Development company buys Town Centre mall PAGE 7
Hospice society sets fundraising goal PAGE 15
With the holiday rush approaching, trust us to handle
High-Security & Temp-Controlled Shipments
Serving the Sunshine Coast, Whistler and the Lower Mainland.
For excellent overnight service at competitive rates, call us for your courier needs. 604-294-6500
City of Powell River’s parks, recreation and culture department has released its digital Winter Living Guide, with most winter programs opening for registration at 8 am on Monday, December 1. Registration for swim lessons opens Monday, December 8, also at 8 am.
Aquatic programs at Powell River Recreation Complex include lessons, wellness sessions and specialty training for all ages. The department is continuing its artistic swimming program, offering aqua yoga three times a week and providing swim lessons for everyone from babies to seniors.
“We want people of all ages and abilities to discover the joy of being in the water, whether that is through lessons, wellness classes or learning lifesaving skills,” says aquatic programs supervisor Tami Wood.
A key highlight this season is the annual swim instructor course for people who want to turn their passion for the pool into a leadership role. The course runs February 28 as well as March 1, 7, 8 and 28, with a teaching practicum over spring break. Participants must be at least 15 years old and hold a bronze cross certification.
“If you are passionate about aquatics, becoming a certified
swim instructor is a great way to give back,” adds Wood.
In community recreation, this winter brings a mix of new and returning programs for children and families.
New offerings include Little Brushes and Big Art, which focus on creative expression, along with Eco Explorers and Creative Writing for Kids.
Kids in the Kitchen will give budding chefs hands-on cooking experience, while Mini Explorers offers
workout using weighted vests.
preschoolers a playful environment to learn and grow. Spring break camp and spring hockey league are also back.
“It is all about creating opportunities for kids to discover new passions, build confidence and have fun together,” explains sport and recreation program coordinator Alex Craig.
Health and fitness programs at the recreation complex are also expanding. The public drop-in schedule continues to feature popular
“We are excited to offer a mix of familiar favourites and fresh options so people can find a class that fits their goals and comfort level,” says interim health and fitness program coordinator Melissa Parsley.
Get the Peak to Go iPhone app now available in the App Store or iTunes
For those seeking balance and stress relief, the Winter Living Guide includes a range of mind/ body programs. Yoga options support both relaxation and healthy aging, and Tai chi sessions focus on strength, coordination and mindfulness. Popular Drums Alive classes, which blend rhythm and fitness, are returning, as are the monthly Seniors Together luncheons.
classes such as seniors wellness, pilates mix and sunrise sweat and circuit training, alongside new offerings including postpartum fitness and a glow-in-the-dark spin class that adds a playful twist to indoor cycling.
Residents can also start the year with an Intro to Spin workshop for beginners and take part in specialty workshops on topics such as resistance training, pelvic floor health and rucking, a fitness trend that turns a walk into a full-body
Get the Peak to Go iPhone app now available in the App Store or iTunes
“We want to give people the tools to move safely and confidently, whether they are brand new to fitness or looking to try something different,” adds Parsley. “Staying active is important, but staying connected is just as vital for overall well-being.”
Residents can stay active, social and engaged throughout the winter season by exploring the full range of programs in the Winter Living Guide. For schedules, more information, or to register for programs online, by phone or in person, go to powellriverprc.ca or call 604.485.2891.
qathet General Hospital now has software that interprets CT scan results, helping physicians make decisions more rapidly
PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com
New artificial intelligence (AI) technology available at qathet General Hospital (qGH) is helping hospital teams rapidly determine the type of strokes, to assess the severity of them, and guide treatment decisions.
Dr. Samuel Yip, lead stroke neurologist at Vancouver General Hospital (VGH), said stroke is one of the leading causes of disability in Canada, and there are treatments available such as intravenous thrombolysis, which is when drugs injected into the patient dissolve blood clots to restore blood flow to the brain. For some people afflicted with stroke, there is also a new treatment called endovascular thrombectomy (EVT), where medical teams deploy a catheter into the brain, where the blood clot is, to extract it, according to Yip. He said EVT is used with ischemic stroke, which typically happen in larger blood vessels.
“With the larger vessels, if we see a blockage, we can try to go in and remove it,” said Yip.
Patients who would ben-
efit from EVT are selected based on imaging. qathet General Hospital has a CT scanner, which is the diagnostic tool used to identify strokes, and the AI analyzes the imaging.
“That is where the imaging AI tools become very helpful,” said Yip. “The imaging helps us to identify what area of the brain is affected, where there is a blood clot, and what part of the brain is damaged. In the past, we made decisions based on us looking at the images.
“You have to be very experienced in looking at these images to be able to tell, but the AI tools help us figure out what areas are affected in a more qualitative way.”
Yip said the AI is able to measure how large the area of stroke is by volume, how much of the brain is impacted, how much of the brain is at risk, and it also indicates how the brain is not getting enough blood.
“So, based on the variety
“This is a devastating event. You don’t want to take a patient who will not benefit from the treatment out of their community, away from family support. With this AI tool, we are able to get the right patients to the right place, with data available to us right away.”
Yip said with stroke, time is of the essence. For every minute of delay in treatment, close to two million brain cells are lost, he said.
“The earlier you receive treatment, the better,” said Yip. “We hope, by having this technology, that we will be able to alert physicians sooner.”
Yip said the AI results from the CT scans of stroke patients are sent to an app on VGH team members’ phones.
“We eventually will get onto a computer to take a look on bigger screens, but in the initial decision-making point, it helps us to make decisions faster, and hope-
With this AI tool, we are able to get the right patients to the right place, with data available to us right away.
DR. SAMUEL YIP NEUROLOGIST
of parameters, we can make better decisions in selecting patients to be brought to Vancouver for EVT,” said Yip. “People are brought down to Vancouver General Hospital for this procedure. This AI tool really helps us in selecting the right patients. You want to bring the right patients to VGH.
fully, to bring the patients to us earlier. There are a lot of advantages.”
Yip said at qathet General Hospital, patients suspected of stroke will be brought to CT imaging, and once the imaging has taken place, AI will automatically transfer the information to the VGH team.
“The guideline is that the emergency department physician who suspects there is a stroke will call us and we can get on the imaging right away, take a look, then make decisions,” said Yip.
The AI was developed by a Stanford University researcher and has been funded from Boehringer Ingelheim, which is a pharmaceutical company, through the VGH and University of British Columbia Hospital Foundation, as well as through Powell River Hospital Foundation.
Yip said the AI software was installed in qathet General Hospital in the spring and medical staff here have been trained in its usage. He said he is pleased the technology exists.
“It speeds up the process and also helps us in better identifying stroke patients,” said Yip. “I’m extremely happy, and my group is happy that they can get access to these images. Having it come to our phones is
amazing.”
Yip said the message is, when there is any sudden onset of weakness involving the face or the arms, slurring of speech, not being able to speak, or loss of vision, a 911 call and a visit to the hospital emergency department is a must. There is an important acronym called FAST, which stands for face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficultly and time to call 911, that people should remember.
According to a backgrounder from VCH, for patients with suspected stroke, prompt evaluation using CT imaging and other tests can help determine the type of stroke, assess the severity of the damage and guide treatment decisions. Ischemic strokes are most prevalent and caused by a blockage or clot in a blood vessel in the brain. A rapid and accurate diagnosis is essential to ensure patients experiencing stroke can access EVT treatment without delay.
The CT scan measures how quickly blood flows through brain tissue, identifying areas of reduced flow and tissue death, as well as determining the potential salvageable brain area, which would be amendable for EVT. Scan images are produced within three to five minutes before being sent to the stroke team’s mobile phones. The backgrounder stated that studies show AI technology for acute stroke imaging reduces treatment times by up to 35 minutes. Using AI can positively affect physicians’ experience, accelerating the diagnostic process, as well as helping physicians in the local emergency department make faster and better-informed decisions in collaboration with the VGH stroke team, according to the backgrounder.
Yip said Vancouver Coastal Health is committed to continually improving health care delivery and creating access to equitable care for all.
become a welcome fixture
TANYA HILL
thill@prpeak.com
For the past decade, the Community First Aid Powell River team has been a fixture at many public community gatherings, such as Blackberry Festival, PRISMA and sporting events, providing first aid to anyone who may need it.
The team was set up in
2018 to replace St. John Ambulance’s services after it shut down.
Another fixture in the community is qathet resident and longtime Community First Aid team member Larry Gemmill. He decided to retire this year, at the age of 81, after 10 years with the team.
The Peak spoke with Gemmill at his farewell party, about his years of service with the team, as well his many other endeavours.
"I spent six years with St. John Ambulance," said Gemmill. "When they withdrew from Powell River, there was a lack of much-needed first aid services at community events, so the first aid team was quickly created."
For 18 months, the team was loaned a fully equipped ambulance to
work with, then its members approached Powell River Community Forest for a grant, which allowed them to purchase their own ambulance.
"We go to a list of community events, such as the Texada Island Sandcastle weekend, Terry Fox Run and the race through Brooks [Secondary] School."
Gemmill was the head coordinator for the events and shared first aid coverage with team members.
Volunteers who staff the first aid post are all certified
and each post is equipped with medical supplies such as bandages, slings, antiseptic ointments and an AED.
"I think we had 14 injuries this year, nothing serious, at a track and field event," said Gemmill. "We did have two ambulance calls this year. If it's serious, we contact the ambulance to come and get them."
FRAUD AND SCAM PROTECTION
Join Powell River RCMP constable Paula Perry for a discussion about the most currents scams and frauds occurring in the area and nationally. Identity Frauds and Scams - Ways to Protect Yourself gets underway at 3 pm in Powell River Public Library. For more information, email Mark at mmerlino@prpl.ca.
All of the volunteers are trained in various levels of first aid. Gemmill said they are always looking for more people to sign up and take the training.
"Ann [Snow] is one of our best recruiters, because she runs the first aid school here," said Gemmill. "We've got a tremendous amount of community support; if you go to any one of our events and you take a look at our ambulance, you'll see the sponsorships on the side of the vehicle; these are community-minded businesses that have stepped up and assisted us."
The community first aid team is a nonprofit and only asks for donations to cover costs for fuel, medical supplies and insurance.
"I was with the army cadets, the sea cadets and the naval reserve when it was here, and the Coast Guard,” said Gemmill. “My father always taught me that service to humanity is the best work of life, so that's what I've always done."
To find out more about first aid training or volunteering opportunities with Community First Aid Powell River, contact Snow at info@ powellriverfirstaidtraining. com, or call 604.483.9854.
PAUL
GALINSKI
reporter@prpeak.com
Powell River Public Library is making 6.6 per cent budgetary increase requests for both qathet Regional District (qRD) and City of Powell River.
At the November 12 qRD finance committee meeting, chief librarian Rebecca Burbank submitted a report indicating that while the library was submitting a 6.6 per cent increase above the request in 2025, the change in the operational budget is 7.6 per cent. Burbank, in correspondence to the finance committee, stated
that significant budget changes going into 2026 include contractual rises in labour, telecommunications licences and professional fees, including the financial audit as required by the Library Act. Burbank, at the meeting, indicated in a PowerPoint presentation that there had been 94,358 visits to the library so far in 2025. She outlined activity in the library’s digital collection, with use of digital collections standing at 41,927 in 2025 year-to-date, which is a 15 per cent rise over 2024. The three-year rise, she said, is 49 per cent.
In terms of the breakdown of the 9,163 library cards held by those who patronize the library, 6,241 are from the city, 2,260 are from the regional district, 141 are from Tla’amin Nation and 521 are classified as other.
Burbank said the 2026 proposed revenue budget
includes provincial, city, regional district, and also, a transfer from reserves, which is largely a provincial grant that was awarded in 2023. She said the library did not expect to see another grant like that from the province.
“I want to acknowledge the work of our local governments at the Union of British Columbia Municipalities in advocating for provincial funding,” said Burbank. “It’s ongoing and I’m very appreciative. While we haven’t seen an ongoing increase from the province, we are grateful for the onetime funding.
In the 2026 draft budget, the operating cost request for the city is for $1,122,522 and the request for qRD is $503,819, which would contribute to a total operating budget of $1,882,541.
“We are facing increased costs,” added Burbank.
“There are two areas that are most notable – labour and facilities. The increase in the labour budget is driven by contractual increases. With the facilities, we’ve seen a $7,700 increase to the lease rate for 2026.”
City director Cindy Elliott asked, given that budgets are a difficult thing for all governments right now, and the province hasn’t committed to any additional funding, if the regional district and/or the city are unable to provide the entire request, what happens to the library’s operations in response to a lower amount of money?
Burbank said that would be a consideration for the library board. She said the library was reliant on the local funders, and so its ability to provide services is entirely dependent on the grants requested locally.
“Reduced local grant contributions would reduce ser-
vice,” said Burbank.
City director Rob Southcott said this library is close to his heart.
“When I was young, to acquire books that related to my specific interests, they came from Victoria,” said Southcott. “That was a pro-
vincial responsibility, which we don’t have anymore, because it is now our local library that looks after this.
“It’s one small example to me of how library services have expanded for the community benefit over the years.”
City’s committee of the whole sets different
PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com
City of Powell River’s committee of the whole has substantially modified recommendations for Powell River Community Forest’s fall intake.
At the November 18 committee of the whole meeting, city councillors heard a presentation from community forest president Greg Hemphill, who outlined this fall’s grant applications. In the submission, the total amount of grants for community groups was $546,251.40, and the total amount of grants allocated for city projects was $847,000.
Before Hemphill spoke, city chief administrative officer Sundance Topham said at the September 18 city council meeting, council set a maximum fall allocation for nonprofit organization
grants of $640,000, and confirmed that current priorities for the community forest nonprofit grant program are for health-related facilities, affordable housing, recreation, culture and social goals, for youth and for reconciliation.
Topham said there is a projected balance in the community forest reserve of just under $8 million. He said that number does not include any projects currently in the fiveyear financial plan.
“Those are being reviewed as part of a five-year financial plan past 2026, so once that plan is updated, it is expected that projected balance will drop significantly,” said Topham.
Hemphill said the fund is in good shape. The 2024 dividend was third highest at $3.7 million, following the highest dividend in 2023 of more than $6 million.
“We find ourselves with the highest amount of available money in the fund, which should cover both 2025, and if needed, 2026 grants,” said Hemphill. “Our board took a fresh look at the entire list, based on our evaluation criteria, and council’s priorities. We are recommending 14 grants for community groups.
“The city has put forward
seven new projects, which are ready to proceed in 2025, or into 2026. The reasons why some applications haven’t been recommended by Powell River Community Forest are varied, and include our impressions of whether council is likely to support the grants.”
City councillor Cindy Elliott said she wanted to deal with a grant for Foundry qathet, which she termed as a priority for a lot of councillors. Foundry qathet had requested $250,000, but it was not on the list of community group projects.
Hemphill said the Foundry project was a large request which would take up a big part of the budget.
“Ultimately, if council wants to support it, they are going to have to decide where the money is coming from,” said Hemphill. “This goes back to last fall, and the spring, and council did not approve grants at those times. The size of the request at that time was $1 million, which was ruled out. It’s a provincial initiative so there was discussion about whether costs were being downloaded to the city.”
Hemphill said Foundry qathet could also be designated a health facility and po-
tentially receive funds from qathet Regional Hospital District. He said the community forest believes Foundry qathet is a positive development for the community, but at this stage, it’s probably not ready.
Foundry qathet, when it is operating, will support the health and wellness needs of youth and their families in the region.
Councillor Trina Isakson made a motion to add that the committee recommends that city council approve a fall 2025 grant of $250,000 to Youth and Family Powell River for Foundry qathet.
“Council hasn’t had a robust discussion about Foundry yet,” said Isakson. “This is a project that is not shovel ready, but there are a lot of things going on with the space that they are intending to enter into a lease agreement with.
“This is a large capital campaign by Foundry. In this case, the city is not the only funder. If the city contributes $250,000, it is not even a major funder. Foundry BC is donating more than $1.5 million. Youth and Family are incredibly active doing fundraising.”
Isakson said her deepest wish is to send a strong message to the youth in the
PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com
Powell River Town Centre mall has been sold to Jim Pattison Developments.
According to a post on the mall’s website, Jim Pattison Developments is pleased to announce the purchase.
“As a BC-based company, we always welcome the opportunity
to invest in communities across British Columbia, so this acquisition made a lot of sense for us, as Powell River Town Centre Mall plays such a central role in the community,” stated David Bell, president of Jim Pattison Developments.
Frank Picard, Jim Pattison Developments’ vice-president of asset management, said in an interview with the Peak that the sale involves the mall, the Town Centre Court apartment building to the southwest of the mall, and the Starbucks pad at the entrance to the south end of the mall.
Picard said that when Jim Pattison Developments found out from previous owner Jack
community that the city cares about their well-being.
“We want the Foundry to succeed and we are going to do that by contributing a chunk of money,” said Isakson.
When the vote was held, it passed four votes to three in favour of funding Foundry qathet, with Isakson, Elliott and councillors Earl Almeida and Rob Southcott in favour.
The committee then reviewed the recommended community group projects and city projects. After lengthy discussion, the committee voted to remove eight of the 14 recommended community group projects.
These included: Friends of qathet’s $10,000 application for clothing and food for vulnerable students; Timberlane Fine Arts Association for $54,271 in funding to complete building additions and repairs; qathet Regional Cycling Association’s $37,500 application for a parking lot and trail improvements at Duck Lake; Kelly Creek Community Church’s $34,550 for completion of a community pavilion; Powell River Lawn Bowling Club’s $40,000 in funding to complete proposed structural and accessibility upgrades; $40,000 to qathet
Regional District for upgrades to Gillies Bay tennis courts; Powell River Salmon Society’s upgrades to the Duck Lake hatchery, for $28,512; and Powell River Curling Club, for $75,000, for contribution to a backup generator.
Community projects that were recommended to proceed included: Powell River Brain Injury Society, $15,000 for accessibility and other building improvements; the Brooks Secondary School berm buster mountain bike team trailer, for $12,500; Powell River Gymnastics Society equipment upgrades for $25,000; Powell River Kiwanis Village Society’s kitchen and technology upgrades for $26,400; West Coast Wind Swim Club’s competitive swim equipment for $14,160; and Powell River Health Care Auxiliary, for a contribution to the economy shop building’s HVAC installation of $133,358.40.
When the vote was held, it passed by a four to three margin, with Isakson, Elliott, Southcott and Almeida voting in favour. The total for Powell River Community Forest grants for community groups is $476,418.40. The recommendations still have to be approved by city council.
Barr that the mall was potentially for sale, the company expressed interest.
“It made sense for us,” added Picard. “We have two grocery stores already in the market.
“Our experience of owning shopping centres in smaller communities in BC has been a very positive one. For example, we own Chahko Mika Mall in Nelson, Lansdowne Mall in Kamloops and Mariner Square in Campbell River, so we have quite a few shopping centre properties in smaller communities across BC.”
“We looked at the mall, and obviously, it’s really well located,” said Picard. “It has a good roster of tenants. We thought it would make a lot of sense for us.”
Picard said the mall has undergone a significant expansion and reconfiguration with Winners, the BC Liquor Store and the CIBC bank. He said the Pattison company does not foresee any big expansion at this point, but it is excited about prospects for the shopping centre.
“We’ve got interest from some exciting tenants coming to fill in some of the vacancies and that’s
Picard said when the opportunity to purchase the Town Centre mall came forward, the Pattison company decided it might be a good fit.
obviously what we want,” said Picard. “We are just happy to be part of the community.
“We also have inherited and benefit from some excellent staff. There is an excellent team already at Powell River Town Centre mall, so now, they are part of our team. It’s not just acquiring shopping centres – we are also acquiring the team that comes with it. That’s a big plus for us.”
Picard said it is the intention of the new mall owners to have the mall fully leased within the next 12 to 18 months.
The Peak has reached out to former mall owner Jack Barr for comment on the sale.
Wouldn’t it be nice if the following transportation dream became a reality?
My last trip to the big city of Vancouver went off without a hitch. The new public transit service across qathet is in sync with each ferry sailing and it’s brilliant.
I just boarded the public transit bus near Southview Road north of town at the scheduled time. I sure wasn’t alone on the bus, either. The bus gradually filled up as, at stop after stop, others also boarded the direct bus to the ferry.
It was nice to catch up with some familiar folk while the driver concentrated on navigating the bus down the highway on this otherwise dreary, rainy day. The bus delivered us to
By Chris Lightfoot
Saltery Bay Terminal in good time to purchase tickets and walk onto the waiting ferry.
Arriving at Earls Cove, the next warm public transit bus was already waiting for us. The bus stopped for quite a few more people by the time we arrived at the terminal at Langdale.
Once in Horseshoe Bay, the waiting express bus shuttled us quickly downtown.
I saved so much money by leaving my car at home, not having to fuel my car all the way there and back, and just
I’m compelled to draw attention to Mr. Kinley’s statements about some councillor’s apparently disrespectful conduct in City of Powell River council chambers [“Letter: Concerned by conduct,” November 12].
Having witnessed firsthand when Mr. Kinley aggressively stated “keep your mouth shut while I’m talking, lady” to a councillor who correctly called a point of order to his rude name calling, I suggest that he should take his own advice on respectful communication. And he should also educate himself on what points of order are and how they are used.
Each councillor has the right to call a point of order when there is a breach of the rules or procedures. No one, not even the mayor or Mr. Kinley are exempt from this. The only hostility I have witnessed in council chambers is from those people
We respectfully acknowledge that we live, work and play on the traditional and treaty lands of the Tla’amin people.
Published every Thursday by 1553164 BC LTD dba The Peak.
REACH US
Phone 604.485.5313
publisher@prpeak.com • prpeak.com
Unit F, 4493 Marine Avenue, Powell River, BC V8A 2K3
Member of the Canadian Community Newspapers Association and the British Columbia Yukon Newspaper Association.
paying the walk-on rate. I also saved myself the headache of driving in the city and searching for expensive places to park my car.
Frequent and affordable; it’s no wonder this new service is so popular, not just for drivers like me, but especially for people who don’t or can’t drive. Maybe next time, I’ll even bring my bike.
Unfortunately, the above scenario is just an interesting thought experiment. While it is possible to take the bus to Saltery Bay, it does not run every day, and only for two sailings. Even if you did, BC Transit won’t be waiting for you when you arrive in Earls Cove.
To make this dream a reality, the stars of the provincial govern-
who seem to feel they are above the rules, such as Mr. Kinley.
Claudia
Medina, Wildwood
While raising the living wage on the Sunshine Coast to $26.65 per hour is laudable, it highlights a bigger issue: our cost of living has ballooned and businesses are now feeling pressure to lead the wageadjustment charge [“Hourly ‘living wage’ inches upward,” November 20].
We should shift focus to driving down the underlying cost burdens — groceries, housing, child care, et cetera — rather than relying solely on employers to absorb rising labour costs. Otherwise, we risk stifling small business growth and passing the burden back to consumers.
Real relief will come when the cost of living aligns with the means to live.
Janet Hansen, Powell River
DELIVERY RATES: 1 year: $68.25 incl. GST
MAILING RATES
Texada and local area: $109.20 incl. GST
Within Canada: $191.10 incl. GST
PUBLICATIONS MAIL REG. 40069240
Office pickup available for addresses in a non-delivery area
COPYRIGHT NOTICE Full, complete and sole copyright in any advertising produced by 1553164 BC LTD dba The Peak is vested in and belongs to 1553164 BC LTD dba The Peak. No copyright material may be reproduced in
ment, BC Transit, BC Ferries and multiple regional districts would have to align and invest in affordable and convenient interregional public transit.
Drena McCormack and the Council of Canadians advocate for public transit to connect the coast. She believes, “people going to medical appointments, students, visitors to qathet and others would love to take the bus to the city and leave their cars at home.”
Modest improvements are, however, gradually being made to the local public transit system. Bus trips are being added to Stillwater and to Lund.
When transit schedules line up with key destinations such as
schools, ferry terminals and shopping areas, people gain real independence without needing a car. Routes that are connected provide critical links in and between communities, and ensure mobility equity. This is especially significant for seniors who no longer drive, youth and teens, people with disabilities and residents without motor vehicles.
A Brooks Secondary School student told me: “I can’t drive yet, but when I take the bus and walk a bit, I can see my friends on the other side of town and I don’t need my dad to drive me. I like doing stuff on my own.”
Chris Lightfoot is a member of qathet Regional Cycling Association.
GERI ANDERSON admin/office manager
EARL ALMEIDA circulation director
TANYA HILL reporter
Powell River RCMP has arrested a 55-year-old man following a series of thefts from the family change room at Powell River Recreation Complex.
The first theft was reported to police in August. The victim reported that undergarments had been taken from their locker in the family change room while they were using the pool facilities, according to a police report. An investigation was initiated and more reports were received, with three more victims coming forward to report similar incidents in September. In all cases, only undergarments were taken.
On November 13, Powell River RCMP officers were able to arrest the suspect as he left the complex while in possession of stolen undergarments. He has since been banned from attending the
facility and will appear in court at a later date.
“This is obviously a concerning series of crimes and will not be tolerated in our community," stated staff sergeant Lee Dyson. "Our investigating officers spent considerable time on this matter and it was not easy getting to this point. I would also like to thank the City of Powell River staff for assisting with
the investigation. It was challenging to identify the person and gather enough evidence to support charges; it could not have been done without their help.” RCMP believe there may be other victims who have not reported their incident to police. They are encouraged to call the local detachment at 604.485.6255 to make a report, quoting file 2025-4869.
PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com
City of Powell River Council gave first two readings to an amendment bylaw for the sustainable official community plan to align it with findings from the most recent housing needs report.
At a meeting earlier this month, councillor Cindy Elliott said the provincial government’s legislation requires the city to do different things for housing, including adopting and updating the housing needs assessment, and being consistent
with provincial legislation.
“We require adjustments to our sustainable official community plan in order to make that work,” said Elliott. “We have made a number of changes to bylaws and we need to do an
amendment a first and second time, there would be a public hearing, and it would come back for third reading.
Councillor Trina Isakson said she believed that after a public hearing, council is not able to hear additional in-
“We have made a number of changes to bylaws and we need to do an additional change to the official community plan.”
CINDY ELLIOTT CITY OF POWELL RIVER COUNCILLOR
additional change to the official community plan.”
Elliott said she believes the next step after this is to have a public hearing. Director of planning services Jason Gow said that is correct. Elliott said the procedure involved reading the bylaw
put, so she wanted to make a suggestion to the public, if they want to provide input to council, to make sure they do it at or before the public hearing when the time comes.
Council unanimously carried the motion to give first
and second reading to the bylaw amendment.
According to a staff report, in 2023, the province introduced amendments to the Local Government Act through the passage of Bill 44, which is the Housing Statutes (Residential Development) Amendment Act. As a result of these amendments, changes were made to the timing and content requirements of housing needs reports, the staff report stated. Council received the city’s interim housing needs report in December 2024.
The staff report stated that local governments are required to review and amend their official community plans and zoning bylaws to accommodate anticipated housing needs as outlined in the housing needs report.
affectionate kittens waiting at BC SPCA qathet
TANYA HILL
thill@prpeak.com
BC SPCA qathet has quite a few new cats and kittens available for adoption, including Hopper, who is one of three siblings looking for a home.
ADOPTABLE PET OF THE MONTH
"Hopper is cautious, yet curious and it takes a little longer to gain his trust than other kittens, but once you have, you’re in for a wonderful time," stated the qathet Community Animal Centre team. "A good day in Hopper's opinion is full of naps, gentle pets and playtime with his furry siblings."
BC SPCA qathet manager Tara
Daniels encouraged anyone interested in adopting a cat to fill out the preadoption-questionnaire online (spca. bc.ca/adoption/cat-pre-adoptionquestionnaire), or stop by the animal centre (7558 Duncan Street) to see if Hopper, or one of his siblings, is a fit for their home.
Stats for Hopper: Days in care, 62; Approximate age, three-months; Breed, domestic, medium hair; Colour, black; Weight, 1.44 kilograms; Sex, male; Animal ID, 615137.
Horseshoe Bay
TANYA HILL
thill@prpeak.com
The BC coast stretches more than 25,000 kilometres, encompassing more than 1,500 BC Marine Trails (BCMT) sites, which are maintained by stewards and volunteers as best they can.
Approximately 100 sites are located along the Sunshine Coast, Desolation Sound and Discovery Islands, and used by hundreds of paddlers and boaters every year.
The group depends on people submitting, usually online, on-the-ground reports of site conditions, debris in the area or any dangerous trees that might be near the campsites.
This year, there was a significant increase in what BCMT calls Site Condition Reports (SCRs), by paddlers and boaters,
which can be accessed through BCMT's digital maps.
BCMT stewardship and communications coordinator Sam Cutcliffe said paddlers and boaters submitted 429 reports by mid-October, marking a 21 percent increase over 2024 and a 44 per cent jump since 2023.
"There were seven SCRs submitted in Desolation Sound, and 24 in close proximity to Powell River," Cutcliffe told the Peak. "Reports indicated dangerous trees and outhouses requiring attention in the Discovery Islands."
He said a volunteer BCMT crew launched from Heriot Bay, Quadra Island on October 17, for a day of coastal stewardship.
"We visited Penn Islands north, Freedom Point and Whale Passage to complete site maintenance, including: cleaning out the composting toilet at Penn Islands, felling danger trees and installing new birdhouses and logbooks," said Cutcliffe.
When it comes to marine debris, the group works directly with organizations such as Ocean Legacy Foundation, Rugged Coast, and Living Oceans Society.
"These kinds of collaborations between local guides, volunteers and community partners embody the stewardship values that keep our group thriving," said Cutcliffe.
Reports are shared with First Nations, government and land managers to support on-the-ground stewardship and planning, he added.
PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com
Energy Democracy for British Columbia (ED4BC) is active in its opposition to Powell River Energy Inc.’s (PREI) application to the Canada Energy Regulator (CER) for a 30-year energy export licence to the United States.
Rick Craig, ED4BC vice-president, and Dave Wheatley, the organization’s treasurer, met with the Peak to outline the organization’s efforts to help stall the export of electrical energy, and also, to create a community water fund, where economic benefit would accrue to the community, much like with the structure of the Columbia Basin Trust, which receives monetary assets from power generation on the Columbia River.
Wheatley said ED4BC has been working on energy issues for about four years now. He said the orga-
nization is nonprofit and run by volunteers.
“Right now is a busy time, for sure, since we found out about the application that PREI put in,” said Wheatley. “We’ve been working nonstop on it.”
Wheatley said PREI had to put notification of the application in three newspapers, but did not do so locally. He said a friend of his saw an advertisement in the Vancouver Sun and notified him, so that’s how ED4BC found out about it.
Craig said ED4BC was surprised to find out about the 30-year application.
“What has been interesting is to see how this town has rallied,” said Craig. “There have been letters sent to the CER from local governments and from individuals. We also talked to [North Island-Powell River MP] Aaron Gunn about circulating a petition.
“In the space of 10 days, we had 1,500 signatures. In a small town like this with volunteer resources, it was great to get that many people to put their names on the petition.”
Gunn has since presented the petition in the House of Commons.
“It’s one of the few issues where
there is maximum unity between the City of Powell River, qathet Regional District and Tla’amin Nation,” said Craig. “There are also community groups like ours, the climate alliance and the ratepayers’ organizations, that are concerned.
“The question is: what is going to happen now? We have been doing all this work, and it is complicated and has required a lot of research. When the CER rules, what are we going to do? Obviously, if they rule to accept the export process, we are going to be going political again.”
Craig said in correspondence that BC Hydro has sent to the CER, the electric utility has indicated that it wants to purchase power from PREI. He said the power should be a BC resource.
Wheatley said PREI should send delegates to Powell River to talk to the community, and the three governments.
In terms of economic benefit from the creation of electrical energy here, Craig said ED4BC has wanted to see if there is something that could be done similar to the model in southeastern BC with the Columbia Basin Trust.
“They created a model in the Kootenays, the Columbia Basin
Trust, and we thought something like that could be created here,” said Craig. “There’s a lot of issues that are not quite the same, but it’s on the same wavelength in terms of what the issues are about.
“What we’ve been doing is looking at how we get community benefits from the use of local water. The benefits have eroded dramatically because private interests control the dams, and the fact that the dams are no longer used for local employment.”
Craig said PREI is trying to maximize its profits by trying not to be regulated in BC, and secondly, by wanting to export power to the United States for 30 years.
“All of this is public water feeding those dams,” said Craig. “It has an environmental as well as a social impact.
“The dams were built for community benefit, for the mill and for jobs, and we want the community benefit to be back on the table. There could be a water fund, where a percentage of the money that is made from the use of this resource comes back to the community.”
Wheatley said ED4BC is also concerned about the environmental impacts in the Powell and Lois watersheds, which feed PREI’s two
dams. He said there is concern about water levels and the regulation of water, plus concerns about fish, and for people who are using watercraft in Lois Lake, because of debris.
Wheatley said another concept that could be beneficial to the management of local water resources is a watershed management board. He said, for example, there is one for Lake Cowichan. The board could be made of representatives from the city, regional district, Tla’amin, PREI and representatives of some community groups, he added.
Craig said PREI is trying to move further away from accountability.
“It’s basically doing everything in its power to generate profits, but any reference to the community or impact on the community is not there,” said Craig. “It’s reflecting a direction that we believe is contrary to community interests. We feel strongly about that and we are going to continue to work on it.”
Craig said implications of the 30year export licence application are very serious.
“They [PREI] are really pushing the envelope,” added Craig. “The community needs to be aware and to fight back.”
December 1
December 9
Attend a local tree lighting!
Can’t find one? Put up some Christmas lights around your own home, then mark your calendar for any upcoming tree-lighting events.
December 17
Have a family game night and start enjoying those Christmas cookies!
Craft your own special homemade ornament to display on the Christmas tree or anywhere around the house.
December 2
December 3
December 4
Write a letter to Santa! While you’re at it, write a Christmas card or two that can be distributed by a local nursing home or military organization.
December 10
Have a hot cocoa party! Set out toppings like mini marshmallows, whipped cream, sprinkles, mint candies or peanut butter chips.
Visit your local library to check out a Christmas book, and see what free holiday events are happening in December.
December 11
Read a Christmas story together, then talk about what everyone’s favorite Christmas traditions and memories are.
December 18
Festoon your front door with do-it-yourself decorations, or “wrap” it in paper and a bow to resemble a gift.
December 19
Make a Christmas playlist and cue the music for a family dance party!
December 5
Enjoy 24 days of free family fun, while building meaningful connection with loved ones and community, as we count down to Christmas!
December 6
Write down 10 things you can do for friends, family or neighbors this holiday season, then get to work on your “nice” list!
Attend a Christmas concert or event at a local church or community center, or do some research and mark your calendar for upcoming events.
Take a trip to the mall for a peek at the Christmas decorations, and see if you can find Santa. You can even turn this outing into a scavenger hunt!
604.485.6188
December 12
Get baking! Making Christmas cookies and other holiday treats together is a great way to bond as a family and teach kids new skills.
December 13
Learn all the words to a new Christmas carol, and sing your hearts out!
December 14
Make homemade Christmas cards for friends and family, and be sure to get any that need to be sent in the mailbox.
December 20
Have a candy cane hunt around the house.
December 21
Take a goofy family photo together in your Christmas pajamas.
December 22
Have a picnic or sleepover around the Christmas tree.
December 7
Find a local volunteer activity you can participate in as a family. Check out local food banks, animal shelters and service organizations, or consult a website like pointsoflight.org or volunteermatch.org.
December 15
Craft some Christmas presents! You’ll find no shortage of low-cost ideas for all ages online or at your local craft supply store.
December 23
Take a drive to see the Christmas lights in your area.
December 8
Have a Grinch Day where you all wear green! Enjoy some green-themed snacks while watching the movie or reading the book together.
December 16
Watch a Christmas movie together as a family, and don’t forget the popcorn!
December 24
Make ornamentshaped pancakes for breakfast and decorate them with your
Services are about supporting spiritual and emotional needs of a person at end of life, says outgoing Four Tides president
hospice is an idea whose time has come."
TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com
Four Tides Hospice Society is gearing up for Giving Tuesday, on December 2, with the lofty goal of raising $10,000 to keep advancing the much-needed, end-of-life services that hospice provides to the qathet community.
With the recent hire of executive director Melanie Munroe, and the years of work by outgoing president Malerie Meeker, the hospice society is ready to take the next steps to expand, but, most importantly, maintain the quality services.
"We have had an amazing donor come forward who is going to donate and match all donations on Giving Tuesday, up to $5,000," said Munroe. "We're hoping to reach our goal that day for $10,000; it's so important this year because our needs for our programs and services have gone up 280 per cent."
Meeker speculates that the reason for the uptick in referrals for hospice care and/or end-of-life planning is that baby boomers are in their senior years now.
"We didn't want to live the way our parents and grandparents lived," said Meeker. "We created change all the way, and now, we don't want to die. I really do feel that
Development of antiaging products and technologies, and the quest to live forever, are a growing pursuit for scientists and researchers, and a popular trend with social media influencers. But, researchers speculate humankind is still a long way off from avoiding the inevitable.
"I've been involved for the last 11 years around supporting families who have someone with Alzheimer's disease or other dementia," said Meeker. "The stigma around not just dementia, but illness in general, contributes to ageism."
Meeker said the goal of hospice is to make the last days as wonderful as possible.
"Hospice is about supporting the spiritual and emotional needs of a person at end of life and their loved ones, and into bereavement," explained Meeker. "Volunteer Visitors are trained hospice volunteers who accompany clients who are nearing end of life through the emotions and practical realities of living with an illness."
According to a 2023/2024 Four Tides Hospice Society report, the Volunteer Visitors program saw a 23 per cent increase in clients. Group services, such as grief groups, the grief walking group, caregiver support, music therapy and advance care planning workshops were close behind with a 22 per cent increase, highlighting the growing need for hospice support in the qathet community.
Meeker emphasized that as a charity, folks who choose to make a donation to hospice get a tax rebate.
"It's important for people to know, because if you're
donating $100, you could get almost a 30 per cent write off against your tax bill," said Meeker. "So, the more you give, the higher that number goes."
There are a plethora of charities to donate to, and many folks may be strapped for cash, but Meeker said it's important for people to know that all of the hospice programs and services are free to the community, and they receive zero government funding.
"We're trying our best to meet the needs of everybody in the community," said Meeker. "When it comes to things like Giving Tuesday, it's so important for the community to step up and help so we can continue to offer these services for free."
Meeker said qathet General Hospital has a very small palliative care room, but that in general, the hospital is overcrowded.
"If you can get the right support, and if your medical needs are not that complicated, that's what the hospice is for," said Meeker. "It's for people who might wish to be at home, and so our objective is to make as much of a home-like environment as possible, so people can come and stay with you, and cook for you, all of that stuff."
What surprises most people, Meeker said, is that the qathet region doesn't have a standalone hospice facility.
"Most communities do," said Meeker. "Another thing that surprises people is that we're not part of the healthcare system."
She said a lot of their time is spent on grant writing and fundraising efforts.
Meeker and Munroe said there will be an announcement in the new year regarding efforts to make a stand-
alone hospice house closer to a reality.
"Hospice is the only [charity] I can think of that has the capacity to touch every single citizen at some point in their life," said Meeker.
"However, we see people quite aged participating in community life everywhere, in ways they used to not be."
Munroe and Meeker are inviting the community to the Four Tides Hospice Society office, located at 4675 Ontario Avenue, Unit C, on Giving Tuesday, December 2.
People can choose to donate anytime at canadahelps.org/en/charities/fourtides-hospice-society. To donate in-person, visit the
office between 9 am and 1 pm, Monday to Thursday.
For more information about volunteer opportuni-
ties, email info@fourtideshospice.org, go to fourtideshospice.org/contact-us, or call 604.223.7309.
PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com
Powell River Kings outlined the team’s operation for qathet Regional District’s (qRD) finance committee during a presentation for the team’s application for a grant-in-aid.
At the November finance committee meeting, Powell River Kings Hockey Club Society president Shaun Garvey, who is also in charge of business operations and development, put forward a request from qRD for $20,000 for operating costs.
Garvey said the club has been around since 1988, coming here from Delta, being brought here by a small group of investors. He said at that time, the team was known as the Powell River Paper Kings. In 1998, the team became the Powell River Kings. Garvey said the team hopes to be here for some time to come.
“Our annual budget is somewhere in the area of about $1.2 million,” said Garvey. “In line with that, it is always a challenge to generate the necessary revenue associated with our hockey operation to be able to cover the expenses.
“We do get a grant from the City of Powell River to help us reduce our costs associated with the leasing
of the facility at the recreation complex, probably to the tune of about $50,000 worth of cost reductions.”
Garvey said this is critical in order for the team to provide ice time for the players to practice.
He said during this past summer, the team performed an economic and social impact assessment, using metrics and methodologies that have been used by major hockey leagues around North America.
“Some of the highlights of that study are as follows,” said Garvey. “There is $1.2 million in direct local spending, generated annually by the team, players, visitors and events. Three weeks ago, we had all the players’ parents here. They spent a lot of money in town, not just in accommodations, but in restaurants, for souvenirs and the like.
“We also have about $2.4 to $3.2 million in total annual activity when accounting for indirect impacts. This accounts for about 350 to 400 hotel rooms per season, by the visiting teams and by families.”
Garvey said the team has more than 75 people volunteering on any given game night. He said the players also get out into the community to ensure they are getting the full Powell River
experience.
The key factor the team finds, relative to its financial situation, is that four years ago, the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) implemented a standard scorecard with a variety of metrics, which are required to be met, said Garvey. He added that infrastructure, business operations, and a lot of financial goals have to be met.
“Season ticket sales have to meet a target for us to get points on that scorecard,” said Garvey. “The scorecard is a blueprint for a successful BCHL franchise. Every team strives to get as many points as they can on the scorecard. Until recently, the Powell River Kings were the only team in the BCHL to be on probation from that scorecard. I’m happy to say we are no longer in that position.
“For us, it’s always a challenge.”
Garvey said since 2023, there has been a partner contributing to financial shortfalls. He said there was hope they were going to purchase the team.
“The team is up for sale and has been now for probably three years,” said Garvey. “We are hoping that in the next 12 to 14 months that we will see a buyer in order to ensure the sustainability of the junior hockey team.”
Garvey said anything that the regional district can do to support the Kings will go a long way to ensuring sustainability.
Electoral Area B director Mark Gisborne asked about the prospective sale of the team. Garvey said each team has a franchise value, and typically, the BCHL requires teams to meet a threshold. He said right now, the average is $1.4 million.
“In order for the Powell River Kings to continue to exist, we need to have a private entity purchase the team,” said Garvey. “When they do, they will have to go through the BCHL to get approval for that sale.
“That was a process that was undertaken in 2023 and failed, and as a result of that, we’ve had an arrangement with the organization that was originally trying to purchase the team. If they had been successful, they would have purchased the team, the society would have either folded, or we would have continued and just supported minor hockey here in Powell River.”
Later in the meeting, directors debated the requested grant. There was a recommendation that the committee recommend the regional board approve a grant of $8,793.82 to the Powell River Kings Hockey
WANTS ASSISTANCE: A Powell River Kings hockey club representative appeared before the qathet Regional District’s finance committee seeking grant funds to assist the operation of the team. In the photo above, Kings’ goaltender Erik Powers tracks the puck during a BC Hockey League game versus Alberni Valley Bulldogs at Hap Parker Arena last weekend. ALICIA BAAS PHOTO
Club Society for general operating costs, which the grant to come from the general grants-in-aid service.
Gisborne made a motion to respectfully deny the Powell River Kings’ grant request. The motion was not seconded.
City of Powell River director Cindy Elliott made a motion to grant $5,000 to the Powell River Kings Hockey Club Society.
Gisborne outlined that regional district Electoral Areas A, B and C contribute to the Powell River Recreation Complex through the sub-regional recreation service. He said if the city, which subsidizes the recreation complex rental rates for the Kings, doesn’t collect enough revenue, that means the operational deficit goes up, and therefore, the requested contribution from the electoral areas also goes up. He said the city, in waiving some fees, creates a $60,000 deficit for the recreation complex, and when
Powell River Villa needed to come back on two occasions in a Vancouver Island Soccer League (VISL) match at Timberlane Park on Saturday, November 22. The 2-2 result kept Villa ahead of the visitors, Mid Isle Mariners, in VISL Division 2 standings.
“It was an exciting back and forth game with an exciting finish to salvage a valuable point for us,” said Villa manager Chris McDonough, whose team is now unbeaten in its last five games. “In the first half we
gave up an unfortunate penalty to go down 1-0, but the guys picked up the intensity in the second half to twice even up the score on two highlight-reel goals from James Timothy, who’s having a great season for us scoring the bulk of our goals.”
Villa has compiled 11 points from 11 games so far this season, which places the team in a seventh place tie with Nanaimo in the 10-team division. Mid Isle and Westcastle International Academy are tied
for ninth with 10 points each.
McDonough highlighted Timothy’s play throughout the season, noting that he has not been positioned as a striker. He is still finding and capitalizing on opportunities to score.
“What makes it most impressive is James has been getting his goals playing as a central defender or defensive midfielder,” said McDonough.
Timothy’s goals came in the 70th and 86th
it comes to the sub-regional recreation service, that money needs to be made up.
Electoral Area C director and board chair Clay Brander said to his knowledge, the sub-regional recreation service contribution is a set amount. He said whatever revenues the city brings in at the recreation centre has no impact on the subregional recreation service.
“I see the financial benefit that the Powell River Kings bring to the community,” said Brander. “It’s an activity that our community sorely needs.”
The committee passed a motion to recommend the regional board approve a grant of $5,000 for the team. Following a pair of home losses (6-2 and 7-2) last weekend to Alberni Valley Bulldogs, the Kings have a record of three wins, 16 losses and one overtime loss. Powell River is fifth in the five-team BCHL Coastal West Division, 15 points behind fourth place Alberni.
minutes of the second half. Mid Isle’s successful penalty kick was taken 25 minutes into the first half. Mariners took their second lead at the 76-minute mark, between Timothy’s brace.
Villa is back on the road this weekend with a crucial game versus sixth place Saanich Fusion (12 points). Prospect Lake leads the division with 25 points, followed by Cook Street United (20), Gorge United (20), Gorge FC U23 (19) and fifth place Saanich Bandits (13).
TANYA HILL
thill@prpeak.com
Townsite Actors Guild is once again preparing to bring some holiday spirit and seasonal joy to the qathet community by giving a live-reading and performance of the Christmas classic, Miracle on 34th Street, on Friday, December 5, and Saturday, December 6, at Magpie's Diner in Cranberry.
Based on Valentine Davies’ novella, radio-play, then screenplay, Miracle on 34th Street was an instant hit with audiences when it hit movie screens in 1947, and is still a favourite for many.
"We did A Christmas Carol and It's a Wonderful Life, and so now we have chosen Miracle on 34th Street; it's one of the great holiday classics," said producer Stephen Miller. "It's all about celebrating the Christmas season and the joy, happiness and all the wonderful things that take place."
There are 13 actors who will perform; some will be familiar and some are new, said director Stephanie Miller.
"We always love adding more people to our guild," said Stephanie. "We just started rehearsals and they're very exciting, because everybody brings their own experience, their own ideas, to the
According to the story's premise and plot, a kind and gentle man named Kris Kringle is hired to play Santa for Macy's department store in New York City and claims to be the real Santa Claus. When he insists on his identity despite doubt and skepticism, he is put on trial to prove his sanity.
The story follows his attempt to prove his identity and restore belief in Christmas for a skeptical young girl, Susan Walker, and the rest of the world.
"So the reading is actually [based on] a radio play," said Stephanie. "There are a lot more sound effects; it's really written for the sound, almost like podcasts, with music and sound woven into them."
Stephanie said audiences who have seen past Townsite Actors Guild performances will have been cultivated to understand how to hear [the story] through sound, rather than depending just on visual action.
"This is really fun, because the focus is on practicing different kinds of voices; some of the actors are playing more than one part," said Stephanie.
"There are visual components as well, but you're also listening; it's like sitting around listening to a Christmas story, which I think people enjoy around the holidays."
Stephen and Stephanie said the story, like many stories around the festive season, talks about the spirit of Christmas.
"The positive values are so important today, when everything [in modern times] seems to be so transactional," said Stephanie. "The main protagonists in this story are value-based, they're kind, they're sincere, and it's not just about the commercialism of Christmas."
At Magpie’s, audience members will be seated around the restaurant and old-time, radio-play microphones will be on stage.
"One of the things I love about the radio play, or about the play, is that it was originally done in 1947, when everybody was celebrating the rebirth or the regrowth of North America and its economy after the war," said Stephen. "They were out of the war, and there was happiness in the streets, and that's what I love about Miracle on 34th Street, that the play takes place in one of the biggest cities in the world."
Stephanie emphasized that the play is about imagination and believing in something you can't buy on a shelf.
"It's about believing in something that you don't see every day; believing in something that somebody's just putting out there for you to take hold of," said Stephanie. "But, it's really about believing in the joy of the season, and in the spirit of the season; it's a wonderful story."
Tickets are available at Magpie's. For more information, email stephenjmiller1031@gmail.com or call 604.818.1758.
TANYA HILL
thill@prpeak.com
With under one month until the winter solstice, qathet residents are preparing for the holiday season; many are choosing to shop at local markets and craft fairs.
The Soapy Dragon Holiday Boutique is a popup Christmas market inside the Powell River Town Centre mall that opened on November 18 and goes until December 24. The market
features many local artisans and crafters.
Raffle tickets are being sold outside the Soapy Dragon for the winning carving from the 2025 Powell River Logger Sports competition.
Earlier this month, Springtime Garden Centre launched its Christmas tree light display and complimentary hot chocolate bar. Springtime is hosting its annual Winter Market on December 6 and 7 at 5300 Yukon Avenue.
Mitch Kenyon and Brian
McRae are celebrating the fifth year of their Enchanted Christmas Forest at 1930 Twin Eagles Road on December 17, 18, 19, 20, 26 and 27, from 5 to 8 pm. The light display, they said, “is a discovery of wonders where you walk along wilderness paths through the forest to find different Christmas scenes.”
Powell River Yacht Club is hosting its annual Harbour Lights Festival, at the south harbour near the Coast Guard station, on December
14, from 5 to 6:30 pm. Paradise Valley Railroad’s Santa Train is back on December 5 and 6, from 6 to 8 pm. The rides, with Christmas lights, are by donation for Salvation Army distribution. Nonperishable food items, unwrapped new toys or cash are welcome. There will be a bonfire and snacks inside the quonset hut.
The entrance is at 4365 McLeod Road in Paradise Valley. Visitors are encouraged to bring a flashlight.
The recent Christmas Craft Fair at the Italian Hall in Wildwood was a festive and lively event, offering attendees the chance to browse a variety of vendors showcasing their handmade crafts and unique holiday treasures. The warm, cheerful atmosphere made it easy for visitors to take their time exploring each table, finding thoughtful gifts and seasonal décor. Guests at the November 15 event, hosted by Lund Community Society, also enjoyed the lunch provided, adding a delicious touch to a delightful day of community, creativity and holiday spirit. LAURA SAYER PHOTOS
October 24, 1940June 26, 2025
Dennis McNeil, beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on June 26 at Evergreen Care Unit with his family and dear friends by his side.
Dennis was predeceased by Muriel, his wife of 62 years, as well as his brothers Fred and Bill of Aberdeen, Scotland.
Left to cherish his memory are sons Steve (Lynnda) and Scott (Carolyn), grandchildren Callie, Cameron and Brogan, sisterin-law Margaret and sister Patricia.
Dennis was born in Aberdeen, Scotland, where he grew up with a passion for playing football (soccer) and riding motorcycles. At 18, while working at the local woolen mill, he met Muriel, whom he married two years later. They immigrated to Canada in November 1965, intending to stay for two to three years.
They spent one year in Vancouver and then moved north to the remote town of Ocean Falls, where Dennis started his trade. A year later they jumped at the chance to leave that rainy town to take a millwright position at the Powell River mill. This became home as they settled into a great community life with other young families, many also from Scotland who became lifelong friends. From millwright Dennis moved into a supervisory role, where he remained until his retirement.
Dennis played soccer for many years, including being a member of the inaugural PR Villa team of 1973. Dennis also enjoyed playing golf, boating, fishing and travel, with regular trips to visit family and friends in Scotland. Much time was spent being a part of his grandchildren’s lives, which included watching many soccer, hockey and dance competitions. Dennis loved to socialize with friends old and new. He liked a good story, a good laugh and a good Scotch.
In retirement Dennis and Muriel travelled annually to their favourite hot spots of Hawaii and Palm Springs, enjoying the many golf courses they played and spending time with family and friends who would visit.
After Muriel’s passing in 2023, Dennis was truly heartbroken, spending his last two years in Evergreen Care Unit. The family would like to express our gratitude to his private care workers, the excellent staff at the ECU and the compassionate care of Dr. Van Zyl.
A celebration of life will be held at 1 pm on Saturday, November 29, at Town Centre Hotel, to celebrate both Mum and Dad.
May 10, 1954November 10, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Robert Cote on November 10, 2025, in Powell River, surrounded by family.
Born in Malartic, Quebec, Robert spent his early years there until his family relocated to Powell River in 1971, at age 17. He obtained full-time employment with MacMillan Bloedel until his retirement at 55.
Robert was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, son and friend – a steady, loving presence in the lives of those around him. He was our safe place, someone we could always turn to for comfort, wisdom or laughter. His calm spirit brought peace to every room and made everyone feel welcome. He cherished time spent outdoors, especially fishing trips with his brother and camping adventures with his children and siblings. Robert’s love of games – golf, table tennis, darts, cornhole, crib, backgammon, poker and nearly any card game –was legendary. Whenever family or friends gathered, there was sure to be friendly competition, often with a loonie on the line, just to keep things interesting.
Robert was predeceased by his beloved mother Louisette and his older brother Gerald. He is survived by his father Normand, his children Shawna (Terry), Crystal (Jared), Wade (Amy) and Tina (Dustin), his brother Daniel (Diane), sisters Lyne (Ken) Guylaine (Ron) and Chantale (Gary), his grandchildren, extended family and many friends whose lives he touched with warmth, joy and love.
A celebration of life will be held November 29 at Assoc. Francophone de qathet (French Club), 5110 Manson Avenue, from 1 to 4 pm.
November 28, 2016
Forever missing you. Your son David, and family Karren, Tiffany, Skyler, Chelby, Sofia and Delilah Thickett
December 21, 2008
May you rest in peace
PIPPA
Young, super pretty gal saying goodbye to motherhood. New family.
CACHE AND HOPPER
Double the sweetness. Gentle, affectionate male kittens.
AGATHA, AMELIE, MYSTIQUE, MOONPIE, MERLIN, MORTY, AND MORTICIA
Take one, take two, hard to choose!
BOO
Black and white sweetheart. Calm, loving young, female cat.
SAILOR
Pretty, young, female cat with super silky fur.
SIREN
Super sweet senior lady. Formosan Mountain dog mix.
HARVIE
Handsome, male feline, also the king of loafing.
BECKIE
Young black and white cat, female feline royalty
JELLYBEAN AND JUNIOR MINT
Checkout our super cute kittens. Best deal in town.
SOPHIE
Quiet, pretty, snuggling Guinea Pig seeking matching humans.
BOO-BOO
Green eyed, mature, pretty, friendly, black cat welcomes visitors.
LENORA
Gorgeous, lucky black feline, super senior seeking her matching super senior human.
FRANK SINATRA & ELVIS
Sweet n playful, cute overload. Corso/Mastiff mix puppies.
MAVIS
Stunning dog, sweet, kid-loving, four-year-old Mastiff mix.
SUNNY AND CHEEKS
Wow, two of the sweetest love birds.
7:00 PM, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2025
Meeting held electronically and open to public attendance in Council Chambers, City Hall
City of Powell River Sustainable Official Community Plan Bylaw 2370, 2014, Amendment Bylaw 2783, 2025
What is being proposed? City of Powell River Sustainable Official Community Plan Bylaw 2370, 2014, Amendment Bylaw 2783, 2025 is intended to accommodate the City’s 20-year housing need as required under Section 473.1 of the Local Government Act that requires a local government to align its official community plan with the findings from the most recent housing needs report received.
How do I get more information? The complete staff report can be accessed at www.participatepr.ca along with contact information on how to engage with City staff with any inquiries. Alternatively, you may reach the Planning Services Department via planningservices@powellriver.ca, or directly at (604) 485-8650, or in-person at City Hall, 6910 Duncan Street, Powell River, BC, V8A 1V4.
How can I participate?
• Watch the meeting via livestream or after the meeting at: https://powellriver.civicweb.net/Portal/Default.aspx
• Written submissions by email, post, or dropping off at the mailbox on the north side of City Hall are welcome and encouraged. If received by 5 pm, seven business days before the meeting, they will be included in the agenda package. Later comments received until the close of the hearing will be distributed on table at the meeting. All comments are published.
• Speak online via phone: Call 1-833-782-7295 and enter 845 047 088 followed by #
• Speak in person at the meeting at City Hall, 6910 Duncan Street, Powell River.
For any other questions, contact Administration at 604-485-6291 or info@powellriver.ca
No further information or submissions can be considered by Council after the Public Hearing has concluded.
Peter DeJong Corporate Officer
RANCH WORKER WANTED
$30 per hour
2 to 3 days per week
Multi-skilled including experience operating tractors, implements and other misc equipment
Resume with references to PO Box 355 Powell River, BC, V8A 5C2
6560 Houses for Rent
WILDWOOD 1-BDRM
Available December 1, 2025, $1,300 per month. Full bath, woodstove and electric heat, garden, shared one acre property with landlord. References required, 604-414-3787; 604-414-4444
Tell the world about the newest addition, while at the same time creating a permanent record and keepsake of baby’s first year.
For only $27 (including tax), we’ll publish the baby’s picture, name, birthday and parents’ name in our special “Celebrating Baby’s First Year” feature.
DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES: THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, AT 4 PM Powell River Peak, Unit-F 4493 Marine Avenue, or by email at admin@prpeak.com
NANCY: 604 849 5777
South facing fully serviced 0.19 acre lot ready for your dream house design. Take in the expansive view of Malaspina Strait and sunsets to dazzle you at the end of the day.
LOT 3 HEMLOCK STREET
$299,000 MLS®19388
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
$344,900
604 344 0055
Beautifully crafted, brand-new townhome!
Environmentally sustainable, this energyefficient home has a zero carbon footprint.
3 bedroom, 3 bathroom CREEKSIDE LIVING TOWNHOUSES
5191 Manson Avenue • Starting at $499,900
DUSTIN: 604 358 2473
Stunning brand-new condos with unobstructed ocean views, secure underground parking and elevator access in the heart of Westview.
PHASE 3 SUNCOAST ESTATES: 6900 BURNABY STREET
$599,900-$699,900
NANCY: 604 849 5777
studio suite.
4 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 2,952 sq ft 7889 HIGHWAY 101 $799,900 MLS®19329
AUSTYN: 778 986 1691
Wildwood charm at its sweetest. Nestled on 1.1 acres down a quiet no-thru road, this homestead house has a detached shop.
2 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 1,008 sq ft
5875 FRASER STREET
$575,000 MLS®19418
DUSTIN: 604 358 2473
Discover coastal living at its finest in this spacious home located in the highly sought-after Grief Point neighbourhood. 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 3,224 sq ft 7173 WESTMINSTER STREET
$649,900 MLS®19426
Great value for waterfront home with suite.
Quiet neighbourhood, this home is ideal for those seeking both tranquillity and fine craftsmanship.
3 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 3,197 sq ft
4810 SANDERSON ROAD
$895,000 MLS®18993
BILL: 604.223.0811
Centrally located starter home with an ocean view! This home is a great starting place to get into the real estate market.
3 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 1,349 sq ft
4856 JOYCE AVENUE
$389,900 MLS®19310
Ocean view home with many updates!
Step onto your deck to enjoy expansive ocean views and stunning sunsets.
3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 2,200 sq ft
4029 JOYCE AVENUE
$579,900 MLS®19332
BILL: 604.223.0811
Among waterfront lots, this one is a prize Enjoy year round sunsets on 0.79 acres of flat grassy land with a few large firs which flows right to the waterfront.
8685 HIGHWAY 101
$720,000 MLS®19471
604 344 0055
Experience tranquil living at its finest. Immaculately kept, tastefully updated with original maple hardwood floors throughout.
3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 2,567sq ft
2467 SWEDE BELLE ROAD
$899,900 MLS®19461
market AT SPRINGTIME GARDEN CENTRE SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6 11 AM TO 3 PM Stop
