SEPTEMBER 2026
Super Troopers How wunderkinds Kevin McLean and Fraser Blacklaws, both 12, spent their summer holidays
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Poverty Law Advocacy Program is changing its name to the
employment goals. Participants also gain hands-on work experience and support connecting with employment opportunities. Weekly financial stipends and other supports are available. BladeRunners is open to youth ages 15 to 30 who face multiple barriers to employment. That can include housing instability, mental health challenges, experience as a youth in care, involvement with the criminal justice system, incomplete high school education, or lived or living experience of substance use. Interested in learning more? Get in touch to ask about the program, schedule, supports, or how to apply at employmentservices@liftcommunityservices.org or call 604-485-7958.
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Free job training for youth W ant to build your skills and gain hands-on work experience? BladeRunners youth employment program is now accepting applications for its Fall 2026 cohorts. Run locally by Lift Community Services, BladeRunners is a free employment and skills-training program. The program begins with three weeks of in-person classroom training, followed by a week of individualized work placement. Participants build job-readiness skills and receive hands-on support with résumé writing and interview preparation, workplace communication, job coaching, and life skills. Training includes WHMIS, First Aid Level 1, and Serving It Right certification, with additional certifications available based on individual needs and
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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
2 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
BLADE RUNNERS Free employment and skills training program for youth aged 15 - 30. Accepting applications for Fall 2026. For more information call 604-485-7958 or email employmentservices@liftcommunityservices.org www.liftcommunityservices.org
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
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qathet Living • September 2026 • 3
CONTENTS SEPTEMBER 2026 ‘qathet’ the Grey Whale
Texadans give these bones new life
What do we want??!
A primer on local election issues
A Closer Walk with Tla’amin The hegus weighs in on local election
As The Crow Flies
Tactile map of the Community Forest
All Aboard: Women Mariners
New book by and about locals
After the fire, wildflowers
New music with E Pauline Johnson lyrics
Truth & Reconciliation Day
A film fest, a walk, music, and more
Dancing through the Fall
Social dance from square to salsa
Terry Fox Run Memories
Handing over the local leadership
6 11 15 19 27 50 51 54 56
The September reset E ven though it has been years since I’ve walked through the doors of a school, September always feels like a time for a reset. We put aside the leisurely, disorganized days of summer, and get back to business. Unfortunately for my family, this year is apparently also a time for getting down to the serious business of fighting cancer. (My wife is undergoing chemo treatment for ovarian cancer, and my bladder cancer appears to have re-surfaced and required attention.) Fortunately, our community has our back, from gifts of flowers and meals from friends, to the support offered by events such as Cops for Cancer (Page 34) and the Terry Fox Run (Page 56). There’s never a good time to have cancer, there has never in history been a better time for cancer patients. Thanks to fundraising efforts like those, research into the disease is growing in leaps and bounds. Treatments are available now that weren’t when I was first diagnosed in 2024.
Resets are in the offing throughout the community. As editor Pieta Goudron discovered over the course of many conversations, local elections are top of mind (Page 11), and everyone is hoping the tone of dialogue can be reset. The local hockey team is being reset in a big way with the arrival of new Kings head coach Brennan Menard. As Dave Brindle reports (Page 36), the team desperately needed a reset and hopes are high that recent changes in the head office and on the ice are just what’s needed to put more fans in the stands at the Hap Parker Arena. We’re also excited about a reset in our ʔayʔaǰuθəm (Ayajuthem) language column (Page 22). Each month, Tla’amin student siʔɛmɬət (Alexa Washington) will take you on a journey through this area, learning Ayajuthem words and sounds as we go.
PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE
REGULAR FEATURES Ayajuthem for Fall Our MLA and MP Blast from the Past I Made the Move Sports & Recreation Business Affairs Events Section Return to Reverence Slow Love and Our Lives Horoscopes Take a Break Last Word ON THE COVER: What did these 12-year-olds do on their summer vacation? Kevin McLean ran 96 kilometres through trails on a single day. Fraser Blacklaws won the Bronze title in men’s pickleball at BC’s provincials. Photographed at Valentine Mountain. Photo by Isaac Percy
4 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
22 23 24 32 33 40 41 58 59 60 61 62
Volume 21, Number 9 ISSN 2817-1667 (Print) ISSN 2817-1675 (Online)
7053E Glacier Street, Powell River, BC V8A 5J7 Tel 604-485-0003
Editor & Owner
Pieta Goudron
editor@qathetliving.ca
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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sean@qathetliving.ca qathet Living is a proud member of: Sales & Marketing
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qathet Living is 100% locally owned and operated by Gastropod Media
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WENDY DEVLIN is
a nurse turned farmer/ gardener homesteading for 35 years in Wildwood. She enjoys writing about her passions and who/ what inspires them. See Wendy’s story, Dancing through Fall, on Page 54.
CANDI LITTLE grew up
in the Cariboo, and has been a resident of Texada for 11 years now. “I love the coastal life.” She’s an avid hiker and kayaker and loves to explore.. See Candi’s story, ‘qathet’ the Grey Whale, on Page 6.
JAMES TYRWHITT-DRAKE is
a cartographer and an artist. He creates tactile maps to reveal the beauty of landscapes, and to connect people with the places they call home. See James’ story, As the Crow Flies, on Page 19.
SIʔƐMꞭƏT (ALEXA WASHINGTON) is a
Tla’amin Nation member and language and culture summer student. She will be taking you on a year’s journey through qathet lands and waters. See Siʔɛmɬət’s column on Page 22
ISAAC PERCY grew up
in the qathet area and has fallen in love with photography and publishing. S ee Isaac’s image of qathet’s two most athletic and ambitious preteens, on the cover.
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 • September 2026 • 5
‘QATHET’ THE GREY WHALE GETS A LIFT: Candi Little, in the green shirt, helps hoist the whale skull onto a frame to be transported. The skull alone weighs about 150 pounds. Left, the vertebrae that Candi first mistook for a logging relic. Below, the crew of volunteers who cared for the bones and transported them by boat. Bottom, the Grey Whale’s ribs, carefully moved above the high tide zone, photographed at 6 am just before they were moved to Saltspring Island for cleaning and mounting.
6 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
BY CANDI LITTLE
I
n mid-July, I was kayaking off the uninhabited west coast of Texada Island when I saw what I thought it was another old logging equipment track — a long, lumpy white relic that looks very much like cetacean vertebrae. Then I saw all the turkey vultures. I had to pull in to investigate. My emotions were wild when I understood what I was looking at, from “oh my gosh,” to “no way,” “unbelievable,” “awesome,” to “oh no, so sad. This great huge mammal has died, probably due to malnutrition. So very sad.” Needless to say, I was late getting home from my paddle that day. I immediately contacted Micheline McCauley (friend and Texada PROWLS volunteer), who contacted Jackie Hildering (The Marine Detective), who contacted the Whale Interpretive Centre (WIC) in Telegraph Cove. A few days later, I brought friends on a “girls’ hike”: Terry Hollo, Fran Feuer, and Micheline. We were waiting for confirmation from WIC for permits and a transportation plan. We found the first baleen about 30 feet from the rest of the bones. The next day, I learned we had permits, so we took another hike down to the beach, with Rose Rairie and Micheline. We gathered all the bones that we were able to, and moved them to a safe place above the high tide mark. A few days later I hiked down again with Terry, Fran, and Leslie Goresky. We found the second baleen 200 feet down the beach from the site, and secured it. July 31 was transport day. A whole crew of us hiked down to meet the boat at the 6:30 am low tide: me, Micheline, Terry, Fran, Leslie, plus Brenda Currie, Roger Gagnon, and Matt Gagnon. We loaded the bones up in an hour, and the boat was off to Union Bay where Dr. John Ford met them with a truck and trailer (he is the head of the Cetacean Research Program for Fisheries and Oceans Canada, stationed in Nanaimo, among other things. See his piece about this Grey Whale and others, on Page 8.) He took them to Saltspring Island, to Cetacea Contracting — an internationally-important skeleton preparation and display company. The staff
Have you seen a Grey Whale here? Grey Whales usually just pass through our Powell River waters heading to the north coast, so we don’t see them often. They tend to show up in March as they continue their migration from southern breeding grounds (Baja or Mexico), usually staying in outside waters. Most often they pass closer to Vancouver Island, but on occasion we see them pass by here. They have been known to stay around the Sechelt area for a bit as they forage for food close to shore before continuing north. With their mottled light grey colour, they blend in with rocks on shore. They are baleen whales, so have two blow holes and when they blow, they usually produce a distinctive heart-shaped blow. Their appearance is somewhat prehistoric. As they move slowly, they also tend to have barnacles, emphasizing the mottled colouring. To report a sighting, send a note to sightings@ wildoceanwhale.org - Susan MacKay, Founder / CEO Wild Ocean Whale Society (WOWs) there cleaned and articulated the bones so they can become the next hanging skeleton at the Telegraph Cove Whale Interpretive Centre. We had a wonderful gathering with everyone who was working together. This experience has been a "once in a lifetime" for me. I’ve thought of that Grey Whale every day as I look out to the water. How wonderful it would have been to see ‘qathet’ (that is what was decided to name this whale) alive and swimming, perhaps alongside me in my kayak. I was very thankful to be involved in qathet’s’discovery on our remote Texada shore, and to see everyone ‘‘working together’’ (qathet meaning) to be able to eventually bring ‘qathet’ to a place where others can view it at the WIC.
‘qathet’ the Grey Whale: honoured from Texada to Telegraph Cove
qathet Living • September 2026 • 7
This Grey Whale illustration, by sea captain and naturalist Charles Melville Scammon, first appeared in the 1874 book The Natural History of the Cetaceans and Other Marine Mammals of the Western Coast of North America
BY JOHN FORD
Since 2015, it’s been the best of times, & the worst of times, for Grey Whales qathet is one of 12 found dead on the West Coast this year so far
T
he Grey Whale found on Texada Island this summer, ‘qathet’, was evidently stranded during the spring northward migration, sometime after February 1, 2026. It is unusual for Grey Whales to migrate up the inside of Vancouver Island, but a small number do. Judging from the apparent lack of oil in its bones, it was likely emaciated. It was a mature whale, probably fairly old. Typically, the main Grey Whale population migrates between feeding areas in the Arctic and breeding lagoons on the west coast of Mexico. Some years, conditions on their feeding grounds are poor. Sometimes there’s not enough food. Sometimes, they can’t get to their best feeding areas due to abnormal ice cover. These whales are malnourished and migrate in poor body condition, and as a result there can be high numbers of Grey Whales stranded or even dying along the west coast, because they’ve run out of energy reserves (they don’t eat much while they’re migrating). The population of Grey Whales has been recovering well from near extermination by 19th century whaling, and peaked at about 27,000 during the winter of 2015-16. Starting in 2019, however, a large number of Grey
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Whales stranded along the spring migration corridor from California to BC. The US National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) declared this to be an Unusual Mortality Event (UME), which continued until 2023. Calf production during this period was extremely low. By 2024-25, the population had declined by about 50%, to about 13,000. The most recent census, in 2025-26 suggested that population grew slightly, but there were numerous strandings in the spring of 2026 and calf production remained very low. In BC, a record 12 Grey Whales were found dead in 2026, and most that were examined were clearly emaciated.
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A home for cetacean bones
q
athet, the Grey Whale skeleton found on Texada Island, has a home. On December 24, 2024, a fire at Telegraph Cove’s Whale Interpretive Centre destroyed the building — and its collection, including several BC whale skeletons. On August 1, the unfinished building reopened to the public, with plans to complete the interior over this winter and reopen officially in Spring 2027. In other words, this was a perfect time for the new grey whale skeleton, ‘qathet’, to join the Centre. Tyra Bain is the manager and lead interpreter at the WIC. Here, she explains how important and how welcome Texada Island’s donation will be.
Which skeletons were lost in the fire?
WHAT WAS LOST: The December 31, 2024 fire destroyed this important building and most exhibits. Texada’s Grey Whale, ‘qathet’, will help rebuild the collection in Telegraph Cove. Photo courtesy of the Whale Interpretive Centre
Tyra • The WIC had the largest public collection of marine mammal skeletons in Western Canada. Among the skeletons lost were a 60-foot Fin Whale, an adult Bigg’s Killer Whale, a juvenile Killer Whale, a juvenile Humpback, a Grey Whale, a Goose-
beaked Whale, an adult Minke Whale, and many smaller skeletons of sea lions, seals, porpoise, dolphins, otters, and terrestrial mammals. Which other skeletons have been sourced, and from where? Tyra • Three of the WIC’s skeletons (Dall’s Porpoise, Risso’s Dolphin, and Pygmy Sperm Whale) were off-site at the time of the fire. In 2025, the WIC was gifted the remains of a Bryde’s Whale by the ’Namgis First Nation. This whale had died near Port McNeill in May of 2025. The articulation of this skeleton was generously funded by the Port Hardy and Port McNeill Rotaries. The Bryde’s Whale is now on display in the Whale Interpretive Centre’s new building. In 2025, the WIC was gifted a Steller Sea Lion skeleton from Pearson College UWC. This skeleton is being articulated and is anticipated to join the collection later this summer. The articulation of this skeleton is generously funded by the North Island Marine Mammal Stewardship Association
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qathet Living • September 2026 • 9
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UNFINISHED BUSINESS: Telegraph Cove’s Whale Interpretive Centre after it re-opened, post-fire, in August. The building is still under construction. Below, the WIC is about a five-hour car trip from here.
(NIMMSA) through the NIMMSA Conservation Fund. In addition to these skeletons, the WIC has been gifted many skulls, bones, and other specimens from educational institutions and private individuals. The WIC is so grateful to everyone who has contributed as these specimens are helping to build back the WIC’s collection and further its education efforts.
Help rebuild for ‘qathet’ If folks are interested in contributing to Telegraph Cove’s continued rebuilding efforts, the WIC has an ongoing fundraiser that will help to finish the interior of the building and articulate ‘qathet’: killerwhalecentre.org
Will you keep the name ‘qathet’ for this whale?
What value will ‘qathet’ add to the WIC collection?
Tyra • The WIC is humbled and delighted that the whale has received the name ‘qathet’. The name ‘qathet’ symbolizes not only the territory where the whale was found but the community support that has made this project possible. Thanks to the community of Texada Island, the WIC can share qathet’s story to guests from around the world, inspiring people to better understand and protect Grey Whales. The name ‘qathet’ also resonates with the overarching theme of the events since the fire: unity and collaboration. In working together, community support has made it possible for the WIC is rebuild and reopen once again.
Tyra • At the WIC, qathet will be an ambassador for Grey Whales along the west coast of BC. Grey Whales, particularly the population that migrates from Baja California to the Bering and Chukchi Seas, are currently experiencing a dramatic population decline. qathet will be a voice for the concerns facing the Grey Whale population, while also inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards. What else should qL mag readers know? Tyra • The WIC is deeply grateful to the Texada Island community for being a part of ‘qathet’s’ story. We are looking forward to introducing ‘qathet’ to the public in the future.
What do we want?! To vote for issues we care about!
When do we want it? Pretty soon! On September 11, nominations close for the Powell River City Council, qathet Regional District, and qathet School District elections. General voting is October 17. Editor Pieta Goudron reached out to 15 engaged locals (none of whom are running for office) to ask what they’re hoping for from local governments. Sandy Dunlop Editor of The Barnacle, Lund Community Society Board Secretary, 45-year resident of Area A qathet. Top issue • The water situation in Lund and Area A. Why • I feel it is crucial that we get on top of our water quality infra-
structure in this time of climate change and encroaching extractive and capitalistic interests. If I were in charge • Approach all issues from a place of kindness, respect, and inclusion, recognizing that working together produces a better and faster result than being hateful and arguing against each other.
re-elect
Eldon Haggarty Union Leader Top issue • Back to basics Why • Council needs to focus on aging infrastructure. Marine water lines burst in the winter. Jasper Street, take gravel and hang on. Homes, roads, and seawall washing out as the storm drains can’t handle the excess flows. If I were in charge • Council needs to stop thinking of homeowners as their personal ATM. Taxes should never rise more than inflation. Stop promoting your personal agendas. Respect the taxpayers’ hardearned money.
Lisa Hau Artist and farmer Top issue • The lack of dedicated art spaces and specialized art teachers for K–7 students. Why • These formative years matter. Children need space to nurture their wildness: to freely create, express themselves, make mistakes, and unleash their imaginations. How can we create a better world without first imagining one? If I were in charge • I’d look beyond our community for inspiration, researching what’s working well around the world and exploring how those ideas could be thoughtfully adapted to benefit our com-
TRINA ISAKSON for City Council
Voting days
Oct. 7, 10, 14 (advance voting) Oct. 17 (general voting) Wednesdays and Saturdays
Learn about me
✔ Affordable housing ✔ Public participation ✔ Future of the mill site ✔ Support our youth ✔ Good relations with
Tla’amin Nation
✔ Common sense, respect,
and compassion …and more
trinaisakson.ca Authorized by Trina Isakson, elect.trina@gmail.com
qathet Living • September 2026 • 11
munity.
Joyce Carlson Retired Newspaper Publisher City Council • Providing leadership that seeks solutions to challenges in our community, both financial and societal, with positive dialogue and respect with an aim to reduce sowing division. School District • Ensuring that our schools are a safe and welcoming environment for everyone who is recognized and valued for the varied gifts they bring to share with others.
Susan Young Local pickleball player, community advocate, President of the qathet Pickleball Association. Top Issue • City Council: Lack of collaborative, solution-focused recreation planning and infrastructure. Why • The proposed indoor pickleball facility
project demonstrates the positive potential of what government-community partnerships can achieve. Planning should guide decisions, not delay solutions. When community need is proven and community partners are ready, local government should collaborate, manage risk, and move forward. If I were in charge • I’d replace siloed decision-making with genuine collaboration among local government, community organizations, and residents, focusing on practical solutions that address today’s needs while building a better long-term plan.
pick their name? What an opportunity! Not just as a sign of respect and a demonstration of empathy for our Indigenous friends and neighbor, but also to increase the exposure of our community and possibly build the economy.
Sherry Burton Member of Westview Ratepayers Society Supportive Housing Subcommittee; engaged community citizen
Clay Brander Electoral Area C Director and Chair of the qathet Regional District Top issue • The three local governments working together for the common good. Why • The ferries, water systems, drug use, homelessness, the mill site, and crime are all extremely important issues, but they require intervention and support from outside agencies (the provincial government, BC Ferries, private industry, etc.). Working together is something that we can do without any outside help and it will put us in a stronger position when dealing with those groups. If I were in charge • I’d change Powell River’s name. How many communities get the chance to
Top issue • Encampments/Com-
munity Safety. Why • Encampments/social disorder compromise safety. With low growth, low median incomes, persistent fiscal irresponsibility, Council cannot assume provincial/federal mandates. We need affordable solutions protecting vulnerable people and community wellbeing. If I were in charge • I’d mandate budget oversight enforcing spending constraints/efficiencies. Focus on fiscal responsibility, freeze non-essential initiatives, and align taxation with actual community needs rather than provincial/federal expectations we cannot sustainably fund.
On Oct. 17 RE-ELECT for City Council
A stronger Powell River.
Together.
VOTE4EARL.CA Authorized by Earl Almeida - vote@earlalmeida.com
Elect
Collicutt for Council
dianacollicutt.ca info@dianacollicutt.ca 604.483.1658 /Collicutt for Council Authorized by Diana Collicutt, Financial Agent – 604.483.1658
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Smith McGovern Chair, qathet Pride Society Top Issue • Protecting SOGI in our School District so that it has sufficient funds for anti-bullying curriculum. If I were in charge • I would challenge the local response and tolerance of hate speech/crime against the 2SLGBTQ community and find creative transformative justice approaches to implement change instead of punitive justice frameworks.
Sandy McCormick Texada Island’s regional director on the qRD board, 2014-2026 Top issue • Economic development. Why • The City needs to do something bold and attract new industries to compensate for the loss of tax dollars from the mill: shipbuilding (ferries?),
film production, think outside the box! If I were in charge • I wouldn’t seek changes to our amazing natural environment, but I would work to develop industries and attractions to sustain it for future generations.
Doe Fraser
Volunteer through the Powell River United Church’s Free Pasta and Senior meals as well as the Community Team Lead for Everybody Deserves a Smile.
Godson Akhidenor Secretary, African & Afro-Caribbean Association Top issue • Regional District – Public Transportation. Why • Most new immigrants struggle to commute between Horseshoe Bay and Powell River. A daily BC Transit connection (once or twice a day) from the mall to Langdale ferry terminal would improve accessibility and encourage newcomers to settle here. New immigrants wait hours in the cold during winter to catch the [private] bus from Earls Cove to Langdale. If I were in charge • I would introduce or encourage the establishment of a daily transit service between the mall in Powell River and Horseshoe Bay so newcomers no longer wait for hours in the cold during winter to connect with the bus between Earls Cove and Langdale. A similar private transit service already operates between Little River, Co-
On October 17
VOTE
G e o r g e
DOUBT MAYOR FOR
mox and the Nanaimo ferry terminal, showing that this model can work.
Top issue • City Council’s ability to participate in community meetings and dialogue in a safe and respectful environment. Why • I would like to see a Mayor and Council that supports decisions as a team, present a unified front and not undermine decisions publicly that were passed in council and incite community rage. If I were in charge • I would work for a collective code of conduct to promote public meetings decorum and move us through the difficult social, economic, and transitional times with community engagement in open dialogue without fear and threats. It is an expression: “Those who seek resolution usually find it.”
During my last 15 years before retirement, I served as an elected Executive Council member of the Telecommunication Workers Union and the final six of those as National President.
Authorized by George Doubt george.doubt@icloud.com
I have extensive experience working with elected groups that served large, diverse constituencies. I have been a Board Member for a Real Estate corporation that has extensive holdings across Canada, as well as a Trustee of a major defined benefit Pension Plan. I was a leader in all of those boards and executive committees and worked hard at collaborative decision making. I was and still am a champion of consensus decision making. That 17 years of experience, combined with my eight years on Council and six years on the Regional District Board, put me in a solid position to provide positive leadership to Council and the Community.
O PTIMISM • KIN DN ESS • RESPECT qathet Living • September 2026 • 13
ROB SOUTHCOTT FOR MAYOR
Collaborate, Communicate, Thrive
Voting Day: Saturday, Oct 17 8am–8pm authorized by Susan E Short, financial agent
rrdsouthcott@gmail.com // 604-414-8910 To the Electors of Area B: I would like to express my appreciation for the support, input, and feedback I have received from the community regarding issues that are both new, and longstanding. It would be an honour to continue to serve with your support from 2026-2030.
Mark Gisborne
Approved by Mark Gisborne
cell: 604-414-3694
Cynthia Barnes
Craig Turney
Former member of the qathet Climate Alliance and currently a CJMP host for A Bird in the Hand
Building houses and blogging about local history (BC History Boy)
Top issue • The most pressing issue for the City Council is sustainable development which means encouraging and bringing in industry that does not destroy the planet, e.g. no AI Center. Why • It is not that difficult to support jobs and businesses that generate revenue and that are not harmful to the planet. If I were in charge • I’d have the City sign the petition to sue big oil.
604-414-4914 • robynpenner@personaltravel.ca
www.sendmeapostcard.travel/robyn
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14 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
Lisa Moffatt
Rick Craig
Community service, killer karaoke, qathet Living Best of Awards
President Westview Ratepayers Society Top issue • Commitment to transparency and building community cohesion. Why • Powell River is at a critical junction on its history. We need leaders committed to engaging and mobilizing the community to tackle the key issues of rebuilding the tax base, addressing homelessness and public safety, maintaining services, and building community consensus and cohesion. If I were in charge • I would ensure that only an essential minimum of decisions are made in camera and without public input.
Aaron Ash Farmer at Coming Home Farm
Real Planning. Real Support.
Top issue • Cost of living crisis. Why • The costs of rent, groceries, and gas keep going up, and our pay is stagnant. Meanwhile, in just the last year, Canada’s richest 40 billionaires grew their wealth by $95 billion If I were in charge • I’d revitalize our historic downtowns (Marine Ave, Ash Ave, and Cranberry St), support local businesses, and tax the multinational corporations that are bleeding us dry
Top issue • Local Food Security for the Regional District, but it’s equally a City issue. Why • Local, organic food strengthens community, health, ecology, and economy. It creates meaningful work, reduces food miles, and ensures our community can nourish itself during all times. If I were in charge • I’d aim for our region to be a model of a healthy, resilient community by supporting agriculture, ecological enterprise, local jobs, health culture, ecotourism, and meaningful participation in our shared future.
Top issue • City Council and relationship with the Tla’amin First Nation. Why • The current council set relations with Tla’amin Nation back by years. There is a need now for relationship repair. Our economic future is tied to Tla’amin. Plus, it’s the good thing to do. If I were in charge • I’d update the Procedural Bylaws to not allow the same person or group to be a delegation on the same matter for at least three months.
Patrick Brabazon Former Director and Chair of qathet Regional District Top issue • Fiscal crisis in Council. Why • Powell River is in a fiscal crisis exacerbated by the wilful disregard by councils of the reality of the closing of the mill. If I were in charge • Stick to your knitting. Cooperate for the greater good but leave the saving of the world to the angels in Victoria and Ottawa.
A closer walk with Tla’amin Hegus John Hackett on the elections
B
efore the noise of the campaign period begins, reporter Abby Francis interviewed Tla’amin Nation Hegus John Hackett. Although Tla’amin’s treaty is with Canada and British Columbia, some of the nation’s most important relationships are the with City, Regional District, and School Board. Note: Gastropod Media is extremely excited to announce that, starting in January, Abby will be re-joining the team here at qL full-time. Abby interned with us during her graduating year at Brooks in 2021, then stayed on as a Local Journalism Initiative reporter. She moved to Vancouver to attend BCIT’s journalism program, and has been working in communications in the Lower Mainland for the past two years. Abby is a member of Tla’amin Nation, a champion of all animals from salmon to squirrels, and a top rising star in Canada’s media landscape.
What are your hopes for the next elected City council? Hegus John • I’m really hopeful for a really progressive, positive outcome for the new mayor and council that’s elected for the City of Powell River. Unfortunately, in the last two elections, I feel the relationship between Tla’amin and the City of Powell River kind of fell off the rails a little bit. It wasn’t always like that. In 2002, Mayor Alsgard was elected, and he was really progressive and wanted to work with Tla’amin. Then Tla’amin and the City of Powell River created a document called the Community Accord. It’s a
qathet Living • September 2026 • 15
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document with the foundation of reconciliation and having a positive relationship between the City and Tla’amin Nation, recognizing that we are two distinct governments, two different jurisdictions. But there’s always been a mutual recognition between Tla’amin and the City of Powell River, which kind of laid the foundation [of the Community Accord] based on reconciliation and positively working together. For this election coming up now, I hope we can go back to those times where we had a really good relationship with the City. We need a really strong mayor, like we did in the past, who really tried to bridge the gap between the Nation and the City. A mayor who wants to repair what’s happened in the last two elections. It’s important that we do have a good relationship with the City of Powell River for many different reasons. We could work on so many things together. I think we’re in a state right now where economic development is really crucial to the City and Tla’amin as well. I believe that with the mill closing, it caused a lot of chaos and it raised a lot of the property taxes and cost of living within the City and the region. Like a point to the past, the City of Powell River and it was called Sliammon (Tla’amin) back in the day, and Catalyst (now Domtar) actually had an economic development arm. It was called Powell River Sliammon and Catalyst (PRSC) Limited Partnership, where they took on the surplus of the mill lands, and the whole purpose was to develop these lands for economic development and job creation. I’d like to get back to that kind of atmosphere where we could work together on economic development and many other other things as well. And your hopes for the qathet Regional District? Hegus John • I have the same wish for the qathet Regional District. Fortunately, we have a really good relationship with qathet. Our CAOs (chief administrative officers) meet quite frequently, and I meet with some of the board members too, just to keep in contact, which is very positive. I want to keep that going. I hope we have a strong team that will continue to work together.
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Hegus John • I really hope that some Tla’amin members actually run for the school board. I think it’d be important that our nation does participate on a board level to help deliver the education to our community members. That would be amazing.
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16 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
Are there any concerns or issues with the relationships you think should be addressed in the next election? Hegus John • Yeah, I just want to get back to the relationship that we did have [with the City]. I’m very eager to work on that with the new mayor and council, and really want to move forward on better communication and creating a positive environment for both the City of Powell River and Tla’amin. There’s a lot of benefits of working together again, mutually.
How do you think those relationships should be conducted or mended once we get the new council in? Hegus John • Having open communication. I think we should meet with them immediately once the election settles down, and just having that open communication would be the foundation that’s moving forward. They’re really standoffish [current mayor and council]. Actually, the majority of the council is on the same page as Tla’amin, but there’s a couple members that are kind of falling into that anti-Indigenous atmosphere, and that kind of pours into the community. And when they have public meetings, the mayor’s not doing a good job of controlling that atmosphere within their public meetings, and I think they should have more of a code of conduct and have their meetings in order. Just to say it lightly. How should the relationship with the qathet Regional District be conducted? Hegus John • I think continuing on how this relationship is now, it would be important to have the same approach. Meeting with them once their election settles down and their board members settle in. Having that open communication, like I was saying, just to keep tabs on each other, our CAOs meet often and keep tabs on what Tla’amin’s doing and what qathet Regional District is doing, and we try to really help each other out. As qathet is currently having water issues out towards Lund. They’re [qRD] applying for a lot of funding. Tla’amin provides letters of support for the Lund waterworks development, there’s a lot of infrastructure repairs that need to be done. The dam needs to be repaired, and it’s up to over $10 million to do that. So really trying to help them out with support that way, and they helped us out a lot with reacquiring the tiskʷat site. They provided letters of support which helped the negotiations go smoother with Catalyst. And for the School District? Hegus John • I believe we have a really good relationship with the School District. We’re having a cross cultural conference that the Nation’s going to be holding. All the employees from the School District are coming down to Tla’amin next month, and we’re going to be team building, tour them around, and build that relationship and keep it positive. Any final thoughts on the upcoming election season? Hegus John • My wish is that anybody who runs and anybody gets nominated has an open mind and wants to work positively with Tla’amin Nation because Tla’amin’s best interests and our intentions are to work with the newly elected mayor and council for the City, the board of directors from qathet, and the board from School District 47. We’re always open-minded and want to work together with these entities in all of our best interests.
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qathet Living • September 2026 • 17
18 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
As the crow flies
Promoting understanding and conversation is the motivation behind the Powell River Community Forest’s new tactile map. BY JAMES TYRWHITT-DRAKE
T
his map combines two major goals; visualizing the stewardship of the Powell River Community Forest, and portraying the landscape as accurately as possible. It took over a year to create in three phases: design, fabrication, and painting. I began the piece by creating a digital replica of the map area from sources of high resolution terrain data. There is no single continuous source of data for our region, so I merged five different types of
Scale: 1:12,500
Colour legend: Yellow: Powell River Community Forest Tenure Boundary Bright Green: Tla’amin Nation Conservation Network Brown: Major Forest Service Roads Pink: Hiking and Cycling Trails Purple: Sunshine Coast Trail Blue circles: Water Intakes Yellow circles: Salmon Hatcheries Red circles: Campgrounds and Huts Purple circles: Recreation Parking Lots
qathet Living • September 2026 • 19
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20 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
TEACHING (AND LEARNING) TOOL: At Logger Sports, a crowd gathered to absorb the hyper-detailed map, created by qathet’s own James Tyrwhitt-Drake (above, in the hat). PRCF manager Chris Laing, far right. Photo by Anji Smith terrain and vegetation data into a single continuous model. I also included layers for streams, roads, trails, parks, and the PRCF Tenure Boundary, which were used to cut paths on the map surface to show those features more distinctly. The final data model was used to generate a set of sixty digital 3D tiles which each cover a small area of the map and fit together like a puzzle. These digital tiles were made into physical pieces with 3D printing, using PETG plastic as the material. This method works a bit like a robotic hot glue gun, with a nozzle moving from point to point and adding material layer by layer. A single tile takes about 24 hours to print, so in total this map required about two months of printing time. Once all the pieces were completed, they were mounted on a frame, glued together, and the seams between the pieces carefully erased with a soldering iron. The last phase, painting, is by far the most enjoyable. Colour is given to the entire landscape in multiple passes, starting with broad base colours and moving to finer and finer detail.
This is the most detailed piece I’ve ever made, with attention given to many small features. Each cutblock has colours specific to its age, and there are exposed cliffs on mountain slopes, layered sand and water for beaches, and textured colour layers for forests. The roads, streams, trails, and boundaries were added with a fine syringe, and the Tla’amin Nation conservation network painted in by hand using the source data as reference. The most detail went into the city itself, with every street, field, and group of trees painted in with a fine brush. The model is even detailed enough to show a tiny bump for each building in town, and I spent an entire day adding dots of colour to every house. Painting this piece was very personal for me; as I added details to each location in town I re-lived many memories of growing up here. Adding details to the front-country also gave me a new understanding of how the places I’ve explored fit together. There is so much beauty where we live, and I hope that this map can help people in our community feel a deeper sense of connection with our home.
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Soretirement you get awealth clear the unexpected your your your the surrounding forest, lakes, and our At IG Wealth Management, we go beyond RRSP’s At IG Wealth Management, we go beyond RRSP’s to meeting your We develop expenditures We help We will business We examine of today and tomorrow. Does your plan do that? community. to look your whole financial picture to forecast your comprehensive We ensure you youpicture manage an success your retirement goals? tocash lookatat your whole financial toestablish forecast your Working with our manager, Chris andmonthly income in retirement. get risks, a clear view strategies have a planSo you retirement estate plan Implementing credit Let’s start by reviewing yourpreserve retirement monthly income in inretirement. Sodoyou aallows clear view that protect, place for your get thatgoals. strategies that Laing, and supported by Bill Bird and requirements of today and tomorrow. 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With an IG Living Plan™ A plan for living valuable role the Community Forest, such as Logyour retirement goals are synchronized with your whole financial Let’s start by reviewing your retirement goals. ger’s Sports Day. picture, including your investments, estate plan, taxes and insurance. A plan for living When not in use the map is temporLet’s review your TOBAN retirementDE goals today. ROOY TOBAN DE ROOY CFP, CLU, RRC A plan for living arily stored at the Alex Dobler Salmon CFP CLU TEP FCSI MFA-P RRC Senior Financial Consultant TOBAN DE ROOY CFP, CLU, RRC Senior Wealth Advisor Centre for now andA we are lookingis for great retirement about more than your RRSPs. Investors Group Financial Services Inc. IG Wealth Management Senior Financial Consultant A plan for living IG Wealth Management Inc. TOBAN DE ROOY Investors Group Financial Services Inc. At IG Wealth Management, we believe in retirement planning a place to display it. Tel: (604) 414-8280 Tel: (604) 414-8280 Tel:TOBAN (604) DE ROOY Toban.DeRooy@ig.ca that goes registered investments. With an 414-8280 IG Living Plan™CFP, CLU, RRC 604.414.8280 | Toban.deRooy@ig.ca All in all, we think this beyond is a worthToban.DeRooy@ig.ca Toban.DeRooy@ig.ca TOBAN DE ROOY CFP, CLU, RRC Senior Financial Consultant your retirement goals are synchronized with your whole financial Senior Financial Consultant Investors Group Financial Services Inc. while project that hopefully encourages Investors Group Financial Services Inc. picture, including your investments, estate plan, taxes and insurance. IG.CA / / / / / Tel: (604) 414-8280 thoughtful discussions and as a conseTel: (604) 414-8280 Toban.DeRooy@ig.ca Trademarks, including IG Wealth Management, are by IGM Inc.toand licensed to its subsidiary corporations. Insurance products and services distributed through I.G. Insurance Services Insurance license sponsored by The Canada Life Assurance Company. Trademarks, including IG Wealth Management, are owned byowned IGM Financial Inc.Financial andInc. licensed its subsidiary corporations. Toban.DeRooy@ig.ca Investors Group Inc.IG2020 RET2112MA_E (01/2020) quence better decisions about how we ©© Investors Group Inc. 2020 RET2112MA_E (01/2020) Trademarks, including Wealth Management, are owned by IG Wealth Management Inc. and licensed to its subsidiary corporations. Let’s review your retirement goals today. © IG Wealth Management Inc. 2026 manage our forest resources. Trademarks, including IG Wealth Management, are owned by IGM Financial Inc. and licensed to its subsidiary corporations.
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he idea for this map sprang from my experience with Powell River Tourism and borrowing their 3D back country map for events sponsored by the Salmon Society. Powell River Tourism has been very gracious about loaning out their map to us at the Powell River Community Forest on several occasions. Based on this favourable experience, the idea for a 3D map for our Community Forest was presented to our Board of Directors well over a year ago and has been progressing since then. Fortunately, we had the expertise in our home town through James Tyrwhitt-Drake of Tactile Terrain. This was fortunate as it simplified communications on a complicated, detailed project that required much consultation. We are very grateful for the work James has accomplished for us and we think the community will be grateful for his work once they see it for themselves. The advantages of having this map are many. The third dimension gives the viewer a better sense of the terrain. With mountains and valleys shown,
togoals? achieve your the viewer has a better retirement understanding Discover the six dimensions of why the waters flow where they do. retirement goals?
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Help the next generation by funding the education they need to get ahead. ®
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Investors Group Financial Services Inc.
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Trademarks, including IG Wealth Management, are owned by IGM Financial Inc. and licensed to its subsidiary corporations. © Investors Group Inc. 2019 RET2099MA_E (11/2019)
© Investors Group Inc. 2020 RET2112MA_E (01/2020)
TOBAN DE ROOY , CFP® CLU TEP RRC Senior Financial Consultant
Investors Group Financial Services Inc.
qathet Living • September 2026 • 21
ʔAYʔAǰUΘƏM?
Use the orthography below to write in how to pronounce each letter. Also see Dr. Elsie Paul’s more precise descriptions at bit.ly/3cc8iU4.
YOU GOT THIS
RANDOLPH TIMOTHY JR.
hɛwčɩs nɛʔaymɩxʷ
To Paddle
A Tribe of People
t̓aχamay
Red Cedar Tree
sopot
To Chop at a Branch or Tree
taʔəčɩš
Travel
ʔayʔaǰuθəm orthography
ɬəʔamɛn | k̓ómoks | χʷɛmaɬkʷu | & ƛohos This orthography is based on the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). This guide offers a simplified version of the sounds; for an authentic accent, listen at firstvoices.com. Most letters you’ll see in ʔayʔaǰuθəm are familiar. Pronounce them as you normally would, with the exception of the vowels and “y,” which are always pronounced:
a e
ah
i o u y
ee
ay as in May
oh oo y as in yell
´ ˆ Ʊ ¢ æ Æ Ì Ü kÑ Ý π œ
eh ih oo as in look uh ch popping c dg popping k kw rounded, popping k Breathy L sound popping p popping q
22 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
qÑ þ
rounded q
ß † tÏ Ð ƒ x∑ ≈ ý » « ÷
sh
rounded, popping q
popping t t-th Popping t-th th wh (like in who) Hhhh
Hhhhw
tl popping tl glottal stop: uh oh
̓ tagəms ta ƛoχʷay (moon of the dog salmon)
BY SIʔƐMꞭƏT (ALEXA WASHINGTON)
vourite way to eat their ǰɛnxʷ (fish). It is hard work, from pulling up heavy p̓əʔač (fish nets) to days spent ̓ eptember is tagəm ta ƛoχʷay cutting and cleaning, to long nights ̓ ̓ (smoke (moon of the dog salmon) mark- spent in the kʷuʔuxʷawt xʷ ing both the house) tending beginning of the the fire. transition into fall Through all this ̓ and the start of Other tagəm ta work qʷʊšθot (it fish season up and ƛoχʷay activities: is a happy time) down the coast. there are many Tishosum is ʔɛʔaməš tə qʷəsəm laughs shared ̓ ᶿot ̓ no exception, (hunting the grouse) as qatᶿat tə χ ɛ y t ̓ᶿ ɛ q ʷ ( c o h o qayɛmɩxʷ(the salmon), qʷətɛčɩn p̓əp̓ƛaʔəmšt kʷ poq’poq’ people come (pink salmon) (we are picking blueberries) together). who come in SepČ ɛ p θ t ə n ̓ tember, as well as tᶿɛyəm ga kʷ taχaməjɛjɛ tɩwšɛms tə ́ the ƛoχʷay (dog (look for a cedar tree) tᶿeyuxʷtən (Auntsalmon) and chiies and uncles nook salmon who həm kʷ ʔi tᶿokʷ teach nieces come in October həm kʷ ʔi maƛ and nephews) and November, (may the day be good; nunuɬtən tɩwšɛms are all making may the waters be calm) tə qɛχtən (older their journey over -Sue Pielle/tətᶿ́ čičiyɛsiblings teach the next three younger siblings) months. in a beautiful disčɛyɛɬtən tə noʔomɩxʷ (the com- play of intergenerational knowledge munity prepares to catch, clean, and transfer. preserve fish) during these months, Down to the teachings of where signalling the preparations for sotɩč you bring the bones after, it is all (winter). Families get together to based in a system of reciprocal relashare in the work of preparing and tion and respect for the life that nourpreserving their ǰɛnxʷ (fish). ishes our bodies and sustains us. Every family has different ways of This is our way of life. doing so. Every person has their fa-
S
MLA RANDENE NEILL
The qathet Regional Cycling Association worked with Recreation Sites and Trails BC (Environment Ministry) to have these trails authorized.
Fires, Ferries and Fiber optics Reader question: Why do we not have any water bombers that were built ready for fires? Randene • Air tankers are one of the many resources the BC Wildfire Service uses to respond to wildfires. The main purpose of the aircraft is to support the work of ground crews. While valuable, our tankers and skimmers have limits. Since they can’t contain wildfires on their own, aircraft work alongside our crews on the ground. BC Wildfire Service uses a range of fixed-wing aircraft for a variety of purposes. Birddogs, air tankers, and small patrol planes are most common. Over the course of an average wildfire season, the BC government’s contracted airtankers conduct about 560 missions throughout the province. Currently, during busy summer months BC Wildfire Service maintains two air tanker contracts with Conair and Airspray, with eight air tanker groups under these two contracts. Additionally in 2026, there are long-term contracts in
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.
place for seven medium helicopters, four intermediate helicopters, three rappel medium helicopters, four heavy helicopters, and two parattack jumpships.
BC Ferries and Beyond: MLA Randene Neill in qathet
Reader question: What are the rules about spraying glyphosate in our forests?
I want to thank everyone for their emails about the changes to increased reservations on the Westview/Comox route for BC Ferries. I’ve had several meetings with BC Ferries and the Minister of Transportation and Transit. They are aware of the concerns.
Randene • The Ministry of Forests is responsible for the legal requirements of reforestation, including silvicultural practices, climate adapted ecologically suitable tree species, and density targets. Forestry professionals use a variety of approaches to manage vegetation competing with seedlings. This includes manual and mechanical methods, prescribed burning, and targeted fertilization. Through changes in reforestation innovation, BC Timber Sales has been achieving its reforestation responsibilities without using glyphosates since 2022. Throughout the province, glyphosate is not widely used, with application declining significantly in recent years relative to the area harvested, from 3,362 ha in 2019 to only 565 ha in 2024. Glyphosate, as with all herbicides used in Canada, is regulated and registered by Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA).
qathet Region Community Office 604 485 1249 #109 – 4675 Marine Open Monday to Friday 10-3 Randene.Neill. MLA@leg.bc.ca
Please continue to reach out to the constituency office. We pass along every interaction we have to BC Ferries and will continue to advocate for you. Finance Minister Brenda Bailey came to look at the renovation of Edgehill Elementary School. This $16.5 million dollar provincial investment is adding an additional 120 new student spaces. Minister of Citizens’ Services Diana Gibson also came to look at the work government has done to connect Texada Island and Lund to high speed internet and fibre optic connectivity.
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.
qathet Living • September 2026 • 23
I
From private to public to electric, more than a century on the bus
n the late 1910s, many eight for a dollar. residents of Powell RivIn 1957, Powell River er were still accustomed Stages was purchased by to walking everywhere, Sechelt Motor Transport, but cars had just begun which offered a service to arrive in the area, preconnecting Powell River DEVAN GILLARD senting a more convenient with Vancouver and cremeans of transportation. The first local bus system ated Powell River Bus Lines Ltd. to take over the lobegan in 1926 with two second-hand buses run by cal routes. Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Compton. This bus service was A municipal bus service was introduced in the known as Malaspina Stages. In June 1929, Malaspina 1970s. The Urban Transit Authority, the precursor Stages reported carrying more than 7000 passengers to BC Transit, later subsidised bus operations, with in a single month. That same year, Malaspina Stages the City purchasing two new buses and the UTA leaswas sold to the Powell River Transportation Com- ing three more to the City. Since the 1980s, local pany, which took over the local bus routes. bus service has been operated by BC Transit. Routes These early buses followed a route with just three were planned by BC Transit with local input, and stops: Powell River (Townsite), Westview, and Cran- over the years, operations expanded to include evenberry. In 1931, Wildwood was added to the route. ing, Sunday, and holiday service. In 2002, service The demand for the bus was largely driven by mill was extended to the Tla’amin Nation. workers who needed transportation from Westview The bus system continued to evolve with the introand Cranberry to the mill site. duction of brand-new low-floor buses throughout the As automobiles became more common, demand late 1990s and early 2000s. These buses improved for the bus continued to grow. The Powell River accessibility, allowing wheelchair users to take the Transportation Company would become Powell Riv- bus with ease. er Stages, and in 1947, increased their fleet of buses Now, a new chapter begins in Powell River’s tranfrom six to eight. Tickets at the time cost 15 cents or sit history with the addition of two electric buses.
24 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
BLAST FROM THE PAST
ELECTRIC AVENUE: Top left, staff and a dog outside the privately-run Powell River Stages bus station on Walnut Street in Townsite, 1931. Note: this building eventually moved to the Rifle Range at Grief Point to become the Clubhouse there. Top right, the also-private Malaspina Stages, 1926. Right, above: Powell River Stages buses picking up and dropping off workers at the mill gate, 1945. Above, drivers for Powell River Stages Ltd., 1935. Right, Powell River Motor Transit’s new 45 seat bus, 1970. Photos courtesy of the qathet Museum
Reconciliation is the first step. FCU Community Financial, a division of Vancity, is committed to learning, listening, and taking meaningful action for our communities as we acknowledge our location on the traditional territories of the Coast Salish Peoples, including the K'ómoks, Klahoose, Tla'amin, Qualicum, and Squamish First Nations.
Warm clothing drive Tuesday, September 22nd & Wednesday, September 23rd 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Library Lobby (6975 Alberni St.)
Most needed items: New socks, new underwear, hats/toques, gloves, raincoats and pants, clean sweatpants and sweatshirts, long underwear, granola bars, protein drinks, disposable handwarmers
Can’t make the drive? Donate today to help us purchase essential goods. Tax receipts available. Email contact@liftcommunityservices.org @liftcommunityservices
www.liftcommunityservices.org
qathet Living • September 2026 • 25
MAIL BAG We welcome feedback from our readers. Letters may be edited for length. Email your comments to editor@qathetliving.ca, or mail an old-school letter in the post to qathet Living, 7053E Glacier St, Powell River, BC V8A 5J7. Hello Pieta and Sean, I wanted to reach out and compliment you both on the August 2026 edition of qathet Living. I currently live in Burnaby, but consider Powell River to be my second home. I lived in the community for about six years and often take the five hour drive to visit my parents/grandparents here. On my most recent trip, I decided to pick up a copy of qathet Living and felt compelled to message and thank you both for your hard work bringing this magazine to life. From the depths of a kelp nursery, to the legal drama of the former mill site, to a thought piece about Powell River’s divisions...I thoroughly enjoyed reading these local stories in such a beautifully designed magazine. I especially resonate with your last word article, Pieta. Elections are great for the news, but it’s a lot of heated and
earnest debate....so it’s important to keep whimsy in mind to keep our souls alive. My biggest regret this past trip is not seeing you and Sean dressed as Gastropods at Blackberry Fest, but believe me when I say that kind of whimsy is better than ANY “serious” newspaper article in 2026. On a personal note, I also want to thank you for keeping local news alive. I’m a journalist myself and lost my job this past July after 1130 News Radio in Vancouver was shut down. It’s tough to be in print or radio news right now, but it continues to inspire me. I am so incredibly proud to see locally owned and fiercely independent papers such as you. Hope this message finds you well on a Monday and thank you for the reading material. All the best, David Nadalini
Decals deluxe I
f you missed us at Blackberry Fest, you also missed getting a free decal for your car, water bottle, laptop or wherever you stick things. Don’t despair! We’ve ordered more, and we’ll be handing them out at the Fall Fair (September 12 and 13) and the Community Connections Expo at Dwight
Hall (September 19). Both decals feature art by qathet artist Jenny Allen Taves. Above, the “reader” one has a faux qL cover with blackberries and a watery landscape. The “Gastropod Media” one is glittery. It really hits the sun. Would probably look great on a roller skate.
26 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: qL publisher Sean Percy and editor / owner Pieta Goudron hosted a booth at Blackberry Fest for the first time. We were there promoting “Gastropod Media,” which is what Pieta called her company after she bought the magazine company (then called Southcott Communications) from Isabelle Southcott in 2025. Gastropods include nudibranchs (Sean’s costume — he’s a SCUBA diver and underwater photographer) and slugs (Pieta’s costume).
WOMEN ON THE WATER: Above, Jodi Bartlett-Gaudet was chief engineer on the Malaspina Sky (Saltery Bay-Earls Cove) and currently serves as senior chief engineer for BC Ferries fleet of Island Class vessels. Top right, Texada Island’s Theresa Curtiss started in the Coast Guard in the Arctic; now she’s mate and relief master aboard the Island Discovery. Right, Captain Jacklyn Renton helms the Malaspina Sky.
All aboard Three women with local ties are qathet’s Jacklyn Renton and among the 33 women featured in Jodi Bartlett-Gaudet, along with Seagoing Women: At Work, Texada Island’s Theresa Curtiss, a new book by journalist and share their experiences of working mariner Sara Donnelly. on, in, and around Canada’s waters.
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he concept for the book grew out of Sara Donnelly’s own experiences working search and rescue with the Canadian Coast Guard, commercial fishing, and on ferries, and the people she met along the way. “I started thinking about this project some years ago,” she said. “Once I started talking to people, it quickly snowballed. There was so much enthusiasm and I repeatedly heard that it was time for a book like this.” The resulting collection combines first-person profiles with photographs and introduces readers to women working as captains, marine pilots, naval architects, whale researchers and many other exciting roles. Seagoing Women: At Work offers a rare look at offshore life: the physical demands, long stretches away from home, the ingenuity required in unpredictable conditions, and the deep sense of purpose shared by those whose lives are tied to the ocean. Sara was particularly pleased to highlight women from this part of the coast.
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qathet Living • September 2026 • 27
Captain Jacklyn Renton curresponsibility involved in marrently helms the Malaspina Sky. ine work, something Sara beShe previously worked as caplieves can be easy to overlook tain on the Texada run, followfrom shore. Violin & Piano: 3 Oct ing in the footsteps of her father, “We can become quite disconAndrew Sords & 7:00pm Captain Jack Renton, a retired nected from the people doing $30 Cheryl Duvall senior master with BC Ferries this work and how much we who also captained the Texada rely on them in our daily lives,” 9 - 10 Oct route. she said. “As a result, we someFriday night “It’s so wonderful to have that times underestimate the skill inDrums & World Concert & full-circle story of Jackie and her volved.” Saturday Rhythm Festival! father shared in the book,” Sara “Take a ferry deckhand, for afternoon workshops said. example. People sometimes joke Theresa Curtiss began her that it’s a glorified parking-atoceangoing career with the Cantendant role, but that’s a very Tickets available online: adian Coast Guard, serving in narrow view of what the job acthe Arctic aboard research vestually involves. There is extensels. She now works as mate and sive training in firefighting, first Academy program registration is ongoing! relief master aboard BC Ferries’ aid, emergency response, search Island Discovery to Texada Isand rescue, vessel operations, Fill out your land, while running a and safety procedregistration farm on the island. ures, all of which is request online: Jodi Bartlett-Gauregularly practiced When our office reopens on September 8, we det worked as chief through drills and engineer on the testing.” will begin processing all requests in the order Malaspina Sky and That level of trainthey were received. currently serves as ing and responsibsenior chief engineer ility is consistent Stay Connected! Sign up for our Newsletter! for BC Ferries fleet of across much of the Be in the know for everything Island Class vessels. industry. “These are coming up in our 2026/2027 A few miles south, roles where a lot is season: Pender Harbour’s required of people, Carrie Fowler is the even if it isn’t always 7280 Kemano St 604-485-9633 first woman deckvisible from the outqathetacademy.org hand hired by SAAM side.” Towage for its VanMentorship is Serving the Sunshine Coast since 2010 couver operations. another recurring And in the Comox theme. Many of the Valley, Tiare Boyes women had benefitworks as an undered from champions, water videographer, allies, and teachers fisher, and marine during their careers. artist, among other Others had not always LAUNCHING: In September, local author and mariner Sara had that support and pursuits. Donnelly’s book featuring stories about women on the wa- were determined to Although their cater hits the shelves at Pocket Books, and far beyond. Your reers are varied, Sara become that person was struck by the unfor someone else. caregivers expected routes many “One woman in the will be the same took to get into their book put it beautifulevery day! professions. ly. She said, ‘We aren’t “More than any inborn knowing how We can help for short dividual story, what to navigate a course sessions, overnights, stayed with me was or save a life, but we or full days how non-linear many are all born with the Personal Care • Respite Care of these career paths ability to learn.’ Good Companionship • Overnight Care were. I love learning mentors understand Meal Preparation • Palliative Care about the left turns that.” people take in life. Ultimately, Sara Dementia Care • Post-Operative Care Many of these women hopes readers come Shopping & Transportation pursued unexpectaway enlightened, ed opportunities and entertained, and in- Sara Donnelly continue to reinvent spired by the people themselves. I find that featured in the book. “These are universal stories; there’s adventure, huWE CANreally HELPencouraging.” FOR SHORT SESSIONS, There isn’t OR one FULL type ofDAYS person who works in the mour, unexpected turns, and moments that are deepOVERNIGHTS marine industry, and there isn’t one path, she add- ly moving. I’m so excited for readers to meet these ed. “The women come from many backgrounds and extraordinary women.” 604-740-1993 work in very different fields, but there are common Seagoing Women: At Work will be released by Harinfo@homehealthcarenetwork.ca • homehealthcarenetwork.ca info@homehealthcarenetwork.ca threads in their stories.” bour Publishing in September and is available at One of those threads is the level of training and Pocket Books. homehealthcarenetwork.ca
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28 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
Local returns to Colombia for quake relief BY ELAYNE REINA AGREDO AND BOB GRANTHAM
I
am Colombian by birth, a Powell River resident since 2020, and a Canadian citizen of one year. I’m a homemaker who enjoys gardening, walking our rescue dog from Slovakia, and doing arts and crafts in my home. I like to think I am a charitable person through donating regularly to the SPCA, World Wildlife Fund, the Children’s Hospital, the Red Cross, and any local charity that comes knocking at my door. Now is my time to put my own boots on the ground for a charitable cause that is dear to my heart: the vocation of service and the love for animals that I carry in my heart inspired me to join and help out here. On August 10, as soon as I heard about the 7.4 magnitude earthquake in my home country, I was making travel arrangements and a plan to help. More than 300 people died, and 33,000 homes have been completely destroyed. The disaster is impacting nearly half a million people. It’s the biggest earthquake in a century in Colombia. Not knowing what was really needed, I packed a suitcase with work gloves, flashlights, head lamps, batteries, and masks for my family’s use and for anyone else in need. Once I landed in Bogota I found out that my niece, Natalia, had already campaigned among her daughter’s school supporters to get donations of food that we have now organized into family size donation
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Donate to Elayne’s work in Colombia A GoFundMe page supporting Elayne’s work is already getting a great response ($3,734 at press time). The link is gofund.me/8d21b8b40 bags. We then reached out for more donations to make up personal care bags (diapers, wipes, feminine products, etc.), bags of clothing, and water. With the cash I brought from home, we supplemented all the bags with other basic items. Our challenge now is to get all these supplies delivered to the affected zones. I grew up in the Valle del Cauca region, which includes Colombia’s third most populous city, Cali. Fortunately, all of my family who live throughout that region and further afield in Bogota, have reported no injuries, only property damage. My sister and her husband run a cat shelter foundation (Mundo Felino on Facebook and Instagram) out of their Bogota home. While they and their apartment were not hurt when the building shook, one of their charges, a kitten named Leonel, suffered a broken leg. Fortunately, they were able to find the money and get him the surgery he needed.
ON THE GROUND: Top, qathet’s Elayne Agredo, volunteering at a relief centre in Colombia. Above, Leonel, who was injured in the August 10 earthquake.
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30 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
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qathet Living • September 2026 • 31
I MADE THE MOVE
Baking, board games & books: Student & librarian tucks in to cozy qathet
R
its Mulder (they/them, immigrant settler) grew up in the Lower Mainland and has spent most of their adult life calling the unceded Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh territories (East Vancouver) home. They are a PhD candidate at UBC’s School of Population and Public Health exploring misinformation in transgender and gender expansive healthcare experiences across Canada. Rits is also a librarian and recently finished working in adult public services at Burnaby Public Library. Rits enjoys lake swims, baking (croissants! pies! sourdough!), cozy board- and videogames (Wingspan! Summer Camp! Stardew Valley!), and reading many many books (e-books! audiobooks! physical books! zines!).
Why did you choose to move to qathet? Rits • To be closer to my bestie (hi, bestie!) and to soak up some quiet coastal life while I work on my dissertation. When? Where from? Rits • I started a slow transition to the coast in early summer, but officially joined the community at the end of August. I moved from East Vancouver. What surprised you once you moved here? Rits • The number of ferries I see on a given day has truly shaken my perception of reality. I’m sure this is heavily influenced by the fact that I can see the ferry terminal from my living room. I was also shocked to realize just how quickly my brain has acclimatized to qathet traffic. Three cars at a stop sign? It must be rush hour! What made you decide to move here? Rits • I’m working to finish my PhD dissertation and am hoping that the quieter pace of life that qathet offers will be conducive to my work. I also just wanted to offer myself the chance to live close to my bestie, see the ocean everyday, and carve out a little life for myself that is different than what I am used to. Where is your favourite place in qathet? Rits • For swimming, I love Inland Lake and Mowat Bay. For forest walks, I love the forest behind Sunset Park in Wild-
LIBRARIAN KNOWS HOW TO LIVE: Rits Mulder moved to be closer to their best friend. wood and the Tla’amin Trails. I also love to visit the library (big surprise, there!), 32 Lakes Cafe (brown butter miso chocolate chip cookies!), and my bestie’s living room. How did you first hear about this place? Rits • I came here as a child with my parents who have friends here. I know several people who have relocated here and have visited many times in the past few years visiting my bestie before deciding to move here myself. What would make this a nicer community? Rits • It’s already a pretty great spot... But a few things I can think of: designated bike paths, a Chinese bakery (coconut buns! steamed bao!), and a queer/trans birding club (does this exist already? please tell me if it does!). What aspect of your previous community do you think would benefit qathet?
store is best for which grocery item/category... If you were mayor, what would you do? Rits • I feel like I don’t know enough about qathet’s needs to adequately answer this question! But I do know that I would support the name change wholeheartedly and then I would put my energy towards building mutual aid networks and social infrastructures that help us take care of us. Though, luckily, we don’t have to be mayor to start building mutual aid networks :) What are qathet’s best assets? Rits • qathet’s land, water, and natural beauty are definitely a highlight. I’m really looking forward to discovering more trails, swimming spots, and (hopefully) some plein air painting spots as I get acquainted with the region. What is your greatest extravagance?
Rits • Vancouver has a robust queer/IBPOC community with lots of ways/spaces/events created by and for IBPOC queers to be together and connect. Selfishly, I would love for qathet to have a little bit more of that, specifically for those of us who are racialized. I also love Vancouver’s skytrain (and public transit in general). While I don’t think qathet needs a skytrain, maybe the transit system could use a boost.
Rits • Treating myself to fresh-cut flowers every once in a while (shout out to local gardener extraordinaire, Jen Burry!), enjoying some delicious local seafood (courtesy of The Chopping Block), or spending a whole day painting while re-watching a comfort show/movie (2005 Pride and Prejudice! Heartstopper! some true-crime-cult-docuseries!) are just some of the ways I like to treat myself.
What challenges did you face in trying to make a life for yourself here?
Rits • I would LOVE to be able to learn languages quickly and easily (oh, to be a polyglot!). I would also LOVE to be able to eat a baked good and be able to accurately recreate it solely based on taste.
Rits • Moving from a bustling city to a smaller town is a huge shift for me. While I crave a quieter pace of life, being away from my known community and established friends is definitely a challenge. Also, figuring out which grocery
Which talent would you most like to have?
If you are, or know, someone who should be featured in “I Made the Move,” send at note to editor@qathetliving.ca
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What these wild 12-year-olds did on their summer vacation Both of these kids are pretty nonchalant with a microphone in front of them. But they are certainly young men to watch — when they slow down enough to be seen. For two to four hours a day, Westview Elementary Grade 7 student Fraser Blacklaws can be found on local pickleball courts. This summer that practice paid off when he took bronze in the Men’s 3.5 Singles Division (ages 13–34, yeah that’s not a typo), at the Provincial championships at Tsawwassen. In August, he played in the USA Professional Pickleball Association tour in Vancouver; he won gold in doubles with
his partner and silver in singles for U12. This fall he’ll play with the PPA in Arizona, then perhaps in Last Vegas and even the Worlds in Texas. Runner Kevin McLean has been training for about a year with his older brother Ryan and dad Joseph. The homeschooler wowed the Marathon Shuffle by running the course in April (in just 4 hours and 22 minutes), and then running it again to get home — for a total of 64 kilometres, plus bike rides. In August, he ran a “doom loop” from his home in Westview to Tin Hat and back. That’s a 98 kilometre run, and an elevation of nearly 4,250 metres, in 27 hours.
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604 485-9493 In the Town Centre Mall qathet Living • September 2026 • 33
SPORTS & REC BRIEFS Go By Bike early: to the Fall Fair
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Attending the Powell River Fall Fair is getting a whole lot easier — and greener — this year. On September 12–13, the Fall Fair will offer a free, secure Bike Valet service in partnership with the qathet Region Cycling Association (QRCA). Fairgoers riding regular or e-bikes can drop off their rides via the McLeod Road entrance, where QRCA volunteers will securely park and guard them throughout the day for free. “Parking and traffic congestion are always a challenge,” said Fall Fair Coordinator Linda Krepinsky. “The qathet Regional District and BC Transit provide a fantastic free shuttle from the mall, but street parking near the grounds remains limited. We’re thrilled to partner with the QRCA to give residents another convenient, car-free option.” Last year, the two-day event drew over 4,000 visitors. With cycling on the rise across the region, organizers expect the new valet to be a popular addition. “People across qathet are increasingly enthusiastic about biking — whether on the trails or around town,” said Chris Lightfoot, QRCA Director of Active Transportation. “We hope offering free, secure parking encourages more people to ride to the fair. QRCA is delighted to collaborate with community partners to make our region even more cycle-friendly.”
Wade’s Cause tourney warms hearts Twenty-two slo-pitch teams gathered for two reasons in August: the love of baseball and to spread the word about mental health. Our slo-pitch league has a unique design because we are somewhat isolated we have a limited amount of players. This is a blessing. One team I played on had three generations as players. Hugs and high fives were the order of the weekend. Everyone pitched in where they could, but we all had fun, win or lose ,and we will do it again next year and the year after that, for Wade and others that struggle with all kinds of issues. - Bill Hopkins
Clansman Pipe Band earns second place at Campbell River
Found Stone P manent Jewelry Art • Dec
Ask any time about booking a party Follow me for pop-ups and events schedule @foundstone_jewelry_art_decor
34 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
Powell River’s Clansman Pipe Band returned from the Campbell River Highland Gathering with a strong podium finish after placing second in its category at the annual Vancouver Island competition on August 8. The band performed in front of judges and spectators as part of the Gathering’s pipes and drums events, which bring together bands, solo pipers, and drummers from across the region. The result marks another proud showing for the local group, whose members continue to represent qathet at Highland games and events throughout the year. In addition to the band’s second-place result, some Clansman pipers also competed individually and came home with medals from their solo competitions. Those solo performances require competitors to demonstrate tone, timing, musical expression, and
First Responders are blending in and noodling around: fundraisers Firefighter Jacob Hanson, paramedic Carrie Chernove, and RCMP officer Phillipe Caza pedalled a zillion smoothies at Blackberry Festival August 15, to help reach their goal of raising $20,000 for Cops for Cancer 2026. The blender bike was a gift from James Thomson Elementary. The three local first responders will ride in the Tour de Coast event from September 11 to 18. On September 13 at 3 pm, the Tour de Coast will ride along Manson to Townsite. At 5 pm, join the riders at the Town Centre Hotel for a spaghetti dinner. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased from the RCMP depot. 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. confidence on their own, making the medals a notable achievement for the players involved. The Campbell River Highland Gathering is a popular summer stop on the piping and drumming calendar, held alongside the Campbell River Salmon Festival. For small community bands, the event offers both a competitive challenge and an opportunity to connect with other musicians who share a love of Scottish music and tradition. Clansman Pipe Band’s success reflects the commitment of its members, who balance rehearsals, public performances, and individual practice. With a podium placing for the full band and medals for solo pipers, the Campbell River weekend gave the group plenty to celebrate and more momentum as it prepares for future appearances. For anyone interested, the Band offers free piping and drumming lessons to those aspiring to join
Tla’amin Thunder and Villa teens to storm Europe Five young soccer stars from qathet have been invited to train in Germany, at the request of FC Bayern Munich. The crew attended an elite camp run by the top German Men’s club in Vancouver in August. They’ll train in Europe in Spring of 2027. Watch for fundraisers! Alexander Sutcliffe, 13, began playing organized soccer in 2022 with Tla’amin Thunder and Villa. Adrian Tom, 13, played since 2021 with both Tla’amin Thunder and Villa. Luca Peirano, 13, played since age four in organized soccer North Delta, Villa, and Tla’amin Thunder. Cecil Hackett, 13, has been with Tla’amin Thunder since 2021. Seni Mocevakaca, 12, played with Tla’amin Thunder and Villa since 2022. Three of the boys were in the provincials this year in Kamloops. - Erin Gebbie
them — all ages welcome! Check out ClansmanPipeBand.ca for more information. - Ann Snow
Locals shake it at National Square & Round Dance Festival Several club members from Stardusters Square and Round Dance Club attended the Canadian National Square and Round Dance Festival in Penticton, in late July. This festival rotates across Canada, and it was BC’s turn to host this year. Nearly 600 dancers from around the world attended, including dancers from USA, Germany, Australia, Korea, and China. It was wonderful to see the energy at this festival with so many dancers. There are about 6 square dance levels from social square dance up through
Advanced and Challenge levels. The choreographed ballroom dance (round dance) also featured several levels of dancing, and included basic two steps and waltz steps, and higher phases (levels) of rhythms like bolero, tango, rumba, cha cha, foxtrot, and jive, to name a few. Clogging and contra dance were also happening at the festival. In years past, there was a BC provincial annual festival in Penticton which coincided with Peachfest, where up to 5,000 dancers gathered in King’s Park to dance for several days. While this year’s festival numbered in the hundreds, it still maintained an energetic atmosphere full of camaraderie and fun. And while most of it was in the lovely air conditioned convention centre, there was a nostalgic dance outdoors at Kings Park, as well as a super splashy fun Aqua Duck dance in Okanagan Lake. - Stacey Ruegg
qathet film society presents
3 ears indigenous film festival 2026 September 25 – 30, 2026 Wrong Husband
Friday September 25 – 7pm
təm kʷaθ nan Namesake
Saturday September 26 – 1:30pm
Blood Lines
Saturday September 26 – 7pm
Endless Cookie
Sunday September 27 – 1:30pm
AKI
Sunday September 27 – 7pm
Nirilaurta: Let Us Eat
Monday September 28 – 7pm
Nika & Madison
Tuesday September 29 – 7pm
təm kʷaθ nan Namesake
Wednesday September 30 – 7pm
qathet Living • September 2026 • 35
Reign MAKING LAW MAKE SENSE
Wills • Real Estate Family • Criminal
again
The Powell River Kings new era hits the ice this month, with new players, management, coaches — and hopefully, rejuvenated, well-rewarded fans.
Top Ten Reasons T ear A Pollen Sweater orcalawteam.com 236-328-4007
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he phrase “new era” gets tossed around easily, but for the storied Powell River Kings, this reset is literal. The club is executing a total realignment, stepping out from a bleak stretch left behind by its previous partnership with the Birch Group. In its place is a new general manager with a proven track record, a new head coach who knows how to win, a room full of 1. No pop bottles were hurt making Pollen Sweaters. fresh faces, and a community waiting 2. You’ll be helping sheep stay cool in summer. breathlessly for results. Everyone on 3. The pure wool stays warm even when wet. the team knows that everyone in this 4. Non-itchy & soft enough to wear next to sensitive skin. hockey town has high expectations. This new era is about seeing wheth5. Machine washable & dryable at moderate temperature. er the Kings can establish a clear, 6. We put the label on the inside, where it belongs. competitive direction under the new 7. Designed to layer smoothly under or over other garments. leadership and find an owner or owner8. No offshore sweatshops. Ours is here at home. ship group with deep enough pockets 1. No pop bottles were hurt making Pollen Sweaters. 2. You’ll be helping sheep stay cool in summer. to fund the team in the expanded BC 9. If it ever wears out, compost it. 3. The pure wool stays warm even when wet. Hockey League (BCHL). 10. Makes you 50% to 90% more handsome.4. Non-itchy, and soft enough to wear next to sensitive skin. The Kings are for sale. Can a buy5. Machine washable and dryer safe at moderate temperature. (Results may vary.) er be found? That depends entirely on 6. We put the label on the inside where it belongs. garments. 7. Designed to layer smoothly under or over other the rebuild, explained general man8. No offshore sweatshops. Ours is here at home.ager Tyler Kuntz. for voting it ever wears out compost it. 9. If Thanks “You vary)have to have exciting teams,” 10. Makes you 50 to 90% more handsome. (results may Pollen Sweaters as he said. “I went to a couple of home games last year, and you’re into your PollenSweatersInc. this region’s second shift and they’re down 1-0 or PollenSweatersInc. best souvenir. 2-0. That doesn’t get people very excited. When fans are a little late getting (For the 10th a since row!) Made in year Lund, BC,in Canada 1986 1-800-667-6603 Made in Lund, BC, Canada since 1986 to the game and walking into the rink, pollensweaters.com it’s already 1-0 or 2-0 for the other 1-800-667-6603 2026 - the 11 th ANNUAL guys. For morepollensweaters.com fun, and fabulous wool sweaters and ponchos, “I want to hear that horn sound right toques, jewelry, and books, find us above Nancy’s Bakery in Lund. away in the first period for us. WinOpen 10-4 Tuesday-Saturday and 10-2 Sunday ning only around five home games a 604 483-4401 • pollensweaters.com season isn’t going to cut it. In fact, last
Tenmaking Reasons bottlesTop were hurt Pollen Sweaters. e helping stay acool in summer. Tosheep Wear Pollen Sweater e wool stays warm even when wet. hy, and soft enough to wear next to sensitive skin. e washable and dryer safe at moderate temperature. the label on the inside where it belongs. d to layer smoothly under or over other Top garments. Ten Reasons To Wear A Pollen Sweater hore sweatshops. Ours is here at home. wears out compost it. you 50 to 90% more handsome. (results may vary)
36 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
AS CHOSEN BY THE READERS OF QATHET LIVING
year, the team didn’t get its first home win until the final game before the Christmas break.” The foundation for growth is bums in the seats at Hap Parker Arena and for that, the Kings need to win and win big, something they haven’t been used to over the last two seasons with backto-back last-place finishes in the Island Division.
31 of 37 playoffs: not bad Since 1988, when the Kings joined the BCHL, the team has missed the playoffs just six times, and three of those missed post-seasons occurred during the recent ownership collapse. Making the playoffs in 31 out of 37 seasons speaks volumes about the historical standard of this franchise and the damage of the Seeger debacle. The town is ready for a return to form. Powell River is feeling the energy again — season ticket sales are up, and fans and sponsors who had previously left are coming back. “The team has been in last place, so you have to get better players, you have to get coaches, and you have to reinvigorate the whole town, which has been super fun,” Tyler said. The GM noted that when the Kings interviewed coaching candidates, they focused on three major areas of concern: a penalty kill that ranked in the bottom three of the league for three consecutive years; goals-against numbers that were also in the bottom two or three over that same period; and an unacceptable home record.
ning New Kings head coach Brennan Menard comes to us from the Sherwood Park Crusaders, with an exceptional 111-55-9 record. His .660 winning percentage in those three seasons with the Crusaders is comparable to the career benchmarks set during the height of the Kings’ success. Photo by Target Photography
qathet Living • September 2026 • 37
The Kings at the Hap September 6
Preseason Exhibition: Kings vs. Nanaimo 7 pm, Hap Parker
September 18
Kings vs. Prince George 7 pm Hap Parker
September 19
Kings vs. Prince George 7 pm Hap Parker
September 26
Kings vs. Blackfalds 7 pm Hap Parker
September 27
Kings vs. Victoria 2 pm Hap Parker
Note: To learn how to become a billet or a season-ticket holder, visit powellriverkings.com
New coaches, new players They found their man in Brennan Menard. “We’ve got Brennan, who has coached in the league the last few years. Imagine opening in Powell River like what happened to Sherwood Park,” said Tyler. What happened in Sherwood Park? In three seasons, Brennan built the Sherwood Park Crusaders into a consistent winning franchise that completely transformed the organization. When he left the Crusaders to come to Powell River, his record was an exceptional 111-55-9. By comparison, Brennan’s .660 winning percentage in those three seasons with the Crusaders was comparable to the career benchmarks set during the height of the Kings’ success. Players who might have previously recoiled at the thought of playing in Powell River, owing to the dismal record and reputation left in the wake of the previous ownership, now can’t wait to play for the Kings and for Brennan. He brings a reputation for winning, a strong NCAA placement track record, genuine care for his players, and, as one front-office staff member put it, “unshakeable loyalty.” “For a lot of kids now, Powell River is a priority. Even when hiring coaches, they wanted to come to Powell River. It’s exciting to hear after watching the last three years,” Tyler said. Of the 14 new players acquired by the Kings via trades and offseason signings, two hold Division I NCAA offers: forward Brec Christenson, who is committed to Minnesota State University and was acquired in a blockbuster trade with the Okotoks Oilers; and forward Michael Mikan, committed to Harvard University. Both Brec and Michael previously played under Brennan. “He’s my favourite coach I’ve played for,” said Brec. “He can be hard sometimes, but I think it’s good, you know. He busts you to push you to get to the next level. He’s very good at player development and he’s obviously good at winning. We had some
38 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
successful seasons in Sherwood Park, and I think we’re trying to bring that to Powell River.” Brec is fully aware of the expectations awaiting the group. “Obviously, that’s what would make winning so much sweeter. The past losses over the last couple of years... coming into this town, all we want to do is just win. That’s the goal.” Having his former coach make the jump made the decision easy, but Brec was also sold on the lifestyle and community. “I’m super excited about a different atmosphere, living away from home in a smaller town. Brennan had a lot to do with it for sure, but I’m excited for other reasons, too. I’ve heard great things about the people, everything within Powell River — being right on the ocean with the mountains behind you. I have buddies who played there before and said it was a blast.” Tyler counts on Brec to be a vital extension of the coaching staff inside the dressing room. “Brennan has relied on Brec for the culture side, so he’s a really good leader,” Tyler said. “He can come in and do a great job of relaying Brennan’s message into a form that the kids can believe in. Not everybody you get is going to automatically believe what the coach is saying, but if you have guys who have been around that coach before, they can say, ‘Hey, what he’s saying works. Just stick with him and trust him because we’ve been there and we’ve seen it.’ I think he’ll be really good here.”
and seamless execution. “It’s all mentally linked together. We try to control the puck and we’re always transitioning. Always something. If we can get faster transitioning from offence to defence, there’s opportunity there. “It takes five guys’ brains to think the same thing at the same time and organize something in a couple of seconds. You know you’re going to try to be really good and get better, but it can be demanding. I hold high standards and try to be demanding, but I also care about the players.” For Brennan, execution on the ice is just as important as building the person off it. “Championship culture is not just the way you play on the ice. You should be able to say, ‘That’s a championship program,’” the head coach said. “A championship player is about the way he walks, the way he carries himself, the way he presents himself, the way he speaks to people out in the community — that’s a King.” The Kings don’t need to win a Fred Page Cup in year one, but they must break the post-season drought and restore basic night-in, night-out competitiveness, said Brennan. “I always feel pressure because I want to get the most out of the team every single day. We need to look for new ways to raise the bar, and we’re going to do that. So if you think about it — the style that we play, with the players that we have — there’s definitely pressure to win. There always is.”
Strategy: good to go
Back to better times
So, the roster is rejuvenated with 14 off-season additions. The front office is set up, and the head coach is ready to establish his standard. “I come into the league after doing a pretty good job of being near the top all the time, and I expect to continue to do that,” said Brennan. His tactical system demands pace, mental acuity,
To understand where the Kings are going, it helps to remember where they were before the recent slide. The benchmark remains the Kent Lewis era, particularly his third and final stint as GM and head coach starting in 2007. Before a controversial parting of ways, Lewis guided the franchise through its most successful stretch
NEW FALL ARRIVALS
NEW AND RETURNING: Above, Captain Jack Westhaver is back with the Kings for the 2026-27 season. Left, forward Brec Christenson was acquired in a trade with the Okotoks Oilers, and is thrilled to be playing under his former (and favourite) coach Brennan Menard again.
604-485-6163 4670A Marine
2026 - the 11 th ANNUAL
AS CHOSEN BY THE READERS OF QATHET LIVING
— earning two BCHL Coastal Coach of the Year awards (2008-09, 2010-11) and logging four straight 35-plus win seasons from 2008 to 2012. That run was highlighted by a 469-3-2 record in 2010-11 and four consecutive Fred Page Cup Final appearances. When Lewis stepped away from the bench in January 2018, the Kings were still comfortably above .500 at 23-15-2-5. When Tyler Kuntz was hired as head coach and GM in May 2018 alongside assistant coach Brock Sawyer, they maintained that culture of continuity, steering the club through two solid campaigns (2018-20) that included a 34-21-1-2 record and a second-place finish in the BCHL Island Division. Then came the breakdown. The Kings society partnered with the Birch Group, owned by Stephan Seeger Sr. What followed was a lost era of lofty promises, a revolving door of players, and an historic on-ice collapse. What began as a flashy effort featuring Hall of Famer Glenn Anderson as head coach quickly shifted to family management under an inexperienced Stephan Seeger Jr., compiling a dismal 19-69-6-2 record over two seasons. The ordeal stripped Hap Parker Arena of its home-ice advantage, leaving a legacy of fan frustration, missed playoffs, and severe financial strain
that almost broke the Society until a last-minute community fundraising campaign saved the team.
A word from Captain Jack Now, returning right-shot defenceman and captain Jake Westhaver represents the bridge between those dark days and the new era. Jack, who wore the ‘C’ and anchored the blueline, knows the feelings of the past and the standard required moving forward. “On the ice, I need to be an impact player,” said Jack. “Finding that impact on the game every night. Being that leader and being someone you can count on — a solid pillar every night.” As for the weight of expectations, Jack takes it in stride. “There’s always going to be the noise. Noise is noise. That’s how hockey goes. That doesn’t affect me because at the end of the day, you’re going to go to bed, you’re going to wake up and it’s going to be a new day. It’s a new season. “People will talk about the past, but the past is the past. There’s a whole new staff and a whole new roster. They’ve done a really good job changing the identity of the team, and I think the town will see after one week that this isn’t a joke. We’re here and we’re coming in hot.”
Forge new connections at the library Learn from creators. Hone Your Craft. The new Forge series connects creative professionals with the community, providing opportunities for children, teens, and adults to learn and explore various creative arts.
Author Reading - Debbie McGee Cautiously Pessimistic — Love and Death in the Digital Age is both deeply moving and laugh-out-loud funny as Debbie McGee interweaves two stories: the eight months between her husband’s brain cancer diagnosis and death, and the story of their tumultuous early relationship in the wild St. John’s arts community of the 80’s. Friday September 11, 7-8 pm
Writing a Memoir Workshop
In this practical workshop, Debbie McGee will discuss the many factors to consider while writing, editing, and publishing a memoir. Please bring something to write on. Saturday September 12 • 11 am-12 pm
Forge Connections in early October
On Oct 3, Tara McGuire hosts a writing workshop and shares her book Holden After and Before – Love Letter for a Son Lost to Overdose. In October and November, you can also book a one-on-one writing consultation with local journalist Pieta Goudron.
Check out the library’s events calendar for more information and activities: prpl.ca/calendar
POWELL R IVER PUBLIC LIBR ARY
info@prpl.ca 604-485-4796 prpl.ca
qathet Living • September 2026 • 39
BUSINESS AFFAIRS
Seawalk rehab project City Council has awarded the main contract to restore the Westview Seawalk as part of a $1.5 million project. Hazelwood Construction was one of four compliant bids, as well as the lowest, at $819,513. Construction is slated to begin as early as this month and completed before March, depending upon provincial government approvals, particularly a BC Archaeology Branch review of an April archaeological assessment and site review that more accurately maps archaeologically significant features in the intertidal zone. Work cannot begin until that approval is received. The project will be fully funded from the City’s Community Forest Reserve Fund, but the City is also seeking provincial funding that could possibly cover half the cost. If they land that grant, the savings would be returned to the reserve. The area set to be restored was significantly damaged when a storm surge coincided with a king tide in January 2022. City staff brought the trail to a rough but usable standard; however, more substantial repairs are required. The section to be reapaired occupies the approximate footprint of the historic first phase of the Seawalk that was constructed by the City in the early 2000s below the Westview Viewpoint. That construction, led to a significant collaboration between Tla’amin and the City, led by then-chief Maynard Harry and then-mayor Stewart Alsgard, which ultimately lead to the Community Accord in 2003. The work this fall will involve rehabilitation of the pathway and its supporting slope, improving the long-term stability of the shorelines, making it more resilient to future extreme weather, and reducing future maintenance requirements. The gravel surface will also be top-dressed to improve accessibility. During construction, temporary pathway closures and traffic management measures will be required, though the City says it will work to minimize the disruptions.
First becomes FCU First Credit Union is now FCU Community Financial, a division of Vancity. The new name stems from its merger with Vancity — as part of the larger credit union, the division couldn’t keep the “credit union” part of the moniker. The FCU Community Financial name and refreshed visual identity will roll out across communications, digital channels, websites, branch materials, and other places in the coming months. While the name has changed, the people behind it have not. The name change does not affect how members access their accounts or conduct their
SEAN PERCY banking. FCU has roots tracing back to 1939 and serves approximately 16,000 members across the Sunshine Coast, Vancouver Island, and the Gulf Islands. On December 1st, 2025, FCU merged with Vancity which has 588,000 member-owners and more than 60 branches, and, with $42.4 billion in assets, is the largest credit union in the country.
Farm and garden grow together Mother Nature and Top Shelf Feeds have joined forces and locations. Top Shelf Feeds purchased Mother Nature in 2022, and now the stores are consolidating operations at the Mother Nature location at 7050 Duncan Street. The staff from Top Shelf (formerly at the corner of Manson and Duncan) will join Mother Nature. The feed, hay, farm animal supplies, eggs, fencing, farm equipment, wild bird seed, and everything else from Top Shelf will be offered at Mother Nature, including seasonal chick orders. Mother Nature will offer a convenient loading experience for your feed supplies from the back or side gate, depending on your purchase.
Forest expands its grove Kelsi Johnson, Registered Massage Therapist and owner of Forest Wellness, has opened The Forest Grove Collective, a new health and wellness space at 5-4313 Alberta Avenue, which formerly housed VK Wellness. The collective will bring independent health care practitioners together under one roof, creating opportunities for connection and collaboration. The space is almost 1,000 square feet, with four shared rooms, a shared kitchen/staff lounge and waiting room. The Forest Grove Collective is welcoming independent health care and wellness practitioners looking for a thoughtfully designed, flexible space to practice. The goal is to bring together a diverse group of practitioners who share a passion for supporting the well-being of the qathet community. Interested practitioners can reach out to theforestgroveco@gmail.com to learn more about available space. Learn more at ForestWellness.ca
Running for Office?
Nicki Lister is the new Executive Director of the Powell River Therapeutic Riding Association, bringing a passion for community, inclusion, and equine-assisted services. She is focused on strengthening partnerships, growing programs, and ensuring the organization remains sustainable for years to come. Since 1991, Powell River Therapeutic Riding Association has provided life-changing equine-assisted services for children and adults with physical, mental, emotional, and learning differences. The hub of the organization is the Adaptive Riding program, complemented by Adaptive Horsemanship, Inclusive Equine Vaulting, Camp programs, volunteer opportunities, fundraising initiatives, and community education programs that build confidence, independence, and meaningful connections. As the organization continues to grow, it is looking for board members and volunteers. Whether you have experience in governance, fundraising, finance, marketing, or simply want to make a difference in your community, Nicki would love to chat with you. Reach her at prtra.executivedirector@ gmail.com or call 604-485-0177. Learn more at prtherapeuticriding.com.
Marine gets more Vibrant Jeremy Buhay is launching Vibrant Life Chiropractic + Wellness. Having bought out the NuEssence salon, he started a new lease to ensure he was able to take over the location and expand his practice. Jeremy is moving his Marine Chiropractic office into the space at 4553 Marine Avenue. This new multidisciplinary clinic under the new name will bring together neurological chiropractic, naturopathic medicine including IV nutrient and iron infusions, and manual osteopathy. “The focus is simple: helping people better understand their health, address underlying patterns, and support the body’s natural ability to adapt, heal, and function at its best,” said Jeremy.
Former NuEssence workers go Tidal With the closure of NuEssence, practitioners from there have formed a new collective and moved into the old dive shop at 4572 Willingdon Avenue at the corner of Burton Street. Then new shop is called Tidal Wellness & Beauty and includes registered massage therapist Brittany Burton, nail tech and hairstylist Heather Greenan, master hair stylist Holly Barnes, and nail tech/esthetician Lynnette Oon. The collective offers online booking only at tidalwellnessbeauty.com. || sean@qathetliving.ca
Ad booking deadline:
Sept. 15 We help you get seen
40 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
Nicki saddles up
The region’s most-read, most-treasured publication
Walk, Film, Music, and more The week before the fifth annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, September 30, offers plenty of ways to recognize the day. See Page 53 for more. - Photo courtesy of Tla’amin Nation
September events Next day delivery. 100% guaranteed.
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POWELL RIVER | SUNSHINE COAST | VANCOUVER
604.485.8100 CITYTRANSFER.COM qathet Living • September 2026 • 41
SEPTEMBER EVENTS
3
Thursday
Film • The Invite
7 pm, The Patricia. Seth Rogen, Olivia Wilde, Penelope Cruz, and Edward Norton. An intelligent and incisive look at evolving relationships, The Invite pairs a sharp script with an exceptional ensemble, making this gathering one you won’t want to miss.
4
Friday
Sunshine Music Fest Kick-off at Cran Hall
fast, friendly, quality service precision laser templating • CNC machining Pearl Dealership
Doors at 6:30, music at 7 pm. Featuring Elastic Band, Pat Buckna and the Marc Atkinson Trio. Tickets by donation at the door.
Contact us for a free estimate
Film • The End of Oak Street
604.483.7130 4573B Marine Avenue www.constellationcountertops.com
3:30 and 7 pm, The Patricia. Set in 1982, after a mysterious cosmic event rips Oak Street from suburbia and transports their neighbourhood to someplace unknown, the Platt family soon discovers TM that their very survival TM depends on them sticking together as they navigate their now unrecognizable surroundings.
THE ICONIC THE BURGER ICONIC TEEN TEEN BURGER TM
5
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 to 9 pm, High Tide Games.
7 pm, The Patricia.
1:30 and 7 pm, The Patricia.
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.
Paradise Valley Miniature Railroad
12:30-2:30 pm. Train and handcar rides, $2 per person.
Texada Farmers’ Market
© 2025 A&W Food Services of Canada Inc.
4696 Joyce Ave • 604-485-6277 © 2025 A&W Food Services of Canada Inc.
CLIENT: A&W TRIM: 6.375” x 10.75” JOB NAME: Teen Awareness Phase 1 SAFETY: None of Canada Inc. © 2025 A&W Food Services S24-1856_TB_Awareness_Phase_1_NSP_4C_6.375x10.75_EN.indd DOCKET #: S24-1856 BLEED:1 None AD #: None INSERTION DATE: None LIENT: A&W TRIM: 6.375” PUB: None PPI: 300 DPI x 10.75” S24-1856_TB_Awareness_Phase_1_NSP_4C_6.375x10.75_EN.indd 1 AD SPACE: col x lines OB NAME: Teen Awareness Phase 1 SAFETY: None
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42 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
OCKET #: S24-1856 CLIENT: A&W OUTPUT SCALE: None DJOB #: NAME:None Teen Awareness Phase 1 A&W Sans FONTS: A&W Serif,
BLEED: TRIM: PROOF #: INSERTION DATE: SAFETY: DATE:
None 6.375” x 10.75” 3 None None2:57 PM 2-18-2025
2025-02-18 2:58 PM
Cyan Magenta
2025-02-18 Yellow 2:58 PM Black 2025-02-18 2:58 PM 0-78-99-0 52-75-73-74
Cyan Magenta Yellow Cyan Black Magenta Yellow
Film • Fire Tower
7 pm, Patricia. Award-winning Canadian indie documentary. Amidst the Rocky Mountains’ boreal forests, solitary watchtower staff act as guardians, their vigilance vital in detecting wildfires that increasingly endanger North America due to climate change.
Warhammer Wednesday
4 to 9 pm, High Tide Games
8
Film • The End of Oak Street
3:30 pm only, The Patricia.
10
Tuesday
Back to School Office re-opens at qathet Academy of Music and Arts for Registration See ad on Page 28.
Noon-2 pm, Gillies Bay Ball Park.
Film • The End of Oak Street
7 pm, The Patricia.
2 pm vs Nanaimo Clippers.
Board Game Day
Thursday
“Far” opening reception for an exhibition of paintings and drawings by Luke Ramsey.
7 pm at 32 Lakes, 6812 Alberni Street. Art up until early November.
qathet Concert Band New Season Begins
Noon to 6 pm, High Tide Games
Cyan Magenta Yellow Black 2025-02-18 2:58 PM
Open late on Fridays & Saturdays
Through September 14. Register at qathetoldgrowth.ca
7 pm, The Patricia.
Palm Beach. sunshinemusicfest.ca
S24-1856_TB_Awareness_Phase_1_NSP_4C_6.375x10.75_EN.indd 1
Sunshine Coast Trail Stage Race
Film • The End of Oak Street
Palm Beach. sunshinemusicfest.ca
Sunshine Music Festival
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Noon, qathet Art + Wares
6 to 9 pm, High Tide Games.
Sunshine Music Festival
Saturday
10:30 am12:30 pm, 4365 McLeod Road. Produce, baking, prepared food, frozen meat, artisan vendors, live music.
OLO Alcohol Marker Demo
Labour Day National Grandparents Day Board Game Night
Sunday
Powell River Farmers’ Market
Wednesday
Film • The End of Oak Street
Monday
6
Kings Pre-season Game
6 to 9 pm, High Tide Games.
7
Film • The End of Oak Street
9
Magic The Gathering / Commander / Highlander
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
0-78-99-0 52-75-73-74
Your Local QUARTZ COUNTERTOP Specialists
Bursting into Fall Fair
I
f you looked at the Fall Fair (September 12 and 13) guide inside the August qL, you’d have noticed how many flower categories are judged. This region has extraordinary flower growers, including Garden Club member and Powell River Farmers Agricultural Institute secretary Emily Jenkins, who grew the blooms, left.
What in your garden grew well in 2026, and why?? Emily • This summer was wetter than any other in quite a while. And it was so perfect for growing. Flower wise that made it a good season for snapdragons which prefer cooler temps. What is looking the best right now is all the fall/ winter veg that will be coming to the PR Farmers Market: kale, chard, carrots, and leeks to name a few. What didn’t grow well, and why? Emily • It was a bit of a more challenging year for the heat lovers like melons, tomatoes, eggplants (since it was a bit cooler and wetter in June and early July), they are not as productive as past years. What are you planning to enter in the Fall Fair? Emily • Some vegetables, but probably not as many as in past years due to cold and wet. I will be entering as many flower categories as possible, and hopefully the gluten-free bread category this year! How long have you participated in the Fall Fair, and which wins are you most proud of? Emily • This will be my fourth year, and I’m most proud of winning in the flower arrangement category as well as the unanticipated wins resulting in getting my name on multiple trophies over those years. band, this is the time to check us out! For more information email: qathetconcertband@gmail.com. More info in the next qL.
Be a firefighter
Training for new Malaspina and Northside volunteer firefighters begins.
Thursday evenings Crib Club begins
7 pm, Lang Bay Hall. Cost $2 to play. For more info call 604-578-8465.
Luddite Club Thursdays
5 to 8 pm, the Wishing Well. Art jam and communal hang-out for analogue activities.
Film • The End of Oak Street
1:30 and 7 pm, The Patricia.
11
Friday
New Moon 25 years since 9/11 Nominations for the October 17 municipal elections close
12
Cops for Cancer Tour de Coast begins Through September 18. See more on Page 34.
Cautiously Pessimistic
Saturday
7 pm at the Library. Debbie McGee will share her moving and laugh-out-loud funny memoir about her husband’s brain cancer and their relationship in the wild St. John’s arts community.
Spendo in concert 8 pm, Carlson Loft.
For Powell River City Council, qathet School District board, and qathet Regional District board.
Powell River Fall Fair
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).
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
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.
‘Aural Art’: Stories, songs, poems and music of artists and special guests
6:30 pm doors, Artique Gallery. With Pat Buckna, Johanna Beyers, Jo Forrest, Evelyn Kirkaldy, and Greg Reid. Admission: buy a card.
Writing a Memoir - A Workshop
11 am at the Library. In this practical workshop, author Debbie McGee will discuss the many factors to con-
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hansonlandandsea.com qathet Living • September 2026 • 43
SEPTEMBER EVENTS sider while writing, editing, and publishing a memoir.
Announcing Your Place in the Family of Things
2 pm at the Library Roger Kimmerly and Morna Rockingham read and present the poetry and life of Mary Oliver.
Video Game Night 6 to 9 pm, High Tide Games.
Boom! Pro wrestling 7:30 pm, Dwight Hall. Doors open at 6:30 pm.
North of Town Mixer
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).
Paradise Valley Miniature Railroad
Board Game Day
Noon to 6 pm, High Tide Games
Magic The Gathering / Commander / Highlander
6 to 9 pm, High Tide Games
14 Free Community Pasta Dinner - First of the Season
Texada Farmers’ Market
Noon-2 pm, Gillies Bay Ball Park. 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
tall ins ring! o als oo We nate fl i lam
3:30-5:30 at the Northside Community Centre. Mix, mingle and sing (a bit!) with your neighbours. Potluck finger foods encouraged, some snacks provided.
Monday
12:30-2:30 pm. Train and handcar rides, $2 per person.
WAG in concert
Cops for Cancer Spaghetti Dinner
1 pm, Lang Bay Hall. With Pat Buckna.
Powell River Fall Fair
Meet the Kings: Everyone Welcome
3 pm, along Manson to Townsite. Featuring this year’s Cops for Cancer riders and their crew, and local classic cars.
Sunday Song Circle
Sunday
Tuesday
Cops for Cancer parade
5 pm, Town Centre Hotel.
13
15
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.
4:30 to 6 pm. The Gathering Place at Powell River United Church (on Duncan near the 7-11). If you want take away please bring your own containers. Every Monday.
Board Game Night
6 to 9 pm, High Tide Games
PEEKABOO: qathet artist Monique Labusch peeks through a piece she created for PRISMA Kids, which is on its way to Ronald McDonald House.
Musical animals brighten kids’ hospital stays
M
aybe you have seen my large 4’ x 8’ painting of the “Forest Symphony Orchestra”, which was created for PRISMA kids and PRISMA on the beach. One can stick one’s head through removable animal faces, to become part of the orchestra and have a picture taken. I didn’t want to sell it, deciding rather to find a permanent home where it could bring joy to many all year round. The Ronald McDonald place in Vancouver came to mind and when asked, they loved the idea! I couldn’t be happier as now families with sick children, who stay to remain close during their kid’s treatment, can now benefit from my art. The artwork comes with wooden cards, with one side telling you the name of the animal and what instrument it plays, while the other side shows a photo I took from my orchestra painting of this precise member with the instrument. Kids have fun finding the animals in the painting, so they learn the names of instruments and how to identify some of our local forest creatures! I love that art can make a difference! That’s what it’s all about! For information and donations please go to their website: ronaldmcdonaldhousebcy.ca
4:30-6 pm at the Rec Complex - Upper Level entrance. Folks will be greeted by PR Kings directors and the PR Chamber manager. A Kings player will escort attendees downstairs to their locker room. Meet and Greet most of the players and coaches! Prizes and snacks. A great way to kick off the hype of this fresh season ahead!
8x8 anonymous art show - submission deadline
See more at qathetart.ca. Hosted by qathet Art + Wares.
Film • Classic Movie Matinee
3:30 pm, The Patricia. By donation.
16
Wednesday
Warhammer Wednesday
4 to 9 pm, High Tide Games
17
Thursday
Free Community Seniors meal
1:30 to12:30 pm The Gathering Place at Powell River United Church. (Please note the Projects Half Done will commence on October 1, 1 to 3 pm.)
18 Friday
Dance Temple
7 to 9 pm at Texada Community Hall ($20 drop in).
Powell River Kings home opener
Battle royal, as the Prince George Spruce Kings visit.
19
Saturday
Fall Go By Bike Week Begins
Through September 25. gobybikebc.ca
Powell River Farmers’ Market
10:30 am-12:30 pm, 4365 McLeod Road. Produce, baking, prepared food, frozen meat, artisan vendors, live music.
Community Connections Expo
11 am to 3 pm, Dwight Hall. Learn about groups to join, local organizations, and much more. Entertainment and food available.
Powell River United Community Lip Sync Contest
3 pm, The Gathering Place at Powell River United Church. Open to all who want to join in the fun with no age limits.
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.
- Monique Labusch
Howden Tile & Stone Shayn Howden Red Seal Certified Tilesetter
First Run Movies
New Films Weekly
Proudly serving Powell River since 2005 One year Craftsmanship Warranty on all installations
Call or text 604-485-4852 or email howdentileandstone@gmail.com
44 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
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
your own containers. Every Monday.
Board Game Night 6 to 9 pm, High Tide Games.
22 Tuesday
Fall Equinox 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 powellriver@tcfcanada.net, and see ad on Page 2.
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.
Warm Clothing Drive
Veterans Honoured
T
he Royal Canadian Legion Branch 164 invites the community to its Annual Candlelight Tribute to Veterans on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at Powell River Regional Cemetery in Cranberry. This longstanding tradition honours the men and women who served Canada and ensures every known veteran interred at the cemetery is remembered. The day typically begins with a parade into the cemetery at 3 pm, followed by a solemn service at the veterans’ memorial. Families, community members, and local
Namaqua a Journey
2 pm at the Library. John Nienaber presents his powerful historical novel of resilience and love in an age of racial inequality in South Africa’s arid Namaqualand region.
Youth Soccer season begins
For players aged 4 to 17. powellriversoccer.ca for registration and details.
Video Game Night 6 to 9 pm, High Tide Games.
cadets then light candles at veterans’ gravesites. By nightfall, hundreds of candles glow across the grounds as symbols of gratitude and remembrance. The week prior to the tribute, crosses and Canadian flags are placed to mark known veterans’ graves. Families who know of veterans buried at the cemetery who have not yet been recognized are encouraged to contact Karen Crashley at The Legion so their loved ones can be included: 604-4854870 or rcl164pr@gmail.com.
20 Sunday
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.
Board Game Day
Noon to 6 pm, High Tide Games
Magic The Gathering / Commander / Highlander
6 to 9 pm, High Tide Games
Paradise Valley Miniature Railroad
12:30-2:30 pm. Train and handcar rides, $2 per person.
Texada Farmers’ Market
Noon-2 pm, Gillies Bay Ball Park.
21
Monday
Free Community Pasta Dinner
4:30 to 6 pm. The Gathering Place at Powell River United Church (on Duncan near the 7-11). If you want take away please bring
10 til 2 pm, Library lobby. Looking for coats, hats, warm socks and more. Organized by Lift. See more in the ad on Page 25.
Growing and Pruning Roses - Powell River Garden Club meeting
Powell River Garden club meets monthly September thru June at Cranberry Seniors Centre. Fourth Tuesday of the month, doors at 6:30, meeting at 7 PM. Jason Croutch, from Fraser Valley Rose Farm is presenting a talk on “Growing and Pruning Roses.” Everyone welcome.
Film • Classic Movie Matinee
3:30 pm, The Patricia. By donation.
23
Wednesday
Burger & Bevvie BarnBall Fundraiser for PR Therapeutic Riding
Doors open at 5 pm, Forest Bistro. $40 tickets. Family-friendly evening with music by the qathet Fiddlers. 50/50 and more. Tickets at Rocky Mountain, Forest Bistro and the PRTRA. See ad on Page 20.
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Warm Clothing Drive
10 til 2 pm, Library lobby. Looking for coats, hats, warm socks and more. Organized by Lift. See more in the ad on Page 25.
Candidates Forum: Mayoral candidates
6 pm, Evergreen Theatre. Hosted by the Chamber of Commerce. More info TBA,
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qathet Living • September 2026 • 45
The Dahlias of Michigan Avenue How’s the season so far?
BY DARCY GESELL
M
y neighbour down the street, Tom Freeman, sells dahlia tubers. I had never grown them before. He is a dahlia expert and happily shares his knowledge with me. Tom’s dahlias come in a variety of beautiful colours, shapes and sizes. He also assembles bouquets and sells them in front of his home on Michigan Avenue for the modest price of $5. I’ve learned so much from Tom and treasure our visits discussing dahlias, along with many other gardening topics. He asked me why I wasn’t selling mine. So after many years of his prodding, my neighbour and I now also sell our dahlias in front of my house. It is a source of joy to grow and assemble the various flowers of the season. And dahlias are a staple of my bouquets, thanks to Tom.
What grew well in summer 2026? Tom • The dahlias have grown well and the corn along the driveway is eight feet high with big cobs. Darcy • Tomatoes, squash, and dahlias have grown very well this year. In the fall I started a new flower bed using leaves and cardboard layers to eliminate some more lawn. I purchased chicken manure from Gathered Farm, installed drip irrigation, added compost and used Evolve organic fertilizer and this made for a great dahlia and squash patch. This has been a contributing factor to good success. What didn’t grow so well this summer? Tom • Some dahlias in the pots in the front yard did not grow well. Same soil is used for all 30 pots and one third are stunted but other ones on the south side are great. Darcy • Last year I had amazing beets — not so this year. Cucumbers have also been slow to produce. My jungle of tomato plants may have shaded out my vertical cucumber set up.
SATURATED: The colours of the dahlias are rich and bright, thanks to the coaching of long-time grower Tom Freeman. This was a good year for tomatoes.
see Powell River Chamber of Commerce Facebook and Instagram pages or the website for more.
Muffdusters & The Castagnes
8 pm, Carlson Loft.
Warhammer Wednesday
4 to 9 pm, High Tide Games
24 Thursday
Artist Trading Card Night - Free
5:30 to 7:30 pm, The Alley. Hosted by qathet Art + Wares and Harvey Chometsky. Make them ahead of time, or make them on the spot. Blanks and art supplies available. Family-friendly event!
Starry Night Market
5 to 10 pm, The Wishing Well. Live music, artisan vendors, coffee and elixirs available.
Free Community Seniors meal
1:30 to12:30 pm The Gathering Place at Powell River United Church (Please note the Projects Half Done will commence on October 1, 1 to 3 pm)
Free Open house for square dance
7 pm, Timberlane. Lessons weekly Thursdays until mid Dec .
25 Friday
qathet School District Pro-D Day
No school for students.
46 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
3 Ears Indigenous Film Festival begins
Through September 29. The Patricia. qathetfilm.ca
3 Ears Opening Night Film • Wrong Husband
7 pm, Patricia Theatre. By donation. An historical look at Inuit life, love, and tension in relationships. Zacharias Kanuk’s 2001 film, Atanarjuat: The Fast Runner, was the first Inuktitut-language film produced in Canada. It won the Caméra d’Or at the 54th Cannes Film Festival, the sole Canadian film ever to win.
26
artisanal crafts, live music, and more.
First day of Sukkot Full Moon Lang Bay Hall Harvest Market
10:30 am, Library. In partnership with Vancouver Island University, join Dr. Micheal K. MacKenzie, the inaugural Jarislowsky Chair in Trust and Political Leadership, and Dr. Paula Waatainen from the Faculty of Education at Vancouver Island University for a morning dedicated to strengthening the muscle of democratic communication: explore various tools of collective decision-making, and ways to support positive conditions for productive community engagement. Registration required. Doors open at 10 am. Contact edgar@prpl.ca to register or go to prpl.ca for form.
Saturday
Noon till 2 pm. Cost per table $25. For more info call 604-483-1440
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,
Community Assembly: Tools of Democratic Engagement
Ɬəʔamɛn Elder Phillip George
2 pm at the Library. Elder Phillip George will share some memories growing up and will talk about and share traditional drumming and Tla’amin songs.
Brice Tabish Band 7 pm, Legion.
3 Ears Film • Blood Lines
7 pm, Patricia Theatre. By donation. Directed by Gail Maurice. This drama is a lesbian romance wrapped up in a celebration of Métis culture—with dialogue in the Michif language. It’s also a story of mothers and daughters, and how difficult it can be to forgive.
3 Ears Film • təm kʷaθ nan Namesake
1:30 pm, Patricia Theatre. By donation. təm kʷaθ nan Namesake. A locally-made feature film about
place, memory, and what it means to live together. Namesake is playing to sold out screenings at film festivals across Canada, and won Best BC Director for ƛɛsla Dr. Evan Adams and t̓ agəm Eileen Francis at DOXA Documentary Festival and the Hot Docs audience voted it to be in the Top 20 Audience Choice Awards.
Video Game Night 6 to 9 pm, High Tide Games.
27 Sunday
Try Curling!
1 pm to 3 pm, Powell River Curling Club (in Cranberry). Free, drop-in.
Board Game Day
Noon to 6 pm, High Tide Games
Magic The Gathering / Commander / Highlander
6 to 9 pm, High Tide Games
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.
Paradise Valley Miniature Railroad
12:30-2:30 pm. Train and handcar rides, $2 per person.
Texada Farmers’ Market
Noon-2 pm, Gillies Bay Ball Park.
3 Ears Film • Endless Cookie
1:30 pm, The Patricia. By donation. Half-brothers Seth and Peter Scriver collaborate in this visually absurdist collection of memories, both painful and uplifting, told through cartoony vignettes. Goofy, endearing, always surprising, this animated comedy is a romp that packs a wallop.
3 Ears Film • Aki
7 pm, Patricia Theatre. By donation. Filmmaker Darlene Naponse creates an immersive and meditative documentary of her homeland. A non-verbal, sensory immersion into Ojibway land-based life and survivance.
28 Monday
Candidates Forum: Powell River City Council candidates
6 pm, livestreamed and recorded. Event not open to the public. Hosted by the Chamber of Commerce. More info TBA, see Powell River Chamber of Commerce Facebook and Instagram pages or the website for more.
Free Community Pasta Dinner
4:30 to 6 pm. The Gathering Place at Powell River United Church (on Duncan near the 7-11). If you want take away please bring your own containers. Every Monday.
Board Game Night 6 to 9 pm, High Tide Games.
Free Open house for waltz and two step
100 YEARS OF HIGH SCHOOL: Brooks Secondary in 1926
Photo courtesy of the qathet Museum
Did you attend Brooks between 1926-2026? We’d love to hear from you! Brooks is turning 100 this October, and the School District is celebrating by collecting memories, stories, and photos from students, graduates, staff, families, and community members who have been part of its history. Whether you remember a favourite teacher, a funny moment, a memorable event, or have old photos to share, we’d love to hear from you. Every contribution helps bring Brooks’ 100-year history to life. To contribute, email communications@sd47.bc.ca or
drop off a copy of your photos and/or written stories at the School Board Office (4351 Ontario Ave). Please do not submit original photos, as we cannot guarantee they will be returned. Selected submissions may be featured in October’s edition of qathet Living, the district website (sd47. bc.ca), and across our social media channels (@qathetschooldistrict). Deadline to submit is September 14th, 2026.
7 pm, Timberlane. Lessons Mondays until mid Dec.
3 Ears Film • Nirilaurta: Let Us Eat (panel on food security to follow)
7 pm, Patricia Theatre. By donation. In Taloyoak, Nunavut, soaring grocery prices and the high cost of hunting and travel ieave many households facing food insecurity. Malaya Qaunirq Chapman shows that Inuit culture, landbased knowledge and kinship helps to nourish their bodies, spirits, and one another.
29
3:30 pm, The Patricia. By donation.
Tuesday
3 Ears Film • Nika & Madison
7 pm, Patricia Theatre. By donation. Two estranged Indigenous women are thrust back together following a violent incident with the police. Nika, a hunter and convenience store worker, is content on the reservation, while Madison has embraced a big-city life as she pursues her studies at university.
Contact Sean Percy before September 7 to get your free listing in ZEST magazine/directory.
bloo
year resource all
Wednesday
National Truth and Reconciliation Day Orange Shirt Day Walk for Reconciliation Meet at 2:45 pm behind Dwight Hall. Walk to Will-
HEALTH FAIR • CANCER STORI ES • NEW
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Do you provide health services in qathet? sean@qathetliving.ca or 604-485-0003
Film • Classic Movie Matinee
ADDICTIONS
2024
& YOUTH MENT AL HEALTH FACILI TIES
ingdon Beach at 3:15 pm. Wear orange! See more on Page 53.
Warhammer Wednesday
4 to 9 pm, High Tide Games.
3 Ears Film • təm kʷaθ nan Namesake - Closing Night
7 pm, Patricia Theatre. By donation. təm kʷaθ nan Namesake. A locally-made feature film about place, memory, and what it means to live together. A request from the Tla’amin Nation to Powell River City council, to change the
name of the city, sets off a public conversation. What happens when a place is asked to remember differently? Through interviews, archival records, oral histories, and community gatherings, təm kʷaθ nan Namesake follows the unfolding discussion around a possible name change for the city and the deeper question beneath it.
ZEST Another free community service provided by:
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2023
qathet Living • September 2026 • 47
A PEEK AHEAD TO OCTOBER (& NOVEMBER) Friday, Oct 2
Sunday, Oct 18
Vote Local! Not Your Typical AllCandidates Event
Youth Try Curling!
1 pm to 3 pm, Powell River Curling Club (in Cranberry). Free, drop-in.
Featuring City Council candidates 6:30 to 9:30 pm, Max Cameron Theatre. Host partners: qathet Climate Alliance, qathet Community Voices, Cinema Politica qathet and others. Free registration, using this form: forms.gle/K9uQNENf2XLtMDqZ6 (or call 604 223-9328).
Friday, Oct 23
qathet School District Pro-D Day
No school for students
“Home” exhibition registration deadline
Open call for qathet region residents to submit to this qathet Art Centre group show. Celebrating and exploring the concept of “home” and what that means to you. See more at qathetart.ca
Saturday, Oct 3
Try Curling!
1 pm to 3 pm, Powell River Curling Club (in Cranberry). Free, drop-in.
October 23 & 24
Violin & Piano Andrew Sords and Cheryl Duvall
7 pm, James Hall. qathet Academy of Arts & Music.
H3: Henderson Haunted House
Community Square Dance
MAS’QUEER’ADE: On October 3, the Halloween season kicks off with the Second Annual Vampire Masqueerade, hosted by qathet Pride and open to all allies 19+. Above, Vancouver drag performer AndrogynAss will be there to entertain, along with others. He was named Vancouver’s Next Drag Superstar 2024 — and opened for Chappell Roan’s Vancouver Concert in 2023!
8x8 Anonymous Art Show Gala
Kiwanis Garage/Book Sale Fundraiser: Adopt A Family
Rock and Roll Damnation - AC/DC Tribute
7 pm, Legion. Tickets on Eventbrite
6 pm to 8 pm, Timberlane. $10. Families and kids welcome.
6:30 pm doors open, qathet Art Centre. See more at qathet art.ca. Made by local, emerging, and professional artists sold at a minimum ticket of $88. Hosted by qathet Art + Wares. Funds raised will go towards families in need to access youth art programs.
Fundraising Poker Tournament
12:30 to 5:30 pm, Cranberry Seniors Centre. For the qathet Pickleball Association. Featuring renowned poker professional Mike Maddocks. Seats are limited. qathetpickleballassociation.ca
10 am till 1 pm, 4953 Kiwanis Ave. To donate call 604-483-1440.
Vampire Masqueerade
8 pm, Dwight Hall. Hosted by qathet Pride. Vendor’s market and live drag performances by AndrogynAss and guests.
Monday, Oct 5
Powell River Curling Club
League play begins for the season.
October 7, 10 & 14
Advance Voting For local elections.
Tug-Guhm GALLERY & STUDIO
7 pm til last scream, 5506 Willow. Cash only, $10 per person.
Saturday, Oct 24
Crib Tournament
604-413-0637
48 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
October 24 & 30
Ghost train
6 to 8 pm, Paradise Exhibition Park. Train rides in the dark through the bright lights, a bonfire, and snacks in the Quonset. Family friendly.
October 24, 30 & 31
Halloween Spooky Forest Walk
Starting at 6 pmwith the last entry at 8 pm. 1930 Twin Eagles Road. This year’s theme is “The Nightmare Before Christmas”.
Saturday, Oct 31
Halloween Crib Tournament Lang Bay Hall. $25,
The Great Marine Ave Trick or Treat event 3 pm-5 pm, but some stores stay open later.
Lang Bay Hall. $25, Lunch provided. 50/50. Registration cut off Oct. 22. Call to
Light the Night Carnival for kids & their families
5-7 pm, Living Water Church (4640 Manson Ave.) Carnival games, treat bags and more!
November TBA
Town Hall: Improving Long Term Care for Seniors of Upper Sunshine Coast
Advocates for Senior Care Upper Sunshine Coast (ASCUSC) and qathet Living. The goal is to build awareness, strengthen community partnerships, and identify action that will help ensure every senior in our community can access the right care, in the right place, at the right time. Location and time TBA in the October qL.
November 7
Lund Christmas Craft Fair: New Location
10 am to 4 pm, at the new Northside Community Recreation Center in Lund. lundcommunity.com
October 9 & 10
Drums & World Rhythm Festival
7 pm, James Hall. qathet Academy of Arts & Music.
Monday, Oct 12
Thanksgiving Day Free Community Thanksgiving Dinner
Dam on tiskwat / Powell River. Photographed by Sean Percy, 2020.
4:30 to 6 pm, The Gathering Place at Powell River United Church.
Saturday, Oct 17
General Voting Day
for Powell River City Council, qathet School District, and qathet Regional District. See more at electionsbc.ca
Psychic Fair
10 am-4:40 pm, Dwight Hall.
November 16 to 20
Public Hearings for the PREI application to export energy from the tiskwat and Lois dams to the USA: Canada Energy Regulator
Town Centre Hotel, times TBA. Oral cross-examinations and oral arguments by the intervenors, which include Tla’amin Nation and Westview Ratepayers Society, qathet Regional District, and Energy Democracy for BC. See more at bit.ly/3UBnP6c. See more in the October qL.
Print ads Do you provide health don’t work services in qathet? Made you look.
Closed Tuesdays Open 10 am - 4 pm The Lund Resort at Klah Ah Men
register 604-483-1440. Pre-payment required before cut-off.
To book your print ad that doesn’t work, contact Sean at 604-485-0003 or sean@qathetliving.ca or Suzi at 604-344-0208 or suzi@qathetliving.ca today!
Contact Sean Percy before September 5 to get your free listing in ZEST magazine/directory.
sean@qathetliving.ca or 604-485-0003
FOLLOWING: 11 x 8.5” paint on paper, Luke Ramsey 2026. See this painting and more at “Far,” opening reception September 10 at 32 Lakes. Show continues until early November.
ART SHOWS Through September
Teresa Harwood-Lynn and Ben Fairless exhibit qathet Art + Wares
Through December
Powell River and Area Through My Eyes - Joyce Furness retrospective Powell River Library
To Early November
“Far” exhibition of paintings and drawings by Luke Ramsey 32 Lakes
Through September
Catnip is Tidal Art Centre’s Artist in Residence Events TBA.
September 10
“Far” opening reception for an exhibition of paintings and drawings by Luke Ramsey.
7 pm at 32 Lakes, 6812 Alberni Street. Art up until early November.
September 15
8x8 anonymous art show - submission deadline
See more at qathetart.ca. Hosted by qathet Art + Wares.
September 24
Starry Night Market
5 to 10 pm, The Wishing Well. Live music, artisan vendors, coffee, and elixirs available.
October 3
October 10 to 25
A Celebration of Fibre Art Tidal Art Centre, Lund
October 23
“Home” exhibition registration deadline
Open call for qathet region residents to submit to this qathet Art Centre group show.Celebrating and exploring the concept of “home” and what that means to you. See more at qathetart.ca
November 7
Lund Christmas Craft Fair: New Location
20% off blank cards, clay & clay tools
proud retailer of these fine artist brands, and more!
10 am to 4 pm, at the new Northside Community Recreation Center in Lund BC. lundcommunity.com
8x8 Anonymous Art Show Gala
6:30 pm doors open, qathet Art Centre. See more at qathet art.ca. made by local, emerging, and professional artists sold at a minimum ticket of $88. Hosted by qathet Art + Wares. Funds raised will go towards families in need to access youth art programs.
4488 Marine Ave Mon-Sat 11am-5pm www.qa-w.ca create@qa-w.ca 604.413.6830 qathet Living • September 2026 • 49
After the fire, wildflowers World premiere of locallycommissioned music, featuring the poems of E. Pauline Johnson and music by Christine Donkin
BY CAITLIN LAMENT
q
athet’s vocal ensemble, Vox Madrigal, is set to host a world premier performance of their privately commissioned vocal work “Fire-Flowers,” with music written by Canadian composer, Christine Donkin. This never-before-heard vocal piece garners its namesake and lyrics from the poem written by Indigenous Canadian author and poet, E. Pauline Johnson (1861-1913), and is brought to musical life with Donkin’s vocal composition genius.
VOX MADRIGAL & FRIENDS: FIRE-FLOWERS AND MORE THE VOICES: Above, Vox Madrigal. Back row: Marilee Jones; Megan Gunn; David May; Kristian Hansen; Janet May; Caitlin Lament; Haruyo Shikano. Front Row: Theresa Hargrave; Susan Lines; Ciara Maguire. Left, Canadian composer Christine Donkin.
When & Where: 7:30 pm, October 3, at The Arts Hub at Tiskwat (Townsite Market). What: Vox Madrigal’s World Premier of Commissioned Vocal Work Fire-Flowers, by Canadian composer Christine Donkin — lyrics from E. Pauline Johnson. Tickets: $25 (18 yrs and under free) madrigalvox@gmail.com The vocal performance of Fire-Flowers centers around the concept of wildflowers blooming after a forest fire. Utilizing soaring vocals and haunting melodic shifts, the commission paints a musical picture of the relationship between destruction and renewal when forest fires occur. Vox Madrigal is delighted to host Donkin’s first ever visit to qathet to celebrate this momentous occasion. The program will also include Sonata No. 1 for Violin and Piano in G Major, 1st Movement by Johannes Brahms, performed by local musicians Cathy Reckenberg (violin) and Kristian Hansen (piano), as well as vocal and chamber ensemble performances of two of the movements of Vivaldi’s Gloria. Many young Canadian musicians will recognize Donkin, having played other works composed by
her. Donkin’s pedagogical compositions and arrangements for piano, violin, voice, and other instruments can be found in the repertoire and studies books of the Royal Conservatory, Trinity College London, ABRSM, and other music exam organizations. Currently, Donkin teaches music theory and com-
position at the Victoria Conservatory and is often invited to speak at music education events across Canada. She is also the Composer-Mentor in Residence for the Victoria Symphony Orchestra for the 2026-2027 season. Donkin is currently working on a project for the City of Ottawa alongside sister, pianist Catherine Donkin, who is recording selections from a set of Christine’s advanced piano pieces. Critics describe Donkin’s work as “stunning” (ConcertoNet.com) and “highly imaginative” (American Record Guide). Her music has been performed at Carnegie Hall and various venues across Canada, including with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, Toronto Symphony, Symphony New Brunswick, Symphony Nova Scotia, Thirteen Strings, DaCapo Chamber Choir, Elektra Women’s Choir, and Cantus (the Norwegian choir featured in the soundtrack of Frozen).
It’s so close, we can taste it. Running a holiday craft fair?
Running a holiday fundraiser?
Want to be in qL’s gift guide?
Tell us by September 15
Tell us by October 1
Tell us by October 15
Running for Office?
50 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
qathetliving.ca 604-485-0003
ENDLESSLY QUIRKY: The film Endless Cookie is a visually absurdist collection of memories, both painful and uplifting, told through cartoony vignettes.
“Listen with three ears: two on our head and one in our heart.” BY PEG CAMPBELL + GARY SHILLING
P
hyllis Webstad was age 6 and arriving for her first day of school. Upon arrival, she was stripped of her clothes, including a beloved orange shirt that her grandmother had bought her. This was no ordinary school — it was the St. Joseph Mission (SJM) Residential School. Phyllis shared her story at an SJM Project and Reunion event at Williams Lake in 2013. Her orange shirt symbolized love and belonging, and when taken away, it represented the system working to strip away identity, culture, and the fundamental truth that Every Child Matters. The residential school system was specifically created to isolate Indigenous children from the influence of their own culture and religion, with the goal to assimilate them into colonial culture. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (2008 to 2015) was established to document the effects of the residential school system. Their report concluded that the attempt to forcefully assimilate Indigenous communities was a cultural genocide. Orange Shirt Day was first observed on September 30, 2013, it was set up to honour survivors of the residential school system, remember the children who did not return, and raise awareness about the painful legacy and ongoing intergenerational trauma of Canada’s Indian Residential School. In June 2021, the federal government declared September 30, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a national
statutory holiday to coincide with Orange Shirt Day. September 30 is the time of year when children were historically taken from their homes and their families to Indian residential schools. It’s an opportunity to assess anti-racism and anti-bullying policies for the coming school year. And a time for Indigenous peoples, local governments, schools, and communities to come together in the spirit of reconciliation and hope for generations of children to come.
3 Ears Indigenous Film Fest September 25 to 30
The 3 Ears Indigenous Film Festival is held at the time of Orange Shirt Day and is a celebration of the Indigenous voice in filmmaking. Now in its fourth year, the festival presents a survey of feature films across variety of genres and runs from September 25 to 30 at the Patricia Theatre. The name “3 Ears” is inspired by a quote in Jody Wilson-Raybould’s book True Reconciliation: How to Be a Force for Change: “Patience and trust are essential for preparing to listen to stories. Listening involves more than just using the auditory sense. Listening encompasses visualizing the characters and their actions and letting the emotions surface. Some say we should listen with three ears: two on our head and one in our heart.” This year’s program consists of three narrative
films and four documentaries, including two screenings of the locally produced, award winning documentary təm kʷaθ nan Namesake, which won the Audience Choice Award at the qathet international film festival earlier this year. Our opening night, September 25, kicks off the festival with Wrong Husband, by acclaimed Inuit filmmaker Zacharias Kunuk, a film about promises, love and northern spirits. It’s an historical look at Inuit life, love, and tension in relationships. Kanuk’s 2001 film, Atanarjuat: The Fast Runner, was the first Inuktitut-language film produced in Canada. It won the Caméra d’Or at the 54th Cannes Film Festival, the sole Canadian film ever to win. Saturday night’s screening is Blood Lines, directed by Gail Maurice. This drama is a lesbian romance wrapped up in a celebration of Métis culture — with dialogue in the Michif language, which has only about 1,130 speakers in the world, including Maurice — and centers around an upcoming Métis Days festival. It’s also a story of mothers and daughters, and how difficult it can be to forgive. Maurice plays the mother role, returning to the daughter she abandoned due to alcoholism and past trauma. Our Sunday matinee is the most unusual film we’ve ever seen. Half-brothers Seth and Peter Scriver collaborate in this visually absurdist collection of memories, both painful and uplifting, told through cartoony vignettes. Underneath the lowbrow fart
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qathet Living • September 2026 • 51
STORIED: Above, Wrong Husband is by Zacharian Kukuk, the filmmaker behind Atanarjuat: The Fast Runner (2001) which won the Caméra d’Or at the 54th Cannes Film Festival, the sole Canadian film ever to win. Right, Blood Lines, a lesbian romance with dialogue in Michif. jokes and images of caribou mating, Endless Cookie honours the legacy others left behind through their experiences so that it can help each new generation piece together their understanding of the embattled present. Goofy, endearing, always surprising, this animated comedy is a romp that packs a wallop. Sunday evening is a quieter, more reflective offering. Filmmaker Darlene Naponse creates an immersive and meditative documentary of her homeland with Aki. Aki, Anishinaabemowin for “earth” or “land,” is a non-verbal, sensory immersion into Ojibway land-based life and survivance. The film was shot over seasonal years in Atikameksheng Anishnawbek in Northern Ontario, Canada and is
52 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
3 Ears Indigenous Film Festival Friday Sept. 25 – 7 pm Wrong Husband Saturday Sept. 26 – 1:30 pm təm kʷaθ nan Namesake Saturday Sept. 26 – 7 pm Blood Lines Sunday Sept. 27 – 1:30 pm Endless Cookie Sunday Sept. 27 – 7 pm Aki Monday Sept. 28 – 7 pm Nirilaurta: Let Us Eat Panel on food security to follow Tuesday Sept. 29 – 7 pm Nika & Madison Wednesday Sept. 30 – 7 pm təm kʷaθ nan Namesake structured around the Anishinaabe seasons – Biboon (winter), Mnookmi (spring), Niibin (summer), and Dgwaagi (autumn). On Monday night we go to the edge of the Arctic Ocean, where the community of Taloyoak, Nunavut, is working to feed its families. Soaring grocery prices and the now high cost of hunting and travel in the North leave many households facing food insecurity. In her NFB documentary Nirilaurta: Let Us Eat, Malaya Qaunirq Chapman tells the story of a community that draws on Inuit culture, land-based knowledge and kinship to nourish their bodies, spirits and one another. Eva Thomas’ drama Nika & Madison is about two estranged Indigenous women who are thrust back together following a violent incident with the police. The tension between Nika and Madison, two women with opposing lifestyles and aesthetics, is a central theme. Nika, a hunter and convenience store worker, is content on the reservation, while Madison has embraced a big-city life as she pursues her studies at university. Women are at the centre of the film, each with agency and attitude – and a touching healing journey. It screens on Tuesday September 29 at 7 pm.
təm kʷaθ nan Namesake will screen at 1:30 pm on Saturday, September 26 and closes the festival at 7 pm on Wednesday, September 30. It’s a film about place, memory, and what it means to live together. A request from the Tla’amin Nation to Powell River City council, to change the name of the city, sets off a public conversation. What happens when a place is asked to remember differently? Through interviews, archival records, oral histories, and community gatherings, təm kʷaθ nan Namesake follows the unfolding discussion around a possible name change for the city and the deeper question beneath it. Namesake is playing to sold out screenings at film festivals across Canada, and won Best BC Director for ƛɛsla Dr. Evan Adams and ̓ tagəm Eileen Francis at DOXA Documentary Festival and the Hot Docs audience voted it to be in the Top 20 Audience Choice Awards.
Patricia: prioritizing anti-racism The Patricia Theatre was complacent in the marginalization of Indigenous people of this land. They were segregated from the general population; forced to line up separately; only admitted to the balcony; and exited separately via the fire escape. This practice continued through to 1970 – until a celebratory team of soccer players came to the theatre and refused to have their Indigenous teammates sent to the balcony. In 2023 the qathet film society, with input from the Tla’amin Nation, named the theatre’s auditorium “qʷaqʷθəm” meaning “tells a story” in Ayujuthem. In 2025, the balcony was named “gənaxʷuθ” meaning “tells the truth. As relatively recent arrivals to this land, settlers taking the time to learn the language of the first people is one way to build a bridge between cultures. The films programmed for the festival support the qathet film society’s mandates to prioritize anti-racism, inclusivity, and equity in our programming and organization; and to engage with Tla’amin Nation in the ongoing process of decolonization and reconciliation. This festival provides an opportunity for the settler community to learn about the multi-generational harms of colonialism. For our Indigenous audience, the stories told celebrate the strength and rich culture of their people.
5
1. Wear Orange First practiced in 2013 (see Page 51), wearing orange has become a symbol of remembrance for the Residential School era, and acknowledgment of the ongoing impacts.
ways to recognize 2. Hear Tla’amin Elder Philip George Canada’s speak fifth annual Truth & Reconciliation Day 3. Walk for Reconciliation
On Saturday, Septemnber 26, at 2 pm at the Library, Elder Phillip George will share some memories about growing up and will talk about and share traditional drumming and Tla’amin songs. For information contact Mark at mmerlino@prpl.ca
On September 30, meet at 2:45 pm, meet behind Dwight Hall. The walk to Willingdon Beach begins at 3:15 pm.
KAMLOOPS RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL (1890-1978)
SECHELT RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL (1912-1975)
The walk is coordinated by qathet SAFE, Hehewsin, Tla’amin Nation, FCU Community Financial, and the RCMP. Wear orange and bring your drums!
4. Listen to Indigenous music At the welcoming ceremony at the Encore concert, at 4 pm on Saturday September 26, at the Patricia. Plus, Vox Madrigal’s October 3 world premier of commissioned vocal work Fire-Flowers, by Canadian composer Christine Donkin — lyrics from the late Mohawk poet E. Pauline Johnson.
5. Attend other films at the 3 Ears Indigenous Film Festival Humour, social issues, friendships, and family relationships take the screen at the Patricia Theatre Septmeber 25 to 30. Tickets by donation, reservable at qathetfilm.ca.
ST. MARY’S RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL (MISSION, 1861-1984)
Where Tla’amin children were sent
These three schools were funded by Ottawa and operated by the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate. BC was home to 23 residential schools, run by the Catholic, Anglican, Presbyterian and United churches. These photos, which are in the public domain, are courtesy of the Deschatelets-NDC Archives. Learn more: www.nctr.ca
September 30
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Orange Shirt Day qathet Living • September 2026 • 53
Dancing on the Powell Riviera BY WENDY DEVLIN
I’ve always loved to dance.
54 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
Especially social dancing where partners are involved. Two years ago, I found myself, widowed after forty-three years. I begin to look for new social activities for fun and friendship. Medical studies have shown that dancing is a powerful multi-layered activity that significantly boosts brain health, lowering the risk of developing dementia by 76%. Dancing uniquely combines physcial exercise, split second rapid decision making and social interaction. So, where to find dancing opportunities? The first year, I joined a weekly beginner’s swing class at the Cranberry Seniors’ Center. Soon I was shim-shaming, and swinging to the two-step and waltz. Bi-weekly brain gym had begun! Year two, I joined weekly Round dancing lessons at the Rancho at Timberlane. Sponsored by the Stardusters, this social dance involves having a partner and the group moving in a wider circle to music and following instructions from a ‘cuer’. The Stardusters also run bi-weekly square dancing sessions with a ‘caller’ at the Rancho. Now that I had cut new dancing chops, I looked around for more dancing opportunities. I made guest appearances at the weekly Scottish Country dancing at Oceanview school, line dancing in the basement of Legion #164, and qathet swing at various locations. All these groups start in the fall and usually end before June. In between these lessons, I could dance weekly at the Carlson Community club Saturday jam sessions 5-8 pm. Plus the weekly Sunday afternoon jams 3-6 pm. at Legion #164. Also various venues (restaurants and community halls) host dance events. I found following the Live Music Events in Powell River Facebook page especially helpful in finding dance events in locations such as The Alley by Persephone, qathet Music Academy, Willingdon Beach, the Lund gazebo, etc. Happy to have taken the suggestion from English poet, John Milton who wrote in 1645, “Come and trip it as you go. On the light fantastic toe.” Hope we meet sometime on a dance floor near you!
Upcoming Fall Weekly Social Dancing Lessons Seniors’ Swing
Sundays
Cranberry Seniors’ Center Sundays 1-3 p.m. Free lessons for Seniors’ over 55 with annual membership of $30 $3 per drop in session for non-members.
Mondays / Thursdays
Stardusters Square Dance Lessons
The Rancho by Timberlane Park, Mondays 7-9 pm (beginners), Thursdays 7-9 pm Social Square Dance for those who have attended at least one previous set square dance lessons.
Round Dance
Tuesdays
Lessons Location: The Rancho by Timberlane Park, Tuesdays 7-9 Beginners welcome Annual fee $110 includes months of square dance lessons Fee also includes a session of Round dancing. Round dancing only $70 per session.
Mondays / Thursdays
Line Dancing
Downstairs at Legion #164 Mondays 1-2 Thursday 12- 1 pm. Drop in fee: $3 per lesson.
qathet Swing
All ages. Each session by donation. Location TBA
PUT ON YOUR DANCING SHOES: Opposite page, a couple dances the lively two-step at the Legion. Lower left, Friends get ready to round dance. Square and round dance instructors Gordon Ruedig and Stacey Ruegg. Above, a couple swing dances at the Legion. Right, this article’s author, Wendy Devlin, dances with one of her dance instructors.
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qathet Living • September 2026 • 55
Running the run: What Leslie Paul learned from her time at the helm of the local Terry Fox Run
56 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
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ong-time Terry Fox Run organizer Leslie Paul is handing over the reins this year to James Mack. Here, Leslie reflects on her time with the run, and how cancer has impacted her own life, and many others.
When and why did you start organizing the run? Leslie • As a teacher, for many years I was involved in the Terry Fox school runs. Terry Fox is a Canadian hero and I loved sharing his story with my young students. In 2011, after I retired, I was asked to be the Terry’s Team member (cancer survivors) for our community Run. I had been treated for colo-rectal cancer in 2010. After that, I joined our community Run organizing committee that was at that time run by Jan and Ted Rodonets. In 2018, Jan and Ted’s son was undergoing treatment for brain cancer and they were unable to commit to organizing the run so a few of us on the committee took over, of course. Eventually, with much help from Jan and her amazing organization, I took over as Run Organizer. Ted and Jan have always stayed involved. How has cancer touched your life? Leslie • In 2010 I was surprised by a colo-rectal cancer diagnosis. My excellent treatment both in Vancouver and Powell River included radiation therapy, surgery and chemo-therapy. There was no history of cancer in my immediate family. Although I was given the impression that my cancer was curable, the experience did change my outlook on life and made me very appreciative of all I had and of all that was to come — for however long that may be. As my husband often says, every day is a gift!
Will you continue Terry’s Legacy? The Terry Fox Run has been a proud part of the Powell River community since 1989, and this September we will come together for our 38th annual run in support of Terry’s legacy and the ongoing fight against cancer. Over the years, the Powell River community has raised close to $500,000 for the Terry Fox Foundation—an amazing achievement made possible by the generosity of participants, donors, local supporters, and the many volunteers who have helped organize the run year after year. A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who has served on the Powell River Terry Fox Run Committee and helped keep this important community tradition going. Each year, approximately 300–400 runners, walkers, and cyclists take part. Participants can choose between a 10 km route and a 3.5 km route, making the event accessible to a wide range of ages and abilities. Everyone is welcome! We are also always looking for volunteers to help organize the event or lend a hand on run day. To volunteer or learn more, contact James Mack at damack333@hotmail.com. - James Mack
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:
DON’T BE A “WISH-CYCLER” • Wish-cycling (hoping unrecyclable items are recyclable) causes contamination, jams equipment and risks worker safety. • Non-recyclable items can ruin whole batches of good recyclables, sending loads to the landfill. • Items like hoses and plastic bags jam sorting machinery and force manual shutdowns. • Check our website’s Waste Wizard before you toss to make sure it’s recyclable!
TERRY FOX RUN 2026 When: Sunday, September 20, registration opens at 9 am, the run/walk begins at 10 am. What: The 38th annual event raising money for the Terry Fox Foundation. Where: Recreation Complex. Choose between a 3.5 km loop or a 10 km loop. Register in person or online: terryfox.org.
What did you learn about the community, during your time organizing the run? Leslie • Since Powell River’s first Terry Fox Run in 1989, the community has been very supportive of the event. Terry Fox holds a special spot in the hearts of many people, businesses and organizations, through their volunteering have helped the event and donations grow over the years. There are many wonderful fund-raising events that take place in our community over the period of a year, and it is hard for most people contribute to all of them. We always have a strong core of people who choose to honour Terry and continue his dream by participating in and contributing
to our Terry Fox Run! Many of the dedicated volunteers on our organizing committee and at our annual event have been involved for many years and we always seem to have new people wanting to help as well.we appreciate the amazing support of our community. How does the event make you feel? Leslie • I love our Terry Fox Run! Every year supporters look forward to the Run and the traditions that have become part of it. Rain or shine, participants and supporters gather at the Complex and the mood is always cheerful while at the same time we remember Terry and the marathon he started all those years ago. I feel proud to have played a small part in keeping the traditions going. What did you get, from your time doing this? Leslie • By being involved in the organization of our Run, I got the satisfaction of knowing that we are keeping Terry’s dream of raising money for research to help find a cure for cancer alive in qathet. James and his family have been active volunteers with our Terry Fox Run since they moved to town and I know he will carry this on, bringing new energy and ideas, and I look forward to helping.
– SECOND ANNUAL –
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS EXPO Dwight Hall SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 11 am to 3 pm
A vibrant day of connection, collaboration and celebration This event brings together local businesses, nonprofits, community groups and residents for a day of connection, collaboration, and celebration.
Save the date and join us!
qathet Living • September 2026 • 57
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Plant Support for Bumpy Times
ast week, as I was pulling out of my friend’s driveway, I spotted a gorgeous Mountain Ash laden with heavy, bright orange, Rowan berries. I oooohed out loud and mentioned that I’d been hoping to string a talisman from dried berries but
RETURN TO REVERENCE JULIETTE JARVIS the tree in my yard has very few each year. Briefly I wondered how open the homeowners might be, and swiftly concluded, “but I don’t have a relationship with *this* tree.” It turns out, they were very open! I shared a little
with them on cultural traditions and beliefs surrounding Ash in my ancestral lineage. Our conversation turned to the different plant allies we were each connecting with lately and how we engage with them. Rosemary is very present for me these days, a European herb my Naturopath recommended and I happened to already have a few pots of. Every day now I meet beautiful bushes of it outside in the fresh air, assess any needs they might have, marvel in
any growth, and run my hands through their woody branches to breathe in it’s powerful, refreshing scent. I talk to them and mindfully snip enough tips for a big pot of tea. I haven’t learned of any rosemary folklore from my heritage, but it has always brought memories of being young and happy with my Nana. She had two massive old bushes in her garden. I’ve been drip dropping Rosemary essential oil into a hard to reach space under my house where a rat has snuck into, too. So together, we’re defending against an unwanted intrusion with an excellent side effect of making my living room delicious. A fine friend to have indeed! Recently, I was in a position to take a communal pulse-read from over 40 women in my sphere, and I see much of what they told me among the greater many of us. Are you too running at, or over, your personal capacity in some regard? Here we are in September already, and with it, the Autumnal Equinox signalling our transition into the dark half of the year. Often this equinox time is a bit bumpier for folks than the shift into Spring. Perhaps there are readers here who feel so too, along with a pull to cultivate their own relationship with an herb, tree, or plant. Who’s showing up in your awareness lately? Is there a trusted ally in the kitchen cupboard? How can your relationship be reciprocal? Until next time, keep well friends. ***** Stay connected until next time through archives, books, and guides found at juliettejarvis.com or subscribe to juliettejarvis.substack.com
Come to Lund and enjoy our scenic waterfront patio, with the best sunsets!
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58 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
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Slow
Love
Looking for Love
1. 36-year-old woman who loves the outdoors — obviously, living here! Loking for someone who is sober, fun, and looking to build a connection first and build more after. Looking for a male between 28 and 45, who loves to travel and loves the ocean, and is looking for a long-term relationship. Must like children, must have a job, and a driver’s license. Let’s connect! 2. James, 72 young non smoker 5’7” 168 lbs active, easy going, kind, polite, intelligent, skilled, artsy, seeking friend and lifetime companion. In Westview. 3. Me: A recent transplant from the Lower Mainland. I don’t miss it. The only thing I miss is you. You: A level surface, sheltered from the rain, where I can rollerskate (not ‘blade’ – skate) in circles to music for
Tired of Tinder?
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 October issue is September 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 #
Our Lives •
•
Martin G. Osborne
March 7, 1946 - July 23, 2026
Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever missed.
hours. Several thousand square feet of polished concrete or wood to make my dreams come true. School gym floor? Old garage? Drained hockey rink? You decide. But I get to pick the music.
Celebration of Life will be on Oct. 17, 1-3 pm, at tiskwat Arts Hub (Townsite Market).
Missed Connections:
Celebration of Life for
4. I heard you playing guitar inside of the music academy and it plucked at the strings of my heart. I peaked through the small glass window but I was too nervous to talk to you and I thought I had missed my chance. But then I saw you again at the bowling alley during a concert, your soft brown curls flew back and forth and I felt the same way I did when I saw you the first time. I do not know your name but I do hope that I can learn it. If this sounds like you let me take a turn plucking at your strings.
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.
Robert Dufour
Monday, September 21 3 to 5pm Willingdon Beach Pavilion Please bring your best story or joke to share, and a flower of your choice to add to a communal bouquet.
In qL’s Our Lives section, anyone can share important news from their loved ones’ lives:
Births Graduations Weddings Job Changes Anniversaries
Retirements Birthdays Obituaries ‘In Memoriam’ Notices & More
Because sharing this kind of news is so important in a community, qL offers free small notices for births, weddings, and obituaries: a 1/18th size, for locals, when the event happened in the three months previous to publication.
Bigger sizes and other announcements: 150 words & photo: $150 300 words & photo: $300 600 words & photo: $500 750 words & photos: $750
Send your info to ourlives@qathetliving.ca, call 604-485-0003, or drop in to 7053E Glacier Street. qathet Living • September 2026 • 59
SEPTEMBER HOROSCOPES ARIES (March 21 to April 19)
Chiron is retrograde in your sign this month, slowing down to heal and focus on self. Creative sparks have been flickering the last month or so, and your ruling planet Mars is red-rovering into Leo, igniting fiery confidence and motivating joy. Being yourself comes naturally as we transition from thoughtful planning to passionate expression through Libra season. The Full Moon in Aries stirs up outgrown emotions, with partnerships and fairness in focus.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20)
A New Moon flourishes with stable new beginnings and healthy collaboration. The road ahead is fertile and full of new interests, romance, and playful energy. Chiron moves on after 3 months in Taurus. That energy has possibly propelled some healing or triggered a blind confidence to shift into something that may have seemed risky in the past. Venus moves into spicy Scorpio, and your seventh house of partnership, lowering your tolerance for anything less than everything.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 21)
The New Moon (Sept. 10/11) in your fourth house of family and foundations, alongside Mercury’s shift into lovely Libra, brings playful cooperation and authentic connection. Mid-month may see some romantic or professional potential that could nurture your emotional vulnerability and heal some wounded pride. Concluding Virgo season and leaning into the new Libra energy with practicality and respect for anything that brings balance and makes life more beautiful.
CANCER (June 22 to July 22)
Professional speed bumps may hinder the ability to rush ahead blindly. Ground your efforts and seek advice from non-biased mentors. Mars in your sign gets a bit impatient, and as Venus enters Scorpio there’s less tolerance to dwell in the past. The New Moon is reorganizing your daily habits after side-eyeing some of your choices and nudging at healthier options. Around the Equinox, Sept 22, open family dialogue could bring more harmony and charm to your home or lifestyle.
SMALL TOWN ORACLE KRYSTAL THOMPSON
LEO (July 23 to Aug 22)
Personal growth was big this summer for Leos with a well-earned glow throughout your birthday season. Virgo brings a new shift and encourages managing your vitality wisely, with bold action underway toward learning or travel as Mars blazes into your sign, igniting creative drive. Flow slowly into a new balance during Libra season. Burnout and low patience could lead to conflict around the Full Moon (Sept. 26). Leave space to rest.
VIRGO (August 23 to Sept 22)
The Sun entered your sign late August and remains there until the 22nd of September. This month, the Sun shines inward, boosting your vitality and locking in on a new level of confidence. Libra season ushers in a more even keel when it comes to shared resources or income adjustments. The New Moon in Virgo is an optimal time for a clean slate. Organizing fresh habits and new healthy collabs that may help alleviate overthinking or burnout.
LIBRA (Sept 23 to Oct 23)
Mercury is clarifying communication in Libra while Scorpio in Venus lowers your tolerance for babble. On Sept. 22, the sun joins your sign, energizing personal and emotional excellence. Listen to your heart, as the autumn equinox focuses on being true to yourself as well as others. The Full Moon (Sept. 27) encourages popping out of that people-pleaser bubble and finding better balance with your commitments so you can multitask or rest wholeheartedly.
SCORPIO (Oct 24 to Nov 21)
Scorpios feel the Venusian energy Sept 10, bringing some intense charm to your first house of self. As social vulnerability approaches, remain optimistic and magnetic when it comes to nurturing new connections. Uranus retrograde in Gemini urges a re-evaluation of debts, financial organizations, or budgeting. A bold Full Moon in Aries alongside Mars’ move into Leo late September will light up your ambition.
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60 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 to Dec 21)
There’s a pull between desire for more personal freedom and decisions you’ve made that hinder independence. Stay flexible and self-aware while staying true to commitments. Uranus is retrograde, governing rebellion and sudden change, in your opposite sign of Gemini and your seventh house of dialogue. This could disrupt communication and build an appetite for beef. Be mindful in conversation as Libra season envelopes us in more love, alignment, and teamwork.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22 to Jan 19)
Earlier in the month is favoured for any contracts, payroll discussions, or negotiating with the New Moon in Virgo poised for fresh starts. Autumn Equinox (Sept 22) is a great time to evolve into balance. Your leadership skills are needed, and you might have an unexpected supporter. The Full Moon in Aries, Sept 26, may cause some push and pull between passive and direct communication with Mars pushing buttons in Leo. Remain steady but compassionate.
AQUARIUS (Jan 20 to Feb 18)
The New Moon squares up in your eighth house of bonds and shared resources. There might be a slight tug-of-war between ‘me’ and ‘we’, and you could teeter on the edge of expansion with mental focus on the more negative aspects. Stay in your power, with the north node in Aquarius embracing uniqueness, and Libra season showcasing a favourable time to balance our thoughts with more optimism and charisma.
PISCES (Feb 19 to March 20)
A notable theme this month may be a wake-up call you didn’t anticipate. The Sun is in practical Virgo, highlighting bonds and intimacy. You may let the air out of some stale connections as fellow water sign Scorpio hosts Venus, enhancing emotional bluntness and leaving little room for casual consistency. Midmonth could cue some healing or forgiveness and pivot towards a serious commitment.
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Across 2) School transport 4) Bush chicken 5) High school memory streams 7) Tide maker 8) Seawalk rebuilders 10) Pipers, not racists 12) New/old First acronym 15) Vote time 16) First bus co 18) Reconciliation Day’s other part 20) Not the I in AI 22) Cranberry candles honour 26) Controversial herbicide 27) Kings captain 29) Lawyer with a porpoise 31) Storms brewing for local author 33) car, or bike, parker 34) PRTRA’s new ED 35) Mother’s favourite shelf 36) PG or PR
For information, call Wendy Larkin 604-485-9268
Down 1) King coach 2) Horse home 3) “Following” Orca’s far-ther 5) Colombian capital 6) For wishing or water 8) Hegus John 9) Fox run’s Leslie is a saint 11) United food offering 13) Holy Cross 14) early school not weak 17) Film fest’s ears 19) Wet feet, or slopitch memorial 21) RD’s top dog 23) Nudibranch’s land cousin 24) Cops for Cancer dinner 25) City’s top dog 28) Movie spot 30) Timberlane dancehouse 32) Cartographer’s work 33) Latin Voice
Toy Run & Fall Supper:Food Bank Fundraiser - September 12
Powell River Motorcycle Riders (and Vintage Car Club) fundraiser for the Food Bank. Meet at 3 pm outside of No Frills, leave at 4 pm, back at 5 pm. Supper from 5-7 pm. Bring a new or near-new toy. Fall Supper with pirogies and cabbage rolls. Upstairs at the Rec Complex. $20/plate, table of 10 for $200. Contact Bob for more: silverwing650gl@hotmail.com. This space available to non-profit organizations, courtesy City Transfer
Where service and safety move volumes.
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qathet Living • September 2026 • 61
Vive la qathet libre!
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his is a work of imagination. A gathering of “what ifs.” With local government elections on October 17 — and a looming campaign period where we will inevitably lose focus on the very, very limited powers of local governments — it’s a unique time to think a little bigger. As you read on Pages 11 to 14, locals are looking to the qathet Regional District, Powell River City Council, and the qathet School District for changes that currently belong to other levels of government. They’re right to look locally, though: holding other levels of government to account for fisheries policy, or housing investments, or potential energy exports, or transportation, or health spending, or income assistance rates, or nearly anything that impacts locals’ lives feels pretty fruitless. This is a democracy; accountability should be real — so, local. Our Federal-Provincial-Municipal system of government isn’t written in stone. What if we just eliminated provinces, and handed that decision-making power and spending to smaller, regional governments instead? In real time, Canada is being reimagined from within, with sovereignty movements in Quebec and Alberta, and a new relationship with First Nations that includes self-governing nations within Canada. The zeitgeist seems to be towards less centralization, more regional power, more devolution, more democracy, less money resting in far-away bureaucracies, and more locally-determined spending. Why not dream a dream for qathet, too?
A semi-sovereign region would put the power and prices: a small example of this accountability Gas immodest proposal where it belongs: with local government LAST WORD PIETA GOUDRON
62 September 2026 • qathetliving.ca
What if the ‘Government of qathet’ enacted it’s own fuel pricing law? For example, whenever fuel prices at a local gas station rose to over five cents more than they are in Comox, that gas station and its fuel supply chain were forced to hand over the books to local government (and media) — or face a per-litre fine? My guess is, the price of gas and diesel would come down pretty quickly. This is a tool we don’t currently have in our local government tool belt. The power to regulate the fuel industry rests with the BC Utilities Commission and the provincial government. In spite of the BCUC’s research into fuel pricing starting in 2016, the NDP’s 2020 Fuel Prices Transparency Act, local petitions to both the provincial and federal governments on behalf of pricing transparency and much more, today, local gas is about $2.10 and diesel is $2.70 per litre — 10 and 23 cents higher per litre than our neighbors in Comox. Unexplained. Unaccountable. The reason other levels of government are not willing to take up pitchforks on this issue is likely, they just don’t get it. It doesn’t impact them. Furthermore, the BCUC and the provincial government have figured out how to breadcrumb us into submission (reports, websites.) But we do care. A lot. This is a real local issue. The power to solve it can only be local, too.
Other what-ifs What if • Instead of five bus operators, each with their own buses, drivers, and administrators (BC Transit, the qathet School District, Assumption Catholic School, the Powell River Christian School, and the Sunshine Coast Connector), a regional sovereign government combined those budgets and ran one really good, all-day, whole-region, kid-safe, freefor-everyone bus service that included both regular routes and on-demand service? What if • Local government ran our own ferries routes, to our own priorities (Resident priority passes? More runs? Free fares for all passengers but higher fares for large private vehicles?) What if • Like Northern communities, local governments ran or subsidized accessible buses to hospitals in Vancouver and Comox? What if • The PREI had to convince local government that power from local dams should be exported, for 30 years, to the USA? (or, those dams were simply owned by locals). What if • Local government determined our own region’s data centre policy? What if • All local forests apart from Tla’amin’s were managed as part of the Powell River Community Forest, benefitting locals? What if • The commercial catch was second in priority to a regional food-first fishery — feeding locals with high-quality, sustainable fish and shellfish, before any protein left our waters for other jurisdictions? What if • Fish, meat, and produce processing were under local regulatory control, with the goal of dramatically increasing the amount and affordability of available local food and employment? What if • Income assistance and disability assistance rates were enough to cover the actual cost of living here — or local government implemented a Guaranteed Income instead? What if • Local government ran a Housing Authority, like Whistler does, and like the City of Powell River has considered — so it can build appropriate housing? What if • Justices sitting in court here also had to live here full-time? What if • Like Nelson, Oak Bay, Delta, and a growing list of small cities in BC, qathet had its own independent policing force, responsible to the citizens? There are many more areas local governments could shoulder, other than these. Employment standards. Rent control. Long-term care. Home care. Cycling infrastructure. Child benefits (imagine if you could elect to collect them all at once, instead of spread out over 18 years? All young parents would have enough for a down payment.) Park maintenance (working with local volunteer groups, instead of excluding them). And so much more. I’m sure you have ideas, too — towards the capitalist, or towards the socialist, libertarian, or authoritarian. Please share them as letters to the editor: editor@qathetliving.ca. Canada has been a 159-year-old pilot project. Maybe the Canada as we know it is simply a Beta version of something much better, coming soon.
Welcome back to school!
We look forward to seeing students on September 8th
at you Whether your student is starting school for the first time or returning for another year, here's what you year: need to know to help your family prepare for a smooth start and stay connected throughout the year:
Ready to Ride?
Learning Starts Early
ReadytoRide? Learni gStartsEarly
hildren Pick Up Your Bus Pass build confidence, qSD offers free drop-in early learning opportunitiesdevelop that help children build confidence, develop y Childhood If you registered for student transportation, Educators, or new skills, and prepare for Kindergarten. Led our by qualified Early Childhood Educators, our lay-based received an email confirming your learning child was StrongStart & StrongStart for GO programs children provide welcoming, play-based learning ages for children ages automatically registered, bus passes are now 0-5 and their parent, grandparent, relative, or caregiver. available for pickup at your school office. mmunity School, StrongStart is Henderson offered at Westview Elementary, Kelly Creek Community School, Henderson e program Students are required to carry their bus outdoors pass Elementary, and Edgehill Elementary. to StrongStart parks GO brings the program and outdoors to parks and ne. From every time they ride a school Monday bus. community spaces to throughout Friday the qathet region from , Oct-June. you From Mondaycan to Friday, you can find a program ready to welcome you in our region! For transportation information, Courtesy ar tRider & Monthly calendars and updates are available on the StrongStart & details, and eligibility, visit sd47.bc.ca. ich h W Which StrongStart GO page under Early Learning at sd47.bc.ca.
Know Where the Bus Is Download the My Ride K-12 app to receive m and real-time bus information, including route ur delays, cancellations, bus locations, and itator . updates. Available on the App transportation Store and Google Play.
ed
OU ays will YOU days will Y d al ca r lo ur locl u o y t a Registration is required before attending any StrongStart or y b p by at yo stop stora g gStart pm rogram?? rt p StrongStart session. SimplyS complete the registration form ro and ta ng o trGO S Stron submit a copy of your child's birth certificate, or bring it on your phone to your first visit for verification by the StrongStart facilitator.
Need Before or After School Care?
PickUpYourBusPas qSDof ersfre drop-inearly earni gop ortunitesthathelpchil Ifyouregister dforstudent ransporta ion,or newskils,andprepareforKindergarten.LedbyqualifedEarlyC receivedanemailconfirmingyourchildwas StrongStart&StrongStartGOprogramsprovidewelcoming,play
Lost Your Bus Pass? Before Registration After remains open year-round School for the district's licensedCare Before and After School Care Replacement passes are availableand from the program. transportation office for $5.
e in familiar Available school for students in Grades K-5, environment the program provides care in a familiar school environment Stay ina the Loop view Elementary , Henderson before and after school hours. Programs are available at Westview Elementary, Henderson Transportation updates are shared through ntary . Families are placed on Elementary, James Thomson Elementary, and Edgehill Elementary.a Families are placed on a multiple channels, including: waitlist and contacted as spaces become available. The district website (sd47.bc.ca)
Facebook and Instagram ordable Child (@qathetschooldistrict) The email address on file with your school
Care Benefit Visit sd47.bc.ca for registration, program hours, fees, and Affordable Child Care Benefit information.
Stay Connected All Year
Transportation Questions? social our Have district In addition to checking channels sd47.bc.ca often and following us on our district social channels Scan the QR code below and scroll to the district school and (@qathetschooldistrict), our information qSD Mobile App keeps important school and district information bottom of the page for answers to common e Play and receive right at your fingertips! notifications Download from the App Store or Google Play and receive notifications for: for: questions about bus passes, late buses, cancellations, snow routes, alternate bus School closures School closures stops, shared custody arrangements, and Bus delays Bus delays more. District news District news Emergency notifications Emergency notifications New website updates New website updates
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Transportation Department 604-414-2612 Oncemiss downloaded, please ensure you’ve enabled notifications so you never miss an important you never an impor tant transportation@sd47.bc.ca update!
Upcoming Dates to Note...
hools Nov 2: Parent Teacher Interviews at Elementary Schools Sept 25: PD Day (No school) Sept 30: Truth & Reconciliation Day (No school) Nov 11: Remembrance Day (No school) Dec 21-Jan 1: Winter Vacation (No school) Oct 12: Thanksgiving Day (No school) Oct 23: PD Day (No school) l calendar for Visit your sd47.bc.ca and printfridge! out the 26/27 local school calendar for your fridge!
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