Author: James Porter
James Porter
James Porter is a respected local news reporter from Oak Bay with over 12 years of experience in journalism. He graduated from the University of British Columbia and has previously reported for the Vancouver Sun and CHEK News. James is a member of the Canadian Association of Journalists and actively supports initiatives related to public accountability and coastal environmental protection.
Oak Bay will come alive with music and art this August as 16-year-old folk singer Malakai performs a free outdoor concert in Estevan Village. The event takes place on Sunday, August 17, from 1 to 2 p.m. and is open to everyone. Malakai, a rising star from Quw’utsun territory, brings his heartfelt music to the stage with a special pop-up performance in the heart of the village. Malakai recently returned from Montreal, where he performed at four private showcases during the Folk Alliance International Conference. This major event is known for featuring new talent from around the world. Malakai’s showcases…
Oak Bay’s crime severity index (CSI) has dropped to its lowest point in five years, signaling a shift after two consecutive years of increase. In 2024, the municipality recorded a CSI of 23.63, representing a 22.95% decrease from the previous year. The CSI, developed by Statistics Canada, gives a clearer picture of public safety by accounting for both the number and seriousness of crimes reported to police. Unlike the traditional crime rate, which only tracks incidents per 100,000 residents, the CSI weighs the severity of each offense, giving greater weight to violent crimes. Oak Bay saw its highest CSI in…