The Peak - November 6, 2025

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MILITARY MEMORIAL

Historian searches for soldiers lost in WW1 PAGE 4

COMMUNITY CAMPAIGN

Schools set to spread kindness via donations PAGE 19

Royal Canadian Legion invites residents to gatherings

As Tuesday, November 11, approaches, Canadians are preparing to stand in collective remembrance of the brave souls who risked and/ or lost their lives for Canada.

On Remembrance Day, Royal Canadian Legion, representing the people of Canada, orchestrates the National Remembrance Day Ceremony in Ottawa and services throughout communities nationwide.

According to Royal Canadian Legion Branch 164 (Powell River), everyone is invited to attend the annual local gathering in Townsite, which gets underway at 10 am. Legion organizers welcome the community to join them at the Cenotaph on November 11 to honour our brave men and women who have served or are currently acting in service for Canada.

Activities begin with a breakfast for veterans in the lower hall at the Legion (6811 Alexander Street), starting at 7:30 am. A bus transporting the veterans to the parade area in Townsite will depart the Legion at 9:30 am.

At 9:55 am, the parade marches off from the foot of Arbutus Street to Dwight Hall. At 10 am, the colours will form up in the lobby and proceed into the hall to prepare for the service inside Dwight Hall, which

begins at 10:10 am.

The parade to the Cenotaph in Veteran’s Memorial Park begins at 10:50 am, followed by recognition,

to enjoy lunch and entertainment back at the Legion. Again, all are welcome.

remembrance, prayers and a salute to veterans at 10:56 am.

Following the service at the Cenotaph, the parade forms up

Royal Canadian Legion’s annual Poppy Campaign began on Friday, October 31. The poppy was adopted as the official flower of remembrance in Canada in 1921, inspired by the poetry of lieutenant-colonel John McCrae, a Canadian medical officer in World War I.

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McCrae’s haunting 1915 poem, In Flanders Fields, painted a melancholy image of rows of poppies growing upon the resting places of those lost in the war. Now, more than 20 million poppies are distributed each year in communities across Canada.

From now until Remembrance Day, Royal Canadian Legion is asking people to take the time to thank a veteran for their service and wear a poppy to show their support for those who have served and those currently in service to Canada. The red lapel poppy is the symbol of the Legion’s Poppy Campaign, raising funds to support veterans and their families in need.

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in front of Dwight Hall for the march past and the salute to the veterans, then the parade is dismissed. The attendees are invited

Remembrance is a year-round commitment. To learn how to contribute to supporting veterans throughout the year, drop by Royal Canadian Legion Branch 164 in Westview or call 604.485.4870.

About Foundry Services for Youth

November 6, 2025 Our health system can be difficult for youth to access. When repeatedly confused or refused, many youth turn to Emergency departments as their last hope or spend months on waitlists.

In a recent survey of young people from diverse communities across BC, the message was clear: Foundry is making a real difference. 98% agreed or strongly agreed that Foundry offers a space that feels comfortable, safe, and welcoming. With 18 centres now open and operating across BC, Foundry is a proven model for improving youth wellness that’s been in action since the first one opened in 2015.

Foundry qathet will provide a single, welcoming point of access where young people ages 12 to 24, and their caregivers, can walk in and receive multiple services and supports in one place. Foundry qathet will deliver truly preventative care-supporting our youth before crisis hits. It’s an investment that saves lives.

Along with Youth & Family, Foundry qathet will become the new location for some organizations already providing youth services in our community. Many others plan to offer services at Foundry qathet. In addition, there will be a large drop-in centre, kitchen and multi-purpose space for community groups to use.

project; to renovate and furnish a centrally located, 12k square foot space. (Location to be announced soon). Once open, Foundry qathet receives operational funding from the province.

The host agency of Foundry qathet is Youth & Family (Powell River Child, Youth & Family Services Society).

We are fundraising for the capital build phase of our local Foundry qathet

When services are youthfriendly, flexible, and codesigned with young people, engagement increases, outcomes improve, and communities become stronger.

Services can be accessed online or in-person during drop-in hours or by appointment in communities across BC.

Access Virtual Services now at foundrybc.ca/virtual

Learn more on our website at foundrybc.ca/qathet or by following Foundry qathet on Facebook and Instagram.

Follow the QR Code to Donate Now!

Texada resident initiates wreath project

National Indigenous

Veterans Day to be marked with a ceremony

TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com

Texada Island Royal Canadian Legion Branch 232 members, islanders and guests will honour National Indigenous Veterans Day on Friday, November 7, by hosting a ceremony with elders and school children at Woodland Cemetery, starting at 10:15 am. A ceremony at the Texada Legion (2099 Legion Road) in Van Anda will follow at 11 am.

Indigenous veterans

fought side-by-side with non-Indigenous soldiers during war time, but they did not receive the same recognition for their service.

Indigenous Veterans Day (November 8), which was first observed in 1993, commemorates the military service of First Nations, Inuit and Métis men and women, particularly during the First World War, Second World War and Korean War.

For the past few years, Texada Legion Branch 232 sergeant-at-arms and island resident David Colussi has spearheaded what he calls, “a dedicated Indigenous veterans wreath project, with the hope of further reconciliation with Indigenous communities.”

He is campaigning to have Indigenous-style wreaths

displayed at Legion’s across Canada, but, he said, it’s been difficult because of the organization’s strict traditions and protocols.

“We developed a wreath that reflects Indigenous traditions with the hope of it being used as an education tool for the public,” said Colussi. “I worked with an Indigenous person here, named Ricky Coy; we started this project in 2022, but we didn’t have a wreath at that time, it was just an idea.”

Branch 232 has invited Tla’amin members, BC’s minister of water, land and resource stewardship and Powell River–Sunshine Coast MLA Randene Neill and Texada Elementary School students to the two ceremonies.

“It starts when we look after our soldiers who represent Texada Island in the Woodland Cemetery,” said Colussi. “We start there with the [school] children; we put out candles, lay down poppies and crosses by their graves, then we move over to the Legion for a ceremony there.”

Although Colussi is currently the sergeant at arms, chaplain and Branch 232 museum curator, he was never allowed into military service as an adult due to a heart condition.

“When I was 14 years old, I was chosen to go to HMCS Margaree within the cadet system,” said Colussi. “Then the next year, at 15, I was on an aircraft carrier in Guam. The next year I was on a three-and-a-half month

REFLECTING TRADITIONS: National Indigenous Veterans Day will be marked by Royal Canadian Legion Branch 232 members, Texada Island residents and guests on Friday, November 7. The photo above is of an Indigenous veterans wreath that was created to honour First Nations culture and Indigenous people who fought during war time. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

NATO trip down to Brazil, Rio de Janeiro.”

To find out more details about the Texada events on November 7, contact Barb Egglestone at 604.344.2160.

Poppy ceremony launches national campaign

Plant’s history dates back more than a century before adoption as symbol of remembrance

TANYA HILL

thill@prpeak.com

Royal Canadian Legion’s Poppy Campaign launches annually on the last Friday of the 10th month. This year the campaign began on October 31, and continues until Remembrance Day on November 11.

It is the biggest fundraising campaign of the year for local Branch 164, and for Legions across Canada, with funds donated during the campaign used to support veterans and their families.

On October 21, Branch 164 members, City of Powell River and qathet Regional District (qRD) officials gathered at the regional district office on Marine Avenue for

the first poppy ceremony.

Former Powell River mayor and retired Royal Canadian Navy captain Stewart Alsgard did the honours of pinning poppies onto lapels, with local poppy campaign committee member Chris Carnell by his side.

Preceding the ceremony, Carnell spoke about the history of the poppy.

"The poppy's history dates back to the 19th century," said Carnell.

"More than 100 years before being adopted as Canada's national symbol of remembrance, its significance was felt during the Napoleonic Wars."

He said for many years people observed that poppies would grow on the graves of soldiers in the battlefields of France, and that due to the wars, the soils became rich in lime, which allowed poppies to thrive.

"Lieutenant-colonel John McCrae introduced the poppy to Canada during the First World War, inspired by the scarlet flower," said Carnell. "We're all familiar with the Canadian medical officer of health's

famous poem, In Flanders Fields, penned in 1915 after the death of a fellow soldier."

But, Carnell explained, it was Madame Anna Guérin, a woman inspired by McCrae's poem, who came up with the concept during the First World War to recognize fallen soldiers on Armistice Day, but also raise funds to support veterans.

The poppy made its first appearance in Canada on July 6, 1921.

"Guérin visited Port Arthur,

Ontario, which is now Thunder Bay, to present the idea, along with more than two million reproductions of the scarlet blooms," said Carnell. "The Great War Veterans' Association of Canada, which would become the Royal Canadian Legion in 1925, endorsed the idea and the first poppy campaign took place on November 11, 1921."

Today, Carnell said the flower of remembrance continues to honour fallen Canadian veterans from

the first and second world wars, conflicts in Korea, Afghanistan, Bosnia, the Persian Gulf, as well as peacekeeping duties and other assignments where soldiers, sailors and air personnel have fallen in the line of duty.

"I reflect [during Remembrance Day] on all who have not returned home, period," Carnell told the Peak after the ceremony. "That's why I wear my poppy all the time when I put my uniform on."

DON’T MISS THIS WEEK

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 8

DISCOVER THE WORLD OF FUNGI

Local mushroom enthusiast Jason Leane will discuss the dietary and ecological benefits of mushrooms and how to inoculate and grow mushrooms on logs. The discussion will begin at 2 pm in Powell River Public Library. For more information, email Mark at mmerlino@prpl.ca.

DON’T MISS THIS WEEK

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 14

ESSAYS EXPLORING FOOD

Discover local author andrea bennett’s passion and curiosity in kitchens, gardens and fields, and compelling perspective on food from seed to table. The evening with bennett, who wrote Hearty: On Cooking, Eating and Growing Food for Pleasure and Subsistence, starts at 7 pm in Powell River Public Library. For information, email Mark at mmerlino@prpl.ca.

604.485.5550

Campaign continues for proper burial

Powell River soldier among 44 under potato field

COMPILED BY

JOYCE CARLSON

Remains of 44 World War 1 soldiers from the 16th Canadian Infantry Battalion (Scottish Regiment) are lying in a potato field where the Battle of Vimy Ridge took place. Among them is private Arthur Forbes Ruddock of Powell River.

Tragically, private Ruddock’s military service lasted less than a year. He was killed in action on April 9, 1917, during the first day of the Battle of Vimy Ridge. His remains were never recovered, although visitors to the battlefield will see his name inscribed upon the Vimy Memorial.

Ruddock was born in New Brunswick but lived in Powell River before moving to work in New Westminster prior to enlisting. Both his parents, Arthur Edward and Isabella Sarah (Forbes) Ruddock, are buried at Powell River Regional Cemetery in Cranberry.

Research by military historian Norm Christie shows that the remains of the 44 soldiers were never properly buried at Nine Elms Cemetery in France, along with other fallen Canadian Scottish Regiment soldiers, as was supposed to happen. He believes it is important that those bodies are recovered from the field where they fell 108 years ago and given a proper burial.

Christie set a Help Recover Our Vimy Heroes campaign goal of $110,000 to discover the remains, and bury them properly. Donations will cover engineering, documentary filming and safety costs.

Christie and his team predicted the soldiers’ location by determining discrepancies in burial records and through decades of research. Records from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission also indicate where the remains can be found. They are in a mine crater site known as CA40 that lies beneath a farmer's potato field in northern France, near Vimy Ridge. This land is potentially slated for industrial development. Initial fundraising and on-site investigations have been completed. However,

apparently a regional French bureaucrat has stopped further excavation, and the campaign is awaiting a review of the situation.

During the Battle of Vimy Ridge, which took place from April 9 to 12, the Canadian Corps captured the heavily fortified ridge. It was a victory for Canada but resulted in more than 10,000 casualties.

After the battle, Canadian burial squads collected the dead and interred them in temporary battlefield sites, including mine craters. Following the war, exhumation companies were tasked with moving remains from temporary graves to permanent war cemeteries.

A documentary, Searching for Vimy's Lost Soldiers, produced in 2017, followed Christie's efforts to find the CA40 crater site using geophysics and radar. The area is dangerous, as the ground is still riddled with unexploded munitions.

The story of the 44 soldiers and the search for their remains is an effort to provide a proper final resting place and commemoration for the forgotten soldiers of the Great War.

Private Ruddock’s name is seen at the at 28:47 mark of a video on YouTube called: Great War Tour with Norm Christie, Season 2, Episode 2, Recover Our Vimy Heroes.

Local resident and mili-

tary history buff Stewart Holmes, who donated to the fundraiser, strongly feels the Canadian government should be doing more to ensure a proper burial for the fallen soldiers. He presented a letter to Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre about the matter at his visit here during the federal election campaign.

“I feel it’s political and question the campaign awaiting a review of the situation because a regional French bureaucrat has stopped further excavation,” said Holmes. “Canada went to France to help the French and our fallen should be honoured no matter what the timeline. Something’s not sitting right. I can’t believe any true Frenchmen would dishonour Canadian liberators or any soldier who went there to liberate France from both world wars.”

When France locates the remains of a foreign soldier from World War I, it cooperates with the soldier's home country to ensure a respectful burial. The ultimate fate of the remains depends on whether they are identified and on the policies of the soldier's native country, added Holmes.

On April 3, 2003, the Canadian government designated April 9 of each year as a national day of remembrance for the Battle of Vimy Ridge.

Grocery prices create challenges

Many groups have hosted fundraising events for the

TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com

Community groups in qathet have been busy these past few months, hosting fundraising events for Powell River Action Centre Food Bank (PRAC), and there is more fundraising to do come December.

A Thanksgiving fundraiser called, Fill the Ambulance, Fire Truck and Squad Car, held on October 4 and 5, and hosted by Powell River RCMP, Powell River Fire Rescue and BC Emergency

Health Services (BCEHS) paramedics, raised $13,698; $9,003 of that was cash, including gift cards and online donations, and $4,695 worth of food, according to food bank manager Savanna Dee.

Powell River Kings supporters made donations to the local food bank at the end of September, which brought in $597 worth of food and $172 in cash.

Dee reported that the Toy Run on September 20 organized by Powell River Motorcycle Riders brought in more than $8,000 worth of cash, toys and food.

A power-outage fundraiser for the food bank was hosted in the FreshCo parking lot, during the recent BC Hydro all-day power outage that affected the entire qathet region in mid-September.

"Thank you, FreshCo, and everyone involved that helped raise over $2,700 for

the food bank on Sunday, September 14, during the power outage; what a great community," said Dee. "Next we are planning the annual Stuff the Trailer and the Corporate Pallet Challenge, at FreshCo again this year. It’s starting on December 1, and the wrap-up party is at FreshCo on December 13; the time is yet to be determined."

Dee told the Peak that the food bank is seeing, on average, four new people per week signing up for help.

"Last week we saw eight new clients; they just cannot make it through the month," said Dee. "These are mostly working people, families and seniors who cannot afford the price of food anymore after paying their bills; most of them are very sad to be here, but have no other choice."

Dee chalked it up to rising food costs and inflation.

According to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), Statistics Canada's primary measure of inflation, consumers paid four per cent more year-over-year for food purchased from stores in September, following a 3.5 per cent increase in August.

"Faster price growth was driven by increased prices for fresh vegetables, sugar and confectionery," the CPI report stated. "Grocery items contributing to the general acceleration included fresh or frozen beef and coffee, both due, in part, to lower supply."

Dee said the food bank team is doing its best to handle the overload, but they need more help to buy the food.

"We are all affected by outrageous grocery prices," added Dee. "It’s so important for our seniors and all the children we feed to have proper nutrition, and they are not

affording it."

Dee said for December's food bank hampers, the food bank gives some families gift cards and everyone else a football-sized ham, plus items such as instant potatoes, gravy mix, cranberry sauce and stove-top stuffing.

"If any members of the

public would like to help, they could purchase these items and donate them, as we simply do not have enough," said Dee. "Other often asked for items are dish soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes, soap, shampoo, cream rinse, razors, socks and gloves, or anything for winter."

Review delves into suspensions

TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com

On February 26, 2025, qathet School District (qSD) trustees directed superintendent of schools Paul McKenzie to review student suspension details and report back.

DATA REVIEW: A qathet School District suspension review report revealed that among nonviolent suspensions, vaping represented about a quarter of incidents in 2024/2025. REALPEOPLEGROUP, E+, GETTY IMAGES

52 per cent of the suspensions, while nonviolent and violent/threats made up the rest.

The goal of the data analysis was to bring forward practices that, "keep learners connected to school while maintaining safe, orderly environments," according to background information on the review.

Suspension trends for the last four years indicate that suspensions have declined overall in qSD. In 2021/2022 there were 95 suspensions compared to 57 in 2024/2025.

Student suspension is categorized into nonviolent, violent/threats or drug/alcoholrelated incidents at school or on school properties.

Last year, drug/alcohol incidents accounted for

McKenzie stated in the report that he thought it was interesting to see, among nonviolent suspensions, that vaping represented about half of incidents in 2023/2024 and roughly a quarter in 2024/2025.

Within the violent/threats category, fighting made up the majority of incidents in both years.

Most school districts across BC, including qSD, have followed a trend trying to use suspension judiciously and typically only after alternative responses have been attempted.

Violent or threat-related incidents commonly trigger Violence Threat Risk Assessment processes beginning at the school level, with escalation if needed, the report indicated.

At the qSD board meeting on October 22, a motion passed that the suspension review report, as presented to committee of the whole on October 8, be received by the board of education.

The suspension review report stated that administrators and counsellors emphasize conversation, mediation and restitution; staff employ de-escalation, short-term activity restrictions and behaviour support plans to stabilize situations without removing students. When substance use is involved, students are connected to counselling and, with consent, to community agencies.

Power line removal successful

BC Hydro employs explosive devises to bring down electrical infrastructure

BC Hydro has successfully removed one of the world’s longest overwater power line crossings using controlled detonation — a likely first for a marine crossing of this scale in North America and a major milestone in the decommissioning of electrical infrastructure.

BC Hydro has released a video of the line coming down.

According to a media release from BC Hydro, the 138-kilovolt power line, installed in the late 1960s, was one of two supplying electricity to about 10,000

customers in Powell River and surrounding communities. Stretching more than three kilometres across Jervis Inlet, it was the longest marine crossing of its kind globally when installed, and remains the longest marine crossing in BC Hydro’s system.

The weeklong operation to remove the aging infrastructure — which will be replaced by 2027 — mobilized a team of 60 personnel, according to the release. A controlled detonation device was used to safely cut the three steel conductors, each under approximately 70,000 pounds of tension.

The controlled detonation allowed BC Hydro to complete the work safely and efficiently ahead of winter when storms and ice would have made the line more susceptible to failure, the release stated.

Each conductor was sev-

ered individually to prevent entanglement and allow for safe recovery. Once cut and dropped, the conductors were retrieved using a barge equipped with cable reels. This operation is believed to be the second longest overwater power line crossing removed by explosive charge globally — verification is currently underway, the release stated.

Jervis Inlet is home to a rich marine ecosystem, including whales, dolphins, fish and shellfish. BC Hydro’s environmental specialists worked closely with marine biologists to minimize ecological impact and ensure regulatory compliance, the release stated. Work was paused several times when humpback whales were spotted in the area and did not resume until the whales had moved away from the area below the power lines. Extensive consultation

with First Nations, local governments and stakeholders — including BC Ferries, marinas and commercial marine operators — helped shape safety and environmental plans. To ensure public and crew safety, daytime marine traffic was restricted, and BC Ferries temporarily rerouted service between Saltery Bay

and Earls Cove.

This milestone marks the start of a phased approach to upgrade the electrical system that crosses Jervis Inlet and Agamemnon Channel. The next phase will involve removing and restringing the Agamemnon Channel crossing in spring 2026, followed by the installation of

the new power line across the Jervis Inlet crossing by 2027. Both crossings will be upgraded to 230-kilovolt standards to improve reliability and increase capacity for Powell River and surrounding communities. For more information about this work, go to bchydro.com/jervisagamemnon.

Remembrance ritual

Every November 11, qathet residents gather in quiet reflection. We meet at the cenotaph at Veteran’s Memorial Park in Townsite, or pause at home, work or wherever we happen to be at 11 am, to observe two minutes of silence. The ritual is familiar, but not empty. It continues to matter because the meaning of Remembrance Day is something we must carry forward intentionally.

Many families can trace a direct connection to those who served and sacrificed, whether in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, peacekeeping missions or more recent conflicts. For some, this connection lives in photographs and medals tucked carefully into drawers. For others, it is a story passed down, one that may be told less often but is still deeply felt.

We also remember that war leaves marks beyond the battlefield. Veterans who returned often carried invisible injuries. Families were changed. Communities were reshaped. The cost of conflict is not measured only in lives lost, but in the lives forever altered.

Schools, service clubs and families play an essential role in helping children understand why we wear the poppy, why silence matters and why we say,

“Lest we forget.”

This year, as global conflicts continue to fill headlines, the day takes on an added weight. It challenges us to consider how we respond to suffering, displacement and division in the world around us. Remembrance Day is not about glorifying war, but about acknowledging its reality and reaffirming our commitment to peace, diplomacy and understanding. For younger generations, the responsibility of remembrance can feel distant. Yet it is precisely for them that we observe the day so deliberately. The stories of bravery, loss, service and resilience must not fade. Schools, service clubs and families play an essential role in helping children understand why we wear the poppy, why silence matters and why we say, “Lest we forget.”

Attendance at Remembrance Day ceremonies inside and outside of Dwight Hall has remained strong. Veterans, cadets, families and community organizations come together in a way that reflects who we are: a community that still values showing up for one another. That commitment counts.

This November 11, whether you gather at the cenotaph or pause in your own quiet space, take the moment seriously. Think about those who served, those who never came home and those still affected by the weight of conflict. Consider what peace means in your daily life and how we can continue to build it here, together.

Remembrance is not passive. It is an act of gratitude and of hope. Lest we forget.

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LETTERS »

Don't squander billions

Great to know that so many residents care about what private corporate ownership of local dams means for local watersheds [“MP's power export video goes viral,” October 23]. Deep thanks to Energy Democracy for BC for years of research, education and advocacy, including winning a legal ruling that the BC Utilities Commission has jurisdiction over the dams.

qathet Climate Alliance met with North IslandPowell River MP Aaron Gunn and thanked him for his support on this issue. We hope he will oppose some other harmful projects in the works, such as what former Timmins-James Bay MP Charlie Angus refers to as "the MAGA pipeline to breakup Canada" or the multi-billion-dollar Star Wars fantasy Donald Trump wants us to help pay for called the Golden Dome, or more appropriately, Golden Doom. Writing in the Toronto Star, Linda McQuaig explained how the project risks encouraging nuclear aggression.

COPYRIGHT

We don't need to squander billions on boondoggles. Check out the CCPA (policyalternatives.ca) alternative federal budget for true Canadian sovereignty. Jan Slakov, president, qathet Climate Alliance

Right side of history

qathet Regional District Electoral Area D director Sandy McCormick is 100 per cent on the right side of history for voting against the NOLS (National Outdoor Leadership School) application for land occupancy on Texada Island [“Land use motion expresses no objection,” October 30].

The directors who voted in favour are extremely naive and do not reside on the island. There is a dictator south of the border who is amassing Putin-level power and is anxious to take it out for a test drive.

Women really do possess superior intuition compared to their male counterparts. We stand on guard for thee, now and forever.

Steve Perkins, Van Anda

TANYA HILL reporter

X-ray machine contribution sought

Regional hospital district receives presentation from Vancouver Coastal Health, requesting $800,000

PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com

Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) is requesting an $800,000 contribution from qathet Regional Hospital District to replace qathet General Hospital’s xray unit.

At the October 21 hospital board meeting, directors received a presentation from VCH, providing updates on capital projects that are underway, and about the need for a new x-ray unit.

VCH spokesperson Johan Marais said for 2026, the only capital project is the x-ray replacement, totalling $2 million. He outlined qathet facilities projects that are closing in 2025 and 2026, including fluoroscopy replacement, Evergreen Extended Care cooling upgrades, mechanical boiler upgrades, emergency department door access, laundry equipment upgrades, high voltage breaker replacement and administrative office renovation.

Marais said there is an old x-ray unit at the hospital, which is the only one in town. He said there have been instances during procedures where the machine needs to be rebooted, so VCH is looking at replacing the unit.

“We would formally like to make a request for a 40 per cent cost share towards that budget,” said Marais.

City of Powell River director Cindy Elliott said she understands that the hospital is over capacity most of the time and has been for quite a while. She said some priorities could alleviate that in an effective way in upgrading the entire facility.

“How do we work together to make sure that in our community, we are doing what is needed?” asked Elliott. “How would we work together to get capital investment for things like that?”

Marais said his best suggestion would be to use the working group meetings between VCH and qathet General Hospital to bring those matters forward.

Electoral Area C director Clay Brander said he was looking at the cost share request for the x-ray room, and in the description, it states, due to aging technology, it may require a reboot, and was wondering if there could be further explanation.

“Asking the community to spend $800,000 on something that may need a reboot, I am wondering about the justification for that,” said Brander.

VCH spokesperson Michelle Hanna said x-ray machines have about a 14year lifespan and the hospital’s current machine is 17 years old.

“The equipment is no longer supported by the vendors,” said Hanna. “This is a highly critical piece of equipment; we currently perform about 13,000 x-rays per year, and there isn’t a fully functional second option. We want to be proactive and make sure we are replacing some of that equipment that comes with a very high price tag.

“When we start to see some of these small glitches, such as a reboot partway through, those are early warning signs. We want to make sure we have a plan for replacement, especially given the age of the equipment and the lack of support, before we have a catastrophic failure.”

Electoral Area B director and hospital board chair Mark Gisborne said if a catastrophic failure occurs, the hospital cannot call up the company and have a new x-ray machine by the end of the

week.

Electoral Area D director Sandy McCormick had a question about diagnostic imaging, and the prospect of situating an MRI machine at the hospital.

“I know there is no immediate plan for an MRI at qathet hospital, but looking at the information provided, there was a foundation that replaced the MRI at Lion’s Gate Hospital,” said McCormick. “I am wondering if there is an opportunity for us to pursue foundation funding for an MRI for us?”

Hanna said when looking at data around MRIs, it is recommended that there be about 7,500 exams per year to ensure cost efficiency. She said when looking at the data for this region’s population, it would be expected there would be between 350 and 500 exams for a population of this community’s size.

“We are quite far below the recommended benchmark for having an MRI in our community,” said Hanna. “There are quite high operational costs associated with MRIs, aside from the initial capital investment.”

Electoral Area A director Jason Lennox asked about the CT scanner.

“Are we in good shape there?” asked Lennox.

Hanna said the medical imaging program has a replacement and prioritization list. She said the CT equipment was installed in 2018, so the hospital is still in good shape.

CROSSWORD

Wildfire detection system being installed

$400,000 to pay for the project, which included installation of the hardware and activation of the monitoring service.

PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com

Phase one of Savary Island’s wildfire protection system has been installed, providing an early warning system for one of the islanders’ greatest concerns.

Savary Island has retained the services of North Vancouver company SenseNet to provide sensors and cameras that provide early detection of wildfires.

Savary Island Lands Trust (SILT) executive director Liz Webster said acquisition of the system was proposed by islander Peter Armstrong, and SILT’s board agreed that the organization would help to raise up to

Savary Island Volunteer Fire Department deputy chief Doug Corbett said in phase one, 30 sensors have been installed on nature trust property, with two cameras also part of the project being mounted off island the first week of November. Corbett said a phased approach is being used for the project, because of the time it takes to get property owners to sign a document permitting sensors to be installed on their properties.

“We expect to have all those approvals by March, when we will be installing the rest of the system,” said Corbett. “It was easy to get the nature trust to sign off on the installation of sensors.”

Webster said implementation of the project came quickly. She said at the end of July, islanders became serious about raising the

She said it was a busy year for fundraising on the island, with a big art auction being held during the summer to raise money for SILT operations, and another big fundraiser to acquire land on the island.

“I was not really anticipating a third fundraiser this summer, but lo and behold, that’s what happened with the SenseNet initiative.

“We raised $400,000 in donations and pledges in approximately three weeks. People love this island and they want to do whatever they possibly can to protect it. On one of the days, there was a fire on Vancouver Island and islanders could see and even smell it, so the issue was at the forefront.”

Webster said an island-wide survey has revealed that the number one concern on the island was wildfires, followed by water and land issues. She said extensive work has been done regarding island water and land, but this was the first time there has been a joint effort on the island involving fire, partnering with the fire department.

In order to put the SenseNet

project together, a committee was formed, with members of the fire department and organizer Armstrong, Webster from the land trust and a representative from Savary Island Property Owners Association.

“We invited all kinds of people in through the process as we needed more information,” said Webster.

“There are so many experts on the island, so we were able to bring people in who were experts in insurance and in the technical aspects. It was really a community effort bringing together peoples’ expertise and their love of Savary.”

The second phase of the project will see the installation of 60 more sensors and two more cameras, said Corbett.

“The design is such that it covers the whole island, and the cameras will actually pick up fires even on the beaches,” said Corbett. “We don’t want fires on the beaches because there is too much broom on the slopes.”

He added that the fire department is excited about the project, which will provide firefighters the chance to be able to respond faster if there are any wildfire situations

SENSORS: Technicians from North Vancouver company SenseNet, along with Savary

executive director Liz Webster, were involved in installing wildfire detection sensors in 30 locations on the island as part of the first phase of the wildfire detection project. Next spring, another 60 sensors will be installed to provide early warning of wildfires that may occur on the island. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

on the island. He said if a fire is detected, a message gets sent to SenseNet, which has AI-driven software. They are working on patching the system into 911 so the fire department gets immediate notification.

Webster said the system will benefit more than Savary. The cameras being installed off island also cover a broad amount of qathet Regional District landscape.

“We’ll have cameras on

Vancouver Island and over here on the mainland,” said Webster. “The cameras can see 50 kilometres, and they operate 24/7. These are not surveillance cameras, so they are not picking up people or buildings. They are just seeing smoke. So, the cameras we are going to install will cover half, and maybe even three quarters of the regional district, such as the west side of Texada Island and all the way up to Sarah Point. The region is going to ben-

efit from these cameras in a huge way.”

Webster said residents on other islands in the area are now looking into installing the technology on their islands. She said the sensors are unobtrusive, so they won’t spoil the landscape that Savary Islanders love so much. She said when she was taken to an installation, she couldn’t see the sensors to begin with because they are so well camouflaged.

Region lacks shelter space

including rain and snow, extreme cold and high winds, but a space is needed to do so, the release stated.

table structures.

As fall weather sets in and temperatures drop, Lift Community Services is raising alarms about the lack of indoor shelter space for people experiencing homelessness in the qathet community.

According to a media release from Lift, with no date set for the new temporary Barnet Street shelter to open, dozens of individuals may be sleeping outdoors this coming winter.

The 2025 Point-in-Time Homeless Count identified 80 individuals experiencing homelessness locally. The vast majority of these individuals are unsheltered, meaning they are couchsurfing, living out of their car, or sleeping outdoors.

While they await the opening of the new temporary shelter, Lift is preparing to operate an extreme weather response program, which would allow the nonprofit society to operate overnight shelter services in conditions of extreme weather,

“We’ve enquired about the use of city-owned properties and have asked numerous faith groups about using their space,” stated Lift executive director Kim Markel, adding that the society is hoping to find a location that is appropriately zoned so an extreme weather shelter can be mobilized as soon as possible.

“It’s really the bare mini-

“We were blown away by the generosity of our recent warm clothing drive,” stated Markel. “Now, we’re once again asking for the community’s help.

“Homelessness is a public health issue due to its direct impacts on mental wellbeing, physical health and the barriers it creates to accessing care, and it’s time we start treating it as such. If this were a disease outbreak, the community would mobilize emergency resources

If this were a disease outbreak, the community would mobilize emergency resources immediately.”

KIM MARKEL LIFT COMMUNITY SERVICES

mum that our community can offer people experiencing homelessness right now,” added Markel. “It’s alarming to me that there are large, appropriately zoned spaces sitting empty at night while community members will be sleeping outside in the rain and freezing cold.”

As part of its effort to help people stay safe and warm, Lift is hosting a warm gear drive until November 15, seeking donations of threeseason tents, tarps, insulated sleeping bags and por-

immediately. People are suffering, with significant consequences to individuals and the community, and we cannot afford to look away.”

Lift invites anyone with potential space for occasional overnight shelter support to email contact@ liftcommunityservices.org. Donations of warm outdoor gear can be dropped off at Lift’s head office at 4448 Marine Avenue in Powell River, Monday to Friday, 9 am to 3 pm, until November 15.

Otago Nanaimodefeats side

October 25.

VILLA NIGHT

PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com

In what may be the last game in Otago Rugby Club’s 50th year, the local side had an impressive 31-19 win over Nanaimo in a game played at Cranberry Field on

“Otago came through despite being short of some of its quality players,” said Otago spokesperson Jack Beardmore. “We still came out on top of a strong Nanaimo team. Five of their players played first division last year.

“They have stepped back from first division this year, but they were playing at the top tier last season.

You could see it when they were out there, that they had power and were hard runners.”

However, Otago’s response was exceptional, with outstanding tackling and ball support, said Beardmore. He said the coaching staff has been practising and pushing strong defence and taking away the opposition’s run space.

“We did that and it showed,” said Beardmore. “You’re not letting the opposition get that 10-metre run at you, where you’re just getting crushed by them. Nanaimo had some big boys, but Otago was able to come out and win

the game because of our cohesiveness.”

Beardmore said the first half was even and at the whistle, Otago was down 12-7.

“The whole first half was back and forth, and very evenly played, which was reflected by the score,” said Beardmore. “In the second half, our guys came out more; our fitness seemed a little better than the opposition’s. It started to show later in the game when we put those last three trys on them.”

Beardmore said in one particular try, there were about a dozen phases before the ball was carried over the try line.

“The ball was taken and recycled 12 times and put back out,” said Beardmore. “That’s bordering on an international style of recycling, so it was great.

“Nanaimo tried to push back, because we came back strong early in the second half, taking the lead away from them. However, we shut them down and scored before they came back with their final try. We then put three more on them at the end. There was no quit in our guys. Our defence was great and every chance we had to capitalize on offense, Otago took it.”

Beardmore said the club is now going into its winter break. He said the team would like another exhibition game, but as of right now, there will be no more

rugby action until next spring.

“That’s a downer, but with the weather getting colder and wetter, the field gets sloppy and it’s tougher for the guys,” said Beardmore.

Practice, however, will continue. The club meets at Cranberry Field on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 5 to 7 pm, up until December, when they take a break.

Beardmore said everyone, male and female, is welcome to come out to practices and run with the team, whether they have played rugby before or not.

“We’ll teach you the game,”

“I

Beardmore said because of the recently concluded Women’s World Cup of Rugby, where Canada placed second, there is a great deal of interest in women’s rugby.

“I’ve had people coming up and talking to me about that,” said Beardmore. “I was at the golf course and one of the guys said his granddaughter was wanting to play rugby. So yes, we’ve got to get them out.”

Beardmore said over and above the on-field action, there is great social activity at the clubhouse, which is known as the Church of Rugby, because the

was at the golf course and one of the guys said his granddaughter was wanting to play rugby. So yes, we’ve got to get them out.

said Beardmore. “We’re also searching for more women. We have eight right now, and the development I’ve seen in our players is astronomical. They are champing at the bit and want to get some action.”

Beardmore said in the spring, efforts will be made to organize a rugby sevens tournament for the women.

“I’m sure the Comox players would come over because we have a couple of players from here who go to games with Comox,” said Beardmore. “Maybe we can get Nanaimo to come.”

clubhouse was formerly a church.

“It is renowned all over Vancouver Island,” said Beardmore. “It’s a neat thing for a small club like ours to be able to do what we’ve done. It’s pretty amazing. It’s not just about the game. It’s the club that keeps everything going.”

He said with the 50th anniversary celebration, it has been a phenomenal year for Otago Rugby Club. The team won all but two of its games in the past year.

“That was an extra, added bonus,” said Beardmore.

HOCKEY AT THE HAP

Hockey referee heading south for umpire school

Josh Chernoff adds baseball to his officiating resume

Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League (VIJHL) referee Josh Chernoff is adding an umpire’s mask to his uniform stripes.

Chernoff has been officiating as a linesman in the VIJHL since 2016 and recently started refereeing. He also lines BC Hockey League games, and has been given a scholarship by the British Columbia Baseball Umpires Association to attend Wendelstedt Umpire Academy in Florida in January.

“This is a huge opportunity to learn from the best officials in their respective sport,” said Chernoff, who lives in Powell River. “I intend to soak up any knowledge they provide, and bring it back to British Columbia ready for the new season. I also intend to return to the VIJHL and BCHL in February to get ready for the end of the regular season.”

The month-long course will give him an opportunity to work alongside current Triple A and Major League Baseball umpires, and potentially grant him opportunities to officiate higher levels of baseball.

“Our league is all about giving young people an opportunity to grow as individuals and in their skills, which we hope will enable them to reach higher goals in life,” stated VIJHL president Mark MacDonald. “We couldn’t be prouder of Josh and look forward to his bright future.”

Chernoff has been umpiring minor baseball for one season and enjoys it.

“I have taken a lot of what I learned on the ice as a referee, which has made the transition from on-ice officiating to on umpiring very smooth,” he said. “I owe a lot to people such as Brad Lazarowich, Carl Poole, Steven Brown and Matt Williams, to name a few, for making me the official I am

today.

“I also owe everything to my parents, Bill and Tara, who have travelled to my games since I started officiating, putting in countless hours on ferries to and from Powell River, supporting me at the rink and most recently, on the field.”

Chernoff travels to Vancouver Island once a month to work games in the VIJHL, and worked the VIJHL finals as a referee last year.

“Josh is an excellent referee and has shown tremendous dedication to officiating,” stated Carl Poole, the league’s director of officiating and player safety. “He is well regarded as one of the top referees in our league by both his peers and coaches.”

‘Sloppy play’ SUDOKU

N ATUR AL

Regals fall to leagueleading Appollos

was lost during about five minutes of sloppy play in our end of the rink.”

Unable to overcome having 10 regulars missing from the lineup, Powell River Regals dropped a 10-4 decision in Lake Cowichan on October 24.

Bryson Cecconi, Garrett Brandsma, Noah Fladager and Chad Niddery scored for the Regals, who, following a scoreless first period, trailed the Appollos 5-1 after 40 minutes of play. Assists were credited to Cohen Mastrodonato, Niddery, Mason Windsor, Dan Schreurs and Cecconi (two).

“Dieter McIntosh had an epic first period holding Cowichan to no goals,” said Regals’ coach Tod English. “In the second period, they scored three quick goals before we responded with a power play goal by Bryson.”

The next West Coast Senior Hockey League action for Powell River will be at home versus Lake Cowichan, starting at 7 pm on Saturday, November 8. The game will feature a recognition of Powell River Villa to honour the legacy of the soccer club in the community.

Strong start

Powell River Kings ended the month of October on a positive note, coming out on top in a high-scoring BC Hockey League game in Langley on Halloween night.

weekend: 7 pm in Victoria on Friday, November 7, and 5 pm at home on Sunday, November 9.

Positive results

Powell River Villa held Vancouver Island Soccer League Division 2 leaders Cook Street United to a 1-1 draw in Victoria on October 25. Villa held a 1-0 lead after the first half thanks to a goal by Joel Mahey, and a big stop by goalkeeper Emil Valing.

“Just before halftime, Cook Street was awarded a penalty, which was saved brilliantly by Emil,” said Villa manager Chris McDonough.

Midway through the second half, Cook Street was able to break down the Villa defence and score the equalizing goal.

The power play converted again in the third period when Niddery’s goal briefly cut the deficit to 5-2. The home team scored moments later to regain the momentum.

The coach highlighted another positive special teams moment, this time while the Regals were killing a penalty, before commenting on the game in general.

“Garrett, playing defence, went end-to-end and scored a shorthanded goal in the third period,” said English. “Overall it wasn’t the result we were looking for, but having a lot of young and new players in the lineup, the game

Marek Beaudoin’s three goal, one assist performance garnered first star honours for the Kings’ forward. His teammate Chris Battaini scored twice against the Rivermen, including the eventual game winner, which came while the visitors were shorthanded in the third period. Duncan Thompson, Conrado Calderini and Brendan Giles also scored in the 8-5 win.

Momentum did not carry over into November, as Powell River was shut out 8-0 by Surrey Eagles on the first of the month, then suffered a 9-5 defeat on November 2 in Chilliwack to conclude the road trip with a pair of losses. Thompson scored twice for the Kings versus the Chiefs. Jace Harder, Jacob Wingfield and Eliot Compton had the other three goals.

Powell River faces Victoria twice this

“For the final 20 minutes, we were under pressure but the defence held steady and held Cook Street to shots mostly from distance to preserve the tie and earn a difficult point on the road,” added McDonough.

Powell River made it two positive results in a row with a 3-2 home win over Gorge United on November 1. James Timothy scored twice, giving Villa a lead each time, including the game winner at the 82-minute mark, shortly after Gorge had tied the score 2-2. Jake Warner scored the other goal for the home team.

Powell River hosts Saanich at Timberlane Park on Saturday, November 8. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:30 pm.

C ANADIAN

Nurse knits hats for newborns

Unique creations become must-have for families at hospital

TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com

Newborn babies lose a significant amount of heat from their heads once they are born. That's why a hat is immediately placed on a newborn after birth to help stabilize their temperature.

For close to eight years now, qathet General Hospital maternity ward nurse Sarah Klauzer has been knitting creative hats for newborn babies.

"She has made over 1,000 hats; some are orcas, some are octopuses," said qathet General Hospital midwife Elisha Manson. "I’ve heard firsthand from parents that this nurse's effort and generosity has helped them feel more comfortable coming into the hospital, knowing how much she cares and aims to make their experience memorable."

Klauzer told the Peak it's important that babies have hats when they're born and many households receive donations [of hats].

"I'm a little bit of a picky hat person, so I wanted [newborns] to have something really cute, so I started crocheting, with the idea that I would just make them for the babies I delivered," said Klauzer. "I was crocheting hats that had bears, animals and critters on them."

Klauzer's hats were soon in demand, so she started making hats for every baby born at the hospital, not just the ones she was involved in delivering.

"Sometimes I'll do it at work, but most of the time I'm just chilling in the evening, doing it at home."

She said most of the moms/families in town know about her hat-making and, as a result, have made special requests or chosen from the already knitted hats available.

"Sometimes it's like a specific animal or a theme or a vibe," said Klauzer. "I take their vision and create them something special; it's become something so nice, and people love it. They have something special for the baby, and I think it should be special."

She said she keeps a stash of knitted hats around with her at work, ranging from flamingos, frogs, kolas, crocodiles and bears.

"I've done all the baby hats since then, so that was over seven years ago,” said Klauzer.

"Every once in a while, I'll run into people in a community and the babies are wearing their hats," said Klauzer. "I think, being that we're a small town, we should just keep things special."

COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTION: Everybody Deserves A Smile volunteers hold some of the 500 decorated kindness bags that are distributed to vulnerable people in qathet region. Along with the hand-painted bags, recipients receive greeting cards and all kinds of useful contents. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Kindness bag distribution resuming

Everybody Deserves A Smile reaching out to the community to help with kindness bags

Everybody Deserves A Smile (EDAS) qathet will be launching its seventh campaign at Max Cameron Theatre on November 12.

In partnership with Henderson Elementary School, EDAS qathet is a nonprofit organization, which began in the qathet region in 2019, that distributes kindness bags to vulnerable people in the community.

Henderson Elementary, fondly known as the little school with a big heart, where the campaign began, has inspired other schools to join the EDAS project over the past six years, according to a media release.

Westview Elementary, Kelly Creek Community School, James Thomson Elementary, and Edgehill Elementary will all participate in the 2025 EDAS qathet project, with a goal of packag-

ing and distributing 500 kindness bags throughout the region. This entire group of committed youth and teachers will help create EDAS hand-painted bags and greeting cards.

The release stated that the Brooks Secondary School Interact Club continues in a supporting role to help ensure any gaps are filled with willing, service-focused enthusiasm, while foods classes at Brook Secondary School will help bake 2,000 cookies. École Côte-du-Soleil students and local community groups will assist with cookie decorating.

EDAS qathet is gearing up for its seventh year of offering bags filled with a homemade card, baked cookies, warm accessories and toiletries to bring smiles to those who receive these heartfelt offerings. The number of kindness bags has grown from 100 in 2019 to 540 in 2024.

These kindness bags are the culmination of an intentional program that is offered to school students, aimed at developing an understanding and empathy for those who are vulnerable in this

community, the release stated. It empowers elementary students through education, action and offering the opportunity for youth social leadership that results in a realization that the students can make a difference.

EDAS qathet cannot make this project a reality without the continued support of the community, and is currently looking for donations of new neck warmers/scarves, hats, gloves, wool socks, large print word search books, adult hygiene wipes and toiletries. These donations will be received at all qathet School District schools, as well as the Knitter’s Nest and Taste of Heaven G&K in the Townsite Market, and Powell River Public Library, between November 12 and December 10.

“We accept cash donations by cheque made out to EDAS qathet, or e-transfer to qathet@edas.ca,” the release stated. All items collected and funds raised stay local.

Follow EDAS on Facebook and Instagram @edaspowerfullove. The website is edas.ca.

who served and

On the Vancity and First Credit Union Merger

The merger between Vancity and First Credit Union (FCU) will be a catastrophic financial venture for all of our members; it would also end any independence that we presently have in how our assets are managed.

On a strictly financial basis, there is absolutely zero short or long-term advantage to this scheme, especially when one “looks under the hood” to determine which partner actually needs the other. In recent years, many regional banks and large-scale credit unions have been significantly exposed to higher risk portfolios such as Commercial Real Estate (CRE), where millions of dollars are hemorrhaged yearly due to the steep decline of in-store consumer purchasing.

If it was over-leveraged in certain portfolios such as CRE, Vancity would desperately need to find a financial “band-aid” to staunch the bleeding. Could this be the reason why a merger with First Credit Union is on the table? FCU, on the other hand, has an incredibly robust and diverse financial base that will be sustainable for generations, if it is guided properly.

Sparing the reader an entire litany of financial issues that should concern FCU members regarding the potential merger, I will discuss a noteworthy initiative in which Vancity is an active participant. The Canadian Government is presently pushing a new global model called “Open Banking,” whereby financial tech companies and so-called “Neo-Banks” will become the daily banking and loans hubs for the common everyday person.

These are giant digital banking agglomerations that are interwoven across continents and corporations, primarily directed by AI. It is a fully automated system of machine-driven financialization where clients are mere economic units, and the human component is almost nonexistent. All apps and features for your digital banking would require links to social media accounts, and your private information will be integrated into the Cloud, which surely goes against the original notions of what a locally-centred credit union should be.

Only the large shareholders know what is going on at any moment, and everyone else is just holding the bag. Vancity has publicly stated that it wants to fully integrate with this digital financial web, where billion dollar tech firms control your personal information and your money.

Another cause for deep concern is Vancity’s set of organizational values, where words such as “equity” and “net-zero” are often stated on their website. These slogans merely operate as cover for undesignated funds that redirect member assets into initiatives that have nothing to do with the primary directive of a financial institution: the protection and growth of a client’s hard-earned money.

The need for Vancity to absorb sound, locally-driven credit unions such as ours in Powell River is part of a growing trend towards globalized financialization, and away from community-based economies. In this scenario, the accounts of First Credit Union members will become dashes on a digital screen, without the human element we now share in a smaller, traditional financial umbrella, and where we still have a true stake in our own future investments and growth.

If this merger goes through, we will lose all of that, and much, much more.

Schedule of eventS • tueSday, november 11

Hall)

9:30 am Bus leaves the Legion to take veterans to parade area

9:50 am Parade Fall In (foot of Arbutus Avenue, west end of Walnut Street)

9:50 am March on the Colours

9:55 am Parade marches off to Dwight Hall

10:10 am Service begins March in the Colours

“O Canada”

Colours are deposited into flag stands Service

At Dwight Hall At Cenotaph

Colours are retrieved

10:56 am “O Canada” “Last Post”

Two Minute Silence “Lament” “Rouse”

The Act of Remembrance Commitment to Remember Prayers

Recognition of members of the armed forces from Powell River who lost

“God Save the King” Colours leave the hall

Parade will form up in two ranks outside the hall

10:50 am Parade marches to the Cenotaph

their lives during WWI and WWII Placing of Official Wreaths

“God Save the King”

March Past

Parade will form up on the street in three ranks

March Past

Salute to the Veterans Parade dismissed

Lunch and entertainment at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 164 hall to follow.

SCENE

AROUNDTOWN

Moment of reflection

Royal Canadian Legion Branch 164 hosted its candlelight tribute at Powell River Regional Cemetery in late September. The annual event included a parade into the cemetery in Cranberry, a service at the veterans’ memorial and candles being lit at grave sites of veterans by family members and cadets. The goal is to pay respects to those who served and ensure every veteran is remembered.

Looking for something fun after school or on the weekend?

TO BOOK YOUR AD »

Brent Charles Christopher Gooding

Februay 19, 1958October 3,2025

Brent, aka Julio, was born at St. Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver and passed away peacefully, on the morning of October 3, at the hospital in Powell River.

Brent was predeceased by his brother Aaron, father Christopher and good friends Mike and Randy. He is survived and missed by his loving mother Lenora Arenson, partner Christine Dixon, many friends and his brothers the Stick Boys.

A celebration of life will be held at Lang Bay Hall, November 15, from 1 to 4 pm. All are welcome. Please come and share your memories.

Joseph Thomas Rowell

January 25, 1953 - October 19, 2025

On October 19, 2025, we lost one of the good ones. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joseph (Joe) Thomas Rowell.

Joe passed away with his work boots on, which, if you knew him, was exactly how he would have wanted it. He leaves behind his adored daughter Cloe, his partner Gunilla, along with her children and grandchildren, his sister Carol and niece Jane, his stepchildren Todd (Shayla) and Cheryl (Dave), his step-grandchildren Justin and Russell, his chosen sons Dan and Brandon, and his loyal four-legged companion Boomer. He was predeceased by his father Richard, his mother Phyllis and his brother Keith.

Joe was born, raised and lived a full life in Powell River. Always “doing stuff,” he was never one to sit still. From a young age, growing up in the Richmond Street neighbourhood, he was playing with Briggs & Stratton motors and Studebakers. This led to a lifetime of making things work: stock cars, boats, heavy equipment and more Studebakers.

Joe had a deep love for animals and cared for many cats and dogs over the years, often preferring their company over that of other people. When he wasn’t out working or “tinkering away” in his car shop, you could find him sharing stories with friends, enjoying a famous Powell River sunset from his front porch, or reading in the comfort of his recliner.

Please remember to reach out to old friends and hug those you love a little tighter. Our time here is precious.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Harry Hearnden

April 2, 1951 – October 5, 2025

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend and so much more, Harry Hearnden.

A celebration of life will be held on November 8 from 1 to 4 pm at the Powell River Lawn Bowling Club (5714 Marine Avenue). Come for a bowl of clam chowder, one of Harry’s favourite foods, made by his son.

We hope that you can join us in celebrating the full life of Harry Hearnden and share stories and happy memories with us.

Peter Conedera

November 11, 2004

Forever missing you

Your daughter Karren and family, David, Tiffany, Skyler, Chelby, Sofia and Delilah Thickett

Remembering cousin Louis Dallo November 11, 2004

May you rest in peace

Thank you for supporting the good work of qathet’s local charities! For more information & to donate: prcommunity foundation.com

BUDGET MEETINGS

The qathet Regional District will meet to consider the proposed 2026 budget and 2026-2030 Financial Plan at the Finance Committee meetings between December 2025 and March 2026.

The qathet Regional Hospital District will meet to consider the proposed 2026 budget at the Regional Hospital District meetings between December 2025 and March 2026. Meeting dates and times can be viewed on the Regional District website at qathet.ca.

For more information, please contact Linda Greenan, General Manager of Financial Administration – Chief Financial Officer at finance@qathet.ca or call 604-485-2260.

NEED SOME OLD PAPERS FOR WOOD FIRES, CRAFTING, ANIMALS, OR YOUR GARDEN?

November 27, 2025 at 7:00 pm qathet General Hospital 3rd Floor Public cordially invited

• 604-485-6994

• 604-223-1270

• 604-414-5232 (Texada)

Meetings

FRIDAYS, 7:30 to 8:30 pm qathet General Hospital, third floor SUNDAYS, 8 to 9 pm Union Hall, 5814 Ash Ave

Come by the Peak office to grab a bundle or two. Our newspapers are printed with vegetable- based inks. We are at:

Your donation “In Memory” will enhance health care in the Powell River area.

Please support Powell River Hospital Foundation. prhospitalfoundation.com 604.485.3211 ext 4349

TERMS

>> CITY JOBS

Join TPID Ex teriors, aleaderinexteriorenvelope work,and become avaluedpar tofour team. We areactivelyhiringexperienced carpenters,roofers, and labourersfor consistent year-round work.Our focusonroofing andsidingprojectsensures asteadyworkload. We arededicated to our employees’professionalgrowth, offeringcompetitive, merit-basedwages anda suppor tive environmentwhere youcan build your sk ills andadvance your career.Ifyou are amotivated andskilled professionalseek inga stable and rewardingopportunity,weinviteyou to apply. If interested,pleaseemail taras@tpiandd.com or call Taras 604.208.4025

AGTHA, AMELIE, MYSTIQUE, MOONPIE, MERLIN, DIZZY, MORTY, AND MORTICIA

Take one, take two, hard to choose

BOO

Black and white sweetheart, calm, loving young, female cat

LUNA

Sweet, petite pretty, female feline

SADIE AND LUCY

Double the love, young super sister felines

SAILOR

Pretty, young, female cat with super silky fur

SIREN

Super sweet senior lady, Formosan Mountain dog mix

HARVIE

Handsome, male feline, also the king of loafing

SASHIMI

Super sweet kitten, this boy is a super star

BECKIE

Young black and white cat, female feline royalty

BOO

CITY OF POWELL RIVER NOTICE

The Council of the City of Powell River hereby gives notice that it intends to consider first and second reading of City of Powell River Sustainable Official Community Plan 2370, 2014, Amendment Bylaw 2783, 2025 at its November 6, 2025, meeting in Council Chambers of City Hall, 6910 Duncan Street, Powell River, BC.

As proposed, Amendment Bylaw 2783 is intended to accommodate the City’s 20-year housing need as required under Section 473.1 of the Local Government Act that requires a local government to align its official community plan with the findings from the most recent housing needs report received.

The complete staff report may be downloaded from www. participatepr.ca along with contact information on how to engage with City staff with any inquiries. Alternatively, you may reach the Planning Services Department directly at (604) 485-8650 or in-person at City Hall, 6910 Duncan Street, Powell River, BC, V8A 1V4.

Jason Gow Director of Planning Services

CITY OF POWELL RIVER

Volunteer Applications Invited for Municipal Appointments to the Powell River Library Board

Black and white sweetheart, calm, loving female cat

JELLYBEAN AND JUNIOR MINT

Check out our super cute kittens, best deal in town

SOPHIE

Quiet, pretty, snuggling guinea pig seeking matching humans

BOO-BOO

Green eyed, mature, pretty, friendly, black cat-welcomes visitors

LENORA

Gorgeous, lucky black feline, super senior seeking her matching super senior human

FRANK SINATRA, AND ELVIS

Sweet n playful, cute overload, Corso/Mastiff mix puppies

MAVIS

Stunning, sweet, kid-loving, four-year-old Mastiff mix

OREO

Affectionate white and black stunner, this young boy needs a new family

The City of Powell River is inviting applications from interested individuals to serve as a Trustee of the Powell River Public Library Board ("Board"). There are two positions available starting January 1, 2026, each for a two-year term.

The Board sets policy and provides overall direction of library services, in accordance with Part 2 of the Library Act. Board members serve without remuneration and are expected to attend monthly meetings and to share in Board activities and responsibilities.

Applicants must be a resident or elector of the City of Powell River. Employees of the City of Powell River, the qathet Regional District, or the Library are not eligible to apply.

Interested individuals are invited to submit a letter describing their interest in serving on the Library Board. The letter should include references and any particular interests, work experience (volunteer or paid), and other qualifications relevant to the position.

Applications may be submitted by mail or e-mail to: City of Powell River

Attention: Jessica Walls, Deputy Corporate Officer 6910 Duncan Street Powell River, BC V8A 1V4 jwalls@powellriver.ca

Applications must be received by 4:00 pm on Thursday, November 12, 2025.

For further information about the Library, please contact the Chief Librarian, Rebecca Burbank, at RBurbank@prpl.ca or 604-485-4796, ext. 202.

For further information about the appointment process, please contact City Hall at 604.485.6291 or info@powellriver.ca.

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