It’s a police chase like one you’ve likely never seen before. Two escapees on the run tied up traffic for hours on the busy Trans Canada Highway. But police weren’t after criminals, they were trying to round up two brazen bovines. Tess van Straaten has more on the cow caper.

Drivers who won’t move over can impede traffic and contribute to crashes. This new rule makes it clear who should travel in the left lane, and when, promoting safety on our highways, says Minister of Transportation, Todd Stone.

Drivers should think twice about hogging the left lane on high-speed highways when new rules come into effect. Legislation introduced today will make it easier for police to ticket drivers who don’t move over.

The Rural Highway Safety and Speed Review found there was significant public concern with slow drivers travelling in the left lane on high-speed highways, leading to driver frustration and aggressive driving behaviours. The Motor Vehicle Amendment Act, 2015 clarifies that drivers are to travel in the right lane, unless they are:

• overtaking and passing another vehicle,
• moving left to allow traffic to merge,
• preparing for a left hand turn,
• moving left to pass an official vehicle displaying a flashing light.

Drivers will be permitted to use the left-most lane if it is unsafe to use the right lane – for example, if the right lane is not yet ploughed or there is debris in the lane. As well, during periods of traffic congestion when the actual travel speed drops to 50 km/h or less, drivers can use all lanes.

In addition, this legislation will allow the ministry to define winter tires as those with a mountain/snowflake symbol or the M+S (mud and snow) symbol by regulation, and to more easily update the definition as tire technology changes. Updated requirements for studded tires and traction devices such as chains can also be defined in regulation.

Another change will permit local governments to permit motorcycle parking within six meters of intersections with stop signs or signals, as long as drivers’ views are not impeded. This will allow more efficient use of space that is not large enough for a car.

Chief Neil Dubord says, drivers who block the left lane increase the risk caused by aggressive drivers who will pass on the right or tailgate. This change provides clarity to police officers who will enforce the requirement for vehicles to travel in the right lane.

Quick Facts:

• The legislation means drivers cannot use the left-most lane of a highway with two or more lanes of traffic in the same direction and having a posted speed limit 80 km/h or greater, unless they are performing a specified action set out by the Act.
• The left-most lane does not include bus lanes or HOV lanes. On Highway 1 through Burnaby, for example, the left-most lane is the one next to the HOV lane.
• When there is little traffic, and no one is approaching from behind, a driver can travel in the left-most lane. This allows drivers on four-lane highways in rural areas to keep a greater distance from the road sides where there may be wildlife.
• This legislation allows for drivers to move to the left lane if they are passing a stopped official vehicle displaying red, blue or yellow flashing lights, such as police cars, ambulances, tow trucks and highway maintenance and construction vehicles.

Today is the 24th anniversary of the disappearance of Michael Dunahee. I was living in Petawawa Ontario at the time; I was 10. I recall seeing Michael Dunahee’s missing posters; they were everywhere, posted on every single store front, telephone pole. The impact it had on me was powerful. Every where I went, it was on the back of my mind to be watching for him and until this day, it still is.

Michael’s disappearance spawned one of the largest police investigations in Canadian history, and today the case remains an active investigation.

Hannah no longer has to go to Vancouver for regular hospital visits, nor do they have to ask what Hannah can eat and drink. The family says they are incredibly relieved and proud of their little girl who fought two cancers and won in her young life

We are still working on our first article. If you have any suggestions, please do let us know. info@victoriabuzz.com

All local, wild, BC seafood! Fish n chips, fish burgers, tacos and more! We use only 100% sustainable seafood we catch with our own fleet of commercial fishing vesels!

A fire has claimed the life of a 73-year-old woman. It happened early Monday morning at a Boys Road trailer park, a place where the woman had been living less than a month. Kendall Hanson from CHEK News reports.

VicPD officers have arrested one man, and continue to investigate, after an assault last weekend involving bear spray.

The officers were on patrol at approximately 2:40 a.m. last Saturday in the 1600-block of Quadra Street, when they noticed a man, well known to them for violence, attempt to spray a couple with what appeared to be bear spray.

The officers ran over and arrested the man, but by the time they had him in custody, the victims of the assault had fled the area.

Officers are hoping to recommend charges of assault with a weapon, but still need to talk to the victims in order to further the investigation.

If you, or anyone you know, was in the area, or was a victim of this assault, please contact VicPD on the non-emergency line at 250-995-7654 or report it anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS(8477).
[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/181825987″ params=”color=ff5500″ width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Please helps us collect food donations for the Mustard Seed! Shatterbox Coffee has teamed up with Victoria Buzz to help raise food donations for the Mustard Seed Food Bank, during the Island Equipment Owners Association’s Lighted Truck Parade on Saturday, December 6th.

Victoria Buzz volunteers will be under a tent adjacent to Shatterbox, from 6pm onwards.  The parade is scheduled to pass by right in front of Shatterbox at about 6:35pm. Shatterbox Coffee will be open all day and into the night, and serving from their amazing menu.

We please ask you to bring a donation of a non-perishable food item.  Drop it at the tent, and for each donation received, we’ll serve you up a 8oz. or 12oz. warm spiced apple cider (non-alcoholic) – for just $1.

We’ll see you on Saturday, December 6th.  Shatterbox Coffee is at 950 Yates St., opposite the London Drugs Plaza.  Parking can be found nearby on Yates, Johnson, View and Vancouver Streets.

The 2014 IEOA Truck Light Convoy and Food Drive

Saturday, Dec. 6, 2014 – Trucks leave the parking lot at Ogden Point at 5:45PM .

This event supports the Mustard Seed Food Bank, Westshore Christmas Hamper Fund Society and the Sidney Lions Food Bank.

Route and scheduled times they will be in the area:

5:45PM Trucks leave the parking lot at Ogden Point. For safety reasons, access to this parking lot is restricted to parade participants only
6:30PM Trucks arrive at Oak Bay Village
7:00PM Trucks arrive at Yates and Blanshard (Please note route change on map above) The trucks will turn back into Victoria on Blanshard and not Douglas
7:30PM Trucks arrive at Helmcken and Trans Canada overpass
8:00PM Trucks arrive at Goldstream and Veterans Memorial Parkway
8:30PM Trucks arrive at Western Speedway SANTA ARRIVES BY TRUCK

Full details and route map: http://ieoa.ca/?q=2011convoy

• Timing in respect to the Truck Light Convoy is approximate
• In order to keep the trucks moving the police escorted convoy travels at a varied rate of speed, it does not travel as slow as a parade does.
• The convoy will travel slower along Dallas Road, through Oak Bay Village, downtown Victoria, behind VGH, and the intersection of Veterans Memorial Parkway and Goldstream Road.
• Traffic may be congested along the event route . Please consider an alternate route.

On Tuesday November 18, 2014, at just before 11:00 am, West Shore RCMP received information about a possible fight involving a knife and gun. At the same time that police received this information, School Officials from School District 62 received the same information. School District 62 decided that it would be appropriate to implement a lock out, keeping students inside Belmont High School and Pacific Secondary School, out of an abundance of caution. Resources from the West Shore RCMP Patrol Section, Major Crime Unit and School Liaison assisted in this investigation, to determine the validity of the information.

The lock out of Belmont High School was lifted just after 1:00 pm. It has been determined that there was to be a planned fight between 3 males, off the grounds of the school, with an allegation that a weapon was going to be used. No weapons have been located and the fight itself did not occur. Two of the male youth involved are students in School District 62.

West Shore RCMP continues to liaise with the administrators at Belmont High School and continues to investigate the allegations around the possible fight.

West Shore RCMP, Cpl. Kathy Rochlitz, we would like to thank the staff, students and parents for their patience as we worked to understand the information received and the situation itself.

Lockdown at Belmont School ended after social media threat of a fight which may have involved weapons, non-students arrested #yyj #cfax

— CFAX1070 (@cfax1070) November 18, 2014

Everyone safe as RCMP recommend lock-down at Belmont while they investigate non-students planning a fight #yyj pic.twitter.com/dZubi29pW1

— CFAX1070 (@cfax1070) November 18, 2014

As the BC Coroners and the Independent Investigations Office (IIO) continue to investigate the police shooting in James Bay.  The BC Coroners confirms Rhett Patrick Victor Mutch, aged 20, of Victoria was shot following an encounter with Victoria Police which happened in a residence in the 200 block Dallas Road shortly after 11 a.m on Nov 1st.

Mr. Mutch was moved from the scene to an ambulance but died before he could be transported to hospital. The family of Mr. Mutch have requested for privacy at this difficult time.

More on Rhett Patrick Victor Mutch at Times Colonist

Salish Sea Vending are pleased to announce the official unveiling of their bitcoin ATM at 4 pm this Friday, November 7th in association with the wonderful Cavity Curiosity Shop at 556 Pandora Ave.

Our bitcoin exchange services will be available Wednesday to Sunday every week at this location from 12 am to 6 pm. We are here to provide the community with a new, well priced, secure and convenient exchange. We offer free personal merchant consultation, set up and advice.

After the 6 pm closing time this Friday, we will be screening the acclaimed new documentary “The Rise and Rise of Bitcoin” in the store absolutely free.

We look forward to serving the open-source community in Victoria.
For more information visit www.salishseavending.com

Ryan, a man who has been living on the street for 30 years plays the piano outside in downtown Edmonton, in Churchill Square, no one taught him to play, he just could.

Read More on Ryan at Global News: http://globalnews.ca/news/1645325/watch-video-of-homeless-piano-man-in-edmonton-goes-viral/

Drivers are advised to put their hand-held electronic devices away, as the Province’s new distracted driving penalties hit British Columbia roads and highways today. Now, anyone caught talking on a hand-held electronic device while driving is subject to three penalty points in addition to a $167 fine. This is the same penalty that was already in place for drivers caught texting or emailing.

The new penalty for using a hand-held electronic device covers infractions such as talking on, holding or dialing a cellular phone, operating a hand-held audio player (such as an iPod or mp3 player), or programming a GPS. Penalty points remain on a person’s driving record for five years and can result in further sanctions, including prohibitions from driving. Of note, B.C.’s distracted driving legislation also prohibits drivers in the Graduated Licensing Program from using any hands-free device.

The fall season is also a time to be aware that distraction is a top contributing factor for drivers in vehicle collisions that involve pedestrians. This is especially important to keep in mind as it becomes more difficult to see pedestrians in dark and poor weather conditions.

Distracted driving is the second leading contributing factor of vehicle fatalities in B.C. The Province continues to look at increased fines for distracted driving as part of an overall fine structure review and work is underway to determine what an appropriate amount would be.

Key Facts:

• Drivers that accrue more than three points must pay an ICBC driver penalty point premium that starts at $175 and will escalate if they receive more points.
• A driver who receives two distracted driving tickets in a year would pay $634, which is the cost of two fines and a $300 penalty for six points.
• As points build on a person’s driving record, the Superintendent of Motor Vehicles may also identify a driver as high-risk and monitor or prohibit them under the Driver Improvement Program.
• High-risk drivers can receive administrative interventions ranging from warning letters, which say their driving record is being monitored, to prohibitions from driving.

Learn More:

For more information on B.C.’s new distracted driving penalties, see: http://www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca/2014/10/bc-takes-first-step-in-renewed-fight-against-distracted-driving.html

Alien invasion prank : A couple roommates teamed up to scare a friend and it worked very well. They used a fog machine and spotlight to make the best out their alien costumes.

VicPD Traffic officers are continuing their investigation into a major collision on Quadra Street and  Summit Avenue yesterday that sent one person to hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Officers were called to the intersection at approximately 1:30 p.m., after witnesses reported a serious collision between a black 2014 Corvette and a Bluebird Cab.  The preliminary investigation showed that the cab had been ‘T-boned’, causing the driver of the cab to be trapped in the vehicle and receive non-life threatening injuries.

Speed is being investigated as a contributing factor in this collision.

As part of the investigation, officers are hoping to speak to any witnesses who may have either of these cars being driven before the collision.

If you have any information that may aide the investigation, please contact VicPD on the non-emergency line at or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (8477).

The Province is taking a first step in what will be a two-part approach to protect British Columbians from distracted drivers on roads and highways.

First, effective Oct. 20, 2014, amendments to the Motor Vehicle Act (MVA) regulations will increase the driver penalty points from zero to three for drivers who are caught talking on a handheld device while driving. This new penalty, which also covers infractions like watching a DVD, programming a phone’s GPS, and operating hand-held audio players, is being combined with the $167 fine already in place and is now consistent with the three points and $167 fine currently given to drivers for texting.

Penalty points remain on a person’s driving record for five years and can result in further penalties, including prohibitions from driving. Specifically, any driver with more than three points has to pay a penalty premium on their insurance, starting at $175, and escalating if they receive more penalty points. The penalty for anyone who receives more than one distracted driving ticket in a year is at least $634 – the equivalent of two fines and a $300 penalty premium for six points. As points accrue, the Superintendent of Motor Vehicles may also identify a driver as high risk and monitor or prohibit them under the Driver Improvement Program (DIP).

For the second part of B.C.’s approach, the Province continues to look at increased fines for distracted driving and work is underway to determine what an appropriate amount would be. B.C. will continue to monitor the effectiveness of similar legislation in other jurisdictions and their fine amounts. Going forward, the government will also be reviewing and looking to adjust the overall fine structure in the MVA, including specifically those fines for distracted driving and other risk-based offences.

Quotes:

Attorney General and Minister of Justice Suzanne Anton –

“I’m very concerned that distraction in all forms is the second highest contributing factor in motor vehicle fatalities in B.C. It’s clear that the $167 fine is not enough on its own, so we’re starting by targeting those people who are talking on a handheld device while they’re driving with more severe penalties. Ticket volumes show us that more drivers are ticketed for talking on an electronic device than for texting and driving, and so that is where we decided to start with the new penalty points.”

“Adding these new penalty points to the ticket will quickly identify for us the drivers who see the fine simply as the cost of doing business. Some of them will have to pay a driver penalty point premium, while others will more quickly end up being monitored by the Superintendent and possibly even prohibited from driving, which will improve safety for all road users.”

Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Todd Stone –

“We’re focusing on penalties that will change people’s behaviour. Increasing penalty points is an important first step and increasing fines is something that remains on the table. By reviewing the entire fine structure of the Motor Vehicle Act, we’ll be able to make sure that the financial penalties for all traffic offenses are a sufficient deterrent to keep our roads safe.”

Chief Neil Dubord, BC Association of Chiefs of Police Traffic Safety Committee chair –

“We welcome this first step in B.C.’s latest efforts to stop distracted driving. Together, police and government are tackling this serious safety issue through education, enforcement and legislation. Police officers are often the first on the scene after serious collisions, many caused by driver distraction. We want people to understand that using an electronic device while driving can be a fatal choice, for you and the other road users whose lives you put in danger.”

Quick Facts:

• Distracted driving is the second leading cause of vehicle fatalities in B.C. On average from 2009 to 2013, 88 people were killed due to inattention or distraction while driving each year, compared with 105 for speeding and 86 for driving affected by alcohol or drugs.
• The provincial government, ICBC and police have partnered to remind British Columbians to keep their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road. The recently launched distracted driving awareness campaign included television, radio and theatre ads, and encourages drivers to put their electronic devices away especially as winter weather approaches and driving conditions require extra care and attention.
• In 2013, police issued 51,200 violation tickets to drivers who were using an electronic device.
• Under the definition of using an electronic device, there is a complete ban on a driver:
  • Holding, operating, communicating or watching the screen of a hand-held electronic communication device.
  • Sending or receiving text messages or email on any type of electronic device.
  • Holding, operating, communicating or watching the screen of a hand-held electronic computing device, one of the purposes of which is to process or compute data.
• As well, B.C.’s distracted driving legislation prohibits drivers in the Graduated Licensing Program (GLP) from using hands-free devices.
• Police can also issue tickets for driving without due care and attention, or driving without consideration, to drivers who are noticeably distracted or inattentive while operating a motor vehicle and making the road unsafe for other drivers, pedestrians, or cyclists.
• Research shows five seconds of texting while driving at highway speeds is like driving blindfolded for almost the length of an entire football field.
• Some drivers still do not understand that using an electronic device, such as talking on a cell phone or texting, while stopped at a red light is an offense under the MVA.
• To avoid the temptation of using a cellphone, drivers can:
  • Make calls and send emails or texts before starting a vehicle.
  • Safely pull over and turn off the vehicle before using a personal electronic device.
  • During the duration of a trip, turn cellphones off or put them somewhere out of reach.
  • Let all calls go to voicemail.
  • Ask a passenger to make or receive calls or text messages.

Learn More:

Link to RoadSafetyBC information on use of electronic device legislation: http://www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/osmv/road-safety/distracted.htm

More information on ICBC’s penalty point premium: http://www.icbc.com/driver-licensing/tickets/Pages/Driver-Penalty-Points.aspx

VicPD Detectives are continuing the investigation into the disappearance of Richard Watson, a 62-year-old Victoria man whose boat was reported sunk in the Selkirk Waterway on Monday.

Watson was reported missing to police on Sunday, October 5^th, but was last seen by friends on Thursday, October 2^nd.  Watson did have plans to travel to the lower mainland for a family gathering on the weekend.

When officers visited the boat later in the day on Sunday, it was still afloat, but vacant. The investigation into the disappearance continued.

Early in the morning on Monday, officers were called to the Selkirk Waterway where Watson’s boat was found submerged. An extensive search of the boat and area was carried out by VicPD, the Victoria Fire Department and the Integrated Police Dive Team.

Investigators are now hoping that members of the public, who may have information into Watson’s disappearance, or his current location, will come forward.

Watson is described as a Caucasian man, approximately 5-foot-6 and 150 lbs. He has dark hair and was last seen wearing a black hoodie. He also typically carries a black backpack.

If you have any information into Watson’s whereabouts, or information about his disappearance, please call VicPD on the non-emergency line at or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at

.

On Wednesday, October 8, a new road to the existing Johnson Street Bridge will open from the intersection of Esquimalt and Harbour Roads.
Opening the roadway now will minimize future impacts to motorists and create more usable space for the contractor during construction. The new road will eventually connect with the new bridge.
The new approach to the bridge includes a temporary sidewalk and an extension of the cycling lanes on Esquimalt Road. The road remains single lane traffic in both directions and the area is an active construction zone with a posted speed limit of 30 km.

The E&N Trail connection at Kimta Road will remain open to pedestrians and cyclists with the existing pathway to the south side of the bridge maintained. Harbour Road will remain closed to vehicles at Esquimalt Road as work continues at the intersection until mid-November. Pedestrian and cycling access will be maintained on Harbour Road.

In mid-November, a new two-way extension of Harbour Road south of Esquimalt Road will open, providing access to the Delta Ocean Pointe Resort and future waterfront green space. In 2016, public land on the south side of the bridge will be consolidated to create more than two acres of waterfront park space.

The new intersection will be complete by November and will include new traffic signals and improved accessibility for pedestrians with crosswalks along all four sides of the intersection. The existing Johnson Street Bridge will continue to remain open throughout construction.

Once complete, more than 50 per cent of the new bridge will be dedicated to pedestrians and cyclists. The new bridge will include on-road bike lanes, a multi-use trail for pedestrians and cyclists, and a dedicated pedestrian pathway in addition to maintaining three lanes for vehicles. Three new plaza areas for the public to sit and view the harbour and a new waterfront park are also planned enhancements to the area as a result of the bridge project.

In the early morning hours of June 26th, 2014, a woman in her early 20’s was sexually assaulted by an unknown man on the Galloping Goose Trail in Langford, BC. The woman was walking alone on Jacklin Road at around 2:00 am, when she was grabbed by the lone suspect and forced a short distance down the Galloping Goose Trail, where she was sexually assaulted. The woman was able to fight off her attacker and seek help from a passing motorist on Jacklin Road.

Since the beginning of this investigation, West Shore RCMP officers have made it their priority to identify and apprehend the person responsible for this crime. Those efforts paid off yesterday morning (October 2nd, 2014), when officers from the West Shore RCMP Major Crime Unit travelled to the Lower Mainland and arrested the primary suspect in this case.

With the assistance of the Surrey RCMP, 20 year old Bradley Michael MUSCAT was arrested without incident at 9:50 am on King George Boulevard. He is facing charges of sexual assault with a weapon, robbery, and forcible confinement. Bradley MUSCAT remains in police custody pending a court appearance later today in Surrey.

A great deal of complex investigative work was done on this case by our local officers and support staff, RCMP resources in the Lower Mainland, and RCMP forensic experts, states Inspector Larry Chomyn, Officer in Charge of the West Shore RCMP. This coordinated effort culminated in the identification and arrest of this suspect, which I am confident will be welcome news to many in our community.

The West Shore RCMP will continue to support the victim of this crime, who has asked that the media respect her request for privacy.

As this matter is now before the Courts, no further details can be released.

VicPD detectives are investigating a robbery that occurred on September 16^th that appears to involve a handgun.

Officers were called to the 400-block of Gorge Road East at approximately 4:30 a.m. for a report of a robbery that had just occurred, in which the suspect was disguised and brandished what appeared to be a handgun.

The teller stated that the suspect entered the store and pointed a handgun at him and a customer, demanding cash.  The teller handed over an undisclosed amount of cash and the suspect fled and ran towards Garbally Street.

Although numerous officers were assisting on the file, the suspect was not caught, and VicPD detectives have taken over the investigation.

The suspect is described as being 5-feet 8-inches tall and wearing black top to bottom, including the balaclava.

Detectives are now hoping that the release of the robbery video will assist in identifying the masked suspect.

If you have any information on this robbery, please contact VicPD on the non-emergency line at 250-995-7654, report on the detective tip-line at 250-995-7444 or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Missing Person Anthony Morley – North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP are asking the public’s help in locating a missing person. Mr. Anthony ‘Tony’ Morley left his residence on September 21, 2014. The Police’s investigation thus far has revealed that Mr. Morley left WalMart at approximately 4:25pm and parked his vehicle, a 2008 Acura, near the staging area of Maple Mountain off of Osborne Bay Road. The vehicle was locked and undamaged so it is believed Mr. Morley left there of his own accord and possibly went for a walk.

Currently, Cowichan Search and Rescue are actively looking for him by foot and air. “We are asking that the public nearby check their outbuildings and fence lines in case Mr. Morley has sought shelter there.” requested Cpl. Krista Hobday

Police have checked the local island hospitals without luck.

Mr. Morley is described as a Caucasian man, 79 years old, grey hair and balding with a very thin build, and last seen wearing a white shirt. He is reported by family to be in the early stages of dementia and has had recent heart surgery but otherwise is very healthy and active. He is familiar with the area as he hikes there regularly

Police seek assistance in locating Tony Morley. If you know his whereabouts, or have seen him recently, please contact the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP at .

CHEK NEWS Story Update (Sat, Sept 27th): Search teams from across Vancouver Island are in Crofton continuing to look for 79 year-old Tony Morley. He was reported missing on Wednesday but was last seen on Sunday when hikers saw him on a trail near Maple Mountain. He has early signs of dementia. Search teams are appealing for help from the public on Sunday. http://www.cheknews.ca/search-ramps-missing-crofton-man/

The Victoria Royals Hockey Club is proud to announce that during the 2013-14 WHL season the team helped raise over $360,000 for local organizations and charitable causes through a variety of promotions and initiatives, and that the team has helped raise over $1,000,000 during their first three years in BC’s capital city.

Victoria’s annual Pink in the Rink game, held on February 1^st, once again was a huge success as fans and sponsors combined to raise more than $33,000 in support of the BC Cancer Foundation.

The Royals also continued their Stop Hunger Campaign in conjunction with Shields Harney Law Firm. For every save made by a Royals’ goaltender during the regular season, one pound of non-perishable food was donated, totaling over 2000 pounds, as well as a cash donation of $3,500 was made to the Mustard Seed Food Bank.

Victoria’s annual Canadian Forces Appreciation Night fundraising efforts totaled over $5,500 in support of the Military Family Resource Centre, while the annual Teddy Bear Toss Night saw over $20,000 worth of teddy bears donated to BC Children’s Hospital, the Salvation Army and the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul.

The Royals again partnered with Major Cash this season as $10 from every home goal scored was donated by Major Cash towards KidSport Victoria. The Royals were proud to work with KidSport Victoria once again, an organization that works endlessly to provide local children with the opportunity to play sports.

The 2013-14 season raised more $150,000 through 50/50 and Chuck-A-Puck sales at Royals’ home games. Proceeds raised went primarily towards minor hockey associations in the Greater Victoria region.

Marty the Marmot once again had a tireless effort out in the community raising more than $18,000 for a variety of charitable causes and organizations. Victoria also donated over $300 from sales of Mini Marty stuffed animals to the Vancouver Island Marmot Recovery Foundation.

Merchandise and suite donations totaling over $12,000 were also made on behalf of the team to various organizations and associations in the Capital Region.

Ticket donations and fundraising tickets exceeding over $50,000 were contributed to local organizations.

Join the Royals tonight for the 2014 Save-On-Foods Home Opener against the Kamloops Blazers. The first 1,000 fans at the game will receive gift cards courtesy of Save-On-Foods. There will also be a tailgate barbeque hosted by Capital Iron, in partnership with Save-On-Foods outside Gate 1 starting at 6:00 p.m. Tickets for the game are still available, but moving quickly. Get the full details at www.victoriaroyals.com or by calling 250-220-7889.

After 49 years at Bastion Square, the Maritime Museum edges closer to Victoria’s Inner Harbour waterfront! A six month option-to-lease has been signed for the causeway level of the Steamship Terminal, with Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA). The parties are keen to settle arrangements that would see the Maritime Museum celebrate a grand re-opening in 2015.

“We are absolutely ecstatic to have a six month option in place, with the aim of signing a long term lease for the Steamship Terminal. I am confident that an agreement will be in place soon positioning the Maritime Museum on Victoria’s beautiful inner harbor where it belongs. We could not ask for a more fitting home than the historic Steamship Terminal,” says Jon Irwin, Executive Director at the Maritime Museum of BC. “We are especially grateful to the Province (Shared Services BC) and GVHA for smoothing the waters in anticipation of our planned re-launch in a waterfront, wharf side, steamship-heritage building: Perfect!”

“We are proud of the region’s long maritime history,” said GVHA President & CEO, Curtis Grad. “And, we look forward to working with the Maritime Museum and Shared Services BC to find a fitting location to tell the amazing stories and celebrate the rich history of Victoria’s harbour.”

Shared Services BC has been working with the Maritime Museum to secure a new home. The parties signed an option to negotiate a long term lease of the causeway level of the Steamship Terminal.

“Thanks go out to Shared Services BC, the Maritime Museum and GVHA for coming together to explore the potential of the Steamship Terminal as  a spectacular new home for the museum’s  collection,” said Minister of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services Andrew Wilkinson. “This new facility will ensure that this important piece of B.C. heritage will continue to educate and inspire visitors for years to come.”

“Congratulations to the collaborative partnership that helped find a new home for the Maritime Museum of BC in the beautifully restored Steamship Terminal,” said Coralee Oakes, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development. “The museum’s new location in the heart of our capital city’s busy tourism hub is a great place to display one of the largest collections of maritime artifacts, photographs and charts in North America. Best wishes to the Maritime Museum of BC for every success in the future.”

To prepare, the Maritime Museum is closing to the public at Bastion Square on October 21, 2014 with a planned reopening next year. “During the transition, the Maritime Museum will look for temporary opportunities with other public institutions to showcase a few of our 35,000 artifacts while we undertake a complex move, and we welcome proposals in this regard,” added John West, Chair of the Maritime Museum.

The Museum will stay open until 9pm on Friday and Saturday nights through to October 21 so people can get a look at the current exhibits on display. Tours will also be running those nights with either Victoria Vice Tours or Ghost Tours being offered.

VICTORIA – BC Ferries plans to convert its two largest vessels, the Spirit of Vancouver Island and the Spirit of British Columbia, to dual fuel, as well as make modifications to the hull, in order to save approximately $9.2 million per year (in today’s dollars) over the remaining 27-year life cycle of the two vessels. The conversion is part of an application the company submitted today to the BC Ferries Commissioner for approval to proceed with mid-life upgrades of the vessels.

The plans come on the heels of a BC Ferries announcement in July 2014 to build three intermediate-class dual fuel vessels for delivery in the years 2016 to 2017. BC Ferries expects total savings from LNG for the five vessels to be approximately $12.0 million per year (in today’s dollars), based on current fuel price estimates, which will significantly reduce upward pressure on fares.
“We are well aware that fare affordability is a concern for our customers and operating on LNG, which is approximately 50 per cent cheaper than marine diesel, is a game changer for BC Ferries,” said Mike Corrigan, BC Ferries’ President and CEO. “We’ve been driving a culture of cost containment in many areas of our business without compromising safety and we are moving forward with LNG conversions, which will help us realize significant environmental benefits and enormous financial savings on our fuel bill.”

BC Ferries spent $126 million on fuel last fiscal year and the two Spirit-Class vessels consumed approximately 15 per cent of the fleet total. These vessels are the largest consumers of fuel in the BC Ferries fleet and the conversion will reduce their cost of fuel by approximately half.

The Spirit-Class vessels operate on the Tsawwassen – Swartz Bay route, which carried 28 per cent of total passengers, 23 per cent of total vehicles and generated 38 per cent of total passenger-based revenue in fiscal 2014. The Spirit-Class mid-life upgrade projects will carry out regulatory requirements; renew end- of-life systems; substantially reduce fuel costs by the conversion of the propulsion to dual fuel; implement hull, electrical and passenger service modifications; and increase ancillary services net income.

In addition to reducing fuel costs with LNG, the projects will implement measures to reduce fuel consumption. A new low friction underwater coating will reduce hull drag, reducing total fuel consumption by approximately 2.9 per cent. Also, the existing hull design, based on hydrodynamic principles from the 1980’s, will be modified at the bow and stern to further reduce drag. As a result, drag is expected to be further reduced which will further lower fuel consumption by up to 1.8 per cent. These fuel efficiency initiatives are expected to generate $650,000 of the fuel savings annually.

BC Ferries is planning for the Spirit of Vancouver Island’s mid-life upgrade and LNG conversion from the fall of 2016 through the spring of 2017. The Spirit of British Columbia’s project is planned to occur from the fall of 2017 through the spring of 2018. Requests for contractor bids would be forthcoming.
Under Section 55 of the Coastal Ferry Act, BC Ferries must not incur a major capital expenditure without first obtaining approval for the expenditure from the BC Ferries Commissioner. The Commissioner will make a ruling within 60 days.

Under contract to the Province of British Columbia, BC Ferries is the service provider responsible for the delivery of safe, efficient and dependable ferry service along coastal British Columbia.

VICTORIA, BC – Beginning Monday, lane reductions will be in place on the Point Ellice (Bay Street) Bridge impacting east and west bound traffic. Flag persons will be in place to assist with traffic flow as crews conduct assessments of the bridge to inform future capital planning. Lane reductions will be in place throughout the week with work expected to be complete by Thursday, September 18. Motorists are advised to take alternate routes to avoid delays.

On the Johnson Street Bridge, westbound traffic will be reduced to a single lane beginning Monday. Lane reductions will continue be in place on the west side of the Johnson Street Bridge through September and October as crews finalize the new intersection of Harbour and Esquimalt Roads.

Later in September, the pedestrian and cyclists temporary access path at Harbour Road will be relocated and widened and cyclists will no longer be required to dismount. Harbour Road will remain closed to vehicles at Esquimalt Road until the end of the September.

In November and December, BC Hydro will work on the east side of the bridge to realign a hydro duct which will provide power to the new bridge.

The new bridge is expected to open to traffic in 2016. For more information, visit JohnsonStreetBridge.com.

Throughout the afternoon of Sunday, September 7, a total of six people were arrested in relation to an ongoing drug investigation.

With the assistance of members from VICPD, CFSEU, and RCU, the Saanich Police Department Street Crime Unit gathered sufficient information to establish that there appeared to be an active illicit drug distribution operation stemming from an apartment located in the 100 block of Gorge Road West.

During the investigation, it was determined that persons of interest identified throughout the course of the investigation had apparent connection to criminal affiliations in the Lower Mainland.

A 41 year old female, a resident of Saanich, was held in custody and faces recommended charges of: three counts of Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking , one count of Unsafe Storage of a Firearm, two counts of Breach of Recognizance, one count of Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm, and one count of Possession of Credit Card Data

A 36 year old male, a resident of Saanich, was held in custody and faces charges of Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking.

A 35 year old female, a resident of Saanich, was released. Charges of Possession of a Controlled Substance have been recommended to Crown.

A 22 year old male, a resident of Sooke, was arrested for Breach of Recognizance and held to appear in court.

A 29 year old male, from the Vancouver area, was arrested and held on outstanding warrants from a jurisdiction in the Lower Mainland, and held to appear in court. The warrants were for Theft and Obstructing a Police Officer.

A 31 year old female, from the Vancouver area, was released from custody. Investigators are considering a charge of Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking against this female.

A search warrant was executed on the apartment where activity was observed, and included the search of three vehicles related to the investigation. Included in the list of items found during the searches were:

– a .22 calibre semi-automatic rifle, complete with loaded magazine

– two replica handguns

– two canisters of bear spray

– approximately 26 litres of suspected GHB or precursor.

– 100 grams of suspected crystal meth (4 ounces)

– 100 grams of suspected heroin (4 ounces)

– 16 grams of suspected marihuana

– approximately $20,000 Canadian currency

– suspected stolen property, including credit card info

– records of sales, scales, and packaging materials consistent with packaging illicit drugs for sale

While the investigation is ongoing, it is expected that the 41 year old female and the 35 year old male will appear in court today.

“This is a significant file that involved the arrest of suspects that were conducting drug transactions in a well populated neigbourhood” Sgt. Steve Eassie said. “It was a culmination of efforts and information from several area police resources, including VICPD, CFSEU, and members from RCU. The sharing of information and collaboration of resources led to the removal of a drug operation from this neighbourhood”.

Victoria BC – A high number of abandoned 911-calls are continuing to plague VicPD’s Communication Centre.

During the last 14 hours, between 5:30 p.m. last night and 7:30 a.m. this morning, VicPD’s Communications Centre had to answer, trace, and ensure the safety of 21 people when their abandoned calls were received.

Abandoned calls make up almost 30% of all 911 calls received by VicPD’s Communication Centre and tie up phone lines and resources needed for actual emergencies.

Please remember to lock your cell phone before putting it in your pocket, bag or purse. If you accidentally dial 911, please stay on the line so our staff can quickly ensure your safety. Finally, if your child is playing with an old cell phone, remember, disconnected cell phones can still dial 911.

VICTORIA, BC – Today work begins on new bicycle lanes on Cook Street, one of the areas identified by the community for improvements in the City’s cycling network.

This spring over 1,300 people provided input on how to improve cycling infrastructure in Victoria over the next 25 years. The new bicycle network was informed by this feedback and identifies the specific routes that will be the focus of these cycling improvements.

The new north and south bike lanes on Cook Street between Maplewood Road and Lang Street will connect with Saanich’s new bike lanes that will continue north on Cook, for a combined route of 1.2 km. These improvements will also make it easier for cyclists to access Finlayson Street, an east/west route with existing bike lanes. Bicycle detection loops will be installed on both sides of Finlayson and Cook, so cyclists approaching the intersection will trigger the light to change. Work will take approximately five weeks. Some parking restrictions and lane closures are expected during construction hours, however access will be maintained for pedestrians and vehicles at all times.

Also responsive to public feedback, 14 new bike parking spaces have been added at City Hall. There are now 46 bike parking spaces, with additional areas for staff parking. These improvements correspond with recent renovations to the Public Service Centre at City Hall.

Other cycling improvements this fall will include:

• Improved access onto Vancouver Street in the 900 block of Convent Street
• Improved access onto Quadra Street in the 900 block of Collinson Street
• Paving of the pedestrian path on the Galloping Goose Trail, south of Selkirk Trestle
• New bike lanes on Skinner Street, from Bay Street to Catherine Street
• Path realignment on Doncaster Drive, between Myrtle Street and Hillside Avenue

The high volume of public input received this spring will now inform an overhaul of the Bike Master Plan itself. The focus will be on developing actions to guide cycling in Victoria over the next 25 years. At this time, it is anticipated an updated Bicycle Master Plan will be presented to Council for consideration in March 2015.

For more information about the new Bicycle Network and other routes that have been identified as priorities over the next five years visit: www.victoria.ca/cycling.

VICTORIA – BC Transit and the Victoria Regional Transit Commission (VRTC) are pleased to announce more service hours are being directed at post-secondary schools. Late night service on Fridays and Saturdays will be added to the West Shore and Gordon Head. Service to Esquimalt will be restructured to enhance destination choices. A total of 5,000 annual service hours will be added to the Victoria Regional Transit System. These changes support the goals of the region’s 25 year Transit Future Plan.

Effective September 2, 2014, late night service on Friday and Saturday nights, currently available on routes 4, 6 and 14 will be extended to routes 15X Dockyard/UVic, 27 Gordon Head, 28 Majestic and 50 Langford/Downtown. Extra late night runs leave the downtown core at 12:30 a.m., 1 a.m. and 1:30 a.m. The added late night service comes at the request of BC Transit customers following extensive public consultations last fall.

Service hours are being expanded on Route 4 Hillside/UVic, Route 8 Interurban/Oak Bay and Route 39 UVic/Royal Roads to better serve customers who are travelling to the region’s largest post-secondary institutions.

The current Route 6 Royal Oak/Esquimalt is being restructured. Esquimalt residents will now be better served by the Route 15X Dockyard/UVic with direct access to UVic, Camosun College Lansdowne campus and the Royal Jubilee Hospital. The new Route 6 Downtown/Royal Oak will travel from the downtown core to the Royal Oak exchange along Quadra Street.
The fall improvements align with both the findings of the public consultation process and the recently completed service review of the Victoria Regional Transit System.

“Reliable and efficient connections to campuses, health services and workplaces are a hallmark of an effective transportation network,” said Todd Stone, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. “As a funding partner, the province is pleased to support the growing demand for transit service in the Capital Region.”

“We listened to the more than six thousand customers who participated in public consultations asking for more late night runs and added trips to the Camosun College Interurban campus,” said Susan Brice, Chair of the Victoria Regional Transit Commission. “Ridership is on the rise in the Victoria region and we hope these investments continue to encourage people to make transit their transportation choice.”
“With these increased service hours and changes, we will be better able to meet the growing demands of the region and our customers,” said BC Transit President and CEO Manuel Achadinha. “We are pleased to work with our partners at the Victoria Regional Transit Commission and our customers to make these significance improvements to the system.”

For more information on routes and schedules please call 250.382.6161 or visit www.bctransit.com/regions/vic