The qathet Regional District’s Community Wood Smoke Reduction Program provides rebates to residents who remove old wood-burning appliances used for home heating, and replace them with an eligible, cleaner heating option.

Qualified applicants can receive between $400 and $3,000 in rebates for replacing old wood stoves with new, cleaner burning wood stoves, wood insert, pellet stoves, electric inserts, and heat pumps. Residents applying for a heat pump rebate have the option to keep their wood stove if it meets current EPA/CSA certifications. A rebate of $300 is also available to decommission an old wood stove without an exchange.

The program is funded through the BC Lung Foundation and the qathet Regional District and can be combined with other incentives from local retailers, the City of Powell River, BC Hydro, and Better Homes BC.

Help improve our local air quality. Learn more and apply today at qathet.ca.

Website: www.qathet.ca

The post The Community Wood Smoke Reduction Program has returned for 2024 appeared first on My Powell River Now.

SOBC – Powell River needs athletes and volunteers to join our year-round sport programs for people with intellectual disabilities

Individuals with intellectual disabilities are still far too often left on the sidelines, isolated and hidden away. In Special Olympics BC’s programs, they take centre stage and show all that they can do, empowering themselves and inspiring everyone who sees them in action.

Special Olympics athletes change the way the world sees people with intellectual disabilities, opening hearts and minds to create inclusive communities, and they change how they feel about themselves as they gain vital confidence, skills, and friendships through the power and joy of sport.

Get involved with SOBC – Powell River

[caption id="attachment_46107" align="alignnone" width="696"] Tina McKay for Special Olympics BC[/caption]

“Before Special Olympics, I didn’t have many friends and had trouble making friends. I often felt left out and excluded because of my differences. Special Olympics made me feel awesome and comfortable in my own skin. The athletes and coaches helped me realize my potential and the value of being on a team. They saw, and helped me to see, the ability I didn’t see in myself,” says SOBC athlete Ashely Adie.

With Special Olympics BC programs and opportunities operating year-round, new athletes with intellectual disabilities are always encouraged to get involved. Special Olympics BC athletes range in age from two to 89, and a wide range of ability levels are all welcome, from highly competitive to purely recreational.

Many Special Olympics BC athletes participate in programs purely for the social and health benefits that are abundant in their weekly practices, while many others develop athletic and performance goals that lead them to focus on excelling in their sport training and competitions.

No matter what motivates athletes to get involved with Special Olympics sports, they will have a great time participating alongside supportive friends and coaches, and their experiences will powerfully impact them both on and off the fields of play.

“I love being in Special Olympics. It is great because it helps me feel included and part of a team,” says SOBC athlete Robert Tarko.

Getting involved with Special Olympics BC as a coach or volunteer can change lives too. Longtime volunteer Sheila Hawton says you won’t ever regret it.

“Volunteering with Special Olympics is rewarding because it gives so much back. The athletes always have a smile for you. If you go in grumpy, you won’t come out grumpy. It’s almost goosebumps that it gives you when you see how well these guys excel,” says Hawton. “There is no downside. It’s so rewarding, it really is. It warms your heart.”

Rewarding Special Olympics BC volunteer roles range from coaching and serving on a community program’s Local Committee to helping with one-time events such as local competitions and fundraisers. All play a crucial part in the Special Olympics movement and family and have the rewarding experience of making a difference in the lives of others and in their communities.

“Working with Special Olympics athletes is an extremely rewarding experience. They teach you as much as we teach them. And the amount of time you put in with Special Olympics, you get back tenfold in the experiences you get to have as a volunteer,” says SOBC coach Alexander Blum-Walker.

With Special Olympics BC – Powell River programs operating year-round, it’s always a great time to get involved. Find out more at https://www.specialolympics.ca/british-columbia/communities/powell-river

Special Olympics British Columbia

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The qathet region has a few firsts under its belt; first credit union, first pulp mill and in 2020 we also took the title of having Canada’s first ocean plastic depot. Since this depot open its doors it’s diverted just over 85,000kgs of various forms of plastic marine debris. The number one item we see coming in is flotation foam from docks and aquaculture infrastructure. View the full list of all that we can accept and what is commonly found that is not accepted.

If you’re interested in picking up marine debris this summer, you’ll need to schedule an orientation at the depot by emailing qathetdepot@oceanlegacy.ca. Feel free to bring a load of material to your orientation, especially any questionable items! The orientation is usually a quick 15 minutes to walk you through how to access the depot, how material is organized and what to do once a bag is full. The depot is easy to spot once you’re at Augusta Recyclers, look for the large mural of a spider crab that adorns the one side of the depot.

https://oceanplasticdepot.ca/home/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/OPD-Overview-Video-Jan-31-Revised1.mp4

All of the material that is collected at the depot is shipped to the Ocean Legacy Plastic Pollution Emergency Response Facility in Richmond, BC where the rope and hard plastics are processed into pellets which are then manufactured into non-structural lumber that is made from 100% recovered marine debris! The vast amount of foam that comes in is processed by a third party recycler.

Zero Waste Events

Summer festivities often mean more parties, weddings, and festivals. These can be great opportunities to relax, but also times we generate more garbage than we mean to. Planning ahead makes all the difference in reducing our impact. Events big or small can take advantage of the qathet Regional District’s Zero Waste Event equipment! From Zero Waste Stations to dishware and utensils, these assets can help divert material from the garbage and aim to reduce single-use items. This equipment can all be signed out free of charge and simply requires a sign out form to be completed and a damage deposit of $50 issued to the qRD.

On behalf of the qRD, Let’s Talk Trash has organized multiple sets of Zero Waste Stations that are ready to be loaned out. Each set has a collection for compost, refundables and containers. The collected material can all be delivered to the Town Centre Recycling Depot. By targeting these specific categories, events can greatly reduce the amount of waste generated. At larger gatherings, having a station monitor available to help guests place items in the correct bins is helpful.

Feeling inspired? Check out Let’s Talk Trash’s Event Planning webpage. Here you’ll find the equipment sign out form and a Zero Waste Guide for Event Coordinators and Food

Resource Recovery Centre Update

Big changes are taking shape at the Resource Recovery Centre! A new access road now leads into the site where foundations are being poured and building construction is underway.

The site will have a free side that houses a recycling centre building with all available Extended Responsibility Programs (packaging and paper, lights, batteries, appliances, used oil, paints, etc.) as well as a space for workshops and a free store. The pay side has a scale house, site office, diversion area to set aside reusable items, recycling and waste bins and bunkers, and an enclosed transfer station building for garbage and organics.

Sustainable practices continue to drive this phase of construction through the reuse and recycling of available materials onsite. This includes the repurposing of wood to build concrete forms, using locally milled wood from the site in the buildings and collecting wood offcuts for a local social enterprise. The construction schedule is on track with an anticipated opening to the public in the summer of 2024.

Website: www.qathet.ca

The post qathet Regional District’s Community Ocean Plastic Depot appeared first on My Powell River Now.

In a world where young hearts bear the weight of trauma, Raven’s Nest is a beacon of compassion, care, and justice. With a deep-rooted commitment to youths’ physical, emotional and mental well-being, Raven’s Nest has become a powerful force in the realm of youth advocacy and trauma support for youth who have disclosed incidents of abuse, neglect, or exploitation, and are entering into the criminal justice process. Through their unwavering dedication and nurturing approach, they have brought light and healing to countless young lives, guiding them on a path towards recovery, empowerment, and justice.

Holistic Youth Advocacy:

Raven’s Nest embraces a holistic approach to youth advocacy, recognizing that healing is a multifaceted journey. Their team of professionals, including caring advocates, compassionate law enforcement officers, nurturing medical staff, and empathetic mental health experts, join forces to prioritize the unique needs of each individual. By fostering collaboration among these diverse expertise, Raven’s Nest creates a unified and integrated response that addresses the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of every youth they serve.

https://youtu.be/DEqwkE6S-Xw

Creating a Safe Haven:

Within the physical center of Raven’s Nest lies a sanctuary—a haven of safety and warmth. Every detail is thoughtfully designed with the comfort of young hearts in mind. From the inviting waiting room to the interview rooms adorned with child-friendly touches, Raven’s Nest ensures that youth feel secure and at ease. The presence of plain-clothed RCMP officers during forensic interviews provides an added layer of reassurance, safeguarding the well-being and trust of these vulnerable youths. Raven’s Nest tends to emotional wounds, nurturing the spirit and fostering healing. The journey toward justice can be a long and challenging road, and Raven’s Nest works to shield young survivors from the most difficult and traumatizing aspects of that journey.

Advocates Who Go Above and Beyond:

Raven’s Nest's team of advocates is the heart and soul of the organization. These compassionate professionals are dedicated to helping youth through every step of their criminal justice journey. Whether it's providing essential information, connecting them with vital resources, or offering a listening ear, Raven’s Nest advocates offer unwavering support. They understand the importance of empathy, actively working to create a safe space where youth can share their experiences without fear of judgment or blame.

Healing Pain – Not Reliving it:

One of the key strengths of Raven’s Nest lies in its commitment to minimizing re-traumatization. The program recognizes the impact of repeated storytelling on youth who have experienced trauma. By centralizing services and bringing all resources under one roof, Raven’s Nest significantly reduces the number of times youth have to recount their stories of abuse. This approach not only helps alleviate their emotional burden but also empowers them to regain a sense of control over their lives.

Community Collaboration:

Raven’s Nest understands that addressing youth trauma requires a community-wide effort. They actively collaborate with law enforcement agencies, child protection workers, healthcare providers, educational institutions, and non-profit organizations. By working together, they ensure a comprehensive response to child maltreatment, promote education and awareness, and enhance prevention strategies. Through public talks and educational programs, Raven’s Nest actively engages with the community to promote understanding and empower individuals to act against and work for justice against child abuse. This involves helping parents, caregivers, educators, and other youth serving adults understand the very real and present dangers of child maltreatment, including abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, online exploitation and extortion, and child-trafficking. Raven’s Nest provides guidance and support on how to discuss these topics with youth by removing shame and approaching with compassion and care.

Empowering Youth:

Above all, Raven’s Nest is driven by a vision of healing, empowerment, and justice. By providing centralized services, they offer youth the opportunity to access the support they need conveniently. The program recognizes that each young person's journey is unique, and their individual voices are valued and respected. Through unconditional support and personalized care, Raven’s Nest helps youth rebuild their lives, equipping them with the necessary tools to overcome their trauma and thrive.

Raven’s Nest is a shining example of youth advocacy making a difference on Vancouver Island. With their compassionate and caring approach, they create a safe space for young individuals to heal and find their voice. By embracing a holistic model of support, minimizing re-traumatization, educating about the modern dangers of the many forms of child maltreatment, and seeking justice through fostering community collaboration, Ravens Nest is transforming the lives of youth affected by trauma. Together, we can stand alongside Ravens Nest, empowering young survivors and ensuring a brighter future for all.

Ravens Nest is a program of Cowichan Women Against Violence Society.

For more information visit ravensNestCYAC.ca
Call: 250-606-1712
Email: intakeRavensNestCYAC@cwav.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/RavensNestCYAC/

The post Youth Overcoming Trauma – Raven’s Nest Youth Advocacy Centre appeared first on My Powell River Now.

The drone of the engine as it reaches its final elevation. The smell of the plane. The feel of nylon in hand as they check every strap, clip, and tie. The door opens – and wind comes rushing in. They brace themselves as they step up to the open hatch. A shaky breath is met by a comforting hand on their shoulder. One step and they’re in open air – letting gravity do it’s thing. The wind gets so loud it feels like the only thing they’ve ever heard. THIS is healing.

The frontlines are not a hospitable place. Whether in a combat zone, or as a first responder, the frontline is where they see the worst. But time and time again these incredible human beings rise to the occasion. That’s why Operation Pegasus Jump was started. To help veterans, serving military, first responders, and their families deal with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder while creating a community and support structure.

It was just last year Operation Pegasus Jump had their first organized jump day in Campbell River. There’s a very good reason they chose Campbell River – It’s home to the only veteran run skydiving companies in Canada. From across the country 89 veterans, serving military, first responders and their families came to the Island just for Op Pegasus Jump. From their oldest member at 81 to the youngest at 23, they all came to get trained, meet with people they hadn’t seen in years, and find a whole new hobby.

They offer training and tandem jumps for those that have never stepped out of a plane while it’s in the air. First Responders with jump training can get into the air sooner, after some safety training.

More than jumping; Operation Pegasus Jump makes sure to have mental health professionals on hand ready and eager to help. Paired with poignant ceremonies honouring those that are no longer here – Op Pegasus is a healing experience like no other for all first responders.

Operation Pegasus Jump’s impact cannot be measured. It cannot be quantified. It can only be felt. And there is no one better suited to convey that feeling than the people who have jumped.

Master Sailor Kate Stewart

"I ATTENDED OP PEGASUS TO HELP GET OVER MY FEAR OF HEIGHTS AND TO MEET SOME NEW PEOPLE! LITTLE DID I KNOW, I WOULD FIND MY NEW HOBBY. I’M NOW ADDICTED TO SKYDIVING, AND I’M PART OF AN AMAZING NEW COMMUNITY OF CURRENT AND FORMER MILITARY/LEO MEMBERS. GET OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE AND JOIN US THIS YEAR!”

Warrant Officer Shaun Taylor

"I WON'T WASTE YOUR TIME. WANNA FEEL BETTER, DO BETTER, BE PART OF SOMETHING THAT YOU WILL NEVER FORGET? GOOD. GO REGISTER, YOU WON'T REGRET IT. YOU HAVE MY WORD ON THAT.”

To get an even better feel for what Operation Pegasus Jump feels like on the ground for attendees, visit OperationPegasusFoundation.com – to watch the incredibly impactful documentary from their jump last year in Campbell River.

https://youtu.be/mMgFTTuBnD8

With such an incredible outpouring of support and results, Operation Pegasus Foundation has set their sights even higher, which is quite hard when you jump out of a plane for fun. They want more Military and first responders to know there is a unique way of getting the help so many First Responders struggle to find. And those lofty goals aren’t far with your help.

Right now, many attendees jumping have to cover their own costs. Which affects how many people can afford to attend. And with only one location it’s a far way to travel. Through your compassion and support Operation Pegasus Foundation wants to ensure all costs are covered for the First Responders, Veterans, and Serving Military members. As the number of attendees increases so will awareness, which will help find even more locations to host jumps.

To donate visit their website, OperationPegasusFoundation.com and find the donate button, or go directly to their gofundme page. No matter the donation, it will help ensure more support for First Responders, including paramedics, fire fighters, police officers, and more. As well as veterans and serving military members. They also offer sponsorship opportunities as another great way to help support them in their incredible mission.

 

Website: www.operationpegasusfoundation.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile

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Throughout BC, invasive plants are proliferating at alarming rates, complicating attempts to control them and making removal particularly difficult. Invasive plants are those that are either outside of their natural range or do not naturally occur in British Columbia. They are quite aggressive, multiply quickly, and frequently outcompete local plants and crops due to a lack of natural predators and adaptability to environmental conditions.

Invasive plants are predominantly spread through human activity through movement and transport of machinery and vehicles, transported goods and seeds, burs or roots. Soil erosion, over-grazing, and off-roading increases the spread of invasive plants. Invasive species have also been deliberately introduced as a result of gardening and landscaping efforts.

Invasive Plants Cost Millions

Invasive plants pose a threat to natural resources because they have the same qualities that make them perfect for gardens, such as self-seeding, quick growth, and adaptation to a range of growing environments. Invasive plants cost taxpayers millions of dollars every year by reducing biodiversity, altering ecosystem functions, increasing management costs for the natural resource sector, reducing recreational possibilities, and lowering property values. Invasive plants, are second only to habitat loss in terms of global damage to biodiversity, according to the World Conservation Union.

How To Control Invasive Plants

No "quick remedy" exists for the invasive plant problem. However, there are many things you can do to help control and prevent the spread of invasive plants including: ensuring equipment, machinery, vehicles and clothing are thoroughly rinsed down and free from invasive plants when moving between environments, minimizing soil disturbance in all construction and maintenance activities, limiting the movement of weed-infested soil or gravel, using certified weed-free seed mixes or vegetation in disturbed areas to provide competition for any new weeds, containing neighbouring infestations and restricting movement of invasive plants from adjacent lands, and considering local plant species when landscaping or gardening.

Roadways, railways and waterways are often corridors for invasive plant spread and should be monitored for invasive plant establishment. Treat new infestations quickly by working with local invasive plant groups and local governments.

To report an invasive species infestation, use the BC Government reporting app, the BC Report a Weed app, or call the Coastal Invasive Species Committee weed hotline at 1-844-871-5117.

The qRD Is Here To Help

The qathet Regional District is dedicated to resolving the issue of invasive plants in the region. In January of 2017, the qRD adopted an Invasive Plant Control Strategy. This Strategy is a collaborative framework to control and eliminate invasive plants in the region, and includes safe disposal plans for cleared invasive species. The Regional Invasive Plant Disposal Plan was put into place in 2022 to provide the qRD with a robust plan for the proper disposal of invasive plant species that compliments the Invasive Plant Management Strategy.

How You Can Help

Resident participation in fighting the spread of invasive species is a critical part of the initiative. From May 1-31, 2024, from 10am to 4pm every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, Sunshine Disposal will be collecting clean invasive plant material free of charge at 4484 Franklin Avenue. Please make sure all loads are secured and contained to avoid the spread of invasive material during transport. For more information, please visit qathet.ca or call 604-485-2260.

REMINDER: Avoid cutting or transporting knotweed. Knotweed reproduces through the root and stem. Management options must be carefully evaluated on a site-by-site basis to avoid further spread. Please contact the qathet Regional District for more information.

To learn more about invasive species’ impacts and initiatives, visit Invasives Species Council of BC, Coastal Invasive Species Committee or PlantWise.

Click below to learn more about known invasive plants in our region. Bindweed or Morning Glory     Butterfly Bush      Common Tansy      English Hawthorn      English Holly      English Ivy      Giant Hogweed         Giant Hogweed vs Cow Parsnip       Gorse      Himalayan Blackberry      Knotweed      Kudzu      Orange Hawkweed      Periwinkle      Purple Deadnettle      Scotch Broom      Spartina      Sulphur Cinquefoil      Tansy Ragwort      Yellow Flag Iris      Yellow Starthistle

Website: www.qathet.ca

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qathet Regional District is responsible for long term planning and management of solid
waste for the entire region as mandated by the Local Government Act. As outlined in our
Solid Waste Management Plan (SWMP), “Working Towards Zero Waste” is the philosophy held by qathet Regional District that informs its initiatives and programs.

Resource Recovery Centre

The Resource Recovery Centre (RRC) project will encourage waste reduction and diversion of materials from the waste stream by providing a one-stop-drop recycling depot and transfer station. The site will also feature our region’s Ocean Plastic Depot, a free store and an education centre. Design of this innovative facility is complete and the project has entered its final phase – construction.

https://youtu.be/2G4Op8thfBQ

The RRC is being constructed on a newly remediated site located across from the Willingdon Beach campground. The site used to be home to an open pit burner incinerator in operation from the 1970s until 1994. View the projects’ progress through video and aerial photos on the qathet Regional District’s website. The facility is anticipated to open to the public in the summer of 2024.

Community Wood Smoke Reduction Program

The Community Wood Smoke Reduction Program has returned for 2023. The Community Wood Smoke Reduction Program provides rebates to eligible residents who remove a non-EPA certified wood-burning appliance used for home heating and replace it with a cleaner
heating option.

The program is funded through the BC Lung Association and qathet
Regional District to reduce particulate matter in the atmosphere and improve air quality.
Qualified applicants can receive between $400-$2000 in rebates for replacing inefficient wood stoves with new, cleaner burning models, pellet stoves, electric inserts, and heat pumps. New to the 2023 program is a decommissioning rebate of $300 to decommission an old wood stove without an exchange. Learn more or apply today through the qathet Regional District website.

Recycling Updates

qathet Regional District operates seven residential recycling depots in the region, as well as the Texada Island Transfer Station. The City of Powell River provides bi-weekly curbside recycling collection. To learn more about the recycling programs offered within the qathet Regional District, please visit the qathet Regional District website. Recycle BC, the non-profit that partially funds the qathet Regional District’s depot recycling and the City of Powell River’s curbside collection program, has made some changes. Now residents can mix plastics bags and overwrap with other flexible plastic packaging (i.e., chip bags) into the Flexible Plastics collection available at recycling depots.

This new Flexible Plastics collection is being recycled into pellets that can be made into
new plastic products. Squishy cushion packaging is a newly accepted material that can also
be added to this category. Recycle BC has also added certain single use packaging items to
their list of accepted materials. These include plastic (non-compostable) utensils and
disposable cups, bowls and plates, be they paper, plastic or foam. For a full list of
accepted materials, visit Recycle BC.

Confused about recycling? Download the newly updated Waste Wise Guide – a digital resource for local recycling and composting or search for your item in the Waste Wizard.

Never miss garbage or recycling curbside pick up day again by downloading the qathet Waste Wise app.

Website: www.qathet.ca

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In 2021, the qathet Regional District (qRD) launched the new Regional Community Notification System. Since the launch, the qRD has continued to promote the system, and encourage the public to register for vital notifications. The Community Notification System can rapidly circulate critical safety information to help our community stay up-to-date in the event of an emergency.

The Regional Community Notification System allows the qathet Regional Emergency Operations Centre to send voice messages to phones as well as text messages and emails.

The Community Notification System service is free of charge however; residents must register for the system in order to receive notifications.

Each year the Regional Emergency Operations Centre conducts tests of the Community Notification System. The tests are typically in May during Emergency Preparedness Week and in November. More tests of the System may be scheduled throughout the year.

The Community Notification System strengthens the Regional Emergency Program officials’ ability to communicate with residents when it matters most. This service allows for critical communication with the public and provides individuals with the information needed to stay safe or take precautions during hazardous situations.

To register for the Community Notification System, visit qathet.ca/emergency-preparedness, and click the “Enroll Here” button. You will be directed to fill out a registration form. Please contact emergency@qathet.ca or call 604-485-2260 for more information.

Emergency preparedness is essential and a key component in protecting lives and property. To help our community stay aware and be prepared, we encourage all residents to register for regional community notifications. To learn more about emergency preparedness, please visit qathet.ca.

The qathet Community Notification System is a localized system specific for the qathet region and is not affiliated with the Provincial Alert System. As required by the CRTC, the Alert Ready system will take precedence over notifications you receive from qathet Regional District.

Website: www.qathet.ca

The post qathet Regional District Are You Ready 2023 appeared first on My Powell River Now.

TD Bank Group (TD) launches the TD Scholarship for Indigenous Peoples, a new scholarship program tailored specifically for students from the Indigenous community, managed by AFOA Canada. TD understands the unique challenges and systemic barriers we face as Indigenous Peoples. Which is why we have worked closely with TD to customize a scholarship program focused on the needs of students from the Indigenous community. 

"It's important that students from Indigenous communities have equitable access to education. The TD Scholarship for Indigenous Peoples aims to help provide students from Indigenous communities with the financial freedom and stability to explore the benefit of a post-secondary education and work education. I am thrilled to see this program launch and look forward to continuing our relationship with AFOA Canada." – Doris Bear, Vice President, Indigenous Banking, TD Bank Group 

The scholarship program will provide 25 successful applicants with $15k annually (with a maximum of $60k across 4 years) to be put towards tuition costs and living expenses for the duration of their studies. Additionally, recipients will be offered an internship opportunity with TD to gain valuable work experience aligned to their career aspirations. Internship opportunities will be available for students throughout their time as a recipient. 

“The new TD Scholarship program will be transformational in the lives of the Indigenous students” says Terry Goodtrack, President and CEO, AFOA Canada. “It will set them up for success in achieving their academic goals and chosen career path” 

Scholarships are available for First Nations, Métis and Inuit who are members / citizens of a First Nation, Métis or Inuit community. You must be a permanent resident of Canada and have applied for or are currently enrolled in a full-time, minimum 2-year program with an approved post-secondary institution in Canada. 

Applications will open Friday, November 18, 2022, at 4:30pm ET, and must be submitted by no later than January 16, 2023, at 5:00pm ET. For complete information about the program, please visit: www.afoa.ca/td. 

Background: 

AFOA Canada 

AFOA Canada, founded in 1999, strives towards their mandate to help Indigenous Peoples better manage and govern their communities and organizations through a focus on enhancing management, finance and 

governance practices and skills. It is the only organization in Canada that focuses on the capacity development and day-to-day needs of those Indigenous professionals who are working in all areas of management, finance, band administration, leadership, and program management—We are Building a Community of Professionals. 

TD Bank Group 

At TD, we recognize there is more work to be done on our collective journey towards Truth and Reconciliation. Supporting community initiatives that promote a connection to the land, enhance financial education, and foster a sense of belonging is important. We believe society is stronger when we work together and that we can help be a catalyst for dialogue to bring people, communities, and cultures together. 

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The qathet Regional District is developing a Parks and Trails Strategy to guide the future direction for parks and trails owned and operated by the qRD.

Parks and trails are a vital asset to our community, providing valuable recreation opportunities that support the health and wellness of our citizens. They ensure the public has access to all that nature has to offer while also protecting those resources for future generations.

The final Strategy will present a comprehensive inventory of our current parks and trails; identify key issues, challenges and opportunities; establish goals; and highlight actions that reflect the community’s desires and aspirations for our parks and trails. This Strategy will be used to identify priorities, guide decision-making and operations, and allocate resources over the next ten years.

Project Timeline

This project will run until May 2023 when the Parks & Trails Strategy will be finalized. We will conduct two rounds of engagement during this project to determine the community’s vision and values for parks and trails in the region and to provide feedback on the draft plan.

How You Can Get Involved

You are invited to attend one of our upcoming open houses and complete an online survey to share your ideas for parks and trails in the qathet region.

What do you value about the regional district’s parks, open spaces and trail systems? Are there things we are currently doing well? Do you have ideas for how we could improve our parks, trails & amenities?

We want to hear from you!

Feedback gathered from the public through the open houses and survey will be used to help guide the future direction for parks and trails in the qathet Regional District.

Please see our schedule of events below to see how you can get involved with the Parks and Trails Strategy.

In-Person Open Houses

To sign up for one of our open houses, visit our webpage: www.qathet.ca/current_project/parks-trails-strategy/

Online Survey

The online survey will be available from November 14-30, 2022. Paper copies will be available upon request. Please contact the Planning Department at planning@qathet.ca or 604-485-2260 ext. 405 to request your copy.

Visit our website for more details and to sign up for regular project updates: www.qathet.ca/current_project/parks-trails-strategy/

Learn More

To learn more about our existing Regional parks, campgrounds, beach accesses, and other recreation services, click here.

Past Park & Trail Plans

• 2010 Parks & Greenspace Plan
• 2016 Regional Trails Plan

(Graphics provided by qathet Regional District and Lees & Associates)

Website: www.qathet.ca

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The rumble of a Motorcycle creates images of surly men and women that cause some people anxiety. But when vulnerable kids see the bikers from Bikers Against Child Abuse®, they only see friends. And feel courageous. Emboldened. Safe!

Bikers Against Child Abuse, or B.A.C.A.®, is an organization stretching across North America and overseas; dedicated to helping children who have faced trauma and abuse no child deserves to go through. The brothers and sisters of B.A.C.A.® work with Provincial officials, but first and foremost, their only priority are the children themselves.

Their Mission Statement makes it clear how seriously they take their responsibility:

“Bikers Against Child Abuse, Inc. (B.A.C.A. ®) exists with the intent to create a safer environment for abused children. We exist as a body of Bikers to empower children to not feel afraid of the world in which they live. We stand ready to lend support to our wounded friends by involving them with an established, united organization. We work in conjunction with local and state officials who are already in place to protect children. We desire to send a clear message to all involved with the abused child that this child is part of our organization, and that we are prepared to lend our physical and emotional support to them by affiliation, and our physical presence. We stand at the ready to shield these children from further abuse. We do not condone the use of violence or physical force in any manner, however, if circumstances arise such that we are the only obstacle preventing a child from further abuse, we stand ready to be that obstacle.”

https://youtu.be/XDOwg6L6YXE

B.A.C.A.® was founded by a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who was a Registered Play Therapist. He was in practice for over twenty years, most of which was spent in the treatment of abused children. He became keenly aware that while the system was able to offer much in the way of helping children to heal, there were gaps that needed to be filled.

Starting with a single chapter in Utah, B.A.C.A.® today has chapters worldwide and continues to grow!

With growth B.A.C.A.® knew they had to create a network stronger than steel. Their membership process is stringent and ensures that every brother and sister is dedicated and ready to rise to the call. It all starts with someone attending a general meeting at their nearest B.A.C.A.® chapter. Potential supporters must be 18 years old and have access to a motorcycle. They are expected to continue to attend events and meetings through the year. After three meetings a vote is held by the Chapter. The vote must be unanimous and if so, triggers a criminal record check to ensure no history of child or domestic abuse. Once cleared the supporter will receive their road name and supporter patches. From there a rigorous 16 months of trailing begins (off and on the road) in order to become a patched member and, ultimately, to become a Primary to a child.

B.A.C.A.® Has two Levels of Intervention.
During a Level 1, B.A.C.A.® will ride out with as many bikes as possible to the child’s home or a secured location where they meet with the child and parents and/or guardians. During the ceremony the child is presented with their own biker vest patched with a road name they choose and a teddy bear that is hugged by each B.A.C.A.® attendee and is filled with positive energy and empowerment. The child will be given two Primaries. Primaries are available to the children 24/7, 365 days a year; starting the path to empowerment.

A Level 2 intervention is used when there has been a threat or contact made by the abuser and the child is fearful. B.A.C.A.® will guard the home 24/7 until the threat is no longer present. Their visible presence helps reinforce to the child that they are not alone during their most vulnerable times.

B.A.C.A.® will also escort the child to court when needed. It has been proven that B.A.C.A.® children are 4 times more likely to testify on the stand.

https://youtu.be/ydP9iY9nAek

Bikers Against Child Abuse® is helping children overcome abuse and trauma by bringing them into our organization and making sure they know they’re not alone. We will always act as the obstacle between children and their abusers. B.A.C.A.® is a non-profit organization and no B.A.C.A.® member is ever paid. Watching a scared child become empowered and stop living in fear is all the payday B.A.C.A.® members need. If you know someone who needs B.A.C.A.’s help, or you’re interested in becoming part of this incredible family, reach out to the Chapters we have in B.C.

Victoria Chapter : info@vi-can.bacaworld.org

Mid Vancouver Island Chapter : info@mv-can.bacaworld.org

Fraser Valley Chapter : info@fv-can.bacaworld.org

Greater Vancouver Chapter : info@gv-can.bacaworld.org

Kamloops Chapter: info@ka-can.bacaworld.org

North Caribou Chapter: info@nc-can.bacaworld.org

Website: www.bacaworld.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BikersAgainstChildAbuseInternational

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Remembering garbage and recycling day just got easier!

The qathet Regional District and the City of Powell River have launched a free mobile app to help residents stay aware of their recycling and garbage pickup day, receive service alerts, learn more about special collection events and initiatives and access the Waste Wizard search tool which helps users find out what waste items go where.

The new qathet Waste Wise mobile app will notify and deliver waste and recycling service reminders and alerts. qathet Waste Wise app is personalized to a resident’s address to provide details on which collection streams are being collected each week. It automatically adjusts for holiday collection schedules.

Residents can choose to receive a “push” notification through the App to their smart phone or smart device, at a time of their choosing, either the day before or the day of their collection or continue to receive reminders by email and voice call. Never miss a collection day again, get informed on waste diversion events happening in the community, reduce your environmental footprint, and be waste wise!

The free qathet Waste Wise App is available to both iPhone and Android users. To download the App, simply search “qathet Waste Wise” in the App store or Google play stores and download.

Questions about the App, Reminders, Curbside Collection, or any other curbside collection related items can be directed to Operation Services Secretary at opssecretary@powellriver.ca or 604-485-8657.

The Let’s Talk Trash Team is contracted by the qathet Regional District to support waste reducing education initiatives for the region. The qathet Regional District is responsible for long term planning and management of solid waste for the entire qathet Regional District, which includes the City of Powell River. For more information on the qathet Regional District solid waste management services, please visit qathet.ca/waste-management. For resources, articles, and general questions about waste and recycling visit the Let’s Talk Trash team online, email info@letstalktrash.ca or call the qathet Regional District at 604-485-2260.

Website: www.qathet.ca

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by FireSmart BC, for more information, please click here www.firesmartbc.ca/why-we-focus-on-embers/

Embers have long been known as a driving force in the spread of wildfire, often igniting numerous smaller blazes beyond the main fire front.

It is commonly estimated that half of the home fires attributed to wildfire are actually ignited by embers, but a recent study found that of all homes and buildings that ignite in a wildfire, embers alone account for up to 90 percent of ignition origins. In most cases, embers are the primary means by which wildfire is likely to destroy your property.

The latest science confirms what firefighters have long known: embers give any fire a far longer reach, enabling it to leap over barriers such as fuel breaks. Many homeowners assume that, since their properties are not adjacent to forest, they are not at risk of wildfire. In certain conditions, embers can travel as far as two kilometres before falling, and are still capable of igniting. Embers can find their way into wood piles or under decks, and smoulder unseen for hours, before igniting the home.

Luckily, ember ignition risk can be significantly reduced by following some simple FireSmart principles.

An ember that lands on or near a fire-resilient home or yard will typically burn out before it can ignite a roof or wall. However, if the same ember lands on a fuel source of any sort, it has a much better chance of generating the heat necessary for ignition. Accordingly, many of the practices recommended by FireSmart come down to a single purpose: keeping potential sources of fuel away from – and off of – your home or other building or structure.

For more information about how reduce the risk wildfire poses to your property, contact the qRD’s FireSmart Coordinator at firesmartpr@gmail.com for a free wildfire risk assessment. You may be eligible to receive a $500 rebate to implement any recommendations. The FireSmart approach works best when whole neighbourhoods work together, forming a united front against wildfires. So reach out to your neighbours and help make your community resilient to wildfire risk. To learn more about the qathet FireSmart program, visit www.qathet.ca/regional-firesmart-program/.

Website: www.qathet.ca

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qathet Regional Coastal Flood Adaptation Strategy

The qathet Regional District successfully secured provincial grant funding through the UBCM Community Emergency Preparedness Fund to complete a Regional Coastal Flood Adaptation Strategy (RCFAS).

As climate change occurs, many coastal communities are recognizing and planning for the impacts from increasing flood and erosion risk due to sea level rise and coastal storms. Building on previous flood mapping along our coastlines, the qathet Regional District, Tla’amin Nation, and the City of Powell River are now working together through development of the RCFAS.

This spring, we will be hosting community information sessions, a game night, a survey and a public workshop to engage with local residents about the impacts of climate change along our shoreline and what can be done to adapt and build resilience. Feedback gathered between now and June 2022 will inform the development of the RCFAS later this fall.

Please check qathet.ca/current_project/regional-coastal-flood-adaptation-strategy/ updates on this project, or click here to sign up to receive updates by email.

How you can get involved

Attend upcoming events

You are invited to attend a virtual community information session on April 13, 6:30 - 8:00 pm to learn more about coastal flood and erosion risk along our shoreline, and tell us what matters to you.

Note that a separate session will be held specifically for Tla’amin members and lease holders on April 12, at 6:00 pm. To attend that session, please contact Carmen Galligos (email: carmen.galligos@tn-bc.ca; phone: 604-483-9646 ext. 150).

Join us for a virtual Flood Resilience Game Night on April 27, 6:00 - 8:30 pm to practice adaptive decision-making, and have some fun!

We are also available to provide presentations to community-based organizations at your scheduled meetings in April - please be in touch to request a presentation at planning@qathet.ca.

A public workshop will be held on June 22, 2022 at Willingdon Beach Park to explore adaptation options together and inform proposed strategies.

Complete the online survey

A brief online survey will be available from April 13 to April 29, 2022 on the project webpage.

We invite you to share your concerns and what matters most to you regarding coastal adaptation.

Paper copies are available upon request. Please call the qathet Regional District planning staff at 604-485-2260 or email planning@qathet.ca to get your copy.

Stay up to date

Sign up here to get regular project updates.

Learn more

Adapting to coastal flood and erosion risk

Through this work, we will explore how sea level rise and a range of coastal storms (both small and frequent, as well as large and rare) interact with the places and things that communities value along the coast.

Put simply, sea level rise is caused by expanding ocean water as it warms and increased melting from ice sheets and glaciers. As ocean water rises, coastal communities are more likely to experience flooding than in the past. This is especially the case when sea level rise combines with high tide as well as coastal storms (i.e. storm surge, and wind and wave effects). More frequent coastal storms and rising sea levels can also increase coastal erosion, which acts to remove sediment and rock from the shoreline.

Of course these changes don’t happen on their own: they combine with other factors such as land use, economic activity, ecosystem health, cultural values and our ability to adapt and change, to determine where and how vulnerable our coastlines are to coastal flooding and erosion. This tells us the level of risk we face in particular locations, and informs which adaptation actions we might want to prioritize.

Note: This project focuses on the coastline and does not address flooding or erosion from extreme rain events or along inland streams, rivers or other water bodies.

Attend an information session or visit the Resource list to learn more.

Work to date

We have already conducted two initial coastal flood assessments at various scales to understand where and how flooding and erosion may impact our shoreline. Coastal flood mapping and a risk assessment were completed by Tetra Tech Canada Ltd in 2018. That study identified priority areas at risk due to impacts to people, critical infrastructure and the environment.

Since then, more detailed coastal flood mapping has been completed for the prioritized areas on the mainland and islands in 2021. The more recent mapping considers coastal storms, sea level rise projections through the year 2100, and coastal erosion potential. These assessments will be enhanced and used to inform the engagement efforts this spring and contribute to the development of the RCFAS later this year.

Importance of community engagement

A collaborative approach is at the core of this process. This work involves complex decision-making around how we adapt to and reduce coastal flood and erosion risk. Community engagement is an important value guiding this work to ensure transparency and enhance our collective understanding of risks facing our shoreline and options for addressing them.

Resources

Below links are external 

• BC Adapts Short Videos
• BC Adapts: Planning for Sea
• Relative sea-level projections for Canada based on the IPCC Fifth Assessment Report and the NAD83v70VG national crustal velocity model
• Sea Level Rise Adaptation Primer
• Canada’s Marine Coasts in a Changing Climate
• Climate Data Canada

Acknowledgments

Photos provided by Tetra Tech and Ebbwater Consulting.

Website: www.qathet.ca

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qathet Regional District FireSmart Program Continues in 2022

The qathet Regional District (qRD) is pleased to announce the return of the Regional FireSmart Program for 2022.

This is the sixth consecutive year of the Regional FireSmart Program. With funding support from the Province of BC and Union of BC Municipalities’ Community Resiliency Investment Fund, the qRD is able to continue to offer education, training, and planning with the goal of mitigating the negative impacts from wildfires in our community.

Over the past three years, the FireSmart Program has helped hundreds of residential property owners throughout all areas of the qRD with free FireSmart property advice and has provided over $35,000 in rebates.

https://youtu.be/4H6LV7n11RA

The 2022 FireSmart program will see the same successful initiatives implemented in previous years and hopes that the number of residents utilizing the program continues to increase. “The FireSmart program saw great success in 2021”, said qRD’s Manager of Emergency Services, Ryan Thoms. “We saw residents spending more time at home, making FireSmart improvements to their properties and we were able to assist them in doing that.”

Residential property owners are encouraged to request a free FireSmart assessment for their property. Property owners may be eligible for a rebate of up to $500 for any FireSmart improvements made. Rebate submission deadline is November 15, 2022.

qathet Regional District’s FireSmart program is looking for champions to promote FireSmart in their neighbourhoods. Champions will receive free wildfire hazard assesment training and may be eligible to receive funding for neighbourhood scale events such as a FireSmart debris chipper day.

People living near forested areas need to be aware of the threat of wildfire, and actions they can take to make their properties FireSmart. Residents interested in information on how to make FireSmart improvements to their properties are encouraged to contact the qRD office or Regional FireSmart Coordinator, Marc Albert directly at firesmartpr@gmail.com.

For more information, please visit qathet.ca.

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qathet Regional District to consider Five-Year Financial Plan

The qathet Regional District (qRD) administration and operations are governed by the Local Government Act and Community Charter. Each year the qRD must undergo an annual budgeting process. The annual budgeting process provides a road map to the organization, and assists in the day-to-day management of the qRD. The budgeting process enables the qRD to set their service tax rates for the year, assess liabilities, capital financing and any property acquisitions and dispositions. In addition, the annual budgeting process feeds the Five-Year Financial Plan, which outlines five year capital project planning, and asset management for the entire region. Whenever possible, the qRD works collaboratively with local key actors, as well as the Provincial and Federal government to acquire grant funding to help pay for services and projects to reduce the tax burden on our residents.

The Meetings

The qRD will meet to consider its 2022 budget and Five-Year Financial Plan at monthly Finance Committee meetings scheduled for January 19, 2022 and February 16, 2022. All meetings are open to the public and will be held both virtually and in the Regional District boardroom located in Unit 103-4675 Marine Avenue, Powell River, BC V8A 2L2. All meetings are open to the public and everyone is invited to attend, either virtually or in person. In person attendance will be limited to support social distancing.

All the Info You Need!

For more information on the 2022 budget and Five-Year Financial Plan please visit qathet.ca. You can also contact Linda Greenan, Manager of Financial Services at lgreenan@qathet.ca or at 604-485-2260.

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qathet Regional District Communications and Engagement Strategy

The qathet Regional District is updating our Communications and Engagement Strategy. This Strategy informs how we have conversations with residents in the region. We are seeking your feedback on how to communicate and engage with residents more effectively on services and projects that impact you. Your feedback will directly inform updates to our Communications and Engagement Strategy.

We would like to thank everyone who participated in the virtual engagement sessions and completed the survey. Your feedback and ideas are incredibly valuable and we appreciate your contributions. If you would like to provide feedback on the survey or the engagement sessions, please email administration@qathet.ca or call 604-485-2260.

The qRD hopes to involve a broad range of community members and key actors to ensure a diversity of community views, knowledge and interests are represented to help form the qRD’s Regional Communications and Engagement Strategy.

The Regional Communications and Engagement Strategy aims to address both internal and external communications and engagement processes and will include identifying communications gaps in the region, barriers to communications and engagement, and determining the most effective communications methodologies for each Electoral Area and residents of the City.

To learn more about the Regional Communications and Engagement Strategy project, and check for project updates, please visit qathet.ca/communications-strategy.

The qRD serves the rural areas from Lund to Saltery Bay including the City of Powell River, Texada, Savary and Lasqueti Islands and provides some services, through conract, to Tla’amin Nation. To learn more please visit qathet.ca.

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Get Ready, and Stay Ready During an Emergency Event

In an emergency, the need for ongoing, timely and accurate communications is paramount to ensure that all residents and visitors have access to information regarding the hazard, the level of risk the hazard is presenting, the protective measures, and the direct action necessary to protect their life, health and property.

The importance and need for good information is critical to help all residents get ready and stay ready during an emergency event such as an evacuation alert or evacuation order. Emergency managers and first responders work hard to assemble timely, accurate and relevant information and effectively communicate that information to keep you safe.

Emergency information may have details about the situation, the areas affected and to what extent, and the specific actions residents and visitors should take. It is a provincially legislated requirement that once an evacuation alert or order has been issued, it must be communicated to everyone within the impacted area.

Once you become aware of an emergency through one or more of the reliable sources of information, stay tuned-in to official channels, monitor conditions as critical information can change quickly, and follow advice and direction of local authorities.

The best emergency information comes directly from the source, through official channels, such as:

Door-to-Door Notifications

Where time permits and resources are available, notification teams will travel door-to-door to notify people of an evacuation alert or order. Team members deliver verbal or written documentation to advise people of the actions they need to take. First responder teams will use this time to determine if anyone within the evacuation area requires additional assistance.

Community Notification System

Your local government can send critical public safety information to registered residents, businesses and visitors. Make sure you and your family members are all enrolled in the new Community Notification System to receive notices by email, text and voice call. To register for the qathet Regional Emergency Notification System please visit: qathet.ca/services/emergency-preparedness/.

If you need help with registration, call the qathet Regional Emergency Preparedness program at
1-604-485-2260.

Local Government Websites and Social Media

If power and internet are intact, the main source for up-to-date information will be your local government website. Emergency notifications, including evacuation alerts and orders, will be posted on the home page of these websites. Check back often for updates as new information becomes available or conditions change. In addition to the local government websites, emergency information will be shared on their Facebook or Twitter accounts. Please see the below list of resources and keep these weblinks handy for easy access in an emergency.
powellriver.ca
qathet.ca
tlaaminnation.com

Twitter: @EmergencyPRREP and ​@CityPowellRiver
Facebook: @CityofPowellRiver​, @TlaaminNation and @PowellRiverFireRescue

Radio Broadcasts

Evacuation information and updates may be broadcast on local radio. For local emergency updates, please visit:
91.1 FM CJMP
95.7 Coast FM

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Everyone’s Preparedness is Essential

Large scale emergencies, including those that have the potential to cause evacuations, are a reality for all communities within the qathet Region. The qathet Regional Emergency Program promotes that everyone takes time with family, neighbours, and guests to make and share household emergency plans and stay connected with up-to-date emergency information.

Your household emergency plan should reflect the uniqueness of your home’s location and identify what you need to either shelter-in-place (stay in your home) for up to 72 hours or to immediately evacuate your neighbourhood or community. It is ideal to have a least two options to get you and your household members to a safe location. This may also include ensuring your household has a means of transportation, either a personal vehicle or a rideshare. Public transit may be available, but only if it is safe to do so.

Pro Tip: Vehicles should always have at least a half a tank of fuel to get you where you need to go.

In addition to your household emergency plan, prepare a ‘grab-and-go’ kit for each household member including pets so that you can be ready at a moments notice. Quick access to personal items like non-perishable food and snacks, water, clothing, important documents, first aid kit, flashlight, children’s items, for example, will ease stress and provide comfort in a difficult time. Resources for creating or updating your emergency plan and a comprehensive list of grab-and-go kit items are available at www.qathet.ca/emergency-preparedness.

Pro Tip: Photocopy important documents (insurance and identification for example) and store them in your grab-and-go kit.

In recent qathet history, most emergencies have been small in scale but, nevertheless, some hazards have the potential to quickly escalate such as a hazardous materials spill or a wildfire. The dedicated firefighters and first responders, serving the Region, provide emergency response for fire and rescue, medical emergencies, and management of hazardous incidents. It is crucial that you remain aware of potential hazards and risks and do your part to prevent emergencies.

‘How will I know if there is an emergency in my community?’

In some instances, you may be alerted by a notification team or local media of an emergency allowing time to prepare, while other situations may call for an immediate evacuation by frontline responders. It is important to stay tuned to reliable and official sources of information such as local radio stations, qathet.ca, and local government’s websites and social media.

Excellent sources of local evacuation information are found in the Community Evacuation Guides that are individually tailored for Lund and Area, City of Powell River, Wildwood, Tla’amin Nation, south of town, Savary Island, Texada Island, and Lasqueti Island. Each guide provides detailed information on household emergency planning resources, local map, grab-and-go kit list, and a section on knowing what to do before, during and after an evacuation, and an invitation to join the Community Notification System. The full series of eight brochures along with other emergency planning pamphlets are available at the City of Powell River, qathet Regional District, and Tla’amin Nation offices.

In the case of safety incidents including wildfire, hazardous material spill, or evacuation notice, a communication system is necessary to effectively notify residents who may be impacted. In April 2021, the qathet Regional Emergency Program launched a new Community Notification System. This system is designed to send important official emergency notifications during emergencies or other important events. The service is free for everyone and allows you to sign up online to receive customized alerts via text message, email, and voice message.
This new Community Notification System requires residents to create a new registration including individuals that registered prior to April 2021. Individuals who were previously signed up for the Community Notification System will not be automatically enrolled in the new system.

“The Community Notification System strengthens the Regional Emergency Program officials’ ability to communicate with residents when it matters most,” said Ryan Thoms, Manager Regional Emergency Program.  “This service allows for critical communication with the public and provides individuals with the information needed to stay safe or take precautions during hazardous or emergency situations.”

Community members are encouraged to sign up and input their information and notification preferences today at www.qathet.ca/emergency-preparedness and click ‘Enroll Now’.
Emergency preparedness is essential and a key component in protecting lives and property. For more information contact the qathet Regional Emergency Program at 604-485-2260 or email emergency@qathet.ca.

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Important COVID-19 Information & Updates

The physicians of Powell River and qathet region invite you to visit their website at www.prcomplexclinic.com for information about COVID-19 and links to helpful virtual resources. This includes resources to support good mental health, which is especially important while our daily interactions are reduced.

Speaking of virtual, have you heard of virtual care? Local medical clinics are offering visits with family doctors and nurse practitioners over the phone, or by video. Safe in-person visits can also be arranged as necessary. Book your appointment first, by phone or online; all contact info is listed on www.prcomplexclinic.com. If you don’t have a primary care provider, you can see which clinics are accepting new patients. The walk-in clinic is taking virtual appointments, please book ahead.

Though BC has entered Phase 3 of the pandemic, we’re not out of the woods yet. "As restrictions are slowly eased, it's so important for all of us tocontinue to maintain physical distance and to follow the advice of our Public Health officials,” notes local family physician Danielle Marentette. “We have done so well to this point; we can't let our guard down now."

Let’s enjoy the summer in ways that protect our whole community during Covid-19. And if you’re unwell, or have a pre-existing condition that requires care, your healthcare team is available to help.

What about an emergency situation? Please don’t hesitate to use the Emergency Room at the hospital. New protocols are in place to keep everyone safe, which includes calling ahead if you have any of the most common symptoms of Covid 19. Those are: a cough, fever, difficulty breathing, sneezing, runny nose, sore throat, fatigue or chills. Any symptom is a sign that it’s time to get tested.

The Powell River, Tla’amin and qathet community has been smart and lucky so far. Let’s stay safe and be kind – we’re in this together.

Powell River Complex Clinic
Website: www.prcomplexclinic.com

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