Join our community of SUBSCRIBERS and be part of the conversation.
To subscribe, simply enter your email address on our website or click the subscribe button below. Don't worry, we respect your privacy and won't spam your inbox. Your information is safe with us.
Victorians who plan on taking a ferry trip this summer may want to snap a picture while they’re on deck for BC Ferries’ #FerryHair contest!
The contest asks passengers to share their best photos of their hair blowing in the salty sea air while on a ferry for a chance to win a $25 BC Ferries Gift Certificate towards the onboard Passages gift shop.
The contest runs from now until September 27th, 2019, with winners being drawn every other Friday until the closing date.
To enter into the contest, participants must share their original photo and tag @BCFerries while using the hashtag #FerryHair on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. The photo needs to have been taken on a BC Ferry within the past three years.
Don’t forget to make your post public so that the judges can find your submission!
The panel of judges for the Ferry hair challenge will focus on three elements, creativity, originality, and if the image captures some truly great blustry hair.
BC Ferries’ full list of contest details can be found on their website online here.
Fans of classic cars, especially Deuces, won’t want to miss this year’s Northwest Deuce Days!
The four-day event showcases nearly 1,400 pre-1952 collector vehicles and draws in tens of thousands of spectators from all across North America.
Northwest Deuce Days only occurs once every three years – and the 2019 show promises to be the biggest one yet.
In total, 1,367 classic vehicles have registered for the event, including a whopping 650 Deuces—the nickname given to 1932 Ford coupes that have undergone “hot rod” modifications.
The exciting event is also packed with an array of different activities, including a welcoming party, a ‘Poker Run’ event that involve drivers drawing cards at different Victoria landmarks, and the ‘Big One’, the full day where all 1,300 + classic cars are displayed around the Inner Harbour and Legislation.
On Sunday, during the Big One, spectators will have the chance to view all of the decades-old collector vehicles and chat with their passionate owners.
A full schedule of the four-day event can be found online here.
With Victoria experiencing dense foggy skies today, Harbour Air and Helijet have been forced to cancel or delay many of their flights due to poor visibility.
From 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., Harbour Air cancelled all of their flights between Victoria Harbour and Vancouver Harbour.
As the morning progressed,the weather had still not cleared, causing Harbour Air to delay their 11:00 a.m. flights from Vancouver and Victoria.
The airline is advising that passengers keep an eye on their schedule in case of more delays.
Meanwhile, thick fog and poor visibility caused Helijet to delay flights.
In the early morning, the helicopter transportation company placed all of their flights between Victoria and Vancouver on hold, though routes from Nanaimo remained open.
As of 9:15 a.m., Helijet had returned to its regular operations, though the company is advising passengers that delays or possible diversions may occur.
We have resumed our operations on the Vancouver / Victoria route, however there are delays and possible diversions. For updated information, please call us at 1.800.665.4354
One of Victoria’s favourite beer-inspired events is returning to the city this year and it’s expected to be the biggest one yet!
The 27th annual Great Canadian Beer Festival is returning to the Royal Athletic Park this September and will Feature over 90 Canadian craft breweries that hail from coast to coast.
“Canada is emerging as a world-class craft beer destination,” said Joe Wiebe, co-founder of the Victoria Beer Society.
“We’re thrilled to host breweries from all across the country this September, positioning the Great Canadian Beer Festival as Canada’s truly national craft beer festival.”
With support from the Canadian Craft Brewers Association, this year’s event will showcase breweries from BC, Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, the Yukon, the Maritimes, and more.
BC, however, will account for the majority of the breweries at the festival with a total of 60 companies participating, including Spinnakers Brewpub and Vancouver Island Brewing, which helped kick off the craft beer movement back in 1984.
Besides sampling the delicious beers of nearly 100 Canadian breweries, the festival will include a wide array of cideries, food trucks, music, and more.
A BC “Ale Trail-er” will also be parked at the festival that will serve a selection of beers from breweries across the province that would otherwise not be able to attend the festival.
A full list of the nearly 100 breweries participating in this year’s Great Canadian Beer Festival can be viewed online here.
British Columbians who have difficulty accessing menstrual products will soon have a wider range of free items, which will be available thanks to a recent investment into the United Way Period Promise research project by the BC government.
Near the end of July, the province will provide a $95,000 grant to 12 different non-profit agencies to help distribute free menstrual products to vulnerable populations in the province.
The grant will also go towards funding quarterly data research that records the number of people served, the products used, and the effects of “period poverty” — a term used to describe how people’s lives may be affected by financial limitations that stop them from purchasing menstrual products.
“Period poverty creates barriers and stigma, and leaves people isolated,” said Shane Simpson, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction in a statement.
“This research will help us better understand how we can create solutions that will make a difference.”
Earlier this year, BC announced that all public schools must provide free menstrual products by the end of 2019.
Additionally, in June, Victoria became the first city to join the United Way Period Promise.
On June 17th, the city announced that it would provide free menstrual products at several civic facilities this summer, starting with City Hall, Crystal Pool and Fitness Centre, and downtown public washrooms.
“Having a period is a part of life for more than half our population, and not being able to afford basic hygiene products can be devastating,” said Mitzi Dean, Parliamentary Secretary for Gender Equity.
“Tackling period poverty closes the gap on gender inequality.”
The Victoria Police Department is warning residents of a rise in thefts from vehicles in the Victoria and Esquimalt area after dozens of reported cases were filed last week.
According to Vic PD’s Crime Analysis and Intelligence Section, thefts from vehicles have increased since the beginning of 2019.
In just three days, between July 5th and 8th, the department received 23 reports of thefts from vehicles.
The thefts persist despite VicPD’s directed efforts, like K9 officers specifically assigned to preventing vehicle crime and teams researching theft hotspots.
While thefts from vehicles continue, VicPD’s K9 unit has stopped a number of burglaries in progress.
On June 16th, VicPD received a report of a theft from a vehicle in the Hillside Avenue area just before midnight.
K9 officers quickly arrived and spotted a man still partially inside of a vehicle. Officers then recovered several allegedly stolen items from the man’s possession and transported him to holding cells where he was released on a promise to appear in court.
Less than a week later, on June 22nd, VicPD officers responded to multiple reports of a man trying to open car doors in the 500-block of Niagara Street.
When officers and a K9 unit arrived, they located the man inside of a vehicle. According to police, he was intoxicated and taken into custody without incident.
With thefts from vehicles on the rise, VicPD are advising residents to secure their car doors and remove any valuables from their vehicles in the evening.
“Thefts from vehicles are often crimes of opportunity that tend to happen during later hours,” said VicPD in a statement.
“VicPD K9 officers are encouraging you to be part of the ‘9 p.m. ritual’ of ensuring all valuables are removed from your vehicle after 9 p.m. at night. A large portion of thefts from vehicles occur after dark.”
If you see someone looking into vehicles or trying to open door handles, VicPD asks that you call 911.
Who can say no to a day of pampering, especially when it’s on us?
It’s not every day we get to indulge in the finer things in life, but thanks to the Spa at Ocean Pointe Resort, we here at Victoria Buzz were privy to an incredible and relaxing morning featuring an Ocean Renewal Body Wrap + Massage and Ocean Stone Pedicure.
Better yet, they’re giving away the same package to one lucky winner, so you have the chance to experience it for yourself!
Nestled within the beautiful Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort located in the heart of Victoria’s Inner Harbour, the Spa is a stunning property just on it’s own; and the sense of relaxation hits you right as you walk through its magnificent glass doors.
(The Spa at Ocean Pointe reception / Delta Hotels)
The atmosphere
The Spa at Ocean Pointe Resort first opened its doors 27 years ago, and has consistently been voted “Best Spa” in Victoria by the community – and it’s easy to see why.
With 10 treatments rooms offering a variety of services and a full-service health and fitness centre, there’s a little something to suit absolutely everyone.
You can almost feel the tension leave your body as you enter their beautifully appointed lounge. We were made to feel right at home amongst the plush couches, relaxing decor, and offered a warm (or cool!) beverage as soon as we sat down.
(The Spa at Ocean Pointe Lounge / Delta Hotels)
While we waited to be whisked away for our Ocean Renewal Body Wrap + Massage, there were some forms to be filled out regarding our spa preferences and needs.
Now this part is one of the most underrated features of the experience: being able to choose the amount of pressure you prefer for the massage (key for us writers who spend all day in an office chair!), especially since people tend to have differing preferences for massage intensity.
Ocean Renewal Body Wrap + Massage
Once we were brought to the massage room – filled with soothing sounds and calming aromas – this treatment began with a full body exfoliation using native Pacific sea salts, coconut oil and calendula petals to eliminate dryness.
After a quick shower to rinse off the salts (which left our skin feeling unbelievably soft!) it was right into a head-to-toe body massage using warmed aromatic oils, before we were wrapped up in warm linens and cocooned in quiet bliss.
Favourite aspects of this portion? The invigorating scalp AND foot massage.. they weren’t lying when they promised head-to-toe! We may have almost fallen asleep on that table…
(Massage at The Spa at Ocean Pointe / Delta Hotels)
Ocean Stone Pedicure
After emerging from our massage, we were offered another delicious beverage before being brought into the manicure/pedicure area of the salon.
Soft music accompanied the soothing atmosphere, as we sat in a foot bath for a few minutes before our chairs were completely reclined for ultimate comfort while receiving our pedicure – really, the only way to do it!
(Manicure/pedicure space at The Spa at Ocean Pointe / Delta Hotels)
The Ocean Stone Pedicure not only includes a foot/calf massage and polish application, but you’re also given a bottle of your preferred polish to take home – a very nice and unexpected treat.
With special attention paid to nail, cuticle and callus care, their attentive nail technician tops it all off with perfect lacquer application.
This incredibly relaxing treatment is enhanced with a warming scrub for the feet and legs followed by a warm stone massage for the legs – heaven!
From massages, to facials, to nails and even men’s treatments, there’s a little (or a lot!) for everyone at the Spa at Ocean Pointe Resort!
Check out a menu of their offered services and treatments here. But be forewarned: it’ll be hard to choose just a few.
All in all, we left our morning at the Spa feeling rested, relaxed and rejuvenated after the pure pampering we got to experience thanks to the Ocean Pointe Resort at Delta Hotels – and we’re so excited to offer you the same incredible experience!
** Contest now closed. Congratulations to Sandy Hanson! **
CONTEST
For a chance to WIN a spa package including a Ocean Renewal Body Wrap + Massage and Ocean Stone Pedicure, complete the following:
Tim Hortons’ fabled Iced Capp frozen coffee beverage turns 20years-old this year, and to celebrate the coffee giant is launching a line of limited edition Iced Capp flavours this summer!
First created in 1999, the original Iced Capp used Tim Hortons coffee and blended it with ice and cream. Now, the frozen beverage can be found in a variety of flavours, like Mocha, Vanilla, and Caramel, – and there’s more on the way!
“The Tim Hortons Iced Capp is the ultimate Canadian summer beverage, so we’re excited to celebrate its 20th anniversary during the hottest days of the year,” said Mike Hancock, Chief Operating Officer of Tim Hortons in a release.
The limited-edition flavours that are expected to launch this summer include the Oreo Iced Capp, Chocolate Chip, Salted Caramel, and more.
The Chocolate Chip Iced Capp returns to Tim Hortons locations across Canada on July 24th, with more flavours “coming soon”.
Soup doesn’t have to be relegated to winter, especially not when you’ve got a gorgeous bundle of carrots just begging to be blended with coconut milk and aromatic ginger.
Two inmates who escaped from a federal Vancouver Island prison on Sunday were found and arrested in Esquimalt on Tuesday evening.
On July 7th at approximately 6:45 p.m., the two inmates, James Lee Bursch and Zachary Armitage, broke out of William Head Institution in Metchosin, prompting an island-wide manhunt.
The two men were convicted of violent offenses, with Bursch serving a sentence for second degree murder, aggravated assault, sexual assault, and more, and Armitage serving a sentence for aggravated assault, robbery, and other crimes.
Two days after escaping prison, on July 9th, the pair was located in the Esquimalt area.
At approximately 8:00 p.m., an off duty RCMP officer recognized the escapees when he was out for a walk with his dog, and alerted on-duty officers.
“The off duty officer was walking his dog, a Great Dane named Lewis, in the area of West Bay in Esquimalt when the escaped inmates commented on how big ‘Lewis’ was,” said Cst. Nancy Saggar of the West Shore RCMP in a release.
“That’s when the RCMP officer immediately recognized the males as Armitage and Busch. The RCMP officer called 911 right way and kept an eye on the inmates. Victoria Police responded with a heavy police presence and safely took the inmates into custody.”
“We want to say thank you to the public and the media for their help, and of course a big thank you to the Victoria Police Department and the RCMP officer who acted quickly after spotting the escapees.”
Sidney/North Saanich RCMP are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a suspect involved in a robbery at the Toronto Dominion Bank in Sidney this afternoon.
At approximately 2:43 p.m. on Tuesday, July 9th, the unknown man entered the business on Beacon Avenue and proceeded to produce a note to the bank teller which demanded that cash be handed over.
The suspect fled on foot upon receiving the cash, and was last seen heading northbound on Fifth Street in Sidney.
Despite the Sidney/North Saanich RCMP frontline members as well as the General Investigation Section and police dog services responding immediately, the suspect was not located at this time.
Const. Meighan de Pass, the Sidney/North Saanich RCMP Media Relations Officer said in a release, “This was a bold midday robbery in a busy area of our town. We are hoping that someone saw something which can assist in identifying this male or assist in our investigation.”
The suspect is described as a Caucasian male, about 6’2 with a medium to fit build. At the time of the incident, he was wearing a dark coat with a white pattern down both sleeves, a dark hat, black sunglasses, dark pants and dark shoes.
Anyone with information about the robbery is asked to please contact the Sidney/North Saanich RCMP at (250) 656-3931 or call Greater Victoria Crime Stopper at 1-800-222-TIPS.
Head over to Bullen Park every second Wednesday this summer for some free big screen fun! Today, Esquimalt Parks & Recreation will be screening the Tom Cruise action flick Top Gun.
Neil Simon’s classic comedy, produced ! A timeless look into the joys and perils of the early days of marriage – as fresh today as it was when it premiered in 1963 to rave reviews.
When: 8 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Where: Blue Bridge Repertory Theatre, 8 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Oaklands Sunset Market is a weekly market taking place every Wednesday evening from July 3-Sept 4, located at Oaklands Community Centre. They showcase local farmers, artisans, food producers,and jewelers, with Food Trucks, Live Music, workshops and a beer garden at every event!
When: 4:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Where: Oaklands Community Centre, 2827 Belmont Ave
Everyone welcome for one of several of Frontrunners’ recovery week fun runs. Join in at the downtown Frontrunners location for a mock UrbaCity Challenge! Guaranteed fun and prizes!
They’re creepy, they’re crawly and they’re cool! Explore with Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary Society the fascinating world of insects, spiders and other invertebrates.
Hands-on exploration, live bugs, crafts and games. This is a drop in event. Recommended donation of $5 per person.
When: 12 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Where: Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary, 3837 Swan Lake Rd
“We arrived and saw steam and smoke coming from the front of the vehicle and engine compartment,” Saanich Fire Captain Manhas. “We cooled it down with a hose line which mitigated the scene and brought everyone to a calm place.”
“Then we turned our attention to a storm drain nearby because whenever you cool down vehicles contaminants can spread.”
Firefighters then blocked off the storm drain with a spill kit and notified municipality’s civil engineering department.
Moving forward, Saanich Fire believes that the commercial truck’s parent company will work with the municipality and University Heights Shopping Centre to investigate any contaminants in the area, like fuel or coolant spills.
No injuries were reported from the incident, and the cause of the engine smoke is under investigation.
There’s only ten days left to participate in a BC Government survey, which asks whether or not British Columbians should continue to practice Daylight Saving Time.
Once the survey closes and depending on its results, the province may potentially move its clocks ahead one hour in March as per usual and then maintain a permanent daylight saving timezone.
The transition would mean that daylight hours begin and end later in the winter.
“It’s clear there is no shortage of views on how we should observe time in British Columbia,” said Premier John Horgan in a statement.
“I’m very pleased so many people have already taken part in this engagement to help determine the best way forward for B.C., and I encourage everyone to take the survey and let us know what they think.”
In the first week after the online survey was released, over 158,000 British Columbians submitted responses. In fact, this survey received the highest number of responses in its first week in recent provincial memory.
In 2017, only 19,291 residents responded to BC’s online cannabis regulations survey in the first seven days, marking the number of responses to the Daylight Saving Time survey eight times higher.
The online survey launched on June 24th and will close on July 19th at 4:00 p.m.
Before you start the survey, the provincial website provides background information on the history of daylight saving and its effects on some BC industries, like agriculture and transportation.
The resolution was ultimately struck down, but the idea has regained traction since then.
At the time, the BC government said that Daylight Saving Time was maintained to avoid scheduling conflicts between the province and trading partners in the Northwestern US.
However, since then, legislators in California, Oregon, and Washington have proposed bills to end the bi-annual time change.
(284 Belmont Rd slated for affordable housing building/Stride Properties Ltd)
Nearly 50 units of rental housing will soon be available for middle-income families in Colwood.
Construction has recently begun on the four storey 48-unit apartment building located at 284 Belmont Rd, and the project is expected to be completed in late 2020.
This $9.7 million building is being funded through the a BC Housing program called HousingHub created in 2018.
HousingHub is partnering with Stride Properties Ltd to build the project which, according to the Province, should be affordable for households with an income ranging between approximately $52,000 and $66,000.
“These 50 new homes for middle-income families will increase the diversity of housing choice in Colwood,” said Rob Martin, mayor of Colwood.
“We want Colwood residents to be able to live in our community throughout their lives, and that includes having affordable rental options for young adults, families starting out and people on fixed incomes.”
At this time, estimated rent projections are $1,300/month for one-bedroom apartments and $1,650/month for two-bedroom units.
Earlier this year, the Province announced 120+ units of affordable housing for Indigenous people in the municipality.
They also finished the redevelopment of a townhouse complex to create 82 affordable homes for senior citizens, families, and people with disabilities in Colwood.
So far, the province has funded the construction of over 2,800 homes that are either completed or underway in the Greater Victoria region.
If the Vancouver Canucks versus Calgary Flames preseason game has been on your radar, you’re in luck!
It was officially announced today that tickets for the bout – happening September 16th at our very own Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre – will go on sale August 7th.
If you’re interested in snagging some tickets for yourself, the prices are as follows:
$63.50 (plux taxes and service charges) for club seats
$53.50 for sides
$44 for corners and end seats
The tickets will be available for purchase at 10 a.m., Wednesday, August 7th and you’ll want to act fast on these ones – they won’t last!
Also, if you happen to be a full season, half-season, or fan-pack ticket holder for the Victoria Royals, you’ll be privy to an early opportunity to purchase the preseason game tickets – 13 days before they go on sale to the public, from July 22nd to July 25th.
This information follows the announcement that Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre will be hosting the Canucks three-day training camp, which will take place prior to the preseason game, and is happening between September 13th to September 15th.
For a $5 admission fee – with net proceeds going to charity – you can attend all practices during the Canucks’ Camp.
The Canucks have only visited Victoria’s Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre once prior, when they played an intra-squad game back in 2007.
An impatient driver narrowly missed hitting a traffic control flagger as they drove over a sidewalk to bypass a closed road.
Oak Bay Police are investigating the incident that occurred on Wednesday, July 3rd in which a traffic control flagger was working at a construction site on Bowker Ave when the vehicle in question approached.
The driver proceeded to ignore the flagger – who was attempting to let them know that the street was closed – and drove onto the sidewalk, almost hitting the flagger in the process.
Their reckless act is a violation of the Criminal Code and the Motor Vehicle Act and, most importantly, puts the lives of flaggers and construction workers at risk.
“If you see a flagger or public works employee, etc on the road, please slow down,” wrote Oak Bay Police in a Tweet.
“They’re someone’s daughter or son, mother or father, etc. Not only can you get a ticket but if your driving is dangerous or negligent, you could get a criminal record.”
This incident was one of 104 calls for service received by the police department between June 30th and July 7th.
If you see a flagger or public works employee, etc on the road, please slow down. They're someone's daughter or son, mother or father, etc. Not only can you get a ticket but if your driving is dangerous or negligent, you could get a criminal record.🚔Driving respectfully is easy. pic.twitter.com/7Iyh7u4wrM
On Friday, a civilian vessel that was located in Esquimalt Harbour was rescued by Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt crews after it experienced an onboard explosion.
According to CFB Esquimalt, the civilian vessel was working on a construction project in the area when an accident involving an explosives detonator onboard caused damage to the ship.
Officials say that two subcontractors on the ship sustained minor injuries and were taken to hospital for treatment.
“The cause of the explosion is currently under investigation and no further details are available at this time,” Deputy Public Affairs Officers for CFB Esquimalt Katelyn Moores told Victoria Buzz.
While CFB Esquimalt is best known as being home to the Canadian Navy’s Pacific fleet, it also has a Fire Hall & Emergency Response Centre which serves both the base and the surrounding community.
(TD Art Gallert Paint In / Art Gallery of Greater Victoria)
What better way to celebrate summer in all of its glory than to indulge in the Gallery’s biggest event of the year?
The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is hosting their annual TD Art Gallery Paint-In on Saturday, July 20th and this year’s line-up of exciting events promises to be better than ever!
Happening from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Moss Street will be lined with an abundance of artists, entertainers and vendors for a day full of fun festivities and art – local style.
Whether it’s cool cultured projects you’re after, some hands-on family activities, or just a fun day in the sun with friends, the Paint-In has a little bit of something for everyone.
Without further ado, here are 6 reasons why you’ll want to attend this year’s TD Art Gallery Paint-In!
1. The sheer amount of local presenting artists is impressive
With OVER 190 different artists showcasing their work and various styles and methods, there will be something for all walks of life – an art-lovers paradise!
2. The Gallery itself will hold a Public Open House
There’s even more to feast your eyes on. The Paint-In is organized by the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria (did you know that this event is actually their largest fundraiser of the year?) and their doors will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the Saturday. Browse their newest contemporary art shows – it’s admission by donation!
3. There will be a family (and dog!) friendly beverage garden on site
Yes, you read that right! The beer garden will feature beverages from Lighthouse Brewing Company, Mission Hill Winery, Sea Cider Farm and Ciderhouse and Victoria Soda Works – so come thirsty.
4. So many delicious food choices!
Food vendors include Ali Baba Pizza, Greek on the Street, Victoria Oven, Shatterbox Coffee Bar, Lemon Heaven, Rogers Chocolates and Wannawafel. Also, joining them this year is Uni-corn Treats (gourmet popcorn) and Kattia’s Kitchen!
5. Hands-on fun
With a number of Imagination Stations set up for all to take part in, you can get your own creative juices flowing! Also, for your furry friends, don’t forget to stop by the pet station from Bosley’s Pets.
6. Tons of live entertainment!
You can jam away to live music at the Art Gallery from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. with performances by Arlene & Oscar (original Canadiana with a tropical flair), Steph MacPherson (indie-folk), Corduroy (dream pop), Pastel Blank (funky post-punk), and Bridal Party (jangly indie pop).
At approximately 6:15 a.m. Tuesday morning, the cougar was spotted on Eldon Place near Rudd Park.
Before Tuesday’s sighting, the same cougar was spotted multiple times in the Hampton Park area along Tillicum Road on Sunday, June 6th.
“The Saanich Police are warning all residents in the area to be aware of their surroundings to ensure the safety of themselves, small pets and children,” said the department in a statement.
Police recommend keeping pets indoors if possible, and to be cautious when walking outside with children or pets.
The BC Conservation Service has been notified of the animal sightings and is working with police to locate the cougar.
Esquimalt’s Memorial Park Music Festival kicks off tonight!
Every Tuesday night in July visitors can head to Memorial Park to check out a free music concert, complete with food trucks and vendors on site. Listeners are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair to lounge in or to get up on the grass and dance!
If Esquimalt is a little out of your way, visitors can enjoy a free outdoor concert at Saanich’s Majestic Park tonight!
Bring a blanket and a picnic and mingle with your neighbours over great music and food. Face painting is available for kids and food can be purchased on site. Tonight’s band, Younger Than Yesterday, will be playing classic rock hits from bands like the Beatles and the Rolling Stones.
Head down to Bolen Books for a fabulous night of books and drag, as Tanya Boteju joins forces with local Drag Kings and Queens Chaz Avery, Eddi Licious, and more to discuss her new book, Kings, Queens, and In-Betweens from Simon & Schuster!
Involved in the drag scene herself as a young person, Boteju describes her book as “a love letter to the drag community as well as to young, queer, brown kids”, citing the need for more diverse and hopeful stories, especially in children’s queer literature. The event is FREE and suitable for all ages. Come all glammed up and dressed in your most spectacular outfits!
When: 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Where: Bolen Books – Hillside Shopping Centre, 1644 Hillside Avenue
(Gurmail Sidhu / British Columbia Lottery Corporation)
While no one looks forward to a trip to the dentist, one Vancouver Island woman’s appointment turned into a great surprise after she realized she had won a $500,000 lottery prize.
When waiting for her appointment, Nanaimo resident Gurmail Sidhu realized that her Lotto Max ticket matched all four Extra numbers for July 5th’s draw.
“While I was at the mall to see the dentist, I decided to check my tickets,” Sidhu told the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC). “I saw a lot of zeroes, and asked my son to look. I don’t have words to describe it.”
The 79-year-old woman came to Canada 40 years ago from India, and has lived in Terrace, Surrey, and now Nanaimo.
She came to the island to help her daughter raise her twin children, and plans to share her lucky ticket with her family.
“Sidhu said she is excited to share her winnings with her family, including her grandchildren, whom she loves to spend time with,” said the BCLC in a release.
(Image / Sharmarke Dubow - Victoria City Councillor Facebook)
A Victoria councillor has asked the City to officially make a stand against Quebec’s controversial new religious symbols law, which bans public service employees from wearing religious symbols like turbans, hijabs and cross necklaces in the workplace.
Councillor Sharmarke Dubow has tabled a motion asking that the City of Victoria support the Canadian Civil Liberties Association (CCLA) and National Council of Canadian Muslisms (NCCM) who have initiated a constitutional challenge of the new law on grounds of religious freedom.
“This legislation, although presented as promoting religious neutrality of the state, is a thinly veiled attack on religious and cultural traditions of religious minorities,” reads Dubow’s motion.
“It is contrary to Canadian values, which include freedom of religion and acceptance of diversity.”
Founded in 1999, Atomique has produced over 150 concerts every year on Vancouver Island, including annual festivals like Rifflandia and Rock the Shores.
“We are excited to work with The MRG Group to continue to bring world class concerts and events to Victoria and Vancouver Island,” said Atomique’s co-founder, Nick Blasko in a statement.
According to the company’s statement, this acquisition signals the return of Rifflandia and Rock the Shores music festivals in 2020, after both were cancelled this year.
In addition to adding Atomique to their list of companies, the MRG Group will also be running Yates Street nightclub Capital Ballroom, formerly known as Sugar.
“We are proud of the work we’ve done over the past three years to create Victoria’s best live music venue, and we look forward to seeing The MRG Group continue this legacy as our city grows” said Dylan Willows, President and Director of The Capital Ballroom.
The 575 capacity club will be the Group’s first owned venue on Vancouver Island.
The Victoria Police Department and local business Oak Bay Bicycles had welcome news for one young Victoria resident who had his bicycle stolen in late June.
After local student Owen’s bicycle was stolen from its locked spot at his school, VicPD and the Oak Bay bicycle shop acquired a brand new Norco bike at a discounted price for the youth.
On June 20th, Owen (surname withheld) parked and locked his bike at his school in the 100 block of Oswego Street. When classes were finished and Owen returned outside, he found his bike was gone.
His family then reported it stolen and gave VicPD a description of the bicycle.
Four days later, on June 24th, a VicPD officer spotted a man riding a bicycle that resembled Owen’s stolen two-wheeler.
The man then committed several traffic infractions at which point the officer approached him.
The attending officer quickly determined that the bicycle did not belong to the man riding it, and discovered that it had been recently modified in an attempt to disguise it.
Officers then seized the bicycle as stolen property and let the rider go without charges.
Once the bike was seized, police determined that its recent modifications made it unsafe to ride, leaving Owen without a bike.
When VicPD officers heard about Owen’s situation, they began gathering funds to help offset the cost of buying a replacement bike.
News of the fundraising efforts eventually made its way to VicPD Sgt. John Musicco, who contacted Oak Bay Bicycles who then worked with bicycle company Norco to acquire a replacement bicycle at a reduced price.
A little over a week after he reported his bike as stolen, VicPD officers surprised Owen with a brand new bicycle on Saturday, June 29th.
Bike thefts on the rise
According to Victoria Police, bicycle theft continues to be a significant issue in the area.
“This year, in the City of Victoria alone there have been 302 reports of theft of Bikes under $5,000, and 7 reports of Bikes Over $5,000,” said VicPD in a statement.
Since the beginning of 2019, Victoria Police say they have recovered 66 stolen bikes and seized another 92 that are suspected to have been stolen from the area or nearby jurisdictions.
The department notes that several of these bicycles had been stolen from storage lockers and returned to owners who were not even aware that they were missing.
To help protect your bike, police recommend ensuring it is locked when parked, securing it in a storage locker, and registering it on VicPD’s free bike registry which can assist you and officers if it does get stolen.
You can register your bicycle with VicPD online here.
In another step towards allowing ride-hailing services to operate in the province, the BC Ministry of Transportation has introduced regulations and an insurance policy outline for companies that provide these services.
These new regulations will allow companies to submit an application to operate in BC to the Passenger Transportation Board (PTB) by the beginning of September 2019.
“Our plan has made it possible for ride-hailing companies to apply to enter the market this fall, with vehicles on the road later this year, while ensuring the safety of passengers and promoting accessibility options in the industry,” said Claire Trevena, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.
“British Columbians have been asking and waiting for these services after more than five years of delay by the former government. We took action to allow for the services people want and we’re delivering on that promise.”
These new rules provide a framework to ensure company and passenger safety, including the requirement of a minimum Class 4 license for all drivers.
This class of license is stricter than the usual class 5, and includes a background check that bans drivers who have a convicted criminal driving offence within the last 3 years, a medical exam, a vehicle inspection, and more.
The suite of regulations will take effect on September 3rd, 2019, thereby allowing the PTB to start accepting applications.
“People need to feel safe when they get into a ride-hailing vehicle, which is why police chiefs across B.C. are supportive of the Province’s new regulations, including the provincial record check,” said chief constable Neil Dubord, chair of the BC Association of Chiefs of Police Traffic Safety Committee. “These changes will go a long way to improve passenger safety in the industry.”
ICBC will also launch its new insurance product at the same time, which is a blanket, per kilometre insurance providing compulsory, third-party liability and accident benefits.
It will apply when the driver is providing ride-hailing services, with the driver’s own basic vehicle insurance policy applying in all other instances.
Here are the main highlights of this new regulatory framework:
Government will require all ride-hail drivers and taxis to hold a commercial Class 4 driver licence. Drivers must have a B.C. issued driver’s licence to drive a taxi, limo or ride-hail vehicle.
Drivers will require criminal and driver record checks. A driver cannot have four or more pointable convictions within two years or any serious driving infractions within a three-year timeframe.
Illegal operators can face fines of up to $100,000 per day. The registrar has the authority to issue administrative penalties up to $50,000 to licensed operators who fail to meet regulatory obligations. Seven new record check related offences have also been created.
The company or licensee is responsible for conducting a review of the driver and issuing a record check certificate for those drivers who meet provincial requirements. They are also responsible for hiring and monitoring drivers, reducing fatigue through adherence to hours of service requirements, and ensuring vehicles are mechanically sound and safe to operate.
A new 30 cent “per-trip” fee for non-accessible ride-hailing vehicles is being established to support funding for accessibility programs. New regulations will allow for accessible vehicles with side entry as well as rear entry that will provide more choice for the disability community.
Drivers of taxis and ride-hail vehicles will be required to conduct an annual inspection if the vehicle has logged 40,000 kilometres or less in the previous year. A semi-annual inspection will be required if vehicles log more than 40,000 kilometres or more in the previous year. Ride-hail vehicles cannot be older than 10 years to operate.
ICBC will sell a blanket insurance product directly to the ride hailing company. The rate for this blanket product will be based on kilometres driven.
If you’re craving the soft, salty satisfaction that only a warm pretzel can provide – look no further than Mr. Pretzels, the latest and greatest food vendor at the Bay Centre in downtown Victoria.
Better yet? You could be one of the lucky winners of a $25 gift card to their local kiosk – which just so happens to be the first of its kind in the city.
Though the shop is open now, Mr. Pretzels is holding their grand opening on Friday, July 12th – where they’re giving away FREE pretzels for the first 50 people in line – so don’t hesitate on popping by!
Not only does Mr. Pretzels tout themselves as creating the best pretzels in the country, they’re proud to offer products using only the finest quality natural ingredients – their pretzel dough is even prepared on the spot, hand rolled in front of you and freshly baked on site.
You can sample savoury pretzel delights such as Toscana (Roasted Pepper and Garlic with Parmesan Cheese), Napolitano (Italian Herbs and Parmesan Cheese), Sesame, or popular traditional Salted – they’re all sure to have you salivating!
If sweet is more your jam, they have flavours like Vanilla and Strawberry, Caramel, Nutella, Vanilla Icing, and the always classic favourite Cinnamon and Sugar.
They also offer pretzel bites – in any of the above available flavours – in case you’re interested in just the bite-sized form!
On Sunday afternoon, thousands of Victorians dressed up in various rainbow hues and flocked to the downtown core to watch and participate in the 26th annual Victoria Pride Parade.
This lively event featured humans, pets, floats and inflatable orcas dancing down various downtown streets or watching the procession from packed sidewalks.
To recap the event, Victoria Buzz photographer Colin Smith has compiled a gallery of some of the best photos of the Pride parade, followed by our livestream videos.
A new endangered Southern Resident Killer Whale calf that was first spotted in Tofino in late May has finally received its gender and identification designation by whale researchers.
The baby whale was first seen off the coast of Tofino on May 30th, and since then has been moving south east to the San Juan Islands with its mother and a group of three other adult female orcas from J-Pod.
While the orca calf, now designated J56, was first spotted over two months ago, its appearance near the San Juan Islands is the first time that its underside was photographed, which whale researchers have used to determine that J56 is a girl.
“Near Pile Point, San Juan Island, the new mother J31 swam around in circles with her new calf and three other young females – it looked very much like they were showing off this new addition to the population,” said the Centre for Whale Research in a statement.
“This is a very welcome addition to this endangered population of whales that has experienced so much bad news recently with whales appearing skinny and passing away.”
The baby calf, her mother, and the three accompanying female orcas were first spotted in Tofino on May 30th.
According to researchers, J56 was only days old when she was first seen.
“…the baby still had fetal fold creases on its side, indicating that it was probably born less than a week earlier,” said the Center for Whale Research.
After the calf’s initial appearance, the baby and its entourage were seen again by a Tofino-based whale watching group on June 9th, marking their journey towards the San Juan Islands.
The calf’s mother, J31, is a 24-year-old Southern Resident Killer Whale whose previous birthing, in January 2016, was unsuccessful. In the past ten years, she has had no other recorded pregnancies.
Around this time in 2018, a mother orca whose calf died shortly after being born near Clover Point, Victoria, made headlines after she carried her child’s body in mourning through the ocean for 17 days.
Summer in Seattle is always a delight, so what better way to kick off the season than a fun-filled trip for two to this stunning Pacific Northwest destination?
Grab your sunglasses get off of the rock for a couple of days withClipper Vacations and the chance to win two round-trip Clipper ferry tickets to one of the most lively and exciting American cities there is; as well as a luxurious two-night stay at the Hyatt Regency Seattle.
Home to some of the west coast’s most acclaimed restaurants, shopping and a vibrant nightlife, Seattle has all of the charm to keep you coming back for more – plus, it’s just a quick trip from Victoria’s harbour, making it easier than ever to escape for a perfect few nights away!
Here are 7 reasons why you need to sail away to Seattle this summer:
1. The newest (bigger!) Victoria Clipper V makes travel easy
The high-speed Victoria Clipper V catamaran is a big, stable ferry that cruises at 36 knots and takes you from downtown Victoria to downtown Seattle in less than 3 hours.
Enjoy some of the tasty locally-sourced and freshly prepared meals and beverages from the on-board menu, all while taking in the Pacific Northwest’s most scenic views of the Salish Sea – you may even spot a pod of Orcas en route!
The new and improved Clipper even features a Comfort Class upgrade for only $25 USD with priority boarding, a private spacious cabin and complimentary coffee, tea and snacks. Or if the second deck is more your jam, for only $10 USD you can level up to the Vista Class with upstairs seating, leather seats and panoramic windows for a stellar view!
(Vista Class on Clipper V)
2. Enjoy luxury in the heart of city at the Hyatt Regency Seattle
Located in the heart of the downtown core, Hyatt Regency Seattle is one of the Emerald City’s newest hotels. Close to Seattle’s must-see attractions, including the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, Pike Place Market, and more. The largest hotel in the Pacific Northwest, it offers three restaurants and bars, complimentary access to a state of the art fitness center and wifi in the guest rooms.
(Hyatt Regency Seattle)
3. Sample some of the best oysters on the West Coast
Puget Sound is infamous for producing sweet, plump oysters – which is why so many places in Seattle feature them on their menu! There do happen to be a few that stand out above the rest, including The Walrus and the Carpenter, and any of the three restaurants run by one of Washington State’s major oyster producers, Taylor Shellfish Farms.
4. Catch a Seattle Sounders soccer match
Soccer fans rejoice! Experience the electric atmosphere at CenturyLink Field as the Seattle Sounders FC take on their opponents in many of the summer season’s matchups – single game tickets are available!
The Seattle Art Museum is worth a visit for just the exhibitions, but also offers a ton of public programs and performances, including periodic parties called SAM Remix that turn the museum space into a nightclub, and their annual Summer of Sam at the Sculpture Park in Belltown, which features tons of activities over the warmer months.
Seattle’s music culture is alive and well in the Emerald City, and summer boasts some acts that will definitely not disappoint.
Seattle visitors can enjoy free outdoor concerts Friday evenings in August at Concerts at the Mural, presented by KEXP and Seattle Center.
The series brings live music to the Mural Amphitheatre stage for end-of-the-week entertainment featuring some of the region’s best music – along with noted national artists – starting at 5:00 PM, Fridays in August, at Seattle Center. 21+ beer garden will open at 4:30 PM for Happy Hour with DJ Troy Nelson.
7. Grab a drink on a rooftop patio
You may be able to do this many different places, but there really is nothing like partaking in a particularly tasty beverage atop a rooftop in Seattle! You can check out places like mbar, where the sprawling outdoor space offers uninterrupted views of Lake Union, or the 12th-floor Nest Downtownoverlooking Elliott Bay.
Win two round-trip tickets on the @clippervacation for a trip to Seattle PLUS a two night stay with @HyattRegencySEA in downtown Seattle via @victoriabuzzes, RT to enter.
Contest entries will be accepted from time and date of publishing until 11:59p.m. PST on July 22nd, 2019. One winner will be chosen at random and contacted through the platform they enter by. Good luck!
“We are working with police to locate the inmates as quickly as possible,” the agency wrote in a social media post alerting the public to the situation.
After being notified, West Shore RCMP deployed Police Service Dog Erik along with general duty officers to conduct a search of the area.
“Police continue to deploy resources to search for the escaped prisoners including air surveillance with a RCMP Air Services helicopter,” writes RCMP.
RCMP are currently seeking public assistance to locate both individuals.
Descriptions and sentences
James Lee Busch is described as a First Nations male who stands 5’9″ tall, weighs 160 lbs, has medium tanned coloured skin, a shaved head, and a skull tattoo on his left forearm.
Busch is serving a sentence for second degree murder and aggravated assault, including sexual assault, escape from custody and more.
Zachary Armitage is a First Nations male standing 5’10” tall, weighs 170 lbs, has light coloured skin, black short trimmed hair, and a tattoo with a crown and the words “No Love” on his right arm.
He is serving a 14-year sentence for aggravated assault, robbery and other crimes.
Both men are considered dangerous and should not be approached by civilians.
Anyone with information on their whereabouts is asked to contact 911 immediately. You can also report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Inmates James Busch and Zachary Armitage have escaped from William Head Institution. We are working with police to…
One horse rider may have gotten carried away celebrating the American Independence Day last week after Shawnigan Lake RCMP apprehended an intoxicated woman riding a horse down the street.
On July 4th, at approximately 12:45 p.m., police received a report of an intoxicated woman and a horse travelling down Shawnigan Lake Road near Owl Road.
The concerned caller told police that the horse appeared injured and that the woman seemed to be unable to control the animal.
When officers arrived, they determined that the caller was correct and the rider was highly intoxicated. Police at the scene determined that she was unable to properly care for the horse, causing a dangerous situation and traffic hazard.
A local veterinarian was then called in to examine the horse and determined that the animal had suffered minor injuries and was able to properly walk.
The woman was then separated from the horse and an officer walked the animal back to a residence approximately 1 km from the scene where it could be housed until SPCA arrived.
“This is just another example of the extra lengths that our members will go to in the course of their duties to ensure the safety and security of all citizens, including four legged ones,” said Shawnigan Lake RCMP Detachment Commander Sgt. Tim Desaulniers in a statement.
The 26th annual Victoria Pride Parade has come and gone in a flash of rainbow-tinted exuberance.
For those who wish to relive the experience, we’ve caught all the action on camera, from the flying orca contingency to all the locals drag kings and queens performing their hearts out on floats!
** Contest now closed. Congratulations, Cher Phillips, Mary Collier, Eloise Gladders, Seth Neufeld, Taylor Jewell, and Ashley LeBus! **
Our livestream of the parade, hosted by the hilarious and insightful Dana Hutchings and Tash Jackson, not only brings you a blow by blow of the whole uproarious event, but also offers a chance for you to win the following prizes:
Gift Certificate for 2 people (retail value for each is over $720) from Five Star Whale Watching, plus branded water bottles
$100 gift card to Red Barn Market from You Move Me
$250 gift card to Men in Kilts Window and Gutter Cleaning services
PLUS 10% off for anyone who uses the offer code “Victoria Buzz” when purchasing these services.
All you have to do to enter is LIKE, COMMENT, or SHARE our livestream coverage of the parade! Winners will be drawn on Thursday, July 11th.
To show some love to our sponsors for supporting our coverage and offering these incredible prizes, follow:
Saanich Police have issued a warning about a cougar that is believed to be hunting pets and animals in a residential area.
On Sunday, July 7th, police received multiple reports of a cougar in the area of Hampton Park along Tillicum Road between Burnside Road West and Regina Avenue.
While the feline was reportedly not aggressive towards people during these encounters, it was believed to be hunting animals and pets in the area.
Police are advising people in the area to be vigilant of their surroundings while out for walks, and to keep pets inside if possible.
BC Conservation Service has been notified of the sightings.
To welcome you back into the work week we have a stand-up comedy fundraiser for a good cause, inner harbour markets, a HarbourCats baseball game, and more!
Without further ado here are 5 things to do in and around Victoria today.
Are you interested in checking out some hilarious comedy for a good cause? Then you’re in luck because Blue Bridge at the Roxy is throwing a Suddent Death Standup fundraiser!
Some of Victoria’s funniest and most talented comedians will face each other head-to-head in a single-elimination battle of wits! Funds raised from this event will go towards repairing exterior damage to the historic Roxy Theatre in the heart of Quadra Village.
When: 8:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Where: Blue Bridge at The Roxy, 2657 Quadra Street
Head down to the Cameron Bandshell in Beacon Hill Park for today’s free summer concert in the park!
Every weekday during the summer a new musical performance or community program will take place at the bandshell. Today’s musicians are the Capital City Syncopators, a Prohibition-Era Swing band.
Looking for a fun creative activity to do tonight that lets you paint your own masterpiece and bring it home? Then make your way to the Fernwood Inn for Marina’s Fier Feathers Paint Nite!
Enjoy a tasty drink and even better company as your group goes over how to create a stunning red-eyed owl! No painting experience required. You can also save $10 off your admission by using the code ‘ILOVEPAINT’ when purchasing your ticket.
Summer in Victoria always means one thing, the Inner Harbour Summer Line-Up!
Visitors of the Inner Harbour today can walk along the waterside causeway between Ship Point and the Steamship Terminal for a rotating line-up of street performers, musicians, food vendors, artisans, and First Nations artists, and more!
What better way to kick off the month of July than a weekend full of family-friendly fun, delicious eats, and awesome sales?
Hillside Shopping Centre’s Hottest Days of Summer event features an exhilarating Extreme Dual Slide (open all weekend!), a market featuring 20+ local art and craft exhibitors, fabulous festive food including candy apples, cotton candy, popcorn and snow cones, face painting for the kids PLUS kid’s activities by Canadian Tire Jumpstart and more! These activities are taking place in the parking lot located off Hillside Avenue.
When: Friday, July 5th to Sunday, July 7th | 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. each day.
Where: Hillside Shopping Centre, 1644 Hillside Avenue
Tonight marks the start of Phillips Brewing & Malting Co’s One Night Only Concert Series!
Why wait all summer for The Phillips Backyard Weekender when you could be having a blast in The Phillips Brewery Backyard? The massive and beloved loading-bay-turned-main-stage kicks off early than ever this year, right in the heart of downtown Victoria. The concert series kicks off with talented local musician Jesse Roper!
When: Saturday, July 6th, 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Where: Phillips Brewing & Malting Co., 2010 Government Street
Victoria’s Emily Carr House is the perfect locale for some improvised Victorian-era comedy!
Join Paper Street’s cast of landed gentry as they attempt to improvise their way through the conventions and manners of proper society and all the unforeseen complications such constraints provide. Tickets also include complementary lemonade and cucumber sandwiches.
The two most exuberant events in town – the Victoria Pride Parade and Festival – are officially a quarter of a century old, and will be celebrating it’s 25th anniversary in style this year!
For this year’s pride parade, join thousands of people as they walk down Government street in celebration of love and the LGBQT2 community.
If you can’t make it downtown but still want to watch the parade, don’t worry, we have you covered! For the first time ever, Victoria Buzz will be livestreaming the entire uproarious affair on our Facebook page, in partnership with the Downtown Victoria Business Association (DVBA), Sitka Law Group, and You Move Me.
When: Sunday, July 7th, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Where: Starts at the corner of Pandora and Government
While the Pride parade is a community favourite event, the festivities don’t stop there!
After the parade, head down to MacDonald Park for a free-for-all-ages party that features two stages of music and entertainment, a cash-only beer garden (ATMs on site), multiple food trucks, a giant vendor area, and a kids’ camp!
The 53rd annual Saanich Strawberry Festival has returned today! The festival is a FREE family event that highlights strawberries in all their delicious glory.
What started as a celebration of the municipality’s agricultural roots has now grown into a vastly popular yearly festival that feature a range of family-friendly activities like face painting, arts and crafts stations, bouncy castles, live entertainment, and more.
Just in time for this year’s 25th annual Victoria Pride festival, local musician Adrian Chalifour is celebrating love with a newly released song and music video starring local drag queen star, JIMBO.
The song “Open Heart”, premiered on Wednesday and was inspired by people who love deeply and genuinely, featuring a spirited melody alongside a vibrant and colourful music video.
“…in life you encounter these people who just have these wide open hearts — sort of like the grinch at the end of the movie where his heart is three-times too big — but that’s where they start,” Chalifour told Victoria Buzz.
“They’re the first ones to love and the last ones to leave and they bring so much richness to our lives, but sometimes it’s hard to watch. I just wanted to honour that journey.”
Open Heart is his first release since competing in the final rounds of the music-reality television series, The Launch, and departing from local indie band, Towers and Trees.
Bringing a song to life
While writing the lyrics and composing the melody, Chalifour began to outline his plan for an accompanying music video.
He knew that he wanted the video to star around a central character whose colourful presence slowly began to brighten their dull and bleak surroundings.
“I had the idea pretty early into writing the song of a dance video that stars a central larger-than-life character,” said Chalifour.
“They would be in a really bleak and colourless space and are surrounded by dances that are also colourless. But then, through the process of dancing and their refusal to turn down who they are, they’d sort of light up the world around them.”
“I would love it if the star of this video who could interpret the song, and give it their own voice and their own meaning,” he added.
That’s the idea the Chalifour pitched to Open Heart’s music video director, Shiraz — a local comedian and producer — who then said that he had the perfect person in mind.
That person was Victoria drag queen legend, JIMBO.
Finding a star
JIMBO is a local drag queen who has starred in scores of performances across Victoria for years. Her love of art and performance began as a child, and eventually evolved into a passion for performance art.
She had worked with Shiraz during previous productions, and though she was nervous to star in a music video at first, her trust in Shiraz and Chalifour’s vision eventually won out.
“I think it’s a really beautiful and catchy song with a great message about acknowledging the love and energy and about putting art into the world.”
“It sort of embodies what he’s trying to do as a performer while also elevating another artist. He [Chalifour] didn’t want it to feel self serving, he wanted to pair it with someone else or another artist and have it star them.”
Check out the music video for Adrian Chalifour’s newest single, Open Heart, below.
Observant viewers may recognize a familiar background, as the video was shot entirely within the E & N Roundhouse in Esquimalt.
You can also watch a poignant mini-documentary of JIMBO’s creative journey and history below:
As if you needed any more incentive to join us online as we bring the whole show to your home, we’re also giving away mondo prizes to boot thanks to our amazing sponsors!
** Contest now closed. Congratulations, Cher Phillips, Mary Collier, Eloise Gladders, Seth Neufeld, Taylor Jewell, and Ashley LeBus! **
One of 3 Gift Certificate’s for 2 people (retail value for each is over $240) from Five Star Whale Watching, plus branded water bottles
$100 gift card to Red Barn Market from You Move Me
$250 gift card to Men in Kilts Window and Gutter Cleaning services
PLUS 10% off for anyone who uses the Victoria Buzz offer code revealed in the livestream when purchasing these services.
All you have to do to win is tune in to our crystal clear, high-def coverage of the whole parade courtesy of our videography squad over at Roll.Focus. Productions.
We will be bringing you the entire procession from our prime spot at the Inner Harbour on Government Street, hosted by Dana Hutchings and Natasha (Tash) Jackson.
Simply follow our hosts’ instructions during the livestream and enter the contests to win the prizes in the comment section below! Winners will be drawn on Thursday, July 11th.
We will start airing the show on our Facebook page at 11 a.m. this Sunday, July 7th.
To show some love to our sponsors for supporting our coverage and offering these incredible prizes, follow:
With thousands expected to attend both LGBTQ2S+ events – human and fur babies alike – you’re going to want to show up on time and at the right place.
Don’t miss any of the excitement! Here’s what’s happening:
11 a.m.
Assemble at the corner of Pandora and Government.
The march continues south on Government and turns west on Belleville
Then, you will turn south on Oswego and west on Simcoe
The parade ends at Simcoe and Montreal
12 p.m.
The Victoria Pride Festival commences at MacDonald Park, 212 Niagara St
12:30 p.m.
Opening Ceremony followed by speeches co-hosted by the GVNCS two spirit collective
The event is scheduled to end at 6 p.m.
The Victoria Pride Festival itself features two stages of music and entertainment, a cash-only beer garden (ATMs on site), multiple food trucks, a giant vendor area and a kids’ camp!
Taking the Main Stage by storm will be artists Caleb Hart, Stevie Wise & The Big Feelings, The Femme Fatales, led by emcee Vikki Smudge.
On the Beer Garden Stage will be performers Angela Hehr and Queer as Funk, with co-emcees Henrietta Dubét and Vivian Vanderpuss.
(Damen Fast Ferry DFFe 3209 rendering / Damen webiste)
Following the release of a south island ferry route preliminary feasibility study earlier this year, Colwood City Council has approved of further research and the creation of a ferry terminal “in principle”.
On Tuesday, Colwood committee members voted in favour of potentially creating a ferry terminal in Royal Bay that would connect to a new terminal in Victoria’s Ship Point.
If approved, the route would be operated by BC Ferries and feature high-speed catamaran passenger ferries.
Each vessel could carry 294 passengers and would be intended to provide an alternative to the busy Trans-Canada highway and the infamous ‘Colwood Crawl’.
While approval for further research passed through the council by a large majority, concerns were raised about the scope of the ferry terminal construction project, and the time it will take for further studies to complete.
There are “many years and many dollars” between a pre-feasibility report and launching a ferry terminal, noted one councillor.
However, many councillors were in support of funding further studies.
“I do believe this is an excellent opportunity for community that we should continue to explore,” said one member of staff.
“I can say without reservation that it is something that thoroughly resonates with our public, so it does behoove us to explore this to its fullest potential.”
While any sort of ferry route between the West Shore and Victoria remains in its very early stages, further research can now be conducted as the council approved of a ship terminal “in principle”.
The ferry route has also been added to BC’s South Island Transportation Plan, which the province is reviewing over the course of 2019.
According to police, the complainant had left their phone on the countertop in the middle of the lobby for a few minutes.
When they came back to retrieve it, they found it missing.
So they called RCMP who were able to review surveillance footage and identify the suspect as Derek Fast.
“Through their investigation, the unit learned that Fast had been at the court house that day checking in with his Probation Officer. Fast stole the phone off the counter before leaving,” said Cst. Nancy Saggar.
He was arrested and charged with Theft Under $5,000. Fast will be returning to court for this matter at a later date.
A landmark Victoria establishment may look and taste a little different to familiar customers as it re-opens today following recent renovations and redesigns.
Earlier this year, the team behind Victoria’s award-winning Fol Epi cafe and Agrius restaurant announced that they were leasing Paul’s Motor Inn Diner to create an organic eatery.
For those who may be worried that the 63-year-old diner may have lost its familiar style, the new restaurant – now called Paul’s Motor Inn Diner by Fol Epi – retains just as much old-school appeal and flavour as it did before, according to staff.
“It’s the diner with a Fol Epi Twist to it,” Paul’s Motor Inn Managing Director Ian Powell told Victoria Buzz.
“Is liver and onions still on there? You bet it is,” he said. “But now there’s also stuff that Fol Epi is known for.”
In terms of aesthetics, the Fol Epi renovations have been careful to maintain the 1950’s diner atmosphere that the motor inn is known for.
“[The renovations] actually make it look more like an old diner,” said Powell. “There’s booths in all of it, but the booths in the front when you first come in have been replaced with a bar and stools for single customers.”
“It’s definitely a diner.”
https://www.instagram.com/p/By2vxLFFhyi/
First opened in 1956, Paul’s Restaurant & drive-in has been a landmark establishment in Victoria for decades. It was later renamed Paul’s Motor Inn and Diner when the hotel portion was added in 1971.
Over the past six decades, the inn and restaurant has served many customers, from locals to a growing Victoria tourist market.
“We’re just delighted,” said Powell. “For me… it’s taking an old classic and adding a twist.”
“We were very clear and cognizant that we still wanted it to be a diner, and that Paul’s Diner had old patrons and a following. We just wanted to augment that.”
One comment that seems to keep reappearing, Powell notes, is that people appreciate a larger location to pick up Fol Epi dishes.
“‘Oh you mean we can have Fol Epi food and we can park the car?’” joked Powell. “Yeah, and it’s not under a parking meter.”
The new Paul’s Diner by Fol Epi is ready for new and old patrons starting today, July 5th, and will be open seven days a week.
A recent report released by BC’s Passenger Transportation Board confirms that there is a tangible “public need” for ridesharing services in the province.
Currently, the organization says that issues within the province’s taxi industry, like service availability, quality, consumer choice, and price could be alleviated through the introduction of ridesharing services like Uber or Lyft.
Research conducted by the organization found that taxi service availability was the largest issue faced by BC residents, with extended wait times during peak periods and an oversupply of availability during non-peak periods.
“At the heart of consumer and business concerns over BC taxi service is supply,” said Dr. Dan Hara in an earlier transportation report, Modernizing Taxi Regulations, which this newest research references.
“Nonindustry stakeholders stated clearly that they want more and better vehicle-for-hire
service. Smaller communities and First Nations want their communities better served,
especially where present service is spotty or non-existent. Large urban communities
experience shortages during peak hours, especially on week-end nights or during
special events.”
According to the Transportation Board, there are not enough cabs to meet demand during certain time periods, like after special events, when cruise ships arrive, when bars close on weekends, and when flights land at airports.
“While the Board has undertaken some measures to address the undersupply of taxis, such
as licensing part-time peak period taxis in Vancouver, the shortage of taxis persists at peak
periods,” reads the report.
“…In summary, there is compelling evidence that taxi service cannot meet peak period public need for vehicles-for-hire.”
In November 2018, the province proposed new ridesharing legislation that would allow businesses like Uber and Lyft to apply to the Passenger Transportation Board to operate in BC by 2019.
The applications must include data and evidence that demonstrates the applicant is capable, the public has need of their service, and that they would contribute to the community and provincial economy.
According to the province, one of the main focuses of the new legislation was safety.
Unlike some other provinces, BC will require ride sharing drivers to possess a class 4 drivers license, which is stricter than a general class 5 license and includes a background check, medical exam, vehicle inspection, and more.
BC’s class 4 requirement matches the policies of other provinces, like Alberta, Quebec, and Nova Scotia, but differs from others, like Ontario, which only requires a general class 5 equivalent license.
Currently, taxi drivers in BC must have a class 4 license.
An exact start date for legal ridesharing in BC has not yet been announced.
For the whole week after Canada Day, Vancouver-native Seth Rogen took to Twitter to talk about one thing: Canadian cuisine.
To kick off his foodie tweet binge, Rogen RT’d a New York Times article titled “The Nanaimo bar is a tremendously sweet, no-bake layered bar cookie from Canada”.
Clearly, he wasn’t a fan of how left out any mention of Vancouver Island, so Rogen decided to give us a shout out himself:
“It’s actually from Nanaimo which is a town on Vancouver Island, which is where the ferry arrives when you leave Vancouver,” he writes. “This is a strange headline. But these things are fucking delicious.”
It’s actually from Nanaimo which is a town on Vancouver Island, which is where the ferry arrives when you leave Vancouver. This is a strange headline. But these things are fucking delicious. https://t.co/pP0YG2ifc6
Rogen also replied to Twitter user “PortMoodyGuy” who posted photos of a Caesar, Nanaimo bars, Kraft dinner, and poutine, with the caption “One gotta go”.
Of course, the actor wasn’t having any of it.
“This is fucked up. Caesars are too good to go and the only good use of Clamato. Nanaimo bars are great. Kraft Dinner raised me. And Poutine is objectively delicious,” he wrote.
This is fucked up. Caesars are too good to go and the only good use of Clamato. Nanaimo bars are great. Kraft Dinner raised me. And Poutine is objectively delicious. https://t.co/pHvjCa0R1c
His next Canadian food shoutout was unprompted by any other tweet.
This time, Rogen shared a nostalgic tidbit from his childhood when he used to consume an all-you-can-eat dish that was only available in Canada.
“When I was a kid in Vancouver, McDonald’s had pizza, and on Tuesdays they had all you can eat pizza. I think about this a lot. That’s all.”
When I was a kid in Vancouver, McDonald’s had pizza, and on Tuesdays they had all you can eat pizza. I think about this a lot. That’s all. pic.twitter.com/XYPn39IdGM
The winner of season 6 of the iconic Emmy-winning award show RuPaul’s Drag Race, Bianca Del Rio, is coming to Victoria on July 20th to regale us with her comedy show.
Since her memorable win in 2014, she has written and toured multiple stand-up shows in cities across the world, and also performed in the RuPaul Werq the World tour alongside other drag queens.
When asked how Biance Del Rio manages to keep up with such a demanding career – international travel, long work hours, and multiple showruns and tours, she answers, “vodka.”
“But actually, how fortunate, how lucky! Now is my time to run and do it. I’m turning 44 tomorrow and there’s never been a better time. I have an audience now that is paying to see me. That has changed my whole outlook on life,” she tells Victoria Buzz.
When the West End calls
Del Rio is currently performing an 8-week run on the West End in London in a show called, ‘Everybody’s Talking about Jamie.’
“When the West End calls, you answer!,” Del Rio laughs while recounting how she ended up accepting the role.
Roy Haylock, Bianca Del Rio’s lesser known off-stage name, started his career in theatre in 1996, working in costumes and makeup.
When a certain performance required a drag queen, Haylock stepped up, soon leading to the birth of her iconic persona, Bianca Del Rio.
“It’s all snowballed into this insane life I’m currently living,” she says. “Everything is a chance. I always say yes to everything, and that’s how I’ve gotten here.”
When asked how to describe the character of Bianca Del Rio to someone who has never seen her perform, she tells us that Del Rio is an “extension of who [she] is. A man in a wig, yet the most honest person you can get.”
Victoria calling
Del Rio will be in Victoria on July 20th to perform her ‘It’s Jester Joke’ comedy tour at the Royal Theatre & McPherson Playhouse
“Expect the unexpected,” she says, “While there is a scripted portion, I deal a lot with the audience. If you’re sitting anywhere in the first ten rows, be prepared to shit yourself.”
Police are advising RV and motorhome owners to take extra precautions to secure their vehicles this summer after two men were found illegally living inside two motorhomes on Wednesday.
On the night of Wednesday, July 3rd, Saanich Police received two reports of suspicious individuals inside of privately owned motor homes.
The first call was received at approximately 10 p.m., after a homeowner in the 3800 block of Douglas Street noticed a naked man standing by their RV.
According to the homeowner, the man looked like he was trying to use the property’s garden hose before he entered into the motorhome and shut the door.
Officers then arrived and found a 21-year-old Victoria man sitting inside the RV, still naked. According to police, it appeared that the man had been living inside the vehicle for at least a few days based on the condition of the interior.
The man, Randy Cartwright, was then arrested and charged with breaking and entering.
Then, just 30 minutes later, Saanich Police received a second call about someone illegally living inside a private motorhome.
Police say that a homeowner in the 4400 block of Wilkinson Road was returning from a vacation and found that the door to his truck camper was open.
When he looked inside the camper, he noticed articles of clothing and other items that did not belong to him. He suspected that someone may have been living in the vehicle for a few days and placed an alarm inside, which activated later that day.
Once the alarm was triggered, he called Saanich Police who deployed officers to the property.
When officers arrived, they approached the mobile camper and attempted to open the door. However, the man inside held the door shut from the inside, preventing it from opening.
The man quickly released the door once K9 Hitch began barking, however, and was arrested for breaking and entering.
According to police, the 20-year-old man is a Victoria resident named Jesse Juba who was also wanted on 6 previous outstanding warrants.
“These are unusual calls that have reminded us that for those seeking shelter, an
RV parked idle on a property, can be appealing as a temporary home,” said Sgt. Julie Fast, Saanich Police, in a statement.
“So if you are an RV owner, take the time to frequently check your RV and ensure it is secure and untampered with.”
One graffiti artists went to great lengths to spray paint the starboard beacon near the Johnson Street Bridge.
But little did he know, he was being watched.
In a Facebook post on Friday morning, Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers addressed the man who committed the crime and was on his way back to shore when he unknowingly flashed a smile at the camera that was pointed right at him.
After seeing the image, Crime Stoppers penned a hilariously sassy letter to the suspect.
Read it for yourself:
Dear Suspect
Ever get that feeling that you are being watched?
Well, on this day you should have had that feeling and made a better decision to not spray your graffiti on the starboard beacon near the Johnson Street Bridge.
We do however, want to share the troubles you went through , as you had to swim out the the beacon and climb the slippery ladder to commit this crime.
Luckily for us, you were caught on camera and now we are able to share this picture of you as you made your way back to shore.
Someone out there will recognize you and they will tell us who you are.
We will be seeing you very soon.
Anyone who knows who the suspect is can contact Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or message their Facebook page.
Three earthquakes within minutes of each other were detecting off the coast of B.C. on Friday morning.
The quakes ranged from 4.5 to 5.6 in magnitude and are classified as aftershocks to the 6.2 magnitude earthquake that took place on Wednesday just north of Vancouver Island.
There’s plenty of great ways to kick your summer into high gear today, like the community-favourite Big Gay Dog Walk to Hillside Shopping Centre’s Hottest Days of Summer event, which features an Extreme Dual Slide, local vendors, cotton candy, and more!
Without further ado, here are 5 things to do in and around Victoria today.
What better way to kick off the month of July than three full days of family-friendly fun, delicious eats and awesome sales?
On top of the exhilarating Extreme Dual Slide (open all weekend!), there is a market on Saturday and Sunday featuring 20+ local art and craft exhibitors, fabulous festive food including candy apples, cotton candy, popcorn and snow cones, face painting for the kids PLUS kid’s activities by Canadian Tire Jumpstart and more! These activities are taking place in the parking lot located off Hillside Avenue.
When: Friday, July 5th to Sunday, July 7th – 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. each day.
Where: Hillside Shopping Centre, 1644 Hillside Avenue
Victoria’s annual free-for-all-ages Big Gay Dog Walk is back and everyone’s invited, whether you have two legs or four (and even if you don’t have a doggie companion of your own)!
The Breakwater Barge is continuing their 2019 season tonight with music headliners, The Hip Replacements!
The Hip Replacements are a Tragically Hip cover band that celebrate the beloved Canadian musicians by faithfully recreating some of their most iconic songs. Visitors can also expect the usual delicious local food trucks and drinks from Driftwood Brewery, Phillips Brewing & Malting Co., Hoyne Brewing Company & Artisan Wine Shop AWS.
Victoria’s Emily Carr House is the perfect locale for some improvised Victorian-era comedy!
Join Paper Street’s cast of landed gentry as they attempt to improvise their way through the conventions and manners of proper society and all the unforeseen complications such constraints provide. Tickets also include complementary lemonade and cucumber sandwiches.
A favourite summer event has returned to the city! Head downtown to explore the Downtown Victoria Buskers Festival!
The festival is a FREE five-day family-friendly community event that showcases the unique talent of street performers from Victoria and across the world. If you can’t make it today, don’t worry, performers will be playing downtown until Sunday night!
The Victoria Pride Society is in dire need of volunteers to help them manage the event, all the way from the start of the march til the end of the festival itself.
While the Pride Society is run entirely by volunteers on staff, they require additional help particularly for major events like the annual parade and festival which are regularly attended by thousands of people.
At the moment, the organizers only have around 5 volunteers signed up to help run Sunday’s affair which requires at least 20.
If you’d like to flex your event management skills, your flair for organization, or simply want to get involved in making our city’s Pride Parade happen, sign up to volunteer at this website.
Route
The 26th annual Victoria Pride Parade will be starting at 11 a.m. on Sunday, July 7th at the corner of Pandora and Government.
Thousands of people participating in the event will then continue south on Government, turn west on Belleville and south on Oswego before turning west at Simcoe.
The route then ends at Simcoe and Montreal St before attendees head over to MacDonald Park for the Pride Festival.
This free-for-all-ages party will carry on at the Victoria Pride Festival taking place at MacDonald Park from 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
