Capital Daily

Check out the full list of events here.

NEWS

Council moves to close ‘dangerous’ bike lane gap

Victoria’s bike lanes. City of Victoria graphic.

City council wants to accelerate the expansion of bike lanes on Pandora to improve safety at what some consider to be one of the city’s more dangerous intersections for cyclists.

Currently, riders headed east on Pandora’s two-way, all-ages-and-abilities (AAA) bike lanes suddenly run out of bike lane when they hit Cook.

That’s dangerous, said Coun. Matt Dell, who put forth the motion at yesterday’s committee of the whole meeting.

“You have to awkwardly cross traffic and go down Cook Street, which is a big four-lane road, and try to turn with traffic—it’s something that, unless you’re a competent [cyclist], you should not be doing,” he said.

Riders can head into Fernwood, where it gets a little hilly, but that doesn’t work for people whose destination is Saanich, Oak Bay, or the Jubilee neighbourhood, he said.

“This will help keep people safe,” Dell said. “It’s definitely going to reduce accidents.”

Coun. Marg Gardiner asked how many collisions had occurred at the intersection and how the expansion would affect street parking in the area. City staff said they would have to come back with that information. They’ll also return with how fast-tracking the project would affect the 2026 municipal budget, which the council is trying to reduce.

With that in mind, the council unanimously agreed to discuss further fast-tracking what had already been the next phase of the bike lane project.

It’s on the city staff’s drawing board right now because it was scheduled to be built next year, but the intersection has been an issue within the cycling community, judging by the amount of email the council has received about it, Coun. Dave Thompson said.

“Many of them noted that they’ve ridden east on their bikes on Pandora, come to Cook, and then have to do some very sketchy things to continue going east.”

Dell said he knows that for people who don’t cycle, it may not seem like an issue. “But for all the people who are using this, this is a really critical route in the city that is going to make it a lot easier to navigate—and a lot safer.”

Thompson said closing that gap will help seniors, children—and anyone new to the bike lanes—and he said it will also be good for motorists.

“When I’m driving on busy streets, I frankly don’t want to have cyclists mixing in with the traffic,” he said.

⚠️ Capital Bulletin

Recall: Various macadamia nuts and macadamia nut-containing products, due to Salmonella. [CFIA]

Saanich extended road closures:
Kremlin between Broadmead and Kisber, 4pm-8am (overnight) until March 13
Kisber at Kremlin, 24 hours, until March 13

Saanich single-lane alternating traffic:
Admirals between Cowper and Arundel, 9am-3:30pm, until April 3
Reynolds between Cedar Hill Cross and Cumberland, 8:30am-3:30pm, until April 3

DND Night firing training in Saanich tomorrow night. [CHEK]

Driving today? Check the current traffic situation via Google.

NEWS

Events happening in Greater Victoria this March

Christian Kluxen, music director at the Victoria Symphony, will conduct two exhilarating classical performances this month. Photo: Victoria Symphony / Royal McPherson

March sweeps into Victoria with the unmistakable energy of a season turning. The days are longer, the cherry blossoms are in bloom, and the city's stages, galleries, and gathering spaces have events lined up and ready for you.

From world-class ballet and symphony performances to smoky jazz nights and standup comedy that will leave your sides aching, there's something to pull you out of the house every single day.

Spring break brings family-friendly fun to museums, theatres, and community halls, while markets, workshops, and storytelling nights offer something for every kind of curious mind.

Whether you're drawn to the dance floor, the concert hall, or a cozy seat at a local venue with a drink in hand, March makes it easy to say yes to something new. So get out there and see for yourself—the city is alive.

This story ran for our Insiders on March 1. Consider becoming an Insider today and be the first to receive stories every Sunday.

80% Leased in 2 months

Response to 825 Fort is strong with 80% now leased! Featuring 119 rental homes in Victoria's most walkable neighbourhood, perfect for car-free living.

825 Fort blends heritage character with contemporary comfort from studios to penthouses with A/C and concrete construction.

Rooftop amenities include a barrel sauna, a yoga area, gas fire pits, and stunning views. On-site Modo car and free memberships for tenants, bike storage with a repair station, EV charging, and pet-friendly suites complete the package.

Built by Salient and managed by Servissio, this boutique residence offers well-insulated, quiet living all on one of Victoria’s most desirable streets for shopping and dining.

Move in right away. Select your new home now!

⭐️ Capital Picks

🪖 First World War seminar at General Sir Arthur Currie Armoury. [Times Colonist]

💻 2026 VIATEC Awards finalists announced.

🎪 Europa Super Circus Saanichton. [March 19-29]

🌱 Make friends and remove ivy at UVic on Sunday. [Info]

🏃 2026 Goddess Run on Sunday. [Beaver Lake]

🏙️ Arden offers contemporary rental homes in Royal Bay, anchored by a resident-exclusive clubhouse with a fully equipped fitness centre, shared entertainment space, and sauna.*

*Sponsored Listing

The jackpot is growing!

Every Pot of Gold 50/50 ticket supports Island families facing long hospital stays and medical travel. Half the jackpot goes to the winner, while the other half helps children access the care they need. Tickets on sale until March 17!

🗞️ In Other News

Victoria council cuts $7M to lower property tax hike to 7.28%—for now
That’s a reduction from the initially proposed increase of more than 10%. Most of the cuts are to the city’s parking services infrastructure and debt repayments, and $344K was saved by cutting back on police patrol officer hires. Mayor Marianne Alto said the current figure is not as low as it should be, nor is it as high as it could be. She said the one-shot reduction to four reserves will lead to “impacts down the road.” City staff said an 11% property tax increase anticipated for 2027 is now likely to be closer to 14%. The council will continue crunching numbers as it works to land on a projected tax rate by the May 15 deadline. [Times Colonist]

BC looks to double tourism revenue over the next 10 years
The province’s plan includes improving access to popular destinations, hosting events, and attracting private-sector investment. Tourism Minister Anne Kang called the plan “ambitious” because it seeks to more than double the industry’s annual revenue from $23B in 2024 to $48B in the next decade. Destination Greater Victoria (DGV) has a 10-year plan, too, and CEO Paul Nursey says the tourism board is on the same page. DGV has long said the region badly needs more hotels, having lost 2K hotel rooms over the last 15 or so years. [CHEK]

Ratified: BC teachers finalize new 4-year deal, with 3% annual raise
The union representing 52K teachers has voted in favour of the deal tentatively agreed upon last month. The BC Teachers’ Federation (BCTF) said 91% agreed to the proposal, which also comes with a lower-end wage bump to attract new teachers. BCTF president Carole Gordon says the province agreed to increase the number of counsellors, special education resource teachers, and learning assistance instructors. The deal is retroactive to July 1, 2025. It provides more prep time for elementary teachers, special allowances for Indigenous teachers and psychologists, and increases for teachers in remote communities. BC’s 60 boards of education (the employer) are slated to vote on the proposed deal today. [BCTF / BC Gov’t]

Big Stuff and Benevolence open the Belfry's Spark Festival

In Big Stuff, married couple Matt and Naomi have “inherited” all of their parent’s stuff! She wants to keep it all—he wants to toss it. You’re the deciding vote!

In Benevolence, Kevin's journey of discovery leads him to the Tam Kung Temple in Victoria's Chinatown.

🗓️ Things To Do

🎻 Victoria Symphony: Vivaldi's Four Seasons: Nanaimo-born violinist Aisslinn Nosky leads the Victoria Symphony through Vivaldi's beloved classic alongside works by Rameau and Emily Doolittle. Charlie White Theatre. Today. Doors 7pm, show 7:30pm. [Info]

🎤 Dominique Fils-Aimé: Juno Award-winning Montreal soul and jazz singer Dominique Fils-Aimé brings her powerful, genre-spanning voice to Victoria in support of her newest album. Studio 919, Strathcona Hotel. Today. 7:30pm. [Info]

🩷 HOT PINK! Burlesque Fundraiser for Peers Victoria. The 13th HP! celebrates 20 years of the Cheesecake Burlesque Revue and 30 years of Peers Victoria. Belfry Theatre. Tonight. 8pm. [Info]

🗞️🎵 The Paperboys: The beloved Canadian band celebrates its 30th anniversary with a special show featuring guest alumni, spanning their genre-defying catalogue of Celtic, Mexican folk, and bluegrass. The Coda. Today. Doors 9pm, show 9:30pm-1:30am. [Info]

🤣 Graham Clark: A night of standup comedy with Graham Clark—known for CBC's The Debaters and Just For Laughs. Hecklers Bar & Grill. Tomorrow at 7pm & 10pm. [Info]

⚡🎵 TnT–The Bon Scott Revue: An AC/DC tribute band celebrating 11 years of rock ‘n’ roll mayhem, playing Bon Scott-era material exclusively. The Coda. Tomorrow. Doors 9pm, show 9:30pm-1:30am. [Info]

👯 GALLIM Mixed Program: New York contemporary dance company GALLIM, led by choreographer Andrea Miller, makes its Victoria premiere with a bold mixed program exploring movement, music, and emotion. Royal Theatre. Today & tomorrow. 7:30pm. [Info]

🧑‍🎨 Artist Talk with Paul Walde: Intermedia artist, composer, curator, and UVic professor, Paul Walde, gives a talk about his video installations, Of Weather and Tom Thomson Centennial Swim. Legacy Gallery. March 14. 1-2pm. [Info]

📯Sooke Philharmonic Orchestra: Victoria musician Nicholas Fairbank will conduct his last concert as chorus director. On the program will be two premières. With the École Poirier Choir. Sooke Community Hall. March 22. 2:30-4:30pm. [Info]

👀 In Case You Missed It

Thursday’s headlines: International Women’s Day events; Malahat SkyWalk to add suspended glass viewing cube; and Central Saanich mulls over 7.37% property tax hike. [March 5]

Scam targeting owners of missing cats suspected in Central Saanich. [CHEK]

Esquimalt Mayor Barb Desjardins wants an apology from plum tree branch-breakers. [Times Colonist]

Oak Bay bike lane construction starts on Tuesday. [Info]

Tuesday’s blood moon is seen above the Parliament Buildings. [Doug Clement]

Hola Mohalla final day: Holle Mohalle di Vadhai!

Give like a drunken sailor. [Maritime Museum of BC fundraiser]

That’s it!

If you found something useful, consider forwarding this newsletter to a fellow Victorian.

And before you go, let us know:

March 5 - International Women's Day events

Capital Daily Team — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0000

Good morning {{First name}}!

I don’t want to jinx it, but I think it’s safe to say snow is not in the cards for Victoria this winter. Apparently, it was the fifth-warmest winter on record and the first in nine years not to bring snow to the capital city.

Technically, spring doesn’t begin until March 20, but I’m thinking we’re in the clear.

— Robyn

Today’s approx. read time: 6 minutes

🌡️ Weather Forecast

Today: 🌦️ 9 / 7

Tomorrow: 🌧️ 9 / 9

Day after: 🌦️ 11 / 8

NEWS

International Women’s Day events happening this week

Photo: Shutterstock

It’s always a great time to celebrate women who influence and innovate in our society, but this weekend will offer plenty of opportunities to reflect on those who inspire us. Hear about women who changed the world, the cosmos, and our South Island communities.

While International Women’s Day is on Sunday, celebrations will kick off today and run through the weekend.

Voices of Women: Local History, Legacy, and Empowerment | Today | 12-2pm

See this visual and interactive presentation about women who shaped Esquimalt’s history and present day at Esquimalt Seniors Community Centre. Pre-registration required.

Women’s Day Floral Arrangements | Today 8-6pm & Saturday 11-1pm

Gather your favourite women and head to Mayfair Shopping Centre to create your own floral arrangements to take home.

Who is Your Shero? | Saturday | 7pm

Hear stories about inspiring female heroes, as told by four local women, followed by live music and poetry at the Belfry Theatre.

Star Party: Women Who Reached For The Stars | Saturday | 6:30-10pm

From Roberta Bondar to Katherine Johnson, learn about the women who broke the mould and shaped our understanding of the universe for centuries at the Centre of the Universe (Observatory Hill).

International Women’s Day for BIPOC Women | Sunday | 7:30-10:30pm

Celebrate women from multiple cultures at this event at Kinu at Uptown, featuring music, food, and drink, and a stylized photo booth.

Ross Bay Cemetery: International Women’s Day Tour | Sunday | 10am & 2pm

Hear about women who influenced Victoria’s society through its history, from Emily Carr to Nancy Lester, in this special-edition tour of Ross Bay Cemetery.

IWD: Women Building Community | Sunday | 11am-4pm

Explore and honour the history of women’s fight for equality, with guest speakers, group activities, music, and lunch at United Commons (Fellowship Hall).

Jane Goodall “The Hope” Screening | Sunday | 2pm

The Vic Theatre will screen the National Geographic documentary, which follows the life and work of one of the most famous and influential women in science: Jane Goodall.

Women & Girls: Rooted & Rising | Sunday | 2-5pm

Join this afternoon of reflection and sharing focused on women who inspire at Mary Winspear Centre. There will be poetry, storytelling, and a collective art activity.

⚠️ Capital Bulletin

Oak Bay bike lane construction starts on Tuesday. [Info]

Driving today? Check the current traffic situation via Google.

NEWS

The Ultimate selfie spot: Malahat SkyWalk to add a glass cube 800 feet above the sea

Artist rendering of The Overhang. Photo: Malahat SkyWalk

One of the Island’s more spectacular scenic viewpoints is going to become even more stunning—if you’re comfortable having only 60 mm of compressed glass separating you and the forest and ocean two and a half football fields below.

The Malahat SkyWalk is attaching an enclosed glass cube to its spiral tower so people can walk out high above nature with nothing but a slender see-through layer beneath their feet—similar to the glass floor high up in Toronto’s CN Tower, only they’ll be walled in by a five-sided cubicle of glass.

They’re calling it “The Overhang”—and you likely don’t want to visit hungover. The 360-degree views from 250 metres above the trees promise to be “epic” and may not be for the faint of heart.

“From The Overhang, you’ll take in a panorama across sea, forest, and islands in both Canada and the USA,” the promotional material reads.

“Look out over Finlayson Arm, Saanich Inlet, the Saanich Peninsula, the Gulf and San Juan Islands, and on clear days, the snowy peak of Mount Baker and the Coastal Mountains beyond.”

Offering equal parts wonder and adrenaline, the enclosed cube is designed to make it feel like you’re floating in mid-air, the SkyWalk team notes.

“This will be the ultimate selfie moment where jaw-dropping views meet ‘I can’t believe I did that' energy,” it continues.

The new cube—the only one of its kind in Canada—is slated to debut on the Victoria Day long weekend (May 16-18).

The glass cube will extend 2.1 metres (7 feet) beyond the edge of the 10-storey spiral tower. Built by BC structural engineering firm Aspect, the cube will consist of five panels of structural glass, supported by a steel frame.

The sides and ceiling will be 36 mm (1.42 inches) thick, with a base of 60 mm (2.36 inches). Each panel will consist of multiple layers (three on the walls and five on the floor) of bound-together glass, the SkyWalk team said.

“Hearts will race as visitors experience the feeling of floating mid-air, high in the sky, with nothing between them and the dramatic West Coast landscape, all around,” it said.

The Malahat SkyWalk is nestled along the highway bearing its name, approximately 35 minutes from downtown Victoria. It overlooks the Cowichan Valley. The SkyWalk has welcomed nearly one million viewseekers since it was built in 2021.

Make career goals feel less like a dream.

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⭐️ Capital Picks

🌼 Hola Mohalla began yesterday: Holle Mohalle di Vadhai!

📸 Government Street 1903: See a photograph of the street and its many awnings. [Facebook photo]

🗓️ As tax season approaches, learn key 2025 CRA changes to brackets and credits. Some cut your bill; others impact filing. Numberra has the details.*

⚓ Give like a drunken sailor. [Maritime Museum of BC fundraiser]

🌕 Tuesday’s blood moon is seen hanging over the Parliament Buildings. [Doug Clement]

*Sponsored Listing

Rethinking Canadian beekeeping

Meet Mischa Farivar, a new-generation BC beekeeper rebuilding a legacy operation for modern realities-breeding Canadian queens, reducing import risk, and strengthening hive health through smarter practices. A sharp, practical look at how innovation takes root in an old industry. Read his story.

🗞️ In Other News

Central Saanich considering 7.37% property tax increase
The proposed tax hike would mean an annual property tax increase of $205 for the average home in the peninsula district. Broken down, the increase includes $103 for municipal services, including fire services, $45 for policing, $9 for library resources, and $48 for infrastructure. Central Saanich’s chief administrative officer says the increase is one of the lowest in the region. Residents can share their thoughts on the $75.5M draft financial plan before April 10. [Times Colonist]

BC expands workers’ compensation coverage for firefighters
The province is changing the Workers Compensation Act to include eight additional cancers as diseases presumed to be linked to firefighting, adding to a list of 18 cancers currently covered. The province says firefighters made up 35% of all of WorkSafeBC’s cancer claims from 2010 to 2025, despite representing 0.5% of the provincial workforce. [BC Gov’t]

Member of US Coast Guard now in Washington after convalescing in Victoria
Tyler Jaggers, a rescue swimmer, was injured last Friday after responding to a medevac request for a stroke victim onboard a cargo ship about 120 nautical miles (222 km) from Cape Flattery, Wa. He was flown to Victoria General Hospital for treatment. Two aircraft were dispatched by 19 Wing Comox (a CC-295 Kingfisher and CH-149 Cormorant) to help with the emergency aboard the Momi Arrow. On Tuesday, Jaggers was transferred from Victoria to a US Army medical centre near Seattle. [CHEK]

🗓️ Things To Do

🌈 The Wizard of Oz at GNS: Students will present the stage production of the classic musical at Glenlyon Norfolk School Senior School. Today & tomorrow at 7pm. Saturday at 2pm. [Info]

🎵 Postsecondary Thursday Lunch Concert: VCM postsecondary students will share works-in-progress spanning everything from Bach to bluegrass at the Victoria Conservatory of Music today. 12:30-1:30pm. [Info]

🎺 Diana Braithwaite & Chris Whiteley: Toronto's award-winning blues and vintage jazz duo will bring their hot, fun sound to Hermann's tonight. 7-9pm. [Info]

🎤 Singer-Songwriter Showcase: Session 8: Three local singer-songwriters—Alexandra Berg, Cameron Schaefer, and Eric Fine—will take the stage at The Coda tonight. 6:30-8:30pm. [Info]

🏳️‍🌈 Sidney Pride Fundraiser: This all-ages fundraiser will feature drag performances by Vivian Vanderpuss, Mina Mercury, Eddi Licious, and Henrietta Dubét, plus a silent auction at Charlie White Theatre tonight. 7pm. [Info]

🎻 Strings Showcase Concert: Catch this evening of solo and ensemble performances by students of the VCM Strings Department at Alix Goolden Performance Hall tonight. 7:30-9pm. [Info]

🤣 Hellcats Fundraiser with Graham Clark: See the comedy of Graham Clark—known for CBC's The Debaters and Just For Laughs—and donate to the Hellcats at Hecklers Bar & Grill today. 8pm. [Info]

🎼 The Byrd Ensemble: Seattle's elite classical vocal group presents "Flemish Masters," featuring the music of three seminal Renaissance composers at Christ Church Cathedral tomorrow. 7:30-9:30pm. [Info]

👀 In Case You Missed It

Wednesday’s headlines: Victoria social platform helping people make friends; Metchosin is chosen for bird sanctuary; Good Samaritan turns in large sum of cash to VicPD [March 4]

How it’s hanging: It takes a team to put together the city’s hanging flower baskets. [Times Colonist]

Support T-Bone Wilson, local mentor, coach, and nonprofit founder, as he seeks treatment for stage 4 cancer. [GoFundMe]

BC Lions vs. Edmonton Elks in Langford, May 23. Tickets on sale March 31.

Heated in Victoria: Heated Rivalry star Hudson Williams spotted at YYJ. [CHEK]

Victoria Symphony 2026-27 season plans.

Greater Victoria Sports Award winners announced.

That’s it!

If you found something useful, consider forwarding this newsletter to a fellow Victorian.

And before you go, let us know:

March 4 - Birds of a feather and new cohorts

Capital Daily Team — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0000

Good morning {{First name}}!

Looking for new friends? Some say Victoria can be cliquey and cold. I don’t know. I heard the same thing about Toronto when I lived there.
Verdict: unresolved.
But if you are searching for new buds, you may want to consider joining a “cohort.”
In our first story, Robyn explains how that works, while in the second I write something for the birds.
Yeah, I know. What else is new?

— Mark

Today’s approx. read time: 5 minutes

🌡️ Weather Forecast

Today: 🌦️ 11 / 7

Tomorrow: 🌦️ 10 / 7

Friday: 🌧️ 9 / 8

Read on to learn more about LampPost and the team working to strike lasting friendships in Victoria.

NEWS

In search of friends? LampPost Social wants to hang with you

LampPost's Halloween pub crawl. Photo courtesy of Simon Larocque

There’s been much talk lately about a growing loneliness epidemic.

Loneliness was declared a global public health concern by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2023, when 16% of people worldwide—that’s one in six—said they experienced that feeling.

In Canada, the number is slightly lower overall: 13% (one in 7.7) of those aged 15 and older said they deal with loneliness, according to Statistics Canada. But this percentage grows significantly when looking at young adults—one in five people aged 15 to 24 say they always or often feel lonely.

Older adults also face an increased risk of loneliness, with 43% of Canadians aged 50 years+ at risk of social isolation, according to the National Institute on Aging.

It’s clear that people everywhere are struggling to connect, and Victorians are no different. But a small group of locals wants to change that.

LampPost Social is a platform dedicated to building community in Greater Victoria. It began as a newsletter for finding local events, but has since grown into a multi-platform hub for making connections in the city.

Founded by Simon Larocque and Jared Leary, LampPost hosts events, shares tips for making friends, and started a friendship-building program called Cohorts.

LampPost Cohorts gathers up to 12 people to take part in different activities over the course of six to eight weeks in the hope that it will lead to long-term friendships.

“We do pottery painting, run and cold dip, pub crawls, bowling, craft night, game night with just this array of people,” Larocque told Capital Daily.

So far, Larocque estimates that approximately 150 to 200 people have gone through the Cohort program, and “a ton” of friendships have blossomed as a result.

“You end up really seeing this crew of people that want to get out and want to meet one another,” he said.

⚠️ Capital Bulletin

Construction begins on Oak Bay neighbourhood bike lanes this Monday. [Info]

Driving today? Check the current traffic situation via Google.

Support local journalism by supporting Capital Daily. Become a Capital Daily Insider member today and help bring local stories to life.

NEWS

Metchosin’s Hummingbird Hill to house Rocky Point Bird Observatory

A rufous hummingbird hovers. Sooo sweet! Photo: Jonathan Moran

Hummingbird Hill, named for the rufous hummingbirds that return to that spot from Mexico and the southern US each spring to feed on local flowers, will be permanently protected by the BC Parks Foundation.

The site—some 15 km from downtown Victoria as the hummingbird flies—will serve as a bird sanctuary and headquarters for the Rocky Point Bird Observatory (RPBO) and will support education, research, and community programs.

“Protecting stopover spots like this helps birds complete their epic journeys across continents,” said BC Parks Foundation CEO Andy Day.

The 21-ha (51-acre) property went up for sale, and the Metchosin Foundation approached the BC Parks Foundation to help conserve it.

The BC Parks Foundation bought the site for $2.5M through a partnership with the Wilson 5 Foundation, the Metchosin Foundation, Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund, and community donors.

It includes a single-family home and outbuildings that will be converted into a research centre for the observatory.

The property sits next to the Galloping Goose Regional Trail within the Bilston Creek watershed and features Douglas fir forests, Garry oak meadows, and multiple small ponds.

The area's meadows, ponds, and forests provide a home to all kinds of birds, including northern saw-whet owls, turkey vultures, golden-crowned sparrows, and the eponymous hummingbirds.

“Our researchers are pleased to find that this site has healthy, abundant numbers of rufous hummingbirds, whose population has dropped by half since 1970," said Rosa Munzer, RPBO president. “It's encouraging to witness their resilience here.”

The RPBO has been tracking bird migration across the southern part of the Island since 1994. Its four monitoring programs and 125+ volunteers collect data on owls, songbirds, hummingbirds, and seabirds from the Salish Sea.

Licensed banding workers gather information—including pollen from songbirds and ticks for Lyme disease research—from thousands of birds every year.

Larger mammals, such as cougars, bears, deer, and elk, also inhabit the park.

“Preserving Hummingbird Hill is something positive and real that benefits birds, wildlife, and people now and in the future," said Day.

It’s an ecologically sensitive area, so access is restricted. However, the RPBO offers guided walks, and the adjacent Galloping Goose Trail is open to all.

Rent at Arden in Royal Bay

At the heart of Royal Bay, Arden introduces a new standard for rental living. Stunning seaside apartments with condo-level finishes surround a landmark clubhouse focused on wellness and connection, just steps from beaches, trails, and retail. It’s elevated living, built for all of life's chapters.

⭐️ Capital Picks

🎸 Sebastian Bach tonight at Capital Ballroom. [7:30pm]

🏈 BC Lions vs. Edmonton Elks in Langford, May 23. Tickets on sale March 31.

🆘 Support T-Bone Wilson, local mentor, coach, and nonprofit founder, as he seeks treatment for stage 4 cancer. [GoFundMe]

🔥Heated in Victoria: Heated Rivalry star Hudson Williams spotted at YYJ. [CHEK]

🎺 Victoria Symphony 2026-27 season plans.

🏆 Greater Victoria Sports Award winners announced.

🤣 “Baram and Snieckus are as much fun as you can have without taking your clothes off.” —Toronto Star. Big Stuff opens March 10.*

*Sponsored Listing

March meeting featuring local author, Moira Dann

Join us at our Canadian Club of Victoria Luncheon Meeting on Tuesday, March 13, from 11:45am to 1:30pm at the Hotel Grand Pacific, where Moira will be speaking about One Headstrong Heiress: The Conundrum of Kathleen Dunsmuir.

Deadline to register is Monday, March 9, at noon. Non-members are welcome to attend. Details here.

🗞️ In Other News

Police are on the lookout for distracted drivers across the region
They started in Victoria on Monday, and yesterday it was Saanich, where the police concentrated forces, watching for drivers on their phones and other unsafe practices. On Monday, VicPD issued 25 tickets—each for $368—for illegal use of an electronic device. On Tuesday, Saanich traffic officers handed out 17 similar tickets in just over one hour at McKenzie and Quadra—even though volunteers were stationed metres ahead, reminding motorists to drive safely. The crackdown will shift to the Westshore today, and tomorrow it’ll centre on North Saanich and Sidney. [Times Colonist]

A spike in pollen levels likely has a few Victorians’ noses out of joint
If you have allergies, you’re likely used to this sniffy dance every spring. It seems it’s an earlier battle this year, however, as pollen counts have hit upper levels. Aerobiology Research Laboratories (ARL) rated yesterday’s pollen forecast for Victoria as “high.” That represents a measurement of 81 to 200 grains of pollen per cubic metre of air. We buried the lede because today’s forecast is “very high,” meaning concentrations could exceed 200 grains per cubic metre. Sorry and gesundheit. [CHEK]

Chief coroner announces inquest into Tumbler Ridge shooting
Dr. Jatinder Baidwan, BC’s chief coroner, said the inquest will focus on mental health, public safety, and how the teenage shooter was able to access the firearms that killed two adults and six children in the small northern town. The inquest will result in evidence-based recommendations to prevent a similar incident from happening. A date for the inquest will be set once the investigative phase has concluded, Baidwan said. [BC Gov’t]

Good Samaritan finds a wad of cash at a downtown ATM
Stumbling upon a large stack of cash at a money machine could have been an automatic win for an automated teller user on Douglas near Fort. But instead of pocketing it and walking away, the good Samaritan called the police and waited. VicPD said they are holding onto the “hundreds of dollars” found at an ATM last Saturday at approximately 6:10pm as they await the rightful owner. [VicPD]

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🗓️ Things To Do

🎤 Italian Art Song Competition: Victoria Conservatory of Music voice students of all ages perform and compete in this annual competition. Drop-in attendance is welcome. Alix Goolden Performance Hall. Today. 5-9pm. [Info]

👻🎶 Danny Michel: The genre-defying singer-songwriter and Juno nominee brings his adventurous sound and charming stage presence to Sidney in support of his latest album, Ghost Town. Charlie White Theatre. Today. Doors 7pm, show 7:30pm. [Info]

👐 David Santana Trio: Chilean-born, Victoria-based jazz guitarist and composer David Santana leads his fiery trio through an evening of original jazz. Fathom Lounge. Saturday. 7:30-10pm. [Info]

😆 Hecklers Presents: Graham Clark: Standup comedy from Graham Clark, one of Canada's sharpest comics and a regular on CBC's The Debaters and Just For Laughs. Hecklers Bar & Grill. Saturday. 7pm and 10pm. [Info]

🐒 Jane Goodall: The Hope. CFUW Victoria presents a film to celebrate International Women’s Day with a screening of the National Geographic documentary about the life and influence of the esteemed late wildlife conservationist. Vic Theatre. March 8. 2pm. [Info] [Free]

🐰 Easter Egg Hunt: The Peninsula Celebrations Society invites families to hop over for some Easter basket-filling fun. April 5. Dominion Brook Park. North Saanich. 12pm. [Info]

👀 In Case You Missed It

Tuesday’s headlines: Daylight saving time to be permanent in BC; Indigenous tourism could be the new forestry industry; Victoria restaurant fined $7K for serving beer to a minor. [March 3]

Victoria's Chris Wilson is getting more than 15 minutes of fame on This Hour Has 22 Minutes. [Times Colonist]

Fake gold schemes are becoming a provincewide issue. [RCMP]

Recall: Compliments Organic brand Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt due to undeclared almonds. [Gov’t of Canada]

Visible song: A red-winged blackbird’s breath can be seen while it chirps in Saanich. [Facebook photo]

Support Ian and Carolynn McDowell, pillars of Victoria’s music scene, as they face medical and financial hardship. [GoFundMe]

That’s it!

If you found something useful, consider forwarding this newsletter to a fellow Victorian.

And before you go, let us know:

March 3 - Daylight saving time is here to stay

Capital Daily Team — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0000

Good morning {{First name}}!

Future BC generations won’t need to learn the phrase “spring forward, fall back”—the time will remain the same all year starting Sunday.

They also won’t need to relearn how to change the time on various kitchen appliances every six months (my microwave hasn’t been correct since the fall). Can’t wait.

— Robyn

Today’s approx. read time: 6 minutes

🌡️ Weather Forecast

Today: 🌧️ 10 / 7

Tomorrow: 🌦️ 12 / 7

Day after: ☀️

Read on to learn why some sleep experts are against the change.

NEWS

Daylight saving time to become permanent in BC

Clocks will move forward Monday for the last daylight saving time change. Photo: Shutterstock

This Sunday, when you set your clocks an hour ahead for the summer season, it will be for the last time.

BC is adopting daylight saving time (DST) for good, the provincial government announced yesterday. It’s a change the province said it would make nearly seven years ago, after surveying nearly 250K BC residents and learning 93% of them wanted to commit to year-round DST.

“British Columbians have been clear that seasonal time changes do not work for them,” said Premier David Eby. “This decision isn’t just about clocks. It’s about making life easier for families, reducing disruptions for businesses and supporting a stable, thriving economy.”

Despite committing to permanent DST in 2019, both the Horgan and Eby governments were hesitant to make the switch until western US states adopted the time change. But as relations between Canada and the US continue to sour, BC has decided to charge ahead alone.

“I am hopeful that our American neighbours will soon join us in ending disruptive time changes,” Eby said.

The province said in a release that “recent actions from the US have shifted how BC approaches decisions that merit alignment, including on time zones.”

“Making this change now reflects the current preferences and needs of British Columbians, and helps ensure the province is well-positioned to thrive, even when circumstances across the border evolve.”

The change will affect those in BC who are on Pacific Standard Time (PST), which is most of the province. Northeastern portions of BC—especially in the Peace River region—will remain on Mountain Standard Time year-round (which will essentially be PST once DST is permanent for the rest of the province). Southeastern areas, such as the East Kootenays, will continue to follow Alberta in observing Mountain DST during the summer and Mountain Standard Time in the winter.

⚠️ Capital Bulletin

Recall: Compliments Organic brand Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt due to undeclared almonds. [Gov’t of Canada]

Driving today? Check the current traffic situation via Google.

Support local journalism by supporting Capital Daily. Become a Capital Daily Insider member today and help bring local stories to life.

NEWS

Waves vs. Timber: Indigenous tourism could be BC’s next growth industry

Surfers relish a friendly, early February session on the Jordan River as a log boom is towed, destined for the Fraser River. Photo: Nora O’Malley, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

BC has long been a province built on timber. But maybe it’s time that changed.

Many in British Columbia—including those living in remote First Nations communities—rely on forestry revenue to keep the lights on. But as that industry deals with economic uncertainty, outdated forest legislation, and, in some regions, a declining fibre supply, it’s fair to wonder whether a move toward more tourism would be opportune.

“We watched the fishing industry decline to a scary, scary point. And we depend on that food,” said Paula Amos, chief marketing and development officer for Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC).

“Now, we’re watching the forestry decline. We are in a place where we need to look at other options and have a new story. I think tourism is a great option for that story,” said Amos.

In the last five years, Indigenous tourism has seen significant growth, and First Nations are just “scratching the surface” of an industry rife with opportunity, she said.

“Indigenous tourism is more than just building economies and jobs,” she said. “It’s about Indigenous people using tourism as an avenue to educate the world on who we are as First Nations people, as Indigenous people.”

BC’s tourism industry contributed $9.7B to the provincial gross domestic product (GDP) in 2023, according to government statistics—$4B more than forestry that year.

As the forest industry struggles through tariffs, mill closures, and a spate of job losses, turning focus to the power of BC’s tourism sector—which largely relies on natural beauty, including intact forests and waterways—may be more beneficial.

Nearly 69% of employees face this

“Equity, diversity and inclusion touches every aspect of a workplace—the leadership, culture, policies, procedures, behaviour, interactions, and even your own performance," says Karen Saini, an instructor with Continuing Studies at UVic.

According to the Survey Series on Accessibility – Experiences with Accessibility and Employment (SSA-EAE), nearly seven in 10 (69%) employed persons with disabilities or long-term conditions experienced at least one barrier to accessibility in the workplace.

These barriers may be physical, digital or cultural, and they can directly affect a person’s ability to fully participate and succeed at work. The new, six-week Accessibility in the Workplace course is designed to change this. Discover more about the course, which starts on March 31.

⭐️ Capital Picks

🐦 Visible song: A red-winged blackbird’s breath can be seen while it chirps in Saanich. [Facebook photo]

🧑‍🏫 Glenlyon Norfolk School empowers students to lead with confidence. Attend an upcoming Open House to see how IB learning and belonging shape extraordinary futures.*

🆘 Support Ian and Carolynn McDowell, pillars of Victoria’s music scene, as they face medical and financial hardship. [GoFundMe.]

🌲 A year of coastal forest wonder at the Malahat Skywalk. [Learn more]*

*Sponsored Listing

Help us fuel families this March

Your donation delivers twice the impact. Peninsula Co-op is matching up to $20,000 to provide fuel vouchers for Island Kids Cancer Association families. Rising fuel costs add strain during a child’s cancer treatment. Donations ease travel expenses and give Island families breathing room when they need it most. Donate Today.

🗞️ In Other News

Victoria restaurant fined $7K for serving beer to a minor
The incident occurred last June at the Fifth Street Bar & Woodfire Grill on Hillside. A 16-year-old minor hired through the liquor branch’s “Minors as Agents Program” came to the restaurant with a liquor inspector. The minor ordered a beer and then left after the drink was brought to their table. The restaurant’s general manager didn’t dispute the incident but claimed a defence of “due diligence,” arguing they took steps to train staff on liquor policies. A judge decided Fifth Street had not done enough to prep staff and issued the fine. [CHEK]

City to adopt restrictions on election- and referendum-related advertising
If passed later this spring, the City of Victoria will have new guidelines on what it disseminates to the public during voting periods—there’s a municipal election in October. Coun. Stephen Hammond drew attention to this issue just before the Feb. 2025 referendum on the Crystal Pool. He said the city had put out one-sided ads favouring the idea of a yes response. Under the new regulations, a city manager will have to sign off on these promotional materials, ensuring they’re not biased. [Times Colonist]

Cowichan Nation and BC government begin talks over land in Richmond
Last August, the BC Supreme Court ruled that city titles over roughly 300 ha of land near the Fraser River in Richmond are invalid and that the Crown was wrong to grant private titles on the land because it unjustifiably infringed on the Cowichan title. In a joint statement, the two sides said they are now in discussions about the land. In the meantime, both sides are moving forward with their appeals to the BC Court of Appeal, a process legal observers suggest may take up to five years. [BC Gov]

Enjoying our newsletter? Help us make it even better!

Become an Insider member and help keep local journalism and storytelling alive in the Capital Region.

Experience Bold Contemporary Dance with GALLIM

On March 6 + 7, New York’s acclaimed GALLIM brings a raw, exhilarating program to the Royal Theatre. Led by visionary Artistic Director Andrea Miller, the company fuses classical, pop, and electronic music—from Strauss to Sade—with unfiltered emotion and striking precision. Tickets from $34.

🗓️ Things To Do

📚 Postsecondary Info Night: The VCM's postsecondary department hosts its annual info night for students and parents at Victoria Conservatory of Music tonight. 7-8pm. [Info]

🎶 William Prince: Further from the Country: The two-time Juno Award-winning Manitoba singer-songwriter brings his acclaimed fifth album to the Royal Theatre tonight. 8pm. [Info]

🎵 Italian Art Song Competition: VCM voice students of all ages perform and compete in this annual competition, receiving feedback from respected adjudicators at Alix Goolden Performance Hall tomorrow. 5-9pm. [Info]

🎸 Danny Michel: The genre-defying singer-songwriter and Juno nominee brings his adventurous sound and charming stage presence to the Charlie White Theatre tomorrow. 7:30pm. [Info]

🎤 Singer-Songwriter Showcase: Session 8: Three local singer-songwriters—Alex Be, Cameron Schaefer, and Eric Fine—take the stage for an evening of original music at The Coda. Thurs. 6:30-8:30pm. [Info]

🏳️‍🌈 Sidney Pride Fundraiser: An all-ages Sidney Pride fundraiser featuring local drag performers Vivian Vanderpuss, Mina Mercury, Eddi Licious, and Henrietta Dubét, plus a silent auction at Charlie White Theatre. Thurs. 7pm. [Info]

👀 In Case You Missed It

Sunday’s headlines: National pharmacare brings free diabetes and menopause meds to BC; Weekly roundup; March events. [March 1]

Sea lions everywhere: the herring run has Deep Bay looking like a National Geographic cover. [CHEK]

Wolf-dog in Victoria put down after being deemed ‘un-adoptable.’ [Times Colonist]

8 new EV charging ports for Saanich. [BC Hydro]

Pop-up yard waste drop-off. [Langford, March 7, 14, & 21]

That’s it!

If you found something useful, consider forwarding this newsletter to a fellow Victorian.

And before you go, let us know:

March 1 - National pharmacare kicks in today

Capital Daily Team — Sun, 01 Mar 2026 14:30:00 +0000

Good morning {{First name}}!

Tiny Town—that shipping container village nestled between Royal Athletic Park and Quadra—is being dismantled.
Caledonia Place, as it’s also known, was used as a temporary transition community, and roughly 150 people found it to be a useful springboard to permanent housing.
The City of Victoria extended temporary land-use permits three times, which is all it could legally do. The mayor sent letters all over the CRD asking for someone to adopt the project, but there were no takers.
The 30 shipping containers will be disassembled this week and shipped off to New Westminster, where they will be reassembled into another temporary community.
More here from CTV.

I’d like to snag this space in the newsletter to send a heartfelt shout-out to one of our dear readers. Patricia P. is celebrating a milestone birthday today.
Happy Birthday, Patricia P.!

— Mark

Today’s approx. read time: 6 minutes

🌡️ Weather Forecast

Today: ☀️ 9 / 5

Tomorrow: 🌤️ 8 / 5

Tuesday: 🌧️ 8 / 7

NEWS

Diabetes and menopause medications now free as BC joins the national pharmacare plan

Photo illustration: Shutterstock

What that means is as of today, more than half a million BC residents living with diabetes (Types 1 and 2) and approximately 160K people with menopausal symptoms won’t have to pay for those prescriptions.

Provincial Health Minister Josie Osborne calls it a “game changer."
Saanich’s Teale Phelps Bondaroff, who has been advocating for this, among other health issues, is commending the BC and federal governments “for following through on their commitment to implement the PharmaCare Act and eliminate out-of-pocket costs for these life-saving and life-changing medications."

In 2017, Phelps Bondaroff, a Saanich councillor, co-founded the AccessBC Campaign for free prescription contraception for all residents, which became a reality in April 2023.

“The successful uptake of BC’s groundbreaking free prescription contraception program has already demonstrated the transformative impact of removing financial barriers to basic health care,” Phelps Bondaroff said.

“We will be celebrating here in BC, while urging the federal government to ensure that people across Canada receive the same level of universal access.”

Also known as Plan NP, the policy—which is called PharmaCare with a capital C in BC—is being slowly rolled out one province and territory at a time.

Manitoba was the first to sign on, followed by PEI and Yukon. The remaining provinces and territories are at various stages of looking into the program.

Last year, the province and the feds signed a four-year agreement to implement the Pharmacare program here, with $670M in support from Ottawa.

Beginning today, BC residents get full coverage of the cost for eligible diabetes and menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) medications. Some additional medications will be partially covered.
Coverage for selected diabetes-related devices and supplies will also be extended beginning April 1, Phelps Bondaroff said.

The plan covers “first-line” treatments such as insulin and metformin, but Ozempic—a diabetes medication frequently prescribed for weight loss—and its generic forms do not fall under the plan. They are covered under BC’s Fair PharmaCare plan and subject to deductibles.
BC’s free contraceptives remain free under national pharmacare.

See what’s covered here.

⚠️ Capital Bulletin

E&N Trail will be closed tomorrow between Admirals and Stancombe Pl., 9am-3pm. [CRD]

Saanich road closures:

Cedar Hill between Churchill and Ash, tomorrow through Thursday
Reynolds at Cedar Hill Cross, through Tuesday, 9am-3pm
Kremlin between Broadmead and Kisber, through Friday, overnight 4pm-8am
Kisber at Kremlin, through Friday, all day

Saanich single-lane alternating traffic:

Reynolds between Cedar Hill Cross and Cumberland, through Wednesday, 8:30am-3:30pm
Admirals between Cowper and Arundel, Wednesday through Friday, 9am-3:30pm

Saanich single-lane traffic: 3925 Quadra near Union, Tuesday, 9am-3pm

Cook closed tomorrow between Dallas and Woodstock. 7am-3:30pm. [City of Vic]

Driving today? Check the current traffic situation via Google.

To maintain full access to the Sunday edition, become a Capital Daily Insider for only $8.66/month when you sign on as an annual member.

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Feb 27 - Kids' camp planning made easier

Capital Daily Team — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000

Good morning {{First name}}!

I’m not a parent, so I have zero concept of this.
But I hear it can be a bit of a process trying to get your kid into spring or summer camp.
That’s what the founders of a solution to this particular challenge have told me, so that’s how I wrote it up.

Also, someone’s finally done something for one of the most underrated burger toppings of all time. (Oh, I know, it’s much more than a topping.)

— Mark

Today’s approx. read time: 5 minutes

🌡️ Weather Forecast

Today: 🌤️ 10 / 4

Tomorrow: 🌤️ 9 / 4

Sunday: ☀️ 9 / 4

NEWS

2 Central Saanich dads just made kids’ camp planning a lot less painful

Michael Doyle (left) and Craig Frew (right) may be onto something that could be a timesaver. Photo: Michael Doyle

The fathers figure they’ve come up with a way to save parents time and worry when searching for a spring or summer camp for their kids.

“There's just so many providers out there, and they all have different websites, and they all have different ways of formatting the information," says Craig Frew, co-developer of a new app called CampMatch.

“You kind of have to go to like, 15, 20 different websites—just through Googling—register at all of them, try to find something that fits your schedule and has before- and after-care, so you end up sitting there for usually, like a weekend with a spreadsheet,” says Michael Doyle, the other co-developer.

Not looking forward to another weekend peering into an imposing spreadsheet, they decided parents needed a place to shop for camps. So, turning to their web backgrounds, they pulled data from BC and Alberta rec centres, schools, and municipalities and put it all on one site.

CampMatch is a database of more than 6K camps, public and private. Parents can sift through to compare options, to make their kids’ spring and summer-camp plans all in one place.

“So, you can essentially add your kid, put their age, or their grade. What their swimming level is. What their bike level is. And it can either recommend—or you could search based on those parameters—exactly what you need for your kids, and pretty much build a schedule. That would have taken you, like a day before—in like 20 minutes,” Doyle tells Capital Daily.

Frew says their “evolving platform" has been a hit for the 3K or so parents who have used it since it went live one month ago.

⚠️ Capital Bulletin

E&N Trail will be closed on Monday between Admirals and Stancombe Pl., 9am-3pm. [CRD]

Saanich road closure: Reynolds at Cedar Hill Cross. Through Tuesday, 9am-3pm.

Saanich single-lane alternating traffic: Reynolds between Cedar Hill Cross and Cumberland, through Wednesday, 8:30am-3:30pm.

Saanich single-lane traffic: Quadra at Saanich, today, 8am-3pm.

Driving today? Check the current traffic situation via Google.

Support local journalism by supporting Capital Daily. Become a Capital Daily Insider member today and help bring local stories to life.

NEWS

Dill with it: Picklefest is coming to Victoria this summer

Past Picklefests look like a lot of fun. Photo: Picklefest

If you get a call this August from a friend or relative declaring they’re “in a pickle,” don’t be alarmed—it’s actually a fun thing.

Picklefest is coming to Victoria, bringing what organizers call Canada’s largest and fastest-growing festival, “celebrating all things pickled and fermented.”

It’s a one-day, all-ages, picklepalooza featuring 35+ vendors ready to sell everything from kimchi to kombucha to zesty hot sauces. The pickle fun will run from 11am to 7pm on Saturday, Aug. 15, at Phillips Backyard on Government.

According to its website, Picklefest launched in Toronto in 2023 through Henderson Brewing Company. The founders say it’s more than just a food or beer festival, although it's not clear whether a pickleball game will break out.

"It's a cultural phenomenon that celebrates the diverse tapestry of flavours that pickling brings to the culinary world," says Adin Wener, a Henderson Brewing co-founder.

“As craft beer aficionados, we revel in the complex fermentation processes, making this festival a perfect fusion of our passions. Plus, I just love watching people’s faces light up when they talk about pickles.”

After expanding to Vancouver last year, the post-cucumber festival is ready to take a bite out of other parts of Canada, by hitting Victoria, Calgary, Edmonton, and Charlottetown.

Tickets are already on sale, ranging from early bird general admission at $14.95 (+ fees) to regular general admission at $24.95 (+ fees). For an extra $10, you can upgrade to a VIP (very important pickle) pass, which gets you in an hour early for extra brine time, ahead of all the pickle people.

Kids 12 and under get in free with a pickle-parent or ticket-holding guardian.

SPONSORED BY PACIFIC OPERA VICTORIA

See Orpheus & Eurydice in April

Pacific Opera Victoria just wrapped its sold-out performances of Puccini's Tosca, and they're getting the stage set for the next one—Gluck's Orpheus & Eurydice, coming to the Royal in April. Featuring dancers from Ballet Victoria, this opera is a timeless retelling of one of mythology’s most haunting romances.

⭐️ Capital Picks

🍞⚕️Grocers Go Beyond for BC Cancer Nanaimo.

🧑‍🏫 Glenlyon Norfolk School empowers students to lead with confidence. Attend an upcoming Open House to see how IB learning and belonging shape extraordinary futures.*

🗑️ Pop-up yard waste drop-off. [Langford, March 7, 14, & 21]

🌞 Make career goals feel less like a dream. Skill up today with Continuing Studies at UVic and step into your future with confidence.*

🥒 Picklefest: The new food festival will be at Phillips Backyard Aug. 15. [Details]

🚴 Esquimalt bike lanes: Phase 2 survey.

^{*Sponsored Listing}

🗞️ In Other News

Scaled-down Shelbourne plan gets green light from Saanich council
The council amended the plan to cap building heights at six storeys, instead of what was initially proposed—limits of 12 and 18-storeys. The updated plan is meant to be a 30-year blueprint for land-use and transportation decisions in the area. Few changes will be made to transportation as the Shelbourne Street Improvement Project is nearing completion. Council is expected to vote on a final draft later this spring, with a public hearing likely to be held in late April or early May. The updated plan—in the works since 2024—will replace the current one, adopted in 2017. [Times Colonist]

BC’s minimum wage to rise to $18.25 per hour in 3 months
The change will take effect on June 1. It’s a 40-cent increase from the current general minimum wage of $17.85 per hour. Minimum wage for app-based ride-hailing and delivery service workers will also go up that day, to $21.89 per hour of engaged time, a one-dollar increase from the current hourly wage. The changes are in line with BC’s average monthly inflation rate from last year, 2.1%. In 2011, B.C.’s minimum wage was the lowest in Canada, at just $8 per hour. It’s currently the highest provincially, just ahead of Ontario and behind two territories: Nunavut and Yukon. [BC Gov’t]

Arm’s-length and out of reach: feds can’t scrutinize BC Ferries' ship deal with China
In July, the House of Commons transport committee launched a study into BC Ferries’ $1B loan from the Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) to help pay for four new electric-diesel ships from a Chinese manufacturer. The conclusion: the feds had no authority to conduct a security review into a province’s purchases. Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree also said since the CIB is an “arm’s-length” organization, the federal government doesn’t have the legal power to review funding to examine security issues.[CHEK]

Enjoying our newsletter? Help us make it even better!

Become an Insider member and help keep local journalism and storytelling alive in the Capital Region.

🗓️ Things To Do

🎶 An Evening with Twenty Fingers, featuring Doug Cox & Steve Mitchell: After a 30-year hiatus, veteran West Coast musicians reunite for a loose, adventurous show featuring dobro, tenor ukulele, and four new original songs. The Coda. Tonight. Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm. [Info]

🎻 Pacific Baroque Festival 2026—Concert #3: Fervour and Fantasy: Soprano Rachel Allen, who began singing with the Victoria Children's Choir and now performs in London concert halls, returns to perform Spanish and Neapolitan cantatas. Alix Goolden Performance Hall. Tonight. 7-9pm. [Info]

🥖 Les Misérables School Edition: St. Michael's University School presents Victor Hugo's epic musical. A student cast, crew, and orchestra follow Jean Valjean's lifelong struggle for redemption. McPherson Playhouse. Through Sunday. Various times. [Info]

🤼 USS: The Ultimate Weekend Warrior Tour: USS brings their sophisticated sound and myth-like presence to Victoria with vocalist/guitarist Ashley Boo-Schultz and hypeman/turntablist Human Kebab leading the nine-piece band. Royal Theatre. Tonight. 8pm. [Info]

🪸 Mini Mariner Mornings: Home Sweet Home!: Explore coral reefs and kelp forests through story, dance, and crafts, making your own Lophelia reef while learning about ecosystems. Maritime Museum of BC. Tomorrow. 10-11am. [Info]

👒 Winter Vintage Fair: Something for everyone at this vintage fair and makers market featuring vendors and entertainment, including Polynesian dance, a fashion show, and special guest Melanie Kohn, the voice of Lucy from “The Peanuts." Mary Winspear Centre. Tomorrow. 9:30am-4pm. [Info]

💃 PYP Dance Extravaganza: Peninsula Young Performers present a special preview of group routines headed to competition in two shows. Charlie White Theatre. Tomorrow. 2pm and 7pm. [Info]

🩰 Kix 'N' Rhythm: Karen Clark Dance Studio presents a fast-paced evening with dancers of all ages performing tap, jazz, ballet, lyrical, contemporary, hip hop, musical theatre, and acrobatics. Royal Theatre. Tomorrow. 6:30pm. [Info]

🎼 Pacific Baroque Festival 2026—Concert #4: A Night in Madrid with Luigi Boccherini: Experience the Italian composer's quintets, composed during his exile with the Spanish Infante, including music featured in Master and Commander. Alix Goolden Performance Hall. Tomorrow. 7-9pm. [Info]

🥃 Vancouver Island Whisky Fest: Vancouver Is

land's whisky makers come together to showcase the depth, character, and craftsmanship of Island-distilled whisky. Merridale Cidery. Sat. 7-9pm. [Info]

🎷 Gordon Clements Trio: Victoria Music Hall of Fame inductee Gordon Clements performs on clarinet, saxophone, and flute, sharing decades of jazz expertise. Inn at Laurel Point, Fathom Lounge. Tomorrow. 7:30-10pm. [Info]

👀 In Case You Missed It

Thursday’s headlines: 600 flower baskets hang in the balance; The kid who ran Saanich for a morning; Tentative deal for community health workers. [Feb. 26]

Flu and norovirus outbreaks at four Island hospitals, including two in Greater Victoria. [CHEK]

Changes to UK passport rules leave dual citizens scrambling. [CTV]

Brass Monkey Taproom (formerly Moon Under Water) has its grand opening tonight. [Info]

Hockey night in Victoria: See skaters on a frozen Panama Flats in 1972. [Facebook photo]

Sea lions and seagulls feast on herring during spawning season. [Facebook photos]

That’s it!

If you found something useful, consider forwarding this newsletter to a fellow Victorian.

And before you go, let us know:

Feb 26 - 600 flower baskets hang in the balance

Capital Daily Team — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000

Good morning {{First name}}!

Victoria’s flower count begins next week. If you have friends or family living out East, where winter is in full force, it might be best not to tell them that. No need to salt their wounds.

— Robyn

Today’s approx. read time: 5 minutes

🌡️ Weather Forecast

Today: 🌦️ 10 / 7

Tomorrow: ⛅ 11 / 4

Day after: ⛅ 9 / 4

NEWS

The case for more baskets: Victoria's hanging baskets are short 600 flowers

Hanging baskets near the legislature. Photo: DGV / GVFC

The region’s tourism agency has launched a pilot fundraising program to help install more flower baskets downtown.

It’s called the Hanging Basket Donation Program, and it's a way for residents, businesses, and other organizations to help continue a tradition that began in 1937 to mark Victoria’s 75th year as an incorporated city.

“Supporting a vibrant streetscape strengthens the experience for residents and visitors,” said Paul Nursey, CEO for Destination Greater Victoria (DGV).

“This sense of place is fundamental to a healthy, sustainable visitor economy.”

Victoria city council had to make some budget cuts last year to reduce property taxes, and one of the places it hit hard was its hanging basket program.

The cut means the city could only budget for 600 hanging baskets this year, half as many as last year.

The goal is to raise $130K, which would restore the program to its previous scale. DGV and the City of Victoria are working together to administer the flower basket fundraising program, and they’ve got some corporate support already kicking in.

The Butchart Gardens is contributing $25K, DGV and the Downtown Victoria Business Association (DVBA) are each kicking in $10K, and the good folks at CHEK-TV have pledged $10K in promotional and financial support.

Donations can be made in person at DGV’s Visitor Centre on Wharf, via e-transfer (hangingbaskets@victoria.ca), or in person at City Hall.

Flower Count returns

The hanging basket drive coincides with another spring tradition, the Greater Victoria Flower Count, which begins on Wednesday at 7am and closes a week later, on March 11, at 4pm.

Since 1976, Greater Victoria has been conducting the Victoria Flower Count. Last year, the community counted more than 44B blooms.

Victoria’s count as the bloomingest community winner was 30B+ flowers—nearly four times as many as runner-up Saanich at 7.9B flowers.

Ms. Moll’s class at Margaret Jenkins Elementary took home the bloomingest classroom honours.

“Since the hanging basket program began in 1937, flowers have helped define the welcoming character of our downtown,” said Victoria Mayor Marianne Alto.

“The Greater Victoria Flower Count continues this tradition, inviting residents to celebrate our city’s natural beauty.”

⚠️ Capital Bulletin

Traffic lights down at Blanshard and Caledonia today. Work is expected to take 4-5 hours. [City of Victoria]

Saanich road closure: Reynolds at Cedar Hill Cross, today, 9am to 3pm.

Driving today? Check the current traffic situation via Google.

NEWS

The kid who ran Saanich for a morning

Oskar, learning the ropes of a Council meeting in Council Chambers. Photo: District of Saanich

It must have slipped between news cycles, but earlier this month, Saanich had a change of mayors.

Dean Murdock stepped aside and into the role of mayor’s assistant to make way for Mayor for the Morning Oskar Williams.

Williams, 10, was given the big chair after winning the mayor and councillors’ holiday card contest late last year.

Wearing his mayor’s chain of office—a string of Froot Loops cereal—Oskar had a full calendar at Municipal Hall.

The mayor for the morning:

Learned how a council meeting works
Visited Curby, the district’s mini street sweeper, to discern how public works staffers keep protected bike lanes clear
Liaised with Saanich’s finance department and met various staff
Toured the Saanich police and fire stations and really liked all the super cool vehicles

Oskar made quite the impression with his innovative and progressive ideas and policy proposals, which include:

Bringing outdoor swimming pools to Saanich
Eating ice cream sundaes every Sunday
Mandating a four-day workweek

“He brought many thoughtful ideas, questions, and a cheerful spirit that will serve him well in his future endeavors,” said Murdock, the mayor’s assistant.

“Oskar would be a great candidate for a future Saanich mayor.”

At the end of his tenure as mayor, Oskar was presented with a colourful sour key to the district, Saanich said in a release.

⭐️ Capital Picks

🦭 Sea lions and seagulls feast on herring during spawning season. [Facebook photos]

🐦 "Absolutely wonderful!” Final week - Maanomaa, My Brother, closes on Sunday, March 1. Pay-what-you-want tickets are available for all performances.*

🍺 Brass Monkey Taproom (formerly Moon Under Water) grand opening tomorrow. [Info]

📈 From March 10 - 11 Rising Economy unites leaders and innovators shaping Greater Victoria's future. Learn what’s actually driving growth and how to activate opportunity.*

🏒 Hockey night in Victoria: See skaters on a frozen Panama Flats in 1972. [Facebook photo]

🌈 Win big while making a difference! The Pot of Gold 50/50 supports Island kids with complex health needs. Tickets on sale until March 17.*

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Explore Shawnigan Retreats and plan your getaway today. Learn more about Shawnigan Retreats.

🗞️ In Other News

BC Transit admits it should have sent replacement after bus filled with fumes
Passengers taking the Route 70 bus on Monday evening said acrid-smelling fumes were present for most of the 45-minute ride from the Swartz Bay ferry terminal. The bus driver pulled over to a pedestrian island on the Pat Bay after passengers complained of visible smoke. After conducting a visual check of the bus, the driver said it was fit to continue, and those uncomfortable with the smell could wait at the rural highway stop for the next bus, coming in 30 minutes. The next day, BC Transit said a replacement vehicle should have been sent to pick up riders. [Times Colonist]

Trial begins for man charged with double murder in Saanich
Christopher Cathcart is accused of stabbing and killing two unhoused people, one of whom was his long-term girlfriend, in separate locations in 2022. William Bradshaw was stabbed on a grass median at Blanshard and Saanich Road, where he was sheltering. Shortly after Bradshaw was killed, Cathcart allegedly chased his girlfriend, Stephanie “Jade” Elk, into a stranger’s home on Bethune, where he stabbed her 21 times. Prosecutors say the same knife was used on both victims. One witness says Cathcart and Elk’s relationship was rocky before her death. [CHEK]

Community health workers reach tentative deal with the province
The union representing 26K health-care assistants, care aides, and supportive housing and shelter workers says it has a preliminary agreement that includes pay raises. The workers, who also support patients in treatment and mental-health programs, have been without a contract for more than a year. Their representative, the Community Bargaining Association, which oversees seven unions, says it will share the information with members in the coming weeks and then announce a date to vote on ratification. [BIV]

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🗓️ Things To Do

📊 Digital Marketing Masterclass: Learn about social media strategies, Google Ads, SEO, and 2026 marketing trends at Mary Winspear Centre today. 9am-3pm. [Info]

🎻 Pacific Baroque Festival 2026—Concert #2: Suave Melodies and Spanish Follies: La Modestine trio performs intimate baroque music at Alix Goolden Performance Hall today. 11am-1pm. [Info]

🎵 Post-secondary Thursday Lunch Concert: Victoria Conservatory of Music postsecondary students share their musical works-in-progress at Robin & Winifred Wood Hall today. 12:30-1:30pm. [Info]

🧵 Fabric Printmaking Workshop: Carve your own ocean-inspired linocut stamp and create a printed tea towel or tote bag at the Maritime Museum of BC today. 5:30-7:30pm. [Info]

🎶 Kelby MacNayr presents Love Songs featuring Sara Marreiros: An intimate evening celebrating romance through the Great American Songbook, with vocalist/drummer Kelby MacNayr and Sara Marreiros at Hermann's tonight. 7pm. [Info]

💃 Swing Dance Party with the Atomic Cocktails: Slim Sandy's Atomic Cocktails play swing tunes from the '30s and '40s at The Coda tonight. 6:30-8:30pm. [Info]

🎭 🇫🇷 Les Misérables School Edition: St. Michaels University School will present the popular musical, based on the Victor Hugo novel, with a student cast, crew, and orchestra at McPherson Playhouse tonight. 7:30pm. Running through Sunday. [Info]

🎞️ Titane: See the 2021 thriller from France/Belgium, in French with English subtitles, in Clearihue C112 tonight as part of the Écrans/Scènes Festival at UVic. 6-7:30pm. The free festival will run through April 15. [Info]

👀 In Case You Missed It

Wednesday’s headlines: Bill inspired by Island boy’s death passes second reading; Wild ARC in search of volunteers; Island Highway construction put on hold. [Feb. 25]

The Saanich school district might introduce school bus fees next year. [CHEK]

Person arrested Tuesday after brief standoff in Rockland. [Times Colonist]

Spring wildflowers make their first appearance in Nanaimo. [Facebook photos]

See a sea turtle? The DFO is collecting data about sea turtle sightings on BC’s coast, with nearly 250 reports recorded over the last century. [Fisheries and Oceans]

Arrange a Neighbourhood Grant. [City of Victoria]

Sooke Job Fair: [March 20, 1-5pm]

That’s it!

If you found something useful, consider forwarding this newsletter to a fellow Victorian.

And before you go, let us know:

Feb 25 - ‘Xavier’s Law’ takes another step

Capital Daily Team — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000

Good morning {{First name}}!

If you got caught in slow-moving traffic on the Island Highway in View Royal the last couple of days, there’s good immediate news: BC Hydro has suspended its underground work, so construction is being put on hold.
Of course, that just means that the work will be done at a later date, and we don’t know when that will be.

— Mark

Today’s approx. read time: 5 minutes

🌡️ Weather Forecast

Today: 🌦️ 9 / 6

Tomorrow: 🌦️ 10 / 6

Friday: ⛅ 7 / 4

NEWS

‘Xavier’s Law’ passes second reading in BC legislature

Xavier Rasul-Jankovics. Photo: Change.org

The private member’s bill, named for a young South Island boy who was killed in a tragic collision last summer, would amend the Motor Vehicle Act to clearly define “reckless driving.”

The amendment would also create an immediate 30-day operating prohibition for reckless driving and would require police to report every reckless driving prohibition to the Superintendent of Motor Vehicles in order to track high-risk drivers.

Bill M 226, introduced by Juan de Fuca-Malahat MLA Dana Lajeunesse, is informally named “Xavier’s Law” after 12-year-old Xavier Rasul-Jankovics, who was rollerblading with his family on their quiet Cobble Hill road when he was killed by a 17-year-old driver.

Shawnigan Lake RCMP said at the time that “speed played an important factor” in the boy’s death. As the driver sped down the road in the family’s direction, the teen lost control of the vehicle, hitting Xavier before driving into a telephone pole. The teen and his passenger sustained minor injuries.

In the weeks after Xavier was killed, his family said they were shocked to find out that drivers involved in deadly crashes could keep their licences. They said police were unable to confirm whether the teen driver had his licence revoked. No charges have been laid against the teen, though RCMP say the investigation is ongoing.

After Xavier’s death, his family began to push for stronger policies around reckless driving, creating a Change.org petition that has since amassed 14K+ signatures. They met with multiple MPs and MLAs to make “Xavier’s Law” a reality.

Now, with two readings cleared, the bill will be reviewed by a committee of MLAs. The public can share feedback on “Xavier’s Law” through March 10.

⚠️ Capital Bulletin

Missing person: Randy Rogers, 38, last seen Monday in Langford. [RCMP]

Saanich road closure: Reynolds at Cedar Hill Cross, today and tomorrow, 9am to 3pm.

Saanich single-lane traffic: Beckwith at Quadra, today, 9am to 3pm.

Driving today? Check the current traffic situation via Google.

Support local journalism by supporting Capital Daily. Become a Capital Daily Insider member today and help bring local stories to life.

NEWS

Wild animal rehab centre puts out the bat signal for spring volunteers

Can you see yourself caring for this fawn? Photo: Wild ARC

If you are passionate about wild animals and their welfare, want to invest 2-4 hours a week from April to September, and don’t mind cleaning up the odd animal mess, you may be exactly what the BC SPCA’s Wild Animal Rehabilitation Centre (Wild ARC) in Metchosin needs.

BC SPCA Wild ARC is looking for 100 volunteers to help care for 2K wild animal patients, from hummingbirds to eagles, squirrels to raccoons, deer fawns, and river otters. These are sick, injured, or orphaned animals that could use a helping hand.

“About 80% of the animals that come into our care are because of something related to human activity,” says Ashley Currie, Wild ARC’s manager.

“Our work provides an opportunity to give back and make a tangible difference.”

Wild ARC is the only wildlife rehab centre on the South Island. In an average year, 70% of Wild ARC’s patients are birds. The other 30% are mammals, with the occasional reptile and amphibian.

Last year, 150+ volunteers invested 17K hours of their time helping the nonprofit’s core rehab staff perform life-saving care to more than 140 different animal species.

“We provide all the training required for our various roles, so we only ask that applicants to our volunteer program are keen to learn, passionate about wild animals, and want to make a difference in their community,” Currie says.

Volunteers must be 19 years old, although keeners aged 16-18 are also welcome, provided their parents or guardians sign off.

Wild ARC is sending out the bat signal for volunteers now because the busy season is coming up, with the stork dropping off babies left, right, and centre. Monthly intake soars from 50-75 patients this time of year to near 400 in the spring and beyond that in early summer.

Wild ARC was established in 1997 as part of the BC SPCA’s 100th year. It has treated 61K+ animals since. Patient No. 60K was a barn swallow that had fallen from a nest on Salt Spring Island last July.
Here’s a list by species of the animals Wild ARC has nursed back to health over the last 28 years.

And here’s where you can apply to volunteer before April 30.

Please help PHS care for people in crisis

In Victoria, PHS Community Services Society provides 290 units of supportive housing with round‑the‑clock supports, a homeless shelter, a 22‑bed recovery program, and daily meals for the people served in these programs.

Please donate to PHS today to help restore stability and dignity for those experiencing homelessness.

⭐️ Capital Picks

💗 Pink Shirt Day is today.

💕🎞️ A Place Where I Belong is showing tonight, 7pm. at Cinecenta.

🐢 See a sea turtle? The DFO is collecting data about sea turtle sightings on BC’s coast, with nearly 250 reports recorded over the last century. [Fisheries and Oceans]

💲Arrange a Neighbourhood Grant. [City of Victoria]

🤝 Sooke Job Fair: [March 20, 1-5pm]

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🗞️ In Other News

Clearer sailing: BC Hydro puts Island Highway work in View Royal on hold
Spokesman Ted Olynyck said the underground work on the Island Highway near Four Mile Pub has been suspended after excavation crews discovered some “challenges.” He didn’t say specifically what those challenges are, but he did say it had something to do with the covering on the buried hydro lines. Work began on Monday and was supposed to last two weeks. Now the plan is to reopen the closed eastbound lane today and repave on Friday. It’s going to be just gravel until then, so the Town of View Royal encourages you to drive accordingly. Traffic will be reduced to single-alternating lanes from 9am to 3pm for Friday’s paving. [Times Colonist]

Downtown vegan restaurant Odd Burger will close on Sunday
The last chance to get an oddburger will be Saturday, after the non-meat restaurant chain announced yesterday on social media that it was closing its doors at the end of the month. Owners of the restaurant, which opened in August 2024, cite high rent and low sales. The chain has a dozen+ locations across the country, including in Vancouver. It’s the third vegan restaurant in Victoria to close in the last few months. Virtuous Pie shuttered in October, and MeeT on Blanshard shut down last August. [CHEK]

Tumbler Ridge tragedy may have been prevented with an AI warning: Eby
BC Premier David Eby says he’s angry and thinks OpenAI had information that, if brought forward, could have been used to help avert one of the worst mass shootings in Canadian history. Nine people, including five children, were killed in the Feb. 10 school shooting. The shooter’s interactions with a ChatGPT chatbot were flagged internally, but the parent company, OpenAI, didn’t pass that along to police. Eby also wants the federal government to establish rules requiring AI companies to report users who plot violence on their platforms. [CBC]

Enjoying our newsletter? Help us make it even better!

Become an Insider member and help keep local journalism and storytelling alive in the Capital Region.

🗓️ Things To Do

👐 UJAM Club Night: Heart & Soul: Universal Jazz Advocates & Mentors Society hosts a fun night of music that bypasses the brain and goes straight to the soul, with performers sharing heartfelt songs. Hermann's Jazz Club. Tonight. Doors 5:30pm, show 7-9:30pm. [Info]

🎶 String of Legacy: Kora Sounds & Ancestral Rhythms: The African Arts & Cultural Society presents a powerful evening celebrating legacy, resilience, and African musical traditions through kora sounds and ancestral rhythms. Charlie White Theatre. Tonight. Doors 7pm, show 7:30pm. [Info]

🎵 Pacific Baroque Festival 2026—Concert #1: Iberian Splendour: Organist Abraham Ross presents baroque organ music from Portugal and Spain, featuring ringing bells, distant drums, lavishly ornamented motets, and ancient plainsong. Christ Church Cathedral. Tonight. 7-9pm. [Info]

🥃 Vancouver Island Whisky Fest: Vancouver Island's whisky makers come together to showcase the depth, character, and craftsmanship of Island-distilled whisky. Merridale Cidery. Saturday. 7-9pm. [Info]

🎼 Ruckus: This dynamic Baroque ensemble, featuring flutist Emi Ferguson and violinist Rachell Ellen Wong, performs the music of Handel and his contemporary, the English former slave Ignatius Sancho. First Church of Christ, Scientist. Saturday. 7:30-9pm. [Info]

🎪 Island Circus Presents: Winter Cabaret 2026. A high-energy circus cabaret featuring aerials, acrobatics, juggling, and playful chaos. Suitable for adventurous humans of all ages. United Commons (formerly First Metropolitan Church). Saturday & Sunday. Various times. [Info]

🎭 The Place You Gave Us: An intimate and fully improvised performance about the spaces and the places that shape us. Created and performed by Helen Burger and D’Arcy Briggs. Intrepid Theatre. March 13 & 14. 8pm. [Info]

👀 In Case You Missed It

Tuesday’s headlines: YYJ seems storm resilient so far; Seniors’ at-home care program to grow; Eastbound section of Island View Highway to close until March 6. [Not anymore] [Feb. 24]

BC Transit double-decker evacuated after smoke-filled trip from ferry terminal. [Times Colonist]

Because he needs a kidney: Victoria film Because I Can gets a special rescreening. [CHEK]

Construction on Cook: Intermittent lane closures, parking restrictions between Bay and Maplewood until March 6.

Single-lane alternating traffic: 100-block of Gorge Road East, through March 6. [City of Victoria]

Support Tumbler Ridge. [Charities]

Rising Economy 2026 Conference. [March 10 & 11]

Local Champions: Community leadership program. [City of Victoria]

That’s it!

If you found something useful, consider forwarding this newsletter to a fellow Victorian.

And before you go, let us know:

Feb 24 - Flights a go at YYJ amid Eastern storm

Capital Daily Team — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 17:07:16 +0000

Good morning {{First name}}!

Another Olympics is behind us. While the women’s and men’s hockey finals didn’t go as many of us had hoped, Canada still took home 21 medals, including five golds.

I’m going to miss pretending that I know anything about free skiing or figure skating!

— Robyn

Today’s approx. read time: 6 minutes

🌡️ Weather Forecast

Today: 🌤️ 8 / 5

Tomorrow: 🌦️ 8 / 7

Day after: 🌧️ 9 / 7

NEWS

YYJ update: storms in the northeast and a crisis in Mexico

Photo: James MacDonald / Capital Daily

A mammoth snowstorm that has pummelled the northeast US and parts of Canada and forced the cancellation of 10K+ flights has not caused major disruptions at Victoria’s international airport.

“That said, significant weather events elsewhere in the country can have downstream effects as airlines adjust their broader networks in response to conditions,” said Victoria Airport Authority spokesperson Erin Brocklebank.

“This may result in delays, cancellations, or schedule changes.”

The blizzard—a bomb cyclone dubbed Winter Storm Hernando—began slamming New England and the Atlantic region on Sunday, whipping up strong winds and dumping as much as three inches (7.5 cm) of snow per hour, with some areas, like Rhode Island, receiving 80+ cm. The system has moved into the Maritimes, creating unsafe travel conditions, and is expected to stick around until tonight before it heads out over the North Atlantic.

Airlines have cancelled flights, and train service has been suspended in affected areas. The US National Weather Service described travel conditions as “extremely treacherous” and “nearly impossible.”

5K Canadians among those hunkered down in Puerto Vallarta, as violence rips through the Mexican city

Flights scheduled between Victoria and Puerto Vallarta were cancelled on Sunday “due to a security situation in the Puerto Vallarta area that is impacting flight operations,” Brocklebank said.

In Puerto Vallarta—a favourite holiday spot for Canadians—cars were burning, streets were deserted, and the airport remained closed yesterday, one day after drug cartel violence erupted in the Mexican tourist city.

Canada’s federal government advised Canadians to find safe shelter as cartel members started fires and blocked streets after Mexican special forces killed their leader, “El Mencho.”

As of late yesterday, the Canadian government had not arranged evacuation flights for the 26K+ Canadians known to be in Mexico, one-fifth of whom are in Jalisco state, where the resort town of Puerto Vallarta is located. Some airlines, including Flair, say they have rebooked Canadian passengers on return flights for today.

“Passengers [with tickets for Mexico] are advised to contact their airline directly for the most up-to-date flight information before coming to the airport,” Brocklebank said.

⚠️ Capital Bulletin

Traffic lights down at Blanshard and Caledonia today, westbound traffic is prohibited. Work will last approx. 1-3 hours. [City of Victoria]

Construction on Cook: Intermittent lane closures, parking restrictions between Bay and Maplewood until March 6.

Single-lane alternating traffic: 100-block of Gorge Road East, now through March 6. [City of Victoria]

Driving today? Check the current traffic situation via Google.

Support local journalism by supporting Capital Daily. Become a Capital Daily Insider member today and help bring local stories to life.

NEWS

At-home care program for seniors to expand throughout the Island

Photo: Shutterstock

A virtual care program that allows seniors to age at home, rather than in a long-term care facility, is becoming available to more people in the province, and Island Health is one of three health authorities where expansion is underway.

The Long-term Care at Home (LTC@Home) program sets seniors up with monitoring technology at their home for virtual care. This technology allows health-care teams to keep an eye on seniors in need of full care. It can track falls, activity levels, medication adherence, indoor temperature, and wandering.

It’s not surveillance—no cameras or microphones are invading the privacy of the seniors. Instead, discreet sensors are placed throughout the home and seniors can wear a pendant that allows for two-way emergency calling.

Health Minister Josie Osborne says expanding the program allows more seniors to “remain safely at home,” which should reduce the pressure on hospitals.

“Meeting the needs of a growing and aging population means delivering care in smarter, more flexible ways, including right in seniors’ homes,” Osborne said in a release.

Leah Hollins, board chair at Island Health, says LTC@Home is “an effective service for eligible seniors” who are waiting for placement in a care home or who will soon need full-time care.

The pilot initially launched in 2024 at Saanich’s Broadmead Care Society and a seniors community in Delta. Since its launch, 70+ seniors have benefitted from the Saanich-based program.

The initial pilot focused solely on seniors living near the participating long-term care communities, but the next phase will be more expansively delivered through health authority teams.

The province says it’s aiming to expand the support to “as many as 2,700 seniors” by 2028. Island Health says the program will be available throughout the Island.

Explore GNS at an Open House!

What if school wasn’t just preparation for life, but part of it?

At Glenlyon Norfolk School, students from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 are seen, supported and empowered to lead with confidence and compassion. Through the International Baccalaureate continuum and a community of care, the GNS Effect begins early, and it lasts a lifetime.

We invite families to attend an upcoming Open House in April to discover how personalized learning, leadership and belonging come together to shape extraordinary futures. Meet staff, students and parents, and experience the energy of Glenlyon Norfolk School firsthand. From inquiry-based learning to a vibrant co-curricular life, come see why GNS is the perfect place for your child to thrive.

⭐️ Capital Picks

🌼 Spring wildflowers make their first appearance in Nanaimo. [Facebook photos]

💪 Local Champions: Community leadership program: [City of Victoria]

🎯 Prepare today so you can lead tomorrow. Grow your career with relevant topics, expert-led courses and employer-valued skills with Continuing Studies at UVic.*

💗 Support Tumbler Ridge. [Charities]

💼 Rising Economy 2026 Conference. [March 10, 11]

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🗞️ In Other News

Eastbound section of Island Highway will be closed for the next 2 weeks
A segment starting opposite Four Mile Pub—between Stewart and Plowright—in View Royal will be a construction zone until March 6 as BC Hydro crews do some maintenance work on the underground transmission infrastructure. The eastbound lane of the Island Highway toward Craigflower in Esquimalt will be shut down. Detours have been set up at Burnside West and at Helmcken Road, both diverting traffic toward Highway 1. Bus stops will remain in place, and BC Transit service won’t be disrupted. [View Royal]

2 prominent Victoria businesses are closing after the bank calls in loans
Westcoast Appliance Gallery and Capital Iron Home Store are ceasing operations immediately. The companies’ owner, Fred Aram, says the Royal Bank called in its loans at the end of last year, has frozen the companies’ accounts, and is arranging for a court-appointed receiver to take control of business decisions. Aram took over Capital Iron on Store in 2022 after the company filed for bankruptcy after 80+ years. Westcoast Appliance had been operating since 1984. [Times Colonist]

Thousands of fish eggs found dead after Sidney yacht fire
Cleanup efforts following the Feb. 1 fire at Van Isle Marina are showing signs of progress, but volunteers have recorded abnormal egg mortality throughout the harbour. Tsehum Harbour is a popular location for smelt spawning, but after oil spilled from the three sunken yachts, volunteers from Peninsula Streams Society found most of the eggs dead on Feb. 5. That’s more than 3K smelt eggs. Samples were taken and may be tested for hydrocarbons. [Peninsula News Review]

Enjoying our newsletter? Help us make it even better!

Become an Insider member and help keep local journalism and storytelling alive in the Capital Region.

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🗓️ Things To Do

🖤 Black Pioneers on the Saanich Peninsula: Catch the last week of this exhibit, exploring the lives of Black pioneers on the Saanich Peninsula at the Sidney Museum. Now through Feb. 28. [Info]

🎶 UJAM Club Night: Heart & Soul: Universal Jazz Advocates & Mentors Society hosts a fun night of music at Hermann's tomorrow. 7pm. [Info]

🎵 String of Legacy: Kora Sounds & Ancestral Rhythms: The African Arts & Cultural Society will present a powerful evening celebrating legacy, resilience, and African musical traditions at the Charlie White Theatre tomorrow. 7:30pm. [Info]

🎻 Pacific Baroque Festival 2026—Concert #1: Iberian Splendour: Organist Abraham Ross will present baroque organ music from Portugal and Spain at the Christ Church Cathedral tomorrow. 7-9pm. [Info]

🧵 Fabric Printmaking Workshop: Create your own printed tea towel or tote bag at the Maritime Museum of BC. Thursday. 5:30-7:30pm. [Info]

🕺 Swing Dance Party with the Atomic Cocktails: Slim Sandy's Atomic Cocktails will play swing tunes from the 1930s and 1940s at The Coda. Thursday. 6:30-8:30pm. [Info]

🎭 Les Misérables School Edition: St. Michaels University School presents the beloved musical—featuring an all-student cast and crew—at McPherson Playhouse. Thur.-Sun. Various times. [Info]

👀 In Case You Missed It

Sunday’s headlines: Branch trimming pickup happening Monday; Weekly roundup; BC paramedics union reaches tentative agreement with province. [Feb. 22]

343 Islanders killed by toxic drugs in 2025: Lowest death toll in years. [Capital Daily]

Missing person: Miroslav, 68, last seen at the Swartz Bay terminal. [VicPD]

Avalanche risk after mid-Island snowfall. [CHEK]

Educators say BC budget doesn’t address the financial crisis in post-secondary schools. [Times Colonist]

Turquoise waters: Herring spawning creates spectacular visuals at Salmon Beach. [Facebook photos]

Black History Month reads for adults, teens, and kids. [GVPL book lists]

Garden City Grooves Festival. [March 19-21]

That’s it!

If you found something useful, consider forwarding this newsletter to a fellow Victorian.

And before you go, let us know:

Feb 22 - Toxic drug deaths decreased in 2025

Capital Daily Team — Sun, 22 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000

Good morning {{First name}}!

It’s set to be a busy Sunday in downtown Victoria. The Lunar New Year parade is happening in Chinatown today, celebrating the beginning of the year of the horse. It’s one of the most beautiful celebrations in Victoria, with plenty of art and culture to take in.

And if you’re up extra early today and looking for something fun to do, the Sticky Wicket will be open—and serving food and drinks—at 4:45am for its Gold Medal Game watch party. Go Canada!

— Robyn

Today’s approx. read time: 5 minutes

🌡️ Weather Forecast

Today: 🌦️ 9 / 7

Tomorrow: 🌦️10 / 6

Tuesday: 🌧️ 8 / 5

NEWS

343 Islanders killed by toxic drugs in 2025, lowest death toll in years

Josie Osborne announces funding for naloxone kits. Photo: Province of BC / Flickr

Last year, 1,826 people in BC were killed by toxic drugs—the lowest annual total since 2020—according to the BC Coroners Service (BCCS). It’s a 21% drop compared with last year’s drug death toll, 2315, with nearly 500 fewer deaths.

Still, that’s nearly double the number of drug-related deaths in 2016—the year the opioid crisis was declared a public health emergency in BC—when 997 people died from drugs provincewide.

On the Island, 343 people lost their lives to toxic drugs, 94 of whom were in Victoria. Nanaimo had the second-highest death toll on the Island with 76, and Campbell River had the third at 43.

It’s the first time in two years that fewer than 450 people died due to drugs on the Island.

The most recent BCCS report also shared the monthly drug death toll of the last three months of 2025. On the Island, 28 people died in December, 25 in November, and 30 in October. Approximately half of these deaths occurred on the South Island.

Youth drug deaths (18 years old and younger) increased slightly to 26, up from 21 in 2024. This is still lower than the number of youth deaths in 2021 through 2023.

While the drop in the number of deaths is a positive trend, the loss of life has still been felt deeply among Victorians. On Thursday, a community memorial was held at St. John Divine Church to honour five people who were killed by toxic drugs in the city over the last month. The next memorial is scheduled for March, and already, there are six people to honour.

⚠️ Capital Bulletin

High-risk missing person: Miroslav, 68, last seen at the Swartz Bay terminal. [VicPD]

Lunar New Year Parade and Blessing: Event from 11:30am-3:30pm in Chinatown today. Expect rolling road closures on Fisgard, 6am-5pm. [Details]

Dallas closed at South Turner, tomorrow through next Monday, 7am-3:30pm.

Saanich road closures:

Near 2827 Colquitz, tomorrow and Tuesday, 8am-4:30pm
Palmer at Quadra, tomorrow through Wednesday, 9am-3:30pm

Saanich single-lane alternating traffic:

Reynolds between Cedar Hill Cross and Cumberland, tomorrow through Wednesday, 8:30am-3:30pm
Quadra between Glenora and Union, tomorrow through Wednesday, 8:30am-3:30pm

Driving today? Check the current traffic situation via Google.

To maintain full access to the Sunday edition, become a Capital Daily Insider for only $8.66/month when you sign on as an annual member.

Upgrade Translation missing: en.app.shared.conjuction.or Sign In

Feb 20 - Vic General to get new $75M power plant

Capital Daily Team — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 14:00:16 +0000

Good morning {{First name}}!

Tough luck for our women on the ice yesterday in Italy.
Let’s see if the men can get us to the final with a win in the hockey semis this morning.

— Mark

Today’s approx. read time: 5 minutes

🌡️ Weather Forecast

Today: 🌤️ 5 / 0

Tomorrow: 🌧️ 7 / 5

Sunday: 🌦️ 9 / 7

NEWS

Victoria General Hospital to get $75M energy upgrade

Photo: Shutterstock

With a growing population to serve and an on-campus energy system running at near-capacity, the hospital is getting a modernized power system.

VGH's existing plant dates back 40+ years—the hospital opened in 1983—and is at the end of its serviceable life.

The new plant—an entirely new structure—will be built near Watkiss Way and Hospital Way and will provide more reliable, modern power systems to support future services and ensure patients continue to receive high-quality care, Island Health spokesperson Andrew Leyne told Capital Daily.

“This includes electricity and backup power generators as well as controlling and monitoring systems.”

The new energy centre will feature the latest modern design standards so it can stay operational through any disruptions, such as power outages, earthquakes, or flooding, Island Health said.

“It’s critical that the infrastructure people rely on is built to last,” said Darlene Rotchford, MLA for Esquimalt-Colwood.

“The new energy centre will ensure the hospital can continue to deliver safe, reliable care as the region continues to grow.”

The project will cost $75.6M and will be jointly funded by the province ($52.9M) and the Capital Regional Hospital District ($22.7M).

Construction is scheduled to begin this summer, and they hope to flick on all the switches in 2029.

In the next few days, crews will start removing trees on the future worksite, and they hope to be done in time for spring’s nesting season. Island Health said it worked with arbourists to determine which trees will be removed and which will be retained.

⚠️ Capital Bulletin

Final day to sign the condolence book for Tumbler Ridge: [In person or online]

Alternating traffic on Esquimalt Road today, from Mary to Russell, 9am-3pm. [City of Vic]

Saanich road closure: Kisber at Kremlin, all day today.

Driving today? Check the current traffic situation via Google.

NEWS

Sweet scoop: 49 Below has a new flavour that supports kids with cancer

IKCA families visited 49 Below to determine the winning flavour. Photo: IKCA

Ice cream aficionados know 49 Below in Cadboro Bay prides itself on serving some adventurous and creative flavours—the delicious Bubblemallow (yep, bubblegum and marshmallow) comes to mind—and you can add another that will go down nicely and for an excellent cause.

It’s called Fairy Berry Sherbet, and for the rest of the month, every time someone buys a pint of it, 49 Below will donate $2 to the Island Kids Cancer Association (IKCA).

The special-edition flavour was created specifically to help IKCA, which supports children and families navigating a new world after a life-changing cancer diagnosis.

IKCA families were invited into the shop to pick one of three custom-designed flavours. And they went with this one—a yummy blend of strawberry, raspberry, and blackberry—that’s gluten-, nut-, and egg-free.

“Having families directly involved made this project especially meaningful,” said 49 Below owner Dan Edler.

“We’re honoured to support IKCA and the incredible families they serve.”

The money raised will directly support IKCA’s Family Connections program, which provides opportunities for children and families affected by childhood cancer to connect, have fun, and support one another, said Susan Kerr, the group’s executive director and co-founder.

“Gatherings reduce isolation and help families feel supported by a caring community during an incredibly challenging time.”

Since 2017, IKCA has helped hundreds of children and their families on the Island and the Gulf Islands; currently, the nonprofit is championing 230+ families.

“Community support like this is deeply meaningful,” said IKCA spokesperson Jenna Remedios.

“When local businesses step up, it not only helps fund our programs, it reminds families they are not alone.”

IKCA does just that by offering children and their families opportunities for mental health and wellness, financial support, and practical help.

“In doing so, we become part of the family support system, helping to ease feelings of uncertainty and isolation,” IKCA says on its website.

NEWS

UVic and Island Health launch resource to improve complex PTSD treatment

Colette Smith, UVic psychologist and Island Health research scholar. Photo courtesy of UVic.

UVic and Island Health researchers have created a new digital resource for clinicians to easily access support tools for people dealing with complex post-traumatic stress (C-PTSD).

Unlike the more well-known post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is caused by a singular traumatic event, C-PTSD arises from prolonged, repeated events like domestic violence or childhood abuse. And mental-health experts say it’s likely more common than people realize.

As the name suggests, the condition is complex. It’s also a newer term for many mental-health workers—the World Health Organization first classified it as a diagnosis in 2018, and it is still not included in the American Psychiatric Association’s DSM-5 (a guide most mental-health professionals use in North America).

Because of this, many people dealing with C-PTSD struggle to find suitable care.

In 2014, Lori Herod, a retired adult educator and survivor of complex relational trauma, began Out of the Storm, an online education platform and community for trauma survivors with 14K members from more than 87 countries. Since Out of the Storm’s inception, survivors have expressed difficulty finding mental-health care providers who understand C-PTSD treatment, according to Herod.

“Daily living can be very difficult. A lot of us put a mask on, but many can’t even do that,” Herod said in a release. “C-PTSD is definitely a public-health issue, if not a crisis.

“It’s not that the professionals don’t care; it’s that they don’t know.”

Colette Smart, a UVic psychologist and Island Health research scholar in residence for mental health and substance use, also noticed a lack of C-PTSD knowledge among health-care workers.

“We know from hearing from [C-PTSD survivors] directly that the care they receive could be enhanced through more trauma-informed approaches,” says Smart.

After meeting at a conference, Smart was intrigued by Herod’s vision of a survivor-informed education tool designed specifically for health-care workers.

Together, they gathered a team of clinicians, researchers, and survivors to conduct a study on the needs of C-PTSD patients. That work has informed the new Complex Relational Trauma and Complex PTSD: Closing the Gap in Healthcare digital resource.

The Closing the Gap tool, funded by Island Health, is now available online.

So far, the tool has been disseminated to 47 institutions and professional associations in BC, Canada, and the US. Smart and Herod are now looking to expand its use throughout different health sectors.

This story ran for our Insiders on Feb. 15. Consider becoming an Insider today and be the first to receive stories every Sunday.

Activating possibility with a future-shaping agenda

From March 10 to 11, Greater Victoria’s largest multi-sector business gathering convenes entrepreneurs, executives, innovators, and public leaders for bold conversations about what’s driving growth, how to activate opportunity, and what leaders need to do to stay ahead.

Presented in partnership with PacifiCan. Tickets are going fast. Get yours today.

⭐️ Capital Picks

🏠 Victoria Spring Home Show. [Today-Sunday at Pearkes]

⚓ Royal Canadian Navy Open House/Career Fair. [10am-3pm tomorrow]

🛳️ Your treasure awaits! Bid in Pacific Opera’s Online Auction and enjoy cruises, hotels, luxury goods, food, wine, and experiences in support of youth opera programs.*

🏒🍁 Olympics: Canada vs. Finland men’s hockey semifinal is today at 7:40am.

🏒 WHL: Wenatchee Wild at Victoria Royals at 7:05 tonight.

☕ Hot Chocolate Festival. [Participating businesses]

*Sponsored Listing

Your escape on Vancouver Island

Shawnigan Retreats offers the perfect cozy retreat for family gatherings or romantic getaways. Nestled by the serene Shawinigan Lake, our luxurious accommodations feature a sauna, a hot tub, a games room with ping-pong, cards, and board games, and even a private pickleball court. Enjoy nearby hikes through breathtaking nature and unwind in comfort. With space for up to 18 guests, Shawnigan Retreats promises an unforgettable experience.

Explore Shawnigan Retreats and plan your getaway today. Learn more about Shawnigan Retreats.

🗞️ In Other News

Langford orders derelict homes be torn down, calling them a ‘blight on our city’
The four houses on Sunderland and Arncote were part of a land assembly for two residential towers—once considered an important revamp for Langford’s downtown—that were never built. The homes have long been abandoned and boarded up, becoming a dumping ground for rodent-attracting garbage and an eyesore for the city. Langford says managing the buildings was draining staff resources. The land assembly owners have 60 days to remove the houses, or the city will step in to do it. [Times Colonist]

VicPD lowers its requested budget boost by 0.8%
The police department originally asked for 10.6% more, which would have increased the VicPD budget to $87.2M from just under $79M. Yesterday, Chief Fiona Wilson told the city council she’s lowered the ask to 9.8%, or $86.6M, but that comes at a cost: three traffic officer positions. If approved, the request would push Victoria’s policing bill to $700+ per capita. According to Wilson, the per capita cost of her former department, the Vancouver PD, will be $655.80. [CHEK]

BC government spending $50M for more nasal naloxone kits
Provincial Health Minister Josie Osborne said the funding, over two years, will help buy and distribute roughly 200K kits each year. Nasal naloxone is a life-saving medication administered through the nose that temporarily reverses an opioid overdose or opioid drug poisoning. The health ministry said kits have helped to avert as many as 40K deaths over the last six+ years. [BC Gov’t.]

🗓️ Things To Do

🧷 Punk in the City Vol. 1: Shift Promotions presents The Corps, Hung Up, Idiofame, Razorvoice, and Half Cat. Punk Rock DJ until 1am. Encore on Broad. Tonight. [Info]

🕶️ Après After Dark Party: Pull up in your best après fit and dance through nonstop energy, drink specials, and peak winter nightlife vibes at Paparazzi Night Club. Tonight. 9pm. [Info]

💾 The Dark Eighties: Cult 80s Hits Dance. Vancouver's DJ Nikki Nevver will spin tunes from The Cure, The Cult, Depeche Mode, and more at Capital Ballroom. Tonight. 10pm-2am. [Info]

🎸 Alpha Yaya Diallo: See the Juno-winning guitarist and singer at the Christian Science Church. Tonight. 7:30pm. [Info]

👗 Attic Treasures Vintage Market: Clothing, jewelry, accessories, collectibles, curiosities, and treasures await you at St. Luke’s Community Hall. Tomorrow. 10am-4pm. [Info]

🎻 Daniel Lapp & Quinn Bachand Concert: Two of Canada’s most outstanding and exciting roots music artists perform at First Church of Christ, Scientist. Tomorrow. 7:30pm. [Info]

🎵 Rakata Latin Night: Featuring Jampi. The Colombian-born, Montreal-based DJ brings his Caribbean-influenced rhythms to Capital Ballroom. Tomorrow. 9pm. [Info]

💃 For Dancers Only: Garden City Soul Club. The dance floor will be stomping with soul and funk from the 1960s to the 1970s. Northern soul, Motown, funk, and classics all played on 45 rpm vinyl records. Encore on Broad. Tomorrow. 9pm. [Info]

👀 In Case You Missed It

Thursday’s headlines: Port Angeles rolls out red carpet as Coho makes its first visit of the season; L-Pod has new young company; Be aware of low-flying owls. [Feb. 19]

Let’s put light rail on the federal government’s radar, says CRD transportation chair. [Times Colonist]

Lunar New Year Parade & Blessing of Merchants: Celebrate the year of the horse with lion and dragon dances, kung fu performances, and blessings for Chinatown merchants this Sunday. [Info]

Love on the Spectrum casting call: The popular Netflix show is looking for Vancouver Island women interested in a date with a young man on the autism spectrum. Open to those aged 18 to 30 who have autism or another intellectual or developmental disability. [Details]

Tasty meal: An eagle and two river otters enjoy lunch on side-by-side rocks at Eaglecrest Beach. [Facebook photo]

That’s it!

If you found something useful, consider forwarding this newsletter to a fellow Victorian.

And before you go, let us know:

Feb 19 - Canadian Coho passengers to get red-carpet treatment

Capital Daily Team — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 14:00:13 +0000

Good morning {{First name}}!

Today, we have some good news about Southern Resident killer whales, whose population has risen to 76. As someone who often reports on the bad news about the at-risk whale population, it’s always refreshing to share something positive.

— Robyn

Today’s approx. read time: 6 minutes

🌡️ Weather Forecast

Today: ☀️ 3 / 0

Tomorrow: ⛅ 5 / 5

Day after: 🌧️ 7 / 7

NEWS

Port Angeles is rolling out the red carpet for
Coho passengers today

US residents welcomed Canadians to Port Angeles last year. Photo: Port Angeles Waterfront District

When the Coho ferry arrives in Washington state around noon today, about 200 Canadian walk-on passengers will disembark to the sound of the Port Angeles High School Marching Band.

They’ll walk to shore on a red carpet as the occupants of 100 or so vehicles snake past the smiles of Washingtonians—many waving friendly signs and tiny red and white flags to welcome the Canucks—just like last year.

It won’t simply be to mark the Coho’s first visit of the season, although it is.
And it won’t be just because last year’s Canada appreciation event went so well; it’ll be because there are some in PA who worry the currently frayed Canada-US relationship could become a forever thing.

“We recognize that in our community, there is a possibility for generational changing habits, and that's, like, really upsetting for us,” says Sam Grello, whose job as executive director of the Port Angeles Waterfront District is to drum up tourism dollars for a former logging town so culturally tied to Vancouver Island that they like to call Port Angeles the “Lost American Suburb of Victoria.”

“It's a four-and-a-half to five-hour drive over to Seattle, so we are really culturally connected with Victoria,” says Grello, who listens to Victoria’s The Zone @ 91.3 FM when he drives to work each day. The Zoner pulled some strings, and there’s a poutine and a now-cold Timmy’s double-double on the Coho this morning with his name on them.

The impact of the political rhetoric between the two countries—although admittedly, pretty much unidirectional—is borne out in stats. Black Ball says vehicle traffic dropped 18% last year, and passenger traffic was down 15%.

That’s a big deal considering the ferry line brings an estimated US$64M into the Port Angeles economy and is responsible for 625 jobs.

Last year, PA reallocated its tourism advertising, aiming domestically instead of northward, which led to a successful summer. But Grello knows that, in the long term, the plan must include Canadians—the way it has been since MV COHO began its route in December 1959.

“I fully believe that we will go back to how things were, but, you know, I think it's going to take a new administration that is just a little more stable, right?”

And then, an acknowledgment that this isn’t the US’s finest moment.

“It’s really easy to paint Americans with a broad stroke right now,” he says, and today’s welcome Canadians event is a way to “just humanize ourselves a little bit.”

⚠️ Capital Bulletin

Condolence book for Tumbler Ridge: Share your support with the town after last week’s tragedy. [Online book]

Highway 4 will be closed next Wednesday, 9am-3pm. [BC Gov]

Dashcam footage wanted in a car-pedestrian collision. [Saanich PD]

Saanich single-lane traffic: By 3477 Quadra near Cook, today, 9am-3pm.

NEWS

New Southern Resident calf confirmed to be
swimming with L-Pod

L129 seen swimming with L-Pod. Photo: Center for Whale Research

The Washington state-based Center for Whale Research (CWR) confirmed yesterday that a newborn calf was seen swimming alongside two female whales near Race Rocks.

The calf, named L129, was seen with L55 and her daughter, L103. The researchers say it’s currently unclear who the calf’s mother is, though it is likely one of the two seen with her.

If the 42-year-old L55 is the parent, CWR says this would make her an “exceptionally old” Southern Resident mother. If L103 is the mother, it would be her second calf.

The first year is a tough one for young Southern Resident killer whales—few make it past the neonatal stage. But any addition to the pods can offer hope for the future of the struggling population.

“With such a young individual, we always balance our optimism with caution,” CWR said in a release. “The calf appears to be very young, likely just a few days old at most, and it’s too early to say much about its health.

“We hope to see L129 again soon and that the calf’s mother can find enough food to keep this new addition healthy.”

Last year, the pod gained a new member but also lost one, which left its population at 33. It’s the largest of the three Southern Resident pods—but that’s not saying much. The at-risk orca population has been declining for years, with many scientists warning they could be hurtling toward extinction soon.

K-Pod welcomed a new calf in December, raising its population to 15. Five calves were born to J-Pod last year, though only three survived, bringing its number to 28.

The new calf brings L-Pod to 34 members. In total, there are 76 Southern Resident orcas living in the wild.

The answer to homelessness is housing

Some people need more than a helping hand — they need support to survive.

In Canada, social and supportive housing provide different levels of care. While social housing and rent supplements are part of the province’s affordability strategy, supportive housing serves people at risk of or experiencing homelessness.

Supportive housing combines a safe home with on‑site services. It brings people indoors, restores dignity, and helps stabilize lives through regular sleep, nutritious meals, and routine.

Housing isn’t a reward — it’s the basic building block of community.

For over 30 years, PHS Community Services Society has provided low‑barrier supportive housing for thousands of people in crisis, including 290 units of supportive housing with round-the-clock supports in Victoria.

With your support, we can do even more – Please donate to PHS.

⭐️ Capital Picks

🏮 Lunar New Year Parade & Blessing of Merchants: Celebrate the year of the horse with lion and dragon dances, kung fu performances, and blessings for Chinatown merchants this Sunday. [Info]

♥️ Love on the Spectrum casting call: The popular Netflix show is looking for Vancouver Island women interested in a date with a young man on the autism spectrum. Open to those aged 18 to 30 who have autism or another intellectual or developmental disability. [Details]

🎭 "Just staggering." Maanomaa, My Brother is on now through March 1 at the Belfry Theatre. Pay-what-you-want tickets are available for all performances.*

🦅 🦦 Tasty meal: An eagle and two river otters enjoy lunch on side-by-side rocks at Eaglecrest Beach. [Facebook photo]

🏒🍁 Olympics: Canada vs. USA in women’s hockey gold-medal game. 10:10am today.

📖 KWENCH Writers Festival launches Feb 28–March 1 with conversations that go beyond the book. Join leading writers exploring craft, creativity, and the future of storytelling.*

^{*Sponsored Listing}

NYC's acclaimed GALLIM in Victoria premiere

On March 6 + 7, New York’s acclaimed GALLIM brings a raw, exhilarating program to the Royal Theatre. Led by visionary Artistic Director Andrea Miller, the company fuses classical, pop, and electronic music—from Strauss to Sade—with unfiltered emotion and striking precision. Tickets from $34.

🗞️ In Other News

BC Ambulance paramedics vote 97% in favour of striking
The union representing 6K ambulance paramedics and dispatchers says Tuesday’s voting results send a “clear message” that frontline workers will do what they must to get improved working conditions. Their union says the provincial government’s contract offers have not sufficiently addressed their safety and mental-health concerns. Ambulance Paramedics of BC—CUPE 873 and its employer, BC Emergency Health Services, have been negotiating since September. The union said it would have an update today on its next move. [City News]

Rock Bay business worried about Bay bridge partial closure
The recently reopened Brass Monkey Brewery team says it’s concerned the bridge’s partial closure could run into the summer, leading to diverted traffic that could hurt its first peak season since coming under new ownership. The brewery’s owner says he was disappointed with how the City of Victoria communicated the project to nearby businesses. The city says the work is slated to be finished in June, but the Brass Monkey team questions the timeline. City staff maintains that the repairs are essential to extend the bridge’s life. [CHEK]

Drivers urged to watch out for low-flying owls in Greater Victoria
Wildlife experts say dozens of owls are struck by cars every year while hunting on Greater Victoria roads, particularly during fall and late winter (February is especially dangerous). Metchosin’s Wild ARC staff treat an average of 60 owls annually due to road collisions. Right now, it’s looking after two that were involved in road incidents. Barred owls are the species most commonly struck. Owls fly low over open ground to hear their prey. Food thrown from vehicles can also draw rodents to roadways, increasing the risk of owls being hit. [Victoria News]

CORRECTION: A story that appeared here yesterday should have read Hullo runs as many as 14 daily trips between Nanaimo and Vancouver.

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🗓️ Things To Do

🎵 Legends Show: Hear the music of Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, Roy Orbison, and Elvis Presley at the McPherson Playhouse tonight. 7pm. [Info]

🎙️CCPA presents Showtune Piano Bar Cabaret #2: Canadian College of Performing Arts Year II students will present a New York-style cabaret at Hermann’s tonight. 7pm. [Info]

🎸 Alpha Yaya Diallo: See the Juno-winning guitarist and singer at the Christian Science Church tomorrow. 7:30pm [Info]

🧑‍🎤 Dark Eighties: Dance to cult hits from the 1980s at Capital Ballroom tomorrow. 10pm. [Info]

🎭 Tosca: See the iconic Puccini opera at Royal Theatre through Feb. 24. 7:30pm. [Info]

🎶 Forever Seger: Catch this Bob Seger tribute act at McPherson Playhouse tomorrow. 7:30pm. [Info]

😂 Andy Haynes: See the comedian—who has graced the stages of the Tonight Show and Conan—at Hecklers. Saturday. 7pm & 10pm. [Info]

👀 In Case You Missed It

Wednesday’s headlines: BC Budget released, bringing job cuts and stalled UVic housing plans; CRD begins AAP for new performing arts service; VicPD helps arrest Nanaimo shooting suspect. [Feb. 18]

BC post-secondary grads facing ‘brutal’ job market, say economists. [Vancouver Sun]

Expanded hours for Peninsula Primary Care Access Clinic: Same-day appointments can be booked Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 8pm, and Saturdays, 8:30am to 1pm. No walk-ins permitted. [Island Health]

Point Ellice Bridge construction: No eastbound traffic for next four months. [City of Victoria]

Saanich road closure: Kremlin between Broadmead and Kisber, through Feb. 27, 4pm-8am.

Delays expected on the Galloping Goose near Viaduct Park, today and tomorrow. 9am-3pm. [CRD]

Quantum Days 2026 at the Victoria Conference Centre. [Through tomorrow]

That’s it!

If you found something useful, consider forwarding this newsletter to a fellow Victorian.

And before you go, let us know:

Feb 18 - UVic one of the losers in BC budget

Capital Daily Team — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 14:00:07 +0000

Good morning {{First name}}!

Critics say they’re underwhelmed with the BC budget brought down yesterday.
Despite the baked-in tough love—job reductions and income tax increases—the province is headed for multi-billion dollar deficits and a debt of $183B by the end of next month.
And… the first universal income tax increase in almost two decades is going to cost the average BC taxpayer an extra $76 per year.

— Mark

Today’s approx. read time: 5 minutes

🌡️ Weather Forecast

Today: 🌦️ 5 / -1

Tomorrow: 🌥️ 0 / -4

Friday: 🌥️ 5 / -2

Find more information about the AAP and electoral response forms here.

NEWS

BC budget: Job cuts, tax hikes, and a five-year wait for UVic student housing

BC legislature. Photo: Shutterstock

The province is eliminating 15K full-time public-sector jobs over the next three years, raising taxes for many, and putting a plan to add housing for 500+ students at UVic on hold.

“We are choosing to safeguard what we’ve built while growing our economy to secure good jobs and economic prosperity for people and families,” Finance Minister Brenda Bailey said yesterday after delivering the BC budget.

Most of the job cuts are expected to come from Crown corporations, school districts, post-secondary institutions, and health authorities. In addition, the BC Public Service will lose roughly 2,500 full-time positions, mostly through attrition and voluntary departures.

The uncertainty that comes with the Trump tariffs, and a big deficit to dig out from, meant the province had to hit the brakes on some programs, including $10-a-day daycare and some capital projects—among them, a $178M plan to add accommodations for 510 students at UVic, initially slated to be completed by 2029, but now “re-paced” to 2034.

“The pressure for housing isn’t going away,” Jennifer Vornbrock, an associate vice president at UVic, told the Times Colonist.

Bailey said the province is planning for a deficit of $13.3B for fiscal 2026-27—up from $9.6B this year—and $12.1B and $11.4B for the following two years.

John Wilson, president & CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, said more needs to be done to control government spending. And he said a peppy private sector has to be a big part of the plan.

“A strong business environment and a vibrant downtown are essential to creating jobs, generating tax revenue, and funding the public services people rely on.”

There are tax hikes, mostly for higher-income earners, although the average taxpayer will pay an extra $76 after Bailey raised the tax rate of the first income tax bracket by 0.6 percentage points to 5.6%.

The speculation and vacancy tax is going up by one-third, to 4%, and homeowners 55+ who delay paying property taxes will also shell out more.
If you live in a home with a property value of $3M—hey, we can dream, eh?—the school tax rate will increase by half to 0.3%.

The BC Greens call it a status quo budget that keeps industry happy, ties BC’s financial future to LNG expansion, and creates a dependency on fossil fuels.
It “leaves the difficult issues—affordability, climate action, and housing—for communities to figure out,” said Rob Botterell, the Greens’ finance critic and MLA for Saanich North and the Islands.

The Hospital Employees’ Union (HEU), representing 60K health-care workers, credited the provincial government for protecting critical health-care services.

⚠️ Capital Bulletin

Expanded hours for Peninsula Primary Care Access Clinic: Starting today, same-day appointments can be booked Monday to Friday, 8:30am-8pm, and Saturdays, 8:30am-1pm. No walk-ins permitted. [Island Health]

Point Ellice Bridge construction: No eastbound traffic for next four months. [City of Victoria]

Saanich road closure: Kremlin between Broadmead and Kisber, through Feb. 27, 4pm-8am.

Delays expected on the Galloping Goose near Viaduct Park, tomorrow and Friday. 9am-3pm. [CRD]

Driving today? Check the current traffic situation via Google.

NEWS

Greater Victoria's top theatres could get a funding boost—if residents don't say no

The Royal Theatre. Photo: Royal McPherson

The CRD wants to invest more in local theatres—but it will need to get the green light from residents first.

The district has started an alternative approval process (AAP) to create a new Performing Arts Facilities Service, which would designate operating and capital funding toward Greater Victoria’s top three venues: the Royal Theatre, the McPherson Playhouse, and the Charlie White Theatre (located inside Sidney’s Mary Winspear Centre).

The CRD says the service is needed after nearly 30 years of “stagnant funding levels” for the Royal and the McPherson, which has resulted in a “40% loss in purchasing power over time.”

The regional government says the service will improve coordination of arts planning between CRD communities and will establish more equitable cost-sharing for the theatres, which are used by residents across the region.

It could provide rental subsidies for arts programs and support educational initiatives, and it would push forward the much-discussed arts and culture centre for the Westshore, an idea that’s been floated for years. Design plans for the centre were released in November, courtesy of the Juan de Fuca Performing Arts Centre Society and Cascadia Architecture, but a location has not been established. Sites in Langford, Colwood, and View Royal are currently being explored.

The new Performing Arts Facilities Service would cost an estimated $2.3M a year—this includes the current $1.35M budget for services at the Royal and the McPherson, plus an additional $1M for grants and operation costs for the Charlie White Theatre.

The CRD needs electorate approval before passing any bylaw that creates a service levy or incurs long-term debt, according to the Local Government Act.

The AAP response period began yesterday and runs until March 30. Results of the AAP will be available in April.

For the CRD, no response is a good response—the bylaw will be adopted unless 10% or more of the district’s population rejects it. That would require 31,574 electors to voice their opposition to the new service by the end of March.

If the bylaw is adopted, the Performing Arts Facilities Service will be established and incorporated into the 2027 Financial Plan.

⭐️ Capital Picks

🕌 The first day of Ramadan is today.

✝️ It’s also Ash Wednesday, and the start of Lent.

🎶 Opening Night! Pacific Opera Victoria presents Puccini’s Tosca. Feb. 18-24 at the Royal. Have tickets yet? They start at $35.*

💰🏒 Fan scores $25K in Victoria Grizzlies’ 50/50 draw.

⚛️ Quantum Days 2026 at the Victoria Conference Centre. [Today-Friday]

🤝 Creating community impact with Victoria Digital Marketing Agency.*

🪸 Climate Talk: Designing for Tomorrow. [5:30pm tomorrow]

🧑‍🏫 Glenlyon Norfolk School empowers students to lead with confidence. Attend an upcoming Open House to see how IB learning and belonging shape extraordinary futures.*

🏒🍁 Olympics: Canada vs. Czechia men’s hockey quarterfinal is today at 7:40am.

🌱 Discover the ease, beauty & benefits of native plants at Swan Lake's Workshops. Designated best place to learn in the CRD—reserve your spot today!*

^{*Sponsored Listing}

Win big, help Island families!

Enter the Pot of Gold 50/50 and make a difference! Half the jackpot goes to the winner, and half helps Island kids. Every ticket supports local children and families who need specialized health equipment or to travel for medical care. Tickets on sale now until March 17. Get yours today!

🗞️ In Other News

Hullo may say ‘hello’ to Victoria market, but it won’t be soon
A high-speed route between Victoria and Vancouver could become a reality—it’ll just take some time. Hullo Ferries spokesperson Xander France says expanding its service to the Garden City is in Hullo’s long-term plans. Still, right now, the Vancouver Island Ferry Company, which owns the high-speed passenger boat shuttle, wants to concentrate on its Nanaimo operations. Hullo runs as many as 14 daily trips between Nanaimo and Vancouver, and France says business was up 40% last year. [Times Colonist]

VicPD assists in arresting Nanaimo shooting suspect
VicPD and the Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team (GVERT) arrested the 17-year-old male suspect on Friday, two days after an altercation at the Woodgrove Centre shopping mall. Nanaimo RCMP say a 15-year-old victim was shot during a fight among a group of youths. Bear spray was also deployed during the encounter. The victim is recovering in the hospital. The suspect was scheduled for a bail hearing in Victoria yesterday, facing five charges, including four related to having a weapon. [Victoria News]

Victoria Film Festival closes after drawing record-breaking crowds
This year’s festival recorded 47 sold-out screenings, topping the previous record of 40 set last year. The festival’s director says the success of this year’s run highlights film fans’ desire to see movies in theatres. This year, VFF had the support of 160 volunteers, who contributed more than 3,200 hours. The 10-day fest at nine venues showcased 91 feature films and 40 shorts—42 were Canadian-made, including seven Indigenous-focused films. [CHEK]

SPONSORED BY PACIFIC OPERA VICTORIA

Bid on Extraordinary Items & Experiences!

Shine in Francis Jewellers pearls, escape to Hawaii, play billiards at Government House, or indulge in local food, wine, artisanal treasures, and unique experiences. Over $75,000 worth of items and experiences await. Bid in the Festa a Roma Online Auction and support Pacific Opera Victoria's youth opera programs!

🗓️ Things To Do

🍵 Cha Dao Tea Ceremony: Welcoming the year of the Fire Horse with tea and community. Take part in a ceremony of stillness, simple beauty, and quiet kinship with the medicine of tea. Coven Arts in Cadboro Bay. Today. 10am-12pm. [Info]

✍️ Amazing Stories: An ode to the golden age of pulp sci-fi. Inspired by groundbreaking science fiction and fantasy magazines like Amazing Stories and Weird Tales, Paper Street Theatre presents thrilling tales of the future, the unknown, the wondrous, and the impossible. Intrepid Theatre Club. Tonight-Sat. [Info]

🦁📸 Hidden Gems of the Wildlife Photographer of the Year Tour. Join a museum educator to explore three handpicked photographs to learn why these three specific animals were photographed. Royal BC Museum. 2nd floor lobby. Tomorrow. 11-11:30am. [Info]

🌼 Native Plant Study Group Talk: A presentation titled "Riparian Plants: Nature’s Blueprint for Streamside Ecosystems" featuring Stephanie Gurney, of the Peninsula Streams Society. Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary (Swan Lake Nature House) & Zoom. Tomorrow. 7pm. [Info]

🎵 Live Music Night at View Royal Hall: An evening of live music with three of BC's most talented songwriters: Joan Bessie, Lindsay Bryan, and Rebecca Sichon. Licensed. View Royal Community Hall. Saturday. 7-10pm. [Info]

👀 In Case You Missed It

Sunday’s headlines: TEDxVictoria looking for speakers; Weekly roundup; UVic and Island Health launch digital tool for complex PTSD treatment. [Feb. 15]

Victoria triathlete Hannah Henry killed in a roadway collision in Phoenix. [Times Colonist]

Business Planning Bootcamp. [Feb. 23, 9am-12pm]

Open House: CRD wastewater treatment facility. [Feb. 28, 10am-2pm] Online survey until March 5.

Goldstream House: See the beautiful inn that opened in 1880. It housed travellers 16 km from Victoria before burning down in the 1930s. [Facebook photos]

That’s it!

If you found something useful, consider forwarding this newsletter to a fellow Victorian.

And before you go, let us know:

Feb 15 - A call for TEDx speakers

Capital Daily Team — Sun, 15 Feb 2026 14:30:03 +0000

Good morning {{First name}}!

Enjoy your Family Day long weekend, if applicable.
The Capital Daily Family is pausing on Tuesday. We’ll see you bright and early in your email inbox on Wednesday.

— Mark

Today’s approx. read time: 6 minutes

🌡️ Weather Forecast

Today: ⛅ 7 / 3

Tomorrow: 🌧️ 6 / 3

Tuesday: 🌥️ 7 / 4

NEWS

TEDxVictoria now accepting speaker applications for October event

Photo: TEDxVictoria and Redbrick

If you have an idea you feel is worth sharing, think it’ll be relevant to a Victoria audience, and you don’t mind getting up in front of a few hundred people to talk for 10-15 minutes, you might be TEDx material.

TEDxVictoria organizers have opened applications for this year’s event, which will take place on Oct. 7 at UVic’s Farquhar Auditorium.

“You don’t have to be a professional speaker to give a TEDx talk,” says Kurt Archer, a TEDxVictoria curator.

“In fact, applications that are simply aimed at benefitting an applicant’s speaking career are generally unsuccessful.”

The TEDxVictoria speaker curation committee is looking for 11 to 13 presenters, and all potential speakers need is a good idea, the gumption to share it, and the ability to take a wee bit of guidance.

Every TEDxVictoria speaker receives support—from idea clarification and storytelling training to slide design and presentation skills workshops, says Carol-Lynne Michaels, also a TEDxVictoria curator.

“If your idea could change everything, the TEDxVictoria team will ensure you have all you need to feel great about delivering your talk on the big day.”

Encouraging words—which is what the show hopes to present.

TED Talks began in 1984 as a conference focused on technology, entertainment, and design.

TEDx events are modelled after the TED Talks format—only they’re shorter, sometimes only three minutes long. They usually begin with a hook that takes the audience on a journey and offers a resolution or call to action in the end.

The "x" stands for an independently organized TED event, which is usually smaller but still provides the platform for a wide range of speakers from the community who aren’t necessarily widely known.

They’re pretty popular, with 4K+ events held annually, including here in Victoria from 2011 to 2015. They came back under a new licensee in 2024 and are presented by Victoria tech company Redbrick.

So what makes an interesting TEDx talk?

“We seek authentic voices with ideas worth spreading,” Archer says. Speakers should have a clear idea and convey why it’s relevant to the audience, he adds.

“Each talk should focus on one clear idea, not multiple concepts. We prioritize unique and timely topics.”

⚠️ Capital Bulletin

Recall: Certain Stellar Bay Shellfish brand oysters, due to norovirus. [Health Canada]

Point Ellice Bridge upgrades begin Tuesday, lasting four months. [City of Victoria]

Saanich road closure:
* Kremlin between Broadmead and Kisber, through Feb. 27, 4pm-8am.
* Palmer at Quadra, through Friday, 9am-3:30pm.

Saanich extended single-lane traffic: Quadra between Glenora Pl. and Union, through Friday, 9am-3:30pm.

Dog ban expanded on Pacific Rim trails after dog was attacked by two wolves. [Parks Canada]

Driving today? Check the current traffic situation via Google.

To maintain full access to the Sunday edition, become a Capital Daily Insider for only $8.66/month when you sign on as an annual member.

Upgrade Translation missing: en.app.shared.conjuction.or Sign In

Feb 13 - Cheery art for a sombre time

Capital Daily Team — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 14:00:06 +0000

Good morning {{First name}}!

I don’t think it’s the time for politicking or pointing fingers.
So, I’d like to tip my cap to our leaders from Victoria to Ottawa for showing genuine empathy and leadership during this national tragedy, as many mourn the lives taken and those forever altered.

Let’s start our Friday newsletter in Oak Bay, and art’s three-dimensional world of sculpture.

— Mark

Today’s approx. read time: 5 minutes

🌡️ Weather Forecast

Today: 🌧️ 9 / 4

Tomorrow: 🌦️ 8 / 4

Sunday: 🌤️ 7 / 4

NEWS

Oak Bay’s arts contest is sealed with The Kiss

The Kiss is the winner in Oak Bay. Photo: Oak Bay Rec.

Fittingly announced on the eve of Valentine’s Day, a sculpture featuring a pair of fish playing tonsil hockey is the People’s Choice winner in Oak Bay’s Arts Alive campaign.

The Kiss by local artist David Hunwick received the highest number of public votes.

“This sculpture captured residents with [an] intimate composition and expressive design, making it stand out along Oak Bay Avenue,” the district said.

The Kiss is the work of James Bay artist David Hunwick, whose sculptures enhance many private and public collections in Australia, the UK, Germany, and Italy, where his work was displayed in Tuscany to help celebrate the 500th anniversary of Michelangelo. Hunwick’s public sculptures are also on display on the Oak Bay sculpture trail and on Sidney’s Art & Sculpture Walking Tour.

“This piece invites viewers to contemplate the interconnectedness of existence, the delicate balance of relationships, and the cyclical nature of love and life,” is how the artist describes The Kiss.

Doug Taylor’s Cosmos Wheels, two aluminum wheels that rotate with the slightest gust of wind in McNeill Bay, and Baba Yaga Little Free Library, by Erick James, a playful little free library on bird’s feet at the corner of Newport and Windsor, each received a significant number of votes, the district said.

The sculptures are among nine on display (until April) across Oak Bay as part of the community’s Arts Alive program, which will celebrate its 10th year in July.

“The free walking/cycling map encourages residents and visitors to get active and visit the different corners of the municipality, on bike or by foot,” said Matt Williams, communications coordinator for the District of Oak Bay.

The artwork is also up for sale, with The Kiss listed at $16K—and the district may get in on the action

The top three pieces will be reviewed by a volunteer art jury, and if one is recommended for purchase, the Oak Bay Council will decide whether the district should snag it.

⚠️ Capital Bulletin

Saanich road closure: Kremlin between Broadmead and Kisber, through Feb. 27, 4pm-8am.

Saanich single-lane traffic: Quadra between Glenora Pl. and Union, today, 9am-3:30pm.

Driving today? Check the current traffic situation via Google.

NEWS

Victoria city council agrees to push the province to allow wheelchairs and mobility scooters in bike lanes

Government Street in James Bay. Photo: Mark Brennae / Capital Daily

Coun. Dave Thompson introduced the motion as a straight-up safety issue.

“Many sidewalks are unsafe for wheelchairs and mobility scooters, with a variety of hydro poles, signposts, driveway cuts, heaving, and other hazards, and many are too narrow,” he tells Capital Daily.

Some seniors and people with disabilities find it safer, he says, to use their wheelchairs and mobility scooters in the bike lanes.

But as Thompson points out in his motion paperwork, BC’s Motor Vehicle Act limits the use of electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters to the sidewalk or crosswalk—and classifies them as pedestrian devices.

His motion called for the council to endorse a resolution to petition the province to update that.

“The aim is to have the province change the Motor Vehicle Act, and if needed, the regulations, to allow the electric wheelchairs and scooters in the lanes.”

The motion passed unanimously on the consent agenda of the committee of the whole and again at the subsequent council meeting.

Thompson says several organizations, such as the BC Cycling Coalition and the Council of Senior Citizens Organizations of BC—an umbrella group representing 80K BC seniors—support the idea.

“Scooters are already using the lanes, and generally people are courteous and patient—it’s Victoria after all,” Thompson says.

With an increasing number of electric-drive personal devices in the lanes, there might be some congestion, but he says the city is expanding the bike lane network “so people won’t be all funnelled into the same few routes.”

The council endorsed a resolution to be brought before the Association of Vancouver Island and Coastal Communities (AVICC), which acts as a "first filter" for resolutions, at its next meeting, slated for April 24-26 in Victoria.

The motion is also to be heard at the next Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) gathering, which is scheduled for Vancouver Sept. 14-18.

This story ran for our Insiders on Feb. 8. Consider becoming an Insider today and be the first to receive stories every Sunday.

Maanomaa, My Brother, on now to March 1

“I just need to tell someone how absolutely marvellous the play was. Please pass on to those two beautiful men that we were so blown away by them and their story.” — Audience reaction.

In Maanomaa, My Brother (My Bird, My Brother), childhood friends Kwame and Will reunite in Ghana for the funeral of a loved one and discover how much has changed since they separated 25 years earlier.

Telling their story in a beautiful combination of dialogue and movement, the play is both fiercely personal and curiously abstract. It’s a meditation on grief and diaspora starring playwrights M’Carthy and Cook.

The Belfry offers Pay-what-you-want tickets to all performances.

⭐️ Capital Picks

🪥 Every Smile Matters. (See ICYMI) [Contribute here].

🎭 Love, obsession, and betrayal—Pacific Opera Victoria presents Puccini’s Tosca. Feb. 18-24 at the Royal. Have tickets yet? They start at $35.*

🎸🍷 April Wine tonight. [McPherson Playhouse]

🎸🤘 Megadeth, with Anthrax on Sunday. [Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre]

🧩 Pick up new skills in small doses. Gain skills when it works for you with bite-sized professional development programs from Continuing Studies at UVic.*

♥️💃 Carnaval Saint Valentine's Latin Party. [Tomorrow]

🚸 Dancers4Kids for the Island Kids Cancer Association. [Tomorrow]

🐈‍⬛ It’s Friday the 13th. Just sayin’.

*Sponsored Listing

Please Help PHS Care for People in Crisis

Please donate to PHS today to help restore stability and dignity for those experiencing homelessness.

🗞️ In Other News

Throne speech replaced with heartfelt tribute to Tumbler Ridge community
Instead of the usual address outlining the government’s legislative agenda, Lt.-Gov. Wendy Cocchia yesterday delivered a solemn tribute to the victims of Tuesday’s mass shooting and to the Peace River community of 2,400. “Today, the people of Tumbler Ridge are wrapped in the care and compassion of an entire province and a country that mourns alongside them,” she said, before thanking first responders, health-care workers, teachers, and school staff “whose courage and swift action helped save lives.” Nine people—aged 11 to 39—died in the shooting, including the suspect, 18, who died by suicide. [Times Colonist]

Islanders grieve loss of 12-year-old family member who died in Tumbler Ridge
The weight of Tuesday’s tragedy is being felt profoundly by the Island family of one of its victims. Kylie May Smith was 12 years old when her life was taken. Her aunt Shanon Dycke describes Kylie as “kind, so sweet and gentle.” Dycke says her extended family—whom Kylie visited frequently here on the Island—is devastated. Kylie was inside Tumbler Ridge Secondary School when the mass shooting took place. [CHEK]

Langford development leads to ‘hazardous conditions’
A large hole created for a delayed development project is at risk of collapsing, says the city, after a recent geotechnical assessment. There is a risk of “sloughing” along the southern wall of the excavation—adjacent to 2748 Peatt Road, a development known as “The Scene”, close to the northern boundary of a neighbouring strata property. The city says heavy trucks and emergency vehicles should not drive down the strata road until the issue is resolved, as they could increase the risk of collapse. Neighbouring property owners were alerted to the concern by city staff and were told they do not need to evacuate. [City of Langford]

🗓️ Things To Do

📚 Family Storytime with Stay & Play: Fun-filled stories, songs, rhymes, and puppets for young children and families, followed by social time and free play. Greater Victoria Public Library Heritage Branch. Today. 10:30-11:30am. [Info]

🗝️ Scavenger Hunt: Family Day: Explore Langford's trails, parks, and outdoor spaces with this special scavenger hunt for a chance to win prizes, including gift certificates. City of Langford. Today-Tuesday. 8am-2pm. [Info]

🧘YMCA Yoga: Family Day Weekend: Enjoy free family yoga at the YMCA Westhills with regular hours and admission available for members and day pass users on Family Day. YMCA Westhills. Today. 6:30-7:20pm. [Info]

🌃 Victoria at Dusk: Wander through an illuminated self-guided walking route and discover interactive installations, art, performances, music, and winter magic. Downtown Victoria. Tonight-Sun. 5-9pm. [Info]

🎺‍ UVic Wind Symphony & the Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy: A dynamic collaboration takes audiences through contemporary jazz and Latin-inspired works in this high-energy program featuring soloists from both ensembles. UVic. Tonight. 8pm. [Info]

🎻 Discover Strings! Family Day Weekend Free Drop-In: Try the violin, viola, or cello and learn about beginning your musical journey in celebration of Family Day weekend. Victoria Conservatory of Music, Westhills. Tomorrow. 1-2:30pm. [Info]

🍵 Appreciation Tea: Celebrate Black elders and mentors who uphold culture, share history, and help raise the next generation. Victoria music icon Louise Rose will perform. Baumann Centre at Pacific Opera Victoria. Tomorrow. 2-4pm. [Info]

🎶 Ebony Roots Concert: A concert journey that musically narrates the evolving emancipation of the Black community. Celebrate African Descent/Black music, from 300-year-old spirituals to Motown, and everything in between. Club KWENCH. Sunday. 2-4pm. [Info]

🎨🥊 Art Battle Victoria: Competitive painting. In three fast-paced rounds, artists battle the clock and each other to create their best work in just 20 minutes. Capital Ballroom. Sunday. 7pm. [Info]

For more Family Day events, click here.

For more Black History Month events, click here.

👀 In Case You Missed It

Thursday’s headlines: 18 Victoria-area employers make top-100 list; VicPD gets ‘proactive’; Former Canucks broadcaster Jim Robson dies at 91. [Feb. 12 ]

Victoria psychologist: How to talk to kids about the Tumbler Ridge shooting. [Times Colonist]

‘Adopt an American’ event coming to Nanaimo in April. [CHEK]

Victoria nonprofit provides dental care because Every Smile Matters. [CTV]

Dogs banned from Tofino’s Wickaninnish Beach as wolf sightings increase. [Parks Canada]

That’s it!

If you found something useful, consider forwarding this newsletter to a fellow Victorian.

And before you go, let us know:

Feb 12 - Many top BC employers are in Victoria

Capital Daily Team — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 14:00:06 +0000

Good morning {{First name}}!

BC is in mourning after news of the devastating shooting at a Tumbler Ridge high school.

In its latest update, RCMP say that one educator, 39, and five students aged 12 to 13 years old were found dead in the library and stairwell. The shooter has been identified as Jesse Van Rootselaar, 18, who killed her mother and 11-year-old stepbrother at home before opening fire at the school. Van Rootselaar was also among the deceased.

At least 25 more were injured, some critically.

The province says a “variety of services dedicated to supporting mental health” are on the way to Tumbler Ridge, a small community of 2,400.

It’s hard to know what to say when such a profound tragedy occurs, especially one close to home. Our thoughts are with the students and the victims’ families. If you’re looking for a way to support, a GoFundMe has been started by parents and students of Tumbler Ridge.

— Robyn

Today’s approx. read time: 7 minutes

🌡️ Weather Forecast

Today: ⛅ 9 / 6

Tomorrow: 🌧️ 8 / 4

Day after: ☁️ 6 / 4

NEWS

1 in 5 of BC’s ‘top 100 employers of 2026’ are in Greater Victoria

Victoria International Airport. The Victoria Airport Authority has made the list of top BC employers for seven years straight. Photo: James MacDonald / Capital Daily

Eighteen area businesses and corporations from the private and public sectors made the list, with provincial government agencies and centres of education leading the way, and the Victoria Airport Authority (VAA) landing recognition for the seventh straight year.

The VAA earned praise for its comprehensive family-benefits package, including maternity and parental leave top-ups to 100% of salary for 16 weeks, its flexible time off, professional development, and strong retirement support.

“Over the past year, our team has grown substantially, and we remain focused on fostering a workplace where our people feel supported, valued, and empowered to succeed,” VAA CEO and president Elizabeth Brown said.

Provincial government offshoots, such as BC Transit, BC Assessment, the BC Pension Corporation, the BC Public Service, BC Ferries, the BC Investment Management Corporation, and the Land Title and Survey Authority, all made the list.

Lauded for its pension plan, alternative work arrangements, support for new parents, and professional development opportunities, the District of Saanich made the list for the fourth straight year.

“Creating a workplace where every person is treated with respect, has a real voice, and can do their best work is not optional—it’s how we serve our community well,” said Saanich CAO Brent Reems.

The honours have been handed out for 21 years now to employers that lead their industries in offering exceptional places to work.

Editors at Mediacorp review employers on eight criteria: workplace; work atmosphere & social; health, financial & family benefits; vacation & time off; employee communications; performance management; training & skills development; and community involvement.

Camosun College was recognized for offering employees three paid days off per year for volunteering, while UVic rode onto the list with accolades for its bike-friendly campus and transit subsidies, which can cover half the cost of monthly bus passes for its 1,004 employees.

The Broadmead Care Society and Island Health also made the list.

IT firm Advanced Solutions and consulting engineering company AME Consulting Group led the Victoria contingent of private-sector businesses. Software manufacturer Redbrick Technologies and Maximus Canada, a government consulting firm, are also in the top 100. So is PBC Solutions, a health benefits services company.

⚠️ Capital Bulletin

Day of mourning declared across BC: Throne speech cancelled; lieutenant governor to deliver solemn address on the Tumbler Ridge tragedy.

Saanich road closure:

Kremlin between Broadmead and Kisber, through Feb. 27, 4pm-8am
Reynolds at Cedar Hill Cross, today, 9am to 3pm

Saanich single-lane traffic:

Quadra between Glenora Pl. and Union, through Friday, 9am-3:30pm
Quadra at Ambassador, today, 9am to 3pm

Saanich single-lane alternating traffic: Interurban between Columbine Way and Marigold, today, 9am to 3pm

Dogs banned from Tofino’s Wickaninnish Beach as wolf sightings increase. [Parks Canada]

Support local journalism by supporting Capital Daily. Become a Capital Daily Insider member today and help bring local stories to life.

NEWS

More ‘proactive policing’ coming to Victoria intersections

Photo: Robyn Bell / Capital Daily

VicPD is ramping up its traffic safety enforcement, partnering with the CRD Integrated Road Safety Unit (CRD-IRSU) to monitor roadways.

This partnership announcement comes weeks after VicPD warned of an increase in collisions involving pedestrians and cyclists. There were 17 such collisions in the first 19 days of the year (thankfully, nobody was killed during these incidents).

These types of collisions are more likely to happen at busy intersections, according to VicPD, leading the department to prioritize enforcement at these crossroads.

Road safety is a concern that many Victorians have as well—according to VicPD’s most recent community survey, traffic offences were the third main concern from respondents. The police department says it’s taking a “proactive policing” approach to prevent potential crashes.

“Road safety is a shared priority,” said Sgt. Kristin Greffard, VicPD’s media relations officer, in a statement. “Visible enforcement acts as a deterrent and promotes safer driving behaviours. We are grateful to partner with IRSU on initiatives like these.”

During three recent enforcement events, VicPD says it issued 46 tickets and nine warnings. Of those tickets, 41 were for using a cellphone while driving.

The department says police also spoke with cyclists and pedestrians about road etiquette, such as wearing a helmet or waiting for a crossing signal.

Greffard says VicPD wants “all road users” to be mindful of the regulations of the Motor Vehicle Act.

“For safer streets, we need everyone to slow down, be situationally aware, and be mindful of their actions,” she said.

A Day For Creative Writers

Creative Writing Day at the inaugural KWENCH Writers Festival (Sunday, March 1) brings together diverse authors for conversations on fiction’s cultural power, creative resilience, and building a sustainable writing life. From storytelling to squashing self-doubt, these talks celebrate the value of putting your pen to paper. Tickets on sale now.

⭐️ Capital Picks

🚲 Extended bike valet hours for Victoria at Dusk. [City of Vic]

🌱 Discover the ease, beauty & benefits of native plants at Swan Lake's Workshops. Designated best place to learn in the CRD—reserve your spot today!*

🐦 Long journey to the Island: A tagged rufous hummingbird was found in Errington. Records indicate it was banded in Alabama in 2024—a 4K km journey. [Facebook photo]

^{*Sponsored Listing}

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🗞️ In Other News

Wind Cries Mary owners to take over Friends of Dorothy space
Cottage Hospitality Group, which owns Wind Cries Mary in Bastion Square and Rudi on Pandora, is opening a third restaurant—Birdman—in Dorothy’s spot on Johnson, once renovations are completed, possibly as early as May 1. Last month, the owners of Friends of Dorothy—a welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community—said it was “taking some time off” and that it was not goodbye. [CHEK]

Overboard BC ferry passenger matches description of missing man
Nanaimo RCMP were alerted about a missing man on Monday and began searching, with a call out to other jurisdictions for help. That night, the man’s vehicle was found on a BC Ferries vessel at the Tsawwassen terminal. Surveillance footage shows a person matching the description of the missing man going overboard while the ship was in transit. A search by the Joint Rescue Co-ordination Centre and RCMP West Coast Marine Services is underway, and BC Ferries is working with multiple police departments. [CTV]

Longtime Canucks voice Jim Robson dead at 91
Robson was the first radio voice of the Canucks and the team’s play-by-play announcer from 1970 to 1999. His final radio call was Game 7 of the 1994 Stanley Cup Finals, when the Canucks lost to the New York Rangers. Robson transitioned to TV for the final five years of his career—the broadcast booth at Rogers Arena bears his name. Robson began his career at the age of 17, covering men’s basketball in Port Alberni, before joining Vancouver’s CKNW when the Canucks entered the NHL in 1970. [Sportsnet]

Enjoying our newsletter? Help us make it even better!

Become an Insider member and help keep local journalism and storytelling alive in the Capital Region.

🗓️ Things To Do

🎶 CCPA presents Showtune Piano Bar Cabaret #1: Canadian College of Performing Arts Year II students will present a New York-style cabaret featuring classic and contemporary show tunes at Hermann's tonight. 7pm. [Info]

🎸 Door d'Or Single Release Party: Moody, guitar-driven indie rock band Door d'Or will celebrate their upcoming debut album at The Coda tonight. 6:30-8:30pm. [Info]

😂 Heartless—an Anti Valentine’s Day Show: Catch this comedy show about everything NOT Valentine's Day at Hecklers Bar & Grill tonight. 8pm. [Info]

🎨 Community Day: Drawn Together: Take part in this watercolour activity, reflecting on family members who shaped your story, at the Maritime Museum of BC tomorrow. 9:30am-4:30pm (drop-in crafts 1-4pm). [Info]

🎉 Victoria at Dusk: Wander through an illuminated self-guided walking route, discovering interactive installations, art, and live performances throughout Downtown Victoria. Tomorrow through Sunday. 5-9pm. [Info]

🎵 April Wine: Canadian rock legends bring their extensive catalogue of hits to the McPherson Playhouse tomorrow. 8pm. [Info]

👪 Family Day Lecture: Join award-winning UVic assistant prof. Georgia Sitara at Ross Bay Villa Historic House Museum to learn about the history of children and family in Victoria. Feb. 19. 7:30pm. [Info]

👀 In Case You Missed It

Wednesday’s headlines: RCMP warn of jewelry scam in the Westshore; Free Family Day events; Saanich mayor won’t seek re-election. [Feb. 11]

12 new officers in 10 years is not enough, says VicPD chief. [CHEK]

Duncan hand gliding crash update: Meet the Victoria man who saved a 70-year-old’s life. [Times Colonist]

Partial closures coming to E&N Trail next week as BC Hydro conducts work. [CRD]

The Victoria Women’s Expo. [March 7 & 8]

Pink Shirt Day is in 2 weeks. [Show support]

Olympics at the library: Catch the Games at your local GVPL branch. [GVPL]

That’s it!

If you found something useful, consider forwarding this newsletter to a fellow Victorian.

And before you go, let us know:

Feb 11 - All that glitters...

Capital Daily Team — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 14:00:05 +0000

Good morning {{First name}}!

I’m not one to get too wound up over attire, but I have to agree with lifestyle blogger Ryan Massel—who is hilarious and absolute gold. What were our Canadians athletes wearing at the Olympic Games opening ceremonies on Friday? That shawl/cape/sleeping bag/thingy is a real mystery to me.
Full story below in ICYMI.

— Mark

Today’s approx. read time: 6 minutes

🌡️ Weather Forecast

Today: 🌤️ 9 / 5

Tomorrow: 🌦️ 9 / 5

Friday: 🌧️ 8 / 4

Check out the full list here.

NEWS

RCMP warn of parking lot con artists selling faux gold for cash

Photo: Shutterstock

Shakespeare famously wrote, “All that glisters is not gold”—in modern terms, glitters—and at least nine people in the Westshore recently experienced that firsthand.

There’s a scam going around that pits people’s empathy and good-naturedness against common sense, and it’s got West Shore and Nanaimo RCMP concerned enough to issue a warning.

"These fraudsters rely on sympathy and urgency to pressure victims into handing over money,” said West Shore RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Nancy Saggar.

The scammers usually approach people in parking lots outside busy retail areas—where there’s a money machine conveniently nearby—with a hard-luck story about having run out of money for gas and food. They then offer gold jewelry for a bargain-basement price.

“In several reported cases, the suspects had young children with them, which appeared to be used to gain trust and lower suspicion."

The gold—you guessed it—is bogus, and the victim doesn’t find out until the scammer is long gone.

West Shore RCMP says it wants to remind people that buying jewelry from strangers is a high-risk move and that stories involving emergencies are often untrue. If something sounds suspicious, that’s your instinct warning you that if it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, it’s probably a duck, and not a golden opportunity.

Nanaimo RCMP are dealing with the same issue and figure it’s a group of thieves who are part of a larger enterprise that roams the Island and Lower Mainland looking for marks.

Spokesperson Gary O’Brien says last Friday, a man was filling his vehicle up at a Harbour City gas station when a man and woman pulled in and said that they had lost their wallet and badly needed gas money to get back to Victoria.

They showed the man a ring they claimed was worth 3K and asked $100 for it. The guy’s niceness kicked in, and he withdrew a hundy from the ATM.
You know how this ended.

“If you encounter a similar situation, do not provide money,” O’Brien said.
When safe to do so, report the incident to police.”

⚠️ Capital Bulletin

Tragedy in Tumbler Ridge. [Global News]

Saanich road closure: Kremlin between Broadmead and Kisber, through Feb. 27, 4pm-8am.

Saanich single-lane traffic: Quadra between Glenora Pl. and Union, through Friday, 9am-3:30pm.

Saanich single-lane alternating traffic: Cedar Hill between Garnet and Cedar Hill Cross, today, 9am-3:30pm.

Partial closures coming to E&N Trail next week as BC Hydro conducts work. [CRD]

Driving today? Check the current traffic situation via Google.

NEWS

Free Family Day events in Greater Victoria

Photo: Shutterstock

The first long weekend of the year is almost upon us, and there’s no shortage of activities to fill that extra time off.

This year, the Family Day weekend overlaps with Valentine's Day, making it an extra-special occasion to share quality time with the people you love most.

Events kick off on Friday, with plenty of fun to be had through to Monday.

Check out Victoria at Dusk, the new winter arts festival happening downtown, or bring the whole family out for a day of skating, swimming, or yoga. Get your kids learning how to code, dance, or discover new art techniques.

We’ve rounded up some fun—and free!—activities to do with your family.

NEWS

Interpretative installation on Inner Harbour lower causeway celebrates lək̓ʷəŋən culture and language

Photo: GVHA

Five colourful information structures were installed next to the marina gates on Monday, replacing ones that had been there for several sun-drenched years and needed to be changed.

“This new installation contains more lək̓ʷəŋən content, including examples of the lək̓ʷəŋən language,” said Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) spokesperson Richard Davies.

The GVHA and representatives from the Songhees Nation and xʷsepsəm Nation officially unveiled the installation yesterday.

“Pedestrians are already stopping to read the panels,” Davies said.

Inspired by the traditional Big House design, the installation explains the historical and cultural connection between the lək̓ʷəŋən People and the Inner Harbour.

The installation features the lək̓ʷəŋən language and describes how the lək̓ʷəŋən People used the harbour and surrounding lands. An orca designed by Butch Dick (Yux’wey’lupton) is incorporated into the design.

"This is more than art—it is a living connection to our land and the community who built upon it,” said Songhees Nation Chief Ron Sam.

The installation is located in an area called xwsəyq’әm (pronounced Whu-SEI-kum), meaning Place of Mud.

“This location was once the village site of the xʷsepsəm, right where the legislature building stands today,” said Chief Jerome Thomas of xʷsepsəm Nation.

“We’re excited that visitors and residents will have the opportunity to learn about lək̓ʷəŋən culture and the importance of this area to our people.”

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⭐️ Capital Picks

🥟 Dumpling Fest Victoria is tonight. [SOLD OUT]

♀️ The Victoria Women’s Expo. [March 7 & 8]

🎭 "Such a beautiful story." Maanomaa, My Brother is on now through March 1 at the Belfry Theatre. Pay-what-you-want tickets are available for all performances.*

💗 Pink Shirt Day is 2 weeks from today. [Show support]

🧠 Ready to think bigger? March 10-11, Rising Economy brings bold insights on business, tech, and innovation to help you stay ahead of change.*

⛷️ Olympics at the library: Catch the Games at your local GVPL branch. [GVPL]

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🗞️ In Other News

Saanich Mayor Dean Murdock will not run for re-election
Murdock’s first term as mayor will be his last. He says he’s stepping away from the demands of public service amid his wife’s battle with cancer. Murdock served three terms as a councillor, having first been elected in 2008 and re-elected in 2011 and 2014. He took a four-year break from municipal politics before running for mayor in 2022, when he beat incumbent Fred Haynes. The municipal election is set for Oct. 17. Currently, there is no declared mayoral candidate for Saanich. [CHEK]

Victoria-area woman’s brother killed in Iran: it took 5 days to find out his fate
The woman—whose name is not included in this story for her and her family’s safety—says her brother was shot in the leg by members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, and his injuries went untreated for days. His family in Iran took him to the hospital, but were not allowed in. Five days later, they were told to come to identify his body. The Victoria-area woman said in exchange for his remains, the regime wanted her family to say the man was an enemy of the state. The woman said her brother was not part of the protests in Iran, which have resulted in the deaths of thousands. [Times Colonist]

100+ BC First Nations oppose Eby’s planned amendments to DRIPA
In a joint statement, the First Nations condemned Premier David Eby’s plans to rework the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA)—a BC law enacted in 2019 to align with the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). Eby plans to introduce changes to DRIPA to maintain the free-entry system of the Mineral Tenure Act, which allows miners to access Crown land without Indigenous consent. In December, a BC court ruled this system conflicted with DRIPA laws. Eby wants to remove the courts’ influence over resource matters, but First Nations say the changes could lead to more land-claim challenges in court. [Victoria Buzz]

🗓️ Things To Do

🎺 The Don Leppard Jazz Orchestra: Victoria's 17-piece big band swings through classics from Count Basie, Duke Ellington, and more, plus contemporary jazz arrangements with featured guest Ryan Oliver. Hermann's Jazz Club. Tonight. Doors 5:30pm, show 7-9pm. [Info]

👽🎸 Close Encounters from Western Civilization Tour 2026: Interdimensional alien Draemus brings epic alt/rock/pop to iconic alien sci-fi sagas, and is joined by Victoria's War Eyes and progressive rock band Zenith. The Coda. Tonight. Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm. [Info]

🤣 Phillips Comedy Night: Funny guys Morgan Cranny and Drew Farrance bring the most hilarious comedians in the city together for a wonderful evening of food, drink, and fun. The Mint. Tonight. 8pm. [Info]

💬 Imagine After Hours: This relaxed, supportive gathering offers a welcoming space to unwind, meet new people, and build community in a non-clinical environment. With coffee, conversation, and occasional creative or social activities. Serious Coffee Esquimalt. Tonight. 5-7pm. [Info]

🎹 Showtune Piano Bar Cabaret: Diploma Year II and Certificate students from the Canadian College of Performing Arts (CCPA) perform a range of numbers from the Golden Age to off-off-Broadway, from classic to contemporary; each toe-tapping tune will charm and delight. Hermann’s. Tomorrow & Feb. 19. 7pm. [Info]

🖌️ Paint Night: Lovebirds. Step-by-step demonstrations are provided so you can come with no experience and still walk away with a masterpiece. Fairfield Gonzales Community Association. Tomorrow. 6:30-9pm. [Info]

🌱 Valentine’s Terrarium Workshop: Get your hands dirty and create a beautiful terrarium with a special someone—or treat yourself to a solo evening of planting. We will guide you through the process. VI Plant Shop. Friday. 5:30-6:30pm. [Info]

🎉 Victoria at Dusk: Walk along a route filled with light-based installations, performance art, storytelling, and creative cultural expression at Ship Point. Friday through Sunday. 5pm-9pm. [Info]

👀 In Case You Missed It

Tuesday’s headlines: Victoria podcast on therapy access returns for second season; BC teachers reach tentative deal with public school employers; Downtown bus depot to close. [Feb. 10]

Goldstream Medical Clinic opens for Westshore patients. [CHEK]

Suspect sought after assault on bus in Saanich. [Times Colonist]

Canada’s Winter Olympic Games outfits raise eyebrows online. [CTV]

Carnival Culture Connection on Valentine’s Day. [Braefoot Park]

Beatlemania 1964: See people in Victoria lining up at the original Memorial Arena to buy tickets to The Beatles’ PNE show. [Facebook photo]

That’s it!

If you found something useful, consider forwarding this newsletter to a fellow Victorian.

And before you go, let us know:

Feb 10 - Teaching people to access therapy

Capital Daily Team — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 14:00:06 +0000

Good morning {{First name}}!

If you’ve ever tried to access therapy, but found the number of options overwhelming or the process difficult to navigate, you’re not alone. Check out our first story to see how local counsellors are working to make mental-health care access easier.

— Robyn

Today’s approx. read time: 6 minutes

🌡️ Weather Forecast

Today: ⛅ 9 / 3

Tomorrow: ☀️ 8 / 5

Day after: ⛅ 9 / 7

Read on to learn how Let’s Talk Access helps demystify the therapy process.

NEWS

Victoria podcast helping people access therapy to return for 2nd season

Let's Talk Access staff (left to right) Amanda Naseri, Christa Martel, Katrina Goldsworthy. Photo courtesy of Christa Martel

Victoria mental-health experts want more people to be able to access therapy—and they’re beginning with the biggest hurdle: getting started with therapy.

Let’s Talk Access is a Victoria-founded podcast project that is now expanding across the country, with a goal of teaching people how therapy works.

In 2022, Christa Martel launched Let’s Talk Access after a conversation with a friend, who was seeking therapy and didn’t know where to begin. It got Martel thinking about how common this problem is.

“She didn't know where to start, so we spent about three hours on the phone going through different types of modalities, the things that were coming up from her, where her family was from, what her early childhood was like,” Martel said.

“It hit me that I found that hard, and I didn't think that there was anything service-wise that taught people how to sort out for themselves what might be a good fit.”

Martel came up with an idea for a short podcast series that helped people navigate the mental-health support system.

She got funding from Storyhive—a community-powered funding program from Telus—found three people in Victoria who were seeking therapy for the first time, and made three episodes chronicling their journeys. From overwhelming Google responses to high-cost counselling and insurance barriers, the podcast captures the many reasons people give up on therapy before they even start.

The first season is available now to listen to on Spotify and YouTube. Spoiler alert: by the end of the season, every participant was in therapy.

Four years on from that first season, Martel says Season 2 is underway and soon to be released (Martel expects episodes to be rolled out May through August). This time, though, Martel and her team are helping more than just Victoria locals.

Over the span of 24 episodes—expected to be released in three parts—a group of eight people will set out to find therapy in Victoria, other areas of BC, Central and Eastern Canada, and the US.

Listeners will follow as the group learns in real time how to access therapy in their location. Group members will also create a guide for each episode, based on their experiences.

⚠️ Capital Bulletin

Victoria Construction-related traffic disruptions:

Cook, from Bay to Maplewood, through Feb. 23
Pembroke to Caledonia, both directions, through Feb. 23

Saanich road closure: Palmer at Quadra, through Friday, 9am-3:30pm

Saanich single-lane alternating traffic: Cedar Hill between Garnet and Cedar Hill Cross, today, 9am-3:30pm

Driving today? Check the current traffic situation via Google.

NEWS

BC teachers reach tentative agreement with public school employers

Photo: Shutterstock

The BC Teachers Federation (BCTF) has sent emails to its 52K teachers, confirming a conditional settlement to their contract dispute, although no formal announcement was made.

“The tentative agreement now goes to the BCTF Executive Committee for a decision on whether or not to send it to the membership for a ratification vote,” a BCTF spokesperson told Capital Daily.

The spokesperson said the union would have nothing further to say until later this week.

The teachers have been without a contract since their last three-year term expired more than seven months ago, on June 30.

Their union has been negotiating with the BC Public School Employers’ Association (BCPSEA), which represents the province’s 60 public school boards, since mid-March.

Last month, the union declared an impasse, essentially signalling both parties had exhausted all reasonable efforts on a settlement and that it was time to start thinking about bringing in a third party to mediate or to consider job action—a strike or lockout.

“While the employer has offered general wage increases in line with other public sector unions, it has refused to provide additional funding to address priorities like working conditions that other public sector workers have received,” the BCTF declared in a release on Jan. 14.

This decision directly affects students’ learning environments and access to the attention and support they need, it said.

The union is concerned with the student-teacher ratio, arguing that lower class sizes (generally speaking, currently capped at 30 students for grades 4-12) are essential to properly support students’ learning needs and potential mental-health concerns.

In its Jan. 14 release, the union said it had come to the bargaining table in good faith 35 times since contract negotiations began in March, consistently raising concerns about classroom conditions and proposed solutions.

However, it said, “the employer has rejected those proposals and has not put forward meaningful alternatives.”

The BCTF also wants wage increases. It says BC’s teachers traditionally have been paid less than teachers in other provinces.

The BCPEA did not return inquiries from Capital Daily in time for this story.

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⭐️ Capital Picks

🎉 Victoria at Dusk: New winter arts festival happening this weekend at Ship Point. [City of Victoria]

✈️ Catch the next opportunity! Sharpen your skills with online professional development programs with Continuing Studies at UVic.*

🎫 Beatlemania 1964: See people in Victoria lining up at the original Memorial Arena to buy tickets to The Beatles’ PNE show. [Facebook photo]

🖤 Carnival Culture Connection on Valentine’s Day. [Braefoot Park]

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What if school weren’t just preparation for life, but part of it?

At GNS, students from JK to Grade 12 are seen and empowered to lead with confidence and compassion. Join us at an upcoming Open House to discover how personalized learning and belonging come together to shape extraordinary futures.

🗞️ In Other News

Downtown bus depot to close at the end of the month
It’s a small, street-level terminus in the Crystal Garden on Douglas, opposite the Victoria Conference Centre (VCC), used by area sightseers and people heading up-Island, to Vancouver and Mt. Washington. The Wilson’s Group of Companies, which owns it, says Capital City Station isn’t busy enough to keep open. Wilson’s plans to sell bus tickets online, through hotels, drivers, and partners such as Destination Greater Victoria. Wilson’s says it’s working with the city to continue having buses park there, with passengers free to wait at the transit stop or at the VCC. [Times Colonist]

BC Greens to cut agreement with NDP, citing ‘undelivered’ commitments
Leader Emily Lowan says the Greens won’t renew the Co-operation and Responsible Government Accord when it expires next month because about two-thirds of its goals weren’t accomplished. The deal was supposed to stabilize a slim NDP majority while the parties worked on shared goals, but Lowan says too many of those goals got stalled, including plans for electoral reform, more health care, and improving Island transit. Lowan accuses the NDP of siding with corporate interests. [CTV / CP]

Rental prices drop for 16th straight month, averaging $2,057 nationally, for all unit sizes
Rent for one-bedroom units in Victoria is down 6.7% year over year, and two-bedroom units are 5.1% cheaper, according to the monthly rent report from Rentals.ca and Urbanation. The average one-bedroom was listed at $2,224 in January, while the average two-bedroom was going for $2,605. That makes Victoria the 20th most expensive market. North Van and Vancouver are 1-2. Oakville, Toronto, and North York round out the top 5 most expensive. The report also said renters are paying more per square foot. [CHEK]

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🗓️ Things To Do

🏛️ Black Pioneers on the Saanich Peninsula: Learn the stories of important Black pioneers in Sidney, the Saanich Peninsula, and Salt Spring Island at the Sidney Museum. Daily through Feb 28. [Info]

🧱 20th Annual LEGO Brick Exhibit: Celebrate two decades of impressive LEGO builds and community creations at the Sidney Museum. Now through April 6. [Info]

🎺 The Don Leppard Jazz Orchestra: Victoria's 17-piece big band swings through classics from Count Basie, Duke Ellington, and more at Hermann's tomorrow. 7-9pm. [Info]

👽 Close Encounters from Western Civilization Tour 2026: Inter-dimensional alien Draemus brings epic alt/rock/pop to iconic alien sci-fi sagas at The Coda tomorrow. 6:30-8:30pm. [Info]

😆 Hecklers Presents: Heartless—an Anti-Valentine's Day Show: A comedy show about everything NOT Valentine's Day featuring dating disasters, scorned lovers, and fruitful revenge at Hecklers Bar & Grill. Thurs. 8pm. [Info]

🎸 April Wine: Canadian rock legends bring their extensive catalogue of hits to the McPherson Playhouse. Fri. 8pm. [Info]

👀 In Case You Missed It

Sunday’s headlines: BC pauses $162M Malahat expansion amid environmental concerns for Goldstream; Weekly roundup; Victoria council to push for wheelchairs in bike lanes. [Feb. 9]

Two convicted, fined $3K each after Texada Island grizzly shot and killed last summer. [CBC]

70-year-old paraglider who crashed into Duncan cliff expected to make full recovery. [CHEK]

An overdose advisory is in place for Greater Victoria for the second time in two weeks. [Island Health]

New downtown pizza place: Dough Eyes Pizza to open in the former Virtuous Pie location on Pandora.

Coldest Night of the Year fundraising walk. [Feb. 27]

Victoria Ska & Reggae Festival is back for year 27. [June 24-28]

That’s it!

If you found something useful, consider forwarding this newsletter to a fellow Victorian.

And before you go, let us know:

Feb 8 - BC pauses $160M Malahat expansion

Capital Daily Team — Sun, 08 Feb 2026 14:00:05 +0000

Good morning {{First name}}!

The Olympics officially kicked off on Friday—have you been keeping up?

So far, as of writing this, Canada has scored one bronze medal (courtesy of speed skater Valérie Maltais). But I’m sure there are many more medals to come.

— Robyn

Today’s approx. read time: 8 minutes

🌡️ Weather Forecast

Today: ⛅ 8 / 6

Tomorrow: 🌦️ 8 / 6

Day after: 🌦️ 8 / 5

NEWS

BC pauses $162M Malahat-widening project amid environmental concerns for Goldstream

Carl Olsen at his weekly protest in support of Goldstream protections. Photo: W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Committee

For more than three years, Carl Olsen (ZȺWIZUT), a W̱SÁNEĆ elder, has stood on the side of the Trans-Canada Highway where it passes Goldstream Park to protest a highway expansion he said could cause significant damage to the waterway and surrounding forest.

Now, his calls for action are finally being answered. The province announced Thursday that it was pausing the $162M project that would have widened the highway near Goldstream and added a median along the Malahat corridor.

“I'm very happy about that decision,” Carl told Capital Daily. “But I'm going to remind myself that they did use the word ‘paused’ in their statement.”

Since the expansion project was announced, Carl has said widening the highway would cause significant damage to the stream and forest. For years, he’s been volunteering with the Goldstream Hatchery, which works to improve salmon spawning in the stream, and he knows how fragile the ecosystem is.

The proposed removal of 700 trees had the potential to cause the stream to heat up, killing off salmon eggs and fry, according to Carl. Losing these trees could also remove homes for a variety of wildlife and lead to more debris and runoff ending up in the water, according to studies conducted by WSANEC.

It appears these concerns have finally given the province pause. In its announcement, it said “additional work” was required to “address environmental considerations in this sensitive area.”

The Ministry of Transportation says it will update its 2012 Highway 1 Malahat Safety Review to include current information about the highway’s condition and crash data. This new report will be used to determine future short-, medium- and long-term improvements that can be made to the corridor without damaging the surrounding environment.

The province said the $162M set aside for the project will be reallocated to “other transportation priorities.”

Carl has no plans to stop his weekly protests. Goldstream, he says, still needs protection.

“It's about saving the environment in restoration of Goldstream, or in our language, SELE₭TEȽ,” he said. “Yeah, I'm going to remain there.”

⚠️ Capital Bulletin

Missing teen: Blake was last seen at his home in Vic West on Jan. 26. [VicPD]

An overdose advisory is in place for Greater Victoria for the second time in 2 weeks. [Island Health]

Family Day is a week from tomorrow. [City of Victoria]

Coldest Night of the Year fundraising walk. [Feb. 27]

Driving today? Check the current traffic situation via Google.

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Feb 6 - Italy for Islanders as Winter Games begin

Capital Daily Team — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 14:00:04 +0000

Good morning {{First name}}!

My TV is going to get quite the workout over the next couple of weeks.
It’s going to be all CBC—I’ll be getting my tax dollars’ worth of the Winter Olympics from Milan and Cortina, Italy.
Events are live our time from 3am to roughly 1pm PST, with recaps and show encores the rest of the day.
Italy is nine hours ahead.
Buona visione!

— Mark

Today’s approx. read time: 5 minutes

🌡️ Weather Forecast

Today: 🌥️ 11 / 6

Tomorrow: 🌧️ 13 / 5

Sunday: ⛅ 8 / 5