From Our President

I’m writing this on a park bench in downtown Vancouver, surrounded by people and feeling completely anonymous.

It’s mid-July. We came into the city to visit family and catch a game. I’d been staring at large screens at a busy brewpub in a quickly-gentrifying downtown neighbourhood and am overwhelmed by all of this… civilization.

I stepped outside and, by nature, began following the sun down city streets until I found a copse of trees. A public park – ball diamond in one corner, splash pad in the other – with a tiny cafe across the street. There had been a man with a guitar outside the cafe but he was packing up by the time I came out, a cup in one hand and a (gasp) physical copy of the weekend newspaper in the other.

I settled onto the bench and faded into the background of my surroundings.

The park itself was remarkable inasmuch as it appeared both idyllic and commonplace. The tree-lined block was teeming. Some families picnicked in the outfield grass, another group barbecued at a picnic table nearby. Children were playing soccer, the teams ever-shifting as new kids joined and others wandered off.

“There must be three birthday parties,” a boy, about eight, exclaimed as he and his mother arrived on the scene. “No, four! How are we going to find the right one?” He ran off to join the game, leaving her to search for familiar faces in those gathered under the shade of a nearby tree.

The scene reminded me of my first summer on Pender Island, unknown and unknowingly standing in the midst of a similarly idyllic-yet-commonplace scene. Gathering neighbours who had known each other for decades, families whose children had grown up making marvelous mischief together. Friends who together had survived bad times and built better memories.

A moment like this could happen anywhere. At any park or playground. On any beach or along any trail. At the Hall or the Driftwood, of course. Also outside Southridge, down at Hope Bay, over on Gowlland Point or at the Magic Lake swimming dock.

So as I sit here on this downtown bench, an audience to this joyfully communal experience, I wonder if these people know how lucky they are to have a place like this park. And how blessed they are to share it with the people they do.

Matthew Coutts
president@penderpost.org
penderpost.org

Cover Story

Our August cover art took a truly Pender path to reach our mailboxes and news-stands. It is an original piece from local artist Margaret Alpen that found its way from the shelves of the Nu-to-Yu months back and added to the gallery hanging in my home office.

A chat with Margaret confirmed she had created it as part of a Fall Fair contest many years ago, and it went on to be featured on the cover of the Fall Fair catalogue. Farmers’ Institute Chair Barbara Johnstone could not recall the exact year, but teased that a copy could be found in the display case outside the Community Hall. I can confirm, though it’s a bit of a “Where’s Waldo-ian” challenge to find.

It’s a bit of a diversion from our usual cover photos featuring natural images and local flavour, and I appreciate The Pender Post Society’s board of directors for giving us the green light to mix things up a bit this month.

In short, this fresh new cover of The Pender Post comes to you by way of the Farmers’ Institute archives, the Community Hall display case, the Nu-to-Yu thrift store shelves, and courtesy of local artist and community leader Margaret Alpen.

Wherever it came from, the image’s rising sun raises my spirit every time. I hope it does the same for you whenever you reach for this issue of The Pender Post.

Matthew Coutts, Managing Editor

Announcements

A Note to Readers

Congrats Again, Pender Grads

One of the special projects The Pender Post is proud to bring to our readers each year is a collection of photos of, and messages from, Pender Island’s collection of high school graduates. We featured eight of nine graduates in our July issue, but were unable to include the above picture due to the pains of our publishing deadline.

Abby Billingsley, pictured above, is part of Pender Island’s 2026 graduating class, along with Harlan Chervatin, Nadia Cooper, Kaelyn Dennis, Jimmy Glover, Maraika McConchie, Jesse Randall, Marissa Shirk and Ezra Stranan (featured last month). We celebrate all of you, along with the proud Pender parents perusing the pages of The Pender Post.

We’d like to thank Liis Graham, educator and all-around helpful community member, for doing the legwork compiling these profiles, and Rachel Lenkowski for providing some of the images.

-Editor

Special Notices

Two to Receive Jean Bradley Scholastic Gift

The Pender Post Society is pleased to award our annual Jean Bradley Scholastic gift to two deserving applicants. Levi Mundy and Nathan Lawrence will each receive a $500 gift to help offset the cost of their education.

The Jean Bradley Scholastic Gift is given annually in honour of its namesake to a student in the field of healthcare. Jean Bradley was a founding member of The Pender Post Society, a teacher and community volunteer. She had a specific interest in supporting those studying healthcare.

Congratulations, Levi and Nathan. Good luck with your studies.

The Pender Post Society

Celebration of Life for Duncan Batty

Family and friends are warmly invited to celebrate the life of Duncan Batty on Sunday, August 30 at 12 pm at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 239, Pender Island.

Please join us as we gather to share memories, stories, and celebrate a life well lived. All who knew Duncan are welcome.

Michele Batty

Naloxone Training Available

Leslie McBain will offer naloxone training on August 6 at 7 PM in the Hall lounge. There is no cost to the training. It will take about one hour. We will cover injectable and nasal naloxone which can help a person survive an opioid overdose. You will receive your own naloxone kit. Bring your kit if you already have one, and bring an orange.

Leslie McBain

In Appreciation

Thank-you for Your Act of Kindness

I would like to thank the four vehicles that stopped on Schooner Way to help my wife Tania, who fell in a hole on the side of the road while walking her dog on Sunday July 21 afternoon. This act of chivalry and kindness is very much appreciated. I would especially like to thank the woman that drove her home as she could not walk.

It is nice to see that chivalry and kindness is still alive and well on Pender Island.

Thank you,

Dave Schissler

Features

The Fall Fair

Photo from 2025 Fall Fair, courtesy PIFI.

Celebrating the International Year of the Woman Farmer

Our Fair is just around the corner on Saturday, August 29. We have been celebrating our rural community, and the many talents people have since 1932.

This fair means so much to so many, and although it is a lot of work, why do we do it?  It is one of the rare times everyone can come together and find something that they enjoy, something they can share with the community, and a good time to get together with family and friends before the nights get cooler and all the young folks are back in school.

Our simple slogan through the years has been “Come to the Fair,” and we really hope that you can make it this year. Our guest speakers will be the Honourable Lana Popham, BC Minister of Agriculture, and Kelly Leroux of Raven Rock Farm.  The Guests of Honour are all the women on Pender Island who have contributed to agriculture, here and beyond our shores.

Fall Fair Catalogues are available at the Farmers’ Market in the Farm Food Hub (Wednesdays and Saturdays), Southridge Country Store, Pender Island Home Hardware, Talisman Books and Truss Farm Foods, as well as online at http://www.pifi.ca. Tickets for admission can also be purchased in advance from Talisman ($10 each, free admission for ages twelve and under), as well as Fall Fair BBQ Tickets ($22 each). Remember the free registration deadline for exhibits is Sunday, August 23: we suggest entering online by that date – details are in the catalogue and the Pender Island Farmers’ Institute web site http://www.pifi.ca. We encourage your amazing entries!

Actual Entry Day is Friday, August 27 between 3 p.m.-  6 p.m. Get your pre-registered Entry tags at the front of the Hall along with any other tickets you have purchased online (admission, barbecue). A Late Entry table ($2 per entry fee) will be nearby with an area to fill out your Entry tags (if you had not managed to register online.)  Registration helpers will help guide you to the Entry Receiving tables located upstairs; at the back of the Hall; and on the grounds, depending on what section you are entering in. Temporary drop-off parking for your exhibits will be at the back of the Hall and outside the front gate.

Please check out the schedule of events in The Pender Post, our Fair Catalogue, or online at our website. A brochure with the Fall Fair schedule, map and other information will be mailed out at the beginning of August to all Pender mailboxes.

During our set up week (August 24-27),  we welcome volunteers to lend a hand with tents, tables, the grounds decorations and sprucing up inside and outside. Contact us at penderislandfallfair@gmail.com to sign up. We are grateful for our awesome community volunteers for coming out to help make our Fall Fair a success.

Conveners can use help setting up their exhibit Sections Tuesday and Wednesday. Friday morning, Community groups can set up their displays. Friday afternoon (2:30 p.m. onwards)  the inside of the Community Hall is closed to the public whilst entries are received and later judged. Exhibits may not be removed until 4 p.m. on the Fair day.

Please be aware, although we enjoy our canines, leave them with care at home – no dogs are permitted on the Hall grounds Friday and Saturday. Please do not leave pets in your vehicle – heat stroke happens too quickly. We appreciate your cooperation with keeping our pets safe.  Pender Island Parks and Recreation have graciously offered to provide a dog-sitting service at Valley Home Farm, along the roadside trail.  Watch for signs to locate it.

Fair Day, Saturday August 29: Carpool if you can or use our free bus service graciously provided by Lightning Taxi – check the brochure for route schedule. Overflow parking is in the Wein’s field next to the Hall, and at Karl Hamson’s behind the Hall parking lot. Parade participants assemble at Fire Hall #1 across from the Community Hall. Please contact Parade Marshall Jaime MacLean to register –  604-505-9144. The Parade begins at 10:30 a.m. Gate entry is by donation: $10 suggested, free for twelve and under. You may purchase online when you enter your exhibits, or at Talisman Books, or at the gate. Water filling stations provided by the Scouts will be onsite – bring your refillable bottle. Come to enjoy and have fun at the Pender Island’s 74th Fall Fair – Guest Speakers, Exhibits, Animals, Kids Zone, Bucket Drop, Live Music, Food, Beer Garden, BBQ, and presentations.

The Fall Fair committee greatly appreciates the donations received from local businesses and organizations; the grant received from the Province of British Columbia; the raffle prizes donated for the raffle; the many volunteer hours given to the fair and the in-kind donations from our community organizations and businesses.  We are a volunteer-run fair, and every bit of support helps and brings us all closer together.

Barbara Johnstone, Treasurer
penderislandfallfair@gmail.com
pifi.ca
250-222-3817

Fall Fair Schedule of Events

• August 29th “Celebrating the International Year of the Woman Farmer”
• Aug 23-27: Set up week. We will need volunteers to help set up the fair grounds.
• Friday, August 28: Entries are brought to the Hall 3-6 pm to be dropped off for judging.

Saturday, August 29:

9:30 am – Farmers’ Market opens and will run until 1 pm (some vendors may stay longer) – Free for the public to attend the Farmers’ Market which will be just outside the Fairgrounds.

10:00 am – Gates open. Admission will be by donation, suggested donation $10 per person, free for age 12 and under. Door prizes! Many thanks to the Pender Island Lions Club for their help with the gate this year. Tickets are available at the Farmers’ Market, Talisman Books, or Assist Expo for exhibitors – or at the gate.

Fall Fair BBQ Tickets on sale at the Information Booth on Fair day, or in advance at the Farmers’ Market, Talisman Books, and Assist Expo for exhibitors. BBQ is Slow-roasted baron of beef (or vegetarian option), roasted potatoes, corn on the cob, coleslaw, buns. $22 per plate. Dinner is served at 5 pm. There will be live music by L J Mounteney.

Raffle Tickets available for the Student Bursaries Fundraiser near the Information Booth . The Neptune Navy Grimmer – Ashton Ross-Smith Bursary is for graduating students who are entering a field related to agriculture, and the Ellen Willingham – Tekla Deverell Bursary is for graduating students who have volunteered in our community. Tickets are available at the Fair with tickets drawn for the prizes after the Fall Fair trophies are awarded in the afternoon. Thank you to the Nu-To-Yu for all of your help this year and being a sponsor and thank you to those individuals and businesses who donated prizes as well.

Games for young and old! Face painting, games, corn-hole and other fun courtesy of Liis and Judy Graham and Three on the Tree. Cool off at the bucket challenge next to the beer garden.

Food area with hamburgers, hot dogs, vegetarian options, ice cream. The Pender Island Royal Canadian Legion Branch 239, Pender Pirates baseball team, and Tom and Jerry’s food truck will be there to serve you. New food vendors will be Daniel Scott’s “Round Things in Small Boxes” Pizzas, and Hamilton Cove Farm’s “Salty Dog” sausages all from Pender Island grown meat.  Free water on site helped by the Scouts; bring your own reusable water containers. The Recycling Society will be helping you sort your discards as we strive for a Zero-Waste fair.

10:30 am – The Parade is free to enter and open to all! (Jaime MacLean, Parade Marshall). Trophies for best decorated children’s bicycle, best float, and best individual parade entry (details in catalogue, in Assist Expo as Section Q, class 7). The Parade starts at the Fire Hall.

11:00 am – Opening Ceremony. Community Hall Stage. MC Josephine Spaxman.

• Guests of Honour – Women of Pender Island who have contributed to agriculture.
• Guest Speakers – The Honourable Lana Popham, BC Minister of Agriculture and Food; and Kelly Leroux of Raven Rock Farm.
• The Exhibit Hall opens after the opening ceremonies. Enjoy our outside exhibits, displays and games while you wait for the Hall to open.
• Bucket drop in the “Farm Yard” between 11 and 1pm, with the proceeds to Pender Parrots T-Ball.
• Beer garden opens – Richard Piskor, Organizer. Proceeds from the beer garden go to the Fall Fair.

11:10 am – The Pender Highlanders, in front of the Stage.

11:30 am – Denny Goertz and Pender Young Violins, on Stage.

12:15 pm – Livestock Showcase – Show Ring in the “Farmyard” with announcer Tony Legault. Come and see Murphy the kissing pony and hear his story. Poultry and small animals for everyone to see. Donkeys. Horses. Sheep. Goats. Poultry. Rabbits. Petting Zoo.

1:00 pm – Sheep Shearing and Wool Spinning Demonstration – international award-winning sheep shearer Pieter DeMooy of Last Side Shearing plus local spinners – Show Ring in the “Farmyard”.

1:30 pm – Matty Mingles Magic, Magician. Fun for all ages!

2:15 pm – Corn Shucking, field behind the BBQ “The Farm Yard” – children are welcome to join in!

2:30 pm – Live music – Maya Cook

3:15 pm – Berry Pie Contest and Auction – Main stage area, next to the Hall

3:30 pm – Nep Grimmer and Ashton Ross-Smith Bursary and the Ellen Willingham-Tekla Deverell Bursary award announcements. Fall Fair Trophy Presentations, followed by the Raffle and Door Prize draws, on theStage.

4:00 pm – The 2026 Fair Entries may now be removed from the hall and tents.

5:00 pm – Fall Fair Barbecue is served and music continues. Barbecue organizer Linda Deen assisted by barbecue master Aaron Grimmer and volunteers.  Servers from Gulf Excavating and Dockside Realty.  Proceeds go towards the Fall Fair.

5:00 pm – Free Live music – L J Mounteney – Everyone Welcome!

6:30 pm – Beer garden – Last call!

• Lightning Taxi will be graciously providing free transportation to and from Magic Lake throughout the Fair. For more information see http://www.pifi.ca

Sunday: Take-down 9:00 am on – free breakfast and coffee for volunteers.

Hummingbird Hollow B&B

Tales of a Charmed Life (2004)

More than a dozen homes hosted tourists and visitors during the bed and breakfast heydays of the 1990s, including Doreen Ball and Chuck Harris – who ran the Hummingbird Hollow B&B from 1990 – 2015. This is the 11th installment of Doreen’s “Tales of a Charmed Life” series, published posthumously.

A lovely couple from Lincolnshire, UK. came to stay for five days. They enjoyed the deer and the wildflowers and were eager to learn all about Pender.

It turned out that Ronald used to work for Parks Canada and was a specialist in restoring heritage sites. He had worked on the Steveston Cannery project and remembered my uncle who had been an enthusiastic volunteer at the museum in Steveston. Small world!

Chuck took our guests with him to Mayne Island when he went over to pick up copies of The Pender Post, and gave them a grand tour of Mayne.  I took them to Roesland to meet Peter and Elizabeth Campbell and look at Roe House which was being restored to become the Pender Museum.  Ron said that it was a real treasure, high praise from a man who used to work restoring heritage sites.

Our Gulf Islands Concert Series guests for that year included pianists Robert Kortgaard and Peter Tiefenbach, and Todd Butler and his Madly Off In All Directions band.

We mentioned in our newsletter that we had noticed changes in who was coming to live on Pender: young families, which led to a resurgence of the playgroup, and “Bush refugees” who came here shortly after George W. Bush won the US election for a second term.

In May I joined other members of the Women’s Institute carrying placards and a banner in a protest against logging on a Hooson Road property.

In October a Buck Lake resident saw a family of four beavers swimming out to the islet in the lake.  Time to get serious, we wrapped wire mesh around special trees and crossed our fingers.

Work on rebuilding the Hope Bay Store complex was finally underway.  In order to be granted a building permit, agreements had to be reached with Fisheries and Oceans, the Highways Department, the Health Department, the Environment Ministry, the CRD Building Inspector, BC Hydro, Islands Trust, and the Southern Gulf Islands Harbours Commission. All members of the Hope Bay Rising group were grateful to those in the group who, with the patience of Job, had successfully negotiated with all the agencies involved.  It was complicated.

Chuck and I signed up to help weed the septic field area and to research the history of the Hope Bay Store. Many hands made light work.

Doreen Ball

Arts and Entertainment

Ptarmigan Arts

We wrapped up an incredible week of Art and Circus Camp in July with Ilse and Maya! Throughout the week, campers built confidence, explored their creativity, and learned an amazing range of new circus skills. At the end of the week, they wowed friends and family with a fantastic final showcase featuring stilting, acrobatics, human pyramids, and an inspiring art show. We were so impressed with how much they learned and achieved in just one week.

We’re at the Mosaic site as this article comes out, on day two of our beloved forest festival! To everyone who purchased a ticket and joined us this weekend, thank you for being a part of the Mosaic community. A heartfelt thank you also goes out to our incredible team of over 100 volunteers, staff, crew, artisans, food vendors, and musicians. We are especially grateful to our sponsors.

The support from local businesses helps keep Mosaic thriving year after year, and we couldn’t do it without you. We can’t wait to welcome you back to the forest and do it all again next year!

Ripley Stafford, Communications Director
info@ptarmiganarts.org
ptarmiganarts.org
Instagram: @ptarmiganarts
Facebook: Ptarmigan Arts

Mosaic Arts & Music Festival
July 31 – August 2
In the pines behind the Community Hall

Mosaic is here! Happening this weekend, our beloved festival in the pines is back for another year. Join us July 31 to August 2 for a vibrant weekend of live music, activities, yummy food, beer garden, games, and camping. We are excited to welcome headliners Lester Quitzau with Damian Graham, Dawn Pemberton, and Mac DeMarco & The Dip. Explore our full lineup of talented local and regional artists on our website. We’re also excited to bring back the Artisan Market, woven throughout our food market, featuring a diverse range of vendors selling handmade goods, art, and live demonstrations.

There’s something for everyone at the festival! Visit the Imagination Station for face painting, hands-on art activities, nature scavenger hunts with the Pender Islands Conservancy, and a special appearance by The Gruffalo. Enjoy morning yoga, then stop by Poetry in the Pines with Nia Williams for a relaxing festival experience surrounded by nature.

For all the info and to purchase passes, please visit the mosaicfestival.com.

Camp Create – only a few spots left

August 10-14, 10am-4pm

Pender Community Hall

Camp Create (ages 6-9) is back this summer with an inspiring week of activities with our talented facilitators Ripley Stafford and Ben McConchie! Kids will enjoy art in the mornings with Ripley, and after lunch, they’ll spend the afternoon immersed in the world of music with Ben. On the last day there will be an art showcase and musical performance for parents & caregivers.

The registration fee is $250 which includes materials, with a $50 sibling discount.

Stoney Pocket Presents: Big Machine

Sunday, August 16

Doors 6:30pm, show 7pm

2200 Clam Bay Road

Big Machine is the primary creative vehicle of Juno nominee and two-time Western Canadian Music Award winner Oliver Swain. Drawing equally from Appalachian banjo traditions, psychedelic rock, American folk mythology, free improvisation, and contemporary songwriting, Big Machine creates music that exists outside of easy categorization. Their songs inhabit a landscape where old stories collide with modern anxieties, where ancient musical traditions are treated not as artifacts but as living technologies for understanding the present. At the center of the project is Swain’s fascination with folk music as a form of time travel. A fiddle tune from the nineteenth century, a gospel harmony, a field recording, a psychedelic drone, and a newly written song are all treated as parts of the same conversation. The result is a sound that is simultaneously familiar and strange — deeply rooted yet relentlessly exploratory. Featuring an all-star cast of musicians from British Columbia’s folk, roots, jazz, and independent music communities, Big Machine moves fluidly between tightly arranged songs, collective improvisation, and expansive sonic landscapes. Their performances can feel like a front-porch string band, a rock-and-roll revival meeting, or an experiment in musical archaeology unfolding in real time. Tickets cost $30 (under 16 free) and are available online or at Talisman Books. Don’t forget to bring a folding chair or blanket and warm clothes for when the sun goes down.

Fall Crawl Studio Tour – Registration open

September 26 – 27, 11am – 4pm

Studios across Pender

The 9th annual Fall Crawl Studio Tour is happening on September 26 and 27, 2026! This is Pender’s annual opportunity to enjoy touring the studios of local artists and get up close and personal with their creative processes. Artist registration is open until Aug 23 and costs $35. Signing up reserves you a spot on our Fall Crawl Map. During the crawl, folks from all over will get the opportunity to tour your creative space and explore your work.

Band Camp – Registration open
August 31 – Sept 4
10am to 4pm (Mon-Thurs) and 4pm to 9pm (Fri)
Pender Community Hall

Band Camp returns! Join facilitators Sarah Smith (vocals), Dan Weeks (drums), and newcomers Ben McConchie (guitar), Audrey Coates (keys), and Charlie Knowles (bass) for a week of jamming, music mentorship, performances, and songwriting and sound recording! Jonny Miller (Peach & Quiet) will be recording each of the bands live off the floor so all campers can bring home a physical souvenir of a life-changing week. Each camper will select their role as either bass player, guitarist, keys, drummer or vocalist for the week! Campers will learn songs with their band, have masterclasses to learn their instrument with one of our musical mentors, learn how to write a song, have the chance to record themselves, and perform in front of the rest of the campers daily. On the last day, there will be an evening performance showcase at the Community Hall. The registration fee is $360/camper.

Jr + Sr Contemporary Music Ensemble – Registration Open
September 24 – December 17
Pender Islands Elementary School Music Room

Contemporary Music Ensemble with Ben McConchie is back this September! The focus will continue to be on making music together – studying, rehearsing, song writing and performing great contemporary songs, from jazz standards and classic rock to modern pop and indie. Participants will have access to a wide variety of instruments from the Ptarmigan Arts instrument bank, including drums, guitars, basses, keyboards, and more. No matter your ability, this is a great opportunity to learn, collaborate, and perform in a supportive and fun environment. The 2026 fall session costs $120 and is open to both returning and new students. Scholarships are available; reach out to info@ptarmiganarts.org. For more information on how to register or to find out which ensemble is right for you, please visit ptarmiganarts.org

Pender Island Short Film Festival – Submissions Open
Saturday, November 14th, 2026
Pender Community Hall

Submissions are open for the Pender Island Short Film Festival happening November 14th, 2026! If you have created a film or have a captivating idea, this could be your chance to showcase your work. Send in your films to be a part of the PISFF, highlighting filmmakers from the Gulf Islands, Vancouver Island, the mainland and beyond (yes, we take submissions worldwide!). Our festival provides an outlet for short-form narratives of all genres, from documentary to animation. The event features a meet-and-greet, and is one of the most anticipated gatherings of the year. Submissions are open until October 14th, and must be less than 15 minutes in length. No A.I. generated work will be accepted. Send in your films or any direct questions to penderfilmfest@gmail.com. We can’t wait to see your stories on screen!

Potters Meetup

The Potters Meetup will be taking a break this summer! Check back in September, when they’ll resume meetings on the last Thursday of each month.

Weekly Community Gatherings

Fridays, 12-1pm

Community Hall, 4418 Bedwell Harbour Road

Enzo Marino brings bluesy, jazzy interpretations to well-known and eclectic tunes on August 7. On August 14, Salty Muse (consisting of Adam Huber and Maggie Mackintosh, a couple duo from Salt Spring) will play acoustic folk/pop/gospel in a feel good vein. Lonnie Glass, our August 21 performer, says: “if you take a pint of Tom Waits, add a cup of Leonard Cohen with a dash of Louis Armstrong, and mix well, you’ll get Lonnie Glass.” There will be no music at the Community Gathering on August 28 in preparation for the Fall Fair.

Join us for live music and fresh soup. This long-standing community program is a partnership between the Community Hall, Ptarmigan Arts and the SGI Neighbourhood House.

All tickets and program registrations are available at ptarmiganarts.org. For assistance, please contact info@ptarmiganarts.org. You can also find us on Instagram and Facebook at @ptarmiganartsbc and Ptarmigan Arts.

Pender Radio

Otter Bay Arts and Media Society

Join us on August 7 for a fundraising screening of Radio Revolution: The Rise and Fall of The Big 8. This celebrated documentary by director Michael McNamara delves into the story of CKLW, the Windsor, Ontario, radio station the grew to stand as one of the biggest players in North American broadcasting during the 1960s, 70s, and 80s.

The story digs into how a single mom went from secretary to program director and became one of the most powerful tastemakers in the industry, and other memorable stories from the Boss Radio era.

The screening will be held on Saturday, August 7, at 7:30 pm at the Community Hall. Tickets are pay-what-you-can ($20 recommended), and you can pay at the door or show your support now by reserving a ticket here: https://spectacularoptical.com/…/radio-revolution-the…/

Proceeds will go to funding Pender’s community radio station. So if you can’t attend the screening, why not buy a ticket and support the radio station anyway?

Matthew Coutts
info@penderradio.ca

How to Stream Pender Radio

First-time listeners to Pender Radio may find it tricky to set it up for easy streaming but have no fear: our website is getting easier to use all the time. Check out PenderRadio.ca (you can use your phone’s camera to scan the QR code below) and press the “Listen” button to do just that.

And new to the site is a helpful “refresh” button that will help you quickly reconnect if you lose your connection.

Want an app for easy access? Open the website on your phone or computer homescreen and select the menu option to “add to homescreen” or “install as an app” (wording will depend on your phone type or browser preference). And if you have problems, just stop by the Airstream and ask us for help.

There you have it, a one-click option to rejoin the Stream.

Matthew Coutts
info@penderradio.ca

Pender Island Community Choir Society

Anne Mullins, Chair
penderchoir@gmail.com

The Pender Highlanders

Thank you to everyone who came out to support the July car show, our annual fundraiser for the Pender Pipe Band. We had many interesting vehicles turn out, parading from Port Browning, and it was a fun and sociable event in the field behind the Community Hall.

The band played lots of favourite Celtic tunes, marching into the centre of the cars three times during the show. We hope to see you all again next year!

During August, the Highlanders will be playing at the 100th Mayne Island Fall Fair on Saturday, August 15. At the end of the month we will be playing at our Pender Island Fall Fair on Saturday, August 29.

In the meantime we will be meeting once a week to practice for these events under Pipe Major Larry Dempster.

Veronica Cross
veronicae4608@gmail.com

Pender Island Concert Society

Sarah Hagen, pianist, will be performing a program of classical music by women composers in January 2027.

Our Annual General Meeting will take place on Saturday August 8 at 3 pm in the Community Hall lounge (or possibly outside if the weather is nice). Anyone who held a subscription last season is a current voting member of the society, and non-members are also welcome to attend. If you’re interested in supporting the continuation of our concert series, consider running for a board position! The base time commitment is very minimal, though there are plenty of extra tasks to take on if you want to get more involved.

Subscriptions are still on sale for next season, and the form can be found on page [#]. We’ve put together a really interesting, varied, and high-quality 26/27 season for you, and we hope you’ll join us for the whole thing. If you can only make some of the concerts, remember that subscriptions are flexible and can be used for any combination of our shows, so it may still be worth getting one. The price for four tickets is currently $90 and will go up at the end of September.

Ben Litzcke, Chair
penderislandconcertsociety@gmail.com

Community

Royal Canadian Legion

It’s deadline time once again and I am in the final hours of one of our busiest weeks of the year.  On Friday night we held our “100 years of the Royal Canadian Legion” Celebrations. An overflow crowd of over 60 happy people gathered to hear some of Pender Island’s finest musicians give their all in support of our Legion.

It was a great night of music, dancing and appetizers. I might be a bit biased but I do believe a good time was had by all. A big thank you to Charlie Knowles, Ralph Little, Greg Martin, Heather Read and the sartorially splendid Daniel Weeks. Known on the circuit as “The Collective”,  they donated their time and efforts to raise money for the Legion, so we can subsequently channel funds back into the community…much appreciated by us and all Islanders.

Thanks once again to all our fantastic volunteers who make events of this sort happen. I would like to mention all this great cast of characters, but I’m sure I would forget some deserving soul, and deadline is looming. But I would like to give a special shout out this evening to Jenny Jensen for her good humour and catering skills that kept those appetizers happening.

The next two days found our Legion gang at “Art off the Fence” doing burgers and hot dogs for all those art lovers and artists alike. The previous Saturday we cooked up almost 300 hotdogs at the Pender Highlanders Annual Show and Shine car show. We have been busy little legionnaires – don’t you think?

The crew gets a break now until our next burger night on July 31 when the PIJazz ensemble will play. In August we do burgers on August 14 (Greg Martin playing) and 28 (Willy Blizzard playing). Willy Blizzard will be doing double duty as the entertainment for our Annual Pig and Lamb on September 6 – and there goes summer!

Tickets for the Pig and Lamb are $30 and are on sale online through the website and Facebook with a limited number at Talisman Books.  Remember burger nights are first come first served – no reservations.

Before I sign off this abbreviated Post article I would like to give all a heads up for a couple of upcoming memorials. On August 30 we will gather to say a few words and raise a glass (or two) to my good friend Duncan Batty…on second thought, it may be more than a few words…just saying!  Things get underway at noon.

On September 26 it will be a full house at the Legion as we honour another good friend and Legion legend Jim Swanson.  We will start at 1:30 pm with some more words and libations that I am sure will run right into that night’s Meat Draw. Look for a few special additions to this night’s draw. Hope to see many of you here at the Legion on these sad, but I’m hoping for joy-filled, celebrations of lives well lived and always remembered. One ironic note with Duncan and Jim is that they were both born on June 16.

It’s been a tough year for Geminis with both my brother-in-law David and my good friend Fred Vye passing as well. Being a Gemini myself, I’m feeling a bit nervous these days!

Because of Jim’s memorial on August 26, the September general meeting will be at 2 pm on August 19.

And don’t forget those meat draws every Saturday at 4 pm.

John Pender, President
branch239.rcl@gmail.com
http://www.penderislandrcl239.com

Community Hall

Pender Island Recreation and Agricultural Hall Association (PIRAHA)

What an amazing summer it has been so far! The Community Hall has been buzzing with activity every day. We have already completed two Youth Leadership Camps and three Hallside Camps, with more still to come in August. Our Thursday Youth Nights have become a fun weekly gathering, and six, mainly local, young people are spending the summer in meaningful paid positions, building skills while contributing to the community. We have also been pleased to support a number of other organizations and camps by sharing staff and resources whenever we can.

Young people aged 13 – 18 are still welcome to join us as volunteers at Hall camps and programs. Volunteering is a great way to build a résumé, gain practical work experience, develop leadership skills, and make new friends, while helping younger children and contributing to community events. Whether you can help for a day or throughout the summer, we’d love to hear from you.

As summer begins to wind down, we are already planning for the fall. Hall Heroes and Friday Kids Club will both return, and we are exploring ways to expand our Friday programming by offering additional morning activities for children in kindergarten to Grade 6. If you would like to register your child for Hall Heroes or the Friday Afternoon Kids Club or be put on a waitlist for a potential morning activity, you can do so on our registrations page.

We are also looking at how we might continue Youth Nights throughout the school year despite very limited funding. If you know of potential funding sources, sponsors, or community partners who would like to help make these programs possible, we’d love to hear from you.

Job Openings

Paid Youth Internship – ages 12 to 17

These positions are open to students 12 -17 years old.  This skill building program allows participants to earn while they learn.  Interns can build up skills in areas such as Café Management, Event Assistance, Activity Leadership (including the Friday Kids Camp), or basic Building Maintenance and Office Assistance.  Interns receive an honorarium (like a wage) starting at $5 per hour and can earn up to $500 per year.

Significant training and ongoing support will be offered as needed and by request.  Hours are adaptable to accommodate school and life but are typically 6 – 8 hours per month.  Deadline to submit your resume is August 29 at 1:00 pm.  For more information go to: https://penderislands.org/opportunities/youth-opportunities/

Heritage Programs Leader – ages 16 to 30

Starting September, the Heritage Programs Leader will manage aspects of the Youth Leadership Program, Food Programs or Friday Kids Camp, and the Saturday Market. They will also have opportunities to develop and lead workshops or activities, enhance displays, and support existing programs.  This flexible role will be tailored to the strengths and interests of the applicants and is ideal for organized, creative, community and leadership minded individuals with strong communication skills. Part-time or full-time, 650 hours to be completed by March 31, 2027.  As a grant-funded position, applicants must be 16 – 30 years old and other qualifiers.  Find the full job descriptions at  https://penderislands.org/opportunities/employment/  or stop by the Hall to chat with Andrea.

Community Hall Summer Camps

Register at http://www.penderislands.org/registrations

Hallside Explorers Camps: Five-day camps: $200, four-day camp: $160, Ages 6 – 12, 10 am – 4 pm

August 4 – 7 Shore Explorers

Grab your water shoes and get ready for adventure! Campers will explore local shorelines, search for crabs and other marine creatures, play beach games, create ocean-themed crafts, and discover the incredible diversity of life found along Pender’s coast.

August 17 – 21 Aspiring Artists

Campers can look forward to a creativity-filled week, and chances to experiment with different mediums to see what sparks inspiration. Alongside visual arts activities, campers will have the opportunity to express themselves through movement in dance and improv activities.

Aug 24 – 28 GICEL Nature Camp

Run in partnership with GICEL, this camp blends wilderness skills with ecological education. The camp is designed to help children build confidence, comfort, and connection in the natural world through hands-on, place-based experiences. Campers will explore the forests, freshwater habitats, shorelines, and marine environments of the Pender Islands while learning practical outdoor skills such as food gathering, water sourcing, first aid, and map-and-compass navigation. No pre-camp care available.

Pre-Camp Care

Weekly Aug 4 – August 21, 9:00 – 10:00 am

Available Monday to Friday for our own camps and the Ptarmigan camp.

Community Quest (ages 10 – 16)

August 10 – 14, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Ready to step up, give back and have a blast? At this camp, you’ll learn about what makes for a great community through workshops and hands-on experience with local non-profit groups. Along the way you’ll learn what it means to be a leader, discover how communities work and find out how you can make a difference. There will also be plenty of games, activities, challenges and time to relax and connect with friends. Cost: $150 (ages 10 – 12), $50 (13 – 16)

Fall Fair Leadership

August 25 – 28, 10 – 18 years

Love a party, teamwork, and getting creative? Help bring the Fall Fair to life! You’ll create decorations, play games, organize and lead special events, make tasty treats for you and your crew, and get behind-the-scenes experience organizing a real community celebration. Wrap up with a bonus sign-up day for the big event! Cost: $150 (ages 10 – 12), $50 (ages 13 – 18)

Summer Youth Programs

Register at http://www.penderislands.org/registrations

Wednesday Treasure Market: Wednesdays, 3 – 6 pm

Youth are encouraged to sell their wares at the Summer Treasure Market. Youth Vendors, Artists, Artisans and Garage Sale space will be available each week from July 8 to August 19.

Wednesday Youth Nights 6 – 9 pm (ages 13-18ish)

Free weekly youth nights running July 8 – August 19. A welcoming space to hang out, try new things, and meet people. Each week is a little different, but will include cooking, art, games, music, crafts, outdoor activities and special guests throughout the summer – nothing needed, just bring yourself and a friend if you like. Food is provided each week. (11+ with a 50-hour Youth Leadership Certificate or similar).

August 5 – Disc Golf doubles tournament – Another chance to get outside with Steve and enjoy a fun summer evening together.

August 12 – Craft night with Bean Lewney – Another chance to get crafty with Bean and make something fun.

August 19 – Creative Studio Night – Wrap up the summer with a creative studio evening including scarecrow making just in time for the Fall Fair.

Youth Culinary Skills – Thursday nights the Youth Culinary Skills program gets together to make a meal for the community; participants gain hands-on kitchen skills, work as a team in a supportive, fun environment. Bring an apron; a snack be provided. This program is run in partnership with the SGI Neighbourhood House. Registration is required but weekly attendance isn’t necessary. Ages 13 – 18 (10+ if child has a Food Safe Certificate or 50 hour Youth Leadership Certificate).

Youth Leadership Program – Every week there will be options to get involved in the community: Summer Camps, special events, café or event hosting, helping with workshops and activities… this program is for youth aged 13 – 18 years (11+ if a child has a 50-hour Youth Leadership Certificate or similar).

General Activities

Wednesday Treasure Market 3 – 6 pm

Weekly to August 19

The Treasure Market is open to artists, youth vendors, garage sale vendors and community information. The café will be open, and the stage will be available for musicians to jam. The market runs in tandem with the Farmers Food Only Market at the Barn. Vendor registration is required. Vendor cost is by donation; suggested 10% or $10 whichever is lower.

Friday Fun for Everyone

Fridays 10:45 – 11:45 am

Over the summer, every week is a surprise! See what our summer leaders conjure up for our community and summer guests.

Matinee: Jane Goodall: The Hope

Monday August 3, 1:00 pm

This inspiring documentary follows renowned primatologist Jane Goodall as she travels the world sharing her message of environmental conservation and hope for the future. The film highlights her transition from groundbreaking chimpanzee researcher to global activist, showcasing her lifelong dedication to protecting wildlife and empowering young people to make a difference. Through personal stories and archival footage, the documentary demonstrates how one person’s passion and determination can create lasting positive change. 1 hour, 28 minutes. Film starts 1:00

Film: Parade: Queer Acts of Love & Resistance

Saturday August 15, 7:15 pm

Pender Island Pride invites everyone to a by-donation screening of the National Film Board of Canada’s 2025 production Parade: Queer Acts of Love & Resistance, presented as part of the annual Pender Island Pride celebrations. Parade: Queer Acts of Love & Resistance captures pivotal moments that sparked Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ movement, honouring the activists and elders whose resistance led to the rights we have today. Through rarely seen archival footage and first-person accounts, audiences are brought to the frontlines of the struggle. From police raids to early drag shows, community organizing to the House of Commons—the complex history of the country’s diverse communities is brought to life. Key milestones illustrate the power of taking it into the streets and underscore how easily the rights we’ve fought for can be revoked, making the documentary essential viewing for all Canadians. Unflinching, bold, enraging, hopeful; Parade is a vital new chapter in the queer canon. Doors open at 7, film starts at 7:15. By donation.

Matinee: Tracks

Monday August 17, 1 pm

Tracks This biographical adventure drama chronicles the remarkable true story of Robyn Davidson (Mia Wasikowska), a young woman who abandons city life to embark on a solo 1,700-mile trek across the unforgiving Australian desert from Alice Springs to the Indian Ocean. Accompanied only by her faithful dog Diggity and four camels she trains herself, she documents her journey with the help of a National Geographic photographer, Rick Smolan (Adam Driver). It’s a story of determination and the power of pursuing one’s dreams, no matter how challenging the path may be. Film starts 1:00

Film: Tuner

Saturday August 22, 7:15 pm

When a talented piano tuner discovers his exceptional hearing can be used for more than tuning pianos, he finds himself drawn into a dangerous new world. Starring Leo Woodall and Dustin Hoffman, Tuner is a smart, suspenseful film filled with memorable performances and plenty of unexpected turns. 1 hour 49 minutes. Doors open at 7, film starts at 7:15. $5 – $10 suggested.

Fall Programs

Registration open

Hall Heroes – starting September 18

Fridays 10 am – 1:30 pm, Ages 8+

Guided by Hall Leaders, each week is a new adventure: help in the café, serve lunch, make decorations, share a skill, mentor a younger person, help lead an activity. Younger heroes, ages 5 – 7, can drop in for a shorter period with a responsible buddy who will stay nearby.  Registration required. Free.

Friday Kids Club – starting September 18

Ages 5 – 12

Fridays 1:30 – 4 pm

Every week brings a mix of hands-on fun, from creative projects and tasty treats to games and outdoor adventures. Registration required, suggested $10-$15 per day; subsidies available.

Potential activities – Community feedback is needed to determine whether there is enough interest to offer these programs. You can provide feedback on our registration page.

Breakfast Club

Kindergarten +, 9:00 – 10:00 am
Start the day with breakfast, friends, and free play! Children can enjoy breakfast (typically cereal, with occasional hot breakfasts), board games, self-directed crafts, and a relaxed start to the day before the morning activities begin. Registration would be required.

Morning Kids Activities

Kindergarten +, 10 am – 1:30 pm

Children would explore a variety of skills through short series led by specialist instructors. Potential topics include Kids First Aid, circus arts, fabric arts, nature exploration, creative arts, and much more. Each series would combine hands-on learning with plenty of games, creativity, and time to play. Older youth would be welcome to join as volunteers. Registration would be required.

Guest Activity Leader – Would you like to share a fun activity? At the Friday Fun activity we are looking for people who would like to lead 20-40 minute all ages activities. Most but generally child participants) with themes around crafting, food, heritage, STEM or other activities.

VOLUNTEERS

Volunteers are at the heart of many of the programs and activities offered at the Hall. Whether you have an hour a week or just once a month, there are ways to contribute. We are always on the look out for people to help with Films, in the Comfort Center, with advertising and office support, as activity leaders and Youth Leadership Program Mentors, cleaning and so many more areas. All training is provided. If you are interested in helping somehow or need more information, please email or stop by for a conversation.

Hall Improvement Team – This dedicated group assists with maintenance, technical improvements, cleaning, and renovation projects such as the ongoing enhancements to our commercial kitchen. Volunteers contribute their time on a regular or project basis, depending on their availability and skills.

Andrea Mills, Hall Coordinator
Liam Sigaurson, Summer Programs Coordinator
and George Fowlie, Board Chair
bookings@penderislands.org
penderislands.org
250-629-3669

Chamber of Commerce

Summer greetings to Ashley Gulewicz, the Chamber’s Pender Island Ambassador. Photos courtesy of the Pender Island Chamber of Commerce.

Chamber Connections

Summer means welcoming friends, family and visitors to Pender Island. Whether you’re looking for information to share with your guests, wondering what’s happening around the island, or pointing visitors toward local businesses, the Pender Island Chamber of Commerce is here to help.

Visitor information is available from two convenient locations at Driftwood Centre. Our self-serve Visitor Information Kiosk, located across from Tru Value, is open 24 hours a day and stocked with maps, brochures, business information and local event listings.

If you’d prefer to speak with someone, visitor services are also available Monday through Friday from 10 am to 4 pm at the office the Chamber shares with the Community Resource Centre, across from Island House and Home. Whether you need directions, recommendations, event information or ideas for things to see and do, we’re always happy to help.

This summer we’re pleased to welcome Ashley Gulewicz as our Pender Island Ambassador. Ashley is one of the friendly faces you’ll find in the office from Tuesday through Friday, greeting visitors, answering questions and helping guests make the most of their time on Pender.

Although Ashley moved to Pender from Calgary last year, she’s no stranger to the island. Her family has had a property here for many years, and she’s been spending summers on Pender since she was eight. That long connection gives her a genuine appreciation for the island and the many experiences it has to offer.

When she’s not in the office, Ashley is visiting Chamber member businesses, creating photos and videos that showcase local businesses and experiences for our tourism social media channels, hosting the Chamber’s information table at the Saturday Farmers’ Market, and representing the Chamber at community events throughout the summer, including the Fall Fair. Every conversation, recommendation and photo helps connect visitors with the businesses, events and experiences that make Pender Island unique.

If you see Ashley out and about, please say hello. She’d love to learn more about your business, organization or favourite places on Pender to share with visitors. Local businesses and community organizations are also welcome to request complimentary copies of our visitor guides, maps and event information for display. If you’d like to keep a supply on hand for your customers or guests, simply contact the Chamber office.

Whether you’re welcoming overnight guests, looking for information yourself, or simply curious about what’s happening around the island, stop by the office, visit the kiosk, say hello at the Farmers’ Market, or explore http://www.penderislandchamber.com for visitor information, local businesses, events and community resources. We’re always happy to help you and your guests make the most of Pender Island.

Sandra Tretick, Executive Director
info@penderislandchamber.com
penderislandchamber.com

Pender Island Public Library

In memory of Colette Clarke

Thank you to all who have written messages in tribute to our late colleague, Colette Clarke, and shared your thoughtful memories with us. We have learned from Colette’s family that her sudden passing has been attributed to complications related to epilepsy. Epilepsy affects about 1 in 100 Canadians, with several organizations dedicated to funding research to find cures, advancing treatments, and providing educational resources for patients, parents, and seniors. For more info, visit the BC Epilepsy Society website, where donations towards ongoing research can be made, if desired. The Library will be dedicated to supporting the Canada-wide “Epilepsy Awareness Month” held in March.

Art in the Library

Beauty in the Bounty by local artist Rebecca Hansen celebrates the unexpected beauty of vegetables — subjects often overlooked in fine art yet rich with vibrant colour, intricate pattern, and sculptural form. In a world of climate extremes and conflict, and with more people embracing plant-rich diets, Rebecca invites viewers to pause and appreciate the quiet abundance growing right beneath our feet. This exhibition celebrates Pender Island’s growing community and the nourishment – both physical and visual – that comes from the earth.

Summer Reading Club

The awesome 2026 BC Summer Reading Club is in full swing, with over 40 kids registering at our library – a new record! Summer Reading Club is a free literacy program designed to engage children ages 0-14 with libraries and reading throughout the summer. This year’s theme is “Under The Sea”, providing kids with a free reading record, bookmarks, fun stickers, a Reading Medal, and special ocean-themed activities. This program is sponsored by the BC Library Association and our Library, with generous assistance of the BC Ministry of Municipal Affairs and CUPE BC. Get ready for a summer of adventure.

On Display

August’s book display theme is Read With Pride in celebration and support of Pride activities happening on our island this month. We are celebrating LGBTQIA+ literature and making authentic, inclusive stories accessible to readers of all ages. We will be participating in the Pride Parade, highlighting great books for everyone.

Cooling Centre: We invite community members to come cool down at the Library during hot summer days. We have comfy chairs and air conditioning thanks to a CRD grant (2017) for the installation of a heat pump system. Open on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, 10 am – 3 pm.

New Books

Adult Fiction:

The Subtle Pleasures of Indiscretion (Alexander McCall Smith); The Mortons (Justine Larbalestier and Scott Westerfeld); It’s Not What You Think (Clare Mackintosh); Cool Machine (Colson Whitehead); Vera Stein Is Fine (Julie Murphy).

Adult Non-Fiction: Wild Fire: Dispatches from a Country Ablaze (Jesse Winter); My Year in Fairyland: Grief, MAID, and a Lifetime of Books (Sarah Ellis); The Art of Watercolor Flowers for Beginners (Jeannie Dickson); Mindful Making: De-Stress with 35 Creative Craft Projects (Clare Youngs); A Feather and a Fork (Crystal Wahpepah).

Youth: Woolly Dog Warms His Family (Andrea Fritz); Llama Library (Holly Ryan); Dinosaurs to Dragons (Elizabeth Shreeve); Strays (Gia Gordon); How to Cook for a Dragon: Olde Recipes for Young Chefs (Samuel Kaplan).

Teens: Lying, Stealing, and Other Ways to Save the Planet (Curtis Campbell); Goldenborn (Ama Lieb); The Hanging Bones (Elle Tesch); The Gilded Blade (Jennifer Lynn Barnes).

Library hours: Open Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10 am – 3 pm, at 4407 Bedwell Harbour Road. Email: libraryhelpdesk@crd.bc.ca or call 250-629-3722. The library will be closed on Saturday, August 1, 2026, in lieu of the BC Day holiday.

Carmen Oleskevich, Library Director
libraryhelpdesk@crd.bc.ca
sgicl.bc.libraries.coop
250-629-3722

Nu-to-Yu Thrift Store

Pender Island Community Service Society

Once again, the Nu-to-Yu will be helping with the Farmer’s Institute Student Bursary Raffle at the Fall Fair on August 29 with all proceeds going to the Farmer’s Institute Bursary which is awarded to a Pender Island graduate who enters a higher learning institute in the field of agriculture. Last year, along with the big, big prizes, we had original pottery, paintings, knitting and more, all from local artists. These unique items make the raffle table worth visiting and buying tickets for. If you are a local artisan and would like to kindly donate a special piece to the student bursary raffle, email us at nutoyu@gmail.com and we will arrange a convenient pick up or drop off.

At the Fall Fair, we’re also looking forward to seeing all your amazing entries in the Nu-to-Yu section. All entries are to be made, transformed and/or rejuvenated from items from the Nu-To-Yu Store. Do you have anything that you got from Nu-To-Yu and then changed to a completely different use? Enter it into the Fall Fair on Friday registration time for us to display and you could win a prize.

Last month, our volunteers were caught on camera bombing bags and boxes of our castoffs into Otter Bay Express’ truck for delivery to the Salvation Army. (photo attached). We normally ship a truck load off every six to eight weeks, but lately, this has been increasing to every four weeks.

Unfortunately, we ship about 10,000 pounds of clothing off island to various charity groups annually. This does not include the boxes of household items. In these shipments are items that we can not sell for various reasons. That number doesn’t include the garbage that makes its way into your donation bags, which is also a lot.

The long and the short of it is that we’re asking you to please be cognizant of your donated items as you load your bags up for the Nu-to-Yu. The cost of getting rid of these unsaleable items comes right off the top of the money that is given back into the community, so thank you for helping us support our community through your purchases and donations of saleable items to the thrift store.

Please be patient as we open your bags and boxes, sorting through the items you donate. We will be turning away items that we won’t be able to sell.

We have an Instagram page! Follow us at @thenutoyu. We’re hoping the content we upload is entertaining and informative.

How is our new building coming along? The foundation is finished and has cured up excellently. Davis Owen along with Braedon and the Big Digem crew are working on infilling it. Our goal right now is to complete the building and obtain a conditional occupancy permit to allow the switch over and move the business from the old schoolhouse, possibly by late November at the very earliest, so Tin Lizzy may very well be at her new home by the holidays. While we’re on track with the cost outlay and our budget, we’re still looking for contributions to help fund our new building. Contributions to the new building fund can be made through e-transfers to nutoyudonate@gmail.com

Another great way to contribute to our new building is through Tru Value’s Spirit Board. When you’re checking out at Tru Value, consider donating your 1% to #33.

Nu-to-Yu is our community thrift store. We raise money to give back to the community. Your donations are what keeps our store stocked with great items. We accept your washed, unbroken and store-ready donations on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 9 and 12 and also on Saturdays between 11 and 2. We welcome goods in store-ready condition. For a full list of what we cannot accept, please refer to our website.

Josephine Spaxman
nutoyupender@gmail.com
nu-to-yu.com

Pender Roadshow

It never ceases to amaze me the unique items that our wonderful donors drop into the Nu-To-Yu.  When I first spotted this beautiful red Moroccan leather box, I assumed it was a jewelry box. The leather was embossed and accented in gold, the corner details were gilded metal, and the design had a distinct Asian look to it.

Lifting the lid confirmed this was in fact a sewing box – a once very prominent fixture in the living rooms and drawing rooms of many fine English and European homes. This beautiful sewing box is about 200 years old. The little pull handle for the bottom drawer is missing, a small piece of the still supple Moroccan leather is missing on the front, and the metal accents are showing signs of oxidation but, this elegant little box still looks very distinguished.

Sewing has been a ritual for thousands of years. During the Ice Age, humans used awls made of dense bone from antlers or tusks to pierce leather hides for protection from the elements. During the Iron Age, awls began to be made from metal.  In the tombs of Chengdu China dating back to the 2nd century B.C., evidence of looms, and sophisticated textile production were found along with cinnabar-dyed silk thread and needles, and even garment patterns.

Before the advent of the manual sewing machine in the mid 1800’s textile work was understood to be an essential part of domestic craft. Jane Austin in Pride & Prejudice details the societal importance of skills in textile work. Needlework samplers which were popular in Europe from the 1600’s to the 1800’s were meant to teach young girls not only literacy (the alphabet), but family history (genealogy), and moral lessons.  Skills in altering or mending clothing could be a reliable source of income for families as clothing was not casually discarded as it is today.  It was the textile industry that became the prime mover of the Industrial Revolution.

So what does this all have to do with this beautiful little sewing box? In the early 1800s, the Regency Period, a spool of cotton thread was costly and a ribbon of silk was even more so. Buttons were made of glass, or carved wood or glazed ceramic which was also very expensive.  Sewing needles were still being made by hand.  The humble sewing box was more of a treasure chest for cherished materials as well as a statement of respect for the textile arts, and this beautiful little box continues to do its job. Thank you to our donors.

Sean Clazie – C.P.P.A.O.

Pender Island Recycling Society

The recycling depot is closed on Saturday, August 29. Staff will be at the Fall Fair to help support the Zero Waste initiative, with the goal of diverting as much material as possible from landfill.

Stations will be set up at the fairground sorting compost, recycling, and garbage. There will also be self-serve drinking water stations where fairgoers can refill water bottles, or grab a drink from glassware provided by our dish loan program.

In 2025 we collected far more recycling and compost than garbage thanks to the cooperative efforts of food vendors, the Pender Island Farmers’ Institute, and the island community. Thanks also to Island Savings for providing water for our refill stations. The evening barbeque is served on real plates with cutlery, all provided by Pender Recycling’s dish loan program. It’s impressive to see an event of this scale using practical solutions to reduce waste.

We also encourage you to enter a recycled creation in the Fall Fair. Section R – Recycling is divided into children, youth, and adult divisions, and items need to be created using recycled materials. We hope to see entries that showcase creativity and are inspiring to others. The recycling depot is a great place to find used materials that can be upcycled into your recycled creations!

Prize money is awarded to the top judged entries. The judge is looking for creativity, originality, and/or usefulness. The Best Overall Submission is also judged on its structural integrity. There are three age divisions and a first, second, and third prize in each.

• Class 1. Children’s Division (6-10 years)
• Class 2. Youth Division (11-15 years)
• Class 3. Adult Division (16 years and older)
• Prizes: 1st – $25 2nd – $15 3rd – $10
• Best Overall Submission – $50 and the Karl Hamson trophy

Thank you to everyone who purchases a voluntary membership to the Recycling Society. You can renew in person at the depot, online at penderislandrecycling.com, or by sending an e-transfer to penderislandrecycling@gmail.com (please include your mailing address in the notes for a tax receipt).

A charitable tax receipt will be issued for all membership donations. Membership revenue helps fund the Freestore, the REcycle Bike Shop, the non-program plastic initiative, depot and equipment maintenance, recycling education, and more. We are grateful for your continued support!

Laura Begley
laura@penderislandrecycling.com
penderislandrecycling.com
250-629-6962

Pender Islands Museum Society

Honouring Women Farmers

Edith Robertson Godkin Pearson

The theme for the 2026 Fall Fair is “Island Women Farmers”, and the museum is pleased to outline the story of farmer Edith Godkin. Museum volunteer Peter Taylor, her early neighbour on Razor Point Road, first brought Edith to our attention.

According to Peter, “Edith Godkin arrived on Pender in 1945/46 with her husband and stepchildren. They purchased a large acreage on Razor Point Road, including today’s winery, Harbour Hill, and Kingfisher Forest.

While living in a small cabin and tents set up on wooden bases, Edith hauled logs out of the woods with a tractor with large metal wheels and cleats. I remember the screeching and squealing sounds the wheels made as they went over rocks. May and Mora Godkin went to school with me in the late 1940s.”

Edith’s great-nephews David and Gary Green, who later came to live on South Pender, spent summers with Aunt Edith. She always had “a list of farm chores each morning, after which we were free to roam”. They knew her as a “very special person”.

Laura Edith Robertson was born in Manitoba in 1894, the youngest of six children raised by a single mother. Edith was university-educated and a talented pianist and singer. By her early fifties, she would fulfil her desire to “live off the land”, becoming a sheep farmer on Pender. The museum has her well-thumbed 1945 bulletin on “Care of Sheep”, Cheviots being her breed of choice.

Edith’s arrival on the island followed closely her marriage to Jim Godkin, a widower with five children. Like so many others, Jim’s WWI combat service left him with long-term health issues. Gary Green thinks that with Jim’s veteran’s pension and support to acquire farmland, the marriage paved a way for Edith to develop the farm while looking after her younger stepchildren. Jim Godkin died in 1972.

Gary Green remembers Edith’s pride in her Scots heritage. Often dressed in her “Robertson tartan kilt with a beautiful skirt pin”, she was a regular pianist at the Pender United Church. It may be there that she met George Pearson, an elderly widower living on Armadale Road. George had been the long-time road foreman and is best known for starting the Christmas Care “Tree of Light” in 1960, which raised large sums for charity.

By all accounts, Edith and George had wonderful years together at their home in Saanich and on Pender until he died in 1986 at age 99, still “bright and cheerful”. Edith also lived to age 99 and passed away in 1994. In her Pender Post obituary, her great-nephew David Green wrote, “Our families will long cherish the many wonderful times we had together. We hope now that she can be together again with her beloved ‘Georgie’.”

Simone Marler, President
pendermuseum@shaw.ca
https://penderislandsmuseum.ca
250-217-0823

South Pender Historical Society

Once again the South Pender Growers’ & Makers’ Market is set in motion for Sunday, September 6, from 12 – 3 pm.

Held outside on the grounds of the Church of the Good Shepherd on South Pender (8978 Gowlland Point Road), this is a fun market showcasing some of the creative talent of both South and North Pender including vegetables, fruits, preserves, bread, snacks, fabrics, art and much more.

Patrick Smith will be sweetening the atmosphere with his music. Popular among the young (and young at heart) are the games and activities with Brenda’s special touch. A silent auction will be available at the fundraising table for the South Pender Historical Society whose mandate it is to care for and protect the Church of the Good Shepherd as a historical site.

If you are interested in participating with your items for sale, or volunteering, please email Mani at jewel@penderling.com or call 250 704-8786. If you have a high quality item to donate for the silent auction, please contact Barb at penderbarb@gmail.com or call 250-516-7988.

This year we will not be accepting donations the day of the event unless arranged in advance. All vendors and exhibitors are asked to come early to give us/you time to set up and find some parking (it’s a little limited out front).  We invite you to fill your car up with people and make the journey to visit us.  We look forward to seeing you there.

Submitted by Mani Lang

Moving Around Pender (MAP)

Alternative Transportation Society

Wow, the roads are busy this summer, aren’t they?

I know how frustrating it can be when you’re trying to get somewhere and your drive is slowed by a pedestrian or cyclist. But I always try to keep one thing at the top of my mind: safety, for the pedestrian, for myself, and for everyone else on the road.

At the end of the day, we all just want to get home safely. Now imagine if we had more roadside trails, big or small, that gave people safer places to walk and ride while taking some of the stress off our roads. That’s exactly why projects like Einar’s Hill matter.

Einar’s Hill is on its way; it’s simply a matter of letting the pieces come together. MAP is currently working with a nearby foundation that will allow larger donations to be made through the foundation and provide tax receipts.

We’ve been waiting on this opportunity, as it will help unlock some significant contributions that can take this project across the finish line. Stay tuned if you’ve been holding off on donating until tax receipts become available.

MAP is moving in the right direction. Uphill, you could say. There will always be a few bends in the road, but our momentum continues to build. And when it’s time to call for volunteers, I hope you’ll join us.

Until then, enjoy the rest of your summer, stay safe, and let’s all do our part to make sure everyone gets home, or wherever the heck it is we’re all headed.

PS: you can still donate to the trail and our future projects!

Jaime MacLean, Chair
chair@movingaroundpender.ca
movingaroundpender.ca
604-505-9144

Pender Island Farmers’ Institute

All of our efforts this month will be on organizing the Fall Fair with our community volunteers, with our Wednesday and Saturday Farmers’ Markets, and with our farms and gardens during this very busy month.  Thank you to the community for your ongoing support.

Please continue to support the efforts of our local farmers, who not only provide local food, fiber, flowers, spirits, wine, and more, they also help to preserve our local rural character.

Barbara Johnstone, Chair
penderislandfallfair@gmail.com
pifi.ca
250-222-3817

Pender Organic Community Garden Society

I can’t believe it is August already. Last month, I had a splendid haul of garlic with many bulbs 3” in diameter. With the scapes, I have made a green salt with a mild garlic flavour. It turned out pretty and a tasty addition to meals.

My favourite discovery for this year are seed snails. Go to “Seed Snails” on YouTube. My seeds sprouted in record time. It might have helped that I had purchased new grow light bulbs. When ready to transplant, just remove the elastic bands or string and unroll.

The seedlings are evenly spaced and the roots are growing straight and even, no tangling. Dig a trench and lay your seedlings down and cover. There didn’t seem to be any transplant shock or delay for them getting started.

I tried out peas, carrots, parsnips, beets, cucumbers, squash and lettuce with this method and had great success. I am also growing my squash and cucumbers on trellises for the first time so we will see how that turns out.

I have already harvested cabbage (from seedlings that I bought and planted in March). This is now made into sauerkraut and I have also been picking broccoli for the past few weeks. Such a joy to bring home bags full of vegetables you know have been grown the right way to give you maximum nourishment.

It has been an honour to be elected as President of the Pender Organic Community Garden Society again this year and see the successes of my fellow gardeners in this stunning setting with soil that goes as deep as you need. I speak as a person who is lucky to have 1” of dirt on top of shale where my house is situated.

If you would like to join this great group of gardeners, feel free to put your name on our wait list at pocgsmembership@gmail.com . If you are an expert, great. We have the soil for you. If you don’t even know where a vegetable comes from, we will help you. All you need to do is ask!

Barbara Tarris, president
pocgsmembership@gmail.com

The morning is warm and the dew is still on the plants as I meander down the trail to the community garden. How lovely the farm with early morning shadows gracing the pasture fields. The walk to the garden plots isn’t complete without being greeted by the many sheep on Karl Hamson’s farm.

This is such a favourite season of mine to have hands in the dirt and create the conditions for numerous veggies to grow. Now that the garlic has been pulled and hung to dry, I turn my attention to what is still growing, or how to fill that empty garlic bed which I haven’t decided between winter veggies, or green manure crop. It was my first year growing garlic at the community garden, following along on my “no dig” when planting and not sure at all if the ground would be friend or foe. The results were very rewarding, but I found myself chuckling as I “dug” the garlic out of the soil. I suppose for a little garlic clove sitting on top of the soil it needed to put down deep roots and so it did!

The clay soil holds the moisture, whereas I’m more used to sandy soil, which seems to constantly need water. I probably wander down to water once a week, and that seems to work adequately for what I’m growing with a layer of mulch on the surface. Maybe when the tomatoes are bigger they’ll demand more water.

It is so rewarding eating veggies fresh out of the garden, and some, like asparagus and green peas, never make it to the dinner table. They have superb flavour early in the morning before the sun draws out the flavour with the heat of the day.

I still have so much to learn about growing different veggies, but am continuously being drawn to the challenge of learning something new, so as I look around the plots I am in awe of the large abundance of cabbages, tomatoes, peppers, beans and carrots. Yes, even those hard to grow carrots!

August is a good month to get the little winter seedlings into the ground. It is too late to direct-sow winter veggies, except for leafy greens: winter lettuce, kale, spinach to name a few. Brassicas tend to do well in the cooler temperatures so I’m going to learn how to grow Brussel sprouts. The little seedlings are in their tray waiting to get planted. It’s so easy to shop for veggies at the local farm market, but how rewarding and exciting to actually grow them.

Theresa Barker, organic gardener
pocgsmembership@gmail.com

Pender Island Food Bank Society

A Fork in the Road – Sarah’s Story

Islanders and tourists often ask us if there is really a need for a Food Bank on Pender Island. The reality is that many people don’t want to ask for help and will exhaust many other avenues before turning to a food bank for support. We currently feed over 75 households each week for a total of approximately 3500 individual visits per year. Food insecurity – hunger – is a Pender Island reality.

In a recent national poll, those who reported eating less at some point in the previous 12 months were more likely to sell something, miss paying an electricity or utility bill on time, or ask for help from friends or family than go to a food bank. Those who did access a food bank said their need had become too great for them to manage alone and/or there was nowhere else to turn.

Over the next few months, we thought we’d share a few of the stories of those who have reached that fork in the road. These stories are compilations and are not real Penderites. But these stories represent scenarios we hear all of the time.

Sarah worked constantly, yet she was barely staying afloat. She balanced three different part-time jobs – cleaning vacation rentals near Magic Lake, working retail shifts at the Driftwood Centre, and helping out at a local nursery. Because these roles were highly seasonal in nature and most paid only minimum wage, her income fluctuated wildly, making it impossible to keep up with the skyrocketing cost of island groceries and high rental prices.

By mid-month, Sarah found herself staring at empty kitchen shelves, exhausted from the endless hustle and deeply stressed. She knew she couldn’t keep running on empty, so she decided to visit the Pender Island Food Bank.

Stepping inside on a Friday morning, her anxiety instantly melted away. The volunteers welcomed her warmly and pointed her toward the grocery-store model setup. Sarah was able to fill a basket with nutritious foods that fit her busy life: fresh greens, eggs, protein bars for quick meals between shifts, and healthy staples.

Having access to the food bank didn’t just fill her fridge; it gave Sarah the vital breathing room she needed to weather the unpredictable seasonal dips without the constant fear of going hungry.

Pender Island Food Bank Essential Information

If you or someone you know on the island needs assistance, the organization operates with strict confidentiality and zero judgment:

• Location: 4703 Canal Road, at the back of the St. Peter’s Anglican Church hall.
• Operating Hours: Every Friday morning from 10 am to 12 pm.
• What is Provided: Fresh produce, meat, dairy, eggs, dry goods, pet food, and hygiene products.
• How to Support: You can drop off physical food items in the designated donation bin at Tru Value Foods in the Driftwood Centre, or give financially by e-transfer to penderislandfoodbank@gmail.com.

Pam Wright, Chair
penderislandfoodbank@gmail.com

Clubs and Social Groups

Pender Island Garden Club

There are no meetings for July and August as we are all too busy gardening.

The next meeting will be September 10, 2026 at 1 pm at the Community Hall.  It will be a Meet and Greet for members and non-members.  We will be showcasing our harvests and the coming presentations and workshops.

By now the tomato harvest is in full swing and they are everywhere.  Here is a recipe for “Red Weapon Tomatoes”.  They are delicious.  Credit to Vivian Howard, a chef in N. Carolina.

Red Weapon Tomatoes

2 lbs. plum tomatoes cut into quarters lengthwise, 5 jalapenos sliced into thin rings, 1 bunch scallions sliced thin, 3 Tbsp minced fresh ginger, 3 Tbsp minced garlic, 1 1/2 Tbsp mustard seeds, 1 1/2 Tbsp cumin powder, 1 Tbsp plus 1 tsp pickling salt, 1 1/2 tsp chili powder, 1 1/2 tsp turmeric, 1/2 Cup unseasoned rice wine vinegar, 3/4 C white wine vinegar, 3/4 C packed light brown sugar, 1.5 C extra virgin olive oil.

Put tomatoes in a large heat proof bowl that will hold all the ingredients. This recipe will just fit in two quart mason jars.  In a large saucepan bring all the ingredients except the tomatoes and the olive oil to a boil over medium heat.  Let it boil for one minute.  Then add the olive oil and bring back to the boil.  Immediately pour over tomatoes and the other ingredients in the bowl, pressing down until they are covered.

Let the mixture come to room temperature, cover, and leave out overnight.  The more slowly they cool down, the more quickly they will pickle.  The next morning transfer it to jars and refrigerate for a minimum of three days up to three months.  This glorious mix has multiple uses.  The oil on top can be used to saute, use the brine in a vinaigrette, chop the tomatoes and stir into a guacamole. I have made this when I didn’t have all the ingredients and it was still delicious.  Feel free to freestyle but make it according to the recipe the first time.

Here are a couple of tomato growing hacks that are new to me.  Pet your tomato seedings regularly to build stronger stems.  Run your fingers gently along the tops of the seedlings.  This triggers the plant’s mechanism for producing thicker, stronger stems.  They recover more quickly from transplant shock, wind and help stop falling over from the weight of the fruit.

Powdered milk helps prevent blossom end rot.  It can be caused by a calcium deficiency and irregular watering.  Add a generous scoop of powdered milk to the planting hole, with a little compost over the milk powder plus regular watering.

Here’s to a great summer and plentiful harvests.

Vivian Mitchell
vivmitchell@shaw.ca
Next meeting: September 10, 1 pm, Community Hall

G’Old Network

G’Old Plans for Fall and Beyond

As we enjoy this glorious summer, we are starting to cast our eyes to the fall and beyond and are pleased to let you know what we have planned so far:

How to Have Conversations with Your Loved Ones About End-of-Life – Monday September 14, 1 – 2 pm. Presented by the G’Old network in partnership with the Monday Activity Day, upstairs at the Community Hall following lunch. Led by Julia Nicholls.

As we age, we can find it difficult to have conversations about our own death, or that of those close to us. Julia, who co-leads Pender’s Death Café and has deep experience in the subject, will lead a short, interactive presentation and discussion of the topic.

To register, please send an email to: marcella.reay@penderislandhealth.org

The Indispensable Binder #2 – Wednesday September 23, 9:30 – 12:30, Anglican Church Hall. Led by Patricia Holborn.

Back by popular demand, this workshop introduces a simple but effective resource for identifying and organizing all your important documents in one, accessible place. Pat will explain each section of the binder including: Family and Me; People in my Life; Home and Hearth; Finances; Travel Documents; Medical Stuff; Legal Agreements; On-Line Life; Unique and Optional Items. She will suggest ways to get started and offer hints for how to get the most out of gathering the materials. The session is open to those who have not taken the workshop before, and to any former participants who want to attend again.

To register, please email pholborn@shaw.ca or text 604-345-0260. The workshop binder costs $45. (The workshop is free). Pat will ask for your binder payment after she has registered you for the session.

Indispensable Binder Follow-up Support – Wednesday, September 30, 9 – 11;30 am, Anglican Church Hall. Led by Patricia Holborn.22

This follow-up session offers practical help for anyone working through their binder. Participants will share successes and challenges, learn strategies for managing time and materials and for tracking progress. Those interested in ongoing support can also explore forming peer support groups.

“Wills, Power of Attorney, Representation Agreements” – Wednesday, October 21, 9:30-12:30, Anglican Church Hall.  Led by local Notary, Tegan Tang.

Following her popular introduction at the Plan B Workshop, Tegan will provide a more detailed look at these three essential legal documents, explaining their purpose, how to prepare them, and the consequences of not having them in place. To register, email support@goldnetworkonpender.ca, please include the workshop title.

We have been asked if we will be repeating our Plan B workshop which focused both on options for staying on Pender and on how – and why – to be prepared to leave. While we can’t offer it again in the same format, the topics that generated the most interest are being incorporated into future presentations – including Tegan’s legal workshop.

Looking ahead, we hope to offer another event on MAiD early in the new year. We will share details as plans develop.

We are looking towards our annual G’Old gathering for next March or April. As in previous years, we’ll review progress on the six priorities identified by the G’Old Network: maintaining social connection, transportation, managing the practicalities of daily life, supporting caregivers, promoting wellness, and supporting peaceful end-of-life choices. We’ll profile other Pender organizations who are working in these areas and gather ideas for future G’Old specific initiatives.

Thank you for your ongoing interest and support of the G’Old Network. Our purpose is to help create and sustain an environment that supports all those who wish to grow old well and die peacefully here on Pender. If you would like to be added to the G’Old Network email list, please send us a note to: support@goldnetworkonpender.ca.

Anne Kaye, Jane Morley, and Linda Oglov

Environment and Stewardship

Pender Island Conservancy Association

Living in and Caring For One of Canada’s Rarest Ecosystems

Did you know that Pender Island sits within the Coastal Douglas-fir zone, one of the most biodiverse — and most endangered — ecoregions in Canada? Found only in the Gulf Islands, southeastern Vancouver Island and a sliver of BC’s southwest coast, this zone is home to Garry Oak woodlands and other ecosystems found nowhere else on Earth. It holds the highest plant species diversity and the greatest number of species at risk in the province. But, only about one percent of its original old-growth forest remains, with roughly half the ecosystem already lost to agriculture and development.

Protecting what’s left is a race against time, and it’s at the heart of the Conservancy’s work. Restoring habitat, removing invasive species, and securing land through conservation covenants and purchases all help preserve the genetic legacies and ecological resilience this ecoregion needs to withstand a changing climate. Every hectare protected supports groundwater recharge, pollinator diversity and local food resilience, carbon storage, clean air, flood and erosion control, and the cultural and mental health value this landscape offers all of us who call it home.

None of this happens without community support. If you’d like to help protect the place we live, consider becoming a Conservancy member. Membership helps fund protection and restoration work, and it’s also a great way to learn more about what’s happening in the ecosystems right outside your door. http://www.penderconservancy.org

Orca Day Brought the Community Together

Thank you to everyone who joined us for Orca Day this July! It was a wonderful afternoon of learning, community and celebration, centred on the Southern Resident Killer Whales that call the Salish Sea home. Live music, family activities, and opportunities to learn more about these endangered whales and the habitat they depend on drew a crowd out to enjoy the day together.

A heartfelt thank you to Pender POD, the Pender Islands Museum and Parks Canada for their collaboration in bringing this event to life, and to DFO’s Whale Protection Unit and the QENTOL, YEN / W̱SÁNEĆ Marine Guardians for sharing their knowledge and the important work they’re doing to help protect Southern Resident Killer Whales.

Thank you as well to musicians, volunteers, presenters and everyone who came out. Your support and participation help strengthen our shared commitment to protecting the remarkable wildlife and ecosystems of the Salish Sea.

We Were Never Meant to Live this Brightly!

(Excerpted from darksky.org)

Spending time outdoors can do more than connect us with nature. It can support our mental health, improve our well-being, and help us reconnect with ourselves and the world around us.

Modern research is beginning to validate what our ancestors already knew. Exposure to artificial light can disrupt circadian rhythms, melatonin production, sleep quality, and overall health. Research has linked excessive nighttime light exposure to increased stress, sleep disruption, metabolic impacts, and reduced well-being. At the same time, studies on awe suggest experiences of vastness, including star-filled skies, can reduce stress, expand perspective, increase feelings of connection, and interrupt cycles of rumination and self-focus.

Darkness matters; entire ecosystems depend on it. Migration, pollination, reproduction, rest, navigation, and recovery are all shaped by natural cycles of light and dark. Humans are no exception.

Darkness changes the nervous system. Without constant visual stimulation, our other senses become more alive. We notice temperature shifts, wind patterns, sounds, smells, and subtle movement. Our eyes slowly adjust. Our breathing changes. The pace of the body begins to soften toward something older and more natural.

Protecting dark skies is not just about astronomy. It’s about protecting rest, wonder, biodiversity, orientation, and our relationship to something larger than ourselves.

Consider a free resource offered by Dark Sky International entitled Reciprocity Rx toolkit (https://community.reciprocityrx.com/) which includes guided reflections and practices exploring how different landscapes can support our healing in different ways, including dark sky experiences and the ways darkness can support rest, awe, perspective, and nervous system regulation.

Eco Camp Adventures

Eco Camp campers spent a week blending imaginative play with real outdoor skills this July. A small crew of adventurous kids explored Pender Island together — hunting for treasure, crafting with nature, testing their aim at disc golf, and learning to spot local birds and plants along the way.

Thank you to Steve Dunsmuir and Abigail Lamontagne for the care, thought and creativity they put into the camp, and to every camper who showed up each day ready to learn and explore. Their joy was contagious.

Bat Night is Back

Bats are wonderful and ecologically important animals, but they’re often feared and misunderstood. Get to know these amazing night neighbors at Magic Lake (boat side) on August 20, 7:30 pm until dark. Join bat enthusiasts and experts to learn about their habitat and diversity and ways to support local bat populations. Come out for a wondrous night of education and fun!

There’s limited parking at the boat side of Magic Lake so please carpool, walk, or bike down. Don’t forget to bring a flashlight.

A Fresh New Look Online: By the time this issue of The Pender Post is on the shelves, the Conservancy will have launched a new website. Head over to http://www.penderconservancy.org to get to know us better.

Julie Szabo
president@penderconservancy.org
penderconservancy.org

Adam’s Nursery Notes

It’s the middle of summer and for some of us gardeners there’s a bit of a lull. Planting season is over, weed pressure has eased and the biggest job now is to keep our plants alive through the drought.

In this mid-summer pause there are still a few tasks I like to occupy my time. A great one that will save you money is to collect seeds. Many plants that bloom in spring or early summer have set seed and will now be ripe for collecting. I’m always amazed at the volume of seeds one plant can produce. I love examining the structure of them — the deep, black, oily sheen of camas seeds and the soft, fluffy pillows of fireweed are fascinating. As the economy continues to pinch our pennies, I thought a quick seed collecting and sowing (next month’s article) overview might bring some cost savings and more beauty to our gardens.

When collecting seed, make sure you’re not taking all the seed from an area. Leaving most of the seed in place will ensure critters have food to eat and that the species can continue to grow new generations. Ensure the plants you’re harvesting from are healthy specimens. When seed heads have turned brown and begun to desiccate, that’s a sign they’re ready to shed their seeds and can be collected. Seeds should be labelled and stored in a dry, cool, dark spot. Most seeds should be used within a year; many will last much longer, but I find storing seeds for years makes for messy storage. Stay tuned next month to learn how to sow the seeds you’ve collected.

Come chat with me about this and any horticulture topic at the Pender Native Plants nursery, any Friday or Saturday from 10 am – 2 pm at 4506 Bedwell Harbour Rd.

Adam Miller, Nursery Manager
Pender Native Plants, 4506 Bedwell Harbour Road
pnp@penderconservancy.org

Pender Ocean Defenders (POD)

POD was part of a joyful celebration of World Orca Day held at the Pender Museum July 10th. The event was hosted by the Gulf Islands’ National Park at their Roesland site.

Besides POD, the National Park Reserve, the Pender Island Conservancy Association, and the Museum there was a prominent presence of new groups including the Department of Fisheries and Ocean Whale Protection Unit, Raincoast, Georgia Strait Alliance, and the W̱SÁNEĆ Marine Guardians.

The Marine Guardians are an initiative of the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council (QENTOL,YEN https://www.qentolyen.com/. Their goal is to bridge traditional W̱SÁNEĆ knowledge with modern technology to track and protect the endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales (KELȽOLEMEĆEN). They advocate for recognition of Indigenous Science in policymaking and believe that restoring the connection between people and whales will ensure the survival of the KELȽOLEMEĆEN and the ecosystems that sustain us all. They offered tours of their high-tech Marine Guardian boat along with educational material including the storybook KELȽOLEMEĆEN: The Introduction. These resources teach KELȽOLEMEĆEN behaviors while revitalizing the SENĆOŦEN language.

There was storytelling.

• Aiyanna Bartleman, a WSÁNEĆ interpreter for Parks Canada, shared the Indigenous origin story of the Orca.
• John Pender told the story about the mysterious sea monster that his father and others saw in the waters around Pender. The “official” name of the monster is Cadborosaurus (Caddy for short) and John’s compelling account had kids (and adults) keeping a sharper eye on the waters around Roesland!
• Faye Mogensen provided a spell binding account of a personal encounter with the Orca.

Other highlights included:

• The museum shared the ancient carving of an Orca-shaped abrader tool that was used to make wood, leather or bone objects. The artifact was unearthed in the Pender Island Archeological site near the canal and dates from between 3 and 5 thousand years ago;
• The large inflated Orca brought by the Department of Fisheries and Ocean Whale Protection Unit;
• The musical entertainment provided by many musicians who regularly jam at Slow Coast;
• The Orca fin hats were popular with kids and adults, as were the whale ID/info cards;
• The presence of Ryan Michael and Will Guarasci from Friends of Vancouver Island. (They promote land based whale watching); and
• Orca being spotted in the distance

Peter Pare
Facebook: “Pender Ocean Defenders”

Gulf Islands Centre for Ecological Learning

Summer Earth Education Program

The Gulf Islands Centre for Ecological Learning (GICEL) is once again offering its popular Summer Earth Education Program for Pender Island children and visiting families.

Blending wilderness skills with ecological education, the camp is designed to help children build confidence, comfort, and connection in the natural world through hands-on, place-based experiences. Campers will explore the forests, freshwater habitats, shorelines, and marine environments of the Pender Islands while learning practical outdoor skills such as food gathering, water sourcing, first aid, and map-and-compass navigation.

Participants will discover local ecosystems while learning about animal and bird behaviour, food chains, food webs, and ecological relationships. Children also take part in journaling and self-reflection activities, while specially designed games bring concepts to life through role-playing as predators, prey, pollinators, salmon, orcas, and more.

Working together in small groups, children develop teamwork, resilience, curiosity, and environmental awareness while discovering the gifts of nature on the Pender Islands.

Led by dynamic leaders and youth mentors, the camp offers an engaging and memorable way for children to experience the natural beauty and ecological richness of the islands and aims to inspire eco-literacy, environmental stewardship, and a lifelong appreciation for the natural world.

Registration forms can be found on our partners website at https://penderislands.org/registrations/   For more information or to register email pender@gicel.ca

Wilderness Skills Day Camp, August 24 – 28: 10 am to 4 pm daily, Children ages 6 to 12, $250.

If the cost poses a hardship, GICEL has funds for financial assistance thanks to the Pender Island Lions Club.

Andrea Mills, Pender Islands Coordinator
pender@gicel.ca

gicel.ca

ṮEṮÁĆES Reconcili-Action

Join in to support W̱SÁNEĆ Reef Net this August 9-10

Building on our ReconciliAction initiatives, SDÁ,YES residents and community members are welcome to join a team to support an exciting and culturally significant event taking place August 9-10 at  QENEṈ,IW̱  (Bedwell Harbour).

For the seventh year in a row, W̱SÁNEĆ youth are gearing up to set a SX̱OLE (Reef Net) at a SWALET (Reef Net location) at  QENEṈ,IW̱. This is part of W̱SÁNEĆ’s Youth SX̱OLE Project, a youth-led initiative to restore the traditional practice of SX̱OLE in W̱SÁNEĆ territory, which includes ṮEṮÁĆES (the Gulf Islands).

SX̱OLE is a traditional, highly effective fishing method that W̱SÁNEĆ practiced for thousands of years before the colonial government outlawed it in the 1900s.    https://wsanec.com/w%CC%B1sanec-youth-successfully-set-reef-net-revitalizing-traditional-technology/ )

How can you support this initiative? At press time, details still coming into focus but some needs will be: potluck meals, camping support, billets or accomodation for SELW̱ÁN (Elders) and other community members who attend to support their youth in carrying out the tradition. Please contact madelin.emery@gmail.com to learn more and to join the Land support Team. Help us uplift the  SX̱OLE  crew and keep the momentum growing.

Check out this YouTube video for more details (point your phone’s camera at the QR code and follow the link):

Madelin Emery
madelin.emery@gmail.com

Pender Earth

The numbers are not good. At the time that this submission was written, Europe had 10,000 excess deaths as a result of the heat waves in June. One hundred-and-ninety-one fires burn in Northern Ontario with numerous US and Canadian cities advising people to stay indoors due to unhealthy breathing conditions for their citizens.

Sorry to be a Debbie Downer, but we must live in a Climate Change reality in order to convince our politicians to stop supporting the fossil fuel industry. Currently Canada subsidizes this polluting energy with our tax dollars; 10.2 billion per year. Until the government stops subsidizing this industry,  we will continue to see these unhealthy conditions for humans and our eco-system. The deterioration will continue, slow at first and then at a speed we won’t be able to stop.

If these figures disturb you, joining people who speak honestly and frankly about our current trajectory might be just the thing that you need. Knowing you’re not alone in your worry could be the ointment required.

We continue to meet the first Friday of every month at 9:30 am at the Community Hall. Hope to see you on August 7.

Kathy Cronk and Mary Anne Paré
penderearth@gmail.com

Health and Safety

Pender Island Health Care Society

Annual General Meeting

A reminder that our AGM will occur on Thursday September 24 at 10 am at the Legion. All members are welcome to attend. At this meeting directors are elected, and the Annual Report, financials and our updated Strategic Plan are presented.

Holiday Closures: Please note that the Medical Clinic and most of the Health Centre will be closed on Monday August 3 for BC Day, and on Monday September 7 for Labour Day.

New Privacy Fencing at Ambulance Station

A combination of volunteer labour, donated cedar and funding for supplies from the Green Angels Woodchoppers has resulted in a beautiful improvement to the privacy and landscaping for Pender Island’s ambulance crews. With the new trail going right past their living quarters and the addition of the building for the Medical Equipment Loan Program at the back, there wasn’t much private (or even semi-private!) space for the crew to go about their everyday tasks and prepare for the next call-out. We still have some work to do on the space and in the fall, we’ll add some native plants. Many thanks to all who helped, especially Dave Harrison and Art Curtis for design and hands-on construction. We are lucky to live in such a supportive community.

Can You Colour Inside the Lines?

More to the point, can you park between the lines? You can now demonstrate that skill at the Health Centre, where we are very pleased with a properly painted parking lot, from designated accessible spots for those with disabilities to maximum standardized stall width and nice bright yellow curbs. Please note, as well, the word ‘SLOW’ at the entrance and ‘STOP’ at the exit. We have met or exceeded CRD standards for the accessible spots, but also have a designated loading zone at the front of the building that everyone is welcome to use when needed. If you have additional parking requirements, please reach out and we are happy to help in any way we can.  Facility Manager Jason Wissink managed the project with off-island painting professionals and ensured compliance with rules and regulations, and volunteer Board member Tony Wolcott was indispensable in cutting back and clearing areas near the curb prior to the work (it’s kind of handy having a master arborist on the team). Well done.

Naturopathy at the Health Centre

Starting in September, naturopath Megan Kimberley (BSc, ND) will begin seeing clients by appointment. Megan has been practicing for over 25 years and is licensed by the Complementary Health Professionals of BC. She lives on Mayne Island, where she also practices, and lists her additional interests as theatre, public speaking, paddle boarding, yoga and meditation. Welcome, Megan! Her website is http://www.drmegan.net.

Managing Indoor Temperatures

Extreme weather events happen when daytime and nighttime temperatures get hotter each day and are above seasonal norms. Extreme hot weather can affect your health. People most vulnerable include the elderly and the very young, those who live alone, have existing health conditions, limited mobility, substance use disorders or marginal housing, pregnant people, and those who work in hot environments.

Stay hydrated, keep your home as cool as possible, and check in on friends, neighbours and family. The Island Health website has information on ways to manage heat, and in BC there is also a fully-funded (yes, it’s free) Energy Conservation Assistance Program for BC homeowners and renters to install heat pumps and insulation to reduce energy costs and improve home comfort. See http://www.bchydro.com for details.

PIHCS Info Table at the Fall Fair – with a Draw for Prizes

You may have come by our weekly table at the Farmers’ Market to chat and ask questions about the Health Care Society and the Health Centre, and to offer your feedback about services on a mini-survey; please drop by on Fall Fair day as well, when we’ll draw for prizes from the list of subscribers to the quarterly HeartBeat newsletter. It’s never too late to sign up; just go to our website.

So Many Thanks to Share

Many thanks are due to Home Hardware, which has donated $665 to the Medical Clinic from their June blowout sale. Community and business support like this means the world to us. We plan to use this generous donation for the purchase of equipment for enhanced patient care. We never get tired of saying Thank you.

And the Pender Island Foundation’s Walk for Wellness on June 20 generated a whopping $5000, which was matched by the Foundation for a grand total of $10,000. Huge thanks go out to all who planned, participated and brought that amazing community spirit along with them. It was a great day all around.

Correction

In last month’s issue, incorrect attribution was given for the grant we received to fund our Open House. We are grateful for funding for this community engagement from a Sustainable Communities Initiatives Grant, through the Rural Coordination Centre of BC.

Kelly Leroux, PIHCS Communications
info@penderislandhealth.org
penderislandhealth.org

PIHCS Community Support Programs

Maintain Your Independence (MYI)
Exercise Classes
Drop-in classes are $8. If cost is a concern or you need assistance with registration, please contact Marcella in the Community Support office. The fall MYI exercise schedule will be available on our website late-August with classes starting back up after Labour Day. We gratefully acknowledge the support of the Pender Island Parks and Recreation Commission for the MYI program.

Mondays
Community Hall

Strength Training for Overall Health with Stacy Packford
9:30 – 10:30 am (August 3, 10 & 17)
This class will focus on building strength in your body to improve overall health. There will be a variety of exercises for all levels designed to build strength, balance, and confidence in movement. Wear comfy clothes and being a water bottle. Resistance bands provided.

Monday Activity Day at the Community Hall
See ad page in our newsletter for full schedule including lunch menus.

Summer Break Announcement
Our programming, kitchen staff, and volunteers will be taking a well-deserved summer break for three weeks. Programming and lunches will be closed on Mondays: August 24, August 31, and September 7. We’ll be back and excited to welcome you again on Monday, September 14. Thank you for your continued support.

Weekly Activities and Exercise
MYI Classes Upstairs 9:30 – 10:30
Drop-in Café and Knitting and Stitching Circle from 10:00 – 12:00

August 3
Book Club with Cee
This month’s book discussion is Miss Eliza’s English Kitchen by Annabel Abbs. Relax, meet new friends, join in good conversation, and discover great books together.

Natural Paint Making: Create Your Own Botanical Watercolour Palette with Joanne Green
Discover the beauty of painting with colours made from locally harvested plants. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll explore a vibrant collection of botanical pigments, mix your own watercolours, and create a personalized mini watercolour palette to take home. Whether you’re an artist or simply curious, you’ll learn about the beautiful process of transforming plants, flowers and trees… into paint! Advanced registration by Friday, July 31. $10

Film: Jane Goodall: The Hope Showtime 1:00PM
This inspiring documentary follows renowned primatologist Jane Goodall as she travels the world sharing her message of environmental conservation and hope for the future. The film highlights her transition from groundbreaking chimpanzee researcher to global activist, showcasing her lifelong dedication to protecting wildlife and empowering young people to make a difference. Through personal stories and archival footage, the documentary demonstrates how one person’s passion and determination can create lasting positive change. 1 hour 28 minutes.

August 10
Repair Café
The Pender Island Repair Café happens on the 2nd & 4th Monday of each month. All Repair Café participants can enter for a chance to win a gift certificate from a local business – hosted by the PIRS. As a heart-felt thank you, volunteers receive a gift certificate or a complimentary lunch. Our Repair Café is supported by friendly volunteers skilled in appliance repairs (Peter), tech repairs (Shon), and sewing repairs (Judy), all eager to share knowledge and help extend the life of everyday items. We also warmly invite new volunteers with specific fixing skills to join us regularly or as a guest volunteer and be part of the Repair Café community.

Create Beautiful Handmade Cards with Sun Prints (Cyanotypes) with Joanne Green
Experience the wonder of creating beautiful blue-and-white botanical prints using sunlight and natural materials. You’ll make your own cyanotype prints on paper and turn them into a collection of unique handmade greeting cards. Come play, experiment, and discover one of photography’s oldest and most enchanting artistic processes. Advanced registration by Friday, August 7. $10

Mountaineering Presentation with Peter Paré
For many summers Lisa Baile and Peter Paré spent their summer holidays doing alpine traverses in the Coast Range Mountains of BC. They would spend 2-3 weeks wandering ridge systems going between food caches that had been pre-placed at key locations by float plane or helicopter. The talk will show a selection of their images from different trips highlighting the ruggedness and beauty of this fantastic British Columbia Mountain Range.

August 17

Beach Treasures: Crafting Driftwood & Beaded Suncatchers
Create a beautiful one-of-a-kind suncatcher using natural driftwood and colorful beads. In this hands-on class, you’ll design and assemble a decorative piece perfect for hanging in a window, garden, or outdoor space. No experience needed, just bring your creativity and enjoy a fun crafting experience. Advanced registration by Friday, August 14. $10

Film: Tracks Showtime 1:00PM
Tracks, a biographical adventure drama chronicles the remarkable true story of Robyn Davidson (Mia Wasikowska), a young woman who abandons city life to embark on a solo 1,700-mile trek across the unforgiving Australian desert from Alice Springs to the Indian Ocean. Accompanied only by her faithful dog Diggity and four camels she trains herself, she documents her journey with the help of a National Geographic photographer, Rick Smolan (Adam Driver). It’s a story of determination and the power of pursuing one’s dreams, no matter how challenging the path may be.

To register for any of our programs, go to penderislandhealth.org/monday-activity-day and click on the Registration link. You can also call SGINH at 250-629-3665.

Marcella Reay
Community Connector
communityconnector@penderislandhealth.org
penderislandhealth.org
250-629-3346

Pender Island Fire Protection Society

Pender Island Fire Protection Society held its AGM, reporting on Year 2025 on June 11th at Firehall #1. President Marsden gave his address and then he and Chief Dine presented an informative, on-screen 2025 Financial Report which was then approved by Society members.

Chief Dine gave an extensive, on-screen report on operations for 2025.

The Society now has over 500 members, and welcomes all members warmly. Residents can elect to be members by checking a box when paying for their annual backyard burn permits online at http://www.penderfire.org or they can pay a $2 membership in person at Firehall #1. Membership runs from January to December annually, as do burn permits.

An information sheet on membership and the structure of the Penders’ fire service is available and was distributed to society members with your AGM notice. Contact administration@penderfire.ca for a copy.

As formerly reported, our Fire Chief, Mike Dine, is retiring in the fall and Pender Island Fire Protection Society is in process of appointing his successor.

Christa Grace-Warrick, Secretary
administration@penderfire.ca

Pender Island Fire Rescue

Coastal Campfire Ban in Effect

Hello, Pender Islands. As of today, July 16, PIFR members have responded to 176 emergency calls.

July on the islands was busy, and we expect that trend to continue and grow as we progress through the summer.  As of this writing, the Province of BC has imposed a campfire ban in our coastal region.

This now prohibits all open burning until the end of October unless we are directed otherwise by the province. Wood-burning appliances are still allowed with a permit after the fire prevention team inspects the site and the appliance. Continue to monitor our wildfire risk signs near our fire stations and the website at http://www.penderfire.org for the most up-to-date restrictions.

Work restrictions during high and extreme risk levels are common questions we are asked about here at the station, so I hope this synopsis helps clarify some of these concerns. General lawn and yard work is not considered a high-risk activity. You can still run gas-powered landscaping tools/power washers when in high and extreme designations.

Exceptions to this include gas chainsaw work, as it can be a high-risk activity. Keep in mind the best practices of not refuelling when the motor and exhaust are hot, and of having a means of extinguishment at hand, ideally a class B fire extinguisher and a garden hose.

A watered green lawn is low fire risk. On the other hand, if the grass is dry and dead, follow the early shift before 1 pm guidelines. And be aware that there is a risk of sparks from the metal blades of lawn mowers and trimmer attachments. All high-risk activities are listed on our website, or feel free to call Hall 1 at 250-629-3321 to speak with us directly if you have any questions about work you want to do.

As I’m sure most of you have experienced, bicycle traffic is getting busier and busier every year. It’s been noticed that many people are riding their bikes without wearing helmets. They are mandatory under the BC Motor Vehicle Act and are your most important piece of protective equipment when out on the road.  Please wear your helmet!

For motorists sharing the road, please remember to be patient; passing on blind corners and hills is a recipe for disaster. Give cyclists space and wait to pass when it is safe to do so. E-bikes are moving faster, so speed, distance, and space can become harder to judge when they share the road.

Lastly, our fire prevention team is at the Saturday Farmers’ Market, with our booth set up to spread the word about fire safety, prevention and other topics of interest.  We love the conversations that get sparked when we are out there and would love to say hi when you see us.  Our Team will be there from 9:30 am – 1 pm each weekend until the Fall Fair.

Remember to test your smoke alarms monthly, as they do save lives.

Captain Jon Grelik
jgrelik@penderfire.ca
penderfire.org
250-629-3321

SGI Community

SGI Community Resource Centre

Housing NOW: The Housing We Already Have

Across the Southern Gulf Islands, housing remains a challenge for workers, seniors, families and others who want to live and contribute to island life. While new housing development is important, it takes time.

One part of the solution may already exist in the homes and properties we have now. A spare room, self-contained suite, cottage or small cabin could provide stable housing for someone who works locally, supports essential services or is already connected to the community.

For property owners, making a space available may provide additional income, help with rising household costs or offer the reassurance of having someone nearby. For renters, it can create greater housing stability and a stronger connection to island life.

Many property owners hesitate because of concerns about safety, screening, rent collection, compatibility and what happens if an arrangement does not work out. Housing NOW has partnered with Happipad to provide a more structured and supported way for property owners and renters to connect. Through Happipad, participants can create profiles, review applications, communicate with potential matches and use documented agreements and secure payment tools.

Property owners remain in control of whom they choose, what space they offer and the expectations connected to the arrangement. Rooms, suites and cottages may all require different agreements and responsibilities. Before entering any arrangement, both parties should clearly discuss rent, utilities, privacy, pets, parking, visitors, household expectations, maintenance and the length of the rental. Property owners should also confirm that their space meets applicable safety, insurance, zoning and legal requirements.

One available space will not solve the Southern Gulf Islands’ housing shortage. But it may help one worker stay, one business retain an employee, one senior remain independent or one community service continue. Housing NOW invites property owners with an available room, suite or cottage – and renters seeking stable housing – to visit the Housing NOW website and follow the link to register with Happipad.

The next part of our housing solution may begin with the housing we already have.

Food Resilience Alliance: Agricultural Survey Reminder

The Food Resilience Alliance is inviting farmers, growers, food producers and others involved in the agriculture sector across the Gulf Islands to participate in the Southern Gulf Islands Producer Economic Development Survey.

Your experience and insight will help identify current challenges, opportunities and priorities for strengthening local agriculture, food production and regional food resilience. Whether you operate a farm, raise livestock, grow food, produce value-added products or support agricultural activities in another way, we want to hear from you. Please take a few minutes to complete the survey and help inform future programs, services and investments supporting Gulf Islands producers.

Survey link: shorturl.at/Bj8vk

Sustainable Funding Initiative

Upcoming Workshops

AI Awareness and Fraud Prevention Workshop for Seniors with Sarah Downey. Monday, September 28th, 1- 2 pm. In-person at the Pender Islands Community Hall or join us via Zoom.

A one-hour workshop for seniors on what AI is, how it’s being used to run scams, and how to stay safe. It closes with practical, positive applications so participants leave with more than just caution. What’s covered:

• A plain-language overview of AI and the current landscape
• How scams work: deepfakes, voice cloning, phishing, and impersonation
• How to recognize the signs and what to do
• Simple steps to protect yourself and your family
• Practical, positive uses of AI to close on a note of curiosity.

Registration link: linktr.ee/sgisfi or contact islandsupport@sgicrc.ca

Board Governance – Tuesday, September 29, 2026
Financial Management for Non-profits – Wednesday, October 28, 2026
Staffing & Volunteer Management – Wednesday, January 13, 2027
Succession Planning – Wednesday, February 24, 2027
(All workshops are from 1 – 3 pm, Zoom)

These workshops provide practical, accessible training for non-profit board members, staff, and volunteers to strengthen how organizations are governed, managed, and sustained. Participants will gain clear tools and real-world strategies in board governance, financial management, staffing and volunteer engagement, and succession planning.

Each session is designed to build confidence, improve decision-making, and support stronger, more resilient community organizations. Join us for one workshop or take part in the whole series. Spaces are limited! Register early.

Melody Pender
execdir@sgicommunityresources.ca
sgicommunityresources.ca

SGI Neighbourhood House

The Southern Gulf Islands Neighbourhood House is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Cowan as Executive Director, effective April 1, 2026.

Michael has been with the Neighbourhood House since its inception, serving as Managing Director and helping guide the organization’s growth and community impact. He holds a Master’s degree in Global Leadership and brings more than 30 years of leadership experience across the non-profit, government, and community sectors.

Michael is committed to collaboration, equity, innovation, and building resilient communities across the Southern Gulf Islands. Former executive director Melody Pender is transitioning to the role of Finance Director and will remain with the organization, continuing to support its financial management and future development.

The Board looks forward to Michael’s leadership as the Neighbourhood House continues strengthening connections and improving the quality of life for residents throughout the Southern Gulf Islands.

Southern Gulf Islands Community Justice Program – The Circle Process

Most of us have sat through meetings where something important goes unsaid. Where one or two voices dominate, and others leave feeling unheard. Where a decision is set, but the tension underneath is not.

The Circle Process is a different kind of conversation. Facilitated by a trained Community Justice volunteer, a circle gives everyone an equal opportunity to speak – and just as importantly, to listen. There’s no agenda to rush through, no winner or loser. Just people working through something together.

Circles have been used on the Southern Gulf Islands to help boards reconnect to their purpose, to support community groups navigating conflict or change, and to create space for difficult conversations about issues that affect everyone. If your organization or group is facing a moment that a regular meeting won’t quite reach, a circle might be what you need. We’re local, volunteer-run, and free.

55+ Seniors Program

Computer Savvy Seniors: If you’re 55 or older and experiencing any kind of computer, phone, or technology-related issues, we offer a free service where a tech expert can come to your home and help troubleshoot. Please call our office at 250-629-3665 to book an appointment.

Support Your Community: The Southern Gulf Islands Neighbourhood House is dedicated to building stronger, healthier, and more connected island communities. Through a wide range of programs and services, including seniors’ activities, food security initiatives, youth and family supports, community wellness projects, and volunteer-led programs, we help improve the quality of life for residents across the Southern Gulf Islands.

Community support is at the heart of everything we do. Every donation, volunteer hour, and act of kindness helps us respond to local needs, expand programs, and create opportunities for people of all ages to connect, thrive, and feel supported. As a registered charity, we are pleased to provide charitable tax receipts for all eligible donations.

To learn more about our work or make a donation, please visit sginh.ca/donate-now. Summer is one of the most vibrant times of year in the Southern Gulf Islands.

It’s a season of community gatherings, shared meals, local events, beautiful beaches, and reconnecting with friends, family, and neighbours. We invite everyone to get involved by attending a community event, lending a helping hand, volunteering, or simply taking time to check in on someone who could use a friendly visit. Together, these small acts of connection help build the caring, resilient communities that make our islands such a special place to call home.

From everyone at the Southern Gulf Islands Neighbourhood House, thank you for being part of our community. We wish you a wonderful summer filled with laughter, connection, and unforgettable island moments. We look forward to seeing you at one of our programs or events soon!

Michael Cowan
mcowan@sginh.ca
250-629-3665

Southern Gulf Islands Tourism Partnership

Reach an SGI-wide events audience

Are you planning a community festival at the Community Hall, a live show at Port Browning Pub, or a local workshop nestled in the woods of Pender Island? If you are an event organizer, you already know that half the battle is making sure people actually show up. Whether you are trying to reach your neighbours or visitors stepping off the ferry looking for an authentic island experience, getting the word out just got a lot easier.

The Southern Gulf Islands Tourism Partnership (SGITP) and Salt Spring Arts Council (SSAC) co-produced GulfIslandEvents.com, a free, specialized resource designed to centralize and support local event promotion across the islands.

Having been active for two years, the website now attracts over 4,000 new website visitors each month. Kendall, the Community Relations & Administrative Assistant, has been managing a significant portion of the site’s content for Pender by manually sourcing and uploading local event information. However, Pender organizers are encouraged to take direct ownership of their listings. By uploading events personally, coordinators gain full control over how their listings are showcased and can easily update information as logistics change.

SGITP and SSAC built this platform with one main goal in mind: to uplift our local event organizers and streamline how people find things to do. If you aren’t utilizing it for your Pender Island events yet, here is why you should start today:

• Massive Local & Visitor Reach: The website attracts over 5,000 views every month. It also draws traffic from digital ads that are optimized so that anyone searching for activities on Pender Island can easily find your listing.
• Double the Exposure: When you post on the website, you aren’t just getting web traffic. The promotional team uses these listings to build monthly event roundups on social media and to populate regional newsletters, giving your Pender event an extra marketing boost.
• It’s Completely Free: This is a community-first tool dedicated to supporting the vibrant, creative culture of our island.

To get the absolute most out of this platform, timing is key. We highly encourage you to upload your events to the website at least a few months in advance. Giving the community a few months’ notice ensures optimal advertising exposure for visitors planning their trips ahead of time. Crucially, it also gives the promotional team ample time to spot your event and ensure it gets featured across social media and newsletter channels.

Ready to fill the room? Don’t wait until the last minute. Head over to GulfIslandEvents.com today, add your Pender Island event, and let us help you connect with your audience.

Recreation and Leisure

Pender Island Parks and Recreation Commission

August means we’re all outdoors and enjoying the sunshine and the many spoils our beautiful islands have to offer. We’re lucky to call Pender home, with its plethora of swimming spots, parks, hikes, whale sightings and stellar views. Lucky us! Here’s the latest from the Parks Commission.

A new dock at the Magic Lake Swimming Hole has been constructed, though you may see things looking a little differently for the next while. For your safety, a reconfiguration of the location of the dock is in the works by a division of the CRD. Turns out this is a larger project scope than originally anticipated and needs a bit of assessment before permanent placement. The old and new docks are currently tethered together, and you may see them removed for a time during the planning process at the end of summer. Rest assured, additional details are to come. Stay tuned; this project is estimated to take place around October 1, 2026.

Another upgrade at Magic Lake: the picnic/park area on Schooner Way now has folding cleats installed on the boat dock to tether boats to! Enjoy lounging parkside knowing your vessel won’t float away.

We had an excellent turnout for the Walk for Wellness day on June 20, with many participants on our new path, engaging conversations being had and we celebrated all of those involved in making the path a reality. Thanks again to everyone who took part in this massive undertaking, especially the Pender Foundation and those who attended the walk itself. It’s an encouraging sight to see so many people using the path each and every day, on many modes of transportation. Be kind to fellow users by riding at reasonable speeds and watching out for little ones, both human and animal alike.

Plenty of sun and warm days also means spending time at Thieves Bay. There you’ll find a brand new soccer net to kick a ball into and expect to see new picnic tables being constructed over the winter months, ready for next season!

Please continue your diligence with fire prevention: butt out, keep a keen nose to the wind, and report anything potentially hazardous by calling 911. Let’s have a fire-free dry season.

Our next meeting will be held on September 14 @ 3:30 pm. Have great fun enjoying the rest of the summer in all its glory! Updates will be shared, as projects progress and new information is available. Take care.

Connie Sears, Commissioner
penderprcommission@gmail.com
tinyurl.com/PenderPnR
Next meeting: September 14, 3:30 pm, Community Hall

Pender Island Golf Club

August is the month we golfers always look forward to out on the fairways of the Pender Island golf course. Those hundred yard drives off the tees skip along merrily for many, many, more yards giving our normally bruised egos a real boost of confidence. Unfortunately, in some cases, the exuberant little white ball continues unabated, leaping into the cooling waters of our ponds or hopping into the waiting arms of the forest, gone forever.

However, as we approach the greens there is an oasis amongst the brown of the fairways. Our course superintendent, Greg Chaster, has been diligently working to provide a luscious surface to enable that perfect putt to finish the hole in style.

For our island visitors and members, our course provides a challenging yet wonderful time to spend those carefree August days. With a pro shop fully stocked with those essential golfing needs, great rental clubs and even a gourmet hot dog to enjoy on our large outdoor deck, it is a great place to lap up that mid summer warmth.

Bruce McConchie
membership@penderislandgolf.ca
penderislandgolf.ca
250-629-6659

Pender Island Otters Swim Club

Okay – where did the summer go? We are already in August, and it seems we just said hello to summer!

The first weekend of August sees the Cowichan Valley Breakers hosting our last Regional meet of the summer. Regional Finals will be on July 31 – Aug. 2 at the Duncan Aquatic Centre.  Our Region tries to shift the location of our Finals Meet each year, so one end or other of our well spread out region every other year does not have to travel as far. Yes, we extend from Powell River [our northernmost club], to us at the southern end. In between, there are four clubs in the Victoria/Saanich area (Piranhas, Oak Bay, Gordon Head, and Juan de Fuca Royals), Saltspring of course, two “in the middle” (Cowichan and Nanaimo), and three at the top end (Courtney, Campbell River and Powell River).

And, this year there will be a few Otters swimming again at Regionals. We will have got swimmers out to five of eight meets, which is pretty good. We would have made six meets but the swimmers and coach planning to attend the Oak Bay meet were sick, and our coach had a concussion. These things happen.

Not sure at this point if we will have any swimmers attending provincials in Kamloops or not. It’s a long way to go, and has expenses for those who qualify. If no one attends, then our summer practices will finish up on August 14.

Our fall session will start up on September 25 and go through to December 11. Our registrars will be getting notices out to members in early September, and the link will be available on our webpage shortly after that. Other news is that we are already finalizing our fall coaching staff, with Sidney Boone returning as head coach. Summer coaches Marianne Sabourin and Mesha Eakins will be staying on through the fall, and we are currently in the process of filling the fourth spot.

It is a big relief to have that in hand before we are heading into the fall. If anyone has any questions about our programs, please feel free to contact us at our email address.  And, let’s keep on swimming until the end of the summer!

Respectfully submitted,

Helen Lemon-Moore, President
penderottersswimclub@gmail.com
penderislandotters.ca

CanBoat

Summer has arrived and boating season is in full swing. Decks have been swabbed, motors tuned, and – most importantly – safety vests checked/cleaned and worn! When all else fails, your trusty flotation device will be your ultimate savior in our cool waters.

We are currently working with the Oak Bay Squadron education team to revise and prepare course materials for the Pender School Grade 9 boating safety program.  Students have three mornings of classroom training, supplemented by afternoons spent at Port Browning Marina visiting Pender Island emergency responders on their vessels.

The final fourth day includes an exam leading to certification of the federal government issued Pleasure Craft Operator Card. The card is required for Canadian residents to operate any motorized pleasure craft in Canadian waters. Certification is not a slam dunk by any means and we will share parts of the course curriculum next month.

We expect to complete course revisions and updates by mid-September with the Grade 9 courses starting October 4 and ending October 8.

In the meantime, Pender Captains, luxuriate in our waters and be sure your passengers have and wear appropriate safety gear. You will never regret doing so.

John Ackermans
canboat.ca