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River City Martial Arts Academy is betting on tradition, character and community to build a new home for karate in the qathet region.
Co-owners Jasmine Lang and Cole Mostat say their goal is to make training welcoming for everyone from five-year-olds to firsttime adults while staying rooted in Meibukan karate’s lineage.
Both instructors bring more than a decade of experience to the mats. Mostat is in his 17th year of training, and Lang has trained and taught for a similar span. After time in other dojos, the pair decided to open a school that reflects the way they want to teach.
“We have seen enough to know what we want to do,” says Mostat.
Accredited by the International Meibukan Gojyu-Ryu Karate-do Association (IMGKA), they remain in regular contact with the head dojo in Japan to confirm technique and curriculum. Students who earn a black belt are recorded in a Meibukan registry, a tradition that shows the program’s emphasis on history and continuity.
Adults often arrive looking for fitness with a purpose. Lang and Mostat frame classes as training for the body and mind, with room to learn the why behind the
movements.
“You are not just working out,” explains Mostat. “You are learning skills and the history of where they came from.”
Confidence building is central for every age. Tests and tournaments put students under pressure in a controlled way that can make everyday stress feel easier to handle.
Mostat says karate helped him to move past shyness and learn to perform in front of people. He has competed on big stages, including events that drew athletes from around the world. Experiences like that change what feels intimidating
at school or work, he adds.
The pair say parents often notice gains in discipline, resilience and work ethic. Repetition is part of progress, so classes for children hide that repetition inside coordination games and short activities. Adults receive more informationdense sessions and a deeper dive into history and fundamentals.
“Kids want to play, and they still learn,” says Lang. “Adults want to understand and retain more, so we teach that.”
Character is a thread that runs through every class. Lang recalls guidance from a Japanese sensei
the plan, and a leadership pathway invites higher-ranked students to help teach and learn how to mentor others.
Families training under one roof can find unexpected benefits. Mostat has seen parents and children grow closer by sharing goals, even pacing promotions so they reach black belt together.
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For hesitant newcomers, Lang says, “You won’t know if martial arts is for you until you try.”
who told them people eventually lose some physical ability, and karate helps maintain it as long as possible, but once character is lost, it is gone.
“Our three biggest things are respect, honour and, above everything else, integrity,” says Mostat.
Programs are tailored to beginners as well as advancing students. Newcomers typically start with an evaluation so instructors can place them appropriately. Classes follow a theme for the day, then break into small groups so drills match experience and learning style.
One-on-one support is part of
People are often surprised by how rich and detailed the art’s history is, according to the instructors, who stress that popular culture is not the model. It is not like a TV show, says Mostat, and students quickly learn that it is about the patience, respect and steady effort, as well as the technique.
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Lang and Mostat describe their school as a place where shy kids can find their voice and energetic kids can learn to focus. They want adults to discover it is never too late to build strength and mobility while joining a tradition.
“Our aim is to help people set goals, work toward them and leave with a strong character that lasts,” says Mostat.
For more information, call 604.223.7350 or email rivercitymaa@gmail.com.
Planning committee recommends regional board express no objection to application
PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com
In spite of some concerns from Electoral Area D director Sandy McCormick, qathet Regional District’s (qRD) planning committee is recommending that the regional board have no objections to a licence of occupation for recreational purposes on Texada Island. At the September 10 planning committee meeting, directors considered a 20-year licence of occupation application for guided saltwater recreation, affecting two sites on Texada. The application is from the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), which, according to a qRD staff report, is applying for a 20-year licence of occupation for commercial recreation/ guided saltwater recreation purposes over 77 individual sites along the BC coast. The two Texada sites are for 0.392 hectares at Favada
Point Cove, and 1.867 hectares at Grilse Point.
The staff report states that the intent is to use these sites as overnight camping locations three or fewer times per year for guided kayaking expeditions. According to a newspaper advertisement, NOLS is headquartered in Lander, Wyoming, in the United States.
Regional district general manager of planning services Laura Roddan said the province refers such matters to local governments to determine if it is consistent with local bylaws. She said staff had reviewed the application and determined it is consistent with Texada’s official community plan and economic development policies. McCormick asked if, when providing comments to the province, the regional district is allowed to comment on anything other than land use bylaws?
“Is there a piece of legislation that says what it is we can comment on?” asked McCormick.
Roddan said the regional board could pass along additional comments over and above any bylaw issues but would have no control over what the province does with them.
McCormick said there was a lack of consultation regarding this application and that is a concern to the people of Texada.
She said neither of the two sites on the island are currently used for camping. She asked if there were any concerns about new uses for these lands, which could potentially be a fire risk.
Roddan said provincial agencies would consider factors such as fires.
“Here’s my dilemma,” said McCormick. “When you read the application, it sounds like motherhood and apple pie. It’s a great experience for the students who will be on that trip, but it also sets a dangerous precedent for the use of our public land by foreign entities.
“It is an American school. Yes, they have local instructors that provide economic development, but at the same time, there is an element of it that is commercializing crown land, which is public land.
“Yes, it kind of fits with the official community plan, but there is also the foreign entity part. The times we are in right now makes the sensitivity to the foreign entity much stronger.”
McCormick said she had an alternative to the suggested recommendation, which stated qRD has no objection to the licence of occupation. She said she wanted to change the statement “no objection to” to read “does not support.”
“Right now, we are in a time where people are very
SEEKS APPROVAL: qathet Regional District’s planning committee considered an application from an American company for a licence of occupation for recreational purposes to use two sites on Texada Island. The committee recommended that the regional board express no objection.
sensitive to foreign ownership, particularly Americans making inroads,” said McCormick. “That is how this is seen in the community. There has been no consultation with anyone in our community. We only found out about it because of a posting on Facebook.
“The actual use fits with the official community plan and there is no conflict with the OCP, but the conflict is its equity to the times we are in. Right now, this is not the time to be welcoming American entities to have licences of occupation for our public land. It’s just the wrong time. I don’t want to set a dangerous precedent that we are going to live to regret.”
Electoral Area C director and board chair Clay Brander said he would not support McCormick’s motion.
“I don’t think this is the right way to go, to exclude individuals based exclusively upon the fact that they may be coming from the United
States,” said Brander. “I don’t see any problem with the application.”
Electoral Area B director Mark Gisborne said what is happening south of the border is concerning, and he understands there is concern, but this is about rising above and being better than what is going on south of the border. He said having Americans come to Canada and spend their tourism dollars is good for the economy. He added that the application was compliant and consistent with qRD bylaws.
Gisborne said he could not support the motion.
Electoral Area A director and planning committee chair Jason Lennox said he was not in favour of the amended motion, but he empathized with the people of Texada.
On McCormick’s motion to not support the application, she voted for, and the three other planning committee directors voted against, so
PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com
qathet Regional District’s (qRD) board of directors has adopted a temporary bylaw to borrow up to $2.5 million from the Municipal Finance Authority for the final resource recovery centre and waste transfer station borrowing.
Last month, directors were presented a recommendation from
staff to give first reading through final adoption of the bylaw.
qRD general manager of financial administration Linda Greenan said the bylaw was intended for borrowing temporarily.
“The borrowing has already been approved through the resource recovery centre and waste transfer station loan authorization bylaw, so this is not new borrowing,” said Greenan. “The borrowing is already approved and already included in
the [five-year] financial plan. This just allows us to drive down on that debt, and it will eventually go to a security issuing bylaw.”
Greenan said she expects the regional district will bring a bylaw forward for long-term borrowing in April 2026.
According to a staff report, adoption of a temporary borrowing bylaw will allow staff to access up to $2.5 million, which is the balance of borrowing authorized under a
loan authorization amendment bylaw to finance completion of the centre. The report stated this is not new borrowing – this bylaw would simply allow staff to access the balance of funding approved under the loan authorization amendment bylaw.
The staff report indicated that when qRD is ready to apply for long-term debt from the finance authority, the board will need to adopt a security issuing bylaw and
the motion was defeated.
The committee then considered the original recommendation to express no objection to the licence of application.
McCormick said ironically, she would support this motion, because she does want to see the regional district to make a comment.
“We do have to be judicious about how we support things, and we can’t just willy-nilly support everything,” said McCormick. “We have to consider all aspects regarding these applications and the impact on the community. That’s why I put forward my motion and why I still feel very torn about this application.”
The motion to recommend that the regional board advise the ministry of water, land and resource stewardship that the regional district has no objection for a licence of occupation for commercial recreation purposes carried unanimously.
apply to the ministry of housing and municipal affairs for a certificate of approval.
The staff report provided scenarios for borrowing the $2.5 million over 10 to 25 years. For a 10-year term, the total payment per year would be $343,753, based on a projected interest rate of five per cent. Total payment per year on a 15-year term would be $259,000, on a 20-year term, $216,000, and on a $25-year term, $191,500.
TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 23
INDIGENOUS FILMMAKER SPOTLIGHT
Meet filmmakers whose work will be featured at this year’s 3 Ears Indigenous Film Festival, and see a preview of the films. The previews will start at 4 pm in Powell River Public Library (100-6975 Alberni Street). For more information, email Mark at mmerlino@prpl.ca.
FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 26
SHORT FICTION READING
Award-winning author Marion Quednau will read from her short fiction collection–quirky thriller or odd-bod character sketch–you decide. The reading from Sunday Drive to Gun Club Road will begin at 7 pm in Powell River Public Library. For more information, email Mark at mmerlino@prpl.ca.
Tanyss and Gem Munro have devoted their lives to improving opportunities for people here and abroad
TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com
Rotary Club of Powell River is hosting a humble dinner and talk by Dr. Tanyss Munro and her husband/author Gem, titled Mother’s School, at Cranberry Seniors Centre on Wednesday, September 24.
For years, Tanyss and Gem have worked to improve educational opportunities for people living in poverty across Canada and in one of the most populous cities in South Asia: Dhaka, Bangladesh.
“We work with the very poorest of the poor and the least advantaged; the people who most people would dismiss the likelihood of success in the world,” Gem told the Peak. “The results are stunning. What we get out of our approach is that we go into the worst slums, and we open schools, but they’re not for children, they’re schools for mothers.”
He said the training of mothers to be teachers is not casual, but well monitored and rigorous.
“We teach those mothers to become neighbourhood teachers, and we have a requirement of those mothers entering our school; they must do their best and work as diligently as they possibly can to learn from us, so they, in turn, teach at least five children everything they learn,” said Gem. “The result of that is that our students outstrip standards of the government educational programs in our countries of operation; they achieve more and learn better, and when they do move on, many can enter high school and even university.”
Rotarian Bente Hansen, who is also the local club’s director of international outreach, has known Gem and Tanyss for about 20 years. She initiated the couple’s visit to the qathet region.
Local Rotarians and two other clubs on the lower Sunshine Coast have been supporting a school in Dhaka, and that school teaches 25 mothers.
“Things that result from that education in the community are profound, so
MENTORING MOTHERS: [From left] Powell River Rotary Club member Elke Sager, the club’s director of international outreach Bente Hansen and Dr. Tanyss Munro, who, along with her husband, Gem, has been invited to speak at a special dinner about their work with communities in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The talk takes place at Cranberry Seniors Centre and is open to the public. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
we want to keep supporting the school to keep the initiatives that are happening going,” said Hansen.
In 2005, Tanyss and Gem packed up their four children and moved from Vancouver to Dhaka. They had been invited by an international organization to make improvements to the country’s education system.
They saw millions of women and children being left out of the educational system, most of them living in poverty in slums.
“The men initially were not in support of it, so there was a lot of difficulty with that, but they overcame it,” said Hansen. “Now the men are supportive, and the grandparents; the kids end up reading newspapers to grandparents and the mothers have started food banks.”
She said during the COVID-19 pandemic, the women and children who were being educated took the initiative to visit neighbourhoods and inform people about washing their hands and wearing masks.
“It seems like such a small difference in the community, just to have that education piece,” said Hansen. “They learn English language skills, math, plus social and community skills.”
She remembers one letter she read, where during COVID one of the landlords wanted to evict the tenant. The mothers stood up and said, “No, you can’t do that, that’s not the law, and if you try to do it, we’ll report you.”
“This surprised the landlord, because women weren’t supposed to know those things,” explained Hansen. She said the program started by Tanyss and Gem has been around for 20 years, so the impact is real; many of the students who started as children in the program have gone on to be community leaders or moved on to a better life in general.
“We’ve been selling jigsaw puzzles and all the profit goes to Bangladesh to support the school,” said Hansen. “Gem has written quite a few books and all the profits go toward the school.”
He wrote a national best-seller titled South Asian Adventure with the Active Poor, which will be available to purchase at the talk. The Munros now live in Bella Coola.
Hansen said the dinner is meant to be humble; meat or vegetarian lasagna with a salad.
“It’s a more understanding dinner; it’s not actually a fundraising dinner,” said Hansen. “The whole idea is to let people know why we’re so passionate about this project.”
Hansen said her main reason for joining the local Rotary club was to support international projects, and that’s what it is doing.
The dinner is open to the public. Tickets are available at the Nutcracker Market, located at 4741 Marine Avenue, the Peak office, located at 4493F Marine Avenue, or by emailing Hansen at bentecreates@gmail.com.
City council allocates $25,000 to eight community organizations
PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com
City of Powell River Council has approved distribution of its grants-in-aid for 2025.
At a recent city council meeting, councillor Cindy Elliott said there was a good conversation at committee of the whole in August and she was in favour of the recommendation that staff put forward, because it was the best way to distribute funds, where some of the smaller grants are provided in full, and there is contribution to all grant recipients that meet the criteria in as equitable fashion as possible.
At the meeting, chief financial officer Mallory Denniston outlined that the city’s grants-in-aid have
a $25,000 budget and that the city received eight applications, requesting a total of $73,683, exceeding the approved budget by $48,683.
Applicants included: Everybody Deserves a Smile qathet; Townsite Heritage Society of Powell River; qathet Community Justice Society; Powell River Brain Injury Society; Together We Can Drug and Alcohol Recovery and Education Society; Four Tides Hospice Society; Friend of qathet Kids Society; and qathet Coalition to End Homelessness Society.
Denniston said all applicants met the eligibility criteria.
“Since this grant program was oversubscribed, two grant allocation options have been provided as a starting point for consideration,” said Denniston.
She said the first option offered all applicants a minimum of $2,500, totalling $20,000. She said there would be $5,000 left to distribute. She said the recommendation was that the remain-
ing $5,000 be distributed equally among the six applicants that applied for more than $2,500, meaning each of the six organizations would receive $3,333.
The second option was for all applicants to receive 34 per cent of the original requests.
Councillor Cindy Elliott made a motion that council direct staff to distribute the 2025 grants-in-aid in accordance with the first option.
Councillor Jim Palm asked staff what was the overlying reason for recommending option one?
Denniston said the option most aligned with the grant-in-aid program, which is to support smaller initiatives.
“Option one doesn’t penalize nonprofits for requesting smaller amounts,” said Denniston. “Two of the applicants will receive full funding.”
Councillor Rob Southcott said he supported option one because larger needs should go to larger funding sources.
“This maximizes the usefulness
OUTLINES ALLOCATIONS: City of Powell River chief financial officer Mallory Denniston reported to committee of the whole on 2025 grantin-aid applications, with two recommendations on how to distribute the $25,000 that the city has budgeted. City council approved the grants-inaid as recommended. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
as far as I can see,” said Southcott. “It’s the best we can do.”
Councillor and committee chair Trina Isakson said she supported option one. She said option two could penalize applicants that don’t ask for a lot, and would also incentivize organizations in future
Now is the time to start the school year off right with the confidence that comes in training martial arts.
Our classes range from age five to adults.
Our team at River City Martial Arts Academy is proud to be the only accredited Meibukan dojo on the Sunshine Coast.
years to ask for a lot because they were going to get a proportion. Committee of the whole voted in favour of recommending that council consider option one. Council unanimously approved the recommended allocation of grantsin-aid, totalling $25,000.
Ursa MajorGold,Silver &Coinreturns to Powell RiveronSeptember27 and 28.You canbringyour gold,silver, coins andbanknotes to thePowellRiver Seniors Centre between10amand 4pm each day. No appointmentisrequired. Barr yDickisa precious metals buyer andPresidentofUrsaMajor Gold,Silver&Coin.
“UrsaMajor has theuniqueadvantage of dealingdirectlywitha smelter” said Dick.“ Thatallowsustocut outone or even twomiddlemen. Ursa Majorpurchases gold andsilverfromother gold buyers,pawnshops,dentists, jewellers andjewellery makers as well as the public.”Interms of theUSdollar, gold andsilverprices appear lowbut the weak Canadian dollar meansprices are strong
Ursa Majoranalyzes your gold,silver, coins, andpaper moneywhile you watch,withthe processexplained to youindetail. Coinswithnumismatic valueareregraded andset aside from thosewitha‘melt’ va
itemssuchas jeweller yand flatwareare analyzedfor hallmark identification. Itemsthought to containgoldwillalso be analyzedfor hallmarks, andthen confirmedusingprecise testingthatis done whileyou watch. Thena cash offerispresented andyou decide to sell or not.
“Ifyou decide to sell after hearingthe quote, great, butitisalsoabout information”saysDick. “A lotoftimes peoplejustneedto know aballparkofwhat things areworth;wedon’t pressure anyone into selling”.“Dicktookout hisfirstgoldclaim when he turned 16 in the1970’sand hasbeeninvolved hl
since.Anardentgoldpanner, he wasa regularatthe worldchampionshipgold panning competitionwithapersonal best of 3rdplacein1984.
“Nearlyhalfofthe world’sannualgold harvestcomes from recycled gold.Energy costsare about$500 to minea new ounceofgoldwhererecycled gold is about$10 perounce.That prevents alot of dieselsfrombeingburned.”Goldand silver purchased at theshowand later melted goes back into themarketwithoutincurring that environmentalany coin ever made forcollectoror CanadianandDominionofCanadaPapercost
Outoffashionjeweller y, singleearrings, broken chains,unlovedjeweller y, charmbracelets,dentalgold, nuggets andfine gold areall accepted. “Wecan assess precious metalvalue,including worldMoney.They have extensive experiencecoinsand ancientcoins.” Peoplewho areworking with estates,executors, widows areencouragedtobring in anyand allcoins andwidowers ina respectful andcaringfor assessment manner.Noappointment necessary
Ursa Majoralsoassessesand purchases CanadianandDominionofCanadaPaperMoney.They have extensive experience workingwithestates,executors, idd widowers in arespectful manner.Noappointment necessary alue. Silver with precious metals ever widows and and caring n
PowellRiver atthe
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PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com
City of Powell River Council has approved a contract with Falcon Electric in the amount of $1,260,000, plus GST, for electrical upgrades and an emergency backup system for Powell River Recreation Complex.
At a city council meeting last month, councillors deliberated a motion to increase the project budget in the amount of $447,324, with the increase funded by the Powell River Community Forest reserve fund.
Acting director of infrastructure Rod Fraser said a request had been made for additional funding to complete the project and to award the contract. He add-
the community-wide outage coming up on September 13.
“The project was sent out for a request for proposals on July 9,” said Fraser. “We received one submission. It was from a local contractor, Falcon Electric. Initially, their bid was $1,347,000 and after some negotiations with Falcon, the new price of $1,260,000 was submitted.”
Fraser said with council’s approval, the additional funds would come from the community forest.
“They were gracious enough to write a letter of support,” added Fraser.
As far as construction goes, Falcon Electric would start quickly with the design, according to Fraser. Falcon Electric would likely be on site at the end of the year or early next year, with completion in July 2026, according to the plan. He said there is significant lead time on delivery for some of the equipment that is required for the project.
City councillor Earl Almeida asked, since the complex swimming pools
AGING INFRASTRUCTURE: City of Powell River Council voted in favour of upgrading the electrical system at Powell River Recreation Complex and installing an emergency backup system, for $1.2 million.
down required.
Councillor Cindy Elliott asked if the electrical upgrade would save the city power consumption.
Fraser said he did not believe the project was designed to do that.
“It’s designed to upgrade what is there,” said Fraser. “There are a number of systems that are very old. Should they go down, there is a long lead time, up to 10 months, to replace that equipment, so this project would allow us to refresh,
budget in the amount of $447,324, with the increase funded by Powell River Community Forest, and that the contract be awarded to Falcon Electric in the amount of $1,260,000, plus GST.
64 Malaspina Sea Cadets just finished their 24/25 training year and would like to thank the following for their support
Mr. Stu Long-McDonald Marine Services
Powell Daniels Contracting
Powell River Legion Branch 164
Texada Legion Branch 232
Former MP Rachel Blaney
The Sea Cadets for the 25/26 year meet Tuesdays at 6 pm at the Timberlane barracks, across from the Track For more information,
In the evening of Saturday, September 20, Powell River Regional Cemetery in Cranberry will glow with the soft flicker of candles. The annual candlelight tribute is a solemn but deeply moving tradition, a way for the community to honour the men and women who served and sacrificed in times of war.
The ceremony, organized by Royal Canadian Legion Branch 164, serves as a reminder. Light from candles placed at the graves of veterans symbolizes the enduring gratitude of younger generations who continue to benefit from the freedoms those soldiers fought to protect.
Too often, recognition of veterans is set aside for November 11. Remembrance Day, with its poppies and moment of silence, is the cornerstone of national reflection. Yet lives lost and lives forever changed by conflict deserve more than a single day of acknowledgment.
The candlelight tribute illustrates this truth powerfully. Originating in the Netherlands, where Dutch citizens began placing candles on the graves of Canadian soldiers who liberated their country in World War II, the tradition has spread across Canada.
Locally, it has taken on its own special significance. Families gather not just to remember, but to connect.
Standing among the headstones and watching the light of hundreds of candles dance in the evening breeze is an experience that leaves a lasting impression.
For many, it is the first time younger generations see the personal impact war had in their own community.
What sets the tribute apart is its intimacy. Unlike larger ceremonies, this gathering is quieter, more personal.
Honouring sacrifice does not end with lighting a candle or wearing a poppy. It means supporting veterans who continue to live with the consequences of service. It means teaching younger generations why these sacrifices were made. And it means recognizing that peace, freedom and democracy are never guaranteed; they are preserved through vigilance and, at times, through great personal cost.
A bus transporting veterans to the cemetery will leave the Legion (6811 Alexander Street) at 2:30 pm. A parade will commence at 3 pm from the upper part of Crown Avenue and participants will march down to the Veteran’s Memorial. Following a service, around 400 candles will be lit to mark known veterans’ graves, where crosses and Canadian flags were placed last weekend. Veterans will be returned to the Legion via bus afterward.
As those veterans, their families and the greater community prepare to gather at the cemetery this weekend, be mindful that remembrance must not only be an annual ritual. This tribute reminds everyone to carry gratitude throughout the year for the sacrifices of those who served our country.
Standing among the headstones and watching the light of hundreds of candles dance in the evening breeze is an experience that leaves a lasting impression. It underscores that remembrance is not an abstract concept, but something tied to real people, many of them once part of this community
When daylight fades on Saturday, take the opportunity to see the display of remembrance for yourself.
By Fred Guerin
On September 20, communities across Canada will take part in Draw the Line, a nationwide day of action demanding peace, climate responsibility and justice.
From downtown marches to small-town gatherings, Canadians will unite to resist what many see as prime minister Mark Carney’s billionaire-first agenda—one that fuels war, weakens climate action and puts corporate profits ahead of human dignity.
Only months into his mandate, Carney has shown where his priorities lie. Bill C-5 hands cabinet sweeping powers to fasttrack infrastructure projects, bypassing environmental protections and ignoring Indigenous rights. Bill C-2, still before parliament, threatens migrants and refugees
with Trump-style restrictions. At the same time, Carney has pledged to more than double military spending—an increase of over $50 billion a year—while cutting public services Canadians depend on. While some military spending, such as raising soldiers' wages, makes sense, sending billions to companies owned by mega MAGA donors threatens our sovereignty and security. This is a recipe for more war, more climate destruction and deeper inequality. Expanding pipelines and fossil fuel infrastructure under the guise of nation-building ignores the climate emergency we are already living through—fires, floods and heat waves that hit hardest in marginalized and especially Indigenous communities.
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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As a resident of a coastal community, I've long been puzzled by the stark disparity in how our province funds its ferry systems. This issue has a significant impact on our lives, and it's time we talk about it.
In British Columbia, we have two different ferry systems with two very different approaches to cost: the free inland ferries and the expensive coastal BC Ferries [“Fare and price increases coming,” March 27].
The 14 inland ferry routes are considered an extension of the provincial highway system. As a result, they are free for all users, with operating costs fully covered by the ministry of transportation and infrastructure. This model treats these crossings as a public service, essential for connecting communities and enabling travel, much like a bridge or a stretch of highway.
In contrast, the coastal BC Ferries system, despite serving as the primary highway for many island and coastal communities, is structured as a private corporation. This means a significant portion of its costs are passed directly to passengers through fares.
For a family travelling with a vehicle, a return trip on a major route can easily cost well over $200. This places a heavy financial burden on residents, businesses and tourists alike, impacting everything from the cost of goods to the viability of local economies.
The cost difference isn't just a matter of scale. A comparison of a free inland route like the Kootenay Lake ferry with a similar-length coastal route to Salt Spring Island reveals the core of the problem: a trip of comparable duration
is free for one and costs a small fortune for the other. This model creates a two-tiered system where some British Columbians have free access to their province's transportation network while others are forced to pay exorbitant fees for what should be a public service.
It's time for our provincial government to reassess this inequity. If inland ferries can be treated as part of the highway system and funded accordingly, so too should our coastal ferries.
Recognizing all ferries as an essential part of our public highway network would ensure fair and equitable access for all British Columbians.
Allan Drummond Powell River
The qathet Chapter of the Council of Canadians August 19 presentation to Powell River City Council requested that they become an advocate for improved bus service in qathet as well as a connecting service to Vancouver [“Council of Canadians rep raises transit issues,” September 11].
It is now over 10 years since the Malaspina Coach Lines service between Powell River and Vancouver was abandoned. There have been petitions and proposals put forth with no tangible results. An expensive private system is in place between Earls Cove and Langdale, but it only operates a few months a year.
Because qathet is in the Vancouver Coastal Health Authority, many people from our community must travel to Vancouver for medical services that are
not available here. If driving is not an option, and this is the case for many of our community members, the only public transportation option available is air travel. Not everybody can afford this option. There will be people who simply forego travelling away from home for health care.
All the other health authorities with rural communities provide Health Connections bus service to facilitate medical travel. These services get people to regional health centres as well as to Vancouver when required. For example, part of the Northern Health Connections system is a service between Prince George and Vancouver. It runs three times weekly with a very affordable $40 return fare.
Implementing a Health Connections service between qathet and Vancouver is just common sense. It would greatly improve access to health care for everybody calling the Sunshine Coast home.
Tim Larsen, Area C qathet Regional District
It was enlightening to read what qathet Regional District Electoral Area A director Jason Lennox said about Savary Island [“Community plan draws concerns from Savary Island residents,” August 29].
He said he did not speak for himself; he spoke for the majority of residents. This is something the councillors in Powell River seem to disregard.
This is democracy, the voice of the people.
Helen Evans Manitoba Avenue
Redirecting billions from health care and housing to weapons and surveillance undermines peace at home and abroad. International relations experts speak of the “security dilemma”: a state’s efforts to increase its own security through military buildup can be perceived as threatening by other states, incentivizing an arms race.
Some call this a “flood the zone” strategy: overwhelm people with so many harmful measures at once that they cannot keep up. But Draw the Line is about
rejecting despair and division. It is about seeing the links: climate justice, migrant justice, Indigenous sovereignty, peace and economic fairness are not separate struggles. They are connected.
The same government that tramples Indigenous land rights for pipelines also scapegoats migrants and pours money into militarism. The same corporations that profit from oil and gas also profit from weapons and war.
The September 20 day of action is more than a protest. It is an invitation to build lasting alliances—to
refuse to be divided while wealth and power are concentrated in fewer and fewer hands. If those in power want us confused and isolated, our response must be clarity and unity. The mobilization is also part of a global week of action. Around the world, communities are rising to demand peace over war and climate action over destruction. From Indigenous struggles to protect land here at home, to global movements resisting war and genocide, people are drawing the same line: human dignity and planetary survival must come be-
fore corporate greed and militarism.
At its heart, Draw the Line asks us all to choose: will we accept climate chaos, endless war and deepening injustice as the cost of doing business? Or will we demand a just, peaceful, and livable future?
Together we can choose peace over war, climate over collapse and justice over exploitation.
Fred Guerin is a member of qathet Climate Alliance. The local Draw the Line day of action will take place at 3 pm at the old arena site near Willingdon Beach.
Hardy, affordable and nutritious, garlic is easy to grow and something chefs use regularly
TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com
Garlic is a prolific and sometimes potent plant used in most cuisines around the world. The usually affordable, easy-to-grow bulbs are also known for having medicinal benefits, such as combating colds and reducing inflammation.
Right now, farmers and gardeners are harvesting their bulb bounty and getting ready to plant new ones, once the soil is cool.
On the northern Sunshine Coast, Windfall Farm and most recently Coming Home Farm, both located in Wildwood, grow tons of garlic.
The Peak reached out to Tara Daniels from Windfall Farm to find out her thoughts about growing and using garlic.
“I think garlic is a little bit like grapes; it takes on the flavour of the soil it’s grown into,” said Daniels. “Between farms and regions, you get maybe a slightly different taste.”
Daniels, along with her husband Mike, also raises chickens, lambs, cows and pigs on their farm, but garlic is something they became interested in growing many years ago.
“We grow mostly hardneck and two varieties of softneck garlic; most people want the
hardneck ones,” said Daniels. “That’s the garlic that forms curves around a centre core, such as Red Russian and a Yugoslavian that are kind of large and red skinned; they’re big bold cloves, rich and spicy and oily in flavour.”
She said the garlic variety called Susan Delafield, Montana Giant and DV are all similar in appearance, and have huge cloves and powerful flavour, but not too hot.
“Years ago, someone mentioned garlic to us, and we love cooking, and we love garlic, and we thought, ‘well, why not?’”
She said they purchased some sort of hydrogenic seed from a grower on Lasqueti Island and went from there.
“It’s one of those crops that you plant in the fall, in October or November; it’s in the ground and then it comes up in the spring, and you don’t have to really worry about it until June, July or August,” said Daniels. “That’s when the work starts, with digging. Then we put it up in the barn to dry, and once it’s dry, we wait until it’s well cured.”
They have come up with a new way to preserve and use garlic: freeze-dried.
“It keeps for many years and you can put it dry into dishes and it’s just great,” said Daniels. “Because it’s freeze-dried, it has a punch of flavour.
“We love baking garlic; we just put it in everything. It’s always hitting the pan and cooking; I really like roasted garlic.”
Many chefs like to use garlic in their cooking, most likely using locally grown bulbs. The
Peak reached out to gold-certified Japanese chef and instructor Avi Sternberg for his thoughts on using garlic in cooking.
“I use garlic to add depth and flavour to my dishes,” said Sternberg, who is based in the qathet region. “For salsas, dips and spreads, I mince the garlic and use it to add flavour and pronounce its pungent properties.”
He said for sauces, soups, vegetable cookery and when cooking proteins, he likes to apply heat when using garlic to add depth and flavour to the dish.
“In general, Japanese cuisine does not use ingredients that have strong scents such as garlic,” said Sternberg. “Popular foods such as kimchi, ramen and Japanese-style Chinese cuisine, which were introduced from outside of Japan, are examples of where garlic may be used.”
When he was living in Japan, he said he noticed that garlic is commonly used in ramen stock making.
“One of my favourite garlic dishes is from a recipe I created at a sushi restaurant in Prince Rupert,” said Sternberg. “Roasted garlic, sweet potato and miso salmon croquettes.”
For novice growers of garlic, Daniels suggests preparing the soil beds first with or-
ganic materials and making sure to have good drainage.
“We do raised beds, because the rains can be pretty persistent, and you don’t want your garlic sitting in water, although most of the varieties that we grow do pretty well in the wet winter,” said Daniels. “You want to plant six inches apart and give your garlic some room and nice air circulation, and water them.”
She said even though the qathet region does receive plenty of rain in the fall and winter, it’s erratic, and so it’s best to give the garlic a watering with a hose or watering can.
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Valid until October 20, 2025
OfferonlyincludesSTP,notvalid ondisposaloranyotherservices.
Efforts to safeguard residences against wildfires can reduce potential wildfire impacts on homes by following some basic principles.
The brochure outlines minimum standards for the home, and the zones surrounding the home, to provide the best possibility of structure survival during a wildfire. For example, residents should ensure that exterior wall coverings are noncombustible and not susceptible to melting. There should also be a minimum 1.5-metre noncombustible surface extending around the house.
According to qathet Regional District’s FireSmart brochure, the coastal forest environment has experienced wildfires for millennia and they are a natural part of wildland ecosystems. The brochure stated that by choosing to extend communities into forested areas, residents become more exposed to the danger of wildfire.
Residents should consider planning a low density of fire-resistant plants and shrubs, avoiding any woody debris, including mulch. Items such as firewood piles and construction materials should be at least 10 metres from the home, and outbuildings should be located further away. Grass should be a maximum of 10 centimetres in height.
You’ve putthe care and attentionintolooking after yourhome.Let meputthe same care into marketing yourhome forsale. An upbeat videoonsocialmedia and exceptional,professional photographsinprint and websiteads will draw attention to allyou have to offer. Onlinevir tual tourslet prospective buyerslookat thedetails againandagain. I’ll be rightbyyourside ever y stepofthe wayuntil we seal thedeal.Callortex tmefor amarketevaluationofyour most valuedpossession!
“FireSmart principles are based on research into wildfire behaviour to answer why wildfires cause the destruction of one house, while the adjacent home is unscathed,” the brochure stated. “This research has determined that 90 per cent of homes and buildings damaged or destroyed during a wildfire is caused by embers and not the main fire front. The resulting FireSmart principals have, time and again, shown it is possible to mitigate losses.”
The regional district recommends that residents check out the FireSmart evacuation checklist and other information on the FireSmart website at firesmartcanada. ca. For local evacuation information, go to qathet.ca, or call the regional district at 604.485.2260. For more information on the FireSmart program locally, contact qathet Regional District’s FireSmart coordinator at firesmart@qathet.ca, or call 604.485,2260.
TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com
Growing mushrooms such as shiitake, lion’s mane and reishi on logs has been practiced for centuries.
Mushrooms such as oyster, morel and wine cap can be grown in a shady corner of the garden bed to boost soil nutrients and be grown as a delicious, nutrient food. Working with fungi doesn't have to be difficult, but using the right types of materials is necessary.
The Peak connected with qathet resident and fungi
enthusiast Jason Leane about some tips and tricks when it comes to mushrooms. He is giving a talk about mushrooms at Powell River Public Library on November 8.
"Perhaps you’ve got a lot of people who seem to be wanting to both add another crop and also try something a bit different; it’s a unique experience," said Leane. "It doesn’t have to be difficult, but it’ll definitely be an interesting new part of the garden."
He said once the fungi get going they are pretty low maintenance.
"Growing on logs, you just leave them somewhere shady and wait until something pops out," said Leane. "The soil for them is largely just a source of moisture and structure. Most culinary ones eat mostly wood and other plant matter. Button
mushrooms are secondary decomposers, but that’s actually the minority."
Mushroom growers and gardeners usually use sawdust or woodchips, said Leane, but he warns that bark should not be used.
"Sawdust or woodchips mixed into soil can provide a nice environment for gourmet species, and dried plant matter can be a good nutrition source, too," said Leane. "They’ll probably give back to the soil more than they take, breaking down wood and plant waste and keeping the soil together with their mycelium."
He said many edible mushrooms are quite healthy and have some protein and vitamins, most notably vitamin D when grown outside.
"Various mushrooms have various health claims made, some of which sound pretty solid, like in the case of
reishi and lion’s mane, although those can be more challenging to grow than something like oyster mushrooms," said Leane.
There are many places online to buy mushroom starter kits and oyster mushrooms seem to be popular for beginners to try. Many folks do grow their mushrooms inside, but growing fungi outside can be a fun hobby and add a new element to a garden space.
Mushrooms are the fruiting bodies of fungi, a distinct kingdom of eukaryotic organisms that includes yeasts and moulds. They are also crucial to decomposition in nature.
"Before fungi, honestly not much could decompose wood, especially hardwoods," said Leane. "The entire process of wood decay and the return of those nutrients to the ecosystem is basically them; plus they give us a hand in making bread and beer, two pretty popular things among humans."
According to North Spore, the best ways to grow mushrooms outdoors are in garden beds, on freshly cut logs, and from reusable containers using low-cost and easily sourced substrates.
(PRGC) members to find out tips and tricks for people wanting to preserve their summer harvest.
TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com
According to the blog BC Food History, in British Columbia, food preservation methods historically depended on the climatic zone.
First Nations cultures were able to freeze, some were able to wind-dry, and some were able to smoke and dry food.
Modern canning to preserve foods came about in the early 18th century and has evolved ever since then.
The Peak reached out to Powell River Garden Club
"I have been preserving for about 60 years and at one time produced over 8,000 jars a year, and sold them to 17 stores on Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland," said Elaine Steiger. "I have now reduced to a little over 5,000 jars a year, so I have learned a few things over the years."
Steiger said she uses Bernardin recipes as they are tested and safe for the home producer, and recommends any new preservers use them and the preserving books the company produces.
"They also give a lot of tips on water-bath canning, pressure cookers and methods of preserving," added Steiger.
"Some of the tools that I have come to rely on are: a
Maslin pan for jam making, a steamer juicer; the fruit is put in the top pan, a drip pan underneath, and water in the bottom pan. Put it on the stove and the steam extracts the juice from the fruit, drips into the next pan and can be siphoned off through the tube into the sterilized jars."
She said it beats putting the cooked fruit in a bag and hanging to drip.
"I then use a juicer to remove seeds, to produce a puree for either further processing or drying for fruit leathers," explained Steiger. "A good wooden spoon is essential, colanders, chopsticks are great for placing vegetables in the jar uniformly. A good food processor for grating or chopping fruit and vegetables."
She emphasized that fruit and vegetables do not have to be processed during the
hot summers, but freezing is a good option if the harvester has room.
"I freeze grated zucchini, cucumbers, green tomatoes, peppers, most of the fruits, and then make them into the relishes and jams when it is cooler," said Steiger. "Dill pickles and some of
the other pickles have to be made with fresh vegetables, but any cooked relish can be made from fresh frozen vegetables."
Garden club member May Pong also chimed in about a handy canning resource.
Pong said she's successfully canned for 20-plus years, and uses the National Centre for Home Food Preservation as a canning resource.
"Users print out the individual sections if they wish," explained Pong. "The information is very clear, concise and super easy to follow. Lots of recipes for following safe canning practices."
Letting go isn’t always easy, especially when you worry you might regret it later.
Some items in your home are safe to part with at any time. Clearing these things out will lighten your space, bringing serenity to you and your family.
Here’s a list of declutter decisions you won’t regret making:
Tip one: Unmatched food storage containers
If you have a cabinet full of plastic containers with no lids, let them go. Keep a few matching sets that stack easily and recycle or toss the rest.
Tip two: Expired toiletries and makeup
Old mascaras, lotions and travel-size shampoo bottles from the last century aren’t safe to use. Products expire and using them can irritate your skin and affect your eyesight. Do a clean-up of your bathroom shelves and toss anything outdated or unused.
Tip three: Outdated décor
If that artificial floral arrangement or framed wall quote makes you squirm every time you walk past it, that’s your tip-off. You can refresh your home to reflect who you are today, not who you were 10 years ago.
Tip four: Mismatched socks/worn-out underwear
That bin of single socks waiting to be magically matched can be let go. The same goes for stretched-out
By Ranka Burzan
undies and bras that no longer support you. Treat yourself to a drawer that doesn’t make you sigh when you open it.
Tip five: Chipped mugs/ unused gadgets
Unless the mug holds deep sentimental value, a chip is your sign to say goodbye. And if you haven’t used that banana slicer, sandwich press or second garlic press in more than a year, you won’t miss it.
Tip six: Instruction manuals
Printers you don’t have, furniture you’ve already assembled, gadgets that are long gone. You don’t need their paper trail. Recycle the booklets and free up that drawer.
Tip seven: Clothes that don’t fit
If it’s uncomfortable, unflattering or no longer your style, let it go. Don’t keep clothing as a monument to a different body or phase of life. Keep what makes you feel good right now.
Tip eight: Promotional freebies
Free tote bags, pens that barely write, keychains or notepads from a random conference. If they’re not useful or meaningful, they’re clutter. You’re not obligated to keep something just because it was free.
Tip nine: Duplicates of things
Unless you're running a bed-and-breakfast, you probably don’t need seven sets of sheets or 15 mugs. Keep your favourites and donate the excess. Someone else can benefit from what you’re not using.
Tip 10: Gifts you don’t love
Yes, even if they were from someone special. Once a gift is given, it’s yours to decide what to do with it. If it’s collecting dust or doesn’t fit your home or needs, it’s okay to pass it on.
You don’t have to get rid of everything, and you don’t have to do it all today. But by starting with these “no regrets” categories, you’ll build confidence in your decisions and see your space with fresh eyes. Your home is your sanctuary.
Transformational life coach
Ranka Burzan owns a professional organizing company in the qathet region and has written several books on reducing clutter. For more information, email getcoachedwithranka@ gmail.com.
of Wick’s Fire Safety and look forward to providing the same greatsalesand services you’ve grown to know from Wick’s.
offering salesand services full line of safety equipment, extinguishers anda variety ofsafety supplies.
Staging refers to setting up a home with furniture and décor to demonstrate to potential buyers how the space may be used. For instance, putting a couch and tables in a living room to show buyers what size and types of furniture will fit.
It’s no secret people judge a book by its cover, despite how often we’ve been told not to.
Likewise, potential buyers of properties are likely to make snap judgments based on how a home looks, even if they don’t mean to. That’s where staging comes in.
Far more than an act of vanity, staging could help sell homes quicker or even attract multiple bidders. To help understand some best practices for staging a home, Real Estate Weekly asked realtor Justin Zachariuk for some tips and tricks.
The goal is to help them visualize what they could do with the space.
“It's basically painting a picture for a potential buyer of how they can live,” says Zachariuk.
Staging may feel superfluous — after all, why not just leave the rooms in your home empty and let potential buyers imagine what to do with the space? But that’s not nearly as effective.
“The biggest problem with that is they can't really imagine the space as much,” explains Zachariuk. “I find everything feels a lot smaller in the space.”
For example, bedrooms in newer condos can be quite small. This plants seeds of doubt in buyers’ minds.
“One of the biggest things I have come up [from buyers] is, ‘can I fit a nightstand?’ Can I fit a queen size bed in here?”
Once a bed and nightstand is staged in a small bedroom, potential buyers are much more likely to realize the space will work for them.
“Sometimes with staging, you can show that and they’ll say, ‘wow, okay, I can actually fit a bed and I can have a nightstand,’ which is a huge win.”
While it may be obvious to the seller how to use their space, because they’ve been living in the home, other people don’t have the same familiarity with it. And if it’s in a building with many identical units, it can be hard to stand out in homeseekers’
minds. Staging helps make the property look unique.
“You might have one or two units in the same build ing that are for sale. Most of the time people will book the staged one because it looks a lot nicer. I find the buyers actually pick that themselves,” says Zachariuk. When it comes to staging a home, sellers can do it themselves or seek advice.
and bedrooms. If there is a patio, balcony or other outdoor spaces, these are also worth some attention.
Adding a few outdoor chairs and tables, or sprucing up the plants and greenery can
go a long way in making the home stand out to potential buyers.
The important thing to remember when staging a home is to make it look as appealing as possible to the highest number of potential buyers. Homeseekers are much more likely to make offers on spaces that look and feel clean, inviting and fresh.
at $10,592,799 in August 2024.
Estate Board region in August 2025 were considerably higher than sales during August 2024.
According to real estate board president Curtis Yungen, in August, there were slightly more total transactions than July, with 37 in August and 32 in July, as well as greater sales when comparing August 2025 to August 2024.
“The median sale price for single-family homes came down quite a bit from last month,” said Yungen. “In August, it was $590,000, and in July, it was $625,000. For some context, in July, there were eight homes sold for more than $1 million, and in August, there was only one.”
Yungen said year-to-date median sales prices in 2025 are almost the same as 2024, with $627,000 in 2025, compared to $620,000 in 2024.
In the single-family homes category, in August 2025, there were 24 sales, valued at $15,357,699, compared to 18 sales, valued
Mobiles and manufactured homes had four sales in August 2025, valued at $864,900, compared to three sales in August 2024, valued at $905,000.
There were eight sales of condos, apartments and duplexes in August 2025, valued at $3,605,900, compared to three sales in August 2024, valued at $1,204,900.
Totals for residential sales were 36 in August 2025, valued at $19,828,499, compared to 24 sales in August 2024, valued at $12,702,699.
On the nonresidential side, there was one sale of vacant land in August 2025, valued at $225,000, compared to seven sales in August 2024, valued at $1,510,000.
Grand totals for sales in August 2025 were 37, valued at $20,053,499, compared to 31 sales, valued at $14,212,699 in August 2024.
Average single-family home selling price in August 2025 was $639,904, with an average of 69 days on the market, compared to $588,489 in August 2024, with an average of 58 days on the market. Median price in August 2025 was $590,000, compared to $557,500 in August 2024.
• Heated buckets • Winter socks and much, much more
9 AM TO 5 PM • Straw bails • Cover crops • Tools • Wheelbarrows
or small, we feed them all
TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com
Sunday, September 21, marks the 37th Powell River Terry Fox Run to take place on the northern Sunshine Coast.
2025 will also be the year the annual event passes its $500,000 fundraising goal toward cancer research, according to run organizer and cancer survivor Leslie Paul.
qathet resident and longtime cancer survivor Evie
Tom is this year’s official Terry's Team member. She will be at the start line to send entrants off running, walking or rolling.
"I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2003," said Evie. "It wasn't easy; I did chemo and then the radiation."
A cancer diagnosis is not
an easy prognosis for the individual affected, but for many, they worry about how friends and family will react.
"It's a shocker, and it takes a while to kick in," said Evie.
"I didn't want to tell the family. I didn't want to upset the family, especially before Christmas."
She ended up telling them, eventually. Evie has five sisters and now a daughter who is 51; for her it's concerning because of the possibility of breast cancer being genetic.
Now, people can get tested to see if they have BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are inherited faulty genes.
"Get your mammogram," said Evie.
Breast cancer screening guidelines recently changed in BC and Canada. It's now recommended for women to get a screening mammo-
gram every two years, starting at age 40.
After Evie began to lose her hair because of the chemotherapy, she said her sisters surprised her in the kitchen one day.
"When I started to lose my hair, my sisters, they shaved each other's hair and we took a photo, so that was really touching.”
Now, Evie has grandchildren and a big family that keeps her busy.
"I had my sisters and family, that was important,” said Evie. “I was also working, which kept me distracted."
She said at the time, she didn't go to any breast cancer support groups, although she was offered, but she did join the Paddling for Life dragon boat crew for a few years.
"I was with them for three
or four years, but then I had knee surgery, so it was kind of hard for me to be sitting," said Evie. "I also kept working, to keep my mind off it."
It took her quite a few months to recuperate from all the treatments.
"My grandkids keep me busy now and in the summer I love swimming," said Evie. "I do go to the recreation complex two or three days a week."
Although cancer is surely scary for anyone diagnosed, Paul said these days, it's not necessarily a death sentence.
"In fact, it's amazing how many cancer survivors there are," said Paul.
The local Terry Fox Run will start and finish at the lower level of Powell River Recreation Complex, with in-person registration beginning at 8:30 am; the run
starts at 10 am.
Entrants can choose to run, walk or roll either a 3.5-kilometre or 10-kilometre route. As usual, there will be a pancake breakfast to follow with coffee also available.
To register a team or to donate to the local Powell River Terry Fox Run, go to run.terryfox.ca/92989.
For the third year running, Northside VFD will be offering its Junior Firefighter Program. This program offers hands-on training and valuable life skills to youth in the qathet Regional District. Beyond introducing the basics of firefighting, the program is a free and fun opportunity for young community members to connect, learn, and practice fire safety skills.
The Junior Firefighter Program starts on Thursday, September 25, 2025 from 6 pm until 8 pm and runs one evening a week for six weeks. It includes an engaging lineup of activities that mimic real-world firefighting scenarios. Participants practice hose handling, pumping, exterior attack drills, and knot-tying. They also receive first aid training, experience auto extrication,
and tackle obstacle courses. These diverse experiences not only build technical skills, but also encourage teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership.
This program is a testament to the dedication and creativity of local volunteer firefighters who serve our communities. The NVFD would like to thank everyone for the generous donations and countless volunteer hours from community members and Northside VFD Firefighters that have helped the program thrive.
TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com
More than half of Texada Island's population is considered to be a senior (65 years old and up). Some are finding it difficult to keep up with taking care of a house and yard, and some want to downsize and stay on the island.
Since 2019, Texada Island Nonprofit Seniors Housing Society has been working toward creating affordable and senior-friendly housing on Texada.
Society president Cathy Brown said all the fundraising and support from the community has helped the nonprofit keep momentum on the project, but it is not at the finish line yet.
"We've been working on the subdivision for the land, which is basi-
cally promised to us," said Brown. "We just have to finish getting it through the ministry of transportation for our access."
She said the Texada community has helped us raise enough money to pay for the balance and legal costs associated with transferring the property, which is an eight-acre parcel of land owned by Selkirk Mountain Forest Limited within Gillies Bay Improvement District that was suitable for development.
"We'll be owners this fall," said Brown. "We've been told by other people who've provided housing that we're going at lightning speed; it doesn't feel like it, but that's what we've been told, so we're going to go with that."
Although some say the project is coming along quickly, it is not fast enough for some seniors who have left Texada or passed away before they could take advantage of
the housing project, according to Brown in a past conversation with the Peak.
On Saturday, October 18, the society is hosting another fundraiser and auction, but this time with a little twist: a road rally.
"One of our new board members came up with a thought, 'let's have some fun,'" explained Brown. "So
is $25 per team, and that puts you into all the available prizes, and helps us keep track of how many people are entered. We have half a dozen teams already signed up."
Brown explained that for safety reasons the rally is not a race, but more of a scavenger hunt.
"There will be different stations where you drive in and you'll be asked to do a task, and that task will be timed," said Brown.
"We've already talked to the local RCMP and they're on board."
She said cars would be driving to Van Anda and Shelter Point Park.
she came up with the road rally. We all talked about it and decided to add it with a lunch by donation and a live auction."
The rally will start and end at Texada Island Community Hall. "If you want other people in the vehicle with you, that's fine as well,” said Brown. “The entry fee
"We're looking now at raising money for the infrastructure of septic and road access," said Brown.
"The land has been surveyed and it's gone through pretty much all of the hoops, and we're just waiting for the final subdivision through the ministry of highways."
"One of the stipulations for the subdivision was separation from Selkirk's remaining property," said Brown. "Our original hope had been [to build] 40 units, but we had a little reality check."
Construction costs have risen, added Brown, and what would have cost $250 per square foot, is now from $450 to more than $500 per square foot.
"We've scaled back to 20 units, but we did the hydrology report study that said we can have up to 40 units on the property, so we've got room for a second phase," said Brown. "Currently, the age is 65 [in order to live in the housing], but that may get changed to 55 depending on our dynamics with incomes."
The road rally finish line event at the Texada Island Community Hall starts at 11:30 am on October 8, followed by a live auction at 1 pm.
Earlier in the year Powell River Community Foundation gave the housing society a grant to create a fence, which is a requirement of the Agricultural Land Commission.
Provisioners’ Cooperative and Hearthstone Village Cooperative."
The event starts at 7 pm, is free and open to the public, however, registration is required.
TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com
According to Building BC, a cooperative is an autonomous association of persons united voluntarily to meet their common economic, social and cultural needs and aspirations through a jointly-owned and democraticallycontrolled enterprise.
There are approximately 700 cooperative run businesses in BC, including a few here in the qathet region.
BC Co-op Association’s Cooperatives Build a Better World: BC Tour is making a stop in qathet on Thursday, September 18, at Max Cameron Theatre.
Newly elected BC Co-op Association executive director Tara Chernoff said the event is part of a province-wide celebration of the International Year of Cooperatives.
"In a time of rising costs and social fragmentation, cooperatives offer powerful tools for building economic resilience, equity and belonging,” said Chernoff. "This event will feature a fast-paced, 20-minute screening of the film The Power of Local, a documentary highlighting cooperative success stories from around the world, as well as panelist talks from local cooperative leaders including representatives from Blueberry Commons Farm Cooperative, Skookum Food
"Cooperatives are just a way of doing business differently," said Chernoff. “A nonprofit can be a cooperative, a traditional for-profit business can be a cooperative; in almost any model you can think of, it can be a cooperative."
The difference between a traditionally run business and a co-op has to do with who holds power and who the shareholders are.
"In the case of traditional business, you have a business owner or the shareholders," said Chernoff. "In a cooperative business, you have the members, so the people who use this, own it; what that means is the power and the decision-making goes to people."
She said in a shareholder-owned business, the power and the decisionmaking goes to a handful of people, and therefore, decisions about where the money goes, which is often outside of the community, are made by people who often don't live in the community.
"In a cooperative business, the people who own it are the people who live there, and the decisions are being made locally, and with the concern for the community," said Chernoff.
The Build a Better World: BC Tour spans five regions across BC including Metro Vancouver, Fraser Valley, Vancouver Island, Gulf Islands, Thompson-Okanagan, Kootenay
Rockies, Northern BC and Cariboo.
"The First Credit Union said they heard we [BC Co-op Association] were doing a co-op tour," explained Chernoff. "They said, 'we'd really like to do one here in Powell River,’ and so First Credit Union stepped up to sponsor it."
Hearthstone Village Cooperative, a cohousing project south of town, will be represented on the panel to discuss its form of governance and decisionmaking called sociocracy.
"Afterward we will have a networking session," said Chernoff. "This year has been declared International Year of Cooperatives, which is incredibly meaningful, especially this year, because of everything that's happening with the tariffs and everything we're seeing with the US; we need to strengthen our local economies."
She said the way to boost a community's resilience is to support small, locally owned businesses, which she said might also be cooperative businesses.
"Co-ops have been around for centuries," said Chernoff. "The co-op model is not taught in schools, our education system teaches primarily the capitalist model, and not that co-ops aren't part of the capitalist system, but they're a different model than the traditional model, and we don't teach it."
She said it's a proven model that works and most people are happy to be a part of one when they find out how it works.
"It's hugely empowering,” added Chernoff, “because people can take control back and have a say.”
started small but has grown over the years
TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com
According to the BC Healthy Living Alliance, Neighbourhoods supporting active transportation are associated with reduced risk for obesity and air pollution.
City of Powell River adopted a parks and trails master plan and bicycle network strategy a few years back, and some cycling infrastructure has been built, such as the mid-level connector that bridges Westview with Townsite.
However, there are many folks commuting to school, work or play on the city's urban streets using e-bikes, road bikes and mountain bikes, riding inside the painted white line beside vehicle traffic, and awareness of each other can be key to safety.
For years now, a group of cyclists has been meeting three days a week, at McDonald's on Joyce Avenue, before beginning their journey on a 20- to 40-kilometre bike ride, sometimes through Paradise Valley, sometimes up to Wildwood and Cranberry, and occasionally out to Lund and over to Texada Island.
Group members say it's more of
a social thing, with physical health benefits on the side; most motor vehicle drivers, they say, are rooting them on when they cycle by.
The cyclists said they try their best to follow road rules, but they have had a few scary encounters on the roads.
"About 25 or 30 years ago, I started cycling more often with Don Logan in the mornings, at the time Judy Logan [Don’s wife] was on the board of directors for the BC Lung Association," said Réal Sigouin, a previous member of the group. "Don and I met up with PJ Behan and Al Craigen and decided we would ride yearly to raise money for the BC Lung annual fundraiser."
That was a 200-kilometre ride over two days starting in Fort Langley, cycling to Cultus Lake and returning. Sigouin said the planned “pretty long ride” motivated the group to start training and get in shape for it.
"The four of us started to ride 20 to 40 kilometres on Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning before work, plus additional longer rides on weekends," said Sigouin. "This went on for several years with many other cyclists joining: Charlie Gatt, Laurie Norman, Dan Keyworth, Frank Gauthier, to name a few, and we tremendously enjoyed the camaraderie and the health benefits of riding, and raising money for the BC Lung Association."
He said at that time, the group decided to ride from the qathet region to the Baja Peninsula in Mexico. The trip took 28 days over 3,000 kilometres along the Pacific Coast Highway. They didn't quite make it to Baja, but, Sigouin said, it was a great experience they will never forget.
"Many riders have come and gone over the years: Bill Bird, Gerard Martin, Grant Colman, Frank Radcliffe, Rick McNeil, with some of them still riding, and now with a core group of almost 20 riders, they call themselves the Silver Cyclists," added Sigouin. "I personally stepped aside about three to four years ago to build a new home and, in addition, with elderly parents' health failing, I never got back to riding."
Cycling group member Ian Jackson said one of their former
members passed away and in some ways the weekly rides are in his honour.
"It's not about the bike, it's more about the social aspect," said Jackson. "It's a reason to get up and go."
Group members say they self-police each other, making sure they ride respectfully and follow road rules. Many of the members are born-and-raised here, while some are newcomers.
John Wenzel is a fairly new member who was introduced to the group by a neighbour.
"I lived in Ontario, but my daughter lives here, so I bought an e-bike," said Wenzel.
Bird is said to be the longest standing member of the group at 17 years.
"When I started riding, none of these guys were here," said Bird.
SHANE CARLSON editor@prpeak.com
Hap Parker Arena was busy with several exhibition hockey games and tryouts
earlier this month.
Powell River Minor Hockey rep teams hosted their counterparts from the lower Sunshine Coast on September 6. U13 Kings bettered their opponents 4-0 and the U15 team outscored the visitors 17-3. In the final game of the day, the U18 hosts, with coach Kent Lewis behind the bench, downed the U18s from the lower coast 10-1.
While Powell River Minor Soccer action began on multiple local fields, Powell River Villa kicked off its Vancouver Island Soccer League (VISL) Division 2 schedule away from home with a 1-1 draw at Nanaimo United on September 13.
Tylor Cramb scored the lone goal for Villa early in the second half.
VISL Division 2 teams include Cook Street United (Victoria), Gorge FC U23 (Victoria), Gorge United, Mid Isle Mariners, Nanaimo, Prospect Lake (Saanich), Saanich Bandits, Saanich BDE, Westcastle International Academy (Victoria) and Villa.
Mid Isle Mariners host Villa this weekend in Ladysmith. Mid Isle opened the campaign with a 3-0
over Gorge United.
"It was six or eight people, but now [the group] just keeps getting bigger and bigger."
They have had up to 19 riders at a time, but that's in the summertime. In the winter, the number of members riding dwindles a little.
"In the summer, Bill arranges rides," said Radcliffe. "We also do a Cumberland ride, although we didn't this year. This year was a little scrambled; we've ridden to Campbell River before."
Jackson said for safety, a mirror is essential to have on a bike, and a helmet, but the most important is situational awareness.
"Being aware of what's happening around you with the vehicles and anticipating what they may or may not do," said Jackson. "For us it's really about the camaraderie; we've gone on hikes and fishing derbies, too."
Preseason action concluded for Powell River Kings last weekend with a pair of home games prior to the BC Hockey League regular season getting underway this weekend.
Kings dropped a 5-2 decision to the visiting Cowichan Valley Capitals on
September 12 and were doubled 8-4 by Victoria Grizzlies the following afternoon, also at Hap Parker Arena. Samuel Frechette and Sam Esposito scored for the home team versus the Capitals. Esposito added a pair of goals against the Grizzlies in the first and third periods. Jace Harder and Eliot Compton accounted for Kings’ goals in period two.
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Bringing together businesses, local nonprofit groups and organizations, the Peak hosted the inaugural Community Connections Expo at Dwight Hall on Saturday, September 13. Visitors connected with more than 40 booths, celebrating a diverse variety of what our community has to offer.
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November 25, 1929 - August 24, 2025
SPCA - Adopt a Pet
TIKA - young, white female puppy. Affectionate, stunning Staffordshire mix.
BUDGIE BIRDS - six pretty sweeties! these lovelies will brighten your home!
SADIE & LUCY - Double the love! young super sister felines
SAMEUL - handsome-faced young feline, could he be your boy, check us out on Facebook!
February 4, 1956 - August 21, 2025
February 4, 1956 - August 21, 2025
Robert Kevin Sowerby, 69, of Powell River, BC, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2025, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family and cared for with devotion by his wife, Lynda.
It is with heavy hearts that our family announces the passing of our father, grandfather and great-grandfather, Terry.
Robert Kevin Sowerby, 69, of Powell River, BC, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2025, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family and cared for with devotion by his wife, Lynda.
Born on February 4, 1956, in Burnaby, BC, Rob was the son of Mary Jane (née Thorpe) and Alfred John Sowerby. He trained as an electrician and built a long career in the oil and gas industry, where his skill, dedication, and work ethic were deeply respected.
Dad went peacefully in qathet General Hospital after a short illness. He felt fortunate to live in his own home until his final days - or, as he said, “the finish line”. He is survived by his son, Steve (Jill), and daughters Mary-Kay (Kevin, d. 2023) and Nancy (Gary). He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Anne, in 2018.
He will be dearly missed by his grandchildren, Nathan (Cigdem), Marissa (Chad), Jeremy (Breah), Megan (Kate) and Clare.
Born on February 4, 1956, in Burnaby, BC, Rob was the son of Mary Jane (née Thorpe) and Alfred John Sowerby. He trained as an electrician and built a long career in the oil and gas industry, where his skill, dedication, and work ethic were deeply respected.
Lynda and Rob met as teenagers in Fort Nelson, BC, where they later married and began their family. Over the years, they lived in several communities across the province, including Fort St. John, Prince George, 100 Mile House, Prince Rupert, and Vancouver, before finally settling in Powell River.
In recent years, “GG” so enjoyed his great-grandchildren - Max, Levi, Defne, Ziggy and Melis; delighting in their little voices, their bikes on his driveway and their hilarious, imaginative ideas.
He is also survived by his dear sister June and many nieces and nephews.
To say Dad lived life to the fullest is an understatement.
Lynda and Rob met as teenagers in Fort Nelson, BC, where they later married and began their family. Over the years, they lived in several communities across the province, including Fort St. John, Prince George, 100 Mile House, Prince Rupert, and Vancouver, before finally settling in Powell River.
Family was at the centre of Rob’s life. He is survived by his wife and partner in life, Lynda Marlene Sowerby (née Readman), with whom he shared many years of love, laughter, and adventure. He was a proud father to Jody Lynn (Ian) Legere, Leslie Nadine (Wael) Sowerby, and Robert Alfred (Chandra) Sowerby, and a devoted grandfather to Mason, Hayden, Porter, Sienna, Zain, Dania, Alyssa, Sarah, and Leah.
Rob will be remembered for his warmth, humour, and hands-on approach to life. He loved golfing, curling, and sharing adventures with Lynda, but his greatest joy was being “Grandpa.” He made each grandchild feel cherished and created countless memories that will live on in their hearts.
Born in Capilano in 1929, Terry was the youngest son of ten children. His boyhood adventures were spent mostly in Capilano Canyon with all of his friends - fishing, diving and finding mischief. His stories were endless, whether of basketball fights, Hollyburn mountain skiing, and Gastown pie deliveries - or meeting and marrying the love of his life, Anne Cates, in 1952.
From there, the two built a house on Keith Road in North Vancouver, and Terry began working for the Cates family business, C.H. Cates and Sons Ltd, which was a well-known tugboat company and a fixture on the North Shore waterfront for decades. Starting with the shore crew, he worked with dedication for 38 years, retiring as president and CEO in 1990.
Family was at the centre of Rob’s life. He is survived by his wife and partner in life, Lynda Marlene Sowerby (née Readman), with whom he shared many years of love, laughter, and adventure. He was a proud father to Jody Lynn (Ian) Legere, Leslie Nadine (Wael) Sowerby, and Robert Alfred (Chandra) Sowerby, and a devoted grandfather to Mason, Hayden, Porter, Sienna, Zain, Dania, Alyssa, Sarah, and Leah.
He is predeceased by his siblings Velma, Patricia, Jean, Susan, Linda and Glen, and will be deeply missed by many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Crohn’s and Colitis Canada or to the Canadian Red Cross.
Dad loved his sports. Soccer, squash, tennis and skiing were his main loves as a young man, and in later years, golf.
Following their children and grandchildren, they moved to Powell River in 1994, where they were proud to be part of this incredible community. They built a house on Tweedsmuir to be filled with over 30 years of love, family and happiness, and they cherished summers spent “up the lake.”
Terry will be remembered for his many woodworking projects, tee times, bratty jokes and neighbourly chats.
The family would like to thank Paulin Vella for her devoted care of our dad, and Shala Paterson for his weekend adventures.
Rob will be remembered for his warmth, humour, and hands-on approach to life. He loved golfing, curling, and sharing adventures with Lynda, but his greatest joy was being “Grandpa.” He made each grandchild feel cherished and created countless memories that will live on in their hearts.
A celebration of life will be held in Powell River on Saturday, October 25th at Dwight Hall (1pm).
A life well lived. He will be forever missed.
IVY - Don't miss out on this harming social butterfly disguised as a dog!
SIREN - Super sweet senior lady! Formosan Mountain dog mix.
SAMEUL - New boy on the block! Super handsome young feline!
RACY - calm dog, gentle & affectionate, young female Kelpie mix.
HARVIE - handsome, male feline, also the king of loafing!
SASHIMI - super sweet kitten. This boy is a super star!
BAGHEERA - a lil young male panther! Stunning young cat!
BECKIE - Young black & white cat - female feline royalty!!
JELLYBEAN & 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!
DAISY - Gorgeous, pretty white & gray, super senior seeking her matching super senior human!
FRANK SINATRA, & ELVISSweet n playful, cute overload! Corso/Mastiff mix puppies
MAVIS - Stunning, sweet, kidloving, 4 yr old Mastiff mix.
OREO - Affectionate white & black stunner! This young boy needs a new family!
SPCA 604-485-9252
April 30, 1930 - August 25, 2025
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Betty Ann Bonsor on August 25, 2025. She is survived by her three daughters Ann (Kevin), Claire (Barrie) and Sarah (Lawrence), eight grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.
Betty was born in Regina, Saskatchewan on April 30, 1930. She grew up in Winnipeg and earned degrees in both Arts and Social Work from the University of Manitoba. Shortly after graduating she moved to Vancouver where she met her future husband Malcolm. Together, they raised their three daughters. They remained in Vancouver until 2007 when they relocated to Powell River.
Betty had many interests. She took an active interest in watching her grandchildren grow and develop. She loved to do her daily walks, to read, to do puzzles, and to travel. She took many adventures in Europe, loved England (the birthplace of her husband) and visited her British relatives often. She also enjoyed many sunny vacations in winter. Always of keen mind, she kept abreast of current events, loved trivia, and rarely missed watching her favourite TV show Jeopardy.
One of her greatest loves was playing bridge and she made numerous friends and spent countless hours playing the game. After moving to Powell River, she joined the bridge club where she played faithfully three times a week until shortly prior to her passing.
A private service will be held at a later date. The family would especially like to thank the bridge club for their kindness, friendship and joy they brought to Betty over the years. She loved playing there and always wished she could have brought her mom.
Murray Rodney Lewis, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on August 24, 2025, in Baldonnel, BC, leaving behind a legacy of love, hard work, and dedication.
Murray was born on September 16, 1950, in Powell River, BC, and was raised on a small dairy farm alongside his five brothers. He was predeceased by his mother Ruby, his father Ernest and his brother Reggie.
After his marriage to his wife, Jane, they welcomed Darryl and Ron into the world. Following the birth of his sons, Murray and his family relocated to Armstrong, BC, where he spent many years driving his gravel trucks, paving roads across the beautiful landscapes of British Columbia. His dedication to his work and his commitment to providing for his family were unparalleled. As his sons grew and ventured out into the world, Murray and Jane moved from their small farm in Armstrong to a stunning quarter section in Baldonnel, BC. It was here that Murray continued to pursue his passion for trucking, building a successful trucking company that reflected his tireless work ethic and determination. Murray also found a love for farming and spent many hours in his tractors cutting and baling hay.
Murray's passing leaves a profound void in the lives of those who knew and loved him. His memory will be cherished by his wife, Jane; sons Darryl (Leann) and Ron (Leanne); grandsons Jesse, Tyson, Dallas and Dryden; brothers Terry, Rod, Darby, and Kevin; many nieces and nephews; and a countless number of friends. His absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we mourn his loss, let us also celebrate the life of a remarkable man who touched the hearts of many and left an indelible mark on all of us. Murray will be deeply missed, but his legacy will endure for generations to come.
Powell River Action Centre Society Food Bank Announcement
We invite the community to our Annual General Meeting on Monday, September 22nd from 9:00am to 11:00am. Meeting will be held at the Foodbank, located at 6816 B Alberni St - around the back of the building.
We are building a powerhouse team of volunteers, directors, and committee members united by one mission: making sure nobody in our community goes hungry. We need your passion, your skills, and your heart. Whether you are a planning pro, a spread‐sheet lover, a fundraising wiz, or simply want to make a differ‐ence, we have a chair at the table. Join us to change lives, fuel hope and help fulfill our motto of “Feeding our Community”.
Powell River Hospital Foundation is working to provide better health care for the citizens of Powell River.
Please donate “In Memory” prhospitalfoundation.com
604.485.3211 ext 4349
thirdfloor
SUNDAYS,8to9pm AlanoClub
City of Powell River
City Hall – MacGregor Building 6910 Duncan Street, Powell River, BC V8A 1V4
Telephone 604.485.6291 Fax 604.485.2913 www.powellriver.ca info@cdpr.bc.ca
Volunteer Applications Invited for Municipal Appointments to the Powell River Library Board
The City of Powell River is inviting applications from interested individuals to serve as a Trustee of the Powell River Public Library Board ("Board"). There are two positions avail‐able starting January 1, 2026, each for a two-year term.
The Board sets policy and provides overall direction of library ser vices, in accordance with Part 2 of the Library Act. Board members serve without remuneration and are ex‐pected to attend monthly meetings and to share in Board activities and responsibilities.
Applicants must be a resident or elector of the City of Powell River. Employees of the City of Powell River, the qathet Regional District, or the Library are not eligible to apply.
Interested individuals are invited to submit a letter describing their interest in serving on the Library Board. The letter should include references and any par ticular interests, work experience (volunteer or paid), and other qualifications relevant to the position.
Applications may be submitted by mail or e-mail to:
City of Powell River
Attention: Jessica Walls, Deputy Cor porate Officer 6910 Duncan Street Powell River, BC V8A 1V4 jwalls@powellriver.ca
Applications must be received by 4:00 pm on Thursday, September 29, 2025.
For fur ther infor mation about the Library, please contact the Chief Librar ian, Rebecca Burbank, at RBurbank@prpl.ca or 604-485-4796, ext. 202.
For fur ther infor mation about the appointment process, please contact City Hall at 604.485.6291 or info@powellriver.ca
Under the supervision of the Director of Operations, or designate, we welcome applications for on-call casual bus drivers to join our transportation team.
Requirements:
•Completion of Grade 12.
•Current BC Class 2 Driver’s License with Air Brake endorsement.
•Knowledge of rules and regulations pertaining to the operation of a school bus required under the BC Motor Vehicle Act.
• daily servicing of school buses.
• •Bus Driving Experience.
The wage rate for this position is $30.41 per hour plus vacation pay.
Allapplicationsmustbesubmittedonlinethrough theEmploymentOpportunitiespageat www.powellriver.ca
Under the supervision of the Director of Operations, we welcome applications for on call casual custodians to clean and maintain District facilities and ensure building security.
Requirements:
•Completion of Grade 12.
•Curr
•Knowledge of Occupational Health and Safety regulations.
•Knowledge of commercial building cleaning methods.
•Able to understand and effectively carry out oral and written instructions.
•Must be physically able to do all aspects of the job.
The wage rate for this position is $29.46 per hour plus vacation pay.
Working under the direction of the School Principal and/or Director of Student Support Services, casual EAs work in elementary and secondary schools supporting students and assisting teachers and counsellors with teaching and non-instructional tasks.
Requirements:
•Completion of a one-year accredited Educational Assistant program or a one-year program in a related Educational Assistant
recognized post-secondary institution.
•Basic computer knowledge
•A valid BC driver’s licence.
•Level 1 First Aid is desirable.
The wage rate for this position is $32.68 per hour plus vacation pay.
Working under the direction of the School
Staff provides a variety of administrative duties and requires the ability to make decisions, act independently, and to interact positively with staff, students, parents, and the public.
Requirements:
•Completion of a one-year accredited public d processing, spreadsheet, database, bookkeeping, record management, and email components) or
•Must have effective written and oral communication skills.
•Must enjoy working in a high paced team setting with staff and students.
•Ability to prioritize work in a busy environment often under pressure with multiple demands.
• sensitive information.
The wage rate for this position is $33.26 per hour plus vacation pay.
SAVARY ISLAND
Incredible ocean views in desirable Grandview Estates (55+) unit in the heart of town, walking distance to everything.
2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 1,323 sq ft 302-6900 BURNABY STREET
$399,999 MLS®19010 AUSTYN: 778 986 1691
KATIE: 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
5
$659,900
DUSTIN: 604 358 2473
Located on a corner lot in a sought-after neighbourhood, this level-entry ocean view home blends elegance and functionality
3 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 2,846 sq ft 3890 ONTARIO AVENUE
$899,900 MLS®19257
KATIE: 604 344 0055
This is your opportunity to build your dream vacation home on one of the most beautiful islands in the Salish Sea. This 0.34 acre
Savary Island lot has tons of potential.
1908 VANCOUVER BOULEVARD
$129,900 MLS®18559
DUSTIN: 604 358 2473
Enjoy the charm of rural coastal living on this 1.6 acre level lot in Stillwater. Ready for building, the property is equipped with a septic system, community water connection, and hydro service.
12149 SCOTCH FIR POINT ROAD
$459,900 MLS®19267
KATIE: 604 344 0055
Character home on a corner lot, low-maintenance featuring established flower beds, hot tub, workshop with power, and a greenhouse.
3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 2,266 sq ft
6479 SUTHERLAND AVENUE
$549,900 MLS®19137
AUSTYN: 778 986 1691
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
$589,900 MLS®19332
SAVARY CRAFTSMAN
NANCY: 604 849 5777
Quality custom-built home offering year-round comfort for Savary Island living. Craftsman details throughout.
2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 1,350 sq ft 1223 VANCOUVER BOULEVARD
$685,000 MLS®18688
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
$1,099,900 MLS®18820
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
$614,900 MLS®19145
NANCY: 604 849 5777
HIGHWAY 101
$799,900 MLS®19329
