You might remember that discussion paper that caused a bit of a stir in conservationist groups after it suggested a federal policy where projects of national importance could seek exceptions to species at risk protections. It’s something Nature Canada is weighing in on now, with a submission that argues bypassing environmental review won’t actually speed up economic projects. Director of policy Akaash Maharaj joins. 

This year’s Island Star Party is set to take place on the ground of St. Stephen’s Anglican Church in Saanichton on Friday and Saturday night. The Victoria Centre of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada says it’s the spot to be for anyone who wants to gaze upon celestial objects, with free drop-ins for the astronomy-curious and by-donation camp-out for the hard-core stargazers. For more on this and other space events, we catch up with past president Randy Enkin.

The province had confirmed the Point Ellis House will cease operations as a public heritage designation, though the province will assume control over the site in early September to preserve its artifacts. This comes after the site has changed operators several times since 2002, most recently the Metis Nation of BC and some time before that the Vancouver Island History Society. That society’s president Kelly Black joins to share his reaction. 

Pacific FC took yet another narrow loss at its most recent home game, and now the team sets its eyes on facing off against Inter Toronto on Saturday. We’ve got Sports Guy Steve here on CFAX Mornings this week, so it’s the perfect time to catch up with Pacific FC coach Terry Dunfeild.

The City of Victoria and Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce are launching a new pilot program aiming to help local entrepreneurs launch and grow their business. The inaugural class will be a five-person cohort, as the city and business community works to help incoming business leaders develop. Chamber CEO John Wilson joins.