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The search for two Saanich Peninsula residents has resulted in a tragic discovery.
36-year-old Easha Rayel and 23-year-old James Evans were last seen August 9th.
The vehicle the pair were travelling in together, a blue 2002 BMW 325i, was believed to have been spotted in Vernon last week – that turned out to be a false sighting, according to family member.
In a release, Sidney / North Saanich RCMP said that vehicle was located today (August 24th), with two deceased people inside the car from an apparent motor vehicle incident. They did not say where the vehicle was located, however, it is believed to have been found crashed over an embankment along the Pat Bay Highway near Parkland Elementary school.
The northbound lanes of the Pat Bay Highway were closed Saturday night as crews investigated. Motorists passing the scene said a coroner vehicle was on scene with a tent propped up.
While positive identification of the individuals has not yet been fully completed, family has been updated.
Police said there is no evidence of criminal behavior in this incident and they will not be making further comment.
Tucked away inside the St. Andrew’s Square building on Yates Street lies one of Victoria’s newest and most unique eateries.
On July 8th, Prashant “Bob” Unnikrishnan and his wife Lathika quietly opened the doors to Dosa Paragon, a south Indian restaurant that is one of its kind in Victoria, and perhaps all of Vancouver Island.
Unlike other East Indian eateries in town, this restaurant specializes in cuisine local to the south Indian state of Kerala and everything on the menu is made from scratch by the husband-and-wife duo.
Bob, who has lived in Victoria for the past 6 years, brings his dishes straight from India after having worked in major cities like Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore.
Before opening Dosa Paragon, he worked as a chef at several restaurants around town including Irish Times Pub, John’s Place, and Varsha Indian Kitchen.
(Prashant “Bob” Unnikrishnan and his wife Lathika/Victoria Buzz)
Straight outta Kerala
“It’s my passion, and I just learned all the basic skills from my mom,” he tells Victoria Buzz. “It’s always [been] my dream to start my own restaurant.”
Around 80% of the menu is vegan and/or gluten free, with special non-vegetarian dishes served on weekends.
Some of their highlights include the Masala Dosa (a rice crepe stuffed with spiced potato), their Onion and Cilantro Uthappam (a savoury pancake topped with onion and cilantro), and for meat eaters, an aromatic and flavourful Chicken Biryani (a spiced rice and chicken dish).
Of course, no Indian meal is complete without a drink to go with it.
Those who prefer a cooler beverage may choose the thick, sweet concoction that is their mango smoothie. For those partial to hot drinks, the restaurant offers an authentic ‘masala chai’ or tea flavoured with a mix of spices and herbs.
While Bob and his wife have done practically nothing to advertise their new restaurant, the small eatery always has a steady stream of customers to keep them busy – a testament to the nearly addictive flavours and aromas emanating from Dosa Paragon.
They have been so busy, in fact, that the owners have had to extend their business hours up to 9 p.m. to keep up with the demand.
“That’s our motivation,” said Bob when asked about how customers have been responding to his restaurant. “We just want to maintain that momentum as our main goal is customer satisfaction.”
Dosa Paragon operates as a dine-in and take-out eatery, and is also available on Skip the Dishes.
Police tried to stop a pickup truck minutes before causing a high-speed crash involving three other vehicles and a cyclist early Saturday morning.
In a release, VicPD confirmed officers attempted to pull over a vehicle in the area of Gorge Road and Rock Bay Avenue just after midnight.
The driver failed to stop for officers and fled at high-speed colliding with three other vehicles at Douglas and Bay Streets causing significant damage to all the vehicles involved.
The crash was caught on a video by surveillance camera at Budget Brake and Muffler at 12:12 a.m. – the timestamp of video is in Eastern Standard Time.
The video surveillance shows the white truck entering the intersection from Bay Street at high-speed colliding with three vehicles in the intersection. The first vehicle hit can be seen flipping and landing upside down a distance away – the cyclist managed to stop amidst the chaos and is seen falling backwards before he gets up and runs from the debris.
Another cyclist can also be seen crossing the intersection just before the collision.
The suspect driver managed to exit the truck and can be see fleeing on foot. Officers were able to arrest him nearby.
The three other drivers were all transported to hospital with non-life threatening injuries.
The investigation is in the early stages and police are looking for any witnesses to the collision or people who have video of the incident who have not yet spoken with investigators.
The Independent Investigation Office has notified.
A security camera located at Budget Brake & Muffler Auto Centre captured a dramatic crash in Victoria early Saturday morning.
The crashed involved four vehicles and a cyclist at the intersection of Bay and Douglas Street.
A white truck can be seen blasting through a red light at a high rate of speed.
The video shows the first vehicle struck flip multiple times and land upside down – the cyclist manages to stop amidst the chaos and is seen running from the debris. Another cyclist can also be seen just crossing the intersection.
The driver of the truck can be seen fleeing the scene and was caught a short distance away. There is no update on injuries, but we are being told everyone was alert and conscious before being transported to the hospital.
Surveillance camera captures dramatic crash in downtown Victoria early Saturday morningThe crash involved four vehicles and a cyclist at the intersection of Bay and Douglas Street. A white truck can be seen blasting through a red light a a high-rate or speed. The video shows one car flip three times and land upside down – the cyclist manages to stop amidst the chaos and is seen running from the debris. Another cyclist can also be seen just crossing the intersection.The driver of the truck can be seen fleeing the scene and was caught a short distance away. There is no update on injuries, but we are being told everyone was alert and conscious before being transported to the hospital. The intersection has since reopened. More to come. Video courtesy of Ryan Burghardt
Posted by Victoria Buzz on Saturday, August 24, 2019
Victoria’s Big Brothers & Big Sisters is holding a city-wide lemonade stand competition this week, and one of the best stands will be set up at Campus Nissan!
The fundraising competition,The Big SQUEEZE, calls on businesses, restaurants, and community members to set up their own lemonade stands in support of youth across Vancouver Island, and features trophies for categories like ‘best decorated stand’, ‘most creative recipe’, and ‘best tasting lemonade’.
When: Saturday, August 24th, 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 pm
Lemonade by donation from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Free BBQ for customers from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
For the second year in a row, Uptown is hosting their annual Summer Market – a carefully curated event of only the best locally made goods Vancouver Island has to offer.
This all-day market promises to have Uptown buzzing as they’ve partnered with Crafted Farmhouse Market to bring tons of talented entrepreneurs and a unique shopping experience for everyone!
The First Peoples’ Cultural Council (FPCC) are hosting Indigifest, an Indigenous music, arts and culture festival at Esquimalt Gorge Park on the traditional territory of the Lekwungen peoples in Victoria, B.C.
The family-friendly, free-admission event will feature Indigenous musicians from across B.C. performing on two outdoor stages. Live musical performances will run from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. with main stage acts performing until 10 p.m.
The children’s playground is opening in memory of Cst. Sarah Beckett, a West Shore RCMP officer who died in the line of duty when her police cruiser was struck by a drunk driver in 2016.
The memorial park’s grand opening takes place between 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and will feature family entertainment, live music, a bouncy castle, face painting, a dunk tank, and more.
When: Saturday, August 24th, 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Where: Sarah Beckett Memorial Playground, 1089 Langford Parkway
Surfrider Vancouver Island and Raincoast Conservation Foundation have teamed up for an End of Summer Beach Clean Up at Ross Bay Pebbles Beach (across from Ross Bay cemetery). Their tents will be set up in the green space at Clover Point.
Bring your friends and family for a fun-filled afternoon. Dress accordingly and wear sun screen- this is an outdoor event.
Bolen Books is bringing their summer puzzle competition back by popular demand. Each team will be given the same Piatnik puzzle supplied by Autruche. More details will be provided via email to the competing teams.
To sign up, email your team name to: bolenspecialevents@gmail.com.
The Victoria Fringe Festival is an explosion of live performance, featuring 47 shows from around the globe, outdoor events for the whole family and late night programming in the Fringe Club.
When: Saturday, August 24th – Saturday, August 31st, 3 p.m. – 6 p.m.
The Vancouver Island Metal Festival returns once again. This year the event will span August 22nd through 25th, and will feature some of the best talent from Vancouver Island, British Columbia, and beyond.
When: Saturday, August 24th, 4 p.m. – 1 a.m.
Sunday, August 25th, 12 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Where: Saturday, Centennial Square between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m.; Logan’s Pub (1821 Cook St) between 9 p.m. and 1 a.m.
Sunday, Logan’s Pub
Mayfair Shopping Centre’s latest and greatest pop-up installation, where music’s greatest rebels and DIY denim fashion come together to form the ultimate celebration of all things rockin’.
You can pop by this pop-up located across from Aritzia Wednesday, August 21st through to September 1st and take part in one or all of the fun interactive workshops Mayfair will be holding.
When: August 21st – September 1st – open all mall hours
Where: Mayfair Shopping Centre, #221-3147 Douglas Street
On Sunday, August 25th, head down to Keating Cross Road for a massive vintage and classic car show, all in support of the BC Children’s Hospital.
Following last year’s successful fundraising event, over 200 unique vehicles will be in attendance for this year’s show, with even more unregistered cars expected to stop by.
When: Sunday, August 25th, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Where: Canamera Refrigerated Transport Inc., 2205 Keating Cross Road
Nestled among the trees and near the Township’s village core, the Esquimalt Arts Festival offers artists the opportunity to showcase their work in one of the region’s fastest growing arts and cultural centres.
With food vendors, music, and an artist’s walk, this Festival is designed to be an event for the whole family.
In partnership with the City of Victoria, One Yoga Victoria are bringing back Yoga in the Park. Every Sunday in July and August head over to Irving Park and flow in nature for FREE!
If you are curious about using high quality essential oils for health concerns, mood management, effective natural cleaning, personal care DIYs, beauty and more, this workshop is for you.
The instructor will dive into what your specific concerns are (classes are no more than 6 attendees) and I’ll show you how (and why) essential oils work so well for such a wide range of applications.
The Grand Opening of the Sarah Beckett Memorial Playground is happening Saturday, August 24th!
The children’s playground is opening in memory of Cst. Sarah Beckett, a West Shore RCMP officer who died in the line of duty when her police cruiser was struck by a drunk driver in 2016.
She is survived by her husband and two young children.
Cst. Sarah Beckett with her children Emmitt and Lucas Image: Facebook
The memorial park’s grand opening takes place between 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and will feature family entertainment, live music, a bouncy castle, face painting, a dunk tank, and more.
The playground, which was partially community funded, features two distinct sections, one designed for children aged 2-5 years old and one with equipment intended for 5-12 year olds.
A grand opening ceremony will also be hosted at 1:00 p.m., followed by speeches by Langford Mayor Stew Young, Premier John Horgan, and other special guests at 1:30 p.m.
Parking for the event will be available in the Belmont High School parking lot, located at 3041 Langford Lake Road.
A section of road between Belmont High School and the memorial playground will also be closed to traffic during the grand opening.
If approved, an estimated forecast of net bill changes over the next four years are as follows:
April 2020: decrease of 0.99 per cent
April 2021: increase of 2.7 per cent
April 2022: decrease of 0.3 per cent
April 2023: increase of 3 per cent
The net increase at the end of five years is estimated to be 6.2%, rather than the 8% originally announced price hike originally announced by the province in February.
BC Hydro’s application to the BCUC is based on its audited fiscal 2019 financial results and latest financial forecast that reflect higher-than-anticipated income from its trading subsidiary Powerex, lower-than-anticipated forecast debt financing costs, and lower-than-anticipated purchases from independent power producers (IPPs).
The BCUC is expected to make their decision in early 2020.
Top college athletes from across the United States will converge on Vancouver Island this fall to participate in Victoria’s first ever NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) Division Women’s basketball tournament.
The tournament will take place on November 28th – 30th, 2019, at UVic’s newly constructed CARSA (Centre for Athletics, Recreations, and Special Abilities) building, and will feature previous NCAA finalists like Mississippi State, Stanford, and Syracuse.
“We are thrilled to have the option to move our premium women’s event to such an outstanding facility at UVic,” said Brooks Downing, CEO of bdG Sports, the Kentucky-based event organizer in a statement.
“It’s a state-of-the-art, new facility that has played host to the Toronto Raptors training camp and will serve our teams and fans in a first-class fashion.”
Besides the previous finalists, the five other teams participating in the tournament including Houston, Green Bay, San Francisco, Bowling Green, and Cal Baptist.
“Our teams and their fans will absolutely fall in love with Victoria and all it has to offer,” said David Munro, a co-founder of the tournament.
“From the Butchart Gardens to the original Chinatown, from Victoria’s British roots to its stunning whale watching tours, this tournament will provide a unique experience for these teams, their friends, family and fans alike.”
The Victoria Invitational is just the second NCAA basketball tournament to come to Canada, with the first event taking place in Vancouver last year.
A retired Vancouver Island teacher has plans to buy new sails for a sailboat he’s building after winning a whopping $675,000 scratch-and-win grand prize on Thursday.
Patrick Shannon, from Nanoose Bay, was shocked to find he had won the Set for Life jackpot after purchasing a scratch and win ticket on a whim when he was filling up on gas.
Blue-green algae is a type of toxic algae that usually appears as a visible blue-green sheen. It can cause a range of symptoms, like headaches and abdominal pain in humans, and can lead to lethal liver damage in dogs.
The section of the lake remains closed to swimmers until lab tests determine acceptable levels of algae in the water.
One week later, on August 16th, Island Health and the CRD issued health advisory for the Hamsterly Beach area of Elk Lake.
Like the most recent advisory, water samples from this section of Elk Lake showed “bacteriological counts exceeding acceptable guideline limits”.
UPDATE: Beach Advisory Issued for Elk Lake – Water samples from Eagle and Hamsterly beaches at Elk/Beaver Lake show high levels of bacteria. It is not recommended for people or pets to enter the water. https://t.co/hb0mENGXP9#crdalert
A new online scam has cost multiple people thousands of dollars according to Victoria Police.
The scams involved con men asking victims for ‘Steam Wallet’ gift cards, which can be redeemed on Steam, an online video game service that sells PC games, similar to a brick-and-mortar EB games store.
Over the past month, VicPD received two reports of online scams that shared the unusual request of Steam gift cards.
In the first case, a Victoria resident was negotiating an online vehicle sale when they were convinced to also purchase a Steam Wallet gift card by scammers. The criminals were then able to convince the victim to share the number on the back of the gift cards they just purchased, thus compromising the value of the cards.
In the second case, scammers impersonated a local business operator and contacted one of the business’ employee’s through their work email.
They instructed the employee to purchase a large amount of gift cards, which did not immediately strike the employee as suspicious as the business often uses gift cards in their daily activities.
To help avoid detection, scammers then moved the discussion onto a text-based phone number.
However, the employee grew suspicious once the fraudsters requested that they purchase Steam Wallet and Google Play gift cards.
The employee then contacted the business operator directly and learned that the request was fraudulent. Police were then notified of the incident.
“Scammers like gift cards because they are similar to cash in that they are nearly untraceable,” said VicPD in a statement.
“While these two files feature Steam Wallet gift cards, we have seen gift card scams from many different retailers. Steam Wallet gift cards are unique in that they can only be used for Steam merchandise. If you are involved in an online transaction where you are asked to purchase Steam Wallet Gift Cards but does not involve video games or Steam merchandise it is likely a scam.”
According to VicPD, the combined loss of the two frauds was “well over $2000.”
How to protect yourself
To help protect yourself from online scams, VicPD recommends five different safety tips.
When conducting business online be wary of someone who needs you to buy a gift card before they purchase what you have for sale.
If you have purchased Steam Wallet gift cards but have not yet given the cards or the codes on the back of the cards to the scammer, do not scratch off or share the codes on the back of the cards. Call the police instead.
Scammers are good at convincing people to do things they wouldn’t normally do. A key technique is to create a sense of urgency, often by trying to convince you that the situation is an emergency. If the situation does not feel like an emergency to you, it is likely a scam.
If you are unsure if you are being scammed, do not buy the gift cards and call the police.
If you know you have been scammed, call the police.
As much as we’re sad to see the slow, sunny days of summer come to an end – fall is on the horizon, and with that, comes back to school!
The buzz around fall back to school shopping is real, and at Hillside Centre, they’ve got a little bit of everything so you can start checking all of this year’s ‘must-haves’ off of your list!
With over 100 shops and services including a spacious food court with 14 vendors, the recently renovated shopping centre is home to some great fashion retailers that will help get you out the door to the office or school in style.
Even better?
Starting Friday, August 23rd you have a chance to win a $1000 shopping spree to Hillside Centre. Get a real jump start on those fall back to school fashion picks – enter online or in-centre at Hillside!
On top of this, the good deals keep on coming! If you spend over $250 between August 23rd and September 15th, Hillside will give you a $25 gift card – because we all know how spendy fall back to school shopping can be, it’s always nice to get a little something back.
Pearkes Recreation Centre in Saanich is currently closed due to flooding.
According to the District of Saanich, the entire facility has been shut down until further notice after a water pipe broke in the mechanical room of the Saanich Centennial Library.
The break caused a large scale flood overnight. As of now, the water to the building has been shut off and crews are working to isolate the shut off and reopen the facility.
“Remediation assessments will take place in the areas of the library and Saanich Archives as soon as possible,” says the district in a statement.
The extent of damage is unknown at this point.
G.R. Pearkes Recreation Centre closed until further notice due to flood.
The extent of any damage is unknown at this point.
A bike thief in Langford was arrested on Wednesday after trying to steal an RCMP bait bike, and consequently trying to give police a fake name when he got caught.
The incident occurred in the West Shore Town Centre area of Langford, where West Shore RCMP left a high-end electric bicycle with a hidden GPS attached to it as bait for potential thieves.
After the bait bike was deployed, it was quickly scooped up by a would-be thief. Police were then able to track the bicycle with its hidden GPS and located the male suspect.
When officers moved to arrest the man, he first responded by giving police a fake name. Officers, however, were able to properly identify the man by conducting a fingerprint search.
The accused man turned out to be 49-year-old Trevor Thurston, who was then held in police custody until his court appearance on August 22nd.
He was charged with theft under $5000, obstructing a peace officer, and failure to comply with a previous recognizance.
“Police are using high tech tools to capture property crime offenders in the West Shore including deploying bait bikes and vehicles,” said Constable Alex Berube, Bike Unit West Shore RCMP in a statement.
“We will use all our resources and technology at West Shore RCMP to quickly apprehend criminals.”
There’s plenty to do in the city today, including free outdoor movies, free performances at the Vancouver Island Metal Festival, charity lemonade stands, and more!
Kick start your weekend with these 5 things to do in and around Victoria today.
Head down to any of Monk Office’s 9 locations on Vancouver Island to take part in their three day slime event! In-store events are only happening today and Friday.
Before the kids head to school they can make their own slimey concoction during a hands on workshop while you get back to school shopping done!
When: Monday, August 19th – Friday, August 24th
In-store events are only happening Wednesday and Friday.
Where: All 9 Monk Office Supply locations:
1200 Broad Street, Victoria
3335 Oak Street, Victoria
794 Fort Street, Victoria
Royal Oak Shopping Centre, 109-4430 West Saanich Road
Head down to the Cameron Bandshell at Beacon Hill Park for a free outdoor screening of the Robin Williams classic, Mrs. Doubtfire!
Mrs. Doubtfire follows the story of Daniel Hillard, who disguises himself as a feale Scottish nanny, Mrs. Doubtfire, to spend more time with his children following a recent divorce.
When: 8:30 p.m. to 10:35 p.m.
Where: Cameron Bandshell at Beacon Hill Park, Chestnut Row
Vancouver Island’s annual Metal Festival continues with the second day of its exciting three day run!
Free performances will kick off at 5:00 p.m. in Centennial Square for all-ages, plus a 19+ beverage garden. Then, at 9:00 p.m., adult only shows begin at Logan’s Pub, featuring 4 live metal bands.
When: All ages show begins at 5:00 p.m. | 19+ show begins at 9:00 p.m.
Where: Centennial Square | Logan’s Pub, 1821 Cook Street
The Big Squeeze is a two-day city-wide lemonade stand competition hosted by and in support of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Victoria.
Dozens of busineses, restaurants, and community members are taking part in the event with their own special lemonade (like raspberry lemonade, mint lemonade, etc.). On Friday, participating organizations include, Peach Beauty Bar, Clives Classic Lounge, Wellspring Support Inc, The Oswego Hotel, Victoria News, The Studio Design & Marketing, Brown’s Socialhouse, Vegan Hippie Chick Cafe, Roast Sandwich and Meat Shop, Silk Road Tea
When: 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Where: Across Victoria, locations can be found online here
Head down to Western Speedway for a wild Junkyard Rally Cross night!
The course will be filled with cars, small trucks, and SUVs flying through a course consisting of asphalt, wooden jumps, dirt jumps, and more. It’ll also be the first day of the Lordco Demo Cars/Trucks event, which will feature demo teams competing for $5000 in prizes.
Deadpool filmed at Hatley Castle (@vancityrenyolds / Instagram)
The beautiful and historic Hatley Castle in Colwood has just been ranked one of the top 10 best movie locations to visit in the world by travel website, The Travel.
Built over 100 years ago, Hatley Castle was first constructed in 1908, and has transitioned from a dormitory and mess hall for Royal Roads Military College Cadets to the new administrative centre for the current Royal Roads University.
The century-old castle has been featured in a number of movies and television series, like Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters in the X-Men movies and Deadpool films, Fox TV’s Bones, the CW’s Smallville, the 1980s classic MacGyver, and many many more.
“Used as the exterior for Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters in the X-Men series, Hatley Castle in British Columbia, Canada is an imposing structure that gave off an aura of majesty well before it made it’s movie debut back in 1996,” reads The Travel’s destination ranking.
“While the interior was not used during shooting, it is possible to walk around the castle and dreamily imagine receiving your invitation to study alongside some of the most memorable characters in comic book movie history.”
Colwood’s Hatley Castle ranked seventh out of the top 10 movie locations to visit on the list, and was the only Canadian destination to be featured.
The top three locations include Kualoa Ranch on the island of Hawaii, where Jurassic Park was filmed, Hobbiton from Lord of the Rings, New Zealand, and the UNESCO heritage site, Petra, in Jordan.
A full list of all top 10 movie locations around the world can be found online here.
While his pain is being controlled through medication for now, Fizz needs a total ear canal ablation and bulla osteotomy to remove the polyps and infected tissue – a surgery without which he will live in chronic pain for the rest of his life.
However the total cost of this complex surgery, examinations and medications is estimated to be $6,246. Once it is over, Fizz will also need at least six weeks to heal before going up for adoption.
“Fizz is a social butterfly who loves to snuggle with people and other cats,” says Leon Davis, manager, BC SPCA Nanaimo & District Branch.
“He’s helped timid cats and kittens who are new to the branch come out of their shell and start socializing with people. We nicknamed Fizz foster dad and therapy cat for under-socialized cats and kittens.”
Anyone who can help Fizz and other animals in need at Nanaimo SPCA should visit spca.bc.ca/medicalemergency or head over to the branch at 154 Westwood Rd, Nanaimo.
On Sunday, August 25th, head down to Keating Cross Road for a massive vintage and classic car show, all in support of the BC Children’s Hospital.
Following last year’s successful fundraising event, over 200 unique vehicles will be in attendance for this year’s show, with even more unregistered cars expected to stop by.
“We put on the first car show last year for a friend of Doug — who’s my partner — who had cancer, named John Buck,” said show organizer Ann Watley.
“It’s really important to Doug and the show that people understand that the show is put on because of John. We raised $11,000 last year for the BC Cancer Foundation. This year, we’re hopefully raising an excess of that for the BC Children’s Hospital.”
Besides exploring the rows of specialty vehicles, the car show will feature a silent auction, live music performed by local band Twelve O’Clock Rock, and food, drinks, cotton candy, ice cream, and more.
The car show stresses that all food purchases and car registration fees are entirely by donation, with all proceeds going towards the children’s hospital.
“We didn’t want to allow individual vendors because we wanted every dollar that we raise to go to the BC Children Hospital,” said Watley.
People who want to show off their vintage cars while also raising money for sick children still have time to register for the event!
Registration is quick and easy and can be completed by emailing carshowregcanameratransport@gmail.com. Once again, registration fees are entirely by donation, so it’s up to you how much you donate to participate in the event!
“It’s an everyone welcome family-friendly event,” said Watley.
“You don’t have to be a car person, we just want to support BC Children’s.”
(Stills from surveillance footage of Andrew Michael Sidor/Saanich Police)
Saanich Police no longer believe that a “suspicious” death that occurred last week was the result of foul play, according to an announcement made by the department today.
On Sunday, August 18th, Saanich Police initially reported that they were investigating the suspicious death of a Victoria man whose remains were discovered in the driveway of a residence at the intersection of Crease Avenue and Wascana Drive.
One day later, on August 19th, police released surveillance footage of the man, 30-year-old Andrew Michael Sidor, in hopes of finding objects that were on his person the last time he was seen, like a distinctive backpack.
By Tuesday, August 20th, police had located Sidor’s backpack and shoes and were still asking for any possible witnesses to come forward as they reconstructed his movements two days before his death.
Yet, two days later on August 22nd, investigators now say foul play is no longer suspected in Sidor’s passing.
Police have not released why their conclusion has changed, but have said that they have notified Sidor’s family of the incident.
“The Vancouver Island Major Crime Unit and the Saanich Police have determined that the death of Andrew Sidor did not involve foul play,” said Saanich Police in a statement.
“Police will not be commenting on the cause of death.”
Meanwhile, the BC Coroners Service has been called in to conduct their own investigation into Sidor’s death.
“Our condolences go out to Mr. Sidor’s family and friends during this emotional time,” said Detective Sgt. Damian Kowalewich, Saanich Police, in a statement.
“Warmth will be stubborn to retreat from Canada this autumn, delaying the first wave of cold air for some of the country’s most populated areas,” reads AccuWeather’s long-term forecast.
While lingering warm summer weather might be common across the country, extended heat in BC could be bad news for the province by potentially extending its wildfire season.
Though wildfires were less destructive this year than last, the beginning of summer saw large forest fires erupt across Western Canada.
“The fire season is far from done,” said AccuWeather Canadian Weather Expert Brett Anderson in a statement.
“We believe there may be a second surge in fire activity during the month of September from British Columbia to Saskatchewan.”
Fortunately, northern BC near the Yukon will likely be spared from the worst of the wildfire danger, with wet weather patterns planned for the region this fall.
While a chilly autumn might not sweep across Victoria as early as it has in years passed, the cold is sure to come.
Who else is excited for flannel sweaters, pumpkin patches, and Starbucks pumpkin spice lattes?
Victoria’s Big Brothers & Big Sisters is holding a city-wide lemonade stand competition this week, and one of the best stands will be set up at Campus Nissan!
The fundraising competition,The Big SQUEEZE, calls on businesses, restaurants, and community members to set up their own lemonade stands in support of youth across Vancouver Island, and features trophies for categories like ‘best decorated stand’, ‘most creative recipe’, and ‘best tasting lemonade’.
Happening on Saturday, August 24th, Campus Nissan will also be hosting a free BBQ from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. – so you can grab some eats while you sample fresh lemonade!
While dozens of great Victoria organizations are participating in the philanthropic competition, Campus Nissan’s lemonade stand is definitely one to check out first!
The locally owned and operated dealership, which has been in the Graham family for over 35 years, is hosting their own lemonade stand on Saturday to help support youth across the island.
The competition also coincides with theCampus Nissan’s Flash Sale, which runs from Wednesday to Monday, August 21st to 26th!
We are proud to be participating in this very cool event again this year 🍋The Big Squeeze! is a city-wide lemonade…
“Big Brothers Big Sisters is special to Campus because they support young people in our community who find themselves in vulnerable situations with little to no support,” staff told Victoria Buzz.
“Through the BBBS mentorship program, Victoria youth have the opportunity to gain the tools and confidence to achieve their goals and live happier lives!”
The Flash Sale offers deals up to $6,000 off brand new Nissan vehicles, whether they’re the all-around budget-friendly cars that are great for families, their premium safety line of SUVs and trucks, or range of affordable 100% electric vehicles.
This weekend’s the perfect time to try out some delicious lemonade in support of local youth and while checking out the crazy flash sale deals at Victoria’s Campus Nissan!
As summer begins to transition into fall, don’t miss your chance to enjoy one more frozen treat at a discount price from any Starbucks franchise location across Canada!
One Vancouver Islander may be in for some great news today.
According to the BC Lottery Corporation, a Lotto 6/49 ticket purchased in Nanaimo has matched all six numbers in the Wednesday, August 21st draw, meaning that the owner of this ticket has won a hefty $5 million.
The wildly popular Aritzia Warehouse Sale is returning once more, the 2019 version taking place at the Vancouver Convention Centre.
Beginning on Wednesday, August 28th and running until Monday, September 2nd, the much-anticipated sale will take place from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m between Wednesday and Saturday, and then 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday and Monday.
Not only will the event feature discounts of 50% to 90% off the original retail cost, shoppers can expect to see a constant rotation of new stock coming in daily throughout the duration of the sale.
Brands such as Wilfred, TNA, Babaton, and Talula will be featured along with their slashed prices, with clothing from the retailer’s Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter collections.
(Image / Aritzia)
Aritzia urges shoppers to get there early to snag their spot in line, as they expects hundreds of people to the sale each year!
Also, if you happen to see something you like, just grab it! There will be no back stock, so you don’t want to miss out on those must-haves that you may only have one chance at.
Dressing rooms are communal, and as with previous years, there will be a bag check at the door, so go light with your luggage (or don’t bring any at all!).
The Aritzia Warehouse Sale accepts cash, debit, and credit.
(Rebelle Rebelle - Mayfair Shopping Centre / Photo by Luke Liable)
Do it for the ‘gram!
If you’re in need of some funky fall fashion info, are a lover of all things denim and have a soft spot for the rock n’ roll era, look no further.
Mayfair Shopping Centre’s latest and greatest pop-up installation, where music’s greatest rebels and DIY denim fashion come together to form the ultimate celebration of all things rockin’.
(Rebelle Rebelle – Mayfair Shopping Centre / Photo by Luke Liable)
Aptly named Rebelle Rebelle, you can pop-by this pop-up located across from Aritzia Wednesday, August 21st through to September 1st and take part in one or all of the fun interactive workshops Mayfair will be holding, including:
Create and decorate your own denim patch with The MakeHouse – all materials will be provided! Saturday, August 24th from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and Wednesday, August 28th from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Visit Sparkle Shack to recieve a complimentary airbrush tattoo – Thursday, August 29th from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Monogramming by The Print Doctor – This event is BYOD – Bring Your Own Denim piece that you’d like to have embroidered – make your denim truly yours with complimentary drop-in – Friday, August 30th from 2:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
MakeHouse designers Jenny Ambrose, Tanya King and Shayna Ward will come in on a rotating basis – stop by and watch a re-purposed denim creations come to life right before your eyes! Happening at various times from August 24tth – August 30th.
(Rebelle Rebelle – Mayfair Shopping Centre / Photo by Luke Liable)
Hands-on workshops and more
On top of the hands-on workshops, there will also be tons of Instagrammable photo-ops, a rock n’ roll lounge playing non-stop music videos from the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s, and even listening booths playing a curated collection of hits from the decades.
Share your pictures at Rebelle Rebelle on Instagram using #RebelleMayfair for a chance to win a $1,000 shopping spree AND a personal style session with resident stylist Jodi Bryans – just make sure you tag @MayfairShopping in your post!
(Rebelle Rebelle – Mayfair Shopping Centre / Photo by Luke Liable)
Even better?
Save your receipts, and Mayfair will give you another reason to celebrate! During the Rebelle Rebelle installation, if you spend $250 on apparel, accessories, or footwear, you’ll receive a $20 Mayfair Centre gift card.
You rock, we’ll roll.. see you there?
(Rebelle Rebelle – Mayfair Shopping Centre / Photo by Luke Liable)
**CONTEST CLOSED – Congrats to Carla Rempel!
For a chance to WIN a $100 Mayfair gift card, complete one or more of the following:
SHARE this post on Facebook and/or Twitter and leave a comment below telling us once you have. (1 entry)
Contest entries will be accepted from time and date of publishing until 11:59 p.m. PST on August 29th, 2019. One winner will be chosen at random and contacted through the platform they enter within 24 hours of the contest closing. Good luck!
A new high-friction road coating has been applied to four high-collision intersections along Highway 17 in Saanich with the goal of reducing rear-end collisions.
The surfacing treatment was applied by an automated truck-mounted machine using a specialized aggregate, and resin to help vehicles come to a full stop more quickly.
This $3.9-million project is part of a suite of changes to address rising ICBC insurance claim costs.
The four intersections along the Pat Bay Highway include Elk Lake Drive, Sayward Road and Mt. Newton Cross Road, as well as the southbound lane at Cloverdale Avenue.
These road coatings were also applied to ten high-collision locates in the Lower Mainland.
After a summer of controversy surrounding Remembrance Day policing costs in the City of Victoria, two councillors have proposed a new way to commemorate war veterans for the 100th anniversary of Armistice Day.
At a council meeting on August 8th, councillors Marianna Alto and Charlayne Thornton-Joe have filed a motion to examine the costs associated with creating medallions that say “Lest We Forget” and installing them on city streets.
In their motion, the councillors note that the original plan in 1921 was to plant one London Plane tree for every BC soldier lost in the First World War all along what is now Shelbourne Street, and to call that street ‘Memorial Avenue’.
“Given the high numbers of lost soldiers not all of the trees were planted and the proposed name was never implemented,” reads the motion.
“Over the years some of the trees have been lost as Shelbourne Street has been widened, and as a result the historical significance of the trees has been diminished.”
They go on to highlight the fact that in 2018, the District of Saanich designed medallions with ‘Memorial Ave’ and ‘Lest We Forget’ on them, and mounted them on top of existing street signs and some traffic signs along Shelbourne Street in Saanich.
Now, to mark the centennial of Armistice Day (a precursor to Remembrance Day), the councillors hope to install these medallions across municipality lines in Victoria, along both sides of Shelbourne Street from Bay Street to North Dairy Road.
To this end, they have asked city staff to examine the costs and resource implications of creating and installing these medallions, as well as hosting an event to mark the installations in the week prior to November 11, 2019.
Staff is expected to report back on their findings at a Committee of the Whole meeting on September 5th.
The start of September will see the addition of extended late-night service hours for BC Transit buses.
Starting September 3rd, the following bus schedules will be extended by one hour at night:
4 UVic/Downtown
6 Downtown/Royal Oak Exchange
14 UVic/Vic General
15 Esquimalt/UVic
27 Gordon Head/Downtown
28 Majestic/Downtown
50 Langford/Downtown
Additionally, BCTransit and the Victoria Regional Transit Commission have also announced service changes and improvements for several other routes, including:
26 Dockyard/UVic: service frequency improvements (all service days)
32 Royal Oak/Cordova Bay: weekend frequency improvements
39 Westhills/Interurban/Royal Oak/UVic: service frequency improvements (all days)
“These service improvements are a direct result of the growing ridership numbers we are seeing in our region. By making public transit a safe and convenient option, we anticipate those numbers to grow even more, said Susan Brice, Chair of Victoria Regional Transit Commission, in a statement.
To help keep up with this rise in ridership demand, there will be eight new heavy-duty buses added to the fleet.
Route 14 Vic General/UVic will remain on detour using the Johnson Street Bridge until further notice. Route 10 James Bay/Royal Jubilee will remain on detour until construction is complete.
As the school session begins, transit buses servicing post-secondary and secondary schools will return to their regular schedules.
Victoria Police have issued a warning to residents to keep their bicycles locked up as there has been a rise in thefts of late.
They say a bike trailer and 10 bikes were reported stolen to them within a 24 hour period.
The bikes were reported stolen from neighbourhoods across Victoria.
Police said there is nothing to indicate that these thefts are linked, but are reminding bicycle owners to lock their bikes with heavy duty locks, and when possible take them inside.
If you keep your bike in your garage, a shed or a storage locker you are asked to please check on it and ensure it is secured.
It is highly recommended to register your bike into the free VicPD bike registry.
Any cyclists who ride in Victoria or Esquimalt are welcomed to register their bikes. For more information, please visit vicpd.ca/bike.
The Victoria Fringe Festival is in full swing, and the Summer Bucket List is just one of many awesome shows going on today!
The Summer Bucket List revolves around two best friends on a celebration of summer, girlhood, and female rage. “As they check off each item they uncover difficult truths about themselves and the women in their lives,” reads the play description.
When: 6:45 p.m. to 8:15 p.m.
Where: Blue Bridge Repertory Theatre, 2657 Quadra Street
Vancouver Island’s annual Metal Festival returns today to kick off its exciting three day run!
The festival starts at 5:00 p.m. in Centennial Square for all-ages performance plus a 19+ beverage garden. Then, at 9:00 p.m., adult only shows begin at Logan’s Pub, featuring 4 live metal bands.
When: All ages show begins at 5:00 p.m. | 19+ show begins at 9:00 p.m.
Where: Centennial Square | Logan’s Pub, 1821 Cook Street
Thursdays in the summer can only mean one thing, it’s time for the Sidney Street Market!
Open every Thursday night until the end of August, join nearly 5,000 people as they walk the streets of Sidney browsing local baked goods, produce, jewelry, live music, and more.
Head down to the Bateman Foundation Gallery of Nature for a FREE presentation on the many species of BC’s bats.
Many bats in the province are endangered, and speakers will highlight current projects on Vancouver Island that are working to protect the animals. The presentation will begin with a drink reception hosted by Spinnakers Brewpub.
When: 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Where: Bateman Foundation Gallery of Nature, 470 Belleville Stree
Don’t miss Esquimalt’s huge seasonal outdoor Farmer’s Market!
The market helps support local growers and producers who use environmentally sound farming practices and helps build connections within the community. And of course, the food is tasty, local, and fresh!
For over a century and a half, the Saanich Fair has been a staple for Western Canada, and this year will be no different.
This agricultural fair is about to enter its 151st year during Labour Day weekend.
Between August 31st and September 2nd, the Saanich Fairground at 1528 Stellys Cross Rd will once again be transformed into a wonderland for all ages as the Saanich Fair returns to Vancouver Island.
And with it, the tradition of Victoria Buzz giveaways continues, as one lucky follower has a chance to win a whopping $350 prize package to the Saanich Fair this year.
The 3-day event will feature performers and headliners including Canadian rock band Prism on Saturday night, and April Wine on Sunday night.
True to its agrarian roots, the fair will also showcase up to 27 types of farm animals, from chickens to alpacas, and everything in between.
As always, the festivities will be augmented by its extensive midway rides section featuring fan favourites like the Carousel, Tilt-a-Whirl, Hurricane, and for more experienced fair enthusiasts, the Zipper!
Fair admission tickets are available on the Saanich Fair website for $14 or they can be purchased at the gate. Kids and seniors get in for $8.50. Children under 6 get in for free.
Presale midway ride wristbands will be available for $32 at the Saanich Fair office until August 29th.
** CONTEST CLOSED ** Congratulations to Samantha Fischer!
However, one lucky winner has a chance to snag this mega prize pack that’ll cover all their Saanich Fair needs.
Our prize pack, worth $350, includes 4 entry passes, 4 all day midway passes for the rides from West Coast Amusement, and 4 meals (chicken strips, fries, and a drink).
Here’s how you can enter to win:
LIKE Saanich Fair on Facebook and comment below to let us know (1 entry)
FOLLOW Saanich Fair on Instagram and comment below to let us know (1 entry)
SHARE this article on Facebook and/or Twitter and comment below to let us know (1 entry)
The winner will be drawn on Wednesday, August 28th. Good luck!
Victoria firefighters are working to extinguish a hydro pole fire that broke out this afternoon.
At around 3:20 p.m., a hydro pole caught fire in the 500 block of Bay Street, prompting Victoria Fire Department to attend the high traffic road.
Police are assisting the fire department in maintaining traffic control and advise commuters to expect delays in the area.
Sources say that power in the area has been out for 30 minutes.
Our Officers are currently assisting @VictoriaFire730 with traffic control as a @bchydro pole is on fire in the 500-block of Bay Street. Expect traffic delays #yyjtraffic
At first glance, the currency looks legitimate enough that merchants accept them as legal tender, allowing the scammer to walk away with the fraudulent purchase and real money as change.
To raise awareness, police have released a series of photos depicting what these fake $100 bills look like.
In the first close up image, you can see where the transparent areas have been cut out of legitimate bills of lesser value, and then taped or glued into a forged bill:
(Saanich Police)
Another close up of the vertical transparent panel clearly shows the number 10 repeated throughout. If it was a legitimate $100 bill, that number would be 100:
(Saanich Police)
In the third image, the transparent maple leaf has clearly been cut out and adhered to the bill:
Victoria Police are seeking the public’s assistance in locating missing 30-year-old woman, Angelina Brown.
Brown was first noticed missing on August 19th, 2019, and was officially reported missing to VicPD on August 20th, 2019.
Police say that while investigators have not found any direct indication that she is in danger, the “circumstances of her disappearance are high-risk.”
Now, her family, community, and VicPD officers are worried for her well-being.
Brown is described as a 30-year-old Indigenous woman who stands 5’ 6” and weighs approximately 160 pounds. She has brown hair and brown eyes.
Anyone who sees her or has information about her whereabouts is asked to call 911 immediately.
Available on both Android and iOS, Lucky To Go connects users with drivers from enrolled taxi fleets in Victoria to help find the quickest and closest ride available.
According to Lucky To Go, eligible drivers will be able to use their own independent vehicles – not just taxis – to provide ride-sharing services to users come September.
Like Uber and Lyft, the app will calculate users’ fare, track the driver’s position using GPS navigation, let you instantly view your invoice and rate your ride.
Meanwhile, registered drivers can view users’ details before deciding to accept a ride, and can rate their passengers at the end of the trip.
On its launch day last week, Lucky To Go had 70 registered drivers and over 150 app downloads. Since then, user downloads have skyrocketed, which is why the ride hook-up app is looking for more qualified drivers in the city!
How to apply
“We have opened our services for any registered taxi service and driver with an appropriate license,” Mandeep Rana, founder of Lucky To Go, told Victoria Buzz last week.
“They have to have a Class 4 license and the driver has to submit proper documentation that supports the fact that [they’re] a cab company driver.”
To apply as a driver, applicants that meet the Passenger Transportation Board’s (PTB) requirements can complete an application through the Lucky To Go Driver mobile app.
PTB certified applicants must:
Be 19 years of age or older
Have a Class 4 BC driver’s license
Pass a criminal record check
Have a minimum one year of safe driving experience.
If you’re interested in driving but aren’t already registered with the PTB, don’t worry, you can still apply to Lucky To Go!
Drivers without a commercial license can submit their applications to Lucky To Go through the email ‘application@AdModmedia.com’ — with the ride-hailing service offering to cover applicant’s Class 4 driver’s licensing fees!
While Lucky To Go currently only connects users with taxi drivers, the company plans on transitioning to a full fledged ride hailing app, much like Uber, once the province legalizes ride-sharing in BC.
Once ride-sharing services are available in BC, Lucky To Go will be one of the only services that allows customers to choose their preferred driver, whether they are drivers associated with a taxi service or an independent driver.
Victoria Police are urging people to check their banking information if they have used the ATM at 812 Wharf Street after an ATM skimmer was found there.
Staff at the Tourist Information Centre by Victoria’s Inner Harbour called police after a passerby noticed what looked like a suspicious device attached to the card input at the ATM located there.
Once the device was turned over to police, officers instantly recognized it as an ATM skimmer, which is an attachment that collects card numbers and PIN codes, which are then replicated into counterfeit cards.
ATM skimmers are often deployed with a camera to record potential victims entering their PINs, however officers did not locate a camera in the area.
The ‘wiggle’ test
“It is not known at this time how long the skimmer was at the ATM, or how many cards may be impacted,” says VicPD in a statement.
“If you used the ATM at 812 Wharf Street, you are urged to check your banking information and report any suspicious transactions to your financial services provider immediately and report the incidents by calling our non-emergency line at (250) 995-7654.”
As a way to test whether an ATM has a skimmer attached to it, police recommend the ‘wiggle’ test, where you gently wiggle the card receptacle after inserting your card at an ATM.
If the receptacle is loose or comes free, it is probably a skimmer, in which case you should notify the owner and call police.
Environmental conservationists working with BC Parks are hoping to bring a rare species of butterfly back to its original habitat off of Vancouver Island coasts.
Conservation specialist Erica McClaren has been working with the province on a butterfly restoration project since Spring 2015 with the goal of releasing hundreds of rare Taylor’s checkerspot larvae onto Hornby Island and the surrounding areas in 2020.
The Taylor’s checkerspot butterfly used to roam throughout southern Vancouver Island, but disappeared in the early 1990s due to habitat loss from urban development and an overabundant deer population.
Since then, the rare butterfly can only be found on private land in the Courtenay area and on nearby Denman Island.
“It’s really exciting to help the recovery of a species,” said Erica McClaren in a statement.
“We’ve been spending five years getting the habitat ready for butterflies to come back and I think it’s time to throw them out there.”
To help prepare Hornby Island’s Helliwell Provincial Park for the butterfly’s return, the provincial conservation team has been clearing conifers and invasive plants in the area and replaced them with plants that provide food and nectar for caterpillars and adult butterflies.
Depending on how the larvae release goes next Spring, similar conservation efforts could be introduced to Vancouver Island in areas where Taylor’s checkerspots have not been seen for nearly 30 years.
“You don’t want to put them back into an area where they are destined for failure,” said McClaren.
“Hopefully this will give another location where Taylor’s checkerspot can exist, so it buffers their population from possibly being extirpated from B.C.”
(Sidney/North Saanich RCMP - Victoria Emergency Photography)
Two men have now been arrested after an Oak Bay man was robbed at gunpoint in his own home last Wednesday.
According to police, the two suspects entered the victim’s residence on the 2000 block of Oak Bay Ave and tried to sell him a number of items.
When the victim refused, the suspects allegedly pulled out what appeared to be a 9 mm handgun and stole several items from the man’s apartment, including a credit card and debit card.
The suspect wielding the gun then remained with the victim in his residence while the other used the victim’s debit card to withdraw money from an ATM.
Shortly after the robbery occurred, Oak Bay Police located and arrested one suspect and were confident that the second arrest would occur in the “very near future”.
Now, less than a week after the incident was reported to police, Sidney RCMP have located and arrested the second suspect without incident.
While the offenses differ slightly between the two men, charges against them include robbery while using a firearm, possession of a restricted weapon while prohibited from doing so, uttering threats, theft of a bank card, and failure to comply with previous conditions.
Police had initially released the names and ages of the suspects but rescinded the information after learning that there is a publication ban on this case.
“We don’t know the rationale for [the publication ban],” said Oak Bay Police Deputy Chief Ray Bernoties in a statement. “We have just been advised.”
Back to school season may be just around the corner, but you’ve still got time to squeeze in a few more binge-watching sessions!
With a medley of new action, adventure, comedy, horror, classics – you name it – coming to Netflix next month, it’ll be difficult to stay away from the streaming platform.
Victoria police have arrested a man who allegedly abducted his daughter, took her to Indonesia, and left her with her relatives there.
According to VicPD Cst Matt Rutherford, Brent Erskine was arrested on Monday, August 19th upon his return to Canada at the Victoria International Airport.
Erskine appeared in court on Tuesday and was charged with abduction in contravention of custody order and disobeying a court order, before being released from custody.
Background
On July 8th, police responded to a child custody case in which they learned that the father, Brent Erskine, had taken his 4-year-old daughter Samantha to Vancouver on June 30th.
This vacation had been arranged between Erskine and the child’s mother, Agustina Wulandar, who are no longer together.
Samantha was supposed to be returned to Wulandar in Victoria a week later, but when communications between Wulandar and Erskine changed, she grew concerned and called police.
This prompted a VicPD investigation in which officers determined that Erskine travelled with Samantha to Jakarta, Indonesia.
(Samantha Erskine/VicPD)
Through the efforts of family and the police, Samantha was dropped off with maternal family members in Indonesia.
After leaving Samantha with her maternal family members, Erskine travelled to Singapore to obtain a Visa, after which VicPD Major Crimes Unit urged him to turn himself in at a Canadian embassy.
“We currently working on getting Samantha home, and are planning a more detailed release in the coming days,” Cst Rutherford told Victoria Buzz.
Schedules for the 2019 draft, rookie, and main training camps for the Victoria Royals were officially announced yesterday, set to take place at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre.
The Royals’ Draft Camp is first up on the docket, open on Thursday for players selected in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft.
The Rookies Camp – whose rosters will consist of players born in 2003 and 2004, skaters who have been drafted or listed by the Royals and free agent invites – starts Saturday, August 24th and concludes on Monday, August 26th.
The Royals’ 2018-19 roster, free agent invitees born from 1999-2002 and selected players from this year’s draft and rookie camps will make up the Main Camp – these players will be divided into three teams, and will play on-ice sessions that take place on August 27th and August 28th.
This year’s training camp will see the Royals honouring three past Victoria hockey franchises to celebrate the city’s long history of the sport – the former Victoria Cougars, Salmon Kings, and Aristocrats.
The Royals’ Training Camp will finish off with an Intra-Squad game on Thursday, August 29th at 7:05 p.m – admission to the bout will be by donation with general admission seating.
Victoria Royals’ 2019 Training Camp Schedule
ROOKIE CAMP
Saturday, August 24th
12:30-4:00 p.m. – Team Practices
4:30-6:00 p.m. – Cougars vs. Aristocrats
Sunday, August 25th
10:00-11:00 a.m. – Goalie Session
11:15 a.m.-12:45 p.m. – Aristocrats vs. Salmon Kings
2:00-3:30 p.m. – Cougars vs. Salmon Kings
4:00-5:30 p.m. – Aristocrats vs. Cougars
Monday, August 26th
8:45-9:45 a.m. – Goalie Session
10:00-11:30 a.m. – Cougars vs. Salmon Kings
11:45 a.m.-1:15 p.m. – Aristocrats vs. Salmon Kings
MAIN CAMP
Tuesday, August 27th
9:00-11:45 a.m. – Team Practices
12:30-1:30 p.m. – Goaltender Session
2:00-3:30 p.m. – Aristocrats vs. Salmon Kings
3:45-5:15 p.m. – Salmon Kings vs. Cougars
5:30-7:00 p.m. – Cougars vs. Aristocrats
Wednesday, August 28th
9:30-11:00 a.m. – Practice
12:30-1:30 p.m. – Goaltender Session
2:00-3:30 p.m. – Salmon Kings vs. Aristocrats
3:45-5:15 p.m. – Aristocrats vs. Cougars
5:30-7:00 p.m. –Cougars vs. Salmon Kings
Thursday, August 29th
7:05 p.m. – Royals’ Blue vs. White Intra-Squad Game
According to Thompson’s Facebook post, the driver of the vehicle that hit the raccoon did stop to check on the animal, but he had run off already.
In the case of the collision between the cyclist and the SUV ‘tow strap’, Thompson was initially unaware of what had occurred until a fellow Facebook commenter filled them in on the incident.
The cyclist involved in the collision was taken to the hospital with potentially life threatening injuries on Sunday afternoon.
From a concert by the legendary “Weird Al” Yankovic to an awesome Monk Office Back to School Slime extravaganza, here are 5 things to do in and around Victoria today.
Head down to any of Monk Office’s 9 locations on Vancouver Island to take part in their three day slime event! In-store events are only happening today and Friday.
Before the kids head to school they can make their own slimey concoction during a hands on workshop while you get back to school shopping done!
When: Monday, August 19th – Friday, August 24th
In-store events are only happening Wednesday and Friday.
Where: All 9 Monk Office Supply locations:
1200 Broad Street, Victoria
3335 Oak Street, Victoria
794 Fort Street, Victoria
Royal Oak Shopping Centre, 109-4430 West Saanich Road
Rock comedy legend Weird Al Yankovic is ready to take centre stage at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre tonight as part of his “Strings Attached” North America tour! The performance is described as a “high-energy, rock and comedy show featuring costumes, props, a video wall, and – for the first time – a full orchestra.”
When: 8:00 p.m. until late
Where: Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre, 1925 Blanshard Street
The 33rd annual Victoria Fringe festival kicks off today in Centennial Square with its classic Fringe Eve Preview!
The preview will showcase nearly all 47 live performances with explosive 2 minute previews. The festival preview will also feature a popup box office for you to pick up tickets to your favourite shows, plus food and a beer garden from great local eateries, breweries, and cideries!
Head down to the Oaklands Community Centre for its weekly evening market full of local farmers, artisans, jewelers, food trucks, live music, and a beer garden!
Today’s musical headliners include Nick Mintenko Music and Dryspell.
When: 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Oaklands Community Centre, 2827 Belmont Avenue
A major new student housing project at the University of Victoria has received preliminary approval from Saanich council.
At a Special Council meeting on August 19th, the district spoke in favour of of the university building one 8-storey and one 11-storey building for student housing.
This would create 783 student housing beds, with 162 of them replacing existing beds and 621 creating additional capacity. The development variance permit application also requested the addition of a temporary dining facility.
The proposed site is currently occupied by the Cadboro Commons Building, the Margaret Newton student residence and the Emily Carr student residence, and includes surrounding green space.
Building 1 is proposed to include a 600 seat dining hall, a servery and commercial kitchen with 398 student housing beds on the upper floors. It has a proposed height of 6-storeys at Ring Road (University Drive) and steps up to a-storeys to the east.
The second building is proposed to include two 225 seat academic classrooms, a banquet hall, meeting rooms and 385 student housing beds.
It is proposed to be 11-storeys and if approved, would be the tallest building on the University’s campus.
The BC government announced in November 2018 that it will contribute financing of $123 million toward the total cost of approximately $201 million.
Rock comedy legend “Weird Al” Yankovic” is ready to take centre stage at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre on Wednesday August 21st, to bring you some of his greatest hits live in concert.
Victoria is one of the stops on Weird Al’s 64-city “Strings Attached” North America tour, described as a “high-energy, rock and comedy show featuring costumes, props, a video wall, and – for the first time – a full orchestra.”
The Grammy award winning artist’s last tour – called the “Ridiculously Self-Indulgent, Ill-Advised Vanity Tour” in 2018 – was meant for his most hardcore fans and featured a set list of non-parody album tracks.
“I wanted to follow up my most bare-bones tour ever with my most elaborate and extravagant tour ever,” said Al, in a press release. “We’re pulling out all the stops for this one.”
Best known for parodies like “Eat It,” “Like A Surgeon,” “Smells Like Nirvana,” “Amish Paradise,” “White & Nerdy,” and “Tacky”, Al recently received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
He will also be performing in Vancouver, Abbotsford, and Calgary, as well as 61 cities in the U.S.
Here are “Weird Al” Yankovic’s tour dates in Canada:
Monday, August 19 – Vancouver, BC – Queen Elizabeth Theatre
Wednesday, August 21 – Victoria, BC – Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre
Thursday, August 22 – Abbotsford, BC – Abbotsford Centre
Saturday, August 24 – Calgary, AB – Jack Singer Concert Hall
(Stills from surveillance footage of Andrew Michael Sidor/Saanich Police)
With help from the public, Saanich Police have been able to find a pair of shoes and backpack belonging to 30-year-old Victoria man Andrew Michael Sidor.
Sidor was found deceased in the driveway of a home at Crease Avenue and Wascana Drive in Saanich on Saturday, August 17th.
On Monday, police identified his body and stated that his family has been notified of his death.
They also released photos from surveillance footage in which Sidor was seen carrying a backpack and wearing white, or light coloured, lace up runners.
Because these items were not initially located, police released an appeal to the public to help them find them – an appeal that resulted in the missing backpack and shoes being found in the area.
“Support from the community has been tremendous and we want to thank all
those who have taken the time to contact us” said Sgt. Julie Fast.
According to the latest update, investigators are still working to reconstruct Sidor’s movements over the two days prior to his death.
However, they are still looking for more information from any witnesses who may have seen or heard anything.
VIIMCU’s Information Line is 250-380-6211, or to remain anonymous, call Crime
Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
BC’s Passenger Transportation Board (PTB) has just announced a new round of strict regulations for Transportation Network Service (TNS) companies, like Lyft and Uber, in the province.
They include information on pricing, operating regions, and fleet size.
According to the PTB, ride-sharing companies must charge the same minimum rate for rides as taxi companies charge, but have no limit on maximum rates.
The ability to increase rates is designed to encourage ride-share drivers to operate during peak hours, which offers more availability for people in need of a ride.
Meanwhile, the PTB have set no size maximum for TNS fleet sizes. While a limit may be introduced later, the PTB is allowing for ride-sharing companies to grow their fleet sizes as much as possible when the service is introduced in the province later this year.
Lastly, the PTB announced the regions that ride-sharing companies are allowed to operate in throughout the province.
When the service launches, drivers will be allowed to pick up passengers in one of five regions across the province and drop them off anywhere else.
The five regions are:
Lower Mainland, Whistler
Metro Vancouver
Fraser Valley
Squamish-Lillooet
Capital
Capital Regional District
Vancouver Island, excluding CRD
Cowichan Valley
Nanaimo
Comox Valley
Alberni-Clayoquot
Strathcona
Mt. Waddington
Qathet (Powell River)
Okanagan-Kootenay Boundary-Cariboo
Okanagan-Similkameen
Central Okanagan
North Okanagan
Kootenay Boundary
Shuswap Cariboo
Thompson-Nicola
Columbia
BC North Central & other regions of BC
Fraser-Fort George
Bulkey Nechako
Kitimat-Stikine
Peace River
Northern Rockies
North Coast
Island Trust
Sunshine Coast
The operating regions have caused some complaints by taxi drivers on the Lower Mainland, who have much smaller operating zones.
For example, a taxi driver in Surrey is unable to work in other municipalities in Vancouver due to existing boundaries, while ride-sharing drivers are able to operate throughout Metro Vancouver.
Meanwhile, TNS companies are not entirely pleased with the PTB’s new round of regulations.
“We appreciate the Passenger Transportation Board’s decision to establish an innovative model that does not include municipal boundaries and caps at this time,” said Lyft BC General Manager Peter Lukomskyj in a statement.
“While we are disappointed that the regulations do not include a provincial boundary, we are pleased that large geographic regions were taken into account.”
The PTB will be accepting TNS company applications starting September 3rd, 2019. Ride- sharing services could then be introduced in BC by the end of the year.
Officers from VicPD have seized a plethora of drugs, replica firearms, and over $50,000 in cash.
On July 8th, Victoria Police and Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team officers teamed up to execute a search warrant of a residence in the 600-block of Manchester Avenue on July 8th, 2019.
The warrant was obtained as a result of weeks of investigation into reports of drug trafficking.
Once at the residence, police seized heroin, cocaine including crack cocaine, cannabis, methamphetamine, and fentanyl.
They also seized several replica firearms, cartons of illegal cigarettes, a stun baton, and over $50,000 in cash.
However the case remains under investigation and no arrests have been made yet.
Anyone with information about drug trafficking in their community, is asked to contact VicPD’s non-emergency line at (250) 995-7654. To report what you know anonymously, please call Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
We know where your next family outing needs to be!
From now until October 14th, Montana’s BBQ & Bar is giving away 5 FREE kids meals to guests dining at their establishments across Canada, as long as they donate $5 to the Boys & Girls Club of Canada.
Everyone who donates will also practically get their money back in the form of a $5 gift card for Toys R Us.
“We’re very happy to provide our guests with this great opportunity to join us in supporting Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada,” says Grant Cobb, president, Montana’s. “Everyone benefits when money goes to a great cause and our guests are rewarded for giving back.”
Kids visiting Montana’s can choose between some of their menu highlights including Scoobi Doo Noodles, Ooey Gooey Grilled Cheese, Chicken Bites, The New Beef Burger and Pork Back Ribs, along with other mains, sides, drinks and desserts.
The 5 free kids meals can be availed any time from now until January 31st, 2020.
Funds raised by this campaign will go towards supporting youth employment and mentoring through a unique program called Skilled4Success (S4S), delivered at Boys and Girls Clubs across the country.
Montana’s has two locations on Vancouver Island, one of which is next to Tillicum Shopping Centre at 315 Burnside Rd W.
The second is in Nanaimo, at 4715 Rutherford Road.
