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The wait is over: after announcing the first batch of artists in May, Rifflandia has released the full lineup for this year’s festival!
With nearly 200 artists—including Daniel Caesar, Jessie Reyez, Adventure Club, Current Swell & Friends, Bishop Briggs, and Lights—this year promises to be the biggest yet. Festival goers can experience it all at Royal Athletic Park and at venues across Victoria from Sept. 13–16.
Newly announced artists include Canadian hip-hop star SonReal, 2x UK Beatbox Champion Beardyman, and West Coast funky-bass heavyweight Stickybuds.
“After such a major and successful milestone ten-year anniversary last September, we can’t wait to deliver this next edition of the festival,” said festival director Nick Blasko in May.
Rifflandia has also added three night venues this year, including The Rubber Boot Club, Vinyl Envy, and Canoe Club—bringing the total to twelve.
And this year, the age limit for free entry to Royal Athletic Park has been raised to 12 years and younger, meaning more families can attend at an affordable price. Kids will need to be registered using a form found on Rifflandia’s website. All night venue shows will remain 19+.
Check out the full lineup below, and click here for the full schedule:
One tourist’s gloomy perception of Victoria was improved after police recovered his one-of-a-kind motorcycle that was stolen from a downtown hotel where he was staying.
The man, who police did not name, stepped out of his hotel room early in the morning to discover his unique ride had been stolen.
He had spent a significant period of time restoring and customizing the “café racer” style bike and had journeyed to Vancouver Island for a road trip.
Surveillance footage from the hotel showed a man loading the motorcycle into his van.
In a release, police said they were able to track down the registered owner of the van, who indicated that he’d lent the van to his daughter.
Officers then located the registered owner’s daughter, who in turn indicated a friend had borrowed it to presumably to “run an errand.”
“Officers were able to track down the Victoria man who had taken the motorcycle and located it outside a shop in downtown Victoria at approximately 3:30 p.m.,” police said in the release.
The owner of the bike says the motorcycle was already in the process of being dismantled.
He was extremely grateful of the outcome and insisted on posing with the officers for a photo with the recovered bike.
What: Babble Bar is an international language exchange group in Victoria, BC, Canada. Members of the group meet on the second Wednesday of each month to practice languages they are learning, brush up on their native language skills, and make friends from around the world. Where: Studio Robazzo
2001 Douglas Street When: 7 pm – 10 pm Cost: Free
What: It’s gonna be awesome and it’s gonna be a little weird. Wear your fav cat attire, catsuit, or whiskers. Cat videos to be played all night long of course. Photobooth. Lots of boardgames, a few cat puzzles. Wine and featured cocktail at the bar (White Russian Cat anyone?). Come say ‘hello’ to some of the cat rescue groups in Victoria (no real cats attending). Miscellaneous cat stuff for sale. Canvasses available for purchase for painting! Where: Victoria Event Centre
1415 Broad Street When: 7 pm – 11 pm Cost: $5
What: This event invites the residents of our constituency (Downtown and Harris Green) and the general public in the area to make use of Commercial Alley in a completely different way – one that is designed to encourage people to linger in a pop-up parklet during the day and show up for a fun and casual event in the evening. It will be an opportunity for friends and neighbours to meet and experience Commercial Alley in a casual and sociable environment. Where: Lucky Bar
517 Yates Street When: 5 pm – 9 pm Cost: Free!
What: Each week there will be live music from local musicians, a free all ages beverage garden with beer from Hoyne Brewing Company and cider from Salt Spring Wild Ciderand Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse, kids activities in the Kids Tent, local farmers, artisans, and of course – food trucks! Bring your reusable shopping bags to stock up on fresh, local fruits and vegetables. Where: Oaklands Sunset Market
1-2827 Belmont Avenue When: 4:30 pm – 8:30 pm Cost: Admission is free!
What: Another season of outdoor movie going is upon us. Bring a camping chair and/or blanket and enjoy an outdoor movie experience! the Esquimalt Lions concession will be open with all proceeds supporting their community fundraising efforts . Where: Bullen Park Esquimalt
Lyall Street When: 8 pm – 11 pm Cost: Admission is free!
UPDATE: Donald Naugle has been found safe, according to Victoria police.
More great news! | UPDATE | Donald Naugle who was the subject of a missing person alert Tuesday has been located. He's safe. Thank you to our partners who helped locate him. #F1834748#yyj
EARLIER: VicPD is seeking the public’s help in finding a missing 49-year-old man whose health has been described as declining.
Donald Naugle was last seen on foot in the area near Royal Jubilee Hospital just after 2:15 p.m. Monday. His family is very concerned for him.
He is described as a Caucasian man standing 5’6″, with a slim build. He has medium length brown hair, often long on top with flecks of grey near the temples. Both his ears are pierced and he wears thick silver earrings.
Naugle is not familiar with Victoria but may be in the downtown area or near shelters.
Police ask that you call 911 if you see him.
Anyone with information is asked to call the VicPD non-emergency line at (250) 995-7654. To report what you know anonymously please call Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
For the first time, pop music icons Vanilla Ice, Rob Base, Young MC, and C&C Music Factory featuring Freedom Williams will all be making a stop at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre.
And we’re giving you free tickets to go see them!
That’s right – we’re treating you and your favourite 90’s music jam-out buddy to the ultimate night with the musicians who practically created the soundtrack of the decade.
Follow the steps below to enter, and remember: this time, it just takes YOU to make a thing go right!
CONTEST CLOSED
Congrats to our winner, Congrats Athena Maria!
To WIN two tickets to Back to the 90’s! at the Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre:
SHARE this article on Facebook or Twitter and comment below to let us know (1 entry)
FOLLOW Victoria Buzz on Instagram and comment below to let us know (1 entry)
Tony Sansom (right) is up for a $5,000 teaching award from Post Foods. (Photo by Julie Eves)
Whether it was elementary school or high school, everyone had that special teacher growing up who inspired them to be the best they can be.
To recognize those individuals, Post Foods is hosting the Search for Goodness, a nation-wide contest that rewards one teacher and the school where they work with $5,000 each. And one nominee is from right here on Vancouver Island.
Tony Sansom, a kindergarten teacher from Lakewood Elementary in Langford, is one of many teachers who’ve been nominated for the winning prize.
“Mr. Sansom is an amazing Langford teacher who goes above and beyond for all the kids he teaches and has taught,” says Julie Eves, whose two sons have both been in Sansom’s class. “The families at Lakewood Elementary are so lucky to have him.”
Eves says Sansom was instrumental in helping her youngest son cope with some behavioural issues while her husband was overseas on a peacekeeping mission.
“He really does deserve this and it would mean so much to our school too,” Eves says.
Thanks to the diligent efforts of local parents, Sansom already has over 2,500 votes, but he’ll need to keep that number up to stay in the top 10.
To cast your vote for Sansom, click here. Voting ends at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, August 27.
Whether positive or negative, almost every Victoria resident has an opinion on our current mayor, Lisa Helps.
She’s been critiqued and lauded (one more than the other) heartily for what many see as her main contribution to the city: bike lanes.
Tonight, Tuesday August 7th, Helps’ campaign team is hosting a free meet-and-greet with the incumbent mayor in order to hear the public’s concerns about local issues.
The event serve to launch the Helps’ new campaign headquarters at 829 Fort Street, which will be her base of operations until after the municipal election on October 20th.
Snacks, refreshments, and a performance by the Lekwungen Singers and Dancers will accompany what is sure to be lively conversation throughout the evening.
“We want people to come enjoy this space and talk with us about how we can continue to make progress on well being and quality of life in Victoria,” says Helps.
“It’s the community who I want to hear from. It’s the people of Victoria who have valuable insight into where action is needed most.”
Police have arrested a 25-year-old Oak Bay woman following a joint investigation into a series of arsons that occurred in the area last month.
The investigation began after three small fires were started in the 2000-block of Frederick Norris Road on July 24 and July 26.
Two of the fires were deemed suspicious, and Saanich police assumed the investigation.
On August 3, the suspect was located in Saanich and arrested. The suspect was put in custody and is scheduled to appear in the Victoria Integrated Court today.
“This is another great example of our very effective relationship with the Saanich Police Department” said Oak Bay Deputy Police Chief Ray Bernoties. “These were small fires but the community was understandably very concerned due to their location.”
Saanich police could not confirm to Victoria Buzz what part of their investigation led them to apprehend the suspect.
Two other Oak Bay fires remain under investigation, and detectives will look at all available evidence to see if there’s any connection to this week’s arrest.
Nothing says summer quite like a basket full of fresh, plump blackberries – especially when you’ve handpicked them yourself!
Here in Victoria (well most of Vancouver Island, tbh), there is an abundance of blackberries that grow wild everywhere and take over any space they can find.
They’re usually ripe for picking around late July or early August and will last (depending on the heat and rainfall in any particular year) until mid-September.
These juicy treats are enough to delight the pickiest eater and make for a hearty mouthful on their own. But in case you’re in the mood to get creative and fashion them into a drool-worthy dish, we’ve got some recipes for you to try out!
Put on your favourite apron
With the rising temperatures and no end to summer in sight, how about an icy treat to cool the whole fam down?
Check out Country Grocer’s local fruit popsicle recipe by clicking here. With just two ingredients (four optional) and a handful of blackberries, you can create your own healthy summer snack!
For those who don’t have much of a sweet tooth and prefer their savoury eats, blackberries are still the way to go! Use this recipe to create a mouth-watering blackberry balsamic dressing that will liven up any salad.
Of course, to take advantage of these recipes, you’ll need to know where to find enough blackberries to sate your appetite! Instead of buying them at the store, here are a few places where you can pick fresh ones for free:
Areas in and around Victoria to search
The Galloping Goose (throughout Greater Victoria)
Hop on your bike and start riding along the trail.
Tod Inlet (Saanich)
Panama flats
Elk & Beaver Lake (Saanich)
Quick’s Bottom (Saanich)
Around Gorge-Burnside Community Center (Saanich)
Seabluff Farm (Metchosin)
The residential side of the Esquimalt Lagoon
Macaulay Point (Esquimalt)
Fields behind Tillicum Mall
Local parks
You’ll find giant patches of them in almost any vacant field or along any rural roadway. Many jurisdictions will delay their removal for berry pickers, but it’s best to get to them as soon as the fruit is ripe.
Blackberry Picking tips
Take a pot or bag to carry them in
Don’t pick too low – that’s dog pee territory.
Don’t be greedy! Only take what you need – others are living by this rule so you can have some, so it is only fair you return the favour.
If possible try to wear long sleeves and long trousers because you’re likely to get caught in the bushes or stung by nettles and that hurts!
Eat or freeze your berries within 24 hours.
Don’t wash the berries until you are about to eat or freeze them. Otherwise, they’ll spoil quickly.
Aim to pick firm, plump looking berries – the squashed ones will go bad quicker and taint the rest of your batch.
If you get blackberry stains on your clothes, cover the blemishes in white vinegar and leave to sit for 30 minutes then rinse with cold water and wash as usual.
Red-light cameras that are in place at 140 high-crash intersections across the province—including six on Vancouver Island—are now operating at all times of day, the Ministry of Public Safety announced Tuesday.
Hours of operation have been increased from six hours a day to reduce intersection crashes, which are often the most dangerous due to head-on and side-impact collisions.
“For too long, cameras with a proven record of curbing red-light runners and the serious crashes they cause were not operating at full capacity,” Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, said in a release.
“Last year, we saw a record 350,000 crashes in B.C., with about 60 per cent of them happening at intersections. The full activation of these cameras is overdue and an important step for safety on some of our busiest roadways.”
Full-time activation of the Intersection Safety Camera (ISC) program was announced in September 2017, and was completed at the end of July. The program itself has been in place since 1999.
Staff numbers have also been increased to review incidents and process additional tickets for drivers who run a red light.
On average, over 11,000 crashes happen at ISC sites each year, according to the ministry.
In a statement to Victoria Buzz, the ministry said that ICBC found a 5 per cent reduction in severe crashes and an overall 2.9 per cent reduction of all crashes at the new ISC locations when it conducted a program evaluation in 2015.
“Given the anticipated change in driver behaviour as a result of increased activation, the partners will continue to monitor the crash reduction impact of the program,” the ministry said.
Red-light cameras in full operation on Vancouver Island include:
Three cheers for Vancouver Island! Three southern Island residents are among the 14 British Columbians appointed to the Order of British Columbia this year.
Former MP and MLA David Anderson, Tracey Herbert, CEO at the First Peoples’ Cultural Council, and Carey Newman, a First Nations master carver, were all appointed.
The Order of B.C. was established in 1989 to recognize “those persons who have served with the greatest distinction and excelled in any field of endeavour benefiting the people of the Province or elsewhere.”
“I am so pleased to share congratulations with the inspiring individuals joining the Order of British Columbia this year,” Lt. Gov. Janet Austin, chancellor of the order, announced last week.
“These exceptional recipients are pillars of our communities who have demonstrated excellence and distinction in their fields. I wish to extend my thanks to all new members for their commitment to meaningful work that leaves a lasting legacy, which benefits and elevates our province for future generations.”
Order of B.C. appointees support environment and Indigenous language and arts
Originally of the St’uxwtews First Nation (Bonaparte Band) in the Thompson Okanagan, Herbert has served the public for more than 30 years in the areas of health education, employment, community development, and strategic planning.
For the past 16 years, she’s been instrumental in First Nations language preservation and revitalization in the province, and led the development of an award-winning exhibit on Indigenous languages of B.C. at the Royal B.C. Museum.
Newman is a Sooke-based Indigenous artist, master carver, singer, volunteer, and well-known speaker about the spirit of reconciliation. He created the Witness Blanket, a large-scale art installation composed of items reclaimed from residential schools, churches, government buildings, and other sites from across Canada, four years ago.
The piece acted as a monument to the atrocities of the residential school era while honouring the children involved and symbolizing ongoing reconciliation efforts.
Finally, Anderson worked to safeguard coastal waters and wetland areas from environmental pollution, both as an elected official and in many roles on special committees and panels.
The following 11 people were also appointed:
Deborah Abbey, an author and media spokesperson from New Westminster
Domenic Cuccione, a philanthropist from Port Moody who has raised over $23 million for pediatric oncology research
Brian Fehr, of Vancouver, founder of BID Group that provides innovative technical systems and construction services for wood products industries
Anne Giardini, of Vancouver, chancellor of Simon Fraser University and celebrated B.C. business leader, board director, lawyer, community advocate, and internationally published writer
Andrew Joe, of Vancouver, Canada’s first Chinese-Canadian lawyer
Grand Chief Percy Joe, of Merritt, a hereditary and elected chief of the Scw’exmx, and one of the founders of the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology.
Mary Kitagawa, of Delta, an educator and human rights crusader
Brenda Martens, of Vancouver, a sustainability advocate and early adopter of green building practices
George Melville, of White Rock, chairman and owner of Melville Global Investments Inc.
Bill Millerd, of Denman Island, who dedicated 40 years to nurturing the growth of professional theatre in B.C.
Brian Minter, of Chilliwack, horticulturist and entrepreneur
203 British Columbians were nominated for the order this year, with more than half coming from the Lower Mainland. 432 British Columbians have been appointed to the order since its inception.
Amid growing diplomatic tensions between Saudi Arabia and Canada, the middle eastern country has rescinded scholarships for all of its students (over 16,000) studying in Canadian universities.
This move is the latest in a series of Saudi responses to a tweet on Thursday from Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland, in which she calls for the release of Samar Badawi – sister of activist Raif Badawi – from prison.
Very alarmed to learn that Samar Badawi, Raif Badawi’s sister, has been imprisoned in Saudi Arabia. Canada stands together with the Badawi family in this difficult time, and we continue to strongly call for the release of both Raif and Samar Badawi.
According to a report from Saudi-owned media outlet, Al Arabiya, the country announced the “suspension of training, scholarships and fellowships to Canada and the transfer [of] all its students in that state to other countries.”
In a tweet, Bessma Momani (expert on Middle East issues and a political science professor at the University of Waterloo) responded to this move, stating that this is awful and unjust for students who will now be scrambling to figure out what to do with their lives.
Just got word that indeed Saudis are telling their students (16,000+) in Canada to return home. Scholarships will be rescinded. This is awful for these students, many who are not likely to be in Canada over the summer but now scrambling with what to do with their lives. Unjust!
The University of Victoria currently has 51 Saudi Arabian students (26 undergraduate/25 graduate) enrolled in the Summer 2018 session, and 34 students expected to attend the Winter 2018 session.
In a statement to Victoria Buzz, Jim Dunsdon, Associate Vice President of Student Affairs said:
“We value all of our international students and are disappointed to learn that students from Saudi Arabia may not be able to achieve their educational aspirations at UVic.”
“They bring a unique perspective and diversity to our community and enrich our campus population in many ways. However, it is really too early to tell what the implications are for the university and our Saudi Arabian students.”
At the moment, Camosun College has thirty-two Saudi Arabian students enrolled in the King Abdullah Scholarship Program in their Bachelor of Business Administration program. The college also issued a statement to Victoria Buzz following the Saudi order:
“We were sorry to learn that these students will not be able to complete their education at Camosun and we are doing everything possible to provide support to those that are currently in Victoria and those that are now in Saudi Arabia and planning to join us in September,” said Geoff Wilmshurst, Vice President of Partnerships at Camosun College.
Frayed diplomatic ties
In an earlier response to Freeland’s tweet, the Foreign Ministry of Saudi Arabia issued a statement ordering Canadian Ambassador Dennis Horak to leave the country within 24 hours.
The same statement also recalled the Saudi’s own ambassador to Canada back to Riyadh “for consultation”, and halted all business and investment transactions between the two countries.
“The Kingdom views the Canadian position as an affront to the Kingdom that requires a sharp response to prevent any party from attempting to meddle with Saudi sovereignty,” reads the announcement.
Read the full statement below:
(@KSAmofaEN/Twitter)
The Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs responded by expressing concern over Saudi Arabia’s actions, but resolving to stand their ground.
“Canada will always stand up for the protection of human rights, including women’s rights and freedom of expression around the world. We will never hesitate to promote these values and we believe that this dialogue is critical to international diplomacy,” Freeland stated in a release.
Flights to Canada suspended
In another explicit display of the country’s displeasure with Canada, Saudi Arabia’s state airline has suspended all flights to and from Toronto.
Saudi Airlines tweeted the announcement on Tuesday morning, stating that the suspension will take effect on August 13th, and travellers needing assistance to rebook their flights should call 1-855-588-0999.
The Regional District of Nanaimo issued an evacuation alert and order after declaring a state of local emergency last night, as the Nanaimo Lakes wildfire grew to over 107 hectares in size.
As of Tuesday morning, it is now estimated to be 131 hectares.
An update from BC Wildfire Information Centre: the most recent estimate of size is 131 hectares. The spread of the fire…
The evacuation order was issued at 7:45 p.m. on Monday evening, and covered the following areas:
Elk Trails Way from 2515-2630
Nanaimo River Road from 1565-2665
South Forks Road from 2375-2710
Twilight Way from 2728-2796
An evacuation alert was for 77 residences for an area east of the fire, with RCMP providing door-to-door notices to affected homes.
Crews have been fighting the blaze since it was reported on Sunday evening. Authorities believe the fire was human-caused.
Langford Fire Rescue issued a smoke advisory on Tuesday morning due to smoke from the wildfire drifting south towards the Malahat and Langford.
“You may smell smoke, but call 911 only if you see a distinct column of smoke or flames,” the advisory said.
Smoke from the Nanaimo Lakes fire is drifting south towards the Malahat and Langford. You may smell smoke, but call 911 only if you see a distinct column of smoke or flames. pic.twitter.com/BJSHIZZJGa
The squadron of nine craft will take to the skies for a series of acrobatic displays, reaching speeds ranging from 100 to 320 knots (185 to 590 km/h), and flying as close as 1.2 metres apart.
The squadron will fly over Nanaimo Harbour, with the show centred above and in front of the boat basin by the bastion on Front Street.
The demonstration is also a fundraiser for the CH.I.L.D Foundation, which raises money for children with Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, and liver disorders.
The fundraiser will take place at Maffeo Sutton Park, but spectators should have a good vantage point from anywhere along the waterfront between the Nanaimo Yacht Club and Cameron Island.
The show is scheduled to start at 5:30 p.m., and is expected to last between 45 minutes and one hour. Make sure to get there early!
What: Come down and show ’em what you’ve got! Laugh the night away with our hilarious host Dan Ball as he quizzes you about everything and anything! From math and science to fast food or dudes with mustaches you never know what you need to know to win! Teams up to 4 people or really show off and play it alone! Entry into our grand prize draw just for playing, and nightly prizes given away as well! So far they’ve given away a custom guitar, snowboards, bikes, Vancouver Canucks tickets and much more. You don’t want to miss out! Where: 5th Street Bar and Woodfired Grill
1028 Hillside Avenue When: 9 pm – 11 pm Cost: Admission is free
What: B: Bring a friend or just come by yourself!
I: Imagine the fun you can have kicking butt at music bingo!
N: New and exciting prizes to be won every week!
G: Get yourself to Yates Street Taphouse by 8pm on Tuesday!
O: Order your fave food or bevy and make a fun night of it! Where: Yates Street Taphouse Bar&Grill
759 Yates St When: 8 pm – 11 pm Cost: Admission is free!
What: Directed by Blue Bridge Artistic Director Brian Richmond, this chamber version of this popular work has been offered a bold new visual re-conception by Richmond and his design team, set and lighting designer Patrick Du Wors and costume designer Graham McMonagle. Conceived as taking place in a present day arts therapy workshop for the ‘politically deranged’, this new version sees ten performers on stage painting, creating and destroying their sets and costumes on a nightly basis while they sing, dance and mime their way through their vision of 1847 London. Where: Blue Bridge Repertory Theatre
2657 Quadra St When: 8 pm – 10:30 pm Cost: Get your tickets here!
What: Bring your chairs and dancing shoes and join us every Tuesday for FREE music at Memorial Park. Food vendors on site and/or bring a picnic with you! With a different band each week the whole family is sure to enjoy the enjoy the fourth annual Memorial Park Music Fest. Where: Memorial Park
Esquimalt When: 6:30 pm – 8 pm Cost: Free!
What:All are welcome whether you knit , crochet, quilt, weave etc. It may be tricky to fit a floor loom in the shop though, but they will applaud your efforts! They do also have a selection of yarns graciously donated to the shop by customers, if you are finding fibre arts cost prohibitive. Where: Hide + Seek Coffee
2207 Oak Bay Ave When: 7 pm – 9:30 pm Cost: Free
When a camera that was left behind on a WestJet flight was about to be donated, one employee took to social media to see if she could find its rightful owner.
She messaged Victoria Buzz in a last ditch effort to reunite the camera with its owner who left it aboard a WestJet flight on July 2nd.
Several photos on the camera were shared with us, in hopes that they help people identify the person who owns it.
In order to claim it, the owner must identify the type of camera, list some of the other photos in the card, and tell WestJet their flight itinerary.
Here are some of the photos:
(Submitted)(Submitted)(Submitted)
If you recognize the owner, or if it’s your camera, call 250-654-3001.
Fire crews have been battling a wildfire in the Nanaimo Lakes area throughout the day.
As of Monday morning, the B.C. Wildfire Service estimated that the fire covered about 50 hectares, but recent reports say that it has since grown to 75 hectares, and is still classified as ‘out of control’.
According to a tweet from B.C. Wildfire Service, there were no threats to communities as of Monday morning, but smoke from the fire is largely visible in many parts of the Island.
Heavy equipment and helicopters have been brought in to battle the blaze.
The Nanaimo Lakes #BCwildfire is ~50 has. There are no threats to communities at this time but smoke from this fire is highly visible in a variety of areas. This will likely continue to be the case throughout the day. Firefighters, heavy equipment and helicopters are responding. pic.twitter.com/JOX6s961ss
When this Vancouver Islander went snorkelling in the Nanaimo River, she came back up with something that might just be priceless.
Rebekah Estes took to Facebook to share her find from a snorkelling expedition in the Nanaimo River: a bracelet that has engravings inside the cuff which makes it seem very meaningful to the owner.
To collect the silver armband/bracelet, the rightful owner must correctly identify the markings on the inside.
Since it was uploaded two weeks ago, Rebekah’s post has been shared over 3,300 times on Facebook and garnered numerous comments as well.
Some of these comments congratulate her efforts to locate the owner of the jewellery, while others speculate as to what the engravings may be.
Estes told Victoria Buzz that several people have reached out to her to claim the bracelet as their own but couldn’t tell her what the engraving was, and so it remains in her custody for the time being.
Do you know who the bracelet belongs to?
Found this while snorkeling at the Nanaimo River today, and I’m hoping social media will help me find its rightful…
This weekend, pick a comfy spot outside and keep your eyes peeled to the skies!
The Perseid meteor shower is happening this weekend, from August 11th-13th, and according to NASA meteor expert Bill Cooke, the showers’ peak visibility will be on both Saturday and Sunday nights.
This year, the show will be particularly bright as it will occur during a crescent moon which is due to set before the Perseid shower begins.
“The moon is very favorable for the Perseids this year, and that’ll make the Perseids probably the best shower of 2018 for people who want to go out and view it,” Cooke told Space.com.
Let’s check the forecast, shall we…
(Environment Canada)
As of the time of publication, the skies next weekend look all clear and ready for the Perseids (and you) to take advantage of.
Victoria police and the Emergency Response Team cordoned off much of the 1000-block of Southgate Street Sunday evening while they investigated an unfolding incident.
A large police presence was observed in the area – Southgate Street between Vancouver and Cook Streets – as the road was blocked off for several hours.
According to a tweet by VicPD, they will not be revealing any details other than “one person was arrested and transported to hospital for treatment where that person remains.” They also stated that there were no injuries in the incident.
Online reports suggest that several homes in the area were evacuated while police searched for their suspect, and that the main building of interest was 1050 Southgate Street.
Sources also say that the suspect was known to the police and suffers from mental health issues.
Many inquiries about yesterday's Southgate response. Respect for privacy limits what we can share. What we can say is that one person was arrested & transported to hospital for treatment where that person remains. There were no injuries in the incident.#F1834553.
For a very short time frame on Sunday night, the skies over Greater Victoria looked like they were on fire, creating stunning views all over the capital region.
Whether you missed the colourful end to the day, or just want to relive the experience, we’ve got you covered!
We compiled 12 of the best photos from last nights’ sailor’s delight. Enjoy:
Duncan residents had a chance to meet-and-greet with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Saturday.
After finishing up a family vacation in Tofino, Trudeau hung out at the Duncan Farmer’s Market, before heading over to the B.C. Forest Discovery Centre.
His first stop at the Farmer’s Market gave him a chance to sample local goods and talk to farmers from the Cowichan Valley.
The PM’s second stop, at the B.C. Forest Discovery Centre, had a more pronounced political purpose, as he addressed the challenges faced by the forestry industry in light of the recent U.S. tariff’s on uncoated groundwood paper.
“I know you faced some challenging times in the past and there are ongoing challenging times with the neighbours to the South, but I also want you to know that we have your back,” he said.
Another hot topic that came up was the Trans Mountain Pipeline, which many in BC believe to have been pushed through by the federal government without Indigenous consent on unceded territories.
“There are people out there who still think there is a choice to be made between what’s good for the environment and good for the economy. I don’t,” stated Trudeau.
“The only way to build a strong economy moving forward is by protecting the environment and ensuring we are protecting the environment for future generations, is a deep priority.”
Following his appearance in Duncan, the Prime Minister left for the mainland and was spotted at the Vancouver Pride Parade.
Check out these photos/videos of his trip to Vancouver Island:
❤️🇨🇦 Randomly met Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau today and he and his son (who is a drummer) tried my latest Heaven Sound sculpture. Cool! 🇨🇦❤️ Duncan Centennial
It is one of the largest annual symphony events in North America, and attracts up to 40,000 Victoria residents and visitors from all over the world.
Audience members will gather on the lawns across from the provincial legislature or from their kayaks and canoes to watch as the Victoria Symphony performs from a floating barge moored off shore.
1 . The Concert Program
O Canada
Candide Overture – Bernstein
Robin Hood and His Merry Men – Korngold
Aladdin Suite (Festival March, Spiritual Dance) – Nielsen
Suite for Viola and Orchestra (Prelude & Gallop) – Vaughan Williams
Gone with the Wind; Main Title – Steiner
Dance of the Clowns from the Snow Maiden – Rimsky-Korsakov
INTERMISSION
Prelude to Act 3 from Lohengrin – Wagner
Prince and the Pauper Suite (Duel) – Korngold
Love Theme from Cinema Paradiso – Morricone (arr.Krogstad)
ET (Flying Theme) – Williams
Star Wars (Main Title Theme) – Williams
Berliner Luft – Lincke
1812 Overture – Tchaikovsky
Amazing Grace
There will be a couple of featured guests as well, including opening act Dock Side Drive and 17-year-old violist Danielle Tsao.
Tsao is the second musician in her family to be selected as the Splash’s Young Soloist. (Her sister Carolyn played the piano in 2007.) She’s performed with the Victoria Chamber Orchestra, the Sidney Classical Orchestra, and the VCM Showcase Orchestra. Following Symphony Splash, she’ll be soloing with the Sooke Philharmonic this October.
And that’s not all: as in years past, the performance will be capped off with an incredible fireworks display set to the bombast of Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture.”
On Sunday, August 5 the north lane of Belleville Street, between Government and Menzies Streets, will close at 5 a.m.
At noon, both lanes on Belleville Street between Menzies and Government Streets will close to accommodate event set-up.
By 2 p.m., the following roads will be closed: Government Street from Superior to Humboldt; Belleville Street from Menzies to Douglas; and Wharf Street from Government to Broughton. (Note: Belleville Street will be closed at 1pm.)
Roads will open as soon as possible after the event on Sunday, August 5 between 10:30 p.m. and 1 a.m. on Monday, August 6.
Parking will be free at City parkades and on-street meters on Sunday, August 5 and Monday, August 6.
A passenger drop-off zone will be available on Government Street, located across the road from the Fairmont Empress Hotel on Sunday, August 5 from 8 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
There will be a special viewing area for people with disabilities and their families and friends on the northwest corner of the Empress lawns.
3. Summary of Events – Sunday, August 5
TD Family Zone: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Beverage Garden and Culinary Corner: 3 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Pre-show entertainment: 4 p.m. – 5 p.m. Dock Side Drive
Maestro Kluxen and the Victoria Symphony: 7:30 p.m. – 9:45 p.m.
Finale including 1812 Overture and Fireworks: 9:45 p.m. – 10 p.m.
4. The Splash Family Zone will offer all ages entertainment
Located on the Fairmont Empress Lawn, the Splash Family Zone features plenty of activities for the from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. including:
Face painting
Instrument petting zoo
An activity with the Royal BC Museum
Games and activities with Sport ball
Sportball bouncy castle
Victoria Symphony craft
Clowns and drumming workshops
World Cup Youth Soccer Shootout
5. Victoria Symphony Splash is a “by donation” event
While the event receives support from sponsors and “heroes,” the suggested donation amount is $5 per person.
Every $5 donation will receive a Splash Button which you can wear proudly to show your support for the Symphony. Volunteers with donation buckets roam the crowds or you can track down one of our donation barrels. All proceeds go to support the Victoria Symphony’s artistic and education programs.
Volunteers with donation buckets will roam the crowds. You can also track down one of several donation barrel. All proceeds go to support the Victoria Symphony’s artistic and education programs.
6. Fireworks
As in years past, the performances will be capped off with an incredible fireworks display set to the bombast of Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” between 9:15 p.m. to 10 p.m.
The fireworks finale at tonight’s Victoria Symphony Splash!! (ItkasanImages)
A notice stating that Glen Lake Beach is closed due to poor water quality. (Devon James/Facebook)
Anyone looking to do some swimming this weekend ought to avoid Langford Lake and Glen Lake, as both beaches have been closed to swimmers due to poor water quality.
Island Health notified the City of Langford of the poor quality on Friday, but no further details were available.
Neither beach is recommended for water activities at this time. The city has asked residents and visitors to not swim in or drink the lake water.
Victoria Buzz has reached out to Island Health and will update when they respond.
Langford Lake was recently closed to swimmers due to high E. coli levels found in the water, but Victoria Buzz hasn’t confirmed if it was ever re-opened.
The provincial government announced on Thursday the launch of a new fund for supportive housing: the Building BC: Supportive Housing Fund.
The fund will provide $1.2 billion over 10 years for the construction and operation of 2,500 units of housing for people who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
The Building BC: Supportive Housing Fund launches today. This investment will provide $1.2 billion over 10 years to build & operate 2,500 units of supportive housing for people who are experiencing #homelessness, or are at risk of homelessness. LEARN MORE– https://t.co/6Rx1x9fWkZpic.twitter.com/Rkvhj4apRD
The government is also working to identify non-profit housing providers that are interested in providing management and support services.
Those services include, but are not limited to: individual or group support services, resident needs assessments, meal programs, helping access income assistance and other benefits, and home maintenance support.
This is in addition to the 2000 homes that we have already announced for 22 communities across the province. Just got more shovels in the ground this week in #PrinceRupert and #Terrace. Such gratitude from these communities that been waiting for help for so long …. https://t.co/7CjG84uHI5
Just a few weeks ago, ICBC launched its online Drive Smart Refresher Test to ensure drivers were up to date on the rules of the road. The launch came after the release of statistics that showed an all-time high for vehicle crashes in 2017.
Over 45,000 British Columbians took the test. And based on the results, it looks like B.C.’s drivers could use a bit more practice.
ICBC says that if the refresher test was treated like the knowledge test that requires a minimum score of 80 per cent to obtain a learner’s licence, 18,000 (40 per cent) would have failed.
Drivers had the most difficulty with what to do around emergency vehicles, minimum following distances, and the meaning of certain road signs.
Questions related to texting while driving, meanwhile, received near-perfect answers. And yet, as ICBC points out, over 34,000 drivers were ticketed for using an electronic device in 2017.
Here are some of the top questions that were answered incorrectly:
When approaching a stopped emergency vehicle with flashing lights on highways with speed limits of under 80 km/h, in addition to changing lanes, drivers must slow to: 40 km/h
When approaching a stopped emergency vehicle with flashing lights on highways with speed limits of 80 km/h or over, in addition to changing lanes, drivers must slow to: 70 km/h.
The minimum following distance when behind a large vehicle or a motorcycle on a high speed road, should be: 3 seconds.
The minimum following distance in bad weather or slippery conditions on high speed roads, should be: 4 seconds.
Drivers are required to yield to a public transit bus that is signalling to enter traffic: on all roads where the speed limit is 60km/h or lower.
ICBC is still encouraging drivers to take the refresher test and be diligent in practicing good driving habits.
“What’s just as important as knowing the rules of the road is putting them into practice whenever you drive,” said ICBC interim vice-president Lindsay Matthews.
“No matter how many years of experience you have under your belt, we can all benefit from shedding bad driving habits and refreshing our knowledge.”
While the new Johnson Street Bridge opened to traffic at the start of April, the work continues on a new pedestrian viewing platform—and the City of Victoria is giving folks a sneak peek!
The platform will be reachable by a pedestrian-only walkway on the south side of the bridge.
From there, pedestrians can get a close-up look at the machinery in the bascule pier that operates the bridge’s lifting mechanism.
In a video posted to Twitter on Friday, the city gave Victorians a glimpse at what to expect when the pedestrian walkway opens later this month.
Watch the video in the tweet below:
Hey #yyj here's a sneak peak of the viewing platform inside the rings of the new #JSB that overlooks the machinery in the bascule pier. The south side pedestrian only walkway is scheduled to open later this month and connects to the new viewing platform pic.twitter.com/7cd1P7MfgX
In an effort to make active transportation available for those in need, U-bicycle North America is launching a new program in which decommissioned bikes are donated to a local non-profit.
According to U-bicycle North America, a handful of its U-bikes have been either stolen or vandalized since the company’s operations in Victoria began. But while some have taken damage to their locking mechanisms, they’re perfectly functional otherwise.
Rather than recycle the lockless bikes for scraps, U-bicycle is opting for a less wasteful alternative by donating them to Anawim House in what its calling the ‘My-bicycle’ program.
Located at 973 Caledonia Ave., Anawim House’s mission is to support people experiencing poverty by empowering them to make healthy decisions.
The house has recently built a new bike repair facility, making it a perfect fit for U-bicycle’s new program.
The company has committed to donating 25 bicycles to Anawim House this summer, along with lights, helmets, and combination locks—free of charge, thanks to a partnership with Fort Street Cycle.
“What we’re ultimately trying to do in Victoria is provide affordable and sustainable active transportation for the people who live here,” U-bicycle operations manager Raviv Litman, explains. “And we want to be sensitive to those who cannot afford a smartphone or to use our service.
“Everyone deserves access to ride a bicycle, should they choose. It’s a matter of the right to transportation and the right to happiness.”
The new My-bicycle program will launch on Tuesday, Aug. 7 at 1 p.m. at Anawim House.
U-bicycle North America will measure the success of the program by checking in with bike recipients over the following year. If the response is positive, more bikes may be donated as they become available.
“With giving our guests these bicycles we are able to help them with a sense of security and self reliance,” Anawim House director Terry Edison-Brown says. “Many of our people are in need of basic transportation and this will open up many more options for them.”
Want your Instagram to pop this long weekend? Make a stop at the Bay Centre and snap a pic or two with their new mural series!
The new walls are located on levels 1 and 2 of the shopping centre, and are guaranteed to make anybody’s Instagram photos double-tap worthy.
The “West Coast Best Coast” and “Striped” walls can be found on level 2 next to the Douglas Street entrance, while the “Victoria Made” wall is located on level 1 next to La Senza.
A fourth wall will be installed in September.
(The Bay Centre/Sergej Krivenko)
New shopping centre enhancements on the way
This is the second set of Instagram walls that The Bay Centre has installed since the spring as part of its re-merchandising program.
The shopping centre has started undertaking several interior enhancements in preparation for a 20,000 square foot, multi-level fashion store opening in spring 2019.
Enhancements currently underway include entryway upgrades, interior and exterior lighting improvements, and redesigned marquee signs.
With currently 446 wildfires burning throughout British Columbia, the BC Wildfire Service announced that it will be bringing in additional personnel from abroad to assist in firefighting efforts.
Twenty firefighters from Alberta and 15 firefighters from the Northwest Territories have already arrived as of Thursday.
An additional twenty firefighters and ten support staff from Saskatchewan will arrive on Sunday.
On Monday, a mix of 65 firefighters and support staff from New Zealand and 62 firefighters from Mexico will arrive in the province on Monday, Aug. 6. A group of 25 support staff from Australia will arrive sometime next week.
In addition to personnel, four Canadair CL-415 water-skimming aircraft are being brought in from Quebec to add to the over 150 aircraft that are currently in service.
The BC Wildfire Service says there are over 2,200 people currently engaged in wildfire response.
While there are currently no wildfires of note anywhere on Vancouver Island, the area is still under a campfire ban.
What: Dance the weekend away to the best country music around! Where: 811 Youbou Rd,
Lake Cowichan When: Thursday, August 2nd – Sunday, August 5th Cost: General admission for the full event is $269. Click here to purchase.
What: Join a meditation event unlike anything you’ve experienced before! It’s not everyday that you get the chance to learn from an acclaimed spiritual guide.
Invented thousands of years ago, refreshed for the 21st century. Experience the greater power of meditation and the next level of well being with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.
A movement empowering British Columbians to do more of the things they love by going deeper into meditation. A powerful way to have it all. The ease and depth of these events will resonate as much with beginners as with advanced practitioners. Where: Victoria Conference Center (VCC) 720 Douglas Street When: 7:30 pm – 9 pm Cost: $60
What: You will love the fine handcrafted wood items, whimsical home décor and naturally crafted body products. We also have top-quality traditional baked goods, speciality sauces and seasonings and dried soup mixes. Hungry? You will find prepared food you can eat right on site in our picnic area. We also have a vast array of farm-fresh products from farm-fresh meats to seasonal veggies and fruits. Where: The Corner of Menzies and Superior Street When: 9 am – 3 pm Cost: Free admission
What: This weekly-weekend market features high-quality artist-made goods, delicious food trucks, and some of Victoria’s finest local musicians. Where: Ship Point When: 10:30 am – 10:30 pm Cost: Admission is Free!
What: Let’s celebrate the Latin culture with live music, dancing, sports and performances. Viva Victoria Latin Fest brings together Latin artists and dance performers from different Latin American countries. The festival recreates the atmosphere of a vibrant city plaza in Latin America. The arts showcased during this one day event includes live musical bands, traditional Latin dances, kids activities, Zumba classes, international and local foods. Where: Centennial Square
Centennial Square When: 12 pm – 7 pm Cost: Free!
What: Not your typical tour of Victoria! Join artist David LaRiviere for an anti-tourism walking tour of the city, stopping at sites featured in stories told by participants of his media arts project #everysordiddetail. The tour will begin at Open Space with an artist talk about the project from 2-2:30pm. An “anti-tourist” project opposing the touristic narratives of the city in favour of fragmentary or messy bits of real life, #everysordiddetail seeks to create an alternative and uncensored map of the city. Where: Open Space Gallery
510 Fort Street When: 2 pm – 4 pm Cost: Free
What: Join more than 100 Royal Canadian Sea Cadets from across Canada as they celebrate the Sea Cadet Centennial with the Ceremony of the Flags at the B.C. Legislature. This historic tradition involves ceremonial rifles and field guns, a large band and an incredible amount of pride from Canada’s finest youth leaders. Where: BC Legislature When: 7:30 pm – 8:30 pm Cost: Free!
What: Teenage Cady Heron (Lindsay Lohan) was educated in Africa by her scientist parents. When her family moves to the suburbs of Illinois, Cady finally gets to experience public school and gets a quick primer on the cruel, tacit laws of popularity that divide her fellow students into tightly knit cliques. She unwittingly finds herself in the good graces of an elite group of cool students dubbed “the Plastics,” but Cady soon realizes how her shallow group of new friends earned this nickname. Where: Cameron Bandshell @ Beacon Hill Park
Victoria When: 9 pm – 11 pm Cost: free
What: The Gorge Waterway Action Society and Hecklers Bar & Grill are teaming up to bring you an evening of laughter and fun! This fundraiser will benefit the Gorge Waterway Action Society to help us continue our conservation efforts in the Gorge and continue to bring environmental education to the community at the Gorge Waterway Nature House. Where: Hecklers Bar & Grill
123 Gorge Rd. E. When: 8 pm – 12 am Cost: $15
What: On Sunday, August 5, 2018, tens of thousands of people will take to Victoria’s Inner Harbour for the 29th annual Victoria Symphony Splash. From a floating stage in the Inner Harbour, the VS orchestra and special guests will perform, ending with a grand finale performance of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture – with fireworks of course! Where: Inner Harbour When: 1 pm – 10 pm
What: Don’t miss the last HarbourCats fireworks show of the season! This time honoured tradition is just as instrumental to ball games in Victoria as peanuts and crackerjack and we can’t wait to watch their awesome display. Where: Wilson’s Group Stadium at Royal Athletic Park, 1014 Caledonia Avenue When: Monday, August 6th, fireworks start right after the game, between 9 – 10 p.m. Admission: Fireworks are included with purchase of tickets. Adult tickets start at $15. Click here to purchase.
What: Please join for an evening of music, drinks, a raffle, silent auction, and speakers, including hereditary Chief Eric Pelkey of the Tsawout First Nation at the Victoria Event Center on Monday, August 6th! Live music will be provided by Singer/Songwriter/Activist Peach Guevara. Together we will be raising money to help pay for the legal fees of protesters charged while resisting the advances of the Trans Mountain Pipeline. Proceeds from this event will also help the Tsawout First Nations repair a traditional canoe to be used asserting Indigenous title and rights on the Salish Sea. Where: Victoria Event Centre
1415 Broad Street When: Doors open at 7 pm Cost: $10
What: VBDS and the City of Victoria bring you “Dancing in the Square”.
Every Monday evening, July 9 – August 20. 7 Weeks of Dancing!
FREE beginner ballroom workshops 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
DANCING with Live Band & DJs 8:00 – 9:30 p.m.
Practice your new-found skills and your old dance moves as well!
Today you’ll learn how to dance the Rumba Where: Centennial Square When: 7 pm – 9:30 pm Cost: Free
What: Journey to the Reef is a Big Wave Surf movie set in the Pacific Northwest. The film follows a group of world-class professional surfers as they take on the challenge of one of the most dangerous waves in the world, Nelscott Reef. Where: Patagonia Victoria
616 Yates Street When: 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm Cost: $10
Victoria police, fire department officials, and paramedics attended a call at Clover Point this afternoon when a vehicle nearly rolled into the ocean.
According to Tim Berntsen, who witnessed the aftermath of the incident at around 4:45 p.m., the vehicle was parked for a while, and then went over the edge all of a sudden.
Bike paramedics happened to be riding by at the time and were able to attend to the driver of the vehicle. A tow truck is on site to recover the car.
(Photo by Tim Berntsen)
Victoria Buzz has reached out to Victoria Fire Department for more information.
More to come.
Emergency crews are on scene of an incident at Clover Point. It’s unclear how the vehicle nearly ended up nearly in the water but witnesses say the vehicle was parked prior. Bike paramedics happen to be driving at the same time. Photo by Tim Berntsen #yyjtrafficpic.twitter.com/0kGeBqSy4v
Victoria police are looking for a suspect who randomly assaulted an employee at a business in the 700-block of Yates Street.
The incident occurred at around 9:30 p.m. on Friday, July 27th, after the suspect entered the business in question and headed straight to the staff-only area.
When approached by a staff member, the suspect became agitated and assaulted the employee before promptly fleeing the scene. Victoria Police officers arrived to find the victim suffering from non-life threatening injuries.
The suspect is described as Caucasian male between 20-25 years of age, standing 5’11” tall with a medium build, has “mop-like” brown hair with curly bangs, and brown eyes.
At the time, he was wearing a dark blue button-up shirt with white flowers, the sleeves rolled to the forearms, and blue jeans.
If you recognize this man or have information about this incident contact VicPD’s non-emergency line at (250) 995-7654. To report what you know anonymously, call Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
After several frozenfoodproducts were recalled due to increased risk of salmonella contamination, the Canada Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) issued new guidelines in July for food manufacturers.
The new measures apply to the manufacture and production of chicken nuggets, cutlettes, chicken burgers, and popcorn chicken, but they do not apply to chicken breasts, filets, or tenders, the CFIA says.
Facilities that manufacture such products must review their processes and implement one of four control measures by April 1, 2019:
A cooking process as part of the product manufacture that is proven to reduce salmonella germs by 10,000,000 times (a 7-log reduction)
A testing program for raw chicken mixtures to demonstrate that they have no detectable salmonella
A hold-and-test program for finished frozen raw breaded chicken products
A process/combination of processes that has been validated to reduce salmonella germs by 100 times, and a sampling program for raw chicken mixture
New measures won’t be enough, experts say
Rick Holley, a food safety expert who studied salmonella in the 1990s, told CBC News that while the new requirements are promising to see, it will take more than that to fix the issue.
While the regulations will address issues at the processing level, Holley says salmonella can and should be eliminated from food products entirely.
“We just don’t have the kind of control we need to have to keep [salmonella] away from the food system … Initiatives associated with food-borne illness and food safety have been, I think, put on the back burner by the government,” he told CBC. “The issues associated with food safety, I think, are a time bomb waiting to explode.”
A recent study released by a local realtor from Fair Realty shows a trend of declining foreign property buyers in Victoria over the past year.
According to the study, there were 53 property purchases made by foreign buyers in the Victoria real estate market in June 2017. Compared to that, there were only 6 in June 2018, making it a whopping 89% drop.
This percentage is the latest in a trend of declining foreign buyers in the city’s real estate industry, according to an infographic included in the study:
(househuntvictoria.ca)
Moreover, the average price of property being purchased by foreign buyers has also gone down to $380,000 compared to $728,000 one year ago, suggesting that luxury home buyers were hit hardest by the tax.
The reasoning
The analysis attributes this decrease to the 20% foreign buyer’s tax, collected through the province’s Property Transfer Tax which was expanded to include Victoria earlier this year.
One concern raised in the study is that the higher end foreign buyers have switched to purchasing property through numbered companies and trusts in order to evade this tax, and therefore would not have been accounted for in this study.
However, as of September 17th, BC will be requiring all real estate buyers to disclose additional personal information when purchasing property under a numbered company.
Amendments to the B.C. Human Rights Code that will re-establish a human rights commissioner will be introduced in the Legislature this fall, the provincial government announced Friday.
The proposed amendments will create an independent human rights commissioner who will then report to the legislative assembly.
B.C.’s former commission was dismantled in 2002, making it the only province in the country without one.
“This new human rights commission will work with people throughout B.C. to promote equality and fairness,” said attorney general David Eby. “The 16 years of British Columbia being the only province without a provincial organization dedicated to the promotion and protection of human rights are coming to an end.”
The commissioner’s key functions will include educating British Columbians on human rights, with particular regards to gender equity and LGBTQ+ rights, as well as addressing issues of discrimination.
The commissioner will have a mandate to develop tools, policies, and guidelines to promote human rights and combat inequality and discrimination.
Spencer Chandra Herbert, MLA for Vancouver-West End, said the news was cause for celebration, especially as Vancouver gets set for this weekend’s Pride festival and parade.
“When groups are targeted by hate, we as a government and a society must act,” Herbert said. “These changes will be a big step forward toward building a more inclusive and welcoming community for all.”
BC will finally have a Human Rights Commission to help support diversity, and equality and fight hate. Happy Pride! https://t.co/48OH8zomhA
— Spencer Chandra Herbert (@SChandraHerbert) August 3, 2018
Once legislation is passed, an all-party committee will be formed to recommend a commissioner, whose appointment will be subject to house approval.
This month, Uptown Shopping Centre will be hosting three days of pop-up markets featuring over 60 unique local artisans from Crafted Farmhouse Market.
Uptown Boulevard will be buzzing with food, music, art, fashion, and more all day, three Fridays in August, and you won’t want to miss it.
The main street of Uptown Shopping Centre will shut down to traffic on all three days to make room for the vendors, and activities for the whole family. From face painting and balloon art to door prizes, and raffle prizes, there’ll be something to keep everyone busy!
Here’s a list of some the vendors you can look forward to:
Jewelry by JustUs
Pudding N Pie Papery
Hey Baby
Loops Jewellery
Petal & Gruff Reclamation
Pines & Nettles Skin Care
Board & Brush Designs
Michelle Murray Designs
Troll Brothers Quilt Designs
Sidney Scones
Langford Original
The Hat Emporium
Woven Stone Co.
Goose Loves Lamb
Urban Baby Apparel
Hot Rocks Jewellery
Silk & Stone
Greater Victoria Public Library
Sizzling Tandoor
The Noodle Box
Meraki,
and more!See, taste, hear, and feel the best that Vancouver Island has to offer – we’ll see you there!
Chapters is relocating from its downtown location on Douglas Street to the Mayfair Shopping Centre. (Google Maps)
Downtown Victoria is about to lose one of its major landmarks, as Chapters Victoria prepares to close its doors… and relocate to the Mayfair Shopping Centre.
The store will be rebranded in the process, adopting the namesake of its parent company Indigo Books & Music Inc.
Though an exact timeline has not been set, Indigo public relations manager Kate Gregory told Victoria Buzz that the store will be closing in late summer, with Indigo opening at Mayfair in the fall.
Gregory said that the new location “reflects our new store concept showcasing a warm and modern aesthetic where customers can explore the best in books, beautiful and exclusive in-house designed lifestyle products, and must-have speciality brands.”
She added that Chapters’ current staff will be relocated to the new store at Mayfair when it opens.
In the ongoing debate around waste reduction, banning plastic straws is frequently touted as the silver bullet solution to the world’s garbage woes.
But almost 50 per cent of the litter recovered from beaches in large urban areas such as Vancouver and Victoria is made up of cigarettes, according to a new study from the University of British Columbia (UBC).
UBC researchers analyzed data from 1,126 voluntary cleanups organized by the Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup (GCSC) along the coast of B.C. between 2013 and 2016.
“We found that generally 80 to 90 per cent of the litter that’s being collected is still plastic waste,” said Cassandra Konecny, co-author of the study and master’s student in the department of zoology and Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries at UBC.
“We also found that while the amount of trash being collected didn’t vary much over time, the type of litter varied by region.”
Researchers grouped the waste items into five categories by source—smoking, recreation, fishing, dumping, and hygiene products—and then sorted them by region.
The most common pieces of litter they found include cigarettes and filters, foam pieces, plastic pieces, and food wrappers and containers.
“In places like the southern Strait of Georgia which includes larger urban areas like Vancouver and Victoria, we see that cigarettes and cigarette filters—which are made of plastic—account for almost 50 per cent of litter recovered,” said co-author Vanessa Fladmark, a master’s student in the department of earth, ocean and atmospheric sciences and Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries at UBC.
Researchers saw more recreational items like large plastic bottles or plastic bags in areas around northern B.C. like Prince Rupert and Haida Gwaii.
The study’s findings could be used to help guide waste management strategies across B.C., as researchers say more needs to be done to reduce the amount of litter that ends up in the water or on coastlines.
“For example, we’ve heard a lot recently about banning single-use plastic straws in the City of Vancouver. But if the data shows that smoking is a big issue and mostly we’re just picking up cigarettes, that’s perhaps a good place to start,” said Konecny.
Several companies have already announced that they’ll be removing plastic straws from their stores, including Starbucks and A&W.
Researchers recommend that more effort should be put towards changing regulations around production and distribution of the items most commonly found on shorelines. They also suggest raising greater awareness around marine pollution, and implementing better waste management infrastructure.
The paper was published in the latest issue of the Marine Pollution Bulletin.
A research team at the University of Victoria is creating an industrial strength plastic that could replace metal used in vehicles, making them lighter and more energy-efficient.
Led by chemist Jeremy Wulff, the team has been working to make Polydicyclopentadiene (PDCPD) – an extremely strong plastic used in construction vehicles – smell less foul and be more receptive to adhesives in order for it have broader applications.
The group accomplished this by adding an extra chemical handle onto the polymer’s molecular structure, thereby also making it recyclable! These changes did not have any effect on the plastic’s industrial-grade strength and ability to withstand temperatures up to 400° C.
“Its durability comes from its molecular make-up,” says Wulff, Canada Research Chair in Bioactive Small Molecule Synthesis.
“PDCPD is extensively crosslinked—which is a fancy way of saying that whatever huge part you make from it is basically one big molecule. Pretty impressive when you think about it—imagine the entire body of your truck cab being made from one gigantic molecule!”
The team is currently looking for an industrial partner to begin pilot-plant vehicle production using PDCPD to pave the way for its eventual commercialization.
Big news, hockey fans: Hockey Canada just released the full schedule for the 2019 IIHF World Junior Championships!
The 43rd edition of the tournament is being co-hosted by Vancouver and Victoria starting on Dec. 26th, 2018, with the championship final game taking place at Rogers Arena in Vancouver on Jan. 5th, 2019.
Canada will play two pre-tournament games on Wednesday, Dec. 19 and Friday, Dec. 21 at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre. Opposing teams are yet to be determined.
For regular tournament play, Victoria will host Group B, comprised of Sweden, USA, Finland, Slovakia and Kazakhstan.
Group A in Vancouver will include Canada, Russia, Czech Republic, Switzerland and Denmark.
What: Brian Dickinson has been a mainstay on the Canadian jazz scene for over thirty-five years. His skills as a jazz pianist, composer and arranger have been heard on well over sixty recordings including over ten of his own releases as leader. Where: Hermann’s Jazz Club Inc.
753 View Street When: Starts at 8 pm Cost: $20
What: Gentle farmer Arthur Hoggett (James Cromwell) wins a piglet named Babe (Christine Cavanaugh) at a county fair. Narrowly escaping his fate as Christmas dinner when Farmer Hoggett decides to show him at the next fair, Babe bonds with motherly border collie Fly (Miriam Margolyes) and discovers that he too can herd sheep. But will the other farm animals, including Fly’s jealous husband Rex, accept a pig who doesn’t conform to the farm’s social hierarchy? Where: Cameron Bandshell @ Beacon Hill Park When: 9 pm – 11 pm Cost: Free!
What: Directed by Blue Bridge Artistic Director Brian Richmond, this chamber version of this popular work has been offered a bold new visual re-conception by Richmond and his design team, set and lighting designer Patrick Du Wors and costume designer Graham McMonagle. Conceived as taking place in a present day arts therapy workshop for the ‘politically deranged’, this new version sees ten performers on stage painting, creating and destroying their sets and costumes on a nightly basis while they sing, dance and mime their way through their vision of 1847 London. Where: Blue Bridge Repertory Theatre
2657 Quadra St When: 8 pm – 10:30 pm
What: Carvers Dave and Johnathan Jacobson of Tsaxis First Nation, carver and painter Tom Hunt Jr. of Wei-Wai-Kum First Nation, cedar weaver Toni Frank of Shishalh First Nation and carvers and fashion designers the Good family from Snuneymux First Nation will all be demonstrating their multi-faceted cultural artwork on the museum’s upper plaza. Where: Royal BC Museum
675 Belleville Street When: 11 am – 4 pm Cost: Free
What: Road Waves is touring across Canada this year behind their new album, Red Sun Rising.
Combining influences from the roots of jazz, bluegrass, blues, funk, and rock, Road Waves is constantly pushing new boundaries, and is an up and coming improvisational act with a huge dose of energy.
With fresh sounding originals inspired by the likes of The Beatles, The Allman Brothers, The Grateful Dead and more, they are sure to invigorate and liven up any audience — and with their new album and energy – Road Waves will have you thinking about them long after they play. Where: The Loft Pub
229 Gorge Road East When: 8 pm – 11 pm
Tour de Rock alumnus rider, Erin Glazier, is appealing to the public to help her find her stolen bike.
It was stolen on the morning of Wednesday, August 1st from the 500-block of Fisgard Street.
This Tour de Rock alumni bike belonging to @ErinGlazier was stolen earlier this morning. If you see see it, message us or her. It has tons of sentimental value and she needs it for an upcoming triathlon. #yyj#victoriabuzzpic.twitter.com/tPnRprzhhN
According to footage from a surveillance camera nearby, the suspect who stole the bike is male, approximately 5’10” tall, with a medium build and shaggy, dark brown hair. He was wearing a scarf, a long sleeve grey sweater and dark pants.
Here are a few still images from the video:
(Victoria Police)(Victoria Police)
According to Victoria Police, the bike is a black and silver 2012 Trek Madone, with “EGLAZIER” printed along the top tube and a 15th anniversary sticker. It also has polka-dot bar tape on aero bars, resembling bull horns on the front.
The bike has lots of sentimental value for Glazier, as she rode it in the 2012 Tour de Rock alongside members of the media and police to help raise funds to send children with cancer to Camp Goodtimes.
Here is a photo of the bike:
(Victoria Police)
If you spot this bike or have information about its whereabouts, contact Victoria Police at (250) 995-7654. To report what you know anonymously, call Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP arrested three people following an investigation into several counterfeit money-related offences that occurred throughout the Cowichan Valley from July 20 to 24, 2018.
Officers executed search warrants at a property located in the 7800 block of Westholme Road in North Cowichan on July 26.
Officers seized several items including counterfeit Canadian currency, various papers and ID, and evidence of counterfeit currency production.
The suspects arrested include a 33-year-old woman, a 42-year-old man, and a 44-year-old man. Police are pursuing several charges of uttering counterfeit money, possession of counterfeit money, and possession of a controlled substance.
Police praised the diligence of local businesses in identifying counterfeit bills, which was instrumental in identifying the suspects.
This summer, we’re here to help you unleash your inner wine mom!
Wines of British Columbia wants YOUR help to pick the Best of BC Wine Country 2018 – that means your favourite BC wines, the best wine tours, winery restaurants, etc. – and they’re giving away some incredible prizes in exchange for your input.
The organizers of this crowd-sourced online survey want you to use the hashtag #BestofBC18 on social media to let them know how much you want either:
a) a Best of BC wine gift basket,
b) an overnight stay at a Best of BC Winery accommodation, or
c) dinner for two at a Best of BC winery restaurant.
So not only do you get to tell the the world all about your favourite local reds, whites and rosés, but you’ll also have a chance to win an on-theme prize tailored just for you!
That’s right – the winner will receive a custom made prize package depending on their favourite BC wine and wine region.
Colleen Wilson is planning on travelling after winning $675,000 in the lottery this week. (British Columbia Lottery Corporation)
A Victoria woman is proving that sometimes dreams do come true after she won $675,000 from her Set for Life scratch ticket.
“I was at home when I scratched my ticket and realized I had won. I sat there in disbelief and wasn’t sure if it was real,” Colleen Woods said of her big win in a British Columbia Lottery Corporation release.
One trip to London Drugs later, and Woods’ hopes were realized. “The screen said ‘major winner’ and everyone looked at me with their jaws dropped to the ground. I was so happy; it’s something everyone dreams about!” she said.
Since she’s retired, Woods said she’ll be spending her winnings on travel. “I’m quite happy in my life,” she said. “I am dreaming about where I should travel to next and the new experiences my journeys will take me.”
Woods purchased the winning Set for Life ticket at the Town Pantry on Shelbourne Street.
And she’s not the only recent ticket winner from the Victoria area; last month, Angella Gordon-Spence won $675,000 from a ticket she purchased at Hillside Shopping Centre.
“I want to take a family vacation to Mexico to relax and then we’ll decide what to do from there,” Gordon-Spence said when asked what she planned to do with the winnings.
