difference

april 2011
Little house • Big difference
More than a swamp
Duncan wetland important
Who's smarter?
Local celebs or Grade 6s?
Catalyst mill
Why it survived
Food for
thought
Could we feed
ourselves?

carolEann
lEiSHman
Gary
DiEtricH
nicHolaS
A community night of family fun
as local celebrities challenge the
Grade 1– 6 curriculum with the
HElP of our Grade 6 students!
Hosted by Dan Devita & Jamie Burt
includes
SilEnt auction
of family-friendly prizes
Thursday, April 7, 6:30 pm
Max Cameron Theatre at Brooks
Adults 18+... $10
Children 6 or over... $5
Family (2 adults, 2 kids)... $20
5 & Under... FREE
Bill
HoPkinS
JoycE
carlSon
frank
TiCkETs: Academy of Music, Breakwater Books,
Credit Union and Brooks High school
SimonS
Thank you to our sponsors:
clayton
This fundraiser for Success by 6 and the ORCA Bus is presented by School District 47 and the Powell River & District United Way.

Be Active... every dAy! • Be Active... every dAy! • Be Active...
the complex
Powell River’s Recreation Destination
5001 Joyce Avenue
Promoting healthy lifestyles since 1975
something for everyone
Special Events
the great community easter egg hunt
Saturday, April 23 • Willingdon Beach • 10:30 am
For ages 10 yrs & under... and please bring a basket
giant indoor garage sale
& used Bike sale
Saturday, May 14 @ 9 am – Noon
Held in the large dry rink... Book your table NOW!
Used Bike Seller rEgiStrAtiON FEE $2 goes to
the Bruce Denniston Bone Marrow Society.
Lots of room for large items – Bring it & sell it.
FrEE entry on day of event & lots of parking.
new sPring Programs haPPening
rEgiStEr NOW! 604 485-2891
• Pre-school Bunny Express
• Belly & Bollywood Dance
• Zumba Fit
• Summer Shape-up
• Yoga
• intro to Fishing
• Oyster Picking & Clam Digging
• Japanese Appetizers
• Argentine tango dance
• New Age Jive dance
• Campfire guitar – Adult lessons
• tennis Lessons – Youth & Adult
• t-Ball for tots
• First Kick Soccer
limited time special youth fitness rate
just $2.00
for all 5:30 pm drop-in classes (only)
get in shape for grad!
Call the Complex for more info.
to register... 604 485 2891
Spring 2011 ColleCtion haS arrived!
echo 550C
On the ROad, tRail OR WateR,
GARMIN GPS
keeps you on course
GPSMap
62ST
GPSMap 720/720S
www.garmin.com
Join us April 29-30 for Customer Appreciation Days.
Visiting Manufacturer Reps to answer your questions,
in-store specials and door prizes!
Scan the QR code with your smart phone and choose to
our new Facebook page.
For all your Outdoor & Marine Supplies
4446 Willingdon Ave at Wharf St • Monday to Friday 8:30 – 5:30 Saturday 9 – 5
Tel 604 485-4624 • Fax 604 485-4644 • jim@marinetraders.com
www.marinetraders.com
4573B Marine Ave
www.fitstoat.ca
Powell River Living • april 2011 • 3

7
22 30
Contents • april
On the cover
Kate Brown with her tiny, low-impact home, which gave her
freedom to spread her wings.
5 In this issue
Not easy being green
6 Mailbag
Letters and kudos
7 A house for one
And for the planet
11 Walking the walk
Mayor hikes and bikes
13 PR’s father of first aid
George Clapp and St John Ambulance
14 Family Matters
Do what you can, even from afar
15 Catalyst looks ahead
The success of the Powell River mill
21 Who’s smarter than a 6th grader?
A fun night and a fundraiser
22 Jo’momma designs
Local fashion
26 Explore Powell River
Through Charlene Ruedig’s lens
27 The Fun House
Clowning around with Far Off Broadway
28 Pardon My Pen
How to be a great speaker
29 Willy Wonka Junior
Roald Dahl’s story takes to the stage
30 Duncan Street wetland
Environmental treasure threatened
32 Zero waste
Regional plan puts us on the path
33 Solar cookers
Morrocan Feast April 17
34 Solar energy
Brooks fieldhouse
35 A community of firsts
Powell River led the way
37 Class act
Grad group resurrects class photo
38 Inland Lake access
Off-season, the park is still popular
39 Métis society formed
Local group recognized by Metis Nation
40 A Royal Event
Wedding calls to mind Queen’s visit
42 Time to Plant
Those pesky currant maggots
43 Food for thought
Could Powell River feed itself?
44 Business Connections
What’s new in the business community
46 New school
Designs for Westview Elementary
our choice of paper
This magazine is printed entirely on paper made at the Powell
River Catalyst mill. The cover stock is Electraprime — the company’s
smoothest and glossiest uncoated grade, made only in
Powell River... on #10 Paper Machine!
Photo by Isabelle Southcott
Member of the
We welcome feedback from our readers. Email your
comments to isabelle@prliving.ca, or mail to Powell River
Living, 7053E Glacier Street, Powell River, BC V8A 5J7
Tel 604 485.0003
No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent
of the publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the
publisher cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions that may
occur. © 2011 Southcott Communications. We reserve the right to refuse
any submission or advertisement.
Complete issues are available online at:
www.prliving.ca
John Dean is an amateur
writer from the UK who has
been in Powell River for a
year.
Esther Dyck is president
of the Myrtle Creek Steward
Society.
Marnie Edwards was in
the Max Cameron Graduating
Class of 1965.
Tracey Ellis is a journalist,
writer and former editor of
several BC magazines.
Gerry Gray was an editor
and long-time columnist for
The Powell River News.
Abby McLennan is an active
member of the Let's Talk
Trash team.
Sean Percy enjoys hiking,
diving, photography and beautiful
Powell River.
ISSN 1718-8601
Volume 6, Number 3
Publisher & Managing Editor
Isabelle Southcott
Associate Publisher & Sales Manager
Sean Percy
Graphic Design & Production
Robert Dufour, Works Consulting
Office Manager
Bonnie Krakalovich
Sales & Marketing
Lauri Percy
Barb Rees loves writing,
photography and making a
difference in the world, one
person at a time.
Charlene RuEDIG started
with her first camera at age
eleven and continues to explore
and capture nature with her
camera.
Hailey SaCREE is a Grade 9
student at Brooks. She enjoys
musical theatre.
Mary TilBERG lives in Lund.
Her novel, Oonagh, is available
at Breakwater Books.
Kevin Wilson is a gardener
who moved to Powell River in
2003 to grow vegetables for
market.
Dylan Young is coordinator
of Success By Six and is active in
the community.
Susan Young di Biagi is a
historian, writer and storyteller
with a consuming passion for
history.
4 • www.PRLiving.ca

It’s not easy, but bein’ green is beautiful
Even in his heydey on the music charts, Kermit the Frog’s
1970 refrain “It’s not that easy bein’ green” was probably
not quoted as often as it is today. Being environmentally
“green” is truly a challenge. And as consumers become more
and more aware of the impact their actions have, they’re demanding
more and more from the businesses from whom they
buy. It’s not enough to stick a product in some recyclable packaging,
slap a green label on it and call it “green.” Consumers
are, quite rightly, seeing through that facade and demanding
real reductions in emissions, waste and environmental impact.
This is as it should be, since consumers can really force
change. Governments and business simply try to keep up
with the demands. Those demands can be tricky to meet.
For example, our magazine business faces real environmental
dilemmas. In support of our local economy, we’ve chosen to
print on papers made in Powell River. We’ve considered recycled
papers instead. But does it make sense to choose papers
that have to be shipped hundreds of kilometres, thus adding
to the greenhouse gas problem, as opposed to paper that’s
made here, shipped the short distance to Vancouver for printing,
then shipped back to Powell River? As you can see, it’s
a delicate balance — and that’s just an example of the many
decisions faced by businesses every day as they try to do the
earn rewards even faster at
responsible thing. Success in this area is a difficult thing to
measure — both for individuals and businesses.
Fortunately, Powell River is working hard at it, and making
progress, as this issue shows. Starting on Page 7, we have our
cover story about the benefits of living in a smaller space — literally
with a smaller footprint. Then there’s the feature on our
mayor; whether you are a political supporter or not, you have to
respect the fact that he literally walks the walk on reducing our
reliance on gas-guzzling vehicles.
Some of our other “green” stories include a feature on punk
hippie fashion designer Alisha Van Belle and a look a the vibrant,
but threatened, wetland at the top of Duncan Street. As
our writer discovered, this wetland comes complete with its
own cute owl mascot! Solar cooking, solar heating and gardening
are also included in our green issue.
And our story on the regional district’s “zero waste” goal sets
a lofty goal. But it’s important that we reach for such goals. It
won’t be easy, but as Kermit concluded about being green “It’s
beautiful! And it’s what I want to be....”
Sean Percy, Associate Publisher • sean@prliving.ca
earn AIR MILES reward miles
with every purchase at Valley
Build with Valley
A new reward program for 2011
Buy locally and get rewarded:
earn up to 5,000 bonus reward miles
with a complete home package
See in-store for details
Valley Building Supplies Ltd.
4290 Padgett Rd • Tel 604 485-9744 • www.valleybuildingsupplies.com
Powell River Living • april 2011 • 5

We welcome feedback from our readers. Letters
may be edited for length. Letters can be sent to
isabelle@prliving.ca, faxed to 604.485.8381,
or by post to Powell River Living, 7053E
Glacier St, Powell River, BC V8A 5J7.
Dear Powell River Living:
Your magazine just keeps getting better. Jonathan van
Wiltenburg’s article this month (March) is STELLAR and
its page layout is very attractive. I wouldn't be surprised
if the great turnout for Seedy Saturday this year was
inspired by Wendy Devlin's article in the last issue. I love
those garden-related stories while my husband always
turns to Kim Miller’s business column first and reads me
bits of it over coffee.
So local! So fun!
Dear Powell River Living:
Jill Goudriaan
Please tell George Campbell how much I enjoyed reading
about when he was young — his 'soul' episode. It was absolutely
wonderful! Perhaps he would consider submitting
it to another publication, Reader's Digest, for example, so
that he might reach an even larger audience.
Graham Harrop
Soccer kudos
Kudos to Powell River Youth Soccer’s “Timbits.” Forty fourto-five-year-old
children wrapped up their season on March 5.
These tykes learned how to shoot, pass the ball, score goals
and all about boundaries thanks to coaches Heather Banks and
Cam Miller.
On this day, team sponsor provided Timbits and players were
asked a soccer question. When they answered the question correctly
they got to hit a button that says “You’re a winner!”
“They loved it,” says organizer Denise Abbott
Then each player was presented with a medal of achievement
along with a Timbits soccer ball.
Tim Horton’s mascot joined the young soccer players. “They
were thrilled,” said Denise. As a thank you to sponsors Lisa and
Cal Giesbrecht and Tim Hortons, the children signed a ball to
give to them.
Ooops!
In last month’s issue we incorrectly spelled the name of one of
our cover models, Brendan Keane. We apologize for the error.
Auto
Repairs
Open Saturdays!
Get your cabin ready for a better summer!
Call the Powell Lake specialist for a FREE estimate
by certified mechanics at
Quality Parts Ltd.
604 485-2387 • 7239 Duncan St • QualityParts.ca
Licensed journeyman
Aaron Gurney
604 414-5533 integritybuilding@hotmail.com
Spring cleaning from the inside out with Healthy Solutions.
Now is the right time to clean your entire body systematically with our organic,
fermented, ionic, flavoured six-step Deep Cleansing & Detoxification Program.
Designed to:
• Eliminate toxins from your entire body • Restore your immune system
• Relieve allergy symptoms
• Improve digestion
• Increase energy
• Restore quality of life
Come in and enjoy discounts of 10%-35% OFF.
We now carry Organic Eggs & Fresh Breads.
4730 Willingdon Ave right around the corner from The Chopping Block
Open Monday to Saturday 9:30 to 5:30 d tel 604 485-2919
6 • www.PRLiving.ca

Kate’s green house
Tiny home is perfect for one
By Deb Calderon
Why would any sane person give up
living in a nice four-bedroom home
to live in a house smaller than many of
our living rooms? If you ask Kate Brown,
owner of a perfect tiny house here in Powell
River, she will tell you that building her
tiny house gave her back her life.
Sitting in the charming, fir-lined living
room, which doubles as a bedroom, Kate
explained. “I was always frustrated with
the maintenance of my character home:
both physically and financially. Being disabled,
I didn’t have the energy or finances
to deal with it and still be able to have some
joy out of life. I decided that I needed to
be in an environment that I could maintain
and still be able to have energy and some
money left over at the end of the day.”
This tiny jewel of a house sits on a regular
city lot. It is not a backyard cottage
or a guesthouse. It is the only house on
the lot. Kate first noticed this home design
in a magazine and then contacted the architect,
Henry Mann, who builds sacred
Thunder Bay Saw Shop Ltd
tel • 604 485-5041
BIG AND SMALL: Kate Brown finds big benefits to living in a small space... with just 350
square feet.
fax • 604 485-5094 • 7125 Duncan Street
* Promotional offer available exclusively at your participating
independent professional dealer. This promotion cannot be
substituted, transferred or exchanged for cash or other products.
Thunder Bay Saw Shop Ltd
Powell River Living • april 2011 • 7

Be efficient
Mother Nature wants you
to save money. We can help.
homes. Mr. Mann usually only designs
one-of-a kind homes but after the two of
them talked he agreed to share the Mandela
design Kate liked.
The building of Kate’s home didn’t happen
overnight, as there are size restrictions
to buildings in Powell River and Kate had
to apply for a variance as her design was
below the minimum requirement. Kate
took her ideas to Mayor Stewart Alsgard
and he was instrumental in helping her
begin the project. After the home was
complete he came for tea and shared his
ideas around solar power for the future.
Local contractor Wes Brown (no relation)
of WB Contracting was commissioned
to construct the 350 square foot
home, which sits on a 10’ x 10’ basement.
It is in the shape of a cross with the centre
being 10’ x10’ and the pods each 10’
x 6’. It has a cathedral ceiling with a skylight
in the middle and a double roof that
creates a convection effect: warmer in
winter and cooler in summer.
Being inside the house feels like being
in a perfect little nest. “From the builtin
bed, which is snuggled up next to a
window I can look out and see the forest.
If I turn my head I can see out a
skylight to the sky above. The first week
Reduce youR
I was here was in the middle of a fierce
storm. I was afraid for a moment but
then I realized the house is built as solid
as a little fortress. I remember thinking
if my soul is infinite and this body
can contain it then this little house can
hold my body,” said Kate.
Kate has room in her home for a perfect
little kitchen. The cupboards are
made from wood recycled from antique
furniture she no longer needed. She has a
full-sized bathroom and has just enough
closet space for her careful selection of
clothes. “My clothes that are out of season
go down to the storage space below
footprint!
Wes Brown, Owner
Helping the planet.
It’s what we do.
What does WB do?
Project management
Project design
New Custom homes
Foundations & Framing
Renos (large or small)
Interior Decorating
www.wbcontracting.ca
3577 MacKenzie Avenue (604) 485-6656 wes@wbcontracting.com
The Powell River
Transit System has expanded to include:
• Additional weekday mid-afternoon runs on the Westview
and Grief Point routes
• Additional weekday mid-morning trip to Sliammon
• Extended evening service Monday to Wednesday
until after 10 pm
and starting April 15th...
• A new evening trip to Sliammon on Friday and
Saturday evenings.
Take a ride with the best Transit System
of its size in BC and help keep Powell River green.
For schedule and fare details visit www.bctransit.com or call 604 485-4287
8 • www.PRLiving.ca

until I need them. I am very careful about
what I bring in here, when something
comes in, some else has to go out.”
The house is a product, not only of local
building, but also of local recycling. The
bed, which is built like a galley bunk into
the wall, as well as the kitchen and many of
the added features, were a shared creation
by Kate and Tim Borsos, a local carpenter.
The bed was recycled from a damaged
bunk bed found at Liquidation World.
Outside the little house are three outbuildings.
Local builder Dale Forsberg
built the carport and meditation hut; Tim
Borsos built the greenhouse and studio.
All the out buildings use recycled windows
in their design. When Kate decided
to build the studio she needed it to be
her “happy place” and so she created a
miniature of her grandfather’s home in
the prairies.
“My grandfather was very special to
me,” she said.
Tiny houses are the wave of the future
and because of Kate’s tiny house Powell
River is part of that wave.
But most important of all to Kate is the
idea that building the house empowered
her. “I was diagnosed with a permanent
disability 14 years ago. For quite a while
I lived as a shadow of the person I once
was. I know that living in this way allows
me to simplify my existence and create a
quality of life. I don’t really have to give
up anything, just live with less; there is a
difference. For someone who is disabled,
retired or single this type of living can
restore their faith in themselves.”
While most Canadians have spent
Take care of the earth and she will take care of you.
~ Author Unknown
Powell River Celebration of Community
5907 Arbutus Street T. 250.483.2250
Powell River, BC F. 250.483.2151
V8A 4S2
E. priver@bc.sja.ca
April 23 is Earth Day.
Celebrate with the commitment to care about
our environment and make every day Earth Day.
4675 Marine Ave, Powell River • 604 485-1249 Pier 17, Sechelt • 604 741-0792
What Every Babysitter Should Know
(BC-HBS) $40.00
Sa, May 28 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
CPR-AED Levels A+B+C*
(BC-CPC-AED) $39.00/$57.00/$65.00
Tu, May 10 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
M, Jun 06 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Tu, Jul 19 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
CPR Level C with AED Renewal
(BC-CPC-R-AED) $45.00
F, May 20 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM
W, Jun 22 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM
F, Jul 29 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Emergency First Aid - Community Care
(BC-ECC) $89.00
M, May 30 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
F, Jun 17 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Sa, Jul 23 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Emergency First Aid for Industry (Work-
SafeBC/OFA Level 1 Equivalent)
(BC-ESO) $89.00
Sa, May 07 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Tu, May 17 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Th, May 26 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Sa, Jun 11 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
W, Jun 15 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Tu, Jun 21 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Sa, Jul 09 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
W, Jul 13 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Th, Jul 21 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
W, Jul 27 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Standard First Aid for Industry (WorkSafeBC/
OFA Level 1 Equivalent) (BC-SSOC) $165.00
W, Th, May 18 - 19 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
M, Tu, Jun 13 - 14 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Th, F, Jul 14 - 15 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
WorksafeBC/OFA Transportation Endorsement
(BC-TE) $105.00
F, May 27 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Su, Jun 12 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Su, Jul 10 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
WorkSafeBC/OFA Level 3 (BC-OF3) $715.00
M-F, Jun 27-Jul08 8:45 AM - 4:45 PM
PLEASE NOTE
Most classes require pre-reading.
CPR-AED Levels A + B + C are held in the same
classroom at the same time. Annual CPR/AED
refresher training recommended by WorkSafeBC
and the Canadian Heart & Stroke Foundation.
BC-CPA-AED = 5 hrs.
BC-CPB-AED= 5.5 hrs.
BC-CPC-AED = 7 hrs.
Pet First Aid Kit
(BC-PET) $22.32
Don’t forget the four legged members of our community.
Contact our Customer Service Centre or
visit your local branch to purchase North America’s
leading Pet First Aid Kit!
Not sure which class to take? Drop by your nearest
branch; our friendly staff will be pleased to assist you.
Find online registration and the current course
calendar at www.sja.ca/bc
Customer Service Centre at: 1.866.321.2651
Mon - Fri 8:00AM - 8:00PM / Sat 9:00AM - 5:00PM
Powell River Living • april 2011 • 9

more money on creating bigger, more
luxurious houses, some like Kate have
decided that good things come in small
packages. Electricity and all the heating
for this little house costs around $35 a
month. Kate and her big dog Moon live
comfortably and simply and have for the
last two years, leaving a smaller footprint
on the planet.
Kate has decided to move closer to her
family and will soon be putting the house
on the market. “I know someone will
come along who has dreamed of living
the tiny house lifestyle, who shares my
philosophy and will love this house as
much as I have loved it.”
Max Cameron Theatre
Family SerieS present
live on Stage
mosey bags are made from 100%
rehabilitated plastic bottles and love.
At Nightfall
The story of Auguste, a village shoemaker and his adventures.
The story uniquely combines live action theatre, enchanting
music and awe-inspiring dance. You’re invited into a mystical
fantasy that will thrill and dazzle the imagination.
Thursday, May 5 at 7:30 pm
TickeTs • Academy of Music Box Office... call 604 485-9633 to buy
then pick up at the show. Also available at Breakwater Books.
Day of performance tickets at the door.
Adults $16 • seniors/students $12 • Age 5 & under $2
www.MaxCameronTheatre.ca
4271 Marine Avenue 604 485-4820
100% natural
Better for you, better for the Earth.
We’re now using high-quality latex foam for
cushions in our upholstery shop. Made from
renewable forests, it’s a better, longer-lasting
product, and it’s better for the planet. It’s
hypoallergenic and comes with a
25-year warranty to boot!
Alan McCallum, upholsterer
604-414-0441
Upholstery shop located at
Moving, Storage & Restorations
Powell River’s Friendly Movers
7339 Duncan Street
E-mail: tms1@shaw.ca
Coming up!
4th Annual Trash Bash
Coming up Saturday, April 30 at
Willingdon Beach. Last year more
than 218 people gathered a total
of 17 tonnes of illegally dumped
garbage from around the community.
Reports of ‘dump sites’ have
already started to pile up so more
volunteers are needed. Registration
begins at 9:30 am. Garbage
bags and maps will be handed out.
If you come without a vehicle, we
will try to organize ride sharing.
Register by sending your info to
trashbash@powellriverrd.bc.ca.
Local youth groups can win cash
donations in this event. All participants
get lunch and will be entered
into a prize draw.
Last year Brooks School’s woodworking
class built signs which
were creatively painted by the art
class with different messages encouraging
people to enjoy the pristine
outdoors and to discourage
illegal trash dumping. These signs
were planted in locations that had
been cleaned up.
To report sites, include as much information
as possible and send it to
trashbash@powellriverrd.bc.ca or
call 604 483-3231.
We strive to be your conscious
one stop local shop
JUSTPLAY
ECO TOYS
NEW! Mobile Kids
Art Classes
& Theme Parties
just-play.ca
sunshineorganics.ca
pebpond.ca
ecossentials.ca
Your local
ECO
crusader!
4726 Marine Ave 604 485-7000
10 • www.PRLiving.ca

From bicycles to buses
Mayor walks the walk
By Isabelle Southcott
It’s all the little pieces that when added up amount to something.
The guy who rides his bike to work instead of driving.
The child who uses a water bottle instead of taking a tetra pack
of juice to school every day. The lady in your office who brings
her sandwich in a container instead of a baggie. The employee
who makes sure machines that are not in use are turned off and
who turns waste paper into scrap paper.
SETTING THE PACE: Mayor Stewart Alsgard rides the bus to work
every day. Where he doesn’t bus, he walks.
How much can I afford,
and what will it cost me?
Spring is in the air, and with that fresh start
comes the desire to build your own nest.
Whether you are looking at your first home, or
a place to retire in, buying a house is a big deal.
One of the very best things you can do to make
the process easier is to get pre-approved for a
mortgage first. Why you ask? For several very
important reasons:
• You’ll know exactly how much you can
reasonably afford to borrow, and how much
your payments will be.
• You’ll be able to negotiate with confidence
and be taken seriously by the seller and their
agents.
• You’ll understand the closing costs, legal fees,
and other expenses that go with buying a home.
• You’ll be able to lock in the best interest rate
for a specific amount of time, knowing that if
rates go down, you will automatically get the
lower rate for the term you selected.
• Getting pre-approved doesn’t cost anything
and it can save you valuable time in your
negotiating process.
A mobile Mortgage Specialist is your best
resource to guide you through your entire
purchase. They can look at your situation
from every angle and help you choose the best
mortgage for your financial situation and goals.
Rachelle Ford, the RBC mobile Mortgage
Specialist for Powell River has more than 8
years experience in Powell River’s market.
If you’re looking for expert advice to help
you make informed mortgage decisions,
contact Rachelle today.
Mayor Stewart Alsgard knows only too well how all the dots
connect in business, government and the community. That is
why, back in 2007, he initiated the Sustainability Charter.
“There was a lot of enthusiasm for it,” says Alsgard. “The vision
of the charter was to recognize the fragility of the earth, expand
on the idea of sustainability and set the stage for action. “
The charter demonstrates an ongoing commitment to sustainability.
“Every time someone introduces something we refer to
the principles established under the sustainability charter so we
can protect the community today and in the future,” says Alsgard.
Personally
That’s all well and good but that’s work and politics. What
about on a personal level? What does the mayor do to reduce
his own carbon footprint?
To begin with, the mayor rarely drives. He takes the bus to
work and, whenever he can, he walks to appointments.
“I do not own a car,” Alsgard confirms. “I got rid of my van
after I retired from being a Coroner. I believe I benefit from not
being dependent on a car.”
By looking at the trim figure that can be seen hoofing it around
town, I would have to agree.
Hmmmm. I wonder how many other mayors can say that?
Biker Boy
Like many of us, Alsgard got his first wheels when he was a
child. Back in those days it was his main form of transportation.
His dependence on a bicycle continued throughout his adult
years. “I still have my little 5-speed Peugeot that I bought in
Victoria in 1974 and carted around the country.”
When Alsgard was in the Navy he would ride his bike to work
at the Naval dockyard in Esquimalt and then change into his
uniform to do his job. At the end of the day, he would bike back
home to James Bay.
“Then I took my bike to Kingston, Ontario, packed in a box.
We’d ride across to Wolfe Island and on weekends we would
Tel: 604 483-4878
Fax: 604 483-4838
Cell: 604 414-5189
Rachelle Ford@rbc.com
Powell River Living • april 2011 • 11

often plan trips further afield. One trip took us to the Upper New
York State.”
When that posting was finished, Alsgard shipped his bike
back to Vancouver where he was stationed and continued to
use it. Then when he retired and returned to Powell River,
the Peugeot came with him. “I used to ride with friends a lot.
Coming up!
Festival of Writers
Whether you have never written or your are an established
writer, there is something for you at the eighth
Annual Writers' Conference coming up at Dwight Hall
on April 15 and 16.
“Writers Buzz” sets the tone on the first day with author
readings around the community. That evening
the Opening Ceremony will bring together literary and
musical talent. CBC broadcaster and author of “Adventures
in Solitude,” Grant Lawrence, will share his
stories. He will be teaching a workshop the next day.
Poet Hannah Main-Van der Kamp, editor Sylvia Taylor
and expedition leader Anthony Dalton will also present
workshops.
Visit www.prwriters.org or call Barb Rees at 604 485-
2732 for details.
We’d do Inland Lake and I’d often ride to and from City Hall.
I’d even go home for lunch on the bike when I was at Books
& Stationery.”
Public Transit
Mayor Alsgard is proud of Powell River’s public transit system
and justifiably so. “When I got rid of the van I thought, ‘We
have a transit system and I am going to use it.’ We’ve worked
hard to develop it. We’ve grown from a basic service to one
that is championed throughout BC as the best for its size in the
province.”
And if anyone should know about our buses, it is the mayor.
“I travel every day, Monday to Friday, to City Hall by bus,” he
says proudly. “And frequently I go out on the bus routes themselves
to ride the entire system to see the reaction to it. Sometimes
the Number 1 route is standing room only,” he says, “but
it is a good place to get feedback.”
As a result, on January 1, the City of Powell River added another
1,600 service hours to its transit system, which provides
evening service Monday through Saturday and expanded daytime
service and continued Sunday service.
“As we get more feedback and identify how to provide
more hours and get BC transit approval we will look at route
changes,” he says.
In the future, Alsgard would like to see earlier direct service
to the bus interchange at the mall, which would allow people to
leave their car at home and take public transit to work.
“That would reduce the carbon emission on the roadways,”
says Alsgard.
Is the mayor proud of Powell River’s transit system?
You bet he is.
Brooks Secondary High School Dry Grad Committee
presents
The Phantom Ball
• It’s the NON-EVENT of the season!
• It’s the place to NOT be!
• It’s NOT on any day, and
• NOT at any location!
(Pretend you’re going to a ball, but give the ticket price to Dry Grad instead!)
Dry Grad gets the fundraiser, and you get to stay home!
Supports the 20th Annual All-Night Graduation Celebration, encouraging a positive approach to teens’ rites of
passage from high school by offering a night full of food, entertainment & fun in an alcohol & drug-free environment.
TWO Phantom tickets... $25 • FOUR Phantom tickets... $50
gives you the privilege of not worrying about a new dress or tux, and the added
benefits of NOT feeling foolish while doing the chicken dance.
Phantom Table of 10... only $125
for the privilege of NOT having guests before the ball
Optional Donation of your choice
Be thrilled to be able to stay home!
Donations will be accepted April 4 to April 29
Please make cheque payable to
Brooks Dry Grad and mail your donation to:
Brooks Secondary, 5400 Marine Ave
Powell River, BC V8A 2L6
More information: tullyandtanya@shaw.ca
We thank you for supporting this Alcohol & Drug-Free Celebration
12 • www.PRLiving.ca

St John Ambulance
Powell River’s Father of First Aid
This year St John Ambulance celebrates its 101st anniversary in Powell River. A grand celebration will be held in June but
in the meantime, we’d like to share a bit of local history with you.
In July 1910 a man by the name of George
Clapp landed at Powell River. One year
later he organized the Powell River Centre
of the St John Ambulance Association.
George Clapp, christened AW Clapp, is
remembered as Powell River’s Father of
First Aid. He played an important role in
the history of Powell River and the local
branch of St John Ambulance.
Clapp served in the Navy and the
Mersey Railway before moving to Powell
River. The May 1941 Powell River Digester
says he witnessed the first roll of newsprint
leave the Powell River docks and the
foundations laid of every building on the
55-acre Powell River mill property.
Clapp was Powell River’s first volunteer
fire chief, a founding member of the Powell
River Sick Benefit Society, founding
member of Squatters Creek Water User’s
Association and President of Westview
Ratepayers. He lived in this community
for 30 years before he died in 1941 at the
age of 77 in St Luke’s Hospital.
MAX CAMERON THEATRE
presents
“He was in harness to the last. Only a
few days prior (to his death) he was planning
new problems for his first-aid classes,”
explains the Digester.
Clapp held classes in first aid work for
several years before being put in charge of
the First Aid Station at the Mill.
When George Clapp came upon a young
and careless worker at the mill during his
days of first aid duty he would say: “Remember
young fellow, when they turned
you out they didn’t issue any spare parts.”
During his life, Clapp made first aid work
his hobby. It was in recognition of the valuable
service he provided to the community
that A.E. McMaster, who was the mill manager
in 1924, at a meeting of the Employees’
Sick Benefit Society, presented Clapp with
the Vellum Vote of Thanks of the Grand Priory
of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem in
England, an honour rarely bestowed.
According to the May 1924 issue of the
Powell River Digester, “It was a fitting appreciation
of the sterling work which he
FIRST AID: George Clapp, right, teaches
H. Hutton how to treat an injured worker
in the First Aid Room.
has done both in England and in our own
town, and he has been the recipient of the
hearty congratulations of his fellow workmen
here in Powell River.”
In 1936, Clapp was appointed as a serving
brother in the St John Ambulance Association
recognizing outstanding service.
METROPOLITAN OPERA
Live in High-definition
saturday, April 9 • 10 am
Running time: 3 hr 15 min
ROSSINI
Le Comte Ory
(English Subtitles)
saturday, April 23 • 10 am
Running time: 2 hr 45 min
R. STRAuSS
Capriccio
(English Subtitles)
Adults $22
Student/Senior $20
12 & under $13
saturday, April 30 • 10 am
Running time: 3 hr 15 min
VERdI
Il Travatore
(English Subtitles)
Coming in May • Wagner’s DIE WALKÜRE
Opera InsIghts • Join John Silver for discussion of Le Comte Ory on Tues, April 6; Capriccio on Tues, April 19; and
Il Trovatore on Tues, April 26. Extensive DVD and/or CD excerpts. Future Chef's Cafe @ Brooks, 6–8 pm. $6/presentation.
AdvAnce tickets • Academy of Music • 604 485-9633 / perforMAnce dAy tickets • Max cameron Theatre at Brooks
Powell River Living • april 2011 • 13

By Isabelle Southcott
Do what you can
Sometimes it feels like we live in our own little world because
Powell River is separated from the rest of the coast and Vancouver
Island by Jervis Inlet and the Salish Sea.
But when the tsunami and earthquake hit Japan last month
we were reminded that we are all of one world. Connected by
oceans, the air we breathe, and the relationships we have with
friends, family and even strangers, we are bound as one.
Powell River may be many kilometers away from Japan, but
many of us have friends there. For the past few months Rumi
Niino lived in Powell River so she could improve her English
skills. Rumi was a student teacher in my son Alex’s Grade 6
class at Assumption School. She returned to Tokyo the very day
the earthquake struck.
By the grace of God, Rumi and her family are fine and she sent
us an email to let us know. “I appreciate many other countries
and my friends supporting and praying for Japan.”
Yumi Yamano, another young Japanese international student
came into my life a couple of years ago through Toastmasters.
She emailed us after the earthquake that she had survived. “I’m
okay but most parts of Japan got terribly damaged. It was worse
than a tragedy and nightmare… like the end of the world. The
risk to get radiation sickness is getting up.”
Even though we live far away we are one and we can all do
something to help in our own little way. Many people have lost
family, friends, and possessions. They are terrified for their own
future and their children’s future. They don’t know what will
happen and what the long-term effects of the nuclear disaster
will be.
I was listening to a CBC Radio interview recently with Joy
Kogaowa, author of Obasan. She told a story that resonated
with me and so I will share it with you.
One day there was a great forest fire. Everything was burning
and all the animals were running to escape. That is, all the
animals except the hummingbird. The hummingbird was flying
back and forth between the lake and the forest fire releasing
drops of water on the fire as she went. A bear saw what the
hummingbird was doing and asked her why she bothered doing
such a small and insignificant thing. To which the hummingbird
replied: “I am doing what I can.”
This story illustrates the point that even though we may feel
disconnected, isolated and insulated here in Powell River, we
are not and we can all do something to help. We can raise money
for the people who have lost their homes. We can ask relief
organizations what is needed. And we can pray.
My family and your family may not be suffering right now
but someone’s family is and that is why we should care. We are
needed and because of this we need to reach out and do what
we can to help.
Book the restaurant
for Special Events
Find us on
The Boardwalk Restaurant in Lund
oPEN ALL EASTER WEEKEND
including Good Friday!
There's always a reason to come to Lund!
Open 7 days a week, 11 am - 8 pm • 604 483-2201 • theboardwalkrestaurant.ca
Reservations
Recommended
SAVARY ISLAND REAL ESTATE
waterfront • cottages
lots • dreams
www.savary.ca
“Anything you need to know about Savary Island”
Rick Thaddeus • 604 483-3218 • rick@savary.ca
Savary has white sand beaches, summer ocean swimming, a good deal of sunshine.
It also has deer, eagles, hummingbirds, clams & oysters and two bylaws.
Savary does NOT have blacktop, car ferry, hydro, building permits, rats,
raccoons, bears or cougars. Nor does it have many mosquitoes.
Lots from $45,000. For tales and a tour, contact Rick.
14 • www.PRLiving.ca

The dry end of Paper Machine #11
Catalyst looks ahead
Powell River: The mill that could and did
by Isabelle Southcott
For the past 10 years, a dark cloud loomed
over the Catalyst Powell River mill. Layoffs,
tax cuts, a reduced work week, early retirements,
and everything else associated with
weak markets, a recession and downsizing
has plagued the mill that was once the largest
newsprint producer west of Ontario.
But now, for the first time in over a decade,
that dark cloud has dissipated and the future
looks brighter, says Stew Gibson, former Powell
River mill manager.
The mill is recovering and management is
cautiously optimistic, says Gibson. He’s sitting
in the boardroom of the Powell River mill with
Mike Verdiel, Communications, Energy and
Paperworkers Union Local 76 president. The
two had to work closely together to keep the
mill viable. Powell River would certainly have
followed the demise of other mills without the
cooperation of Locals 76 and 1 of the Communications,
Energy and Paperworkers Union.
Both the company and the unions also say
the cooperation of the City of Powell River has
made the mill’s survival possible.
Catalyst Paper, a leading mechanical papers
producer in North America, owns a mill
in Arizona and three in BC. The Crofton and
Port Alberni mills continue to operate, but the
mill in Campbell River closed permanently in
2010. So did the recycling operation in Coquitlam.
Both were victims of the worst economic
downturn in the industry, and a difficult
labor and tax situation.
The fact that the Powell River mill survived
the worst economic downturn in the industry
can be summed up in two words: cooperation
and diversification. First there was cooperation
between mill management, the unions, and
staff. Then the taxpayers of Powell River and
the City made adjustments to ensure the viability
of the mill. Without this willingness to
change and move forward, the mill could not
have survived.
AGREEMENTS REACHED
At the same time, the mill was examined
for areas to reduce costs. Although Local 76’s
labour contract didn’t expire until April 2003,
a new agreement was reached early at the request
of the company. “It gave people some
breathing room and brought about relative
labour peace,” says Verdiel. In an attempt to
cut costs and save jobs, members of Local 76
agreed to a reduced workweek of 37 1 ⁄3 hours.
Communications improved at the mill.
“Grievances dropped from 110 a year to three
a year,” says Verdiel. For the first time ever,
the heads of the mill’s two unions were invited
to be part of meetings and discussions with
the municipality.
“Labour was willing to make changes to ensure
the viability of the mill,” says Gibson.
Some took early retirement, others were laid
off. The collective agreement was modified
and efficiencies were gained on the paper machines,
said Gary Jackson, Local 1’s second
vice-president.
As Jackson points out,“It was survival mode
and everybody stepped up. We knew we were
going through some tough times and that we
had to work with what we had.”
Because of the efforts made by the City and
mill employees, Powell River’s was the only
mill in the Catalyst group that did not take
downtime in 2009.
As a result, the Powell River mill produced
480,000 tonnes of paper and, directly and indirectly,
supported more than 1,100 jobs.
RouGH DECADE
The first 10 years of 2000 haven’t been easy
and both Gibson and Verdiel are glad they are
behind them.
In October 2001, Norske purchased the
Powell River mill from Pacifica Papers. In late
November of the same year Norske closed the
kraft mill as it was not economically viable.
Sponsored Article
Powell River Living • april 2011 • 15

Paper Machines #2 and #3 in 1914
That closure eliminated 350 jobs in Local
76, says Verdiel. Norske committed $30 million
to help employees find other jobs in the
company or accept a voluntary severance offer.
“Norske came in well prepared, offered early
retirement and enhanced severance. The
packages were well done. They even offered
it to Local 1 which opened up opportunities
to members of Local 76 to get jobs in Local 1,
and 20 and some of our members went there.”
says Verdiel.
“It didn’t save jobs but it kept people working.”
MAjoR iNDuSTRy TAxES Too HiGH
It was clear that the industrial tax base in
all four BC Catalyst communities needed to be
reduced if the mills were going to survive. In
December 2001, CEO Russ Horner met with
Powell River Mayor Stewart Alsgard and Council,
City department heads and union heads.
“Russ Horner expressed a personal affront to
the taxation levels all four communities with
Catalyst mills were charging,” says the City’s
Chief Administrative Officer Stan Westby.
Westby encouraged council to take a constructive
view. “I suggested it would be a competitive
advantage for the community if we
were to take a proactive approach to reducing
major industrial taxation. I felt that it would
send a clear sign to the company that we were
willing to listen and sympathetic to their concerns
and willing to take action.”
Council listened and under Mayor Alsgard’s
leadership formed a policy to reduce major industrial
taxes. “Instead of digging in, which
you really see in the other three Catalyst communities,
Powell River worked with Catalyst,”
says Westby.
In 2001, Powell River residential taxes were
Investing in the future
Green transformation project
by Isabelle Southcott
investing in the community is important to
Catalyst Paper. In February Catalyst announced
$13.3 million in federal funding
approval of a new green-energy project at
its Powell River mill that will produce lowcarbon
electricity and be one of the cleanest
waste wood co-generation projects in Canada.
The project is funded entirely by the Pulp
and Paper Green Transformation Program
credits earned through production of black
liquor at the Crofton pulp operations in 2009.
It will maximize on-site electrical production
by using biomass fuel to bring Power
Boiler 19, and its steam generator, G12, up
to capacity, said Carlo Dal Monte, Catalyst’s
Director of Energy. This is important because
electricity is one of the highest costs incurred
by the mill.
It will also optimize the power boiler and
generation system’s ability to create green
electricity by installing an exhaust steam
condenser, expanding hog fuel storage and
handling, and recycling sand used in Power
Boiler 19. The upgrade could increase G12’s
Steam turbo generator
output from 15 megawatts of power to about
36 megawatts, he added.
The federal government’s green transformation
program was a response to subsidies
and tax credits the United States government
gave American pulp mills that used a byproduct
from kraft pulp called black liquor.
“The concern was that it was creating an
unfair playing field,” said Dal Monte.
The money has to be spent on projects that
show environmental benefits or create more
green energy.
Catalyst received $18 million in GTP funding
credits and is spending the bulk of it on
the G12 project.
By increasing the amount of biomass
burned, projects such as this one help recover
more of what’s being left behind in the
bush, said Dal Monte. “It never makes sense
to cut down a tree just to burn it. If you have
to cut a tree down, get the lumber from it,
turn the chips to pulp and paper and what is
left over turn into energy. This project gives
us the opportunity to use that last little bit.”
The company has been working with local
contractors on how to use what is now left behind
in the bush and Dal Monte said they’ve
had discussions with Sliammon First Nation
about possible opportunities in the future.
16 • www.PRLiving.ca
Sponsored Article

well below average for communities of comparable
size. Industry was carrying the bulk
of the tax load. Residential taxation was just
34.47%, while major industry paid 52.82%
and business 11.84%.
MARkET DEMAND DRopS
In North America, the demand for graphic
paper began to decline rapidly. Beginning in
2004, the industry saw demand drop from 48
million tonnes to where it is today at 32 million
tonnes a year. A big part of this had to do with
society’s shift to social media. Newspapers
that had been publishing for decades closed.
“The whole business dropped by one-third,”
says Gibson.
Every aspect of the mill’s expense sheet
was examined. “The overall cost structure was
onerous, taxes were one aspect of it,” says
Gibson. “Labour, another.”
Ripples of uncertainty could be felt in the
mill and in the community.
“We had the risk of losing at least one paper
machine, Number 9, and possibly, the entire
mill,” says Gibson. But Catalyst employees
did what they could to ensure the mill survived.
Further agreements were reached with
both locals and concessions were made as
Catalyst continued to figure out how to run as
a leaner operation.
CoopERATioN bETwEEN THE CiTy AND Mill
Instead of ignoring Catalyst’s concerns
about unreasonable taxation levels, The City
listened and responded. In 2003, council
passed a motion to reduce major industry taxes
by $200,000 annually for five years to help
Catalyst lower costs and maintain employment
levels. With an additional $1,470,000 reduction
in major industry in 2010, resulting in a
major industry and business to residential tax
ratio of 3.5:1 and a 17.9 per cent reliance on
major industry.
Over the next five years the City will continue
to reduce taxation levels for major industry
with a goal of achieving average provincial taxation
levels for this tax class. Since 1999, the
City has achieved a cumulative total of $13
million in taxation reductions while maintaining
a reasonable level of service, says Westby.
lEADiNG THE wAy
Powell River is viewed as a leader for creating
competitive conditions for business. The
City inked an agreement in principle (AIP)
with Catalyst in April 2010 that had the objective
of reducing major industrial taxation paid
by Catalyst while assisting the City in reducing
its capital expenditures for future municipal
service infrastructure.
The company will sell the City the unoccupied
mill administration office building and associated
lands for a nominal price and the City
and Catalyst will explore a variety of joint economic
development initiatives. The agreement
also includes a four-year mortgage extension to
the PRSC lands, a three-way partnership with
Catalyst, The City and Tla’Amin First Nation.
Lyn Brown, vice-preident Corporate Relations,
calls the tax agreement between Catalyst and
City of Powell River “bold and instructive.”
“The relationship marks quite a departure from
what typically has been the relationship between
government and industry. What we saw
in our dealings with Powell River was a community
and municipal government that was
prepared to work with the mill and the company
to help the business be competitive in a
pretty difficult time,” she says.
Both Mayor Stewart Alsgard and Councillor
Dave Formosa played key roles in the AIP.
“The work and decisions made by this council
along with those of the two Catalyst unions
are truly why Powell River is still operating,”
says Formosa. “Unfortunately it was Campbell
River that suffered when their mill closed for
good. This very well could have been us,” Formosa
adds.
Mayor Alsgard agrees. “We did what needed
to be done. We addressed the issues that needed
to be addressed in order to move forward
and we accomplished what we set out to do.
pRoDuCT DivERSiFiCATioN
The final piece in the survival puzzle has to
be attributed to diversification. If you don’t
Mike Verdiel, President Local 76; General Manager Rick Maksymetz; MP John Weston,
Mayor Stewart Alsgard; Catalyst VP of Finance and CFO Brian Baarda at March 14
announcement of Pulp and Paper Green Transformation Program funding.
Brighter paper,
brighter future
Why diversification has
Catalyst turning a new page
by Sean Percy
Two decades ago, the Powell River mill’s
production was mostly newsprint. But
in the early 1990s, the company invested
money and energy to diversify the kinds of
paper it was able to produce. The installation
of soft-nip calenders on Paper Machine
#10 was the first step in a transition
toward smoother, glossier finishes for the
flyer and catalogue markets.
Then in 2001 and 2002, a team under
the direction of tech whiz Neil Gray started
developing a sheet to compete with softcalendered
(SC-A) grades. The new grade
was known as Electraprime and gained
wide acceptance in 2003-4. It remains
hugely popular with advertisers throughout
the West Coast because of its brightness
and gloss. It’s the paper used for the cover
of Powell River Living.
“Grade development efforts like E-Prime
are one of the reasons why Powell River Division
has been able to survive while other
mills have not,” says engineer Jeremy Mercer,
manager of Technical Services at Catalyst’s
Powell River Division.
Meanwhile, Paper Machines #9 and #11
were also primarily newsprint, with some
of the highest manufacturing costs in the
business. Through a combination of investment,
application of technology and hard
work, the company was able to shift away
from newsprint and lower its cost at the
same time. A mainstay of PM9 is a grade
called Electrastar with a brightness range
of 76 to 84. Catalyst hopes to deliver an
Electrastar 90 this year.
“Electrastar is why PM9 continues to operate
when other machines of that vintage
shut down decades ago,” says Mercer.
A new bleach plant in 2005 allowed
PM11 to produce brighter paper. Companies
such as Safeway and Shoppers Drug
Mart started printing their flyers on Electrabrite
Lite, a lighter-weight, brighter paper
that has grown into the single largest
seller from PM11. Now, newsprint is less
than 30% of the machine’s production.
The current grade range of PM11 extends
to papers with a brightness of 70 per cent.
Electrabrite 70 makes up most of Powell
River Living’s inside pages.
Recently, the division has dipped its toe
into the book grade market. “It’s a challenge
producing book grades (thick, bulky
paper) and Electraprime (thin, dense paper)
in the same mill,” says Mercer. But it
means more versatility and diversity for a
company that is still alive only because of
its willingness to change.
Sponsored Article
Powell River Living • april 2011 • 17

change you die. If the mill still relied solely
on newsprint it would not be alive today. Products
like Electraprime and Electrastar are two
important reasons why the mill continues to
operate and why Paper Machine #9 didn’t
shut down.
Number 10 paper machine has had some
direct investment. “It was the heart of the
grade development focus,” says Gibson.
And for now, Number 9 has been given a
stay of execution. “For the first time in 20
years, Number 9 isn’t the rumour mill of going
down next year. The company ordered replacement
parts… this gives people confidence that
they will be employed and that they can make
decisions about their future,” says Verdiel.
Jackson says morale is on the rebound at
the mill although with all the downsizing it’s
a challenge of remain safe yet cost efficient.
“It looks like we have turned a corner with
all machines sold out and pricing holding. We
just learned that Local 1 will be hiring. Catalyst
is a great place to work and we have great
people,” Jackson added.
Because of improved communication, working
together instead of against one another,
cooperation between the unions, the city, management
and the taxpayers of Powell River, the
mill is once again positioned to compete.
Today the mill is a smaller, leaner operation
but it still employs 390 people. In 2010 the
Powell River mill’s payroll was $40 million.
“Mill jobs are still in the top 10 per cent of
good paying jobs,” says Verdiel. “The pay is
good, benefits are good, there’s a good pension
plan and because we have those we are
able to spend money in the community. The
businesses in town realize the spin off benefits
from us.”
The mill still plays an important role in the
community today and will in the future.
Mill jobS oN THE HoRizoN
For the first time in years, there are opportunities
for Powell River’s young people who
want to work at the mill.
“We are starting the hiring process and in the
next 10 years, about 100 jobs will become available.
There will be career opportunities for pipefitters,
millwrights, instrumentation,” says Gibson.
The majority of Local 76 members are 50
and up. In the next 10 years, 75% of Local
76s members will retire.
Garry St. Cyr at the helm in the control room of Power Boiler #19
“We don’t have many young people working
here anymore,” says Verdiel, admitting he’d be
hard pressed to find someone in their 20s or
30s. “But we will have,” adds Gibson quickly.
The question for the future is: “What can
we do to get kids ready for employment in the
mill?” asks Gibson. “What skills do they need?
How can we get them heading in the best direction
and give them the best opportunity if
they want to stay in Powell River or come back
home to live and work in Powell River?”
Catalyst has entered discussions with
School District 47, Vancouver Island University
and Sliammon First Nation, in order to learn
how to prepare Powell River’s youth for future
employment at the mill.
Opportunities for Powell River
Future employment at Catalyst Paper
by Isabelle Southcott
Seventy per cent of the Catalyst workforce
in trades specific areas will be eligible
for retirement in the next five to eight years.
“That creates tremendous opportunities for
our youth and other citizens of Powell River
for local employment,” says Troy Marshall,
Central Island Regional Coordinator for dual
credit programs for Vancouver Island University
and School District 47. The school
district and VIU have been offering training
in several trades for several years and soon
they’ll be offering more, only the new training
will be geared to those wanting to work for
Catalyst Powell River.
These opportunities come with challenges.
Challenges that educators like Marshall and
Arlette Raaen, principal of the Powell River
campus of Vancouver Island University, are
only too happy to have.
The school district and university are
working on a post secondary program that
would provide industry specific training that
upon completion would provide entry into a
job in the mill. “We are focusing on training
people in the community for jobs in the
community,” said Raaen. “There may be
an opportunity to draw people in who need
training to go to work in other communities.
This could become a niche specialization in
education.”
Catalyst will need skilled workers. “We
will continue the work we have been doing
in training people and expand it into trades
specific for the mill and the paper industry
such as electricians, pipefitters, machinists
and millwrights, and boiler operators as well
as welders and carpenters which we already
train,” said Marshall.
Their first priority however is “to identify
what skill sets that we can train First Nation
youth to enable them to be work ready.”
Clint Williams, Chief of Sliammon First
Nation, is excited there will be employment
opportunities for Sliammon.
“We look to play a more meaningful role
with the renewal of our protocol agreement
and to also see opportunities increase for
Sliammon First Nation people in the areas
Sponsored Article
of employment, training and education with
VIU, School District 47, Catalyst and Sliammon
working together,” said Williams.
Sliammon wants to be part of the mill’s
revitilization project, he added.
“Sliammon First Nation would like to become
part of the economic revitilization of
Powell River. We said to Catalyst we realize
your mill is shrinking in terms of employees
and operations, with our Aboriginal rights
and title we would like to be a part of the revitilization
process of the mill. We would like
to help get the mill back on its feet. Sliammon
is open to exploring opportunities that
will help the City, Catalyst and Sliammon to
create employment and opportunities to live
and work here and raise their families here
instead of having to leave to find employment.”
“This is a wonderful opportunity,” says
Raaen. “It is really promising to see Catalyst
looking years forward. It sends a message out
about the anticipated number of jobs that will
be available in the future.”
18 • www.PRLiving.ca

Meet the crew
Why they work for Catalyst
pATRiCiA wiNCHEll
Accountant
Patricia Winchell and her husband
Brad both work at the Powell
River mill. “I started as a co-op
engineering student in the summer
of 2000,” says Patricia, an accountant,
who grew up here. After
graduating she transferred to
the Crofton mill where she began
working on her Certified General
Accountant designation. Patricia
and Brad, Manager of Planning
and Coordination, and their two
children were excited to move back
to Powell River last fall when job
opportunities opened up.
“Catalyst has been very supportive of me working part-time which enables
me to have a great work-life balance as we raise our young family,”
Patricia says. My colleagues at Catalyst are fantastic to work with and I
enjoy the new challenges we are presented with on a daily basis. Powell
River is such a great community.”
DoNovAN vAN GoRkoM
Electrical/Instrumentation Supervisor
in Utilities and Power Distribution
Donovan dreamed of working in
a mill but knew that job opportunities
for electricians in his line
of work were few and far between.
“Fortunately for me my resume
landed at Powell River right when
they were adding to their electrical
staff,” says Donovan, a six-year
employee.
“From the start Catalyst has been
a progressive company to work for.
I’ve always loved the automation
and programming so arriving here I
feel like I won the lottery. Having a consistent income is a huge bonus,
as well as the paid vacations. To be home every night with family and
friends, enjoying the beautiful scenery of Powell River and working at
a place where one’s skills are stretched and challenged daily leaves me
truly thankful.”
DouG lANiGAN
Instrument Mechanic
Doug began working at the Powell River mill in 1998. “I had recently
completed a Pulp And Paper Technician course through NAIT (Northern
Alberta Institute of Technology) and wanted to remain in this industry.
Powell River is a great location, and of the employment opportunities
available, we chose this as a lifestyle.”
Doug has been working in the industry for close to 20 years and when
it comes to the future he is cautiously optimistic. “It seems we started
to turn the corner with respect to the global market last spring. It is
a credit to this division that we were able to keep all three paper machines
running throughout the recent lengthy downturn. I am encouraged
that we are starting to hire again, and of course overjoyed that our
son was able to secure one of the engineering co-op positions.”
TylER lANiGAN
Mechanical Engineer Student UVIC
Tyler’s interest in the energy savings projects being carried out at Catalyst
led him to apply for a job at the mill while working on his degree.
“It’s a good opportunity to live at home and save some money for
school,” says the co-op student.
Tyler is interested in alternative energy and hopes to become involved
in Sustainable and Renewable Energy projects in the future.
“Working for Catalyst has been good because I’ve gotten to do a lot of
different things here, gaining some experience in many different areas.
As a second year mechanical engineer studying at the University of
Victoria, this exposure has been invaluable.”
Sponsored Article
Powell River Living • april 2011 • 19

Sage products
Come from Sage papermakers
As a World Wildlife Fund Climate Saver
company, Catalyst has an outstanding
greenhouse gas emissions reduction story and
the Powell River mill is setting the pace for the
company and the industry.
“At 51.2 kg of CO2e per tonne, we have one
of the lightest carbon footprints in our industry,”
says Sarah Barkowski, PhD, the mill’s
environment manager. “We’re focusing on
sustainability in every part of our operation
– from aiming to use less and waste less, to
fibre certification and annual reporting of our
environmental performance.”
This steady operating focus led to introduction
of Catalyst’s Sage line of specialty papers
– many of which are made at the Powell River
mill. The Sage offer has received a warm welcome
from publishers, retail advertisers and
printers who want great pressroom performance
and a verified environmental pedigree.
Says Tom Crowley, senior vice-president,
sales and marketing, “it’s proof that our naturally
positive environmental story has traction
in the marketplace. Customers want it and are
willing to pay for it.”
Catalyst Sage paper is 100 per cent certified
through the Programme for the Endorsement
of Forest Certification (PEFC) chain of
custody system. It is manufactured carbonneutral
using 86 per cent renewable energy
sources. And it offers transparency, as all
data is available through the environmental
paper assessment tool (EPAT), a project of
GreenBlue, a science-based environmental
nonprofit.
“In today’s Wiki-driven world, we have to earn
the business and confidence of paper customers
in new ways,” says Brown, vice-president,
corporate relations and social responsibility.
“Catalyst is part of a pretty complicated value
chain and Sage is a simple way to tell a great
story. It puts the spotlight on our production
expertise and the environmental care that we
wrap around the rolls of paper we sell.”
An area of particular interest for the Powell
River mill is the book market. “As we grow our
sales in the book market, Sage will be a big
part of it,” says Tom. “It resonates well with
book publishers, and gives them a clear way
to live out the environmental commitment
they’ve made to their shareholders.”
With early success, it’s clear that the Sage
line of products made at the Powell River mill
represent a story whose time has come. And
for a growing variety of customers, it’s recognized
as the wise choice.
“Customers know exactly what they’re buying:
paper with excellent pressroom performance,
a verified environmental profile and
backed by the hard work and expertise of production,
technical, logistics, service and sales
employees. Sage is an offer all of us at Catalyst
can be proud of and stand behind.”
PaPer endures.
so does our
commitment to
sustainability.
Have you noticed that the ‘paperless society’ never happened? That’s because paper
remains a high quality, high touch communication media for newspapers, magazines
and other forms of print-based information. People still love to interact with paper.
Better still, paper is constant. And, it’s still one of the most environmentally sensitive
communications media. Consider that paper is made of renewable natural fibres and
that paper can be recycled many times over.
Catalyst Paper is a global leader in making paper the responsible way. We are western
North America’s leading manufacturer of mechanical papers – papers whose raw
materials are sourced from sustainably managed forests and papers that are produced
using 89% renewable energy at our BC mills. Catalyst was the first company to
introduce manufactured carbon-neutral paper for a mass market. Our eye is always on
using fewer raw materials, wasting less, increasing efficiencies in manufacturing, and
lessening our greenhouse gas emissions. There is no one solution and that’s why we
work tirelessly with our supply chain and other partners, including WWF Canada to
reach better outcomes.
You can feel good about using paper to get your news and information. You can feel
even better when you reuse and recycle that paper.
Learn more: catalystpaper.com/sustainability
20 • www.PRLiving.ca

Who is smarter than a sixth grader?
Fundraising event promises fun for all
By Dylan Young
How smart are our sixth graders? Do
you suppose they are smarter than
our own MLA Nicholas Simons? How
about that amazing actress CaroleAnn
Leishman? Or maybe Bill Hopkins — the
guy you hear on SUN-FM? He seems to
know something about everything.
We’ll find out just how wily, cunning
and brilliant our own students are on
Thursday, April 7 when Powell River’s
own Who Is Smarter Than A Sixth Grader?
show gets under way at 6:30 pm at the
Max Cameron Theatre. This side-splitting
fundraiser for The Orca Bus and Success
By 6 will pit six local celebrities against
Grade 6 students.
The adult celebrities are: “Mr. Karate”
Frank Clayton, MLA Nicholas Simons,
SunFM and PRACL's Bill Hopkins, Joyce
Carlson from The Peak, Gary Dietrich
from Modern Windows, and CaroleAnn
Leishman of local theatre fame from
Agius Builders.
Do you suppose they were paying attention
in class? Hmmmm…. Well, we will
find out just how much they remember
from their elementary school days! Don’t
worry, they’ll have a bit of help from the
Grade 6 students!
This will be an evening of family fun
but there is a reason behind all this fun.
You see, the Orca Bus has become such
an important vehicle for the youngest
members of our community that we need
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to make sure the money is there so it continues
to operate. Our bus is an older vehicle
and it costs a lot to maintain and
fix it. Someday soon a new bus will be
needed to replace the aging bus, which is
HELP!: Contestant Bill Hopkins gets lastminute
help from Kelly Creek students.
why fundraising is necessary.
The Orca bus drives all over the place
providing young children with fun and
learning opportunities. It’s in Sliammon,
Lund, and even on Texada Island. Dedicated
individuals from multiple generations
create a world of excitement and
play for our youngsters and they enjoy
doing so.
The ORCA Bus, (On the Road with
Children’s Activities), is a mobile Early
Brandy Peterson is happy to let her clients
speak for her.
Childhood Education (ECE), vehicle that
offers Strong Start programming provided
by School District 47. Its goal is to ensure
that children have the ability to learn
necessary skills that are essential to being
school ready. As a community resource,
our ORCA Bus has proven to be essential
affecting the lives of over 200 children
and families this year alone.
Individuals, Powell River & District United
Way, School District 47, Success By 6,
Powell River Living and the Powell River
Literacy Council have created this amazing
night of community fun hosted by the
ever entertaining Dan Devita and Jamie
Burt to raise money for the Orca Bus. The
night itself will challenge local celebrities
against questions developed from students
in Powell River’s elementary schools.
Just in case these great minds have some
trouble bringing back knowledge from elementary
school we have paired each of
our contestants up with three Grade six
students from elementary schools around
town. Each of the contestants will have 15
minutes in order to answer questions from
Grade 1 up to Grade 6 in order to accumulate
points and come out a winner!
This night of family fun is sure to be
a hilarious event with many twists and
turns. All proceeds will go straight to
the ORCA Bus. Get your tickets from the
Academy of Music, Breakwater Books,
First Credit Union or at Brooks School.
Donald Allan, MA
Sun Life Financial
604 485-2261
donald.allan@sunlife.com
“Thank you for everything Brandy!”
– Steve Laycraft
Let’s talk! 604 485-4231 office • 604 344-1234 direct • 1-877-485-4231 toll free • coastrealty.com • brandypeterson@shaw.ca • 4760 Joyce Ave
Powell River Living • april 2011 • 21

Who’s your momma?
Local designer takes her time
By Tracey Ellis
If you’ve heard of the slow food movement, get ready for the
slow clothes movement. Alisha Van Belle is the inspired mind
behind Jo’momma designs, clothing made with love from natural
materials such as soy, bamboo, hemp and organic cotton.
What are slow clothes? According to Alisha slow clothes are
handmade without a rush and always with what the customer
wants in mind. “Things are made with human energy,” she
adds, not mass mechanized enterprise.
Perhaps the ultimate in slow clothing is Alisha’s upcycled
sweaters that are created for sale at festivals. “I cut beautiful
sweaters apart and by serging pieces together create unique
one-of-a-kind sweaters,” she says. The sweaters are then embellished
with a machine felter and machine appliqué work.
While most of her clothing can be found at festivals such as
the Sunshine Music Festival in Powell River and the Filberg Festival
in Courtney, her clothing can also be found at Ecossentials/
Trendzessence on Marine Avenue in Powell River as well as at
her online store at www.jomommadesigns.ca.
Her clothing line designs reflect Alisha’s unconventional
background. They includes theatre clothing along with varied
interests such as elements of nature (especially leaves), the circus,
Faerie folk, tutus, Rococo Baroque, Medieval and Victorian
age all combined with a little Lord of the Rings — the resulting
clothing is pure Alisha, who could pass as a woodland nymph
herself.
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ACAdeMy
MusiCAl THeATre enseMble
Carma Sacree • director
Megan Skidmore • musical director
presents
April 14, 15 & 16 at 7 PM &
Matinee April 17 at 1:30 PM
Academy of Music Concert Hall
Tickets $10 adults / $5 children
from the Academy of Music
604.485.9633
22 • www.PRLiving.ca

“I’m the original punk-rock hippie-kid.
I take my inspiration from my unconventional
life.” Alisha’s designs reflect her
relaxed and easy free spirit in the soft
bamboo fabrics that cling to the body in
all the right places and flow in the most
feminine ways. “I believe that sexy, feminine
and comfortable all belong in the
same sentence,” she says.
Her latest fabric favourite is bamboo.
“Knits are very forgiving. I love the way
bamboo in particular drapes. It’s soft,
holds perspiration well and has antibacterial
properties. These fabrics feel so incredible
against your skin and wash so well.”
Current production includes four styles
of pants, two styles of yoga pants, four
styles of skirts, three types of hoodies,
three types of light jackets, three styles of
short sleeve and three long sleeved shirts
and four dresses in a variety of eco-knits
all in sizes extra-small to large. Most striking
to see is the wedding cloak, a peaked
hooded garment that flows to your ankles
and hints at all the ethereal mystery and
magic of a bride on her wedding day.
Her designs are carefully pieced together;
serged edges are integral to the designs.
“I like to play with lines to flatter the body
and enhance shape,” she says. Her clothing
line is produced with the help of a sole
employee. “We inspire each other to expand,
grow and most of all, create!”
While Alisha’s designs reflect the work of
a true fabric artist, she designs clothes to be
worn — well and often. “I want my clothes
to be worn a lot, to feel really good and to
wear well,” she says. When asked who her
target market is Alisha replies, “I do very
well with the 30 to 60 age group,” but admits
she wasn’t sure who her market was when
she first started her business. “I guess I envisioned
all these young and lovely nymphs,
but I see now that it is the older goddesses
that love my work best.”
Dez Hooff
REALTOR ®
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deseriehooff@shaw.ca 4766-B Joyce Avenue 604.485.4231 office 604.414.8408 direct anytime
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Crossroads Village • 4801 Joyce Ave • 604 485-8251 • Mon – Thur 9 am – 6 pm • Friday 9 am – 9 pm • Saturday 9 am – 6 pm • Sunday 10 am – 5 pm
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604 485-2244
Powell River Living • april 2011 • 23

24 • www.PRLiving.ca

Powell River Living • april 2011 • 25

Photos by Charlene Ruedig
26 • www.PRLiving.ca

Welcome to the Fun House
Actor/director also wrote new play
By John Dean
t’s good, but you need to paint a picture across the fourth
“Iwall as you sing, so the audience can see you’re trying to
show there’s a world out there!” instructed CaroleAnn Leishman
after I had finished my song, “There’s a world.” I was at a
rehearsal for CaroleAnn’s new musical suitably named Welcome
to the Fun House.
CaroleAnn is from Powell River’s Far Off Broadway theatre
group which has put on such productions as the famous show
Chicago. CaroleAnn graduated from the American Academy of
Dramatic Arts in Los Angeles. Since graduation she has performed
around North America in all different mediums; theatre,
TV and even film. She has performed with La Scala Opera Company
and has acted in such films as Bram Stoker's Dracula and
Chaplin. Her theatre experience includes
performances in such productions as Steel
Magnolias, Hair and even won a best supporting
actress for her role in the Memory
of Water.
This new creation from Powell River’s
talented thespian is a story of a brother
and sister who leave home to escape from
a terrible thing they have done. They end
up being led to a magical, yet dark place
known as the Fun House, where wishes
can come true, performers are electronically
tagged and drugged to keep them
working all hours and kids smoke cigars
and gamble. The sibling’s crazy adventure
takes them on a journey where they learn
not everything is as it seems, and this crazy world is darker than
first imagined.
CaroleAnn’s inspiration came from a friend who co-choreograhed
Chicago with her. “Jody McKamey choreographed an
amazing modern dance number to rocker Pink’s ‘Fun House’
for a dance recital last June. I watched from the wings with my
mouth open and said, ‘I am putting that number in my musical!’
Then it became the centre of the whole story,” CaroleAnn tells
me. “Welcome to the Fun House has been swirling around in my
head since last June. After months of jotting down notes about
characters and songs I sat down and wrote the script in about
two weeks over Christmas,” she adds.
Not only has CaroleAnn written this piece, she is also directing
and performing in it. She has 64 performers she has
to direct, at various ages, ranging from six to 60. “I have
eight-hour rehearsal days. That is so I can work with each
PAIR PRACTICE: Katherine and John
rehearse a duet for the Far Off Broadway
production Into the Fun House.
group separately so no one but me has real long days. The
kids can be a challenge. When I raise my booming voice,
though, they stop in their tracks. It’s pretty funny. They are
pretty good. They are kids after all,” CaroleAnn explains.
She also acts as a magical performer for the musical named
Grizelda. She has two other “soul sisters” who, too, are
magical. “Grizelda resembles me in that she tends to try
and look after some of the kids in the Fun House. Carma
Sacree and Melissa Call, who play my ‘soul sisters,’ are also
soul sisters of mine in real life so that has been fun to play
opposite them in these roles. They’re both type cast,” CaroleAnn
explains.
CaroleAnn comes from a long line of directors, actors and
singers. As she puts it to me, “It’s in my
DNA.” Though she admits to having it in
her genes, so to speak, she also admits,
“Theatre school was just the next step because
I was a terrible actor! And I was
terrible at public speaking. I also never
sang until I went to theatre school. That’s
where I found my voice.” Although she
may have struggled at the beginning, CaroleAnn
has gone on to do many performances
all over North America and admits
her most memorable and favourite
performance was for her role as Katherine
in The Memory of Water. “It was such
a challenging role: so different from me,
very emotional and over the top and it
was a really well-written play as well.”
I myself am no real actor, and have never done so before this.
However, with CaroleAnn’s tuition, I feel I have picked up many
tricks and I am beginning to feel more confident and relaxed
in my role. As the rehearsal comes to an end I ask her what
advice she would give to those who would like to get involved
in theatre, “Get involved in one of our local theatre groups or in
drama at school. You won’t know if you really like it or which
aspects you are interested in until you try. And if you want to
get serious about any kind of career in acting: training, training,
training!”
So if you are reading this and wish to be on stage or TV, be
like me and put yourself out there.
Welcome to the Fun House runs from Saturday, April 30 until
May 7. Do not miss this insane performance by many of our
talented Powell River performers.
Brandy Peterson is happy to let her clients
speak for her.
“Thank you so much for everything! We so much
appreciate all your excellent advice! You are very
good at your job!”
– Alex & Tammy Beauchamp
Let’s talk! 604 485-4231 office • 604 344-1234 direct • 1-877-485-4231 toll free • coastrealty.com • brandypeterson@shaw.ca • 4760 Joyce Ave
Powell River Living • april 2011 • 27

By George Campbell
Well said!
There is an old story about the human brain that goes
like this: “The human brain is a marvellous device that
starts working when you are born, and ceases to function
the instant you stand up to speak before a large group of
people.” A Toastmasters Club is the best-known cure for
this malady.
Way back in the summer of 1954 I attended a meeting
at the Stanley Park Pavilion in Vancouver to listen to some
speakers present their views on a number of different topics.
One of these topics was ‘The den, man’s last refuge.’ The
man who delivered this speech did so with such conviction,
humour and downright oral ability that one could not help
but be impressed. From the first sentence of his presentation
he had hold of his audience, and he kept them in his hand
throughout. Although all the speakers were good, this fellow
was outstanding.
I remember turning and saying to my wife who was sitting
beside me, “Boy, I wish I could speak like that!”
After the meeting was over, I made a point of going up to this
speechmaker to tell him how much I enjoyed his presentation.
“How did you learn to speak like that?” I asked him.
“At a Toastmasters Club,” he replied.
The following year the company I worked for, BC Electric,
formed a Toastmasters Club and I became a member. It was
one of the most satisfying things that I have ever done. I went
on to become the best speaker of the club and in 1958 was
awarded a trophy for this accomplishment. This brought me
to the attention of senior executives of the company who promoted
me to the Dealer Services department where my job
was to call on electric and gas appliance dealers and motivate
them to sell more appliances to use our company’s gas and
electricity. Soon they had me attending ratepayers associations
in neighbourhood halls throughout greater Vancouver
to speak to people on the advantages of natural gas for hot
water and home heating. It was like a dream come true — I
was being paid to speak.
In 1960 I joined the Lion’s Club and became involved in a
public speaking contest they were holding. I spoke at Lion’s
Clubs all over B.C. and got as far as Seattle Washington before
I lost and was eliminated. I still have a framed certificate from
Bellingham stating that I was the winner of the District Achievement
Speaking Award for Club Activity during the spring conference
of 1961.
After a speech at a Lion’s club, I was approached by a fellow
member who congratulated me on the speech I had just given
and then asked, “How did you learn to speak like that?” It was
like history repeating itself “At a Toastmasters Club,” I told him.
There are few things in life more satisfying than wanting
to achieve a particular goal, and then finally succeeding
in doing so. To be able to stand up and speak with
poise and self-confidence before a large group of people
was one of mine. As you have just read, I made it! I urge
any readers out there with similar goals to Google TOAST-
MASTERS INTERNATIONAL on their computers. There
you can read all about what Toastmasters can do for you,
and how and where you can join this highly successful
self-help group.
Do it now!
Check out our furniture selection
604 485-4101
“Right Below the bowling alley”
Heritage Liquor Store
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6251 Yew St
604-483-4681
28 • www.PRLiving.ca

Willy Wonka Junior
Part of a musical month
By Hailey Sacree
Many of you came out to see the
musical, Alice in Wonderland last
year. It was a huge success for everyone
involved. Having acted in it I couldn’t
walk down the street without someone
coming up to me saying they loved the
performance. Megan Skidmore, the musical
director, and Carma Sacree, the director,
are an amazing team who are putting
on another terrific show for the people of
Powell River (and I’m not just saying that
because Carma is my mom!)
I was thrilled when the news came out
that this year’s production was going to
be Willy Wonka Junior. We all know the
classic Roald Dahl story of Charlie and
the Chocolate Factory, a place where the
best candy in the world is made. The
story has interesting characters like Veruca,
the Gloops, Mike TV, the loveable
Charlie, and, of course, the Ompa Loompas.
Forty-seven students signed up
for the musical theatre program at the
Powell River Academy of Music to fill
these roles. Some of the
kids were in the previous
performance of Alice in
Wonderland and others
became enthralled upon
watching it and joined
up. Everyone got a part
as it was double cast
and soon the rehearsals
began. Spending hours
perfecting songs and
dances, the weeks went
by and they kept up their
enthusiasm. The rehearsals
got longer, the set designs and
costumes starting appearing: colorful
backdrops, fancy costumes, and booming
music. Some Brooks students, like
me, are volunteering behind the scenes.
It’s a great experience for learning
about set design, props management,
stage makeup and working with a fun
and enthusiastic group of people. I am
the stage director, which is a huge job.
My only regret is I won’t be able to watch
the show, as I will be too busy trying to
keep it all flowing backstage.
You would be amazed at how close knit
the group gets after doing a play together!
Willy Wonka is coming up fast and my
Mom says we'll be ready. You won’t be
disappointed if you come out and watch!
Shows are April 14, 15, 16 at 7:00 pm
with a matinee on April 17 at 1:30 pm. Get
tickets at the Academy of Music.
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Call Mike or Bill at 604 487-4266
Powell River Living • april 2011 • 29

Take a closer look
Wetlands home to owls and more
By Esther Dyck
An amazing wetland area right in our
front yard that has almost been overlooked
is a vital part of the ecosystem.
Brookfield Power owns a short soft
soil road that begins at the top end of
Duncan Street and Claridge Road. This
road crosses over Myrtle Creek and ends
less than one kilometre later at Myrtle
Road. Along this road are fields of gold
and pale yellow grasses, and brilliant
plaid-like alder surround shallow pools
of water.
To my delight as my husband David
and I walked along the muddy road we
noticed this wet, frightened pygmy owl
sitting on edge of the field less than a few
feet from us. He probably weighed two
ounces. This adorable little owl stared at
us for a while before turning and slowly
moving out of sight in the thicket. He
most likely was not as frightened of us as
I had thought.
I found information later on the web
that pygmy owls are very secretive and
tend to perch and roost in thickets where
it is safe from predators. I read that despite
their small size the pygmy owl is
Hidden: Myrtle Creek wetlands at the top of Duncan Street are a vital part of our ecosystem.
David Dyck photos
quite fierce, and will attack prey or drive
off intruders several times their own size.
When one of these owls is threatened, it
will puff up its feathers to look larger. Insects
and bugs, an important food source,
are found in wetlands. Their status is uncertain.
Little to no information is available
on the tiny pygmy owl’s mortality.
Hidden from view in the thick alder,
brush, grasses and brambles lies a deep
pond that acts as the nursery for young
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organisms. Myrtle Creek's precious wetlands
are home to rare wild juvenile Coho
salmon, two species of sculpins, as well as
colorful speckled cutthroat trout live here.
This pond supports numerous bug larvae
and insects, that provide food for
many species.
According to the National Wetlands
Research Centre, wetlands are one of the
most important life support systems on
PGYMY OWL: This little creature is one of
many that depend on the Myrtle Creek
wetland at the top of Duncan Street.
earth by controlling erosion and absorbing
and filtering pollutants.
Wetlands also provide refuge for an extraordinary
number of migrating birds and
provide homes for juvenile organisms that
need the protection of the grasses, shallow
water and a sufficient food supply.
Sensitive Ecosystems Inventories reports
that because of the mild climate
and long growing season of the Sunshine
Coast our wetlands support many
rare plants, animals and plant community
— including several at risk species,
and they provide critical habitat for fish,
birds and other wildlife.
Ministry of Environment Ecosystems
Branch tell us there is growing concern
over the escalating rate of wetland losses
in British Columbia.
This past summer Brookfield manager
Debbi Stanyer and I worked together to
come up with a plan to install a barrier
that would protect Myrtle Creek's
salmon habitat and wetlands. Debbie
designed a metal barrier that hugged
the creek and stopped motorized vehicles
from disturbing the soft soils
that have created major damage to the
wetlands and to Myrtle Creek Salmon
habitat. She also provided road gravel
to repair some of the damage. Debbi
and I were shocked when in three days
the horizontal metal crossbars were cut
to allow access for the vehicles to cross
Myrtle Creek.
Just a few weeks ago Debbi arranged to
have cement pillars installed at this site.
Brookfield and Debbi have done their
best to provide essential protection for
this unique wetland and natural salmon
habitat.
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Writing contest with cash prizes!
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Powell River Living • april 2011 • 31

Journey towards zero waste
It's time to start
By Abby McLennan
Powell River Regional District has initiated the first steps to
move the community off the wasting path and onto the zero
waste path.
Zero waste is a philosophy that many regions have adopted
in response to the astonishing amount of waste generated and
the increasing cost associated in “transferring” this waste. The
visionary goal of zero waste encourages the redesign of resource
life cycles so that all products are reused. It also addresses ethical
and moral issues.
We must all take individual responsibility for the waste we
create. This is a strenuous and at first a seemingly impossible
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task but help is on the way. A Waste Management Education
Plan has been designed by BHC Consulting to encourage and
provide resources to assist individuals and our community to
reduce our waste.
Highlights of the preliminary design of the education plan
include:
• Creation of a compost education centre.
• Let's Talk Trash website and a Waste Environmental
Resource Directory.
• Student participation in SD47 and with VIU, focusing on
the establishment of an efficient recycling program.
• Providing waste management services at community events
• CJMP Let’s Talk Trash radio show, a bi-annual newsletter as
well as monthly articles featuring tips on innovative ways to
reduce and reuse regular household items.
Research in Powell River has determined that up to 40% of regular
household waste can be composted. Of that, 33% is food
waste, 8% is compostable paper products and 3% is wood and
yard waste.
Composting can divert a significant amount of material out
of our waste stream, which we transport down to Washington
State.
Apart from composting, becoming a conscious consumer is
another direct approach to address this issue.
The waste management education plan encourages consumers
to re-think their purchasing decisions, consider reducing the
waste created, reuse whenever possible and finally recycle all
items that are recyclable.
The aim of the education plan is to deliver an innovative,
memorable, educational program that focuses on sustainable
waste management strategies. Subsequently, working
together, sharing information, helping each other and supporting
efforts such as zero waste will replace the wasting
paradigm.
presents
A Musical by CaroleAnn Leishman
TickeTs
Adults $15
Students
(6-18) $12
Seniors
(65+) $12
All Sunday
Matinee $10
April 28, 29, 30 at 7:30 pm
May 1, SundAy MAtinee at 1:30 pm
May 4, 5, 6, & 7 at 7:30 pm
at the evergreen theAtre
Tickets from Breakwater Books • The Patricia Theatre • Mitchell Brothers • Complex Box Office • At the door
32 • www.PRLiving.ca

Moroccan feast
In aid of solar cookers
By Mary Tilberg
One of my earliest memories growing up in Morocco was gathering
twigs from the eucalyptus grove next to our home so
my mother could start the fire in our fireplace, our only source
of heat during the damp winter days. I remember, too, seeing
elderly women trudging down Tangier Mountain carrying huge
bundles of sticks on their backs. As a child, my sense of injustice
was awakened at the sight of them walking completely bent over
under their load, which was either for their own use at home or
to sell for income. I heard stories, too, of how my grandmother
and mother, during difficult times as Russian refugees in China,
searched for any bit of wood they could find to burn. When my
grandmother came to visit me on our farm in Manitoba years
ago, she was astonished at how wasteful we were, with so much
scrap wood lying about. Whole logs we could burn if needed. Our
abundance awakened her memories of hardship.
When I first heard about Kyoto Twist Solar Cooking Society, I
knew I had to be involved, as here was a concrete way to help
alleviate poverty, reduce greenhouse gases, while saving trees
and the environment. How amazing if one could use the sun for
cooking! I bought a solar cooker and used it all summer with
great glee. When I cook with the sun I’m not using my propane.
I know how much that saves me. And I think of those areas in
the world where fuel is scarce and expensive and the sun shines
mightily more often than not. It really makes wonderful sense to
train people to use solar cookers instead of wood, coal, charcoal
or propane. Kyoto Twist Solar Cooking Society has been doing
just that in projects in Haiti, Mali, Bolivia and Tanzania. The
more donations received, the more projects can be supported
around the world. Check out kyototwist.org for lots of information.
Kyoto Twist is well supported by the generous community of
Powell River and Lund where it all began, through individual
donations, group efforts and fundraisers such as the Moroccan
Feast planned for April 17 at the Tree Frog Bistro on Marine Avenue.
Tickets are available at the Tree Frog, Breakwater Books
and Coastal Realty. Doors will open at 5:30 pm with a solar
cooking presentation at 6:15; dinner is at 6:45 with Walter Martella
and vocal sextet entertaining us. As well there will be a
silent auction and draws.
During a recent visit here with my nephew and his wife, who
is from a small village in Mexico, she told me her mother is
not well, her lungs affected by years of cooking over an open
fire. She was so enthused with my solar cooker. The sun shines
relentlessly in her home village 10 months out of 12. Of course
solar cookers would make such a difference. A new project possibly?
Perhaps!
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Powell River Living • april 2011 • 33

S olar
Energy
High atop the new Brooks school fieldhouse, Jason Dunkley of Stage 3
Renewables, with help from Auren Challenger, installs a solar thermal
collector. A solution of water and glycol (to keep it from freezing)
circulates through the panel, picking up the sun’s heat, then flows
into a heat exchanger to heat up the potable water for use in sinks
and showers inside the building. Even on cold days, the panel picks
up enough heat to make for hot showers below. The solar system is
expected to produce 16 gigajoules a year, or well over $400 a year in
savings at current power rates.
Photos by Sean Percy
Bread Bowl Carol is selling
her wonderful rural home!
10191 Upper Zilinsky • $390,000
• 3 very private acres
in Kelly Creek
• Cool custom main house
w/ $100,000 in renos
• Good well water &
garden catchment
• Large pond
• 2-storey (book) cabin
• 2-storey studio & kiln house
• Wood-fired sauna
• Quebec-style clay
bread oven
• 100s of fruit, nut and
berry bushes
• Large organic garden
Call Carol 604.487.1176 leave message
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• 90’x40’ organic garden,
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• 3-stall barn with power, water, large insulated hay room
• Tack room and large round pen
• Fenced and cross-fenced for horses
• Less than 2 km to school, church, stores, ocean
• Surrounded by trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding
Offered at $470,000 Call 604 487-1834
www.members.shaw.ca/heddle2706/house/home.html
34 • www.PRLiving.ca

At long last
A community of firsts
By Susan Young de Biagi
What small British Columbia community inspired a host of
innovations and inventions, with a significant impact on
BC and the world beyond?
If you answered Powell River, you are correct.
It can be argued that historians have been somewhat slow to
recognize Powell River and Texada Island’s well-deserved place
at the very centre of BC history. But all that will change between
May 5 and 8, when people from across the province will gather
at the annual conference of the British Columbia Historical Federation
(BCHF).
The organizing team is comprised of the Powell River Historical
Museum and Archives, the Townsite Heritage Society, the
Texada Island Heritage Society, Powell River Genealogy and the
City of Powell River.
“This is a tremendous opportunity to showcase the
history of the region,” says museum coordinator Teedie
Kagume. On May 6, she will join Dr. Elsie Paul, Mayor
Stewart Alsgard, Maynard Harry of Tla’Amin, and Ann Nelson
of the Townsite Heritage Society to host “Voices of
Tla’Amin First Nation.” In addition to profiling the history
of Tla’Amin, the presentation will outline the development
of the historical accord signed between Tla’Amin and Powell
River in 2003.
This presentation will be followed by “Dr. Henderson’s Amazing
Plan,” focussing on the first scheme to offer medical benefits
to mill employees by payroll deduction. It concludes with a visit
to Dr. Henderson’s historic Townsite home, currently being restored
to become a living museum.
Presented by BCHF, “Taking Your Story to Print” will appeal to
those eager to share their personal history with the world. Other
conference events include a banquet prepared by local chef David
Bowes, and featuring live entertainment. Local authors and
booksellers will have the opportunity to profile their work at the
conference book fair.
For the full list of conference events and online registration,
visit www.powellrivermuseum.ca, and click on the BCHF conference
link or contact Teedie Kagume at 604 485-2222.
First in BC, Canada & the world!
First in BC
• Medical Plan for millworkers (1911)
• Dial phones (1921)
• Credit Union (1939)
• Extended Care (1968)
• Totally wheelchair-accessible lakeside campsite – at
Inland Lake (begun in 1983)
• Powell River also boasts the oldest operating movie theatre
in BC, entertaining us since 1913 AND the third shortest
river in the world.
First in Western Canada
• Pulp and paper mill (1910).
First in Canada
• Forestry fire lookout tower, on Mt Pocahontas
on Texada Island (1924).
First in the World
• First Academy Award for choreography, created for
Powell Riverite, Onna White, for her outstanding work
on the musical Oliver (1969)
Extraordinary Events
Party & Event Planning Service • 604 414-4460
Kimberley Murphy
• Weddings • Funerals • Anniversaries
• Bridal Showers • Groom’s Parties • Baby Showers
• Sweet Sixteen • Fundraisers • Trip Organization
• Family Reunions • Carnivals • Block Parties
• Adult/Children Theme Parties
extraordinaryevents@shaw.ca • extraordinaryevents.shawwebspace.ca
Brandy Peterson
with more
happy clients.
Let’s talk! 604 485-4231 office • 604 344-1234 direct
1-877-485-4231 toll free • coastrealty.com • brandypeterson@shaw.ca • 4760 Joyce Ave
Powell River Living • april 2011 • 35

Easter worship
Easter is the most important day in the Christian calendar.
Some people gather together for a sunrise service while others
attend an Easter Sunday service at their church. According to
Westview Baptist Church
3676 Joyce Avenue, Powell River
604 485-5040 or 604 485-9607
Passion/Palm Sunday ✝ April 17, 10 am
Worship with Holy Communion
Maundy Thursday ✝ April 21, 7 pm
Worship with Holy Communion
“Always a Place For You”
Good Friday Service
April 22 at 7 pm
eaSter Sunday ServiceS
April 24 at 9 am & 10:45 am
Regular Sunday Services at 9 am & 10:45 am
Good Friday ✝ April 22, 10 am • Worship
Holy Saturday ✝ April 23, 7 pm • Easter Vigil
Easter Sunday • The Resurrection of Our Lord
April 24, 10 am ✝ Worship with Holy Communion
Powell River Seventh Day Adventist
4880 Manson Ave, Powell River, BC
ALL WELCOME SATURDAY WORSHIP TIME
Sabbath School
Soup Kitchen:
Saturday, 9:30 – 10:45 am
Tues & Thurs, 12 – 1:30 pm
Church at Study
Clothing Boutique:
Saturday, 11 am
Tues & Thurs, 11:30 am – 1 pm
Prayer Meeting
Food Pantry:
Wednesday, 7:30 pm
Tues & Thurs, 12 – 1 pm
Church 604 485-7106 Website www.prsda.ca
Community Services Emergency 604-487-0647
the Gospel, Jesus rose from the dead on the third day after his
crucifixion. This year, Good Friday is on April 22; Easter Sunday
is on April 24.
Everyone
Welcome
604.485.6067
4500 Joyce Ave
Evangel Pentecostal Church
EAstEr sErvicEs
Salvation Army Church
& Community Services
Serving with our hearts to God and our hands to the people of Powell River
April 22 ~ 7 pm ~ GOOD FriDAY
Special music
Good Friday Service
April 22 at 7 pm at 4500 Joyce Ave
Easter Sunrise Service
April 24 at 7 am at Marine Avenue Viewpoint
Easter Sunday Service
April 24 at 10:30 am at 4500 Joyce Ave
April 24 ~ 10 am ~ EAstEr sUNDAY
Seeing the Master
Come and experience the Easter story
A choral reading of the Gospel
Love ~ Grow ~ Serve
regular sunday services
10 am
children’s Programs for all
ages during the morning
service
Youth Group
“Rize” Friday nights
5139 Manson Ave ~ 604.483.4283 ~ www.evangelpc.com
Powell River United Church
Corner of Duncan & Michigan Avenue
EastER sERviCEs
Palm sunday ✟ 10:30 am
Good Friday service ✟ 10:30 am
Easter sunrise service ✟ 6:30 am, Valentine Mtn
Meet at the bottom of the mountain at 6 am. Followed by coffee & muffins, Trinity Hall
Easter service ✟ 10:30 am
Rev. Maxine Pirie 604 485-5724
Great Balls of Wool
“Free your inner Granny”
Give those restless fingers a new project!
Learn or improve knitting skiLLs
Lessons available. Flexible schedule.
Four 2-hr lessons • $25.
Visit or call today.
Open • Tues to Fri 11 – 4 & Sat 12 – 4
• Knitting Group Sat 12 - 4
4722A Marine Ave • 604 485-4859
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604 414-6017
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36 • www.PRLiving.ca

Class of ‘65 restored to former glory
Photo revived from the ruins
By Marnie Edwards
During the July 23-24, 2010 weekend,
the graduating class of 1965 gathered
to celebrate our 45-year reunion. It was a
weekend filled with fun and laughter as
we met with classmates whom we had
not seen in many years.
It always amazes me to see how life's
experiences have levelled the playing field.
Unlike the 10th grad reunion, where
everyone was still trying to impress each
other with what they had, or what they
had done, the 45th brought us to the
stage in our lives where we realized the
importance of reconnecting with people
from our past and it gave us a chance to
rekindle old friendships.
Decorating with memorabilia and
school pictures provided us an opportunity
to step back in time. Our old grad
picture is a wonderful reminder of those
by-gone days and it is something that everyone
enjoyed looking at and reminiscing
over. It did take a little bit of detective
work on the part of the decorating committee
to locate our picture.
When Max Cameron closed, all the
grad pictures that once graced her walls
disappeared, or so we thought. Fortunately,
we finally located it safely stored at the
local museum.
The picture, however, had not weathered
the years as well as the Class of '65.
It was very sad to see what the rats in
Max Cameron had done to it before it was
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finally rescued. Fortunately, their destruction
was limited only to the frame and the
individual pictures were untouched.
It was brought to our attention that if
we had the picture restored it would be
re-hung in Brooks Secondary School. A
call to Kathy Rothwell, the principal, confirmed
this. She was thrilled to learn that
we were willing to take this project on.
This was something that she had been
hoping would happen.
A few years earlier, it was discovered
that quite a lot of school paraphernalia
had been left behind when Max Cameron's
doors were permanently closed. In
order not to lose all this school history
Brooks administration gathered up what
was left at Max. Now the problem was
where to safely store it. The museum
had already taken some of the pictures
but they had very limited room and more
space was needed to house these articles.
Lisanne English came to the rescue and
graciously offered to store the treasures
in the bottom of her family store, Taws
Cycle and Sports. Both Kathy and Lisanne
feel very passionate about all this school
history and they would love to see it preserved
for future generations to enjoy.
What better place to showcase all these
items than Brooks School! Kathy was in
total agreement. The next step was to restore
the grad pictures. The only way this
dream can be realized is if each graduating
class takes on the responsibility and
expense of restoring their own picture.
The graduating class of '65 decided to
start the ball rolling and we are the first class
to have our picture restored. We wanted it
done right so we called on the expertise of
Luke Raffin, owner of Sunrise Gallery.
Luke worked a miracle and restored
our sad-looking picture to its former glory
with a beautiful new frame, backing, and
glass. It was $300 well spent.
It was a very proud moment when
we delivered it to Kathy at Brooks. She
was absolutely thrilled with the refurbishment
and expressed hopes that this
would spark the interest of the rest of the
grad classes to do the same.
It isn't going to be long before the old
Max Cameron School will be torn down
and all that will be left will be our memories.
So the Grad Class of '65 would like
to send out this challenge to all of you
who graduated before or after us -please
take on this initiative and help preserve
some of our school history.
Don't let it just disappear!
For anyone trying to locate their class
picture check with the museum or contact
Lisanne at Taw’s Cycle and Sports
Store. Any artefacts that people may have
stored away and would like to donate can
be dropped off at the Brooks office.
If we all do our part we can create a
wonderful lasting legacy.
Let’s talk! 604 485-4231 office • 604 344-1234 direct • 1-877-485-4231 toll free • coastrealty.com • brandypeterson@shaw.ca • 4760 Joyce Ave
Powell RiveR
AcAdemy of music
2010 2011
TickeTs: Academy Box Office
7280 kemano st • 604 485-9633
Mon – Thur • 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
www.powellriveracademy.org
ElizabEth Dolin, cello
bErnaDEnE blaha, piano
at Max Theatre ($20 tickets at Academy)
Monday, April 11 @ 8:00 pm
WillY WonKa JUnior
($10 adult, $5 18 & under) at Academy Hall
April 14, 15 & 16 @ 7 pm
April 17 @ 1:30 pm
symphony Orchestra
Academy of the Pacific
June 21 – July 1, 2011
mark your calendars!
acaDEmY cabarEt
($25) at Academy Hall
Friday, April 29 @ 8 pm
Spring Tour
Schedule
Apr 2 - 3 Tommy Hunter, The Last Tour • Nanaimo
Apr 6 One Day Casino Trip • Nanaimo
Apr 9 - 16 8-Day Reno Tour with Malaspina Coach Holidays
Apr 28 - 29 Steel Magnolias • Chemainus Theatre
May 4 One Day Casino Trip • Nanaimo
May 9 - 12 Okanagan Casino Trail with Malaspina Coach Lines
May 23 - 26 4-Day Casino Trip • Lower Mainland
tel: 604.483.3345 We would love to have you join us!
cell: 604.483.1408 www.heathertours.com BC Reg. No. 30400
GIFT
CERTIFICATES
AVAILABLE
Powell River Living • april 2011 • 37

Who holds the key?
Access to Inland Lake Park
By Marg McNeil
My phone rang. “It’s a kayaking day.
Let’s go!” Kayaking days are few
and far between in the winter, so the three
of us loaded our kayaks on two vehicles
and headed to Gibson’s Beach.
Looking at the choppy water off Gibson’s
I said, “Inland Lake?”
Heather replied, “It’s easy to launch
there at the ramp by the parking lot.” As
senior paddlers we need good access for
getting in and out of our kayaks. After
driving 10 kilometres we found the yellow
gate to Inland Lake closed.
“It was open the last two winters,” I said.
“Cranberry?” Heather asked. “At least
we’ll get an hour on the water.” Disappointed,
we backed and drove around the
half dozen cars parked by the gate.
I could not understand why the gate
wasn’t open.
Subsequently I learned that Inland Lake
has been a provincial park since 1997. According
to the BC Parks website Inland is
open all year round, but the gate is closed
from September 16th to May 13th. Fishing
season opens the beginning of April. To use
water craft (motors to 10hp only) the gate
has to be open.
I contacted Dylan Eyers, the Area Supervisor
for BC Parks, to learn about the management
of the park. He said, “I’m working
on keeping the gate open for more of the
year, but funding is a challenge for all parks
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and Inland is high maintenance. In the past
two years major restoration was done on
the trail by the Model Community Project.
As with all parks vandalism is a big concern
without monitoring on site.”
I told him I was disappointed not to be
able to kayak on Inland, since it’s such
an easy-to-reach but safe winter paddling
venue. He told me that a Sechelt company
has the contract for the maintenance for the
Sunshine Coast region. They employ someone
locally to service the Powell River area
parks and report any problems.
From David Morris, Executive Director,
of the Model Community Project (MCP)
I found out how this disability accessible
recreation site began. After Rick Hansen’s
world tour the Model Community was inspired
to build a wheelchair accessible trail.
On its completion in 1989 it won the Premier’s
Award for Excellence in Design and
has been featured regularly in Powell River
tourist information.
I told David that I recently tried to kayak
on Inland Lake but the gate was closed,
though it had been open through the winters
of 2009 and 2010. David told me that
the MCP received grants of almost $325,000
from the Job Opportunities Program for outof-work
forest workers to refurbish the trail.
While the work was being done over the
last two winters the gate was open. Now,
though, “access is severely limited for most
Spike says:
“Call Ward
today to check
out the Gym.”
At the Beach Gardens 604 485-9600
CARRY ON: The gate across Inland Lake
road remains closed until mid-May, effectively
keeping boaters and paddlers off the
lake — unless they want to pack their craft.
of the year, specifically for those people for
whom the park was designed, those with
mobility issues of whatever age. We’d like
to change that,” said David. So far, the MCP
has not been able to get BC Parks to hand
over management of the park.
He said the frequent flooding was due to
winter rains swelling the underground river
and creeks flowing into the lake. The outlet
is too shallow to accommodate the surge
of water and it cannot be deepened as it is
a fish stream. It’s an ongoing problem that
needs constant maintenance.
A few weeks later, on a soggy sort of day,
a friend and I hiked to Anthony Island on
Inland Lake. No one else was parked by
the gate this time. Despite the heavy rain,
the trail was in great shape and the large
puddles were easily sloshed through. At
the end of our hike, we arrived back at the
car to find two more cars had joined ours,
which goes to prove that even the worst
weather does not deter people from using
Inland Lake Park. Why should access?
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38 • www.PRLiving.ca

Métis history in the making
Local society recognized by Métis Nation
By Barb Rees
Until you know who you are, you can't
live to your full potential. For years I
didn't know much about my father's Indian
roots. When he died, I was 12 and all contact
with his family was severed. A talk with
my mother 10 years ago helped me find his
last living sibling and many cousins.
It was then I discovered I was Métis.
I didn't look Métis — I felt like a fraud.
It took a long time for me to say, “I am
Métis.” Then I'd get the look or remark,
“You can't be, are you sure?”
Receiving the Métis Nation of BC citizenship
card and becoming part of the
Miki'siw community in Courtenay helped.
In 2009, my husband and I went to the
Métis Crossing celebrations in Alberta
where I felt accepted by Métis whose skin
colour ranged the whole gamut.
In August 2010, Debbie Dan, Ken Shannon
and I went to a Miki'siw potluck where we
discussed forming a local Métis community.
We formed Powell River Métis Society
in February of this year and at the Métis
Nation of BC General Assembly, the chartering
of the community was finalized.
Our generation has a responsibility to
ensure no person of Métis descent spends
their life not knowing who they are. Métis
means, “A person who self-identifies
as Métis, is distinct from other Aboriginal
peoples, is of Historic Métis Nation ancestry,
and is accepted by the Métis Nation”
(www.mnbc.ca).
Susan Young de Biagi found her Métis
heritage later in life. “As an historian, I had
done a great deal of research about the settlement
of the French in Nova Scotia. Many of
the young men who came to the area in the
1600s married Mi’kmaw women. I found a
reference to my family name (LeJeune) as
living in a Métis community. I suspected
there might be some First Nations connections
in my background. My family origins
took on greater importance when I was writing
my novel, Cibou. The narrator, Mouse,
is a young woman of Mi’kmaw-French descent.
I felt slightly uncomfortable writing in
the voice of a young First Nations woman,
but that voice was just too strong to ignore.
One day my sister asked whether I had applied
for membership in the Sou’West Nova
Métis Council. I applied and received recognition
as a person of aboriginal descent. It
was one of the most exciting times in my
life, to realize that Mouse’s story was, in
many ways, my own.”
President Russell Brewer has always
known his history. “My roots go back to
the traditional Métis settlements of the Red
River Valley in Manitoba. My Métis heritage
includes the families of Louis Riel, the first
Métis families of Manitoba, and the farm
where Louis Riel asked federal surveyors to
stop carving up Métis settlements without
their permission. My children are of mixed
heritage so it's very important to celebrate
that multicultural background.”
Powell River Métis will celebrate their
charter at 2 pm April 2 at the French Club.
Guests from other Métis communities,
along with the Sliammon people will enjoy
cultural entertainment, food and fun.
Join the celebration. Contact Barb at 604
485-2732 or Russell at 604 414-8310.
presents the First Annual Powell River
Influential Woman of the Year
Awards Luncheon • Wednesday, April 20
at the Tree Frog Bistro
Join us as we honour local women in business and
present awards to an Influential Woman from the
business sector and one from the non-profit sector.
Guest speaker Sandra McDowell is a successful and
respected Powell River business woman who will
share some of her ideas for women in business.
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Each vacation is a once in a lifetime experience with a wonderful balance
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Powell River Living • april 2011 • 39

A Royal Wedding
Powell River celebrates the monarchy
By Gerry Gray
Royal transport: The Royals arrived in Powell River in 1971 on
the HMY Britannia, seen here off the Westview harbour.
She stepped from her Royal barge, looked up at the hundreds of
Powell Riverites crowding the small boat harbor and smiled.
A cheer went up and the band boomed “God Save The Queen”
and everyone joined in. Truly a tumultuous welcome was given to
Her Majesty and her Consort, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
They all cheered back and the band struck up “God Save the
Queen,” again with everyone joining in with gusto.
May 9, 1971 was a momentous morning for our town. It’s not
every day that Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh
visit a small town in coastal British Columbia.
Not only was the sun shining on this May 9, 1971, morning,
it illuminated the royal yacht, Britannia, anchored just off the
Westview waterfront with topmasts dressed in colorful bunting
from stem to stern and brasswork twinkling as the ship rode up
and down on her anchor.
Ashore, as the smartly uniformed barge seamen secured their
craft, the Queen and her husband were busy shaking hands with
the designated worthy citizens of Powell River. District Mayor
Jimmy Court, born in England, far away from the splendour of
Buckingham Palace, was the first to be presented. (Aldermen,
like me, didn’t make the list.)
With his wife, Nessie, they were introduced by The Honourable
Isabel Dawson, MLA at the time. The rest of the distinguished
list to be introduced was: Centennial Chair, Lowell Davidson and
Mrs. Davidson; Chief Joe Mitchell and Mrs. Mitchell of Sliammon.
Six shiny automobiles were assigned to carry the Queen and
her entourage through the municipality and then up to the Westview
United Church for Sunday worship. Members of the church
and a few other citizens received invitations to attend the service
and needless to say both the inside and outside of the church was
crammed with worshippers inside and lookie-loos on the outside.
Prince Philip delivered the Ecumenical service, the clergy
were presented and both Royals signed the guest book. Then it
was back to the jetty, barged back to the Britannia and off for a
cruise in the Strait before dropping anchor at Comox. The entire
Powell River visit took less than three hours but will be remembered
forever by those who attended.
That day we saw the Queen of England decked out in her Royal
finery, which was topped off by the usual wide-brimmed hat.
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40 • www.PRLiving.ca

There was Prince Philip, looking handsome and very Princelike,
but perhaps a trifle bored by the pomp and ceremony, having
seen it many, many times before. Not to be said for Queen
Elizabeth. She appeared sincerely interested in whatever she
was shown and was warm towards all she met. Even antimonarchists
would have been converted on that morning.
As I looked at Her Highness I recalled seeing her mother
and father (George VI and Elisabeth Soames) many years earlier
when they attended the official opening of the Lions Gate
Bridge, built by the Guiness Family, to connect their properties
(British Properties) to Vancouver. I was a Grade 4 student at
Pauline Johnston Elementary School on 22nd Street at the time
and remember marching down to Ambleside Park and lining up
along the side of Marine Drive and waiting in the hot sun for the
Royal Cavalcade to pass. Although we were well versed in what
these people represented I recall I wasn’t properly impressed
although in later years I realized the Monarchy’s significance.
The recent movie “The Kings’ Speech” was nostalgic to those of
us who grew up in those troubled times.
Wedding watchers
The upcoming wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton
has heightened interest in the British Monarchy. That interest
has landed in Powell River where one group of ladies will have
a Royal sleepover planned to celebrate the April 29 nuptials.
Sharon Sawyer and her friends will get together, wearing big
hats and dress gloves. Sharon says they’ll play cards and drink
champagne while they watch the wedding ceremonies. It has
to be an all-nighter, since the couple will be walking down the
aisle in Westminster Abbey while it’s still the wee hours here on
the west coast.
It’s not the first time Sharon has gone all out to celebrate a
Royal wedding. When Charles and Diana wed, she celebrated
the event with fellow Royal-watchers at a convention in Dallas,
Texas.
“It’s a tradition for me,” she said. “I’m carrying on that tradition.”
Then she chuckles and says, “It’s an excuse to have a
grown-up slumber party and giggle and drink champagne.”
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Spring Schedule April 4 – June 9
Call your Yoga Garden instructor for more info or to register
Date Time Class Instructor
Monday 4:15-5:15 pm Therapeutic Yoga Penny
5:30-7:00 pm Flow Yoga new! Penny
7:15-8:45 pm Level 1 ongoing Keely
Tuesday 7:00-8:15 am Rise & Shine Keely
9:00-10:30 am All Levels new! Keely
5:30-7:00 pm Level 1 Penny
7:15-8:45 pm Beginner Penny
Wednesday 9:00-10:30 am Beginner for Men Penny
5:30-7:00 pm Beginner Keely
Thursday 9:30-11:00 am Level II Penny
11:15 am-12:45 pm Level I Penny
Prenatal Yoga with Keely new!
Special 5-week session April 14 -May 12
Session Fee: $75 Register by April 11 with Keely at 604-344-0624
Anusara Yoga Workshop with Wendy Lippman May 27-29
Learn to apply the Universal Principles of Alignment to deepen your practice.
Wendy Lippman is a certified Anusara Yoga Instructor from Seattle.
Contact Jan Padgett at 604 487-9994 or jpadgett@shaw.ca to sign up.
The Yoga Garden
pryogagarden.ca
Penny 604 485-4829 or Keely 604 344-0624
Academy of Music, 7280 Kemano Street
604 485-7003
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604 485-5611 • 4703 Marine Ave
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We have Green SolutionS
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Call us today to get your ducts cleaned to reduce
the dust in your house. Don't forget your dryer
vent — they’re one of the leading causes of house fires.
See our Rotobrush
Air Duct Cleaning System
Thanks to Aaron Services (and the great
guys with their nifty gear) for cleaning out
all of our home hot/cold air vents. What a
difference it has made! I always used to wake
up with a stuffy nose — but no more! We have
bought paper products and hot chocolate/
tea supplies from you for years and I will now
highly recommend this added feature of
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Locally owned business serving Powell River for over 33 years!
Sign up for a free video inspection
and no-obligation quote
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and be entered in our $100 shopping spree for Easter.
Call 604 485-5611 or e-mail trevor@aaronservice.com and book yours TODAY!
Powell River Living • april 2011 • 41

Time to plant
By Jonathan van Wiltenburg
Wiggling currants!
Over the past year I have had people
asking about a particular nasty little
pest that affects their currant shrubs year
after year. The common complaint is a
small rice sized maggot found squirming
around in the berry. It is quite gross,
and usually renders the berries fit for the
birds.
I thought I would get to the bottom of
it and give some solutions to combat this
particular pest.
The pest is a little yellow fly (Euphranta
canadensis) commonly known as the
currant fruit fly. It infects currants (red,
black, or white) and also gooseberries
and is found throughout North America.
The fly itself is about the size of a small
housefly and it lays a single egg under
the skin of a developing berry. The bad
news for us is that each female can lay
over 150 eggs, and each egg is deposited
on its own single berry. However, not
Priorities for April
• April is the time for lawn maintenance.
Take advantage of the moist spring weather
and get all the seeding, aerating, or topdressing
finished before the sun is here.
• If you have not already done so, begin
turning over the garden. Mix in your old
compost from last year. Try not to compact
the newly turned over soil. Amend further
with lime, manure, or mulch if necessary.
• Spilt up and move your perennials.
• Feed your fruit trees, berries, and other
trees and shrubs. Don’t go overboard. Be
sure to use an appropriate fertilizer for the
particular species. Use compost or an organic
fertilizer if you can manage it.
• In you have not done so, prune back your
and hydrangeas, buddleja, fuchsia, Russian
sage, and other plants that flower on present
year wood. Also prune the shrubs that have
already finished flowering; winter jasmine,
forsythia, witch-hazel, kerria, heather, etc.
• Set out your cleaned mason bee houses
all of the injected eggs
will survive. Many of
the berries will drop
prematurely due to
the injection by the female.
As the fly larvae
mature they will drill
a small breathing hole
into the skin of the
fruit. This is the signature
that will tell
you have a problem.
(Look for a small dark
spot on the skin of the
berry). Once fully mature, the larvae
leave the berry and fall to the ground
(sometimes the whole berry falls to the
ground instead), where they bury themselves
into the soil around the base of
the currant bush. Here they overwinter
as pupae until the following spring
ASAP. Keep an eye out for the hard little
workers as they pollinate your fruit trees
and berries.
• Sow your vegetable and flower seed. Vegetables
such as greens and others you want
to eat all season long sow a little bit of seed
more often. Aim for every three weeks.
Sow other crops such as squash, lettuce,
beets, spinach, greens, carrots, parsnips,
chard, celery, early potatoes, leek, onion,
and summer flowering annuals.
• Don’t get too eager! Hold off on planting
anything outside that cannot handle a potential
frost or could be affected by cool
nights. Beans, tomatoes, squash, peppers,
eggplant, are the classic heat lovers. Unless
you have sufficient insulation such as
cold frames or cloches, keep them sheltered
until early May.
• Harvest your early crop of rhubarb and
possibly your asparagus. Continue this for
the next six or so weeks.
Click on mother-nature.ca for
coupons, sales and tips!
when they will emerge as adult flies
ready to complete the cycle once again.
How do you get rid of them?
Because the larvae are encased in the fruit,
they are hard to control. Currently the best
way to knock back the populations are to
disrupt the life cycle of the pest.
One of the suggested methods is to place
a sheet of plastic or cloth on the ground
to catch the larvae before they squirm
into the ground to overwinter. Check on
this sheet daily and dispose of larvae and
berries. Do not put them in the compost!
Rather, put them in a bucket with some
soapy water. Alternatively, others suggest
that if you have chickens to pen a few of
them up around the base of the current
bush and have them peck and scratch.
To prevent new infestation on uninfected
bushes, cover your bushes with
floating row cover from April until late
June when the female flies are busy laying.
This will provide a barrier of entry
and protect the newly forming berries
from infection.
Jonathan van Wiltenburg has a degree in
horticulture and runs Eden Horticulture Services.
You can reach him atedenhort@gmail.com.
Have you
found Waldo yet?
Check the web for
details, then come
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Who knows better than Mother Nature?
7050 Duncan Street 604 485-9878
42 • www.PRLiving.ca

Food for thought
Could Powell River feed itself?
By Kevin Wilson
With food prices rising and supplies
decreasing, asking “Could Powell
River feed itself?” is a timely question. Just
what would it take, in practical terms?
A local group, sponsored by Transition
Town Powell River, gathered to discuss
the question. Building on previous
work, we focused on three keys: the number
of people we need to feed; the foods
we choose to eat; and the methods we
choose to produce that food.
At the Farmers Institute meeting in
March I posed the question to local farmers,
and received some interesting responses.
Fran and Simon Cudworth of Periwinkle
Farm said: "Yes it could — it has done
so in the past." Cindy Demeester of Nimh
Farm said: "It definitely could, especially
if people in town converted their lawns to
gardens." Kathy Hodgins of Hodgins Farm,
on the other hand, said: “No.” But she has
high hopes that we could come closer to
feeding ourselves. Diet van Es, who farms
on Valley Road, said: "Yes — if people
changed their eating habits."
Did you know…
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Kathy Rebane of Creekside Farm also
gave a qualified yes. “With a struggle, and
it would be a lot easier in the summer than
the winter."
Our contemporary diet is based on eating
whatever we like, whenever we like. A local
diet is always seasonal; local fresh peppers
are simply not available in January.
It is only in the last 40 years or so that
we have come to assume that we can eat
as we wish. As a city child in the UK in
the 1960s, my family still ate a mainly seasonal
diet. And it wasn't boring. Seasonal
foods become much more exciting.
Strawberries were genuinely special because
they (or a cardboard-like facsimile)
weren't available all year round.
We are blessed with a climate in Powell
River that allows us to harvest fresh food
all year, if we set up our production to supply
it, and to store food in the winter. Our
natural food resources, carefully managed,
could supply more of our diet than they
do now. We have land capable of growing
food that isn't currently producing. We
have local expertise and huge resources
of information and experience from other
communities. With the will and the time,
we could produce a lot more food locally.
The production methods we use have a
major impact on whether we can feed ourselves
in a sustainable way. Conventional
"industrial" food production relies on
cheap, abundant fossil fuels to make fertilizer
and pesticides and to run machinery
— like tractors or fishing boats — and
transport food. A local food production
model that relies utterly on outside inputs
is hardly local or sustainable. "Closing the
cycle," locally by sourcing our seeds, fertilizers
and energy much closer to home
is part of feeding ourselves. We need to
make the best use of our resources.
Local food is also an essential part of
a local economy, one that keeps money
and resources circulating close to home.
TTPR activities this spring will focus on
the local economy. To find out more,
visit transitiontownpowellriver.ca or call
Kevin at 483 9052.
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Powell River Living • april 2011 • 43

By Kim Miller
After nearly three years of scouting out Powell River, Lordco
Auto Parts is about to open a new store here. Lordco plans
to open the doors in April. An 11,365 square foot location in
the old SAAN store will be home to 18 staff. Management is
moving in from out of town — but about 16 employees will be
hired locally, said project manager Kevin Bennett. Trucks will
run once or twice a day between Powell River and Lordco's
Parksville warehouse and Courtenay store. The company is
targeting the retail market here, expecting that close to 60 per
cent of their business will be retail — a higher number than
the company's usual 50-50 split between retail and wholesale
purchasers — reflecting the company’s general growth in retail
business. Powell River is store #100 for Lordco, and is part of
a wider expansion.
Magma Energy Corp and Plutonic Power Corporation merged
on March 7 to create Alterra Power Corp, a leading renewable
power producer, with a post-deal market capitalization of approximately
$575 million. Under the terms of the agreement, each
Plutonic shareholder will receive 2.38 shares of Magma for each
Plutonic share held, and Magma will change its name to Alterra.
The exchange ratio represents a premium to Plutonic shareholders
of 32% over Plutonic's 20-day weighted average share price
on the Toronto Stock Exchange.
Former Catalyst manager Stew Gibson is now the manager
of special projects working out of Nanaimo. The new general
manager of the Powell River division is Rick Maksymetz. Rick
will be taking the directors seat of former mill manager on the
Chamber of Commerce board of directors.
Stylist Holly Barnes, who has long travelled to people’s homes
to do their hair, is opening up her own studio called After Glow
Hair Lounge. The new shop will be inside Simply Bronze at
Crossroads Village. For both men and women, the shop provides
a relaxed and fun atmosphere, making it a good fit with
the tanning salon. You can reach After Glow Hair Salon at 604
485-2075 or email afterglowhair@gmail.com.
The Powell River business community lost a valued member
and dear friend last month with the passing of lawyer Rod
Johnston. Johnston loved his profession and felt everyone deserved
access to legal representation.
Look forward to a presentation from Tourism Powell River
at the April Chamber luncheon. Everyone is invited, watch for
more details or call the Chamber office. Get on the Chamber’s
email distribution list and don’t miss out on any presentations.
The Powell River business community lost a
valued member and dear friend last month
with the passing of lawyer Rod Johnston.
The Powell River Blues Festival is geared up for June 3, 5 at
the beach gardens resort and marina. Check out www.powellriverblues2011.com
for the amazing line up of musical talent. If
interested in having a booth to sell your wares, services, or cook
up some eats… call the Chamber and reserve your space.
After five years of being in the ATV and motorcycle business,
Guy's Cycle Works has expanded to include outboard motor
sales and marine motor repairs. They are now dealers of Tohatsu
Outboards, and will provide full service and repair to all
makes and models of inboard/outboard motors. Guy’s mechanics
are always happy to service any type of power sport equipment,
including personal watercraft, snowmobiles, and electric
scooters. Check out their website at www.guyscycleworks.com,
or see them at 4473 Franklin Avenue.
BC’s new premier Christy Clark announced a staged increase
to the province’s minimum wage last month moving
it from $8 an hour to $10.25 by May 1, 2012. The increase,
which will take place over the next 13 months, was the first
major policy announcement made by the new Clark government.
The first bump takes on effect May 1 when it increases
to $8.75 per hour.
With files from Powell River Living staff.
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44 • www.PRLiving.ca

APRIL 2011
April 1 & 15: ORCA Bus will be behind Bruce Dennison
playground at the Larry Guthro Park from
9:30 – 11:30. For more info call 604 485-2132.
April 2: Spirit of Wellness Fair 2011, 9:30 – 5:30 at
the Carlson Community Club, 4463 Joyce Avenue.
April 2: Fool Hardy Party, starting at 7 pm at the
Townsite Brewery in the old Post Office on Ash Ave.
April 4, 11 & 18: ORCA Bus will be at the Lund
Community Hall from 9:30 – 11:30 am.
April 6 & 20: ORCA Bus will be at the Old Courthouse
Inn ( in the Townsite) from 9:30 – 11:30 am.
April 7: ORCA Bus will be at Gillies Bay Community
Hall on Texada from 12 – 2 pm.
April 7: Who’s Smarter than a 6th Grader? A night
of family fun as local celebrities challenge the
Grade 1-6 curriculum. Starts at 6:30 pm at the Max
Cameron Theatre at Brooks. Fundraiser for Success
By 6 and the Orca Bus.
April 8: ORCA Bus will be at the Senior’s Centre in
Cranberry from 9:30 – 11:30 am.
April 8: Le Carnaval! École Côte du Soleil invites
one and all to their annual carnival. A fun-filled
family event from 6 to 8:30 pm at 4368 Michigan
Ave. (the old JP Dallas School). An evening of
games, bouncers, prizes, concession, silent auction
and bake sale. Bienvenue à tout le monde!
April 9: Fifth Annual Okeover/Powell River ALS
Walk, Silent Auction and Benefit Lunch. Registration
begins at 9 am at the Laughing Oyster Restaurant.
Call 604 483-2277 or 604 414-0318 for further
information, pledge forms and lunch reservations
(required).
April 9: Opera Le Comte Ory from the Met, live in
HD at the Max at 10 am.
April 11: ORCA Bus will be at Henderson School for
Ready Set Learn.
April 12: ORCA Bus will be at the beach in front of
the church in Sliammon from 9:30 – 11:30 am and
ad Grief Point School for Ready Set Learn from 3 – 4
pm.
April 13 & 27: ORCA Bus will be at Lang Bay Hall
from 9:30 – 11:30 am.
April 14: Classic Albums Live performs Pink Floyd’s
‘Dark Side of the Moon’ in a live show at the Max
at 7:30 pm.
April 14: Opening night for Academy Musical Theatre
Ensemble presenting Willy Wonka. Starts at 7
pm at the Academy Music Hall. Also runs April 15
& 16 at 7 pm and a matinee on April 17 at 1:30 pm.
April 14 & 28: ORCA Bus will be on Alberta Street
(by Assumption School) from 9:30 – 11:30 am. April
21: O(RCA Bus will be at Texada School in Van
Anda from 12 – 2 pm.
April 15 & 16: PR Writers Conference at Dwight
Hall. Call Barb 604 485-2732 or prwriters.org.
April 23: Opera Capriccio at the Met, live in HD at
the Max at 10 am.
April 23: Great Community Easter Egg Hunt. 10:30
am at Willingdon Beach. Ages 10 and under. Please
bring a basket.
April 23: Grant Lawrence presents his new book
“Adventures in Solitude: What Not to Wear to a
Nude Potluck” at 3 pm at the Savary Island Resort,
1721 Vancouver Blvd on Savary Island.
April 23: Earth Day celebrations at the Lund Gazebo
11 am to 4:30 pm.
April 23: Membership Drive/Celebration for CJMP.
Freeflow accompanied by special guest Sunnyboy
Jazz for a DJ set at Club Bon Acceuil. Doors open
at 8 pm. Tickets are $12 for members, $15 for nonmembers.
Contact nolapoirier@gmail.com
April 26: ORCA Bus will be at the Community Resource
Center from 12:30 – 2:30 pm.
April 28: Opening night for the Far Off Broadway
production “Welcome to the Funhouse”, a musical
by CaroleAnn Leishman. Runs April 28th,
29th, 30th at 7:30pm, a Sunday May 1st Matinee
at 1:30pm, then May 4th, 5th, 6th & 7th at 7:30pm,
all at the Evergreen Theatre.
April 28: Poet Shane Koyczan performs at the Max
at 7:30 pm. You’ll remember Shane from the closing
ceremonies of the Olympics!
April 28 – 30: New Rock Island Players present a
hilarious comedy by Canadian playwright Norm
Foster at the Texada Island Community Hall (Gillies
Bay). Doors open at 6:30 pm for 7 pm performances.
Powell River patrons can take the 5:40 ferry
to Texada and return on the 10:10 sailing. Tickets
(only available at the door) $10 for adults, $7 for
seniors/students. For more info call 604 486-7670.
April 29: ORCA Bus will be at the Recreation Complex
for Ages and Stages from 9 am to 3 pm.
April 29: CJMP 90.1 FM Powell River Community
Radio public meeting at 5:30 PM at the Community
Resource Centre (4752 Joyce Ave).
April 30: Opening day at the Open Air Farmers Market!
The market will be open 10:30 am-12:30 pm on
Saturdays and 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm on Sundays from
now through October.
April 30: Trash Bash, starting from Willingdon
Beach. Arrive at 9:30 to register. A day of celebration
aimed at recovering, and uncovering, our trails
and back roads from improperly discarded trash.
April 30: Opera Il Trovatore from the Met, live in
HD at the Max at 10 am.
May 5: At Nightfall, a Family Series show at the Max
Theatre at 7:30 pm.
May 6: Art show by D’arcy Treadwell, opening reception
7-9 pm at Malaspina Art Society exhibition
space, located at Vancouver Island University. 3960
Selkirk Ave. Art show runs to June 1. For more
info: 604 485-0330, or visit www.artpowellriver.ca
May 14: Giant Indoor Garage Sale & Used Bike Sale,
9 am – noon at the Complex. Book your table now.
Lots of room for large items. Bring it & sell it. Free
entrance day of event & lots of parking.
Sunshine Speakers Toastmasters: Club meets
2nd and 4th Thursday at 7 pm in the School District
office boardroom on Ontario Ave; and at noon on
the 1st & 3rd Thursday. Guests welcome. Barb Rees,
604 485 2732 or Isabelle Southcott, 604 485‐0003.
Alcoholics Anonymous: 8:30 – 9:30 pm. Fridays
at United Church basement, Saturdays at Hospital
Boardroom, Sundays at Alano Club. For more info
call 604 414-0944, 604 485-5346, 604 483-9736.
Texada Island: 604 486-0117.
Sundays: Faith Lutheran Church Services & Sunday
school, 10 am. Call Pastor Carol at 604 485-2000.
Mondays: Breast Cancer Exercise Group. Fun, relaxed
atmosphere. Open to all fitness levels. 4 pm
at the PR Gymnastics Studio, 4360 Joyce. For more
info contact Terri Beck at 604 485-5876.
Mondays: Family Place Garden Group, 10:30
am – noon at the Community Demonstration Garden.
Call 604 485-2706 for more information.
Mondays: Cinch card games at RC Legion #164, 7
pm. Newcomers welcome. For more information
visit cinchgame.net or call 604 485-5504.
Mondays: Bike ride at Suncoast Cycle, 6 pm
Mondays: Pasta Night, 4:30 – 6 pm at Powell River
United Church, 4440 Michigan Avenue.
Mondays: Whist Club at the Lang Bay Hall, 1 pm.
Contact 604 487-9332.
Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays: The Source
Club Garage Sale, 4476 Cumberland Place (behind
Massullo motors),9 am – 3 pm. All proceeds go towards
funding our job skills training program for
people with mental illness. For more info call Sasha
at 604 485-0087.
Second Monday: at Family Place: “Multiples”,
a group for parents with twins and more!
10 – 11:30 am.
Last Monday: at Family Place; La Leche League,
breastfeeding support, 10 am.
Tuesdays: Carpet Bowling at the Lang Bay Hall,
2 pm. Contact 604 487-9332.
Tuesdays: at Family Place; “Toddler Time”; parent-child
drop-in and circle time 10:30 am – 12 pm. “Parent Child
Drop-in”; 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm. Everyone Welcome.
Tuesdays: PR Stroke Recovery Club meets In the
Lower Legion Hall from 10 am to 1 pm. Contact
Trudy Simpson at 604-48506396 or Rhonda Ellwyn
at 604 483-3304 for more information.
Tuesdays: Soup Kitchen at Seventh Day Adventist
Church (4880 Manson Ave), noon – 1:30 pm.
First and third Tuesday: Kiwanis Club of PR, 7:30
pm at the Annex on Kiwanis Avenue. For more info
call 604 487-9332.
Tues & Thurs: Bike Ride starting at RCMP lot, 6 pm
Tues & Thurs: At Anglican Church Senior-Supervised
after School Club, 3 – 4:30 pm. Healthy
snacks, board games, homework help, supervised
Internet.
First and Second Tuesday: Food Bank, 6812-D Alberni
Street, 10 am – 2 pm. Call 604 485‐9166.
Second Tuesday: Living with Cancer Support
Group, 1:30 – 3:30 pm. All cancer patients, survivors
and loved ones welcome. For more info call
Helen at 604 485-4071 or Carol at 604 485-9115.
Second Tuesday: Parkinson Support Group
(Jan – June & Sept – Nov), 1:30 pm, Trinity Hall of
the United Church. For more info call 604 485-5973.
Fourth Tuesday: Powell River Garden Club meets
at the Cranberry Senior’s Center (corner of Manson
Ave and Cranberry St). Doors open at 7 pm. Meeting
starts at 7:30 pm. everyone welcome.
First Wednesday; at Family Place: “Stone Soup”
cooperative lunch and “Open Space” planning,
12:30 – 2:30 pm.
Second Wednesday: Powell River SPCA meets at
VI University at 7 pm. Everyone Welcome.
First and Second Wednesday: Food Bank,
6812‐D Alberni Street, 10 am – 2 pm. For more info
call 604 485‐9166.
Wednesdays: Family Place; “Baby and Me”; parent-child
drop-in; 10:30 am – 12:30 pm. “The open
Space”; parent led family programs; 12:30 – 2:30
pm. Parent-child Drop- in 12:30 – 4:30 pm. Everyone
welcome.
Wednesdays: Salvation Army Soup & Sandwich
11:30 am – 1 pm, by donation. Everyone welcome.
Thursdays: Crib Club at the Lang Bay Hall, 7 pm.
Contact 604 487-9332.
Thursdays: Soup Kitchen at Seventh Day Adventist
Church (4880 Manson Ave), noon – 1:30 pm.
Thursdays: Family Place, parent/child drop-in,
10:30 am – 4:30 pm. Please contact the Parent-Child
Mother Goose program coordinator at mothergoose@prepsociety.org
for more information.
Thursdays: River City Slims, a self-help weight loss
group meets 5:30 – 7:30 pm at the Lighthouse Community
Church at the corner of Burnaby and Michigan.
For more info call 604 483-3074.
First and Second Thursday: Food Bank, 6812‐D
Alberni Street, 10 am – 2 pm. Call 604 485‐9166.
Fridays: Ravens Wheelchair basketball team practice
from 4 – 6 pm at Oceanview School. For more
info contact Lindsay at 604 485-2688.
Fridays: Family Place, parent child drop in,
12:30 – 4:30 pm, everyone welcome. Please call
604 485‐2706 for information about “Rhythm Circle
Time” & “Bilingual Playgroup”.
Fridays: Ravens Wheelchair Basketball, everyone
welcome, 4 – 6 pm at Oceanview School. For more
info contact Lindsay Peake at 604 485-2688 or
www.prdsc.org, or become a fan on Facebook!
Second & Fourth Saturday: Faith Lutheran Food
Cupboard is open 12 noon to 2 pm. 4811 Ontario
Street (corner of Alberni). Call 604 485-2000.
Third Saturday: Senior’s Center in Cranberry
holds their afternoon of cards, games and scrabble
at 1 pm. Please register in advance by calling
604 485‐9562 or 604 485-2153. Everyone is welcome.
Sundays: Powell River Horseshoe Pitching Club at
Complex, weather permitting. 9:30 am – 12:30 pm.
Open to all ages. Drop-in fee is $2 per day. Contact
Jim Hoffman 604 483-4853 or Lorraine Hubick 604
485-5589.
Please submit calendar items to bonnie@prliving.ca
by the 15th of the month before the event.
Powell River Living • april 2011 • 45

New school features sustainable design
Wouldn’t it be nice to spend less money on energy costs
and have that money to spend in the classroom instead?
School District 47 is as interested as anyone in saving money.
So much in fact that they are following The Canadian Green
Building Council’s LEED program for green buildings, which includes
a category on energy and atmosphere, in the building of
the new Westview Elementary School.
The result?
It is predicted that the new school will save the district up to
52 per cent in energy costs annually.
Yes, 52 per cent, says Doug Hibbins, project manager of Westview
Elementary. “The energy modeling
has predicted that the school will achieve
a 52 per cent energy savings compared to
the reference model in the Model National
Energy Code for Buildings,” said Hibbins,
who has been hired by the school district
to oversee this project.
“Every dollar that the school district can
save on heating can be spent in the classroom
and that is really important,” he said.
Powell River’s newest school, which is
scheduled to be complete in September
2012, will “showcase the best practices in
design and construction,” says Hibbins.
The building is expected to achieve Gold Certification with the
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program.
“We’re pretty excited about it,” said School Trustee Doug Skinner.
“This school will be a feature school for the community.”
The school will be located along Selkirk Avenue and Nootka
Street with the main entrance near the corner. There will be
drop off areas on both streets.
The gym at Westview Elementary will be comparable in size
to the Brooks gym. “It will be perfect for our elementary school
events,” said Skinner. Other features include a pre-kindergarten
set up for learning.
“We want the whole community to use this building,” he
added.
The school district has included multi-purpose rooms and
community offices that can be used for community purposes. “A
lot of groups use our gyms after school and in the evening and
we see that this facility will help in this regard,” said Skinner.
The new school will have a geothermal heating system, automatic
dimming lights and electric car charging stations. Materials
have been selected based on sustainable best building practices
while objectives such as minimal goods transportation,
recycled content and reduced off gassing have been considered.
“Natural wood will add to the rooms,” said Hibbins. In fact,
wood will define the interior of the new school. It will be found
throughout the building both in common areas and classrooms.
By having a two-storey school, the environmental footprint on
the site will be reduced. “This is an important objective from a
sustainability standpoint,” says Hibbins. A two-storey school is
also more energy efficient and by design it leaves more room for
green space. “The design minimizes the amount of asphalt, too.”
A sports field, including baseball diamonds, will extend from
the school along Selkirk to Massett Avenue.
Other important features include a ball hockey and basketball
court, adventure playground, outdoor amphitheatre, preschool
play areas and an outdoor education area.
By orienting the windows north/south instead of east/west
the amount of heat gain is reduced during the warmer months,
which reduces the need for cooling. In the winter, the school
will realize the benefit of solar gain in the classrooms. “The design
calls for high performance glass and sun shading devices,”
said Hibbins, pointing to design drawings where horizontal louvers
over the windows and generous overhangs are visible.
Low-flow plumbing fixtures will be used throughout the
school. By selecting materials such as glues that do not off gas
rather than ones that do, the district will be demonstrating the
best practices for sustainability, said Hibbins.
Yellowridge Construction Limited are the builders and KMBR
Architects Planners, one of the largest school architectural firms
in BC, are the architects.
The process being used to build this school is a departure
from the traditional approach of design, bid and build. “In this
case the architect works for the contractor. It is much more of a
collaborative process.”
The design is fluid, which means the team will carry on completing
the design and adhering to the contract requirements as work
progresses. The preliminary design was unveiled at an open house
at Grief Point Elementary School last month. “Some things will
change because of input from teachers and staff,” said Hibbins.
Westview Elementary School will be built withstand seismic
activity.
For more details on the new school please visit the School
District 47s website at www.sd47.bc.ca.
46 • www.PRLiving.ca

Max Cameron
Theatre
presents
Experience Entertainment!
LIVE ON STAGE!
Thursday, April 14 at 7:30 pm
4 th
Come out at 10 am on Saturday, April 30th
for a day of celebration aimed at recovering, and
uncovering, our trails and back roads from
improperly discarded trash.
Saturday, April 30 at 10 am
In a thrilling concert for all Pink Floyd fans, Classic Albums
Live recreates live on stage, note for note, and cut, for cut,
one of the most successful albums of all time.
Thursday, April 28 at 7:30 pm
Shane Koyczan
Canadian Slam Poet Shane
Koyczan brings enormous
vitality and virtuosity to
every performance. Well
known for his poem “We
Are More” performed at
the 2010 Olympics, Shane's
warmth, wit, and sincerity
are a hit with crowds of all
ages and his poems speak
directly to the heart. Check
Coming
in june
Good Timber
Songs & Stories of the
Western Logger
out “We Are More” on YouTube.
Shane will amaze you.
This event is supported by the Powell River Public Library
A fascinating show, brilliantly
performed and backed by
projected images of logging
history from the BC archives.
A LIVE musical revue based on the poems of Robert E Swanson, “Bard of the Woods.”
The TRASH BASH will take place from Willingdon
Beach. Arrive at 9:30 am to register. Participants will
be provided with a free mouth-watering lunch as well
as being entered in a draw for door prizes.
Cash prizes available for youth groups.
Contact for registration and/or information:
trashbash@powellriverrd.bc.ca
Phone 604 483-3231 or fax 604 483-2229
Please include: name and number of contact, organization or
company name (if applicable), number of participants, whether a
clean-up site and map is requested, whether you will be providing
your own garbage-hauling transportation.
Remember to bring gloves & other tools to help you
pick up trash! Garbage bags will be provided.
To report sites for clean-up, contact trashbash@powellriverrd.bc.ca
TickeTs • Academy of Music Box Office... call 604 485-9633 to buy
then pick up at the show. Day of performance tickets at the door.
Adults $24 • seniors/students $20 • Age 12 & under $12
www.MaxCameronTheatre.ca
Organized and supported by The Sustainable Schools
Committee, The Regional District and Forestry BC
Powell River Living • april 2011 • 47

More to shop for...
You’ll find great deals hiding all over
the Mall this Easter!
Drop by the Administration Office or call 604.485.4681 to order gift certificates — Values of $5, $10, $25 or $50.
Now iN store!
Enter TC Mall's Easter
Colouring Contest
604 485-2563
Introductory Classes Now Available
www.rapidedge.ca
Rapidedge Technologies Inc.
Serving the Sunshine Coast
Authorized
Reseller
is back!!!
Brazilian Blowout ZERO, is a Plant-Derived KeraSafe
Bonding System. 0% formaldehyde released before, during
or after treatment. Same great results for up to 12 weeks.
Prices from $150. Bring this coupon in before April 30 and
receive 15% oFF your aftercare products! Book now!
Prizes
$50 • $25 • $10
for each age group of
3 – 4 yrs • 5 – 6 yrs • 7 – 9 yrs
Pick up the colouring page & entry form
from any store in the mall or from
the mall office.
Submit entries to the Mall Office
not later than April 22.
Winner will be notified on April 23