Island dance duo Funkanometry is in the finale this week for Canada’s Got Talent.

Jacksun Fryer and Carlow Rush impressed the judges last week so much, they got the green light to perform in the finale on Tuesday. Judge Trish Stratus says they were one of the highlights of the whole season.

This year’s winner will get a million-dollar cash prize, the biggest in Canadian TV history.

The finale airs live Tuesday night, visit the official website for details how to vote for Funkanometry during the show.

Voting will open at 5:10 pm on Tuesday, and will be open for one hour.

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If you didn't see the Northern Lights last night, you will likely get another chance tonight during the biggest geomagnetic storm in more than 20 years.

Several geo-magnetic eruptions from the Sun are happening this weekend, possibly causing disruption to communications and power grids. So far no major issues have been detected although some power grid irregularities and issues with high-frequency communications and GPS systems have been reported.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Space Weather centre said extreme, or G5, conditions will be sweeping over the earth all weekend in the strongest storm since 2003.

NOAA says the aurora will persist until at least Sunday, and will fade after the region of the sun causing the storms rotates out of view.

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Another small earthquake was detected off the West Coast of Vancouver Island early this morning, one week after a similar quake in the same location.

Earthquakes Canada says it was measured at 4.2 magnitude at a depth of five kilometres, about 170 kilometres southwest of Port Alice.

No damage or tsunami is expected.

Last Thursday’s 4.8 magnitude quake was in the same place, the region is where three techtonic plates meet deep underground and is one of the most seismically active locations in North America.

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After decades in operation there’s still no solid proof BC salmon hatcheries help rebuild wild stocks.

That’s from a series of studies done last year by the Pacific Salmon Foundation (PSF). The review of all 15 was published April 30 by the American Fisheries Society, covering decades of data from 16 hatcheries. It’s the first review of its kind in BC since 1994.

The review was prompted by Chinook salmon returns on the Cowichan River, where natural Chinook were three times more likely to survive than hatchery-raised fish, contrary to what researchers expected.

The review says while there were some examples of positive interactions between hatchery and wild salmon stocks, “most were negative.”

In fact, out of 85 examples, the only two positives were from hatcheries experiments, one which tested vaccinating hatchery fish before release, and another which used a captive breeding program. The rest were negative, or showed no effects at all.

Dr. Brian Riddell, former head of the PSF, was the review’s lead author. He says while hatcheries do boost stocks for fishing, they don’t restore and sustain natural populations.

“Our results indicate that short-term supplementation is seldom successful in restoring and sustaining natural populations,” he said. “But further research is needed to establish whether our results can be directly attributed to interactions between hatchery and wild salmon or other factors such as changing local habitats and environments.”

Researchers pointed out that for many populations data was limited, or non-existent.

The Salmonid Enhancement Program was started in BC in 1977 with a goal to “double commercial catches and sustain fisheries in British Columbia” but has since evolved to have multiple and sometimes conflicting mandates.

Researchers and the Pacific Salmon Foundation have several recommendations to improve the program:

1. Integrate a regional management plan for each hatchery.
2. Improve data management and reporting capabilities of hatcheries.
3. Create clear objectives to assess future hatchery effectiveness.
4. Invest in SEP’s Community Involvement Program.
5. Establish an Enhancement Science program for the DFO Pacific region, focused on genomics research and monitoring.

The full review and supporting material can be found here.

BELOW: The hatcheries and salmon enhancement facilities studied in the review.

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Two iconic pay phones between Campbell River and Sayward are being removed, but Telus says they will be replaced with something better.

With cellular coverage notoriously spotty in the region, the phone booths at Roberts Lake and Sayward Valley Resorts have served drivers in distress for decades. But their time is up, and Telus says they will be replaced with community phones.

Telus says community phones will ensure reliable and free access to emergency services until wireless services in the area are upgraded. They will also offer free calling anywhere in BC. The community phones will remain in place until wireless coverage is improved.

Telus and the contractor responsible for maintaining the pay phones have received many comments and concerns about the pending removals.

"In recognition of the nostalgia associated with payphones, we're working with the community and local organizations to decommission the payphones for display purposes to ensure they can stay within the community as an acknowledgement of a shared piece of technology history," Telus said in an emailed statement. "Any residents who are interested in seeing these payphones showcased as a piece of history in a local museum or community centre can email us at telustickets@wimactel.com to learn more."

Telus says more than 99% of the provincial population is covered by its wireless network, and the company is committed to making sure highway corridors have reliable phone access to emergency services.

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A licensed therapist wants people to talk about mental health successes for this year’s Mental Health week.

Mental health week is a yearly event that celebrates and raises awareness of mental health’s importance. According to the Canadian Mental Health association, 17 percent of BCers are experiencing a mental illness, with 84,000 children and youth having a diagnosed disorder.

Therapist Rick Berghauser of Rick Berghauser & Associates counselling services says for the last five years, there has been a movement towards accepting seeking help.

“For so long it was something that people really avoided, the stigma of it is still there, but it was so much more a few years ago,” said Berghauser.

“It seems like every year I see more and more people that are open to letting people know that they have had some struggles, some difficulties and are willing to get the help they need.”

Berghauser says through his 30-year career, he has seen more openness to talk about mental health, with the largest change being from men.

“I think for way too long men were very apprehensive to discuss any difficulties with their mental health, out of fear that they would be ostracized, they would lose their jobs, lose friends, partners,” said Berghauser.

“I’ve really noticed a shift in the last little while with men being much more open to seeking counselling, other supports, and talking about mental health in general.”

While there has been more openness and acceptance to seeking help, Berghauser says issues such as the cost of therapy, the stigma towards seeking help, and time prevents people from getting the help they need.

For this week, he encourages you to not only talk about the problems of mental health but also the successes, including going out, eating well, spending time in nature or with other people.

“It would be wonderful if in a few years from now, we had it so if someone was ready and willing today, they can enter something today.”

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The Transportation Safety Board has released a report into a North Island float plane crash last year that killed the pilot and one passenger.

On June 20, a Quest Kodiak 100 was en route from Masset to a cabin in the Tahsis Narrows, approximately 60 nautical miles northwest of the Tofino airport. While making a landing on the ocean near the cabin, the plane bounced several times before the pilot attempted to gain altitude and circle back to try again in a "go-around" maneuver. However, the plane crashed after hitting trees on Mozino Point and was destroyed in a fire.

The two other passengers survived, one with serious injuries.

The report found no unusual weather conditions, mechanical issues with the plane, or medical issues with the pilot. The pilot had 250 hours on the plane, but most of his experience with water landings was on lakes rather than the ocean.

The report says there was no weather information for the crash location, but adds the mountainous terrain may have caused wind shear or downdrafts.

It concludes with a safety message.

"It is important that, before landing, floatplane pilots evaluate their intended landing site for hazards," it says. "This includes assessing the area for water surface conditions and potential wind shear and downdrafts; ensuring that both the approach and departure paths are free of obstructions; and considering options in the event of a go-around."

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The BC Coroners Service says toxic drugs were responsible for at least 192 deaths in March, bringing the total number in the first three months this year to 572, with fentanyl involved in 85 per cent of the deaths.

More than two-thirds of the victims were between 30 to 59 years old. Nearly three-quarters were male, but the coroners service notes the death rate among females is increasing each year.

In 2024, 84 per cent of unregulated drug deaths occurred inside private homes, social and supportive housing, single-room occupancy buildings, shelters, hostels and other indoor locations. Fifteen per cent were reported to be outside in vehicles, sidewalks, streets or parks.

On Vancouver Island, 43 people died of drug overdoses in March and 128 have died from overdoses in the first three months of this year.

Nanaimo is among the top three cities in BC for lives lost to toxic drugs in 2024.

Since the province declared a public-health emergency eight years ago, at least 14,400 people have lost their lives to toxic drugs.

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At a recent meeting, the CVRD directed staff to explore creating what they call a “Respectful Spaces Bylaw.” 

In a report to the CVRD Board, Community Centre Manager Rob Williams writes “staff have recognized the need to establish a bylaw to regulate the behaviour and actions of individuals present at all CVRD public spaces.” 

The report adds that adopting this bylaw would be timely as the district faces “challenges” at recreation facilities, the Bings Creek Solid Waste Management Complex and their head offices on Ingram Street. 

“Staff have considered addressing these challenges through an internal administrative or operational policy; however, at this stage staff believe a bylaw is the preferred option,” said Williams. 

Currently Ladysmith and North Cowichan are the only jurisdictions within the CVRD that have similar policies or bylaws. 

The report estimated that legal costs could be around $10,000 and that the bylaw could be brought to the board for consideration by the Fall of this year. 

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The North Island is sitting on a literal gold mine of opportunity, says a recent report from the Mining Association of BC.

An economic impact study prepared for the association looked at 16 mining projects in development around the province, including the NorthIsle Gold and Copper Mine proposed near Port Hardy.

The study says the projects would bring $36 billion in investment and $11 billion in tax revenue. It adds that each mine would contribute $25 billion to the provincial GDP over a 24-year lifespan.

Association president Michael Goehring said in a trade journal this weekend that the federal government permitting process takes too long, and the BC government also needs to step up to keep BC mining competitive with other provinces.

The study shows BC's mining industry employs more than 35,000 people and generates $18 billion in economic activity annually.

NorthIsle's project near Port Hardy is near the now-closed BHP Island Copper Mine south of Port Hardy but is mainly focused on gold and copper deposits north and east of Holberg, and west of Coal Harbour. The company says it is committed to working with local Indigenous nations to develop the project, and adds having the former mining infrastructure in place as well as support from Port Hardy will be big advantages if development is approved.

The BC Mining Association's study says economic reconciliation with First Nations is crucial to developing the mining sector, along with updating the provincial electrical grid, and competitive carbon tax pricing.

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Protestors at Nanaimo’s Vancouver Island University campus say they’re calling on administration to uphold their commitment to open communication and compassion. 

The encampment started in the beginning of May. A social media post by the group [Palestine Solidarity] claims that a letter protestors received from the university late last week shows a lack of respect for student rights.  

The group says they’ve followed a peaceful code of conduct and reject the university's attempt to invoke the BC Trespass Act.  

“We, the students, unequivocally reject any suggestion that our protest violates VIU’s code of conduct or the BC Trespass Act,” they said in a social media post. “We reject their recent actions, including restricting our access to washroom facilities and attempting to manufacture a health and mental health crisis.” 

They claim students are just exercising their rights. 

“The university's actions are contrary to their professed values of openness, compassion, as well as truth and reconciliation and a disgrace to the academia and humanity,” they said. 

The group would not grant personal interviews to Vista Radio but granted a request to use information from their social media. 

VIU still has not responded to requests for an interview, but in an email did mention the erecting of tents and other structures on university property is strictly prohibited and will be met with penalties. 

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American fisheries managers say overfishing has reached an all-time low in a new report, although some salmon runs are still struggling.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration released its annual “Status of Stocks” report this week, which shows the number of fish stocks on the overfishing list are at their lowest. It also shows that since 2000, 50 stocks have been rebuilt to sustainable levels, including coho salmon just last year only a few kilometres south of the BC border in the Snohomish region.

However, other salmon stocks on the border are in trouble. Chinook from northern Washington are now considered overfished, and coho in the Juan de Fuca Strait are still rebuilding.

Salmon fisheries off the Alaska panhandle, which take mostly BC-origin fish, are considered sustainable.

Click here to read the full report. 

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An earthquake off the Island’s west coast was recorded last night, but no damage or tsunami is expected.

According to the US Geological Survey, the quake happened just before 8:30 pm last night, around 200 kilometres southwest of Tofino. The quake happened at a depth of about 10 kilometres.

The Geological Survey predicts at least one small aftershock within the next week.

Three tectonic plates meet under the ocean west of Vancouver Island, causing regular earthquakes of 5 or greater, more than 50 since 1973. It's one of the most active seismic zones in North America.

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E-bikes are considered a good way to get people out of their cars and onto an environmentally friendly mode of transportation.

A study of one Vancouver Island community's rebate program found that it is a good way to encourage people to buy an e-bike.

UBC’s Research on Active Transportation Lab studied the rebate program in Saanich and found incentives are cost-effective when it comes to reducing carbon emissions.

The study found that new e-bike users continued to regularly use their bikes as a substitute for car travel, even a year after purchase.

The researchers also found low-income households reduced their car trips and decreased carbon emissions the most.

The Saanich program in 2021 and 2022 created a significant surge in e-bike adoption, with 93 per cent of users being new to e-bikes, and 60 per cent new to cycling altogether.

One year after purchase, users continued to be satisfied with their e-bikes, integrating them into their routines for three to four days a week.

They reduced weekly car travel by an average of 48 kilometres per week, a reduction of 30-40 per cent.

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For the third day in a row, London Drugs stores on Vancouver Island are closed.

According to a company post on social media, the closures came because of a cybersecurity incident on Sunday. To be safe, all stores across Western Canada will be temporarily closed until further notice.

The closures affect stores in Courtenay, Campbell River, Nanaimo, and Duncan.

London Drugs say they are working with cybersecurity experts to bring operations back online, where if they find that personal information was impacted by the incident, they will notify those affected.

As part of this investigation, phone lines have also been taken down. In the meantime, pharmacy staff will be on site to support you, where you are encouraged to visit them in-person in your local store location.

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Two dogs have been seized by North Cowichan Animal Control after they were deemed dangerous following the death of several farm animals last month. 

Animal Control says they were able to obtain a warrant on Apr. 17, and along with RCMP and two North Cowichan bylaw officers, they seized the dogs from a residential property. They are believed to have caused the death of two dozen sheep and one deer in late March. 

They add the incident is being taken seriously and all avenues are being explored. 

“An investigation is still underway, and the release states officials are considering several of measures including the levying of fines, and other charges, subject to the completion of the investigation and subsequent legal processes,” Animal Control says.  

The incident took place on Mar. 29 after the dogs allegedly entered farm property and attacked a flock of sheep, and a pregnant deer. 

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A Ladysmith swimmer says he is thrilled to have the chance to attend the Olympic Trials in Toronto for swimming. 

Colton Gonzales belongs to the Ladysmith Orcas Swim Club and won six medals at the BC provincial championship in the backstroke, fly and freestyle. 

Gonzales says it is a privilege to carry on a legacy that started with his father. 

“My dad used to swim when he was younger,” he says. “I wanted to see how far I could go, and I was able to swim before I could run. 

“Swimming has always been a huge thing for me.” 

The record for qualifying for the Olympic Trials, according to Gonzales, was 1.11 minutes, which he says was broken during his backstroke swim. 

“I got the time by just under a second,” he says. “I got a 59.89 for my time.”  

The trials are expected to last approximately a week, and Gonzales says for him it is all about being able to see what is involved in making the Olympic team, while not actually earning a spot. 

“I am just going for the experience,” he says. “I want to try something new, so when I get older, and I go again I am ready.” 

He adds all he is hoping to get is a scholarship for post-secondary and says he couldn’t do this without the support of everyone who has helped him get to this point. 

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The Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League will officially become independent.

According to a release earlier today, the League held a board vote with their 11 franchises announcing that they will no longer be affiliated with Hockey Canada or BC Hockey.

League President Simon Morgan says the decision came after months of work behind the scenes.

“This decision to move the VIJHL into a new space in junior hockey will allow players more opportunities for development going forward,” said Morgan.

The goal of this decision is to not only give the players more opportunities to develop, but also allows them to make decisions that is in their best interest and increase their player pool.

The decision will take effect in the 2024-2025 season.

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A Vancouver Island underwater cinematographer calls his experience on a National Geographic series incredible.

Maxwel Hohn is a cinematographer known for showcasing underwater diversity around the globe, having been a part of the Emmy-nominated series Island of the Sea Wolves.

He recently was part of a new series from National Geographic called Secrets of the Octopus. Narrated by Paul Rudd and executive produced by James Cameron, it focuses on uncovering the animal’s secrets.

Hohn, who worked on the only Canadian aspect of the show, says shows like these see a year of development and research.

“When they are in that stage of development, they are looking for local experts in all of these different areas of the world,” said Hohn. “So they reached out to locals on Vancouver Island... people pointed to my direction because of my experience working in these cold environments. They came out to meet me and it just took off from there.”

The aspect Hohn worked on was a look into the Giant Pacific Octopus, the largest octopus in the world, located in the waters of the Pacific Northwest.

He says with most marine species and wildlife, it requires a lot of time and patience to get the shots.

“We can’t dictate what the wildlife is going to do, so it requires us to spend a lot of time in the water hoping that maybe we’ll get lucky and this octopus would get interested enough,” said Hohn. “We eventually found one that would come out of its den and greet us every time, so we had this great opportunity to show someone being calm and natural in these incredible environments.”

In a release, Hohn says he worked on the segment with Krystal Janicki, a painter on the Island known as the “octopus whisperer” for her ability to bond with octopuses.

Others who helped in the filming include safety divers Tynan Callesen and Shannon Groenewegen, dive supervisors Manfred Lippe and Russell Clark, and skipper Roger McDonell.

The series has three episodes, and the first one aired last Sunday.

“This is definitely one of the top experiences I have had.”

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A North Island doctor says the province’s recent back-tracking on public drug use is still missing the point.

Dr. Alex Nataros says even in his small community of Port Hardy, he sees the tragedies and damaged lives caused by the toxic drug crisis every week. People need support services and addiction treatment, and they still don’t seem to be a government priority, he says.

"We know we have an increasingly toxic drug supply. We know we have significant amounts of diverted 'safe supply,' he said. "These are all active issues that, broadly speaking, our government is not managing very well."

He says it’s good the government is responding to the wishes of the public and moving to stop public disorder, but there's a lot of uncertainty about what happens now.

"It's a little bit of a catch-22 in that we need our population to be safe, first and foremost," he said. "But we need a safe space for people who use drugs to consume, so that they survive."

The issue isn’t going away, and Nataros says the government must commit to better treatment and recovery options to save lives and address the root causes of the drug crisis.

"We need the government to step up. We can't have all or none, decriminalization or criminalization. Safe supply, or unsafe supply," he said. "We need nuance, we need treatment. Ultimately, we need to help people get off these toxic drugs."

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