originally in 1975, and in 1994 moved out to Victoria in order to start their second location. 

In 2005, their son Matthew took over the Edmonton West End Gallery with his wife Jennifer allowing his parents the time to focus on the Victoria gallery. 

Now, the whole family will be reunited in Edmonton in a bittersweet move, according to the Hudons. 

“We are filled with gratitude for the past and excitement for what’s to come, but with a heavy heart, we must announce the upcoming closure of our Victoria Gallery on the corner of Broad and View Street,” announced the Hudons on Facebook. 

“The West End Gallery has been more than just a space for art; it has been home to memories, achievements, and the celebration of Canadian talent.”

The Hudon’s expressed that they are incredibly grateful for all the connections they’ve made in Victoria over the past three decades, but they are excited to focus on all the relationships they’ve fostered over nearly 50 years with artists in Edmonton as well. 

The Victoria West End Gallery’s last exhibition, their Annual Garden Collection, launched on Saturday, March 16th, and runs until April 27th—after which they will be closing up shop. 

“Thank you for continuing to be part of our story,” the Hudons wrote. 

“Here’s to continuing this remarkable journey, filled with more art, inspiration, and the deep, enduring connections that art brings to our lives.”

In a followup post to the initial announcement they were closing, the Hudons thanked all their supporters for the kind messages. 

They say they are trying to be positive about the situation, albeit through teary eyes. 

“We are sad; however there are brighter days ahead,” they concluded. 

Victoria gallery celebrates four decades with ceramic exhibition in Duncan this April

(Metchosin Fired Up! potters in 1984)

Pottery lovers and collectors, listen up!

Fired Up! will be celebrating 40 years of ceramic excellence with an exhibition running from Friday, April 5th to Thursday, May 2nd at the Cowichan Valley Arts Council Gallery in Duncan.

The exhibition, titled Honouring 40 Years, includes an exhibition of special ceramics created by 28 current, former and “In Memoriam” members.

To celebrate, they’ll be throwing an opening night party on Thursday, April 4th from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. where there will be a jazz band and finger food to enjoy.

In addition, 16 members of the Cowichan Artisans will be presenting their creations in an adjacent room for attendees to check out and marvel over. 

“We’ve had some amazing times over the years and it’s time to celebrate together,” said Fired Up! member, Cathi Jefferson. 

Following this marvelous exhibition, Fired Up! will also host their annual show and sale from May 25th to 26th at Metchosin Hall for anyone hoping to take these expertly crafted creations home. 

Featured artists include Vin Arora, Alan Burgess, Samantha Dickie, Sandra Dolph,  Peter Flanagan, Sandy Harquail, Gordon Hutchens, Cathi Jefferson, Meira Mathison and Kinichi Shigeno.

(Meira Mathison’s work / Fired Up!)

Every year, this show and sale presents a new theme and different guest artists—bringing together collectors and artists alike in an enthusiastic and vibrant atmosphere. 

It all began in 1984, when ceramic artists Robin Hopper and Judi Dyelle organized a special pottery sale on their Metchosin property. 

They hosted a gathering of 12 talented and dedicated potters who shared a vision, and it is a vision and dedication to the art form that has blossomed and continued to grip artists and attendees. 

Fired Up! 40th Year

  • Where:
    • Honouring 40 Years Exhibition and opening night: Cowichan Valley Arts Council Gallery, 2687 James Street, Duncan
    • Annual Show and Sale: Metchosin Hall, 4401 William Head Road
  • When: 
    • Honouring 40 Years
      • Opening night: Thursday, April 4th from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
      • Exhibition: Friday, April 5th to Thursday, May 2nd during gallery hours
    • Annual Show and Sale: May 25th and 26th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Pacific FC unveil Indigenous-designed alternate jersey ahead of 2024 season

(Sheldon Mack / Pacific FC)

With soccer season on the horizon, Pacific FC have unveiled their 2024 alternate jersey featuring Indigenous-designed art focused on resilience and reconciliation.

The 2024 alternate kit was designed by Coast Salish artist Maynard Johnny Jr. and features the salmon, a symbol of the resilience and perseverance required on the continued journey toward truth and reconciliation for Indigenous Peoples in Canada.

For each jersey sold, Pacific FC and Johnny, whose traditional name is Thii Hayqwtun, will donate $20 to Indigenous-based organizations such as Hope and Health and the Indian Residential School Survivors Society.

“The salmon represents resilience and that reminds me of Indigenous people surviving oppression in Canada,” said Johnny.

“This jersey will create awareness and raise questions among Canadians about how we can make a positive change in the future and inspire our youth.”

Pacific FC became the first organization in professional sport history in Canada to don an Indigenous-designed jersey in 2022, when Johnny created the club’s alternate kit design that season.

Johnny’s latest kit design for the club in 2024 features salmons in both of Pacific’s
colours, purple and teal, on a white background.

(Sheldon Mack / Pacific FC)

Johnny draws parallels between the thousands of miles salmons swim, avoiding predators such as whales, seals, and fishermen or women, and the long road still ahead for the healing and reconciliation with Indigenous people in Canada.

“Our mandate as a club is to empower young people to create their own thriving futures,” said Paul Beirne, Managing Director, Pacific FC.

“This jersey represents our commitment to using our platform to work towards a better future for Indigenous youth in our community.”

The kits were produced in collaboration with Macron, the official kit provider for the CPL, and features TELUS, the League’s Official and Exclusive Telecommunications, Digital Health, and Home Security partner, as the front of jersey sponsor for the second season.

Additionally, CIBC returns as the Pacific FC sleeve sponsor for 2024.

Jersey proceeds will help support an upcoming Hope and Health event on Vancouver Island on Sunday, March 24th.

The jersey retails for $124.99 and comes in sizes youth to 4XL—it’s now available for purchase online here.

Pacific FC previously unveiled its primary kit, which celebrates the communities that make Vancouver Island special, last month.

The Tridents will take to the field for their home opener at Starlight Stadium in Langford on April 13th against coastal rival Halifax Wanderers FC—you can sign up for pre-sale tickets for the match (and future matches) here!

Pacific FC Home-Opener vs. Halifax Wanderers FC

  • When: Saturday, April 13th – 4 p.m.
  • Where: Starlight Stadium, 1089 Langford Pkwy
  • Tickets: Sign up for pre-sale here

 

Toxic drug advisory issued for both Greater Victoria and the West Shore

BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC)

On Wednesday, March 20th, Island Health issued a warning that there has been an uptick in overdoses caused by the toxic drug supply.

The latest numbers from the Province show that in January alone, nearly 200 people died in BC as a result of toxic drug use. 

Last year, at least 2,539 people died because of the crisis, 475 of whom were Vancouver Islanders. 

Island Health is trying to put the word out to try to avoid unnecessary drug deaths by informing substance-users of ways they can safely use drugs.

The island’s health authority recommends:

Most British Columbians would like to ditch the monarchy and select their own head of state

(Parliament of Canada)

In a recent survey, most British Columbians agreed they would rather not be a part of the monarchy anymore and have the Canadian election process be what dictates the country’s head of state. 

The survey was conducted by Research Co., a BC-based statistics and research firm, to gauge how those in BC and across the rest of the country feel about being a part of the Commonwealth. 

The survey found that 27% of BC respondents said they would remain a part of the monarchy, whereas 43% said they would like to be able to vote in Canada’s official leader. 

Meanwhile, 21% said they didn’t care either way and 9% didn’t know. 

The survey dove further and asked what British Columbians thought of each individual in the British Royal Family.

The following represents the number of BC respondents who said they think favourably of each member of the Royal Family: 

  • King Charles III – 45%
  • Queen Consort Camilla – 27% 
  • William, Prince of Wales – 60%
  • Catherine, Princess of Wales (formerly Kate Middleton) – 65%
  • Prince Harry – 51%
  • Meghan Markle – 47%

Despite most British Columbians thinking Canada should leave the monarchy, when asked if they actually thought Canada would follow through, 53% said it definitely or probably wouldn’t happen. 

What do you think of the Royal Family and Canada’s ties to the monarchy?

Let us know in the comments!

Police Board requests external view after complaint arises regarding VicPD conduct

File photo Victoria Buzz/ItkasanImages

An external investigation will be conducted after a complaint has been made about VicPD conduct. 

The Victoria and Esquimalt Police Board announced they received a complaint on February 16th.

According to a report by the Canadian Press, the complaint is coming from a former Police Board member, Paul Schachter. 

His complaint is reportedly tied to the corrupt officers who lied to the courts during a massive drug case dubbed ‘Project Juliet,’ that compromised the deliverance of justice and the integrity of VicPD as an organization.


Related: 


The board, which Esquimalt Mayor Barbara Desjardins co-chairs, decided to delegate how to handle this particular complaint to its Governance Committee, to avoid a conflict of interest. 

“Integrity and accountability are key values of the Victoria Police Department and it’s important that the Board has input from the citizens of Victoria and Esquimalt in our governance of the Department,” said Desjardins. 

“As a Board we have confidence in the policies, training and leadership within our Department, which we pay very close attention to, but we have a responsibility to listen and respond to concerns from our communities.”

The board says the complaint includes six points of concern, but would not elaborate on the nature of the complaint or these concerns. 

The only additional information regarding the concerns they released is that the Delta Police Department will handle four of the points of concern. 

This is because they are tied specifically to an ongoing Office of the Police Complaint Commissioner (OPCC) investigation regarding the handling of Project Juliet already being handled by Delta Police. 

The other two concerns will be investigated by Surrey Police Service. 

Victoria Buzz reached out to the OPCC for further detail on the nature of this complaint, but as of this publication, have not received a response. 

“We take submissions seriously and felt that an external review was necessary to ensure transparency and public trust,” said Governance Committee Chair Paul Faoro. 

“We feel confident that the Delta Police Department and Surrey Police Service will be able to effectively review these concerns and provide the Governance Committee with enough information to recommend a course of action to the Board.”

The Governance Committee says they expect an initial update to be delivered to them in fall 2024.

Here’s how much Victoria council will make after voting to give themselves 25% pay raise

Victoria City Hall (City of Victoria)

Last week, the Victoria city council voted in favour of giving themselves a pay raise to bump them up to 50% of what the mayor earns per year—a 25% pay increase from what they currently make.

Prior to this decision, city councillors made $52,420 per year and the mayor’s base salary is $131,050 annually as a base salary. 

Going forward, if the bylaw makes it through a future council meeting the city councillors in Victoria will be paid $65,525 per year and the job will be considered full-time. 

This decision was made after the 2019 city council had an external agency conduct a review of several areas relating to council, one of which was the council members remuneration—the time commitment they give and how they are compensated for that time. 

According to City Manager Jocelyn Jenkyns, the review was not finished before the last election, so council directed her to hire a compensation consultant to take a look at how the salaries compare to other cities of similar size across Canada. 

The consultant Victoria hired, Julie Case, said that most city councillors in the compared cities are considered part-time and work other professions in addition to their council duties, whereas the mayor is full-time and is compensated more because of that. 

According to her report, Victoria was behind the average for nearly all comparator cities. 

Councillor Krista Loughton asked during the question period of the Committee of the Whole meeting why the city council has to set their own base salaries.

“It’s a very awkward thing for us to do this and I know with MPs and MLAs their salaries are all the same, they’re set in a different way.”

To this, Case said that the Province allows cities to set their own incomes based on the needs of the community and the time commitment given by the councillors. 

Following questions, Councillor Jeremy Caradonna moved the remuneration motion with Councillor Matt Dell seconding it. 

Then Caradonna presented a lengthy amendment which would classify being a city councillor as a full-time position, increase councillors’ pay to 50% of the mayor’s salary, maintain yearly increases for inflation and improve benefits—all of which would come into effect by May of this year.

Because the motion was so detailed, Mayor Marianne Alto suggested that Caradonna change his tactics to submit this as a notice of motion to allow council and the public to absorb the content. 

Caradonna declined the mayor’s advice.

“I think that this is an appropriate motion arising and I think that this process has gone on long enough, so I’d prefer to keep it here,” said Caradonna.

He said that, among other reasons, the pay needs to be bumped up in order to entice qualified candidates to run and commit their time to the job and allow them to work the job in a full time capacity. 

“We are expected to answer countless emails, read numerous reports in preparation for council, develop council member motions and evolve city policy, meet with constituents, attend neighbourhood association meetings, attend all manner of AGMs and events, speak to the media and sit on numerous committees and commissions,” Caradonna explained. 

“Either this is a part-time job with part-time pay and benefits, or it is a full-time job with full-time pay and benefits, but it cannot simultaneously be a full-time job with part-time pay and benefits which is what it currently is.”

The seconder, Councillor Dell spoke to the fact that he supports the council being paid at 50% of the rate the mayor is compensated, however he also believes that Mayor Alto is underpaid for her time and work.

He also pointed out that while councillors serve in Victoria, there are few benefits, no car allowance and no transitional pay—three perks that are common in other cities throughout Canada. 

Councillor Marg Gardiner brought up all other remuneration from external sources such as the GVHA, BC Transit and CRD committees. 

“The remuneration ranges from, in 2023 values, $51,000 to about $85,000 per year, depending on the external board and committee appointments,” Gardiner explained. 

It is important to note that some councillors and the mayor make additional income from the committees they serve. Councillor Gardiner says this additional income ranges from an extra $4,000 per year to an extra $32,000 per year. 

On the matter of when the pay raise would come into effect, Mayor Alto says she thinks it is wrong for an agency such as council to give themselves a raise. 

“I am profoundly in opposition to this section, as I have been for the last ten years,” said Mayor Alto. 

“It is never appropriate for any agency, ever, under any circumstances to vote itself a raise, either individually or collectively,” she continued. 

She thinks the third amendment should not be enacted until after the next municipal election.

Despite the mayor’s opposition, this matter was approved along with the other aspects of the motion. The pay raise will come into effect in May, if the city council approves the bylaw in a future council meeting.

5 things to do in and around Victoria this Thursday, March 21st

(Black & Rural / Photo by S. Race)

Happy Thursday, Victoria!

Well, the sun made a brief and glorious appearance but now we’re back to early spring weather—we hope you were able to enjoy a beach day or nice walk!

To hide away from the dreariness outside, we’ve put together some fun events to enjoy indoors, including a powerful performance about rural Black experiences, a bass-y paint night, and more.

Additionally, CFUV’s second show in their annual fundraiser will be taking over Lucky Bar, so don’t miss out!

Here’s 5 things to do in and around Victoria on Thursday, March 21st:

‘Black & Rural’ Performance

After making its local debut at last year’s Incoming Festival 2023, Intrepid Theatre is thrilled to bring back Black & Rural, created and performed by Shayna Jones and produced by Pi Theatre.

This dazzling and thought-provoking performance will grace Metro Studio Theatre’s stage from Thursday, March 21st to Saturday, March 23rd.

This narrative that Jones has created is derived from over 40 conducted interviews with Black individuals located across the Canadian countryside—using their reflections and blending them with elements of folkloric tales, personal experience and unique storytelling.

General admission tickets for Black & Rural are $25 and can be purchased here.

This performance will also feature Intrepid Theatre’s “Pay-What-You-Ten”— $10 tickets, wherein 10% of tickets for shows will be on-sale for just $10.

  • Where: Metro Studio Theatre, 1411 Quadra Street
  • When: Thursday, March 21st at 7:30 p.m.

The Noah Becker “Mode For Noah” Quartet

Head down to Hermann’s Jazz Club for an excellent show from the Noah Becker Quartet!

Featured musicians include Noah Becker playing alto saxophone, Brent Jarvis on piano, Kosma Busheikin playing bass and Graham Villette on drums.

Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online or in person.

  • Where: Hermann’s Jazz Club, 753 View Street
  • When: Thursday, March 21st from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. (doors open at 5:30 p.m.)

Drum & Bass Paint Night 

Quadratic Sound is ready to welcome the adventurous painters into their space—an event designed for bass and art lovers!

In collaboration with VIC DNB, a featured artist will provide a live painting demo and lesson while some DJs provide a smooth sweet liquid drum and bass soundtrack for you to enjoy while you work.

Tickets are $20, which includes one 8×10 canvas, paint, and all other art supplies needed. There’s only 25 spots available, so don’t wait too long to book!

  • Where: Quadratic Sound, 655 Queens Avenue
  • When: Thursday, March 21st from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

CFUV Annual Funding Drive: Lucky Bar

Looking to dance the night away for a good cause?

Koko of Hot Local Singles in Your Playlist and Marco of Pleasant Company Accepted are proud to present CFUV’s second show in their annual fundraiser at hotspot Lucky Bar!

Featured performers include Poppa Don Gernie, Conjure Hand and Ex-Cowboy.

Admission is by donation with a $5 minimum and suggested amount of $15—all proceeds go towards the bands and the continuation of CFUV’s operations!

  • Where: Lucky Bar, 517 Yates Street
  • When: Thursday, March 21st from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year

Community favourite exhibition, Wildlife Photographer of the Year has returned to the Royal BC Museum as of March 1st!

This exhibit uses the power of photography to raise awareness around animal advocacy and environmental conservation while showcasing some of the world’s best nature photography.

Grab your family and friends and see what was worthy of display this year up!

  • Where: Royal BC Museum, 675 Belleville Street
  • When: Opened Friday, March 1st and runs until June 2nd during museum hours

Nanaimo thief allegedly steals hundreds of dollars worth of merchandise: RCMP

(Nanaimo RCMP)

Nanaimo RCMP is asking for the public’s help in identifying a theft suspect after images are captured of him allegedly stealing hundreds of dollars worth of merchandise from two separate stores. 

On Friday, March 15th, police say a male suspect stole approximately $350-$400 of meat product from Thrifty Foods on Turner Road, and later stole a $100 steam press from London Drugs in Port Place Mall. 

CCTV images were captured and provided from both locations and police noted that the suspect is wearing the same clothing in both indicidents.

The suspect is described as a Caucasian man, standing at 5’9” tall, with a medium build, brown hair and a beard. 

The individual is pictured wearing dark sunglasses, a dark baseball cap and a sweater with the logo “Hustle Wear” on the front and “Self Employed” on the back. 

If anyone has any information on the identity of this person, call Nanaimo RCMP at (250) 754-2345.

Pacific Opera Victoria to present Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s ‘The Marriage of Figaro’ in April

(The Marriage of Figaro, 2014 performance / Pacific Opera Victoria)

If you’re looking for drama, tension and romance, this is for you!

Pacific Opera Victoria is thrilled to present Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro, performed at Victoria’s Royal Theatre.

Four separate shows will take place on April 3rd, 5th and 9th at 7:30 p.m. and April 7th at 2:30 p.m.

The Marriage of Figaro is a favourite amongst audiences and has been known to be the perfect production for those experiencing opera for the first time. 

It’s based in 18th century Spain and follows the complex web of relationships between the Count, his young wife the Countess Rosina, their clever and charming valet Figaro, and his betrothed Susanna.

“As the plot unfolds, a series of passionate encounters, hilarious misunderstandings, and daring disguises ensue, all driven by a desire for forbidden romance and social equality,” said Pacific Opera Victoria in a media release. 

Feature performers include Grammy winning, American bass-baritone, Donovan Singletary—making his Pacific Opera debut. 

His performance in the role of Figaro with Fort Worth Opera gained high praise, and he has won numerous national and international awards. This includes Grand Prize in The Metropolitan Opera National Council Grand Finals, where he was the youngest male competitor in the competition’s history to win America’s most important display of vocal talent.

Other performers include the returning Canadian, coloratura soprano, Suzanne Rigden; soprano Sydney Baedke—who’s making her Pacific Opera and role debut as Countess Almaviva; and baritone Tyler Duncan in his return to Pacific Opera, in the role of Count Alamiva.

This production has been created by an outstanding team, featuring Stage Director, Morris Panych, Set Designer, Ken MacDonald, Costume Designer, Nancy Bryant, and conducted by Pacific Opera’s Founding Artistic Director, Timothy Vernon. 

Tickets for single performances to the Royal Theatre shows start at $30. To keep Pacific Opera accessible, Community Preview tickets are available to students and community organizations for $15. 

The Marriage of Figaro: Royal Theatre

  • Where: Royal Theatre, 805 Broughton Street
  • When: 
    • April 3rd, 5th and 9th at 7:30 p.m. 
    • April 7th at 2:30 p.m.

Victoria MP calls out Liberals after Canada ranks worse than USA in pollution report

(Whiffin Spit smoky sunset / Brian Rundle)

In a recent report by IQAir, Canada has ranked worse than our neighbours to the south in terms of pollution levels—in large part due to the 2023 wildfire season. 

This marks the first time Canada has had worse air quality than the USA, according to the report. 

This year, IQAir says that Canada is ranked 93rd most polluted country in the world with a 2023 PM2.5 ranking of 10.1  whereas the US is at 102nd with a PM2.5 ranking of 9.1. 

PM2.5 particles are particles that are 2.5 microns or less in diameter (PM2.5). These particles are released into the air from motor vehicles, smelters, power plants, industrial facilities, residential fireplaces and wood stoves, agricultural burning and forest fires.

On Tuesday, March 19th, Victoria NDP MP Laurel Collins called out the Liberals in the House of Commons to do better in terms of commitments to taking on climate change. 

“‘It’s like an elephant sitting on my chest.’ That’s how a child in Edmonton describes the air quality right now,” Collins said during the latest House of Commons question period.

“Canada has the worst air quality in North America. Our kids are breathing in harmful toxins, and this year’s wildfires will only make it worse.”

It is important to note that the continent of North America is comprised of 23 countries, several of which ranked worse than Canada on the IQAir report. When defining North America, it is sometimes referred to as a region which includes Canada, the United States, Mexico and Greenland, but the continent extends as far south as the Panama Canal. 

Collins continued by accusing the Liberals of acting as if this is business as usual and breaking promises to tackle climate change while handing out money and tax breaks to Canada’s worst polluters. 

“And the Conservatives, well, they don’t even think climate change is real,” Collins continued. 

Ultimately, what Collins says she wants is for the Liberals to stop putting oil and gas CEOs before the health and safety of children in Canada. 

To this, the Canadian government’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Steven Guilbeault said that is what Canada is doing.

“We’re the first country, the only country in the G20 to phase out fossil fuel subsidies, two years ahead of everyone else,” said Guilbeault. “We’re the only country that has committed to eliminate public financing for fossil fuel subsidies.” 

“We have the best performance of all G7 countries in terms of greenhouse gas reduction between 2019 and 2021.”

He says that the government is working to fight climate change and to improve air quality across the whole country. 

However, according to a report by the World Bank, Canada has the worst greenhouse gas record per capita of all G7 countries between 1990 and 2020. 

Here is a video of the exchange between Collins and Guilbeault:

‘From the heart’: Rural Black Canadian experiences spotlighted at Victoria theatre this week

(Black & Rural / Photo by S. Race)

Experience original music, modern folklore and lived experiences from rural Black Canadians—all woven together to create an “immersive and profound experience.”

After making its local debut at last year’s Incoming Festival 2023, Intrepid Theatre is thrilled to bring back Black & Rural, created and performed by Shayna Jones and produced by Pi Theatre. 

This dazzling and thought-provoking performance will grace Metro Studio Theatre’s stage from Thursday, March 21st to Saturday, March 23rd. 

Black & Rural has been a two-year journey thus far, and follows the story of a lone Black country woman struggling to defy the monolith of what matters to Black lives.

This narrative that Jones has created is derived from over 40 conducted interviews with Black individuals located across the Canadian countryside—using their reflections and blending them with elements of folkloric tales, personal experience and unique storytelling. 

(Black & Rural / Photo by S. Race)

Black & Rural is a personal and collective journey into the hearts and minds of Black folks that choose to live in rural locations in Canada…stories of difficulty and of what draws them to where they live,” Jones said in an interview with Victoria Buzz.

“It’s a deep dive into the inner workings of a segment of the Black community that we don’t often pay attention to.”

Which is why Jones is thrilled to be able to use her voice and gift as an artist to tell these rural stories, and she hopes that audiences will be just as curious and keen to see this perspective reflected on stage as she was. 

She especially hopes that Black people living rurally, and possibly feeling alone, will see themselves reflected in the piece and feel less isolated in their rural lifestyle choices. 

(Black & Rural / Photo by S. Race)

When asked about some of the challenges she faced in the midst of creating such an intricate performance, she laughed and mentioned that, like her, a lot of the folks she was seeking share in her preference for isolation. 

“A part of my way in the world is to be quiet and settled, so one of the interesting things was trying to…honourably and respectfully…seek out folks who don’t necessarily want to be found.”

She added that once word of her project started to spread, people would approach her first, which made it less intrusive for everyone. 

In speaking with so many others that live similarly, she was able to feel that sense of connection and profound fulfillment in their shared experiences. 

“The surprising thing [about this journey], is how much this has been healing for me as someone that chooses to live close to the land but is quite alone in my culture and heritage,” she said.

(Black & Rural / Photo by S. Race)

To continue to spread the importance of this story, Jones said the project remains ongoing and will be touring in Toronto later this year. 

Inspired by her continuous efforts to bridge different types of Black communities and lifestyles, she’s planning a gathering to take place during her time in Eastern Canada. The idea is to bring urban artists out to farmers for a blend of stories, experiences and newfound connection.

If anyone is interested in learning more about this, Jones has said you can contact her directly via social media or her website.

“This piece is from the heart…and that’s the biggest tool I have for justice and equity, which is also what this piece represents.”

General admission tickets for Black & Rural are $25 and can be purchased here

This performance will also feature Intrepid Theatre’s “Pay-What-You-Ten”— $10 tickets, wherein 10% of tickets for shows will be on-sale for just $10.

Black & Rural

  • Where: Metro Studio Theatre, 1411 Quadra Street
  • When: Thursday, March 21st to Saturday, March 23rd. 

You can get $10 tickets to tonight’s Victoria Royals game

Save-on-Foods Memorial Arena (Roll. Focus. Productions)

Victoria Royals coverage presented by:


If you’re looking for game day eats, Domino’s has you covered! Whether it’s pre-game fuel or post-game celebrations, you can easily order online today (score 25% off) for delicious pizza, wings, and more. Enjoy the game with Domino’s!


As the Victoria Royals prepare for the postseason, tonight marks a pivotal moment in their season, as they face off against the Wenatchee Wild in their second-to-last regular-season game.

This matchup not only sets the stage for playoff contention but also marks the Wild’s first appearance at the Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre since their acquisition from the Winnipeg Ice.

The Royals have faced their fair share of challenges this season, particularly grappling with a slew of injuries that have impacted their roster depth, notably on the defensive end.

However, there is a glimmer of hope as key players are beginning to return to the lineup.

Over the weekend, the team welcomed back defensemen Nate Misskey and Austin Zemlak, both of whom had been sidelined for an extended period.

Additionally, forward Alex Edwards made his return on Saturday following an eight-game suspension, further bolstering the team.

Despite these positive developments, the Royals still have several players on the injury list, casting uncertainty on their availability for playoff action.

As it stands today, the Royals could face off against the Portland Winterhawks in the first round of the playoffs. However, the team’s final two games against the Wild will be pivotal, as positions could change between Victoria, Vancouver Giants and the Kelowna Rockets.

Shifting back to tonight’s game, fans can expect a fun atmosphere at the Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre as the team welcomes the Wild to the barn for the first time.

And because it is a Wednesday, it’s a value weekday game, offering fans the opportunity to indulge in $5 beers and $3 hot dogs while enjoying the action-packed showdown.

With ticket prices starting as low as $10, it’s an affordable and thrilling way to support the Royals as they make their playoff push.

Puck drop for tonight’s game is set for 7:05 p.m.—tickets for the game can be purchased online or at the arena.

As the Royals strive for victory on home ice, the stage is set for an unforgettable clash against the Wenatchee Wild, setting the tone for their playoff aspirations.

Victoria Royals vs. Wenatchee Wild 

Enjoy a mid-week hockey game and cheer on our local team!

As a bonus, it’s a value weekday game—which means $5 beer and $3 hot dogs for you to enjoy while you bop to their in-house DJ.

You can grab tickets for as low as $10, here.

  • Where: Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre, 1925 Blanshard Street
  • When: Wednesday, March 20th, puck drops at 7:05 p.m.

‘A new era’: Royal BC Museum announces name of their new satellite location

(Province of British Columbia)

The Royal BC Museum (RBCM) announced the name they decided on for their new satellite location in Colwood. 

On Tuesday, March 19th, the RBCM, in conjunction with the BC government, revealed their new site’s name will be the PARC Campus. 

The name is an acronym for provincial archives, research and collections. Previously, the building was simply known as ‘the museum’s collections and research building.’

According to the RBCM, their own employees who will be working out of the building got to have a say in the new name, along with the Province. 

“This project will usher in a new era for the museum and archives,” said Tracey Drake, CEO of the Royal BC Museum. 

“PARC Campus will provide much needed space to steward the collections and for museum and archives teams to look to the future, how we collect and share BC’s collective history.”

The PARC Campus will house the province’s numerous collections and archives along with the researchers who study them, staff and curators of the RBCM’s exhibits. 

However, they also say that it will be able to welcome visitors to come in and see some of the previously never seen before collections. 

The Parc Campus will host collection labs and feature windows that give a glimpse inside the kinds of things the public may have never had access to before. 

These will feature artifacts and museum work for museum visitors, onsite learning programs and workshops.

“The official naming of PARC Campus brings us one step closer to opening and ensuring our province’s collections and priceless artwork are protected,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. 

“The new home of our provincial archives, research, and collections means British Columbians and visitors will have greater access to more of the province’s collections and shared history while also providing a new opportunity to watch research happening in real time.”

The 15,000 square metre building will be completed sometime in 2026, according to the RBCM.

VicPD working to identify suspect after daytime stabbing on Douglas Street

VicPD cruiser
(Courtesy VicPD)

A section of Douglas Street is behind police tape after a man was stabbed in downtown Victoria in the middle of the afternoon on Tuesday, March 19th.

At around 12:30 p.m., VicPD say that they received a report of a stabbing in the 1200-block of Douglas Street, near the McDonald’s on the corner of View Street and Douglas.

Someone claiming to be a witness of the incident told Victoria Buzz the incident happened inside the fast food chain. 

According to VicPD, the person who allegedly stabbed the victim is still on the loose. 

“Multiple officers attended the area and are currently working to identify and locate the suspect,” said a VicPD spokesperson. 

Following the incident, police said the victim was taken to hospital where they are currently being treated. 

“I unfortunately don’t have further details at this time,” the spokesperson continued.

BC Emergency Health Services (EHS) says they received a call at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday about a police incident.

“Two ambulances responded to the scene,” said Brian Twaites, Paramedic Public Information Officer.

“Paramedics provided emergency medical treatment and transported one patient to hospital.”

Both VicPD and EHS say there is no further information is available at this time.

How to get medical aid in Victoria if you don’t have a family doctor

(File photo)

In Victoria, across Vancouver Island, and in many communities throughout BC, it can be incredibly difficult to access  a doctor when a medical issue comes up.

Recently, someone posted a document online detailing how to  access  a medical professional when the need arises. 

Here are some ways of getting the medical attention you need, when you need it in Victoria:

Find a family doctor

The wait list for a family doctor is long, but it’s always worth it to be in the queue. To get a family doctor through Island Health, you have to submit your details to HealthLinkBC

If you resubmit at any time, for any reason, you are pushed once again to the back of the queue. 

Emergency room

Never ideal, but an emergency is an emergency. If someone is in need of medical attention and they have exhausted all other options, going into the emergency room may be their only hope. 

In some cities, hospitals will post their estimated wait times online so people can try to go to the hospital with the least amount of people, but Victoria is not one of those cities. 

Just remember to be nice to your fellow patients and to the nursing staff. 

Non-emergency

When in doubt, if you have a medical question or if you are seeking advice, calling 8-1-1 is always an option. 

When someone calls 8-1-1, they are connected with someone who will be able to connect them with a registered nurse, a registered dietitian, a qualified exercise professional or a pharmacist.

They can give advice on what you should do next, or ease your mind if something isn’t that serious. 

Urgent and primary care centres

To get into an urgent or primary medical centre on the same day as a medical issue arises is nothing short of a miracle in some communities. 

Since the pandemic, many urgent and primary care centres (UPCCs), or “walk-in clinics,” have changed the way they work to being call-in clinics instead of walk-ins. 

Most locations in Victoria open at 8 a.m. and if you don’t call within the first few minutes and manage to get through, you may have to wait until the next day. 

The website Medimap is a great tool for finding the phone number to call, to see people’s reviews of their experiences and to potentially see if they are at capacity or not. 

There are six UPCCs in the Victoria area:

  • Esquimalt UPCC – 890 Esquimalt Road – (250) 519-3880
  • Gorge UPCC – 63 Gorge Road E – (250) 519-3800
  • Downtown Victoria UPCC – 1107 Pandora Avenue – (250) 519-3870
  • James Bay UPCC – Unit B-547 Michigan Street – (250) 519-3770
  • North Quadra UPCC – 100–4420 Chatterton Way – (250) 519-3820
  • West Shore UPCC – #104-582 Goldstream Avenue – (250) 519-6919

Pharmacy appointments

Depending on what you need help with, if you call 8-1-1, HealthLinkBC may advise you to just go see a pharmacist. 

Recently the BC government gave additional power and responsibilities to pharmacists to ease the pressure being put on the health care system right now. 

A pharmacist can now provide some prescriptions without an individual having to go get a prescription first. 

BC pharmacists can prescribe medication for the following ailments:

  • Acne
  • Allergic rhinitis
  • Conjunctivitis (allergic, bacterial or viral)
  • Dermatitis (allergic, atopic, contact, diaper or seborrheic)
  • Dysmenorrhea
  • Dyspepsia
  • Fungal infections (onychomycosis, tinea corporis infection, tinea cruris infection or tinea Pedis infection)
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease
  • Headache
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Herpes labialis
  • Impetigo
  • Musculoskeletal pain
  • Nicotine dependence
  • Oral ulcers (canker sores, aphthous ulcers)
  • Oropharyngeal candidiasis
  • Shingles
  • Threadworms and pinworms
  • Urinary tract infection (uncomplicated)
  • Urticaria, including insect bites
  • Vaginal candidiasis

Pharmacy appointments can be booked online here

Online doctor appointments

There are more and more doctors who are moving to online practices because they can improve their reach and be able to provide appointments to those even in the most remote parts of BC. 

There are also lots of different services that are free and help connect online physicians with patients. From there, they can provide prescriptions or specialist referrals. 

However, with more people in BC needing to turn to these services in the province, it is becoming slightly difficult to find an appointment online as well. 

Some examples of online physician platforms are:

  • Telus Health
  • Rocket Doctor – you’ll have to put yourself on a waitlist but they usually get back to people fairly quickly
  • Dr. Refill – specifically for those seeking to refill a prescription

Sexual health matters

All sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing is going through GetCheckedOnline in Victoria. They also serve the Vancouver, Maple Ridge, Duncan, Kamloops, Kimberley and Nelson communities in BC.

They are a free and confidential branch of the BC Centre for Disease Control who work in collaboration with LifeLabs to organize appointments for people to give blood and urine samples if they want to be tested for any STI. 

As soon as your samples are tested they are securely uploaded to your GetCheckedOnline profile. 

There is also the Island Sexual Health Society on Quadra Street. 

They are an appointment-based service who help with any and all matters relating to sexual health and gender identity. 

Individuals must call to make an appointment. 

They deal with sexual health matters such as: 

  • Birth/bleed control methods
  • IUD and implant insertions, replacements and removal
  • Cervical (Pap) Screening
  • Pregnancy Testing and Pro-choice options
  • Gender affirming care and apparel appointments
  • PEP starts and renewals
  • Sexual health vaccines/immunizations

Although they do not provide STI testing at the Island Sexual Health Society, they will walk a caller through the symptoms they think may be related to an STI as well as walk you through if they may need treatment for an STI.

If you can think of any other ways to access medical care when it’s needed in Victoria, let us know in the comments!

Nick Carter of Backstreet Boys will be performing in Victoria this October

(Nick Carter performing at at Victoria’s Capital Ballroom in 2016 / Colin Smith Takes Pics)

Fans of the Backstreet Boys will be feeling “Larger than Life” as Nick Carter, one of the band’s iconic members, is set to grace the stage of the McPherson Playhouse in Victoria.

This marks a long-awaited return for Carter, who last performed in Victoria close to a decade ago.

The event is part of Carter’s Who I Am Tour, marking his first solo trek in seven years. This tour holds special significance for fans, offering them a chance to experience Carter’s individual artistry up close and personal.

While Carter has made occasional appearances in Canada over the years, this Victoria show on October 14th, is a rare opportunity for Canadian fans, with only a limited number of dates scheduled across the country.

For those in Victoria and the surrounding areas, it’s an event not to be missed.

With a staggering 100 million albums sold worldwide since their inception in 1993, Backstreet Boys secured their place as one of the most successful musical acts in history.

Hailing from Florida, the group has a global fan base that spans generations, solidifying their status as the quintessential boy band.

Carter’s solo ventures showcase his versatility as an artist, allowing him to explore different facets of his talent beyond the collective identity of the Backstreet Boys.

His solo performances are known for their energy, charisma, and a mix of new material along with beloved classics that fans have come to cherish over the years.

Tickets for this highly anticipated event will be available for purchase starting Friday at 10 a.m. through the Royal McPherson box office (250-386-6121).

Additionally, tickets can be purchased online via rmts.bc.ca or livenation.com, offering fans convenient access to secure their spots for what promises to be an unforgettable evening of music and entertainment.

Nick Carter of Backstreet Boys

  • Where: McPherson Playhouse, 3 Centennial Square
  • When: Monday, October 14th, 8 p.m.

5 things to do in and around Victoria this Wednesday, March 20th

(File photo)

Happy Wednesday, Victoria!

Cross over from early-week to mid-week with ease from the help of our selected events.

Whether you’re in the mood for a night of laughter, a good ol’ hockey game or a performance put on by the Victoria Symphony, there’s sure to be something for everyone!

For all of that and more, here’s 5 things to do in and around Victoria on Wednesday, March 20th:

Live at Lunch: Craft Brewing in BC

Head down to the Royal BC Museum on your lunchbreak and hear all about the origins of craft brewing that extend all the way back to 1858 in Victoria from host, Noelle Phillips!

There will be stories about the late 19th and early 20th century brewers of both Vancouver and Victoria that helped shape BC’s cultural identity and economy.

This event is free to attend.

  • Where: Royal BC Museum, 675 Belleville Street
  • When: Wednesday, March 20th from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Victoria Royals vs. Wenatchee Wild 

Enjoy a mid-week hockey game and cheer on our local team!

As a bonus, it’s a value weekday game—which means $5 beer and $3 hot dogs for you to enjoy while you bop to their in-house DJ.

You can grab tickets for as low as $10, here.

  • Where: Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre, 1925 Blanshard Street
  • When: Wednesday, March 20th at 7:05 p.m.

Fernwood Comedy Night

Back for another night of belly-busting laughs, the Fernwood Inn invites you to their Comedy Night!

This month’s headliner is set to be Mikey Dubs and will be accompanied by many other talented comedians before taking the stage!

Tickets are $15 and can be purchased here. Make sure to grab your table sooner rather than later as they sell out quickly!

  • Where: Fernwood Inn, 1302 Gladstone Avenue
  • When: Wednesday, March 20th at 8 p.m. (doors open at 7:30 p.m.)

Catch a Film at Cinecenta

Wednesday’s feature film is post-modern noir Lost Highway, starring Bill Pullman, Patricia Arquette, John Roselius.

David Lynch’s seventh feature film, is described to be one of the filmmaker’s most potent cinematic dreamscapes and dives into the realm of science fiction.

Tickets are $9 for the general public and $7 for students and can be purchased in person.

  • Where: UVic’s Cinecenta, Student Union Building, 3800 Finnerty Road
  • When: Wednesday, March 20th at 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Victoria Symphony: Grieg, Tchaikovsky and Britten

Led by Victoria Symphony’s Concertmaster Terence Tam, Denford Hall will be hosting a special strings-only event, brimming with melody.

Featuring Grieg has he explores his musical echoes from an earlier era, Britten’s playful look at his youthful works, as well as a tune that’s said to have brought a tear to Tolstoy’s eye.

Tickets are $60 and can be purchased here.

  • Where: Denford Hall, Glenlyon Norfolk School, 781 Richmond Avenue
  • When: Wednesday, March 20th at 7:30 p.m.

Celebrate National Puppy Day with Trailside at the Lake in Langford (CONTEST)

(Trailside at the Lake)

Put your paws up for one pup-tacular event you’re not going to want to miss!

This weekend on Saturday, March 23rd, Langford’s Trailside at the Lake is hosting Paws & Trails Open House—on none other than National Puppy Day.

The exciting event and giveaway celebrate Trailside’s beloved four-legged residents and their paw-some companionship!

Trailside at the Lake prides themselves on being a community that cherishes the bond between pets and their owners, and are thrilled to invite all current and prospective residents to participate in this fun-filled event.

1-bedroom homes are now SOLD OUT in Building A! With their NEW SPRING SALE starting at just $515,000 + GST for a 2 bed, 2 bath view home, now is the perfect time to secure your slice of lakeside paradise at Trailside at the Lake.

You and your furry friends are invited to ‘pup’ by the family-friendly event from 1 to 3 p.m. this Saturday, hosted at 1361 Goldstream Avenue.

Victoria Buzz will also be on-site while you have the chance to visit rescue pups of all ages from the Victoria Bulldogs Society and take a look at newly completed, all pet-friendly units with amazing lake and trail views!

Make sure you pop by the Victoria Buzz booth for your chance to win a $1,000 gift card from Bosley’s—all you have to do is share a video or photo on social media of you and your pet exploring Trailside’s incredible parks and trails that are located only steps away.

(Trailside at the Lake)

CONTEST

For your chance to win a gift basket worth $250 from Bosley’s, please complete the following:

  1. LIKE Trailside at the Lake on Facebook, and leave a comment below once you have (1 entry)
  2. FOLLOW Trailside at the Lake on Instagram, and leave a comment below once you have (1 entry)
  3. COMMENT below and tell us what kind of furry friend you have! (1 entry)

Contest entries will be accepted from the time and date of publishing until March 25th. One winner will be chosen at random and contacted through the platform they used to enter. Make sure to register when commenting below.

Paws & Trails Open House – Trailside at the Lake

  • Where: 1361 Goldstream Avenue
  • When: Saturday, March 23rd – 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

BC finds two harm reduction programs have been ineffectively implemented

(File photo)

According to two audits conducted by BC’s Auditor General, two provincial harm reduction programs that were meant to reduce the number of people dying from toxic drugs have been ineffectively implemented.

The ministries responsible for these programs are the Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions, and the Ministry of Health.

These audits were done independently of one another, according to the Province. 

The first audit examined the implementation of overdose prevention and supervised consumption services, while the second one focused on how the initial phase of the prescribed safer supply program was launched and subsequently monitored.

The audits were also meant to determine if the programs did their due diligence in including the perspectives of health authorities, Indigenous Peoples and those with lived or living experience with substance use.

“Many thousands of people in BC are grieving the losses of family and friends from the toxic drug supply,” said Auditor General Michael Pickup. 

“The crisis is also an immense challenge for those working to provide care and support for people who use substances. My team and I have a deep sense of empathy for everyone who has been touched by this continuing tragedy.”

Audit of overdose prevention and supervised consumption services

The audit of this particular program found four holes in the implementation and is offering recommendations for each. 

The Auditor General suggests that the ministries involved:

  • Had not adequately responded to implementation barriers, such as municipal resistance, site selection and challenges related to the hiring and retention of staff
  • Had no minimal service standards to support consistency in the quality, access and availability of services
  • Had not adequately reflected on consultations with Indigenous people and people with lived and living experience of substance-use
  • Need a new program evaluation, given the evolving nature of the health emergency

“These deficiencies have impacts on the people who need these services, their families and the health-care system,” Pickup said.  

“Overdose prevention and supervised consumption services are critical to saving lives and connecting people to the supports they need.”

According to the Province, five recommendations offered by the Auditor General are aimed at getting better service, accessibility, availability and cultural safety of overdose prevention and supervised consumption services in BC.

Prescribed safer supply

The Auditor General found that the involved ministries didn’t effectively monitor the initial provincewide implementation of prescribed safer supply because:

  • Their strategies didn’t adequately address key implementation barriers, such as the lack of prescribers and the limited types of available drugs
  • Better collaboration is needed between the ministries and health authorities, health sector partners, Indigenous Peoples and people with lived and living experience
  • Public reporting was lacking.

“This is a novel program that required transparency with key partners to build trust,” Pickup said. 

“We found that the ministries’ approach to collaboration with health-sector partners and public reporting was insufficient.”

Two recommendations were offered to the ministries regarding public reporting and addressing barriers.

According to the Province, the ministries have accepted all seven recommendations from the two audits.

Author of ‘Five Little Indians’ to appear at Victoria’s CREAN conference this weekend

(CREAN / Facebook)

Engage in inspirational and educational conversations this weekend!

For those hoping to engage in collaboration, creativity and curiosity over a diverse array of topics, the 9th annual CREAN’s conference happening in Victoria is for you. 

Over the course of this weekend, the Coastal Research, Education, and Advocacy Network’s (CREAN) 9th annual Cracks in the Concrete conference will take us deep into the theme titled, “A Celebration of Community Wellness”—delving into subjects such as surviving addiction and violence against Indigenous communities. 

The conference will kick off on Friday, March 22nd with a cocktail and trivia event, and will run through until Sunday, March 24th with a number of workshops, thought-provoking discussions and networking opportunities.

When asked what sparked inspiration for this year’s theme, a representative from CREAN commented on it being a tough few years for everyone. 

“The conference theme is inspired by our desire for good health and a connected community. We have a variety of lighthearted events that makes this conference fun, informative, and responsive to community needs,” they told Victoria Buzz.

A special lineup of speakers will be featured—all individuals with lived experiences and expertise in various fields. 

“Each session promises to inspire and empower attendees to prioritize their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.”

Additionally, they hope to spark interest in under-researched areas, strengthen research and education networks and foster inclusive dialogue within our communities. 

Saturday’s events will highlight the confrontation of addiction and the fentanyl epidemic and will include speakers Souie Gorup, who lost her daughter in April 2022 to toxic drug poisoning, and  Dustin Leavitt, who spent twelve years in federal institutions and has lived experience on the street.

The keynote speaker for Saturday is world-renowned Cree writer Michelle Good, a long-time advocate for survivors of residential schools and the author of bestselling novel Five Little Indians—which has won a number of prestigious awards and been a finalist for others. 

The conversation will take place on Saturday, March 23rd at 6 p.m. in the Vic Theatre and will explore her writing, her work surrounding residential schools and other colonial violence impacting Indigenous youth and women.

Tickets for this event are around $22 and can be purchased here

(Keynote speaker, Michelle Good)

To take a look at their full list of panel discussions and speakers, as well as register for the conference, you can do so on their website

This conference is free to attend (with the exception of some ticketed events), though donations are gratefully accepted.

CREAN: 9th annual Cracks in the Concrete conference 

  • Where: Location varies by event
    • Kickoff cocktail evening: Gallery Merrick, 1806 Government Street 
    • Conversation with Michelle Good: Vic Theatre, 808 Douglas Street
  • When: Friday, March 22nd to Sunday, March 24th—times vary by event
    • Kickoff cocktail evening: Friday, March 22nd from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
    • Conversation with Michelle Good: Saturday, March 23rd at 6 p.m.

Police watchdog clears VicPD officers of wrongdoing in incident that broke a woman’s arm

(The Independent Investigations Office of BC)

Back in 2022, a woman experiencing a mental health crisis was shot by a VicPD officer using a beanbag round which broke her arm.

Because police force was used which led to an injury, the Independent Investigations Office of BC (IIO) launched an investigation to ensure the officers involved were not using force unjustly. 

Nearly two years later, the IIO concluded their investigation and found that the officers involved were cleared of any wrongdoing.

On September 9th, 2022, witnesses reported to the IIO that there was a woman sitting near a corner at Beacon Hill Park. There were reports of this person consuming illicit substances. 

The IIO say that the individual at the corner was screaming and yelling at passersby and was getting closer to the residences across the street throughout the day. 

In the evening, at 7:28 p.m. a resident nearby called the police reporting the person being “high on drugs.”

The IIO say the first VicPD officer to arrive got there about 10 minutes later at 7:38 p.m. to find the woman sitting on the ground with her belongings strewn about her on the ground. 

This officer says that the woman was yelling at him and she was non-respondent when he asked her to stop yelling and leave the area. 

He decided to arrest her for causing a disturbance, but then she grabbed a knife and held it to her throat while speaking about wanting to be killed. 

At this point, the IIO say that three other officers were called in, one of which was a trained crisis negotiator. 

The negotiator reported that they spoke calmly to the distressed woman for hours, but she was unable to focus on him enough to have a coherent conversation.

During this time, the VicPD officers involved say the woman was slinging slurs at them and appeared to be “in full psychosis,” stabbing at the ground with the knife she held. 

Negotiations continued until around 10:15 p.m. before the situation was handed over to the Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team (GVERT).

GVERT say they determined they would need to “tactically” resolve the situation by using “increasing force” to get the knife out of her hands so they could apprehend her under the Metal Health Act. 

Their first show of force was to surround her with vehicles and deploy a flashbang (noise flash diversionary device). 

The IIO report says she showed little reaction to the flashbang being deployed and said to the officers, “Is that all you got?”

Next, officers used a device which can spray pepper spray (oleoresin capsicum) from 10 to 15 feet away. 

GVERT officers say the woman had her back turned to them and the pepper spray thoroughly soaked her back and hair, but she was still not cooperating. 

Following the pepper spray and flashbang,  GVERT officers deployed a taser (conducted energy weapon) on her. 

The weapon did not end up making good enough contact with the woman, so the taser was also unsuccessful, according to the report. 

Next, officers moved to firing a beanbag gun at the woman. 

The officer, who fired five rounds at her, said they saw two of the rounds make contact with each of her arms, causing her to hunch over. 

At this time, the IIO report says that she began cutting her arm with the knife, still hunched over. 

The officers then acted quickly to prevent her from causing any self-harm and began launching more beanbag rounds and rubber bullets at her until she threw the knife from her hand. 

According to the IIO, the officers present then swarmed her with ballistic shields and were able to hold her to the ground using the weight of their bodies on the shields. 

One officer reported that when he tried to handcuff her, he felt “bone on bone grinding,” so they opted to not cuff her.

She was reportedly no longer yelling or resisting. Officers present said she was in a catatonic state at this point. 

A GVERT medic who was present told the IIO that when he assessed her, she had a laceration on her left arm caused by self-harm and a broken arm which was caused by a beanbag round that penetrated her skin. 

She was then transported to hospital. 

IIO’s findings

The purpose of the IIO’s investigation is to explain to the public what occurred to cause a police officer to injure or kill an individual.

This process can either increase public confidence in the police, or the IIO will recommend charges be brought to the officers involved if they determine there was a misuse of power in a situation which caused someone to be injured or killed. 

In this particular situation, the IIO focussed on the justifications for using a level of force which ultimately injured the distressed woman. 

The IIO admitted that the “optics” of the incident were not ideal, considering it took 14 police officers, an armoured vehicle and several hours to apprehend one woman in the throes of a drug psychosis state.

They found that for an officer to go “hands on” with a woman in this state would have presented the possibility of bodily harm to the officer. 

The IIO said that VicPD should be given credit for trying to de-escalate for as long as they did and that if the officers involved did not step in with the force they used, she may have hurt herself worse than she had already. 

“Therefore, taking steps to apprehend was appropriate,” said Ronald MacDonald, Chief Civilian Officer of the IIO. 

“When it became apparent that some level of force would be necessary to get [the woman] to drop her weapons, that force was applied incrementally.”

“It is unfortunate that [the police officer’s] projectiles caused serious injury to [the woman], but all the involved officers were clearly trying to apprehend without harm,” MacDonald continued. 

No charges were recommended and Macdonald cleared the involved officers of any wrongdoing. 

The full IIO report is available online here

Langford’s Bacon Beer and Bourbon Festival returns to Langford this summer

(Bacon Beer and Bourbon Festival / Photo by Ah Zenon Photography)

Order your bibs and ready your wildest BBQ fantasies!

After an incredibly successful inaugural year, the Langford Bacon Beer and Bourbon Festival is returning to Starlight Stadium on Saturday, June 22nd.

This southern-inspired festival promises an even bigger and bolder celebration of the best seasonal beers, batch bourbon cocktails, and pork-forward chef creations while maintaining that warm, backyard-celebration feel.

“We founded the Bacon Beer and Bourbon Festival with a mission to provide an affordable, interactive, and truly memorable experience for our guests,” said David Bain, Director of the festival. 

“Building on the success of our first year, we’re thrilled to bring back the festival to Starlight Stadium and showcase even more exciting updates and surprises for our attendees.”

(Bacon Beer and Bourbon Festival / Photo by Ah Zenon Photography)

There will be a new games area as well as more vendor and lounging spaces for attendees to enjoy while you take in the summer heat and delicious aromas. 

There will also be a new VIP area, chefs section and cocktail lounge!

Additionally, a limited selection of whiskies will be introduced alongside their sought after bourbons for those hoping to delve deeper into their adventurous side. 

Don’t wait to grab your tickets, as last year’s began selling out well in advance! Tickets will be available for purchase starting March 27th at 10 a.m.—so, set your alarms!

If you’re a newsletter subscriber, you’re in luck! There will be discounted early bird tickets available for purchase a week earlier than general sales.

General admission tickets are $49.99 and VIP tickets are $149.99—which includes an all-inclusive VIP area and exclusive access to VIP-only hour, where you’ll get to enjoy the first hour of the festival with complimentary tastings without the crowds.

Langford Bacon Beer and Bourbon Festival

  • Where: Starlight Stadium, 1089 Langford Parkway
  • When: Saturday, June 22nd 

Laketown Shakedown Music Festival unveils stellar lineup for 2024 event

(Laketown Shakedown)

Excitement is building as Wideglide Entertainment unveils the highly anticipated lineup for the upcoming Laketown Shakedown Music Festival on Vancouver Island.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Laketown Ranch in the Cowichan Valley, this year’s festival promises to be an unforgettable experience for music lovers of all ages.

Scheduled for June 28th to June 30th, over the Canada Day Long Weekend, the festival will feature three days of electrifying performances across three stages, showcasing a diverse array of talent from various genres.

Festival-goers can expect top-tier acts, family-friendly programming, and a vibrant atmosphere that’s sure to make memories to last a lifetime.

Kickoff Party and Main Stage Highlights

The festivities kick off on Friday, June 28th, with a kickoff party featuring local star and rock sensation Jesse Roper, alongside DJ Nu-Mark of Jurassic 5 fame. This high-energy start sets the stage for the weekend ahead.

Saturday, June 29th, will see hip-hop royalty Busta Rhymes taking the main stage, delivering his unparalleled lyrical prowess and magnetic charisma.

Joining him will be genre-blurring artist Grandson, known for his socially conscious lyrics and electrifying live performances.

Legendary hip-hop group Bone Thugs-n-Harmony will also grace the stage, treating festival-goers to their signature harmonies and timeless classics.

On Sunday, June 30th, the iconic Gwen Stefani will headline the festival, marking her first headline performance on Vancouver Island.

Joining her will be Vancouver-based star BBNO$, known for his unique blend of rap, pop, and humor that has garnered him millions of fans worldwide.

Additional Acts and Festival Experience

The lineup is packed with other notable acts, including Neon Steve, Miina, Murge, and many more.

With camping and event passes starting at $69, attendees can immerse themselves in a weekend filled with music, culture, and community.

Beyond the music, festival-goers can enjoy a festival village with food and other vendors, activities, multiple full-service bars, a dynamic VIP area, flush toilets, showers, and much more.

With tickets on sale now at laketownshakedown.com, music enthusiasts are encouraged to secure their spots for what promises to be one of the island’s most unforgettable music festivals of 2024.

Don’t miss out on the Laketown Shakedown experience – get your tickets today!

 

Laketown Shakedown

  • Where: 8811 Youbou Road #648, Lake Cowichan
  • When: June 28th to June 30th

A brand new restaurant is opening in Sidney in the former Rumrunners location

(Victoria Buzz)

Prepare your appetites for a new dining experience in Sidney—located at the former Rumrummers!

Hugging the water’s edge along Seaport Place, Jack’s on the Water will soon be ready to welcome guests in for a casual and delightful dining experience. 

Their anticipated opening date is set for Friday, March 29th, and will serve as the perfect way to kick off your Easter weekend celebrations. 

Jack’s on the Water posted their opening announcement on Instagram last week, and it has since gained widespread attention and excitement—even getting comments from NHL star Tyson Barrie, who is from the Victoria area!

“Immerse yourself in a combination of scenic tranquility, mouthwatering cuisine, and genuine hospitality,” their website reads. 

As you experience their menu and enjoy a refreshing beverage, steep in the magnificence of their panoramic waterfront view—a truly unbeatable way to gaze over the beauty of the ocean.

As described, they aim at creating a welcoming and warm environment for anyone to enjoy, and will ensure there’s something for everyone.

There’s no hint at menu items so far, but stay tuned and visit for yourself once they’ve opened their doors!

The Rumrunner Pub & Restaurant, a popular waterfront establishment in Sidney for over 30 years, closed in April of last year as the owner retired.

Jack’s on the Water

  • Where: 9881 Seaport Place, Sidney
  • When: Friday, March 29th (grand opening)

Campbell River RCMP are seeking the public’s help in locating 35-year-old woman

(Melissa Waterhouse / Campbell River RCMP)

Campbell River RCMP are seeking the public’s help in locating a missing 35-year-old woman.

Very limited details were provided regarding a missing report file for Melissa Waterhouse—specifically a lack of information regarding when and where she was last seen.

Waterhouse is described as standing at 5’3” tall, with a slender build, black hair and brown eyes. 

No further details were provided.

If you have any information on the whereabouts of Waterhouse or know where she may be, call local police or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).

New Music Monday: HopeCity Waters delves into soulful folk sound on new EP

(HopeCity Waters/Instagram)

Victoria and Vancouver Island have a lot of musical talent, and Victoria Buzz wants to highlight some of the best and brightest local artists and bands.

Every Monday, there will be a fresh ‘New Music Monday’ article to help people find and support local artists and bands that are up-and-coming, well established or hidden gems!

For this endeavour, Victoria Buzz has partnered with our good friends at CFUV 101.9 FM, UVic’s campus radio station, to find and select the musicians and bands for this regular column.

This week, HopeCity Waters is the New Music Monday highlight!

HopeCity Waters is a five piece soulful folk act from right here in Victoria who just released their debut EP on Friday, March 15th.

This band formed from the ashes of two bands that recently dissolved, Maitarra and Naked by the Fire.

Members of these bands, Maita Waters, Jeremy Earley, Jacob Leger, and Ben DeCicco wanted to explore a softer, more gentle sound that could lead them to new places musically. 

Once they found their sound and recorded their new EP, they brought in an additional member, Bryden Amos, to the band to help fill out the sound. 

“We just found these kindred spirits in each other,” Waters told Victoria Buzz. 

She said that herself, Earley and Leger especially connected because they are all songwriters and found inspiration from the same genres of music and they already collaborate on hosting the monthly event, Folk Night at the Mint. 

When it comes to why they chose the name, HopeCity Waters, the band said that it came from a place of wanting to see its music scene flourish being a part of it. 

“For me it always resembles the city’s full of hope again,” Waters said. “And there’s something kind of clean and movement—it feels like the opposite of a bog.”

“I agree with that, it’s kind of loose and you want to find hope,” Leger added. 

He and Earley moved to Victoria from the east coast during the pandemic and said that they feel much more hopeful being here and having gotten through those hard times with this new opportunity to share music with the world. 


Related:


The three-song EP features songs that were written for other projects initially, but never reached their full potential until HopeCity Waters reworked them and brought their true potential to the surface. 

One song, I Thought I’d Know By Now was originally written as a song for Earley and Leger’s previous project that the band said they really love because it is a heartfelt song written about a bizarre situation the duo found themselves in. 

“Essentially we were tree planting up north and we were in Smithers, a little town in BC and we had gone to this festival,” Leger explained. 

“We had this big group of, kind of rowdy people on a break from the planting season.”

Earley added that they thought the festival would be full of people who wanted to party with them but it turned out it was a small festival primarily for families and little kids.

“We thought it’d be a mushroom-type festival but it turns out the vibe was petting zoo,” Earley laughed. 

“But the song is also about a relationship kind of ending in the middle of that, all that was going on there,” Leger concluded. 

Listen to HopeCity Waters S/T EP on their Bandcamp, Spotify or Apple Music

CFUV is a non-profit campus and community radio station that plays a ton of local music of all kinds across Vancouver Island. If you like to support local music they are an amazing resource with a plethora of new local tunes in their arsenal. 

Right now, between March 15th and 22nd, they’ll be doing their annual Funding Drive, where they will have special shows and programming in order to help them raise money to operate the station.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen a student radio station be so involved in the music scene both in and out of the campus, and I think that’s really pretty incredible,” said Leger. 

Waters added that everyone at the station, both the staff and volunteers are welcoming and want to share as much music as possible. 

“They’re just there to promote and support and get behind local bands,” she added. 

Tune into CFUV 101.9 FM on air or online and, if you can, donate to their Funding Drive

There are three CFUV produced concerts coming up as part of Funding Drive and HopeCity Waters just happens to be playing one of them along with Niloo, and Shark Bite Spite at Vinyl Envy on Friday, March 22nd. 

Let us know what you think of HopeCity Waters in the comments below.

Investigation underway after man found unconscious in downtown Victoria

(Submitted)

VicPD confirmed they are investigating an incident in downtown Victoria after a man was found injured and unconscious in the early morning hours Saturday.

A witness who lives in a nearby building, requesting anonymity, told Victoria Buzz they returned home from work and discovered the man lying face down on the sidewalk, with his face covered in blood.

In a statement from VicPD, a spokesperson confirmed officers responded to a call from EHS regarding an unconscious man just before 4:30 a.m. on Saturday in the 700-block of Yates Street.

The man was transported to hospital with a non-life-threatening injury.

“At this time, it is unknown whether the injury was self-inflicted (i.e., stumbled and fell) or the result of an assault, but the investigation is ongoing,” the spokesperson said.

According to the same witness, a person in the area informed them that the victim allegedly attempted to bite their own tongue.

Other neighbours reportedly heard arguing and yelling for over half an hour; however, this has not been confirmed to be related.

Photos from the scene show an area outside the former Yates Street Taphouse blocked by police tape. Across the road, Milly’s Lane next to the Odeon Theatre also had a section blocked off by police tape.

Anyone with information should contact VicPD at (250) 995-7654. To report anonymously, call Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Victoria acquires iconic downtown music hub after Hermann’s closure announcement

(Google Maps)

On Monday, March 18th, the City of Victoria announced that they would be purchasing the building which houses Hermann’s Jazz Club, Hermann’s Upstairs and View Street Social. 

This news comes just weeks after the announcement that Hermann’s Upstairs would be closing at the end of March.

The building is an iconic piece of Victoria’s history as Hermann’s Jazz Club is the longest running jazz venue in Canada as it was started in 1981. 

The original owner of the business and the building it occupied, Hermann Nieweler, passed away in 2015 and left everything to his family. 

They entrusted the business side of the Nieweler legacy to Arts on View Society, a non-profit organization who wanted to see the jazz club continue to run as Hermann would have operated it. 

In May 2022, the Arts on View Society had the opportunity to lease the second and third floors from the Nieweler family and opened Hermann’s Upstairs as a dance club and music venue that could provide space to genres outside of jazz to play. 

Hermann’s upstairs became a popular dance club and gave opportunities to many DJs as well as the people who attended their open mic nights and blues jams. 

Despite that, after just under two years of operation Arts on View Society could not reach an amicable lease renewal agreement with the Nieweler family. 

At the beginning of March, Arts on View Society informed all the staff of Hermann’s Upstairs that they’d be closing their doors for good at the end of the month. 

Now, The City of Victoria and Arts on View Society have both revealed that the City has purchased the building from the Nieweler family. 

The sale cost Victoria $3.95 million which came out of the City’s Land Sale Reserve. 

Victoria acquired the building to ensure that more music venues don’t close in the city. 

“This purchase demonstrates Council’s commitment to preserving and investing in music spaces downtown as reflected in our 2023-2026 Strategic Plan,” said Mayor Marianne Alto. 

“This venue’s importance was also identified during development of the Victoria Music Strategy, and I hope it will continue to contribute to Victoria’s vibrant arts and culture scene for years to come.”

Arts on View Society says they see this as an opportunity to revitalize their spaces to provide better entertainment to Victorians. 

According to the City’s media release on the topic, Hermann’s Upstairs will still be closing its doors at the end of the month and Victoria will be working with Arts on View Society to identify new tenants who can operate the second floor space as a music venue. 

The City added that finding a new tenant for the second floor is an “immediate priority.”

“This strategic acquisition allows the City to play an important role in the preservation of space for live music, while also diversifying the organization’s revenue streams and real estate portfolio,” said Thomas Soulliere, Deputy City Manager.

Staff of Hermann’s Upstairs are still going to be let go at the end of the month. 

5 things to do in and around Victoria this Tuesday, March 19th

Hiking Victoria Mount Douglas
View from Mount Douglas (Alison Elaine)

Happy Tuesday, Victoria—has everyone recovered from St. Patrick’s Day on Sunday yet?

There’s supposed to be another day of sun, so take advantage and get out into nature! This could include a hike up PKOLS (Mount Doug), a venture around the Malahat SkyWalk attraction just outside of Victoria or whatever your heart needs!

Additionally, there’s another installment in the Bands!Bands!Bands! series coming up, a double-mystery book launch at Munro’s and more.

Without further delay, here’s 5 things to do in and around Victoria on Tuesday, March 19th:

Bands!Bands!Bands!

Volume 7 of community favourite Bands!Bands!Bands! is returning to the Victoria Event Centre (VEC) for another incredible round of local bands.

Featured are a total of four bands Carmine, The Coast, Zenith and Creatures of Autumn.

Tickets are $7 in advance and $10 at the door!

  • Where: VEC, 1415 Broad Street
  • When: Tuesday, March 19th at 7:30 p.m. (doors open at 7 p.m.)

Book Launch at Munro’s Books

Join the crew at Munro’s Books in celebrating the launch of two new mystery novels, A Meditation on Murder by Susan Juby, and Bury the Lead by Kate Hilton and Elizabeth Renzetti.

There will be readings from both books, followed by a Q&A and book signing!

This event is free to attend.

  • Where: Munro’s Books, 1108 Government Street
  • When: Tuesday, March 19th at 7 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.)

Benji’s Trivia at Whistle Buoy

Time to dust off your thinking caps and secure them tight!

Benji’s Trivia Night at Whistle Buoy Brewing is back for another round of mind-benders and stumpers to test the extent of your knowledge.

The link for their tickets will go live here—so, make sure you’re looking out for that as they fill up quickly! Winning team gets a $60 gift card to the brewery.

  • Where: Whistle Buoy Brewing, Market Square, Lower Courtyard, #63, 560 Johnson Street
  • When: Tuesday, March 19th at 7:30 p.m. (doors at 7 p.m.)

Malahat SkyWalk

Swap screen time for family time and take in the beauty of the outdoors!

This popular tourist attraction presents a natural west coast setting, an immersive experience along an elevated TreeWalk, plus the epic views from the 10-storey Spiral Tower.

In honour of Spring Break and all things family, they’ve launched a “Kids Visit Free” promotion that kicked off on March 9th and will run until April 1st. Enjoy your visit plus all of their organized Easter events at an affordable price!

Children and youth 17-years-old and under will receive free admission when one adult ticket is purchased!

Tickets and more information can be found here.

  • Where: Malahat SkyWalk, 901 Trans-Canada Highway
  • When: Tuesday, March 19th from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Hike PKOLS (Mount Douglas Park)

Take advantage of the predicted sunny weather and go on a hike!

Not only are you able to see all of Victoria—including glimpses of downtown Victoria and the harbour, you’re also surrounded by lush, moss covered forest floors, established trees, and varieties of shrubs.

You can choose to drive to the top or hike from the bottom (Irvine Trail). Note that this hike is considered moderate in difficulty and may be unsuitable for some as it gets steep at times.

There are plenty of leisurely strolling trails in and around the park though, if that’s more your speed!

  • Where: East Saanich
  • When: From dawn until dusk!

41-year-old man arrested after breaking windows and throwing rocks at Oak Bay police

Police Oak Bay
(Photo by Sheenagh Morrison/Facebook)

A 41-year-old man was arrested last week after breaking multiple windows and for throwing rocks at Oak Bay Police.

On March 11th at around 10:30 p.m.,Oak Bay police received a report of a man throwing rocks at windows in the 2000 block of Cadboro Bay Road. 

Responding officers discovered several business windows to be broken. They located a 41-year-old man across the road from the businesses that matched the description provided by witnesses. 

Officers informed the man that he was under arrest, and in response, he allegedly threw a rock at the officer—which the officer ducked to avoid being struck. 

He then threw a second rock, damaging the front windshield of the police vehicle. 

When police challenged the man with a conducted energy weapon, he surrendered to police and was taken into custody without further incident. 

The suspect surrendered to police without further incident after officers informed him they would be using a conducted energy weapon (taser). 

Charges include mischief, assaulting a police officer and assault with a weapon. The man was held in custody and appeared in court the following morning. 

He was released with numerous conditions and is set to appear in court again at a later date. 

The total estimated damages are $4,000.

BOGO alert: Starbucks is offering buy-one-get-one FREE drinks this week

(Starbucks)

For one day only this week, Starbucks is offering you an additional afternoon jolt for free this week!

On Thursday, March 21st, between noon and 6 p.m., Starbucks Rewards members will be able to claim a buy-one-get-one-free deal on beverages at locations across Canada.

To become a member, you’ll need the Starbucks app will be able to order any drinks in any size and get a second one on the house.

All you need to do to claim the free drink is either apply the offer before ordering in the Starbucks app or have your local barista apply the offer at the checkout when ordering in-store.

This could be the perfect time to try out one of the new lavender drinks revealed earlier this month.

Responding to the enthusiastic requests of Starbucks baristas and patrons alike, the brand introduced two creations: the Iced Lavender Oatmilk Latte and the Iced Lavender Oatmilk Matcha.

“Lavender is the perfect flavour to transition us from the winter season into spring,” said Patrick Penny, Starbucks beverage developer. “Its soft sweetness, light floral notes and beautiful colour ignite feelings of rejuvenation and awakening associated with the change of seasons.”

The drinks are available for a limited time so maybe the two for one might be the best time to try both?

Either way, happy caffeinating!

 

New mental health unit opens for young adults at Royal Jubilee Hospital

Royal Jubilee Hospital Parking Tickets
Royal Jubilee Hospital (partnershipsbc.com)

Some solace may be coming for young adults experiencing mental health troubles as Island Health announced the opening of a new unit at the Royal Jubilee Hospital specifically for that demographic. 

According to Island Health, this unit is providing specialized, age-appropriate care for young adults and has been since the official opening in November 2023. 

The 16-bed unit took a phased approach to their opening and only just now released information about it to the media. 

Island Health says that they decided to reconfigure an existing unit to make space for the specialized unit. They noted that this decision was made due to a rising number of young people experiencing significant “mental health episodes.”

“There’s nothing more important than helping young people recover and rebuild after a mental health challenge or crisis,” said Jennifer Whiteside, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. 

“This new unit at Royal Jubilee Hospital will help ensure we provide integrated, holistic services that meet the needs of young adults on Vancouver Island. This is one more tool we are using to ensure that young people can get the care they need, where and when they need it.”

Island Health says the team in charge of this unit includes counsellors, peer supports and mental health workers who are there to provide support to anyone from southern Vancouver Island to seek their services when needed. 

The unit also provides therapeutic programs and group programming for those who want to set recovery goals and focus on various forms of therapy. 

“In addition to providing evidence-based programming for younger people experiencing mental health challenges, Island Health has transformed the physical space on the unit with the goal to create a more inviting environment for patients and families,” said Leah Hollins, Island Health Board Chair.

“This includes calming, scenic Vancouver Island murals, updated furniture, a family conference room, exercise equipment and Indigenous art created by Lon French.”

Island Health says they hope this unit will help to bring stability into young adults’ lives in the South Island region, with the goal of guiding those who need these services to community reintegration. 

Island Health says prior to this unit being reconfigured, those aged 17 to 26-years-old were slipping through the cracks of Royal Jubilee’s psychiatric services. According to the mother of one of the unit’s patient’s, this program  was an issue for her daughter.

“When our daughter, Kelsey, was admitted to 1South in 2017 it was solely an adult unit,” said Jill Duggan, mother of a young woman who struggled with mental health challenges. 

“Kelsey was so vulnerable and at 17 she was not an adult.”  

“She had just been transferred from ICU where she had been on life support after her second suicide attempt. She was terrified upon her arrival. Although she received good care, it wasn’t the best place for Kels.”

Duggan says that her daughter was discharged and had a recovery plan, but that fell apart. Kelsey lost her mental health battle, dying by suicide in 2020.

Following this, Duggan decided to begin working with Island Health to help those in need like her daughter.

“I became a patient caregiver partner with Island Health soon after we lost our girl, trying my best to help fill the gaps that Kelsey fell into. I am so grateful to witness the progress in patient care in Island Health,” Duggan said. 

“I know that Kelsey would be pleased that there is a young adult mental health unit now, a place supported by people who are committed to providing a safe and comfortable environment. A spot where young people like her can rest and heal. She would especially be thrilled about the therapy dogs.”

Admission to this unit is based on physicians’ assessment and referral. The unit is limited to those who are between the ages of 17 and 26-years-old and are experiencing an active episode of psychosis, mood disorder or having an exacerbation of one of these conditions. 

Positive for the planet: 5 ways Victorians can honour Earth Hour this weekend

(Prince of Whales Whale Watching)

Do something positive for the planet this weekend, Victoria!

On Saturday, March 23rd, people across 190 countries will recognize and act towards protecting our planet and its wildlife by participating in Earth Hour.

According to World Wildlife Fund Canada (WFF-Canada), Earth Hour is an annual moment that shines a spotlight on nature loss and the climate crisis—inspiring millions to act and advocate for urgent change.

Last year, participants around the world reportedly gave more than 410,000 hours of positive planet service and WFF-Canada is calling on everyone to help again this year!

All they ask is that you spend 60 minutes doing something kind for the world and give back a little of what this wonderful shared home gives you.

To aid you in your search for inspiration, here’s 5 ways you can honour Earth Hour and help make steps towards change:

Beach and Trail Cleanup

The last few days have given us the perfect weather for a beach or hiking day—while you’re there, why not look for trash to remove?

Whether it’s an organized beach/trail cleanup or you just happen to be around, if you see something that doesn’t belong, carry it out!

Bring a garbage bag and some gloves, gather some pals and venture out to your favourite outdoor oasis and contribute to the efforts ensuring it remains an oasis.

Invasive Plant Removal

A local organization called the Greater Victoria Green Team organizes frequent meetups to clear out an invasive plant species, plant native trees and shrubs, remove garbage and more!

Anyone can participate and they offer plenty of opportunities for youth hoping to spend more time outside, meet other kids and simultaneously help the planet.

Ocean Education

Visit organizations dedicated to the education and conservation of ocean wildlife!

The Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea in Sidney connects the public with the Salish Sea through engagement, knowledge and awareness. They hope to build a healthy and sustainable environment by engaging people in stories about the science, culture, and traditions of the Salish Sea Bioregion.

The Pacific Whale Watching Association offers plenty of educational opportunities and places strong emphasis on their own mission in conservation, sustainability and responsible wildlife viewing.

Appreciating Wildlife

A great way to honour our world is to take the time to admire what incredible species we share a planet with, as well as the ways in which human interference has negatively impacted them.

Community favourite exhibition, Wildlife Photographer of the Year has returned to the Royal BC Museum and uses the power of photography to raise awareness around animal advocacy and environmental conservation.

Book a tour with Prince of Whales Whale Watching—a member company of the Pacific Whale Watch Association. Not only are they incredibly knowledgeable, they’re committed to safe, environmentally conscious marine and wildlife viewing.

Donate to Conservation Organizations

Some conservation organizations accept donations to assist them in their positive impact missions—including WFF-Canada, Nature Canada, BC Wildlife Conservation and more.

Find one that’s specific to your interests and send them what you’re able to!

As a bonus, you can also check out WFF-Canada’s website for more ways to participate in Earth Hour and learn more about it.