Upgrades to a key intersection on Highway 19A will improve safety and mobility for motorists, pedestrians, cyclists, local residents and visitors.

Effective at noon on Friday, Sept. 6, Category 2 open fires (also referred to as backyard burning or debris burning) will be permitted within the Coastal Fire Centre's jurisdiction, due to a decreased risk of wildfires.

Effective at noon on Aug. 26, 2013, the campfire ban in the Coastal Fire Centre was rescinded due to a decreased risk of wildfires. Campfires now will be permitted throughout the Coastal Fire Centre.

Effective at noon on Tuesday, Aug. 20, 2013, campfires and Category 3 open fires will be permitted in the following areas of the Coastal Fire Centre: from Courtenay north on Vancouver Island and on the Mainland from Hotham Sound north.

Effective at noon on Friday, Aug. 16, 2013, campfires and Category 3 open fires will be permitted in the geographic area of the Mount Waddington Regional District.

Effective at 12 noon on Thursday, Aug. 1, 2013, all open fires, including campfires are banned in all areas of the Coastal Fire Centre, except for the Fog Zone and Haida Gwaii.

Effective at noon on June 24, 2013, the size of open fires will be restricted in most of the Coastal Fire Centre to help prevent human-caused wildfires and protect the public.

A training exercise focusing on wildland/urban interface fires will take place in the York Road area of Oyster River on Sunday, April 28. The event will provide cross-training opportunities for first-responder agencies.

A $20,000 grant will help complete new theme-rooms at the recently opened Munchkinland Exploration Centre, a dynamic play environment for early learners and their families.