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With a gorgeous James Bay townhome being just ONE of the eight incredible grand prizes that BC Children’s Hospital Lottery is offering up this year, it’s easier than ever to see why this is the perfect area to make your forever home.
This year’s lottery sold out in record-setting time! Stay tuned for the Grand Prize Draw on Tuesday, November 10. Winner will choose their dream home on Vancouver Island, in Vancouver or the Lower Mainland, or the Okanagan. Or, $2.2 million cash.
As if one of Capital Park Residence’s 1,443 sq.ft. three-level, 2-bedroom townhomes wasn’t draw enough, its location is to-die-for – picturesque James Bay is one of the most sought-after communities in Victoria, and here are 6 of its amenities you won’t want to miss out on:
(James Bay Townhome / BC Children’s Choices Lottery)
1. James Bay Square has everything you need and more
With everything in walking distance and basically at your fingertips, James Bay Square offers up grocery stores, coffee shops, restaurants – and even a popular Victoria liquor store!
2. Did somebody say Red Barn?
If you’ve lived in Victoria, you know what a Red Barn Market sandwich tastes like! The Red Barn Market is part of the new Capital Park development located right behind the BC Parliament Buildings. The new development includes a brand new library, government offices and condominiums.
3. Local chocolates at Bird Cage Confectionary
A staple in Victoria’s oldest neighbourhood, James Bay, since 1915, the Birdcage Confectionary continues to operate to serve the neighbourhood selling flowers, local cheeses, chocolates, and of course the bags of barley to feed the local duck population!
4. Fresh-cut flowers from Fine Floral Designs
You’ll never be left wondering where to buy beautiful blooms again! A staple of Victoria and the James Bay area, Fine Floral promises to wow you with the finest floral arrangements and gifts.
5. Late night drinks or even brunch at Bent Mast Pub
Serving up local craft brews and authentic Canadian eats in a refurbished 1880’s house, the Bent Mast is the perfect spot to wind down after a long day – and they even serve brunch!
6. The ocean is literally steps from your front door
At Capital Park Residences, you’re minutes from the inner harbour and the waterfront. The beautiful new development also offers a unique rooftop patio with stunning views – perfect for entertaining or BBQing during the upcoming warmer months!
James Bay is connected to the very best Victoria has to offer – whatever inspires you, you’ll find it nearby, more often within easy walking distance.
You’re as close to the natural splendor of rugged ocean beaches, amazing hiking and the scenic waterfront as you are to Victoria’s most popular restaurants, shopping and entertainment.
Living at Capital Park provides you with the choices and opportunities that define an inspired lifestyle.
Capital Park represents a historic collaboration between two of Victoria’s most respected developers, Concert and Jawl Properties.
Committed to building strong and sustainable communities, Concert has proudly built nearly 12,000 homes across British Columbia and Ontario that have been recognized with more than 100 significant local, provincial and national industry awards.
The Royal Canadian Mint has launched a new $2 coin to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.
The coin carries a “V” for victory on the inner core with a flaming torch, flanked by maple leaves over the dates 1945 and 2020.
The words VICTORY and VICTOIRE appear on the outer ring, as does a message engraved in Morse code: “We win when we work willingly” and “La bonne volonté est gage de victoire”.
“For nearly six years, Canadians serving in uniform or chipping in at home played a vital role in achieving a hard-won peace,” said Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence.
“The Royal Canadian Mint’s circulation coin issued on the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War is a fitting tribute to their legacy of bravery, of service, and of tremendous sacrifice.”
According to the Mint, three million new $2 coins will be released into circulation — of which two million will be in colour – and will be available in the coming days.
Victoria Police are seeking a suspect as well as additional witnesses after a downtown assault left a man with life-altering injuries last month.
Just after 8:30 p.m. on August 21, VicPD were called to the area of Pandora Avenue and Quadra Street for reports that a man had been assaulted.
Upon arriving on scene, officers discovered the victim laying in a bike lane on the northeast corner of Pandora Avenue at Quadra Street.
At this time, the victim was unable to tell officers what had occurred, though it was apparent he had sustained injuries.
A witness nearby the incident reported that the victim had been blindsided by an attacker, then was left in the bike lane following the attack.
After the victim was transported to hospital for treatment, it was determined that he had suffered non-life-threatening, but life-altering injuries.
The suspect is described as a Caucasian man, around 50 years of age.
He had shoulder-length grey hair, and was wearing a long sleeve grey shirt.
VicPD are asking for any witnesses of the incident to come forward with information.
Anyone with information about this incident, or about the suspect, is asked to call VicPD’s non-emergency line at (250) 995-7654 and select option 1 for the Report Desk.
To report anonymously, call Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
A car was engulfed in flames late Wednesday evening near Rutledge Park, according to a witness who also shot video of the incident.
Teale Phelps Bondaroff says he was working late at his home near the park when he heard a large explosion.
“From our patio we’re about three buildings away from Rutledge Park,” Phelps Bondaroff said in a phone call with Victoria Buzz. “I could see a large fireball.”
“They were on the scene in about two minutes, and had the fire out in about five.”
He added that the work of the emergency responders was professional and swift.
“To me it was really impressive to see the Saanich firefighters get out there,” said Phelps Bondaroff. “They really know what they’re doing.”
Assistant Deputy Chief Rob Heppell with the Saanich Fire Department says that firefighters responded to a report of a car fire in the 900-block of Inverness Rd.
Crews arrived to find a Ford Focus with a fire coming from the engine compartment.
“The vehicle was secured and unoccupied,” said Heppell in a phone call with Victoria Buzz.
He says that the vehicle’s owner responded to the scene and spoke with firefighters on site.
Heppell added that it appear from early indications that the cause of the fire was due to an electrical issue.
There were no physical injuries from the incident.
One of Vancouver Island’s most well-known Sports Hall of Famers has secured his first position as a head coach in the NBA, as announced by the Brooklyn Nets Thursday morning.
Former point guard Steve Nash has signed a four-year contract to become the next coach of the Brooklyn Nets, officially making the leap to head coaching for the first time since his retirement.
Nash remains a legend in both the Canadian basketball scene and Vancouver Island sports, calling Victoria home for many years.
After attending St. Michaels University School, Nash spent 18 years playing in the NBA with the Phoenix Suns, Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers, respectively.
The 46 year-old former basketball star comes with no coaching experience, but brings a strong relationship with Nets player Kevin Durant from when Nash was a consultant role for the Golden State Warriors.
“I am honored to have this opportunity with such a first-class organization and would like to thank Sean, Joe and his wife, Clara, for having faith in my ability to lead this team forward,” said Nash in a statement released by the Nets.
“Coaching is something I knew I wanted to pursue when the time was right, and I am humbled to be able to work with the outstanding group of players and staff we have here in Brooklyn. I am as excited about the prospects of the team on the court as I am about moving to Brooklyn with my family and becoming impactful members of this community.”
Steve Nash was formally inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2018, and also remains a two-time NBA MVP.
OFFICIAL: The Brooklyn Nets have named Steve Nash as the 23rd head coach in the franchise’s NBA history. pic.twitter.com/SG8OoN3a8g
(Minister of Advanced Education Melanie Mark/UVic Twitter)
The University of Victoria will be the future home of the National Centre for Indigenous Laws, following a joint announcement for funding from the federal and provincial governments.
At a press conference Thursday morning, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training Melanie Mark committed $13 million towards the construction of the Centre, which will expand on the existing Anne and Murray Fraser (Law) Building at UVic.
The Federal Government will be providing $9.1 million and the Law Foundation of BC is providing $5 million, for a total project cost of $27.1 million.
The new building will house the world’s first joint degree in Indigenous legal orders and Canadian common law (JD/JID), which launched at UVic in 2018, and the Indigenous Law Research Unit.
“The new National Centre for Indigenous Laws will be a place where the rights of Indigenous peoples in Canada will be recognized and upheld,” said Mark.
“This is a historic step toward reconciliation and will be a positive legacy for social, economic and environmental justice.”
The addition to the Fraser Building will provide approximately 2,440 square metres (26,264 sq. ft.) of space.
The province says that the project will incorporate Coast Salish designs, signage, public art and materials such as B.C. wood, cedar weaving and natural light.
Federal Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Carolyn Bennett also spoke at the press conference Thursday morning and said that the project responds to item 50 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 calls to action.
“We believe that the government is 80 per cent of the way to completion or on the way,” Bennett said in response to a question about the pace of change on the calls to action.
Mark added that there is still work to be done but reaffirmed the province’s commitment to action.
“There’s a lot of work for all of us to do. Reconciliation isn’t on the shoulders of individuals.”
Several roads in Duncan were closed overnight last week after a suspected explosive device was found during a traffic stop.
On the evening of August 28, officers with the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit BC pulled over a vehicle for a driving offence.
While investigating the traffic stop, a suspicious device was located that resembled an improvised explosive device (IED).
In a media release, North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP said that the suspected IED was safely removed from the vehicle at the Cowichan Commons location, near Green Road in Duncan.
Police said the device was placed in a stable location to await the Explosive Disposal Unit (EDU), who are based out of the lower mainland.
Several roadways were blocked off and secured within the area until the EDU arrived the next morning to destroy the device.
The EDU attended the scene the following morning and destroyed the device without damage or injury.
“We would like to thank the public for their patience and cooperation to allow for this situation to be handled safely,” reads a statement from Cst. Pam Bolton with North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP.
With Labour Day long weekend coming up and temperatures soaring, the BC Wildfire Service has sent out an advisory urging British Columbians to take care in the woods.
Anyone planning to spend time outdoors this weekend is encouraged to use caution with any activity that could potentially spark a wildfire.
From April 1 through Sept. 2, 2020, the BC Wildfire Service responded to 586 wildfires throughout the province, 45% of which were human-caused.
Although this year’s wildfire season has been quieter than normal, over 11,000 hectares have burned in B.C. since April 1.
“I hope that everyone enjoys the Labour Day long weekend, while also recognizing that the wildfire season is not over yet,” said Doug Donaldson, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development.
Campfires are currently allowed in all areas of the province that fall under the BC Wildfire Service’s jurisdiction. However, people are urged to use caution and keep an ample supply of water nearby to fully extinguish their campfires.
Category 2 and 3 open fires have been prohibited since July 24 in order to reduce wildfire risks as temperatures start to rise on the island.
These bans apply to the following types of fires:
Category 2 open fire
the open burning of any material (piled or unpiled) smaller than two metres high
and three metres wide;
the open burning of material concurrently in 2 piles each not exceeding 2 m in height and 3 m in width; or
burning of stubble or grass fires over an area smaller than 0.2 hectares.
Category 3 open fire
any fire larger than 2 metres high by 3 metres wide;
the burning of 3 or more concurrently burning piles no larger than 2 metres high
by 3 metres wide;
the burning of 1 or more windrows; and
burning stubble or grass over an area greater than 0.2 hectares.
These prohibitions apply to all public and private land, unless specified otherwise like in a local government bylaw. Residents are asked to check with local government authorities for any other restrictions before lighting any fire.
Fireworks, sky lanterns, binary exploding targets, burn barrels or burn cages, and air curtain burners are also banned.
It does not prohibit campfires that are a half-metre high by a half-metre wide or smaller, or apply to cooking stoves that use gas, propane or briquettes.
However, anyone lighting a campfire is required to maintain a fireguard by removing flammable debris from around the campfire area, and have a hand tool or at least eight litres of water available nearby to properly extinguish the flames.
Those found defying the ban may be issued a violation ticket for $1,150, required to pay an administrative penalty of up to $10,000 or, if convicted in court, fined up to $100,000 and/or sentenced to one year in jail.
(Selkirk Trestle, photo by Michal Klajban/Wikimedia Commons)
Victoria Police are crediting a passerby with helping to rescue a woman from the Gorge Waterway Wednesday evening.
Police were called just before 9:30 p.m. to the Selkirk Trestle for a report that a woman in crisis had entered the Gorge Waterway.
When officers arrived on scene they saw that a passerby had climbed down the trestle and was assisting the woman by getting her to the safety of a trestle piling.
Victoria Fire Department (VFD) also responded with a marine rescue boat and worked with officers and the passerby to rescue the woman.
VFD transported the woman and the man assisting her to a nearby dock.
She was apprehended by officers under section 28 of the Mental Health Act. They later transported her to hospital for assessment.
Neither she nor the man who assisted her were physically injured in the incident.
We’re nearly at the long weekend, but there’s still events to enjoy today, Thursday September 3rd!
As you head out to activities and events, please follow the restrictions and guidelines that these businesses require to keep their employees and patrons safe during the pandemic.
As always, wash your hands, wear masks, practice physical distancing, and stay home if you feel sick or show symptoms!
Without further ado, here are five things to do today, Thursday September 3rd:
The Rooftop Patio is bringing back the crab boil, and you won’t want to miss out! $40 gets you a feast for two with snow crab, chorizo sausage, corn on the cob, red potatoes, and garlic bread with all the fixin’s poured onto your table. Bibs provided; be ready to get your hands a little dirty! No advanced reservations, maximum six to a table.
The Esquimalt Farmers Market is heading into its last month of the year, so don’t miss out! Local growers and producers will be on hand with terrific goods and services made with environmentally sound practices. Please note that the market is pet free!
Bring your smartphone and $10 cover and get ready for some band bingo and rock music! Don’t worry; all will be explained at the event. After the fun and games, stay the rest of the evening for some 80’s to Modern Rock.
The Flux Gallery presents powerful Indigenous and Pacific stories woven together in an exciting digital media and art exhibit. Watch carvings and tapa cloths take shape and collective stories come alive in this display of cultural objects and films by local and international artists. Featured works include Roy Henry Vickers’ Peace Dancer (Theatre Inconnu, Story Theatre, Puppets for Peace) and Michael Nicoll Yahgulanaas’ Flight of the Hummingbird (Pacific Opera/Opera Vancouver).
The exhibition opening on September 3rd and the exhibit will continue until September 18th, Tuesdays – Fridays between 10-5pm.
Please visit in groups of 6 or less! Masks will be provided as well as social distancing instructions.
Blues guitarist Mark Comerford plays at Ross Bay Neighbourhood Pub with original tunes and some covers of old favourites. Expect to hear some music in the vein of Hubert Sumlin and the Kings.
The B.C. Ministry of Health has reported 104 new cases of novel coronavirus in the province today, bringing the total number of cases in to 5,952 in the province.
In total, 1,974 of the cases are in the Vancouver Coastal Region, 3,112 in Fraser Health, 178 in Vancouver Island Health region, 445 in Interior Health, 164 in Northern Health region, and 79 people whose residence is outside of Canada.
The number of active cases has increased by three to 1,127 in B.C.
There are now a total of 33 people in hospital due to COVID-19, 14 of whom are in critical care — ICU or acute care units.
No additional deaths were reported today, and the death toll stands at 209 in total
2,786 people are now in isolation and being monitored by public health officials after being exposed to COVID-19.
A total of 4,605 people have now recovered from novel coronavirus in B.C.
Outbreaks
One new outbreak health care facility was reported at the Surrey Memorial Hospital on Wednesday.
In total, eight long-term care or assisted living facilities and two acute care facilities have active ongoing outbreaks at this time.
No new community outbreaks reported were reported today.
There continue to be a number of ongoing COVID-19 exposure sites. B.C. residents are urged to check the BC CDC website for all public alerts about possible exposures to the virus.
Those who may have been exposed are asked to monitor their symptoms, reduce the number of contacts they have, and call 811 to get tested for the virus if they do develop symptoms.
Island Health region
Three new COVID-19 cases were reported in the Island Health region today.
There have been 178 total cases of COVID-19 in the region, five of whom have died, and 163 people have recovered.
This means there are now 10 active cases in the region.
Thus far, there have been 369,162 novel coronavirus tests conducted across B.C., 51,433 of which were done in the Island Health region.
The BCCDC has set up a 2019 novel coronavirus telephone information line at 1-833-784-4397 for those who have further questions about this disease.
Anyone concerned that they may have been exposed to, or are experiencing symptoms of the novel coronavirus, should contact their primary care provider, local public health office, or call 8-1-1.
The Province has also created the 1-888-COVID-19 line to connect British Columbians needing non-medical information about the pandemic.
As of the time of publication, the total number of COVID-19 patients worldwide has risen to 26,136,708.
Over 865,640 people have died from the illness and 18,397,768 have made a full recovery.
Statistics from the Victoria Real Estate Board (VREB) show that house sales remained high through August despite the COVID-19 pandemic.
VREB says that a total of 979 properties were sold in the region last month, compared to 661 properties sold in August 2019.
Sales this past August were compared to the month before, with exactly the same number sold in July.
Of the 979 properties sold, 509 were single family homes—a 45 per cent increase from August 2019.
VREB President Sandi-Jo Ayers says that while August was a very active month in property transactions, the data does not represent a trend in the market.
“It is a challenging time to define what is happening in the market given so many factors that don’t exist in a normal year,” said Ayers.
“We have been surprised by the pace of the summer market and are grappling with the evolving socio-economic effects of the pandemic and how these underlying factors will influence our fall real estate market.”
VREB went on to note that there were fewer listings available this August compared to August 2019.
At the end of August 2020, there were 2,584 active listings for sale on the VREB listing service, marking a decrease of 8.9 per cent from August 2019.
“We can also see that though demand is up, there are fewer listings on the market, which increases demand on desirable properties even more,” said Ayers.
“This is why we saw a lot of competition and multiple offers over the summer.”
She added that a number of factors will determine whether this market behaviour continues into the fall, including how the community manages COVID-19 impacts.
Home prices also increased from last year. The Multiple Listing Service® Home Price Index benchmark value for a single family home in the Victoria core in August 2019 was $849,500, compared to $889,200 in August 2020.
Prices fell by 2.3 per cent compared to the previous month, which saw a benchmark value of $909,700 for a single family home.
With many charity events across the province and even the country cancelled, one local organization is pulling out all the stops to ensure their fundraising efforts go full steam ahead – in the safest way possible for everyone involved!
For 5 years now, Make-A-Wish BC & Yukon’s UnWined has featured local food and beverages, auction, wish moments, entertainment, a raffle, and more, and has helped to raise awareness and funds to grant wishes for island children living with critical illnesses.
Make-A-Wish BC & Yukon not only took their popular Vancouver Island UnWined event to a whole other level this year, they’re also offering an epic 50/50 draw that you can partake in from the comfort of your own home.
50/50 tickets are $20 for a 2-ticket pack, $40 for an 8-ticket pack, and $75 for a 20-ticket pack and can be purchased online from anywhere in BC; meaning you don’t even have to get off of your couch (or out of your pajamas!) to play.
Grab them quickly before the deadline on Tuesday, September 22nd – and remember to share with family and friends, because the more who play, the bigger the pot!
Make-A-Wish creates life-changing wishes for Vancouver Island children with critical illnesses.
In 2018, for the first year in over 35 years, Vancouver Island supported 100% of all island wishes.
Make-A-Wish is being asked to grant more and more wishes each year – and now, more than ever, they need your support!
A Victoria man is $100,000 richer after scoring big on a Scratch & Win ticket he purchased at the 7-Eleven at 4001 Quadra Street.
Robert Stagg says he is hoping to expand his custom-bike shop with the money won by playing Did I Win? for the big prize on August 21.
“My first thought was pure disbelief,” he said. “It only really kicked in about three days ago.”
Stagg says he will use the BCLC lottery prize to enhance his existing bike shop so he can weld and paint, as well as order additional bike parts. He says he will also be gifting some of the win to his mom.
“My dream if I ever won was to find some land with a house and shop on it so I could work on my bikes,” he said.
*Note: Victoria Buzz is not affiliated with BC Lottery Corporation and does not advocate gambling or taking part in lotteries. If you choose to participate, remember to play responsibly.
As it often happens, the Vancouver Canucks secured their win on Tuesday in dramatic fashion.
But last night, there was a certain piece of flair on the ice that held a special local appeal.
Vancouver goalie Thatcher Demko not only made his NHL Playoff debut Tuesday evening against the Vegas Golden Knights, but also garnered the Canucks a 2-1 win with 42 incredible saves – all while wearing a mask created by an artist from right here in Victoria.
Travis Michael is a local airbrush artist that has been creating custom goalie masks for 7 years through his company TM Kustoms.
Many goalies take pride in designing their face protection, and look forward to showcasing their unique mask art on a nightly basis – back-up goalie Thatcher Demko is no different.
And for the 2020 season, he had some very specific ideas in mind.
Artist Travis Michael tells Victoria Buzz that Demko kind of wanted to split the mask down the middle – one half paid homage to the western Canada, with the Rockies, Haida art and even an orca faded into the background.
The other half of the mask injected a little bit of humour – it features Demko’s signature “Evil” Johnny Canuck, as well as Will Ferrell on the back, which has been included in each of his masks thus far.
“This could be my only mask in the NHL; I wanted to be able to showcase everything that I can do,” Travis says in response to the design.
The Canucks goalie contacted the Victoria artist after the team attended training camp at Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre this past fall.
The Victoria Royals passed on Travis’ name to the Canucks’ equipment manager Pat O’Neill, and that’s when the mask-making partnership was formed.
“I think 10 year old me would freak out. We grew up playing hockey and watching all these games. This is the top; there’s no better feeling than this,” Travis told Victoria Buzz.
24-year old Demko’s first career playoff start came with the Canucks’ season on the line; as game 5 saw the Golden Knights up 3-1 in the series, it was do or die for Vancouver last night.
He was tested heavily, but the rookie goalie was up for the challenge, and should the Canucks’ number one Jacob Markstrom remain out with a reported groin injury, it is likely Demko will start game 6 as well.
We don’t know about you, but we’re looking forward to more Canucks wins, more Demko starts, and more glimpses of that sweet mask.
You can check out more of Travis’ designs on his Instagram page.
Victoria council will debate motions on Thursday for additional police resources and engagement with the city’s homeless as multiple encampments that have grown during the pandemic attract controversy.
A motion submitted by Mayor Lisa Helps and Councillor Charlayne Thornton-Joe calls for a boost of $94,528 in police funding from the city’s emergency Financial Stability Reserve.
The money is based on an estimate for a two-officer special duty patrol around city parks, four hours a day, seven days a week.
“Having VicPD provide additional assistance in the form of a special duty would provide significant relief to Patrol and the Community Services Division and allow them to focus on their primary duties and projects,” the motion states.
It also refers to another motion brought forward by Councillors Marianne Alto and Sarah Potts regarding engagement with people living in encampments.
The motion from Alto and Potts calls for the hiring of Peer Support Researchers through the Greater Victoria Coalition to End Homelessness (GVCEH) for a six-week engagement.
During this engagement, researchers would meet with people in homeless encampments for the purpose of canvassing their views on what factors affect them and informing city staff proposals.
“People with lived and living experience of homelessness are subject matter experts in what the barriers and gaps in systems and services are, and are able to identify what effective solutions are in place,” the motion from Alto and Potts reads.
“They know what they need. Before establishing any new camping or sheltering guidelines, views are needed from campers themselves.”
The motion estimates that the engagement process would cost $40,161.00 in the form of a grant to GVCEH.
Councillor Potts said in a phone call with Victoria Buzz that she wants to see workers and groups like Our Place and Doctors Without Borders unifying and organizing their efforts.
“I think there’s a lot of work going on on the ground right now and it will be good to consolidate them,” said Potts. “Some of this organization is already going on, this is about formalizing it.”
She added that she welcomes discussion on the motion put forward by Helps and Thornton-Joe but is concerned about approaching homelessness exclusively through policing.
“We cannot police homelessness away,” said Potts.
“Not every homeless person is creating crime. There’s people who are just trying to survive out there. There’s ways that we can help and formalize that process.”
Victoria Buzz reached out to Mayor Helps and Councillor Thornton-Joe for comment on this story but did not hear back by press time.
The Downtown Victoria Business Association has a new plan for what to do with the newspaper boxes on the city’s sidewalks.
Last month, the City of Victoria considered (and eventually deferred) a motion to outright remove newspaper boxes from the downtown core at the request of the DVBA.
But in a letter sent to council on August 31, the organization outlines a plan that would see some newspaper boxes remain, but most be removed.
“Since that initial letter I have met with several of the publishers of the various publications that use these boxes as part of their distribution network,” writes Jeff Bray, Executive Director of the DVBA.
Through these meetings, Bray says that Black Press Media — a publishing group that owns a number of publications including Victoria News and Saanich News — has joined the DVBA as an associate member.
Together, the publishing group and the DVBA will maintain the 10 boxes operated by Black Press on public property in the area. The media company will maintain the newspaper boxes, while the DVBA will remove graffiti as they emerge.
Meanwhile 30 other boxes in the downtown region have been identified for immediate removal, the cost for which will be covered by the DVBA’s Clean & Safe budget.
According to this letter, the DVBA plans to take action right away, but it is unclear whether they first need approval from the city or the businesses that own the newspaper boxes slated for removal.
Kate Korte, Editor-in-Chief of the University of Victoria’s independent student newspaper, The Martlet, says she was left out of consultations entirely.
“I’d spoken at the previous council meeting and Mayor Helps said I would be involved in discussions moving forward and I reached out to Jeff Bray prior to speaking at the council meeting. I hadn’t heard from him and then I was informed [through media requests] this morning about this plan,” said Korte in a phone interview with Victoria Buzz.
The original motion that was brought forth as a result of a letter from the DVBA talked about the need to remove newspaper boxes that stand empty or are filled with garbage due to widespread use of the internet and the presence of libraries.
It added that newspaper companies have been placing these boxes in public spaces without paying a license fee and thereby profit off of city space, whereas small business owners are required to pay a fee for sandwich boards and have to have a licence.
“We are an independent nonprofit outlet and we do not make a profit off of these boxes. But we pay our distribution staff so these boxes keep [one] part time employee and four contracted employees employed,” added Korte.
The Martlet owns around seven newspaper boxes in the downtown area, and Korte says she has not been told by the DVBA whether any of them are among the 30 slated for removal.
Korte adds that she is wholly in favour of the proposed plan to have publications be responsible for the upkeep of newspaper boxes.
“I would just appreciate it if The Martlet could be included right beside Black Press.”
The DVBA has not responded to a request for comment by Victoria Buzz in time for publication.
The incident claimed the life of one woman when the suspect driver allegedly drove a Ford F150 truck over the centre median on Highway 1, colliding head-on with a SUV.
In a statement early Wednesday afternoon, Cpl. Mike Halskov said the suspect was arrested on unrelated charges and is currently in custody on Vancouver Island.
Police say they will not be disclosing the location or name of the suspect as charges are still pending related to the collision.
“BC RCMP Traffic Services would like to thank the media and the public for their assistance and information which lead to the arrest,” Halskov said in a statement.
The RCMP are still investigating the incident but say they will not be releasing further updates as the case transitions to the court system.
The B.C. Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing has announced that 85 new affordable housing units will be ready for people to move into this month.
The units are available within two new housing developments, both opening in mid-September, and will offer lower than market rates for rent.
One of the developments features a 28 one-bedroom townhomes located at 3425 Uplands Drive. 12 of these units will be accessible homes for people with developmental disabilities and rent will be set at $500/month.
The remaining units in this project include a live-in manager’s suite and 15 homes, with monthly rents at $880.
This housing development will be operated in partnership with the Nanaimo Association for Community Living, and four full-time staff members will help support residents in their homes and provide services according to each individual’s care plan.
Another 57 affordable rental homes, including three accessible units, are opening for seniors in mid-September, at 77Mill Street.
This project will be operated by the Nanaimo Affordable Housing Society and offer one-bedroom homes with monthly rents ranging from $935 to $1,135.
Rent will include services like phone, internet, cable, and laundry.
“These new homes will provide much-needed safe, secure and affordable living for seniors and adults with disabilities,” said Sheila Malcolmson, MLA for Nanaimo.
“These projects will change lives, and I’m grateful to our community partners for working hard so more people have a place to call home in our community.”
The first project at Uplands Drive is financed through $4.9 million in capital funding and $1.9 million in construction financing from the province, $95,000 in capital waivers from the City of Nanaimo, and land provided by the Nanaimo Association for Community Living.
The second housing development at Mill Street received $8 million in capital funding and $3.3 million in construction financing from the province, and land from the Nanaimo Affordable Housing Society.
A group of laid-off hotel workers ended a 22-day hunger strike on Tuesday following an announcement from BC Labour Minister Harry Bains.
Members of Unite Here Local 40, a union representing hospitality workers across B.C., had camped out on the lawn of the BC Legislature since August 10.
They set up tents and went on a hunger strike to call for job guarantees after workers in the industry were laid off due to COVID-19.
On Tuesday, Unite Here Local 40 announced the hunger strike would end after the Ministry of Labour announced that it would commit to offering laid-off workers the right of first refusal when work resumes.
Bains said in a statement on Monday that the government would “ensure that any government economic recovery package, particularly for the tourism and hotel industry, contains a pledge for employers to offer a right of first refusal to existing employees when work resumes.”
The Minister’s statement follows a report on the hotel sector that outlines the economic impacts of the pandemic on the industry.
“The hotel sector was one of the industries hardest hit by the pandemic; it was one of the first impacted and will likely be one of the last to recover,” the report states.
It adds that the majority of people in the sector are women, immigrants, and/or people of colour in precarious employment situations with part-time, casual, or seasonal roles.
Bains went on to say that the government would also consider offers of employment within the public sector to out-of-work hotel employees.
“I also will be advocating that access to jobs in the public sector is provided to workers impacted by tourism closures, in positions where their skills are transferrable,” he stated.
However, the Minister also added that the government would not intercede in the collective bargaining process and urged all parties to reach a mutual resolution at the bargaining table.
In a statement posted to the Unite Here Local 40 website, the union called Bains’ statement “a first step” while saying they would continue to pressure the industry to re-hire workers in their pre-Covid jobs.
“I’m really proud of all that we did to organize this hunger strike,” said Naden Abenes, a laid-off room attendant from Hyatt Regency Vancouver.
Abenes personally fasted for five days during the hunger strike.
“The fact that we came together, first in Victoria and then in Maple Ridge, to fast for 22 days to save 50,000 jobs, that’s an accomplishment.”
In a statement late Tuesday afternoon, Cpl. Mike Halskov said that police are urging the suspect to surrender to the nearest RCMP detachment on Vancouver Island.
“In the interim, police are continuing to work around the clock on this investigation, interviewing witnesses and gathering evidence,” said Halskov.
“In addition, police are utilizing all legal means at their disposal to locate the suspect driver, take him into custody and bring him to justice as soon as possible.”
He added that police believe the suspect driver has told others of his involvement in the collision.
RCMP are asking that anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of the suspect contact local police.
Those who wish to report information anonymously can call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Update: Victoria Police have confirmed that the high-risk missing teenager who was the subject of a search has been located and is safe.
— original:
Victoria Police are asking for public assistance in locating high-risk missing teenager Arianna McKenzie.
McKenzie is a 17-year-old Caucasian girl with short black hair and hazel eyes. She is five feet four inches tall and weighs approximately 100 ibs.
Police say she was last seen on August 27 and is known to frequent Centennial Square.
McKenzie’s family are very concerned about her wellbeing.
VicPD say that anyone who sees McKenzie should call 911 immediately. Those with information on her whereabouts can call (250) 995-7654 and press option one to speak with the report desk.
Those who wish to share information anonymously can call Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Can you believe it’s September already? Take your mind off the coming school year with some events around Victoria!
As you head out to activities and events, please follow the restrictions and guidelines that these businesses require to keep their employees and patrons safe during the pandemic.
As always, wash your hands, wear masks, practice physical distancing, and stay home if you feel sick or show symptoms!
Without further ado, here are five things to do today, Wednesday September 2nd:
Oaklands Sunset Market closes after today, so make sure you stop in for a look at this modified community market. Check out a selection of local farm and food vendors, including some tasty food trucks. Dogs are permitted as long as they’re on leash, but in the interests of COVID-19 safety, please don’t let others pet them!
When: 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Where: Oaklands Community Centre, 2827 Belmont Avenue
Hosts Morgan Cranny and Drew Farrance bring some hilarious local comedians together for an evening of food, drink and fun. Seating is limited so be sure to book your table of two, four, or six people online! Chow down on delicious west coast Himalayan cuisine and laugh until your sides ache..
Sixty Watt Trivia is back, sponsored by Driftwood Brewery. Teams of up to eight people will test their knowledge of…everything! Teams of three or less get a free point each round to keep the competition tight. Four rounds of quizzing for every skill level will make the evening a night to remember. It’s free to play, and prizes abound! .
Oak Bay Beach Hotel holds sunrise yoga classes on their Seaside Terrace every Wednesday and Saturday morning from 7:00 am to 8:00 am, until September 30. Classes will be taught by Tina Lyons, for a drop-in fee of $15 per person. Guests are encouraged to bring their own mats to help with COVID-19 guidelines.
The Royal BC Museum hosts the latest in a series of online workshops and demonstrations. This week science illustrator Mitra Nikoo shows us some ways to understand nature through sketching. Discover tools that you can use when you are outside exploring, and then learn skills about how to sketch a specimen. Bring your own specimen if you can (a shell, a bone, a leaf for example) but if not, Mitra will bring specimens for all to see. You’ll also need paper and something to draw with (pencils, markers, crayons, etc.).
British Columbia remains in the longest state of emergency the province has ever seen after a further extension on Tuesday.
Premier John Horgan has extended the provincial state of emergency for the 12th time on September 1 after the previous extension period ran out.
Minister of Public Safety Mike Farnworth initially declared a state of emergency on March 18 as a result of COVID-19, which was originally in effect for 14 days.
It was then extended 11 times by Premier Horgan, on March 31, April 15, April 29, May 13th, May 27, June 10, June 24, July 7, July 22, August 4, and August 18.
Tuesday’s announcement further extends the state of emergency until the end of day on September 15, 2020.
“It’s encouraging to see the vast majority of British Columbians following public health rules to stop the spread of COVID-19 and keep each other safe,” said Premier John Horgan in a statement.
“However, there remains a small group of people ignoring Dr. Henry’s orders and threatening our hard work over the past several months to flatten the curve. This pandemic is not over, and whether it’s an end-of-summer gathering or hockey celebration, this is not the time to bend or break the rules.”
The statement goes on to add that the state of emergency allows the province to keep in place measures like the ones that allow police officers to issue violation tickets for party hosts and guests that flaunt COVID-19 safety rules.
In the first week of these new enforcement measures (Aug. 21 -n28), 10 violation tickets were issued. This includes six $2,000 violation tickets for contraventions of the PHO’s order on gatherings and events, and four $200 violation tickets issued to individuals.
Declarations of emergency can be extended by the province by increments of 14 days at a time.
Victoria Police are looking for witnesses after a school in downtown Victoria was vandalized over the course of three weeks.
In a statement released Tuesday, the department stated that 15 windows were damaged by rocks at South Park Elementary School, in the 500-block of Douglas Street near Beacon Hill Park.
Police were called on August 6, and again on the 23rd and 30th for reports of similar vandalism incidents at the school that have thus far caused thousands of dollars worth of damage to the building, according to VicPD.
“Officers are asking for your help as we seek witnesses and information about these incidents,” says the department.
“In addition, officers and staff are reaching out to the members of the James Bay Neighbourhood Association and James Bay’s VicPD Block Watch community to remain on the lookout for suspicious persons in the area of the school.”
Anyone with information about these incidents are asked to contact the VicPD non emergency line at (250) 995-7654.
To report what you know anonymously, call Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. If you see someone in the commission of a crime, please call 911.
The B.C. Ministry of Health has reported 58 new cases of novel coronavirus in the province today, bringing the total number of cases in to 5,848 in the province.
In total, 1,922 of the cases are in the Vancouver Coastal Region, 3,072 in Fraser Health, 175 in Vancouver Island Health region, 440 in Interior Health, 160 in Northern Health region, and 79 people whose residence is outside of Canada.
The number of active cases has increased by 17 to 1,124 in B.C.
There are now a total of 31 people in hospital due to COVID-19, 10 of whom are in critical care — ICU or acute care units.
One additional death was reported today, and the death toll is now at 209 in total
2,761 people are now in isolation and being monitored by public health officials after being exposed to COVID-19.
A total of 4,505 people have now recovered from novel coronavirus in B.C.
Outbreaks
One new outbreak health care facility was reported in the Fraser Health region over the weekend while two outbreaks were declared over on the mainland—one in Fraser Health and one in Vancouver Coastal Health region.
In total, eight long-term care or assisted living facilities and two acute care facilities have active ongoing outbreaks at this time.
No new community outbreaks reported were reported today.
There continue to be a number of ongoing COVID-19 exposure sites. B.C. residents are urged to check the BC CDC website for all public alerts about possible exposures to the virus.
Those who may have been exposed are asked to monitor their symptoms, reduce the number of contacts they have, and call 811 to get tested for the virus if they do develop symptoms.
Island Health region
No new COVID-19 cases were reported in the Island Health region today.
There have been 175 total cases of COVID-19 in the region, five of whom have died, and 163 people have recovered.
This means there are now seven active cases in the region.
Thus far, there have been 366,635 novel coronavirus tests conducted across B.C., 51,132 of which were done in the Island Health region.
The BCCDC has set up a 2019 novel coronavirus telephone information line at 1-833-784-4397 for those who have further questions about this disease.
Anyone concerned that they may have been exposed to, or are experiencing symptoms of the novel coronavirus, should contact their primary care provider, local public health office, or call 8-1-1.
The Province has also created the 1-888-COVID-19 line to connect British Columbians needing non-medical information about the pandemic.
As of the time of publication, the total number of COVID-19 patients worldwide has risen to 25,852,527.
Over 859,150 people have died from the illness and 18,078,091 have made a full recovery.
The BC Liquor Distribution Branch (BCLDB) says that they have applied to the City of Victoria to open a cannabis retail store in the Bay Centre.
In an emailed statement to Victoria Buzz, the BCLDB says their application was filed on August 5, for a rezoning of 1150 Douglas Street for “cannabis retail” which is not currently permitted use.
If approved, the BC Cannabis Store would occupy a retail space approximately 1300 square feet in size, with an anticipated opening date in late spring/early summer of 2021.
“All BC Cannabis Stores are designed to be bright, clean, welcoming and professional, while creating a safe and favourable alternative to purchasing non-medical cannabis from the illicit market,” Viviana Zanocco, Associate Director, Corporate Communications BCLDB wrote in an email.
The proposed store would be the first of its kind in the City of Victoria. BCLDB has also applied for another store in the District of Saanich, at Uptown Mall.
Zanocco added that the current application with the City of Victoria is in the preliminary stages and the BCLDB does not yet have a date for when it will be put before Council.
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected us all in very different ways.
It took not only the world by storm, but the impact rippled down to even small communities; such as our own, right here in Greater Victoria.
For many vulnerable people who already face barriers – issues like poverty, homelessness and social isolation – the unforeseen circumstances of the pandemic mean they need more help than ever.
This is where United Way of Greater Victoriacomes in – they have rallied all of their energy, time, talents, and dollars to help those in need – with the help of the community.
We have also seen a lot of good emerge despite the trying times – neighbours are helping neighbours, and volunteers are stepping up when needed.
Businesses are even seeing a need, like Accent Inns who partnered with the United Way to provide free hotel rooms to frontline workers.
Only a week after COVID-19 was officially declared a global pandemic in March, United Way launched the Local Love in a Global Crisis Fund, which to date has raised over $1.3 million to provide relief to the Greater Victoria community.
“The response we have seen from the community has been immense and, quite frankly, inspirational,” said Mark Breslauer, CEO at United Way.
“I’m very proud of how our community has come together to support initiatives like our Local Love Campaign to help those that need it in our community.”
Now, United Way of Greater Victoria has narrowed their focus in direct response to COVID-19 to help their community recover and rebuild.
In the coming weeks, we will highlight their areas of action, each with signature initiatives, which you can donate to in order to assist those most vulnerable.
United Way will focus on three areas where help is needed most:
Families in need – help create a daycare space for children dealing with trauma
Are you an American living on Vancouver Island (or elsewhere!) and wondering how you can participate in the upcoming 2020 General Election?
For Americans living abroad, it’s important to register for an absentee ballot so you can exercise your right to vote.
Here’s a step-by-step guide that will help make the process a little bit easier.
Step One: determine the state you vote in
American voters living abroad vote in their state of last residence—in other words the state you last lived in. This will be the state you vote in by absentee ballot, and also where you send your registration information.
This is where it gets a little complicated.
Step Two: fill out your Federal Post Card Application (FPCA)
The FPCA is what allows you to vote as an American citizen abroad, under the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA).
The FPCA serves as both a way of registering yourself to vote, and a way to request an absentee ballot.
Some states, such as Illinois, do have automatic voter registration, but no matter what state you last lived in, you will have to fill out an FPCA to receive an absentee ballot.
In other words, regardless of registration status, you should fill out and submit a FPCA to your last state of residence if you’re planning on voting abroad.
Step Three: send in your completed FPCA
Most states allow email, fax or online submissions for FPCAs. However, these states require you to physically mail your FPCA:
Alabama (postmarked by Oct. 19, 2020)
Arkansas (postmarked by Nov. 1, 2020)
Connecticut (postmarked by Nov. 2, 2020)
New York (received by Oct. 14, 2020)
California and Wisconsin (postmarked by Oct. 14, 2020; unless already registered to vote)
Idaho, Florida, Maryland and South Dakota – if registering to vote (postmarked by Oct. 5, 2020)
Note that you have to submit a new FPCA each year, as well as any time you move, or change your name, email, or address.
Each state also has its own deadline for submitting your FPCA. Details for those deadlines are available online at the Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP) website: fvap.gov/guide.
For the upcoming general election, the earliest cutoff deadline for a postmarked FPCA is in Puerto Rico, which has a postmark deadline of Sept. 15.
Past that, a handful of states including Alaska and South Carolina have FPCA deadlines of Oct. 4, and others are later.
The best rule of thumb is to get your FPCA submitted early, following the guidelines for your state of last residence at fvap.gov/guide.
If you’re mailing your FPCA, the FVAP website has templates that you can print that allow you to mail postage-free. However, you may still have to supply your own postage if you are mailing from outside the US.
The FVAP website recommends that if you have not received your ballot 30 days before the election, that you complete a Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot (FWAB).
If your regular absentee ballot arrives after you have submitted a FWAB, you should still complete and return the regular ballot. A FWAB will only be counted if your regular absentee ballot does not reach election officials before your state’s deadline, and you will not invalidate your vote or be counted twice.
Once you receive your regular absentee ballot, there’s just one more step to go.
Step Five: filling out and returning your ballot
Methods for returning your ballot differ according to the state you are voting in. Most states offer multiple methods including mail, email, online submission or fax.
These states and territories only allow return of absentee ballots by mail:
American Samoa
Arkansas
Connecticut
Georgia
Guam
Idaho
Illinois
Iowa (email or fax allowed for overseas Uniformed Service member, OR if you are located in a hostile fire area)
Kentucky
Maryland
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri (email or fax allowed only if you are in a hostile fire area)
New Hampshire
New York
Ohio
Pennsylvania
Puerto Rico
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas (fax allowed only if you are in a hostile fire area)
Vermont
Virginia
Most states require that your ballot is either postmarked or received by November 3, regardless of return method.
Detailed information on how you return your ballot, including addresses for mailed ballots, can be found by clicking your state of last residence at fvap.gov/guide/chapter2.
Step six: additional help
If you’re still looking for help and information on voting in the American election while abroad in Canada or elsewhere, you can also turn to your local embassy or consulate.
In addition to providing voting forms and information about absentee voting, U.S. embassies and consulates can mail voter registration, absentee ballot request forms, and completed ballots back to the United States.
Embassies and consulates can also notarize or witness voting materials if required by your state.This service is supplied free of charge but should be booked in advance by appointment.
They will also be able to help you with estimated mail transit times and advise you on local mailing options, including courier services.
Note that you will still have to supply your own postage fees or use the printable envelope templates from the FVAP website at fvap.gov/eo/overview/materials/forms.
Angela S. Girard, spokesperson for the U.S. Consulate General in Vancouver, wrote in an email to Victoria Buzz that they are here to help.
“The Department of State is committed to ensuring that U.S. citizens abroad are aware of their right to vote and have the tools and resources to successfully do so – from anywhere in the world.” wrote Girard.
“Our embassies and consulates communicate regularly to U.S. citizens regarding options available to register to vote and to vote from overseas.”
Step Seven: pat yourself on the back for participating in democracy
If you’re looking for more useful tools for living and voting abroad while retaining your U.S. citizenship, Girard suggests registering for an online program for American abroad.
“We do encourage American citizens to register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program https://step.state.gov to receive important information from the Embassy about health and safety conditions, as well as information about overseas voting.”
But otherwise, give yourself a pat on the back for exercising your constitutional rights.
One man was arrested in downtown Victoria Monday morning after a spree of incidents involving property damage.
Just before 7:30 a.m. on August 31, police received multiple reports of the man ripping branches off a tree and trying to hit a passerby with them in the 700 block of Fisgard Street.
The suspect then reportedly chased other pedestrians and threatened to attack them.
While police were responding to the incident, other witnesses reported the man pushing a large dumpster into the road on Fisgard Street.
As a result, he ended up damaging several parked vehicles in the area, and the glass door to a multi-unit commercial and residential building in the area.
After obtaining a description of the suspect from witnesses, police were able to locate the man and took him into custody near the intersection of Blanshard and North Park streets.
He was transported to cells and faces several recommended charges including one count of uttering threats and five counts of mischief.
Grants from the federal and provincial governments have enabled multiple Vancouver Island municipalities to install over two dozen new electric vehicle charging stations.
In a statement released Tuesday, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy announced that the Regional District of Nanaimo, in partnership with 11 local and regional governments, will install a total of 28 Level 2 electric vehicle charging stations on the island.
“Expanding electric vehicle stations across Vancouver Island will make clean transportation options more viable to more people,” said Catherine McKenna, federal Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, in a statement.
“Encouraging green energy solutions like this is essential to building strong resilient communities. Canada’s infrastructure plan invests in thousands of projects, creates jobs across the country and builds stronger communities.”
These installations will expand the current network of EV chargers in the Nanaimo and Parksville area, as well as communities like Courtenay, Comox, Cumberland, Campbell River, Tofino and Ucluelet, among others.
The project is being funded through $230,000 from the Province’s CleanBC Communities Fund, $275,000 from the federal government’s Green Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, and participating local governments together investing more than $183,000.
The locations selected for the charging stations are based on public demand, according to the province.
Here are the municipalities/regions that will be getting new EV charging stations:
Regional District of Nanaimo (10 stations)
Locations will include: Lantzville, Nanaimo, Parksville (three stations), Qualicum Beach, Electoral Area B (Decanso Bay Regional Park), Electoral Area E (Nanoose Place Community Centre), Electoral Area G (French Creek Marina), Electoral Area H (Lighthouse Community Hall)
City of Nanaimo (four stations)
Comox Valley Regional District (four stations)
City of Courtenay (three stations)
Town of Comox (one station)
City of Cumberland (two stations)
City of Campbell River (one station)
Resort Municipality of Ucluelet (two stations)
District of Tofino (one station)
Once these stations are complete, there will be a total of 83 new Level 2 EV charging stations across B.C.
It’s someone else’s birthday, and YOU get the gift?
Sign us up!
Victoria’s only local food delivery service, Tutti was founded in 2017 as a multi-faceted app that allows you to order not only things like food and beverages for delivery, but also houses a ‘Gofer’ service – offering help with shopping and errand running.
Tutti is actually a word of Italian origin meaning all or together – and that’s the idea the Victoria-based business wants to bring to our city!
Tutti offers meal delivery from more than 100 local restaurants, low delivery fees and longer distance deliveries to areas such as the West Shore and Central Saanich and beyond.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CCrfVUqj_Tf/
They also pride themselves on being a bilingual app that’s available in English and Mandarin for download on iOS and Android devices – with no hidden fees!
In celebration of their third birthday this month, they’re giving away a $100 in food credit to three lucky people to the app – that’s a whole lot of delicious delivery!
They’re also offering FREE delivery until Thursday, September 3rd to keep the party going.
So what are you waiting for, Victoria?
Download the Tutti app, and get to ordering – you can stay in your pajamas AND don’t have to leave your couch tonight!
CONTEST
To enter to win a $100 credit to your Tutti account (we’re choosing 3 winners!) that can be used toward meal delivery and/or Tutti’s Gofer service, please head on over to ourInstagram page to enter:
Don’t have Instagram? No problem! Just share this article on Facebook for your chance to win – and don’t forget to tag a friend.
Contest entries will be accepted from time and date of publishing until 11:59 p.m. PST on September 3rd, 2020. One winner will be chosen at random and contacted through the platform they enter within 24 hours of the contest closing. Good luck!
Campbell River RCMP recovered a large amount of stolen goods from a residence that was the subject of a noise complaint early Monday morning.
Police were called just after midnight on August 30 to an excessive noise complaint at a residence near Willowcrest and Dogwood St.
When officers arrived they found a stolen motorcycle in the residence’s open garage and requested a search warrant.
While executing the warrant police seized a small quantity of illicit drugs, two stolen motorcycles and sports memorabilia that had recently been stolen from a storage trailer.
Officers also seized several thousand dollars in cash that had been stashed.
Police are recommending charges of Drug Trafficking and Possession of Stolen Property against a 34-year-old Campbell River man.
Anyone with information about criminal activity in the area is asked to call Campbell River RCMP at 250-286-6221.
Campbell River RCMP have arrested one man while another remains at large after a daylight attack with a hammer early Monday evening.
Police were called to a report of a man being beaten with a hammer shortly after 6 p.m. on Parkway Rd.
Two assailants approached a man in a car and attacked him, then fled to a nearby home on Galerno Rd. that was known to police.
The victim, a 42-year-old Campbell River man, was taken to hospital with serious but non-life threatening injuries.
He was later released from hospital.
RCMP say they were able to arrest one of the suspects immediately but the other fled the area and is still at large.
The man taken into custody is a 47-year-old Campbell River man who could be facing charges of Assault with a Weapon and Assault Causing Bodily Harm.
Police also arrested two people in relation to the incident who had outstanding warrants
Officers remained on scene at the residence on Galerno Rd. until the early hours of September 1.
The RCMP also seized several grams of methamphetamine and various stolen goods at the scene while executing a search warrant to locate evidence in the assault.
Police say that the parties are all related to local drug trade and there is no risk to the general public.
“The homes that house this activity are a plague on the community and the local RCMP are constantly investigating these houses,” said Cst Maury Tyre.
“In some cases these homes are rentals and the damages that are done to the homes while drug operations are carried out there are immense and it’s quite difficult to get rid of tenants. If you are a landlord, it’s worthwhile to exercise due diligence and investigate the people that you are renting to and make sure you have clear conditions in your rental agreement.”
Last week, a piece of artwork Bastion Square became the centre of controversy after Victoria Police found that one of the letters incorporated the acronym ‘ACAB’ in its design. Now, a second local police detachment has issued a letter of support for altering the mural.
The mural on the ground was commissioned by the City of Victoria on August 14, and featured the work of 17 local artists who designed and painted the words ‘More Justice, More Peace’ to call attention to racial inequality and police brutality across North America after a wave of Black Lives Matter protests this summer.
However, when Victoria Police Chief Del Manak saw that the acronym ‘ACAB’—used to mean ‘All Cops Are Bastards/Bad’—was embedded into mural, he asked city staff to have it removed.
When city staff showed up to paint over the letters, BIPOC activists and the artists who painted them physically placed themselves on top of the mural to prevent it being altered. City staff left the scene and the situation was de-escalated for the time being.
The next day, police chief Del Manak issued a statement explaining his stance:
“The inclusion of ACAB is deeply disrespectful to the women and men of the Victoria Police Department… The Victoria Police Department, and I personally, stand behind the call for ‘More Justice, More Peace.’ Justice is not justice if it does not include all members of society. Excluding one group through harmful words seems counter to the very spirit of the mural itself.”
In response the artists issued their own statement addressing the issue:
“When we added ACAB to our piece, we did so as a statement against the mistreatment that is placed upon Black people by the police throughout North America particularly, as well as across the globe.”
Victoria city councillor Sharmarke Dubow also added his voice into the fray, arguing that police as a system are already included, legitimized, and authorized with power and resources, unlike the BIPOC youth trying to address injustices.
“For the police to evoke inclusion in this way is really to decontextualize and depoliticize what it is really about—systemic racism,” wrote Dubow.
“They could have used this as an opportunity to talk about what opportunity/gift it is that youth are giving them the chance to hear about what inclusion would mean for them and a chance to understand why a statement like that might be said and why it is important.”
According to the City of Victoria, discussions between the BIPOC artists and city staff are underway to reach a mutual solution.
But on Tuesday morning, West Shore RCMP decided to throw their weight behind their Victoria counterparts.
“Many police departments including my own detachment have lost officers in the line of duty,” writes Todd Preston, Officer in Charge of West Shore RCMP.
“The acronym ‘ACAB’ is particular[ly] disrespectful and hurtful to the dedicated police officers in our respective organizations as well as their families… The divisive language used in this mural is not the way forward.”
Preston adds that the West Shore RCMP detachment supports VicPD in their endeavour to have ‘ACAB’ removed from the mural.
For their part, the artists and activists who created the mural say they have no intention of letting anyone change their previously approved work.
The summer is nearly over, so make the most of it starting with events today, Tuesday September 1st!
As you head out to activities and events, please follow the restrictions and guidelines that these businesses require to keep their employees and patrons safe during the pandemic.
As always, wash your hands, wear masks, practice physical distancing, and stay home if you feel sick or show symptoms!
Without further ado, here are five things to do today, Tuesday September 1st:
Victoria beach clean up heads to Gonzales as summer winds down. Help clean up your neighbourhood and meet some great folk. Bring a grabber, gloves and a bucket or bag!
Aura Waterfront Restaurant hosts a wine tasting featuring some of B.C.’s best local varieties. $20 for a flight of three wines and a bite of food to go along with your tasty beverages.
Sült Pierogi Bar is featuring Open Mic comedy nights every Tuesday. This week host Erin Haley takes the stage, along with feature performer Shane Priestly! The cover is just $5 and doors open at 7:30 p.m.
The beginning of September means cooler weather, an assortment of new fall drinks and for many, an excitement for the change of seasons. As the summer season comes to an end, so do many summer events and traditions.
This year, the summer market season looked quite different, however, Victoria Farmers Markets were still operating for islanders to enjoy.
Various farmers markets across Victoria were running throughout the summer to support local farmers and craft vendors while promoting physical distancing practices.
Here are five Victoria Farmers Markets to check out before the end of the summer season:
The Esquimalt Farmers Market first launched in May 2015 and continues to be a popular summer market for locals. The market promotes supporting local business and building community, and features a large list of vendors that can be viewed on their website.
The market encourages donations (all non-perishable and perishable foods) which will go to the Esquimalt Neighbourhood House, Rainbow Kitchen & Senior Program through the Esquimalt Recreation Center.
The James Bay Market has been in operation for 25 years. Although this year’s event looks different (no food sampling or live music), visitors can still support local farms, food producers and craft vendors when they visit the James Bay staple.
The Bastion Square Market is a year round downtown Victoria staple and favourite of both locals and tourists. During the summer months, the market also includes an Artisan Market showcasing different artists each weekend.
The Artisan Market allows visitors to view ceramics, paintings, artwork, clothing and more while meeting the artists in person.
Where: 26 Bastion Square
Last Day: September 27th 2020
Public Market
When: Thursday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 pm.
Artisan Market
When: July 4 to September 27, 2020, 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The Peninsula Country Market has more than 50 vendors weekly offering farm fresh products, jams and jellies, honey, homemade bread, cut flowers, assorted meats, organic produce and a fine selection of arts and crafts.
Although the market is not offering live music this year they have arranged some background music to accompany the market. Visitors are welcome to bring their own chairs and blankets to sit on.
Summer 2020 marks the 29th season of the Moss Street Market.The family favourite offers local and organic produce, handmade crafts, artisan clothing as well as community education.
Moss Street Market now offers an online market with delivery and pick up options. The organization also runs a Winter Market (November through April).
The B.C. Ministry of Health has reported a record high of 294 new cases of novel coronavirus in the province today, bringing the total number of cases in to 5,790 in the province.
Between Friday and Saturday, 86 people were reported COVID-19 positive; 107 new cases were reported between Saturday and Sunday; and between Sunday and Monday, there were 101 additional cases.
In total, 1,900 of the cases are in the Vancouver Coastal Region, 3,042 in Fraser Health, 175 in Vancouver Island Health region, 440 in Interior Health, 154 in Northern Health region, and 79 people whose residence is outside of Canada.
The number of active cases has increased by 133 to 1,107 in B.C.
There are now a total of 28 people in hospital due to COVID-19, 10 of whom are in critical care — ICU or acute care units.
Four additional deaths were reported over the past three days, and the death toll is now at 208 in total
2,723 people are now in isolation and being monitored by public health officials after being exposed to COVID-19.
A total of 4,406 people have now recovered from novel coronavirus in B.C. 4,406
Outbreaks
One new outbreak health care facility was reported in the Fraser Health region over the weekend while two outbreaks were declared over on the mainland—one in Fraser Health and one in Vancouver Coastal Health region.
In total, eight long-term care or assisted living facilities and two acute care facilities have active ongoing outbreaks at this time.
No new community outbreaks reported were reported today.
There continue to be a number of ongoing COVID-19 exposure sites. B.C. residents are urged to check the BC CDC website for all public alerts about possible exposures to the virus.
Those who may have been exposed are asked to monitor their symptoms, reduce the number of contacts they have, and call 811 to get tested for the virus if they do develop symptoms.
Island Health region
One new COVID-19 case was reported in the Island Health region over the weekend.
There have been 175 total cases of COVID-19 in the region, five of whom have died, and 155 people have recovered.
This means there are now 15 active cases in the region.
Thus far, there have been 353,174 novel coronavirus tests conducted across B.C., 49,774 of which were done in the Island Health region.
The BCCDC has set up a 2019 novel coronavirus telephone information line at 1-833-784-4397 for those who have further questions about this disease.
Anyone concerned that they may have been exposed to, or are experiencing symptoms of the novel coronavirus, should contact their primary care provider, local public health office, or call 8-1-1.
The Province has also created the 1-888-COVID-19 line to connect British Columbians needing non-medical information about the pandemic.
As of the time of publication, the total number of COVID-19 patients worldwide has risen to 25,591,778.
Over 853,410 people have died from the illness and 17,829,536 have made a full recovery.
The B.C. government says that a projected surplus of over $200 million has been wiped out by severe losses in the fourth quarter of the 2019-20 fiscal year.
In a statement released Monday, the Ministry of Finance says that strong fiscal results from the first three quarters were overshadowed by a fourth quarter dogged by declining tax revenues, ICBC losses and expenditures on early pandemic measures.
“While the first three quarters of 2019-20 reflected a modest surplus and steady economic growth, COVID-19 led to lower tax revenues and losses at ICBC in the fourth quarter,” said Carole James, Minister of Finance.
The fiscal year ended with a deficit of $321 million, a large reversal from February 2020 when James had announced an estimated surplus of $274 million.
The government downplayed the situation in their release on Monday, saying that the province is in good shape to weather the accumulated debt.
“B.C. is in good financial standing with affordable debt levels at the end of the fiscal year and continues to lead the country as the only “AAA” accredited province,” the government said in their release.
The BC Liberal Party alleged in a statement that the province’s financial position was already worsening prior to COVID-19.
“The NDP government’s response to COVID-19 started mid-March, 92 per cent of the way through the fiscal year,” said MLA Stephanie Cadieux, BC Liberal Finance Co-Critic.
“In the third quarter update, the finance minister promised a $203 million surplus. So to blame the $524 million swing to a $321 million deficit on the pandemic is opportunistic.”
The BC Liberals also said that the NDP government has yet to announce an economic recovery plan, while Alberta, Ontario and Quebec have all done so.
Several provinces are reporting larger projected deficits for 2020-21 fiscal year than B.C., as COVID-19 spending and revenue losses impact government coffers.
In Alberta, the UCP government is projecting a $24.2 billion deficit for 2020-21, while Quebec Premier Francois Legault’s CAQ government is projecting $14.9 billion.
Ontario’s Conservative government is projecting a $38.5 billion budget deficit for 2020-21.
Replica firearm seized from suspect (left) next to police officer's real firearm (right)/VicPD
Victoria Police have seized multiple weapons from a man arrested as part of a drug investigation.
In a statement released Monday, the department announced that they have seized a replica Glock pistol and a throwing knife from the suspect.
He was arrested just after 4:15 p.m. on Saturday August 29 and officers recovered the weapons upon searching him.
VicPD spokesperson Bowen Osoko tells Victoria Buzz that the arrest took place outdoors in the 500 block of Ellice Street in the Rock Bay area.
No injuries were reported during the arrest.
Police are unable to release more details about the circumstances of his arrest as the investigation is ongoing and no charges have yet been laid.
Osoko says there is one other person associated with the suspect in the investigation but they were not arrested.
The suspect has been released from custody, and no court date has yet been set as the investigation is ongoing.
VicPD say they have seized over 60 replica firearms so far in 2020, including “Airsoft” guns, air-powered pellet guns and other replica firearms that have been used in numerous offences.
The Royal BC Museum first announced plans to develop and modernize the facility to “protect its historic holdings and provide better access to its collections” in February 2019.
Amalgamating IMAX into the museum’s holdings will mean that the potential re-development process will not be impacted by a private lease agreement down the road.
The theatre has been functioning within the museum since it first opened in 1998.
It reopened to the public on July 3 after COVID-19 induced closures, with a reduced capacity of 50 people, providing ample opportunity for patrons to maintain physical distancing.
According to the museum, the IMAX theatre will continue to show documentary features as well as Hollywood feature films, and current theatre staff will now be employed by the Royal BC Museum.
The theatre is currently showing nature documentary titles like Great Bear Rainforest, Turtle Odyssey, and Sea Lions: Life by a Whisker.
Cpl. Mike Halskov says that South Vancouver Island Traffic Services has assumed investigation of the incident, which claimed the life of one driver.
“I can confirm that one of our officers has been in contact with the suspect driver and plans are underway for him to turn himself in,” Halskov said in an email to Victoria Buzz.
He added that while the situation is developing and may change, he anticipates that RCMP will have an update later Monday afternoon.
The incident unfolded around 8:30 a.m. on August 29 when a Ford F150 truck went over the centre median on Highway 1 and collided head-on with a SUV travelling northbound.
The SUV driver died on scene while the suspect driver fled on foot. Police said it was believed he then stole another vehicle.
Officers also said that the suspect driver may have been injured and in need of medical attention.
Halskov did not comment on the condition of the driver in his email to Victoria Buzz.
(International Overdose Awareness Day flag at Victoria City Hall/City of Victoria—YouTube)
Several landmarks in Victoria and across British Columbia will be lit up in purple to commemorate the annual International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31.
This year is on track to recording the highest ever number of illicit toxic drug overdose deaths B.C. has seen, with over 900 deaths in just the first seven months of 2020.
For the past three months straight, the province has recorded over 170 overdose related deaths per month.
“Since January, 909 lives have been lost to an illegal drug supply that is more toxic than it has ever been in British Columbia. The unintended consequences of COVID-19 measures have been particularly hard on people who use drugs,” said Judy Darcy, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions in a statement on Monday.
“Many are facing isolation and loneliness, disconnection from usual in-person supports, financial strain and mental-health challenges—all contributing to unprecedented levels of stress and pain.”
In light of the dual epidemic facing B.C., the province announced that several landmarks will be lit in purple to commemorate the lives of those who have died and those who are struggling with drug addiction and the mental health challenges that come with it.
Darcy says August 31 is also a day to recognize family members, peer-support workers, harm-reduction workers, addiction and recovery workers, front-line community workers, ambulance paramedics, police, and firefighters who have been on the front lines of the opioid epidemic for years.
In Victoria, the International Overdose Awareness Day flag was raised Monday morning at City Hall and will be flown until Tuesday, September 1.
The municipal building will also join the Steamship Terminal building, and the BC Legislature Building’s front entrance and fountains in being lit up in purple.
Other landmarks across the province that will also feature the colour purple on August 31 are:
BC Place (Vancouver)
White Rock Pier (White Rock)
City Halls (Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody
Royal Inland Hospital lighted walkway (Kamloops)
Various city lights (Kelowna)
“International Overdose Awareness Day is a day to remember that the overdose crisis touches each one of us. It is a day when we say loudly and clearly that addiction is not a moral failing,” adds Darcy.
“It is a health issue that should be treated like any other health issue—with consideration, caring and respect.”
Starbucks Canada announced on Monday that as of September 14, all customers at café locations across Canada will be required to wear face coverings.
The company says that select locations where local government mandates are not in place will offer options for people to order Starbucks without face coverings.
These options include drive-thrus, curbside pickup through the Starbucks app, or placing an order for delivery through Uber Eats.
“The company is committed to playing a constructive role in supporting health and government officials as they work to mitigate the spread of COVID-19,” Starbucks Canada said in a statement.
“All decisions are grounded in partner and customer care and safety, based on facts and science, and communicated with transparency.”
West Shore RCMP are searching for a suspect after a man was robbed at knifepoint just after midnight on August 31.
Police say the victim was walking in the parking lot near the Original Joe’s restaurant at West Shore Town Centre in Langford, at approximately 12:11 a.m.
He was approached by a male suspect on a bicycle who held out a knife and demanded the victim hand over his wallet.
The suspect took the wallet and cycled away toward Langford Parkway.
The victim was not physically injured.
Officers arrived shortly after but were unable to locate the suspect.
He is described as a white male in his mid 20’s, with blonde hair and a slim build, approximately 5’10” to 5’11” tall, wearing a grey coloured hoodie.
The suspect was riding a low rider style bicycle, possibly a BMX brand.
West Shore RCMP also say that a suspect matching this description attempted to rob another man on August 30th at 11 p.m.
Police say this earlier attempted robbery happened near the 700 block of Peat Rd. in Langford, but was not reported until hours later on August 31.
Officers also attended this scene but could not locate the suspect.
West Shore RCMP are asking that anyone with information about this suspect contact them at 250-474-2264.
Those who wish to report information anonymously can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
(Maple Leaf Adventures / Small Ship Tour Operaters Association of BC (SSTOA))
The B.C. government is employing local small ship tour operators through a new fund aimed at cleaning up the coastline.
The $3.5 million Clean Coast, Clean Waters Initiative Fund (CCCW) will provide funding to operators, First Nations and local communities to help reduce plastic waste and other marine debris on the shores of the central coast.
The Small Ship Tour Operators Association (SSTOA) will be conducting two, 21-day marine debris removal expeditions, the first of which is already underway.
It was initially anticipated that the expeditions would collect around 35 to 40 tons of debris across 450 kilometres of beaches.
In a press briefing Monday morning, Sheila Malcolmson, Parliamentary Secretary for Environment, said the first expedition has nearly collected that amount already.
“They’ve already almost achieved that in 7 days,” said Malcolmson. “They’ve gotten almost 30 tonnes already.”
She added that the revised estimate for the expeditions is around 75 to 100 tonnes of debris collected.
Nine ships from the SSTOA are working with the government on the cleanup expeditions, including vessels from Vancouver Island tour operators.
“When it became clear that we all would have to cancel a sold-out season, we asked ourselves how we could use our skills to protect the environment that sustains us,” said Kevin Smith, president of the Victoria-based Maple Leaf Adventures.
“It’s really rewarding to work with our colleagues, First Nations communities, the Wilderness Tourism Association and the Province of B.C. on projects that help the ocean we love and support our industry during this unprecedented time.”
Materials collected by the expedition vessels will be recycled where possible.
The cleanup area covers a large section of Queen Charlotte Sound, including Calvert Island and Hunter Island.
The Premier of British Columbia currently has the highest approval rating out of any Premier in Canada, according to a survey released Monday morning.
According to the latest Angus Reid Institute survey report, Premier John Horgan currently has an approval rating of 69 per cent, mostly attributed to how he and his government has handled the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Institute’s analysis puts forth the notion that his popularity may be driven by low COVID-19 hospitalization rates in B.C.
“As younger residents drive much of the province’s rising trend in COVID-19 case numbers and tune out public health officials, Horgan recently reached out to B.C-born celebrities Ryan Reynolds and Seth Rogen in an effort to change the message,” reads the report.
“The popularity of the Premier has led to speculation that a fall election may be called.”
(Angus Reid Institute)
Horgan is not the only Premier whose approval ratings have soared during the pandemic.
His popularity is closely followed by Ontario Premier Doug Ford (66 per cent), and Quebec Premier Francois Legault (65 per cent).
In Ford’s case, his government has been praised after an entrance into Stage Three of their reopening plan did not lead to an increase in daily case rates.
Though a mandatory mask policy in Quebec has led to protests in recent weeks, two-thirds of the province still support Legault as case numbers remain relatively low for two months straight.
At the other end of the spectrum, Alberta Premier Jason Kenney and Manitoba Premier Brian Palliser are doing far worse than their counterparts in other provinces.
Plummeting oil revenues and and persisting pandemic-related economic shocks in Alberta have led to a 42 per cent approval rating for Kenney—the lowest number recorded since his United Conservative Party formed government in 2019.
And in Manitoba, rising COVID-19 cases in recent weeks and a decision to promote the province as a tourism destination during the pandemic have caused a 44 per cent approval rating for Premier Palliser.
Meanwhile the Institute says the Premier with the lowest approval rating—34 per cent for Newfoundland & Labrador Premier Andrew Furey—can be discounted from this survey as he took up the post recently, this quarter, and residents remain unaware of his performance with more than half of respondents saying they are unsure of how they feel about him at this point.
These results are based on an online survey conducted between August 26 and 30, 2020 among a representative randomized sample of 4,703 Canadian adults who are members of Angus Reid Forum.
The City of Victoria has ordered a closure of Centennial Square that will see the removal of a homeless encampment in the area.
People currently sheltering in the square were ordered to relocate to other places by Sept. 1.
The order was issued August 28 by the Director of Parks, Recreation and Facilities through existing Parks Regulation Bylaws that allow closure of parks and open spaces due to hazardous conditions.
“We recognize every person has the right to shelter and that COVID-19 has exacerbated the challenges faced by vulnerable populations,” the City said in a statement.
“However Centennial Square has become entrenched with a criminal element that demands greater action to protect the public, businesses and those seeking shelter.”
They added that after people have been relocated from the area, the city will be restoring the landscape and cleaning the site.
The order does not affect homeless encampments in other parts of the city, including Beacon Hill Park.
(Coast Collective, one of the vendors at Royal Beach Pop-Up Market/Facebook)
The summer is nearly over, so make the most of it starting with events today, Monday August 31st!
As you head out to activities and events, please follow the restrictions and guidelines that these businesses require to keep their employees and patrons safe during the pandemic.
As always, wash your hands, wear masks, practice physical distancing, and stay home if you feel sick or show symptoms!
Without further ado, here are five things to do today, Monday August 31st:
Christie’s Pub hosts Sixty Watt Trivia with four rounds of brain-teasing questions. Sponsored by Hoyne Brewery, topics can range all over movies, music, sports, science, geography and possible things found in a hardware store …who knows!
When: 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: Christie’s Carriage House Pub, 1739 Fort St.
Royal Beach Seaside Village in Colwood is hosting a pop-up market that serves as a preview of a planned future retail site in the City. A dozen different vendors from Colwood, Westshore and the surrounding area will be out with local goods and services.
The Downtown Community Centre’s Art Studio programming for August wraps up today with a fabric stamping workshop. Participants will decorate their own tote bag using homemade natural stamps from potatoes, flowers, and leaves! All supplies provided, no experience necessary. Please note events are limited capacity, all participants must sign up for sessions either in-person at 775 Pandora, email at dcc@coolaid.org, on the phone (250)-383-0076, or via Facebook.
When: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Downtown Community Centre, 755 Pandora Ave.
The Town of Sidney hosts the first in a series of virtual town halls, focusing on recovery initiatives during COVID-19. Tune in online with your questions about parks, trails, and recreation amenities. Topics on safety measures and bookings at public parks will be covered during the evening. Please register by email at: admin@sidney.ca or by phone at: 250-656-1139..
Salsa Caliente hosts an intermediate level class for a maximum of 10 students. Must be a competent On 2 dancer or have instructor permission to attend. No partner required. $15 drop in, $60 for a 5 class punch card. Call 250-881-6141 or email info@calientedance.com for more details. Masks are mandatory and physical distancing measures will be in place.
