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Looking for some free work done on those not-so-pearly whites? Next week is your big chance.
Dr. Frank Van Gyn and his teams in Sooke and Victoria are anticipating a big turn-out for a day of free dentistry on Monday, April 23rd from 8am – 4pm.
Both Otter Point Dental (6689 Sooke Rd, Sooke) and Eagle Creek Village Dental (31 Helmcken Rd, View Royal) will be taking individuals on a first-come-first-serve basis to perform one extraction, filling or cleaning per adult or child.
File Photo
It not just the dentistry that is free, every associate, hygienist, and receptionist volunteers their day to do this.
“It’s not an effort, we love to do this, look forward to it every year,” said Dr. Van Gyn. “It’s important to recognize that dental health is not available to everyone so we want to help those that don’t have regular access to a dentist.”
Friends and family of the staff also often show up to support and help with line control, distributing in-take forms and keeping up the spirits of those in line.
Event Returns for the Fifth Year Running
Five years-ago Dr. Van Gyn and his team decided to take this project on and make it an annual event.
Oral health can become costly, inconvenient and painful without proper care.
“[We] feel it’s important, to not only give back to communities that have been home to them for years, but to allow as many people as they can to have the opportunity to have a healthy smile,” Dr. Van Gyn’s team wrote in a release.
It looks like neither consumers nor local franchise owners are too happy with Tim Hortons right now.
According to a study by the Angus Reid Institute, cost cutting measures taken by the chain’s parent company, Restaurant Brands International (RBI) are seen as one of the factors contributing to the worsening quality, service, and safety at Tim Hortons’ stores.
The federal government will be investigating these claims.
One in three Canadians (35%) have stated that their opinion of the coffee giant has worsened over the last five years. Nevertheless, Tim Hortons continues to be seen as a key component of Canadian culture.
A Corporate Reputation study conducted by Leger also found that Tim Hortons fell from 4th to 50th place in this year’s rankings.
The company’s position on minimum wage and cutting back benefits to recoup costs played a large role in this fall from grace.
The Government of British Columbia is exploring ways to develop a community solution that improves access to post-secondary education and training for people living in the West Shore and Sooke.
The Province has announced that it is providing $250,000 to Royal Roads University, on behalf of the three public post-secondary institutions on southern Vancouver Island, to manage the development of a report for potential program delivery options in Langford, based on need.
In 2017, the West Shore had an estimated population of about 74,000, while Sooke had a population of about 14,000. For the City of Langford, the annual average population growth rate over the last 10 years was 4.7%, making it one of the fastest growing regions in the province.
Post-Secondary Education Within The Existing Community
“We’ve been looking at ways to advance the delivery of post-secondary education and training to programs in the West Shore for a number of years,” said Stewart Young, mayor of Langford. “It makes a lot of sense to give students pursuing a post-secondary education the opportunity to do that in the community they live in.”
Photo via colwood.ca
Community partners, including students and parents, School District 62 in Sooke, West Shore municipalities, Royal Roads University, Camosun College, the University of Victoria and First Nations, as well as the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training, will be involved in the local planning process.
“Giving our students the ability to transition to post-secondary education or training, while continuing to live in their home community, is a great option,” said Jim Cambridge, Sooke School District 62 superintendent.
West Shore municipalities include the City of Colwood, the City of Langford, the District of Metchosin, the District of Highlands and the Town of View Royal.
This Thursday, Victoria Buzz is partnering up with the Bay Centre to ring in Earth Month, and give you the perfect opportunity to celebrate this planet we call home.
Come on out to the Bay Centre on Thursday, April 19th, and bring your travel mug, because we’re giving away a free cup of joe, thanks to Starbucks Bay Centre.
And that’s not all: we’re also handing out a free spring potted plant to the first 200 people that come up and say hi!
Once you’ve got your caffeine fix and a little greenery to get your day started, be sure to make a pledge for Earth Month on the Bay Centre’s wall – your ideas could help save the world.
And speaking of walls: while you’re there, head over to the third floor and check out the shopping centre’s uber cool new Instagrammable photo walls. They’re there until the end of April, and are sure to get you those double taps!
But first, come see us! We’ll be in the centre court, next to the giant shoe.
Central Saanich Police made a release on Monday, revealing that yet another local has fallen prey to a common CRA scam.
“Sadly one of our community members fell victim to the CRA scam, which is most prevalent during tax season,” wrote police. “A resident received a phone call from an individual claiming to be a representative of the Canada Revenue Agency and demanded $500 in iTunes cards to be used to repay over-due taxes.”
If you have received a call, email or another form of communication you believe to be fraudulent and have not given money, police recommend that you contact the Anti-Fraud Centre.
If you have given money and reside in Central Saanich, please call 250-652-4441 to make a report.
Police are asking the public to share this information with friends, family and loved ones to prevent victimization.
The CRD’s Water Conservation bylaw will take effect starting May 1st, which means residents of the Greater Victoria area should prepare for another summer of reserved water use.
These restrictions will apply to all residences, businesses, and municipalities, despite reports indicating that the Sooke Lake Reservoir – the region’s main water supply – has been overflowing with rainwater since late December 2017.
According to the Water Conservation bylaw, people in the area will only be allowed to water their lawns and plants two days a week, during predetermined hours.
Although an expansion of the local reservoirs would solve the problem of water shortages, the project has not been approved as it is estimated to cost $100 million.
The CRD has also posted a list of suggestions on how best to conserve water:
Let your lawns go dormant and turn golden during the Summer. They will naturally turn green once Fall rains return.
Water your plants as needed, and use mulch to help them retain moisture.
Don’t wash your vehicles any more than is necessary for safe driving/sailing.
Use a broom instead of a hose to clean outdoor areas like patios and driveways.
Remember to turn off the tap and do full dishwasher and laundry loads to keep saving water indoors.
What: A warming and energizing flow class (vinyasa) to clear your mind and free your body. We will begin with grounding meditation, balancing breathing practices (pranayama) and move through a full body opening and strengthening sequence. The class will close with a relaxing and cooling sequence to prepare you for a productive and peaceful day. Where: Club Kwench
843 Fort Street When: 8 am – 9 am Cost: Get your tickets here!
What: All supplies are provided, as well as tea & coffee.
Come and enjoy a relaxing morning and get your colour on, no experience necessary. Colouring is a great way to practice mindfulness, meditation, and reduce stress. Where: Oaklands Community Centre
1-2827 Belmont Ave When: 10 am – 11:30 am Cost: $2
What: The live show encompasses the charming and colourful nature of the television series and features life-size puppets that walk, talk, dance, and jump around for a fully immersive theatrical experience. The show will give preschoolers and their families the opportunity to engage with their favourite characters in a stupendous first live theater experience. Where: Save on Foods Memorial Centre
1925 Blanshard St When: Starts at 6 pm Cost: Get your tickets here!
What: A modern comedy about finding out who you really are. Salt Baby is a Six Nations woman whose light skin sets her apart from her relatives, both on the rez and in the city. She’s a fish out of water and, accompanied by her Caucasian boyfriend, Alligator, she’s determined to discover how she fits into her two very different worlds. Where: Belfry Theatre 1291 Gladstone Avenue When: Show starts at 7:30 pm Cost: Get your tickets here!
What: With the end of cold weather, college, and awkward family holidays right around the corner, come celebrate the start of party season with us at the Copper Owl! Dance the night away with We the Few, Chase the Bear and Midnight Mile! Where: Copper Owl
1900 Douglas Street When: Starts at 8 pm Cost: Cover charge is $10
45 neglected Havanese and Havanese-cross dogs were surrendered by a former breeder outside of Victoria on April 12. (BC SPCA)
The BC SPCA is caring for 45 neglected Havanese and Havanese-cross dogs surrendered by a former breeder outside of Victoria on April 12.
The dogs’ coats were extremely matted with feces and urine and they were living in unacceptable conditions inside the home due to high levels of ammonia.
The BC SPCA will be recommending charges of animal cruelty in the case.
“The individual was cooperative and voluntarily surrendered the animals, who range in age from one-and-a-half to 15 years,” says Marcie Moriarty, chief prevention and enforcement officer for the BC SPCA.
“Our staff have spent the past few days assessing the physical and psychological well-being of the dogs and providing immediate medical care for any issues,” says Moriarty.
“The dogs were extremely filthy and matted, so extensive bathing and grooming was necessary before we could even assess their condition.”
New Breeder Regulations Needed
While the individual had stopped selling dogs approximately five years ago, Moriarty says this situation is an example why the new breeder regulations being developed in B.C. are urgently needed.
“Whether it involves a puppy mill where a breeder is putting profits before the welfare of the animals or a situation where an individual becomes overwhelmed with the number of animals in their care, we need to have standards for breeders and a way for members of the public to identify legitimate breeders from those who are not providing good care and welfare for their animals,” she said.
Adoption and Donation Info:
The dogs are being cared for at a number of SPCA shelters on Vancouver Island but are not currently up for adoption.
Donations for the care of these dogs, and other abused and injured animals in the BC SPCA’s care, are gratefully received at spca.bc.ca/emergencyalert.
The Government of British Columbia is partnering with the City of Victoria, Atira Women’s Resource Society, and the Aboriginal Coalition to End Homelessness to build new modular housing for Indigenous women, with 24/7 support services.
A total of 21 temporary homes will be built to be operational for approximately five years. They’ll be located on the 800 block of Hillside Avenue, as part of the Evergreen Terrace complex.
Pending municipal approvals, construction is anticipated to begin in fall 2018 and will be complete by March 2019.
Residents will also benefit from:
24/7 on-site staff support, including daily meal services, employment training, and culturally specific and life-skills programming
Health and wellness services, including mental health and addictions treatment
A shared amenity space and access to laundry facilities
Custodial and maintenance services.
Crucial Development for Critical Homelessness Situation
Neighbouring residents and businesses will have an opportunity to learn more about the project at an open house (details will be announced in the coming weeks).
In the meantime, Provincial Ministers and local MLAs have been very supportive of the development.
“Having access to a safe, stable place to call home is crucial for anyone who is experiencing, or is at risk of, homelessness,”
“Indigenous people are over-represented amongst the homeless population,” said Selina Robinson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “And homeless women, especially those who are Indigenous, can face tremendous risks. That’s why I’m really pleased to see this project moving ahead.”
“The need for housing in Victoria has reached a critical level,” said Rob Fleming, MLA for Victoria-Swan Lake. “These new modular homes will provide Indigenous women in need with an affordable and safe place to call home, while accessing the support services that they need to reach their potential.”
Sip sip, hooray! The Victoria International Wine Festival has released its 2018 dates, and we can’t wait to start tasting this summer.
The Festival will span over three days, from Thursday, September 20th to Saturday, September 21st at the beautiful Parkside Hotel and Spa.
Along with great wine, food and company, the Festival includes three 2.5-hour tasting sessions, four seminars, and one fantastic launch party.
Attendees can expect to see over 400 wines showcased from around the world at this exclusive international wine tasting event.
Increase Your Wine Knowledge
During the public tasting sessions, sommeliers walk throughout the Festival grounds assisting attendees in navigating the tastings.
The Festival is inclusive of all kinds of palettes and flavour preferences and aims to increase the average consumers’ knowledge of wine by highlighting affordable wines.
“We focus on delivering an environment that is a welcoming place to sample wine while gaining knowledge of new wines in a format that is not intimating,” said David Bain, Festival Director.
“We then match this with wines selected from a panel of sommeliers that impress the most experienced wine enthusiast.”
“Bubbles Bash” Launch Party
The Festival kicks off on Thursday, September 20th with a special “Bubbles Bash”, which will highlight sparkling wines from around BC and the world.
Media, principals, and VIP’s will be invited to mingle with Festival ticket holders at the Parkside Hotel and Spa.
Grab Your Tickets ASAP
Tickets for the Victoria International Wine Festival are hot items, regularly selling out well in advance.
Mark your calendars, tickets go on sale on April 30th at 9:00 am.
Memorial for Adam-Jesse Wakeling (Yannick Aubin / Facebook)
Losing a child is tragic enough, but one mother has recently had insult added to injury in the form of a stolen memorial.
Yannick Aubin, whose son Adam-Jesse Wakeling died at age 13 in 2012, penned an open letter on social media to the whoever stole the angels and crosses from her son’s memorial site, near Slegg Lumber on Sooke Road.
AJ Wakeling (Yannick Aubin / Facebook)
Open Letter:
“Why?” Aubin asked. “There’s very little, if any value. If your goal was to hurt me or my family, you failed. We lost a piece of our hearts, not much can truly affect us after, much less such a useless cowardly act.”
“Think about it, you stole angels that represented my deceased son… Let that sink in. My son is in my heart, he’s always by my side and my boys side. What do you have? A cold black heart,” she said.
On October 23, 2012, AJ was crossing between Glenshire Road and the Slegg Lumber parking lot entrance when he was struck by a small pickup truck in the eastbound lane.
AJ’s twin witnessed the accident and another sibling arrived on the scene as police investigated.
If you have any information about the theft, or you happen to see any of the stolen items, contact Yannick Aubin or Darrin Brown.
Here’s a little moment of wonder for your day. A message in a bottle written by a Victorian has washed up on the shores of Florence, Oregon, over 600 kilometres away!
If that wasn’t awesome enough, the message itself is full of inspiration and kindness.
Full Message:
The bottle in which the message arrived in. (Shena Cunningham / Facebook)
Life is a treasure, seek it, enjoy it. Wear it around your neck like a beautiful necklace. What people think of u is not necessarily what you are. Somewhere in your soul you believe. You are beauty. Like anything, you sometimes get desperate and destroy something. But like all of us the sun still shines reflecting what you are inside. I sail away in the night winds. You will always stay with me.
The writer herself, Heidi K. (her last name is hard to decipher) has yet to be tracked down. But let us know if you have any leads!
Perhaps there are more similarly-inspirational pieces of paper floating around the Pacific, just waiting to meet an unsuspecting beachcomber.
Are you on the lookout for what to post next on Instagram?
Well look no further! The Bay Centre is here to make sure you and your feed are on fleek, when you pose in front of their brand new photo walls.
Their Instagram walls are always #OOTD ready, and guarantee you plenty of double taps – but hurry! The two walls on display right now are only there until the end of the month.
Transform into an Angel or a Floral Queen and leave your friends in awe, when you visit the third floor of the Bay Centre between now and April 30th.
But that’s not all – a little birdy let slip that they’ll have more picture walls coming up in May, so stay tuned!
(The Bay Centre/Jay Wallace)
Bay Centre upgrades
These art walls are a part of the remerchandising program underway at the Bay Centre, in anticipation of the 20,000 sq. ft. fashion store opening up in 2019.
Moreover, the shopping centre is undergoing other enhancements in terms of entryway upgrades, interior and exterior lighting improvements, and redesigned marquee signs.
As part of the new store opening, some tenants will move to new locations. Many of which are expanding to larger key market store concepts.
Here’s a list of all the stores expanding within the Bay Centre:
Bentley is expanding with a larger new concept store on level 1 opening this spring.
Ardene is expanding and moving into a 12,235 sq. ft. store on level 3 opening late spring.
Purdys Chocolatier is expanding with a new shop, the first of its kind, on level 1, opening late summer.
SoftMoc is expanding and moving to level 2 with their new store concept opening this summer.
Rogers Plus is expanding and moving to a new location on level 2 opening mid-summer.
Konz Pizza is bringing their concept to the Bay Centre’s food court, opening late summer.
Locally owned and operated, The Cannery, a furniture, home décor and gift shop is opening in May on level 1.
Victoria’s Central Branch library is a great place to grab books, but apparently, it’s also the perfect place to shoot a music video!
That’s exactly what Current Swell did for their latest single When To Talk and When To Listen, using the bookshelves, desks, and chairs to create a charming narrative featuring two librarians making a homemade, old-school video after hours.
The older gentleman who dances and lip-syncs throughout the film is actually the father of Current Swell’s bass player Louis Sadava!
“The main actor is our bass player’s dad Mike,” Current Swell wrote on Facebook. “We think he killed and he’s available for your next dance party.”
Not The First Local Video
Though this might be the band’s most obviously Victoria-based music video, they actually have a habit of featuring the west coast in their footage.
Current Swell’s Scott Stanton, Dave Lang, Louis Sadava and Chris Petersen actually started making music on Vancouver Island, and spend time here when they’re not touring.
For example, their hit Young and Ablefeatures a quintessential Islander experience of piling into a van for a ferry ride, a beach bonfire, and of course great music.
Their song Rollin’ also appears to feature some landscapes that look an awful lot like those here in Victoria…
But before you go down the YouTube music rabbit hole, check out the band’s great new video below!
A key access point for Highway 14 will soon be getting a major refurbishing thanks to the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure.
Two kilometres of Sooke’s Otter Point Road is set to be upgraded, giving the route – an important alternative during highway closures – a repaving and widened shoulders.
“These upgrades will help keep drivers, cyclists and pedestrians moving safely,” said Premier John Horgan, MLA for Langford-Juan de Fuca.
Project Cost Remains To Be Seen
The proposed improvements will widen the shoulders and repave approximately two kilometres of Otter Point Road between the municipal boundary and Kemp Lake Road.
Once survey and design work is complete, the ministry will provide an estimated project cost and schedule for the construction of these improvements.
The Otter Point Road project is now part of the suite of Highway 14 corridor improvements announced in January.
These improvements include transit pullouts and a queue-jump lane, safety signs, new Gillespie Road two-lane bridge, Sooke River Road intersection upgrade, Muir Creek slow-moving vehicle pullout and Sombrio rest area.
More intersection upgrades, passing opportunities, improvements for transit, highway shoulder-widening and alignment improvements are under development in consultation with the community.
The new Johnson St Bridge at night
Enrico Poblacion (via Instagram)
This island has some fantastic Instagram accounts. So each week we compile a selection of some of the best photos, which used the hashtag #victoriabuzz. Check out all these great photos around our beautiful city and island!
Every week we’ll make a new list, so if you want to get featured upload your photo on Instagram and use the hashtag #victoriabuzz. The best pictures will be shared in our next photo gallery.
What: Hear powerful stories of environmental activism in B.C. – and share in a dynamic discussion—with acclaimed author and world renowned environmental and social justice activist Thom Henley. Where: Hillside Coffee and Tea
103-1633 Hillside Avenue When: 6:30 pm – 8 pm Cost: Free!
What: Do you need a good laugh, or do you want to try your hand at making other people laugh? Come out to see some of the best professional and amateur comedians on the Island! Want to try comedy? All you have to do is show up by 7:30pm and put your name on the list! Where: Hecklers Comedy Club
123 Gorge Rd E When: 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm Cost: $5 cover charge
What: Monday Night Yoga at Sitka is going strong. They are clearing their space to hold an hour of yoga with a new instructor every week.
Bring your own mat and water! Where: Sitka Victoria 1219 Government St When: 7:30 pm – 8:30 pm Cost: Drop-ins are $5 per person
What: The Time of Things proposes to challenge the binary of traditional and contemporary art. It considers the continuum of indigenous customary practices into contemporary indigenous art through the work of five women artists: Daphne Boyer, Maureen Gruben, Susan Pavel, Skeena Reece, and Marika Echachis Swan. Where: Legacy Gallery 630 Yates St Cost: Free
What: BINGO! This fun game combines the knowledge of music with the fun of Bingo! It’s a lot of fun, a great night out with your friends and there are prizes up for grabs. Where: The Loft Pub
229 Gorge Rd E When: 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Most Vancouver Islanders have probably witnessed firsthand the point at which the Fraser River meets the Strait of Georgia. Nevertheless, it is a sight to behold each time.
Recently, a video of the phenomenon was posted to a Facebook group called ‘The most beautiful photos and videos in the world’, and has since been shared almost a million times by users around the world.
Although several commenters tried to account for this unusual occurrence by citing scripture from the Bible and Quran, the official explanation lies in the fact that the silt-laden fresh water of the Fraser River and the sea water of the Strait of Georgia do not mix and therefore form a clearly visible boundary between each other.
This natural occurrence makes for a striking and unparalleled view. The video in question was taken on board a BC Ferries vessel that was en route from Vancouver Island to the mainland.
Last night, two of the most iconic 1970s rock artists performed live once again at the Save On Foods Memorial Centre, and needless to say, the show was sold out.
The performance consisted of two 90-minute sets that showcased the highlights of both Steve Miller (74) and Peter Frampton’s (67) careers.
Both artists had the crowd out of their seats and on their feet, jamming out to familiar tunes until the end of the nostalgic night.
Check out these photos from the event:
(Colin Smith Photography)(Colin Smith Photography)(Colin Smith Photography)(Colin Smith Photography)(Colin Smith Photography)(Colin Smith Photography)(Colin Smith Photography)
UPDATE: Shawna has been contacted by a family friend of Elyjah’s and hopes to connect with him soon!
EARLIER: They say birthdays are all about friends, family, and celebration.
But let’s face it: when you’re turning 12, presents are a pretty important part of it!
Unfortunately, one newly turned 12-year-old named Elyjah lost a birthday card and present from his friend Matty while they were celebrating his special day at Beacon Hill Park.
Good Samaritan Shawna Beamish was walking through the park when she came across the Ziploc bag with $20 and a thoughtful, handmade “Happy 12th Birthday” card.
The back of the card reads “To: Elyjah, From: Matty”. So she took to social media to share her find, and try to locate either one of the two kids to return it.
If neither of them are found, she will donate the money to the Beacon Hill Children’s Farm petting zoo.
Her Facebook post has been shared over 1.4K times, so the chances of finding at least one of the two boys is looking fairly high!
Do you know who they might be?
NEW UPDATE: Card with money has been returned to Elyjah's mom! Thanks for all the shares, it's heartwarming to see…
From Bastion Square to Munro’s Books, the article takes you on a trip through a literary and historical account of the heart of Victoria.
Unlike most tourism features, this one ventures outside of downtown Victoria and the main attractions (inner harbour, Royal BC Museum, etc.). It also makes a beeline for Dallas Road, making stops at Fisherman’s Wharf and Ross Bay Cemetery along the way.
And when it comes to food, who can begrudge Victorians their brunch?
Carmick accurately captures the spirit of our town when she suggests a light brunch at Agrius. Other eateries mentioned in the article are Foo Asian Street Food, Venus Sophia Tea Room, Olo, Little Jumbo, and the Q Restaurant and Bar.
This list of things to do and places to go in Victoria is, of course, not nearly comprehensive – we’ve got so much more to offer. However it does do a great job of picking out some of the most exciting and worthwhile attractions that even some locals may not have had a chance to try.
Tonight, celebrate the start of the summer at the city’s hottest Sunday venue!
That’s right: Blackout Sundays are officially back at Rooftop Patio in the iconic Strathcona Hotel.
For those who are unfamiliar with this Victorian summer ritual, Rooftop Patio is an open air restaurant/bar that is transformed into a happening club with DJs and dancing, every Sunday of the season!
Their signature drink served in a sandbox bucket is right on theme, and matches the sand-filled volleyball court that is a part of the establishment.
Court rentals start on May 10th, and include everything you need to play, plus courtside food and beverage service.
But before that, go join the patrons of Rooftop Patio tonight to kick off the Blackout Sunday season with their official launch party, featuring DJ’s Chet Flanagan, Yeezy Yee & Degree.
Everyone’s favourite one-stop-popcorn-shop is officially on the market!
Kernels Popcorn at Hillside Mall is for sale, and you could be the next owner – that is if you’ve got $145,000 lying around.
A recent listing posted by a realtor from the Sutton Group has confirmed that the current owners are looking to sell the business to the next great popcorn-connoisseur.
Kernels Popcorn is a 35-year-old franchise, with another location at Mayfair Mall, and other outlets throughout BC, Alberta, and Saskatchewan.
All in all, this promises to be one sweet and salty investment!
One of downtown Victoria’s most popular hangouts has just added some of our favourite drinks and beers on tap!
The Interactivity Board Game Cafe on Yates Street serves up a never-ending supply of classic and contemporary board games, paired with their coveted milkshakes and sandwiches.
Visitors often wait hours to get a table at this unique destination, and the line isn’t about to get shorter any time soon because their menu just got a little bit bigger and boozier!
According to one of the owners at the cafe, the company obtained their liquor license on March 1st, and since then have come up with an entire drinks menu, including craft beer from Hoyne Brewery and Sooke Brewing Co. on tap.
Alcohol will only be served on the newer side of the cafe (the part that used to be Meat & Bread Restaurant), and only guests aged 19+ are permitted to be in that side of the establishment.
Since the announcement of a drinks menu in mid-March, the Board Game Cafe has been slammed with visitors at all hours of everyday, so if you’re headed over there, be prepared for a bit of a wait!
Not only is Victoria one of the most naturally beautiful cities in the world, but we’ve also got the culture and nightlife to match.
According to an official list of Canada’s 50 Best Bars of 2018, our city’s very own Little Jumbo is among the crème de la crème of the country’s drinkeries.
Sharing the limelight with some of the hottest bars in big cities like Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary, Victoria’s Little Jumbo gets its inspiration from the Little Jumbo Saloon in New York, owned by world-famous mixologist Harry Johnson.
The restaurant/bar made it to #29 on the list, which takes into account ambience, drink quality and variety, and excellence of service.
And although it didn’t make it to the actual list, Victoria’s Big Bad John’s at the Strathcona Hotel was also given an Honourable Mention in the article.
Here’s the full list of the 50 Best Bars in Canada 2018:
A giant addition to Victoria’s skyline is now on the horizon.
As of Thursday, April 12th, the motion to grant a development permit for a 26 storey mixed-use building at 777 Herald Street was passed, five votes to three.
Set to be Victoria’s tallest building, the structure will contain 176 residential units, with a rooftop patio and a 1500 sq. ft. ground floor reserved for commercial use.
There will also be six levels of underground parking with 259 spaces, 192 residential bicycle parking stalls, and six visitor bicycle stalls.
The building will be called Hudson Place One and is slated for completion by early 2020.
The developers, Townline Homes, are also working on completing the pitch for their second tower, Hudson Place Two, which will be another mixed-use residential/commercial building located at 1700 Blanshard Street.
(Sunrise Parking Lot/Mount Washington Alpine Resort/Instagram)
In an effort to ensure that every guest is able to experience the fresh, clean mountain air untarnished, Mount Washington has decided to go smoke-free starting June 1st, 2018.
At the moment, the resort does not allow smoking in lift lines, on chairlifts, and within 3 metres of building entrances and intakes.
This new policy has been updated to include a ban on smoking of all kinds – like vaporizers and marijuana (medicinal and recreational) – in all parts of the resort. This encompasses all parking lots, ski runs, bike, hiking and Nordic trails and public spaces within the resort area boundary.
The sale of all smoking products at Mount Washington Resort will also be stopped by June 1st, in compliance with these new rules.
This announcement was made just days after the CRD amended its Clean Air bylaw to include vaping, smoking weed, or “burning any substances” in public spaces.
The Victoria Highlanders FC have just announced a new partnership with Island Savings, which will see the island-based firm become their new title partner.
The agreement will see Highlanders FC, who play in the Premier Development League (PDL), continue to add to their soccer legacy in Victoria as the highest level of soccer available.
The PDL is the fourth level of soccer in the Canadian professional soccer pyramid, and the Highlanders battle the under-23 squads of Major League Soccer teams such as the Portland Timbers and Seattle Sounders.
Founded in 2008, the club has had a number of homes, but now entertains its crowds in Centennial Stadium at the University of Victoria.
With a long-term partnership in place, the Highlanders aim to build upon their decade-long history, while continuing to be a fantastic developmental opportunity for Island soccer players – whether their goals be to turn professional, play nationally, or earn scholarships.
Highlanders FC kick off their home opener on May 20th, hosting Calgary Foothills FC!
Hallelujah! It’s the weekend! There’s a lot happening around Greater Victoria today, whether you want to spend time with some furry friends, dance the night away or appreciate some art – you won’t be bored this weekend!
Here 13 things happening in and around Victoria this weekend!
What: Cheer on your fave weiner! The Dachshund Dash (Wiener Dog Races) will be held at The Vancouver Island Pet Expo. Where: Pearkes Recreation Centre
3100 Tillicum Road When: Race starts at 2 pm Cost: Get your tickets here!
What: Come hang out with all your furry, scaly and feathered friends at the Vancouver Island Pet Expo. From seeing a “Dachshund Dash” firsthand to watching incredibly intelligent canines to catch some air, this is the place to be for animal lovers on Vancouver Island.
The first 100 people through the doors will be given FREE goodie-bags in addition to all the prizes and giveaways at the Expo. Where: Pearkes Recreation Centre
3100 Tillicum Road Cost: Get your tickets here!
What: Calling all artists and art-lovers! You’re invited to the 6th annual Camosun Comic Arts Festival hosted by the Comics & Graphic Novels program at Camosun College. Where: Camosun College
3100 Foul Bay Rd When: 12 pm – 5 pm Cost: Admission is free!
What: This weekly program introduces children ages 2 – 5 to the fun world of museum learning. Each week’s program revolves around a new theme, allowing children to learn through crafts, play, song, and dance. This week theme is: Beach Life. Where: Maritime Museum of British Columbia
634 Humboldt St When: 11 am – 12 pm Cost: $5 per child
What: Come and enjoy a fun evening of dance music! This double bill evening features two of Victoria’s most in demand dance bands: The Radcliffes (a new configuration arising from the popular The Sutcliffes) and Victoria’s funk & soul masters, Groove Kitchen. Where: Oak Bay Recreation Centre
1978 Bee St When: 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM Cost: Get your tickets here or at the door!
What: Moontricks has proven to be one of the best not-so-secret treasures in the festival and live show circuit. Their sound represents a cutting edge blend of folk and electronic, blues and soul, and features live guitar, banjo, keys, and vocals making them both a standout live act and studio act. Where: Capital Ballroom
858 Yates Street When: 9 pm – 2 am Cost: Get your tickets here!
What: This year they will celebrate, encourage, and work towards science that is for everyone . Science isn’t just for scientists , it impacts everyone – by protecting everyone’s health and the environment, and providing everyone with facts and evidence to hold the governments accountable.
It’s also recognize that the benefits of science, and the opportunities to do science, are not accessible to everyone. Scientists and scientific institutions need to do better to ensure the voices of marginalized groups are amplified, and that actionable steps are taken to increase diversity within the research community. Where: Centennial Square
1 Centennial Square When: 1 pm – 2:30 pm Cost: Free
What: Come hang out with all your furry, scaly and feathered friends at the Vancouver Island Pet Expo. From seeing a “Dachshund Dash” firsthand to watching incredibly intelligent canines to catch some air, this is the place to be for animal lovers on Vancouver Island.
The first 100 people through the doors will be given FREE goodie-bags in addition to all the prizes and giveaways at the Expo. Where: Pearkes Recreation Centre
3100 Tillicum Rd When: 10 am – 4 pm Cost: Get your tickets here!
What: This Family Sunday, meet local artist Trudi Lynn Smith and try out her Breath Camera! This event is in anticipation of the upcoming exhibition Supernatural: Art, Technology and the Forest featuring Trudi and other photography and video artists, who are deeply inspired by the forest. Enjoy activities connected to the wonder of the forest, photography and the breath. Where: Art Gallery of Greater Victoria
1040 Moss St When: 2 pm – 4 pm Cost: Program is included with admission
What: Come for a fun-filled afternoon of music! Join in or come down and listen to some local talent. Always a great time and hosted by the talented Carla Olive! Where: Ma Miller’s Pub
2903 Sooke Lake Rd When: 3 pm – 6 pm
What: M. A. Wilson, BC based author of the popular children’s mystery series Maple Harbour Adventures, will be in Victoria for a book signing on Sunday, April 15. This is his first trip back to Victoria since last April, when he gave readings at three local elementary schools. Where: Chapters – Victoria
1212 Douglas St When: 1 pm – 2:30 pm
What: See, think, activate! The Wonder Sunday family series takes place every Sunday. Come in the galleries for lively presentations with themes inspired by our current exhibitions. Where: Royal BC Museum
675 Belleville St When: 1 pm – 3 pm Cost: Included with admission
What: The Victoria Accordion Club is tackling some impressive major pieces from Broadway and musical productions. Songs like the Sound of Music, Fiddler On The Roof, My Fair Lady and Oklahoma aren’t often heard on an accordion, let alone from a band full of only accordions. You will not want to miss this concert featuring the popular musical pieces that will bring so many memories of the well-loved Broadway musicals the world has enjoyed. Where: Shoal Centre
10030 Resthaven Drive When: 3 pm – 4:30 pm Cost: You can get tickets at the Shoal Reception
Victorians will be able to enjoy cheap domestic flights as early as this June!
Flair Airlines has announced an increase in their flight load where, starting June 15th, one-way flights from Victoria to Edmonton will be just $78 with all fees included.
Though the Kelowna-based airline will offer flights from Victoria to Toronto, Hamilton, and Winnipeg, only the Edmonton flight will be ultra-low cost.
Still, it’s a step Victorians will be excited to see.
Just the Beginning…
Swoop, for example, the low-cost airline operated by WestJet, will also begin service in June 2018. They only offer service out of Abbotsford, however, meaning Vancouver Islanders will have to head to the mainland if they want to enjoy those low-cost flights.
Options are limited for Victorians at this point, but the foundation is slowly being laid for low-cost airfare to offer more selection in the long run.
“This is a very exciting announcement for Flair and Canadians,” said Jim Scott, CEO of Flair Airlines. “Every time we enter a market, Canadians benefit significantly as airfare drops almost immediately by more than 20% on the routes we serve.”
On June 15th, Flair will more than double their flight operations, increasing from 90 to 208 flights per week.
An independent elementary school in Victoria is citing BC’s teacher shortage as a “direct” cause of its closure this June.
“After 30 years, Elizabeth Buckley School, an independent elementary school in Victoria, will close its doors at the end of this school year,” Vice Principal Roberta MacDonald wrote on the school’s Facebook page.
The independent K-5 elementary school and 6-8 middle school is located in The Cridge Centre for the Family on Hillside Avenue, while the middle school is located at Nootka Court on lower Douglas Street.
“The closure is a direct result of the teacher shortage in BC, which has left schools across the province scrambling to maintain adequate levels of qualified staffing in their classrooms,” Macdonald said.
“Facing a staff shortfall for 2018-19, the Board of Directors made the difficult decision to recommend closure of the school at the end of June.”
On Wednesday 11 April, members of the Hands On Summer Camp Society, which runs Elizabeth Buckley School, voted for the closure.
Macdonald said that Elizabeth Buckley School is “not alone in its struggle.”
She cited 2017 change in class size limits in public schools, saying it has had a “dramatic impact” on staff recruitment in schools across the province.
The Federation of Independent School Associations of British Columbia (FISA BC) has reportedly fielded a large number of calls related to this issue from independent schools like Elizabeth Buckley.
No Changes Until School is Out
Macdonal said that until the end of June, things will be “business as usual for Elizabeth Buckley School.”
“The staff will continue to maintain its excellent program for the remainder of the school year as the Board and Admin team move forward with the closure process,” she added.
EBS was Canada’s first STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Math) school and offers a program based on an enriched BC curriculum, which allows children with special needs to learn alongside their typically-developed peers.
As our nation continues to grieve for to the 16 victims of the Humboldt Broncos bus crash in Saskatchewan, numerous heartfelt tributes have brought Canadians together.
Many people placed hockey sticks outside their doors in honour of the lost lives. One such family in Whitby, Ontario caught a truly heartwarming video of a boy with a hockey stick in Whitby, Ontario.
12-year-old Matthew Heaney had just arrived home from school when he picked up the stick and had a tender moment with it.
Check out the footage below… and make sure to watch to the end.
Victorians taking a stroll down to Esquimalt Lagoon this week have been treated to more than beautiful scenery and the sound of crashing waves.
Alongside the Lagoon’s usual serene scenery – the rolling beach line, surrounding forest, and ocean views – were some unusual animals.
Specifically, brilliantly sculptured driftwood birds made by Langford resident, Paul Lewis.
It all started with the bald eagle sculpture, his favourite bird, which became the first of his creations.
Bored on a Friday morning, Lewis was at the Lagoon when he saw a bald eagle being harassed by some seagulls.
Equipped with some screws, a screw gun, and a morning cup of coffee, Lewis got a spark of inspiration. “I started combing the beach for wood and shells to create my vision,” he said.
We’re all glad he did. The driftwood-seashell medium of art is completely new to him; he primarily paints west coast inspired wildlife with acrylic on illustration board, but found the new and spontaneous medium enjoyable.
“I really enjoyed being out in nature and getting creative with the natural and abundant pieces of wood at my fingertips and just letting my creative juices flow,” he said.
Some of the pieces have taken nearly 6 hours to complete, making their inclusion to Esquimalt Lagoon’s landscape a generous one.
A dog stolen in Saanich in September had a remarkable reunion with his owner on Thursday, giving the internet yet another tearjerking dog-returning-home video.
But though seeing Red (a redbone coonhound) hug owner James Dumont made for a great video, the story behind the pair’s reconnection makes the situation even more awe-inspiring.
Dumont and his then-girlfriend Amoray Aloisi had adopted Red in September 2017, but just a couple days later, the dog was stolen from Dumont’s car in the Tillicum Mall parking lot.
Authorities were alerted and an extensive social media campaign made the rounds.
“I just want him back, everyone’s crushed,” Dumont told CTV News at the time.
But despite thousands of Facebook comments and shares, Red’s lack of clear identification (i.e. a microchip or tattoo) proved to make the pup too elusive to find… Until a couple of weeks ago.
Red’s picture had been re-posted by Find Lost and Escaped Dogs Vancouver Island (FLED), every month or so, and the constant alerts finally paid off with a lead in Duncan, British Columbia.
Tanya Grometer called FLED and the local police after spotting a familiar-looking dog in town. Soon after her tip was called in, FLED released another alert, which may have prompted the dog-thief to finally let Red go.
Regardless, the pup was found walking along the road and taken to Coastal Animal Services in Duncan.
After authorities did their best to confirm that Red was indeed Red, Dumont and Aloisi were asked to come to the shelter to take a look. The resulting encounter was as cute as you can imagine.
What: For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. Fun-filled stories, songs, rhymes, and puppets. Where: Greater Victoria Public Library – The Central Branch
735 Broughton Street When: 10:30 am – 11 am Cost: Free
What: Starts at the Visitor Information Centre with tales of native spirits along the shore of Victoria Harbour, passes behind the spooky old Customs House and along the Wharf Street docks. Visit Bastion Square, then head up to Johnson Street, the heart of Victoria’s old red light district which has plenty of ghost stories, including the famous Belle Adams and Charlie Kincaid. It’ll finish with the story of Chung, the Chinese boy who cut off the head of his girlfriend. Where: Tourism Victoria Information Centre
812 Wharf Street When: 7:30 pm – 9 pm Cost: $13 – $15
What: Learn the basics of operating a sewing machine in this 3 hour introductory workshop. Leave the workshop having sewn a custom tote bag! Where: The Makehouse
#400-2950 Douglas Street When: 1 pm – 4 pm Cost: Register here!
What: The class is restorative and open to all levels of yoga experience.
It is for anyone identifying as lgbtq2s+, questioning and allies.
The intention is to create a safe space to come together as a community and develop a regular yoga practise. Where: Fernwood Yoga Den 1311 Gladstone Ave When: 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm Cost: All donations go programs that support youth who identify as queer, questioning, trans, gender fluid and allies.
What: Slim Sandy and the Hillbilly Boppers perform songs from their new album BOOGIE WOOGIE FEVER, fresh from their tour in Spain, playing at the ROCKIN HILLBILLY festival. Where: Wheelies Motorcycles 2620 Rock Bay Ave When: 8 pm – 11 pm
Constable Ian Jordan. (Victoria Police Department)
A Victoria police officer who has been in a coma since an on-duty motor vehicle accident in 1987 has passed away.
Const. Ian Jordan was 35 when the crash occurred and has been in a coma until his passing on Wednesday night.
Jordan was responding to a potential break-and-enter in progress on Fort Street when his vehicle collided with another VicPD cruiser at the intersection of Douglas and Fisgard.
According to the Times Colonist, Jordan was at the old VicPD headquarters on Fisgard Street and about to be heading home that night to his wife, Hilary, and 16-month-old son Mark.
But when the call came in, he responded. The officer who was in the other vehicle, Sgt. Ole Jorgensen, suffered a serious leg injury in the collision.
Jordan suffered a permanent brain injury which left him quadriplegic and in a vegetative state.
The crash resulted in the creation of a “trauma team,” which helps officers and staff after traumatic incidents.
This team is now an essential component of how VicPD assists its officers and staff after traumatic incidents of all kinds.
VicPD are planning a funeral with full police honours. Details will be announced at a later date.
A funeral with full police honours is being planned, and details will be announced once they are known.
Harry Bains, Minister of Labour, introduced amendments to the Employment Standards Act today that could give working families extended and more flexible leave.
If approved by the legislature, the amendments would provide new, extended and more flexible maternity, parental and compassionate care leaves.
“These amendments are about supporting B.C. workers and extending compassion to families who face tragic circumstances, such as the loss or disappearance of a child, or the need to care for a dying family member,” said Bains.
“It will not erase the pain experienced during a personal or family crisis, but it can help ease the worry and stress over job security.”
Extra Two Weeks For Pregnant Mothers
The amendments will allow mothers to start their pregnancy leave, also known as maternity leave, as early as 13 weeks before the expected birth date, up from the current 11 weeks.
New parents will also have the option to take a longer unpaid parental leave to care for their new child – resulting in a total of up to 18 months of leave for birth mothers – while ensuring job protection.
These changes align B.C.’s leave provisions with federal employment insurance (EI) benefits.
Job-Protected Leave For Parents of Missing Children
Parents who face life’s most difficult circumstances, which may require extended absence from their jobs, will now have additional supports.
In addition to the extended maternity and parental leave amendments, Bains introduced a new unpaid, job-protected leave of up to 52 weeks to help if a worker’s child is missing as a result of a crime.
Currently, there is no provision in B.C. for parents to take a leave from work in the event their child is missing.
In addition, the Province will introduce a new unpaid leave providing job protection for parents dealing with the death of a child.
This leave will provide up to 104 weeks if a worker’s child under 19 years of age dies under any circumstances – a significant addition to the three days of unpaid “bereavement leave” currently available.
B.C. will join Ontario as the only provinces to offer job protection after a child’s death for any reason.
Compassionate Care Leave to Triple in Length
Further, the amendments to compassionate care leave will more than triple the length of leave, from eight weeks to 27 weeks. This is available to an employee who must care for a family member who is terminally ill.
The changes will ensure B.C.’s employment standards for these five special work absences are at least as good as those offered by other jurisdictions in Canada.
They will also enable eligible British Columbians to access full EI maternity, parental and compassionate care benefits without jeopardizing their job.
A Victoria Police cruiser responding to a domestic assault call ended up in a collision Tuesday.
VicPD said in a release that their police car was travelling northbound on Quadra Street shortly before 6:30 p.m., with its lights and siren on, when an SUV heading westbound on Hillside Avenue struck the police vehicle on the passenger side.
All other vehicles had stopped for the police cruiser.
Officer Transported to Hospital
The officer was transported to the hospital and was released later the same night, while both occupants of the SUV were assessed at the scene and determined to have no injuries.
The investigation into the crash is still ongoing.
The officer was responding to reports of a man attacking a female.
According to reports, the two then walked off together to Topaz Park where the man was eventually apprehended. No other details are currently available.
PHOTOS:
(Rhiannon Rozzano / Victoria Buzz)(Rhiannon Rozzano / Victoria Buzz)
A VicPD cruiser was t-boned while responding to a domestic assault call (Rhiannon Rozzano / Victoria Buzz)
Oak Bay Fire Department has their jerseys on in support of the Humboldt Broncos. (Twitter)
Support has been flowing in from all over Vancouver Island as Canadians honour the victims and survivors of the recent tragedy that struck the Humboldt Broncos.
The town, province, and the entire nation has been grieving for the Saskatchewan-based junior hockey team and their family members after an accident involving their team bus and a semi-truck left 16 people dead and 13 injured.
The Broncos were on their way to Nipawin for a playoff game.
The response from around the country has been overwhelming, with several movements taking place social media.
Canadians have left their hockey sticks out for in a display of support since Sunday, and incredibly, a GoFundMe campaign that began last Friday has already amassed $9.8-million.
Today, Victorians have joined the nation donning their jerseys for ‘National Jersey Day’, a movement started by a group of hockey moms in B.C., urging people to show their support for the small Saskatchewan town.
Check out the inspiring amount of support our city is showing!
All our #Saanich Police staff are wearing jerseys today 2 support the #HumboldtBroncos, their families, friends & community. Our front line officers can’t wear them (due 2 uniform) but have donned caps instead! Also thinking of the Emeg crews who are affected too #HumboldtStrongpic.twitter.com/coyXCRJx7N
Chloe Berry, 6, and Aubrey, 4, at their last run in October 2017. (GoFundMe page)
Sarah Cotton, the mother of two Oak Bay girls – Chloe and Aubrey Berry, who were tragically murdered on Christmas Day last year – has announced that she will be running a half-marathon in their honour.
Cotton will run in the BMO Vancouver Half Marathon on May 6 to commemorate her daughters and to raise money for the Mary Manning Centre and the Chloe and Aubrey Berry Scholarship Fund.
“My hope is that through raising money for this important organization [the Mary Manning Centre], waitlists can be reduced and access to counselling is more immediate,” Cotton wrote on her GoFundMe.
“The other half of the money will go to support the Chloe and Aubrey Berry Scholarship Fund at Christ Church Cathedral School, where Chloe attended grade one and Aubrey was going to start kindergarten this September.”
“My beloved girls were taken from me”
The bodies of Chloe, 6 and Aubrey, 4, were discovered in their father’s apartment on December 25, 2017.
Their father, Andrew Berry, was hospitalized the same day with self-inflicted wounds and then arrested.
He has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder.
“On Christmas Day, my beloved girls were taken from me,” wrote Cotton.
“Along with myself, my family, friends and many others in the Victoria community and beyond are devastated, shocked and overwhelmed with grief at this senseless and futile tragedy.”
“With [close friends] Scott and Trisha by my side, I will be running in the BMO Vancouver Half Marathon as part of my healing and in honour of my girls. I know that they will be running alongside us in spirit,” Cotton continued.
GoFundMe Close To Reaching Goal
Since its posting on April 11, Cotton’s GoFundMe has raised over $16,000 of its $20,000 goal.
The Mary Manning Centre (also known as the Victoria Child Abuse Prevention & Counselling Centre) offers support to children who have experienced abuse and all non-offending family members affected by the abuse.
The Chloe and Aubrey Berry Scholarship Fund will provide scholarships – through the Victoria Foundation – to children attending the Christ Church Cathedral School.
From left to right: Kade Jensen, Chaz Reddekopp, and Tyler Soy. (Twitter/Victoria Royals)
The Victoria Royals’ season has come to an unfortunate end last night with a 5-3 loss to the Tri-City Americans, giving the Kennewick, Washington team a 4-0 sweep of the playoff series.
Despite two goals for Victoria from Noah Gregor, the high-powered offence of the Americans was too much for the Royals to handle.
The Americans’ Morgan Geekie Geekie scored a goal and 2 assists in the series-clinching victory, while Michael Rasmussen tallied an assist, giving the pair a combined 23 points in the series.
Tri-City Were Always The Favourites
Beating the Americans was always going to take an enormous defensive effort from the Royals. Despite only getting into the playoffs through a Wild Card spot, Tri-City actually had more points this season than the Royals.
After stomping the Kelowna Rockets in four games, the Americans did just the same to the Royals. They’ve now scored 46 goals over their 8 playoff games en route to an 8-0 record.
Their power play was also lethal, clicking at a ridiculous rate of 47.8%.
Tri-City will go on to battle the winner of the series between the Everett Silvertips and Portland Winterhawks, which Everett currently leads 2-1.
Tyler Soy, Chaz Reddekopp, Kade Jensen play their final game
What a unreal group of 20's! Congrats to Kade, Chaz & Tyler on great junior careers! Thank you for all your hard work, passion & dedication! pic.twitter.com/7MERoNzfQ8
With the playoffs over, Royals fans can now say their farewells to a tremendous trio of 20-year olds. Tyler Soy, Chaz Reddekopp, and Kade Jensen will all now move on from their Western Hockey League careers.
Soy and Reddekopp were both first-round selections in the Royals’ second-ever draft in 2012. They went on to become some of the core franchise players.
Soy is now the most prolific scorer in franchise history, tallying 151 goals and 327 points over 323 games.
His hockey sense and ability to both score and distribute the puck made him a pillar at the top of Victoria’s lineup. The cerebral centre set a career high in assists and points in last season, amassing 92 points (36 goals and 56 assists).
Reddekopp was a pillar on the Royals blueline over his 5 seasons in the black and blue. With great size (6’3″) and mobility, Reddekopp developed into a multi-tool defender who could play both sides of the puck. In his last two seasons as a Royal, the LA Kings draft choice scored 17 goals and 57 assists over 97 games.
Jensen was acquired by the Royals this December in an effort to shore up the blueline. He did precisely that, offering a responsible defensive game and strong passing.
In his 33 games as a Royal this year, he scored 5 goals and 7 assists.
Congratulations to Soy, Reddekopp, and Jensen on their great junior hockey careers!
The Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island has announced $4.7 million of funding for kids’ health on Vancouver Island and the surrounding islands.
The funds will flow to 50 healthcare partners to fund more than 80 initiatives in children’s health.
This is the Foundation’s largest investment in programs to date!
“These funds allow us to support children to access healthcare closer to home,” said Veronica Carroll, CEO, Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island. “This is part of our commitment to making the Island a better place for children and families into the future.”
Island Kids First Fund Supports Three Key Areas:
Early childhood development
Child and youth mental health
Rural and remote access to healthcare
Programs to Benefit:
– Island Health, Queen Alexandra Centre for Children’s Health Programs (Greater Victoria)
– Sooke Family Resource Centre, Prenatal Program (Greater Victoria)
– School District 84, Children’s Health Hub (North Island Gold River)
– School District 72, Family Support Program (Campbell River & District)
– Malahat First Nation, Circle of Courage Boys Program (Cowichan Valley)
– Alberni Valley Community School Society, Rural and Remote Access to Services Institute (Alberni West Coast)
– Outreach Therapy, STARS Nuu Chah Nulth Program (Alberni West Coast)
Public Wi-Fi seems to be everpresent in Canada, but surprisingly, some of the places that could use it the most are sorely lacking.
Now, a new petition is seeking to right that wrong by calling on Canadian hospitals to institute free public Wi-Fi.
“Are you tired of no internet access in Canadian hospitals?” it reads. “So are we.”
“Some hospitals in Canada do offer free Wi-Fi; while others have you pay for it or have no access at all. If you are lucky your hospital may be close to a free hotspot, from a nearby restaurant or store, but that won’t work usually throughout the whole hospital.”
Hospitals usually provide computers that have internet access, but in the age of iPads, smartphones, and laptops, those have become rather outdated and inconvenient.
Local Basis for Nation-Wide Petition
Royal Jubilee Hospital – (partnershipsbc.com)
The hospital that appears to have triggered the call for Wi-Fi is none other than Victoria’s own Royal Jubilee.
“We started this to show the Royal Jubilee Hospital the need/want of free internet access,” the petition reads.
“Let’s show our hospitals that we do want free Wi-Fi throughout the hospital, especially [in] patients rooms… Many hospitals may already be in the process of getting internet access, hopefully showing them this petition will help speed things along.”
The lack of Wi-Fi in hospitals is by no means a new problem, but perhaps with the help of a few thousand signatures, patients and families will recieve an easier way to connect.
Starting next week, the old Johnson Street bridge will slowly disappear from the Victoria landscape.
The Dynamic Beast crane barge, which assisted with the construction of the new bridge, will return to Victoria to help decommission and remove parts of the old blue bridge.
The massive crane barge will be parked in the marine channel under both bridges for periods of time on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, which means drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians will need to find alternate routes.
Only Open During Rush Hours
As with previous heavy lifts that have taken place during the project, whenever there is a possible risk to public safety there will be a full closure to vehicle, cyclist and pedestrian traffic across the bridge.
On Tuesday, April 17 and Wednesday, April 18, the new bridge will only be opened to vehicle, cyclist and pedestrian traffic during the morning and afternoon rush hours from 7 a.m. – 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Schedule:
The City’s contractor, PCL, has estimated that the major steel lifts and necessary closures of the new Johnson Street Bridge will be as follows. However, the dates and times depend on weather, as the bridge pieces cannot be lifted in high winds.
If more time is required to complete the dismantling, the closure of the crossing will repeat the previous day’s schedule.
Monday (April 16)
Both bridges will be raised to allow Dynamic Beast to be moved into place.
Full closure (vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians) in effect from 5:30 to 7 a.m., with new bridge open after that for rest of day.
Tuesday (April 17)
Full closure in effect 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., new bridge open for afternoon rush hour 4 to 6 p.m. then crossing closed for rest of day.
Wednesday (April 18)
Crossing open for morning rush hour 7 to 9 a.m., then fully closed to 4 p.m. If crane barge has not left the site by 4 p.m., an additional closure after 6 p.m. may be required.
What: Grab your friends and pop into #MuseumHappyHour after work for drinks, snacks and themed activities in one of the museum galleries.
Come for Fooling Around with History in the Becoming BC Gallery and challenge your wits by playing a game of true or false with our history collections.
Dave Morris and Missie Peters from Paper Street Theatre Co. will lead funny, improvised fake tours of the Becoming BC Gallery. Where: Royal BC Museum
675 Belleville St When: 5:17 pm – 7 pm Cost: Tickets are $10
This is a 19+ only event. Valid photo ID is required for entry.
What: Are you a UVic student or Staff member and want to learn more about creating your own website? If so, then this hands-on workshop will give you an introduction to website development using WordPress. Where: Mearns Centre for Learning – McPherson Library, Room A308
3800 Finnerty Rd When: 3 pm – 4 pm
What: In this first workshop with Kathleen we will focus on Chair Portraits with thick paint, pattern, and texture with tools. The in-house-sommelier Jacques has prepared a surprise wine tasting just for the attendees.
It is suggested you attend the Art Soiree as it permits an insight into Kathleen’s art process that will help you understand the workshops. Where: Tudor House Liquor Store
533 Admirals Rd When: 7 pm – 8:30 pm Cost: $15
What: Come for the weekly standup comedy show for your pleasure, with a rotating lineup featuring some of the best acts in town. You’ll be sure to laugh until your stomach hurts! Where: Hecklers Comedy Club
123 Gorge Rd East When: 8 pm – 10 pm Cost: $5 at the door!
What: Art Battle® is returning to Victoria, BC for a fun-filled night at the Victoria Event Centre! Come for a wonderful evening of live arts and community. Come watch as 12 incredible painters transform their canvases from blank to beautiful in just 20 minutes, and help vote for the winner of the night! Where: Victoria Event Centre
1415 Broad St When: 7 pm – 11 pm Cost: Get your tickets here!
In light of the recent tragedy that took the lives of 16 members of the Humboldt Broncos junior hockey team, Canadians are rallying together to show their support.
As a way to honour the victims of the accident, the whole country is promising to wear jerseys to school, work, and everywhere else they go on Thursday, April 12th.
If you don’t own a jersey, wear green and gold – the colours of the Humboldt Broncos – to participate in the nationwide commemoration.
This is not the only thing Canadians have done to show their support, honour the loss faced by the victims’ families, and offer their condolences.
Since the incident occurred on April 6th, people from all over the country have been donating to a GoFundMe account (it has since garnered over $8.8 million), organizing vigils and charity events, and putting their hockey sticks out as tribute to the Broncos who lost their lives.
— Complete Hockey News (@CompleteHkyNews) April 10, 2018
The Humboldt bus crash occurred when the team’s bus, carrying 29 people, was hit by a semi-trailer as they were on their way to Nipawin, Saskatchewan for a playoff game on Friday night.
Of those, 16 people died, including most recently 25-year-old Dayna Brons, the team’s athletic therapist who had been fighting for her life ever since the accident occurred.
An average Tuesday at work became a little more eventful for staff members at one Port Hardy hospital when a cougar showed up outside their window.
According to a Global News report, the big cat was just hanging out outside the hospital at around 11 AM yesterday, and was in no rush to leave.
X-ray technologist Danielle Nye was able to capture a series of photos of the cougar calmly peering into the hospital for about 10 minutes, before strutting off into the woods.
The RCMP and the BC Conservation Officer Service responded to calls, but were unable to track the animal down
Check out the photos:
Danielle NyeDanielle NyeDanielle NyeDanielle NyeDanielle NyeDanielle NyeDanielle NyeDanielle Nye
This afternoon, the CRD addressed a bylaw amendment that will affect vapers and cannabis smokers in Victoria.
Introduced in 2014, the city’s Clean Air Bylaw banned tobacco smoking at all parks, playgrounds, playing fields, public squares and bus stops. It also extended the smoke-free buffer zone outside of doorways, windows and air intakes from three metres to seven metres.
Today’s update to the bylaw has now banned vaping, smoking weed, or “burning any substances” in the spaces designated by the existing Clean Air Bylaw.
These also include playing fields, playgrounds, and public squares. Anyone who does not comply with the new rules may be subject to municipal fines.
“The changes to the bylaw will build on the CRD’s continued commitment to the health and wellbeing of all Greater Victorians,” says Dr. Richard Stanwick, Island Health’s Chief Medical Health Officer.
“These added measures are especially important for children, youth and people with underlying health problems associated with exposure to smoke.”
With summer just around the corner, we’ve got the season’s first visitors in town today!
Victoria kicked off the cruise season this afternoon when Holland America’s Westerdam sailed in to Ogden Point with over 1,800 passengers in tow.
This is the first of 245 cruise ships that will be docking at the port this year, bringing in over a whopping 600,000 tourists to our city over the summer.
And the city is more prepared than ever, with a new fleet of greener, and cleaner buses to Ogden Point, courtesy of bus operator Pacific North West Transportation.
As the 600,000 passengers visit Victoria, their presence is expected to contribute a total of approximately $130 million to the local economy by the time the cruise season wraps up in late October.
To find out more about the arrival and departure times for all cruise ships this summer, visit www.victoriacruise.ca.
(Using DNA phenotyping, the Snohomish County Sherrif’s office has released three photos of a possible suspect at ages 25, 45 & 65, in the double homicide of Jay Cook and Tanya van Cuylenborg)
The murder of two young Victorians, Tanya Van Cuylenborg (18) and Jay Cook (20) who were visiting Washington state in 1987 has remained a mystery to this day.
But recently, the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office and the Skagit County Sheriff’s Office partnered up with ParabonNanoLabs, a DNA technology company in Virginia, to generate an image of the suspect that uses his DNA to predict his physical appearance and ancestry.
Although investigators have had access to this DNA for the last 30 years, it has never matched any profiles available on file. The new images include approximations of the suspect at age 25, 45, and 65.
These photos are the closest depiction of the suspect that is available to us, but they’re not perfect. DNA phenotyping cannot predict an individual’s body mass index, so an average BMI of 22 has been assigned to the suspect.
The Snapshot also does not take into account changes in appearance based on the individual’s lifestyle choices like smoking, drinking, diet, etc., or other factors like facial hair, hairstyle, scars and tattoos.
Investigators are now asking members of the public to step forward if they know someone who matches or looks similar to the photos generated in the Snapshots.
“We are looking for anyone who knows something related to this case, or can identify a person of interest from the Parabon DNA predictions and images,” said Investigations Captain Jeff Miller. “Maybe you were too afraid to come forward at the time, or thought someone else would. Now is the time to share what you may have seen or heard.”
They are also searching for Tanya’s 35mm Minolta camera. Its lens is missing and was found at a pawn shop in Portland, Oregon in 1990, but the whereabouts of the actual camera are unknown.
Here’s what it looks like:
(Tanya Van Cuylenborg’s 35mm Minolta camera)
The victims family members are also offering up to $50,000 to anyone who can provide information that leads to investigators finding the suspect.
If you have any information or recognize the person in the images, please contact the Saanich Police Department at 250-475-4321.
What happened in 1987
The two Oak Bay High School graduates borrowed a van from Jay Cook’s father to pick up furnace parts for him, and headed to Port Angeles on November 18th, 1987 via the Coho ferry.
They were last seen in the Bremerton-Seattle area, and were reported missing on November 20th, 1987.
On November 24th, Tanya van Cuylenborg’s body was discovered in a ditch on a rural road near Alger in Skagit County, about 20 kilometres south of Bellingham. She had been sexually assaulted and then shot in the head.
A day later, her wallet and keys were found behind a Bellingham tavern and the van was located next to the Bellingham Greyhound bus station.
On November 26th, 1987, Jay Cook’s body was found under a bridge near Monroe, Washington. He had been beaten and strangled to death.
Van Cuylenborg’s father believes that the couple may have picked up a hitchhiker.
