The Peak - January 30, 2025 by The Peak

ACCESSIBILITY ADVOCATES

Couple seeks improvements for parks and streets

PAGE 9

SUNDAY SHUFFLE

Registration for annual marathon set to open PAGE 12

Restaurateur believes region has unique food

YouTube channel highlights highs and lows of the business in a small community

TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com

Starting a successful restaurant, food truck or food-related business is not an easy task, especially in a smaller market such as the qathet region. But, restaurateur Victor Jasso believes the northern Sunshine Coast, from south of Powell River to Lund, should be celebrated for its unique foodie culture a little more enthusiastically.

Jasso has created a YouTube channel called Talk About Food and Business, with the aim to celebrate the plethora of food options in qathet. He hopes it will also connect local chefs and restaurant owners in order to gain a better understanding of the ups and downs of being a food operator here, as well as provide tips for patrons of the food arts.

Jasso has been in the food business for a while now, working on projects with the owner of Dragon House, then buying the business, splitting it in half and eventually creating Blue Agave Tequila Grill two years ago. The Jalisco-style Mexican restaurant specializes in quesabirria, a dish comprised of stew-style cooked beef, folded into a tortilla, with melted cheese.

“I’m trying to project a little bit of our culture, art and food representing that area of Mexico,” said Jasso. “We’ve been collaborating with the qathet Art Centre doing painting nights and bringing in exhibitions.”

Collaboration is the magic word for Jasso. He believes there is a good spirit between business people in the region, as opposed to a cut-throat competitive atmosphere found in some places.

“We’re very spoiled in this little community,” said Jasso. “We have so many good [food] choices, and I was very impressed when I came to Power River. “

Although he was excited to see there were many food options as well as many small business entrepreneurs here, he was a little disappointed not to see more collab-

FOOD FOCUS: Restaurateur Victor Jasso believes the qathet region is unique when it comes to food choices. His mission is to bring more collaboration and understanding between chefs, food businesses and patrons. TANYA

BUSINESS »

Real estate sales up substantially

December 2024 figures outpaced statistics from December 2023

PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com

Real estate sales in December 2024 considerably outpaced sales from December 2023.

According to Powell River Sunshine Coast Real Estate Board president Curtis Yungen, for December 2024, compared to December 2023, there was a 157 per cent increase in single-family home sales, with 18 last year and seven in 2023.

“We also saw a large increase in total sales, up 56.25 per cent from 16 in 2023, to 25 in 2024,” said Yungen.

The median price for single family homes did have a slight decrease of -2.3 per cent compared to December 2023, going from $670,000 to $654,500, according to Yungen.

Sales for December 2024

for single family homes were down just slightly from November, from 20 to 18, but total sales remained the same at 25.

Yungen said median price was also almost the same from December to November, with only a $500 decrease from $655,000 to $654,500.

In terms of year-end statistics for single-family homes, for 2024, there was an increase for new listings and sales from 2023.

“There was a 22.3 per cent increase in new listings and a 22.68 per cent increase in sales,” said Yungen. “New listings went from 408 in 2023, to 499 in 2024, and sales went from 194 in 2023, to 238 in 2024.”

According to Yungen, the median list price and median sell price for single-family homes remained almost the same, with only a 0.77 per cent increase in list price and a -0.94 per cent decrease in sell price. Yungen said there was an average $659,900 list price in 2023, compared to a $665,000 list price in 2024, and median sell price

of $635,000 in 2023, to $629,000 in 2024.

Average days on market also remained consistent, with only a slight increase of one additional day, for a 2.74 per cent change, said Yungen.

“Overall, it was a stronger end to the year compared to the last few months of 2023,” said Yungen. “If it keeps up, it’ll be a welcome change from last year for the beginning of the year.”

According to statistics from the Powell River Sunshine Coast Real Estate Board, in the single-family homes category, there were 18 sales, valued at $13,017,900, in December 2024, compared to seven sales, valued at $4,479,900, in December 2023.

In the mobile and manufactured homes category, there were three sales in December 2024, valued at $547,000, compared to two sales, valued at $292,500, in December 2023.

There were three sales of condos, apartments and duplexes in December 2024, valued at $1,254,900, com-

pared to five sales, valued at $2,023,000, in December 2023.

Totals for residential categories are 24 sales, valued at $14,819,800, in December 2024, compared to 14 sales, valued at $6,795,400, in December 2023.

On the nonresidential side, there was one parcel of vacant land sold in December 2024, valued at $225,000, compared to one parcel of vacant land sold in December 2023, valued at $399,000.

Word of mouth has impact

oration between establishments.

“It seems like we need to celebrate [small business/food] more,” said Jasso. We have to celebrate it, we have to embrace it, we have to be proud of it, and we have to support it.”

One intriguing YouTube video of Jasso’s is called: Shop Local, Support Local, Eat Local, an interview with local chef Avi Sternberg. The two discuss how a bad review

on social media can have a detrimental impact on a business, especially in a smaller community. What they suggest is to directly tell the establishment what the problem might be.

“Myself and my [culinary] students welcome direct feedback from customers,” said Sternberg, in the video. “It’s actually our mistakes that are our biggest lessons.”

Sternberg admits that some people may not feel confident enough to approach a chef or restaurant

owner with a problem, but, he said, in most cases businesses welcome it.

“In a small town, word of mouth has a huge impact on success,” said Jasso. “Costs are going up, but we all [restaurant owners] want to provide patrons with a unique and delicious dine-in experience.”

Jasso also wants to see more support from Powell River Chamber of Commerce to better promote and support small business initiatives around town.

There was also one industrial, commercial and institutional transaction, valued at $1,600, in December 2023, compared to none in December 2024.

The total for nonresidential in December 2024 was $225,000, compared to $400,600 in December 2023.

Grand total for all sales was 25 units sold, valued at $15,044,800, in December 2024, compared to 16 units sold, valued at $7,196,000, in December 2023.

“We have the hot chocolate festival right now [until the end of February] at River City [Coffee Roasters, Bakery and Eatery], we had the Jingle Hop Shop in December, and so many other collaborations going on to support locals,” said Jasso. “But, I don’t necessarily feel like we have the support we need.”

Jasso believes the region could attract tourists all year-long, not just in the summer months.

“I’m looking forward to the food

In terms of average house prices, in December 2024, it was $723,217, with an average of 78 days on the market, compared to $639,986 in December 2023, with an average of 65 days on the market. There were 17 new residential listings in December 2024, and three new nonresidential listings, for a total of 20. At the end of December, there were 139 active residential listings and 67 nonresidential listings, for a total of 206.

festival in February,” he added. The pilot event hosted by Sunshine Coast Tourism (SCT), called Sunshine Coast Flavour Festival, begins February 28 and runs until March 9. According to the SCT website: The event is designed to spotlight the Sunshine Coast’s diverse and exceptional culinary scene, from Langdale to Lund. To find out how to participate, go to coastculture.com and enter Sunshine Coast Flavour Festival in the search bar.

STRONG SALES: Powell River Sunshine Coast Real Estate Board statistics show a better December 2024 than December 2023, and a better 2024 year than 2023, for real estate sales. PEOPLEIMAGES, ISTOCK, GETTY IMAGES

MPs host talk on residential school denialism

Winnipeg Centre

representative

discusses her private member’s bill

PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com

Winnipeg Centre MP Leah Gazan made an appearance in Powell River on January 20 to outline the harms of Indian residential school denialism.

At the invitation of North Island-Powell River MP Rachel Blaney, Gazan was scheduled to speak at Evergreen Theatre about how there can be movement as communities and nationally move forward in the pursuit of truth and reconciliation.

In an interview with the Peak prior to the community speaking engagement, Gazan said she was going to speak about her private member’s Bill C-413, which is an act to amend the Criminal Code of Canada regarding promotion of hatred against Indigenous peoples. The bill is to criminalize the wilful promotion of hatred against Indigenous peoples by condoning, denying, downplaying or justifying the Indian residential school system in Canada through

statements communicated other than in private conversation.

Gazan said her bill is intended to add to Criminal Code of Canada section 318, which, according to Gazan, currently recognizes Holocaust denial as citing hate. She said her proposed amendment addresses the promotion of hatred against Indigenous peoples. Her addition states: Everyone who, by communicating statements, other than in private conversation, wilfully promotes hatred against Indigenous peoples by condoning, denying, downplaying or justifying the Indian residential school system in Canada, or by misrepresenting facts relating to it, is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, or is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction.

The bill received first reading on September 26, 2024.

“Prior to the last orange shirt day, I put forward my private member’s bill in honour of survivors, who requested that I put something in place to protect them as a result of an increase in residential school denialism,” said Gazan. “It’s really a follow-up to the motion that I put forward in the House of Commons in 2022 that recognized what hap-

pened in residential schools as a genocide. This is the first genocide that has been recognized by Parliament within our borders.”

Gazan said elected officials are on record denying residential schools. She accused Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre as a residential school denialist, following an interview he had with Canadian commentator Jordan Peterson.

Gazan said prior to her election in 2019, she taught for many years at the University of Winnipeg, and one of the items she taught was a course called aboriginal education, which was mandated by the province in 2007, providing for teachers to learn about residential schools.

“What I do know is that when people know better, they do better,” said Gazan. “What I found throughout that course is that over time, through education, more and more people entering the course knew about residential schools.

“Since the discovery of unmarked graves, we’ve seen a rise in denialism. All the efforts we’ve put into reconciling in the country are at risk.”

Gazan said late senator Murray Sinclair said in an article that some people who believe they have the privilege of holding power, and should continue to have

that privilege, are going to fight against reconciliation.

“They are going to say that the residential schools were all about education and the Indians should be thankful,” said Gazan. “This bill doesn’t just protect survivors, families and communities, but it is also a way to protect all the important relationship building that Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians have done throughout the years to move forward in a way where this can never happen again – that this kind of genocide can never happen again.”

Gazan said it is important to recognize residential schools as an aggressive act of assimilation. She added that there are more children now in child welfare, much related to colonial trauma and the destruction of families.

Gazan said she is from Wood Mountain Lakota First Nation, which was impacted by child welfare and residential schools and the institutionalization of Indigenous peoples.

“I can’t think of anything more violent and harmful than to deny a genocidal history, particularly when the legacy is ongoing,” said Gazan.

She said people talk about free speech, but residential school denialism does not qualify as free speech.

PROVIDES INSIGHT: NDP MP Leah Gazan, from the Winnipeg Centre riding, came to Powell River to speak about residential school denialism and her Parliamentary Bill C-413, which is an act to amend the Criminal Code of Canada regarding the promotion of hatred toward Indigenous peoples. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

“This is about limits and protecting people’s charter rights from the incitement of hate,” said Gazan. “This is disinformation that is void of historical fact, and we need to protect families, communities and survivors from the incitement of hate.

If we can’t protect families, communities and survivors from the incitement of hate and denialism, we’re not ready to reconcile in this country.”

Gazan is hoping her bill will continue to progress

through parliament after it resumes from prorogation. She doesn’t expect support from the Conservative ranks, but said minister of crown-Indigenous relations Gary Anandasangaree has been publicly supportive.

“There’s a recognition that residential school denialism is harmful,” said Gazan. “I think people across Canada are good. Let’s not let a small, extremist population destroy all the achievements we’ve made reconciling in this country.”

Death of man in residence under investigation

Independent

Investigations Office asks for information from witnesses

The death of a man in the 4500

January 21 is being investigated by the Independent Investigations Office of BC (IIO).

At about 10:40 am that day, RCMP responded to a request to check on the wellness of a man living in the residence, according to an IIO information bulletin.

Officers spoke to the man, who was not apprehended, before leaving.

Another call regarding the same individual was received just before 6 pm, indicating he was armed, which resulted in police officers and members of the Emergency Response Team attending. The man was pronounced deceased a short time later from what appeared to be a self-inflicted injury, the bulletin stated.

Initial investigative steps will examine what connection, if any, police action or inaction may have played in the man’s death, according to the IIO, which is BC’s independent civilian oversight agency of the police that investigates all officerrelated incidents resulting in serious harm or death, whether

or not there is any allegation of wrongdoing.

The IIO is asking that any witnesses who have not already provided a statement, or who have video footage of the incident, to call its witness line tollfree at 1.855.446.8477 or via the contact form on the iiobc.ca website.

block of Golden Avenue on

Salmon society receives grant

PAUL

GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com

Pacific Salmon Foundation (PSF) has awarded a $10,470 grant to a community-led stewardship project by Powell River Salmon Society (PRSS).

According to a media release from PSF, the salmon society is using data to protect salmon populations in the Lang Creek watershed, which encompasses roughly 1,200 hectares east of Powell River. By tracking environmental conditions, PRSS engages more than 240 community members and equips local agencies with information about habitat degradation in salmonbearing streams, the release stated.

“Our water monitoring program plays a crucial role in preserving Lang Creek's watershed,” stated PRSS assistant manager Philip Nakatsu. “Continuous water quality sampling ensures the creek remains healthy for salmon populations. PRSS produces an annual technical report providing valuable data, guiding conservation efforts

and safeguarding the watershed's integrity for future generations of salmon.”

With PSF’s funding, volunteers will access new mobile monitoring devices and gear to track the effects of climate change and incidents such as landslides, log jams, or runoff pollution, the release stated.

Shane Dobler, PRSS manager, said in an interview with the Peak that PSF regularly provides PRSS with funds for various operational items. He said this year’s contribution will go toward water monitoring equipment used for measuring water parameters such as pH, salinities, temperatures and flows.

“We regularly do a trip through the watershed, and we also have continuous monitoring stations that record water temperature every 15 minutes,” said Dobler. “We compile all this data, and in conjunction with our other work we do in that neck of the woods, it just sort of encompasses the watershed. It’s valuable to have longterm data to see trends, what’s

changing and what’s not changing. The information is really valuable.”

Dobler said it is interesting to monitor temperatures in the upper watershed versus the lower watershed to see how things change over time and how it affects fish.

“Having long-term datasets that you can look at and not just assume that things are going in one direction or another is really important,” said Dobler.

He said he wanted to mention the contribution that the City of Powell River makes, and that city director of infrastructure Tor Birtig has been instrumental in helping with water flows in the salmon rearing ecosystem.

“A lot of people around the province don’t have water, so our city is fortunate, but so is our own Adams River, which is Lang Creek,” said Dobler. “It’s because of water management. It wasn’t always the case. It was managed differently a long time ago, including on our part.

“We wanted water early, because that’s what draws fish. We learned however, to store it and let it hap-

CHECKING WATER: Powell River Salmon Society is active in monitoring water conditions in the Lang Creek watershed, and a grant from the Pacific Salmon Foundation will help the salmon society be more efficient with its monitoring. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

pen as nature intended.”

Dobler said that through monitoring, PRSS has more data, which helps with better decision making.

“With good information, you can be more efficient and more impactful,” said Dobler. “Water is important to fish, and to all human life, for that matter.”

Dobler said in addition to the PSF, Powell River Community Forest has been great with the salmon society, supporting the organization with funds. There are also partner-

ships with Tla’amin Nation and BC Timber Sales, according to Dobler. Every year, PSF’s community salmon program strategically leverages $1.5 million in revenue from its salmon conservation stamp, along with generous donations, to support more than 150 salmon conservation projects in BC and the Yukon. In the latest funding round, PSF awarded a total of $613,531 across the province, generating a total value of $3.1 million for salmon.

Wildfire buffers explored by city

Staff given direction to work with consultant on draft policy

PAUL GALINSKI reporter@prpeak.com

City of Powell River councillors will direct staff to proceed with the city’s wildfire hazard development permit designation to address areas susceptible to wildfire risk.

At the January 21 committee of the whole meeting, chief administrative officer Lisa Bhopalsingh said councillors had been provided a report regarding a permit area project, which is something that has been on the city’s work plan for some time.

“It is also helping fulfill the background work for the sustainable official community plan and the timing is very timely, with what is going on down south,” said Bhopalsingh. “What director of planning services Jason Gow is looking for is direction, through the consultant we are working with, on what buffer we would like to see the development permit area applied for, and what requirements need to be made for households or buildings within that buffer to maintain a level of fire protection.”

Gow he was presenting information regarding the wildfire development permit area project. He said in the summer of 2024, Frontera

Forest Solutions was retained by the city to lead implementation of a wildfire hazard development permit area. He indicated that anticipated outcomes of this project include the identification of areas susceptible to wildfire risk, and the development of accompanying guidelines and mapping products.

“These guidelines generally cover components such as subdivision layouts, fire resistant building materials and landscaping and vegetation guidelines,” said Gow. “Staff and Frontera Forest Solutions are looking for some guidance from council on a key element of how the development permit area will be applied.”

Gow said a wildfire buffer is measured as the distance extending outward from areas near burnable fuels, which are vegetated areas with potential to carry wildfire.

Examples are forests with coniferous components, grass fuels and slash areas, said Gow. Buffer distances of 30 metres, 100 metres and one kilometre have been put forward by the consultant.

“Research conducted by Frontera suggests that the use of a 100-metre buffer would be the most suited to managing anticipated wildfire behaviour, FireSmart guidance and any regulatory burden associated with the designation of a new development permit area, given the geography of the city’s wildfire interface,” said Gow. “A 100-metre buffer was also found to be the most common approach in comparable communities.

“Implementation of a 100-metre buffer would capture all structures at the high risk of exposure to radiant heat from wildfire. Any residual risk in this scenario would most likely be low, with smaller pockets of moderate risk.

“Alternatively, the city could adopt a larger buffer to minimize risk further. The downside of this approach is it would also capture many more properties determined to be at low wildfire risk.”

Gow said this means additional staff time would be required to process and review 100 per cent of the development applications for adherence to wildfire guidelines. It would also add additional cost and time to the development process, not only to the city, but also to developers in the community, he added.

Gow said the city’s authority to require changes to existing properties to make them more wildfire resistant only happens at the time the property is redeveloped.

“This means the reduction of risk, even where all properties in the city are captured by wildfire development permit area, is limited to how quickly parcels are redeveloped,” said Gow. “Realistically, in our community, we are talking about something that would be measured in decades.

“At its core, selection of an appropriate wildfire buffer is an exercise in determining risk tolerance. Based on the recommendation from Frontera, staff recommends that council determine that

ADDRESSING SUSCEPTIBILITY: City of Powell River councillors heard a presentation on initiatives to reduce wildfire risk to buildings in the city, and directed staff to proceed with a wildfire hazard development permit designation using a 100-metre wildfire buffer. PEAK ARCHIVE PHOTO

the 100-metre wildfire buffer is acceptable.”

Councillor George Doubt said he understood Gow was asking councillors to decide on fire interface buffers to put in a future official community plan. He said wildfires were probably a lot more in people’s minds after having observed what was going on in California.

“The proposal here is we should think about setting a distance of 100 metres away from a high fire hazard area to require that people, if they are going to do any development in those areas, to have a development permit,” said Doubt. “From all the reports I read, the development permit can do one of two things. They can either get rid of the fire hazard – get rid of the fuel by cutting down trees and harvesting bushes and changing the landscaping around homes –or, changing the ways houses are built by requiring them to be more

fireproof.”

As for future direction, Gow stated in a written response to questions from the Peak, now that staff have direction from council on the wildfire buffer, they will be working with the consultant to draft appropriate development permit guidelines that reflect best practice. These draft guidelines would again be presented to council for their review and approval before a process to include the new development permit area in the official community plan would be initiated, according to Gow. He confirmed that the 100-metre buffer would apply to new development and future redevelopment, but not to existing structures.

The committee voted unanimously to direct staff to proceed with using a 100-metre wildfire buffer as the basis for the city’s wildfire hazard development permit area designation.

Repeat offender pleads guilty to manslaughter

IHIT identified suspect six months after former Powell River resident was found dead in Langley

ALANNA KELLY Glacier Media

A man known to be a repeat offender has pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection to the death of a Langley man nearly three years ago.

Justin Bos, 39, pleaded guilty to one count of manslaughter with a firearm on December 20, 2024.

Sergeant Freda Fong with the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) said Bos was a repeat offender.

“Keeping him off the streets was important to us for public safety,” stated Fong in a media release.

Langley RCMP officers found an unconscious man on the sidewalk of 88 Avenue just before 9 pm on March 25, 2022. Police identified the man as Cody Mostat, 30, of Langley. He died at the scene.

Mostat grew up in Powell River

and is remembered for his “kind heart and gentle soul.”

“Cody came into this world in Powell River General Hospital and grew up in this community a true Powell River boy. As such he enjoyed baseball, soccer and, of course, hockey,” reads his obituary.

According to a family member, he broke his foot and ankle while working as a welder when he fell off a scaffold.

“This injury led to his selfmedication and ongoing struggles with addictions,” reads the obituary.

IHIT took over the investiga-

tion and after six months identified Bos as the suspect and arrested him.

In September 2022, he was charged with second-degree murder. According to Fong, he is due for sentencing in the upcoming months for multiple offences. Bos is also facing another count of manslaughter with a firearm in connection to the death of Troy Regnier.

“A guilty plea reflects the hard work and dedication of our investigators and their collaboration with our policing partners and the BC Prosecution Service,” stated Fong.

EDITORIAL »

Purchasing power

With United States president Donald Trump continuing to threaten Canada with 25 percent tariffs on everything our country exports south of the border, Canadians are apprehensive about what the future holds for our country. Tariffs in some form could be implemented as early as tomorrow (February 1), based on previous comments from Trump.

While provincial leaders and federal cabinet ministers hold meetings and make plans for either retaliatory tariffs or convincing American politicians and decisionmakers at all levels how much tariffs will hurt citizens in each country, should we be waiting for the outcome or direction from above? How about taking action individually or as families?

We all have purchasing power, meaning it is up to us where we

spend our hard-earned money. Inflation is a reality and as costs rise, looking for the best deal on groceries or any other product becomes necessary, and understandable.

The ability to put food on the table and take care of our families is the top priority. How can we do that and still support local business?

Based on the recent rhetoric from Trump, local in some respects should extend beyond our region’s borders and into the rest of the province, and the country for that matter.

LETTERS

Hyperbolic rhetoric

Pierre Poilievre focused heavily on the cost of housing at his Powell River rally [“Conservative leader outlines policies at political rally,” January 23]. He stirred emotions with hyperbolic rhetoric alleging that the federal Liberals and NDP are primarily responsible for the high cost and low supply of housing. Get rid of the Liberals and NDP, elect him, and Shazam, everything will be rosy.

While taxes, fees, legal costs, zoning and building regulations do factor into the cost of building homes, they don’t approach anything close to the “60 per cent of the cost of a new home built in Vancouver” supposedly going to the government as Poilievre fallaciously claims. In fact, most of those costs are beyond the regulatory authority of any federal government.

Vancouver and Toronto have vied for the most expensive city in Canada for decades. Greater Toronto’s expansive geography produced an increasingly massive low-rise sprawl while Metro Vancouver’s constrained geography forces growth up rather than out. Our mild climate and Pacific Rim location made Vancouver a premiere global city dramatically propelling land values. »7

or online. Changing that mindset in one fell swoop is not a reasonable action for everyone when putting food on the table, clothing children or managing bills that stretch finances, sometimes to the limit.

United States? Is the price difference negligible? Will it hurt your pocketbook to buy Canadian? If not, now is the time to show your patriotism, even if only you know you did so.

Canadians can collectively send a message by making decisions on what they buy and where it is from, without waiting for a federal or provincial government to take action.

People need to take care of their families; it’s priority number one. That’s why looking for the best deal sometimes takes them out of town

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But not everyone is in that position. For those who are financially secure, all it requires is taking more time at the grocery store to look at where a product is made. Is that mustard made in Canada or the

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Mustard is a seemingly small example, but it’s just that, and there is a choice to be made on most store shelves. With a population of more than 40 million, Canadians can collectively send a message by making decisions on what they buy and where it is from, without waiting for a federal or provincial government to take action.

Those dollars spent go beyond the grocery store. Keeping that money flowing in our city, regional district, province and country

helps all Canadians. Isn’t that better than those funds going toward Jeff Bezos’ next flight to “space” because of orders/purchases made online through Amazon, or buying advertisements from Facebook to put more money into the pocket of its founder and Trump ally Mark Zuckerberg? It may seem self-serving to mention the latter, but we do have a local weekly newspaper with loyal readers who can be reached via Peak ads, as well as a local monthly magazine and radio station which provide similar services. It is another example of ways to keep Canadian money in Canada. Trump may have provided the impetus for all of us to look in the mirror and decide who and what we want to support. We should have been doing it anyway, but it’s not too late to start.

KELLY KEIL publisher SHANE CARLSON editor PAUL GALINSKI reporter

SANDY ADAMS

What is Vedic Astrology?

When people hear the word “astrology,” many different concepts come to mind, the roots of which run deep and date back to the ancient Vedic teachings of the Himalayas.

Before there was religion or culture built around esoteric knowledge, there existed the Vedas - a collection of channelled wisdom teachings offering profound insight into the nature of life: mind, body and soul. Respectively, this trinity of the human being evolved into the arts and sciences of yoga, ayurveda and Jyotish.

Jyotish is Vedic Astrology. In Sanskrit, “Jyoti” means “luminous light” and “ish” refers to the sacred. Jyotish is the science of light through which we see life itself as it unfolds through the incarnation of a soul, or individuated point of consciousness. We often think of astrology as a tool for making predictions. While that may be a helpful aspect, astrology’s fundamental purpose is to gain insight and knowledge of the true self,

COSMIC YOGA

By Christina Erl

to enliven a person to their innate gifts, strengths and weaknesses, to increase health, vitality, joy and intelligence. The greater one’s self-awareness, the greater one’s potential for self-realization.

Challenge is an inherent aspect of living, but if we are able to understand our challenges from the level of soul, our karmas take on new meaning and purpose. We become empowered to overcome challenges with wisdom and grace and, as a result, we evolve.

Jyotish exists as an eternal source of wisdom to help us transcend samskaras, the conditioned

The key drivers of housing costs are not the various fees, rather it is land values and the commodification of residential housing. Under federal tax law only 50 per cent of capital gains, including on housing, is factored into personal or corporate income tax, making corporate investment in residential housing particularly lucrative.

The federal Liberals, pressured by the NDP, passed legislation, effective this coming June 25, to increase the inclusion rate on capital gains to 66.67 per cent, with an exemption on the first $250,000 for individuals and certain trusts, but none for corporate investors.

Poilievre promises to eliminate the five per cent GST on new homes only and block the June 25 increase in the capital gains inclusion rate, giving his wealthy backers profiting from the commodification of residential housing a big break. What a “man of the people!”

Jef Keighley, Garden Bay, BC

patterns of many lifetimes that keep us stuck in endlessly repeating cycles such as fear, struggle and anger. Through the lens of Vedic Astrology, one is able to see themselves clearly and therefore, realize their samskaras. When that insight is gained, the free will to choose a different path is awakened within and we have the option to step into our true potential of being human.

A person’s Vedic birth chart is a snapshot of the cosmos at the moment of birth. It is astronomically accurate and serves as a blueprint which maps out a soul’s consciousness, karmas and life path potentials. Through interpretation, patterns are seen and guidance is received.

Therefore, one’s consciousness naturally expands, which then translates positively into all areas of one’s life. It is a vast and deep spiritual science that I look forward to sharing much about in future writings.

For now, let us consider that yesterday, January 29, was a new moon in

Deep thinking required

Pierre Poilievre repeats slogans and blames all of our societal woes primarily on the current prime minister

[“Political rally outlines Conservative policies,” January 23].

Our challenges are complex, which requires deep thinking. Ongoing drought, floods and wildfires hinder our global ability to grow food. Corporate greed adds insult to injury. Climate crisis migration ramps up the challenge of housing. Drug use is rising because of a sense of hopelessness.

If you aspire to lead our great nation, then you cannot shy away from acknowledging and addressing the unfolding challenges posed by the climate and ecological crises. Continuing to do so displays extreme cravenness.

Cutting taxes equates to the elimination of vital services, which hurts all Canadians, while greatly diminishing our quality of life. If economic affordability is truly top of mind for Canadian voters, then we must elect an economist not a career politician.

the sign of Capricorn, in the Nakshatra (Star) of Shravana. New moon energy lasts several days and sets the tone for the month ahead.

New moon is a time for introspection, setting intentions and planting seeds. Capricorn is known for hard work, long-term goals, resiliency and loyalty. Shravana is empathic, intelligent, creative and listens well. Therefore, these next few days are an opportune time to go within, meditate, contemplate and perhaps, set some creative, long-term goals for yourself. How do you wish to evolve this month and beyond? What is something you can listen to every day that will expand your consciousness? Perhaps, even your own intuition is guiding you and all you have to do is set the intention to tune in.

Christina is a qathet region writer, Himalayan Kriya Yoga teacher and vedic astrologer. For resources and/or more information, go to www.christina.yoga or email christina. yoga.light@gmail.com.

Voters in the bottom half of North America recently elected a reality denier. Canadians can ill afford to repeat that same tragic mistake.

Steve Perkins, Van Anda

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Couple wants accessibility prioritized

Infrastructure

that meets a variety of mobility and impairment needs improves everyone's experience, say advocates

TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com

Since Dave and Marg Hodgins’ son had a stroke at age 39, then again a few years later, the couple has made it their mission to shed light on accessibility, or lack of it, for those who are differently abled, in many qathet region places and spaces. Their son now uses a wheelchair.

Last March, City of Powell River, along with qathet Regional District (qRD) and Powell River Public Library, with input from the public and the Joint Accessibility and Inclusion Advisory Committee, approved the 2024-2026 Accessibility Plan.

Although Dave is vice-

president of this committee, he said he hasn't seen much concrete action, including planned funding toward improving access to places such as parks, transit or basic infrastructure.

"Before this happened to our son, we were like everyone else," said Dave. "We didn't think about accessibility, but now we see the lack of it everywhere."

The couple said qRD has been a little more responsive to the needs of those who use wheelchairs in parks such as Palm Beach, Shelter Point and Haywire Bay by providing better access to waterfront areas and resurfacing some pathways.

"We're very fortunate," said Dave. "Our son's attitude is phenomenal, he's been resilient through all of these difficulties."

The Hodgins have been advocating for change since 2019, but sometimes feel like it's a losing battle.

"We had hoped by now we would have seen some improvements, but we haven't seen the urgency or will to improve services such as HandyDART, bus stop and bus accessibility, or better mobility access to parks," said Dave. "We see the im-

provements benefiting everyone living here, not just those with disabilities, but for our aging population, mothers with strollers, and even the general public for that matter."

Now, the couple is in the process of creating a visual and informational presentation they hope to deliver to community groups, titled: This Region is Not so Accessible, in order to gain momentum and to attract more people to get behind the issue of accessibility. But what exactly does being accessible mean for a municipality or region of BC?

According to the federal government's Accessible Canada Act (ACA): "The proactive identification, removal and prevention of barriers to accessibility including: employment; the built environment; information and communication technologies; the design and delivery of programs and services; the procurement of goods, services and facilities; and transportation."

In 2022, the province introduced new legislation under the Accessible BC Act, which requires public organizations to create an acces-

sibility committee and plan. Now that an accessibility plan is in place for the city and the region, what comes next?

According to the couple's draft presentation, to date there are no actions on the part of the city to proceed with.

"They claim to have no budget for it, but yet both the library and regional district have a budget," said Dave. "The city continues to approve projects ignoring the fundamentals of the BC Accessibility Act."

Dave said transportation is one of the biggest issues for them. They purchased a used minivan to transport their son to appointments and outings due to the fact that other options are very limited.

"There are no van taxis in town, the Zunga Bus is not wheelchair accessible and the HandyDART has to be booked weeks in advance; 80 per cent are prebooked on a weekly basis, so not great for short notice trips," said Dave.

The couple noted that while all conventional buses are of the kneeling type (meant for wheelchairs), 80 per cent of existing bus stops

IMPROVEMENTS NEEDED:

have documented gaps in accessibility in parks, streets and transportation, with the hope for more immediate action.

are unsuitable to either kneel or load a wheelchair.

Costs for transit, including HandyDART services, are shared by BC Transit, municipal, regional and/or provincial governments.

Dave recently met with the BC Transit representative from Victoria.

"All fares are returned to the city or regional district to reduce their costs," said Dave. "The remainder must come from the local taxpayers, but in the end it is taxpayers who pay for the service."

One of the surprising places the couple found inaccessible for those in a wheelchair and/or those with mobility issues, are parks around the city.

"I'm not expecting every

single park to be accessible to wheelchairs," said Dave, "I'm a realist."

Marg said the couple’s intent is to shed light on the issue to promote action.

"Both Willingdon Beach, and Larry Gouthro Park are all grass and they don't have a usable pathway to the beach or bleachers," said Marg. "Most of our focus is trying to bring awareness so there can be some change."

Powell River Community Foundation, of which Dave is president, is organizing a 25-year anniversary event to celebrate charities in the region. The date has been set for June 7, at the Evangelical Church grounds on Manson Avenue. More information will be announced at a later date.

Logo hits mark for diversity

Student wins school district Pink Shirt Day design contest

TANYA HILL

thill@prpeak.com

To start off the monthly qathet School District (qSD) meeting on Wednesday, January 22, the winner of the Pink Shirt Day design contest was presented to school trustees. Student lead with Brooks Secondary

School’s Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) Rowan Cocksedge and SOGI committee member and qSD teacher Willow Dunlop shared that kindergarten to grade seven students were asked to submit a unique design that sends a message of inclusion.

The design of James Thomson Elementary School grade three student Nan Voghell's book called: Your Story Matters Too, was presented as the winner. Shirts with the winning design will be printed by Savary Island Ink and will be for sale in time for Pink Shirt Day on February 26,

according to the SOGI committee members. The contest was a collaboration between the GSA and SOGI committee.

According to the qSD website: Pink Shirt Day aims to raise awareness of bullying. The day originated in Canada in 2007, when a male student in Nova Scotia was threatened and harassed for wearing a pink shirt on the first day of school. In response, two high school students took a stand against homophobic bullying by buying and distributing 50 pink shirts at their school.

CELEBRATING DIVERSITY: [From left] Pink Shirt Day t-shirt design contest winner Nan Voghell posed with Brooks Secondary School Gay Straight Alliance student lead Rowan Cocksedge and teacher Willow Dunlop. The contest was a collaboration between the Gay Straight Alliance and the qathet School District SOGI committee. TANYA HILL PHOTO

Dave [right] and Marg Hodgins

TANYA HILL PHOTO

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Journey of learning continues in Osaka

Master chef explains four major components to ramen making

TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com

Chef Avi Sternberg is continuing his ramen food culture training with chef Matsubara, owner of Ryukishin, a well-loved ramen shop in Namba City, a district of Osaka, Japan.

Sternberg said he is learning the history and culture of ramen in Japan and around the world, and most importantly, what essential components go into making a delicious ramen soup.

The Peak sent Sternberg questions about his training with master chef Matsubara and what he has learned so far about ramen food culture.

Peak: What have you learned so far about the history of ramen in Japanese food culture?

"Ramen only came into

Japan in the early to mid1900s and experienced a boom during the period immediately following World War II when the government set heavy rations on rice," said Sternberg. "Wheat was being used in Yokohama in noodle-soup dishes based on cuisine coming from southern Chinese prefectures such as Guangzhou."

Sternberg explained that ramen is very different from traditional Japanese cuisine, which emphasizes the use of seafood, low sodium and little oil in its cooking preparation.

"Ramen uses a lot of salt, oils and animal-based products."

The use of salts, oils and fats is probably the reason ramen has taken-off in popularity around the world. Who wouldn't be tempted by a steaming bowl of hot broth, filled with all the ingredients the human body craves?

Peak: Will this trip influence what you do in the qathet region and in your culinary classes?

"I will work with the chef Matsubara at Ryukishin to

eventually serve the plantbased salt ramen that he serves at his restaurants," said Sternberg. "I will introduce [to qathet] a salt-ramen option for both chicken and vegetarian."

Peak: Can you explain the plant-based ramen culture in Japan?

"Ryukishin is the first shop in all of Japan to serve specialty, salt-based ramen," said Sternberg. "The owner [Matsubara] conceived the idea that salt-based ramen can be served using the Miracore product.

The Peak previously reported that a Japanese-based company has developed a 100 per cent, plant-derived umami ingredient called Miracore, which has made it possible to create a vegan dashi that tastes similar to a non-vegan one.

"They [Ryukishin] have developed the first glutenfree, rice-flour-based ramen noodle, which has quickly become a popular favourite with vegetarian travellers across the world," said Sternberg.

However, shojin-ryori, a cuisine prohibiting the con-

sumption of animal products based on the Japanese Buddhist tradition, has been present for hundreds of years, Sternberg emphasized.

"Vegetarianism and plantbased cuisine is expanding [in Japan] with the use of all vegetables and exploring different ethnicities," said Sternberg. "The number of restaurants does not compare to North America, but the industry is slowly growing."

Peak: What exactly goes into making a good ramen? What are the different types?

“Chef Matsubara explained that there are four major components to ramen making: the broth, the noodles, the fragrant oils and the toppings.

“It all starts with the broth. Shoyu, or soy sauce, and miso flavoured broths use premium ingredients to celebrate those flavours."

Chef Matsubara’s shop is the first salt-flavoured (shio/clear-broth) specialty ramen shop in Japan. He frames salt-broth ramen as the Japanese “consomme,”

which is the pinnacle of soups in French cuisine.

"A lot of care and thought is used to prepare a clear broth that accentuates the flavours of the ingredients used to produce the soup," said Sternberg. "Quality salts are carefully selected to bring layers of harmony and identity to salt ramen."

The point of creating this type of ramen, added Sternberg, is to highlight the quality of the noodles and the fragrance of the oil.

"The chicken, pork, green onion, shellfish and shitake mushroom can be fully enjoyed because of the simplicity of the broth without the flavours of soy or miso. Each sip of this harmonious broth is filled with the opportunity to enjoy the quality of

the broth, the texture of the noodles and the flavour of the oils in its purest sense."

What was the experience like in the kitchen at Ryukishin, learning from chef Matsubara?

"He took me through a tasting of all of his ramen types. He and his sous chef Kitabatake demonstrated the timing, flow and sequence of putting a bowl of ramen together."

Sternberg said they also shared the process of making the first gluten-free ramen noodle, made of rice flour, in all of Japan, and explained the history of their involvement with the Miracore products.

"Together they have over 50 years of ramen-making experience.”

Black History Month event a go for second year

African/AfroCaribbean food, fashion and cultural celebration to take place in Townsite

TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com

Godson Akhidenor and a group called the African and AfroCaribbean Association of qathet organized the region's first Black History Month event at the Carlson Community Club last February.

Now, the group has received its wish to organize a second annual event, called the Black History Month celebration, which will take place on Saturday, February 15, at Dwight Hall, located at 6274 Walnut Street, at 12 pm.

Akhidenor, who is secretary for the group, said he and his team hope to make the event bigger and more impactful each year.

"The reason for the event is to promote understanding and inclusivity of Black culture in qathet and to celebrate achievements within the Black community," said Akhidenor. "We also want to showcase Black culture, tradi-

tions, fashion, music and cuisine, and advocate for social justice and equality."

The theme of the event this year is: Honouring the past, inspiring the future.

Patrons at the event will get to try traditional African and AfroCaribbean foods, see dance and fashion, and hear live African music performances, followed by a movie screening at the Patricia Theatre.

"We are also hosting a financial literacy program for immigrants on Friday, February 14, at 5:30 pm, at Powell River Public Library, in partnership with First Credit

Union," said Akhidenor. The Black History Month celebration is free, but Akhidenor said

the group welcomes donations and any partnerships to support future events.

INCLUSIVITY INITIATVE: Black History Month 2025 is fast approaching and the group, African and Afro-Caribbean Association of qathet is organizing this year’s celebration that takes place on February 15 at the Dwight Hall. PAUL GALINSKI PHOTO

FOOD CULTURE: qathet-based chef Avi Sternberg [right] is continuing to study ramen food culture with chef Matsubara, owner of Ryukishin ramen shop in Osaka, Japan.| CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Pickleballer embraces sport

Youthful enthusiast unhappy about racquet centre closure

TANYA HILL

thill@prpeak.com

Fraser Blacklaws might be the youngest pickleball player in qathet, but that hasn't stopped the 10-year-old from vigorously taking on the sport full throttle.

The typical age of a pickleball player in North America was thought to be a person of retirement age, but that norm has changed.

The Association of Pickleball Professionals (APP) found that more than 70 per cent of avid pickleball players are now between the ages of 18 and

44. But, that still leaves a big age gap for players such as Fraser to find peers to play with. He regularly plays pickleball at Powell River Racquet Centre with his dad, Brydon, and whoever else he can take on.

"I was really into the hard-hitting game,” said Fraser. “But my coach Barb [Struch] taught me how to use a softer shot."

The soft game is a strategy that involves hitting the ball softly to force an opponent to make more consistent contact with the ball. Brydon said Westview Elementary School, which Fraser attends, did have a coach come in and teach pickleball, but there wasn't very much uptick by students afterward. For Fraser, pickleball is accessible, portable and fun.

"My classmates and friends like hockey and swimming, but they have to travel so

often," said Fraser.

The Peak reported earlier this month that the racquet centre will close its doors for good on February 8, leaving those who play indoor tennis, pickleball and badminton without a facility.

"I'm not happy the racquet centre is closing," said Fraser. "We're trying to get some pickleball courts at Westview [elementary]. That would be cool."

Fraser also mentioned he achieved one of his goals, to play in a pickleball tournament.

"I won a gold medal at the 2024 Surrey Youth Slam," said Fraser.

The Peak has also reported that qathet Pickleball Association is seeking up to one acre of land in the vicinity of Powell River Recreation Complex to build a dedicated pickleball facility.

Marathon shuffle organization underway

Registration for annual event will open this weekend

The countdown is on for the 32nd annual marathon shuffle in 2025.

Residents are encouraged by organizers to be part of one of qathet region’s most cherished outdoor traditions. Registration for the 32nd annual marathon shuffle opens soon.

The 2025 marathon shuffle takes place on Sunday, April 27. Registration opens at 12:01 am on February 1, with a cap of just 275 participants, according to a media release from organizers. All starting spots for this free event were taken in a recordbreaking 12 hours last year.

This year, organizers are introducing an exclusive VIP option that guarantees a spot.

“The marathon shuffle is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of community

and a vital fundraiser for the Sunshine Coast Trail,” stated Ean Jackson, director of the marathon shuffle. “Our new VIP option allows us to recognize and thank those who help make this trail a treasure for all.”

VIPs are trail champions— dedicated individuals who contribute meaningfully to qathet Parks and Wilderness Society (qPAWS), the marathon shuffle or the Sunshine Coast Trail, the release stated. Contributions can include trail or hut mainte-

nance, behind-the-scenes volunteering, donating services or products, or other meaningful support for the event.

“VIP status guarantees your entry and celebrates those who play a vital role in supporting the Sunshine Coast Trail and the marathon shuffle,” stated Jackson. “There are many ways to define VIP, and we’d love to hear your ideas. If you’re interested, visit the marathon shuffle webpage and click on the VIP section to learn more.”

The marathon shuffle’s iconic 27-kilometre route begins at Malaspina Road and winds through lush forests, scenic vistas and Tla’amin territory, before culminating with a celebratory finish at the Shinglemill Pub and Bistro. Since its inception in 1993 by trail-building pioneers Eagle Walz, Scott Glaspey and other founding qPAWS members, the marathon shuffle has grown from a family-friendly hike to a celebrated annual tradition, the release stated. Today,

Swim club benefits from influx of funds

New equipment provides more opportunities for West Coast Wind members

West Coast Wind Swim Club has kicked off the new year with new members, new equipment and new opportunities.

Since adding six new training groups in the fall, the club has seen a rise in membership, and with it, a rise in passion for the sport, stated

head coach Marissa Schweitzer in a written submission. She added that the team is feeling more vibrant than ever, with many fresh faces on deck and new friendships being formed.

“To make things even more exciting, this fall, the club was awarded a Powell River Community Forest grant, which allowed the club to purchase up to $10,000 of new equipment,” stated Schweitzer.

“These new resources allow the swimmers to maintain and build upon their technical development, while upping the ante in their fitness.”

Schweitzer stated that the community has never had equipment of this calibre before.

“As a small and still-growing club, it is pretty incredible to have such professional equipment,” added Schweitzer. “From a new starting system to backstroke wedges, and soon a stroke analysis camera, we are feeling humbled by the incredible support from the community forest. It feels like the city has recognized what we are capable of achieving and is helping to propel us onward.”

Entering the new year, the club begins its winter session, and has

experienced even more growth, but this time, in the form of coaching development, according to Schweitzer. Sponsored by the team, lead coach Megan Greig was able to expand her education, while Schweitzer was given the opportunity to attend a provincial biomechanics workshop in Victoria.

“These opportunities to gain further education via sponsorship allows our coaching staff to offer the best training possible to our athletes,” stated Schweitzer. “Having such a local and provincial support network means everything to our team, and we are so excited about

it stands as a signature event, drawing hundreds of outdoor enthusiasts from Vancouver Island, BC’s Lower Mainland, and even farther afield, while fostering a deep connection to the region’s natural beauty.

“Whether as a regular participant or a VIP, don’t miss this iconic event,” stated Jackson. “Secure your spot and join the tradition.”

For details and registration, go to sunshinecoasttrail.com/events/ marathon-shuffle.

what this will do for the future of swimming in our community.”

This weekend, the Wind will have up to 11 athletes attend the Vancouver Island short course championships in Duncan.

“Having these resources makes a world of difference to my ability to perform,” stated longtime swimmer Adianta Cocksedge-Hamilton. “Especially the backstroke wedges. It was so difficult training on a slippery wall, then being expected to compete with grip under my feet at meets. Now, I get to train how I will compete. I feel much more prepared.”

PROMISING PLAYER: Fraser Blacklaws might be the youngest pickleball player in qathet to pick up the sport. He plays at Powell River Racquet Centre [above] whenever he can. TANYA HILL PHOTO

Kings split with Clippers

New goaltender helps secure three of four points over weekend

SHANE CARLSON editor@prpeak.com

Powell River Kings erased a pair of two-goal, second period deficits and scored five unanswered goals en route to a 7-4 win over the visiting Nanaimo Clippers on Friday, January 24.

Marek Beaudoin and Noah Samanski had two goals each for the Kings, who trailed 4-3 after 40 minutes of play at Hap Parker Arena. Eli Friedman, Brendan Giles and Wyatt Davis also scored for the home team.

In his first game with Powell River, goaltender Ryan Tamelin turned aside 31 of the 35 shots he faced. Kings sent 34 shots at his counterpart.

Powell River announced the signing of Tamelin last week. The

18-year-old from Invermere, BC, appeared in one game for the WHL's Victoria Royals this season and another seven in the Alberta Junior Hockey League with Bonnyville Pontiacs, posting a 2-21 record, and a goals against average of 3.37.

“I am very excited to have Ryan join us,” stated Kings head coach and general manager Stephan Seeger Jr. “He is a very big young man [six-feet, eight-inches] who takes up a lot of the net and is efficient with his movements. Watching video on him, it was clear that Ryan is calm and tracks well for a bigger goalie."

The next night, Nanaimo forced overtime with a late third period goal and eventually won in overtime to avoid a second loss in as many days in Powell River.

Ben Wright gave the Kings a 2-1 lead early in the final frame, which held until the 18:18 mark when Dylan Kinch replied for the Clippers. Calvin Beard had the other Kings’ goal, cancelling out Kinch’s first of two goals on the

Soccer game raises funds

TANYA HILL thill@prpeak.com

The annual Steve Steele Memorial Boxing Day soccer match brought out hundreds of fans to Timberlane Park last month to cheer on the talented Tla’amin Braves and Stevie’s Steelers teams.

Longtime soccer player and coach Dave McMaster said the weather was surprisingly good and the game was close.

"The Tla'amin Braves edged out the Steelers 3-2 in a friendly match on Boxing Day," said McMaster.

The game raised funds for both the Salvation Army and Powell River Action Centre Food Bank.

"Each charity received $1,174," said McMaster.

"Much appreciation goes out to the players, fans and donors for making the annual event a success."

night in the first period, three minutes after the visiting club had taken the lead.

Tamelin made 38 saves for the Kings, who were outshot 41-25. The teams played more than six minutes of three-on-three in the extra period before Nanaimo’s Patrick Fortune sealed the win with his third goal of the season. Powell River remains 10th in BC Hockey League (BCHL) Coastal Conference standings, 11 points behind eighth place Nanaimo.

Shooting stars

Marko Stojkov of the Vernon Vipers finished first in the hardest shot competition at the 2025 BCHL All-Star Weekend in Salmon Arm. His best blast reached a speed of 90.1 miles per hour. Second place went to Beard, with a top score of 86.3 miles per hour. Bryce Sookro of Cranbrook rounded out the top three with an effort of 85.1 miles per hour. The event was one of several skills competitions that took place in mid-January in addi-

tion to the game featuring some of the league’s best players.

College commitment

Earlier this month, Beard committed to play college hockey at the United States Air Force Academy. The 19-year-old from Southborough, Massachutsetts, has scored five goals and helped

CHARITY MATCH: The annual Steve Steele Memorial Boxing Day Soccer charity match raised funds for both the Salvation Army and Powell River Action Centre Food Bank. On hand recently for cheque presentations were [from left] charity match representative Dave McMaster, Salvation Army majors Glen and Rosanne Fraser, Stevie’s Steelers captain Valerie Harding (holding a recognition plaque for the Senior Women’s League), food bank manager Savanna Dee, and the game’s most valuable player Russell Pielle. TANYA HILL PHOTO

McMaster said that this year, Tony Leach, Todd Phillips, Duncan MacDougall and the Senior Women’s League were acknowledged at the game for all the efforts they have made toward the pro-

motion of soccer in the community.

Two players of note who participated in the charity game were Steelers’ captain Val Harding and Russell Pielle of the Braves, who was named most valuable player.

set up 14 others thus far in the 2024/2025 BCHL season for a total of 19 points in 36 games played. This is his first season in the league. Powell River travels to the Lower Mainland for three road games this weekend, starting on Friday, January 31, in Chilliwack. Kings play in Coquitlam the next night and finish the trip at Surrey on February 2.

FEB

DAILY DOUBLE: Powell River Kings forward Marek Beaudoin [21] scored twice in his team’s come from behind win over Nanaimo Clippers at Hap Parker Arena on Friday, January 24. ALICIA BAAS PHOTO

TO BOOK YOUR AD »

In loving memory of Eileen Margaret Beamin

In Loving Memory

Gary Jacques

May 10, 1980 - January 21, 2025

With broken hearts, we share the sudden and unexpected passing of Gary, a cherished husband, proud father, devoted son, brother and friend, at the young age of 44.

loving memory of Eileen Margaret Beamin February 25, 1926 - January 14, 2025

February 25, 1926 - January 14, 2025

Surrounded by her family, Eileen Margaret Beamin, passed away on the evening of January 14th, 2025. At nearly 99 years old, Eileen is remembered for her luscious gardens, famous potato salad and the good she found in everyone. Most of all, Eileen is remembered for the love she had for her family.

Born in Powell River, Eileen was raised alongside her sisters Annette (Ernie) Harper and Maureen (Gordie) Dunlop, by her parents, Annetté and Hugo Blatter. Eileen’s love for family began with the way she cared for her sisters, and her mother. Eileen was ahead of her time as a working woman in a Vancouver bakeshop and later acquired a job on the Finishing Line of the Powell River Mill. In September of 1943, Eileen married the love of her life Jim in Vancouver, British Columbia; who endearingly referred to her as “Girl”. Jim and Girl returned to Powell River to bring up their three children and everyone then began to know Eileen as “Girlie”.

Eileen is survived by her son, Don (Lynn) Beamin, her favourite daughter, Marlane (the late Ted) Williams, and son, Laurie (Denise) Beamin. Grandchildren, (the late Jamie), Jimmy (Debbie), Darren (Victoria), Janice (Ed), Mariah (James) and Garrett fondly remember their Granny riding her bike, throwing the ball together, and baking apple pies. The grandchildren feel so fortunate to have their own children know the delight of walking into a room and seeing the cheerful sparkle in Granny’s eyes. Eileen’s great-grandchildren Savannah (Allan), Nissa, Dyllan (Rachael), Deseree, Halle, Timothy, Ella, Ethan, Tarren, Joliena, Matthew and Parker, as well as her great-great-grandchildren Aspen, Finnan, and Barrett, will continue to relish in the stories of how Granny adored her family and protected her blackberries. Each and every one of Eileen’s grandchildren held a special place in her heart.

To know Eileen was to know that she loved her garden. She took great pleasure in sharing her fruit and vegetables. Eileen was known for frequenting Hindle’s for a new teacup, she was also known for making sure others had the pleasure of enjoying her beautiful roses.

The entire Beamin family would like to take this opportunity to extend their deepest gratitude towards those who cared for Eileen. Specifically, thank you to Dr. Brad Schweitzer – “you look good” and we were lucky to have you care for Mom, for nearly fifty years. Eileen enjoyed the comforts of her own home for close to 97 years with the support of the workers at Home Support, we thank you for your wonderful care and companionship. Thank you to Renate, who cared for and loved Eileen as a dear friend and fellow gardener. The family will forever be singing the praises of the Evergreen Extended Care nurses and care aides who went above and beyond to ensure Eileen was treated especially well. Every single person who cared for Eileen played a very important role in the story of her life – thank you, and as Eileen would say “we are so lucky”.

To honour Eileen’s wishes, a funeral will not be held. However, the family asks that you join them this spring, as you plant your own gardens, to celebrate Eileen’s life by recalling your memories of her and sharing them with those you love.

“Bye for now, Girlie”

In lieu of sending flowers, the family asks that you please direct any donations towards the Family Room at Evergreen Extended Care.

“Bye for now, Girlie”

Gary met his wife Jennifer at 21 years old and they built their life together through the last 24 years, and together they built a beautiful family during their more than 16 years of marriage. He was a proud and devoted dad to Lyndon and Hollie, whose laughter and adventures were the centre of his world. Gary was also a loving twin brother to Craig, a caring brother to Melissa and Kelly, and a beloved son to his mother, Carol. He is now reunited in heaven with his father, Alan, who he lost when he was just 17.

Born and raised in Middlesbrough, England, Gary made the courageous move to Canada in 2008 to create a life surrounded by the natural beauty of the west coast. He embraced everything the mountains, trees and ocean had to offer, raising his children in a world of adventure and peace in the beautiful community of Powell River.

Known affectionately as “Gar Bear” by the youth he connected with through the local hockey league and through his kids, Gary had a gift for making everyone feel seen and valued. Wearing his heart on his sleeve, he cared deeply for everyone he met, leaving a lasting impact through his kindness, humour and genuine spirit.

Gary lit up most when he was in an airplane flying high above the earth, quietly taking in the beauty of the world below. Whether he was cheering at a hockey game, sharing stories with friends or simply spending time with family, his warmth and presence touched everyone who knew him.

His passing leaves an immense hole in the lives of those who loved him, but his memory will live on in the laughter, stories and love he shared. As long as we share his stories and cherish the memories, he will never truly be gone; he lives on in our hearts.

A celebration of life will be held on February 7, 2025, from 1 to 3 pm at the Carlson Community Club.

Gary touched so many lives. This will be a time to share stories, cherish memories and come together to honour Gary’s life and legacy. Please bring your love, your memories and your care to this special gathering.

Cameron Roy Turner

May 19, 1970 - November 24, 2024

Born in Powell River to Yvonne and Doug Turner. Cam passed suddenly at home in Black Creek. He leaves his wife Melody and daughters Maylene (Hunter) and Caylea; stepdad Jimi; sister Dawn (Steve); in-laws Wendy and Mark Budgell and family; as well as uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews and many friends. We will miss his laugh.

Cam

Special

Land Act: Notice of Application for a Disposition of Crown Land

Take notice that the qathet Regional District, Powell River, BC has applied to the British Columbia Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship (WLRS), South Coast Region for a Lease for Community Park situated on Provincial Crown land located at Emily Lake over parts of:

Lot G (Reference Plan 4061) District Lot 1 Texada Island District (PID: 015-792-218)

District Lot 1 Except Portions In (1) Plans 6958,10405,11006, Reference Plans 1595,2974,3774,4061,5029 And (2) The Surfaces Surveyed As Lot 157 Marble Bay Fraction No. 2 Mineral Claim, Lot 140 Toothpick Fraction Mineral Claim, Lot 131 Volunteer Mineral Claim, Lot 133 Europe Mineral Claim And Lot 155 Marble Bay Fraction No.1 Mineral Claim; And (3) Block B; Texada Island District (PID: 015-792-277)

District Lot 14 Except Those Portions In Plans 777,834,6958,12480,13250,18202 19426 And Lot 201 Surveyed As Cornell Mineral Claim Texada Island District (PID: 015-794-717)

District Lot 16 Except Portions In Reference Plans 2972,5091 And In Lot 47A Victoria Mineral Claim, Lot 48A Texada Mineral Claim And Lot 131 Volunteer Mineral Claim Texada Island District (PID: 015-794-873)

or by the truckload. Alder mix. Please call 604-698-0710

604-485-5313, 4493F Marine Avenue, or email: circ@prpeak.com

PALLETS

for pick up at

PEAK 4493F Marine Avenue.

PALLETS every Thursday at the side of the office.

Business for Sale Taxi Company for Sale Powell River - 5 licenses; Sechelt - 3 licenses. Call 604-483-8225

WLRS invites comments on this application. The Lands File is 2412694. Written comments concerning this application should be directed to the Senior Land Officer, South Coast Region, WLRS, at #200-10428 153 Street, Surrey, BC V3R 1E1. Comments will be received by WLRS up to March 8, 2025. WLRS may not be able to consider comments received after this date. Please visit the Applications, Comments and Reasons for Decision Database website at http://comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca/ for more information.

Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be considered part of the public record. Access to these records requires the submission of a Freedom of Information (FOI) request. Visit http://www.gov.bc.ca/freedomofinformation to learn more about FOI submissions.

Comments concerning this application should be directed to the Senior Land Officer, South Coast Region, Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship (WLRS), at #200-10428 153 Street, Surrey, BC V3R 1E. Comments will be received by WLRS up to March 8, 2025. WLRS may not be able to consider comments received after this date. Please visit the Applications, Comments and Reasons for Decision Database website at http://comment. nrs.gov.bc.ca/ for more information.

FOUNDRY qathet

Foundry qathet will offer young people aged 12 to 24 health and social services

Hosted by Youth & Family (Powell River Child, Youth & Family Services Society), with input from youth, caregivers and community partners.

We want to reach young people early so that we can help address small problems before they become bigger ones. Services are integrated, accessible, free, and on a drop-in basis with no referral needed.

17 centres are already open across the province of BC.

WHERE TO LEARN MORE

• Check out our website: foundrybc.ca/qathet

• Find us on Facebook and Instagram @foundryqathet

• Access virtual services: foundrybc.ca/virtual

• Meet us in person at the Powell River Kings game Saturday, February 8 at 5 pm, Hap Parker Arena

SUPPORT FOUNDRY

• Tell your friends

• Hang a poster at your location

• Share our content online

• Make a donation

Youth & Family is accepting cash and in-kind donations for this project. We are happy to discuss the type of donor recognition we are able to provide within our community and inside the new Foundry qathet building. This is a great initiative to support that the community is very excited for. A charitable donation tax receipt will be issued for all donations upon request.

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