Powell River Living November 2016 by Sean Percy

The Helping Issue

FREE NOVEMBER 2016

LOCAL BOYS IN WWI • PYRENEES HIKE • LUST LIST • PLAN YOUR HOLIDAYS

POWELL RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

BUSINESS AWARDS NO M I NAT I O N FO RM

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES OF THE YEAR

This accredited business must exemplify innovation, professionalism and integrity. This category is limited to the professional company, not the individual employee or contractor.

HOME-BASED BUSINESS AWARD

A home-operated business that consistently shows excellence and quality in service and/or merchandise.

A retail business that provides its customers with consistent excellence in service that goes beyond customer expectations. It also encourages its staff to meet the changing customer needs and stands behind its products or service with minimum customer inconvenience.

BUSINESS NAME

OWNER/MANAGER/CONTACT NAME

NEW BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

A business operating for not less than 1 year and not more than 2 years that has gained an expanding positive reputation.

SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

A business with under 10 employees that has demonstrated superior quality in all aspects of business operation and shows a commitment to the community through its involvement.

CUSTOMER SERVICE - HOSPITALITY

A hospitality business that has consistently provided its customers with excellent service that goes beyond customer expectations. It also encourages its staff to meet the changing customer needs and stands behind its product or service with minimum customer inconvenience.

BUSINESS NAME

OWNER/MANAGER/CONTACT NAME

LARGE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

A business with over 10 employees that has demonstrated superior quality in all aspects of business operation and shows a commitment to the community through its involvement.

ENTREPRENEUR(S) OF THE YEAR

A person(s) who has the unique skills and exceptional initiative to assume the risk of establishing a business, which has been open for at least 12 months. Submissions for this award should be for one person or a maximum of two equal partners.

AGRICULTURAL AWARD

This business has distinguished itself and shown leadership by promoting the betterment of agriculture in our city. This award will be presented to an agriculture-related business who has made outstanding contributions in the advancement of agriculture.

BUSINESS NAME

OWNER/MANAGER/CONTACT NAME

TOURISM AWARD

This business has demonstrated a superior ability to satisfy visitors’ expectations through their services and/or products. This business provides and promotes an outstanding visitor experience and actively encourages the growth of Powell River & Area as a destination.

ABORIGINAL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

This award goes to a business that is Aboriginal owned and operated in the Powell River region. The business shows leadership and dedication to the preservation of its cultural values and identity and creates positive growth within the community.

NOT FOR PROFIT EXCELLENCE AWARD

A not-for-profit organization that has recognized a need within our community and who through community responsibility, innovation, growth, sound business practices and community partnerships has served our community with vision and integrity.

BUSINESS NAME

OWNER/MANAGER/CONTACT NAME

FORESTRY SECTOR AWARD

This business shows excellence and innovation in communications and sustainability in forestry, forest management or forestrelated industry by going beyond legislative requirements and wisely balancing the economic, social and environmental values of our forests.

EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR

A business owner or manager who creates a positive, fair, and supportive environment for all employees, while maintaining and even exceeding employment standards and safety policies. This employer models integrity and excellent communication skills. (Nominations must be accompanied by comments as to why this employer deserves this award.)

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

A business that has been in operation for more than 5 years and has consistently offered outstanding service and/or product to its customers, and displays a strong commitment to community involvement. A business that contributes to the social, recreational, cultural and overall well-being of the community. (Nominations must be accompanied by comments as to why this business deserves this award.)

BUSINESS NAME

OWNER/MANAGER/CONTACT NAME

Enter only one business per category. Duplicate nomination forms for the same business are not necessary. All entries will be submitted to a judging panel for final decision. Deadline for nominations is Friday Jan 20, 2017. All businesses must have been operating for a minimum of 12 months to be considered for a nomination. Mail or drop off your completed nomination form to Powell River Chamber of Commerce 6807 Wharf Street, V8A 1T9. Or enter online at powellriverchamber.com

CUSTOMER SERVICE - RETAIL

Your name:

Phone #:

• november 2016 • prliving.ca

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AN EASIER WAY TO COLLECT YOUR CANADIAN TIRE ‘MONEY’ POWELL RIVER LIVING • november 2016 • 3

CONTENTS NOVEMBER 2016 Why so much poverty?

How to Help

New affordable homes

Jobs, transit, welfare rates and more

Season of giving

Coming soon for seniors

Oops!

In last months issue, we ran JP Brosseau’s painting upside-down. This is the correct version. His 40 Knots anti-bullying bubbly launched here October 22.

Pull tabs fundrasing

Dressed with Dignity

For King and Country

Pyrenees Escape

I Made the Move

Above our Weight Class

Healing through Helping

Beauty School Drop-In

A project to buy wheelchairs

Sisters clothe local kids

Local boys in WWI

Powell River Living is a member of:

Behrs retrace perilous WWII journey

This magazine is supported entirely by our advertisers. We encourage you to choose the businesses that you see in these pages. We do.

Boomerang is back

Local Karate champs go to Worlds Publisher & Managing Editor

Isabelle Southcott isabelle@prliving.ca

Associate Publisher & Sales Manager

Sean Percy sean@prliving.ca Editor & Graphics

Pieta Woolley pieta@prliving.ca Sales & Marketing

Suzi Wiebe suzi@prliving.ca Accounts Receivable

Lauri Percy lauri@prliving.ca

Widow counsels through grief

Free dos for seniors

What’s Up

Chamber Business Awards

Business Connections

November Events

Refugee update

Vote today!

Management moves

Live theatre takes centre stage

Events What’s Up Vinyl Flip

Plan Your November Craft Fair clip-out

ON THE COVER PRL’s second annual Helping Issue cover features the hands of Larry Gerow. Homeless for years, Larry now works with The Salvation Army helping others. He’s coordinating this season’s Kettle Campaign.

Photo by Pieta Woolley

• november 2016 • prliving.ca

32 34

Take a Break

Lust List

Hanged Man and Helping Hands

What you need for Christmas

Last Word Affluenza attacks

CONTRIBUTORS CAROLEANN

LEISHMAN

is a City Councillor and member of the Sunset Homes Society who is working hard to try to create affordable housing in Powell River. She has worked in film and theatre, but currently works as an architectural designer, project manager and Built Green® builder.

DEB CALDERON is a retired educator, proud vegan and loves meeting new people. Like many residents, she’s a boomerang. After living here in the late 1970s, she moved away, then returned to Powell River eight years ago. She loves everything this community has to offer.

BARBARA ANN LAMBERT

has lived in Powell River since 1968. Barbara Ann’s career has covered three decades of teaching for School District 47, and since retiring, researching and publishing local history books. Her seventh book Homesteading & Stump Farming on the West Coast 1880-1930 was published in November 2015. This book has won two awards: B.C. Genealogical Society, Family History Book Award: second prize 2015 , and an Honourable Mention in the B.C. History Federation book awards 2015.

PETER & MARGARET BEHR

own Behrs’ Massage Therapy Clinic. They have been devoted to caring for their patients with massage therapy for over 36 years. PETER is an ardent hiker in Powell River’s beautiful back country mountains, and he recently did a memorial hike over the Pyrenees Mountains in Europe with his son. MARGARET has had an almost lifelong love affair with writing, and was active as a poet in the local Malaspina Writers’ Association for many years.

LINDA WEGNER owns Words of Worth and is a professional writer and speaker whose work continues to appear in a number of business and agricultural magazines as well as rural weekly newspapers. She’s on the board of directors of the Powell River Chamber of Commerce, among her many volunteer activities. Remember to make your clocks fall back on Nov 6

Correction:

In our story on Powell River’s oldest businesses in last month’s issue, we incorrectly reported on the current owners of City Motors. Rob (not Scott) and Julie Mastrodonato took over the business in 2014. We apologize for the error.

Volume 11, Number 11

We welcome feedback from our readers. Email your comments to isabelle@prliving.ca, or mail to Powell River Living, 7053E Glacier Street, Powell River, BC V8A 5J7 Tel 604.485.0003 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. © 2016 Southcott Communications. We reserve the right to refuse any submission or advertisement.

ISSN 1718-8601

Powell River Living is 100% locally owned and operated by:

Complete issues are available online at:

www.prliving.ca

PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

Helping with humility, receiving with dignity

elp. We all need it at some point in our lives. Receiving help can be a humbling experience, but when we need help, we’re grateful it’s there. Like the boater throwing out a lifeline to the sinking swimmer, that lifeline is a saviour. Sometimes that lifeline comes in the form of food; sometimes it’s clothes or a helping hand. Think of a time when you needed help. Did you let someone know you were struggling? Did someone give you a hand to help you through a particularly difficult time in your life? Hopefully, you were helped and if so, you’ve probably been moved to help others. We all know how good it feels to help someone else. There is no way you can help everyone. But there is a way you can help someone. Just like the starfish story. In that story, a man walking along a deserted beach saw

a young boy throwing starfish one by one back in the ocean. He asked the boy what he was doing. “Throwing starfish back into the ocean,” the boy replied. “Why?” asked the old man. “Because they will die if I don’t,” replied the boy. “But there are hundreds of starfish and miles of beach,” said the old man. “You can’t possibly make a difference. You can’t save them all.” The young boy listened politely before throwing another starfish back in the ocean. “It made a difference to that one,” he replied. The original story, by Loren C. Eiseley, is about helping. This issue of Powell River Living is also about helping. It’s the issue that looks at some of problems facing this community’s most vulnerable and struggling people and what is being done to help them.

Powell River Living’s Pieta Woolley’s story on Page 6 is about poverty and why it is persistent in Powell River. Other stories, like the Friends of Powell River story on Page 15, tells us that kids are coming to school hungry because they don’t get enough to eat at home. Because of this, two women started Friends in order to help feed hungry kids and buy them the clothes they needed to stay warm, dry and comfortable. Deb Calderon’s story on Page 25, looking at how a super senior gives back, shows that you’re never too old to help others. Not sure where to start helping? Read through this issue of the magazine and be inspired to get involved.

ISABELLE SOUTHCOTT | isabelle@prliving.ca

POWELL RIVER LIVING • november 2016 •

Why? The poor are always with us.

BY PIETA WOOLLEY | pieta@prliving.ca

Poverty sucks. Sandy* can tell you about it. She is a single mom with two kids aged five and six, who lives in Westview, on social assistance.

“[The Food Bank] was supposed to be a stop-gap. But it’s still here. We’ve never recovered.” – Maggie Hathaway

Her shoes represent how her 2016 is going, so far. Three years ago, Sandy’s now ex-husband bought them for her as a Mother’s Day gift– a pair of soft hikers. She’s worn them every day since then. They look ratty, which she doesn’t mind. Holes in the bottom and along the side seams, however, mean they let in the puddles. Her feet are damp most of the winter. Her hips hurt. And new shoes for herself are not a priority right now. Though she has persistent depression and anxiety, between all the services Powell River pulls together, Sandy makes it work. Her kids have enough to eat, winter coats, good shoes, and a mom with enough time to care for them. School pictures? Not in the budget. A bus pass? Not this month. Sandy really appreciates the support of agencies such as Family Place and the Salvation Army. But the former care aid would like to get back to work, and get out of poverty. “When it gets to the end of the month, I start wondering, ‘What’s our next meal going to be?’” she said. “It’s why we have a drug situation. People get overwhelmed with their circumstances and they need a way out.” When I interviewed Sandy in the mall, she had $7 in her wallet. It had to last for six days. Over the next two months, you’ll probably help Sandy and other folks who live with low incomes, if you give to one of Powell River’s many charities that raise money over the holidays (see Page 10 for a round-up). This season is a crucial time for agencies. These are the groups that have emerged to help fill the void left by the provincial government social safety net: social assistance payments are just $610 a month (for “employable” singles) and disability payments $906. The minimum wage is $10.85 an hour, or $1,880 a month, minus taxes, assumContinues on Page 8 * Sandy’s name has been changed to protect her privacy.

• november 2016 • prliving.ca

BARE / NOT BARE: Soups, stews and beans are favourites at the Salvation Army pantry on Joyce Avenue. With its annual Kettle Campaign starting November 14, the agency is

THE TROUBLE WITH STATS Finding good data that reveals poverty is next to impossible. So says Kevin Wilson, who coordinated the 2015 Vital Signs report. Even when you do find facts, he said, they can be difficult to interpret. For example, Kevin is technically “low income,” by Statistics Canada’s measure. But he and his partner live as they do by choice – and they have a “fine lifestyle.” They own their own home, grow much of their own food, and take the bus or walk rather than own cars. “I have no idea what percentage of the population here is ‘poor’ by choice,” said Kevin, referring to the idea that some young professional families and young-ish retirees are moving to Powell River to live simply. Existing income and poverty statistics don’t shed much light on the complex relationship between a family’s income and their access to decent food, housing, transportation, and other necessities. For example, the lifestyle of a family earning $30,000 a year can vary widely. Is this a retired couple with no dependants, living in a house they own? Is this a young family with two kids under five, living in a $1,200-a-month rental and unable to afford fresh fruit through the winter? Even without much interpretation, though, the following statistics are worth contemplating.

hoping to raise enough money to support its local Christmas programs this year (see Page 10 for how to help). Capt. BJ Loder (below) notes demand is up, and steady.

HOW MUCH POVERTY IS THERE IN POWELL RIVER? DEPENDS ON HOW YOU DEFINE “POVERTY.” BUT HERE ARE SOME CLUES:

INDIVIDUALS

LOW INCOME

About one third of Powell River adults earn $15,000 or less a year, before taxes (these will include young people still in school, caregivers not in the workforce, and some retirees as well as low-wage earners). About one third earns between $15,000 and $40,000 About one third earns $40,000 and up. Over half of Powell River adults earn less than $30,000 a year Powell River’s “Living Wage” is $ $38,766 a year. Nearly twothirds of Powell River adults’ incomes are less than that.

About 1,000 people who live in the City of Powell River (not outlying areas) receive social assistance or disability assistance – including about 200 children. That’s one in 13 of us. One in six Powell River residents’ incomes falls below Statistics Canada’s low-income measure (16.3 percent) – defined as half of the median income, adjusted for the local price of household needs, in the community. One in five children and youth live in low-income families (20.7) One in three children under six is low-income (30.1) One in 10 seniors is considered low-income (9.3) In PRRD Electoral Area D (Texada) and B (Paradise Valley to Whalen Rd), one in four residents is low-income In comparison, other municipalities’ low-income numbers vary: Gibsons (17.2 percent); District of Sechelt (9.2); Campbell River (17.8); Courtenay (18.5).; Powell River (16.3). These stats are useful but imperfect, as the regional boundaries of what is being described change. Also, they are five years old. New stats will be available by mid 2017. All numbers are taken from Data BC, the National Household Survey income deciles report by Statistics Canada and the BC Thematic Map for 2011, low-income. The Living Wage was calculated using the “Living Wage for Families” provincial calculator.

HOUSEHOLDS About one third of Powell River households have an income of $40,000 or less About one third has an income between $40,000 and $80,000 Another third has an income of $80,000+ About one in 20 Powell River households earns $150,000 or more. About one in 20 households earns $15,000 or less.

POWELL RIVER LIVING • november 2016 •

ing you can find full-time work. Simply put, the agencies are serving a city where one third of adults bring in less than $15,000 a year – and fewer than half earn the “living wage.” (See sidebar: How much poverty is there in Powell River?) Like elsewhere, due to a crisis, Powell River’s City Council is diving into affordable housing – once the domain of the federal and provincial governments. Helping each other is honourable. It’s necessary, as a caring community. But so is asking the question: why is there so much poverty in Powell River? How did we get here?

Why there’s poverty here

AFFORDABLE HOUSING: MP Rachel Blaney says Trudeau has an immediate responsibility to reinstate the Federal housing program which was axed in 1993.

8 th Annual

Salvation Army Capt. BJ Loder arrived in Powell River three years ago from Flin Flon, Manitoba. In that relatively wealthy community, he said, most social problems are hidden. Flin Flon is home to the HudBay copper and zinc mine, which employs about 30 percent of working-age adults. Median household income in Flin Flon is a whopping $69,264, compared to $50,850 in the City of Powell River. Here on the coast, BJ says, people start lining up for food as early as 8 am some days. The doors don’t open for lunch til noon. “It used to slow down here in the summer,” he explained. “Now it’s just steady. There are constantly people in need.” Why is there so much poverty? Low-cost housing has dried up, explained BJ, putting pressure on alreadystrained budgets. Produce prices mean many locals can no longer afford healthy meals. Some people are stuck in costly addictions in part because there is no local detox centre. The scene BJ describes is very different from when

Maggie Hathaway first moved here in 1979, to start a secretarial service. At the time, the region was booming – even more than Flin Flon is today. Townsite’s pulp and paper mill employed 3,000 people at stable, flush union wages. “All the kids in high school were driving fancy cars from their summer earnings at the mill,” she recalled. “It was the funniest thing – walking down Marine Avenue and these little stores were just open a couple of days a week, because they brought in enough money during those two days!” Now, Maggie is MLA Nick Simon’s constituency assistant and a city councillor. As constituency assistant, she helps people who are falling through the cracks. As city councillor, she lobbies for a better future for the region. “I remember when the Labour Council started the Food Bank back in the early 1980s during the recession. It was supposed to be a stop-gap. But it’s still here. We’ve never recovered. Fundamentally, people should have enough money that they don’t need to use the food bank.” Aside from employment losses in the resource sector – a reality throughout coastal BC – she blames in part the provincial government (BC Liberals) for cutbacks. In 2002 these cutbacks included the privatization of hospital food and cleaning services. Dozens of local workers’ incomes were cut in half. Legal Aid, where Maggie worked, had their doors closed. More liveable wage jobs gone. Plus, she points to stagnant income assistance amounts and a floundering minimum wage – both provincial responsibilities. Powell River has poverty in part, Maggie said, because the town’s big economic engine – the mill – has constricted as an employer, and the high-wage jobs

Gingerbread Contest! Food Scraps & Yard Waste Pilot Project on Now!

Drop-off at Town Centre Recycling Depot.

Contest entries can be any type of gingerbread structure, object, or vehicle. All entries must be primarily made from gingerbread, with edible decorations. Categories for children and adults! Entries must be brought to the hotel lobby from December 1st – 3rd, and will be on display until the end of December.

• november 2016 • prliving.ca

OW ITE le. s o of a r ll . D.

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haven’t been replaced with another industry. She’s hoping the city’s two-pronged approach will yield results: economic development, such as Sino Bright and the Medical Marijuana facility, and affordable housing. She also recognizes the excellent work the PREP Society and VIU offered in the Powell River Social Policy Report, released in September 2016. Mayor Dave Formosa noted correctly that Powell River doesn’t have more poverty than anywhere else. And he is working hard to bring family-supporting jobs to Powell River. The latest one in the works is a company that makes presto-logs from forest industry waste – a solid value-added industry in sync with the region’s existing businesses. “A good job is the way out of poverty,” he said, explaining why he’s pursuing aquaculture development among other projects. Industry, he says, pays familysupporting paycheques and the bulk of property taxes. Formosa is also outraged that governments have failed to raise social assistance rates. For a single person, they’re stuck at $610 a month. When Powell River’s economic engine was at peak performance, Dave recalls, the paper mill, the forest, fisheries and three Texada mines all employed vast numbers of locals. Convincing the Catalyst mill to stay open here kept 400 direct jobs at $75,000 each plus at least that many indirect jobs. Convincing many more small industries to open here or relocate here is the meat of Dave’s poverty-reduction plan. MP Rachel Blaney is hopeful the federal Liberals will address at least some poverty-causing issues. “Government needs to take immediate action on affordable housing and seniors,” she said. “All of our elders deserve to live out their lives in dignity. Right now, too

many struggle to do so; living in poverty and without access to the services they need.” She suggests fixing the ‘middle class tax cut’ to benefit lower income Canadians. A new affordable housing program is likely coming soon. Don’t hold your breath, she said, for a guaranteed income. Beware of the Pacific Partnership which may erode thousands of Canadian jobs. Trudeau is talking about a jobs plan, Rachel says, but “where is the real investment in clean, green jobs?” In other words, Ottawa is working on it – but don’t wait for Trudeau to personally fix coastal poverty.

One small step, perhaps

Meanwhile, Sandy has a practical Christmas wish to help her and her children transition out of poverty: better transit. For the months she can’t afford a pass, taking the bus with her children round-trip anywhere costs $12 (at $2 each, each way). With an adult with a monthly pass, children ride free. Transit fares are an enormous barrier, she said, to working and searching for work. Not just for herself, but for everyone she knows with lower incomes. Interestingly, most of the cost of running buses in the Powell River region don’t come from fare-payers such as Sandy. Rather, 78 percent of the $1.3 million budget comes from governments: provincial and local, according to numbers obtained by email from BC Transit. Based on the 2015-16 numbers, it would cost $283,000 a year to give all locals access to free transit – a simple poverty-reduction strategy that’s been floated in other Canadian municipalities. “People here in Powell River are very supportive,” she said. “But I don’t want to rely on their charity.”

WORKING IT: Nothing solves poverty like a good job, says the City of Powell River’s Mayor Dave Formosa. Here, he shows samples of presto-logs. A company that makes them hopes to open a factory here.

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How to help

Inspired to reach out? This season offers plenty of opportunities. Poppy campaign

The Legion is selling poppies until November 10 to raise money to support veterans and their families when they are in need, as well as other community projects. Poppies are by-donation.

Food Bank Swim

The Food Bank Swim has been a staple at the Recreation Complex for over 20 years. Swimmers who attend our Friday Night Everyone Welcome Swim on November 25, 7–9 pm, will receive free admission with a donation of a non-perishable food item. Each year the pool has been able to donate over 200 food items to support the Food Bank. - Melissa Furlotte

Gingerbread Contest

8th Annual Town Centre Hotel Gingerbread Contest This popular event is open to both adults and children. Entries are welcome from individuals, groups, or businesses. Creativity and imagination is encouraged. Your entry must be made primarily of gingerbread, with edible decoration. Bring entries to the Town Centre Hotel between December 1st and 3rd. They will be on display at the hotel throughout December. For a small donation, the public can vote on their favourite structure. Prizes will be awarded based on the public’s votes. All proceeds will be donated to the

Firefighters’ Burn Fund. For information call Shelley Halliday at 604-4853000 - Shelley Halliday

Christmas Cheer toys & hampers

The Powell River & District Christmas Cheer Committee needs your help to make a difference in the lives of many this Christmas! The committee has been providing hampers and toys for needy families in the area since 1948 and helps around 250 families each year. The Christmas Cheer committee relies entirely on donations from the community. With more money and help, even more could be done. The committee is in need of new toy and food donations and cash donations to purchase food and toys. You can help by donating money, adopting a family, or purchasing gifts. Groups and people can sign up for the Adopt-A-Family program in which they take over the responsibility of purchasing Christmas dinner groceries and gifts for members of a selected family. If you would like to purchase a toy, you can pick up a tag from the Christmas Cheer tree at Walmart or First Insurance. For those who require a hamper this year, please apply as soon as possible. Applications are available at the Town Center Mall Office and the Community

Feeding the Food Bank The Powell River Food Bank feeds about 600 locals - some every week, and some just a few times a year. The budget comes entirely from donations, and many events are organized at this time of year to support it - including the Jingle Jog, the Food Bank Swim, and more. Earlier this year, long-time Powell River Food Bank coordinator Gina Kendrick retired, and then passed away. Savanna Dee (left) stepped in to the role. Dee brings decades of experience in the food industry, as a camp cook, a caterer for large music concerts, and a cook on fish boats. With donations from Canadian Tire and Rona, Savanna and volunteers have renovated the food storage area - including building new shelves and removing old, malfunctioning freezers. Christmas is the most important time of year for donations - and this will be Savanna’s first as coordinator. She has already bought hams and turkeys to give to Food Bank users. The 26 turkeys, she notes, were bought with points donated by Quality Foods shoppers. If you’d like to donate cash or goods to the Powell River Food Bank, call Savanna at 604-485-9166.

Explore the

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• november 2016 • prliving.ca

Resource Center. Please see the website for information on how to donate, or apply at www.pr-christmas-cheer.com or email info@pr-christmas-cheer.com or call Sandra Carmen at 604-485-2142 for more information.

Salvation Army Kettle Campaign

The Salvation Army is looking for a few good people, organizations, groups, companies, and churches to help with the annual Christmas Kettle campaign. The money raised through The Salvation Army Christmas Kettles is used to help the local Powell River people who are in need, not only at Christmas, but throughout the entire year. The Army will operate five kettles again this year. Kettles are “open” for donations from approximately 10 am to 8 pm Monday to Saturday, Nov. 14 to Dec. 24, excluding Sundays. As an individual, you can choose to take a kettle shift for one or two hours on your own, or with a friend. As an organization or company, you can provide people who will cover all the shifts at one particular kettle location for one particular day, or have your choice of shifts on your choice of days. Each kettle is accompanied by a board announcing the name of your business or organization staffing the kettle to let Powell River know you are there and you care! To reserve your preferred dates, times, and locations, please contact the Salvation Army at 604 485-6067 or stop by 4500 Joyce Avenue.

Santa Train

On Friday and Saturday, December 9 and 10, between 5 and 8 pm, families are invited to ride the Paradise Valley Railroad train with Santa in attendance. Forestry Heritage Society volunteers have improved the Santa Train event

held last year with more lights and a new route through the forest that includes a tunnel. Having Christmas lights guiding the route and a big bonfire will provide an exciting experience compared to the regular afternoon summer Sunday program. Sponsors for the expanded Christmas event and the new track include the Regional District, the Community Forest, Kiwanis, T&R Contracting and many others. Ride fee will again be non-perishable food items, unwrapped toys or cash to be distributed by the Salvation Army. Last year hundreds of participants were generous with food and cash, all of which went to charitable programs. Floodlights will be up to aid parking, and non-profit partners will be on hand in the Quonset hut for snacks, music, and other activities of interest to families. The railroad volunteers are hoping to see many riders at the Exhibition Park, 4365 McLeod Road to join the fun, bring a generous donation for charity, and say hello to Santa on the train. For more information, please call Hans Maurer at 604-487-9552

Children’s hospital can stay at minimal cost. The money also sends special needs kids to one of three fantastic summer camps which are set up to let the campers really experience a physical freedom not available at home. The Society also supports the Lions Skin Clinic at VGH where birth marks can be reduced or erased. Surprisingly the helipads on the roofs of Vancouver hospitals were also funded by the BC Lions Society- a service many local patients have experienced. Bring your loose change to the parade and help the Lions help kids in need. We are taking the “dis” out of disabilities! - Marilyn Brooks

Jingle Jog 2016

Hosted by the Brooks Secondary Senior PE Class and Students Council. This is a 5 km run or walk at Willingdon Beach. $10 per person or $20 per family All the proceeds go to the Powell River Food Bank. This is our Seventh annual run. The previous six events have raised in excess of $13,500 for our local Food Bank. Sunday December 11th 9:30 am start for the walk, 10 am start for the run. - Tony Rice

- Dave Florence

Coins for Kids at Santa Parade

Twenty years have passed since the Powell River Lions Club began “Coins for Kids” in the annual Santa Claus parade happening this year December 4. After building the Santa float, the club members walk the parade route with marked buckets to collect loose change to support the BC Lions Society for Children with Disabilities. The donations support Easter Seal House where local families with kids in

Screening of Amour

To increase awareness about aging and remaining independent, the Powell River Division of Family Practice is showing the award winning movie Amour, a film about love and aging. The movie will be followed by a panel discussion with local experts about aging, accessibility and independence from in and outside our community. Donations will go towards the Hospice Society. This event was inspired by a recently conducted research project about aging in Powell River by Christien Kaaij. The research looked at barriers and available

support for seniors to remain independent in Powell River. It revealed how housing, transportation, accessible neighbourhoods, health, financial means and support services are of a great impact on people’s ability to age in place. The research also revealed how moving to Powell River at a later stage in life can make it more difficult to remain independent. Kaaij concluded that the lack of some key elements in our community can decrease seniors’ access to services, increase their social vulnerability and the demand on their finances and can increase the demand on government resources. The report includes several recommendations and is available at divisionsbc.ca/powellriver/resources - Christien Kaaij

Christmas Bazaar and Lunch

Powell River Chapter #97, Order of the Eastern Star will hold its annual Christmas Bazaar & Luncheon on Saturday, November 19th from 11 am – 2 pm at the United Church Trinity Hall. The luncheon is $7.50 for a bowl of homemade turkey soup, a bunwich (either turkey or egg salad), dessert and tea or coffee and an entry for a door prize. They will have baking, preserves, crafts, attic treasures and lots of raffle items as well as a chance to win a grocery hamper. The Order supports many causes, including cancer research and the Children’s Wish Foundation.

Operation Christmas Child

Since 1993, Samaritan’s Purse has collected and hand-delivered more than 124 million shoebox gifts to children in over 130 countries hurt by war, poverty, natural disaster, disease, and famine. Powell

On September 22nd and 23rd Western Forest Products held an All-Public Advisory Group meeting and field tour in Port McNeill. Public Advisory Groups are an integral part of the CSA Z809 certification standard for Sustainable Forest Management. The CSA standard ensures that our plans are consistent with the needs and values of the community. Western Forest Products works closely with five Public Advisory Groups across BC’s Coastal Region, including the community of Powell River. Western Forest Products is proud to acknowledge the following long standing members of the Powell River Community Advisory Group:

Pictured above are representatives from each of the five Public Advisory Groups associated with Western Forest Products. Western Forest Products is responsible to our Community Advisory Group and appreciates their commitment to helping lead a collaborative relationship between our company and the residents of our community. Want to learn more about sustainable forest management and our Community Advisory Group? Visit www.cagstw.org

Bill Maitland – 16 Years Rory Maitland – 16 Years Jane Cameron – 15 Years Nancy Hollmann – 14 Years Paul Goodwin – 13 Years

Dave Hodgins – 10 Years George Iles – 10 Years Doug Fuller – 10 Years Mark Hassett – 10 Years

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POWELL RIVER LIVING • november 2016 •

River residents generously donated just over 500 filled shoeboxes. Operation Christmas Child staff, volunteers, and partners distributed these 2015 shoeboxes in Iraq, eastern Ukraine, Senegal, Guinea, El Salvador, Guinea Bissau, Uruguay, Haiti, Sierra Leone and Costa Rica. Shoeboxes are available for pick-up from local churches, Your Dollar Store with More in Crossroads Village, and Valley Building Supplies in Paradise Valley. Also available is an online option where Canadians can choose shoebox gift items, write a personal note, add a photo, and make a donation. More than 9,000 shoeboxes were packed online during the 2015 collection season at www.packabox.ca, as Canadians took advantage of this option. This online option is available yearround for those who for health reasons, scheduling challenges, or limited access to transportation aren’t able to shop for gifts and pack shoeboxes in the traditional way. Operation Christmas Child runs this year from October 10th – November 20th. Please contact Katie Alescio at 604485-6116 for questions or to find out how you can participate in this year’s campaign. Participating in Operation Christmas Child is a fun, family-friendly way

A Christmas Carol

Christmas Carol, in which Charles Dickens’ classic is read aloud in 4 staves by 6 voices with carol interludes, will happen at Faith Lutheran Church, corner of Ontario and Alberni, on November 19 at 2 PM. There will be prizes for the best Victorian costumes. Victorian refreshments and trays of Victorian sweets will be for sale following the reading. All proceeds are in support of The Food Cupboard, which feeds 30 to 60 people on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month. The Food Cupboard provides dry, canned and fresh food to take home, as well as a soup lunch and an opportunity to be together as members of the same community. Suggested admission is $10/person. Donations of $25+ are tax receiptable. God bless us everyone! - Brenda Nestegaard-Paul

Early in 1843, as a response to a government report on the abuse of child laborers in mines and factories, Charles Dickens vowed he would strike a “sledgehammer blow . . . on behalf of the Poor Man’s Child.” That sledge-hammer was A Christmas Carol. A Christmas Carol is a Victorian morality tale of an old and bitter miser, Ebenezer Scrooge. His transformation is legendary. At the beginning of the story he’s a greedy, selfish person who says “Every idiot who goes about with ‘Merry Christmas’ on his lips, should be boiled with his own pudding, and buried with a stake of holly through his heart.” By the end of the story it is said of him “he knew how to keep Christmas well.” Our second annual production of A

of encouraging the joy of the Christmas season. Pick up a shoebox at one of the participating locations today! - Katie Alescio

Giving Tuesday

The Powell River & District United way is a registered charity whose objective is to: “improve lives and build community by engaging individuals and mobilizing collective action.” Locally, in 2015, we adopted the

following vision statement: “focusing our passion and care for the community to achieve meaningful and deliberate local impact.” In our community nearly 1 in 3 children live in poverty, 31 percent of local kids ages 6-12 are considered “low” in well-being, 35 percent of kids ages 0-6 are considered ‘vulnerable’ and food security impacts at least 20 percent of our children. Powell River & District United Way is

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committed to helping to raise awareness and doing what we can to help reduce barriers for children & families in leading healthy and happy lifestyles. Together we can make a difference in our community, this season consider how you can participate, join the momentum with us on Giving Tuesday, November 29th. For more information check out our website unitedwayofpowellriver.ca. - Dale Lawson

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HER SPIRIT LIVES ON: This photo of Olive Devaud was taken in 1966. The Olive Devaud building was named after her. ID ND016243 – © Powell River Historical Museum & Archives 2016 ID ND016243 – © Powell River Historical Museum & Archives 2016 BY CAROLEANN LEISHMAN

ur quaint community of Powell River has been facing change and uncertainty for some time and now we are feeling the ripple effects of shifts in our town’s dynamics. Suddenly we have a hot housing market for the first time to this degree. It’s as if, suddenly, the outside world “found” our little hidden paradise behind a looking glass and started breaking down doors to get in. Housing prices have climbed rapidly; barely-listed homes generate competing offers; there is a less-than one per cent rental vacancy rate; and for the first time we are seeing people who are visibly homeless camping out in back alleys and campsites. One beacon of light is a little not-for-profit seniors’ housing society called Powell River Sunset Homes Society. The Society formed in 1956, thanks to the very generous donation of land and money by the late Olive Devaud. She recognized a lack of housing options for low-income seniors and vowed to do something about

“The good news story is that now... the Society can move forward very quickly on plans to build new affordable housing for seniors.” it. Her legacy reverberates to this day. In the spring of 2015, Vancouver Coastal Health Authority recently gave back the Olive Devaud building to the Sunset Homes Society’s small volunteer board of mostly seniors. The hand-over came with the hope of re-purposing the building to provide seniors and others with muchneeded affordable housing. But like most things in this world, nothing ever goes as planned. So far, keeping the vacant building maintained has cost over $100,000. The Society made two strong at-

tempts to secure enough money to reopen the building as affordable housing, but neither came through. Fortunately with some letdowns there can be a silver lining. Shih-Tao Lu of Starium Development came along offering to buy the building from the Society for a fair price - even knowing all the work that would have to go into re-purposing it. This sudden unexpected interest was a welcome turn of events. Members of the Society were starting to feel quite over-burdened with the scope of work the building would require to house people. The good news story is that now, with the sale of the Olive Devaud building and this injection of money into the coffers, the Society can move forward very quickly on plans to build new affordable housing for seniors that will be manageable for this volunteer board. So stay tuned on when and where this housing will be built as plans are already unfolding. Be assured the spirit of Olive Devaud has obviously been looking out for the best interests of the community. Everyone involved believes she would approve of this change of plans with a happy heart.

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ADDING UP: With the low price of scrap aluminum, it takes a lot of drink can tabs to amount to much, but lots of volunteers collecting means they do add up. Here Lena Gerhart, left, and husband Cliff, right, show off some of the stockpile with ardent collector Heather Dyble.

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Keeping tabs for emergencies

everal years ago, Heather and Dan Dyble were at a party and Heather mentioned that she collects pull tabs from drink cans to help children with Spina bifida. She had noticed her hosts had several bags of cans stored in their garage and she was hoping she could go through them and take the tabs off the cans. “Collecting tabs has been a passion of Heather’s for years,” said her husband Dan. “It started when our neighbour Annie Marie Harris said she was collecting tabs to help children get wheelchairs.” When Heather was told yes, she could have the pull tabs off the bags of cans in the garage she got busy! “She spent the rest of the night, with the help of several people at the party, pulling all the tabs off the cans,” said Dan. “Some of the people at that party have never forgotten Heather’s enthusiasm and are now dedicated collectors themselves.” Before long, more and more people began collecting pull tabs. Sue and Dave Hodgson began saving tabs. They told their friend Steve Arsenault who told some of the men who collect bottles at the mall what others were doing and they joined in. “These men faithfully donate about four gallons of tabs a month all neatly packed in one gallon milk containers,” said Dave. “These good hearted fellows have unselfishly donated hundreds of pounds of tabs that would never have been seen otherwise. They have given me the privilege of seeing yet another example of the kindness that seems to be inherent in all the good people of Powell River.” Katherine Ray’s house has acted as a depot for the pull tabs. When Katherine learned that Heather was collecting pull tabs to purchase wheelchairs for those in need,

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she and her friends began collecting too. “Heather has no idea how many tabs she has collected over the years. She does know that it would be enough to fill several trucks,” says Dan. “Some days we find boxes or bags of tabs that people have collected outside our door and we have no idea who met Heather and remembered the collection they had at home. All tabs are gratefully accepted.” Marilyn Brooks, vice president of the Powell River Lions Club, said the Lions initially collected pull tabs to purchase wheelchairs and send kids to dialysis camp, but that was 20 years ago. “We moved our tabs into our general medical emergency fund,” she explained. “We pay to send kids to Sunnyhill Health Centre for Children (for parents who can’t afford it) and to summer camp programs put on by the Powell River Recreation Complex and we pay for other things that support families in need.” Marilyn says it takes approximately 1,200 aluminum pull tabs to make up a pound and the Lions is currently getting 54 cents a pound for them. “When the price of aluminum drops (as it did earlier this year) we stockpile it.” Presently, Cliff and Lena Gerhart have a depot for the pull tabs at their house. They collect them and take them to Augusta Recycling and they sell them. “I just had a large donation dropped off from a lady who lives in Scotch Fir Point,” said Marilyn. “I think more people would gladly collect pull tabs for us if they knew about the program.” If you would like to get involved please email mdbrooks@shaw.ca

Try boxing. It’s fun and it’s FREE! 5 to 6:30 Mon, Wed & Fri Powell River Boxing Club gym at Oceanview Education Centre. For more info call, 604 485-7095 Improve your self-confidence and learn the “manly art of self defence.”

Dressed with dignity BY ISABELLE SOUTHCOTT isabelle@prliving.ca

In 2006, education assistant Susanne Cecconi looked at a small child wearing flip flops to school in November and her heart sank. Another little girl was still wearing the same green track suit she’d worn every day since school started. Susanne couldn’t stop thinking about these kids and others she knew who needed help. So she talked to her sister Melanie Jordan about what she was seeing. Both sisters talked and talked about

kids who were doing without. They wanted to help. Finally Melanie said: “Why don’t we just do something?” And so they did. Sue and Melanie began quietly helping kids. “We’d hear from the teachers what the need was and Susanne would see for herself,” said Melanie. “Teachers would come to Susanne or Susanne would notice that a kid had no shoes so we’d buy some,” said Melanie. Melanie and Sue called themselves Friends of Powell River or FOPR for short. They helped at whatever school Sue was working at. Now, they are helping the entire district. It makes for a better school environment, Susanne noted, when children are well-fed and clothed. That said, maintaining the dignity of children is the duo’s first priority – so exposing their work in PRL was a difficult decision for

SISTER ACT-IVISM: Susanne Cecconi and Melanie Jordan have been quietly clothing local kids for a decade. Now they’re hoping you’ll help, too.

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them. They made the decision to go public, though, because the need is so great - they’re hoping for more community involvement. Current volunteers include both businesses and individuals. They stay in touch through the Friends Facebook page. “This is our third full year of helping the Transition House Society and other agencies in town. We are just helping fill the needs that the professionals identify,” said Melanie. “We have outfitted over 500 kids with everything from underwear to running shoes and workboots,” said Melanie. “And we’ve never had a parent complain.” Items are not given to kids publicly; instead it is the professionals who hand out clothes and shoes and coats. Melanie’s garage is full of running shoes, clothes, sweaters, jeans and more. She buys in bulk and on sale so she has what she needs when she needs it. “Friends of Powell River is an angel program that helps children in need in a caring and compassionate way,” said School District 47 Superintendent Jay Yule. “The program makes giving personal, and maintains children’s and families’ dignity. We are extremely fortunate to have Sue, Melanie and the overwhelming donations from silent donors in our community.” Because Sue works in the school system, she sees kids coming to school hungry. “It’s real,” she says. “People are making choices. They can buy groceries or buy clothes and if something breaks down like their car, they have to make a choice between buying food or fixing the car.” It’s a vicious cycle. “And they can’t get to work if their car is broken,” said Melanie. “We buy enough food to make lunches for the kids who need it,” says Melanie. The program is designed to feed those who need it and not everyone as some food

WANT TO BE A FRIEND? Adopt a school! Buy grocery cards and drop them off at a school near you. Financial donations can be dropped off at the Powell River Educational Services Society (PRESS) at 4351 Ontario Avenue. Drop off a donation at River City Coffee or use your Christmas staff party to raise money for Friends of Powell River. Join Friends of Powell River Facebook page and see if there are other ways you can help. programs are. “Sometimes we feed five kids a day, sometimes it’s 15 or 20 at one school alone,” says Sue. “We know we are looking after kids who need our help,” she added. The costs were manageable. At first, it was just $30 to $50 a week for one school. Melanie, who owns Sunshine Coast Health Centre, and Sue, used to fund the pro-

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gram themselves. But when they expanded the program and adopted more schools, the cost went up and they reached out to the community for help. “It’s considerably more expensive to feed teenage boys,” said Sue. The women say up to 175 kids in Powell River need support. Food creates community and having food available for those who need it can bring kids to school. “We know this is not a long term solution but in the meantime kids have to be fed,” said Sue. Canada is the only country in the G7 group of leading economies or the 34-nation Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) without a national school food program. “Many people are horrified that there are kids who are not getting fed,” said Melanie. “We have the potential to be a community where kids do not suffer. We have families who are struggling and it’s tough but those kids come to school and they rely on their school.” Ottawa has left the school food policy up to the provinces, which have responsibility for education under Canada’s constitution. British Columbia has had a provincial school food policy for nine years and local districts have adopted a variety of food programs. In Powell River, there are a variety of programs with different funding structures, ranging from free breakfast programs for all students at some schools to user-pay hot lunch programs through Parent Advisory Councils. But all schools, irrespective of breakfast and lunch programs, have snacks available for any student who wants one. Still, there are kids who don’t get enough to eat and who aren’t clothed properly. As individuals and businesses discover what Friends are doing to help, they are stepping up. Won’t you?

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BY BARBARA ANN LAMBERT

housands of young men in logging camps, along the British Columbian coast, enthusiastically volunteered to join the Canadian Expedition Force in the Great War 1914-18. As soon as the call went out to fight for “King & Country” an entire generation of young men left the woods. Only one man needed to yell out to the crew: “Let’s go tomorrow boys!” And an entire camp quickly vacated. At the Stillwater camp of Brooks , Scanlon & O Brien, Don Dunwoodie and the three Lang brothers Fred, Harry and Tom, left on the All Red Steamship Line for Vancouver. Their pay as privates was a modest $1 a day. Gordon Jamerson, 15, ran away from the Duke family homestead In Horseshoe Valley (near Stillwater). He lied about his age and with no questions asked at the recruiting office in Vancouver, volunteered to serve for his country. Joe (Giuseppe) Rolandi, a logger at Myrtle Point, joined up in 1914. After the war was over, he was given a two-week furlough to visit his family in Italy, before returning to his unit in France. At the time of WWI, the Powell River Townsite was little more than a clearing in the bush - passing through a transition period from a construction zone to an industrial town. Gustave Courte, Joe Falconer, and an unknown number of construction workers left their jobs with the Powell River Pulp & Paper Company to go to war. After training in Vernon, the troops crossed Canada by train with carriage windows painted in bold white paint: “Berlin or Bust!” At every stop, huge crowds were assembled to wave and cheer at the departing troops. From the ports of

LANG BROTHERS FAR FROM HOME: Tom, Harry and Fred Lang C.E.F. fought in France. Tom and Fred were wounded at Vimy Ridge; Harry saw action at Passchendaele. Wolfsohn Bay was renamed Lang Bay in their honour.

For King & Country WWI soldiers from Powell River

3 reasons why your pet deserves food from an independent, local pet store

Your pet lives here, just like you. So spending your money with an independent, local pet store means more of that money stays here, helping build important things in your community, like dog parks!

At your local, independent pet store, you find people who know you and care about your pets. And since the employees and owners are committed to the store and our community, they have the kind of expertise that you just won’t find at a big box store.

Independent store owners depend on their reputation, so they ensure the food they sell is of the best quality. That’s why they choose food from organizations like Natural Balance, where every production run of pet food is tested before distribution so that you can buy with confidence. Not only do they test all products in a state-of-the art in-house laboratory for nine known contaminants before they reach store shelves, but simply enter the product date code on their website to find actual laboratory results posted in real-time. The only place that’s that transparent about what they sell is your independent, local pet store. Because you know where the owners live. Here in Powell River. Just like you and your pets.

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POWELL RIVER LIVING • november 2016 •

DO YOU HAVE PHOTOGRAPHS OF THESE SOLDIERS? Montreal and Halifax, the troops were shipped to Plymouth, England. While the majority of troops fought on the Western Front, some loggers were selected to work for the Canadian Forestry Districts in Scotland and France - felling trees for trench supports, underground blasting tunnels, railroad ties and coffins. On July 1, 1916, the British Expeditionary Force went “over the top” and crossed no man’s land to lead an assault against the German line. The five-month fight became known as the Battle of the Somme. On the first day of fighting, the Royal Newfoundland Regiment (part of the British Force) sent 780 men forward only 110 men answered the roll call at the end of the day. The Newfoundland regiment, after building up to full strength, returned to the Somme in October 1916. Three Divisions of the Canadian Corps joined the depleted British Forces on August 30, and fought in the final three months of the battle before winter ended the hostilities on October 18, 1916. The Battle of the Somme was a war of attrition between the British and the German forces with heavy losses on both sides. Private Gordon Jamerson, a young boy from the Stillwater area, was killed

on the Somme, November 11, 1916. The Great War ended on November 11, 1918. At 11 am the news was telephoned to Jack Short in the Powell River Co. office. He immediately called to his men, “The war is over!” The mill whistle blared out, everyone downed tools, the work day was over. Celebrations were muted in the Powell River Townsite, as the town was just recovering from the Spanish Flu and social gatherings of any kind were banned. An impromptu meeting was held at the old Ball Ground in the early evening, and the Mill Manager spoke to the gathering. There was rejoicing, celebrating and thanksgiving, and also a deep sense of loss for all who had died, including twelve Powell River Co. construction workers. An unknown number of loggers from the Brooks, Scanlon & O’ Brien, Stillwater camp were killed in action. Don Dunwoodie , after serving with the Canadian Forestry District in France , returned to the West Coast. Against the odds, the three Lang brothers survived the Great War. Tom and Fred were wounded at Vimy Ridge April 9, 1917. Harry saw action at Passchendaele July 30, 1917. In their honour, Wolfsohn Bay was renamed Lang Bay.

JUST 15, BUT PASSED FOR 18: Private Gordon Clarence Jamerson (C.E.F.) 47th battalion, killed in the Battle of the Somme November 11, 2016. Gordon Jamerson was the step-son of William Duke, homesteader in Horseshoe Valley, Stillwater.

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Friday Concert December & Wassail Evergreen Theatre at 7:30 pm

In March of 2013, I started on a project to collect a photograph of each of the 61 brave men with ties to the Powell River area, who made the supreme sacrifice in WWII. I decided to create this web site in their honour: www.pruhoww2.weebly.com. It has had hits from 65 different countries, 11 of the 13 provinces and territories and 48 US states. I’m looking for a photograph of each of these men. 137- William Rodger DICKSON. 149- Henry Stanley DRAYTON. 170- George Paul ETHOFER. 230- Ernest R GRIBBLE. 300- John Stewart JOHNSTON. 384- Archibald Leslie MaCLEAN. 441- Andrew MORRIS. 538- Albert Lionel RORKE. 551- Gilbert Harold SCRIVEN.. 566- Frederick SPRATT.. 633- Maurice Hugh WILSHIRE. Thomas Duncan CHALMERS. Frank Nicholas SEKULICK. Many of these young men went to the same schools we went to: Henderson, Westview Elementary, Brooks. Many held jobs in the mill, others worked in the woods, drove School Bus and other jobs. Many were born in Powell River. I’m sure that there still may be relatives of these men living in the Powell River area. If you have a photograph of these men or others, please contact me at yumasnowbirds@shaw.ca Grant Workman

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Saved by brave helpers In the footsteps of a WWII escape through the Pyrenees

BY PETER AND MARGARET BEHR

am lucky to be alive, I’ve discovered. And not because of my recent difficult hike across the Pyrenees. But because of my father’s experiences and long-ago trek over those same mountains – steps I retraced this October. My father, Knut Behr, was captured during World War II in German-occupied France and put in a detention camp in 1940. The Nazis later killed his father Hans, my grandfather, in a concentration camp. The same fate would have awaited Knut – who was 26 years old at the time. Instead, a kind Quaker aide worker helped him escape from the camp. His journey was just beginning.

Still in occupied France, my father and his friends hid for a year from the Nazis and their allies near Montauban on the farm of an 80-year-old French peasant named Marguerite. She did this out of the goodness of her heart and had no previous relationship to the people whose lives she saved. Knut left her farm and then fled south to join his sister and her husband in Marseilles in 1942. In the autumn of 1942 they took a train to Banyuls-sur-Mer, at the very southern tip of France on the Mediterranean Sea, and crossed the eastern Pyrenees into Spain on foot. Their Spanish guide deserted them when they got near the French-Spanish border and, after jettisoning their suitcases, they wandered in the wild steep mountains without food or water for four or five days.

LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON: Peter and Towagh Behr retraced Knut Behr’s WWII escape from the Nazis this fall.

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Desperate, the three finally went into a little Spanish village where the priest gave them food and shelter. But then, Spanish officials put them in prison for being stateless and having no papers. They were finally released in March 1943 and my father somehow got to Gibraltar for a ship to London, England. He had been separated from my mother by the war for four years. They were finally reunited and later married in London. A lot of other people helped my parents, eventually assisting them to immigrate to the US.

The inspiration WHAT FREEDOM LOOKS LIKE: In 1941, after hiking through the Pyrenees Mountains for five days with no food, water or supplies, Knut Behr, his sister and her husband arrived safely in Spain.

Two years ago, our friend Bill Amos gave us a book review of Cruel Crossing, by Edward Stourton. The book is about civilian refugees, resistance fighters and British airmen who crossed the Pyrenees into Spain to escape the Nazis in World War II. The author wrote that many people are now retracing the routes of family members who escaped this way. He also mentioned that it was a very difficult hike of four to five days and to get into shape. I decided I wanted to do the trek in honour of my father, and of my aunt who is still alive at 95, living in the United States. I invited my son Towagh Behr from Victoria to join me on this special memorial journey. That picture of me at the top of Mt. Freda in the September Powell River Living magazine was part of my training for this hike. My wife Margaret had done a lot of research and found out that my relatives had taken a route which was only ‘rediscovered’ as a distinct escape route in 2008. This route is now called the Walter Benjamin Way after a famous philosopher who also escaped on that trail. On October 2 of this year, my son and I flew to Perpignan, the nearest large French town and were picked

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up by our guide and taken to Banyuls-sur-Mer. We then hiked the trail up into the Pyrenees, kidding our guide that she might desert us near the Spanish border. But she didn’t do that!

Thankful for peace

On this trek we could not reproduce the difficulties my father and aunt experienced. They initially carried a few possessions in suitcases and walked for days and nights over unknown terrain, alone and afraid for their lives. They had to drink from polluted ponds and ate the only food they could find, the unripe local grapes, which made them really sick. We two contemporary Behrs had day packs, passports, a trustworthy guide and no fear of authorities. Our guide provided water, fine dinners and a clear route. I realized I could not even approach the hardship of my father’s trip and had to relax about that. It had to be enough to simply be in the tough mountain landscape they had traversed all those years ago. It’s a good reminder to appreciate what we do have and how hard life was for our forebears. While the world is not safe for everyone, we can think about how Europe endured thousands of years of war and violence, and in my lifetime it has achieved an unprecedented level of peace and cooperation. I am so thankful to the many people who stepped up to help my father and aunt in war-time Europe and afterward. And I am eternally grateful that my father had the courage, strength and fight to stay alive and give me a far easier life. Thanks to him and all the ‘unsung heroes’ who helped him on the way, our family, including our precious children and grandchildren, enjoy a privileged life in this wonderful country.

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I MADE THE MOVE

Boomerang comes home

ike a returning boomerang, Craig McCahon is back where he started. Craig, who was born and raised in Powell River, began working at TAWS for Read English as a bike mechanic in 1978. In 1982, Craig went to Australia with friend Alan Hobson for an adventure. They met up with Irv Stoddart in Melbourne before Craig hitchhiked to Cairns. “In Cairns, the first local I met was (Powell Riverite) Andy Redhead in a laundromat. Craig moved in with Andy and got a job as a labourer in a sign shop before getting an apprenticeship. While visiting his parents, Lorna and Graeme McCahon in Powell River last year, Craig stopped in to visit Lisanne English, Sales & Marketing Manager for TAWS Cycle & Sports and Impact Signs. The two had gone to school together and reconnected on Facebook. At that time, Lisanne told Craig to let her know if he ever wanted to come home because she may have an opportunity for him in the sign shop. “Eight months later the stars lined up” and Lisanne called Craig in Australia and asked him if he was ready to return to Powell River and work at Impact Signs. “And he said yes,” said Lisanne. Craig and his wife have three boys, age 19, 23 and 25. All three are living in Australia.

Why did you choose to move to Powell River? Craig • After 33 years of living in the tropics it’s nice to be back in seasons again. I came back to be nearer my Mum and Dad and for a new lifestyle.” When? Where from?

Craig • I left in 1982 for one year and got back to Powell River two months ago.

What surprised you about Powell River once you moved here? Craig • How it is still the same, except better. ( Restaurants and the amount of wildlife in our yard, crocodiles never walked through our backyard, but bears and cougars do.) What made you decide to move to Powell River? Craig • We’d had enough of where we lived and we were ready to come home. Pools of familiarity and infrastructure. I knew that if I didn’t take this opportunity I would live with regret. Pretty cool that you can get a job back 40 years later (my first job was at TAW’s in 1978). Where is your favourite place in Powell River? Craig • Mum and Dad’s place. Pretty special behind that hedge. (Craig’s parents live on the corner of Westview and Kemano across from the old Olive Devaud). How did you first hear about Powell River? Craig • I was born here. What would make Powell River a nicer community? Craig • Preference for locals on the ferries. Personally I like riding the ferries, but I think we should have preference to our highway to home, not just a tourist destination. If you were mayor of Powell River what would you do? Craig • Tidy up the vacant lots where buildings have been removed. It makes the

GEE IT’S GOOD TO BE BACK HOME AGAIN: Craig McCahon with his parents, Lorna and Graeme McCahon at Impact Signs where Craig works. After living in Australia for 33 years, Craig has returned to Powell River with his Australian wife Kate. town look derelict where buildings have been torn down and fencing has gone up. Landscape them to at least look within keeping of a tidy town.

If you were a fly, which wall in town would you like to inhabit? Craig • Any one facing west! As much sun as possible, and look at that view! What are Powell River’s best assets? Craig • Friends, family, small community living and scenery.

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What is your greatest extravagance? Craig • Woollen socks! Which talent or superpower would you most like to have? Craig • Mind reading. The power to put other people’s turn signals on “before” they turn the corner. If you know someone we should feature in I Made the Move, please email isabelle@ prliving.ca with you idea!

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Thank you Powell River! Thanks to you, the Pacific Salmon Foundation’s 12th Annual Dinner & Auction will help salmon enhancement efforts in Powell River and the BC Coast.

Special thanks to: RONA - Beachcomber Hot Tubs Brookfield Renewable Energy Group Alterra - Toba Montrose Ed Oldfield Andreas Gerlach

Laughing Oyster Norm & Lyanne Smith Ivan Askgaard Shimano Canada Target Marine Hatcheries

Chinook Scaffolding Systems Ltd. April White - Eagle’s Feast House Fortis BC Grieg Seafood B.C. Ltd. Bruce Anderson

John Phillpot Island Timberlands Pacific Coastal Airlines

Rural Septic Services/Coast Hydro Excavating T&R Contracting Ltd./Shaun Gloslee Excavating Ltd. Russel Bohning Golden Gate Variety Store Powell River Sportfishing West Pacific Lodge Marine Harvest Canada Lois Lumber Marine Traders Westcoast Furniture Critter Cove

Pelican Pressure Washing & Paint Bancroft Western Sales Ltd. Dr. James Bradley (Dentist) Great Balls of Wool Investors Group Powell River Lang Bay Aggregate Ltd. Mostad Printing & Media Powell River Living Magazine Rivercity Mini Excavating Tilt Contracting Ltd. George Illes Oceanview Helicopters Ltd.

Luke Raffin Kerensa Haynes Wind Spirit Gallery Ed Oldfield Raku Hodgkinson-Kristof Inc. Valley Building Supplies Beach Garden Resort & Marina/Savoury Bight Peder Norbygard Totem Sea Farm Inc. Marilyn Brooks Joyce Furness Ronald W. Salome

Peter Elvy Jimmy Jack Charters Relish Interiors The Wooden Salmon Company Deborah S. Woewoda Islander Reels Scotties Fishing, Marine and Outdoors. Bear Mountain Golf Club/Sante Spa Sandra Ritter Peak Publishing West Coast Fish Culture (Lois Lake) Ltd. Hub City Fisheries

ACDC Welding Services Custom Flooring Centre Koleszar Marine & Power Equipment Atek Hydrographic Surveys Ltd. Warren Behan Home Selling Group Dr. Ryan Sinotte (Dentist) Wick’s Fire Safety Co. Ltd.

Don McLeod Personal Real Estate Corp. The Historic Lund Hotel Coastal Cookery Cranberry Construction Services Ltd. First Credit Union Newport Electric River Rock Casino

Select Sand & Gravel Dr. Jamie Smilie (Dentist) High Tide Sea Foods Wendy Carter Pollen Sweaters Inc. Mother Nature BC Ferries Remax

A&K Electric Andrea Black Bob Marquis Contracting CAC Industrial Equipment Ltd. Dox Auto Tech Falcon Electric Ltd. Dr. Dick Machin (Dentist) Midway Power Lines

Underwriters Insurance Agencies (Powell River) Ltd. Dr. Ashok Varma (Dentist) Another Villani & Company fantastic Walco Industries Ltd. feast by Winter Harbour Lodge David Bowes Margaret Cooper and staff! Royal Lepage

Adams Concrete Ltd. Westview Ford Jay’s Place Café George Ouellette Thunder Bay Saw Shop Balfe Somers Wealth Management Bank of Nova Scotia CG Industrial Specialities Fanny Bay Oysters

Jepson Mobile Log Booming & Bundling Ltd. Pacific Ambitions Pacific Western Brewing Save On Foods Quality Foods Task Engineering Ltd. City of Powell River BC Ambulance Service RCMP

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Top Shelf Feeds Your Dollar Store with More Springtime Garden Centre Aqua Siren Arts Malaspina Massage Clinic Gail Scholefield Kelli’s Hands Dr. Barnes Annette Henderson Henderson-Edwards Development Among Friends Studio Bank of Montreal Full Solutions Computer

Brenda Powell Sunshine Coast Aquaponics Vanderkemp Sales & Support Aero Services/Kal Tire Armitage Men’s Wear The Brick (Powell River) Fish N’ Chix Janna Packard Powell River Chiropractic Tyler Bartfai Koastal Therapy Pazooka Powell River Massage Therapy

Pro-Active Nutrition Sue Gaudet Karmin Design Katie McLean Behr’s Massage Therapy Clinic Rexall (Westview Pharmacy) Aaron Service and Supply A.D. Computer & Accounting Services The Chopping Block CIBC Securities Inc. Clean by Ken The Convenient Chef Costa del Sol Latin Cuisine

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Hindle’s Camera & Stationery Ltd. Jayne Fogarty Granada Restaurant Julie’s Airport Market Lynda’s Quality Ceramics Magpie’s Diner Wendy Brown Barb Lambert Doug Brown Dave’s Glass Shop Suzanne’s/Auld Phillips

Special thanks to Powell River Artists for their support! And thanks also to the hardworking volunteers from the Powell River Salmon Society, Otago Rugby Club, Lions Club, Tla’amin (Sliammon) First Nation and our local Pacific Salmon Foundation volunteers: Bruce Anderson Anna Ashida John Bakker David Bedry Dave and Georgette Bilesky Tyler Brady

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Jean and Wayne Culos Lucy Dalpiaz Kaci Ellerby Denise Hayes Kerensa Haynes Rob Helm

Susan Hill Tricia Hollingsworth George Illes Laura and Bob Johnson Eric Kennedy Lee and Chris Koleszar

“Bringing them back, stream by stream.”

• november 2016 • prliving.ca

Diane Louke Emily MacLeod Kiho Matsumoto Christine Mavin Marcie Mehaffey John Phillpot

Ray Poissant Brenda and Terry Powell Tyler Riddle Gail Scholefield Sharon Shultz Ethan Sinotte

Marianne Smisko Kimi Tsuchiwata Alice and Jack van Zwietering Deborah Woewoda

Mark your calendars now for next year’s event, Saturday, October 21, 2017

HELLO POWELL RIVER

Above our weight class BY ISABELLE SOUTHCOTT | isabelle@prliving.ca

How does a dojo in a community with just 20,000 souls produce seven of the 11 Team BC athletes competing in November’s World Karate Championships in Ontario?

WORLD CHAMPIONS: Sensei Frank Clayton won his first karate world title in 2000. November 12 & 13, Sawyer Long is part of Team BC, working for the same honour.

The answer is, Sensei Frank Clayton. The owner and chief instructor at the Canadian Martial Arts Academy on Joyce Avenue has produced, in 35 years of teaching, countless top competitors – including seven junior World title-holders from Powell River. Over the last two years, seven of his students qualified for the Worlds by accumulating points at competitions in Las Vegas, Hawaii, Seattle, Florida Ontario, and Walla Walla. Last year, they trained in Japan. Locals Kolten Laine, Dylan Clarke, Chloe Labree, McKenna Long, Sawyer Long, Cody Oliver, and Matt Ure are all

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going to Hamilton. The four other Team BC competitors come from Chilliwack and Vernon – their instructors were once Frank’s students. Frank expects his students will perform well at the WKO World Championships November 12 and 13 – though more than 1,000 athletes are coming from all over the world. They’ll compete in Kata (forms); Kumite (fighting); Weapons (forms) and two team events: Team Kata and Team Kumite. “We have some really talented kids in Powell River,” Frank said. Coincidentally, Frank discovered karate while living in Hamilton – the Worlds’ host city – when he was just 13. “I was hooked.” He spent as much time as possible going to karate classes and karate tournaments. In 1978, while still a teenager, Frank had his first opportunity as a brown belt to represent Canada in Montreal. At the age of 20, he earned his black belt. Not long after, he moved to New Westminster where he opened up his first martial arts studio. His fighting days were far from over. Frank went on

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KICKSTARTER: Both Dylan Clark, who won a Junior World Championship in Atlanta in Short Weapons in 2001, who is shown kicking and Cody Oliver, who is waiting in line, are competing in the World Karate Organization’s World Championships later this month. to earn a six-degree black belt in karatedo and third degree black belt in weapons. At the 2000 World Championships in Venice, Italy, he won the men’s heavy weight fighting championship. At the same event, his students earned three World titles. Two years later, they earned four. Today, Frank teaches Okinawa Goju Ryu karate and Ryu-Kyukobudo weapons at the Powell River dojo. Apart from preparing for the World’s later this month, he’s looking ahead to the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, Japan. Just ask him about the event and his eyes light up. “Did you know that karate will be included in the Olympics in 2020 as a demonstration sport?” he asked. (I didn’t but I do now) Frank will be at the 2020 Olympics to watch this prestigious inaugural event although in what capacity, he does not know yet. “It’s always been a dream of mine to put someone on a team to participate in karate at the Olympics,” he said. “I thought

karate would have been an Olympic sport in 2004 but that didn’t happen. We’ve had a lot of kids over the years who have had that Olympic dream but they’re all older now and they’ve moved on with careers and families now.” That dream is coming true for a new generation. Frank considered participating in the 2020 Olympic demonstration process but decided against it. However, he has asked to be involved with helping choose a team of athletes to compete in karate in 2024 – when it is an official sport at the Olympics. Right now Canada is ranked twentyfirst in the world for karate. Turkey is first; France is second and Brazil is third. He knows Canada has a lot of work to do but that doesn’t scare him. It all goes back to the dojo and begins long before the athletes even begin to compete. “I believe in goals and commitment,” says Frank. “I teach them respect and responsibility is the key to being successful. Anyone who works with kids needs to focus on character development.”

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Healing through helping WIDOW’S PEAK: Nancy Openshaw lost her husband, but found her purpose helping other elders who have lost their spouses. It’s a source of joy, she says.

BY DEB CALDERON

he first time I saw Nancy Openshaw she was wearing a lovely lilac pantsuit with a matching picture hat, and she walked into the cafe where I was playing Scrabble. I knew she was different; she had style, she had presence and a great sense of humour. What I didn’t know was, she was 89 years old! She had such energy and love of life that it made me want to find out more about her, and how she came to Powell River. So I asked – and she told me. Nancy’s Scottish parents immigrated to Bermuda when she was seven months old.

“It was an idyllic life. Everyone knew each other and the children had the run of the neighbourhood. I remember lying on a grassy lawn sloping towards the water, surrounded by daisies, watching the clouds and – just dreaming,’” says Nancy. “When I was 19 years old, I saw a handsome sailor in uniform walking down the street and thought, ‘that’s for me.’” She arranged an introduction and fifteen months later they were married. Then they had four children.

Out of the nest

In the early 50’s the Openshaws’ opened the Bermudiana Kennels, and that was a whole new vista of travel and

fun, showing their dogs in Canada, the USA, and Bermuda and taking home lots of trophies. Nancy wanted to stay in Bermuda forever, but her husband John had a dream to become a Presbyterian Minister. They left their island paradise for McGill University where John gained his Bachelor of Arts degree and then his Master of Divinity at Princeton Theological Seminary in New Jersey. Nancy typed all his essays and studied with him and John thought it was only fair that she got a chance to further her education. “I always wanted a B.A.” she says. So at the age of 55 she went back to school.

“I just screamed at God when my husband died. What about the orphans? What about the widows? No one is talking to them.” – Nancy Openshaw

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POWELL RIVER LIVING • november 2016 •

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Soon both Nancy and John were ministering in Missisauga, Ontario and then, several churches in Nova Scotia. John was given a church of his own and they settled in to serve the congregation for the next five years. But the future they had planned was not to be. John suddenly died, leaving Nancy a widow, alone in what was a foreign country to her. She felt she had no one to talk to and no one to turn to. She did not know what to do. “I screamed at God, ‘What now?!’”

Finding her place

She felt that she heard him say to move to British Columbia, to Courtenay, a place she knew nothing about. So she loaded up her car, drove across the country and ended up in Courtenay, still not knowing what her future held. Out of the blue one day, she got a phone call from St.Joseph’s Hospital in Comox. They were looking for a hospital chaplain, would she come in for an interview? Nancy got the job and suddenly she was working helping patients and families, supporting them in difficult times. “I loved the job, I felt this was what I was meant to do.” She moved to Powell River at 84 to be near her son, still not knowing what was coming next. “I’m a spiritual person, I belong to Jesus and I know who I am. I just screamed at God when my husband died. What about the orphans? What about the widows? Who helps us? No one is talking to them. “God spoke to me and said, ‘You are a widow, why don’t you do it?’ I was afraid to talk to someone because I might cry. But we shouldn’t be afraid to cry, so I just started to talking to people. I’d talk to people in the gro-

cery store and pat them on the shoulder. Some people really need that.” Nancy knew she could help even more.

From grief to counselor

Because she had worked as a hospital chaplain she thought she would try to help people in their grief and just be there for them. Today she offers her services for free as the grief counsellor at the Seniors Centre and wherever else she is needed. “If someone wants to talk, I want to be there to listen. There are many seniors who don’t have anyone to talk to about their concerns,” she said. “We all need someone.” And people do want to talk to Nancy. There’s something about her that makes you feel safe and want to open up when you’re with her. “People are banging on my door,” she admits. But she doesn’t mind in the slightest. “I’m 89, I have nothing to do and I like helping people,” she said simply. Sometimes you have to go through something to truly understand what it feels like. “I know what I went through when my husband died. I would have liked someone to talk to. Someone who could understand what I was going through.” Nancy will be 90 in February. I asked her what makes her so positive and she said, “I have an expectant attitude. I expect that every day there will be good things happening. I wake up and say, ‘Hey, what’s out there for me today and I know it is always going to be an experience.’” Every day may be ‘an experience’ for Nancy , but meeting Nancy was an experience for me – one I’m happy I didn’t miss!

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Poppy seeds in stock. Because we should never forget.

SHOP LOCAL CONTEST

Win one of three gift certificates: $200, $100, $50! Everyone who has publicly liked our Facebook page or followed us on Instagram by Nov. 30 will be entered to win. Want to get extra entries? • Post on our wall why you choose to shop at Mother Nature and other locally owned businesses, share it, and we’ll give you an extra entry. • Tag us in an Instagram post @mothernatureghp or use the hashtag #powellrivershopslocal Not on Facebook or Instagram? Stop by the store before Nov. 30, give us your name and number, and we’ll put in an entry for you. No purchase necessary.

• november 2016 • prliving.ca

Who knows better

than Mother Nature?

7050 Duncan Street 604.485.9878 fb.com/MotherNaturePowellRiver • mother-nature.ca • @mothernatureghp garden • lawn • greenhouse & nursery • home decor • 5,000 square feet of shopping

Beauty school drop-in BY LINDA WEGNER

alling all seniors, here’s your opportunity to discover one of Powell River’s best kept secrets! Powell River School District #47 students and staff want to get the word out that seniors are invited to take advantage of an opportunity to assist students while enjoying a complimentary shampoo and set. “We want people to know that we have free services for seniors every Wednesday,” instructor Leah Babcock told Powell River Living. As part of their training for a potential career in hairdressing, students need to practice their newly acquired skills on a real person in addition to practising on the many mannequins lining the facility wall. “We call it Wash and Set day and we offer free shampoos, a set and a blow dry. It means a lot to the students to be able to do this,” Leah continued. It also means a lot to customers such as Linda Bessant who has been taking advantage of the service since the beginning of the program. “It means giving someone an opportunity to work on another human being and a chance to gain experience in working with the public. When we went to school, boys had trades training but girls had only cooking and Home Economics. These students are very fortunate,” Linda said. One of this year’s students, Teiva Castagnoli, looks

Dog Gone Grooming welcomes our new groomer, Tamara McPhee.

I.P.G. Certified Groomer 26 years experience All breeds and sizes (Cats too!)

WASHED & SET: SD47 cosmetology student Jana Moore won’t do just anyone’s hair for free. Seniors such as Linda Wegner, though, get complementary service with a smile.

Cosy toes.

forward to an excellent learning experience. The only male in the student body, he looked at other options prior to enrolling in the School of Cosmetology. “I wanted to enrol in the welding course but it was full. I wasn’t really interested in culinary arts and then the school suggested I look into the hair [dressing program]. Specifically I wanted to learn barbering. I’ve already starting to understand the science of hair and cosmetology and it’s going to be a great learning experience about things such as chemicals, bacteria and the old style of hairdressing compared to modern technology,” he said. The students aren’t the only ones learning and appreciating the course, though. According to Leah, watching her students’ progress in various aspects of their training is of great value to her. “It’s about watching the students’ growth and transformation and about helping them realize their potential. I enjoy seeing them develop their customer service skills as well as their technical skills.” A note on the facility bulletin board reminds clients that because students are practicing, a coiffure may take longer than having it done by a more experienced hairdresser. The finished product may also be less than perfect. The Cosmetology Training Facility is located in the former Oceanview middle school. Call 604-485-2709 to book an appointment.

Do you want to... ...meet new people?

...give back to the community? ...be part of a respected global organization? Then Rotary Club of Powell River Sunrise is for you! Please come and check out our open house

It’s only natural. A rainbow of colours outside. Floor-gripping leather underneath. Cosy toes inside. Nothing warms the soles like 100% pure wool Glerups from Denmark.

Booking now for Christmas Limited Appointments Available

6758 Cranberry Street • 604 483-2293

Tuesday, Nov 29, 6 pm Lawn Bowling Club 5714 Marine Ave in Townsite

for a meet and greet evening. Enjoy appies and conversation and learn more about what Rotary is all about. Call 604-483-3246 or 604-485-4071

4670-A Marine Ave. Powell River 604-485-5110

POWELL RIVER LIVING • november 2016 •

WHAT’S UP

1 DAY ONLY

SALE

Refugee Update:

Saturday November 12, 2016 The largest selection of bicycle and hockey gear in town. GoPro Cameras & Accessories Ryders Sunglasses Sanuk Footwear !

e m ho t a

ing p p sho r o ks f n a h T tawsonline.com 4597 Marine Avenue 604-485-2555

The Dayekh family of 6 from Syria and the Azrak family of 7, also from Syria, have now been in Powell River for three months. Four boys and one girl are enrolled in the Christian school, one young man is in Brooks High School and another young man is in college. Everyone, including parents and grandparents, are progressing very nicely in English. Both families express genuine joy that they are in Canada, but have deep concerns for family members still in harm’s way in the Middle East. Rania Dayekh has two sisters (one married with a child) who just fled Syria for Lebanon this week. Kinda Azrak has a married sister with two children in Syria. Kinda is very concerned because her sister’s son is approaching an age where he will soon be conscripted into the military. As for other refugee possibilities, Donna Lloyd of the Powell River United Church says, “We have finished our paperwork at our end and are hoping to bring in a young couple to Powell River, but it will probably be about eight months if all goes well.” Dr. Kevin Black with the Texada United Church says, “We have a tentative couple holed up in Beirut and we are in the eternal cycle of bureaucracy and paperwork, Canadian as far as I can see. We have not made contact with them directly. They have family in Vancouver. We live in hope. You can imagine how frustrating it is for them.” - Roland Lewis, (roland.lewis@live.com), Chair Welcome Refugee

Graham May applauded

Powell River’s Graham May has been named by Corporate Knights magazine as one of Canada’s top leaders in sustainability under the age of 30. The fall issue of the magazine says a sustainable society is one that treats all sources of wealth – human, financial, natural, social and produced – with equal importance. “From Greenlandic icefields to law offices of Washington, D.C., Graham has demonstrated true passion for the Arctic and forests,” reads the article. “As a student he co-founded the Youth Arctic Coalition... He also founded and ran GrassRoutes Biking... During these journeys, GrassRoutes has engaged more than 1,800 young leaders and raised more than $11,000 for youthled environmental projects.” These represent just a few of Graham’s achievements. Congratulations!

The Legion and you You probably know The Royal Canadian Legion is committed to advocating for those who serve and for veterans and their families. But did you know the Powell River Legion is a great place to visit with friends, watch sports on TV, have a beer, a cup of coffee, be entertained or take in special events?

“The Legion is a non-profit community club where members and their guests come for entertainment or to visit with others,” says George Holbrook, a member of the executive. “It’s a pretty relaxed environment,” adds treasurer Rose Foulds. “It’s like going into someone’s home for a get together.” Members of Branch 164 are a social group and like to give back. Individual volunteer talents are greatly appreciated.

Weekly activities

Monday: Cinch, Carpet Bowling and Darts Tuesday: Stroke Club meeting, Darts Wednesday: Crib, Pool Thursday: Pub Darts

• november 2016 • prliving.ca

“We support many organizations on a continuous basis,” says George. “Our charity budget is $30,000 a year.” The Legion raises money through meat draws every Saturday and Sunday afternoon. The Ladies Auxiliary works tirelessly to raise funds by catering events. “Last year they raised $10,000,” noted Legion executive member Bill Demkiw.

The Legion supports the Stroke Recovery Program, Powell River Academy of Music’s youth choir, Powell River Minor Baseball, Paddling for Life, Meals on Wheels, Powell River Air Cadets, Navy Cadets and Army Cadets; Salvation Army, Powell River scholarships, and Christmas Cheer. Provincially, the Legion supports Special Olympics, War Amps, BC Children’s Hospital and BC Lung Association. Celebrations of life are held in May for deceased veterans at local cemeter-

ies. A veteran’s service is held on Remembrance Day. The poppy fund raises about $16,000 a year. This money is used for bursaries. It’s also used to help veterans and their widows who have hardships. “We can help with dentures, hearing aids and wheelchairs,” noted Bill. “The school poster/literacy contest keeps the meaning of Remembrance Day alive with the younger generation,” says Bill. The Legion on Alexander Street has a full bar and is open seven days a week. It’s run primarily by volunteers. The local branch has its roots in the aftermath of the First World War when veterans formed a loosely knit group and then the Ex-Servicemen’s Association. The Legion was chartered in 1940 and meetings were held in Dwight Hall until the Alexander Street property was purchased in 1946.

Who can join? Anyone over the age of 19 can join the Legion. No military background is required. Members enjoy discounts when attending barbecues, entertainment and dinners as well as at Best Western, Accent Inns, Canada Scooter, Canadian Direct Insurance, Carlson Wagonlit Travel and Medipac Travel Insurance, Philips Lifeline, Shaw Direct and more. “Our mandate is to support veterans but the majority of our members are not veterans,” said Bill. To find out more about the Legion, call the office Monday to Saturday 10 am to 2 pm at 604 485-4870. The bar and lounge is open seven days a week 2 pm to closing.

Tla’Amin Nation offers a salmon barbecue at the school each year in October. Gail Blaney and Brad Adams fillet and stake the salmon, then cook it over a fire on school grounds. Not only is it educational - it’s delicious. Students, staff and guests sit down together for a banquet-style lunch that includes bannock and salads.

James Thomson Elementary

Taste of Tla’amin

Yes! Math scores way up May Day Ambassadors James Thomson is the only school in Powell River that continues to have a May Day celebration. This includes a Maypole dance, a May Day parade and speeches. The school ambassadors transfer capes and title from last year’s to this year’s.

What is the best thing about JT? Grade 7 French Immersion student and May Day Ambassador Dion Harry “The property, with the forest and playground. The field is really big and the teachers here are great.” Grade 7 English student and May Day Ambassador Reanna Gendron “May Day and Twin Day and Just For Fun Day! The teachers are the best especially Mrs. Marshman.”

wo boys are quietly reading on a comfy couch in the Principal’s office at James Thomson Elementary while a Kindergarten student works on a Lego creation. Meanwhile, the school’s Principal, Jasmin Marshman, finishes up a meeting before taking one more phone call. Sounds busy? Just another day at James Thomson, a school that believes it takes a whole community to educate a child. James Thomson dates back to 1914 when five-acre parcels of government land were made available for people willing to settle in the Wildwood area. James Thomson camped on the Vancouver courthouse steps for more than a month to ensure he received a land grant. The school is part of the original grant. The first school in Wildwood opened in 1923 with 30 pupils. Today, Jasmin is the Principal at the school. She’s been an educator with SD47 for 15 years and was Vice-Principal at James Thomson 10 years ago. She took over as Principal five years ago. James Thomson is the only school in the District that is trilingual - English, French and Tla’amin - and the school that has grown the most in the last five years. “We’re like two or three schools in one,” says Jasmin. “But it all works together as we have worked hard to make sure we all work as a family and everyone’s needs are recognized, respected and represented.” Today, the school has 271 students. Five years ago, there were 130. This growth can be largely attributed to the French Immersion program, representing 60 percent of

the school, and offered for Kindergarten to Grade 7 students. With the English and the French kindergartens both full this year, Jasmin says the school is experiencing growth on both sides. “We have had a lot of families move to Wildwood,” she said. “Lund has more families and we have people moving here from the City who like this school and want to live in this community.” The school has an enthusiastic parent group who enhance ecological learning. The school’s Parent Advisory Committee has an uncanny ability to find grants. “They put in $3,500 worth of edible plants this year, she said. “Some parents have agricultural knowledge and share that knowledge with our students and teachers.” The school’s Farm to School program has been a huge success as it introduces students to local food. James Thomson has a daily breakfast program that begins at 8 am and is open to everyone. “It is run by parent volunteers. A lot of parents have said how doing breakfast club has changed their outlook on the school because they get to know the kids and the school better.” In 2014, James Thomson was recognized as one of the most effective schools in BC for improvement in math. She attributes these improvements to JUMP math, and a professional learning pilot project James Thomson is involved in. From 9 am until noon, students focus on math and literacy.

Want to learn more? Contact us. School District #47 4351 Ontario Ave 604 485-6271

www.sd47.bc.ca

POWELL RIVER LIVING • november 2016 •

BUSINESS CONNECTIONS BY KIM MILLER| office@powellriverchamber.com Powell River Chamber of Commerce Vice President Cory Carr has taken on the position of branch manager at the Royal Bank of Canada. Previous RBC branch manager Kim Freidel left Powell River to become branch manager for RBC in Mill Bay on Vancouver Island. Cory, who was born and raised in Powell River moved away for post secondary education. He was previously employed by Investors Group and brings with him seven years of experience as a financial consultant. Local businessman Don Carto is the new owner of Westview Drycleaners & Laundromat as of October 1. Don,

a scuba diver, owned a local dive shop for years. Karen King will be managing the drycleaners bringing with her many years of sales and management experience. Linda Lipka and her 30 years of cleaning expertise will stay on with the new team. They can be reached at 4619B Joyce Avenue 604 485-2616 or at westviewdrycleaners@gmail.com. They would like to wish Kirit and Nilam Patel all the best in their retirement. Hot on the heels of an October 19 BC Aboriginal Business Award win for outstanding business achievement, Tla’amin Convenience Store finds itself in the running for a community impact award with the BC Small Business Awards. The store, owned by Erik

ne on da ly y !

Celebrate our 9th Anniversary!

Blaney, his mother Gail and wife Miel, opened in 2014. “This is a huge honor,” said Erik. “ We were runner up last year out of 536 businesses nominated which was the first time an Aboriginal owned business has ever made it to the top 10 businesses in BC.” You can help Tla’amin Convenience Store win by spreading the word and voting for them at: sbbcawards. ca/award/community-impact/tlaaminconvenience-store/ Townsite Brewing won silver for Perfect Storm Oatmeal Stout at the BC Beer Awards last month. Perfect Storm won Gold in the oatmeal stout category at the Canadian Brewing Awards earlier this year making a perfect storm of awards for this beer. “These are the two big Ca-

nadian awards ceremonies for us,” says GM Chloe Smith. “It is a big deal to have the best stout in Canada coming out of our little brewery on the tip of the Sunshine Coast.” Kim Wall has joined Coast FM as operations manager. The move represents a change from her previous position of opening and running a resort on Savary Island. Kim is excited to be back in the industry that she spent many years in previously. Kim’s first on-air gig dates back to 1986 in Red Deer, Alberta. She worked in the programming side of radio and then sales. She worked in radio in Kelowna, Victoria and Duncan before moving to Australia with her husband. Kim can be reached at 604 485-4201.

POWELL RIVER’S PREMIERE LOCATION FOR EVENTS, BANQUETS & CATERING!

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Our dedicated culinary team offers a wide variety of creative and delicious menu options featuring locally grown and seasonal foods for your group or banquet event. Whether you are celebrating a milestone, throwing a birthday bash, or gathering the family for a reunion, an event with us will be an exceptional affair. Why not indulge in an exquisite fine dining experience in our Pow Wow Room that will inspire the palate while enjoying breathtaking ocean views. Our cozy Potlatch Dining Room offers expansive choices with buffet breakfasts and lunches, as well as a menu of classic dining favourites for dinner. Whatever occasion, we can design the perfect venue and menu experience to suit your needs.

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• november 2016 • prliving.ca

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Sunday Nov 27, 3pm Patricia Theatre Family Fun! Admission by donation

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Remember War, Create Peace Buy a poppy ASAP, and on November 11, come to the Remembrance Day ceremonies at Dwight Hall, starting at 10:30am.

November Events

This year, 2016, marks 100 years since WWI’s horrific five-month Battle of the Somme. Sixty years ago, future Canadian Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson intervened in the Suez Crisis, contributing 1,000 soldiers to the UN Peacekeeper Force, and helping create Canada’s reputation as a peacekeeper. Currently, Canadian soldiers are in Congo, Sudan, Egypt, Cyprus, Haiti, Solomon Islands and elsewhere.

live performances you will not want to miss

1. Allison Crowe, live at the Patricia

Allison Crowe and Band bring the Heirs+Grievances tour to the Patricia Theatre Thursday, Nov. 10 at 7:30 pm. You might remember Allison from her appearance in a little movie called Man of Steel - yep, that one! But if that’s your only introduction to her music, you’re in for a treat. The former Vancouverite-turned-Newfoundlander is back on this coast, reunited with bandmates LIN, Sarah White and Dave Baird. Allison’s powerful voice and instrumental prowess are more than worth the price of admission, but now you get the whole band experience. Sample some tunes at allisoncrowe.com

Gingerbread Cred: Think you can out-build this little nugget? Get your pre-Christmas Pinterest on and deliver your best work by Dec. 3 to the Town Centre Hotel annual gingerbread contest. Note: your creation does not have to be a house.

2. Hunchback of Notre Dame, with live organ

Internationally-acclaimed organist - and former CBC music producer Edward Norman accompanies the 1923 film at James Hall Nov. 5.

3. Invasion of the Victorians

Three Victoria bands: Black Valley Gospel, Crashing Into Things & High Arctic play the Red Lion Nov. 19.

4. Oh Christmas Tea

Vancouver’s award-winning comedy duo James & Jamesy are premiering their hilarious holiday presentation at the Max Cameron Theatre Dec. 6

5. God is a Scottish Drag Queen

Mike Delamont, award-winning Canadian comedian and favourite of venues across North America, presents God, dressed in a floral power suit, and roasts everything from Justin Bieber to the Pope in an unforgettable night of laughter! Nov. 4 at the Max Cameron Theatre.

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POWELL RIVER LIVING • november 2016 •

We remember

EVENTS WHAT’S UP

Those Crazy Ladies in the House on the Corner

The Rock Island Players are pleased to present a seasonal comedy - Those Crazy Ladies in the House on the Corner - by Pat Cook November 24, 25 & 26 at the Gillies Bay Community Hall. Three aging sisters, proud of their independence, have created an insular world for themselves in the family home. Things start to hum when their doctor tricks them into taking in a boarder – a young nurse – who turns their lives around. Add in a greedy nephew with eyes on the ladies’ property and a mysterious woman with a secret, and you have a play that will resonate with young and old alike. Loaded with wise-cracks and one-lin-

ers, the laughs keep flowing and the play ends with plenty of Christmas spirit. Join us on Thursday November 24 (7 pm), Friday November 25 (7 pm) and Saturday November 26 (6:30 pm) at the Texada Island Hall. Admission by donation. The Saturday presentation is scheduled earlier (6:30 pm) so Powell River residents may take the last Texada ferry (9 pm) back home. For further information phone 604 486 7670. - Peter Lock, for Rock Island Players

A sub for good

Subway celebrates National Sandwich Day on November 3. Customers get a free sandwich when they buy a sandwich and a drink. For every sandwich sold a meal will be donated to the local Food Bank.

Holiday Party Trays NEW! Charcuterie Order Christmas turkeys now! Boards StoneCroft Farm Now carrying No hormones • No antibiotics selected items Free range heritage turkeys from Bosa Foods 4741 Marine Ave 604 485-4838

Remembrance Day ceremonies at Dwight Hall (Townsite) November 11, 10:30 am. Children and adults: learn more about Canada’s wars and veterans at veterans.gc.ca

• november 2016 • prliving.ca

Second Annual Vinyl Flip There are many reasons why record collectors love their vinyl. Sound quality, artwork, ritual, nostalgia. One thing is for certain, collectors are passionate. That’s why a record show, like the upcoming VinylFlip at Cranberry Hall is so exciting. It gives collectors a chance to dig through the bins of other collectors and vendors in search of the elusive album they have been coveting for... well, sometimes years. For this year’s VinylFlip there will be more records than ever. We’re excited to have vendors coming from out of town and a great group of locals with albums to buy and trade. Saturday, November 5, noon-4 pm, Cranberry Hall. Tables available for $20 each, space is limited. To reserve your table call: Bob: 604-414-4977 or Mark: 604-483-6538. Admission: $2 - 50% of admission proceeds will be donated to CJMP. Brought to you by Powell River VinylFlip & Roxy Records. - Mark Lemna

Did you enter to win a Pollen? Last month’s issue had a contest to win a Pollen Sweater. The contest closes Nov 14. But you’ll have to check out last month’s issue (you need it for the answers) of Powell River Living magazine. If you don’t have your hard copy, check online at prliving.ca.

Get 15% off

Beginning Nov 14, we offer lash Steph, extensions!

any colour service with and get FREE nail shelac from Mel, while you wait.

Offer available only during November 2016.

NuEssence Salon & Day Spa info@nuessence.ca 4553B Marine Ave 604-485-6336

Having a holiday party? We can help! Fantastic selection of wine, spirits and beer to choose from! Gift certificates available. 9 am to 11 pm daily • Corner of Duncan & Joyce • 604 485-9343

Great Prices • Cold Beer • Huge Selection

Leave the cooking and dishes to us! Book your party at the Shinglemill. Small and intimate or up to 60 people. Our restaurant is all decked out for the holiday season. Gift idea: Everyone loves a gift certificate to the Shinglemill!

604 483-3545 shinglem@shaw.ca www.shinglemill.ca

Proud Member of the PR Chamber of Commerce

rands for b t s e b e h t ll A opping h s y a d li o h u yo

604 485-9493 In the Town Centre Mall

POWELL RIVER LIVING • november 2016 •

PLAN YOUR NOVEMBER To November 10 Lions club coats for kids & families Annual coat collection. Drop boxes at Town Centre Mall Office, Wal-Mart, Salvation Army & Westview Baptist Church. Wearable water resistance jackets preferred.

November 2 Dia de los Muertos

3 pm. Edward Norman brings to life the classic 1923 film – with live organ accompaniment. $20. Students 18 & under are free with student ticket voucher. Call 604-485-9633 or visit powellriveracademy.org for details and online tickets.

Vinyl Flip Record sale 11 am – 3 pm at CranHall! Come on down and flip through the bins for some great new finds! $2 admission with half of proceeds going to CJMP.

Night Run

Base Camp, 7 pm. Celebration, reflection and sharing of food, drink and memories. Bring photos or other objects of remembrance for the ofrenda (altar). Tamales, day of the dead bread, and hot xocolatl will be available. Donations to Powell River Hospice Society.

7 pm, starting at the Willingdon Beach Campsite. Lights, music campfire & fun. All ages and levels welcome. Bring a headlamp and goodies for the fire.

November 3

Turn your clocks back an hour

Sandwich Day

November 9

Subway celebrates National Sandwich Day. Customers get a free sandwich when they buy a sandwich and a drink. For every sandwich sold a meal will be donated to the local Food Bank.

3D Printing 7–8 pm Powell River Public Library. To register call 604-485-8664.

November 3 & 4 Brodie Dawson and Luke Blu Guthrie The ‘Trouble With The Truth’ Tour! Nov 3 Gilles Bay Hall. Nov 4 at Red Lion.

November 4 God is a Scottish Drag Queen Award-winning one-man show, for 14+. Max Cameron Theatre, 8:00-9:45 pm, $25.

November 5 Kiwanis Book Sale Kiwanis Garden Manor, 10 am – 1 pm.

So You Want to Write a Novel  Join author and Creative Writing instructor Charlotte Gill. Trinity Hall 6932 Crofton 2 pm.  For info call 604-485-8664.

“Hunchback of Notre Dame” with live organ At the James Hall in the Academy of Music, 1:30–

• november 2016 • prliving.ca

November 6

Friends of the Stillwater Bluffs Info Session And AGM. Everyone looking for info is welcome: logging plans for the bluffs and action to help save it will be reviewed at the event. 7 pm at VIU room 148.

November 10 Allison Crowe and Band: Introducing / Heirs+ Grievances $20 general in advance, $25 at door. Concession $17 / $22. Patricia Theatre, 7:30 pm.

Free tanning at Simply Bronze 10am to 9pm - plus deals, snacks and more.

November 11 Remembrance Day Service at Dwight Hall; 7 am free breakfast at the Legion, free lunch at the Legion at noon, sponsored by Save-On-Foods.

NIGHT RUN: November 5. November 13 Screening of Amour and Panel Discussion 1:30 pm. Patricia Theater. Film followed by discussion about aging and remaining independent. Donations will go towards the Hospice Society.

November 14 Sunday Song Circle Cranberry Hall, 2-5 pm.

November 15 Celso Machado & the Academy Chamber Choir 7:30 pm James Hall | Academy of Music. Admission $20 - students 18 & under free with a student ticket voucher. Phone 604-485-9633 or visit powellriveracademy.org for details and online tickets.

November 17

ments $5; trays of sweets $20. In support of “The Food Cupboard.” Prizes for best Victorian costumes!

Invasion of the Victorians Red Lion 8:30 pm. Three Victoria bands that are stoked to bring their sounds back to the good people of Powell River: Black Valley Gospel, Crashing Into Things & High Arctic. Tickets $10 at the door

Yuk Yuks comedy night TC’s Pub. Doors open at 6 pm, show at 8 pm.

November 20 Annual party at Paperworks On Marine Avenue.

November 24 to 26 Play: Those Crazy Ladies in the House on the Corner The Rock Island Players present a seasonal comedy by Pat Cook, at the Texada Island Community Hall in Gillies Bay. See Page 32 for more.

Judging a Book by Its Cover

November 25

Learn ten insider graphic design secrets with graphic artist and marketing instructor Gary Shilling.  7 pm at the library. To register call 604-485-8664.

The Food Bank Swim

Three Penny Opera

Free admission with a donation of a non-perishable food item. 7 to 9 pm.

Black Friday!

Live screening from the National Theatre in London. 7 pm, Max Cameron. $25

Plan to shop til you drop during the best sales of the season.

Eviction Notice art exhibition

November 19

Kaleidoscope Gallery 4-11 pm. Come pursue your dreams, celebrate our three years in this location.

November 26

Advanced cheesemaking class

November 12 Beginner cheese making class 1:30, CRC. Urban Homesteading School. Instructor: Samantha Sherman. Class Fee $40 + Materials Fee $5

1:30 pm, CRC. Urban Homesteading School with Samantha Sherman. Class fee $50+materials fee $5

A reading of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” 2 pm Faith Lutheran Church. Suggested admission $10/person ($25+ tax receiptable). Victorian refresh-

Celebration of Cultural Diversity 10-3 pm at the RecrComplex. Community members share their heritage cultures through displays, demos, and performances. People interested in contributing as a volunteer (display, performance, mini-workshop, or event assistance) or a vendor (traditional foods or products) contact Coco at 604-414-3630.

✂

CELEBRATION OF CULTURAL DIVERSITY: November 26. November 26

December 4

Pet Photos with Santa

Santa Claus Parade

11-4 pm at Mother Nature. By Donation to Therapeutic Riding, West Coast ACCESS and PRSPCA.

Parade is at 3 pm. The Lions Club will collect donations in support of the BC Lions Society for Children with Disabilities.

November 27

December 6

Willy Wonka & the Choco Factory 3pm at The Patricia - fundraiser for the Powell River Film Festival in February. Admission by donation.

November 29 Rotary Social Club of Powell River Sunrise invites all to an evening Social & Introduction 6 pm. Powell River Lawn Bowling Club. RSVP - Helen 604-485-4071

December 1

Oh Christmas Tea Vancouver’s award-winning comedy duo James & Jamesy are premiering their hilarious holiday presentation at Max Cameron Theatre.

Carols by Candlelight $20, Dwight Hall. Academy of Music for tickets.

Santa Train

December 11 Jingle Jog 2016 5 km Run or Walk @ Willingdon Beach. $10/person $20 family ….All proceeds to the Powell River Food Bank. 9:30 am start for the walk, 10 am start for the run.

Annual Christmas Craft Sale 2-3:30 pm, organized by the Evergreen Care Residence & The Stroke Club are hosting their annual sale on Saturday. Crafts, baking, stained glass, local artisans, collectibles, draws, etc. Please no early birds.

Christmas Bazaar & Luncheon Order of the Eastern Star event 11–2 pm at the United Church Trinity Hall. $7.50 for a bowl of homemade turkey soup, a bunwich (either turkey or egg salad), dessert and tea or coffee and an entry for the door prize. Baking, preserves, crafts, attic treasures and lots of raffle items as well as a chance

to win a grocery hamper.

November 19 & 20 Lang Bay Hall Society Christmas craft fair 10-5 pm. For more info or to book a table, call Jody 604 487-1620 or 604 897-1129.

Raincoast Christmas Craft Fair Dwight Hall. 10-4 on Saturday, 10-3 on Sunday.

November 26 Lund Christmas Craft Fair 10-4 pm, Italian Hall

November 25 to 27

✂

Gingerbread Contest

Christmas Shopping Extravaganza

November 19

Christmas Concert and Wassail

Bring in your creations to Town Centre Hotel for display throughout December – and prizes!

November 12

December 9 & 10

With the Powell River Chorus. 7:30 Evergreen Theatre. See ad Page 18.

December 1 to 3

St. David and St. Paul Bazaar and Tea. At the church in Townsite, 12-2 pm.

Powell River’s Theatre Now! Fridays & Saturdays at 7 pm. Sundays at 1:30 pm.

Robin Hood & The Babes in the Woods

Between 5 and 8 pm, at the Paradise Valley Railroad with Santa. New route, more décor and a tunnel.

December 2

November 5

12-4 pm at the Thunderdome. Lots of local businesses showcasing the must-haves for the holidays. The Pow Town Derby will be also be offering a concession and the option to purchase their merchandise. Door prizes, food and fun!

December 9, 10, 11 & 16, 17, 18

Russ Rosen Westview Church, 7 pm. Storyteller, Justyn Rees and singer/songwriter, Russ Rosen join forces and the songs and stories like you’ve never heard before.

afts fair r c y a d s i l Ho clip n’ go

Powell River Fine Arts Annual Christmas Sale

Timberlane (across from the track). Friday: 2-8 pm. Saturday and Sunday 10-3 pm.

December 10 Magic of Christmas Home-based business and Craft Fair 10-4 pm Upper Recreation Complex Foyer Please confirm event info before going!

ur k yoE o o B RE ion F ltat su ! Con today

604.485.9333

relishinteriors.com Offer runs until December, 18, 2016. See in store for details

Open Mon – Sat

9:30 – 5:30

Natural Health & Beauty – Organic Health Foods Vitamins, Minerals & Herbs – Homeopathic Remedies Beer & Wine Making Supplies – Special Customer Orders

4706C4706C MarineMarine Avenue Avenue 604.485.5550

Powell River, B.C. V8A 2L4 604.485.5550

Open Mon – Sat

let’s go see!

9:30 – 5:30

Natural Health & Beauty – Organic Health Foods full menu with liquor license Vitamins, Minerals & Herbs – Homeopathic Remedies Beer & Wine Making Suppliesthatsugarvault.com – Special CustomerOPEN Orders WED - SUN: 5PM - LATE

4871 #105 JoyceMarine Ave | formerly Kane’s Bistro | 604 223 2048 4706C Avenue Powell River, B.C. V8A 2L4 POWELL RIVER LIVING • november 2016 • 604.485.5550

TAKE A BREAK

Take a break. Really.

Powell River Tarot: a community reading, by Teresa Harwood-Lynn Teresa is available for individual readings, parties and special events. You can contact her directly at 604-485-5620 or by email at teresaann@telus.net

I Improve health care in Powell River. Donate to the Powell River Hospital Foundation. 604 485-3211 ext 4349 | 5000 Joyce Avenue, Powell River, V8A 5R3

www.prhospitalfoundation.com LTD.

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Complete Auto Repair Any Make & Model

f you are sitting comfortably in your favourite chair, or place at the table, take a few moments to move to a spot where you rarely sit. Look around and notice how your view has changed, and how things look different from this vantage point. This, in part, is what November’s card, The Hanged Man, is about. The first thing to notice when looking at this card, is a person hanging upside down. From here he sees his life from a different angle. He is hanging from a tree with leaves indicating that the tree, like himself, is very much alive. His hands are clasped behind his back, and while hanging from his left leg, his right leg is tucked behind the right knee creating the form of a cross. His halo glows a brilliant yellow and we can see by the calm look on his face that it is his choice to dangle in the air. The Hanged Man is about looking at life and circumstance from a different perspective. I recently had the pleasure of speaking with a young woman who had taken a wrong turn and found her life

spiralling downward. She told me that she managed to turn herself around by taking a hard look at the events in her life that got her to where she was, and then changing her mindset from that of victim to one of victor. She chose to find positive, not negative lessons from all that life had thrown her. For most of us, in our own lives, we will never arrive at such a cross road, but we can all look back and see times when viewing our situation from a different slant may have changed the outcome. Not only does The Hanged Man have a different aspect from where he is, he is suspended in time and place. He has voluntarily ceased to move, giving him time to open up and ponder new and different ideas. In addition to garnering a new perspective, the Hanged Man teaches us that sometimes we must surrender to our circumstances in order to move forward. By ending the struggle, and giving up control we find clarity and insight.

Tarot Tip 7050 Alberni St C 604 485-7003

Holy Cross Cemetery

Under the trees south of town on Nassichuk Road

Plots available

For information, call Ann Palmer 604-483-1935

During a “reading” the reader looks not only at the pictures and symbols on a tarot card, but also the colours and where they are. Is the gown red or only the flowers? Is the sky blue, yellow or grey? Are the colours intense and vibrant, or dull and flat. Is the red representing passion or aggression, danger or power? Blue can be peace, subconscious thought, contentment, or just plain old water. How about yellow? Vitality, consciousness, spirituality or illumination? All of these are considered when looking at each individual card, and help to add clarity and depth to a reading.

Rodmay Heritage Liquor Store

Honour the veterans you love

604-483-7715 rodmayheritagehotel.com

Flowers by Cori-Lynn

Open every day 9 am to 11 pm

#104-4801 Joyce Ave • Crossroads Village • 604-485-7673

Lynda’s Quality

Take a class, or just drop in and use our work area. We have thousands of molds, and everything you need.

Ceramics 10 am-9 pm Tues-Sat 4617B McLeod Road 604 485-6462

• november 2016 • prliving.ca

SURRENDER NEW PERSPECTIVE CALM PAUSE CLARITY INSIGHT

Remembrance Day 2016

Competitive prices! (taxes and deposit included on shelf price) Convenient Townsite location Great selection of beer, wine & spirits

THE HANGED MAN

Finish a piece from greenware, or choose something and we can finish it for you.

Greenware

Bisque

Finished items

Or choose from our selection of prefinished items, from turtles to unicorns to Star Wars figures and so much more.

1 4

ENDLESS ENDLESS POTS POTS OF OF JOY JOY

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1 cup, 2 cups, 3 cups or 4… our coffee’s so good, you’ll deﬁnitely be back for more!

FREE COFFEE & REFILLS

Powell River Helping Hands

with the purchase of $7+ Mon-Fri 7-11am Sat-Sun 7-1pm

6243 Walnut Street 604.483.EDIE (3343)

Across

Down

4) Paradise rail runner, or to teach 6) Captain Loder’s initial name 8) Costly barrier to car-less 10) Film about love and aging 12) Gov’t financial assistance 14) Aluminum bit from can 17) Look west to find Housing Society 18) Give money 19) Difficult-to-define description of lowincome 20) Place for parents and kids 21) Lutheran Carol stocks this 22) Lions Santa Parade event ___ for Kids 24) Fund benefiting from Gingerbread 25) Her legacy houses 28) Parade’s star, elf boss 30) Bell-ringing campaign 31) Shout encouragement

1) Christmas Carol era 2) Important Signs report 3) Fewer high-paying 5) Is poverty a measure of not enough of this? 7) Bells or Jog 9) Deliverance 10) Organized force for war 11) Condition often linked to poverty 12) Payment that may not be enough for living 13) Found in groceries, restaurants & gardens 14) Few under tree for poor kids 15) If you’re empty at one, other will fill you up 16) Welcomed in PR from Syria 17) Poverty and vacuums 19) Pricey winter food, or to make 22) Acronym for resource centre 23) Nov 25 event helps food bank 24) Jingle Jog organizer 26) Laundry holder, or grocery helper 27) Together in the way 29) Christmas Carol hero, or miser 30) Wilson in “poverty” by choice

idealweightlosspowellriver.com • Lowers blood pressure • Reduces LDL • Improves glucose tolerance • Lowers risk for cardiovascular disease

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Trims • Hot shaves Kids cuts are just $12

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B O 2O

Solution for last month’s puzzle:

V A

F L I

H A E

D W

A C K

P L

Dirk de Villiers pharmacist/owner

G H

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P U M 32 P L

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G H O S E

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C R O F

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C R O W N

Your health. Our priority.

C R

M 24 A N S O N P

C K 8

Spooky Powell River

Unit E - 4670 Marine Ave • 604-485-5530 9:30 am to 5 pm • Monday to Saturday

E L

H E M L O C K

B U L

POWELL RIVER LIVING • november 2016 •

THE Lu

No need to head out of town, when there are so many gift o from our advertisers, has rounded up a list worth lusting aft 2

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ust LIST

options right here in our city. Powell River Living, with help ter, whether for a loved one, or to treat yourself!

For colour 1

For romantic dinners 6

These chemical-free, alpaca scarves are hypoallergenic, biodegradable, and just $35 at Fits to a T. Best of all, they come in over 60 colours!

The hustle and bustle of the holiday seasons begs for a night out for just the two of you. Take in date night at the Tree Frog Bistro.

For local pride 2

For summer dreaming 7

Beer is always a good gift, but it’s so fleeting! Show the beer lover on your list some lasting love with swag from Townsite Brewing, like this Suncoast hat. In addition to a bottle, of course!

A towel makes a great gift - when it’s a Sand Cloud towel from Simply Bronze. This company has perfected the beach towel. Perfect if you’re heading south, or just dreaming about it!

For happy heads 3

For warm bodies 8

A Pollen sweater has become a staple gift for Powell River. But you can also accessorize with Pollen, too. Butt cuffs and scarves are excellent, but our favourite is the easy-care toque.

You don’t have to be an early technology adopter to appreciate the Nest thermostat. It simply does what thermostats should have been doing all along, but don’t. Now your thermostat automatically adapts to your life and season change. Use it for a week and it programs itself. Just pop off your old thermostat and install your new Nest from Valley Building Supplies. $329.

For adventures 4

Record your adventures, no matter what kind of conditions, with the GoPro Hero 5, available at Taws.

For wet pets 5 RC Pet Products, available at Top Shelf Feeds, offers adorable and functional raincoats for man’s best friend, plus lots of other pet supplies, including leashes, harnesses, collars and paw protection.

For lush living 9 Mother Nature has new lines of home decor, including these trendy new pillows. Other items in their 1500 new square feet of Christmas space include luxe throw blankets (fur included!), table linens, rugs, lamps, accent pieces and ornaments.

9 POWELL RIVER LIVING • november 2016 •

THE

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• november 2016 • prliving.ca

Lust LIST 14

For the finial touch 10

For honouring love 16

Add some polish to your home with elegant drapery hardware from Relish Interiors. Book your free consultation or check out the in- stock selection at 4670B Marine Ave, or call 604 485-9333.

Val Lancaster, a member of the Namigis First Nation of Alert Bay, combines traditional and original concepts in her carving. Her Sterling Silver and Copper Moon Necklaces start at $100 at Paperworks.

For clean pets 11

For hot nights 17

Nothing is less attractive than a stinky dog. Company’s coming, so leave the pet washing mess at Dog Gone Grooming! Dog and cat washing gift cards are also available.

We all want a place to relax after a long, stressful day. Make it a place to relieve those tense muscles and enjoy some hydrotherapy, too, with a Beachcomber hot tub from RONA. It’s a great way to entertain friends, too, but the real value is when it’s just you and your sweetie relaxing.

For hot dates 12 That Sugar Vault has gorgeous desserts and drinks along with savory options to make your hot date even more special. The warm atmosphere sets the mood for love. Find the Vault at #105-4871 Joyce Ave, a few doors down from River City Coffee.

For favourite friends 13 You can never go wrong with jewelry as a gift. And you can make it one-stop shop with flowers and loads of other gifts at Flowers by Cori-Lynn.

For a good time 14 Show off your favourite brand with a tough watch. Red Dragon watches come in ultra slim or chunky designs. They start at $68.95 at Armitage Men’s Wear.

For mixing it up 15

Avoid the stresses and messes of Christmas baking by using the right tools in the kitchen, like the Kitchen-Aid stand mixer from Canadian Tire. And it will match the kitchen of anyone on your list because it’s available in 20 different colours. $399.99 for the 325W mixed with 10 speeds. Add attachments for grinding, slicing, coring and even making pasta.

For beauty 18 Tug Guhm Gallery is packed with gorgeous gifts by some of the region’s best artists. But the showcases pieces are gallery owner Debra Bevaart's own carvings, such as seals, sea lions and this humpback whale tail.

For your favourite sommelier 19 Need a hostess or party gift? Go the extra mile with Capone’s. Buy a convenient wine box for $1.49. Then fill it with six bottles and save 5% on each bottle.

For sharp cookies 20 If the way to the heart is through the stomach, then the way to a chef’s heart is with a sharp set of knives, like these Johnson-Rose blades from Aaron Service & Supply.

For all day, every day 21 Blundstone boots from Pagani’s are lean, clean and straightforward. They are amazingly light, and go with everything. The timeless boot is available in a variety of colours, including this beautiful Shiraz, or go for the classic look in Rustic Brown.

POWELL RIVER LIVING • november 2016 •

d r o W t s a L ith w

PIETA WOOLLEY pieta@prliving.ca

Affluenza Attacks! A pre-Christmas cautionary tale

t all started at Wal-Mart. During that heinous ‘before-dinner’ period one evening in late September, I’d dragged my two exhausted, hungry kids with me to pick up something. Photos, maybe? I don’t remember. Here is what I do remember. They zipped across the store to the toy section. When I caught up to them, their eyes were bugging out of their little heads. My daughter wanted a Disney figurine. My son was salivating over a $25 Magic Cards binder. Please please please please please??!! NO WAY. I turned to leave, expecting that they would follow. And that’s when the Great Wal-Mart Meltown of 2016 manifested, in glorious public view, right by the paint chip section. Tears. Begging. Bargaining. Over a few pieces of plastic. The scene was like one of those Facebook memes, where a kid is tantruming in a store aisle, and the caption runs something like, “Parenting: you’re doing it wrong.” Or, “Time for Mommy to grow up, too.” These all-too-common moments are a source of deep shame. Here, world: take a look at our terrible family. If you’re an often-underperforming parent like me, you know what I’m talking about. Babboon-like mommy rage took over my better instincts. I ordered them to the crumb-covered minivan, and drove them home in stormy silence. ‘Why do my kids think they can manipulate me into buying them stuff?’ I brewed. ‘What has gone so horribly wrong for them that they’re this attached to... crap?’ That’s when it hit me: because that’s how I’d negotiated through September so far. This was All. My. Fault. It’s a tricky month, September. Back to school. New activities. Back on schedules. Never enough sleep or family time. How do I cope? Full confession: sometimes - no, way too often - with little bribes. But man, I realized, it was costing all of us. The mis-

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used privilege of having some discretionary money was undermining my family’s relationships, expectations, and behaviours. Affluenza doesn’t just affect one-percenters, clearly. It was Time For Change. We were at home by this time – I’d sent the kids to their rooms so I could hash it all over with my dinnercooking husband. Then, from upstairs, the sound of breaking glass. My son had “accidently” kicked out his bedroom window, sending shards over the front lawn. Evidently, we found out later, you could hear it all over Townsite. By this time, euphoria had set in for us grown-ups. It just really couldn’t get worse. We chuckled as we surveyed the damage outdoors, letting our son stew with worry upstairs. That was the catharsis - the dramatic climax that had been building since back-to-school. Here we all were, consumed by our horribleness, all together. All of this is a long explanation for why you’ll be seeing us at craft fairs in the coming months. First, we put our kids on a no-new-stuff-til-Christmas diet. Second, they’re responsible for a raft of new chores. And third, they’re raising money for the Community Resource Centre’s breakfast program. Feeding about 100 Powell River folks nutritious and filling breakfasts costs about $3,800 a year. So, my daughter has started a pet treats business. My son is selling Christmas cards. The theory is that the combination of hard work, service to others, and zero bribes will produce kids who are grateful, conscientious, and diligent. But in truth, the fault lies less with them than with me. They didn’t choose to get hooked on bribes. That was my thoughtlessness. Parenting is hard work physically and emotionally but also spiritually. Facing your own worst habits in the mirror of your offspring is humbling. If my kids are being forced to develop their character, so should I. It was time for this mommy to grow up, too.

Going on a holiday? See us first! If you’re heading for some fun in the sun, remember that some medical expenses may be only partially covered by your government health insurance program. Ask us about coverage on a daily or annual basis. Whether you travel frequently during the year or are just going for a single sunny holiday, we can find a plan that’s right for you. UNDERWRITERS INSURANCE

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• november 2016 • prliving.ca

•

4240 Padgett Rd

•

604-485-2234

•

after hours Shaun 604-414-5455 or Dan 604-483-6978

Your money, your services

your say Winter means Five Year Financial Plan 2017 - 2021

Myth: Why are we talking money

now? The Five Year Financial Plan appears in March. That’s when directors vote.

Reality: Preparation of the 2017 - 2021

Financial Plan starts in earnest this month November. Since summer, staff has heard from committees and departmental heads. Now, they’re busy writing budget proposals based on that input.

Myth: What, no public input? Reality: Starting in December, the budget will be discussed at public meetings.

Myth: Well, I should be there. It’s my property taxes that pay for everything.

Reality: Property taxes are an important part

of the budget – but not the only source. The PRRD is also funded by fees and charges (such as waste, cemetery and camping fees); the Regional District basic grant from the Province; grants in lieu of taxes; gas tax funds from the Federal Government; prior year surpluses and other sources. Any shortfall to fund the Financial Plan is derived from parcel taxes or property taxes.

Myth: Why should my property

taxes pay for Savary Island’s marine wharf, when I live in Saltery Bay?

Reality: Some services everyone pays for, such

as regional parks and emergency preparedness. But most other services are just paid for by the Electoral Areas that use them. For example, only Texada (Area D) taxpayers pay for the Texada airport, Texada recreation commission and Texada health centre, and only Lasqueti Islanders (Area E) pay for their marine ramp, waste management and fire department. There are no cross-subsidizations.

Myth: I’ll sleep through this, thanks. Nothing important happens at the Regional District anyway.

Reality: Oh sure. Nothing important. Just

waste management, 9-1-1, parks, libraries, fire departments, the animal shelter, sewer, water, docks, an airport and health centre… and perhaps your final resting place, cemeteries. We’ll keep you posted. You’ll want to know more.

You have the opportunity to comment! Between December and March, the Powell River Regional District will discuss the Five Year Financial Plan at regular meetings. Watch local media for the dates and times.

Why doesn’t my director vote on everything at the PRRD? Not all Regional District directors have the right to vote on all matters - or even have the same number of votes in all situations. This is called vote entitlement. In some cases, all directors are entitled to vote, whereas in other cases only the directors representing the jurisdiction participating in the service are allowed to vote. Then there is vote weighting. Each director is assigned a specific number of votes based on the population of their jurisdiction. Some issues are weighted, which means that the voter gets to cast all of the votes assigned to them. Weighted votes most often deal with

money matters, adoption of the Financial Plan, borrowing and property acquisition. Unweighted votes are typically routine business matters and are one vote for each person voting. One interesting characteristic is that no matter may be decided by only one director. Therefore, in the case where only one director represents the jurisdiction benefiting from the service and they would be the only person entitled to vote, each director must vote on the issue in an unweighted fashion.

202 - 4675 Marine Avenue Powell River, BC V8A 2L2 604-485-2260 administration@powellriverrd.bc.ca

powellriverrd.bc.ca POWELL RIVER LIVING • november 2016 •

I want to buy, but it’s a seller’s market. Should I wait? Powell River’s real estate market is heating up. If you are on the hunt for a home in a seller’s market you might feel overwhelmed. But Brandy Peterson can help you prepare for the challenges an active market presents and find a solid investment in a great home! Brandy works hard to handle all the details, so you don’t have the stress so often associated with buying and selling real estate. She gives up-to-date market information and recommendations, so you can have confidence in your decisions and get the most out of your property, and so you can find the right home for you. And Brandy will help negotiate the best deal. So call Brandy Peterson today.

Dear Brandy, You were absolutely wonderful to deal with! You made house hunting fun and not something to dread. Thank you for all your time and effort spent to show us houses until we found our perfect one! We are so excited to move into our new home.

n o s r e t e P y d Bran

Sincerely, Kim Brennan & Steve Noon 100% CANADIAN