What’s Up on Vancouver Island

The University of Victoria women’s rugby 15s team has already made history this fall, but they’re hoping their run isn’t done yet. After a perfect season and a Canada West title, the top-ranked Vikes opened their U Sports championship run with a 41-8 victory over the University of Ottawa Gee-Gees at UBC’s Thunderbird Stadium on Oct. 29. It’s the first time in program history UVic has entered nationals as the number one seed. The Vikes came in confident after winning all seven of their games this year, including an 18-17 victory over UBC in the Canada West final on Oct. 19—redemption after losing to the same team in last year’s championship. Head coach Brittany Waters said the team’s success comes down to a new mindset and years of steady building. “We knew going into the season that we were going to have a really strong squad,” Waters told Saanich News. “We’ve had back-to-back silvers at nationals, so there were a lot of hungry players coming back who were going for that gold. We also had some new players join who’ve really stepped up. It’s a great, well-rounded group.” Waters, recently named Canada West Coach of the Year for the second time, said her team is focused on itself heading into the tournament. “We have a really hungry group here,” Waters said. “Our attack is tried and true, but I feel like we have a really balanced group. We’re just focusing on what we do and how we can do it best.” Throughout the regular season and the Canada West championships, the Vikes outscored their opponents 325-64. One of the driving forces behind that was fourth-year fullback Carissa Norsten, named Canada West Most Valuable Player after leading UVic with seven tries and 35 points. “She comes to practice early, she works as hard as anyone in this league,” Waters said. “You often see the superstars get the recognition, and with this one, it really is so well-deserved. She’s a leader for our group in more ways than one.” The 2024 Olympic silver medalist was one of six Vikes named conference all-stars, along with Sierra Gillis, Faith Tilley, Justine Blatt-Janmaat, Maggie MacKinnon, and Ella O’Regan. The tournament is being played at the home of their biggest rivals, UBC, but Waters knows her team will have support as the week goes on. “We’re going to be playing for each other out there. Regardless of whether people are cheering for or against us, we have such a strong group,” she said. “We’ve done a really good job of building a positive team culture here, and our players really thrive in these moments.” Waters has led the program to a medal in every season since taking over in 2015. “This isn’t just a job, it’s my passion,” she said. “I get to work with incredible athletes and staff who love the game and each other, and that’s what makes this so special.” The other quarter-finals will see STFX face Guelph, UBC meet Laval, and Queen’s take on Acadia later on Oct. 29. UVic’s next test comes on Oct. 31 against the winner of Guelph and STFX. All 11 games of the U Sports championship are being streamed live on CBC’s digital platforms.

A Campbell River man is facing 15 charges, including three counts of sexual assault and four counts of forcible confinement in connectionwith a series of Ontario incidents from nearly 30 years ago. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) announced the arrest of Jason Timothy Davidson, 52, on Oct. 29, following a three-decade investigation, dubbed Project Aerial. Three of his four alleged victims were teenagers at the time. Police arrested Davidson on Oct. 26. “For 28 years, our teams have worked extremely hard to identify the accused by re-examining evidence, following up on more than 450 tips, and reviewing countless witness statements,” said OPP Deputy Commissioner Marty Kearns. “Advancements in DNA technology open new doors, allowing our team to apply modern investigative techniques that ultimately led to the investigation of the accused.” Kearns confirmed investigative genealogical research was used in the investigation, but declined to offer specific details or other evidence, as the case is before the courts. However, he did say it took the case to Campbell River, where the arrest was made. The four assaults took place in Ontario between March and August 1997. The first was on March 26, when a youth was abducted near Indian Road in Sarnia. She was taken by an unidentified man to Sombra in Lambton County, where she was sexually assaulted. Another youth was abducted on May 23 in Thamesville in Kent County. She was abducted while walking on Hwy 21 and taken to a wooded area. The third incident was on June 7 in Sarnia. An adult woman was picked up on Campbell Street in Sarnia and driven to another location. The fourth incident involved another youth, who was picked up on Grand Avenue West in Chatham and driven to a remote area and sexually assaulted. In each incident, the victims were able to reach safety and contact police. The three youths were 15 or 16 at the time of the attacks. OPP Detective Inspector Michael Moore said that the four cases were intially investigated separately by OPP and Sarnia Police Service. “While tips were received and thoroughly investigated, none led to the identification of the assailant,” said Moore. “However, it did not take long before investigators noticed the similarities in the attacks and the suspect descriptions. In each case, the assailant used the vehicle to transport the victims to a remote location, committed the sexual assault, and drove away, leaving the victims at the site of each attack.” Moore said the unidentified male was described as in his 30s, tall (around 5’8” or taller), with medium-length brown hair, a mustache, and a distinct nose. “Over time, DNA analysis helped link two incidents from March and June. However, investigators believe that the same unknown offender was responsible for all four sexual assaults,” said Moore. “At that point, investigations were transferred to the OPP under the direction of the Criminal Investigation Branch.” The suspect remained at large and unidentified, despite extensive investigation work and public appeals, until this year when Moore said the Centre of Forensic Sciences and advanced DNA technology connected all four cases to one individual. From there, police deployed other techniques and genetic genealogy to identify Davidson as a suspect. He faces 15 charges, including one count of kidnapping, four counts of forcible confinement, three counts of uttering threats, three counts of sexual assault, one count of sexual assault causing bodily harm, one count of sexual assault with a weapon, one count of aggravated sexual assault, and one count of theft. Police say Davidson has ties to the area where the offences were committed, and moved to British Columbia sometime in 2017. “We wanted to put Davidson’s name and picture out there in the media today because we’re hoping to encourage anybody who may have information that can assist this investigation to come forward,” said Moore. The OPP included two pictures in their press conference. One is from the 1990s, and one is from 2025. The one from the 90s is his photo for his Ontario Driver’s Licence, and the one in 2025 was taken after his transportation to Ontario after his arrest. “Today marks a pivotal moment in a historical investigation that has spanned years and provinces. Project Aerial began nearly three decades ago in 1997, and today, we are finally able to provide answers to the public and bring justice to the four survivors and their families,” said Kearns. Kearns said it was the courage and reports of the four survivors who initiated the investigation. He also said sexual assault remains one of the only violent crimes in Canada that is not on the decline. It is also the most underreported crime in Canada, with only six per cent of sexual assaults reported to police, compared to 36 per cent of physical assaults reported. “To the victims of historical sexual assaults, we recognize that the journey to answers can be long. Project Aerial reinforces that time does not diminish our commitment. We remain focused on delivering on answers, supporting the victims and surviviors, and upholding our dedication to public safety. “We hope this message reaches others who’ve experienced sexual assault. We encourage you to come forward to the police. You are not alone, and we are here to help,” said Kearns. “And finally, to those offenders who remain unknown and at large, often many years later, we are coming for you. I am confident that the continued advancements in DNA technology will continue to greatly assist police in solving many more historical cases.”

More than 4,000 BC Hydro customers were without power in Duncan and parts of North Cowichan Wednesday afternoon (Oct. 29). The smaller outage, affecting about 1,153 customers, was reported at 1:25 p.m. in the area west of Boys Road, east of Indian Road, south of Pine Avenue and north of S’eshia Road. Crews are on site and the cause remains under investigation. A second, larger outage, affecting about 3,000 customers north of Trunk Road and east of Government Street was reported shortly after noon. BC Hydro says a tree came down across power lines in that area. The outages knocked out power to much of downtown Duncan and the Tzouhalem Road area. A third big outage was added to the list after 3 p.m., this one affecting 848 customers west of Lakes Road, north of Coronation Avenue, east of Jubilee Street and south of York Road. At least one of the outages was caused by a tree very close or leaning on a double circuit, said B.C. Hydro spokesperson Ted Olynyk. He said it is likely that recent storm events caused the tree to fail, compounded with the large amount of recent rainfall. Two crews worked on the outages, Olynyk said, and power was restored by 6 p.m.

Grace Poole has become a familiar name in Canadian sailing circles, and she’s showing no signs of slowing down. Earlier this month, Poole claimed her third consecutive national championship title at the Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron in Halifax. Racing from Oct. 10 to 12, the 21-year-old topped the Core (U21 to U29) category of the Waszp Canadian Nationals, finishing with 406 points for a score of 67. She placed sixth overall in the 12-boat field, which featured competitors from across the country. “It was a tricky regatta in Halifax,” Poole said. “We had offshore winds for the whole event, so it was a whole game of trying to sail into the puffs. Strategy was really important.” Poole said training out of Oak Bay has been a major advantage when it comes to preparing for events across the country. “Victoria is a really great place to be foiling,” said the 2021 Glenlyon Norfolk School graduate. “We get similar conditions here and also lots of flat water, so my training here is key to how I did in Halifax.” Waszps, high-speed hydrofoiling sailboats that can reach up to 40 km/h, have exploded in popularity in recent years, largely thanks to their inclusion as a stepping stone into professional sailing through SailGP. The strict one-design format means sailors can jump into any event around the world with identical equipment. That proved especially helpful for Poole, who borrowed a boat from a Halifax sailor rather than shipping her own across the country. “It’s a really close-knit community,” she said. “I just reached out to someone I knew there and was able to find a boat through connections. I was really grateful to be lent one because charter boats can be quite expensive.” Poole, who trains out of the Royal Victoria Yacht Club, said the Waszp community on the Island is starting to grow, helped in part by her twin brother, Kelley, who now coaches a local group. “In the beginning, I didn’t really have anyone to sail against,” she said. “Now there’s a little group in Victoria, and it’s fantastic to have that.” With another national title secured, Poole now shifts her focus to her first world championship in Pensacola, Florida this March. “It’s ambitious, but I’m trying to make the podium in the women’s fleet,” she said. “It’ll be my first worlds, and there are some equipment changes to figure out, but I have big goals.” Between training, working in a local marine canvas shop, and mentoring young sailors, Poole’s schedule is packed, but her motivation hasn’t wavered. “I just really want to keep improving my own sailing,” she said. “That’s what it’s all about.”

In 2018, Saanich ranked the redevelopment of its Royal Oak fire station as the second-highest priority in the district, just behind the Parks and Public Works Yard, in its Strategic Facilities Master Plan. The plan stated that “more than any other fire hall, Fire Hall No.2 experiences pressing needs that have a significant impact on the entire district fire services operation.” While reports indicate that the Elk Lake Drive station performs well from an incident response perspective, its limited size, growing equipment requirements and rapidly expanding population have created “significant” operational pressures. As a result, the district determined that the 3,880-square-foot facility, built in 1978, required a much-needed makeover to meet Royal Oak’s growing needs. In May 2019, council unanimously approved a $26.6-million budget for the project, with an expected completion date of 2023. The new facility, nearly 23,500 square feet – more than six times larger – will accommodate up to 10 firefighters instead of five and house eight vehicles, up from the current two. Once the new facility is operational, the existing Elk Lake Drive station is scheduled to be demolished. However, nearly three years after the original completion date, the station remains unfinished and its budget has ballooned to $44.6 million – a 68 per cent increase. In a written statement to Saanich News, the district’s engineering department said the escalating budget and delays were first outlined in an April 2023 staff report, which cited extended timelines, market escalation and design development. According to Saanich, construction began in May 2024. Since then, the project has encountered “several minor and typical construction-related matters,” noted the engineering department, including material delivery delays and impacts from the ongoing tariff dispute with the U.S. The first delay resulted from extended manufacturing timelines for mass timber components, pushing delivery back by approximately five months. A second delay, caused by design revisions to the roof assembly, which supports solar panels, insulation and waterproofing, added two months. The revised completion date, originally set for fall 2025, has now been pushed to summer 2026. web1_251029-sne-firehall2-update-1_3 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/feeds/gps/2025/10/web1_251029-sne-firehall2-update-1_3.jpg;w=960]A redevelopment plan of the new Fire Hall No.2 located on Royal Oak Drive. (Saanich.ca) web1_251029-sne-firehall2-update-1_4 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/feeds/gps/2025/10/web1_251029-sne-firehall2-update-1_4.jpg;w=960]A view of the current Fire Hall No.2, located on 4595 Elk Lake Dr., set to be demolished once the new station is completed. (Saanich.ca) web1_251029-sne-firehall2-update-1_5 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/feeds/gps/2025/10/web1_251029-sne-firehall2-update-1_5.jpg;w=960]Architectural rendering showing the proposed design of Fire Hall No. 2. (Saanich.ca)

The Fifty Fifty Arts Collective will present an "offbeat" solo art exhibition, pee-bee says hello, by Noah MacLeod, from Oct. 11 to 25.  Following the success of his debut solo exhibition at Headbones Gallery in Vernon, MacLeod brings a fresh body of work to Victoria that further explores his "idiosyncratic visual language" under the playful moniker "pee-bee.” MacLeod works combine sculpture, painting, and object-making, the end result carrying a "quiet absurdity, a language that feels both familiar and strange." Outside of his studio practice, MacLeod is the founder of Local Losers, a community-led DIY collective from the Interior of B.C. that supports artists and musicians across the province. What began as a communal studio and gallery later evolved into a clothing brand and now a grassroots music production company. Now based in Victoria, MacLeod is beginning to find his place within the local arts community, bringing with him the energy, grit, and sense of curiosity that have long shaped his approach. The exhibition is open Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., or by appointment. The reception is on Thursday, Oct. 23 from 6– to 9 p.m. at The Fifty Fifty Arts Collective, 2516 Douglas St, Victoria.    

From Sidney to Sooke, teens across the Capital Region could one day hop aboard buses for free. On Oct. 22, the CRD’s transportation committee voted in favour of a motion directing staff to look into the costs, benefits and implications of a free bus pass program for kids aged 13 to 18. Victoria councillor Jeremy Caradonna, who tabled the motion with Victoria councillor Dave Thompson, said “fair, free youth bus passes are something that have very, very, very tangible, real-world impacts on peoples’ lives, and I think the volume of emails and delegations we’ve had on this shows that the community wants us at the very least to be exploring it.” While the province offers free fares for kids 12 and under, Victoria is the only community in the CRD that provides free passes for youth aged 13 to 18. In an Oct. 20 news release, Caradonna and Thompson said approximately 70 per cent of youth in Victoria use the city’s free passes. “The success of the Victoria program suggests that extending this program equitably across the region would deliver value for CRD residents in other municipalities and increase transit ridership,” said the pair. Other communities with similar programs have clocked ridership increases, too. Nathan Bird of the Victoria Transit Riders Union said data from Kingston, Ont. shows that free passes there allowed 10 per cent of teens to participate in recreational activities that they otherwise would not be able to. “It’s … about removing a prohibitive barrier to engagement with their communities and in doing so allowing youth to live more active, social, happier and healthier lives,” he added. Colwood mayor Doug Kobayashi, however, called the move “fiscally irresponsible,” adding free passes aren’t one of the transportation committee’s strategic priorities. Sooke mayor Maja Tait said free passes wouldn’t address a lack of buses available to youth in her community. “There are simply not enough buses to meet the demand here,” she said. But Langford mayor Scott Goodmanson said free youth passes could actually help address a lack of transit available in some of the region’s communities. “It’s hard to get anywhere with B.C. Transit, and we’re routinely told that they won’t improve service until the need is there,” he added. “I think there is a benefit to possibly loading up the system because it’s going to show them they need to put their proverbial money where their mouth is.” This analysis of youth passes will be part of the CRD’s updates to its regional transportation plan, which won’t be complete until 2027. By then, a new transit committee will be tasked with deciding whether or not to move forward with a regional free pass program.

On Oct. 19, 2025, over a dozen community members from across Greater Victoria put in 49 volunteer hours to remove eight cubic metres of English ivy and other invasive plants, which equates to roughly 35 bathtubs full, from the Dickson Woods Forest near Victoria International Airport. Green Teams of Canada’s Greater Victoria Green Team (GVGT) and the Victoria Airport Authority (VAA) announced a new partnership focused on restoring and enhancing the ecological health of forest. Over the next year, volunteers will participate in stewardship activities in the area. “It was my first time volunteering, and I never thought it would feel so satisfying to give back to the community and to nature,” said Bahar Sadeghi, one of the 16 GVGT volunteers at Dickson Woods. “As an essential facility in our community, our ecological systems are the centre of the discussion when we talk about overall climate resilience and adaptation planning,” said Allison Waldick, environmental officer, and sustainability lead from the Victoria Airport Authority. “A healthy ecosystem is a resilient ecosystem providing a ripple effect to further support pollinators, watershed health, and flood mitigation for our region. We have a shared responsibility with the surrounding community to manage invasive species that threaten regional biodiversity.” Green Teams of Canada goal is to engage people of all ages and backgrounds in hands-on environmental action that builds community, supports mental and physical health, and restores natural spaces across Canada. “This partnership with the Victoria Airport Authority is a wonderful example of how collaboration between community and industry can have a powerful impact on both people and the planet,” said Lyda Salatian, founder and executive director of Green Teams of Canada. “We’re thrilled to continue engaging community members at Dickson Woods throughout the year.” Upcoming volunteer opportunities at Dickson Woods Park will take place this fall and continue into spring 2026. web1_251024-vne-gvgt-vaa-partnership-ivy_1 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/feeds/gps/2025/10/web1_251024-vne-gvgt-vaa-partnership-ivy_1.jpg;w=960]

No one was hurt in the crash after a black Chevrolet Traverse rammed through the emergency entrance at Cowichan District Hospital and stopped inside the waiting room at approximately 7:40 p.m. on Oct. 25. A statement from the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP said two paramedics at the scene attempted to check on the driver, a 42-year-old woman, who then allegedly assaulted one of them, causing minor injuries. The woman was then subdued by hospital staff and was apprehended under the Mental Health Act. No other injuries were reported in the incident. The investigation remains ongoing to determine the leading cause of the crash. Anyone with information is asked to contact the RCMP at 250-748-5522. A statement on Island Health’s Facebook page said the health authority’s facilities maintenance and operations team has assessed the area and initial findings show no structural damage to the building’s foundation. “Temporary doors have been installed and staff will be stationed at the entrance in the coming days to support patient access,” Island Health said. ”The emergency department remains open, safe to access and people should not hesitate to seek care at CDH if they require emergency medical attention.”

It started off as a regular Sunday in Sooke. Gabe Nelson was out in his backyard, playing with his two dogs, Riptide and Silo. The pair spent most weekends together on Nelson’s rural acreage where the dogs would wander through the trees and splash in the nearby creek before returning to his workshop. But on Oct. [https://www.sookenewsmirror.com/local-news/1-dog-killed-another-fighting-for-life-following-sooke-shooting-8312377]19 [https://www.sookenewsmirror.com/local-news/1-dog-killed-another-fighting-for-life-following-sooke-shooting-8312377], that routine took a devastating turn. “I let the two of them run around the yard like they always do, and then they disappeared for a couple of minutes,” Nelson told the Sooke News Mirror. “Then Rip came screaming, yelping and running back to me.” When Nelson saw blood on Riptide (Rip), the three and a half year-old Australian shepherd, he knew something was wrong. Nelson and his mother rushed the injured dog to WAVES Veterinary clinic in Langford, while his father and a friend stayed behind to look for Silo. According to the Sooke RCMP, Silo was found dead in the driveway of a neighbouring property. Silo, a 15-year-old Norwegian elkhound-shepherd mix, had been part of the family for nearly two decades. Rip, younger and full of energy, joined the household earlier this year. The two dogs quickly bonded. “Rip really kept Silo’s energy up,” said Kaylee Peaker, Nelson’s partner. “He really got Silo acting like a puppy again.” The sudden loss of Silo, paired with Riptide’s critical injuries, have left the couple heartbroken. At the vet, Nelson said staff were initially in disbelief when he told them Riptide had been shot. “They kind of all were like, ‘We’ll take him in for a checkup,’ and I said, ‘No, you guys gotta get him in right now,’” he recalled. “We didn’t have much time.” A scan revealed the bullet had entered Riptide’s left chest, passed through his lung, diaphragm, and liver, and stopped just under the skin on his right side. The following days were spent at the veterinary hospital. “It was really expensive—really, really expensive,” Peaker said. “We didn’t get much sleep and were quite worried because he wasn’t doing well.” Over four nights, Riptide had fluid drained from his chest and abdomen multiple times. At one point, vets removed an entire litre of fluid from his chest. “They told us to keep our phones on and be prepared to come in,” Peaker said. “It was that serious.” By midweek, Rip’s condition began to improve. He was sent home with medication and strict instructions to rest. “He’s been really antsy,” Nelson said. “He really wants to play and go out, but so far he’s just kind of relaxing and healing.” Peaker said the couple has seen glimpses of his old personality returning. The emotional toll, however, remains heavy. “When I found out about Silo, I kind of dropped to the ground and screamed,” Peaker said. “It’s just been really difficult, honestly. A lot to process.” Nelson described the week as surreal. “It took me a while to really process that it was even going on,” he said. “It really sucks because my entire family doesn’t feel safe in my home now.” Since the incident, the pair said they’ve spent little time at Nelson’s property, too unsettled to return for long. “When we brought Rip home to visit Gabe’s parents, one of the neighbours was using a nail gun,” Peaker said. “I was losing my mind. Any little sound just feels so scary.” The couple said their frustration has also grown with the lack of updates on the investigation. “We’re sitting here with a dog that’s passed away and a $14,000 vet bill, and we have no information.” As of Monday morning, Sooke RCMP confirmed there are no updates to the investigation. “There is not update at this time and the investigation is still ongoing,” Sooke RCMP told Sooke News Mirror. For Nelson and Peaker, the only focus now is Rip’s recovery. A GoFundMe [https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-bring-rip-home] page to help cover the growing vet costs has surpassed $11,550 as of Oct. 27. “It feels really good, but it feels really weird,” Peaker said of the community’s response. “We’re really quiet people. It’s overwhelming, but it’s really nice to see the community come together, you don’t really get to see that much anymore.” As Rip continues to heal, the couple is holding on to small moments of relief, a wag of the tail, a familiar spark of energy, even as they mourn the loss of their longtime companion. “It’s been one of the hardest weeks of our lives,” Peaker said. “But we’re just trying to get by.” web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_3 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/feeds/gps/2025/10/web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_3.jpg;w=960]Two dogs, Rip and Silo, were shot on a rural Sooke acreage on Sunday, Oct. 19. Sadly, Silo was killed, while Riptide has racked up $14K in vet bills. (Photo courtesy of Kaylee Peaker) web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_4 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/feeds/gps/2025/10/web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_4.jpg;w=960]Two dogs, Rip and Silo, were shot on a rural Sooke acreage on Sunday, Oct. 19. Sadly, Silo was killed, while Riptide has racked up $14K in vet bills. (Photo courtesy of Kaylee Peaker) web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_5 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/feeds/gps/2025/10/web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_5.jpg;w=960]Two dogs, Rip and Silo, were shot on a rural Sooke acreage on Sunday, Oct. 19. Sadly, Silo was killed, while Riptide has racked up $14K in vet bills. (Photo courtesy of Kaylee Peaker) web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_6 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/feeds/gps/2025/10/web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_6.jpg;w=960]Two dogs, Rip and Silo, were shot on a rural Sooke acreage on Sunday, Oct. 19. Sadly, Silo was killed, while Riptide has racked up $14K in vet bills. (Photo courtesy of Kaylee Peaker) web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_7 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/feeds/gps/2025/10/web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_7.jpg;w=960]Two dogs, Rip and Silo, were shot on a rural Sooke acreage on Sunday, Oct. 19. Sadly, Silo was killed, while Riptide has racked up $14K in vet bills. (Photo courtesy of Kaylee Peaker) web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_8 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/feeds/gps/2025/10/web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_8.jpg;w=960]Two dogs, Rip and Silo, were shot on a rural Sooke acreage on Sunday, Oct. 19. Sadly, Silo was killed, while Riptide has racked up $14K in vet bills. (Photo courtesy of Kaylee Peaker)

The ride home for almost 30 passengers on Oct. 26 was unexpected, to say the least. After a fallen tree brought down a power pole and live wires onto a BC Transit bus, the passengers were stuck for nearly four hours early Sunday morning. The Route 28 bus was affected as it travelled on Feltham Road, near the intersection with Cedar Hill Road. The incident happened just after midnight. Passengers were not permitted to leave the bus until BC Hydro personnel arrived, resulting in the passengers remaining on board until just after 4 a.m., according to a BC Transit spokesperson. This was due to Hydro crews already managing several incidents throughout the region, the spokesperson said. A secondary bus was eventually brought to the scene, and all passengers were then taken to their destinations. “BC Transit appreciates the patience of the impacted customers, and thanks the transit operator, transit supervisors, BC Hydro and emergency services that supported their safety throughout the incident,” BC Transit said in a statement to Victoria News. Oct. 26 saw a total of 6.7 mm of rain as storms swept the area. Since Environment Canada first forecasted the storm system on Wednesday, tens of thousands of Vancouver Island customers have lost power.

It started off as a regular Sunday in Sooke. Gabe Nelson was out in his backyard, playing with his two dogs, Riptide and Silo. The pair spent most weekends together on Nelson’s rural acreage where the dogs would wander through the trees and splash in the nearby creek before returning to his workshop. But on Oct. [https://www.sookenewsmirror.com/local-news/1-dog-killed-another-fighting-for-life-following-sooke-shooting-8312377]19 [https://www.sookenewsmirror.com/local-news/1-dog-killed-another-fighting-for-life-following-sooke-shooting-8312377], that routine took a devastating turn. “I let them two of them run around the yard like they always do, and then they disappeared for a couple of minutes,” Nelson told the Sooke News Mirror. “Then Rip came screaming, yelping and running back to me.” When Nelson saw blood on Riptide (Rip), the three and a half year-old Australian shepherd, he knew something was wrong. Nelson and his mother rushed the injured dog to WAVES Veterinary clinic in Langford, while his father and a friend stayed behind to look for Silo. According to the Sooke RCMP, Silo was found dead in the driveway of a neighbouring property. Silo, a 15-year-old Norwegian elkhound-shepherd mix, had been part of the family for nearly two decades. Rip, younger and full of energy, joined the household earlier this year. The two dogs quickly bonded. “Rip really kept Silo’s energy up,” said Kaylee Peaker, Nelson’s partner. “He really got Silo acting like a puppy again.” The sudden loss of Silo, paired with Riptide’s critical injuries, have left the couple heartbroken. At the vet, Nelson said staff were initially in disbelief when he told them Riptide had been shot. “They kind of all were like, ‘We’ll take him in for a checkup,’ and I said, ‘No, you guys gotta get him in right now,’” he recalled. “We didn’t have much time.” A scan revealed the bullet had entered Riptide’s left chest, passed through his lung, diaphragm, and liver, and stopped just under the skin on his right side. The following days were spent at the veterinary hospital. “It was really expensive—really, really expensive,” Peaker said. “We didn’t get much sleep and were quite worried because he wasn’t doing well.” Over four nights, Riptide had fluid drained from his chest and abdomen multiple times. At one point, vets removed an entire litre of fluid from his chest. “They told us to keep our phones on and be prepared to come in,” Peaker said. “It was that serious.” By midweek, Rip’s condition began to improve. He was sent home with medication and strict instructions to rest. “He’s been really antsy,” Nelson said. “He really wants to play and go out, but so far he’s just kind of relaxing and healing.” Peaker said the couple has seen glimpses of his old personality returning. The emotional toll, however, remains heavy. “When I found out about Silo, I kind of dropped to the ground and screamed,” Peaker said. “It’s just been really difficult, honestly. A lot to process.” Nelson described the week as surreal. “It took me a while to really process that it was even going on,” he said. “It really sucks because my entire family doesn’t feel safe in my home now.” Since the incident, the pair said they’ve spent little time at Nelson’s property, too unsettled to return for long. “When we brought Rip home to visit Gabe’s parents, one of the neighbours was using a nail gun,” Peaker said. “I was losing my mind. Any little sound just feels so scary.” The couple said their frustration has also grown with the lack of updates on the investigation. “We’re sitting here with a dog that’s passed away and a $14,000 vet bill, and we have no information.” As of Monday morning, Sooke RCMP confirmed there are no updates to the investigation. “There is not update at this time and the investigation is still ongoing,” Sooke RCMP told Sooke News Mirror. For Nelson and Peaker, the only focus now is Rip’s recovery. A GoFundMe [https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-bring-rip-home] page to help cover the growing vet costs has surpassed $11,550 as of Oct. 27. “It feels really good, but it feels really weird,” Peaker said of the community’s response. “We’re really quiet people. It’s overwhelming, but it’s really nice to see the community come together, you don’t really get to see that much anymore.” As Rip continues to heal, the couple is holding on to small moments of relief, a wag of the tail, a familiar spark of energy, even as they mourn the loss of their longtime companion. “It’s been one of the hardest weeks of our lives,” Peaker said. “But we’re just trying to get by.” web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_6 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/feeds/gps/2025/10/web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_6.jpg;w=960]Two dogs, Rip and Silo, were shot on a rural Sooke acreage on Sunday, Oct. 19. Sadly, Silo was killed, while Riptide has racked up $14K in vet bills. (Photo courtesy of Kaylee Peaker) web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_5 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/feeds/gps/2025/10/web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_5.jpg;w=960]Two dogs, Rip and Silo, were shot on a rural Sooke acreage on Sunday, Oct. 19. Sadly, Silo was killed, while Riptide has racked up $14K in vet bills. (Photo courtesy of Kaylee Peaker) web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_4 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/feeds/gps/2025/10/web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_4.jpg;w=960]Two dogs, Rip and Silo, were shot on a rural Sooke acreage on Sunday, Oct. 19. Sadly, Silo was killed, while Riptide has racked up $14K in vet bills. (Photo courtesy of Kaylee Peaker) web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_2 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/feeds/gps/2025/10/web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_2.jpg;w=960]Two dogs, Rip and Silo, were shot on a rural Sooke acreage on Sunday, Oct. 19. Sadly, Silo was killed, while Riptide has racked up $14K in vet bills. (Photo courtesy of Kaylee Peaker) web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_3 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/feeds/gps/2025/10/web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_3.jpg;w=960]Two dogs, Rip and Silo, were shot on a rural Sooke acreage on Sunday, Oct. 19. Sadly, Silo was killed, while Riptide has racked up $14K in vet bills. (Photo courtesy of Kaylee Peaker) web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_1 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/feeds/gps/2025/10/web1_251025-snm-sookedogshootingfollowup-dog_1.jpg;w=960]Two dogs, Rip and Silo, were shot on a rural Sooke acreage on Sunday, Oct. 19. Sadly, Silo was killed, while Riptide has racked up $14K in vet bills. (Photo courtesy of Kaylee Peaker)

Picture this: you want to raise money for a good cause but don’t know where to start. Then, during an evening walk, you notice the neighbourhood cats lounging on porches and sidewalks. Suddenly, you wonder: what if their charm could be used for good? That’s exactly what Emily Fields did. After seeing the success of the Fernwood Catwalk [https://www.sookenewsmirror.com/community/whiskers-and-purrs-greater-victorias-first-catwalk-hailed-as-a-hit-8043640], Fields decided to launch her own cat-themed fundraiser for Solid Outreach Society [https://www.cutestcat.ca/], an organization providing harm-reduction services in Greater Victoria. “I’m a huge supporter of harm-reduction, Indigenous-led and peer-centred initiatives,” she said. “I work in mental health, so I wanted to find a way for the community to come together and show support for Solid.” Simple and straightforward, the fundraiser, launched in September, invited cat owners of Fernwood and North Park to enter their feline companions in a contest to determine the neighbourhood’s “cutest cat,” with the winners to be featured in a calendar. After submitting a small entry fee along with photos and bios, 25 cats entered the competition. Voting opened on Sept. 25, with community members pledging $1 per vote for their favourite cat. Voting closed a month later, and the results were announced on Oct. 26 at Fernwood Square. In front of a small crowd under a rainy sky, Fields revealed the winners: Juno, a beautifully rotund tabby, took first place; Penelope, a tiny black cat described as “a little lump of coal,” placed second; and Fran, a chicken-loving “diva”, came in third. > View this post on Instagram > > > > [https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQStdaxCTZK/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading] > > A post shared by Who’s the Cutest Cat in Fernwood-Northpark? > (@cutestcatfernwood) > [https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQStdaxCTZK/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading] Shortly after announcing the winners, Fields revealed the fundraiser had raised $1,943 – far exceeding her original target of $500. “I wanted to keep the goal to myself,” she said. “I was hoping to get four cats participating, but we ended up with so many.” Humbled by the turnout, Fields already plans to make the contest an annual tradition. With calendars expected before the end of November, Fields thanked all those who participated. “It’s a pretty good chunk of money,” she said. “But it’s also a reflection of contributions from so many people. It’s symbolic of our support as a community, which is what I wanted it to be.” For updates on when the calendars are available, visit the fundraiser’s Instagram page at instagram.com/cutestcatfernwood [https://instagram.com/cutestcatfernwood]. web1_251027-vne-cat-fundraiser-fernwood-1_3 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/feeds/gps/2025/10/web1_251027-vne-cat-fundraiser-fernwood-1_3.jpg;w=960]Fran, a chicken-loving “diva”, came in third place in a fundraiser supporting Solid Outreach Society. (Cutestcat.ca)

When Crystal Pool shuts its doors next fall, swimmers won’t have far to go. Victoria will temporarily take over the YMCA/YWCA pool space on Broughton Street to keep programs running during the $209.2-million, five-year rebuild. Victoria Mayor Marianne Alto called the agreement “a big win for Victoria’s pool users,” saying the city worked hard to find a local solution that would maintain recreation access throughout construction. “We asked staff to leave no stone unturned in finding solutions that lessen the impact of the Crystal Pool closure,” Alto said in a press release. “The result of that work, in collaboration with community partners, is a big win for Victoria’s pool users.” The downtown YMCA, located at 851 Broughton St., is set to relocate to the top floor of the Bay Centre in early 2026. Once that move happens, the city will step in and begin preparing the existing pool facility for its temporary use. Derrick Newman, the city’s director of parks and recreation, said the interim site will keep its 25-metre pool and smaller leisure pool, along with space for fitness programs and dryland recreation. “It’ll allow us to continue offering our swim clubs as well as swim lessons and aquafit to the community,” Newman said in a press conference Monday afternoon. “In addition to that, we’ll have the opportunity to relocate our core dryland recreation services, as well as all of our other yoga and fitness classes the community relies on.” Newman said the building will need upgrades before reopening under city operation, but those costs are expected to fall within the existing Crystal Pool project budget. “Our consultant team identified a number of renovations and improvements necessary to keep the facility open for another five years,” he said. “We’re going to undertake those repairs to get the facility fit for use so we can keep the doors open there.” The city’s arrangement is with Concert Properties, which owns the Broughton Street site. The company purchased the property for $21.9 million in 2018. Newman said timelines are still being finalized, but confirmed the city aims to secure access to the building for the full five-year construction period. Meanwhile, the new YMCA space [https://vicnews.com/2025/07/04/duct-tape-and-glue-what-prompted-victoria-ymcas-move-to-bay-centre/] at the former GoodLife Fitness location at the Bay Centre will cover roughly 20,000 square feet and include fitness studios, weights, and multipurpose areas. The new location won’t have a swimming pool, racquet courts, or basketball gym and is expected to open in early 2026. While the new arrangement keeps pool access within Victoria, Newman acknowledged there will still be fewer lanes and programs than at Crystal Pool. “The facility is a smaller pool, so we will have a reduction in the amount of lanes available for swimming and the types of programs we’ll be able to offer,” he said. “We’ll continue to work with our regional partners to manage the various demands we’re anticipating.” Crystal Pool’s closure date will be confirmed in early 2026, with construction expected to take a total of 62 months. web1_251017-vne-poolmove-pool_1 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/feeds/gps/2025/10/web1_251017-vne-poolmove-pool_1.jpg;w=960]The leisure pool inside the Quadra and Broughton Street facility that was home to the YMCA for nearly six decades. (Tony Trozzo/Victoria News)

He worked for it. He earned it. Damned if he was going to let a hellish mountain pass and darkness stop Darren Zupp from getting his pay. Zupp, from Vernon, was a hockey official assigned to work three Western Hockey League exhibition games with Kelowna’s Dave McClellan and a young linesman from Osoyoos, circa the late 1980s, early 1990s. He and McClellan were Level 6 officials, the highest ranking any hockey referee could achieve, and they traded off refereeing and lining the pre-season tilts. After the final contest in Castlegar, the trio started to make their way back to the Okanagan with Zupp behind the wheel. They made a stop at a pullout near Castlegar so they could change out of their shirt and ties, and into something more comfortable for the drive home. They made a stop in Grand Forks, about 50 minutes away from that pullout, when McClellan discovered he didn’t have his wallet, which just happened to contain the threesome’s weekend cash for meals, travel, and game wages. “I pulled everything out of my pants and put it all on top of the car,” said McClellan, remembering his long-time friend Zupp who died at age 63 in his sleep on one last family cruise Oct. 12 (same day as his late mom Marilyn’s birthday. Marilyn passed in 2020). Zupp’s death came 10 weeks after he was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer. “The wallet had my money, Darren’s money, the kid’s money. I figured out it fell off the top of the car.” Rather than write it off, as McClellan suggested, Zupp would have none of that. He made the other two get back in the car and headed over the Blueberry-Paulson Mountain Pass as they went in search of a wallet on the road. They found it when Zupp’s headlights caught a pile of stuff in the middle of the highway, which included McClellan’s wallet with the cash. “I told him I’d just write it off but he wouldn’t hear of it,” laughed McClellan. “Nope, nope, nope. I’m going back, I’m going back.” Zupp was born in Wetaskiwin, Alta., and began playing hockey at age eight. His family moved to Vernon a year later and Zupp – a big Ken Dryden fan – began playing goal in Senior Pups. He backstopped the Vernon Coca Cola Juvenile Reps to the Western Canadian championship in the 1979-80 season after getting in a few games with the Merritt Centennials and Vernon Canadians in the British Columbia Junior Hockey League the year before. He experienced a tough eight-win year with the Lakers in 1980-81, so Zupp knew the highs and lows of hockey. “My first junior game was with the Vernon Canadians in Revelstoke and we lost 8-4,” said Zupp in a September 2004 interview with the B.C. Hockey League . “They scored 19 seconds into the game and I was wondering what I had got myself into. I stopped (future NHL forward) Ron Flockhart three times on breakaways so that was a highlight.” Zupp began officiating hockey games at age 12 and loved it right away, earning $2 per game and a hot chocolate. His first BCJHL ref assignment was a 1981 exhibition game between the Vernon Lakers and Revelstoke Bruins. Zupp would dish out 19 game misconducts and one match penalty, en route to a game total of 360 penalty minutes. He would go on to work close to 800 Junior A games, and earned some prestigious awards along the way, including BC Amateur Hockey Association Official-of-the-Year and Canadian Amateur Hockey Association Most Deserving Official in 1993. Zupp and McClellan worked the 1990 Centennial Cup Canadian Junior A Championship in Vernon, and Zupp did the 1998 Royal Bank Cup in Nanaimo. A smooth, strong skater, Zupp survived three decades with consistent work and a willingness to listen. In his interview with the BCJHL, Zupp said, “I’ve always had a good rapport with players. It’s just a mutual respect. I wasn’t a smart-ass, I never lipped anybody. I never had the gift of the gab so I never used that. I just did my job and was professional.” While his No. 1 fan, his wife of 36 years, Karen, used to be bothered by the catcalls and insults hurled at him by fans, Zupp never took anything personal. “I tuned out most of it. I don’t hear the fans. And with the high glass these days, they’re just wasting their time.” Zupp said the famous Section B crew at the old Vernon Civic Arena – located right behind the penalty boxes and the time keeper’s box – added to the game atmosphere. “They were always fun,” he recalled. “They tried to get a rise out of me but all they got was a grin out of me. A couple of them I worked with. They would tell me, ‘We’re coming just to bug you.’” Zupp listed past Vernon stars like Kori Davison and Scott Longstaff, Vernon team owners Mel Lis and Duncan Wray, and Lakers coach Eddie Johnstone as class acts towards officials. “The only thing I didn’t do in my whole career was make the NHL, but I met Karen and we have two beautiful children,” he told the BCJHL. “I have no regrets.” He ended his career working a BCHL final series in 2004 in Salmon Arm, getting the standard $70 a game and mileage while as is custom picking up the post-game tab for his linesmen. Former Vernon Vipers head coach Mike Vandekamp called Zupp a BCHL icon. “Every coach who has coached in this league is familiar with him and the players are familiar with him,” said Vandekamp. “I always thought Darren was a fair guy, an easy guy to talk to. He seemed to care and when you’re coaching and playing, that’s all you can ask for is a referee who cares. “I personally thought he got better every year…I also liked the fact that he didn’t hold a grudge. Three days after a game, you could walk up and talk to him.” Away from the rink, Zupp was a shift worker for 24 years at the old Lavington Glass Plant. He cycled and roller bladed to stay in shape for officiating. He was a constant source of strength, kindness, and leadership in the North Okanagan. Whether behind the bench coaching kids’ hockey or on the ice as a dedicated referee, coaching lacrosse and baseball or on the field coaching master women’s soccer, or simply lending a hand wherever needed, Zupp made a lasting impact on countless lives. Zupp was the middle of five children, behind older sisters Charlene and Leona, and ahead of brother Terry and youngest sibling, his sister, Shelley. He was a devoted husband to Karen and a loving father to two boys, Dallas and Brenden. “Family was always Darren’s priority and his weekly visits with Terry and weekly pool games with our 94-year-old dad, Gary, showed his goodness as a son and brother,” said Shelley. “He reffed with fairness and integrity and touched so many lives in a positive way through coaching hockey, softball and soccer. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.” And that includes his friend Mac, aka, McClellan. “I lost a bit of a soul mate for what we used to do, and the culture that we participated in,” he said. “We were so fortunate to come through hockey together. You did the best job you could with the tools you had, and he garnered a lot of respect for that.” A service for Zupp will be held Saturday, Nov. 8, at 1 p.m. at the Vernon Alliance Church. READ MORE: Legendary hockey voice Hughson inducted into B.C. Sports Hall of Fame [https://vernonmorningstar.com/2025/10/23/legendary-hockey-voice-hughson-inducted-into-b-c-sports-hall-of-fame/] READ MORE: Vernon riders rip to top of Rampage ranks [https://vernonmorningstar.com/2025/10/23/legendary-hockey-voice-hughson-inducted-into-b-c-sports-hall-of-fame/]

There are no concrete plans to improve parking or safety at Cathedral Grove aside from the barriers blocking parking. Staff from the province’s ministry of transportation and ministry of environment discussed the provincial park with the Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District (ACRD) board at their Wednesday meeting. “There’s still more demand for use of the park than there is parking available. The ministry has no plans at this time to extend parking or revisit the options that we started developing back in 2018,” said Michael Pearson from the ministry. In January 2025 the ministry put concrete barriers in place on shoulders of the road to prevent people from parking on the sides of the highway to access the park. “We recognize that that doesn’t solve the problem,” Pearson said. “We have seen some positives from the barrier placement. Not only is there less chaos going on on the approaches to the existing parking lot because there’s no parking on the shoulder, we’re also seeing a lot of park visitors walking behind the barrier. So in terms of pedestrian safety there’s the benefit we’re seeing with that.” Pearson added the ministry could extend the barriers to stop people from parking on the shoulder of the highway farther up, but people would likely continue parking on shoulders farther up if that is done. But directors of the ACRD board said they have seen people, both drivers and pedestrians, make unsafe choices because of the parking situation and a lack of places to turn around. In the 2018 plan, an expanded parking lot and pedestrian overpass were looked at, but are not being considered due to environmental concerns. Beaufort’s board director, Fred Boyko, said safety is more a problem now than it was in previous years. “It’s getting so dangerous,” he said. “I don’t know if it’s increased traffic but the barriers are not solving the problem. And it’s only a matter of time until someone doesn’t slam on the brakes for a family and we wipe out a family.” One solution the ACRD had been examining was an alternative route to Cathedral Grove by rail. Sproat Lake director Penny Cote said the Wesley Ridge fire put a stop to that idea because of the damage done to tracks between Alberni and the park. When asked why ministry staff aren’t looking into solutions for Cathedral Grove, Pearson said they haven’t been directed to from the government. Directors agreed to send a letter to the province asking them to take action on Cathedral Grove. The ACRD will also seek support from neighbouring local governments, First Nations and regional districts.

Mount Washington is going to have new GPS tracking technology this winter, giving families and parents peace of mind while on the slopes with the little ones. GPS tracking devices made by skiKrumb will be available for purchase at the mountain this year. The technology is designed specifically for ski resorts and unlike smartphones and Bluetooth tags, skiKrumb works seamlessly in cold weather, remote terrain, and tree-covered slopes, areas where connectivity often fails. The device provides 10-second live location updates, instant SOS alerts, and replay features through an easy-to-use mobile app. Devices will also be available for all children enrolled in Mt. Washington’s snow school programs, giving parents and instructors peace of mind with real-time tracking on the slopes. Families and snow schools can now track each child’s location across Mt. Washington’s expansive terrain, from the first chair to the last run. In addition, the replay feature allows kids and parents to review their day together, seeing which runs were taken, total distance skied, and how confidence grew with every turn. “Having directed snow school operations at Whistler for many years, I’ve seen firsthand the challenge of keeping track of large numbers of young skiers spread out over large terrain,” said Russ Wood, Sales Manager at skiKrumb and former Whistler snow school director. “SkiKrumb adds an essential layer of safety and efficiency to lesson management. Instructors can focus on teaching and kids can focus on learning, while parents gain peace of mind knowing everyone is accounted for. It’s a game-changer for snow schools and families alike.” “SkiKrumb was born out of my own experience of getting separated from my son when he was young, the longest 45 minutes as a parent,” said Keith Macintyre, Founder & CEO of skiKrumb GPS Trackers. “That moment sparked our mission: to keep families connected and safe on the mountain while letting kids explore their love of skiing. Our customers tell us not only that skiKrumb is great, but that they will never ski without it. We’re excited to bring skiKrumb to Vancouver Island at Mt. Washington this winter.” The launch at Mt. Washington builds on skiKrumb’s growing network of partner resorts across Canada, including Big White, Revelstoke, Sun Peaks, SilverStar, Mt Sima and Apex. For those who want to stay connected beyond ski lessons, skiKrumb GPS Trackers are available to purchase directly online or at Valhalla Pure Outfitters, Courtenay.

The federal Liberals worked with the B.C. NDP to develop the new bail reform legislation, with major parts of the bill added at B.C.’s urging, according to Sean Fraser, Canada’s minister of justice and attorney general. B.C. Premier David Eby appeared alongside Fraser in Victoria on Monday (Oct. 27) to show support for the reforms, introduced in Parliament last week, that would, among other things, expand “reverse onus” provisions that put the burden on a prisoner to prove they should be released. “It’s great to be here with you to mark the introduction of a bill in federal Parliament that British Columbia has been advocating for for a long time,” Eby said, adding he is “very grateful the federal government has heard our concerns.” More than 80 measures are included in the bail bill in addition to “reverse onus” provisions, some that make it more difficult for violent and repeat offenders to get bail, and others that strengthen sentencing laws. Stronger sentencing rules include the addition of possible consecutive prison terms, instead of concurrent ones. Fraser gave the example of someone convicted of both arson and extortion. The way things are set up now, those sentences would be served simultaneously. This bill would make it so the guilty person must serve the terms back-to-back. Fraser said that much of the bill was developed through conversations with provincial leaders, and the reverse onus provision in particular came “directly” from B.C. Attorney General Niki Sharma. This provision would be extended to those convicted of a crime, but not yet sentenced. Attention in B.C. has been focused on the need for changes to what happens when a person is waiting to be sentenced after the death of Bailey McCourt, who was killed in broad daylight in Kelowna last summer. The accused is her former partner, released from jail just hours before. He was convicted of uttering threats and assault by strangulation, but released to await sentencing. McCourt’s family have pushed for Bailey’s Law, which would create a domestic violence registry, GPS monitoring for certain high-risk individuals and mandatory first-degree murder charges for killings related to intimate partner violence. B.C. Conservative MLA Gavin Dew argued the only reason these changes weren’t included in the current bail reform bill is that Conservative MP Frank Caputo (both Dew and Caputo represent the Kelowna area) has introduced a similar bill. “What’s happening is the federal government does not want to give a win to the Conservatives,” Dew said. Dew still supports much of the bail reform bill, calling it a “step in the right direction,” but said Fraser and Eby are “playing politics” by not including the Bailey’s law provisions. Eby said he is meeting with McCourt’s family on Monday afternoon, and Fraser said a new bill will be tabled before Christmas that deals specifically with intimate partner violence and sexual violence. “We had a very useful discussion today before we joined here in public about what the family had requested through the provincial government in B.C,” Fraser said. Eby said he has had conversations with Fraser about the mandatory first-degree murder charges, and Fraser said the bill will include changes related to this. The exact details contained in the second bill will be finalized over the next few weeks, Fraser said. The B.C. Civil Liberties Association has criticized some of the changes in the bail reform bill, arguing it may violate people’s Charter rights. Eby, who is the former executive director of the B.C. Civil Liberties Association, said there needs to be a “balance.” “We need to ensure that people are safe in their communities, and the balance needs to be correct in order for the public to have confidence in the criminal justice system,” he said.

When Sooke heads to the polls for the 2026 municipal election, a familiar name will be missing from the ballot. Mayor Maja Tait has announced she will not be seeking re-election next fall – a decision she says comes with both excitement and uncertainty. “It’s time to move on and find a new adventure,” Tait told the Sooke News Mirror. “Sometimes you need to plan your exit and be in control of that – that’s what I’ve decided to do. “And I know there are amazing people in our community that are also interested in serving.” First elected to the District of Sooke in 2008, Tait served two terms as a councillor before being elected mayor in 2014. She was re-elected in 2018 and again in 2022. When her current term ends in 2026, she will have served 18 years – the longest of any Sooke council member. “That went by fast,” she says with a laugh. When Tait first took office, Sooke’s population hovered around 10,000. Today, it’s pushing past 17,000 – and the pace of change, she says, has been dizzying. “I had a flip phone and a digital camera back then,” Tait says. “Now I carry a computer around. We went from paper agendas, big printed maps to everything being on an iPad.” Over nearly two decades, Tait has represented Sooke not only locally but provincially and nationally, serving on the Capital Regional District board, the Union of BC Municipalities, and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. Earlier this year, Tait also ran as the NDP candidate in Esquimalt–Saanich–Sooke, but lost to Liberal candidate Stephanie McLean. “That didn’t play out, and that’s fine,” she says. “I gave it a go and did my best. If you don’t try, you don’t know.” That experience – along with nearly 18 years in local politics – has left her feeling “kind of politics’d out,” she says, and ready for the next chapter of her life. But as for what comes next, Tait admits, “That’s the big mystery.” As her time at Sooke winds down, she’s taking stock of the skills she’s developed and what might come next. “It’s a little scary, I’ll share that, because I haven’t actually pounded the pavement looking for a job since, oh boy, 1995,” she said. “ I have a young son and I care for an aging father-in-law – our family dynamic has shifted – so I need to think what would work best for my family too. “That’s why I’m grateful I have time to sort of plan that and think about it. Of course, I’ll do whatever in the end to pay the bills – that’s just the reality of living.” Asked what she’ll miss most about being mayor, Tait is quick to answer. “The people,” she says. “My elected colleagues, the staff I work with, our emergency first responders, community groups – all of them. “And honestly, I’ll even miss the tough decisions. Those times when you need to have really meaningful, thoughtful discussion, tough public scrutiny … in a fair and respectful environment, I’ll actually miss that.” She’s also treasured her connection with the community’s younger generation. “Engaging with children and youth in Sooke – that’s been a lot of fun,” she says. “When I ask what they love about Sooke, it’s our trails and the fact they can safely get around their community. We’ve made huge strides there, and we have a new extension that’s going to open very soon that could make a dramatic difference for kids of all ages.” She’s also proud of Sooke’s growing relationship with the T’Sou-ke First Nation and the ongoing reconciliation work. “Flying T’Sou-ke’s flag and learning to be better stewards of the land — that’s a big part of what I’ll carry with me,” she says. “It’s about recognizing those who have been here since time immemorial and what that means for the work we do.” For anyone thinking about following in her footsteps, Tait has simple but heartfelt advice. “Have an honest talk with your family first, as they’re your biggest allies, and they get the worst of your energy,” she says. “And the role comes with sacrifice – there are late nights, evenings you’re on call, plans change … so you need to be realistic about it. But it’s also deeply rewarding.” She encourages future candidates to step beyond their comfort zones and speak to people in all corners of the community. “Go and talk to people with different views and hear what they have to say. It’s so important to engage with as many people as you can.” But despite its challenges, Tait says there will never be a dull moment serving on Sooke council. “That’s what makes it interesting, it keeps me young – it’d be boring otherwise,” she says. “No two meetings have ever been the same.”

On Sunday, Oct. 26, at approximately 7:30 a.m., a repeat theft offender allegedly robbed two people in Victoria. The victims, aged 73 and 49, were robbed of their belongings before VicPD officers responded and located the suspect a short distance away. Police say he was found attempting to break into another residence. “Officers intervened and safely took the suspect into custody without further incident,” said VicPD. The suspect, a man in his 20s, was taken into custody. Crown counsel has approved three charges, including robbery, break and enter, and obstructing a peace officer. “Additional charges may be considered as the investigation continues. The suspect is known to police with several residential break and enter charges,” said VicPD. Police say this incident is not related to last [https://vicnews.com/2025/10/21/suspect-arrested-after-string-of-break-ins-across-greater-victoria/] week’s string of thefts [https://vicnews.com/2025/10/21/suspect-arrested-after-string-of-break-ins-across-greater-victoria/] that led to a seperate arrest. “While this incident is not being connected to the string of thefts reported last week, additional charges for this suspect are expected,” VicPD told Victoria News. The exact location of the robbery has not been disclosed by police, as the investigation remains ongoing.

The Fifty Fifty Arts Collective will present an "offbeat" solo art exhibition, pee-bee says hello, by Noah MacLeod, from Oct. 11 to 25.  Following the success of his debut solo exhibition at Headbones Gallery in Vernon, MacLeod brings a fresh body of work to Victoria that further explores his "idiosyncratic visual language" under the playful moniker "pee-bee.” MacLeod works combine sculpture, painting, and object-making, the end result carrying a "quiet absurdity, a language that feels both familiar and strange." Outside of his studio practice, MacLeod is the founder of Local Losers, a community-led DIY collective from the Interior of B.C. that supports artists and musicians across the province. What began as a communal studio and gallery later evolved into a clothing brand and now a grassroots music production company. Now based in Victoria, MacLeod is beginning to find his place within the local arts community, bringing with him the energy, grit, and sense of curiosity that have long shaped his approach. The exhibition is open Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., or by appointment. The reception is on Thursday, Oct. 23 from 6– to 9 p.m. at The Fifty Fifty Arts Collective, 2516 Douglas St, Victoria.    

Wendy Donawa is an accomplished poet hailing from Victoria B.C. She has produced her third book of poetry, ‘The Time of Falling Apart’ which explores themes such as politics, personal memories and historical memory. “I suppose all poetry is, in the end, autobiographical, because it’s what you’ve been thinking but memory, personal memory, historical memory revisits as you revisit intricate situations and rethink about them,” shares Donawa of her poetry inspirations. Recent events also shape the poetry that Donawa writes. She draws on recent events throughout the world to create her poems. “I think you can see I write in response to political events. Questions of ‘how do you live in a world that is so dark? And yet not give up on love, on beauty, on hope?” Donawa draws motivation to keep writing her poetry from several areas. “I have an itch to express feelings and put them into words. I’ve always been keen on literature. I taught literature for a long time. Sometimes I think through something and I think sometimes it takes words, so I work on that as a poetry impetus.” Donawa is touring across the Island to do readings of her latest work, something she finds connects her to her readers and helps share her intentions with her writing. “Writing is very solitary. You can get tired of your own company. So to share it in a reading, particularly if people are responsive and have interesting questions, I think it’s quite wonderful.” It takes Donawa years to put together a book of poetry and she feels a burst of activity once it is published. Be it reading tours, interviews with newspapers or feedback from readers. “You have a chance to get feedback when it’s first published. It keeps you a bit realistic, maybe a bit humble.” Her book has been broken down into themes to convey her various thoughts, reflections and ideas with her poetry. “I did that because it is such a wide range that I found myself hopping back-and-forth. THe first section is my earlier life and understanding of the territory I was born into and that I’ve come back to. Then it sort of moves into the wider world. A more widely political section. And then I think the third is an attempt to tidy it all up.” Donawa hopes to bring a light to the darkness that is happening in the world. “If you don’t have the comfort of faith, and the world is getting darker, how do you welcome in everything that is positive and hopeful? I don’t want to waste anyone else’s time with me and my work either. I want it to be worthwhile for people and worthwhile for me.” She looks to her surroundings for inspiration and comfort. Her residence in Victoria looks out over the Salish Sea and she never takes having that roof over her head for granted. Instead, she has great gratitude for all she has. Including her community. “I think one of the great blessings of life is love. Love of friends, love of a partner if you have one. I have made friends of other writers and poets. Friendships are… one of the great blessings of life.” Upcoming events include: October 24, 7:00 Reading with Laura Apol and Susan McCaslin Planet Earth Poetry Russel Books, 747 Fort Street, Victoria November 13, 7:00 Reading with Arleen Paré Artful: The Gallery 5263C Cumberland Road, Courtenay November 14, 2:00 Reading with Linda K. Thompson Qualicum Beach Museum 2:00 Beach Road, Qualicum Beach November 23, 3:30 Reading with Arleen Paré and Susan Braley Esquimalt Gorge Park Pavilion 1070 Tilicum Road

Bamfield Main Road has reopened to public travel following extensive safety and repair work by the Ministry of Transportation and Transit. However, additional daytime closures will be necessary in the coming weeks. Drivers should expect daytime closures starting the week of October 27, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. These daytime closures will allow crews to complete additional work between kilometres 8 and 9.5 of Bamfield Main Road, a 1.5-kilometre section managed by Mosaic Forest Management that had been fully closed due to the Mount Underwood wildfire. Crews have removed hazardous trees and repaired fire-damaged areas to ensure the road could reopen safely. The ministry is appreciative of the support of Mosaic Forest Management, which collaborated with the provincial government to restore public access as quickly and safely as possible. A new weather station has been installed to monitor wind and precipitation levels, providing real-time data to help guide road-closure decisions during severe weather. An operating protocol is in place to guide closures during periods of high wind or heavy rainfall, ensuring public safety remains the top priority. Two emergency gates have been installed at both ends of this stretch of road to assist with quick implementation of closures, if required. Extensive signage has also been installed. Drivers are advised to follow signage at all times. “The Bamfield road closure after this summer’s wildfire has been tough on residents, visitors, and local businesses,” said Josie Osborne, MLA for Mid Island–Pacific Rim. For up-to-date information about this closure and road conditions on alternative routes, travellers can visit the DriveBC website. [https://www.drivebc.ca]

What started with a bowl of soup has grown into one of Victoria’s most heartfelt fundraisers. On Thursday, the Souper Bowl of Hope once again brought hundreds together at the Union Club of British Columbia to support youth in need across Greater Victoria. Now in its 26th year, the annual event raises money for the Victoria Youth Empowerment Society (YES), which helps more than 1,000 young people each year through programs addressing homelessness, addiction, mental health, and food insecurity. This year’s funds will focus on three key areas: the organization’s new youth food pantry, employment skill-building programs, and wellness and mental health supports. Each relies heavily on donations to operate. “Our new food pantry takes up an entire floor of our building at 533 Yates St.,” said YES executive director Julie-Ann Hunter. “Youth can come in for groceries, toiletries, clothing, and school supplies. We even offer cooking and wellness classes, so it feels like a welcoming, supportive space instead of something to be ashamed of.” The Souper Bowl of Hope, first started in 1998 by longtime community leader Helen Hughes, blends creativity and compassion in a distinctly Victoria way. Guests choose handcrafted bowls made by local potters, sample several of gourmet soups, and take part in a silent auction, all in support of youth empowerment. “It’s a really special event,” Hunter said. “It’s about more than just soup. It’s about learning how we can all support youth in our community.” Hunter, who has worked with YES for 18 years and now leads the organization, said this year’s crowd of more than 160 people left her feeling deeply encouraged. “It’s this overwhelming sense of gratitude,” she said. “Every year you wonder what’s going to happen, and to see this many people show up for the young people of our community just fills me with hope.” In 2024, YES provided more than 4,000 meals and basic needs support to over 640 youth, along with daily access to showers, clothing, and counselling. “People really want to know how to help now,” Hunter said. “Every year, more people are interested in what we do and how they can get involved. That’s what keeps this event so meaningful.” Donations to YES can be made year-round online or by dropping off food, clothing, or school supplies at their downtown office. “It’s about giving youth the tools to move forward,” Hunter said. “Because sometimes they come to us not feeling worthy of support, and our job is to show them just how amazing they really are.” web1_251024-vne-souperbowl-soup_2 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/feeds/gps/2025/10/web1_251024-vne-souperbowl-soup_2.jpg;w=960]Levi Price of the Victoria Fire Department serves soup to one of the 160 attendees on Thursday. (Tony Trozzo/Victoria News) web1_251024-vne-souperbowl-soup_4 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/feeds/gps/2025/10/web1_251024-vne-souperbowl-soup_4.jpg;w=960]Youth Empowerment Society executive director Julie-Ann Hunter has been with the agency for 18-years. (Tony Trozzo/Victoria News) web1_251024-vne-souperbowl-soup_5 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/feeds/gps/2025/10/web1_251024-vne-souperbowl-soup_5.jpg;w=960]The Union Club of British Columbia played host to the 26th annual Souper Bowls of Hope. (Tony Trozzo/Victoria News) web1_251024-vne-souperbowl-soup_6 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/feeds/gps/2025/10/web1_251024-vne-souperbowl-soup_6.jpg;w=960]Kris Jeffrey poses with one of the hundreds of handmade bowls that patrons got to pick prior to collecting their soup. (Tony Trozzo/Victoria news)

There are more than 8,700 kilometres between Colwood and Kazakhstan, the distance 20-year-old forward Artur Gross travelled to join the Victoria Grizzlies of the BCHL. The six-foot, 170-pound winger signed with the Grizzlies in the summer, and now, he is set for his Q Centre debut. Gross began the 2025–26 campaign with Nomad Astana in the Pro Hokei Ligasy, Kazakhstan’s top professional league, before making his move to the Island. He recorded eight points through 13 games to start the season. For Gross, the decision to cross the world for hockey wasn’t a difficult one. “Canada is the home of hockey, and I’ve always wanted to experience playing here,” he told the Goldstream News Gazette. “When I heard about the Grizzlies, even players who had already been in the BCHL told me it’s a strong, well-organized team with great players and staff. When the offer came, I didn’t hesitate.” That leap of faith has brought him to a team off to a strong start. The Grizzlies sit at 7-4-0, third in the Western Conference. Their high-octane offence has been among the league’s best, with 47 goals in 11 games, trailing only the defending champion Brooks Bandits. Gross adds another weapon to that attack, not long removed from a standout showing on the international stage. He led Kazakhstan in scoring at the 2025 World Junior Championship in Ottawa, posting three goals and one assist in five games, including goals against Sweden, Czechia and Germany. “I’ll never forget scoring my first goal against Sweden, that was a special moment,” he said. “We had a really close, united team, and that helped us a lot. The tournament gave me confidence and showed me how much I’ve grown.” Last year was a banner one for many reasons, including a call-up to Barys Astana of the KHL, widely regarded as the second-best league in the world after the NHL. “I was really proud when I got the call to play for the Barys main team,” he said. “The level of play was so high, the players are skilled and can change a game in an instant. Those games were very important for me and showed me what level I need to keep working toward.” He expects his smart, creative style to translate well to the BCHL’s smaller ice and faster pace. “I’ve already played on North American-sized rinks before, so I don’t think the adjustment will be too difficult,” he said. “My hockey sense and quick decision-making will help me adapt. Still, I always try to improve every part of my game, especially the physical aspects and puck battles.” The Grizzlies have leaned heavily on strong scouting and international recruitment this season. Quebec’s Samuel Rousseau, who leads the team in scoring with 17 points, and imports like Sweden’s Vidar Blixt, Finland’s Niklas Karjalainen and California’s Max Silver fit that mold. In total, about two-thirds of the team hails from Canada, with nearly 26 per cent from the United States. Gross joins that diverse mix along with another recent addition, 16-year-old forward Eddy [https://www.goldstreamgazette.com/home/im-pumped-16-year-old-forward-from-oak-bay-joins-victoria-grizzlies-8308130]Spytz [https://www.goldstreamgazette.com/home/im-pumped-16-year-old-forward-from-oak-bay-joins-victoria-grizzlies-8308130], who has yet to make his debut. The Grizzlies’ next test comes on Oct. 24, when Gross and the team face the Alberni Valley Bulldogs as they look to extend their win streak to three games.

People living in the Campbell River area are becoming accustomed to massive industrial tires washing ashore on the rocky beaches. Back in 2019, seven enormous tires, each roughly three metres tall, appeared at Shelter Bay, about 15 km south of downtown Campbell River. The tires were fastened together in groups of three and four. Eventually, a government-hired contractor removed them less than a month later, sending them to a recycling facility. The cost was about $1,000. Now, another 10 big industrial tires have washed up, this time along the shoreline south of Shelter Bay. Stories Beach resident Trout Agar watched as the tires got carried by the tide last week, eventually becoming stranded on the beach outside his house. It wasn’t long before the stormy weather caused the styrofoam lining to spill out onto the beach, he said. According to Fisheries and Oceans Canada, two fishery officers attended the site on Oct. 20 and took photographs. However, they were unable to identify the owner of the tires. A DFO spokesperson reported the incident to Emergency Management BC (EMBC), Transport Canada and Environment and Climate Change Canada. EMBC issued a dangerous goods incident report. Greenways Land Trust organized a beach clean-up on Wednesday to remove the styrofoam before the large chunks got churned into tiny pieces, posing a risk to the nearby salmon-bearing creek. The Mirror also reached out to the Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship and had not received a response by press time

May 1, 1942 - October 11, 2025 It is with profound sadness Anne passed away peacefully, October 11, 2025, in the Cowichan District Hospital surrounded by the love of her family in her 83 rd year. Anne was born in Duncan BC, May 1 st , 1942, and was predeceased by her parents Jack and Betty Mesher, brother Laurie, sister Jacquie Heppell, nephews Murray and Dwayne Heppell, and granddaughter Taylor McGiness. Survived by her husband, soulmate and best friend for 62 years, and married for 58 years, John Marriott, sons Kevin and Corey (Tara); grandchildren Sydney and Rylar Marriott; Keegan and Mattea Sawyer; and Ryan Thorburn, as well as many extended family and friends. Anne's beautiful smile will be unforgettable. Fiercely loyal, with a kind, caring, intelligent and thoughtful approach to life, always setting an example for others to follow, Anne offered joy, positivity, and love to all those around her. Thank you, Anne, for always being there. Until we meet again. Love you. A funeral service will be held at Christ Church, 16613 Bell Road, Surrey, BC, on Saturday, November 8 th , 2025, at 2:00 PM. There will be an interment in the church cemetery. Followed by tea, coffee and refreshments in the church vestry across the road at Christ the Redeemer Anglican Church. There will also be a Celebration of Life held in the Chemainus Legion, Branch 191, 9775 Chemainus Road, Chemainus BC, V0R1K0 on Saturday, November 15 th , 2025, at 2:00 PM. Followed by tea, coffee and refreshments. In lieu of flowers please donate to your favorite charity SERVICE DETAILS Celebration of Life Saturday, November 15, 2025 2:00 PM Chemainus Legion, Branch 191, 9775 Chemainus Road, Chemainus BC, V0R1K0

In loving memory ~ We mourn the heartbreaking loss of a dearly loved, funny, fun and passionate man. Andy was born in Victoria, BC and predeceased by mother Alice MacWilliam and sister Molly. Survived by his wife and soulmate June, daughter Chris, sons Mike and Sean (Lindsay) and grandsons Liam and Carter. He also leaves behind his brother and hero, John. Andy spent his early years working for the government and military as a commercial diver and underwater welder. We loved hearing his harrowing and hilarious stories about his time "on the ships in the Arctic". After settling back in Victoria, with family life his passion, he found himself in the flooring industry, becoming a successful salesman and even more successful prankster, ultimately retiring to his little piece of paradise on the lake in 2015. Throughout his life Andy loved making people laugh and always rooted for the underdog. He never suffered fools though and a favourite quote was "When you're dead, you don't know you're dead. It's only difficult for others. It's the same when you're stupid." Please join us for a celebration of Andy's life on November 16, 2025 from 1pm to 4pm at the Victoria Fish and Game Protective Association, 700 Holker Place on the Malahat (right near the summit). Due to extreme sensitivities to fragrances in the family, please refrain from wearing perfumes and colognes. Andy always made it known that he loved animals more than humans; in lieu of flowers, please donate to the BCSPCA. Please RSVP to [email protected] [/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection] by November 2nd. Online condolences at www.hwwallacecbc.com [https://generaluse.blackpress.ca/obituploads/funeral_logos/W8J5U6B4-20220420135843.jpg] H.W. Wallace Cremation & Burial Centre [http://www.hwwallacecbc.com] SERVICE DETAILS Celebration of Life Sunday, November 16, 2025 1:00 PM Victoria Fish and Game Protective Association, 700 Holker Place on the Malahat (right near the summit).

In loving memory ~ The world is a little dimmer these days, as a firecracker has left us. She leaves behind Eric, her husband of 69 years (almost made it to 70!); five children; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and her brother, John. Waiting for her on the other side are her loving parents, Jack and Hazel; her adored stepmother, Nona; her little brother, Bob; her daughter-in-law Janice; and her grandson, Daniel. Mary Lou joyfully burst into the world on November 18, 1933 — bagpipes in hand and dance shoes on her feet. She grew up in Victoria, where her shenanigans included tap dancing (she even performed for the troops during the war as a child!) and dominating both the basketball court and the track at Mount View High School. Mary began playing the bagpipes at a young age and was proud to be part of the Victoria Girls Pipe Band in the late 1940s and early 1950s. In those early years, a Victoria taxi company paid Mary and her best friend to pipe in the Inner Harbour to welcome tourists. The tourists loved them, but some local office workers complained, and it turned into quite the controversy — making headlines across the province! One of the headlines read, "Victoria's Skirling Lassies Silenced by Victoria Police Chief!" The story prompted dozens of letters to the editor criticizing the chief's decision. Mary continued to pipe well into her late 80s, marching with the Cowichan Pipes and Drums. After high school, Mary attended St. Joseph's Nursing School, where she excelled. She loved her nursing education and career and was deeply proud of her work. She spent many years on the paediatric ward at Cowichan District Hospital, where her dedication and compassion touched countless families — and she famously never took a single sick day. Near the end of nursing school, a friend set her up on a blind date with Eric. When Eric arrived to pick up Mary, she opened the door — and it was love at first sight. He was so taken by her raven-black hair and striking blue eyes. From that moment on, they only had eyes for each other. Eric and Mary married on May 6, 1956, and Mary was a beautiful bride. They settled in Victoria and soon had three boys in three years — Ronald (Sharlene), Michael (Lynn), and Gordon — all August babies! They definitely had their hands full, and Mary's nursing background came in extremely handy. The meticulous notes she kept in their individual baby books are a sight to behold. In 1961, the family moved to Duncan, and a few years later came Kathleen (Norm), then Karen rounded out the family. The family was deeply involved in baseball, soccer, and, of course, the Highland community. Mary was also a talented seamstress — she likely sewed at least two-thirds of the kilts in the Cowichan Valley. She volunteered for many years with the Cowichan Music Festival and served as its historian. Mary was an exceptional artist, and her ceramic work was renowned for its exquisite attention to detail. Though she claimed to hate gardening, Mary was cursed with an extraordinarily green thumb. Her garden was always beautiful — full of vegetables, fruit trees, and sweet peas — no matter how much she grumbled about it. Mary's curiosity and sense of adventure took her and the family far beyond Vancouver Island. There were many camping trips along the West Coast, as well as journeys to Alaska, Ireland, and Scotland. Later in life, Mary and Eric were active in the local Heart and Stroke Walking Club, taking countless trips all over the Island with friends from the group. She made excellent peanut butter cookies, a top-notch turkey dinner, and a phenomenal Christmas pudding with both rum and hard sauce. Her jams and applesauce were legendary, as were her stewed pears and blackberry pie. And she made really good grilled cheese sandwiches. Mary and Eric were both very social, and their house was always full of people coming and going. Family would stop by for a visit, and before long Mary would say, "How about a grilled cheese?" She'd haul out the griddle and make plate after plate of sandwiches — always with pickles on the side. She loved the holidays, and the house was always fully decked out with her Christmas ceramics and a sprawling Christmas village, carols playing on repeat. Her Christmas trees were legendary — she loved a really full one. Each year, she'd send Eric out into the bush to find the biggest tree possible, which inevitably turned out to be too big for the house. This would lead to Mary requesting that Eric cut the top few feet off (never the bottom), resulting in a squat, full tree with plenty of branches — and even more room for presents underneath. Mary's passing leaves a tremendous void in the family. Her spirit will live on in the sound of the pipes, the scent of sweet peas, and the laughter from countless stories around our kitchen tables for years to come. A celebration of Mary's life will be held on April 11, 2026, at the Duncan Christian Reformed Church.

March 26, 1933 - October 18, 2025 LaVerne passed peacefully on October 18, 2025 at Age Care Malaspina, Nanaimo at the age of 92. She is survived by her daughter, Tara; sons, Kim (Margie) and Randy (Mickey); grandchildren Lance (Amanda), Steven (Lacey), Dale (Des), Dana (Colm), Angela (Brian) and great-grandchildren Casey, Harper, Korbin, Sailor, Isla, Freya, Hank, David and Chloe. LaVerne was predeceased by her husband, Mel; sister, Lois; nephew, Michael; Mom, Alma and in-laws, Jim and Helen. LaVerne was a stay-at-home Mom, very involved with her kids, both at school and extra-curricular activities. She was an awesome volunteer! She was a member of the Scandinavian Club; Eastern Star; Lake Cowichan Seniors' Centre, including the Line Dancers; the United Church, including the choir and the Hospital Auxiliary, rising to Vancouver Island president. She was as much as possible in the lives of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Mel and LaVerne started married life in trailers moving around Alberta and Youbou, BC for work, buying their forever home in Lake Cowichan. When Mel retired, they travelled ~ Canada, Alaska, many of the lower-48 states and Mexico. LaVerne moved to Nanaimo after Mel's passing. There will be a get-together in the future to remember Mom. For now, Mom and Dad are busy dancing up a storm! LaVerne's family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff at Age Care Malaspina and Dr. Diane Wallis for their loving care.

A group of dedicated volunteers is hopeful that salmon will return to Bowker Creek this year. Ian Graeme, the co-chair of the Friends of Bowker Creek Society (FoBC), said the non-profit’s members will be watching the waterway closely for adult chum over the coming weeks. This comes almost three years after the group incubated salmon eggs there as part of an ongoing drive to restore the urban waterway and repopulate it with fish. Graeme said chum typically return three to five years after hatching, which means salmon could swim back between now and mid-December. “It’s a waiting game, but one filled with hope,” he said. Though optimistic, Graeme stressed returns aren’t guaranteed, adding that ocean currents, natural predators, fishing, pathogens, pollution and climate change mean that “typically fewer than one per cent of fertilized eggs survive to adulthood and spawn.” Other factors that could work against returns include the creek’s physical barriers, like culverts, upstream sediment, pollution and highly variable water flows. Those slim odds mean that even one or two chum there would be big news, especially for those dedicated to the waterway’s upkeep. “Returning salmon would further demonstrate the value of urban creeks and help validate two decades of community-based restoration and collaboration – a big symbol of what community action can achieve,” said Graeme. It would also be the first time fish have been recorded in the creek for approximately 70 years, according to FoBC’s director Gerald Harris. He told the Oak Bay News last November that development in Oak Bay’s early years stunted the creek’s fish populations, adding that as of 1914, there are no records of fish upstream of Firefighter’s Park, which sits just a short walk from the waterway’s estuary near the Oak Bay Marina. “Before that, there are records of chum spawning behind what is now Royal Jubilee Hospital and of people catching cutthroat trout from a bridge over the creek somewhere near Hillside Mall,” he said. If chum don’t swim back this year, there’s always hope they will return in 2026 and 2028 from eggs FoBC incubated in 2023 and 2025. Greame said plans are underway to incubate more eggs next year. “Each year’s effort builds knowledge, engages the community and moves the creek one step closer to our goal of re-establishing a self-sustaining salmon run in Bowker Creek,” said Graeme. “This is about more than fish – it’s about restoring hope and connection in our urban landscape.” FoBC works to enhance, restore, protect and raise awareness about Bowker Creek, which meanders through Saanich and Victoria before emptying into the ocean in Oak Bay.

A naked man running down a Langford road stopped traffic and turned heads Friday afternoon (Oct. 24). A Goldstream Gazette reporter at the scene saw the man, wearing only a pair of socks, attempting to open the passenger door of a moving vehicle as it approached the Peatt Road and Goldstream Avenue crossroads. The driver of the vehicle – a Rogers branded truck – blasted his horn repeatedly while the man ran alongside shouting. West Shore RCMP quickly turned up on the scene, restraining the man before putting him in one of the four cruisers. Traffic came to a halt at the intersection while RCMP dealt with the incident – the Rogers truck appeared to leave the scene. West Shore RCMP has been approached for comment.

Saanich police seized about a kilogram of suspected cocaine and more than $20,000 in cash after responding to a report of an impaired driver in a Blanshard Street parking lot Thursday afternoon. Just before 4 p.m. on Oct. 23, an officer from the Saanich Police Traffic Safety Unit arrived in the 3500-block of Blanshard Street after a receiving report of a man behind the wheel of a Mercedes SUV, appearing to smoke from a glass pipe. When the officer arrived, they found a man and woman unconscious in the front seats of the vehicle with the engine still running. Police said the officer noticed what appeared to be drugs and paraphernalia on the driver’s lap, before the male driver attempted to flee. “The officer informed the male driver that he was under arrest and removed the keys from the ignition of the vehicle as the driver attempted to flee,” Saanich police said in a release. After the arrest, officers searched the vehicle and found a brick of suspected cocaine weighing about one kilogram, along with more than $20,000 in cash. The driver was issued a 90-day administrative driving prohibition and was released. “Our investigation is ongoing, and we anticipate recommending charges to Crown at a later date,” added the Saanich Police.

The suspect arrested after the stabbing death of a man from Nanaimo in Calgary two years ago will spend life behind bars. Edward Brett Davidson, 39, was killed in an unprovoked assault at his Calgary condominium complex in August 2022, Calgary Police Service said in a press release at the time. Cory Carl Miklic, 44, also known as Cory Szabo, was initially arrested for manslaughter, with the charge later elevated to second-degree murder. On Tuesday, Oct. 21, Miklic pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in Court of King’s Bench of Alberta in Calgary, according to Calgary Court and Justice Services. Anyone found guilty of second-degree murder faces life in prison, the Canadian Criminal Code states, and Miklic is ineligible for parole for 13 years, court services stated. Miklic attacked Davidson with a knife in a random incident, the press release stated. The two men did not know each other. In a statement to police, Davidson’s family said they were shocked and devastated by the tragedy and described the victim as a “loving son, profound older brother, and caring confidant” always ready to support those needing help. Davidson, who had served in the Navy, had moved to Calgary “in search of a new adventure,” the statement noted, and was “a well-travelled man whose kind soul and passion for life were felt far and wide … he can never be replaced.” Calgary Crown Prosecution Service was contacted for further comment.

WorkSafeBC has fined three Victoria employers for a total of $184,000 following a structural collapse at the University of Victoria that occurred on June 8. Bird Construction GP Limited, Viking Reinforcing and A.R.M. Reinforcing were all fined for “high-risk safety violations.” The collapse happened while a worker was near the top of a rebar tower with two attached walls. WorkSafe BC determined that the structure was not supported according to standing practice, and as a result, when the tower collapsed, the worker was brought down with it. WorkSafeBC also found that there were no written instructions from a professional engineer regarding the bracing of the tower. Bird Construction GP Limited, the prime contractor at the construction site where the collapse occurred, was fined $140,209.70. It was determined that the firm “failed to ensure health and safety activities at the worksite were coordinated.” Viking Reinforcing Ltd. was fined $36,089.65. “The firm failed to ensure that all partially assembled structures were supported as necessary to safely withstand any loads likely to be imposed on them. The firm also failed to provide its workers with the information, instruction, training, and supervision necessary to ensure their health and safety,” WorkSafeBC said in a statement. A.R.M. Reinforcing Ltd. was fined $7,742.91 for the same reasons.

French Creek School and Parkland Purchase Referendum Have your say Electoral Area F! Eligible electors will decide if the RDN can borrow up to $824,000, plus interest, repayable over a period of no more than ten years, to purchase the property located at 2350 Alberni Highway, Coombs, (known as French Creek School) on advanced voting days, October 15 and 22 or on general voting day, October 25, 2025. Find out more about the three ways to vote, who can vote and where to vote by visiting: www.getinvolved.rdn.ca/french-creek-school-and-parkland- purchase-referendum [http://www.getinvolved.rdn.ca/french-creek-school-and-parkland-purchase-referendum] Drop-in to learn more and get answers to your questions: Information Booth – September 27, 2025, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Errington Farmers Market, 1550 Veterans Rd, Errington Information Session - October 1, 2025, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. Coombs Fairgrounds, 1014 Ford Rd, Coombs www.rdn.bc.ca [http://www.rdn.bc.ca] www.rdn.bc.ca/public-notices [http://www.rdn.bc.ca/public-notices] Get Involved RDN! www.rdn.bc.ca [http://www.rdn.bc.ca] For more information please contact: 250-390-4111 or 1-877-607-4111 [email protected] [http://vote@rdn.bc.ca] www.getinvolved.rdn.ca/french-creek-school-and-parkland-purchase-referendum [http://www.getinvolved.rdn.ca/french-creek-school-and-parkland-purchase-referendum]

Drivers ticketed for failing to slow down and move over when passing emergency vehicles and tow trucks can't say they haven't received fair warning. A front-page photo in the Nanaimo News Bulletin on Sept. 25, 2010, shows that the 'Slow Down, Move Over' campaign was well underway 15 years ago on Nanaimo's roadways. Motorists in B.C. must slow down and move over if safe to do so when passing emergency vehicles and tow trucks stopped on the side of the road with flashing lights. Drivers must slow down to 70 kilometres per hour on highways with speed limits of 80km/h or more, or 40km/h on roadways with speed limits under 80km/h. 

Nanaimo’s buried past has surfaced once again, this time as a sink hole that has forced the closure of Westwood Road to traffic, with work crews shutting off gas and water mains.  Bill Sims, city general manager of engineering and public works, said the hole, which formed between Cathers Drive and Kawartha Place, was reported to the city at about 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 2, and is the result of a cave-in roof of an old coal mine. “As most folks know, we’ve got a number of coal mines around the city,” Sims said. “They underlay the city and, over time, those mines fail. What happens is the roof starts to fall in and collapse and it, essentially radiates upwards to a point where we see a sink hole on the surface and that’s exactly what’s happened here.”  City workers closed the section of Westwood Road Thursday night and continue to reroute traffic through Cathers Drive and Kawartha Place. Once the section of Westwood Road was secured, Sims said workers arrived Friday morning to assess the hole, estimated to be about five-by-five metres wide and about six metres deep and begin repair work by filling the hole with concrete and rocks. Sims said the void appears to be located on the edge of a mine working and extends in a northwesterly direction toward the Nanaimo Parkway.  “What we’re not seeing is beyond the bottom of the hole,” Sims said. “There’s an evident void beyond that and so when we put the first load of concrete in there, which is about six cubic metres … a lot of it disappeared into that void, so we know the void extends further than what we could see and that’s exactly why we use concrete, so it can sort of flow into that void.”  A gas main and water main are located on either side of the hole and were not damaged. The gas line was shut off as a precaution and crews have maintained water service to the area.  “If the earth moved anymore we just didn’t want to see those pipe fall into the hole, essentially,” Sims said.  Work will continue throughout the day Friday, Oct. 3, and possibly into Saturday, Oct. 4, if required.  Sims said it was fortunate to have such a short detour loop around the work site and also that no vehicles or pedestrians fell into the hole before the road could be closed. He anticipates the costs for the repair work will tally up into the “low tens of thousands” of dollars. It appeared early Friday afternoon that the additional concrete had hit bottom and was starting to refill the empty space.  “It’s an unfortunate and relatively expensive fix to pour a bunch of concrete into it, but at the same time, we’re all really grateful it’s only just the road, the sidewalk and nobody was hurt, nobody drove into the hole and we’re not affecting any nearby homes,” Sims said.

A man accused and charged in a stabbing incident is missing and wanted by police in Nanaimo. Nanaimo RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance to locate Joshua Seibel, 36, who is wanted for one count of aggravated assault. The charge stems from an April 14 incident at the Port Place Shopping Centre parking lot where an individual was stabbed. The police investigation has identified Seibel as allegedly being responsible. His whereabouts are unknown and a warrant has been issued for his arrest. Seibel, of no fixed address, is described as a Caucasian man, standing 5-foot-10, weighing 150 pounds with blond hair and blue eyes.  Anyone who has information on Seibel’s whereabouts is asked to call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345 and quote file No. 2025-10968.

What started as a discussion on approving the form and character for two duplexes resulted in Lantzville's mayor walking out and accusing council of engaging in illegal activity. On Wednesday, Sept. 17, a development permit came before District of Lantzville council for 7100 and 7106 Sabrina Pl. for a multi-unit housing development, with the proposal of two duplexes with eight residential units in total.  According to an associated staff report, the build aligns with the recent provincial legislation under Bill 44 which requires municipalities to enable small-scale multi-unit housing on lots serviced by municipal water and sewer. While the permit approval passed in a narrow vote, the controversy came from a failed motion to postpone the approval. Coun. Ian Savage moved to postpone, stating that he heard from a number of residents who were opposed to the duplexes, who claimed in at least one letter that the properties were subject to a subdivision covenant which called for single family home on each lot with a potential carriage home. "It's my duty, I believe, to allow residents who feel they have a legal right in this to be able to have a say, with no disrespect to the applicant on this," Savage said, adding that the district could then pursue a legal opinion on the matter. Mayor Mark Swain questioned George Robinson, director of planning and community services, about whether the discussion about a speculated private covenant was appropriate, after the mayor suggested moving to a closed meeting due to "serious legal concern about what is about to happen here."  Robinson urged council to move forward with the building permit application that was in front of them. "Building schemes are a title instrument that the district is not party to," he explained. "So again, I want to emphasize building schemes, regardless of where they are, are between the developer, the owner of the property, and when the developer no longer exists as a component, between those [that are part of] that building scheme, not the District of Lantzville as a local government." During the meeting, the applicants told council that they did seek legal advice when they bought the lot, and the schemes follow all covenant regulations. "We do have approval, though the developer, for the building scheme, for those lots, for what we're doing," said Walter Hughes. "We're here for a development permit application, we already obtained approval through the building scheme to do what we're doing." Coun. Joan Jones, who seconded the postponement motion, stated she was not ready to vote that night and would like more legal advice before making a decision referencing the alleged covenant. "The thing that concerned me in the letter is that the developments are under a covenant that is in place and my understanding, and I certainly may be wrong, my understanding is that Bill 44 does not apply to covenants…" Jones said. "For me I need this to be looked at with a fine-toothed comb and I need to hear straight from the people who are the authorities that this does actually apply to Bill 44." Delcy Wells, Lantzville's director of corporate administration, warned council it was "going outside its purview." "So I have to say, that creates a potential liability if you don't make a decision tonight," Wells stated, further clarifying after a request from Jones. "There is no reason to postpone, all of the conditions for this permit have been provided to council. Applicants have to have assurances that when they follow the rules they're going to get things approved. By not doing this tonight, it is going to potentially attract liability to council, and it is also really affecting the development community's interest in doing business with the District of Lantzville because they won't feel they can rely on what the rules are. They have been met, I assure you, and a decision has to be made tonight." Coun. Jonathan Lerner said that while he sympathizes with people who have written letters on the matter, he cannot "conduct business appropriately based on letters that insinuate things we don't know as fact."  "The proper procedure is to consider the development permit," Lerner said. "If there are other consideration such as covenant, building schemes, whatever, those are between property owners, not with the district at which point those property owners would have legal recourse to have that changed."  The postponement failed on a tie vote with Lerner and Coun. Rachelle Mundell opposed.

A coming production to the Port Theatre will challenge show-goers' concept of truth, how it's revealed and if it even should be.  Confession Publique was conceived, directed and choreographed by Mélanie Demers and brought to life by collaborator Angélique Willkie initially in 2021.  "I think the idea of Confession Publique was to use the stage as a way to reveal yourself," Demers said. "So, [Willkie] is asked to share bits and pieces of her story and play with the idea of the confession as something that creates a panorama of our lives." Considering the juxtapositions in the production, Demers described herself as the type of artist who wants to control everything, but doesn't want to decide anything.  Since Willkie is asked to share something new about herself for every staging, improvisation is an important aspect of the performance. With each anecdote, secret and memory revealed, by means of text, music and movement, Willkie exposes more and more of herself. "[Willkie] is always working with the vertical of not knowing what she's going to share… This changes, de facto, the quality of the performance, depending on what type of story she's going to share on that specific night." As the creator, Demers said the idea of Confession Publique initially came to light as she finished a three-year residency and wondered how she could wrap up the experience of performances, research and rehearsals.  "This idea came to me that, when we go on stage, we reveal ourselves like a noble striptease," she said with a laugh. "And I was trying to see how truthful I could be, how raw I could be on stage. And what came to me is that whatever you put on stage becomes fiction. So even if you want to play with the truth, you're always sculpting it and directing it and guiding it and corrupting it." Demers was approached by Willkie, who had worked as Demers's dramaturge for previous productions, and asked to create a solo in which Willkie could study how, through history, trauma and cultural background, the performer influences a piece. As presented by Crimson Coast Dance Society, Confession Publique will be staged at the Port Theatre, as part of the theatre's Spotlight Series, from Oct. 9-10, with both showings at 7:30 p.m.  A content advisory for the production is posted on the Port Theatre website. Confession Publique has references to racism, sexual violation, and contains nudity and mature content. Tickets can be purchased at www.porttheatre.com [https://www.porttheatre.com/events/confession-publique-2025/].

It’s been 40 years since the iconic Canadian band Blue Rodeo began their incredible musical journey, and, on Oct. 9, they’ll be bringing their legendary alt-country rock sound to Victoria with a one-night concert at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre. The concert is one of the band’s first dates on an 18-gig tour that will see Blue Rodeo play right across the country with concerts everywhere from Vancouver to St. John – and their fans couldn’t be happier. Greg Keelor, one of the band’s founders, sums their music up very simply. “There came a time when we realized that we didn’t have to conform to a genre. We were going to do what we wanted to do, and we figured that if we like it, then the audience would like it, too,” said Keeler. “The approach has worked for us, and our audience has been very loyal, right across generations. We now see three generations of the same family showing up at our concerts and that’s pretty amazing.” It all started when high school friends Jim Cuddy and Greg Keelor began playing music after graduating from university. The band earned a following in Toronto and, with the release of Try in 1987, their moderate success exploded. The single shot to number one on the RPM Country Tracks chart and netted them platinum sales, four times over. That success continued with their song After the Rain becoming the most performed song in Canada and netting more than two million in album sales. But throughout the band's many decades of success, they have remained stubbornly resistant to being slotted into a specific genre of music. The band’s drummer, Glenn Milchem, who has pretty much been with the group since the beginning (he joined in 1991), sums it up this way. “Describing us as a particular genre of music has never been important to us. To me, it’s always had a country influence, and I suppose some have called it rootsy pop, but really it’s not important. You could say that we’re a mix of the Beatles and The Flying Dorito Brothers,” he said with a chuckle. “But seriously, there are so many influences, but Jim and Greg have developed their own thing.” Whatever that thing might be, it’s worked. The band got their star on Canada’s Walk of Fame in 2009 and was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame at the 41st Juno Awards in 2012 ( joining other Canadian music icons including Rush, Leonard Cohen, Neil Young, Bruce Cockburn, Daniel Lanois, Joni Mitchell, Anne Murray and Tom Cochrane). They’ve also won an unheard of 11 Juno Awards. In 2014, Blue Rodeo received Canada’s highest honour in the performing arts when they were presented with a Governor General's Performing Arts Award for Lifetime Artistic Achievement. And while the band has toured and performed around the world, they are, at heart, wholly Canadian. “When Jim and Greg write songs, they don’t hesitate to put in Canadian geographical references,” said Milchem. “Artists have to be honest with themselves, and these guys are. They’ve never written a song trying to get a hit or made compromises for commercial reasons. They write without commercial objectives in mind, and when you do that, that’s when you get the best songs.” When Blue Rodeo takes the stage on Oct. 9, they’ll be joined by acclaimed singer/songwriter Adam Baldwin, bringing his powerful live energy and East Coast spirit to the stage. For more information on Blue Rodeo’s upcoming tour or to purchase tickets, visit www.bluerodeo.com/tour/ [http://www.bluerodeo.com/tour/].

October is the month of Halloween, Diwali and vibrant foliage, but it's also a fitting occasion to stop in at your local art gallery. Here are some indoor sights to see at the galleries during these cool fall days. UVic's Legacy Art Gallery downtown: two new exhibits til Dec. 6 | 630 Yates St. The Legacy Art Gallery is offering two new exhibitions: Salish Lines and nunuukwin (we sing): (re)connecting to the natural and spiritual worlds through song. Salish Lines is a selective retrospective of the art and life of STAUTW artist Doug LaFortune, curated by Dr. Andrea N. Walsh. A carver for more than 40 years, LaFortune has been commissioned for various totem pole projects, including his welcome figures that flank the entrance of First Peoples House at UVic. This exhibition will include an archive of drawings, inviting visitors to dive into decades of his work. Nunuukwin (we sing): (re)connecting to the natural and spiritual worlds through song is curated by hapinyuuk, Dr. Tommy Happynook of Huu-ay-aht First Nation and is based on his personal connections to his homelands and ancestors. It looks at nuucaanul songs as a way of creating and sharing knowledge and teachings, both between people and the natural and spiritual worlds. Madrona Gallery: Robert Amos - Painting Victoria | Oct. 11-25 | 606 View St. amos-oakbayavenue-14x215-wc [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/oakbay/2025-september/amos-oakbayavenue-14x215-wc.jpg;w=960] This painting of Oak Bay Avenue by Robert Amos is one from his newest publication, Painting Victoria, highlighted at Madrona Gallery in October. Madrona Gallery An exhibition of paintings showcasing Victoria over the years celebrates the launch of Robert Amos’ newest publication, Painting Victoria. Robert will be in the gallery for the opening reception, Oct. 11 from 1 to 3 p.m., to discuss the new book. Copies will be available for purchase throughout the exhibition. Visit madronagallery.com [https://www.madronagallery.com/] for more. The Avenue Gallery | 2184 Oak Bay Ave. This month, the gallery features the works of Mary-Jean Butler, Aileen Vantomme and Eunmi Conacher. ce108-memories-30-x-60-acrylic-on-panel-4900 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/oakbay/2025-september/ce108-memories-30-x-60-acrylic-on-panel-4900.jpg;w=960] Memories by Eunmi Conacher, 30 x 60 inches, acrylic on panel. Courtesy The Avenue Gallery Mary-Jean Butler's new oil paintings reflect the rugged landscape of B.C.'s coastline. Her education in both fine art and graphic design plays a strong role in the stylization of her work.  Aileen Vantomme is a ceramic artist working in stoneware using coil and slab-built methods. Her latest work, 'Keepsakes', are stoneware vessels inspired by the natural beauty of discarded seashells. "Each piece features an irregular edge created from the coil-built process, a reminder of its handmade origin," Vantomme said. Her textures and forms are enhanced with custom-formulated stains and glazes, and are fired using both oxidation and pit-firing methods. Eunmi Conacher has a formal education spanning the globe: Hong-Ik University in Seoul, Korea, The University of Sydney, Australia, and Tsukuba University in Japan. Since immigrating to Canada over 25 years ago, Conacher has lived in Whistler, Nanaimo, and now calls Sooke home, drawing inspiration from the natural beauty of the Island. She is an associate member of the Federation of Canadian Artists and an elected member of The Society of Canadian Artists. "I describe myself as a contemporary, impressionist and expressionist artist," Conacher said. "My work is more an expression of the mood in the scene rather than a realistic picture of the scene. The result I strive for is a painting from the heart."

For the producer of Beyond VIMY, a multi-artform theatrical production coming to Sidney's Mary Winspear Centre Oct. 25, peace and unity are "more relevant and important now than ever." "This production reminds us that we must hold on to higher ideals than conflict and consciously embrace Canadian sovereignty through solidarity," said Frances Litman. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the beginning of construction of the Canadian National Vimy Memorial in France. Two hundred and fifty acres of the Vimy battlefield site were gifted in gratitude to Canada by France in perpetuity in memory of Canada's efforts in the First World War. Beyond VIMY, which premieres in Sidney, directs attention to this profound chapter of Canada's heritage. The memorial and the production are a pledge to remember and honour the lives lost in this struggle, rise above conflict, embrace forgiveness and strive for peace, the press release reads. The 110-minute show (plus 20-minute intermission and black-and-white photography exhibition) will be anchored by the nationally recognized, Juno-nominated, Canadian acoustic folk-roots band, The Fugitives. They will perform their moving stage production of Ridge, a remembrance of the history and personalities associated with Vimy Ridge based on the songs and letters written by First World War soldiers who were there, in the first act. Songwriters Adrian Glynn and Brendan McLeod are joined by banjo player Chris Suen (Viper Central) and violinist Carly Frey (The Coal Porters). Act two will feature members of the Victoria Philharmonic Choir under the direction of Peter Butterfield, Pipe Major Roger McGuire, cellist Amy Laing, and acclaimed professional dancers Andrea Bayne and Peter Starr. There will also be black-and-white photography by Blair Ketcheson of the Vimy Memorial in France, plus current music from The Fugitives' latest album. "Having professional musicians, dancers, singers, and imagery unleashes the magic of this production," Litman said. "If considered a challenge, the hardest part in weaving together music, art, dance and storytelling into one cohesive performance was the amount of historic material available to distil into a meaningful, artistic and historically engaging performance." For Litman, the production is a meaningful way to mark the 100th anniversary of the memorial. "[It's] a reminder to me, and hopefully others, how much has been sacrificed to ensure our rights, democracy and sovereignty remain intact and to continue to honour those, past and present, who put their lives on the line for us." The show is produced by Creatively United for the Planet non-profit society, with support from the Gail O'Riordan Climate and the Arts Legacy Fund through the Victoria Foundation and Veterans Affairs Canada. It is suitable for all ages. Tickets are available directly from the Mary Winspear Centre, 2243 Beacon Ave, or by calling 250-656-0275. The show runs Saturday, Oct. 25 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

A Victoria-based Chinese filmmaker wrestles with what it means to leave your family behind as an immigrant in his new film, which has earned a $20,000 grant from Telus Storyhive Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition. Ryan Duan’s film, Three Stories and a Bowl of Noodle Soup, is a hybrid documentary that follows the owner of JiangYun Noodle on Fort Street – a Chinese woman whose story both fascinated and deeply resonated with Duan. The two met years ago through friends, and Duan was deeply intrigued by her story: in her retirement age, she moved to a new city and opened a handmade noodle shop with her savings – something he described as taking “a lot of courage.” But what really touched him was that her journey was a way to reconnect with her estranged son. Their relationship was something that reminded him of his relationship with his own parents, who had lived on the other side of the globe from him for 18 years. "When they made the decision, when I was 18, to send me here to Canada, I never actually thought we'd be apart for that long, even though we make phone calls and ... meet each other once or twice a year in person. But that means, during the past 18 years, I was totally away from their life. "Part of the documentary is going to address that specific issue. I had my family, I got married, and got established in Victoria. Especially as I get older, I think, is that fair to my parents? Because I'm an only child due to the history of the policies of China. So it's a tough question; are we going to go back? Or are we going to get them here? Are they willing to come here and adopt a new culture? It stirs up all these kinds of questions." Duan thought the inner worlds and stories of immigrants are often not explored in film, and that’s what he plans to focus on as one of 35 recipients for the inaugural Telus Storyhive Pan-Asian Storyteller Edition.  Keng Donguines, Storyhive program manager, said they envision the program as a foundation for long-term growth, to create pathways for emerging Pan-Asian voices across B.C. and Alberta. “It’s an important opportunity to amplify stories that reflect the diversity, depth and complexity of Pan-Asian experiences in Canada,” he said.  For Duan, the $20,000 in production funding, training and professional mentorship with the National Screen Institute is a huge step forward in a dream he decided to pursue five years ago during a rough patch. Back then, Duan was a hotel manager. But when COVID-19 hit the tourism sector, he started realistically toying with his high school dream of being a filmmaker.  “Obviously, parents from a Chinese family, they always push you to do something else," he said. "I mean, I had to do something that really helped me with my immigration. So basically, I just postponed the whole idea." Duan said receiving the funding – plus an additional $6,000 from Creative B.C. – has not only affirmed his own abilities as a filmmaker but it’s also given him confidence in the message he is trying to share.  The film will be distributed on Telus Optik TV and Storyhive platforms in 2026. Duan is set to begin production this fall. 

Imagine a chance to see some of the best emerging performers in Canada before their names light up Broadway marquees or TV screens. Imagine a school so rigorous that its students train 12 hours a day in dance, voice, and acting, immersed in one of the most demanding conservatory programs in the country. And imagine that this same school has produced stars like Carly Rae Jepsen, along with award-winning actors, directors, and producers now shaping stage and screen across Canada. That school is the Canadian College of Performing Arts (CCPA), operated by the Canadian Heritage Arts Society. This season promises comedy, drama, music – and the thrill of spotting tomorrow’s stars today. “We focus on what’s known as a triple threat – dance, acting, and music,” managing director Erin Gavaghan explains. “We want students to leave here with a full toolkit of talent and skills.” The 2025-26 season was carefully designed to lean into the complexities and vibrancy of youth – and all that goes with it. “We wanted to invite directors who would bring different practices,” Gavaghan says. “A real juxtaposition of styles and types of plays so students get a rich experience, and our audiences get a lot of variety.” The lineup begins Oct. 16 with Significant Other. Joshua Harmon’s comedy about weddings and the search for love comes to life under director Danik McAfee. “Some of our students will be juggling up to three different roles,” Gavaghan says. On Nov. 27, Concord Floral by Jordan Tannahill arrives under the direction of Tom Arthur Davis. Set in a decaying greenhouse, the award-winning play plunges into secrets and the haunting guilt that comes from burying a deadly secret that should have been revealed. Dec. 11 brings the Year 2 students centre stage in Blue Stockings, Jessica Swale’s drama about women at Cambridge University in the 1890s. Co-directed by R.J. Peters and Raugi Yu, the play captures both the personal and political stakes of young women struggling for the right to graduate on equal terms with their male peers. The new year launches with a bolt of rock-star energy. Opening Jan. 30, The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical brings Rick Riordan’s best-selling novel to the stage. Directed and choreographed by Kaylee Harwood with music direction by Brad L’Écuyer, the show follows 12-year-old Percy Jackson as he discovers he’s the son of Poseidon and is accused of stealing Zeus’s master lightning bolt. With humour, heart, and a driving rock score, it’s a quest about friendship, identity, and finding your place in the world. The season closes with Disney’s Newsies at the McPherson Playhouse, running April 17-25. Directed by Kayvon Khoshkam, with choreography by Tiffany and Jeremy Miton and music direction by Jeff Poynter, the musical dramatizes the 1899 strike by New York’s newsboys. With high-energy dance numbers and a rousing score, the production will feature the entire student body. “Our year-end musical is always huge,” Gavaghan says. “This year we’ll have 48 students on stage.”

As the seasons change the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre has a great lineup of entertainment that art lovers will surely fall for. ••• On Oct. 9 set the tone with the blues as two-time Grammy nominee and blues legend Guy Davis brings his soulful sound and brand of storytelling to the CPAC stage at 7:30 p.m for an evening of original music and classic covers. Regular tickets are $30, or $15 for youth and children. See full story in The Citizen.  ••• On Oct. 10, Alex Mackenzie's 'Hungry For Laughs Comedy Tour' is the perfect night out for anyone craving a taste of comedy. Canada's funniest tour comes back to town. The lineup of yuksters include: Alex Mackenzie (Amazon Prime, Melbourne Comedy Festival), Chris Griffin (Just for Laughs, Voted Vancouver's Funniest Comedian), Brittany Lyseng (CBC Debaters, Just for Laughs, Roast Battle Canada), and Sunee Dhaliwal, who in addition to opening for comedic sensation Bill Burr, has also appeared on Comedy Network, and Just for Laughs. Each show supports a local charity when you buy a ticket. Tickets are $59.95 or $49.95 for seniors and students. Look for feature story in an upcoming issue of the Citizen. ••• On Oct. 15, scare yourself silly with The Boo Revue!  Settle in complete darkness for this frightfully fun, family-friendly blacklight musical show that lasts approximately 50 minutes, which was both created by, and stars puppeteers Brendan James Boyd and Reese Scott, who appear on Jim Henson’s Fraggle Rock: Back To The Rock which streams on Apple TV+. Alongside this dynamic duo is a team of professional puppeteers from throughout Alberta who bring the dark stage to life with an array of colourful puppets and props created by the expert fabrication team at Puppet Stuff Canada, as the friendly inhabitants of a creepy old graveyard present their annual spooky cabaret. This show is recommended for those ages four and older as there will be bright lights, strobe and fog effects, as well as loud noises featured throughout the performance. With eight original musical numbers composed by Michael Gordon as well as new numbers and characters this spooktacular show is sure to be the family event of the Halloween season. Tickets are $16 or $13 for both children and students.  ••• On Oct. 17, CPAC proves that this month's line-up of entertainment is anything but 'Slow Rollin' as they present Canadian singer/songwriter Dallas Smith, who was the former front man for Platinum-selling rock band Default. He has since seen noteworthy success including the honour of CCMA Entertainer of the Year three consecutive years running.  Over the course of Smith's music career, the hit-maker who made his Grand Ole Opry debut last summer has amassed 21 Gold-certified and nine Platinum-certified singles, four Gold-certified albums, with more than 640 million global streams, and two million album equivalents to date. He will be playing music from his most recent self-titled album Dallas Smith. His self-titled album features singles such as 'Hide from a Broken Heart' and 'Use' Me'. He takes the stage at 7:30 p.m. Tickets ranges from $62.50 to $77.50. ••• 'With or without you' U2 x U4 the U2 Tribute show is taking the CPAC stage on Oct. 18 at 7:30 p.m. This is 'One' tribute show concert goers won't want to miss, combined with great costumes and staging. Attendees will hear all of U2's greatest hits from the Joshua Tree period to How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb. They hit the stage on Oct. 18. Tickets are $49.95. ••• On Oct. 23, treat yourself to the movies as the Cowichan Valley Youth Services presents Uncharitable at 6 p.m. Uncharitable is a first of its kind movie that challenges all of our beliefs about giving and re-shuffling old ideas about saints and sinners; it’s powerful call-to-action is to abandon our sack-cloth-and-ashes constraints on nonprofits and give them the freedoms we give to business so they can change the world. Inspired by Dan Pallotta, whose TED Talk on charity was voted the most persuasive TED talk of all time; this one night event is a collaboration with local non-profit leaders, and sponsored by Economic Development Cowichan and CVRD Rec with the opportunity to join local non-profit leaders, funders, and business leaders for a panel discussion after the screening. The film features: Edward Norton, Dan Pallotta, the founders of Invisible Children, Wounded Warrior Project, Last Mile Health, Charity:Water, the heads of the Ford Foundation, TED, The Bridgespan Group, The Nature Conservancy, No Kid Hungry, One Love Foundation, YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago, United Way of Greater Atlanta, and more. Tickets are available on a sliding scale price system. ••• Great Scot! Put the Hall-arious into Halloween season with 'God is A Scottish Drag Queen Halloween Spooktacular.' Cowichan Valley's favourite deity in a power suit returns to the CPAC stage for a sixth time on Oct. 24 at 7:30 p.m., this time with a spooky twist! Direct from playing London’s West End, God returns to Duncan to set the record straight on all things that go bump in the night, from monsters and mythical creatures to witches and politicians. As the long lingering question is asked 'Why did we fear the women who burned, but not the men who burned them?' Tickets are $49. ••• Oh the horror! Founded in 2018, The Vancouver Horror Show Film Festival takes the CPAC stage at 7 p.m. and screams as it celebrates great cinematic storytelling in the horror genre while supporting the filmmakers and screenwriters who tell those stories. This year’s film festival includes nine short horror films and runs two hours with an intermission break. Recommended for 14-plus (parental discretion is advised). Content warning: frightening scenes, suspense, mature themes. Tickets are $15. ••• While a cat is well known for having nine lives, can the same be said about Barbara Dane? Once again it's time for movie buffs to get reeled in as Reel Alternatives presents The 9 Lives of Barbara Dane on Oct. 27 at 7 p.m. The biographical documentary from Maaureen Gosling chronicles the life of singer-activist Barbara Dane and her involvement in 20th-century social movements, as well as her unbending commitment to music and justice despite obscurity and challenges. Tickets are $17. ••• On Oct. 30, before rocking your Halloween costumes and colours, set the tone with the blues as Tom Lavin and the legendary Powder Blues Band takes the CPAC stage at 7:30 p.m.  The band, who have been touring for four decades, blend swing, blues, jazz, rock, and R&B. Some of the band's greatest highlights include winning Canada’s Juno, headlining the world-famous Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland, winning the Blues Foundation Award in Memphis, and touring across the U.S. and Europe with legends such as Willie Dixon, John Lee Hooker, James Brown, Albert Collins, James Cotton, Stevie Ray Vaughn, and B.B. King. Wind down the month with Canadian blues royalty. Tickets are $68.75. ••• To purchase tickets for shows, go to cowichanpac.ca [http://cowichanpac.ca], or call the Cowichan Ticket Centre at 250-746-2722 [http://250-746-2722] or visit in person in the lobby of the Cowichan Community Centre on James Street in Duncan.

Many Greater Victorians are already in the spirit of pumpkin spice lattes, full moons, and, for some, getting their werewolf costumes in order. Ian Case is one of the latter. The mastermind behind Halloween shows at Craigdarroch Castle is busy brewing a new site-specific show at Heritage Acres in Saanichton from Oct. 15-31 titled High Moon - A Werewolf Western. It's a world set to a backdrop of shadowy barns, moonlit churches and a remote Wild West town just waiting to be explored. "Audiences won’t be sitting in chairs. They’ll be walking through a world where things get weirder and more dangerous with every step. Think ghostly waterwheels, moonlight shootouts, and eerie howls in the distance," Case said. The show is put on by 31 Iguanas and written by local multiple-award-winning theatre veterans Ian Case and David Elendune. It stars Rosemary Jeffery, Ryan Kniel, Wendy Magahay and Rod Peter Jr.  “It’s Clint Eastwood meets ‘An American Werewolf in London’ – blending all the  classic Western tropes with horror, humour, and heart,” said Elendune in a press release. Running approximately 60 minutes, it's recommended for ages 12+. Case said audiences can expect outdoor walking on gravel, inclement weather, knives and guns, blood and death, jump scares and outdated thinking. Show times vary. Advance tickets can be purchased at https://31-iguanas.tickit.ca [https://31-iguanas.tickit.ca/]. werewolf-2 [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/victoria/2025-august/werewolf-2.jpg;w=960] 31 Iguana’s High Moon: A Werewolf Western runs Oct. 15-31. Courtesy Ian Case  

A corner of contention and concern is among those under scrutiny as part of the McKenzie/Quadra plan, spurring passionate feedback from the community. At the edge of the plan lies the intersection where Cook Street becomes Cloverdale Avenue as it crosses Quadra, and hundreds of pedestrians face challenges crossing, including students and families headed to and from the nearby elementary school. It was already on the radar when a parent flagged the concern using an online petition, reaching out to the district in late 2023. Parents who use the route to walk to school reported several near misses and kids left in fearful tears. Since then, Saanich has tried some alternatives and implemented one safety measure, said Coun. Teale Phelps Bondaroff. The administrative traffic committee reviewed the intersection in 2023 and decided to investigate a couple of measures: the “no turn on red” and introducing leading pedestrian interval crossings on Quadra. These are steps Phelps Bondaroff calls “good first measures” that indicate how Saanich engineers explore solutions from different angles to develop a longer term plan. “That was reassuring for me,” he said. The leading pedestrian intervals, where crosswalk users get a head start before traffic, was introduced in early 2024 and remains in place. A preliminary review of the “no turn on red” from Cook resulted in significant backup on that street. “As a result, we have not implemented this feature but we have initiated a project, that is at the concept stage, that will further investigate improvements that align with the medium-term (active transportation plan) changes for Quadra Street,” staff said. The primary scope is to continue exploring pedestrian and cycling safety improvements. The extent of intersection upgrades would depend on further analysis and detailed design development. Should the project advance past the conceptual stage, construction would not start until at least 2027. It’s also a key consideration in the ongoing district plan for Quadra Street. The consultation process for the Quadra/McKenzie Plan has been a rollercoaster of iterations and feedback, Phelps Bondaroff said, noting it’s now in its fourth phase of consultation. While much focus has been on density, he does get emails about lane reduction, and limited feedback on safety issues, but the conversations are evolving. “Everyone has different priories, safety doesn’t come up as much,” he said. One reason might be regular ongoing consultations on road safety in other aspects of the district’s work. For the Cook/Cloverdale/Quadra intersection, proposed improvements include exploring options to realign the three intersecting roads to improve both connectivity and safety for all road users. In the draft plan, Quadra Street is set to be redesigned as a complete street with a focus on enhancing the active transportation network and public transit options. Future possibilities with BC Transit could see Quadra as a rapid transit corridor with dedicated transit stops in the village. Upgrades to Cook Street and Cloverdale Avenue would further bolster the active transportation network, providing safe and sustainable options for pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport users, according to the plan. Quadra improvements would include expanded sidewalks and vegetation buffers between sidewalks, bike lanes and streets to create a comfortable and safe environment for all transportation modes. Find the Quadra McKenzie Plan and opportunities for feedback online at https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/community-planning/centre-corridor-and-village-plans/quadra-mckenzie-plan.html [https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/community-planning/centre-corridor-and-village-plans/quadra-mckenzie-plan.html].

Victoria curlers now have a home on the national stage. The Victoria Curling Club (VCC) located at 1952 Quadra St. has been named one of Curling Canada’s newest Regional High Performance Training Hubs, joining an elite group of centres across the country. The program adds Victoria, Okotoks, Moose Jaw, and Kitchener-Waterloo to existing hubs in Winnipeg, Calgary, and Edmonton. This makes Victoria the only designated hub in British Columbia.  The centres are designed to mimic arena ice, use technology to improve shotmaking and sweeping, while giving athletes access to top-level coaching.  “This is recognition of the level of curling at VCC and the support our members have put into high performance curling over the years. We look forward to working with Curl BC and Curling Canada to support the best young curlers in the province and the country," said James Keogh, general manager of the VCC. While the hubs will serve established athletes, Victoria’s primary focus will be on curlers under 25 preparing to make the leap to elite competition. The facility will give them consistent coaching, access to modern training technology, and high-quality ice conditions to help them develop quickly and effectively. Scott Braley, CEO of Curl BC, said the designation reflects the club’s role in developing high-performance curling locally and nationally. “We have built a strong partnership with the club, and we look forward to strengthening it further," Braley said. "This designation recognizes the important role VCC plays in advancing high-performance curling in British Columbia and on the national stage.” Victoria earned the designation through Curling Canada’s competitive selection process, which required provincial and territorial associations to propose funding models. The selection considered factors like proximity to a major airport, reliable ice conditions, access to training technology, and affordable ice time for juniors and developing athletes.

"During the darkest days of the AIDS crisis, we buried our friends in the morning, we protested in the afternoon and we danced all night. The dance kept us in the fight because it was the dance we were fighting for… Keep fighting. Keep dancing." - activist Dan Savage. That spirit is at the heart of STILL WITH US: A Legacy of HIV/AIDS in the Arts [https://www.vicartscouncil.ca/2025/08/29/still-with-us/], an ambitious new project presented this fall by the Victoria Arts Council [https://www.vicartscouncil.ca/] (VAC). Opening Oct. 24 and continuing through Dec. 1, the exhibition and performance series explore how art has carried stories of grief, activism and survival for more than four decades. location-the-views-by-margaret-flood-detail-courtesy-of-victoria-arts-council [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/impress/impress-2025/oct-6/vac/location-the-views-by-margaret-flood-detail-courtesy-of-victoria-arts-council.jpg;w=960] Margaret Flood’s evocative work is featured as part of the visual art exhibition, offering a deeply personal lens on memory, place and identity. Photos courtesy of Victoria Arts Council. “This project has been years in the making,” says VAC executive director Kegan McFadden. “We’ve brought together partners from across disciplines and across borders to create something that feels both timely and deeply personal. It’s about honouring those we’ve lost, celebrating those who continue the work, and reminding ourselves that HIV/AIDS is not a thing of the past.” The exhibition unfolds on the Bay Centre’s lower level, where visitors will encounter works by Joe Average (1957–2024), Cathy Busby, Margo Farr, Margaret Flood, Peggy Frank, Jamie Griffiths, Anna Mah, Cookie Mueller, Myfanwy Pavelic, Lynda Raino and Pam Terry. Archival materials from AVI Health & Community Services [https://avi.org/] – marking its 40th anniversary this year – share testimony of the local response to the epidemic. Added to this are rarely-seen holdings from Dance Collection Danse, curated by Christopher House and Amy Bowring, which highlight the impact of HIV/AIDS on the dance community. The public is invited to the opening reception on Sunday, Oct. 26, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Bay Centre, where artists will be in attendance and organizers will share remarks. Admission is free, and no RSVP is required. michaels-last-minute-by-joe-average [https://www.bpmcdn.com/f/files/shared/impress/impress-2025/oct-6/vac/michaels-last-minute-by-joe-average.jpg;w=960] Joe Average’s vibrant pop-art canvas stands alongside works by other leading artists in the visual art exhibition, inviting visitors to reflect on creativity, resilience and community. Joe Average, Michael's Last Minute. Photos courtesy of Victoria Arts Council. “Art has always given us a way to push back against silence,” McFadden reflects. “Through these pieces and these archives, we see the history of activism, the fight for dignity, and the creativity that keeps people going.” The project extends beyond the exhibition, with performances at the Belfry Theatre and Pacific Opera’s Baumann Centre, plus pop-up appearances from the Gettin’ Higher Choir, and a themed display at the Greater Victoria Public Library’s Central Branch. “We are deeply grateful to the community partners, corporate sponsors and generous  donors who recognize the importance of preserving this history and ensuring it's shared with future generations. Their support made this project possible,” McFadden says. “This is an opportunity to come together, to look back with honesty, and to recognize how much this history still speaks to the present moment.” For more information, including the full schedule of events, or to make a donation in support of this work [https://vicartscouncil.ca/support/donate/], visit vicartscouncil.ca [https://www.vicartscouncil.ca/2025/08/29/still-with-us/]. Follow the conversation on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/VicArtsCouncil/] and Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/victoriaartscouncil/] at @victoriaartscouncil.

British Columbia is facing a housing crisis. We need solutions that are fast, affordable, and scalable. Prefabricated housing checks all three boxes. Modern prefab homes are high-quality, energy-efficient, and built in weeks – not months. They reduce construction waste by up to 90% and cost 10-40% less than traditional builds. With climate change accelerating and homelessness rising, we can’t afford to ignore this option. BC Housing already uses prefab for some supportive housing, but we need to go further. Other jurisdictions are ahead of us: Finland, Japan, and Sweden all use prefab extensively. In Canada, Quebec has embraced it for seniors’ housing and remote communities. Prefab also supports local jobs. Factories can be set up in regions hit hard by economic downturns, creating skilled employment in manufacturing, logistics, and installation. Critics say prefab looks “cookie-cutter.” But today’s designs are customizable, attractive, and built to last. They meet or exceed building codes and can be adapted for urban, rural, and Indigenous communities. We need bold leadership to scale up prefab housing across B.C. That means investing in local production, streamlining approvals, adding inspections to the factories, not just the worksite, accelerating the inspection schedule, and treating prefab as essential infrastructure. Prefab isn’t just a construction method – it’s a chance to rethink how we build homes in a time of crisis. Let’s act now to make housing more accessible, sustainable, and equitable for everyone. Geoffrey Conder Victoria

Bartholomew’s Pub celebrates its 50th anniversary in October, while also marking five years since its reopening after COVID. The pub will toast its half-century over a couple of weeks in mid-October. “I’ve got many ideas, but we haven't made a big plan yet. But we'll have a couple of weeks of things to celebrate the decades,” said bar manager and supervisor Kait Taylor, who has been at the pub for almost two years "It's a fun little place to work. Lots of good staff, lots of regulars and a good beer list. Winter season's also coming, which is exciting for us. It gets full and cozy and full of lights. Plus, being an older building adds more character.” Bartholomew’s also has a British theme at its core, with a “homey pub decor, plus bangers & mash and Yorkshire puddings on the menu.” Floor supervisor Keely Bayko added: “Yes, it’s homey. With your comfort food, and you're surrounded by a bunch of familiar regulars. It creates a great atmosphere and feeling.” The pub offers live music every Sunday evening, plus traditional Irish music on the first and third Wednesdays of each month. There’s also a ‘Happy Hour’ from 3 p.m. to close on a Monday, featuring break-even bottles, where a top-shelf spirit is sold for one ounce per person at cost. “It’s pretty cool and people get to try new things,” said Taylor. Tuesdays they do trivia, Wednesdays wings nights, Thursdays music bingo, and then there's Guinness Friday ($1.50 off). Bayko said Bartholomew’s is unique, alongside its British theme, because it holds a lot of value in the style of service, getting to know their regulars and cultivating a sense of belonging. “Everyone can come to Bartholomew’s, whether you want a really nice cocktail or a good pint of Guinness, or just want to come for some happy hour food and enjoy spending time with friends. “I come here on my days off because I really enjoy the atmosphere of the service – everyone has smiles on their faces. “Also, some people will come up to Victoria like twice a year, and I'll end up serving them every time. It’s nice when people recognize you and your service.” Taylor added that having a big, mostly local, draft list, plus a huge gin selection (over 80!) and a good back-bar – such as whisky selection – also makes them stand out. “The gin selection is probably the largest in B.C.,” said Bayko. Bartholomew’s has 26 beers and one cider on tap, with Dark Matter and Appleton’s (the cider) being the most popular. They also have Island Red from Driftwood on a nitro tap and eight which they rotate regularly. Plus products from Vancouver and Squamish. When it comes to signature food, their delicious bangers & mash (which I sampled) and beef dip are two stand-outs. They also do Sunday roasts, until they run out or close, whichever comes first, with $12-off bottles of wine alongside. “The roast is good and brings in a lot of regulars and tourists,” said Taylor. The pub does draw clientele from the cruise ships and downtown tourists, but most are local. It’s also located underneath the DoubleTree Victoria hotel, so there is some foot traffic from there. They also supply some room service to hotel guests. In September, Arthur Guinness’s 300th birthday was celebrated at the pub, with lots of Guinness specials, food, snacks and dancing on offer. Bartholomew’s has five TVs and will screen select sports events for their punters – Oilers hockey games and Premier League soccer to name but two.  “When there are big events, like the Grey Cup, we’ll pull down our projector screen with the sound on,” said Bayko. "We did the same for the Stanley Cup finals.” The pub has a total of around 40 staff, with most front-of-house and in the kitchen. When it comes to cocktails, their Pink & Lime is a bestseller — a hibiscus margarita. “It's not a one we keep yearly, it's just one we've had on for the summer, but it's been going great,” said Taylor. Irish Coffee is also very popular and a Fred's Club is a menu staple. And then adding to the British theme is the Pimm’s Cup, which gets rave reviews from UK tourists. Bartholomew’s decor is “almost all original,” said Taylor. “The pictures are seriously glued on the walls – you’d need a crowbar to pry them off. I think most of them have been here since its opening 50 years ago.” Bayco added: “They've done some renovations over the years, including the layout of the bar top, but have really kept the characteristic of the pub largely the same.” “Yeah, we have lots of people that come in and go: ‘That's exactly how it was when I was here 20 years ago.’ And they like it that way,” said Taylor. Bayco said: “I love when we get stories, like, multiple people being like, "Oh, we met here 25 years ago, and we're coming back to celebrate our anniversary, and it's so nice to just see that it's kept its characteristic of just cozy.” The historic pub was reopened under new owners, Alderaan Hospitality Ltd. in 2020. Executive chef Jason Clifford and director of food & beverages Morgan Watson formed a partnership to revitalize the iconic venue, building on the previous success, while developing and growing their products, events and the overall customer experience. “Increasing the quality of cocktails, I think, was a big one,” said Taylor. "The guys that were here before were great bartenders who had a lot of knowledge and put a lot of time into just improving the cocktail options.” Bartholomew’s has also partnered up with Sheringham Distillery in Langford for their late-night happy hour menu. “We’re also implementing a build-your-own gin and tonic program, where a guest can choose a gin, a favourite tonic or a mixer and up to three different garnishes,” said Bayko. Taylor has some advice for prospective customers: “Just come and have a good time. It's a fun place to be and we've got a lot of great staff. It’s a good place to meet, have a chat and a pint. A good place to spend your afternoon.” Bayko added: “We have a beautiful patio as well – especially in the summer. I think there are 10 tables and approximately 38 seats. You get the sun and the shade and can people-watch out there.” To learn more, visit: https://www.bartholomewspub.com/ [https://www.bartholomewspub.com/].

Confetti poppers exploded, hundreds of students cheered and a band blasted a welcoming tune as Tour de Rock riders rolled into Oak Bay High on Friday, Oct. 3. The squad of 18 cyclists began their journey 14 days ago in Port Alice, where they set out to ride 1,200 kilometres across Vancouver Island to raise money for childhood cancer research and support programs.  Even more teens waited excitedly for the riders in the school's gymnasium, where the squad was presented with a $30,464 cheque – cash students raised through a bottle drive, car wash, garage sale and silent auction.  “The riders in front of you are all first responders from all over the Island, as well as media, that take a lot of their time, starting training … in March,” Principal Shawn Boulding told the packed gymnasium. “This is a huge task for them.” Students and fundraising leaders Kye Tyerney, Miriam Gunn, Rowan Lawlor and Katie Lindsay, who handed over the cheque, were instrumental in drumming up this year’s donations. “To all the students, all the teachers and everyone in our school who were involved – we had an amazing fundraiser and a great September,” said Tyerney. “It’s been such a great year.” Much of the money Oak Bay High raised will go towards Camp Goodtimes – a Canadian Cancer Society program Tour de Rock supports that provides a fun, medically supervised summer camp experience for children and teens living with cancer.   “It really makes an impact on the lives of kids with cancer that get to go to camp and enjoy their childhoods for once and forget about their treatments,” said Lindsay. "It's really something that touches the heart of everyone here." Tour de Rock representative Simon Douthwaite couldn’t have been happier about the donation.  “You guys are going to be sending so many kids to camp who are having a really, really rough time and they’re going to have a much better time because of you,” he said. “It’s so meaningful … and we are deeply, deeply grateful.” The bikers soon pedalled out of the school, where they met police motorcycles and a souped-up police cruiser there escort them to their next stop at the Archie Browning Sports Centre in Esquimalt. The group’s journey ends today outside the B.C. legislature. To find out more about Tour de Rock, visit cancer.ca [https://cancer.ca/en/?utm_source=oak%20bay%20news&utm_campaign=oak%20bay%20news%3A%20outbound&utm_medium=referral].

A would-be robber’s failed attempt at hijacking a scooter wound up with the victim, not the culprit, making a quick getaway.  According to Nanaimo RCMP, a person called police Sept. 20 at about 8 p.m. reporting he’d been threatened by an unknown man.  The caller said he was riding his scooter on Metral Drive, near the Real Canadian Superstore, when the man tried to stop him by pulling out a knife and demanding he hand over his scooter.  “The caller had other plans and booked it northbound on his scooter, leaving the suspect in his dust,” the report noted.  The suspect, described as a male wearing a black hoodie, black pants and carrying two bags, was last scene heading toward a nearby Starbucks on foot.  Anyone with information about the suspect is asked to contact the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345 and quote file No. 2025-30531

Prince George RCMP officers have been cleared by the Independent Investigations Office of B.C. (IIOBC) in relation to a November 2024 incident where a man died following a cardiac arrest while in a jail cell. On Nov. 4, 2024, a man left his residence and did not return. A witness, a woman who also lived in the home, reported the man missing two days before he disappeared. However, a police report on Nov. 5 stated that the man came to the Prince George RCMP detachment around 12:30 p.m. and asked to be taken into custody.  "He was described as exhibiting symptoms of paranoia, saying that he was in danger from people chasing him," stated the IIO report. "The [man] was escorted by police to the hospital, where a doctor certified him under the Mental Health Act (MHA). It appears, however, that the [man] was not admitted to a ward and was left without supervision. At some point, he left the hospital of his own accord." Later that day, the man called the RCMP detachment from a restaurant, stating again that he was being followed and people were "after him and trying to get him." An officer picked up the man and took him to a shelter because he said he would feel better sleeping. However, a third report was made that same day when staff from a seniors' centre called the RCMP after the man refused to leave, again stating people were after him. This time, he was arrested for mischief and taken to police cells to prevent any continuation. The man was released at 8 a.m. on Nov. 6 and was given a jacket and a cup of coffee before leaving, according to a detention guard. Six and a half hours later, the RCMP were once again notified about the man. An officer and a mental health nurse were partnered and on patrol when they found the man "staggering' in the middle of a busy street, according to the report.  The nurse stated that the officer stopped the vehicle and approached the man, asking him where he lived and if he needed a ride home. However, the man wasn't able to provide any information. Additionally, the officer had to hold the man's arm to help him walk off the highway.  The man has a strong liquor odour coming from him, resulting in the officer apprehending him for public intoxication and transporting him to a jail cell. However, just as the trio was able to leave, a taxi driver flagged down the police vehicle. The taxi driver told the IIO that the man gave him $200 and asked him to drive around Prince George for a couple of hours. During the ride, the taxi driver noticed the man drinking liquor and taking "little yellow pills," becoming more and more intoxicated. At one point, as they were stopped, the man got more money and bought more liquor. Eventually, the man got out of the cab and just started wandering. The taxi driver phoned his dispatcher, asking what to do as the man was very intoxicated by this point. That's when the driver noticed the police vehicle and waved it down. In the exchange, the taxi driver gave the officer the man's belongings he had left in the cab. According to the mental health nurse at the scene, who had experience working in an adult detox unit, the man was intoxicated but did not appear in medical distress. On the ride to the station, the man appeared "uppity" and was "kicking the back of the seats." Shortly after arriving at the detachment, the nurse saw several officers rush to the holding cells, where she saw the two officers, including the one she had attended the scene with, holding the man by his arms, apparently picking him up. The detention guard, who was still on shift, told the IIO the man was sitting on a bench in the cells booking area and not cooperating with police. The guard added she saw the first officer "take a swing" at the man while the second officer was controlling him. B.C.'s Police Watchdog obtained detachment video footage from the interaction between the man and the officer. The footage showed two officers attempting to search the man, who was slumping forward. At one point, the man pushes the officer with both arms. In response, the two officers pulled the man off the bench, with the second officer delivering "four blows" to the man's back before officers were able to control and handcuff him. The guard told IIO the man was taken to a cell, and the second officer conducted a cell check shortly afterwards. Around 12 minutes later, the guard walked to the cell, where the man was now moving and snoring, and there was a small amount of blood on the cell's floor from the man's toe. As part of her job, the guard explained to the IIO that when detainees are not moving or making noise, she observes for signs of breathing.  On a second check, the guard saw no movement from the man, even after she banged on the cell door. She grabbed the second officer, who tended to the man in the cell. Officers performed first aid and summoned assistance from paramedics, who quickly arrived at the detachment.  The man was taken to hospital, where it was discovered he suffered cardiac arrest that led to massive brain injury through oxygen deprivation. He did not regain consciousness and died in hospital five days later, on Nov. 11, 2024. The autopsy report stated the cause of death as low oxygen-induced brain damage, secondary to a mixed substance toxicity (ethanol and gabapentin). "These substances likely resulted in considerable respiratory depression and subsequent hypoxemia. The seizure disorder and cardiac disease (cardiomegaly and concentric left ventricular hypertrophy) can be considered contributing factors, as both of these would have increased the risk of sudden death, especially in the setting of a mixed substance toxicity." The man didn't suffer any injuries from the use of force. Additionally, the toxicology report noted a very high blood alcohol concentration and the presence of Gabapentin at a concentration exceeding a typical therapeutic range. "A review of objective video evidence, however, shows that the [man] was acting in a resistant and assaultive manner at the time," stated IIO chief civilian director Jessica Berglund. "The low level of force used in response was necessary to control him and was not excessive in the circumstances. As noted above, there is no evidence to connect any use of force to the [man]'s death." There is also no evidence that the officer failed in the duty of care while the man was in the cell.

It is not certain if there will be a coroner's inquest into the police shooting death of a Surrey mom.  In the early morning hours of Sept. 19, 2024, Surrey RCMP received a call about a "disturbance" at a home [https://www.surreynowleader.com/local-news/woman-dead-after-police-shooting-in-surrey-disturbance-7545746] in Cloverdale, in the 6200 block of 180A Street. Police say a woman, whom family later identified as Vanessa Renteria Valencia, had locked herself in the bathroom with her daughter and was allegedly holding a pair of scissors near the child. Less than an hour later, at about 5:30 a.m., an officer shot Vanessa, who died at the scene. In a public report released Friday, Sept. 26 [https://www.surreynowleader.com/local-news/breaking-no-charges-recommended-in-fatal-police-shooting-of-surrey-mom-8270782], the chief civilian director of the IIO, Jessica Berglund, stated, "I do not consider that there are reasonable grounds to believe that an officer may have committed an offence under any enactment and therefore the matter will not be referred to Crown counsel for consideration of charges." Black Press Media reached out to B.C.'s Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General, Nina Krieger, to see if she would call for a coroner's inquest into Vanessa's death.  "An investigation into the death of Vanessa Valencia is currently underway by the BC Coroners Service.  When the coroner’s investigation is completed, the matter will be reviewed by the chief coroner to determine whether to direct an inquest," Krieger said.  Black Press Media has reached out to the BC Corners Service but did not receive a response by press time.  A coroner's inquest is a formal court proceeding conducted by a presiding coroner before a jury that is publicly held to review the circumstances of how someone died. "An inquest can reveal information and/or gaps in services that, if addressed, may help prevent future deaths in similar circumstances," states the BC Coroners Service [https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/birth-adoption-death-marriage-and-divorce/deaths/coroners-service/inquest/bccs_inquests_backgrounder.pdf] online. The jury will then make recommendations aimed at preventing deaths under similar circumstances. However, the jury must not make any finding of legal responsibility or express any conclusion of law. The chief coroner can call for an inquest into a death if they believe "the public has an interest in being informed of the circumstances surrounding the death," or "the death resulted from a dangerous practice or circumstance, and similar deaths could be prevented if recommendations were made to the public or an authority." The minister can order an inquest if the coroner has not held one, and they are "satisfied that it is necessary or desirable in the public interest that an inquest be held."  The province has previously called for a coroner's inquest while other investigations were underway, including in the case of Surrey's Tori Dunn.  [https://www.surreynowleader.com/local-news/bc-orders-coroners-inquest-into-death-of-surreys-tori-dunn-7523936]B.C. Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, at the time, Mike Farnworth called one in September 2024.  On Thursday, Surrey-Cloverdale MLA Elenore Sturko blasted the NDP government for its “failure to commit” [https://www.surreynowleader.com/home/surrey-cloverdale-mla-calling-for-inquest-into-death-of-chase-de-balinhard-8285811] to an inquest into the death of Cloverdale's 15-year-old Chase De Balinhard, which is denying the family “peace of mind and an opportunity for transparency.” -With file from Malin Jordan

December 24, 1936 - September 30, 2025 In Loving Memory ~ Roger Willfred Joseph Grismer passed away peacefully at his home in Comox, British Columbia, on September 30, 2025, surrounded by family and love. He was 88 years old. Roger was born on December 24, 1936, in Hodgeville, Saskatchewan. Over the course of his life, he brought warmth, wit, and a unique curiosity to all who knew him. He built his career with BC Tel, where he was known not only for his work ethic but also for his quiet generosity and sense of humor. Roger was a man of deep Catholic faith and a dedicated member of Christ the King Church in Courtenay, BC. He gave back to his community in countless ways, serving as a volunteer with St. Vincent de Paul, a member of the Knights of Columbus, and a beloved "curator of the weird and wonderful" always ready with a story, an artifact, or a smile that made people look at the world a little differently. He is survived by his loving sister Betty Favero (Albert) and brother Marvin Grismer (Bonita); nephews Fr. Mike Favero, Kenneth Favero (Norma), and James Favero; nieces Cathy lckringill, Patricia Favero, and Pauline Favero (Paul). Roger also leaves behind a cherished next generation: great-nieces and nephews Michelle Koning (Dennis), Kurtis lckringill (Kaylaih), Daniel lckringill, Elizabeth lckringill (Mike), Alexandra Favero, Alyssa Favero, Cristina Favero, Gavin Drescher, and Crosby Drescher, as well as great-great-niece and nephews, Mason Chapman lckringill and Claire and Lucas Koning. Roger will be remembered for his unwavering faith, sharp wit, quiet kindness, and the joy he found in the curious and unconventional. His presence was a gift, his support unconditional and his legacy of love, service, and wonder lives on in those who knew him. A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, October 11 at 11 :00 AM at Christ the King Church, Courtenay, BC with a reception to follow at the Parish Hall. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Roger's remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to L'Arche Comox Valley. [https://generaluse.blackpress.ca/obituploads/funeral_logos/K5H3V7T9-20171214163222.png] Comox Valley Funeral Home [http://www.comoxvalleyfuneralhome.com/] SERVICE DETAILS Celebration of Life Saturday, October 11, 2025 11:00 AM Christ the King Church, Courtenay

Coquitlam's new-look Milestones Test Kitchen is cooking up a taste of what could be coming to the chain's 45 restaurants across Canada and B.C., including Guildford Town Centre and Southpoint locations in Surrey. The September launch on Barnet Highway was, yes, a milestone moment for Milestones, first opened in Vancouver in 1989. Today, dishes of food created in the Test Kitchen, if successful, "will propel new menu options and the expansion of the Fraser Bar concept to other cities and locations across the country," according to a news release. Created by head chef Jeff Dell, the menu is split between best-selling Milestones favourites (Sweet Chili Chicken Bites, Wham-Bam Shrimp) and new recipes including Samosa Poutine, Kettle Chip Nachos, five different forno pizzas, Lobster Frites and also weekend-brunch dishes (the Pear & Coconut Waffle sounds amazing). New to the second floor is Fraser Bar, an intimate, prohibition era-style cocktail bar that boasts a menu even more exclusive and interesting than the downstairs Test Kitchen, with several pages of bites and cocktails. Get there for $5 drinks during Happy Hours from 3 to 6 p.m., then 9 til close. Special days include Meet-up Mondays (four bellinis and two starters for $40) and Date Night Wednesdays (menu for two starting at $75). “I’ve been entrusted with a very special role,” Dell says. “I can assure you we’re not taking this trust lightly. Our team is working intensely to find the right new recipes, and to gather feedback from the people whose opinion matters most to us — our local patrons.” In B.C., Milestone restaurants are open in Langley, Abbotsford, Surrey (two locations), Coquitlam, Kelowna, Langford, Tsawwassen, Victoria and West Vancouver; the Whistler location is closed for renovations, according to a post on milestonesrestaurants.com/locations [https://milestonesrestaurants.com/locations/]. Milestones Test Kitchen is operated by Pacific Rose Hospitality Group in partnership with Foodtastic, the company behind Milestones and more than 20 other brands including Freshii, Pita Pit and Second Cup.