qathet Living August 2026 by qathet Living

AUGUST 2026

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For Parents Navigating Loss

qL’s guide to services in the region

Help is Here

The Compassionate Friends offers support. If you’ve lost a child – at any age, for any reason – you are not alone.

The Powell River Compassionate Friends

A support group for bereaved parents meets the 4th Tuesday of each month Refreshments 6:30 pm, meeting at 7 pm For location and more information, please contact powellriver@tcfcanada.net

This space provided by Powell River Health-Care Auxiliary

A better back to school: Foundry online

or life’s challenges, large and small, Foundry qathet will offer youth ages 12-24 and their caregivers connection, tools, and support. Now more than ever, we recognize that youth need meaningful, accessible support. This is especially true for rural and remote communities such as ours, where youth-specific spaces and services are limited. Foundry centres bring real, sustainable, systemic change that supports young people and their caregivers in a way that is accessible, welcoming, and built specifically for them. The development of Foundry qathet involves the coming together of existing youth-focused organizations in our community. Integrating these organizations creates a coordinated, full spectrum of servi-

ces delivered through a collaborative approach that avoids duplication and is responsive to the needs and priorities identified by our community. Our goal is for Foundry qathet to become a central hub, fostering connections, early intervention, and long-term community resilience. We have been busy fundraising and planning out the capital build, and mapping out service delivery with our working groups and community partners. Our Family Advisory and Youth Advisory Committees are a key part of our planning. To learn more about how to support or get involved, visit our website at foundrybc.ca/centre/qathet Virtual services are available now at foundrybc.ca/ foundry-virtual-bc

DRIFTWOOD SHELTER Temporary, immediate place to stay for adults in qathet. Beds available on a first-come, firstserved basis starting at 4:00 pm daily at 7104 Barnet St. 604-485-2706 www.liftcommunityservices.org

If you are experiencing: Violence

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WORSHIP: Service • Meditation • Seekers Group COMMUNITY SERVICE: Pasta Dinner • Circle of Friends • Coffee Times SOCIAL ACTION: Everyone Deserves a Smile • Free Seniors Lunches PowellRiverUnitedChurch.org | unitedchurchpr@gmail.com 604-485-5724 | Office Hours 8-10am Thursday | 6932 Crofton Street

At Powell River Hearing, we believe it is important to address hearing loss if it is preventing you from living well.

604-485-0036 4794B Joyce Ave, Powell River, BC V8A 3B6 www.powellriverhearing.com

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2 August 2026 • qathetliving.ca

Registered Hearing Instrument Practitioner

We Stand Together

All families need help sometimes. We’re here for you. We offer a variety of programs and services for families and young people from birth to 19 years of age.

Shannon Formby

604-414-8125 qathetsafe.ca

An 8-week trauma-informed group for survivors seeking connection, healing & growth. All genders welcome.

Email us • sassprogram@telus.net

Coming soon! An integrated hub of barrier-free health and social services for youth aged 12-24. Colead by youth, families & community partners. foundrybc.ca/qathet

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A gift that truly keeps giving. Donate to the Powell River Hospital Foundation. 604 485-3211 ext 4349 | 5000 Joyce Avenue, Powell River, V8A 5R3

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. d u o l e B . d u o r p Be

qathet Living • August 2026 • 3

CONTENTS AUGUST 2026 Tla’amin’s Kelp Nursery

Restoring food and habitat

Thank you for your service

Reflections from departing officials

My Secret Garbage / Garden

The RRC is pretty cool, actually

Hiccup at the Mill

BC’s biggest landlord dispute

Divided We Stand

How to find unity in our divisions

Avi Lewis Leaps to Town

The federal NDP leader is coming... soon

Fuel Prices

No relief coming soon.

Canoe Journey

Weathering the wind.

Why White Carts?

International Overdose Awareness Day

6 14 19 24 25 27 29 35 39

Holding fast for kelp

y parents still live in the same house where I grew up, and when I visit their south-of-town waterfront home, it’s always with a little sadness that I look across their beautiful ocean view. There’s something missing. When I was a child, a seasonal patch of bull kelp dotted the ocean’s surface, in a band most of the way from Myrtle Rocks to Black Point. I spent many happy hours snorkeling in that kelp bed, fishing along the edges of it, and paddling through it. It gradually disappeared decades ago. Diving in kelp holds a special place in my heart, but there are few places to enjoy that now. So when my son and I were invited to photograph the kelp restoration efforts of Vital Kelp and the Tla’amin Nation, we jumped at the chance. The scope of knowledge that is going into these efforts is mind-blowing, from traditional knowledge to futuristic bio-reactors. As Levi Myoko explains in the feature article starting on Page 6, the reasons for the disappearance

of kelp over the past few decades are many and complex. But you don’t have to have grown up swimming in kelp forests to figure out the benefits of restoring and farming kelp. Kelp restoration is difficult from both a scientific and practical perspective. But it’s also an everyone-wins situation. More kelp beds mean a healthier aquatic ecosystem. And the economic benefits are big, too. Urchin control to protect kelp beds is an economic opportunity. When you’re successful at restoration, you can farm kelp, another economic opportunity. August’s issue is usually filled with light summer stories, but this year we’re grappling with dense and serious topics like fuel prices (Page 29), overdoses (Page 37), Town Halls on homelessness and ferries (Page 42). But we’re stepping up to the challenges, and despite the divisiveness of many of these issues, sometimes, like with kelp, we’re finding a little success.

PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

REGULAR FEATURES MP Gunn / MLA Neill Blast from the Past Sports & Rec Business Affairs Events Section Slow Love Our Lives Take a Break Last Word

16 20 31 36 37 48 48 52 54

Volume 21, Number 8 ISSN 2817-1667 (Print) ISSN 2817-1675 (Online)

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Pieta Goudron

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No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent of the publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions that may occur. © 2026 Gastropod Media. We reserve the right to refuse any submission or advertisement. Complete issues and back issues are available online for free at:

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ON THE COVER: Powell River Fantasy, by Joyce Furness. The painting is 30” x 30” acrylic. It is currently showing, with other paintings by Joyce, at the library. The artist is also part of the qathet Studio Tour August 22 and 23. See more on Page 39, and in the insert inside this qL.

4 August 2026 • qathetliving.ca

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LEVI MYMKO is an

archaeologist living in qathet. They write about historical ecology and colonial histories of BC. They also knit. See Levi’s story, Life in the Intertidal Zone, on Page 6.

After 40 years writing and publishing in Smithers, SHEILA PETERS, is finding her way back into qathet through local writing projects. Find more of her work at Sheilapeters. com . S ee her story, Overdose, on Page 37.

ROBERT A. HACKETT is a qathet-based writer, SFU professor emeritus, and a member of qathet Climate Alliance. S ee Robert’s story, Divided We Stand, on Page 25.

JOHN KING has worked in the marine insurance industry for over 41 years. His family (Maitland) has owned property in Lang Bay for about 110 years. See John’s story, No Relief on Gas Prices, on Page 29.

KEITH MATTERSON AND JEFF BASSETT paddle outrigger

canoes with the Suncoast Paddling Club. See their story, Built for Two, on Page36.

Are you thinking of selling your home? I’m here to answer your questions about our changing market and how best to proceed with your plans. Let my 36 years of experience go to work for you. Call, text or email today. MY LISTINGS INCLUDE VIRTUAL TOURS, HIGH QUALITY PHOTOS, 360 VIEWS AND FLOOR PLANS Warren Behan • Broker Owner Cell: 604.483.8173 Office: 604.485.2324 warren@warrenbehan.com

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qathet Living • August 2026 • 5

ɬagət: herring

ƛəqstən: seaweed

ʔəptən: little green sea urchin

məsɛqʷ: purple or red sea urchin

ɬoqqɛn: abalone

Life in the Intertidal Zone

Tla’amin Nation’s Okeover nursery is restoring crucial kelp forests throughout this region 6 August 2026 • qathetliving.ca

BY LEVI MYMKO

Northwest and inland BC since time immemorial, and communities flourished with the abundance of foods the sea provided. Because of this close relationship and their role as traditional stewards of the land, Tla’amin Nation is spearheading a kelp reforestation program to revitalize the kelp forests. This project doesn’t just benefit the Tla’amin community members. Kelp is a foundational species, and the restoration of kelp habitat will benefit the overall health of the marine environment and everybody living in and visiting the qathet region. Everybody benefits from kelp enhancement, and this may be a rare example where ecology and economy both get a boost.

Located down a steep gravel road, on the quiet western shore of toχʷnač (Okeover Inlet), it sits. And it also floats, gently flowing with the tide. In a chilly little Quonset hut on the shore of an inlet, something magical is happening. Magical, yet highly controlled, and scientific. What is kwumt (kelp)? What was formerly a small oyster cannery owned and operated by Tla’amin Nation is now a humming little kʷumt, or kelp, nursery. Full of kelp in its early life stages, it grows and waits patiently for a new life in the Salish Sea. Tla’amin Nation, together with the BC Conservation Foundation and funded through the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Fund, started a small kʷumt nursery in 2024 to help restore local populations. Marine algae in the Salish Sea have been on a steep decline for decades, and where it used to be present in many locations, it is now almost completely gone. In the spirit of working together, many hands are contributing to the invaluable work of restoring kʷumt in the ɬaʔamɩn ʔəms giǰɛ (Tla’amin traditional territory) and the qathet region. The kelp nursery braids traditional Indigenous ecological knowledge and Western science together to restore some of the disappearing kelp forests and conserve the wild ones that still exist. Kelp used to grow in all coastal areas of the ɬaʔamɩn ʔəms giǰɛ, and the west coast of North and South America. Indigenous knowledge, often referred to by archaeologists as the “kelp highway hypothesis”, proposes that coastal regions of the Americas were peopled by travelling down the coast from Asia along the shoreline, protected from rough waters by kelp forests, and fed by the teeming life within them. The rich marine ecosystem supported people living in the Pacific

kʷumt is marine algae that comes in many forms and occurs around the globe. To be perfectly murky, all kʷumt are ƛəqstən (seaweeds), but not all ƛəqstən are kʷumt. Both are types of algae, which are not plants, but they do grow using carbon dioxide and energy from the sun. Over 20 species of kʷumt are found in the Salish Sea, and the forests provide critical habitats for all kinds of critters. Juvenile fish including salmon, rockfish, and lingcod find safety and calm waters among kelp forests; herring and other fish lay their eggs on the fronds; and crabs, shrimp, and urchin creep around the understory (more on urchin, those pesky echinoderms, later). kʷumt is an integral ingredient in our marine ecosystem, and its presence also affects the terrestrial environment. It is a massive consumer of carbon; it sequesters or stores five times more atmospheric carbon than plants and trees. The captured carbon is recycled throughout marine food webs until it is naturally deposited in deep fjords and sediments. When the algae die, that carbon is released into the atmosphere. Kelp keeps oceans oxygenated, and it protects shorelines from erosion during major-event storm surges and high tides. kʷumt is also economically viable, as it contains algin — a bonding and emulsifying agent that is used in products like toothpaste, pharmaceuticals, salad dressings, and cakes. It’s used in hair and skin care products, as kelp and seaweed are traditionally used

CARBON (AND SEAL) SINK: Kelp sequesters five times more carbon than plants and trees. To hear the pronunciations of the included words in ʔayʔaǰuθəm (Ayajuthem) visit firstvoices.com/tlaamin Photo by Geoff Grognet

qathet Living • August 2026 • 7

for skin care in coastal cultures around the world. As any gardener can attest, kelp fertilizer is a great additive to your garden, and nutrient-rich liquid and powdered kelp additives are commercially available. kʷumt is also edible, and there is a thriving market for a variety of culinary “sea vegetables”. Ideally, the nursery will become a viable business that supports its restoration operations. ɬagət̓, or herring, is a keystone species which means they play a significant role in the ecosystem, feeding innumerable other creatures in the food web. ɬagət̓ have been a staple for coastal peoples from Alaska to California for millennia. At low tide in front of the main Tla’amin village of tɩšosəm, meaning “milky waters where herring spawn”, stone ɬagət̓ traps are still visible. Traps for catching herring are visible in many locations along the intertidal zone in qathet. The sheer number of traps, the knowledge shared by community members, old photos and archival documents, and the results of archaeological studies tell the story of how abundant the fish once were. Herring made up a major part of people’s diet in the northern Salish Sea for thousands of years, and now only return sporadically to spawn. After commercial fishing in BC began in the late 19th century, ɬagət̓ became a way of life for commercial harvesters. A 1965 DFO report on herring describes “legions” of herring that spawned on 28 miles of shoreline on the middle east coast of Vancouver Island. Sadly, ɬagət̓ in ɬaʔamɩn ʔəms giǰɛ was fished to collapse in the mid-1980s; the fishery was closed in 1986 and has not reopened. Now, the silver forage

fish only return sporadically, and if they return at all, they must search for a suitable place to lay their eggs. Moving up the food chain, salmon, largely reliant on herring, have also been in rapid decline. No kelp, no herring, no salmon. When a collapse happens at the bottom of the food web, the house of cards comes down.

What happened to all the kelp? kʷumt ecosystems are supported by q̓aƛ̓ (sea otters), ɬoqqɛn (Pacific abalone), sunflower sea stars, cold upwelling current, and nutrient-rich seawater. Take 1, 2 or 3 of these away — loss of otters, loss of abalone, loss of sunflower sea stars — the result is a perfect storm, creating a boom of grazing urchins. Add heat and ignore, and you’ve lost your kelp forest!

Ecological effects of overharvesting Starting in the late 1700s, the global market for q̓aƛ̓ pelts drove the fur trade, which expanded from Russia, and then America. Over 30 years, the Russia-America and Hudson’s Bay Companies travelled the west coast of British Columbia, harvesting q̓aƛ̓ for pelts. The fur trading companies all but eliminated the q̓aƛ populations all over the coast. Thanks to the dedication of conservation groups, the sea otter population in BC is now estimated to be around 4,000, along the west coast of Vancouver Island, around Port Hardy, and further north. Today, no sea otters live in the Salish Sea. q̓aƛ are, like ɬagət̓, a keystone species and integral to the survival of kʷumt. They eat what eats

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A KELPING HAND: Many humans and agencies are helping to repopulate kelp in the Salish Sea. They include (far left) Guardian Watchman Cody Harry and Fisheries Manager Sydni Long. Left, Makeala Galin was part of the qathet School District’s GIJE Program last year, and became lead scientist Lee-Ann Ennis’ summer student in the lab. Lee-Ann notes that Makaela is entering Grade 12 this September and hopes to pursue post secondary studies in sciences. it: ʔəptən (green urchin) and məsɛqʷ (red or purple urchin). Without predators, urchins, which are hardy and can live for over 100 years, reproduce and create crowded seafloors called urchin barrens. Kelp cannot grow fast enough to survive being consumed — the urchins simply eat it all. ɬoqqɛn is another important part of the kelp forest and was almost completely wiped out of BC waters. The large marine snail, with its pearlescent inner shell, cleans off the rocks so the kʷumt holdfasts can hang on in fast-moving currents. ɬoqqɛn is on the endangered species list, and harvesting has been illegal in BC since 1990.

Climate change The change in our climate is undeniable — we have witnessed it together for years. Heat, wildfires, flooding, drought — it’s all happening here and now. But what does this look like for kelp in the Salish Sea, and how is Tla’amin Nation responding? Bull kelp needs cold water to survive and reproduce. Warm water affects marine ecology in climate

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THE KELP MATRIX: (clockwise from top left) Kelp nursery lead scientist Lee-Ann Ennis checks gametophytes in a seaweed bioreactor, at the Quonset hut at Okeover Inlet. Okeover Inlet itself. Urchins, which can live to be 100, consume kelp like they’re at a Las Vegas buffet. Lee-Ann with bull kelp. Guardian Andrew Timothy seeding kelp gametophytes onto a spool of string, to be set out on a line. Juvenile sporophytes. Young kelp. Photos courtesy of Tla’amin Nation and Isaac Percy

10 August 2026 • qathetliving.ca

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hot spots such as Malaspina Strait, toχʷnač, and toqʷanən (Theodosia Inlet). Since the Pacific “Heat Blob” of 2014, we have witnessed sea star wasting disease (SSWD) decimate starfish populations. Over 20 species of starfish are affected, including the massive and multi-armed sunflower sea star. Sunflower sea stars are integral to kʷumt because, like q̓aƛ, they eat urchins. Without a natural predator, the urchin population has exploded, and they now rule the sea floor, eating kʷumt like crazy. The kelp nursery grows kelp on lines, away from the sea floor and out of reach of hungry urchins. In a study published in April by BC researchers, studying historic aerial and satellite imagery and marine data, found that between 1972 and 1984 there was a steep decline in kʷumt in the northern Salish Sea. The researchers focused on kelp abundance, finding that the most abundant kelp species are down 78%; including bull kelp that once “formed expansive kelp forests in the region (>550 ha), none of which remain today.” This has been concerning Tla’amin Nation community members, as this reflection is seen in their traditional food supply. In a mini oral history project, also known as a Facebook post, this author asked people where and when they remember seeing kelp in the area. Several people replied, sharing memories of kelp in numerous locations around qathet: Black Point, Pine Tree, Scotch Fir Point, qʷoqʷnɛs (Stillwater), kʷʊθaysqɛn (Myrtle Rocks), Douglas Bay, Albion Point, χakʷum (Grief Point), Palm Beach, qʷaqʷtɛm (Gibsons Beach), aghykson (Harwood Island), Mystery Reef, θatɛq (Indian Point), kʷukʷakʷθays (Cope-

“Loss of otters, loss of abalone, loss of sunflower sea stars ... is a perfect storm, creating a boom of grazing urchins. Add heat and ignore, and you’ve lost your kelp forest!” land Islands), the west side of sayayɩn (Texada), and ʔahʔǰumɩχʷ (along Marine Ave). One person said that it was in “every bay”. As to when they remember seeing it, the memories stopped in the 1970s, corroborating the researchers’ findings. The Tla’amin Nation is keenly aware of what’s been happening to the waters of ʔəms giǰɛ, and the loss of kelp habitat is a subject of concern. The kelp nursery was started in direct response to the cumulative effects of climate change and the loss of herring, sea otters, and abalone. Starting at the bottom of the food web, the hopes are that with a return of kelp, ocean health will improve overall. Giving kelp a boost benefits food and sport salmon fisheries, the local tourism economy, and locals who enjoy life by the Salish Sea.

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ON THE WATER: Left, Caleb Sinn, Fisheries Engagement Officer, and Tla’amin’s Culture and Heritage Technician Graydan Mitchell with bull kelp. Right, part of the research facility at Okeover. Below, eyed eggs on kelp.

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To bring some splendid iridescence (that’s a kelp reference!) into all that doom and gloom: enter the kelp nursery. It burbles, it bubbles, it beeps. Kelp gametophytes are raised in a state-of-the-art seaweed bioreactor, developed by Victoria company Industrial Plankton. The bioreactor, looking incredibly high-tech with its lights, screens, bubbling and swirling tanks, creates the perfect environment for baby kelp to grow and multiply. From the bioreactor, fresh green kelp gametophytes (seed) can be directly drawn and seeded onto rope, rocks, or poured directly into a suitable environment. A recently awarded Powell River Community Forest grant will allow the nursery to purchase new equipment to up its game: a new heat pump, filtration system, water pump, UV water sterilizer, and proper lighting. The nursery is coming up. The nursery’s lead scientist, Lee-Ann Ennis, is passionate about her work. She’s been a kelp scientist for years, and before relocating to qathet, she grew kʷumt near Skookumchuk Narrows in the swiya (traditional territory) of the shíshálh people. Today, she is finding success in Okeover Inlet. LeeAnn is working with students from the GIJE (Guided Indigenized Journey to Excellence) Academy, a culturally immersive, land-based education program run in collaboration with SD47 and Tla’amin Nation Education Department. Students gain work experience at the nursery, learning about kelp and marine biology, getting hands-on experience in the lab, and going out on the water to help manage the young kʷumt. This important program gives students access to their traditional territory, where they can learn about the plants and animals in it, and strengthen their relationships with the land by being out on the water and interacting

with the environment. The program instills a sense of respect and responsibility for the environment with the kids, and they love being out on the water. The Tla’amin Guardian Watchmen Program works with the kelp nursery to share traditional ecological knowledge of the marine environment and provide safe and reliable access, via the kelp highway, to the nursery’s reforestation locations. The Guardians are the Nation’s eyes and ears on the water, working to monitor, protect, and restore the natural and cultural resources within the ɬaʔamɩn ʔəms gɩǰɛ. This knowledge sharing bridges traditional Indigenous knowledge with Western science to benefit the health of the community and the environment, which successfully implements three of the goals of the nɩne gɩǰɛ. These goals are to strengthen Tla’amin presence and environmental stewardship within the ʔəms gɩǰɛ; to support Tla’amin people and families to be in relationship with ʔəms gɩǰɛ; and to improve Tla’amin food security. The Nation’s kelp nursery isn’t a commercial enterprise; for now, the plan is just restoration. However, some ideas on how to generate an income are floating around, as grant funding will eventually run out. One idea is to produce fertilizer, which would contribute to food security for people in qathet. The Salish Sea, Malaspina Strait, toχʷnač, and toqʷanən have experienced a sea change over the last 200+ years. Between the fur trade and climate change, the marine environment that we all know and care for deeply is struggling. But people are working very hard to reforest the ocean, to provide habitat for young fish, and in turn, fish for people, and up the food chain to whales, orcas, eagles, and the forest. The kelp restoration project benefits us all. By starting with this foundation species, habitat for important species like sea otters and sunflower stars will hopefully bring some kelp back for good, and all that comes with it.

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qathet Living • August 2026 • 13

Thank you for your service

qathet Regional District Area D Director Sandy (Sandra) McCormick

Five elected officials have confirmed they will not be running again in the October 17 municipal elections (for Powell River City Council, How you served • I held public office for 21 years as follows: 2014-2026 qathet Regional District, three qathet School District, and qathet Regional District). Nominations close terms as Texada Island’s electoral area director; City of Vancouver, one term, city counSeptember 11. If you’re running, please let us know: editor@qathetliving.ca. 1999-2002 cilor; 1993-1999 Vancouver School Board, two terms, City of Powell River Mayor Ron Woznow aka Ronald Woznow aka Dr. Ron Woznow aka Gpa (grandchildren’s favourite). How you served • I have held the office of mayor for 1,377 days. Your proudest achievement in office • Helping a resident who was being over taxed for her property, being taxed appropriately. What you wish voters understood • City governance should be simple: the Council makes strategic decisions and the CAO implements them. Why you’re not running again • I have received 1,377 requests from my grandchildren not to run again so I can manage their rock band.

school trustee. Your proudest achievement in office • This took place as a trustee on the Vancouver School Board. The VSB’s admin building was falling apart and I was tasked with chairing a committee whose mandate was to get a new state-of-the-art admin building without spending any education dollars or selling any land. The admin building at Broadway and Fir Street is the result. How all three goals were met is a much longer story. What you wish voters understood • People should know that elected officials can’t do anything by themselves. They must be part of a team of elected officials who make decisions as a group. Why you’re not running again • I’ve done my time as an elected official and feel it’s time to retire, relax, and enjoy the island I moved to after the first time I tried to retire from local government.

Did you know that Marine Avenue boasts well over 50 small businesses? Take a stroll along Powell River’s spectacular waterfront and shopping area . Coffee • Food • Art • Books • Gifts • Soap • Tea • Candy • Games • Go u rmet Treats Art Supplies • Mini Golf • Cloth ing • Ice Cream • Scuba • Cafes & Much Much More! P l ease Su p po rt L o ca l B us i n esses ! Follow Powell River Marine Stroll on Facebook

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14 August 2026 • qathetliving.ca

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qathet Regional District Area C Director and Chairperson Clay Brander How you served • I was in office for a total of eight years, and I was Chair of the qathet Regional District for four of them. Your proudest achievement in office • Two things that I am particularly pleased with that were accomplished during my time in office were the completion and opening of the Resource Recovery Centre (RRC) and the establishment of the Parkland Acquisition Fund. The RRC will allow us to drastically reduce the amount of waste that is shipped to the landfill in Washington State and the Parkland Acquisition Fund will eventually allow us to create more greenspace for the public to enjoy. No one ever regrets having more parks. As Chair, I prioritized providing a good work environment for our staff, building relationships with the Tla’amin Nation and the City of Powell River, and making sure that the taxpayers’ dollars were being spent in an efficient manner. What you wish voters understood • When expenses

at home go up, expenses at the qRD go up. Fuel, electricity, insurance, office supplies, building materials, Internet, interest — the qRD pays all of these things, just like the average taxpayer does. What this means is that to achieve a zero budget increase from one year to the next, a drop in service level is required, which generally isn’t a popular option. Park maintenance, fire fighting, emergency planning and response, online security, grants in aid; these and many other things that the qRD is responsible for are extremely important to our community and there are risks and/or negative repercussions associated with cutting back in any of these areas. Why you’re not running again • I feel that eight years is enough and I want time to pursue other interests and options. Also, it’s good to get new people into these positions with new ideas. I believe I did a good job, but that doesn’t mean that I don’t believe that someone else couldn’t do better.

Note: Lasqueti Island’s qathet Regional District Director Andrew Fall (Area E) has also decided he will not run again. Here is what he’s up to instead: “My main work on forest landscape modeling has been increasing a lot in the past couple years. I’m doing modeling/analysis to support the Bulkley-Morice Forest Landscape Plan and Nanwakolas Integrated Resource Management Plan, plus wildfire hazard modeling (also in the Bulkley-Morice Area), on top of supporting the Great Bear Rainforest and Haida Gwaii land-use orders and

forest carbon projects. As Forest Landscape Planning ramps up across the Province, I need to focus on developing training (course and self-directed), as my modeling tools are one of two modeling tools in which analysis must be delivered. Which is to say: it is becoming increasingly difficult to focus on both my consulting work and regional director duties. And so, time for a change. I see it as an opportunity for someone to develop and experience capacity at governance and insight into a wide range of topics, including emergency services, waste management, regional parks, and hospital districts.”

Ready to make your next move? There’s still time to make summer count. Call / text 604.414.8986

qathet School District Trustee Dale Lawson How you served • I have served as a School Trustee for qathet School District from 2018 to the present, completing two terms. Your proudest achievement in office • Being part of the Board’s recruitment and appointment of our new Superintendent. Selecting the Superintendent is one of the Board’s most important responsibilities, and I’m proud of the thoughtful process we followed. I believe we found an exceptional leader whose integrity, collaborative approach, and commitment to student success position our district well for the future. What you wish voters understood • School trustees don’t manage the day to day operations of schools. Our role is governance: setting direction, approving budgets and policies, hiring and evaluating the Superintendent, and making decisions that support student success across the district. It’s thoughtful, collaborative work that requires balancing diverse perspectives while keeping students at the centre of every decision. Why you’re not running again • After eight years as a trustee, I feel it’s the right time to make space for new voices and begin the next chapter of my life. Serving as a trustee has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It challenged me, helped me grow in ways I never expected, and gave me the privilege of contributing to my community.

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qathet Living • August 2026 • 15

MP AARON GUNN

Ethics shadow minister on the export plan, condo bailouts You currently have six petitions before this riding: on crime, energy exports, private property (Aboriginal title), BC Ferries, guns, and the condo bailout. When have petitions made a difference in the House of Commons? Other local petitions on gas price transparency and public transportation have been total flops. Aaron • Parliamentary petitions are designed to draw attention to an issue of public interest or concern and pressure the government into action. Even though petitions are non-binding, the government must provide a written response to every petition presented in the House. They’re one tool that allows Canadians to engage in the democratic process and lets me speak in the House of Commons on a matter of local (or national) concern. Without question, the multiple petitions I’ve already presented opposing Brookfield’s 30-year export permit to send Canadian hydroelectricity to the United States have

Do you have a question for your MLA or MP? In September, MLA Randene Neill will answer questions. In October, MP Aaron Gunn will. And so on. Send your questions for either rep to editor@qathetliving.ca.

At Texada’s Fly In June 27 contributed to the initial rejection of that request and to the upcoming hearings in Powell River. Petitions can also form the basis for future Private Members’ or Government Bills — including Bill S-223, the Human Organ Trafficking Ban, which began its life as a petition, evolved into a bill and passed into law in 2022. My latest petition, on providing veterinary care for retired police service dogs, has been well received, and I will consider bringing it forward as a bill in the future. What’s your new role on the Ethics Committee about? What are you tackling? Aaron • As Shadow Minister for Ethics and Accountable Government (and a member of the Ethics Committee), I will be working overtime to demand transparency and accountability from this government on behalf of taxpayers and all Canadians. Already, I have serious concerns about the billionaire condo bailout — Ottawa’s plan to spend taxpayers’ money to buy 2,200 unsold condos to bail out developers who built and priced homes no one could afford. In July, we held an urgent Ethics Committee meeting and called for an investigation into where this policy came from, who lobbied for it, and which developers, banks, and foreign investors stand to benefit most. Unfortunately, the Liberal-dominated committee voted to shut down debate and block the investigation. I’m also watching the Prime Minister’s conflicts of in-

qathet Region Community Office 604 485 1249 #109 – 4675 Marine Open Monday to Friday 10-3 Randene.Neill. MLA@leg.bc.ca

Four Federal things MP Aaron Gunn is celebrating 1. Getting Police Service Dogs the Support They Deserve. In June, I introduced an original petition to provide veterinary care for police service dogs after their retirement. After their service to this country, and their fellow officers, it is the least we can do. 2. Visiting the Riding. We recently held our ninth town hall on Texada Island as well as public meetings in Kyuquot and Zeballos — I love travelling to every corner of this riding and engaging in our democracy! 3. Shadow Cabinet Appointment. On June 30th, I was honoured to be appointed to the Official Opposition’s shadow cabinet, as the Shadow Minister responsible for Ethics and Accountable Government. terest involving his former employer, Brookfield — including its proposed 30-year permit to export hydroelectricity from Powell River to the United States. On both issues (and more), I intend to keep doing what I’ve always done: relentlessly digging for the truth and holding the powerful to account.

How We Can Help: • Income Assistance • Child Protection • Workers Rights • Health & Education • Schedule a Meeting with Randene

We acknowledge that we are living and working on the traditional lands of the Tla’amin, Klahoose, shíshálh, Sḵwxḵwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish), Homalco, and the Wei Wai Kum/Kwiakah Nations who have lived here since time immemorial.

16 August 2026 • qathetliving.ca

qathet Living • August 2026 • 17

LEAVING LAS LANDFILL: Keeping usable stuff out of the landfill is a goal for qathet’s two-year-old Resource Recovery Centre. Here, you can see mattresses, records, tires, board games, building materials, appliances, bikes, and ocean plastics are getting new homes. Right, the trails and outdoor classroom / wetland tucked in beside the recycling building.

18 August 2026 • qathetliving.ca

AUGUST 2021

W ith S tyle

T h at ’ s H ow q at h e t R e c ov e r s f r o m a t o x i c e r a 100% LOCALLY OWNED • FIERCELY INDEPENDENT • ALWAYS FREE

My Secret Garbage / Garden BY PIETA GOUDRON

ive years ago this month, qL ran a cover story about the then-under-construction Resource Recovery Centre. I toured it at the time — a groovy event featuring the glamourous Let’s Talk Trash team and many others. Promised attributes at the RRC included trails, an outdoor classroom, a natural amphitheatre worthy of Maestro Arthur Arnold (he was also on the tour), a free store, workshops, and much more — all aimed at helping us make better use of our refuse, and thinking deeper about garbage. I admit I’ve been a little sad since it opened in September of 2024. Although the staff are lovely and the drop-off is always smooth and pleasant for both garbage and recycling, the va-voom factor I was expecting didn’t seem to deliver. So I asked the qathet Regional District what happened to those promised pieces. In short, they are almost all hiding in plain sight. The trails and outdoor classroom oasis are just a short walk from the recycling building — right across the zebra crossing (above). Just behind

the old incinerator, you’ll find an oasis of wetland, native plants, bridges, and berms. The amphitheatre remains in its natural state, a sloping bowl adjacent to the cut. The free store is well-organized inside the recycling building, offering up random nostalgia such as the board game Mouse Trap, plus bikes, and working TVs (this is also an occasional workshop space). The Re-Use Shed is managed in collaboration with inclusion PR’s Kindred Rebuild. Luke Ramsey’s Pencil Crab (2022) gloriously adorns the Ocean Plastics Recycling centre on site (far left). Plus, there’s the unexpected. A sunny day pops the mattress storage hues into the Wes Anderson range. On June 2, a hot one, someone’s vast record collection attracted wild discophiles, hunting for dusty treasure before the vinyl warped in the heat. Still, $25 million in, the full facility is not quite complete. The promised active transportation trails and amphitheatre are on City-owned land, and have yet to be finished and opened. Ferreting around for free stuff brings me joy; so do urban gardens. Now that I know, this place is my new favourite destination.

qathet Living • August 2026 • 19

GUESS THE CELEBRATION: Top, Fall Fair was held at Willingdon Beach in 1957 — with rides. Left, Sea Fair Parade, 1969, Bottom left, Fall Fair at the old Arena, Museum booth, 1963. Bottom centre, Sea Fair, 1967. Below, Cranberry Day 1968. Photos courtesy of the qathet Museum

20 August 2026 • qathetliving.ca

Two berries & the sea: a short history of festivals I

f you live in Powell River today, you The first Sea Fair took place August are likely familiar with the Black- 10, 1963, hosted by the Westview Roberry Festival, held every year in tary Club in the Westview Boat HarAugust. The first Blackberry Festival bour parking lot. Visitors could enjoy took place naval and in 1985 air demonafter the strations, city proamusement claimed rides, vendthe third ors, dances, DEVAN GILLARD week of and many August as more attracBlackberry Week. What began as a tions. Due to a shortage of volunteers, week-long celebration was eventually the final Sea Fair was held in 2015. reduced to a single day, although this A Sea Fair Parade was organized in year the festival has been expanded to 2016, but it has not been held since. two days. Other community festivals have Long before Blackberry Festival, the also come and gone over the years. region hosted a variety of community Cranberry Day started in 1968 and celebrations. The first annual Fall was held each June until 2007. The Fair was held on August 26, 1933, inaugural celebration featured a paat Dwight Hall and has been held on rade, sailboat races, water sports, a and off ever since. Traditionally, the concert, square dancing, and a variety Fall Fair features agricultural compe- of other activities. titions, exhibits, and displays by local Although the Sea Fair and Cranbusinesses. Over the years, it has been berry Day have lapsed, these festival hosted at a variety of indoor and out- stand as a testament of what a comdoor venues, including the Willing- munity working together can accomdon Arena, the Recreation Complex, plish. All these festivals have had a and later on the Paradise Valley Ex- common purpose: bringing the comhibition Grounds. munity together.

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qathet Living • August 2026 • 21

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qathet Living • August 2026 • 23

The legend of the rent was way hardcore

he biggest pre-election story in town is, of course, what is happening on the 300 acres at the former mill site, on the waterfront. The evolving story is wild even without this latest chapter: a 110+ year long industrial history and the lore, legacy and pollution that comes with that; formerly the site of the world’s largest newspaper manufacturer; a Brookfield-owned massively-powerful hydro-electricity generator on the river; an ancient village site; the return of that site and more former mill land to Tla’amin Nation — a nd the Nation’s plans for the future of this site; and a handful of entrepreneurs who have taken on the next chapter in much of this area’s life. Everything was ticking along since Cranberry Group entered into an asset purchase agreement and one year lease agreement for the land from Domtar (formerly Paper Excellence) in June of 2025. Over the past year, Cranberry has been selling off machines and scrap, clearing the land, demolishing buildings, and working to attract new businesses to what will be — hopefully — a vibrant, clean industrial park. All with faith that the i’s will be dotted and t’s crossed, when the agreement to purchase was set to be finalized in June of 2026. But just a couple of months ago, things went sideways. In fact, Domtar ended the agreement, and on June 26, Cranberry filed a Notice of Civil Claim against Domtar in BC’s Supreme Court. (Please note: as of qL’s press deadline, it sounds like things have been resolved privately.) All of the following comes from the court filings. Here’s what happened: Cranberry was supposed to pay $10 for the year as “rent”, plus monthly “additional rent payments” based on operating costs, taxes, and more.

For April and May of 2026, rent was $165,684 per month. Rent has to be paid within five days, or the agreement could be terminated by Domtar. During this period, Domtar was responsible for the cost of repairs and maintenance for the big stuff: foundations, structural walls, etc. Here’s where things go off the rails. In February, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans inspected the site, and found that a retaining wall was collapsing into the river. Cranberry Group hired subcontractors and bought materials for the repair. In early April, Cranberry told Domtar about the work that was required by DFO, and that they had started it. The work was finished by the end of April — DFO’s deadline. The cost for the repair was $340,357.50 — about $9,000 more than rent for April and May. “Given that Domtar is responsible for the D-Dock Repair costs under the terms of the Lease,” reads the filing, “Cranberry reasonably expected that Domtar would credit Cranberry’s April and May 2026 rent payments by the amount incurred by Cranberry to undertake D-Dock repair.” So, Cranberry didn’t pay rent. On May 26, Cranberry’s lawyers got a registered letter from Domtar. It said that because Cranberry hadn’t paid rent for April and May, they were in default, and the deal to purchase the land was off. The notice was dated May 20… but it was sent to the wrong address — one that Cranberry Group was using at the beginning of the deal, but had been changed, in writing, since. No email was sent — something Domtar was supposed to do, under the agreement. Sending a note to the lawyer doesn’t count as notice, under the lease agreement, according to the court filings.

THE BIG CLEANSE: Cranberry Group spent more than $10 million cleaning up the former mill site over the last year, but is in danger of losing it. (Note: “The Legend of the Rent” is a song from the musical School of Rock, performed on film by the inimitable Jack Black. It’s 60% applicable, here.) So Cranberry is arguing that it is not in default of those missing payments, because they paid for the repair of D-Dock in lieu of rent , and, if Domtar had a problem with it, Domtar, according to this court filing, had to notify them properly, in writing, to the right address, and also email. So Cranberry sent a letter back to Domtar on May 31 (five days after its lawyer received the notice from Domtar), pointing all of this out, but also agreeing to pay the missing rent. It pointed out that the company had already spent $10 million on the site, plus most of the costs for repairing D-Dock. Then, on June 2, Domtar hand-delivered a note to Cranberry Group, terminating the Agreement to Purchase — and sent an email.

On June 3, Cranberry paid $331,368 by direct deposit to Domtar. And, they sent a note explaining they had not defaulted. The next day, Domtar told Cranberry they’re not accepting the rent. The company intended to recover possession of the mill lands on June 30. So, Cranberry, in its filing at Supreme Court, says it wants to purchase the site — or be compensated. Interesting fact: the purchase price for Cranberry Group’s share of the former mill lands is $2.85 million. Of course, with this before the court, no one can discuss anything. Domtar sent qL a neutral statement: “Domtar continues to work with both Cranberry and the Tla’amin Nation regarding the tiskwat site. It would be inappropriate to comment on details at this time.”

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Divided we stand: At loggerheads can be a fruitful friction in an election year - or anytime. How? BY BOB HACKETT

Six years ago, Powell River seemed like a progressive and friendly place to retire.

In many ways, it still is. Neighbourly neighbours, courteous drivers, selfless volunteers. But now, in a semi-isolated community that must often rely on its own resources, people worry about growing signs of division, from angry Facebook postings to tension at City Council meetings. As Council and Regional District elections approach on October 17, we will probably hear accusations of “divisiveness.” Can we step back and consider what that means? Disagreement is an inevitable and healthy part of democracy. Taking collective action without being paralyzed by dissension is one reason for having democracy in the first place. But despite disagreement, we can cultivate social cohesion, based on mutual respect and the pursuit of common purpose. It would help to distinguish between types of “divisiveness”. Look at a ten-dollar bill. You’ll see Viola Desmond, a black Nova Scotian who bought a movie ticket in 1946 and refused to vacate the whites-only section. She was arrested. She was being…divisive. In a good way.

BRING FLOWERS: The ad hoc choir for “Hello”, after the first rehearsal. Organizers are hoping participants will bring flowers, and give them to people they don’t know, and introduce themselves.

Hello: A Concert for Connection When Stephen Cantryn and Walter Martella started planning for their inaugural concert “Hello”, they hoped to attract 50 people for an ad hoc choir, which started rehearsing in July. Instead, at their very first rehearsal, they blew past that number. Newcomers and those living without homes were especially invited to attend. “I’m getting asked what’s the theme/ the message and why,” said Stephen. “It’s all in the words of the chosen songs. These are iconic songs that have brought people together in unity inspiring the best of humanity, making the world a better place!” The organizers are hoping that those coming will bring flowers to give to those they don’t already know, and introduce themselves. The songs are: Heal the World by Michael Jackson Heal the world Make it a better place For you and for me and the entire human race There are people dying If you care enough for the living Make a better place for you and for me

We are the World by Michael Jackson

We are the world We are the children We are the ones who make a brighter day, so let’s start giving

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AS CHOSEN BY THE READERS OF QATHET LIVING

HELLO When: 6 to 7 pm, August 16, Willingdon Beach Rotary Pavilion What: A free concert, featuring an ad hoc choir that’s been practicing this summer, conducted by Walter Martella. The event is a chance for locals to connect with each other in new ways. There’s a choice we’re making We’re saving our own lives It’s true we’ll make a better day, just you and me

Put a Little Love in Your Heart by Jackie DeShannon Take a good look around And if you’re looking down Put a little love in your heart I hope when you decide Kindness will be your guide Put a little love in your heart And the world (and the world) Will be a better place And the world (and the world) Will be a better place For you (for you) And me (and me) You just wait (just wait) And see

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qathet Living • August 2026 • 25

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Part of the problem [of local divisiveness] may be that Powell River is really two (or more) “solitudes”, as my friend Neil Abramson has noted, with not much personal interaction between them. We are separated not just by politics but also culture — occupation, educational background, leisure pursuits, social networks, social media use, age, length of residence. - Bob Hackett

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26 August 2026 • qathetliving.ca

Advocacy that challenges existing power is often going to be seen as divisive. As Frederick Douglass famously put it in the fight against slavery, “Power concedes nothing without a demand. It never did and it never will.” But there’s another kind of divisiveness — policies and institutional practices that create social divisions by giving some groups unfair advantages over others. Market-driven housing policies have inflated house prices far quicker than wages, dividing society into affluent homeowners, hard-pressed rentpayers, and vulnerable unsheltered people. Economic and tax policies since the 1980s have widened the gap between the ultra-wealthy and the rest of us. In our town’s own history, generations of Indigenous people experienced the trauma of residential schools and segregation in bars, the theatre and elsewhere. Arguably, an unjust status quo and those who defend it are sowing the most harmful divisions. Growing mistrust of a system that has generated the wealth gap and economic insecurity can be exploited by certain political actors. Stoking fear of “others” (immigrants, refugees, Indigenous people) not only deflects attention from the corporate elites with harmful levels of economic and political clout, but lays the groundwork for human rights violations and even dictatorship. On the other hand, people advocating positive change also have responsibilities — to argue in good faith, avoid demonizing opponents, and focus criticism more on ideas than on people. When we hear an accusation of “divisiveness”, a lightbulb should go off. What political motive is behind it? Is the speaker trying to silence a critic? Is it a way of saying that what I’m afraid of is more important than what you’re afraid of? Here’s a possible example. On July 2, I was part of a delegation from qathet Climate Alliance to Powell River City Council, calling attention to the risks of a potential data centre at the mill site. Councillor Jim Palm responded, “We have enough divisive issues in Powell River at the moment to deal with and we’re trying to quell any dissension and divide.” “Quell dissension”? Does that mean imposing political conformity in the name of “unity”? Let’s hope not. (And to be fair, Palm also said he supported more consultation with the community.)

In the June issue of qathet Living, Rick Craig, president of Westview Ratepayers Society, repeatedly calls for “unity”. But he explained to me that he means the broadest possible consensus achieved through transparency and dialogue. Fair enough. In the political arena, we could emphasize issues most likely to achieve community consensus — often vis-à-vis senior governments or distant multinational corporations. Better ferry service. Stopping the export of electricity to the US. Opposing a data centre — though let’s hope that won’t be necessary. Part of the problem may be that Powell River is really two (or more) “solitudes”, as my friend Neil Abramson has noted, with not much personal interaction between them. We are separated not just by politics, but also culture — occupation, educational background, leisure pursuits, social networks, social media use, age, length of residence. That’s evident at many public events. Ratepayer meetings tend to attract different audiences from lectures on Indigenous rights. Sometimes you can almost tell from the vehicles in the parking lots which “solitude” is attending. In the July issue of qL, editor Pieta Goudron notes that voting in the “Best of qathet” survey revealed “identity tribes” who like the same coffee shop, pizza, spiritual experience — and politician. When those cultural identities line up with political positions, as apparently in the name change controversy, finding a compromise becomes especially challenging. The Tech Bros are happy to get mega-rich through algorithms that encourage mutually hostile online bubbles. One solution is to support efforts that cross and soften those boundaries — like Kate Sutherland’s Bridging Community Differences. The “Unity” singalong by Walter Martella and the qathet Academy of Music and Arts, August 16. And of course, the Blackberry Festival, August 21 and 22. I personally attend venues that are not my natural habitat — the Legion, the Ratepayers, the occasional Kings hockey game. Conversely, I avoid conflict-generating and disinformation-loaded social media. Can we hold together two distinct thoughts? We need more (respectful and thoughtful, but determined) challenges to harmful inequalities and practices in society. And we need to build social cohesion.

NDP’s Avi Lewis leaps into town... soon A

TWO SUNSHINE COASTERS: Sort of. Left, NDP leader Avi Lewis’ extended family has a property in Halfmoon Bay. Right, Ken Palfrey, the local federal NDP constituency association president.

vi Lewis has been a journalist, film maker and activist who has worked for the CBC and Al Jazeera. He is the son of Stephen Lewis, the former Ontario NDP leader and Canadian UN ambassador, and the grandson of David Lewis, one of the founders of the NDP. He is married to author/journalist Naomi Klein. They live part-time in Halfmoon Bay, on the Lower Sunshine Coast. Here, the Federal NDP Constituency Association president Ken Palfrey reflects on Avi’s leadership.

Tell me a bit about the current state of the federal NDP. What, from your POV, has happened to the party since Jack Layton passed away — 15 years ago this month? Ken • Fifteen years ago, Jack Layton brought the NDP to its highest seat count in its history, achieving official opposition status, but tragically died less than a year later. Jack was a charismatic and powerful figure, but under his leadership the party started drifting toward the political centre through centralizing control in the leader’s office and using political techniques such as focus groups and message testing. Though this may have worked in the short term, I think the public perception is that the NDP was starting to look like “Liberal — Lite”. Justin Trudeau easily outflanked Thomas Mulcair on the political left on issues like deficit spending to stimulate growth. Although Jagmeet Singh was able to secure the implementation of dental care for low income Canadians, he was not credible on other issues such as tackling the climate crisis.

NDP LEADER AVI LEWIS SPEECH When & Where: The plan was that Avi was going to speak at Dwight Hall on August 30. But just before qL went to press, he cancelled due to his responsibilities in the federal by-elections. Ken Palfrey said he is still planning to come, but when? TBA.

Personally, for these reasons and for Mulcair’s full throated support for Israel during the massacre of civilians in Gaza, I left the NDP because I did not feel represented. When I heard Avi Lewis was running for leader, I got deeply involved in his campaign because of his history and credibility as an effective and outspoken activist on issues such as economic equality, human rights, and the climate crisis. What new hope does Avi bring to the party? Ken • The NDP was absolutely trounced during the last election, for the combination of the above stated reasons, as well as the fear and panic that Trump caused with his fifty-first state comments. This enabled Conservatives to win traditionally NDP-held ridings such as North Island — Powell River. In every crisis, however, resides opportunity. The leadership contest in Winnipeg this spring saw the election of Avi Lewis as leader by a record majority on the first ballot. Avi also broke fundraising records, and the convention itself held a record number of delegates.

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I see this as the comeback of the NDP; I was proud to stand behind Avi with the rest of his volunteers on stage after the results were announced. Avi’s resounding victory signals a shift in the NDP back towards the political left, a party that represents average Canadians in a meaningful way. What would you tell locals who work in the forest sector, transportation, mining, and fishing, about Avi? By reputation, he is anti-resource industry. Is that true? Ken • First off, I believe this question to be a mischaracterization. I have been a blue collar worker for all my life, working in the construction industry and now in a related trade. Avi campaigned on a national approach to solving the housing crisis by building one million public homes (“homes for the many, not for the money”). This isn’t as radical as it now sounds. Government used to be involved in housing through the building of housing co-ops which was a successful way to provide affordable housing. Not only would this create jobs in construction, it would also create related jobs in forestry. That being said, forestry and fishing are renewable resources that must be managed to protect them for future generations. Avi was one of the proponents of the Leap Manifesto, a proposal to transition towards a just and sustainable future in the face of the climate crisis. It was endorsed by organized labour. Avi has taken a strong stance against oil

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qathet Living • August 2026 • 27

sands and pipeline expansion, calling LNG a “bridge-burning fuel” because of the existential crisis of climate change. Today, like every summer, we are choking on wildfire smoke and fearing for the safety of our communities. Avi has called for a “just transition” towards a carbon free economy through the creation of good paying jobs in building a national renewable energy grid. Oil and gas workers could transition to working in the renewable energy industry. But workers can’t feed their families on promises; government needs to first invest in programs that re-skill and employ workers in renewable technologies instead of in sunset industries. If we don’t start building these industries now, how will we compete with powerhouse economies like China, that is now the world leader in renewable energy?

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28 August 2026 • qathetliving.ca

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Ken • What I like about Avi Lewis is his consistency in his outspokenness on issues such as economic justice for workers, climate action, and human rights. He has been speaking on these issues for over 30 years now and he has never lost his passion or sense of urgency. I joined this campaign because I recognize this as a political “moment” that must be seized because of the seriousness of the crises our society is now facing. Avi shows guts to stand against the full weight of the oil and gas industry, the 1% and their media pundits, as well as the Zionist lobby. My fear is that these powerful interests will push back hard if Avi’s message resonates with Canadians, as I believe it will. We will need to build a mass movement as well as a political party in order to withstand these kinds of pressures. The last federal party leader speaking at Dwight Hall was Pierre Poillievre. How are the two different? Similar? Ken • Canadians are rightly preoccupied with what Avi Lewis calls the “everyday emergency” of just trying to get by in an impossible, unfair, and rigged economy. Pierre Poilievre has successfully tapped into this anger and frustration and has leveraged it in the same way that Trump has south of the border. As we can see in the US, once elections are won, right wing populism is ultimately weaponized against workers in the form of tax cuts for the ultra rich, attacks against visible minorities, continued environmental destruction, and increased militarization. The NDP under Avi Lewis offers the opposite — challenging inequality with a tax on the most wealthy Canadians, protection of human and workers’ rights at home and abroad, and protection of the environment, which today is in flames all around us.

The Leap Manifesto The Leap Manifesto was launched in 2015; it was written at a meeting in Toronto, attended by representatives from Canada’s Indigenous rights, social and food justice, environmental, faith-based, and labour movements. So far, the document has 53,614 signatories. Some of the originals include Gord Downie, Greenpeace Canada, Idle No More, David Suzuki, Naomi Klein, and Avi Lewis. It lays out a vision for a swift move to a greener, still-prosperous Canada. It’s a quick read. What follows is about the first third of the document. We start from the premise that Canada is facing the deepest crisis in recent memory. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission has acknowledged shocking details about the violence of Canada’s near past. Deepening poverty and inequality are a scar on the country’s present. And Canada’s record on climate change is a crime against humanity’s future. These facts are all the more jarring because they depart so dramatically from our stated values: respect for Indigenous rights, internationalism, human rights, diversity, and environmental stewardship. Canada is not this place today— but it could be. We could live in a country powered entirely by renewable energy, woven together by accessible public transit, in which the jobs and opportunities of this transition are designed to systematically eliminate racial and gender inequality. Caring for one another and caring for the planet could be the economy’s fastest growing sectors. Many more people could have higher wage jobs with fewer work hours, leaving us ample time to enjoy our loved ones and flourish in our communities. We know that the time for this great transition is short. Climate scientists have told us that this is the decade to take decisive action to prevent catastrophic global warming. That means small steps will no longer get us where we need to go. So we need to leap. Read the rest of the manifesto at leapmaanifesto.org

No quick relief on fuel prices: prediction

WESTERLY

ALWAYS SOMETHING NEW ALWAYS WORTH THE VISIT 2026 - the 11 th ANNUAL

AS CHOSEN BY THE READERS OF QATHET LIVING

“My favourite shop”

BY JOHN KING

Strait. Both the US and Iran putting out different conflicting messages with the bottom line being, ships are not get’ve been asked to provide an update ting through. To compound matters, to the situation in the Strait of Hor- the problem is the world’s ability to muz and how it is affecting everyone make gasoline. Oil needs to be refined, at the gas pump. All of my predictions but the refining capacity is woefully in the June issue of qL (below) have constrained. This is mainly because the come to pass. Essentially, my predic- supply chain got messed up in the war tions were that the area is still unstable with Iran attacking dozens of refinwith no end in eries in the Midsight. dle East and even Uncharted unleaded The insurUkraine blowing ance cost of I up Russian facilishipping goods ties. 20% of the through the Red world’s diesel Sea rose recentcapacity is from ly after Yemen’s Russia and it is Iran-aligned getting blown to ‌Houthis said they bits. It is all conwere imposing a nected globally naval blockade with the end reon Saudi Arasult being 10% bia, escalating less fuel. US rerisks for merfineries increased chant shipping. their output but The move by the that mainly went Houthis opens a to jet fuel to keep 21 new front against the planes flying, the United States in its war on Iran and all at the expense of the local market. widens t he threat to global energy supLately with the Houthis attacking plies and trade beyond the Gulf. the Bab al-Mandab Strait and blockSpecifically, the security environ- ading the exit to the Red Sea, Brent ment in the Strait of Hormuz con- Crude jumped to over $100 a barrel tinues to deteriorate. Three additional (although it has dropped slightly to commercial vessel incidents have been $98/barrel), so that is going to keep reported recently, including two con- the upward pressure on the price at firmed Iranian cruise missile strikes the pump. People will note the White against crude tankers operating in the House keeps saying talks with Iran are Omani transit corridor. The United progressing but this is purely to asStates has announced the reinstate- suage the masses and particularly Wall ment of a naval blockade of Iranian Street, which directly affects the price ports while Iran continues to demon- of oil. What is happening however is strate an intent to target vessels tran- the Middle Eastern countries are buildsiting all recognised shipping lanes. ing infrastructure to bypass the Strait Commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz altogether but this won’t remains at multi-week lows, with only manifest itself for another 3 to 5 years. 16 commercial vessel transits recordOverall, this is why your prices ed in a 24 hour period. That’s the first at the pump haven’t “dropped like a problem. rock” as Trump predicted. Going forHere is where it gets interesting. ward, I don’t see any relief for the next Some oil is getting through, but even three months at least. It is not lost on that has slowed to a crawl with the Iran that the US midterms are in Novblockade and Iran attacking ships ember and they are going to keep the at will. This is the dichotomy of the pressure on at least until then.

SHOP LOCAL GIFTS • LIFESTYLE HOME • BEAUTY JEWELERY • INTIMAT A ES AT INTIMATES

The fuel crisis according to a qathet-based international marine insurer

BY JOHN KING

’ve been doing marine insurance for the past 45 years, mainly with Aon, the second largest insurance broker in the world. These days, I telecommute from qathet. With offices in 120 countries and 65,000 employees, our involvement in global affairs is both fundamental and critical to our client’s businesses. Having lived and worked in London as a Lloyd’s broker brings the current situation in the Middle East very close to home. When I was there, being at the centre of global commerce makes you realize what a small and protected part of the world we live in here in BC. Zooming out and working on accounts in the Middle East is both challenging and rewarding. The good part is realizing that behind all the conflicts and politics, people really just want the same thing, which is to make a living and live in peace, and as much as people view insurance as a necessary evil, the world’s trade would be severely crippled without it. Helping clients navigate the perils of trade gives me a great sense of purpose and satisfaction. Lately the focus has been on the Strait of Hormuz where the conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran has brought the oil trade almost to a standstill. We’ve all seen the effects of this with higher gas prices having the biggest impact to the most people outside the war zone. Interestingly, there has been a lot of press about shipping companies not being able to obtain War Risk Insurance which is the reason they are holed up in the Persian Gulf. The truth is that underwriters have the ability to cancel a war policy with 48 hours notice, which they all trigger. This allows the underwriters to reassess the risk and apply additional premiums where warranted. In extreme cases this may range from 3.5% to 5% of the value of the ship or cargo. So if insurance is still available, why is nothing moving? Simply because, whilst insurance is there to protect property, there are still lives at stake and I don’t think any sailor wants to go in harm’s way to test whether they can make it through or not. One of my clients has a tanker currently stuck in the Persian Gulf and the tanker next to it was attacked with missiles and severely damaged. That really hits home on a personal level. Another insurance topic that made the news was President Trump’s announcement that the US would

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create a $50 billion insurance fund to protect ships that want to go through. Like a lot of his middleof-the-night tweets, it was not thought out and according to our senior Marine team, the insurance companies that were picked to participate had no idea how to manage it. I don’t think one policy was actually written. I’ll be in London in June, and will be seeing the Lloyds underwriters involved in the Middle East. It will be interesting to hear their views. The current feeling is that Iran can absorb much more punishment and thinks the US can’t be trusted anyway (witness Trump blowing up the 2015 agreement brokered by Obama which, under international strict supervision, limited Iran’s production of uranium to 3.67% in exchange for lifting of sanctions). Also, as Trump backs down from every threat, they may just prolong this as long as possible. Unofficially we track the incidents in the Gulf as does everyone else involved and we stay in touch

PUMPED UP: Above, fuel hit a new high here midMay. Below, a dashboard used by insurers, showing attacks on ships in the Gulf of Hormuz.

with the owners with the sharing of intelligence as events unfold. The following dashboard is an example of how parties keep track. How long this will last is really dependent on how much punishment Iran can take and how much suffering the rest of the world is willing to take. With

Iran being a theocracy, there is no will of the people but with US hegemony in decline, and the rest of the world being dragged down with them, it becomes a battle of wills. My role and my company’s role is to stay on top of the situation and help our clients navigate these uncharted waters.

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Become a Volunteer Firefighter! The Malaspina and Northside Volunteer Fire Departments are made up of dedicated, professional and compassionate men and women who are committed to serving and protecting our rural communities. Our team members practice regularly and are provided with all the training they need to respond to a broad range of emergency situations. Training begins September, 2026.

For more information or to join one of our teams: Contact the qathet Regional District office at 604 485-2260 or check out our website at qathet.ca

Come to Lund and enjoy our scenic waterfront patio, with the best sunsets!

The Boardwalk Restaurant qathet's BEST FISH & CHIPS

We have Townsite Brewing favourites on tap, and a completely gluten-free menu (except for the buns.)

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Silver for U14 Villa at BC Champs

n Kamloops July 19, Powell River’s U14 Villa faced off against Soccer Quest Orange — playing on thaat team’s home field at the Les Sinnott Memorial B-Cup Provincials. Our team took home the silver. Luca Pierano (left, in the middle), who won MVP for the 2025-26 season, said, “I was not surprised [we made it to the final] because our team played strong and dominant and had good coaching and management.” His top moment of the event was winning

the game against Squamish United FC, which sent them to the finals. Congratulations to Brayden Messner, Lynden Caldarone-Findlay, Luca Pierano, Calyx Kernohan, Sladen Fitzpatrick, Jesse Cairns, Kyle Veenhof, Jasper Wood, Wren Barfoot , Eric Yurich, Xander Longstaffe, Elwin Dinny, Edwin Dinny, Samuel Chartier, Alex Sutcliffe, and Adrian Tom, coach Andrew Messner, assistant coach Colin Kernohan, and manager Diana Calderone.

Sports & Recreation Back to Cool Backpacks! Dickies, RDS, Vans, RipnDip, Ripcurl: Other Styles and Colours to Choose From

604 485-9493 In the Town Centre Mall qathet Living • August 2026 • 31

Soccer season starts in September! SPORTS BRIEFS on the roster. The organization had come under criticism for not signing local talent, and the move is bound to fill a few more seats at the Hap Parker arena. “Finally! A hometown boy! Have always thought if there was a few kids from here on the team it would draw more crowds!” wrote Debbie Mueller on the Kings’ Facebook page. “This makes me want to go watch more games and cheer on a hometown boy,” wrote Sean Lawry. While most signing announcements on the team’s page gather fewer than a dozen comments, there were, at deadline, more than 83 comments on the announcement about Kyle. Other locals who have played for the Kings include Brad Bombardir, Sean Maguire, Jack Long, Hunter Findlater, Ethan Schmunk, Nic Porchetta, Caleb Parkhouse and Nick Peters.

Registration is open now for the Fall season. Sessions begin September 19th but you can still join anytime. We welcome players aged 4 to 17 of any skill level in our house program. Visit powellriversoccer.ca or follow us on Facebook for more info. Registration questions? Email registrar@powellriversoccer.ca

We had a great time at the Showtime & Shine Show! Brian did an Exterior Detail with 3-stage paint correction, cut polished and aluminum polished & sealed the rims, cleaned the engine, and polished the chrome on this fully customized ‘67 Mustang.

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Kings attracting top talent Local defenceman Kyle Mayenburg scooped by the Kings The Powell River Kings Junior A hockey team has chosen a local for its regular roster. The Kings’ general manager Tyler Kuntz said, “Kyle is a smart, dependable defenceman who brings consistency and reliability to our blue line. He’s dedicated to his craft both on and off the ice, highly coachable, fiercely competitive, and someone we’ll count on to provide stability and leadership within our group.” Kyle grew up in the Powell River Minor Hockey program. One of his favourite memories came during the U13 Provincial Championships, where his team captured a silver medal on home ice. He brought his skills to the North Island Silvertips AAA, developed at the Delta Hockey Academy, and later played for the Comox Valley Glacier Kings. Over the past two seasons, Mayenburg has also gained valuable experience as an affiliate player with the Powell River Kings, making his transition to a full-time roster spot a natural next step. “As a young hockey player growing up in Powell River, the dream is to play for the Kings,” said Kyle. “We grow up watching them, so to have the opportunity to live that out is incredibly special.” Local fans are also expressing excitement at having a locally-raised player

This summer, the new leadership at the Powell River Kings has been busy recruiting for what will hopefully be a turnaround 2026-27 season. At the end of July, the Kings traded forwards Jacob Wingfield and Eliot Compton, and defenceman Tyler Russell to the Okotokos Oilers, in exchange for forward Brec Christenson and defenceman Joey Gugino. Brec, a 6-foot-1, right-shot centre from Edmonton, is an NCAA commit to Minnesota State University. He’s a big, physical, high-character forward. Joey, a left-shot defenceman from Buffalo, New York, arrives after a productive stretch with Okotoks and adds mobility and puck-moving ability to the blue line. Also signed was Isaiah Shantz, a 6’1”, 185 lb left-shot winger from Hawkesville, Ontario, who spent last season with the Trenton Golden Hawks (OJHL) where he put up 20 goals and 22 assists in 44 games, then added eight more points in the playoffs. The Kings also brought in forward Tuukka Heiskanen from the Langley Rivermen in exchange for forward Junsu Kwak. The left winger from Tampere, Finland returns to the BCHL with valuable prior experience. In his 2023-24 rookie season with Langley, Heiskanen recorded 16 points (9G, 7A) in 26 regular season games and added 3 points (1G, 2A) in 4 playoff games. The Kings acquired goaltender Filip Vavro and forward Ethan Murray from the Sherwood Park Crusaders. In exchange, Powell River defenceman

Jaden VanWalleghem, forward/defenceman Casey Bridgewater, and future considerations to Sherwood Park. Filip, from Puchov, Slovakia, appeared in 32 regular season games in his rookie year with a 3.09 GAA and .902 save percentage. He was even stronger in the playoffs. Ethan, from Orangeville, Ontario, joined Sherwood Park mid-season after a strong sophomore campaign with the Wellington Dukes (OJHL), where he tallied 35 points (12G, 23A) in just 23 games. To learn more about other recruits, visit powellriverkings.com. The first home game of the 2026-27 season is September 18.

Well that’s a roof-lief The roof over the pool at the rec complex needs replacing, plus other aquatic centre renos, to the tune of $10.1 million. The City just learned that about $3.7 million is coming from Ottawa. The Province and the Community Forest will be picking up rest of the tab — no borrowing required. Construction will start as early as Spring 2027 and take 8 to 10 months to complete. Expect the pool to be closed for a while during construction. The City is exploring options to provide limited outdoor aquatic services during that time, at least during the summer months. More info coming soon.

Powell River Cops for Cancer hoping to raise $20,000 From September 11 to 18, three local first responders will ride in the annual Tour de Coast — BC’s Cops for Cancer event. They are Jacob Hanson from the Powell River Fire Department, Carrie Chernove from BC Emergency Health Services, and Philippe Caza from the Powell River RCMP. This will be Philippe’s third Tour de Coast. Carrie is returning for her second tour. For Jacob, this will be his first Tour de Coast. The 2026 Tour de Coast hopes to raise $650,000. Locally, this team hopes to raise $20,000. To donate, go to bit.ly/4hGxRMN.

Not running the rock Since about 2010, Run the Rock was a solid August event in this region — a marathon on Texada Island attracting folks from here and outside. The first and long-time organizer Rob McWilliam ran it for the first decade. Since COVID, others have stepped forward. But the event didn’t run in 2025, and isn’t running this year, as no new organizers have appeared. “Texada Arts, Culture & Tourism has always wanted Run the Rock to come back,” said TACT president Debbie Gill. “We have advertised for a new organizer to step forward for the last couple years... but thus far no one has.”

THANKS to these businesses, people, and organizations for helping the Powell River U14 Soccer Team to win silver at the BC Championships: Tempco 2% Realty Shorefront Plumbing Rae Power Ltd. Underwriters Insurance Warren Behan / Royal Lepage Canadian Tire Dr Smillie Pete’s Plumbing Brandt Larson Slow Pitch Courteney Bird Freshco Hansen Land & Sea Rivercity Excavating

Texada Transfer Elite Edges Joe Caldarone Coca Cola The Chopping Block Blair Morton Drew Ferguson The Fox Den Wildwoods Counselling Amber Wood Colin Kernohan Ecossentials Save On Foods Quality Foods Anytime Fitness Tony Leach Lordco Coastal Cookery

qathet Living • August 2026 • 33

An outrigger built for two

water test, and this year it pulled more than 50 boats (including kayaks, SUPs, surfskis, OC1s, and OC2s) to the start line, 31 of them in the long course alone. That made for some jockeying at the start line. Early in the race, a breakaway group formed off the front of the fleet — and we were determined to be part of it. We picked it up on the backside of Keats Island, eventually catching it and staying with them to the end. We crossed the line in 1:25:35, good for sixth overall out of 31 boats in the long course — a result we were very happy with. The Gibsons Paddle Club’s reputation as a host is well earned: the race is known as much for its community spirit and BBQ as its competition, right down to a traditional necklace ceremony meant to send paddlers off safely.

BY KEITH MATTERSON AND JEFF BASSETT

here’s a moment in outrigger racing when the boat stops being a piece of equipment and starts being part of you, stroke by stroke. For us, that moment has come a lot this year — usually somewhere out past the breakwater, with two to three feet of water breaking over the deck. We’re both members of the Suncoast Paddling Club, and we race in the club’s OC6 crews — o utrigger canoes built for six paddlers, that anchor most of the club’s competitive program. This year we added something new: an OC2, the two-person version of the same style of canoe. In the outrigger world a small boat is either a single or double; typically when a club hosts a race, the Saturday is OC6 day and Sunday is for the small boats. Our club OC2 has seen its share of races in its day, but for a while now it’s been sitting there, pretty much unused. We thought, “That looks like fun.” We did a few repairs, polished it up and haven’t looked back — it’s a bit like the club sportscar. That instinct has paid off. In our first season as a two-person crew, we’ve raced two small-boat events — t he Cadborosaurus Chase out of Victoria and the Keats Chop out of Gibsons — and come away from both with times we’re proud of, and a few stories to go with them.

Rough water off Cadboro Bay The Cadborosaurus Chase, hosted by Latitude 48 Paddling Club, is a 12-kilometre race that launches from Cadboro Bay near Victoria This year’s edition, on June 7, threw

Built on a bigger season

NOT TO BE OUTRIGGERED: Competitive qathet paddlers Keith Matterson and Jeff Bassett are learning to thrive in a smaller outrigger. everything at us. Waves crashed across the deck of the canoe, two to three foot waves broadsided us the entire way, and there were several close calls to going over. We had to deal with kelp beds and dodging sailboat races happening at the same time. It was one heck of an introduction for a couple of rookies and the kind of race that really makes the finish line feel earned — and we crossed it in 1:24:44. The silver lining is, it was a great learning experience and confidence

builder. In our first race together, staying upright through sustained beam seas is its own kind of result and reward, regardless of what the stopwatch says.

Chasing the breakaway around Keats Island A few weeks later, we lined up for the Keats Chop, hosted by the Gibsons Paddle Club. The long course circles Keats Island, a 14-kilometre open-

Neither race stands alone for us. We’re both active in Suncoast Paddling Club’s OC6 program, and the OC2 has become an addition to our season rather than a replacement for it. A definite attraction of the Suncoast Paddling Club is training for and participating in races on the Sunshine Coast, the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island. That’s the rhythm of the club itself — qathet-based crews that train primarily on Powell Lake and take canoes onto the open ocean each summer between Lund and Saltery Bay. Crews paddle year-round, and are part of the larger outrigger canoe community that exists well beyond our corner of the world. For now, though, the story is smaller and more personal: two paddlers, one boat that was calling to be used, and a season spent finding out what it can do. Getting the OC2 back on the water, in regular use and racing it, has been nothing but fun and a great challenge. Can’t wait for the next one. Visit suncoastpaddlingclub.weebly. com to find out more about the Suncoast Paddling Club and its programs for those just starting out to those looking to compete.

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34 August 2026 • qathetliving.ca

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Windy Journey The arrival of canoes on July 16 for the 2026 Tribal Journeys voyage was hampered by strong winds. But paddlers from Tla’amin and Klahoose still made their way on a shortened route to land at t̓ išosəm to the sound of a welcoming song — and many strong arms to lift the canoes above the high tide mark. They then enjoyed a meal and welcoming ceremonies, before camping the night near the church and heading to Saltery Bay the next day. After stops in Sechelt, Tsawwassen, and elsewhere, the journey ended in Nisqually, Washington on July 31. Photos by Sean Percy

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BUSINESS AFFAIRS SEAN PERCY

Williams Shop adds kitchen

TreatTreat yourself totothe combination of vanilla yourself theclassic classic combination of vanilla ice cream and ice-cold A&W Root Beer, served in our ice cream and ice-cold A&W Root Beer, served in our signature chilled mug.The The Root Root Beer is available at at signature chilled mug. BeerFloat Float is available restaurants acrossCanada, Canada, while last.last. restaurants across whilesupplies supplies Don’t miss out on your taste of greatness.

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The Williams Shop, a destination event/wedding/ workshop venue near Stillwater, has added a new space for local bakers, makers, instructors, and food producers. It already offered an open-air post-andbeam gathering space framed by ornamental gardens and guest amenities, along with on-site accommodations. The Williams Shop Commissary is a purpose-built 23’x32’ commercial kitchen, with dedicated areas for prep, cooking, dishwashing, and storage. The space includes: • Stainless steel work surfaces and prep tables • 10-element commercial range with double oven • High-temp commercial sanitizing dishwasher • Separate food washing sink • Defined dishwashing and stewarding area • Wi-Fi access • Ample on-site parking Optional lockable dry storage and dedicated refrigeration space are available for recurring users, allowing products to remain within a licensed environment between production and sale. The Commissary supports private events, independent culinary work, makers, bakers, instructors, and committed food producers, as well as small groups gathering to cook, learn, and share a meal. Visit thewilliamsshop.com or call 604-578-8494 for more information or to arrange a rental.

New IT service sets sail

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Local technology users have a new port in the storm of new products and security risks. Adam O’Grady has launched Anchor Point IT to help businesses and individuals throughout qathet. After graduating from BCIT, Adam worked in IT services in Vancouver for five years before returning home to Powell River. While he mostly does security and networking, Adam says that any business with even a couple workstations, POS’s, or a server can use his expertise for troubleshooting issues, managing backups, administering Microsoft 365, or consulting on technology purchases. He also helps out homeowners who might need assistance setting up a printer network or swapping out a hard drive, or even setting up a TV system. Visit anchorpointit.net or contact Adam on Facebook or at adam@anchorpointit.net

Should your business be listed in our annual health & wellness guide and directory?

Let us know: suzi@qathetliving.ca sean@qathetliving.ca 604-485-0003

36 August 2026 • qathetliving.ca

Aug 29 @ GT Games on Duncan Doors at 2:30 • Show at 3 pm Tix at Armitage or Kooky Cavern

CMG takes the Works Corey Matsumoto has purchased the print business assets and client records of Works Consulting, following the untimely death of designer/publisher Robert Dufour. Robert was a respected graphic designer and printer who served the Powell River community for many years, including the launch of qathet Living. The acquisition ensures that clients who relied on Robert’s expertise will continue to receive dedicated, high-quality print and design services locally. “I wish this unexpected expansion of my business was under better circumstances,” said Cory. Robert was more than a print service provider — his eye for design and his commitment to his clients helped shape the visual identity of countless Powell River organizations, businesses, and community groups. Though sometimes competitors, Robert and Corey of CMG Printing shared a collegial relationship built on mutual respect. The two regularly had each other’s backs, stepping in to keep jobs on schedule whenever a machinery breakdown threatened a client’s deadline. Clients of Robert who wish to continue their printing and design work are encouraged to reach out to CMG Printing directly. All client records have been transferred with the full knowledge and support of the Dufour family.

Former chief named to Treaty Commission Roy Francis, who was the lead negotiator helping Tla’amin negotiate its treaty, has been appointed to the BC Treaty Commission. Roy is a former chief when the nation was known as the Sliammon Band, and was also band manager. He also served as the chairperson and president of Tla’amin Holdings, which managed business development interests for the Tla’amin Nation. He is now one of four commissioners on the panel — one of the two elected by the First Nations Summit — and will serve a two-year term.

Lawyer returns home After spending more than two decades overseas, being called to the bar in both Australia and Canada, and practising law in the Lower Mainland for the past 15 years, Jaqua Page is coming home. Jaqua moved to Powell River when she was nine years old and graduated from Max Cameron Secondary School. She now divides her time between Powell River and New Westminster, maintaining practices in both communities. She is currently based in Powell River one week each month and leasing office space from Martin Ostensen on Marine Avenue while building her local practice. Jaqua Page Law Corporation primarily does family law, wills and estates, and elder law. Elder law focuses on legal issues affecting older adults and vulnerable individuals, including those who may be at risk of financial abuse or who have diminished capacity. Jaqua welcomes new clients and can be reached at 604-522-9884 or by visiting jaquapagelaw.com. || sean@qathetliving.ca

25th International Overdose Awareness Day BY SHEILA PETERS

f you see a white grocery cart, seemingly abandoned, stop and take a closer look. It’s not what you might think. You’ll find names written on wooden tags, purple tags for overdose deaths, plain tags for other losses, people their friends want to honour and remember. Earlier this year, Four Tides Hospice and Community Supported Dying qathet (CSDq) joined Lift Community Services in hosting a screening of the film No Fixed Address, the White Cart Memorial at the library. Made by the BC Centre for Palliative Care and Kelowna Homelessness Research Centre, it documents “a grassroots, mobile tribute to unhoused lives lost” made by and for the residents in one of Kelowna’s outdoor shelter sites. “Through the voices and stories of individuals living with unstable housing, the film explores what it means to grieve without a house, and how loss echoes through a community already struggling to survive.” Here in qathet, a peer-led action group of people experiencing addiction is working with the local qathet Community Action Team to create a similar memorial. It’s one part of a campaign to raise awareness ahead of the 25th International Overdose Awareness Day, August 31, and remind us that our community is not alone in trying to find ways to address toxic drugs and addiction. Because of the stigma around overdose deaths, friends and family often find it hard to create safe places to grieve those losses, especially for those with no fixed address. The White Cart Memorial is one way to do this. If you do come across the white cart, give yourself time to think about the ripples of sorrow each loss sends out into our community. And maybe head to city hall Monday, August 31 at 10 am to witness the raising of the International Overdose Awareness Day flag, acknowledging the ongoing impacts of the toxic drug crisis in our community. It’s also a chance to recognize and honour the collective work being done to keep people alive. You can see the film through the BC Centre for Palliative Care website at vimeo. com/1120240039.

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604.485.8100 CITYTRANSFER.COM qathet Living • August 2026 • 37

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(in our fully-furnished tiny homes)

Friday

Youth Film Camp Short Film Screenings

3 pm, Patricia. By donation.

BC Ferries Town Hall with MP Aaron Gunn

• a long-term pad rental • a tiny home (for sale starting at $54,900)

Come visit Pine Tree!

2059A PINE TREE ROAD PINETREECOMMUNITY.CA

Westcoast Endeavours ULC

WHAT’S COMING THIS FALL? AUTOMATED RECYCLING COLLECTION MORE WASTE REDUCTION INJURY PREVENTION Download the qathet Waste Wise app for service reminders and other information on our waste collection services at powellriver.ca, or scan here:

3-5 pm, Evergreen Theatre. With MLA Harman Bhangu (Provincial Opposition Critic for Transportation) and MP Dan Albas (Federal Vice-Chair, Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities).

Film • Spider-Man: Brand New Day

7 pm, Patricia. Peter Parker devotes his life to protecting New York City as a full-time Spider-Man. But as the demands on him intensify, the pressure sparks a surprising physical evolution that threatens his existence, even as a strange new pattern of crimes gives rise to one of the most powerful threats he’s ever faced.

Saturday

BBQS & THE RRC WHEN ALL THE MARSHMALLOWS ARE GONE: Plastic bags and overwrap, like on marshmallow bags & flats of pop, can be returned to the Resource Recovery Centre (RRC). FOAM MEAT TRAYS: Don’t have to be trashed! Return them to the RRC. CHIP & SNACK BAGS & WRAPPERS: Return them with other flexible plastic packaging to, you guessed it - the RRC!

38 August 2026 • qathetliving.ca

Liam Gadsby Memorial Fishing Derby fundraiser for Miklat House

6 am start, 4 pm final weigh-in. Entry at miklatrecovery.ca/fishingderby. See ad on Page 21.

Fourth Annual Rockin’ The Beach

11 am-9 pm, Willingdon Beach Pavilion. Family friendly, love music, dance-off challenges, prizes, and more. Bring cash to donate to Friends of qathet. Featuring Paradise, The Elastic Band, Overdrive, Dennis & the Menaces, Jeff Mayenburg & the Misfits, Robert Falls, and many more bands. “A Day of Love.”

qathet Art + Wares’ 5th Birthday

11 am-5 pm. Make Your Own Button and colouring table, yummy treats and fun prize draws.

Short shorts & Animal Shirts Dance Party

9 pm-1 am Lund/Kla Ah Men Gazebo. By donation (all proceeds go to the Community Centre).

Film • Spider-Man: Brand New Day 1:30 & 7 pm, Patricia.

Sunday

Artist Trading Card Summit

12:30 pm, The Alley. Hosted by qathet Art & Wares.

Puppet Show! Jack and the Beanstalk, Paper Bag Princess, and Frog and Toad

1 pm-4 pm Tidal Art Centre, 9971 Finn Bay Rd. Music show by kids between acts. By donation.

Powell River Farmers’ Market

Pender Harbour Wooden Boat Show begins

12:30-2:30 pm, 4365 McLeod Road. Produce, baking, prepared food, frozen meat, artisan vendors, live music, and train rides.

Powell River Farmers’ Market

Noon-2 pm, Gillies Bay Ball Park.

penderharbourwoodenboatshow.ca/

10:30 am-12:30 pm, 4365 McLeod Road. Produce, baking, prepared food, frozen meat, artisan vendors, live music.

Central Farmers’ Market

10 am-1 pm, Willingdon Beach. Enjoy shopping local for organic produce, cured meats, fresh eggs, home-baked goods, artisanal crafts, live music, and more.

Video Game Night

6-9 pm, High Tide Games.

Lang Bay Song Circle 1-3 pm, Lang Bay Hall. By donation.

Texada Farmers’ Market

Paradise Valley Miniature Railroad

12:30-2:30 pm. Train and handcar rides, $2 per person.

Film • Spider-Man: Brand New Day 1:30 & 7 pm, Patricia.

AUGUST ARTS & QATHET STUDIO TOUR

or the ultimate mini summer road trip, visit all 30 stops on this year’s qathet Studio Tour August 22 and 23, 10am to 4pm daily. North and South of town well represented on the map (see the guide, inserted into this issue of qL). Expect a vast range of work, from pottery mugs, to large furniture; landscape painting, to contemporary and illustrative fine art. Learn more at qathetart.ca Some new artists (or recent re-joiners) include:

1. DesigNature Art & Home

Yeonmi Kim and Andy Henderson have been creating together as DesigNature since 2009. Focusing on interior decor and furniture, no material is out of question. Products range from lighting to clothing, fine art to cabinetry, they continually explore form and function with a focus on sustainable production; recycled, upcycled, and reclaimed.

2. Shemko Ceramics

Drawn to colour, texture, and experimentation, Alex Shemko creates pottery that is playful, functional, and constantly changing.

3. Helena Rae

A watercolour artist who paints peaceful coastal landscapes, inspired by the quiet moments, shifting

tides, and the sense of calm found along our shorelines.

4. Brenda Hopkins

The use of glass extends beyond traditional sculpture or vessels: objects of representational practice combine to represent other things, “natural flowers”.

5. Tidal Art Centre Group Show

Showcasing new works by qathet artists Miel Creasey (above), Dolores de la Torre, and Sharon Dennie. The artists work in various mediums from stained glass to layered oil and acrylic mixed media paintings. The show runs from August 21 to 30. Opening reception is Friday, August 21, from 5-8pm. Gallery hours from August 24 to 30 are 1-7 pm. The Studio Tour will also feature in-progress and completed works by Artists in Residence Margo Farr and Diana Smith and an open studio by artist Prashant Miranda. Note: In the June issue of qL, we listed Joyce Furness’ show incorrectly. Her paintings hang at the Library (not the qathet Art Centre).

4 qathet Living • August 2026 • 39

AUGUST EVENTS Memorial Slo-Pitch Tourney begins

At Sunset and Cranberry fields. See Facebook for more.

Film • The Odyssey

1:30 & 7 pm, The Patricia. Starring: Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway. Odysseus, King of Ithaca, embarks on a perilous journey to return home after the Trojan War. Crossing seas with his fellow soldiers, they find themselves battling not only the elements, but an array of deadly obstacles and mythical creatures along the way...

Monday

Shoreline Cleanup in Powell River with the Web of Life Society

6:30 pm, meet at Courtenay Street Beach Access by Westview Boat Launch. Heavy duty demolition bags will be provided.

D&D & Board Game Night

6-9 pm, High Tide Games.

Junior Curators camp begins

9:30 am-2:30 pm daily through Friday, ages 9 to 12. $200. More at qathetmuseum.ca/programs.

Pick-up Adult Kickball

6-9 pm, Craig Park. Free

Men’s Senior Golf Club Championship myrtlepointgolf.com

Classic Film Mondays 3:30 pm, The Patricia. By donation.

Film • Spider-Man: Brand New Day 7 pm, Patricia.

Tuesday

City of PR / qRD Candidate Information Session

5:30 pm, City Council Chambers. With Stephen Fleming, a local government expert. Learn about roles and responsibilities of elected officials, and

LITERARY SEASON: If you’re a reader, August is your month. The Sunshine Coast Festival of the Written Arts kicks off August 13 in Sechelt, featuring humour from Charles Demers, memoir from athlete Betty Baxter, fiction with Terry Fallis and much more — plus sessions hosted by qathet’s own Megan Cole (above, right), executive director of the BC and Yukon Book Prizes. That’s the same organization bringing filmmaker, writer, activist, and powwow champion Julian

Brave Noisecat (above left) to the Ɂəms ʔayɛ cultural centre on August 25, in collaboration with Tla’amin Nation. His book We Survived the Night is a finalist for the 2026 Hubert Evans Non-Fiction Prize. In addition, the Library is hosting three events with local authors: Shelley Wright (August 21); Gail Sidonie Šobat (August 26); and Norm Hutton (August 29).

much more. Questions welcome. Free.

Savary Island Farmers’ Market

11 am-1:30 pm, Hacienda (2778 Brian’s Way). Fruit and veg, art, wine, spices and ice cream, plus hot food vendors including fish & chips.

Film • Spider-Man: Brand New Day 7 pm, Patricia.

Wednesday

City of PR / qRD Candidate Information Session

5:30 pm, City Council Chambers. With Stephen Fleming, a local government expert. Learn about roles and responsibilities of elected officials, and much more. Questions welcome. Free.

40 August 2026 • qathetliving.ca

Shoreline Cleanup on Savary Island with the Web of Life Society

7 am, meet where the First Point trail arrives down at the beach just west of Malaspina Promenade. Heavy duty demolition bags will be provided.

Piñata Alcohol Inks Demo

Noon, qathet Art & Wares

Gitta May Nielsen in concert outdoors 7 pm, Willingdon Beach

Film • Spider-Man: Brand New Day

3:30 pm & 7 pm, Patricia.

Total Solar Eclipse

Partial eclipse visible here

Perseids Meteor Shower & New Moon

Best visibility after midnight (morning of the 13th) Up to 60 meteors per hour at its peak.

Thursday

Intro to Pickleball Lessons

6-8 pm, Outdoors at the PR Christian School. The second lesson in this set is same time, August 18. $20 for the lessons plus $32.07 to join qPA. All supplies included. Email for more: director6.qpa@gmail.com.

The Hunt on the Tundra reading

4 pm, Library. Novelist Lorri Rudland presents her own life-inspired high stakes survival story at a tundra hunting camp, as she heals from the distant voice of her alcoholic father.

Sunshine Coast Festival of the Written Arts begins

See more above. Through the 16th.

The Mooks

8 pm, Carlson Loft. 19+

Film • Spider-Man: Brand New Day 1:30 & 7 pm, Patricia.

14 Friday

Science World live shows

11 am, Science Surprises and 1 pm, Science of Sport. Hands-on science activities, exciting demonstrations and interactive learning and fun for all ages. Town Centre Mall.

Second Annual Wade’s Cause

Saturday

Powell River Farmers’ Market

10:30 am-12:30 pm, 4365 McLeod Road. Produce, baking, prepared food, frozen meat, artisan vendors, live music.

Central Farmers’ Market

10 am-1 pm, Willingdon Beach. Enjoy shopping local for organic produce, cured meats, fresh eggs, home-baked goods, artisanal crafts, live music, and more.

Myrtle Point Golf Club Championship Weekend Begins Through Sunday.

Video Game Night

6-9 pm, High Tide Games.

An Evening with Rebecca Sichon

Doors 6:30, show 7 pm, The Alley. Vancouver-based artist delivers an immersive evening of R&B, Soul, and Jazz.

Film • The Odyssey

1:30 & 7 pm, The Patricia.

Sunday

“Hello” concert

6-7 pm. Willingdon Beach. See more on Page 25.

and ice cream, plus hot food vendors including fish & chips.

August Summer

Film • The Odyssey 7 pm, The Patricia

BLOW OUT

SALE!

Wednesday

Golden Acrylics Mediums Demo

Noon, qathet Art + Wares.

Film • The Odyssey 1:30 pm, The Patricia.

Thursday

Monday

Fall registration for Recreation Complex programs begins Invasives / Wax Mannequin / The Kettle Black in concert 8 pm, The Alley.

Powell River Farmers’ Market

12:30-2:30 pm, 4365 McLeod Road. Produce, baking, prepared food, frozen meat, artisan vendors, live music, and train rides.

Texada Farmers’ Market

Noon-2 pm, Gillies Bay Ball Park.

Paradise Valley Miniature Railroad

12:30-2:30 pm. Train and handcar rides, $2 per person.

Film • The Odyssey

1:30 & 7 pm, The Patricia.

First Run Movies

See ad on Page 13. Swim lesson registration begins on August 31.

Super Senior Golf Club Championship Myrtle Point.

Classic Film Mondays 3:30 pm, The Patricia. By donation.

D&D & Board Game Night

6-9 pm, High Tide Games

Film • The Odyssey 7 pm, The Patricia.

Tuesday

Savary Island Farmers’ Market

11 am-1:30 pm, Hacienda (2778 Brian’s Way). Fruit and veg, art, wine, spices

Coffee Network Morning - Coastal Women in Business

SIDEWALK SALE August 20-22

at Gibsons Crossing

7:30 am, River City Coffee.

Fits to a T Sidewalk Sale begins

At Gibson’s Crossing. Through August 22. See ad at right.

Film • The Odyssey

1:30 & 7 pm, The Patricia

2026 - the 11 th ANNUAL

604-485-6163 4670A Marine

AS CHOSEN BY THE READERS OF QATHET LIVING

21 Friday

Opening night: Tidal Art Centre group show

5-8 pm, 9971 Finn Bay Road, Lund. Artists will be in attendance with light snacks & beverages provided.

Blackberry Fest Street Party & Fireworks

6 pm street party on Marine Avenue. 10 pm fireworks at Willingdon Beach.

Inuit and the Arctic in a Changing World

4 pm, Library. Author and professor Shelley Wright

New Films Weekly

i n h i sto r i c tow n s i t e ■ pat r i c i at h e at r e . c o m ■ 6 0 4 - 4 8 3 - 9 3 4 5 qathet Living • August 2026 • 41

Interested in Running AUGUST EVENTS in the 2026 General Local Election? discusses climate change, the Arctic ecosystem, and the role of Inuit as citizens and guardians of the land and sea.

ATTEND A FREE CANDIDATE INFORMATION SESSION Learn about the roles and responsibilities of elected officials, the nomination process, and resources available to prospective candidates. Open to anyone considering running for office in the City or qathet Regional District. Advance registration is not required. Dates:

Tuesday, August 11 at 5:30 pm & Wednesday, August 12 at 5:30 pm Location:

City of Powell River Council Chambers, City Hall, 6910 Duncan Street

Film • Moana

3:30 & 7 pm, The Patricia. In Disney’s live-action reimagining of the animated adventure, Moana (Catherine Laga’aia) answers the Ocean’s call and, for the first time, voyages beyond the reef of her island of Motunui with the infamous demigod Maui (Dwayne Johnson) on an unforgettable journey to restore prosperity to her people.

22 Saturday

Loud qathet begins The Alley.

qathet Studio Tour begins

See insert in this month’s qL, and Page 39.

POLITICAL MONTH: August’s chill vibes are no match for pre-election season — and also the fact that this community is facing some real challenges. Check out the Town Hall on BC Ferries August 7, the local government Candidate Information Sessions on August 11 and 12, and the Panel Discussion on Homelessness on August 25. Looking ahead, there will be a federal hearing on Brookfield’s plans to export power generated at tiskwat the week of 16-20 November 2026 in Powell River, with local intervenors. Details TBA!

Blackberry Jam

Noon-8 pm, Willingdon beach. Music, vendors and food.

Powell River Farmers’ Market

10:30 am-12:30 pm, 4365 McLeod Road. Produce, baking, prepared food, frozen meat, artisan vendors, live music.

Central Farmers’ Market

10 am-1 pm, Willingdon Beach. Enjoy shopping local for organic produce, cured meats, fresh eggs, home-baked goods, artisanal crafts, live music, and more.

23 Sunday

Mixed Ball & Chain Golf Myrtle Point.

Powell River Farmers’ Market

12:30-2:30 pm, 4365 McLeod Road. Produce, baking, prepared food, frozen meat, artisan vendors, live music, and train rides.

Texada Farmers’ Market

Video Game Night

Noon-2 pm, Gillies Bay Ball Park.

Film • Moana

Paradise Valley Miniature Railroad

6-9 pm, High Tide Games. 1:30 & 7 pm, The Patricia.

12:30-2:30 pm. Train and handcar rides, $2 per person.

Film • Moana

1:30 & 7 pm, The Patricia.

Fall Activities Let locals know what they can join this September Do we have your organization’s contacts? Make sure we do, by emailing editor@qathetliving.ca, or calling 604-485-0003, ASAP.

Ice Sports • Book Clubs • Horses • Activist Groups • Support Groups • Political Groups • Dance Classes • Para-Military • Volunteer Firefighters • Fitness • DIY • Repairs • Food • Social Dancing • Karaoke • Fishing • Boating • Events • Filmmaking • Crafts • Philanthropy • Service Clubs • Volunteering • Fundraising • Caregiving • Baby & Me Groups • Health • Hiking

42 August 2026 • qathetliving.ca

Core Programs Offered Choirs For All Ages

MOVIE MONTH: In the final stretches of sweaty season, almost nothing feels better than dropping into the air conditioning at The Patricia and revelling in a blockbuster. This month the historic theatre is serving up classic movie Mondays (by donation), plus Toy Story 5 (to August 6), Spiderman: Brand New Day (August 7 to 13); The Odyssey (August 14 to 20); and Disney’s live action Moana (August 21 to 27).

24 Monday

Classic Film Mondays 3:30 pm, The Patricia. By donation.

D&D & Board Game Night

6-9 pm, High Tide Games.

Film • Moana

7 pm, The Patricia.

25 Tuesday

Savary Island Farmers’ Market

11 am-1:30 pm, Hacienda (2778 Brian’s Way). Fruit and veg, art, wine, spices and ice cream, plus hot food vendors including fish & chips.

Compassionate Friends Meeting

6:30 pm refreshments, 7 pm meeting. For bereaved parents who have lost a child at any age, for any reason. For location and other info, email pow-

Great Selection Cold Beer Coolest Prices

On Friday, August 28, head to Larry Gouthro for the annual outdoor Movie Under the Stars, sponsored by First Credit Union (snacks, prizes). This year’s film: the Pixar science fiction romp Elio (above). August 28 is also a full moon and partial lunar eclipse: a fun night for heading outside anyways. One more night show: the Blackberry Fest fireworks, at about 10 pm on Friday, August 21. ellriver@tcfcanada.net, and see ad on Page 2.

Panel Discussion on Solutions to Homelessness

6:30-8:30 pm, Evergreen Theatre. With MLA Randene Neill, MP Aaron Gunn, and Mayor Ron Woznow.

Texada Song Circle 1 pm, Texada Seniors Room, with Pat Buckna.

An evening of storytelling with filmmaker, writer, activist, and powwow champion Julian Brave Noisecat

the style of a Coyote Story blending five years of onthe-ground reporting with a portrait of contemporary Indigenous life and an intimate, deeply powerful reckoning between a father and son. Admission is free. Hosted by BC and Yukon Book Prizes and the Tla’amin Nation. See Page 40 for more.

Early Childhood Music

Private Music & Voice Instruction Beginner Strings - Group Violin Class for Children Children’s Art Class

Laszlo Tamasik Dance Academy

Rotating Sessional Programs Fill out your registration request online. When our office reopens on September 8, we will begin processing all requests in the order they were received.

Tickets & registration online: 7280 Kemano St 604-485-9633 qathetacademy.org

Film • Moana

7 pm, The Patricia.

We do

brakes! MORE THAN TIRES

7 pm, Ɂəms ʔayɛ cultural centre. Julian’s book We Survived the Night is told in

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Proud Member of the PR Chamber of Commerce

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Divorce Family Mediation Civil Disputes

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qathet Living • August 2026 • 43

AUGUST EVENTS

Wednesday

Friday

Full Moon & Partial Lunar Eclipse Lund Full Moon Classic (Tennis)

Walter Martella and friends in concert outdoors

7 pm, Willingdon Beach.

Cyanotype Printmaking Demo

9 pm Craig Park, Free.

Movie Under the Stars: Elio

Noon, qathet Art + Wares

Songs From This and That Country

7 pm, Library. Gail Sidonie Šobat presents her novel on the intergenerational trauma of an immigrant family from the war-torn Balkans and the healing power of music. Book available at Wolfy’s Book Den.

Drop-in Naloxone Training

1-3 pm, Library. Hosted by Lift. See ad on Page 26 for more.

Film • Moana

3:30 pm, The Patricia.

Vendors on site, gifts and more. See ad on Page 55. 1:30 & 7 pm, The Patricia.

Doors at 2:30, show at 3 pm, GT Games on Duncan. All seats $15 in advance or $25 at the door. Tickets at Armitage Mens Wear, the Kooky Cavern, or $25 at the door. A fundraiser for the Terry Fox Foundation. Partial proceeds going to the Foundation in memory of

604-740-1993 info@homehealthcarenetwork.ca homehealthcarenetwork.ca tall ins ring! o als oo We nate fl i lam

2 pm, Library. Lifelong prospector and instructor Norm Hutton presents A Poor Man’s Guide to Placer Mining, a practical guide on gold panning and surviving in the wilderness.

Powell River Farmers’ Market

10:30 am-12:30 pm, 4365 McLeod Road. Produce, baking, prepared food, frozen meat, artisan vendors, live music.

Central Farmers’ Market

10 am-1 pm, Willingdon Beach. Shop local for organic produce, cured meats, fresh eggs, homebaked goods, artisanal crafts, live music, and more. 6-9 pm, High Tide Games.

Big West Wrestling’s Summertime Bruises

Men’s Night at Myrtle Point Golf Club, Hosted by RONA

From Dirt to Dollars: Your Roadmap to Striking Gold - Local

Video Game Night

Saturday

Thursday

Film • Moana

Larry Gouthro Park. Event starts at 7 pm, film screens at approx. 8:45 pm. Free, family-friendly outdoor movie night hosted by First Credit Union (see ad on Page 41). Food trucks on site: Rosemary Lane & Co., Lil’ Tiny Donuts, and Just Frys and Dogs. Everyone is welcome. Pack a blanket, grab a snack, and come enjoy one of Powell River’s favourite summer traditions.

a number of long time Big West Wrestling supporters who are no longer with us and to support some of the Events for Charity British Columbia team who are currently in the battle.

Personalized 30 Compassionate Home care services Sunday

Boys & Their Toys Exhibition

11 am-2 pm, Lang Bay Hall inside and outside. Games, displays, and more!

Your caregivers will be the same every day

Your caregivers will be the same every day! We can help for short sessions, overnights, or full days

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Call or text 604-485-4852 or email howdentileandstone@gmail.com

44 August 2026 • qathetliving.ca

HarwoodElectric.com Dan@HarwoodElectric.com

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Old wood fireplaces are highly inefficient heaters. Replace yours with a gas insert for an air-sealed, energy-efficient and easy-to-use source of home comfort. ®

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Thank you for voting us Best Clinic for Mental Health for the second year in a row!

QATHET CORNUCOPIA: Although the Powell Fall Fair doesn’t start until September 11, August is when much of the action happens. Gorgeous produce is being lovingly tended (including items for the “most

Powell River Farmers’ Market

12:30-2:30 pm, 4365 McLeod Road. Produce, baking, prepared food, frozen meat, artisan vendors, live music, and train rides.

Sunday Song Circle

1 pm, Cranberry Hall. With Pat Buckna.

Texada Farmers’ Market

Noon-2 pm, Gillies Bay Ball Park.

Paradise Valley Miniature Railroad

12:30-2:30 pm. Train and handcar rides, $2 per person.

unsual” and “largest” categories), animals are being raised, sweaters knit, quilts quilted, Lego built, and much more. See the guide inserted into this issue of qL for how you can participate. Photos by Sean Percy

Monday

Fall Registration for swim lessons

See Rec Complex ad on Page 13.

D&D & Board Game Night

6-9 pm, High Tide Games

25th International Overdose Awareness Day

10 am, City Hall. Raising of the International Overdose Awareness Day flag, acknowledging the ongoing impacts of the toxic drug crisis in our community. It’s also a chance to recognize and honour the collective work being done to keep people alive.

Classic Film Mondays 3:30 pm, The Patricia. By donation.

Registered Massage Therapy Naturopathic Medicine Counselling

townsitealliedhealth.ca

qathet Living • August 2026 • 45

A PEEK AHEAD TO SEPTEMBER September 2

South of Town mixer

4 to 5:30 pm, Lang Bay Hall. Connect, mix, mingle, and sing (a bit) with your neighbours. Some food provided. Potluck finger foods encouraged.

September 3

Municipal Pension Retirees Association Meeting 1 pm, Poplar Room, Recreation Complex, mpra.ca

September 5 & 6

Sunshine Music Festival

LUNCHTIME PRODUCT DEMOS NOON-l:30PM PINATA ALCOHOL INKS* WED, AUG 12 GOLDEN ACRYLIC MEDIUMS* WED, AUG 19 CYANOT YPE PRINTMAKING WED, AUG 26 OLO ALCOHOL MARKERS* WED, SEP 9 *Pre-registration required

4488 Marine Ave Mon-Sat llam-Spm www.qa-w.ca create@qa-w.ca 604.413.6830

Palm Beach, weekend-long fest with food vendors, artisans, kids zone, music and much more. sunshinemusicfest.ca. See ad on Page 17 and opposite page.

September 6

Kings preseason

2 pm vs Nanaimo Clippers.

September 7

Labour Day

September 8

Back to School

The market may change, but we are always here to help with your conveyancing needs. The market may change, but we are always here to help with your conveyancing needs.

Check in with your school to see how long classes are on today.

Office re-opens at qathet Academy of Music and Arts for Registration See ad on Page 43.

September 9

OLO Alcohol Marker Demo

Noon, qathet Art + Wares

September 9 to 14

Sunshine Coast Trail Stage Race Register at qathetoldgrowth.ca

September 10

qathet Concert Band New Season Begins

7:30 pm, Brooks School. The first 2 rehearsals, September 10 and 17 are open rehearsals. If you play an instrument (woodwinds, brass, percussion) and are interested in joining a concert band, this is the time to check us out! For more information email: qathetconcertband@gmail.com. More info in the next qL.

4571 Marine Ave • 604-485-2771

4571 Marine fleminglaw.ca Avenue 604.485.2771 fleminglaw.ca

46 August 2026 • qathetliving.ca

ACA-STRORDINARY: WAG a cappella group performs at Cranberry Hall September 13 at 3 pm — tickets at the door are $10 or pay what you can.

Be a firefighter

Training for New Malaspina & Northside Volunteer Firefighters begins. See ad on Page 30 to get involved.

September 12 & 13

Powell River Fall Fair

Spendo in concert

12-5 pm each day, Paradise Exhibition Grounds. Local food, farm and artisan vendors, as well as local non-profits who help support agriculture and our community as a whole. Giant vegetables, delicious baking, train rides, live music, zucchini races, an animal barn, kids’ zone, youth tent, and so much more! $5/person at the gates (kids 12 and under are free).

New Moon 25 years since 9/11

Sunday Song Circle

September 11

Nominations for the October 17 municipal elections close

For Powell River City Council, qathet School District board, and qathet Regional District board. 8pm, Carlson Loft

September 11 to 18

Cops for Cancer Tour de Coast

See more on Page 33.

September 12

Powell River Motorcycle Riders (and Vintage Car Club) Third Annual Toy Run & community dinner fundraiser Meet at 3 pm outside of No Frills, leave at 4 pm, back at 5 pm. Supper from 5-7 pm. To benefit the Food Bank. Bring a new or near-new toy. Fall Supper with pirogies and cabbage rolls. Upstairs at the Rec Complex. $20/plate, table of 10 $200. Contact Bob for more: silverwing650gl@hotmail.com

September 13

1 pm, Lang Bay Hall. With Pat Buckna.

September 13

WAG in concert

3 pm, Cranberry Hall. $10. Cash at the door or pay what you can. WAG is an a cappella quartet based in qathet Region. Tim, Doug, Katrina, and Susan create their music using just the human voice. Together they bring over 75 years of singing harmony to the stage. Come join WAG (the Westerly A cappella Group) for a quick and easy afternoon concert. They’ll be at the Cranberry Hall for an hour or so of live music. Pop, folk, jazz, and original songs — all a cappella, all the time.

September 18

Powell River Kings vs. Prince George

Spruce Kings home opener

See ad on Page 3 for season tickets!

September 19

Youth Soccer season begins

For players aged 4 to 17. Registration info on Page 34. powellriversoccer.ca

September 19

Community Connections Expo

11 am to 3 pm, Dwight Hall. Learn about groups to join, local organizations, and much more. Entertainment and food available.

September 22

Autumn Equinox: First Day of Fall

September 22

Muffdusters & The Castagnes 8 pm Carlson Loft

September 25 to 29

3 Ears Indigenous Film Festival

The Patricia. qathetfilm.ca

September 25 to 29

3 Ears Indigenous Film Festival The Patricia

September 30

Full Moon

September 30

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

PANEL DISCUSSION ON SOLUTIONS TO HOMELESSNESS AND SENIOR HOUSING

TUESDAY 6:30 PM

EVERGREEN THEATRE

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qathet Living • August 2026 • 47

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1. It was around three months ago. We met at the entrance to the library. You were with two other women, a child and an older lady. I opened the door for you and we said hello and muffled niceties. I felt a deep spark within me as we passed. If you felt the same spark perhaps we can meet for a coffee? At least I can stop going to the library every Wednesday at 1:15 hoping to see you again. 2. This is a long shot. I met a woman — Denise from Edmonton — while backpacking in the Skoki Valley in Banff National Park. I was quite smitten with her! She gave me her phone number, which I’ve lost. Denise is a retired nurse, was married for 36 years, divorced for three. She quite tall, 5’10”-ish, has incredibly thick shoulder-length natural grey hair. A wonderfully funny, caring, and kind person. Her eldest sister of 10 siblings resides in a home in Powell River. I know Denise has at least visited there and perhaps she has lived there in the past. I know I shouldn’t guess a woman’s age, but maybe early 60s. Any info? Contact Allan: 970-556-1079.

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48 August 2026 • qathetliving.ca

Everyone is welcome to submit a free ad of up to 75 words, looking for any kind of love. Or, if you spotted someone attractive locally and didn’t have the courage to say hello, drop them a note here as an “I Saw You” or a “Missed Connection.” The deadline for the September issue is August 15. Send your ad to editor@qathetliving.ca.

How to respond to an ad: Write an email with your response to editor@qathetliving.ca, noting which # you’re responding to, and we will forward your note to the right person. You can take it from there. Alternately, to lean in to the “slow love” theme, mail or drop off a physical letter to the qL office. Please note: qL does not screen the people behind the personals ads, nor the respondents. You are all responsible for your own comfort and safety. Please take precautions such as meeting in public places, drinking responsibly, telling a friend where you are, and most importantly, choosing to not harm other people, physically or emotionally.

Douglas Wayne Ruff March 26, 1959 – July 20, 2026

With great sadness, we announce the passing of Douglas Ruff of Powell River, who passed away in North Cowichan on July 20, 2026, at the age of 67. Doug was an avid car enthusiast, a dog lover, a devoted family man, and a true friend. He had a special ability to make others feel valued and was known for his generosity and incredible work ethic. Following a long career at the Powell River Mill, Doug enjoyed retirement surrounded by those he loved. Doug was predeceased by his wife of 39 years, Ramona Ruff (née Roberts), and will be lovingly remembered and missed by his daughter Sylvia; sisters: Sandra Gibson, Maureen Bryson (Garth Duey), Christine (John) MacDonald, and Carol Tiffin; brother Rodney (Tracy) Bryson; nieces and nephews; as well as by many other extended family members and friends. The family extends sincere thanks to his cancer care team, and all those who loved and supported him throughout his journey. He will be greatly missed. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Sands Funeral Chapel – Duncan, BC. 250-746-5212

Graham Lyon February 23, 1939 - July 14, 2026

After a full life loving his family, his home, his community, and the ocean, Graham slipped away with the tide. Left to mourn are Marty, Jeffrey (Brenda), Jenny (Jeff), and beloved grandaughters Shaylin and Megan (Chris). No service or flowers by request.

Gordon Douglas

Cameron

June 3, 1950 to July 16, 2026

ordon Douglas Cameron passed away on July 16, peacefully at home, at the time of his choosing and with his wife by his side . He was predeceased by his parents, Morley and Shirley Cameron. He is survived by his wife Lani, his much loved son Ryan Plante (Kelly), the grandchildren he adored from Kamloops, and his sister Carol Cameron of Abbotsford, and many friends . Gordon was born in Gravelburg, Saskatchewan on June 3, 1950. The family moved to Powell River in 1965 when his father, a retired RCMP officer, took a security job at the pulp mill. Gordie became involved in baseball, hockey, and golf, and loved all sports. He got a job at the mill and retired from there just shy of 39 years. He was proud to be a paper-maker! Gordie and Lani spent almost 30 glorious years owning a cabin up the lake and had many enduring memories of the good times there! He was always willing to lend a helping hand to family and friends and was so frustrated when he could no longer even do his household chores. Special thanks go to the palliative care team, home support and Dr DuToit. Also, to the ALS Society for not only equipment but emotional support. Compassionate care till the end. Gordon often said he hoped to pass peacefully in his sleep, just as his parents had done, and that wish came true. You could often hear people say “Gordie Cameron must be around! I’d recognize that joyous laugh anywhere!” The world is a darker place without him. No service by request. Any donations to the ALS Society in Gordon’s name would be appreciated.

qathet Living • August 2026 • 49

School Years, The War and University

Sylvia Keet Peebles February 14, 1930 to June 27, 2026

50 August 2026 • qathetliving.ca

Sylvia Keet Peebles, retired pediatrician, mother, grandmother, wife and life-long activist for world peace and nuclear disarmament, passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 96. Born on February 14, 1930 in Singapore, Mum was always our sweet Valentines. After having fought in the first World War, her father Hubert, was stationed in Singapore as a customs and excise officer, while her mother Janet (Jean) worked as a teacher at Raffles Girls School.

At the age of six, Mum and her brother Douglas attended boarding schools in England. The family had been on leave in England and it had been arranged that Douglas would attend a school for boys. When the time came to return to Singapore, Mum refused to be parted from her brother. Her parents found her a nearby boarding school at Weirfield School for Girls. The year was 1939. War was declared shortly after Mum’s parents returned to Malaya. They were captured and held by the Japanese as Prisoners of War in Changi Jail for nearly four years, seeing each other only occasionally through a chain link fence. For two and a half years, Mum didn’t know if they were dead or alive. While at boarding school, Mum and Douglas had no family to go to on school holidays except for their Uncle Alan, a electrical engineer who was involved in enforcing the nationwide blackout to keep the country obscured from enemy bombers. Mum and Douglas visited Uncle Alan and his wife, Katherine who Mum called Auntie Kipper, at their home in Budleigh Salterton, Devon occasionally. Fortunately, there was a lovely school headmaster by the name of Miss Gallimore who Mum called Auntie Ya Ya that took both Mum and Douglas to her home in Combe Martin during school holidays. Auntie Ya Ya had a collection of interesting animals including a parrot that swore like a sailor and liked to imitate people, especially the Pastor when he came to visit. Mum loved telling us how this parrot seemed to enjoy shocking everyone at the most inappropriate time! When World War Two ended in 1945, Mum’s parents were released and finally returned to England. “After three and a half years of internment, enduring starvation and brutality, we hardly recognized our parents”, Mum wrote. The family did their best to pick up life again in a home together however “it was a difficult adjustment to make.” Hubert went on to become an Anglican Minister. Mum was a keen science student, and made up her mind by the age of 15 to become a doctor. To meet the science requirements for medical school, she transferred to Exeter High School as a day student and lived with the Vining family for two years. In 1947, at the

age of 18, she began medical school at St. Bartholomew’s Hospital in London and graduated in 1953. Remarkably, she was only one of a handful of women in her class of over 100. Female students were not allowed into the dissection theatre with the men and were taught dissection separately on a female body in the dental school!

Medical Training, Canada, Marriage and Family Mum secured an internship as a house physician. She applied for a paediatric post at the West Middlesex Hospital and it was at that interview that she and her future husband John Tibbles first met. They were both short listed for the same job. Luckily, there were actually two vacancies. They were both hired, worked as colleagues and ultimately became engaged. Dad was considering emigrating to Canada, having heard from a classmate that there were more opportunities for young doctors. They decided to move to Canada and pursue their careers and life together. They arrived in Ottawa in June 1957 and worked with Dr. Nick Conway as paediatric residents at the Hospital General d’Ottawa. In September of that year, they were married and Nick gave Mum away as her own father was in England. The following year they moved to Toronto Hospital for Sick Children. In 1959, they returned to England so Dad could help his own mother, as his father had developed terminal cancer. They spent the next two years in England while Dad studied for membership (MRCP) and Mum worked. During this time, Francesca was born on February 26, 1960. “We had very little money in those days and Sylvia carried on working doing part time clinics to earn our fares back to Canada,” Dad wrote. In 1961, they returned to Toronto. Mum worked at the Princess Margaret Hospital. Isabelle was born on March 24, 1962. With two daughters in tow, they moved to Detroit the following year, where Dad trained in Paediatric Neurology at the Henry Ford Hospital and Mum worked at the Pontiac General Hospital. The Tibbles family moved to Halifax in the summer of 1965, when Mum was pregnant with Russell. Their youngest son was born on October 17, 1965.

Career and Raising Children

Alex. Isabelle remembers him telling her, “I don’t know who I fell in love with first, your mother or the little fella!” Before William asked Mum to marry him, he asked Isabelle if it would be okay. By this time, everyone had fallen in love with William, including the children. When young Matthew was asked what he thought, he said: “We share Grandma.” Their wedding was a glorious affair with Matthew dressed up as a lady bug and his best friend Hailey dressed as a beetle. They cruised to Alaska for their honeymoon and settled in the house next door to Isabelle and became the best grandparents ever. That was a happy period in all our lives and Isabelle loved having her mother live next door to her and the grandchildren. Mum continued her world peace work in Powell River by creating a Hiroshima Day on August 6 at Willingdon Beach. It was a beautiful summer event — so many small candles set afloat on hand painted cedar shingles bearing messages of peace were set free on the ocean tide. Mum also convinced Mayor Stewart Alsgard to join the Mayors for Peace initiative and later, Mayor Dave Formosa.

In Halifax, Mum became involved with social paediatrics and started a clinic in North Preston, a community outside Halifax where the majority of black people lived in poverty conditions. She was involved in closing the Halifax orphanage on Veith Street and the development of the building into Veith House a community centre much needed in the north end of Halifax. While raising a young family in Halifax, Mum worked at the Izaak Walton Killam (IWK) Children’s Hospital in the outpatient and baby clinics and taught students. “I studied alongside with my students and found them an inspiration,” she wrote. “We visited all the institutions in Nova Scotia including the School for the Deaf in Amherst, the Truro Training Centre for the Mentally Handicapped, The School for Delinquent Boys in Shelburne, and Girls in Truro,” she said. “The students did practicum placements and I learned a lot from interviewing them and reading their reports. During this time, I became fascinated with the blind students and how they learned. They recognized they were in need of a better system of medical care (for them) so I applied for a job and became coordinating physician at the (Halifax School for the Blind).” In 1979, Mum became acting director of the developmental clinic at the IWK Hospital and continued on in that role until 1986. Mum’s adult life was greatly impacted by World War II and the invention of the atomic bomb. She spent many years, later in life, educating people about the effects of nuclear war. Mum was a member of Physicians for Global Survival (now International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War). World Peace was an important goal for her and she volunteered at many events to educate people on the importance of nuclear abolition.

Comox & More Grandmothering Sadly, William passed away at age 92 but they had several happy years together. A few years later Mum found that she was ready for a little more support and decided to move to an Assisted Living home in Comox where she could be closer to Russell and family. “Ben and Olivia have wonderful memories of times with Grandma — after school visits to her home at Stevenson Place, family dinners together and, as always, Grandma sneaking food to the dog when she thought no one was looking,” recalled Russell. In time, Mum needed more support and her final years were spent at nearby Cumberland Lodge.

Powell River, Sweet William and Grandchildren Mum always wanted to be a grandma and she was so excited when she learned Isabelle was pregnant with her first grandchild Matthew. She had retired to Indian Point, Nova Scotia after she and Dad divorced. She wanted to be a hands-on grandma so, in 1998, she sold her home in Nova Scotia and at the age of 68 she moved across the country to Powell River to start a new life next door to Isabelle as grandmother to Matthew and, two years later, Alex. Mum was always “running late” for everything. When joining Isabelle and the children at the United Church, she often arrived after the service had begun. Because of this, she would sit at the back of the church until there was a break in the service and she could quietly slip unnoticed to a seat in a pew closer to the front. After sitting at the back for several weeks, she caught the eye of a lovely older gentleman. William Peebles was an usher at the United Church

Recognition FAMILY LEGACY: Top photo, Sylvia Keet Peebles with her children Russell, Isabelle and Francesca. Centre, with Isabelle (the founder of this magazine, qathet Living), and grandsons Matthew and Ben. Above, Sylvia with grandson Alex. Opposite page, Sylvia with her late husband William, and grand-daughter Olivia. and, because of this, he sat in the back. One Sunday he passed Mum a note with his name and phone number on it inviting her for tea! Mum was as giddy as a school girl when she showed Isabelle this note. A few days later she had tea with Mr. Peebles. The pair hit it off and soon William was joining Isabelle and family at their home on Tatlow Street for evening meals. Mum and William fell in love and soon, they were engaged. Alex was just seven months old when William entered our lives and William, who had never had children of his own, fell in love with

In 2002, Mum was recognized for her peace work and was presented with the Tom Perry Peace Award by Physicians for Global Survival. It was a huge honour for her.

Reflection & Closing While going through Mum’s files about her early life, Isabelle came across one of Mum’s father’s favourite quotations: “Life is eternal, and love is immortal: And death is only a horizon; and a horizon is nothing save the limit of our sight.” - Rossiter Worthington Raymond 1840 to 1918. Mum is survived by her three children, Francesca (Gregg Dawe), Isabelle (Dwain Davis) and Russell (Mary McKenna); four grandchildren, Matthew, Alexander, Ben and Olivia; two nephews Julian and Philip (Jane) Keet; and six great nieces and nephews.

qathet Living • August 2026 • 51

AUGUST HOROSCOPES SMALL TOWN ORACLE KRYSTAL THOMPSON

LEO (July 23 to Aug 22)

Jupiter entered your sign in late June and is still focused on growth and joy. The solar eclipse in Leo on August 12 zooms in on your natural spark and how you’re using it. Mercury in Cancer provides a bit of a stubborn standstill for fire signs while you boost mental focus. The Sun sets in Leo on August 21, just days before the Full Moon in Pisces. With this, you’re reflecting proudly on your achievements or gains so far this year.

VIRGO (August 23 to Sept 22)

Behind the scenes is your happy place this month. Before Virgo season shakes the sand out of your shoes, the solar eclipse energy hits a reset button on our intentions and pulls us away from being hyperpresent. Embrace the quiet, cozy, lived-in daze. Organize the leftover clutter as summer falls away. Leading into your birthday timeline, you’re feeling sharper and revitalized.

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LIBRA (Sept 23 to Oct 23)

Your ruler, Venus, leans into Libra like sunlight through the curtains at golden hour. Warm, comforting, and glowy. Communication could be quite lively and direct regarding your personal goals or needs, and creativity could grow beyond the bud. The New Moon is a great time to plan for adjustments in managing new daily routines, kicking off around the Full Moon (August 28).

SCORPIO (Oct 24 to Nov 21)

Mars is loitering in Cancer, which motivates impulse, road trips, philosophical pursuits, and maybe some rebellion. Early on, Venus restores balance in Libra and encourages beauty sleep or making space for yourself, your goals, and what makes you feel good. The summer might be moving fast, and the Sun dancing from spirited Leo to discerning Virgo could feel like your parents pulling into the driveway earlier than expected. Time to tidy up.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 to Dec 21)

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20)

GEMINI (May 21 to June 21)

You may be polishing your professional look with Venus in your tenth house of public status and career. Push for balance and ground yourself mid-month, as Mars’ emotional energy could cause friction in business. It’s a great time to boost practical and financial alignment, and as the Sun moves to Virgo on August 22, it’s all systems go while we shift from summer schedules to structured diligence.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 to Feb 18)

The Solar Eclipse on August 12 moves over your seventh house of partnerships, which could lead to a sudden beginning or the abrupt end to a cooperative connection. Perhaps both. A Full Moon illuminates in Pisces, and the Lunar Eclipse on August 28 could expose shadows on a current path that reroutes you onto a cosmic fast track, racing toward emotional pleasure, diluted worries, and financial balance.

Uranus toys with Gemini in your first house of identity, and you could be juggling ideas for changing up how you represent yourself or are established within a community. It may be a supercharged summer so far, and with Mars moving away from your sign the last half of August, the intellectual pace settles down and you can navigate admin or details confidently. Remain flexible, but stick to organic ideas when it comes to peer-to-peer or work collectives.

CANCER (June 22 to July 22)

Mars cannonballs into your sign on August 11, heating things up with a wave of self-assured initiative. Alongside Mars, your ruler The Moon, is in a new phase on August 12 and unlocks value around creativity or has you confidently standing on personal business to blow off some steam. The Full Moon (Aug 28) swells emotions and may prompt you to jump back into an old hobby or education plan with this lunation in your ninth house of learning.

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52 August 2026 • qathetliving.ca

Aries ruling planet Mars, impatiently wades through Cancer mid-month, potentially pairing burnout with a little resentment. You’re happy to rest, nest, and maintain your glow from home for a while. This month’s solar eclipse on August 12 could catch you off guard with a new spark of passion or creative desire, and the Full Moon on August 28 sinks doubts as opportunities surface.

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ARIES (March 21 to April 19)

Jupiter in Leo means big joy for your home or family, building visions that are durable. Your ruler, Venus, floats into Libra, elevating your attention to physical beauty or a desire to update the aesthetic of your surroundings. A new outlook could break old cycles and change what your day-to-day wellness looks like, creating new balance that includes selflove.

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With Venus in Libra on August 6, you may slow down and focus on what brings you comfort as our solar eclipse restores energy to walk a healthy path into autumn. The Sun moves into Virgo and flicks the big lights on over summer’s glowy haze as the collective begins to wake up to more practical matters. A Full Moon and partial eclipse, in your first house of self, deep-dives into a dreamy new personal era and releases anything that pokes holes in your self-love bucket.

Saturn and Neptune are stationed in fellow fire sign Aries. In your fifth house of authentic creation and expression. Binges, flings, or performative connections won’t satiate you right now. Saturn demands a closer look at your creativity and urges saving your energy for what comes naturally. Venus swings her hips through Libra, leading us well into Virgo season, and suggests you ground yourself in the more soulful details of your personal aesthetic.

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2025 - the 10 th ANNUAL

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2026 - the 11 th ANNUAL

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qathet Living • August 2026 • 53

The importance of being earnest - and whimsical LAST WORD PIETA GOUDRON

54 August 2026 • qathetliving.ca

Read any “serious” newspaper this summer, and the lifestyle section is likely a-flutter with the newest Gen Z trend: whimsy. Or, if you’re hard core about it, whimsymaxxing.

The New York Times ran this headline in May: “Whimsy, a new trend, may be a lifeline for Zillennials.” Business Insider’s take: “I Added More Whimsy to My Life. Here’s What Happened.” Even the Huffington Post UK declared “‘Whimsy’ Is The Word Of 2026 So Far.” The trend, led by kids under 30, is a resistance movement. It’s about intentional optimism, “dopamine decor,” individual expression, and choosing analog pursuits — scrapbooking, film photography, sewing — for quirky reasons, rather than productive ones. Anyone living in the 21st century can guess what this trend pushes back on, and why. It’s a perfect antidote to, well, everything. Hormuz. Condo bail-outs. Wildfires. Festival shooting sprees. $5 a pound summer peaches. Whimsy: a very cheap, very cute lifestyle augmentation. Looking ahead to the fall, I admit I am feeling bogged down with the opposite of whimsy: earnestness. We’re staring down local elections bound to set this community’s conversations aflame, again. Between the Powell River City Council, qathet Regional District, and qathet School District elections, we’ll likely spend September and October debating the City’s name change, BC Ferries, SOGI, homelessness, property taxes, the future of the mill site, and other topics that don’t always bring out the best in everyone — on any sides of these issues. One reason for the maltemper, I believe, is locals have so little real power in any of these.

Local governments don’t have the power or the budget to address the biggest problems facing this region. Instead, they’re in the position of advocating for policy and begging for dollars from senior governments, and attempting to sway Crown Corporations and private business and agencies, which may or may not listen. For example, even the Ferry Advisory Committees got axed by BC Ferries, since the last election. Instead, the Westview Ratepayers Society is helping this community to, if nothing else, roar into the void. The constraints on local government, in other words, makes Boomers and Gen Xers feel the same way Millennials, Ys and Zs so often do: powerless. Which is why you’ll find qL publisher Sean Percy and I dressed as Gastropods at Blackberry Fest August 21 and 22. Sean will wear a handmade nudibranch costume. I’ll don a hand-made slug costume. We’ll be handing out glitter decals with Gastropod Media’s new logo on them (see above) — as designed by the very whimsical Jenny Allen Taves. (Why ‘Gastropod?’ When I bought the magazine in January 2025, I renamed the parent company from Southcott Communications to Gastropod Media, in honour of two of our favourite local animals: slugs and nudibranchs. Both are of the class gastropoda.) I can’t wait. The crafting, the decals, the big splash: so fun. Young people are not airheaded, for leaning into whimsy. Ever since the cottage core trend (a precursor to whimsy — same idea), they’ve been pounding this message to the rest of us. Optimism, crafts, self-expression, hygge interiors, and imagination. It’s not what you do instead of living a serious life. Whimsy is what you do to keep your soul alive, while you grapple with the overwhelming impossibility of this era. ||editor@qathetliving.ca

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