Problem properties where unlawful, dangerous and threatening activities continually detract from neighbourhood safety and security will be targeted and may be shut down, under proposed legislation introduced.

Criminal record checks for volunteers who work with children and vulnerable adults will be provided free to volunteer and non-profit sector organizations who opt into the provincial program, under proposed changes to the Criminal Records Review Act.

Education Minister Don McRae presented three distinguished British Columbians with the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal in recognition of their service to the public education system in B.C.

Soon British Columbians will be able to trace where their purchased shellfish comes from as part of the B.C. Government's Buy Local program.

Conservation officer and jack of all trades Bob Butcher has been named 2011 Outstanding Officer of the Year.

An important health-care milestone was reached yesterday with the completion of the 100th open heart surgery at Kelowna General Hospital.