The Peak - May 1, 2025 by The Peak

MAY MUSICAL

Students rehearse for ‘rocking’ film adaptation PAGE 13

TOURNAMENT TOPPERS

Tla’amin Braves reach top of podium in Victoria PAGE 16

Syrup social makes newsfeeds sweeter

Local journalism is the core of every community in Canada. It’s the eyes, it’s the ears and it’s the balanced voice.

Journalists are trusted to keep citizens informed while holding those in power accountable. We live and work in these very communities.

That’s why the Peak is thrilled to announce the launch of Syrup, a brand new social media platform built for Canadian journalists to share their best work. Think Facebook meets Reddit, but Canadian-owned, by Glacier Media. It’s a trusted spot for information without ads, bots or false information (what Twitter pre-Elon Musk used to be).

“This new platform fills a gap in how Canadians receive and share local and national news that was opened when a tech giant in another country put its profits ahead of users,” says Peak publisher Kelly Keil. “Syrup is an opportunity for journalists and readers in the qathet region, and throughout Canada, to reconnect on our own terms.”

The decision by American-owned Meta to block Canadian news on Facebook and Instagram has left a void in our media landscape. It has disrupted how we all consume and access local news, and underscored an important need: Canadians

need a dedicated space where journalism can thrive, independent of United States-based tech giants and their ever-shifting algorithms.

to build something new and truly valuable for our industry and our communities.”

“This is an exciting moment for Canadian journalism,” says Matt Blair, publisher of North Shore News. “Syrup offers a fresh, direct

Users can join a “community” once they’ve signed up, such as, for example: Sunshine Coast News (Peak and Coast Reporter), Okanagan News and Canadian National News. Journalists will post relevant stories or leads on stories in those communities for readers to follow. Users can also “upvote” stories and engage with the journalist. “It’s a very user-friendly platform that allows for community engagement, including commenting on posts,” adds Blair.

Get the Peak to Go iPhone app now available in the App Store or iTunes

connection between the incredible work being done by our journalists and the readers who need it most. We see Syrup as a chance

Get the Peak to Go iPhone app now available in the App Store or iTunes

Canadian journalists can sign up for free by visiting syrupsocial.com. Readers in the qathet region, including Powell River and regional district areas north and south of the city, Tla’amin Nation and Texada Island are also encouraged to create an account, like, comment and post breaking news.

Keil believes readers will find Syrup to be a truly sweet spot for local and Canadian news.

“Knowledge is key for decisionmaking and sharing information,” says Keil. “This is a great step toward bringing what’s happening around town, in the province and across the country back to our newsfeeds, and at our fingertips.”

Merger unifies print products

Wider distribution of single issue increases news exposure

In a move to make local journalism more accessible and better serve the changing needs of the community, the Peak is merging its two existing print products into one unified edition.

The long-standing Midweek Peak—a familiar flyer wrap first published under the name Peak Pack, then Weekend Shopper, —will now be combined with the Peak’s paid subscription newspaper, delivering both community stories and advertising in a single, more impactful product.

As shopping habits evolve and digital tools replace traditional flyers, the demand for a standalone flyer wrap has declined. Recognizing this shift, the team at the Peak saw an opportunity to reimagine how they connect with readers and enhance local storytelling.

“Our flyers served a great purpose for many years, but the way people access deals and shop has changed dramatically,” said Peak publisher Kelly Keil. “What hasn’t changed is the need for reliable, engaging local news, and this move helps us put those stories into more hands across the community.”

The print edition of the Peak will remain available for pick up in local stores, and at

the Peak office in Westview (Unit-F 4493 Marine Avenue). Starting today, the combined edition will also be available in drop boxes throughout the region.

“This is really about accessibility,” added Keil. “We have an amazing team of journalists who live here, care about this community and write stories that matter. By uniting our products and distributing them more widely, we’re making sure more people have access to that work.”

The change is also expected to offer new opportunities for local advertisers, who will now be part of a more visible and unified product with consistent readership and broader reach.

“We’re hopeful this move will be received as a positive step,” said Keil. “We know change can be tough, but we believe this will help us stay strong and continue serving our community. We’re asking our readers, advertisers and community partners to continue picking up the paper, engaging with the stories and advertising in its pages and online. We’re in this together.”

Subscribers who currently receive the newspaper at home will continue to enjoy that convenience, and have the opportunity to renew delivery service as their subscription terms come up for renewal.

“In addition to having our team of carriers drop papers off on doorsteps every Thursday, subscribers to the delivery service will be entered into a monthly draw for a $150 gift certificate at a local business of their choice,

as well as a yearly grand prize,” said circulation director Earl Almeida. “We value our loyal subscribers and want to reciprocate that with perks to show our appreciation.”

The Peak’s digital presence remains strong, with more than 300,000 page views per month at prpeak.com. A wide range of digital advertising opportunities allows businesses to target consumers actively searching for their products online, while also reaching traditional readers through the print edition.

In addition to display advertising, the Peak offers engaging sponsored content products that help boost messaging across print and digital platforms, providing even greater exposure and impact.

“Whether it’s creating a print ad or delivering information about your business or community project, we can help get that message to your target market,” said sales consultant Sandy Adams.

Clients receive guidance on crafting effective messages and selecting strong visuals to ensure their advertising stands out and reaches the right audience.

“Connecting, informing and reaching out across all platforms will create results for businesses,” added Adams. “We provide options to help businesses do that to their full potential.”

The first edition of the Peak was published in November of 1995. After nearly 30 years of delivering local news to the community, the goal of staff members is the same: con-

Real estate sales numbers decrease

PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com

Real estate sales in the qathet region fell in March 2025 compared to sales in March 2024.

According to Powell River Sunshine Coast Real Estate Board president Curtis Yungen, there were drops in several categories.

While total sales were in the $11 million range for March 2025, they were in the $15 million range for February 2025 and $16.8 million range for March 2024, according to Yungen.

“The median price for single-family homes also went down,” said Yungen. “For March 2025, it was $587,000, compared to $639,000 for February 2025, but not far off from where it was last year, March 2024, at $590,000.”

Yungen said total units sold also declined, with 20 in March 2025, 26 in February 2025, and 30 in March 2024.

“For single-family homes yearto-date, we did see an increase of 6.65 per cent in median selling price, from $600,000 in 2024, to $639,000 in 2025,” said Yungen.

“We also had an increase in new listings of 21.14 per cent from 123 year-to-date in 2024, to 149 yearto-date in 2025. However, we did see a small decrease in sold listings of 7.27 per cent, from 55 year-todate in 2024, to 51 year-to-date in 2025. There was also a minor decrease in volume of 4.72 per cent, from $35,774,650 in 2024, to $34,086,300 in 2025.”

In the single-family homes category, in March 2025 there were 15 sales, valued at $8,888,700, compared to 23 sales, valued at $16,368,900, in March 2024.

nect readers with businesses and their community, and provide them with information about everything going on throughout the region every time they reach for the Peak “As we continue to adapt and grow alongside our readership, this merger marks a new chapter in local publishing,” said Keil, “one that keeps community at the heart of everything.”

There were no sales in the mobile and manufactured homes category in March 2025, compared to one in March 2024, valued at $215,000.

In the condo, duplex and apartments category, in March 2025, there were four sales, valued at $2,044,900, compared to three sales in March 2024, valued at $1,524,000.

Totals for residential sales indicate 19 units sold, valued at $10,933,600 in March 2025, compared to 27 sales in March 2024, valued at $16,368,900.

For nonresidential sales, there

was one unit of vacant land sold in March 2025, valued at $95,000, compared to two units in March 2024, valued at $478,000.

Total for nonresidential sales was one for $95,000 in March 2025, and two for $478,000 in March 2024.

Grand totals indicated 20 sales in March 2025, valued at $11,028,600, compared to 30 sales in March 2024, valued at $16,846,915.

Average monthly selling price in March 2025 was $592,580, (average of 43 days on the market), compared to $636,083 in March 2024 (average of 83 days).

COMMUNITY CONNECTION: A wider distribution of the Peak begins today, with copies of each issue now being available for pickup in drop boxes throughout the region every Thursday, as well as in local stores.

PEAK PHOTO

Judge rules in favour of openness

Supreme court case affirms court records are open by default, says justice Jan Brongers

BY BOB MACKIN

The lawyer for the former head of the Powell River Board of Education told a court hearing on March 14 that details of his client’s 2024 departure are secret.

Last June 17, qathet School District announced superintendent Jay Yule would leave at the end of the school year from the top job, which paid him $192,758 in 2023. Yule retained David Tarnow to ask a BC Supreme Court judge to prevent the release of a letter written in support of a man found guilty of sexual interference of a Powell River high school student.

“The terms of his not being there [as superintendent] are bound by a nondisclosure agreement,” Tarnow told justice Jan Brongers.

In 2023, a jury convicted Kasimir Tyabji-Sandana, 37, of sexually interfering with a girl under the age of 16 in 2016. Tyabji-Sandana met her when she volunteered at his mother and stepfather’s farm for work experience credits toward high school graduation. The relationship began after the victim ceased her volunteer work at the farm.

Justice Peter Edelmann agreed with Tarnow, who was TyabjiSandana’s lawyer for the trial and

sentencing, that his client had suffered due to his Métis heritage and sentenced him on June 4, 2024, to two years less a day of house arrest, to be followed by three years of probation.

In the letter, which was filed with the court on Tyabji-Sandana’s sentencing, Yule identified himself as the superintendent of schools. He wrote that he has known TyabjiSandana for more than 22 years as a student, family friend and business associate “of integrity, responsibility and genuine kindness.”

“I am aware of the gravity of the offence and do not intend to downplay its seriousness,” wrote Yule.

“However, I firmly believe that this incident is not reflective of Kaz's true character. He has expressed deep remorse for his actions and is committed to making amends. He is determined to learn from this experience and his actions have demonstrated that.”

Yule’s letter to the court is not on qathet School District letterhead and the originating email address is not visible.

This reporter applied to the court for copies of the exhibits provided to Edelmann for the sentencing hearing. Separately, Christine Schreiber of the Powell River PoliceBased Victim Services Program applied to the court in a personal capacity for a copy of Yule’s letter about Tyabji-Sandana. She told the March 14 hearing that she wants to give it to the victim, who may take further action against Yule and the school district.

Tarnow told Brongers that Yule feared publication of the reference

letter would harm his reputation and discourage others from writing reference letters to judges. Yule’s evidence was that, had he known that his letter could be made public, he would have chosen not to participate.

In his decision, Brongers cited the leading Supreme Court of Canada case that affirms Canadian court records are open by default.

“The Sherman Estate case states unequivocally that the open court principle is a central feature of our democracy that is protected by the constitutionally entrenched right to freedom of expression, and there is a strong presumption against limiting it,” said Brongers.

“All aspects of court proceedings are therefore presumptively open to the public and the press, and an applicant who seeks to limit their access to them faces a high bar.”

Brongers said letters of reference are commonly provided during the sentencing stage without any assurance of confidentiality.

“Furthermore, Dr. Yule does not depose that he had any expectation of confidentiality when he voluntarily tendered his letter of reference, one in which he cited his public position as superintendent of the school district as the basis for his ability to persuasively vouch for Mr. Tyabji-Sandana’s character,” said Brongers.

Last June, a week after the announcement about Yule, qathet School District board chair Jaclyn Miller refused to comment on whether Yule’s departure was related, directly or indirectly, to the letter. She said it was a person-

HEARING: In a decision on March 14 regarding a reference letter written by qathet School District’s former superintendent, justice Jan Brongers cited the leading Supreme Court of Canada case that affirms Canadian court records are open by default.

nel matter and cited restrictions in the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act

“However, I can say that Jay was a dedicated employee for over 25 years and the district wishes him all the best going forward,” Miller wrote in an email.

In the same March 14 court hearing, Brongers also refused TyabjiSandana’s application to censor copies of pre-sentencing reports and Gladue reports, which analyze the impacts of an offender’s Indigenous heritage.

Tyabji-Sandana told Brongers that releasing unredacted copies of the reports would harm members of his family, undermine reconciliation and discourage Indigenous offenders from participating in Gladue report interviews. He claimed that media coverage about him was motivated by money and generated animosity toward him.

“The evidence tendered before me does not demonstrate that publicly available copies of the pre-sentenc-

Outgoing CAO recognized at city hall

Lisa Bhopalsingh attends last council meeting before taking on position with City of Nanaimo

PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com

City of Powell River outgoing chief administrative officer Lisa Bhopalsingh was recognized at the April 17 City of Powell River Council meeting. She was presented with a large bouquet of flowers at the beginning of the meeting.

Mayor Ron Woznow said Bhopalsingh has

been doing wonderful things for the city.

Councillor George Doubt said the city has had somebody with them, Bhopalsingh, the CAO, who has been part of the city’s team for more than a year.

“I just want to say that I appreciate what you have done to stick with the city, and for the city, in the short time you’ve been here,” said Doubt. “I wish it could have been longer because I think everybody could get together to work better as a team over a longer period of time. I want to recognize this is going to be your last meeting here at city council of Powell River.

“I want to say thank you and recognize the hard work you have done and the difficult

ing reports must be redacted in order to ensure that Indigenous offenders participate candidly and transparently in sentencing hearings,” said Brongers, adding that it is an unfortunate “fact of modern life” that disrespectful and ignorant comments are posted in response to media articles.

Brongers said there was no evidence before him that denying public access to court records would prevent that from occurring or that any benefit of denying public access would outweigh the harm to the open court principle.

In Tyabji-Sandana’s case, one of the reports describes how “parental instability, racial intolerance and familial, social and cultural alienation” during his childhood led to alcoholism. The only other character reference letter for Tyabji-Sandana came from a Vancouver Coastal Health registered clinical counsellor who remarked on his progress in “understanding how his traumatic past affected his present.”

position that you have been in to try to bring everything together. Thank you from me, and I’m guessing that council agrees with me.”

Bhopalsingh is returning to work for City of Nanaimo, where she worked before becoming Powell River’s CAO.

RECEIVES BOUQUET: Outgoing chief administrative officer Lisa Bhopalsingh was recognized at her final City of Powell River council meeting on April 17. [From left] councillor Trina Isakson, councillor Earl Almeida, councillor Cindy Elliott, Bhopalsingh, mayor Ron Woznow, councillor Rob Southcott, councillor Jim Palm and councillor George Doubt. ROGER WHITTAKER PHOTO

COURT

PEAK ARCHIVE PHOTO

Timberlane building to be demolished

Caretaker’s residence has been damaged by water and is beyond repair

PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com

City of Powell River Council is directing staff to apply for a grant to help pay for the demolition of the caretaker’s building at Timberlane Park.

At the April 17 city council meeting, councillors heard from chief administrative officer Lisa Bhopalsingh, who said council had a decision to make around a budget amendment to allow for the demolition and removal of the caretaker’s building at the track. She said the written report to councillors

provided a brief explanation of the condition of the building following the departure of the full-time caretaker in 2023.

“Due to some water damage to the building, it is rendered not usable and beyond repair,” said Bhopalsingh. “Upon analysis by staff, this building is not currently needed, so putting money into replacing it is not considered a wise operational decision at this time.

“You can see the recommendation before you would allow, if council permits, for us to apply to the Municipal Insurance Association of British Columbia (MIABC) for a grant for up to $22,850, with the remainder of the money to come through our asbestos assessment and abatement fund.”

Councillor Cindy Elliott said the building, as far as she recalls, is fairly new, and she didn’t believe

there was any asbestos in it, so she would be concerned that all the buildings that do have asbestos in them will have to be remediated in the future, and the funds won’t be available.

“Could we comment on whether there is actually asbestos in this building?” asked Elliott.

Bhopalsingh said the building, despite its appearance, was built in 1975, so it does contain a significant amount of asbestos.

Councillor Jim Palm said with the elimination of this building at the track, he believes that washroom facilities will remain. He asked if that was correct. Bhopalsingh affirmed they would.

Council unanimously carried a motion to apply for a grant of up to $22,850 from MIABC, and that council direct staff to amend the city’s 2025 financial plan bylaw to include a $35,000 special project

to remove the caretaker’s building from Timberlane Track, funded by the asbestos assessment and abatement project for $12,150, and MIABC.

According to a staff report, in July 2024, it was discovered by staff that a water leak had caused substantial damage to the build-

ing, making it unusable. The report stated that the building in its current stage is a potential liability and needs to be demolished as soon as possible. Staff secured a quote from a qualified contractor to demolish the building and safely dispose of any hazardous materials.

SEEKING GRANT: City of Powell River Council has approved the demolition of the caretaker’s residence at Timberlane Park because it has been substantially damaged by water. Demolition will mean the loss of washrooms at the park. PEAK PHOTO

LUND RECYCLING DEPOT OPEN DURING CONSTRUCTION

The Lund Recycling Depot remains open with regular hours during the construction of the new Northside Community Recreation Centre.

Please follow any posted signs for safety. Any disruptions will be communicated in advance. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

For more information, and to view current operating hours, please visit https://www.qathet.ca/services/waste-management/recycling/ or contact environmentalservices@qathet.ca

BREW BAY IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT

2025 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Saturday, May 10, 2025 2 pm

In the library at Kelly Creek Community School, 2341 Zilinsky Road

Bus pass registration now open for new students, courtesy riders, & students who were not automatically registered. Register here

Nootka Street zoning under consideration

Regional board votes for first and second reading on bylaws pertaining to accessory dwelling units

PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com

qathet Regional District (qRD) directors will be giving consideration to Nootka Street zoning bylaw amendments to allow accessory dwellings.

At the April 8 regional board meeting, directors considered amendments that would allow one accessory dwelling unit to be permitted in the Nootka Street zone, and to rezone the property located at 7-3965 Yaroshuk Road to permit an existing accessory dwelling unit that measures 1,200 square feet.

The board first considered Nootka Street zoning amendment bylaw 321.3, 2025. Electoral Area B director Mark Gisborne said he has heard some feedback and talked to other elected officials, and if the regional district moves forward with the recommendation to have it go for first and second reading, the regional board will hear back from the public.

“I’m thinking of a previous staff report where we talked about being able to use floor area ratio as part of the zoning bylaw,” said Gisborne. “Would we need to put that in the draft bylaw before it goes to the public, or if the public wants something like that, are we able to do that amendment at a later date?”

General manager of planning services Laura Roddan said the bylaw did not have anything in it about floor area ratio. She said consultations could be held with the neighbourhood about changes in a general way, but the bylaw was focused on allowing accessory dwelling units on every parcel.

Gisborne said he had heard from some residents about whether an accessory dwelling unit potentially could provide for two massive homes on a property.

“I understand that as long as one is bigger than the other one, the answer to that question is yes,” said Gisborne. “We have another application where we put a restriction on the total floor

area of the accessory dwelling unit, and I’ve heard from some folks that they [accessory dwelling units] not exceed 6,000 square feet, or 500 and something square metres, because we’re metric. Do we need to put that in the front end?

Roddan said if the amendment is approved, the next step would be to prepare a notice and send the bylaw to the public and invite them to a public meeting, because under the qRD communications policy, public engagement is recommended.

“When it is reviewed with the public, they may have suggestions, but we can’t presuppose what the suggestions may be,” said Roddan.

Gisborne said what he was hearing was that the board could support the amendment and have the public come in and indicate if they want to go one way or the other.

“Then, we can move forward based on that information,” said Gisborne.

The board voted unanimously in favour of forwarding the amendment bylaw to a future meeting of the board for first and second reading.

Later in the meeting, directors considered a zoning amendment bylaw for the Yaroshuk Road property, and that it be forwarded to a future board meeting for first and second reading.

Gisborne said he was inclined to support the motion with potential minor

amendments. He said the amendment stipulated having a floor area no greater than 1,200 square feet and that he would like to see it expressed in square metres because Canada is a metric country.

He said the other feature he would like to see is that this amending bylaw applies to one property, and puts a limit on the floor area of the accessory dwelling unit, but it makes no restriction on the floor area of the primary unit.

“In the future, the primary unit can be built to essentially any size, and to me, that would be a bit of a concern around future septic and things like that,” said Gisborne.

Roddan said the square metres could be added to the amendment bylaw. She said the reason it was listed in square feet is because the septic specifies square feet.

For the second part of Gisborne’s question, Roddan said there is nothing in the zoning bylaw that regulates the size of a principal dwelling unit.

Electoral Area C director and board chair Clay Brander said the metric equivalent could be included in the motion, rather than making an amendment.

The motion to forward the amendment to a future board meeting for first and second reading carried unanimously.

AMENDMENTS DISCUSSED: qathet Regional District’s April 8 board meeting considered two bylaw amendments to the Nootka Street zoning bylaw and acceptance of accessory dwelling units. The amendments will be coming to a future regional board meeting for first and second reading. PEAK ARCHIVE PHOTO

City property motion fails

Mayor’s initiative

to seek expressions of interests for sale

or lease of lands rejected by council majority

PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com

An initiative by City of Powell River mayor Ron Woznow to prepare expressions of interest for the sale or lease of the old Civic Arena land near Willingdon Beach and former golf course lands in Townsite has failed.

At the April 17 city council meeting, Woznow brought forward motions that council direct staff to prepare and proceed with an expression of interest for the two properties. In his introduction, Woznow said the motions were looking for a statement of intent.

“It is not compelling council to make a decision on what will come forward,” said Woznow. “The rationale is quite simple. As you know from financial discussions, there is a strong likelihood that the tax increases required in 2026 are going to be the same or significantly higher than in 2025.”

Woznow said in the past, there have been different expressions of interest regarding the old golf course lands. He said he led a group that went to a real estate agent and presented the city with an offer to purchase the lands so they could create a community building foundation.

“At that time the city decided to do nothing,” said Woznow. “By having staff make public that we are interested in seeing expressions of interest, hopefully, before our term ends, we could actually have made a decision that could have a significant positive impact for all the residents of

Powell River.”

Councillor George Doubt said he had previously made a motion that staff be directed to work with up to two members of council and Townsite resident Stephen Miller to explore the possible benefits of creating or partnering in a conservation land trust in order to preserve, protect and maintain the lands known as the old golf course lands. The motion further stated that staff be directed to bring back a report discussing the exploratory findings on the various aspects of the land trust concept, including the possible sale of city land to the potential trust.

“A bunch of things have happened since then,” said Doubt. “One was an assertion by staff that we should get together and work on terms of reference for that group. We got together in February with staff to talk about the terms of reference and the outcome of that discussion was that staff were going to present a report to council about this particular motion. I haven’t seen that report yet.”

Doubt said he did not think it was appropriate to talk about sale or lease of the land without the report from staff about what they think are the pluses and minuses of a land trust or conservation of those lands.

“Right now, I’m not willing to support the motion that’s on the floor,” said Doubt.

Councillor Cindy Elliott said there had been a planning process regarding the Townsite property. She said there had not been a conclusion to that planning process.

“I’d like to see community input and a zoning process prior to offering up any kind of expressions of interest to guide prospective folks who would submit an application as to what the community wants to see there,” said Elliott. “Responsibly, you can’t put out expressions of interest if you have no in-

tent of following through. That’s simply not fair for people who submit their hard work in putting expressions together.

“We have planning processes in the works, including updating of the official community plan, so that we can provide some sort of input from the community as to what a plan would look like. I am not in favour of moving forward at this time because we have to put in some planning aspects to guide that process.”

Woznow said the city had been receiving input for more than 30 years. He said a previous council did, in fact, accept an offer for the sale of the old golf course lands. That’s where a fish processing plant was going to go, he added.

“That was the time when a number of us from various communities within Powell River put in another offer at the same time,” said Woznow. “When the owners of a potential fish processing plant backed away, we put in another offer and at that time the city said it wanted to get expressions of interest. There’s been a 30-year track record of getting public opinion on how the lands could be used.”

When put to a vote, Woznow and councillor Jim Palm were in favour of the motion to sell or lease the old golf course lands and the rest of council was opposed, so the motion failed.

During debate on the old arena lands, Elliott raised a point of order, saying normally during debate, there is a speaker’s list. She said during the debate, Woznow was speaking whenever he wanted and the rest of council members had to wait for their turn. She said she would like Woznow to put himself on the speaker’s list if he was speaking to the debate at hand.

The matter went to interim corporate officer Stephen Fleming, who consulted council’s procedure bylaw

and provided details.

Woznow, after the consultation with Fleming, ruled that the presiding chair has the option to determine who speaks.

Doubt challenged Woznow’s ruling on Elliott’s point of order, indicating that the mayor was responding to the comments of everybody else.

“I challenge that,” said Doubt. “It’s appropriate in the rules of order that each person comment one time, and the mayor frequently waits until the end of that discussion to make his input. I don’t agree with the mayor’s ruling. Let’s put it to the group.”

When the matter was put to council, Palm supported the mayor’s ruling, with the rest of council opposed, so the mayor’s ruling was not sustained.

During the subsequent debate on the old arena lands, councillors, similar to the discussion on the old golf course lands, were opposed to the prospect of sale or lease of the property. When the motion went to a vote, Woznow and Palm were in support of the motion, with the rest of council opposed, so the motion failed.

Notice of AmendmentofOld GrowthManagementArea

SecheltLandscape Unit within the Sunshine CoastNatural Resource District

TheSunshineCoast NaturalR esourceDistric t(SCNRD) of theM inistr y of Forestsisinvitingreviewand comment on aproposedamendment to OldGrowthM anagementAreaSRY_222_19 (OGMA#19) in theS echelt Landscape Unit Order, availableonlineat tinyurl.com/5n6k345k

Theproposedamendment will increase thesizeofOGMA#19 from 133.21 hectares to 137.73hec tares, by removing apor tion of OGMA #19and adding areplacement area that is greaterinsize, hasmoreold growth attributes,and is contiguouswiththe existing OGMA.Thisamendment is beingproposed to relocate an existingroadinorder to establisha saferroadgrade (slope). An analysis of allpractical optionshas been completed, indicating that this is themostfeasibleapproach.

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Comments or questions maybesubmitted by emailto engageSunshineCoastForestDistric t@gov.bc.ca and must include “OGMA19Amendment ”inthe subjec tline.

Comments will be accepted untilJuly2,2025. Be advisedthatany response to this advertisementwill be considered part of thepublic record.Fur ther informationrelated to thedisclosureofpublic information canbefound online at, ww w.gov.bc.ca/citz/iao/.

TAX RELIEF: Powell River mayor Ron Woznow brought forward motions to seek expressions of interest for the sale or lease of the old Civic Arena site [pictured] and old golf course lands in Townsite to relieve the tax burden that local taxpayers are facing. Five councillors rejected the motions.

PEAK ARCHIVE PHOTO

Party positioning

In the aftermath of the federal election on April 28, leaders of the three main parties were handed dramatically different results.

While prime minister Mark Carney and his Liberal Party celebrated winning the most seats, and will form government, they finished short of pre-election polls that predicted a 74 per cent chance of winning a majority (as of press time, some ridings were too close to call, leaving the outcome of several seats in doubt). Compared to the position the party was in before Justin Trudeau stepped down as prime minister, celebrating is warranted.

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre increased his party’s seat count from its total in the 2021 election (119), and in the popular vote. But, in addition to losing in his own riding of Carelton in Ontario, and to the disappointment of his supporters, he failed to hold a double-digit lead in the polls from a few

months ago. Compared to the position the party was in before Justin Trudeau stepped down as prime minister, disappointment is warranted.

Jagmeet Singh finished a distant third in his Burnaby South riding, and the NDP had won or were leading in just seven ridings across the country the day after the election, leaving the party without official party status and facing a rebuild under a new leader. This after caucus weakening due to seat declines in previous elections, including the 24 won in 2021. Compared to the number of seats the NDP won in the 2015 election (44), a rebuild is warranted.

One result that was clear as of press time is that Mark Carney will be the prime minister. What isn’t clear is for how long, and which parties/members of parliament from across the aisle will be needed to help move his agenda along.

Recognize how and why

There are many reasons why people randomly collect things they don’t need. To create a clutter-free home, it helps to recognize the reasons why it builds up in the first place.

Be aware of your mental and emotional state. Our inner and external parts are forever attached. So, invisible inner clutter often leaks into our physical spaces. If you wait until you have everything lined up to start clearing the clutter, that day is not coming anytime soon. The clutter in your home is growing like the weeds in your garden, making you feel overwhelmed.

By Ranka Burzan

Trying to figure out where to start can trigger major procrastination, which leads to more clutter. Remember, you don’t have to conquer it all at once. Start small and steady. Are you buying more than

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you realistically use or need? Does a fear of shortage pressure your accumulation? Or perhaps shopping has become a form of expensive therapy to help you deal with unpleasant situations. Some people might believe their stuff is safer than relationships with family and friends. Ask yourself a question. What is your payoff for keeping the stuff?

Maybe you come from a background where you didn’t have much, which is rooted in a need to hold onto everything “just in case.”

The impact of events such as the Great Depression can be passed onto future generations. Our growing up envi-

clutter builds up

ronment deceitfully but effectively impacts our habits and beliefs.

Letting go of the familiar way of life is scary, even if it is not working for us. We become experts in dealing with chaos and are not willing to explore the possibilities of a better life, so we hold onto stuff as a protection or reminder of a past life.

Try focusing on the freedom of letting go of what no longer serves you. This includes outdated beliefs, toxic relationships and bad habits.

Has your life changed drastically lately? Having a baby, getting married, retiring or

an illness in the family can unconsciously steer you to clutter. Often, we’re so busy dealing with the change itself that we don’t adjust our belongings appropriately. A quick assessment of how the change has impacted your space can point you toward helpful solutions.

Do you visualize your home to be a replica of Martha Stewart’s glossy magazine? Fear of not getting it “right” can prevent you from even starting, or lead to unfinished projects.

The pursuit of perfection can keep you in limbo for ages.

Try shifting your focus to function first. Give your-

self permission to experiment and learn without the pressure of immediate excellence.

Consider bringing these hidden obstacles to your attention as the crucial first step toward a clutter-free life. Once you understand the roots of your clutter, you can begin the process of slowly uprooting it. As you do, you will soon see the potential of a functional and beautiful home.

Transformational life coach Ranka Burzan owns a professional organizing company in the qathet region and has written several books on reducing clutter.

We respectfully acknowledge that we live, work and play on the traditional and treaty lands of the Tla’amin people.

Published every Thursday by Pacific Coast Publications Limited Partnership.

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Unit F, 4493 Marine Avenue, Powell River, BC V8A 2K3

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KELLY KEIL publisher SHANE CARLSON editor

KICKING THE CLUTTER

ELECTION 2025 »

Gunn elected to parliament

Conservative candidate wins

North Island-Powell River riding

PAUL

GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com

Conservative Party of Canada candidate Aaron Gunn is the member of parliament-elect for the North IslandPowell River riding, after voters had previously elected a New Democratic Party MP for three consecutive elections since 2015.

In an interview with the Peak, Gunn said the electoral results feel like a weight has been lifted off his shoulders.

“I think they are still counting some votes, but at the end of the day, it’s just very humbling and I’m very honoured at the faith placed in me by the people and the voters of North Island-Powell River,” said Gunn, on Tuesday, April 29.

“It’s an awesome responsibility to be the elected representative and to go to Ottawa to be their voice in the House of Commons.”

Gunn said he is very excited to be going to Ottawa, and he is not sure about how the process of becoming a member of parliament works, but his plan is to go to Ottawa to be a loud voice for the people in this riding, and to make sure the priorities and concerns of constituents are being voiced and represented in the nation’s capital.

“We want to have an open-door policy so that anybody can reach out with whatever issues they have with the federal government, or concerns that they would like to see raised,” said Gunn. “We’re going to make it a priority for working on the affordability crisis, for public safety concerns such as we’ve seen in downtown Powell River, and also, to be a strong advocate for the resource sector that is the fuel that powers the economy in this riding.”

Other issues of importance to Gunn include the national debt. He said it has doubled over the past 10 years and that the federal government is running a $60 billion deficit.

“We need to bring some fiscal accountability back to this country,” said

MOST VOTES: Conservative Party of Canada candidate Aaron Gunn is the member of parliament-elect for the North Island-Powell River riding, having 4,713 more votes cast than New Democratic Party runner-up Tanille Johnston. CONTRIBUTED

Gunn. “Also, we’ve come up short in the funding and support for the men and women in uniform. There’s a large military base in this riding down in Comox. We need to do a much better job of supporting our soldiers, sailors and airmen and women. We also need to do a better job supporting our veterans.”

Gunn said the Conservatives didn’t achieve the result they wanted, but it is worth noting that 2025 was the best performance for a conservative party in a national election from a vote perspective since 1988.

“That’s quite an achievement for Pierre Poilievre and all the candidates,” said Gunn. “We are going to hold the Mark Carney Liberal minority to account. We are going to continue to press for change and stand up for Canadians and voice their concerns.”

According to the Elections Canada website, with 309 of 310 polls reporting, Gunn won the riding with 30,551 votes, or 38.7 per cent of the votes cast. New Democratic Party candidate Tanille Johnston had 25,838 votes, or 32.8 per cent of the votes cast.

Liberal Jennifer Lash had 20,468 votes, or 26 per cent of the votes cast. Green Party candidate Jessica Wegg had 1,513 votes, or 1.9 per cent of the votes cast.

People’s Party of Canada candidate Paul Macknight had 329 votes, or 0.4 per cent of the votes cast. Independent Glen Staples had 154 votes, or 0.2 per cent of the votes cast.

In total, there were 78,853 valid votes cast from the 109,060 registered electors, or 72.3 per cent. Population in the North Island-Powell River riding is 125,925.

Nationally, the Liberals were leading or elected in 169 ridings at press time, with 43.6 per cent of the vote, and 8,374,000 votes having been cast. The Conservatives were leading or elected in 144 ridings, with 41.4 per cent of the vote, and 7,954,171 votes cast.

The New Democratic Party was elected in seven ridings, with 6.3 per cent of the vote, and 1,206,660 votes having been cast. The Green Party has one seat, with 2.4 per cent of the vote, and 239,069 votes having been cast.

In Quebec, the Bloc Québécois were elected or leading in 22 ridings, with 6.3 per cent, from 1,232,423 votes.

Voter turnout nationally points to 19,231,164 of 28,525,638 voters having cast ballots, or 67.42 per cent.

The electoral results point to a Liberal minority government, with 172 seats required to form a majority government.

CROSSWORD

Jazzy joints

The recent Townsite Jazz Festival featured an eclectic and starstudded lineup of Canadian jazz luminaries alongside international talents and local musicians. A symphony of music echoed throughout the neighbourhood from April 11 to 14, with performances taking place in venues ranging from the 400-seat Max Cameron Theatre to the cozy confines of the Shinglemill Pub.

Australian accordionist set to perform

Special guests, improve workshops and cabaret highlight annual music festival

TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com

The accordion has often been a misunderstood and sometimes maligned instrument. However, its roots in folk culture go back centuries.

Accordions are now played around the world, not only in cafes and public squares, but on stage alongside chamber and symphony orchestras. There has been a sort

SUDOKU

of revival of the instrument in past years, especially in places such as Vancouver, Victoria, Australia, Europe and, for the past four years, the qathet region.

qathet's fourth annual Accordion Fest will take place at Powell River Academy of Music's James Hall on Friday, May 2, and Saturday, May 3. Codirectors of the festival Walter Martella and Karina Inkster have invited a few special guests to perform on stage this year, including seasoned piano accordion player Anthony Schulz, who has dedicated his career to showcasing the versatility and artistry of the instrument. He's travelling to BC and qathet all the way from Australia.

"I reached out to Karina and Walter last year; I was coming to Vancouver on a reconnaissance mission because my partner Isabel and I are moving to Vancouver," said Schulz. "I wanted to start making some connections."

Schulz said this will be his 50th year playing the accordion.

"One could say I'm fairly committed to the instrument," said Schulz. "I try to walk the line between trying to honour the accordion in terms of its tradition as a folk instrument, because there's no denying that it plays such an important role in so many different cultures around the world, while looking to the future and thinking about, how does the accordion function as a contemporary instrument?"

Schulz was six years old when he first walked into a music shop with his parents, who are also musicians, in Melbourne. He recalls entering a room full of amazing instruments; accordions of all shapes, sizes and colours lined the walls. Since

that time and after he had his first piano accordion, music has encompassed Schulz's life.

"I don't like the term world music, but I do play in world music ensembles," said Schulz. "I have my own French musette ensemble, but then this weekend, I was up in Sydney playing classical repertoire with a cellist."

He said he also does a lot of quite exploratory work, with a contemporary trio called Ball Hanlon Schulz, with double bass and trumpet.

"I'm always looking for new ways to think about the accordion," said Schulz. "I know it's been a good concert if somebody comes up afterwards and says, 'I didn't know the accordion could sound like that.'"

On Friday, May 2, there will be accordion repairs and sales happening all day at James Hall, then the Accordion Fest main concert and opening night will take place at 7:30 pm.

Martella and Inkster will be on stage with at least five accordions that night. Audiences will see and hear a five-piece tango band, jazz quartet, klezmer, and special guests Schulz and Ronen Segall from Vancouver Island.

Guitarists Budge Schachte and Stephen Nikleva, bassist Boyd Norman and percussionist Terry Martyniuk will also be on stage for opening night. Schulz will also perform at the closing night cabaret on Saturday, May 3.

"The first, most common misconception, I'm sad to say, is that it's generally badly played," said Schulz. "The second misconception, I think, is that it's primarily for playing French music."

That misconception was the catalyst for Schulz to start his own French music group that explored the sounds of high level 20th century accordion players.

"My parents are both from accordion playing cultures: German and Irish," said Schulz. "It was my father's idea that I would play the accordion, and I'm glad to say that even at six years old, I was naive enough to not think there was anything wrong with that."

Accordion players can be found all over the world playing a wide variety of different genres, but have formed connections and community through this instrument.

"There's something very special about the accordion; for one thing it's portable and usually played by displaced and migrating cultures who have moved to places like Canada and Australia," said Schulz. "They [accordion players] bring all their memories and culture with them, so there's something about the accordion in particular that really provokes and prompts a re-

sponse from people."

Schulz is a lecturer in the Bachelor of Music program at Melbourne Polytechnic and has played with many ensembles. He also composes original scores that audiences in qathet will hear at the festival in May.

"My compositions are attached to novels that I've read in terms of where they're [his compositions] coming from," said Schulz. "I'll also play a musette waltz as well, which is transcribed from a Yvette Horner recording.”

He added that Horner was one of the few female accordion players in the early to mid 20th century in France.

"It's nice to bring awareness that it wasn't just men playing the accordion," said Schulz.

To find out more about the 2025 Accordion Fest, go to accordionfest. com/2025guests.

AUSSIE GUEST: Music educator and accordionist Anthony Schulz will be performing at the qathet region’s fourth annual Accordion Fest. He is the president of the Accordion Society of Australia (Victorian Branch). CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

BEGINNER

Students prepare for musical

School of Rock

will premiere at Max Cameron Theatre, bringing fun and high energy to audiences

PAUL GALINSKI reporteer@prpeak.com

Theatre company students at Brooks Secondary School are rehearsing to rock out in preparation for School of Rock – the Musical, which will be performed four times at the end of May.

Brooks theatre arts stagecraft and performance teacher Jen Didcott said that selection of the play was done in democratic fashion, with students having been given a selection of plays and the opportunity to vote.

“I try to select musicals and plays that our kids can really connect to, and that they see themselves in,” said Didcott. “I had a short list and invited students who potentially would sign up for the program to give their input, and then I put it to a vote. School of Rock had the most votes, so here we are.”

A motion picture called School of Rock came out in 2003, starring Jack Black, and featuring a number of rock ‘n’ roll songs performed by students he ended up teaching as a substitute teacher. School of Rock – the Musical is an adaptation, featuring new music from famed composer Andrew Lloyd Webber, although a couple of the rock ‘n’ roll standards from the movie remain.

Didcott said the play features classic Jack Black humour woven throughout, so there’s something for the grown-ups to chuckle about, but basically, the play is “just silly, fun and high-energy.”

Didcott said the play centres around middle school

students in a private school called Horace Green, so the musical is not so far in the past that secondary school actors can’t relate.

“It’s pretty easy for the actors to remember those middle school years where they are trying to find their footing and develop an identity about themselves,” said Didcott. “The characters in both the film and the musical are directed by their parents and teachers to act a certain way and to suppress a lot of their quirks and eccentricities. Then, along comes the Jack Black character, impersonating a substitute teacher, who really brings out the students’ creative, eccentric, wild sides. They get in touch with their true selves. A lot of our kids can really relate to that.

“Social pressures and pressures to conform don’t go away and a lot of our kids can really identify with trying to hold onto their creative selves and their true identities in a world that tries to buffer them into other areas.”

Didcott said there is about a month to go until the play runs, and the theatre team is pulling together all the elements, such as the props, the set, the instruments, plus tightening up the choreography and making sure the actors know their lines and songs.

“It’s a high-energy show with a lot of scene changes and a lot of great music played by our live pit band,” said Didcott. “It’s live rock ‘n’ roll music. It’s going to be awesome.”

Elton Sutherland, a grade 12 student who plays the school’s principal, Rosalie Mullins, said Horace Green is a private school with a certain aura around it that doesn’t encourage creativity and fun. Sutherland said she is the opposite of Dewey, the musician-turned-substitute-teacher, who is a bit of a wild child.

“I come in and put down his dreams, but he questions

me a bit, and then interesting things happen,” said Sutherland.

She said she has lots of lines to learn and also gets to sing. She said Rosalie has two sides to her – a super stuck-up, tightly wound side, but there’s also this loose rock side that comes out in the play.

Sutherland said she has done a bunch of singing leading up to the School of Rock. She sings at open mics at Cranberry Hall, and “writes songs and stuff.” She also sings vocal jazz at the high school.

“I love this kind of stuff,” said Sutherland. “I’m really excited about my role. Everyone here is so nice and it is like a little community. It’s really fun to work together.”

She said she was nervous, initially, but now, she is so used to staring at the script that she sees highlighted passages that are now ingrained in her memory. Now, she’s looking forward to performing.

After graduation, Sutherland said she wants to study theatre arts at college. Another of the actors,

Mia Girouard, a grade 10 student, plays a character named Zack Mooneyham, who is a guitarist.

“It’s super exciting,” said Girouard. “It’s just a very fun production. Zack is a really fun character to play.”

Girouard said although she is a guitarist in the play, she really isn’t very talented with stringed instruments, having tried to play bass.

“I’m not very coordinated,” said Girouard. “I can’t do the hand thing.”

She said she has been practising for the play since last fall, and is nervous about her performance, but is excited to bring it to the stage.

“I’ve been in other plays, and you’re always nervous leading up to it, but when you’re there, it’s just like a breeze,” said Girouard. “I started when I was in grade nine, so last year, I did two plays, and this is my first musical, which is going to be a lot different.”

Girouard said she plans to continue acting through the rest of her time in school.

School of Rock will run from May 22 to 24 at 7 pm, and on May 25 at 2 pm at Max Cameron Theatre at Brooks.

Tickets are available at Full Bug Records,

FILM ADAPTATION: Dancers for School of Rock – the Musical are preparing for the musical’s run at the end of May, which is an adaptation of the movie School of Rock, which was released in 2003. PAUL GALINSKI PHOTO

COMMUNITY

Grants impact charitable groups

TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com

The qathet region has a long history of volunteerism, helping people in need, maintaining trails and building bridges, and fundraising for a good cause; many of these groups are also charities.

For the past 25 years, Powell River Community Foundation (PRCF) has distributed approximately $900,000 in grants, scholarships and bursaries to more than 40 charities. On May 31, the foundation is hosting its first ever charity appreciation day, from noon to 4 pm, at the Evangel Church (5139 Manson Avenue).

"We wanted to organize an event that highlights the hard work so many qathet community charities do, in order to fill in some service gaps," said PRCF president Dave Hodgins and secretary Marg Hodgins.

Some charities have signed up for the event on May 31, but Dave and Marg are looking for more to attend, and for volunteers.

"We are building a wheelchair obstacle course," said Dave. "Folks are invited to sponsor a team or charity and enter the race."

The idea of the obstacle course is for those who are able-bodied to experience, even if for only a few minutes, what it's like to navigate a space in a wheelchair.

"We're also going to have an

imitation door to a building, and they always open [outward]," said Dave. "Just so people know, you have to stop, open the door to go through [while in a wheelchair]."

Bumpy sidewalks, uneven surfaces, steep slopes and doors that open outward may not seem hard to navigate, but for those with mobility issues, they are a concern.

Dave and Marg said they joined the PRCF board four years ago, after their son suffered three strokes and needed to access services. They soon found out the services they needed were lacking in the qathet region.

"We started our own fund in the PRCF to help fund [accessibility] projects," said Dave.

"We have raised $15,000 to purchase wheelchairs, walkers and equipment to aid bed-bound seniors, as well as get wheelchair accessible pathways built."

Dave and Marg previously spoke to the Peak about frustrations with City of Powell River and its lack of urgency and funding to create more accessibility spaces.

One big peeve constantly brought up is public transit.

Anecdotally, they said those who do use it [public transit] can't get to appointments or to events in a reasonable time

frame. Dave said he has given folks rides because public transportation in town for seniors and those without a vehicle is inconvenient.

Marg said that [Powell River] Vintage Car Club will have its vehicles on display, the Clansman Pipe Band will perform and some food trucks will be offering sustenance at the charity appreciation event.

"The enthusiasm is definitely there," said Dave. "We have returned $300,000 from interest earned from our endowment fund to the community, and we want to keep that going."

According to the PRCF website, in the past five years the foundation has been able to return more than half a million dollars to the community, which included Community Response ($184,000), Recovery Fund ($164,000) and Prosperity Fund ($175,000).

Dave said the funds were obtained by the partnership PRCF has with Community Foundations of Canada as well as federal and provincial governments.

To donate, sign up as a charity or sponsor a wheelchair obstacle course participant/team, email info@ prcommunityfoundation. com.

GIVING BACK: Powell River Community Foundation president Dave Hodgins [right] and secretary Marg Hodgins are organizing the first charity appreciation day that will take place on May 31, at the Evangel Church parking lot. TANYA HILL PHOTO

Training builds bridges

Stories, traditions and blanket exercise part of crosscultural program

TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com

For the past 12 years, nonIndigenous agencies such as paramedics and RCMP have participated in a cross-cultural training program organized by Tla'amin Justice Program and service liaison Verna Francis.

"Culturally sensitive training for non-Indigenous agencies through cross-culture and blanket exercises provides a quick snapshot of our [Tla'amin] worldview and prescribes how First Nations people have been assimilated into mainstream society with no rights or ti-

tle to our cultural traditions and traditional territory," said Francis while describing the program. "But we're not here to shame, blame or make anybody feel responsible for what happened in our history years ago. [The program] is here to educate non-Indigenous agencies about who we are, our history, because they're going to be working with our [Tla'amin] people one way or the other."

In early April, paramedics from qathet gathered at the Salish Centre for workshops led by Tla'amin member and social worker Cyndi Pallen, Eugene Louie and Tla'amin elders John Louie and Doreen Point.

"This one was for the paramedics, but we have done cross-cultural training with probation officers, judges, lawyers and the RCMP," said Pallen. "We've done [workshops] on historical trauma

and how to work with individuals who have suffered through that."

Pallen said reception to the program has been good and people attending love coming to Tla'amin.

"[Participants] see the culture, they see the practice, they see the genuine respect; they also love to come here because they always get fed," laughed Pallen. "We had three elders sharing their story of residential school, and then the last workshop shared was the teachings of the Tla'amin."

Pallen said the workshops have helped build better relationships and trust between Tla'amin community members and those working in emergency services and inside the justice system.

"We talk about our transfer agreements and what they mean, and the details and history of our treaty," said Pallen. "In the past,

we have also invited crown counsel and social workers to take part in the program."

By bridging those knowledge gaps, prejudice and ignorance that can lead to possible misunderstanding and/or mistreatment can in many ways be avoided, she added.

"I was born in 1954 and went to residential school in Sechelt and in Mission," said Francis. "I witnessed the aftermath of what happened to my ancestors [grandparents] who attended residential school; alcoholism and abuse, it was horrific."

As a facilitator, Pallen said she works to bridge understanding on how Indigenous peoples have been impacted in many ways, but also to be mindful and build relationships by creating a safety net for individuals and frontline workers.

"Our intention is to create safe space for all front-

BUILDING UNDERSTANDING: Paramedics from qathet participated in a cross-cultural training workshop organized by the Tla’amin justice program and service in early April. Participants took part in the blanket exercise led by Brandon Peters, a workshop with the goal to build understanding about shared history as Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

line workers, to learn more about the legacy of residential school, the atrocities, and intergenerational trauma on residential school survivors and their families," added Pallen.

Francis said the goal of the training is to build relationships with as many local agencies as they can.

"That's the best part of my job, building good relationships with RCMP, with judges, with probation of-

ficers and victim services,” said Francis.

The training is offered to any agency wanting to participate.

"Bringing everyone together in an open, welcoming atmosphere will only build better relations between all of the people responsible for providing these services,” she added, “as well as the community members who these services are provided to.”

Tla’amin Braves take top spot in tournament

39 years after last victory, soccer players thrilled to win trophy again in Victoria

PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com

Tla’amin Braves soccer club has built upon its legacy, going undefeated in the 22-team John Rice Senior 60th Annual AllNative Men’s Totem Soccer Tournament in Victoria over Easter weekend.

Team captain Joel Harry said he and his brother formed the men’s team six years ago, and since then, the club has competed and has become a stronger side. Harry said the John Rice event is regarded as the best of all Indigenous soccer tournaments in the province.

“There is a circuit that takes place in British Columbia and for the most part, we participate in the Lower Mainland and on Vancouver Island,” said Harry. “In terms of all-native soccer, this one [Rice tournament] is right up there at the top.”

Going into the tournament, Harry said the Braves had been competing well

and had a strong side, plus, they have a good sense of where their competitors are, because they play against the same nations every year.

“So, we go into tournaments knowing we are in the top three or four contenders,” said Harry “We know we are going to do well. We always strive, obviously, to win our tournaments, and this year, I would say we knew we were among the strongest.”

Harry said the Victoria tournament is set up to have two streams – the winners bracket and the consolation bracket.

“If you win that first game, you go into the winners bracket, where you get to battle for first or second place,” said Harry. “If you lose, you go into the consolation bracket and the best you can do is third place. We won our first game to join the winning bracket.”

Harry said the competition for the first game was Stó:lō Nation United, which is a team of First Nations players based out of the Chilliwack area. Tla’amin beat the Lower Mainland opposition handily, by a 7-2 score, on the Friday of the tournament.

On Saturday, the first game was against Nisg a'a United, which is a Northern BC team. Braves won 3-1.

This contest was followed up by a semi-final match against Saanich Royals, which the Braves won 3-0.

“This punched our ticket to the finals on Sunday,” said Harry. “We played at the Starlight Stadium in Langford, where the semiprofessional Pacific FC team plays. It was the first year the tournament finals were hosted there.

“We had a 4 pm kickoff against Musqueam Blues, which is a Vancouver-area First Nation. They’re big. This was definitely a lot closer and more of a thrilling match than the previous ones.”

The result of the final was 2-1 in favour of the Braves.

“We ended up scoring the goal right before the end of the game, putting us ahead, leading to us winning the tournament,” said Harry.

This was the first John Rice tournament win since the Braves were reconstituted. Harry said there was a time when there were not enough numbers for a Tla’amin team, so he has actually been on winning teams in the tournament prior to the Braves coming back into the fold.

This is not the first time the Braves have won the tournament, however. Harry said 39 years ago

was the last victory, when the team was known as the Sliammon Braves.

“We have a strong history,” said Harry. “We’ve won that trophy numerous times in the 60 years of the tournament. We were a dominant team. The women’s program was also very dominant.”

Harry acknowledged that there has been a strong history with soccer in Tla’amin Nation. He said a lot of people could be acknowledged and thanked, allowing the team to pursue its goals and attend tournaments, starting with local government. Tla’amin’s recreation programming has helped provide the money to enter tournaments.

Harry said he would also like to acknowledge Powell River Villa Soccer Club, which allows players to live

Shuffle sets participation record

Entrants enjoyed ideal weather and trail conditions during the 32nd Marathon Shuffle on Sunday, April 27. While the shuffle isn’t a race, top finishers are recognized.

Jordan Maynard of Gibsons was the first male to cross the line, clocking in at 2:46. Squamish resident Julie Van der Hoop was the top female finisher with a time of 3:12.

at home and play top-flight soccer during the Vancouver Island Soccer League season.

“We have a handful of guys who live in Powell River that get to play at a high level, contributing to our success,” said Harry. “We also have a lot of urban members who play on this team, so people who live away from home, such as myself, have opportunities as well. This is quite a collective approach.”

Harry said team members take responsibility to serve as captain on a rotating basis, and coaching is done much the same way.

“It’s that strong collective of the management group,” said Harry. “It’s something that I formed in that first year. It’s something that gets passed around in terms of roles and responsibilities and it’s not foreign for teams at these tournaments to not

have coaches, but instead, to have player-coaches.”

The Braves started practicing in September, by starting to train once a week on Mondays, for the members who still live here. In January, practice bumped up to twice a week, on Mondays and Wednesdays. Harry said team members are thrilled with the result of winning the John Rice tournament.

“It’s something we set out to do when we first started this group, to put our name back on the map as one of the top contenders,” said Harry. “We attend four to five tournaments a year and Victoria is the favourite one to win. It was a special moment when that final whistle blew and we were the team with the most goals at the end of the day. What a way to win it.”

This year’s event set a record for participation, according to organizers, with 215 runners and hikers starting at Malaspina Road and making the 27-kilometre journey along the iconic Sunshine Coast Trail to the finish line at the Shinglemill Pub.

“You really couldn’t ask for a bet-

“The trail is so beautiful,” stated Maynard. “I didn’t realize the finish down Scout Mountain would be so awesome.”

ter trail,” stated Van der Hoop. “It’s not muddy, it’s not dusty, and it’s absolutely stunning.”

Local husband-and-wife team Rachel and Dane Sherstad emerged as the top male/female finishers from the qathet region; both placed second in their categories. Dane finished in 2:52 and Rachel in 3:13.

Dane thanked the volunteers for their hard work, while Rachel praised the quality of the course.

The day began with a traditional welcome from Tla’amin elder aasheelth (Andy George), as well as words from Marathon Shuffle co-creators Eagle Walz and Scott Glaspey. At the start of a long hill, Byron Feder set up his drums and serenaded participants with vigorous jungle beats.

“Although the trail gods certainly smiled down on us today, it’s the work of the volunteers that en-

sures this event runs smoothly,” stated event director Ean Jackson.

“From the ‘Dirt Monkeys’ who ‘shuffle-ize’ the course to the volunteers at registration, the start line, finish line and feed stations, this event simply couldn’t happen without them.”

For compete results for this year’s Marathon Shuffle, go to sunshinecoasttrail.com/events/ marathon-shuffle/results.

FIRST PLACE: Tla’amin Braves soccer club came out victorious in the most prestigious BC Indigenous soccer tournament, played in Victoria over the Easter weekend. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

love PET

Adoptable pet of the month

Three-month-old canine with big personality awaits new home

TANYA HILL

thill@prpeak.com

A golden-haired, approximately four-month-old Cane Corso/Belgian Malinois named Marlon Brando is waiting patiently at BC SPCA-Powell River to be adopted, by someone in qathet or outside the region.

Staff members say he's already stealing hearts with his big, soulful eyes and even bigger personality. A description of the cuddly canine on the BC SPCA-Powell River website shares that, “with paws that hint at the gentle giant he’ll grow into, Marlon is equal parts playful, snuggly, and loves to play tug-of-war.

“He’ll plant his feet, give you a determined look, and tug with all his might, only to melt into a fit of tail wags and happy hops when you let him win.”

Marlon loved belly rubs, ear scratches and being wrapped up in a cozy blanket for a well-earned puppy nap.

"Don’t let his playful antics fool you, Marlon is also a certified cuddle companion, and after a good round of play, he’ll curl up right beside you, nuzzling into your chest with a contented sigh."

BC SPCA-Powell River emphasizes that Marlon is looking for his forever home; a place he’ll be cherished, given plenty of love, and of course, never run out of tug toys.

"If you’re ready to open your heart and home to this

sweet boy, get ready for endless cuddles, playful tugs and a lifetime of unconditional love," stated BC SPCA-Powell River.

Marlon Brando is 23.8 kilograms and his coat colour is brindle. He has been in care for 56 days (as of late April).

To find out if he is the right fit, take the BC SPCA preadoption-questionnaire online at spca.bc.ca/adoption/ dog-pre-adoption-questionnaire.

BC SPCA-Powell River is located at 7558 Duncan Street. Spay or neuter surgery is included with adoption of all dogs, cats and rabbits.

National Pet Month serves as an important reminder of the responsibilities that come with pet ownership. This includes providing proper nutrition, regular veterinary care and adequate exercise.

HANKERING FOR HOME: Marlon Brando is a charming, male, golden-haired Cane Corso/Belgian Malinois in need of a home. He is waiting to be adopted at BC SPCA-Powell River. BC SPCA-POWELL RIVER PHOTO

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BILL RICHMAN

Bill Richman passed to his forever home on March 16, 2025 surrounded by the love of his family

Celebration of Life

Saturday, May 10, 12:30 pm at Evangel Church at 5139

Manson Avenue Please join us as we celebrate a life well lived

We welcome all who knew and loved him Br ing your stor ies Refreshments to follow

Ear

Roder ick Donald Innes

A celebration of life will be held for Roder ick at the Cranberr y Seniors Centre on Saturday, May 17th 1pm - 4pm

Peggy Yager-Jacques

March 7, 1964 - Apr il 3, 2025

• 604-485-6994

• 604-223-1270

• 604-414-5232 (Texada)

Meetings

FRIDAYS, 7:30 to 8:30 pm qathet General Hospital, third floor

SUNDAYS, 8 to 9 pm Alano Club

Ear l Howard Logan

l Howard Logan

Son of late Allan Cameron and Hildreth Neil Logan (nee Alcock) Bor n on December 14, 1927, in Merr it, BC Passed away on March 17, 2025, in Powell River, BC

Son of late Allan Cameron and Hildreth Neil Logan (nee Alcock) Bor n on December 14, 1927, in Merr it, BC

Passed away on March 17, 2025, in Powell River, BC

late Allan Cameron and Hildreth Neil Logan (nee Alcock) Bor n on December 14, 1927, in Merr it, BC Passed away on March 17, 2025, in Powell River, BC

It is with deep sadness that we have to say goodbye to Peggy She was a loving Mother, an amazing Grandmother and the sweetest Sister! She was a mischief-maker and loved to make ever yone laugh! She will always be missed Sleep tight, Peg Celebration of Life July 20th, 2025, at Palm Beach at 1 p m

An exper ienced logging road builder, oil deliver y dr iver and bus dr iver, with a clean dr iving record for 82 years! He was also an oil refiner y wor ker, pr ivate pilot and heavy equipment operator

Dad was an esteemed member and past President of the Westview Flying Club and loved his beloved plane, a red & white Cessna 140

er ienced logging road builder, oil deliver y dr iver and bus with a clean dr iving record for 82 years! He was also an er y wor ker, pr ivate pilot and heavy equipment operator.

He never forgot the connections that he made with the many people in his wor king and social life, here in Powell River, that he held ver y dear He spoke of you all ver y fondly and was grateful to have had you all in the stor y of his life

as an esteemed member and past President of the ew Flying Club and loved his beloved plane, a red & white a 140.

He had a fantastic wit and was always up for a little banter

His integr it y was unquestionable, a man of tr ue honour

He was marr ied to his ar tistic and social wife, Barbara, for over 60 years and lovingly cared for her until her passing on June 11, 2014

ver forgot the connections that he made with the many in his wor king and social life, here in Powell River, that d ver y dear. He spoke of you all ver y fondly and was l to have had you all in the stor y of his life.

He had t wo sons, Allan Logan (Jacquie), who predeceased him in October of 2023 and Douglas Logan (Rosaleen) who were his wor ld He shared numerous loving stor ies of his boys with Rosaleen, over the past 20 years

Dad also leaves behind 6 grandchildren and numerous greatgrandchildren

a fantastic wit and was always up for a little banter egr it y was unquestionable, a man of tr ue honour.

Therese Dar veau Apr il 14, 1945 - Apr il 5, 2025

of Therese Dar veau She passed away peacefully at home Sur vived by her sons Er ic (Julie), Alain (Kendal) and many nieces and nephews

Dad was a man for titude, skill and quiet strength He will be greatly missed

It is with great sadness to announce the passing of Dar veau She passed away peacefully at home Sur vive sons Er ic (Julie), Alain (Kendal) and many nieces and ne

Thank you to Coastal Breeze staff and residents Also thank you to Dr Morewood Her kind and loving hear t will forever be remembered

A ser vice will be held at a date and location to be deter mined

You worked to make our world a better place, dad You will be forever in our hearts

s marr ied to his ar tistic and social wife, Barbara, for over rs and lovingly cared for her until her passing on June 11,

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 7th, at the French Club from noon till 3 pm

Thank you to Coastal Breeze staff and residents Also thank you to Dr Morewood Her kind and loving hear t will forever be remembered.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 7th at the French Club

d t wo sons Allan Logan (Jacquie) who predeceased him

NOTICE OF DISPOSITION

Notice is hereby given in accordance with section 26 and section 94 of the Communit y Char ter that the Cit y of Powell River (“Cit y”) intends to grant a licence of occupation of Cit y-owned proper t y (“Licence”) as follows:

Licensee: qathet Nur tur ing Empower ment and Suppor t Together Societ y (S0081756) operating as the qathet Coalition to End Homelessness

Ter m: Commencing on May 2, 2025 until August 1, 2025

Options to Extend: The Licensee has t wo options to extend the Ter m, each for an additional three-month per iod Nature of Interest & Premises: licence to occupy the building on 7156 Duncan Street, Powell River consisting of 1468 square feet, more or less Legal descr iption: PID: 005-783-836 FRACTIONAL NORTH WEST 1/4 OF DISTRICT LOT 5120 GROUP 1 NEW WESTMINSTER DISTRICT, EXCEPT PLAN 21755

Consideration: Licence Fee of $500 per month inclusive of rent, inter net, water, electr icit y and waste collection to be paid by the Cit y as a grant-in-kind

In accordance with Section 24(1) of the Communit y Char ter the Cit y hereby gives notice that the Licence bet ween the Cit y and the Licensee descr ibed above may be a disposition for less than mar ket value given that the Licence Fee is inclusive of rent, inter net, water, electr icit y and waste collection and is being provided as a grant in kind for the duration of the Ter m

TERMS

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LOCATION!

AUSTYN: 778 986 1691

sq ft

4649 CEDAR STREET

$349,900 MLS®17974

Central, two-level, half-duplex. It’s ‘move in ready’ with no strata fees, beautifully updated kitchen and baths and an 8 year old roof!

3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 1,200 sq ft A-4555 MICHIGAN AVENUE

$537,900 MLS®18905

OCEAN VIEW

DEAN: 604 786 2977

DUSTIN: 604 358 2473

Enjoy the views of the ocean, mountains, and year-round sunsets from this main-level entry home conveniently located in central Westview.

4 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 2,400 sq ft

3847 JOYCE AVENUE

$624,900 MLS®18809

KATIE: 604 344 0055

Enjoy the stunning ocean views from this centrally located rancher within a newer development in the Westview area.

3 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 2,160 sq ft

4358 QUEBEC AVENUE

$779,000 MLS®18691

AUSTYN: 778 986 1691

Gorgeous home set on a fenced .8 acres with a quiet creek running through the property.

20x24 shop with furnished 500 sq ft legal suite

2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 1,864 sq ft

7111 BAKER STREET

$1,129,900 MLS®18820

Affordable living in a well-maintained condo on the bus route and a short walk to the Townsite Market, theatre and restaurants

2 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 1,004 sq ft 301-5701 WILLOW AVENUE

$351,000 MLS®18720 BILL: 604.223.0811

$574,900 MLS®18867

DUSTIN: 604 358 2473

Perfect for families seeking comfort, space, and convenience, located close to schools, marina, grocer, cafe and trails.

5 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 2,213 sq ft

3433 SELKIRK AVENUE

$649,900 MLS®18886

KATIE: 604 344 0055

Stunning ocean views, large open space, lots of natural light centrally located on a private road that overlooks the town.

3 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 2,818 sq ft

4366 QUEBEC AVENUE

$849,000 MLS®18668

WATERFRONT

BILL: 604.223.0811

Charming ocean view home in central Westview with an in-law suite in the walk-out basement, comfortably ready for move in!

4 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 2,240 sq ft 4007 JOYCE AVENUE

$619,900 MLS®18850

DUSTIN: 604 358 2473

Blending modern comfort with timeless charm this home offers breathtaking ocean views on a serene no-thru street.

3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 2,079 sq ft

3227 VANANDA AVENUE

$689,900 MLS®18909

Newer home with ocean view and no GST, built by Creekside Builders in 2021, excellently cared for and maintained.

3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 1,686 sq ft 4374 QUEBEC AVENUE

$1,049,900 MLS®18595

NANCY: 604 849 5777

1.5 acres of oceanfront, first time on the market since 1954! This property slopes gently to the sandy shores of Palm Beach.

3 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 1,018 sq ft 11245 PALM BEACH ROAD

$1,300,000 MLS®18702

NANCY: 604 849 5777

sophisticated, this stunning south-facing home is designed with low maintenance and sustainability in mind. 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 3,271 sq ft 8116 EMMONDS ROAD

$1,319,900 MLS®18812

OCEAN VIEW

KATIE: 604 344 0055

PRICE

OCEAN VIEW