Hockey club’s streak comes at the right time PAGE 13
A growing list of pharmacy services is changing what people can expect when they walk up to the counter, and the owner of Shoppers Drug Mart hopes more residents in the qathet region will take advantage of care that goes well beyond filling prescriptions.
Owner Mimi Wei, who took over the store about a year ago, says the pharmacy has been focusing on consistency and long-term staffing so customers see familiar faces and can build relationships with the people handling their medications. Services from minor ailment prescribing to vaccinations and medication support are also offered.
“We have permanent pharmacists working there now,” explains Wei, describing a shift away from relying mostly on relief staff.
Wei says stability matters in a community where many residents value continuity with service providers. The goal is straightforward: build trust, encourage people to return if they have gone elsewhere and make sure residents know what supports are available at the pharmacy.
“Pharmacists have an expanded scope of practice that allows them to assess and prescribe for 21 minor ailments,” she adds, listing examples such as acne, urinary tract in-
fections and cold sores, and noting that pharmacists can also help with contraception.
For people weighing whether to try over-the-counter options or wait for a clinic visit, Wei says the pharmacy can help bridge the gap, particularly when prescription treatment may be more appropriate and medical appointments can take time to access.
“If you were to book an appointment with the doctor, a lot of times it’s a long wait. Delays can stretch from a week to several weeks.”
The store is open from 8 am to 10 pm, seven days a week, and the pharmacy tries to accommodate walk-in requests for minor ailments when possible.
Wei also points to supports that can make day-to-day health care
tiple medications for interactions, checking whether treatments remain appropriate, and in some cases, extending prescriptions when patients cannot see a doctor in time.”
Wei encourages patients to get the most out of pharmacy care by asking questions.
easier, including blister packing, prescription deliveries and medication reviews. She described the pharmacy as aiming to be flexible in what it can offer, especially as residents navigate gaps in the broader health-care system.
“Be curious,” she says. “You’re in charge of your own health care.”
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Shoppers Drug Mart was recently chosen as the go-to pharmacy in the region. That recognition was appreciated by Wei and her staff.
“Thank you to everyone in the community who voted for us as the People’s Choice winner.”
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Looking ahead, Wei says the pharmacy hopes to expand services further as staffing grows and more customers become aware of what is available. For now, the message to the community is that the pharmacy team is committed for the long term and working to provide reliable service, with a steady staff that residents can get to know.
“I think it’s about building our relationship with the community so they can trust us to do their pharmacy services.”
With a sizable senior population in the community, chronic disease management is a major focus.
“That can include reviewing mul-
Shoppers Drug Mart is located in Powell River Town Centre (Unit 157100 Alberni Street). For more information, call 604.485.2844.
Interim CFO outlines city taxation statistics
Ken Bjorgaard reports on new property assessment for former mill site
PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com
Loss of taxation revenue from the former Catalyst Paper Tis’kwat mill is now estimated at $2.9 million, down from the previous estimate of $3.8 million.
At the City of Powell River Council meeting on January 22, interim chief financial officer Ken Bjorgaard reported on property tax distribution and 2026 property assessments, based on the completed assessment roll for 2026 produced on December 31, 2025, from the British Columbia Assessment Authority.
Bjorgaard said the city now has more definitive
numbers on the loss of tax revenue from the mill site.
He said the new estimate of $2.9 million, down from the original projection of $3.8 million, is a positive development.
He said another important development is that taxation construction revenue within the city, other than the mill site, is $471,000 in new taxes in 2026.
According to Bjorgaard, the property tax distribution in 2025 included $16,948,535 from the residential rate levy, which accounted for 62.5 per cent of the total property tax. From businesses, $4,331,380, or 15.97 per cent, was collected. Major industry property taxes were $5,228,731, or 19.28 per cent of the property taxes collected during the year. In 2026, there has been a loss of nearly $86 million from the major industry classification from the mill, which has the highest tax rate of all classifications.
Bjorgaard said there is now $35 million in utilities that wasn’t there before, and $42 million worth of new business assessment as well, from the mill be recategorized.
“Since major industry has a much higher tax rate than those other classes, you have a loss of revenue from the mill of approximately $2.9 million,” added Bjorgaard. He said with the loss of mill revenue, plus the new taxation from new construction, the result is a loss of revenue of $2.4 million from the 2025 assessment.
Bjorgaard said the next draft of the city budget comes forward on February 26, at which point council will be solidifying a tax increase for 2026 based on the latest information the city has. He said staff will also be bringing forward a recommendation to increase reserve transfers.
“In draft one of the financial plan, the reserve trans-
fers were cut back to mitigate what we thought was the original impact of the mill,” said Bjorgaard.
In formulating the fiveyear financial plan, the recommendation is that all classes have a 6.43 per cent increase in taxes to make the increase consistent across all categories, he added.
City councillor Jim Palm
asked if taxes on the dam on Powell River were still combined with the mill’s taxes.
Bjorgaard said that was correct. Palm asked if they would be separated in the future. Bjorgaard said that would be a question for BC Assessment.
Council unanimously carried a motion that a fixed share methodology be used
for apportioning a 2026 tax increase, after distributing the estimated net tax loss from the mill properties among the impacted tax classes, and that the estimated new, non-market tax revenue from non-mill properties be added to the fixed shares within the property classification in which it is generated.
Energy licensing procedure receives support
City, Tla’amin and qRD to sign letter regarding application to sell power to United States
PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com
City of Powell River Council will be a signatory to correspondence, together with Tla’amin Nation and qathet Regional District, supporting more extensive process and examination of Powell River Energy Inc.’s application to sell electricity to the United States.
In city hall, Susan Auchterlonie, city manager of partnerships, intergovernmental and public relations, said she was appearing to obtain direction on whether to sign onto the joint letter to the federal minister of energy and natural resources (Tim Hodgson, MP),
supporting the Canada Energy Regulator’s recommendation for a licensing procedure to take place.
“In August 2025, Powell River Energy Inc. filed an application with the Canada Energy Regulator, seeking a 30-year permit to export electricity from Canada to the United States,” said Auchterlonie. “At its September 18 meeting, council received a report and passed a motion to submit a letter opposing that application. The letter was sent to the Canada Energy Regulator on September 22, and on December 18, the regulator issued its decision and recommended that the application for a 30-year contract for an export permit be dealt by way of a licensing procedure.”
Auchterlonie said this issue matters deeply in the region, and thousands of residents submitted letters to the Canada Energy Regulator expressing opposition to the export permit.
“We can assume that this response, together with the coordinated response from Tla’amin Nation, qathet Regional District and
City of Powell River, contributed to Canada Energy Regulator’s recommendation,” said Auchterlonie. “Continued coordinated efforts remain key.
“You have a draft letter before you to the minister of energy and natural resources supporting the recommendation of the regulator and requesting the minister’s adoption of the recommendation to proceed with a fulsome licensing procedure. That letter is presented for council’s consideration and it is proposed to be issued jointly with Tla’amin Nation and qathet Regional District.”
Council unanimously carried a motion that council sign on to a joint letter, along with Tla’amin and qRD, to the federal minister of energy and natural resources, supporting the recommendation.
City councillor Cindy Elliott said the local government partners have done excellent work to come up with a joint letter, and she was happy to say that it is a unifying issue in the community, to do what can be done
to prevent this 30-year export permit, and alienating all the power from local development, which is not desired by any of the local governments.
“If we are to have new development in our Tis’kwat area, we are going to need, or at least hopefully have, access to that power to drive that development,” said Elliott.
According to a December 18 letter from the Canada Energy Regulator to the minister of energy and natural resources, a licensing procedure would provide the commission of the regulator with flexibility to consider its process, including asking questions to parties other than Powell River Energy, and the conditions, if any, it may potentially impose. The letter states that a licensing procedure would give the commission discretion as to its assessment process, including holding a public hearing, if necessary, plus discretion to either issue a licence or to deny the application, and authority to impose any terms and conditions on the licence that it considers appropriate.
Loss of tax revenue from the former Catalyst Paper Tis’kwat mill, parts of which are currently being demolished, is less than originally projected, coming in at a $2.9 million loss after reclassification of the property from major industry. New construction in the city will add $471,000, so it is projected that there will be a loss of revenue of $2.4 million that was available in 2025. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Grant discussion ends abruptly
Debate on Foundry incomplete because of time constraints
PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com
Debate on Powell River Community Forest grants was cut short when city councillors ran out of time.
At a meeting last month, mayor Ron Woznow brought back the fall grants, which had previously been approved at the December 4, 2025, city council meeting, with a $250,000 donation to Foundry qathet, and with the exclusion of eight grants that had been recommended by Powell River Community Forest.
At the January 22 meeting, Woznow said he had put forward the reconsidera-
tion based on two matters.
He said the Community Charter makes it clear that it is the mayor’s responsibility to show leadership.
“I believe part of the motion passed is simply not good,” said Woznow.
“Secondly, I have over 50 years of experience in raising money for foundations, writing strategic reports and proposals, which demonstrated to funders why a project should proceed.
“When I look at a $250,000 grant for Foundry qathet, I would like to make it very clear that I made a donation to the sponsoring group of Foundry because I wanted them to look at other Foundry operations around the province and to learn from the successful Foundry operations like the one in Campbell River.”
Woznow said he has seen no indication that Foundry qathet has talked with other operations and learned how
to raise money, especially since the responsibility for Foundry lies clearly with the provincial government. He said Campbell River has a number of provincial agencies as the base funders.
“We have a situation here, where, from the latest I saw, Foundry qathet has raised maybe half the money that is required,” said Woznow. “I don’t know why any organization would step forward, like the city, using taxpayers’ money, which comes from the community forest, for a project that may not be concluded. It makes no sense, especially because the motion excluded eight organizations that the Powell River Community Forest board had agreed that they provide significant service to the community and therefore should be funded.”
Woznow said Foundry qathet had applied to the community forest on a number of occasions, and each time, it was obvious to the community forest board that they [Foundry] were not in a position yet to be considered for funding. He said if city council overrides what has been the traditional responsibility, council was sending a message that council does not respect the work the community forest has done.
Woznow said Foundry is a three-minute walk from a drug injection facility that is
under construction.
“I have a lot of experience with drug and alcohol abuse,” said Woznow. “What would be a more ideal group to look at? That made me realize that council has to seriously consider stepping back and waiting to see if Foundry can come forward with something that makes sense to the community forest.
“What I am suggesting is that the new consideration be such that council does not approve a fall 2025 Powell River Community Forest grant for $250,000 for Foundry qathet, and that council approve all grants included in the community forest recommendations.”
After discussion on council procedure by councillors and corporate officer Peter DeJong, councillor Earl Almeida said he wondered if a compromise could be found, approving all the recommendations in the community forest grant report and the $250,000 grant for Foundry qathet.
Council then engaged in discussion about meeting time. In council’s procedures bylaw, it stipulates a two-hour limit for meetings, and time can be extended by unanimous consent of council. Council, at 9 pm, had extended the time limit to 9:30 pm, and the debate on the community forest grants was still going at 9:30 pm.
City of Powell River mayor Ron Woznow brought discussion on Powell River Community Forest’s fall 2025 grants back to city council for reconsideration, but time expired on the council meeting so the matter was not resolved.
Woznow asked council for unanimous consent to extend the meeting to 10 pm.
Councillor George Doubt said he did not agree because if council took some time to think about what the resolutions look like, a lot of time could be saved.
“Our next meeting is not that far away,” added Doubt.
Council had before it a motion that council approve a fall 2025 Powell River Community Forest grant for $250,000 to Powell River Youth and Family Services Society for Foundry qathet.
Woznow said there was four minutes remaining until the meeting time expired, so he asked if there was any more discussion.
Councillor Jim Palm said that he was not ready to spend the money, putting $250,000 at risk. He said he wanted to make an amendment to change the $250,000 to $125,000, and then vote to include all the other items. There was not a
seconder.
Councillor Trina Isakson said there had been a robust discussion on the matter in November 2025. She said Foundry qathet is well connected to other Foundry organizations around BC. She added that Foundry BC, the provincial agency that supports Foundry organizations, is well connected and supported and offers a number of services to support Foundry organizations.
“When I think of what I want to tax for, I tax for our youth,” said Isakson. “I’m so excited for this service to be in our community.”
Woznow asked council if anyone was in conflict through involvement with Foundry or any personal family benefits that would flow from this. No councillors responded.
At 9:31 pm, Woznow declared the meeting closed, indicating that the items would come back at a subsequent meeting.
Fundraising keeps shelves stocked
to several community organizations whose recent fundraising efforts continue to make a difference for people who rely on the food bank.
Local bluegrass band Scout Mountain hosted a fundraiser at Cranberry Hall in mid-December, raising $2,636 in support of the local food bank.
Forest Management's generous $3,450 cheque donation. Your ongoing support plays an important role in strengthening food security in our community."
Dee and the PRAC team also thanked CUPE 798 for its continued monthly support.
Powell River Action Centre Food Bank (PRAC) manager Savanna Dee and her team recently gave a shout-out
"Your efforts and community spirit help ensure food is available for those who need it most," said Dee.
"We are also very grateful for Mosaic
"Your steady commitment provides reliable help that allows us to plan ahead and serve our clients with confidence," added Dee.
PEAK ARCHIVE PHOTO
Black history event returns
Organizers hope to bring
joy, culture and food to the community
TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com
To celebrate diverse African culture and traditions with the greater Powell River community, African and Afro-Caribbean Association of qathet is organizing a Black History Month event for the third consecutive year.
Although last year's gathering drew a large crowd to the hall, association secretary Godson Akhidenor said he wants this year's event to be bigger and better.
Akhidenor said folks who have moved and/or are moving to the region are from all over, including West Africa, Egypt, South Africa and East Africa, as well as a lot of Kenyans, Congolese, and people from the Caribbean.
"Last year, we had a financial literacy training, organized in collaboration with the First Credit Union," said Akhidenor. "We also had people who are Indigenous people in this community who came to benefit from the very valuable information that was shared in that
"We are looking at a time when the Black History Month event is going to be like a festival," said Akhidenor. "We want to use the opportunity to celebrate black culture and heritage, but we also recognize the fact that we are well accommodated in Powell River, so we want to use the opportunity to also bring the people of the [greater] community together to share in our joy, heritage and history."
meeting."
Akhidenor said his association has been doing outreach to newcomers to the community, who may need guidance on settling on the northern Sunshine Coast.
"Our association is not just out to celebrate Black History Month alone; we are helping new immigrants of African and Caribbean heritage who migrate to Powell River, to help if they are facing difficulties," said Akhideno. "We understand that the government is doing a lot, but we are a notfor-profit organization, and in our own little way helping out, to help them settle into the community."
Akhidenor emphasized that Africa is a big and diverse continent and so the Black History Month event will have a wide representation of African nationalities, culture, foods, dress, music
and the
and history.
"The food will be like a taste of Africa," said Akhidenor. "There's a unique way we blend spices and herbs into our meal, which are very good dietary herbs, that when you eat them, you are not just consuming food, you are also eating something that will be very beneficial to your health."
He said many African foods are slow-cooked, stewed and
marinated with lots of herbs, as opposed to just frying.
"A keynote speaker is coming from Vancouver, and we are going to have a display of fashion, culture and dance music," said Akhidenor.
"We're going to have a band from the Caribbean; it's going to be a great event."
Akhidenor said when people ask him where he's from, he says Powell River.
"This is home to me, and if
I'm asked to describe Powell River in one word, I would just say: peace,” he added. The Black History Month event is free, but donations are welcome. The event will take place on Saturday, February 21, at Dwight Hall, located at 6274 Walnut Street, starting at 12 pm. For more information, email Akhidenor, at officialpastorgee@gmail.com, or call 604.414.7743.
Godson Akhidenor [far left]
African and Afro-Caribbean Association of qathet, is organizing the region’s third annual Black History Month event, which will take place on Saturday, February 21, at Dwight Hall. ANDREW BRADLEY PHOTO
Real estate purchases by residents increase
when 51.2 per cent of buyers were local.
PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com
More home buyers in the Powell River Sunshine Coast Real Estate Board region were local in 2025 than in 2024.
According to real estate board president Curtis Yungen, for 2025, 64.7 per cent of buyers were local, which was up from 2024,
“The majority of buyers were purchasing their primary residence, at 80.4 per cent, which is up a bit from last year, where 75.8 per cent of buyers were purchasing their primary residence,” said Yungen. “The biggest motivator was quality of life at 34.6 per cent in 2025, down slightly from last year at 38.1 per cent. The second biggest motivator was upsizing, at 22.9 per cent, which is up from 2024’s figure of 15.3 per cent.”
Yungen said the majority of out-oftown buyers were coming from the Lower
Mainland and outlying areas at 32.6 per cent, which is also the number one spot in 2024, at 39 per cent.
“For sellers, the majority were local, at 82.7 per cent, which is almost identical to last year, which was 83.3 per cent local,” said Yungen. “Of those, 69.1 per cent were selling their primary residence, which is almost identical to last year, where 68.4 per cent sold their primary residence.
“Repurchasing in the area was the biggest next step at 30.9 per cent, which is up from last year, which saw 21.9 per cent repurchasing in the area.”
Figures released by the Powell River Sunshine Coast Real Estate Board indicate there were more local buyers in 2025 than there were in 2024. PEOPLEIMAGES, ISTOCK, GETTY IMAGES
Fire chief builds on successes
Yves Perrault takes over responsibilities for northside volunteer department
PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com
Following the retirement of Northside Volunteer Fire Department (NVFD) fire chief Jim Brown, longtime Northside firefighter Yves Perreault has stepped into the role as the new fire chief.
Perreault has been a firefighter for 20 years, having spent all his time with NVFD. During his tenure, he has had many responsibilities.
“Maybe five years after I joined, chief Brown asked me to be in charge of truck inspection, maintenance and repairs,” said Perreault. “At that time, all but major repairs were done in-house.
“Over the years, my role changed in response to the needs of the department. During the last five years of chief Brown’s tenure, I was
responsible for evaluating the training and skills of our firefighters.”
Perreault said with Brown trusting him with increased responsibilities over the years, he had to develop and improve many skills, and firefighting, leadership and interpersonal skills have been his focus.
Perreault said his vision for the NVFD is to continue to build on the work done by Brown, and to provide support to the fire department’s members so everyone can improve their skills to the fullest, while maintaining support from the community. Currently, Northside has 32 active members and the department is always accepting new recruits.
Northside has a modern department, including a new fire hall in Lund, a wellequipped fire hall at Craig Road; it has a new fire engine and a new training facility. Perreault said this provides firefighters with some real advantages.
“It allows us to build a more robust training program without having to send our members away for training as much,” said Perreault. “It
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also builds confidence and skills when we are equipped with the right tools. Being able to do more training inhouse also gives our officers more resources to develop their teaching techniques.”
Perreault said he has working relationships with other fire chiefs in the qathet
region, and several he has known for some time.
In terms of activity, Perreault said NVFD responds to close to 100 incidents a year, the majority being medical in nature. He added that motor vehicle incidents and fires are also on the rise.
Hospital board chooses chair
Tla’amin director
Brandon Louie acclaimed to lead
PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com
Tla’amin Nation director Brandon Louie is the new chair of qathet Regional Hospital District.
At the inaugural meeting of the hospital district on January 27, election of the chair was the first order of business. Corporate officer Michelle Jones called for nominations and Electoral Area A director Jason Lennox nominated Electoral Area B director Mark
Gisborne, who had been the hospital district chair in 2025. Gisborne declined the nomination and said after a great deal of thought, his assessment was that the position should be rotated.
“I greatly appreciate the nomination but I will decline the nomination to be chair,” said Gisborne. “I would be happy to be nominated for the position of vice-chair.”
Electoral Area C director and board chair Clay Brander, on second call for nominations, nominated Louie, who accepted the nomination. There were no further nominations, so Louie was acclaimed to the position.
Louie said he had experience chairing the Indigenous education council of qa-
thet School District and he thanked the board for its confidence.
The second item of business was the election of an acting chair. According to the meeting agenda, the board may elect an acting chair, who, during the absence or disability of the chair, has all the powers and is subject to the same rules as the chair.
City of Powell River Cindy Elliott said she thought it was a good idea and made the motion. Gisborne supported the motion, which carried.
Louie called for nominations and Lennox nominated Gisborne, who accepted. City director Rob Southcott nominated Elliott, who also accepted. Elliott was elected to the position by a six-to-two margin.
No Participants accessing our harm reduction programs bring their own substances to use in a safer, supervised environment
In our injectable Opioid Agonist Treatment (iOAT) program, physician-prescribed pharmaceutical medications are administered by nursing staff in a clinical setting - just like any other medical treatment - but none of our programs supply unregulated/street drugs to participants
Northside Volunteer Fire Department chief Yves Perreault [left] has assumed the duties of retired Northside fire chief Jim Brown [right]. Perreault has been with Northside for 20 years and is looking forward to building on the extensive work done by Brown in modernizing the fire department.
PHOTO
VIEWPOINT
Termination of decriminalization program is a blow
On January 14, the province confirmed what many people in the sector had suspected was coming: it was ending its limited decriminalization pilot program after three years.
Decriminalization was a provincial program that removed criminal penalties for adults possessing small amounts (2.5 grams or less) of certain illegal substances for personal use. By decreasing the role of the criminal justice system in responding to substance use, the program intended to reduce stigma and encourage access to health care and social services.
Despite public opinion on what the policy was or should have been, the program was proving successful and provincial data indicates that policy goals were being achieved.
LETTERS »
Ugly path
Imagine my surprise on finding, on a ferry from Saltery Bay, a printed note headlined: Say no to our beloved Dwight Hall being destroyed.
What? Is Powell River City Council actually considering an overly eager developer's proposal to knock down the venerable building or turn it into a condo? It turned out to be nothing of the sort. Rather, it concerned a proposal to use the hall's basement — not the main hall itself — to shelter unhoused people in the hopefully rare event of extreme weather during the waning remainder of this winter [“City council defeats emergency shelter motion,” January 29]. That printed note appears to be yet another example of fearmongering, exploiting people's
BC Ministry of Health has reported that drug offences and seizures (key inhibitors of accessing services and ability to maintain housing and employment) decreased, and service use of programs like Overdose Prevention Sites were maintained or increased during the pilot program. By its own accord and measures, the provincial program was meeting its intended outcomes.
Decriminalization was an opportunity to address, however incompletely, the complex interplay between substance use, homelessness and rising costs of living that force substance use into the public sphere.
The termination of the pilot program is a blow, not just to the thousands of people throughout the province who are navigating
legitimate concerns about peace and safety for political gain.
Every proposal to shelter people who have become unhoused due to poverty, trauma, abuse, mental health and/or addiction challenges seems to be met with serial nimbyism (not in my neighbourhood) and selective demonization rather than calm assessment of the (often unpleasant) alternatives. Doing nothing won't make homelessness go away.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, I lived across the road from many previously unhoused people. To be sure, our encounters weren't always pleasant and businesses reported more petty theft.
Trained people need to be available to monitor, prevent and intervene, and in that respect, the Dwight Hall basement seemed
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the toxic drug crisis on a daily basis. Instead of taking a leadership role against stigmatizing discourse, the province is folding to it; instead of acknowledging and working within the context of the unregulated toxic drug supply, we’re turning substance use into personal failure and punishment.
It’s also a blow to the values of the work being done to address the toxic drug supply in communities, and a strong indicator of where policy and resources are being directed.
Where is person-centred care in this decision? How is the accessibility to services and supports being assisted by this decision, if people are now at risk of criminality by entering spaces intended to help them?
the better of two unfortunate options. But in the absence of serious senior government policies to ensure adequate mental health care and universal housing as a human right, and with only a few properties at its disposal, what is city council to do? Wait for frozen corpses to show up on city streets?
My partner and I moved here before the pandemic, partly due to the community's culture of friendliness and empathy. That is still evident in people's behaviour.
Folks say hello on the street; shopkeepers are welcoming; drivers readily stop for pedestrians. But there seems to be a vocal contingent intent on raising the temperature and driving us down an uglier path. Let's not go there.
Bob Hackett, Westview
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By Kim Markel
That decriminalization has ended is not a policy failure; it’s a societal failure. A return to criminalization allows us to continue to “other” and distance ourselves from people using substances, treat their health needs as a crime and refuse to acknowledge our collective responsibility for each other’s wellbeing. Decriminalization is not the solution to toxic drugs, homelessness or rising costs of living, but it is a necessary element of a much-needed comprehensive response to homelessness, and the unending toxic drug public health emergency. Now is not the time to take a step backward.
Kim Markel is executive director of Lift Community Services.
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Library to host Olympic watch parties
Curling and women's hockey are up first, featuring Team Canada
TANYA HILL
thill@prpeak.com
The 2026 Olympic Winter Games take place in Italy from February 6 to 22.
Since the games take place 10 hours away from BC and the qathet region, Powell River Public Library (PRPL), with permission from CBC and Radio Canada, will host watch parties, focusing on live events when the library is open.
"For the most part [watch parties] will happen in the
morning and early afternoon," said PRPL teen services coordinator Mel Edgar.
"Given that many people remember that the Olympic torch passed through our community ahead of the Vancouver winter games, I am hoping this will be a time for us to come together and celebrate the spirit of the games."
The watch parties kicked off on Thursday, February 5, with mixed doubles curling, Canada versus Italy, and then, women’s hockey, Finland versus Canada.
Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games take place in Italy from February 6 to 22. Powell River Public Library will host Olympic watch parties featuring live events.
TECHNOTR, E+, GETTY IMAGES
"PRPL will also be showing the Olympic opening ceremonies at 10 am on February 6," said Edgar. "With some exceptions, the watch parties take place in the toxʷʊm/ Huckleberry Room at the library. No registration is required and watch parties are on a drop-in basis."
School food pilot program launched
Intentional menu will be developed by chefs, dieticians and professional cooks
TANYA HILL community@prpeak.com
Schools in qathet School District (qSD) currently run their own food programs independently through a provincially funded initiative called Feeding Futures, meant to address nutrition gaps in school communities across BC. According to qSD school food coordinator and dietician Hayley Samuell, 20 per cent of the local student population is accessing the program.
As of June 2025, Feeding Futures has been included in the education ministry’s base budget, providing long-term stability for school districts. In a recent announcement, the federal government confirmed that National School Food Program (NSFP) funding will be permanent.
At the qSD school board meeting on Wednesday, January 28, Samuell presented trustees with an outline of a new centralized food program pilot for 2026.
With the combined provincial and federal funding, Samuell said the district food team can create a new centralized breakfast, lunch and snack program for qSD elementary schools, with support for Brooks Secondary School and other programs.
"We want to develop an intentional menu by nutritionists, dieticians and professional cooks," said Samuell. "We will also have an internal school meal ordering system; bulk procurement of food; meals prepared out of a central kitchen at Brooks; and meal distribution to schools."
Samuell emphasized that although the program is intended to target the 20 per cent of students who are in need, the program food will be available to any student who comes to school hungry.
"The [food program team] will be using whole, raw or minimally processed
For more information, go to prpl.ca/event/winterolympics-2026-watch-party.
Edgar noted that, as the full schedules are finalized and once the Olympics are underway, especially those key medal events in the last week, the PRPL team will see what comes up when it comes to scheduling certain events.
ingredients and culinary techniques," said Samuell. "We want to include cultural foods through menu offerings, and connect to Indigenous principles with guidance from our Indigenous Education Department, Tla'amin Nation."
The program is currently in phase one, which involves hiring and setting up ordering and transportation systems, as well as menu and cost planning.
In April, a launch of the pilot project will begin at a single school in order to work out any operational details, and in May, the program will expand to additional schools.
The plan is to prepare, cook and chill food in the central kitchen located at Brooks and then transport to schools for reheating.
Although most of the food ordered for the program will be from BC producers, eventually, Samuell said the qSD school food team would like to reach out to local farms and farmers in order to include qathet-grown foods in the centralized program.
Cheer celebratescampaignresults
Organizers raised funds for people in need over the holiday season
A Christmas Cheer campaign aimed at supporting low-income families, particularly teenagers, during the holiday season was a huge success again this year, according to its organizer.
“Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, we raised over $5,000 to ensure that every family experienced the joy of Christmas,” stated Oceanside Entertainment owner Karyne Bailey, in a media release last month.
Funds raised were used to provide gift cards, toys and various types of merchandise to those in need, making the holiday season a little brighter for many qathet region families.
Bailey said the campaign was driven by the spirit of giving, creating an atmosphere of cheer and support that embodies the true essence of Christmas.
“This year's efforts were made possible through the generous contributions of local individuals who opened their hearts and wallets to help our neighbours in need,” she added. “We extend a heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you who voluntarily added tips to their purchases in both of our stores. Your support not only makes our campaign possible but also strengthens the bonds within our community.
“With the help of our amazing customers, we have once again been able to uplift families during this special time of year. Our fo-
cus on teens this year has been particularly impactful. The teenage years can be tough, and having something special to unwrap can make all the difference in their holiday experience.”
The impact of the Christmas Cheer Campaign extends beyond just material gifts; it fosters a sense of belonging and hope within our community, reminding us that we are all connected, the release stated.
“This is a time when many feel isolated; hence, our initiative is critical in ensuring no one feels alone or forgotten during the holidays. To anyone who contributed to this year's Christmas Cheer Campaign, your kindness and generosity have created ripples of hope that will resonate throughout the community. Together, we have proven that when we join forces, we can create lasting change and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to celebrate the magic of Christmas.”
While reflecting on the success of last year’s campaign, Bailey said everyone involved is also looking ahead with hope and enthusiasm for campaigns in 2026.
"Our work doesn't stop in December; we have campaigns year round,” she added.
“Every month, the tips we raise goes to a local nonprofit. We recognize the ongoing need within our community. We aim to expand our efforts year-round, focusing on ways to continue supporting non-profit organizations throughout the year, not just during the holiday season.”
Nonprofits wanting to be considered for a Tips Campaign are encouraged to email Bailey at oceansidebooksbc@gmail.com.
Karyne Bailey [third from right] with the Christmas Cheer crew and staff from Oceanside Entertainment. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Regals move up standings
placement comes down to regular season finale
Powell River Regals have set their sights on second place in West Coast Senior Hockey League standings.
With one game remaining in the regular season, Powell River is tied with Nanaimo Steelmen, one point ahead of Lake Cowichan Appollos, who the Regals defeated 5-2 in a road game on Saturday, January 31. The expansion Hope Icebreakers have clinched top spot.
“It was a very good performance from all players,” said Regals’ coach Tod English. “Dieter McIntosh made key saves, allowing only a screened shot goal and one on a power play. Our defence was very solid; it was great to have Jack Long back in the lineup.”
The coach also praised the forward line of Chad Niddery, Bryson Cecconi and Nic Porchetta, which
“was dangerous every shift.”
Cecconi scored once and set up goals by Niddery and Mason Windsor. Niddery and Porchetta had one assist each.
With the game tied 2-2 midway through the second period, Devin Krough and Tynan Peacock combined to set up the winning goal by Mitch Williams.
Powell River never relinquished that lead, with insurance goals by Peacock and Windsor sealing the win and making an overall second place finish possible.
“We outshot Appollos 51 to 39 with a relentless will to win,” said English.
With eight defenders in the lineup and a shortage up front, Kyle English and Tyler Durant played forward for the second game in a row.
“They continued to make a difference playing minutes that were very important,” said the coach.
Powell River hosts Lake Cowichan at Hap Parker Arena on Friday,
North Island Dental
Dr Cyrus Bachus
February 6. Game time is 7 pm.
Streak stopped
Powell River Kings failed to extend a three-game winning streak last weekend, falling twice to the visiting Chilliwack Chiefs.
Chilliwack cruised to a 5-0 shutout win on Saturday, January 31, 24 hours after taking the first game of the weekend doubleheader by a score of 8-4.
More than 600 fans watched the Kings erase three one-goal deficits in the first two periods on Friday, before the Chiefs took control of the game with four straight goals, including two on third period power plays. Mac Bleicher, Chris Battaini, Jake Westhaver and Eliot Compton scored for the home team.
Marek Beaudoin was credited with two assists for Powell River. His teammates Ben Wright, Bleicher and Battaini helped set up one goal each. Bleicher was chosen as the game’s
Powell River Kings’ goaltender Devin Peck makes a glove save on a shot from Adam Boatter of the Chilliwack Chiefs late in the first period of a BC Hockey League game at Hap Parker Arena on January 31. Peck stopped 21 of the 26 shots he faced in the game, while his teammates were unable to convert any of their 22 shots into goals.
third star behind Chilliwack’s Reece Shaw (first) and Arjun Bawa. Shaw had a hat-trick and Bawa scored twice. Shots were 37-34 in favour of Powell River.
Chiefs are third in BC Hockey League’s Coastal East division.
ANDREW BRADLEY
PHOTO
Kings sit last among Coastal West teams.
Powell River visits the league’s top team, Cowichan Valley Capitals, on Friday, February 6, then hosts Nanaimo Clippers the next night at 7 pm.
Register for the Community Notification System
The Community Notification System can rapidly circulate critical safety information to help our community stay up-to-date in the event of an emergency. The system allows the Regional Emergency Operations Centre to send voice messages to phones as well as text messages and emails. The service is free of charge, however, residents must register for the system in order to receive emergency notifications. Even if people have previously enrolled, a new registration is required.
To register for the Community Notification System, visit qathet.ca/emergency-preparedness , and click the “Enroll in the Community Notification System Here” button. You will be directed to fill out a registration form online.
The Coast Salish name qathet, pronounced ‘KAW-thet’, means working together.
CULTURE »
Writer invited to share work
Action-packed prequel set in wartime England
TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com
The attraction to the mystery and crime-fiction genre has never been greater, especially in Canada, including the qathet community.
The recent formation of the local Non-Profit Murder Society book club, which brings together lovers of mystery and murder book genres at Powell River Public Library, is one such example of the attraction of reading fiction, mystery and crime stories with intriguing narratives.
With the support of qathet Friends of the Library, award-winning, mysterycrime writer Iona Whishaw will visit the library on Saturday, February 14, to present her newest work, A Season for Spies, a prequel set in wartime England and part of her popular Lane Winslow Mystery series.
"A lot of people describe it as cozy, but I think of it more as a novel with crime in it, but it's also historical, crime
fiction," said Whishaw. "The idea came from wanting to write a little book that takes place at Christmas, and I immediately thought about my main character, who we meet first in 1946 after the war is over."
Whishaw’s Lane Winslow historical mystery series is set in BC's Kootenay region and the protagonist, Lane, is loosely based on Whishaw’s mother.
"So, Lane Winslow was inspired by my mother, because just before she died, she told me she did some intelligence work in the war," said Whishaw. "I was flabbergasted, because I never knew that."
Whishaw said her mother was in South Africa during the war, and was a linguist, like the protagonist in the book series.
"She was extremely beautiful, and so she was put to use to get information from German officers," said Whishaw.
Whishaw believes the popularity of the series is somewhat due to the main character living in a tiny community called King's Cove.
"It's actually a real community, which I renamed
slightly [in the book], where I grew up, and she [Lane], is in the house that I lived in when I was a child," explained Whishaw. "So there's all these amazing, interesting characters, like expats from England who grow fruit there; [the characters] are enjoyable and entertaining, and so I think that's one of the reasons people enjoy the series."
Whishaw is what the literary world calls a discovery writer, meaning, there is no preplanning when she sits down to write.
"I just sit down and start writing, and in this particular case, I already had in my mind the story would take place in 1940," said Whishaw. "I actually, for the first time, instead of starting right away, looked at what the conditions were like in England in 1940, and what was going on in London. One of the things I discovered is that 1940 had the worst snow in northern England and the border country to Scotland, and it just ground everything to a halt."
Whishaw said the bleak conditions in England at the time provided the perfect set-up for her protagonist,
because now Lane would have to struggle with how she completes what she's doing in time, creating tension in the story plot.
"The other thing that was important about that time was that everybody in England was waiting for a German invasion. The British had taken down all highway/road signs [in order to throw off the enemy], and so this woman is going to travel north, there's no road signs that could tell her how to get places, but she has an ordinance map and a place she has to be in time to meet a double agent."
Whishaw said her writing comes from various inspirations, but more importantly she has set up a disciplined writing practice.
"I had somebody ask me if I had advice for new writers, and my first and foremost advice is establish a regular practice; that's critically important," said Whishaw. "I write five days a week, without fail."
Whishaw said she enjoys her writing process probably because she does not preplan.
"What I like is that when I sit down to write, it's all happening right in front of me,"
said Whishaw. "The other rule I have for young writers is I never second-guess myself on any given day."
She said instead of secondguessing everything, the better approach might be to work through and evaluate it the next day, because a writer can't really see properly what they've written until they take a step back from it.
"I like the idea of working in workshops," said
Whishaw. "I think the only thing that can really trap people is, I always find a few people who could be in their 10th workshop and haven't really gotten off the ground."
Whishaw said her talk at the library is not just for readers of her books, but for anyone interested in writing or the creative process.
"What I really love are questions,” she added, “so I'm hoping people come loaded with questions.”
Author Iona Whishaw will speak about her newest book, A Season for Spies, at Powell River Public Library on February 14. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
SCENE
AROUNDTOWN
Townsite tunes
Performers took to the stage on Friday, January 23, when Townsite Jazz Festival hosted a preview party at Max Cameron Theatre in Brooks Secondary School. The annual festival takes place in April.
ANDREW BRADLEY PHOTOS
Looking for something fun after school or on the weekend?
High Tide Games has a multitude of board games and video game options (retro and new consoles) to satisfy whatever game they would like to play $5 fee for board games • $10/hour for video games or $5/hour with student ID or bus pass
Robert David Warman
February 24, 1950December 28, 2025
Bob was a man of many trades. Bob owned Fisher Stoves in Kelowna; commercial fishing, logger, cabinetmaker, house builder.
Bob was an adventurous man, loved the outdoors and mushroom picking. Anything to do with the outdoors, you could count Bob in.
“Bob, you are missed by family and all friends. Bob, you were a good man, helpful to all, a talented man.”
Bob enjoyed getting up with his nieces and nephew, catching up on their lives. He loved them all.
Bob is survived by Sue, his wife of 32 years, daughters Chelsea and Bobbie (Brad), grandson Liam and brothers Ron, Rod and Steve. He was predeceased by his parents Jim and Lil and brother Ken.
No service by request. Please take a moment and think of a happy moment you shared with Bob.
“I love you my honey bunny, you are the love of my life.” xoxox
Robert Queen Cairncross
1929-2026
Robert will be forever remembered for his kindness, wonderful sense of humour and the many wild stories he told. Robert was born to Andrew Scott Cairncross and Matilda Queen Cairncross in a wee town in Scotland. He was one of four children brother Alec, sister Elizabeth and younger brother Andrew.
Robert leaves behind his dearest devoted friend Stacey Borgstrom/Williamson, his brother Andrew, wife Elizabeth and their son Thomas. Roberts sister in law June and children Andrew, Anna and Sally.
From his beloved sister Elizabeths family Robert is survived by Rowena, twins Christopher and Phyllis, Lewis and Alan.
Robert’s last two years were spent at Evergreen and Willingdon Creek. Sincerest Thank You to all the staff who looked after him with such care and compassion. Dearest Robert you are deservedly at rest up having a good old blether with your beloved sister Elizabeth. You will always be remembered fondly and forever held in our hearts. Good bye our VW super hero, until we meet again.
Eva Shirley Bella
September 4, 1935 - January 21, 2026
It is with heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of our angel, Eva, who left this world to join her loved ones in heaven.
Eva was a good Christian soldier who brought faith, love and kindness to all.
Her warmth and sweet smile will never be forgotten. Special thanks to Eva’s favourite caregivers at Willingdon Creek. “We will love you forever,” your family.
Karen Ann Southern
May 9, 1943January 19, 2026
Karen passed away peacefully at Willingdon Creek Village in the early hours of January 19, 2026. She was born and raised in Powell River, and was predeceased by her four brothers: Len, Les, Ron and Jim, her mother Vera Shelton and father Jim Shelton.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Jim, and her four children Dave, Mike (Natascha), Don (Tanya) and Michele, her grandchildren Chelsea, Alex, Nick, Olivia, Wade, Sophie, Niven, Christoph and Adriana, and many nieces and nephews.
Mom was passionate about BC history, particularly Powell River history. She was involved with the Powell River Museum and Heritage Society for many years. Mom researched local history and co-authored several books, such as Pulp, Paper and People, and Sunshine and Salt Air. She loved oral history and wrote The Nelson Island Story as a chronicle of her friends’ off-the-grid-life on Nelson Island.
In addition to writing, she enjoyed crocheting, quilting and other sewing projects. Mom loved to play games with her family. She played Scrabble with dad and spent many hours playing various board games with her children and grandchildren.
Mom and dad shared their home at Myrtle Point for 30 years; they spent countless hours gathering beach glass, watching the whales and the beautiful sunsets. They also had a bed and breakfast, B & B By the Sea: Southern Comfort, for 12 years and met many wonderful people.
Mom also loved to travel with dad and enjoyed numerous adventures together. Among the most significant were their trips to Switzerland to see their son and family.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date for immediate family.
Aaron Winthrop
Aaron LeRoy
members who knew him.
A celebration of life will be held on his birthday, February 6, 2026, from 1 to 3 pm at Tipton Place Apartments Common Room, 4872 Ontario Avenue in Powell River. There will be refreshments and snacks. Please come with your happy stories of Aaron.
Sandra (Dykes) Green
February 9, 1951December 28, 2021
Happy 75th, Sandy!
Forever loved, forever missed
Winthrop, 37, passed away November 28, 2025, in his home in Powell River. He was born on February 6, 1988.
Aaron is survived by his mother Teryn Robinson and sister Courtney Robinson. He will be missed by his roommates and staff at Inclusion Powell River, and community
>> CITY JOBS
BUDGET MEETINGS
The qathet Regional District will meet to consider the proposed 2026 budget and 2026-2030 Financial Plan at the Finance Committee meetings in February and March, 2026.
The qathet Regional Hospital District will meet to consider the proposed 2026 budget at the Regional Hospital District meetings in February and March, 2026.
Meeting dates and times can be viewed on the qathet Regional District website at qathet.ca.
For more information, please contact Linda Greenan, General Manager of Financial Administration –Chief Financial Officer at finance@qathet.ca or call 604-485-2260.
•
• 604-223-1270
• 604-414-5232
DUMP RUNS & JUNK REMOVAL
Lakeside Landscaping
604-344-2171
Take one, take two, hard to choose
SAILOR Pretty, young, female cat with super silky fur
SIREN
Super sweet senior lady, Formosan Mountain dog mix
HARVIE
Super handsome grey and white, male feline, also the king of loafing
BOO-BOO
Green eyed, mature, pretty, friendly, black cat, welcomes visitors
All applications must be submitted online through the Employment Opportunities page at www.powellriver.ca
NOTICE OF PARCEL TAX ROLL
Lund Sewer Local Service Area
Myrtle Pond Water Local Service Area
Savary Island Marine Facilities Service Area
The qathet Regional District has prepared the 2026 parcel tax rolls as required by Section 208 of the Community Charter. The parcel tax roll lists the parcels eligible to be taxed for each of the above noted services in 2026. This is not a new tax. This is an annual process to review the roll to ensure that it is correct.
Property owners may request an amendment to the roll only with respect to their own property and only for the following reasons:
1. there is an error or omission respecting a name or address on the roll
2. there is an error or omission respecting the inclusion of a parcel
3. an exemption has been improperly allowed or disallowed
Requests for an amendment to the parcel tax roll must be in writing and received no later than Friday, February 20, 2026 at 4:30 pm.
Land Act: Notice of Intention to Apply for a Disposition of Crown Land
Take notice that I, Taylor Shellfish Canada ULC from Union Bay, BC have applied to the Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship (WLRS), for an amendment to a licence of occupation for shellfish aquaculture situated on Provincial Crown land located in the vicinity of Allies Island , Waddington Channel. The Lands File Number that has been established for this application is 2401956. Comments may be submitted electronically via the provincial Applications, Comments & Reasons for Decision webpage at https://comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca. Written comments concerning this application should be directed to: BC Aquaculture Authorizations, Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, at 1422080 Labieux Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9T 6J9. Comments will be received by WLRS up to date (60 days after the publication of the last notice). WLRS may not be able to consider comments received after this date. Please visit the website at https://comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca/ for more information. Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be considered part of the public record. Access to these records requires the submission of a Freedom of Information (FOI) request. Visit, http:// www.gov.bc.ca/freedomofinformation to learn more about FOI submissions.
Owners of properties located in the above service areas may view or request an amendment to the roll by contacting: Linda Greenan, General Manager of Financial Administration | Chief Financial Officer
qathet Regional District
#202 – 4675 Marine Avenue, Powell River, BC V8A 2L2
Phone: 604.485.2260 Fax: 604.485.2216
Email: finance@qathet.ca
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