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A 3-month-old puppy named Maize required extensive surgery after she was hit by a car in Campbell River.
She suffered four broken bones in her pelvis and hips and abrasions on her skin caused by road rash. Maize was transported to Victoria for treatment after her family surrendered her to the SPCA as they could not afford her surgery.
(Maize/Photo by BC SPCA)
“Maize is a sweet puppy who can recover from this terrible accident,” says SPCA Victoria branch manager Annie Prittie-Bell.
“We deeply appreciate support from the public to help provide the medical care Maize needs to get back on her paws.”
The SPCA is seeking donations to help with Maize’s costs of care as she recovers from these surgeries.
With physiotherapy, spaying, and vaccinations, these expenses are expecting to total up to $12,430.
Anyone who wishes to donate to help her recovery can do so at spca.bc.ca/medicalemergency or visit the branch at 3150 Napier Lane in Victoria.
West Shore RCMP have arrested a 23-year-old man for pulling a taser on an unsuspecting buyer in a Facebook Marketplace transaction.
On October 27th, the complainant reached out to police after attempting to exchange some items with an individual after connecting with them through Facebook Marketplace.
The victim was expecting to swap some personal items for a gaming system owned by the suspect.
After they met up and conducted the exchange, the complainant realized that the box given to them did not contain the gaming system as promised.
When the victim went back to ask for their personal items back, the suspect brandished a long baton-shaped conducted energy weapon, or a kind of taser, at the victim.
“The suspect is alleged to have displayed the weapon, turning it on and intimidating the complainant,” says RCMP.
Fortunately, the victim was not injured.
One the incident was reported, police quickly located the suspect and arrested him for being in possession of a weapon dangerous to the public, and fraud.
According to Cst. Nancy Saggar, the weapon in question is not illegal to buy, and farmers are known to use it as a cattle prod.
In light of this incident, police are warning the public to be cautious when meeting people online to buy and sell items.
“It’s a good idea to pick a public location as a meeting point, preferably during the daytime hours. If you can, take a friend with you so you are not alone.”
Happy Hour – it’s a staple of Victoria, and if you find that sweet spot that offers tasty eats and delightful drink specials at a wicked price, you’ve basically hit the proverbial jackpot!
Between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m., as well as 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. every day, patrons can indulge in delicious fare – like their signature “Big Mac” fried chicken, or choose from their selection of handcrafted pizzas – all while taking in the stunning Inner Harbour views.
Drinks galore
The perfect libation to compliment your meal is a big deal!
Here are a few of our favourite Happy Hour drinks at Boom + Batten:
Prosecco – Zonin Cuvée 1821
House Martini – Tanqueray Flor de Cevilla, Sherimgham Kazuki Gin, Belvedere, Alvear Fino Sherry + star anise
Pints of Peroni,
Classic Caesar – “Haus” sausage, spicy beans and a fancy olive
Ketel Cucumber Cocktail – Kettle one herbal infusions + tonic
Aside from the charming atmosphere of Boom + Batten’s sit-down restaurant, they also house a cozy cafe at the same location where they serve brunch and more. Fancy some biscuits and gravy, anyone?
Even better?
You can order expertly pre-made charcuterie ‘Boom Boxes’ and ‘Boom Boards’ for yourself, featuring an assortment of delicious cheeses, cured meats, fruits and veggies and fruits!
Better than that, we’re giving away Boom Boxes to THREE lucky winners if you’re looking to try one for yourself, of your choosing!
CONTEST CLOSED** Congratulations to Dannielle Siewertsen, Parker Tamara Blairski and Mandy Fisher!
For a chance to WIN a charcuterie Boom Box of your choosing from Boom + Batten, complete one or more of the following:
SHARE this post on Facebook and/or Twitter and leave a comment below telling us once you have. (1 entry)
Make sure to register your comment account below when entering a contest so we can let you know if you win.
Contest entries will be accepted from time and date of publishing until 11:59 p.m. PST on November 18th, 2019. One winner will be chosen at random and contacted through the platform they enter within 24 hours of the contest closing. Good luck!
(Eli Pasquale/Photo by Canada Basketball - Twitter)
Canadian Basketball Hall of Famer, two-time Olympian, and UVic Vikes basketball star Eli Pasquale has died of cancer at age 59.
Pasquale was born in Ontario in 1960 and started his basketball career by leading the University of Victoria Vikes team to five consecutive national championships from 1980 to 1984.
He went on to lead the Canadian national basketball team to a fourth place finish at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles and a sixth place finish at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul.
Pasquale’s star-studded career also included playing professionally in Argentina, West Germany and Switzerland, and representing Canada at two Pan American Games and four FIBA World Championships.
He was inducted in the Canadian Basketball Hall of Fame in 2003.
“I remember what a wonderful human being he was: we were both at UVic at the same time and shared classes. He was one of the elite athletes of his time, yet so approachable, always treating everyone as equals and of interest,” writes former Victoria mayor Dean Fortin.
“His success and talent never went to his sense of self – always there to help others, to advance the sport, to be concerned more about raising good citizens than great players, but always committed to excellence. I took a lot of his leadership to heart, and many did as well. Our community is stronger due to his contributions.”
Pasquale is survived by wife Karen, sons Isiah and Manny, brother Vito, sister Luciana and mother Adriana.
This Thursday, we’re all in for a major throwback from McDonalds.
To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Happy Meal, the fast food chain will be surprising those who order one with a popular toy from the last four decades.
These limited edition vintage toys will be available from Thursday, November 7th to Monday, November 11th at participating McDonalds locations across 90 countries.
“Parents tell us how fondly they recall their favorite toys,” said Colin Mitchell, McDonald’s Senior Vice President, Global Marketing.
“So, unboxing the Surprise Happy Meal together creates a real moment of bonding with their children. We hope these toys are something that they will treasure and remember.”
Among the toys available this week are favourites like Power Rangers, Tamagotchi, Hot Wheels Thunderbird, and My Little Pony.
Police say there were three residents in the home at the time of the incident, but no one was injured as a result of the crash.
However, gas and hydro lines were damaged in the collision so authorities evacuated the residents while gas and hydro companies shut off the lines to the home.
The driver of the vehicle was 52-year-old Shane Robertson, owner of Sooke Gutter, who police say was suffering from a medical episode at the time of the incident.
He has since identified himself and shared more details of what happened on Facebook.
“It was an episode called cough induced syncope, basically I coughed hard enough to cut the oxygen to my brain and cause me to lose consciousness,” writes Robertson.
He goes on to express how scary it was for him to wake up and realize that he had hit someone’s house, and immediately got out of the truck to check on the residents.
Hi all…yes it was me in the accident today, I'm posting to explain what happened. It was an episode called cough…
For those who just aren’t that into Halloween, the Belfry Theatre is hosting their opening night of ‘Bang Bang’. Filled with tension and comedy, Kat Sandler’s thought-provoking take on race and culture will have everyone questioning the meaning behind the phrase “based on a true story.” Read our review.
In this fun and informative workshop, you will create a 3lb (10 to 12 bar) beautiful batch of swirled, two colour soap in a free, re-useable silicone mold! Best of all, you will learn all the tricks you need to make soap at home for fun or profit!
The annual salmon run, where tens of thousands of fish make their way back to Goldstream to spawn, has begun! Visitors are asked not to wear bright-coloured clothing and to stay out of the water, including putting GoPros in the stream.
This class is designed to meet the needs of all skaters wishing to improve on their skating skills that have passed Learn-to-Skate (or similar training/experience) with sport specific training. They focus on core, balance, agility, while improving basic skating skills. We use HITT and circuit training method to achieve an excellent workout.
Working out is way more fun on 8 wheels!
When: 5:55 p.m. to 6:55 p.m.
Where: Pearkes Recreation Centre, 3100 Tillicum Road
3200 block of Moorfield Road where the suspect was located and arrested/Google Maps
34-year-old Kamal Bhoondpaul, who is known to police for prior offences, has been arrested for allegedly breaking into a North Cowichan home and sexually assaulting an occupant.
In the early hours of Sunday, October 27th, North Cowichan Duncan RCMP received reports of a break-and-enter and attended the scene of the crime but were unable to locate the suspect.
It soon became clear that the suspect had also sexually assaulted an individual who was in the house at the time of the incident.
Police investigation led them to obtain a search warrant for a residence in the 3200-block of Moorfield Road. Upon execution of the warrant, officers were able to locate and arrest the suspect, Kamal Bhoondpaul.
Bhoondpaul has been remanded in custody and charged with sexual assault with a weapon, break and enter with intent or commit theft, and uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm.
“Public safety was a primary concern and a vast number of resources were used to advance the investigation as quickly as possible,” said RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Chris Manseau.
“While Bhoondpaul has been arrested, the investigation is continuing to ensure all available evidence required to support a successful prosecution has been gathered.”
Investigators believe that the suspect acted alone and that this is an isolated incident.
Court records show that over the past 16 years, Bhoondpaul has been charged with break and enter, sexual assault, impaired driving, and breach of probation, among others.
UPDATE: The driver of the pickup truck, 52-year-old Shane Robertson, has stated on social media that he was suffering from “cough induced syncope” at the time of the crash.
He goes on to express how scary it was for him to wake up and realize that he had hit someone’s house, and immediately got out of the truck to check on the residents.
Fortunately, no one was injured as a result of the crash.
Earlier: West Shore RCMP are advising the public to avoid the 2700-block of Sooke Road if possible.
As of around 3:20 p.m. on Monday afternoon, authorities are responding to an incident in which a white pickup truck drove into a house on Sooke Road.
According to West Shore RCMP, there is a natural gas leak from the house and damaged hydro lines as a result of the crash.
Emergency crews are working to contain the leak, and residents in the immediate vicinity have been evacuated.
Three residents were inside the house, but fortunately there were no injuries.
Police have instated a complete road closure in this area of Sooke Road and traffic is being diverted through Happy Valley Road and Luxton Road.
Sooke Road remained closed for several hours as a result of the crash.
This offer is in celebration of the launch of Little Caesars’ new Pizza Portal – an online service that allows customers to pre-order and pre-schedule when they want to pick up their pizzas.
Those who use the portal can simply head to their nearest Little Caesars location when it’s time to pick up their pie, punch in a pin or hold up a QR code, and collect their food from a compartment.
The buy-one-get-one free deal means twice the meals for the same price, and the offer is available from now until December 1st.
The CRD has issued a warning against swimming or allowing pets to swim in Thetis Lake after toxic blue-green algae was detected in the water.
Island Health has recently documented a visible blue-green algae bloom at Thetis Lake, known to produce cyanotoxins.
The algae usually produces a visible blue-green sheen, which appears as surface scum. However, not all blooms are easy to see and toxins can still be present in the water even if you cannot see them.
Ingesting water containing the algae may cause a range of symptoms, including headaches and abdominal pain in humans, and can lead to lethal liver damage in dogs.
Blue-Green Algae Bloom at Thetis Lake Regional Park – There is a visible blue-green algae bloom at Thetis Lake. People and pets should avoid swimming in the lake. https://t.co/zjh91XAqCJ#crdalert
Canadian-American actress Pamela Anderson has received backlash for cultural appropriation after posting photos of herself wearing an Indigenous headdress with the caption “Happy Halloween”.
The Vancouver Island-born celebrity shared these photos of herself on Twitter on October 31st, prompting many to comment on how the costume was racist and constituted cultural appropriation.
“Hi Pam, I am an Ojibwe woman and I would ask that you not treat indigenous peoples as costumes. We’re actual living people, not something for you to dress up as on Halloween,” reads one tweet.
Hi Pam, I am an Ojibwe woman and I would ask that you not treat indigenous peoples as costumes. We’re actual living people, not something for you to dress up as on Halloween.
“Warbonnets are not props or accessories they’re sacred, they’re earned. Culture isn’t a costume, it’s not disposable, it’s not an aesthetic,” writes another user on the platform.
“This is degrading & insensitive to #MMIW due to hypersexualized imagery. In doning a headdress you’ve also participated in stolen valor.”
Warbonnets are not props or accessories they're sacred, they're earned. Culture isn't a costume, it's not disposable, it's not an aesthetic. This is degrading & insensitive to #MMIW due to hypersexualized imagery. In doning a headdress you've also participated in stolen valor.
The tweet remains live on her account as of Monday, November 4th, and Anderson has acknowledge the backlash by simply posting a link to an article titled ‘The Illogic of Cultural Appropriation’.
, published on lawliberty.org, cites a Wikipedia article and personal opinions to argue that the idea of cultural appropriation is a juxtaposition to “essential aspects of the greatness of a free society.”
After a successful first round of giveaways in early October, Tsawwassen Mills wants to help Pay Your Way once more – as if you need another excuse to get off the rock and do some shopping this November!
On Saturday, November 9th, the popular Vancouver shopping centre is giving away $20 gift cards – just for being a BC Ferries walk-on passenger and taking the Tsawwassen Mills Ferry Shuttle!
Open to residents of Vancouver Island only, all you have to do is hop on their FREE shopping shuttle, and you’ll be gifted a $20 Tsawwassen Mills gift card – paying for your ferry trip over!
If you’re looking for a weekend getaway, Tsawwassen Mills is great option for a family outing that won’t break the bank. Plus, there are exclusive perks for us Islanders, including extra discounts with the VIP Savings Card, free shuttle service from Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal, and brands not available to us on the Island.
There is something for everyone at BC’s largest indoor outlet shopping experience, with nearly 200 stores, dining and entertainment options.
Don’t miss stopping in at recently opened COACH Outlet and Under Armor Factory Store, and favourites like Bass Pro Shops, Nike Factory Store, Designer Shoe Warehouse, Saks OFF 5TH and The Outlet by Harry Rosen.
With fun activities like the skate park at West49 and even bowling at Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl & Grill, the list of family friendly activities is endless! You can also enjoy unique experiences like Stuffy Riders, Playscape and Virtual Land, all without leaving the shopping centre.
For dining options there is Boston Pizza, Milestones, Uncle Buck’s, Montana’s or South Street Burger – and this is aside from the 15 food retailers in their food hall.
You can take a look at their schedule and start planning the perfect (paid for!) day trip.
How: To claim the $20 Tsawwassen Mills gift card, take the free shuttle from Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal to get the Pay Your Way pass, show pass plus proof of same day travel on BC Ferries at Guest Services. To qualify, must be resident of Vancouver Island (ID required) and at least 19 years of age or older.
A 26-year-old driver was airlifted to a Victoria hospital after crashing his car into a utility pole in Nanaimo.
At around 9:15 a.m. on Sunday November 3rd, ambulance, fire, and police crews responded to a vehicle incident in the 1200 block of Cedar Road.
Upon speaking with witnesses, investigators determined that the vehicle, an older model Toyota Corolla, was headed eastbound on Cedar Road when the driver lost control of his vehicle for unknown reasons and veered off the road.
He then collided into a BC Hydro pole causing the vehicle to roll onto its roof before coming to a rest.
The driver was the lone occupant of the vehicle and sustained life threatening injuries in the crash. Fire crews extracted him from his car, and he was airlifted to a hospital in Victoria.
Police shut down the road for several hours to conduct their investigation, and BC Hydro crews attended to secure the damaged pole.
Officers have determined that the road was wet at the time of the crash and low lying fog affected visibility.
Elizabeth May has officially stepped down as leader of the Green Party after over a decade of leadership.
According to the Globe and Mail, May made the announcement in Ottawa on Monday exactly two weeks after the Canadian federal elections in which the Green Party gained three seats in the House of Commons.
Until a permanent leader is chosen, the new interim leader of the party is Jo-Ann Roberts who represented the Green Party in Halifax this year and came third.
May will continue on as the parliamentary leader of the Green Party caucus, and will therefore still represent the riding of Saanich-Gulf Islands as MP.
“I want to make sure that when I leave as leader of the Green Party of Canada, we’ve got momentum, we’ve got growth, we’ve got exciting leadership, and I know we will have all of these,” said May.
Her service to the party and country was lauded by former Green Party leader Andrew Weaver in a tweet on Monday morning.
“You’ve been an inspiration to many, including me. If it weren’t for you, climate change wouldn’t have been a central election issue in #elxn43. You’ve demonstrated what integrity looks like in Ottawa,” he writes.
Thank you @ElizabethMay for your incredible service to Canada. You've been an inspiration to many, including me. If it weren't for you, #climatechange wouldn't have been a central election issue in #elxn43 You've demonstrated what integrity looks like in Ottawa. #cdnpoli
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also tweeted his acknowledgement of the news, calling May a “champion for the environment for decades”.
.@ElizabethMay, you’ve been a champion for the environment for decades, and your leadership on the climate crisis has helped push our country forward. I know you’ll continue to inspire Canadians of all ages & political stripes to fight for a better & cleaner future.
Elizabeth May has been leading the Green Party since 2006, and became the first Green MP to take the stage at the federal leaders’ debate last month.
In the 2019 elections, she and the Green Party did not experience the voting surge they may have initially expected, but they did see some moderate gains, tripling their seat count from 2015 and doubling their vote count from the last election.
May also won her riding of Saanich-Gulf Islands for the third election in a row.
Beverly Ndukwu (Lila Hines), Alex Poch-Goldin (Tony Cappello), Sébastien Heins (Jackie Savage), and Tom Keenan (Tim Bernbaum) in Bang Bang by Kat Sandler / Photo by Dylan Hewlett
Kat Sandler’s acclaimed play, ‘Bang Bang’ is as boisterous and bold as its name suggests.
Opening in Victoria on Halloween night, the play leaps headfirst into systemic racism, intent vs. impact, the power of story, and the slippery nature of truth.
Sandler infuses these big ideas with breakneck dialogue and disarming wit. The audience laughed, cried, and ostensibly left feeling shaken to the core.
To Set the Scene
Lila (Beverly Ndukwu) is a black (former) police officer who shot an unarmed black youth two years ago and now lives with her mother Karen (Warona Setshwaelo).
Tim (Tom Keenan) is a white playwright whose most recent work is “inspired” by Lila’s story. However, while the boy that Lila shot lived, Tim’s play kills him off. This fundamental change in his story has amplified Lila’s public harassment and subsequent depression, and Tim’s announcement that a major motion picture is in the works is sure to make it all much worse. The tension escalates when the potential star of the film Jackie (Sébastien Heins) and his bodyguard Tony (Alex Poch-Goldin) burst in minutes later.
Tom Keenan (Tim Bernbaum) and Beverly Ndukwu (Lila Hines) in Bang Bang by Kat Sandler / Photo by Dylan Hewlett
The actors deliver high-octane, perfectly timed performances. Lila is depressed and drinking steadily, but her protective bravado persists. Karen’s clear concern for her daughter manifests largely in withering, take-no-sh*t exchanges with Tim, whose blustering grows steadily wilder as he keeps pace with Lila’s beers. Jackie’s over-the-top child star swagger and Tony’s tough-guy posturing and creatively foul mouth introduce the characters as stereotypes, but these archetypes are toyed with and broken down over the course of the play.
Bang Bang, a play within a play, embraces its meta nature to the nth degree. The characters comment on the setting, the music, and the methodology of actors. They discuss breaking the fourth wall, acknowledge the existence of the audience, implicate us within their story. This is about us, too.
Bang Bang’s living room setting starts out cosy and warm and gets warmer, hotter, frenetic and frothy. This play does not tiptoe. It stomps and shouts and throws chairs. The characters talk over each other so often and so quickly that it grabs your attention when there’s only one voice. Who listens and who doesn’t is as important as the words being said: Jackie reiterates how much he wants to know and understand Lila’s story, while Tim shouts over her about how respectful he is.
Alex Poch-Goldin (Tony Cappello), Tom Keenan (Tim Bernbaum), and Beverly Ndukwu (Lila Hines) in Bang Bang by Kat Sandler / Photo by Dylan Hewlett
Kat Sandler is herself a white playwright writing black characters. Tim’s character serves to highlight how fraught it can be to create personas whose experiences are not in any way your own. He defends himself ceaselessly when challenged on his execution, his ability, and his right as an artist to create whatever he wants. He cites his extensive Googling as sufficient “woke” credentials, but spouts endless microaggressions that mount to the macro.
Bang Bang will dig into your mind and open it for you, be it with slow, creeping discomfort or explosively, all of a sudden. We give it a 4.5/5 rating.
Catch the show at The Belfry Theatre until November 24th.
For the second time this year, John Cleese will be in Victoria to regale audiences with his humour. The English actor and Monty Python icon is sharing his wealth of humour with 4 Canadian cities and will be making a stop in Victoria today.
When: 7:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Where: Royal Theatre & McPherson Playhouse, 3 Centennial Square
Over 40 boardgames and 8 videogame consoles! Games include Mario Kart on the big screen, Dance Dance Revolution, and classics like Super Mario World, Donkey Kong, Sonic the Hedgehog, Space Invaders, Street Fighter, and hundreds more! 19+
Master fiddler Pierre Schryer and a different monthly special guest will present a one-hour Mini-Concert, and then host a 90min Open Trad Music Session (at 8:15 p.m.). This event is open to all ages including audience members and session participants.
Wit, charm, craft, and heart—all valuable ingredients in creativity and building a rich experience. This is an exhibition honouring these things and the myth of a generation.
This 2-day festival brings together psychics, energy healers, alternative medicine practitioners and spiritual seeker from all across Vancouver Island. Over 44 exhibitors will be sharing their knowledge, wisdom and wares offering Psychic Readings, Massage, Reiki, Rocks & Gems, Mediumship and much more. Included in your admission are workshops happening throughout the weekend to inspire your spiritual journey. Heal the past and step into your true potential.
Step out of the rain and into a cozy movie theatre with the whole fam this season!
Cineplex is offering $2.99 movies for young viewers at participating theatres throughout October and November 2019, as well as December 13th. They will be showing The Angry Birds Movie 2 this weekend.
When: Every Saturday at 11 a.m. until December 13th
Where: Cineplex Odeon West Shore, #900-2945 Jacklin Road
Experience the show at a whole new level of intensity: live! This is Atomic Vaudeville’s fourth production of The Rocky Horror Picture Show in Victoria.
With over a dozen showtimes, there’s bound to be one that works for you and your fellow freaks. Let’s all do the Time Warp again!
Note: Audience members are not permitted to bring their own props. However, prop bags will be available for purchase at every show or in advance.
When: Saturday, November 2nd (multiple dates and times) 7:30 p.m. & 10 p.m.
Where: Metro Studio Theatre, 1411 Quadra Street
Tickets can be purchased online or at 1050 Meares Street
What’s better than the warm, sultry music of Sinatra on a cold Autumn’s day?
The chance to experience it at Victoria’s own Royal Theatre!
On November 2nd and 3rd, the Victoria Symphony is presenting two days filled with some of Sinatra’s greatest hits, sung by entertainer Tony DeSare alongside conductor Giuseppe Pietraroia.
When:
Saturday, November 2nd – 8 p.m.
Sunday, November 3rd– 2 p.m.
Where: Royal Theatre, 805 Broughton Street
Tickets: Tickets are $33 – $85 and are available from the Victoria Symphony Box Office at 250-385-6815 or online here
For those who just aren’t that into Halloween, the Belfry Theatre is hosting their opening night of ‘Bang Bang’.
Filled with tension and comedy, Kat Sandler’s thought-provoking take on race and culture will have everyone questioning the meaning behind the phrase “based on a true story.”
In keeping with the season, the show has a wide variety of juried handmade items including: Christmas decorations, body care products, original artwork, handmade cards, jewellery, knitting, fibre work, metal and glass, pet products, adult and children’s clothing, honey, jams and jellies, sweet treats and Gourmet Food to take home and eat in.
Hunters and Gatherers! Take part in a regular weekend activity that’s social, fun, productive and profitable. Enter the fascinating and fun flea market. Whether you are a collector, a connoisseur or a creative type looking for inspiration, the market has something in store.
Finish the week off right with a relaxing roll at Quadra Village Neighbourhood Gym. Every Sunday until December 15. No frills, rentals available, and family-friendly!
After a week of strikes that have kept students at 19 schools out of class, the Saanich school board and support workers’ union are back at the bargaining table.
According to an update from School District 63, the board has tabled an offer that to be negotiated with by CUPE 441, the union that represents support staff, on Friday.
“We are very aware of the impact of this job action on families, students and staff, and we wanted everyone to know that we are still working diligently to get our schools open as quickly as possible,” said Elsie McMurphy, vice-chair of the school board.
“The Board has tabled an offer which distributes the maximum funding available in a manner which reduces the greatest differences between us and our neighbours.”
CUPE 441 commenced strike action on Monday, October 28th, to demand comparable pay to their counterparts in Victoria and Sooke, who have received higher wages for decades.
After bargaining with the school district on six occasions and two sessions with a mediator in October, an overwhelming majority of CUPE 441 members voted to take job action last week.
In hopes of resuming classes for students at all affected schools on Monday, the board has proposed to apply larger wage increases to “positions that have fallen the furthest behind”, specifically education assistants and other clerical, secretarial, and school support positions.
“Nevertheless, these proposals will still provide wage increases for all support staff in excess of the 6% over the three-year term of the Agreement, in line with other settlements in school districts and across the other employee groups provincially,” the school board stated.
Picket lines remain active and parents are encouraged to check the school district website regularly for updates.
West Shore RCMP have arrested a man who was wanted on a Canada-wide warrant, while he and an accomplice were attempting to steal from a casino in View Royal.
On October 31st at around 9 a.m., police attended to reports of an attempted theft at Elements Casino in View Royal.
Two men were stopped by security staff as they tried to carry a box full of items belonging to the casino out from the parking garage area.
When confronted by security staff, the two dropped the box and fled on foot. Police were called and within minutes, located the pair at the McDonald’s near the casino.
One of the suspects, a young male, was wanted on a Canada-wide arrest warrant. He was arrested for the warrant and for breaching their probation conditions as they were found to be in possession of liquor and methamphetamine.
The second person attempting to steal from Elements Casino was also arrested for his crime.
RCMP spokesperson Cst. Nancy Saggar says police cannot release the name of the suspect as he is a young person whose identity is protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
She tells Victoria Buzz that the arrest warrant was issued after the suspect breached the conditions of release while he was was serving a sentence for a previous crime.
A new driver in Colwood learned the rule of the law firsthand after deciding to speed away from a police officer who had given them a warning for speeding in the first place.
On Thursday, October 31st, West Shore RCMP Cst. McKinney saw a white Nissan pickup going approximately 80km/hr in a 50km/hr zone on Sooke Road in Colwood.
He pulled the driver over and issued a warning for speeding, and a violation ticket for not displaying the new driver sign, or an ‘N’, on their vehicle.
Apparently this was not enough for the driver. As soon as the ticket was issued and the officer stepped away from the vehicle, they sped away from the scene and were later observed going 102km/hr.
Cst. McKinney caught up with the driver a second time and issued the original ticket for going 80 km/h in a 50 km/h zone, and added a second violation ticket for speeding on top of it.
The driver also had his vehicle impounded for 7 days.
“This driver clearly did not heed the warning he was given for speeding the first time around,” said West Shore RCMP media spokesperson Cst. Nancy Saggar.
Just one day before this incident, police in Langford had to impound another vehicle and issue the driver a $700 fine for going 90km/hr in a 50 km/hr zone and failing to stop for police.
An assault in Saanich resulted in a punctured lung and an arrest on Halloween night.
At around 11 p.m. on Thursday October 31st, Saanich police attended the scene of an ongoing fight on Lansdowne Road at Aldridge Street, in which alcohol is believed to have been a factor.
When police arrived, most of the people involved fled the scene. Police were able to identify the victim, a 20-year-old Victoria resident, who had attempted to stop a fight between two women.
He was then assaulted by a man who stabbed him with a screwdriver. The victim had to be hospitalized with several injuries, scratches, and a collapsed lung due to the puncture. Police say he is in critical but stable condition.
A 24-year-old man was arrested in connection with the assault, and the Saanich K9 unit was able to locate the screwdriver in bushes nearby.
Police are now recommending charges of Aggravated Assault, Assault with a Weapon, Fail to Comply with Recognizance, and Fail to Comply with Probation.
A 20-year-old man has been arrested for mischief after West Shore RCMP released surveillance pictures of him at a Langford McDonald’s in mid-August.
The suspect is accused of causing over $3,000 to a self-ordering kiosk in the McDonald’s at 854 Langford Pkwy in mid-August, after allegedly punching and cracking the kiosk.
Victoria Buzz reached out to RCMP to enquire if he provided a reason for his actions, however, RCMP was unable to release that information due to the ongoing investigation.
Police released surveillance pictures of him to media on October 7th with hopes the public could help in identifying him which led to tips that helped police close in on a suspect.
“We want to say thank you to the public for sharing the post and helping us solve this crime,” said Const. Nancy Saggar, media relations officer for West Shore RCMP.
Most animals cared for by the SPCA will be eligible for this major discount, including dogs, cats, kittens, puppies, rats and guinea pigs, but adoptions for farm animals will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
“Welcoming a rescued animal into your home is a rewarding experience for everyone involved,” says Mark Takhar, BC SPCA’s chief operations officer.
“As always, our top priority is to ensure that every animal finds their perfect people, so our usual matching process will be in effect for this event.”
According to Takhar, this annual event prompts a high rate of adoption over the 24 hour period, which then frees up space for the SPCA to care for additional vulnerable animals.
In 2018, a total of 14,000 animals found a home through the SPCA.
On November 1st – 2nd, Campus Honda is hosting a 24-hour video game marathon with over 20 games to choose from, in their bid to raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.
Interested parties can sign up to play by adding their name to this online spreadsheet. And if it’s missing a game or console you really wanted to play, all you have to do is send an email to sespiloy@campusautos.com to have it added to the list!
When: 9 a.m., Friday November 1st – 9 a.m., Saturday November 2nd
Where: Campus Honda boardroom, 506 Finlayson Street, or online at this link.
Join the Hillside Quadra collective for a chili cook-off, and bring your Halloween pumpkin. They will put candles in the pumpkins and line them up so that the whole neighbourhood can admire them for an enchanting fall experience.
Be sure to bring a mug for hot drinks, and a bowl and spoon to sample chili from local cooks.
Prepare to be mesmerized by this theatrical adaptation based on the series created by Susan Hammond, written by Douglas Cowling, and adapted by Roderick Glanville.
When: 10 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Where: Royal Theatre & McPherson Playhouse, 3 Centennial Square
Kids, adults, and everyone in between are expected to be drawn to 3369 St. Troy Place in Colwood, where homeowner Mike Jones, a bus driver by trade, has decked out his house with some truly creative decor.
One of the things you’ll notice first is the giant pirate ship with its skeletal crew docked on his front yard. Also featured is a zombie graveyard, boasting a lifelike headless horseman in its midst.
The driveway and front entrance is also lit up with about 450 pumpkins, intricately hand-carved by Jones himself.
“They’re hollow foam pumpkins that last a long time, so I do about 20 every year and add to the collection,” Jones tells Victoria Buzz.
You can spot characters from horror and several other genres of film, including Jason from Friday the 13th and everyone’s favourite Jedi Master, Yoda.
“I did it because I’ve always loved Halloween. When I was a kid, I was fanatical about it. Whenever I saw houses done up, it just inspired me,” said Jones.
“When I started doing this, it was really small and just the appreciation from people kinda spurs you on to do more. It’s really worth it just to get the reactions from adults and kids.”
The whole get-up costs Jones at least a few hundred dollars every year, and one of the biggest expenses is candy which is offered to kids and adults alike.
This year, the house on St. Troy Place is expected to receive at least 1,500 visitors, and Jones attributes this to the addition of the pirate ship as well as the pleasant weather this Halloween.
Check out some photos of the house and its spooky decor:
Last week I posted about a house in Colwood BC all decked out in Pumpkins and a pirate ship in the front yard. Here's a…
The driver was pulled over, and according to police, his manner of stepping out of the vehicle showed signs of impairment.
To add to the evidence, there were also several empty beer cans lying beside the driver.
Based on these facts, the driver was arrested for impaired driving and upon testing his breath, he registered at 230 mgs – three times over the legal limit.
As a result, the semi-trailer was impounded, and its driver – the resident of a northern Vancouver Island community – was served with a Promise to Appear for Driving while Impaired, and Driving while over the legal limit.
“Very troubling and shocking, were just some of the comments made by the investigating officers,” said Cst. Gary O’Brien.
“Although the fuel tanks were later found to be empty, given the sheer size of the vehicle, and distance travelled in an impaired state, it was simply a miracle that a tragic accident had not occurred.”
He is expected to appear in Nanaimo Provincial court on December 17th.
West Shore RCMP have issued a $700 fine and impounded the vehicle of a driver who crashed after speeding.
At around 11:30 p.m. on Wednesday October 30th, police traffic units were patrolling near the intersection of Millstream Rd and McCallum Rd when they noticed a speeding vehicle.
A Nissan 300zx was observed going approximately 90km/hr in a 50 km/hr zone on Millstream Rd.
West Shore RCMP Cst. McKinney attempted to pull over the vehicle, but the driver decided to flee and continue traveling north on Millstream Rd.
However, minutes later, the vehicle had crashed and Cst. McKinney was able to issue several violation tickets, and not just for excessive speeding, failing to stop for police.
Although the driver was sober, there was cannabis in the vehicle within their reach, earning them another ticket for operating a motor vehicle with cannabis in it.
The driver did not sustain any injuries as a result of the crash, but they received a hefty fine of over $700 and the vehicle was towed and impounded for 7 days.
Victoria Police are appealing to the public for help in their search for missing Kendra Kivi.
The 26-year-old suffers from a health concern and was first reported missing after she left a health facility in Burnaby on October 21st.
She was spotted in Victoria on October 26th near the 700-block of Queens Avenue, and VicPD are now searching for her.
Police say there is no indication that she faces immediate harm, but the circumstances under which she went missing are considered high-risk.
Kivi’s family and police are concerned for her health and well-being.
She is described as a Caucasian woman standing approximately 5’7″ tall with a “full build”, has green eyes and long blond hair with brown roots.
Kivi was last seen wearing blue poncho with white stripes, a black shirt, a dark blue skirt with white stripes, a scarf, and a pair of flip flops.
Anyone who sees her is asked to call 911.
If you have information on her whereabouts, contact VicPD at (250) 995-7654. To report what you know anonymously, please call Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
For the second time this year, John Cleese will be in Victoria to regale audiences with his humour.
This November, the English actor and Monty Python icon is sharing his wealth of humour with 4 Canadian cities and will be making a stop in Victoria on November 4th.
His show, “Why There is No Hope”, is coming back to BC’s capital by popular demand after amusing audiences back in June 2019.
In November 2014, Cleese toured in Victoria to talk about his autobiography titled “So Anyway”. Before that, he brought his talents to the McPherson Playhouse in October 2013.
Cleese first introduced his comedic genius to the world as a member of the Monty Python troupe in the 1960s, followed by a career of writing, producing, and acting in hits like “A Fish Called Wanda” and “Fawlty Towers”.
His screenplay for “A Fish Called Wanda” even earned him an Oscar nomination!
Tickets for his November 4th show start at $101.50, and seats are selling fast so make sure to book yours ASAP.
Almost a decade after winning Olympic gold, one of women’s hockey most epic rivalries will return to BC.
Aptly named the “Rivalry Series”, the Canadian and American national women’s hockey teams will play in a five-game schedule this winter, with a stop at Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre on February 3rd.
Out of the five scheduled games, Canada is set to host three of them – the first Canadian stop seeing the rivals duke it out in Moncton, New Brunswick on December 17th.
Resuming in Victoria on February 3rd, the Canadian portion of the series comes to an end at Vancouver’s Rogers Arena in Vancouver on February 5th.
The American portion of the series also features games on December 14th in Hartford, Connecticut, and February 8th in Anaheim, California.
The Series was first launched earlier in 2019 as a chance to feature the top players from Canada and the U.S. to fans in both countries – after drawing over 17,000 fans for home games in London and Toronto, Canada ended up winning the previous series with a 2-0 victory at the finale in Detroit.
Tickets for the games start at $18 and will go on sale November 6th at 10 a.m. onthe Hockey Canada website. Group pricing options for 10 or more tickets will also be available starting November 13th.
Early morning commute was halted on the Pat Bay Hwy after a collision involving a deer and six vehicles.
At 6:40 a.m. on Thursday morning, a vehicle traveling northbound on the highway hit a deer. The impact slowed the vehicle down, and it was rear-ended by another vehicle.
The deer, on the other hand, was sent skidding into the southbound lanes of the highway where it was hit a second time by another vehicle.
This impact then led to another set of rear-end collisions.
A total of six vehicles were involved in the accident, and four of them needed to be towed away from the site.
None of the drivers required hospitalization but two of them were attended to by paramedics. The deer survived both hits and was last seen running east-bound from the highway.
“With the morning darkness during the commute, Saanich Police are reminding
drivers to leave adequate space to stopr or take action in the event of an
emergency,” says Det. Staff Sgt. Chris Horsley.
“At a highway speed of 80 km/h, a vehicle is travelling almost 20 metres per second. Distance is required to provide adequate time to stop or take action to avoid the car in front.”
Saanich Police, BC Ambulance and emergency personnel attended to the incident which blocked both lanes and congested the highway for around 40 minutes this morning.
A Vancouver Island man is facing animal cruelty charges in the abuse of a one-year-old German Shepherd dog named Hope.
Chemainus resident Kevin Timothy has been accused of the crime after the female dog was found abandoned in the woods and tied tightly to a tree with a plastic and wire cable.
Hope was found suffering from emaciation, dehydration, extreme muscle wasting and a deep, severe neck wound in May 2019.
“The cable was tied so tightly that her face was pressed to the tree and she could not lay down or move. The wire was deeply embedded into her neck, causing such a massive wound that her jugular vein and trachea were exposed,” said Marcie Moriarty, chief prevention and enforcement officer for the BC SPCA.
She was so badly infected by this neck injury that her head had swollen severely, her injury was filled with maggots, and she was too weak to walk.
(Hope after recovery/BC SPCA)
Moriarty says it’s a “miracle” that Hope survived this brutal ordeal. She was rushed to the veterinary in Duncan for stabilization and then transported to a specialized emergency clinic in Victoria for around-the-clock life-saving treatment.
After several surgeries and months of treatment, Hope was adopted by one of her care workers at the veterinary hospital, and is now safe, healthy, and happy.
Her alleged abuser, Kevin Timothy, is facing up to five years in jail, a maximum $70,000 fine and up to a lifetime ban on owning animals if convicted.
On October 15th, a customer left their assigned lane and aggressively drove towards a staff member at BC Ferries’ Langdale terminal, forcing the employee to jump out of the way.
Two days later, another passenger threatened the use of a fire arm to an employee at the Horseshoe Bay terminal.
Then, on October 22nd, a customer assaulted a BC Ferries employee on the Coastal Celebration vessel.
“The vast majority of our passengers treat our employees courteously. Abusive conduct or comments, or behaviours that put our employees or the public at risk, are not tolerated,” said Mark Collins, BC Ferries’ President & CEO.
“These behaviours result in a denial of service, travel ban and the involvement of police agencies.”
Legally, BC Ferries is allowed to deny service to customers when the safety of its crew and other passengers is threatened.
Kids looking to score some serious candy haul this year? Head over to the annual Oak Bay Village trick or treat!
Collect candy at participating shops, enjoy live music by Arf The Dog, Halloween-themed magic by paulkilshaw.com Magic and More, plus hula hoopers, stilt walkers, jugglers, carnival-style games, costume contest and more.
When: 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: Oak Bay Village, 2000-2200 blocks of Oak Bay Ave
Looking for a fun, safe, and dry way to spend Halloween with the kids?! Pop by Quazar’s for a scare!
This month they’re releasing all of their spookiest games right on time for the chilling day, plus the night will feature candy and tokens for the kids, and En Noir playing tunes.
Check out Bear Mountain Resort for a free spooktacular evening of treats and Halloween fireworks, a photobooth by Four Frames, and music entertainment by DJ Spencer Looysen.
Festivities start at 5:30 p.m. and fireworks start at dusk. Concession will be available to purchase hot dogs, smokies, hot chocolate, cider, and other goodies.
When: 5:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Where: Bear Mountain Resort, 1999 Country Club way
For those who just aren’t that into Halloween, the Belfry Theatre is hosting their opening night of ‘Bang Bang’.
Filled with tension and comedy, Kat Sandler’s thought-provoking take on race and culture will have everyone questioning the meaning behind the phrase “based on a true story.”
While the haunted house at Ogden Point is on hiatus this year, another Victoria scare-station has decided to up their spook levels with a brand new theme.
Heritage Haunted House is back to scare Victorians for the 14th year and this year, their theme is Phobias.
When:
Thursday October 31st, 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Friday November 1st, 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Where: 3808 Heritage Lane
Admission: By donation at entrance on October 31st
Pre-book through this website for November 1st
The house at the end of Daffodil Avenue has been transformed once again into one of the most epic trick-or-treat destinations in Saanich.
The owner of 693 Daffodil Ave, Peter Lyons, has been working nearly 6 hours a day since mid-September to build ‘Morbid Motel’ – a Bates Motel-inspired haunted hotel that will be entirely free of charge for visitors to peruse!
Goth classics, dark modern hymns, dungeon lasers, and an eclectic set of music. Dance the night away to dark 80s, Early & Modern industrial, Death Rock, Coldwave, EBM, Darkwave and more!
Surveillance footage showed him using the wheelchair to exit through the front doors and then loading it into a newer model white Toyota four-door sedan, before driving away with a female accomplice.
Once this story was published, Saanich Police began receiving tips from callers who had heard of the incident through the Crime Stoppers Facebook page.
One caller stated that they had seen the wheelchair listed for sale online through a business in the City of Victoria.
Later on Wednesday afternoon, Saanich Police attended a pawn shop in Victoria, confirmed that the wheelchair had indeed been taken there, and with the help of store staff, located and arrested the suspected thief.
The 51-year-old man is now facing one count of theft under $5,000.
Meanwhile, the wheelchair will soon be returned to the recreation centre so visitors can continue to use it.
On November 1st – 2nd, Campus Honda is hosting a 24-hour video game marathon with over 20 games to choose from, in their bid to raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.
Children’s Miracle Network is a non-profit organization that has been filling funding gaps and awareness for children’s hospitals across North America since 1983.
To support this worthy cause, Campus Honda is setting up an epic gaming area with a giant TV and gaming chairs in their boardroom that will be open to members of the public for a day-long video game marathon.
Those who don’t want to leave the comfort of their homes for this 24 hour event can also participate by gaming on a livestream setup on Twitch.
Depending on the game, participants can choose to play in single-player mode, against online bots, or against each other, regardless of whether they show up in person or join in during the livestream.
Throughout the 24-hour livestream, Campus Honda will be displaying a “Donate” button on the website which anyone can use to contribute funds to the cause.
Everyone who pitches in will then be entered to win incredible prizes like a 50″ TV, 4 gaming chairs, Best Buy gift cards, and more.
Players can choose between games like Mario Kart, Borderlands 3, Desert Bus, Left 4 Dead 2, Dark Souls 3, Super Smash Bros, and all of the Halo games.
Interested parties can sign up to play by adding their name to this online spreadsheet. And if it’s missing a game or console you really wanted to play, all you have to do is send an email to sespiloy@campusautos.com to have it added to the list!
Seven students at the University of Victoria are among 50 post-secondary students across British Columbia to be awarded Premier’s International Scholarships.
These scholarships, valued between $6,000 and $10,00, are administrated by the Irving K. Barber BC Scholarship Society and support B.C. students studying abroad in various fields.
“These scholarships open the doors of opportunity for B.C. students,” said Premier John Horgan.
“We all benefit from the knowledge and cultural experiences students will bring back to their post-secondary institutions, workplaces and communities.”
The program to provide these international scholarships began in 2008 and have since benefited 2,598 students with awards totalling $5.7 million.
These are the University of Victoria students chosen for this year’s scholarships:
Caleigh Aalders studying philosophy and social sciences in Belgium
Katrina Annett studying law in New Zealand
Keivan Hirji studying global business in Scotland
William Howling studying business and economics in Indonesia
Emily Ross studying arts in France on an exchange program
Sukhi Singh studying biomedical engineering in England
It looks like one Nanaimo woman decided to raid a local store when she ran out of fresh underwear – and police want to find her.
Nanaimo RCMP are searching for a woman who allegedly stole four pairs of men’s Saxx underwear from My Undies, a store located on Commercial Street.
According to police, these thefts were conducted on September 13th and 16th.
The suspect in question is described as a slim white female of medium height with straight hair dyed orange, and wearing a camo jacket.
Anyone with information about this woman is asked to contact Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345. If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at www.nanaimocrimestoppers.com or call 1-800-222-8477.
The annual salmon run, where tens of thousands of fish make their way back to Goldstream to spawn, has begun!
Salmon born in the river head off to the open ocean for four years to grow before returning to their home stream to reproduce. These returnees are expected to arrive en masse soon.
Goldstream River has a world-class salmon spawning stream, with an average of 30,000 salmon returning each year. They appear around mid-October and may be seen for about nine weeks, with the dates varying from year to year.
“The salmon have travelled a long way to be here, and have a very important job to do,” says the Goldstream Nature House website. “We are very lucky to be able to witness this incredible event at Goldstream Provincial Park.”
The majority of salmon found at Goldstream are Chum Salmon (Onchorynchus keta), which will be returning from all the way up at the Gulf of Alaska. Some Chinook and Coho Salmon will also be making their way back to the estuary.
Visitors are asked not to wear bright-coloured clothing and to stay out of the water, including putting GoPros in the stream. Dogs must be on leashes and kept out of the river.
“Things are already pretty stressful for the salmon,” says the nature house.
The best time to watch the salmon run is between mid-late October and early December.
Tips for Salmon Watchers:
Avoid wearing bright coloured clothing, especially reds, purple, and pinks which salmon see very well.
Avoid moving quickly, and approach the river bank quietly. Find fish that are actively building nests to watch for the spawning behaviour.
Leave your dog at home. If you do bring a dog it must be on a leash and kept out of the river.
Have you checked out the all-new Winners at the Bay Centre yet?
With two floors and over 20,000 square feet, it’s quite literally a fashion-lovers dream!
Even better?
Victoria Buzz will be hanging out at the Bay Centre on Wednesday, November 6th where we’ll be giving away FREE WINNERS gift cards to 200 of our closest friends – all you have to do is stop by and say hi in person, in-store at Winners Bay Centre, level 1.
While you are there, check out the latest statement trench coats, must-have denim and cozy sweaters. With new arrivals coming in daily, you’ll never find the same thing twice – and the selection of name brands for way less will keep you coming back for way more.
We recommend bringing your bestie as half the fun is the thrill of the hunt – just remember, finders keepers!
Starting at 12 p.m. on November 6th, the first 200 guests to check-in with us will receive their $10 Winners gift card courtesy of the Bay Centre – so stop on by, chat with us, and enter to win even more great prizes!
Bring down your reusable cup and we will fill it up with a coffee courtesy of Starbucks Bay Centre.
And if that isn’t fabulous enough, we will also be doing an on-site draw for a $100 Bay Centre gift card – as if you need even more incentive to shop!
Campbell River Search and Rescue and RCMP crews were able to locate him shortly after he was reported missing, but he had passed away before being found.
Police say his death is not being considered suspicious, and the case has been turned over to BC Coroners Service.
In addition, RCMP are advising the community to take the following precautions before venturing into the back country:
Let someone know where you are going
Let someone know when you’ll be back
Utilize a GPS or map
Be prepared to spend a night in the woods if something goes wrong
It’s time for Fernwood to get spooky once again. Every year Fernwood NRG host hundreds of kiddos and adults alike and this year is no different! Head to Stevenson Park and the Fernwood Community Centre gymnasium to enjoy Halloween with your neighbours.
The bonfire will be burning beginning at sunset in Stevenson Park. Come with your costumes, instruments, chairs, candy and be ready to feel the community vibes. They’ll be tossin’ wood on the fire until they’re not allowed anymore (10 p.m.).
In the gym, they will activities for kids and families, and yes, that includes a bouncy castle! There will be a costume contest at 7:00 p.m.
Bring an instrument, a chair or some spooky stories to make this a fun event for everyone.
Where: Fernwood Community Centre, 1240 Gladstone Ave.
When: Thursday, October 31st, around 6:00 p.m. – 10 p.m.
For one night and one night only, the Oak Bay fire department is about to start a fire instead of putting it out! Help your local superheroes keep the flames under control and give your little ones the experience of using a real fire hose! The event will also feature a children’s costume parade, entertainment, and refreshments provided by the Kiwanis Club of Oak Bay.
Join your local community in Esquimalt as they celebrate the end of All Hallow’s Eve by the warm fireside! The event will be hosted by the Esquimalt Lions, and there will be plenty of hot dogs and hot chocolate to go around!
Esquimalt residents may drop off clean, untreated wood anytime between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Monday, October 31st at the Archie Browning Sports Centre rear parking lot in the designated drop off area.
Ward off the witches at Centennial Park, as you enjoy a cozy fireside chat before taking in the awesome fireworks show put on by the Central Saanich Volunteer Fire Department every year! Say hello to the Central Saanich Lions Club – they’ll be the ones with the hot dogs and hot drinks!
Where: Centennial Park, 7526 Wallace Dr
When: Thursday, October 31st, 7:30 PM (fireworks display starts at 8 p.m.)
Cost: Free admission; food and beverages by donation
This event, hosted by the Metchosin Volunteer Firefighter’s Society and the District of Metchosin, is going to have everything! A bonfire, fireworks, haunted hall, costume contest, free hot dogs – you name it!
This year, they are stepping it up a bit on the scare factor and have put together a ‘haunting hall’ for the brave of heart to enter.
Where: 4450 Happy Valley Road
When: Thursday, October 31st, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. (fireworks to begin immediately after sunset)
For all the families in Colwood, warm up your trick-or-treaters at the Colwood Fire Hall on Metchosin Road. There’ll be music, community, and plenty of free hot dogs, hot chocolate, and treats to go around!
Where: Colwood Fire Hall, 3215 Metchosin Road
When: Thursday, October 31st, 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Did we miss any? Send us the what, where and when along with a link via email!
The 2019 cruise ship season has officially come to an end, bringing over one million people to southern Vancouver Island.
According to numbers released by the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA), Victoria welcomed 709,042 passengers and 294,956 crew from 257 different cruise ship calls.
There were seven cancellations due to adverse weather and last-minute itinerary changes, including one on the last day of the season, October 25th.
Upon their arrival in Victoria aboard the Norwegian Joy cruise ship, they were quickly whisked off on a complimentary tour of the city after it was determined that Lorenzon was the 8 millionth passenger to disembark at our port of call.
Time for construction
The GVHA is now preparing for the arrival of purpose-built steel for the 58-metre mooring dolphin extension at Pier B, originally planned for the 2019 season.
The steel is expected to arrive within the next 10 – 14 days, weather permitting and will be barged from New Westminster following its arrival from China.
The original shipment that was destined for Ogden Point Pier was lost at sea in December, the organization worked with its contractors to order new steel and deferred the project construction for this fall and winter.
The shipment was part of Ogden Point’s new mooring dolphin extension, which will extend Pier B in Ogden Point by 55 metres, allowing it to accommodate larger cruise ships.
Before the pile shipment was lost, the dolphin extension project was originally set to be completed by summer 2019 in time for cruise ship season.
Number of cruise ships
Earlier this month, Victoria City Council passed a controversial motion that would limit the number of vessels that dock in the city each year due to environmental concerns.
According to GVHA, the cruise industry creates over 800 jobs and produces more than $130 million in annual economic impact.
It’s game two of back-to-back games. Victoria Royals defeated Kelowna Rockets Tuesday night after a big come back to win. Royals were down by two goals heading into the 3rd period and were able to tie it up before winning it in the shootout.
When: Puck drop at 7:05 p.m. – doors open at 6 p.m.
Where: Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre, 1925 Blanshard Street
Experience the show at a whole new level of intensity: live! This is Atomic Vaudeville’s fourth production of The Rocky Horror Picture Show in Victoria.
With over a dozen showtimes, there’s bound to be one that works for you and your fellow freaks. Let’s all do the Time Warp again!
Note: Audience members are not permitted to bring their own props. However, prop bags will be available for purchase at every show or in advance.
When: 8 p.m.
The event runs from October 17th — November 2nd (multiple dates and times) Click here for the full schedule.
If you are looking for some “spine-tingling fun” this Halloween season, be sure to visit The Gordon Head Haunted Manor! This haunting exhibit is a “Treasure Island”-themed animatronic yard display, that is sure to get kids of all ages into the Halloween spirit! This is a family-friendly event is by donation, in support of Victoria Hospice.
The funniest night of the week is Wednesday at The Mint! Each week Morgan Cranny and Drew Farrance bring the most hilarious comedian’s in the city together for a wonderful evening of fun at the best venue for stand up comedy in Victoria.
Wildly popular and always new, Phillips Comedy Night is a hilarious night out. Come downstairs and enjoy the delicious west coast Himalayan cuisine that the Mint is famous for. Tickets are $7 online or $10 at the door.
9 fun nights of thrills, chills and fun. Activities include crafts in the schoolhouse, train rides, trick or treat stations for the little ones and live entertainment. There will be lots of hot chocolate, coffee, plus other hot food items available to purchase so you can sit back, watch the fun and enjoy the warmth of our popular fire pits. A number of live actors will be on site so be prepared for lots of fun.
This is a family-friendly event but it can be a little scary for very young children and we suggest that you bring them early before the sunsets.
The Halloween Train and most displays are covered so you can have fun Rain or Shine!
The BC Forest Discovery Centre offers advance tickets on sale at the Cowichan Regional Visitor Centre or the Duncan Save-On-Foods at the customer service desk.
When: 3:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Where: BC Forest Discovery Centre, 2892 Drinkwater Road
Three shelters in Victoria have added extra beds and mats tonight in activation of their Extreme Weather Protocol.
As temperatures are expected to drop to 0ºC tonight, 65 additional beds and mats have been made available at the Salvation Army Addictions and Recovery Centre (525 Johnson St), Rock Bay Landing (535 Ellice St), and Our Place Society (1240 Yates St).
According to the Victoria Extreme Weather Protocol, this is a partial activation of their program as it is still early in the season.
Transportation to shelters is not yet in place, and the group only has enough staff/volunteers to open a couple of shelters at this time.
Here’s a full list of available shelter spaces for the night of Tuesday, October 29th:
(École Au-coeur-de-l'île/Photo by Dave Murray - Google)
The vice principal of a school in Comox Valley was fired after asking male students to show her their underwear so she could check whether or not they had left soiled underwear and feces in the washroom.
A report released by the BC Commissioner for Teacher Regulation outlines the events that led to the decision to fire Delphine Yvette Andrée Guérineau, vice principal of École Au-coeur-de-l’île.
On June 19th, 2018, a soiled pair of boys’ underwear was found on the lid of a toilet in the boys’ bathroom, and feces was on the floor next to it.
Vice principal Guérineau addressed the issue as the school’s principal was off site, and decided to determine who the underwear belonged to.
According to the report, she did so by having the school secretary announce that she would be visiting the classrooms of students in grades 3-6 to check if the boys were wearing underwear.
She proceeded to do just that, and had each male student show her the waistband of their underwear.
Then, all the grade 7-11 boys were assembled in a hallway, and Guérineau had them all display the waistband of their underwear as well to determine if they were wearing one.
Consequences
Two days later, in the aftermath of this incident, Guérineau was placed on paid leave by School District 93, pending a full investigation.
Within three months, she was fired from her position as vice principal of École Au-coeur-de-l’île.
Soon after her dismissal, an online petition in support of Délphine Guérineau was created by Vanessa Groult.
“I am all the more outraged by this decision since, during the investigation of which Ms. Délphine Guérineau was the subject, no person from the CSF came to meet the community, parents, staff and students to try to understand the situation as well as the circumstances that led to this incident,” writes Groult.
“I also disapprove of the CSF, which asks a qualified, dedicated and esteemed employee to leave while the school is already understaffed.”
