Children and families affected by mental illness, substance abuse and domestic violence will receive greater support through the expansion of an innovative health and safety initiative.

Communities throughout the province will benefit from a half a million dollars in B.C. government funding to help non-profit cultural organizations, First Nations and friendship centres improve local arts infrastructure.

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Effective at noon on Aug. 26, 2013, the campfire ban in the Coastal Fire Centre was rescinded due to a decreased risk of wildfires.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

Thirteen British Columbians who have contributed to the province in extraordinary ways will be appointed to the Order of British Columbia.

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 preferred proponent has been selected to design and build the new $50-million Queen Charlotte/Haida Gwaii Hospital.