From Our President
My family will be marking the anniversary of our move to Pender Island in a few short months and it has me pondering the notion of home. Will the milestone officially make me a Pender Islander? And if not, what is it that makes someone a Penderite?
Perhaps I became one last summer when – while still living in Toronto but already anticipating the move west – I slapped next to our Ontario licence plate a Pender Island bumper sticker.
Maybe it was the first time I knew the answer when someone asked if “The Dip” was open. Or when the rush of frantic ferry traffic elicited its first earnest grumbling as I walked my dog along the narrow shoulders of Pirates Road.
Joking aside, I recall one of my earliest moments of feeling connected to this community was when I recognized a name. I was settling into my new role at The Pender Post by reading through some weathered documents from our archives. There were some hand-typed minutes from a meeting in 1971, when our founders gathered to bring the newsletter to life.
The notes begin with a sombre-enough tone, listing those in attendance and then getting down to business at hand. As the meeting adjourned, the note states, “…Jean Bradley served excellent refreshments.”
Jean Bradley was a founding member, and long-time volunteer, of The Pender Post Society. She is also the namesake for the scholastic gift this publication offers to one worthy resident each year. Her name lived in my memory, as I had seen announcements for the gift every time I picked up a copy of The Post during previous summer visits.
The $500 grant is given each year to a Pender Island resident who is going into studies related to healthcare. While many successful applicants have been straight out of high school, the gift is not limited to students. Rather, any Pender Islander who is expanding their education into the health field is eligible.
Bradley lived a life full of community service, even beyond her work editing and proofreading The Pender Post. She helped get halls built and ensured the new school had facilities, like a gym and kitchen, that would be useful to the community.
She helped found the Legion Ladies’ Auxiliary, worked with the Farmers’ Institute, and the Fall Fair. She was a board member of the Pender Island Health Care Society for many years. Jean passed away in 2021, though her legacy remains alive on the island to this day. Without doubt, Jean Bradley was a Pender Islander, through and through.
Is that what makes a resident – a commitment and service to one’s neighbours and community at large? Giving what they can, and probably a little more than that?
I suppose there is no right answer; each person’s journey is their own. But with July upon us, I am about to have my first summer experience as a local, while our island home plays host to crowds of lucky summer visitors.
For my part, I can’t wait to welcome them. Though, may I urge them to relax a bit while on the roads? There’s no hurry. After all, once you’re here, you’re on Pender time.
Cover Story
This month’s cover photo of three Pender Island girls (Grace, Alice, and Mhoru) at Valley Home Farm across from the cemetery was taken in the early 1900s. We chose this vintage photo (with a little twenty-first century touch-up) to celebrate the Pender Island Museum’s twentieth anniversary this month. Thanks to Simone Marler for going through the Museum’s archives and coming up with this gem.
Special Notices
PEPAKEṈ HÁUTW̱ Foundation Restoration Project
July 11, 10 am – 2 pm QENENIW̱ (Poet’s Cove)
You are invited to join a restoration project with PEPAKEṈ HÁUTW̱ (http://www.pepakenhautw.com/qenewiw-restoration-project). PEPAKEṈ HÁUTW̱ Foundation is based on the Saanich peninsula and focuses on land-based learning that incorporates W̱SÁNEĆ natural laws. A partnership between Tsawout First Nation and PEPAKEṈ HÁUTW̱ allows for ecosystem restoration and protection of the cultural heritage at QENENIW̱¸ a significant village site and reef net location.
PEPAKEṈ HÁUTW̱ hopes to inspire community members to take an ecological approach to returning native plants across the W̱SÁNEĆ homelands. The hands-on learning approach offers a physical act of decolonizing the land while generating habitat for native species to thrive across the W̱SÁNEĆ homelands.
RSVP to madelin.emery@gmail.com to find out more details for the event. We will be removing Daphne laureola and working on uneven terrain. Thus if you can’t make it, we always welcome snacks for the volunteers!
Several local organizations have been supporting the efforts of PEPAKEṈ HÁUTW̱, for the past two years, including the Pender Island Conservancy, Raincoast Conservation, S,DÁYES Truth and Reconciliation Circle, and the Gulf Islands’ Food Co-op.
Three Pender Island Artists Receive Catalyst Grant for Collaborative Exhibition
Kenna Barradell, Joanna Rogers and Susan Purney Mark.
Three established Pender Island artists — Kenna Barradell, Joanna Rogers and Susan Purney Mark — have been awarded a Catalyst Grant from the Salt Spring National Art Prize (SSNAP) program. Each artist brings decades of professional experience to this collaboration.
The grant supports Self Contained, a collaborative exhibition series planned for 2026/27 that explores women’s identity and environmental issues. The three artists will create works that examine how social and environmental challenges share common roots in systems that prioritize profit over sustainability.
The SSNAP Catalyst Grant program supports visual artists based in the Southern Gulf Islands and encourages artists to push boundaries and explore new concepts while deepening their practice. The program, funded through a partnership with the Wilding Foundation, focuses on projects that demonstrate creativity and quality while offering artists opportunities to contribute to SSNAP-related activities, including potential future submissions to the Salt Spring National Art Prize or Parallel Art Show.
Self Contained demonstrates how collaborative practice can strengthen individual artistic voices while creating new conversations about identity, environment, and social justice. The three established artists have each maintained independent practices and are bringing their experience together for this unified project that addresses current social and environmental concerns through their combined expertise.
Self Contained will premiere its exhibition journey at the Anglican Church Hall, 4704 Canal Road, August 15-17, 11 am to 4 pm. There will be an opening reception on Friday, August 15, 5 to 7 pm. All are welcome. The planned exhibition will also include interactive elements that allow visitors to engage directly with the concepts behind the work.
Pender Students Perform at Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Some of Pender Island’s youngest performed for an enthusiastic crowd of Gulf Islanders on Salt Spring Island last month, after being asked to participate at a district-wide event ahead of the SGI’s Indigenous Peoples’ Weekend.
Three classes from the Pender Islands School were among the crowd of hundreds who gathered at the Gulf Islands Secondary School.
The weekend celebration was the second annual event held by the Southern Gulf Islands and it was the first time the school district’s event was part of its lead up.
“We are so thankful that we are gathered here on unceded Coast Salish territory, to enjoy the spirit of Indigenous Day,” host Quentin Harris, an artist and cultural teacher, told the gathering as the event began. “We are an island of many nations, and we are of many colours and stripes.”
About 50 students travelled from Pender Island by ferry and water taxi to participate in the day-long celebration of Indigenous art and culture held at Gulf Islands Secondary School on June 18. The outdoor event included visits to an Elders tent, an exhibition on hide tanning, nettle bracelet making, as well as games and face painting.
Performances included the Tzingquaw Dance Group, a Metis fiddler, local bands and the Gulf Islands Choir and Composition class. The event closed with a Friendship Dance, during which the crowd held hands in a circle and sang along.
Fourteen members of Emily Raichura’s class of Kindergarten, Grade 1 and Grade 2 students sang their song, Heart Beat, after they’d been invited to join the festivities after performing the song during a visit to Pender by W̱SÁNEĆ dancers the previous month.
“This is such a great class, I love this song,” Harris told the cheering crowd as the excited group streamed off stage following their part of the show. “Let’s give them another round of applause, they were so brave.”
Earthquakes: The Cascadia Subduction Zone
Thursday, July 24, 7 pm Community Hall Suggested donation $5 per person. Students can attend free.
Southwestern BC lies within the Cascadia Subduction Zone, one of the world’s most hazardous seismic regions. This zone is capable of producing mega-earthquakes of magnitude 9.0 or greater, along with massive ground shifts and tsunamis reaching up to 50 metres high. The last Cascadia mega-quake struck in 1700, sending tsunami waves across the Pacific that were recorded in Japan. Scientists estimate these events occur every 200 to 500 years, meaning we could be due within the next 0 to 200 years.
Join me for a presentation on the latest research into the Cascadia earthquake system and what it means for earthquake preparedness in southwest BC.
I am a professor of earth and space physics, with degrees from UBC and a PhD from Stanford. I’ve taught at Stanford, USC, University of Western Australia, University of Texas, and advised the US National Academy of Sciences. A White Rock native, I have worked on six continents and now spend summers and more on Pender Island.
In Appreciation
Many thanks to all my Pender Island friends who came to wish me a happy 99th birthday in April. I am also deeply grateful to the Legion members who welcomed a large number of local residents as well as visitors from the Sidney area. A special thank you to the local members of the pipe band whose music reminded me of the town in Scotland where I was born.
Pender Island will always hold a special place in my heart, filled with cherished memories.
I recently dialed 911 because of serious chest congestion that turned out to be double pneumonia. The Pender Ambulance and Fire Department turned up within minutes. They were incredibly quick, gentle, and capable in medi-vacing me to Saanich Peninsula Hospital and I am profoundly grateful for their care. Thank you. Yet another reason to love living on this wonderful island.
Pender Island Cemetery Update
We would like to once again thank the Magic Lake Property Owners Society for the very attractive cedar and metal 10’ x 10’ gazebo that they donated to the cemetery. On a beautiful day in June, our volunteer team – Jim Allan, Tom Jones, Ralph Little and myself put it up, and we all agreed that it looks lovely. In the event of rain or a too-hot day, visitors will now have a place to shelter. Jim, Ralph, and Tom also comprise the terrific volunteer team that handles all the mowing and weed-eating. While we were erecting the gazebo, our newest volunteer, Audrey Stibbe, was busy cleaning up headstones and removing old flowers and moss.
We are pleased to have a new tool in our inventory – a battery-operated auger that Kurt Leavins is putting to good use. It helps him wrestle out those recalcitrant rocks that cause havoc with a shovel.
Our thanks to the Copper Otter Bar & Grill, who gave us a discount on some delicious fuel to keep us going – tasty pizzas!
Thank-you and Farewell, Doreen Ball
I want to thank my fond friend, Doreen Ball, who has made a multitude of generous contributions to our Pender community since her arrival here over four decades ago. As a retired teacher, she never stopped educating us or learning. During the turn of the millennium she participated in the ‘Bear Mother’ project with other women carving the Welcome Poles at our Community Hall under the guidance of Indigenous master carver, Victor Reece. At this time also, she was The Pender Post Editor-in-chief, taking over from Maria Watson who retired after over 23 years.
Doreen carried us through many years serving on The Pender Post and at the same time co-ran, with her beloved life partner the late Chuck Harris, their popular and busy Hummingbird Hollow Bed and Breakfast. Doreen and Chuck were founding members of the Pender Island Conservancy Association. They donated countless volunteer hours into a number of other local organizations and actively advocated for one good cause or another. She diligently took part in the protection of our rural way of life that we have come to greatly appreciate.
When social media got going, a new avenue opened up for her to share posts on Pender Island life and history which new and long-time islanders as well as visitors enjoyed and learned from.
At this time Doreen is in the process of moving off Pender, her beloved home place. We wish her well in this new chapter. We’ll stay in touch and will miss her dearly.
Pender Post Past
July 1975
Welcome to 1975 on Pender. Here are the events that happened 50 years ago as reported in The Pender Post of the day. Spoiler alert: there is some bad news in this report.
There have been rabbits running loose in Magic Lake and people were requested to either capture or destroy them or there would be no food crop or veggie gardens in the near future. The efforts must have succeeded as here in 2025 our gardens are threatened by deer not rabbits. The Annual Children’s Picnic was held on July 12 and included games, races and swimming.
The Lions Club was spearheading an effort to remove the abandoned cars and trucks on Pender. You know the feral ones hiding in the woods. A donation of $10 was requested from anyone who wished to have a vehicle removed.
Nineteen pupils from the senior class at Pender Island School made a 1,000 mile trip to Barkerville, a trip that meant several nights of overnight billets and travel by ferry, train and Greyhound bus and a jet for the return trip. They had a tour of Barkerville and got to engage in several historical reenactments. What an exciting trip that must have been for them.
OK, now the bad news: this edition of The Pender Post contained the last of Nep Grimmer’s reminiscences. He ended with his journey back to Pender after his visit to England, Scotland and Wales. His return trip remained quite uneventful compared to his arrival there. However, will I be able to continue this column without his exciting and humourous stories? He started his memories in the summer of 1972 and commented on how much he had enjoyed sharing his experiences and thanking the readers and The Pender Post for being so “tolerant”. He also congratulated the Post and all its helpers as they were a most dedicated group, which they remain to this day.
Stories That Brought You Here
Bruce Alexander – Beyond Rat Park, Studying Addiction & Challenging Our Assumptions
When one thinks about Pender Island, the first thing that comes to mind may not be Rat Park – the 1970s experiment that studied the connection between addiction and isolation.
The study was conducted in part by now-resident Bruce Alexander, a psychologist and professor emeritus at Simon Fraser University who spent his career studying the psychology of addiction.
In a recent conversation, Alexander explained the established point of view of addiction that existed in the 50s, 60s and early 70s, when junkies were considered all but lost once the addiction took hold.
“It’s a theory of devil possession or demon possession because the drug is a demon that possesses the human being,” he told me. “The human being becomes less than a human being, and there’s really no way out of it — once a junkie always a junkie. That was pretty close to being a universal doctrine. There was nothing in my professional training that made me doubt that.”
However, while volunteering at a methadone clinic in Vancouver’s downtown east side in the 1970s, his thoughts on this began to change. There, he engaged in conversations with heroin users, to try and understand more about why they chose to use the drug.
During these conversations, the heroin users would share stories of community, connection, and purpose that existed for them because of their lifestyle around drug use.
Alexander was born and raised in the United States and would begin his working career there. However, during the 1960s he bore witness to the country’s increasing involvement in the Vietnam War and felt a surge of emotion over the situation.
His strong opposition to the war ultimately led him to leave the U.S. and move to Canada, where he began his teaching career at SFU in the 1970s. He had many pivotal experiences while living and working in Canada, which helped him question the theories of the day about addiction.
Those interactions, while at the methadone clinic, were pivotal to help set him on a new path to learning more about addiction. What followed was an experiment that questioned the standard beliefs of the day about drug addiction – The Rat Park Experiment.
The experiment included offering rats the option of drinking drug-laced water, both while living in isolation and as part of a robust social network. The result suggested that the animals who lived alone were more likely to become addicted to the drugged water supply, while those with social connections were far more content with the clean alternative. It flew in the face of what he had been taught.
“Seeing that we were making a cultural mistake and wanting to be part of the change,” he said, “wanting to be part of the very earnest group of people who were working very hard to get our culture back on track, so that we weren’t abusing these people unnecessarily.”
Alexander retired in 2005 and moved to Pender Island with his wife, a “country girl” who had grown tired of urban living.
“She lived in East Vancouver graciously and changed our 33-foot lot into a national park, basically,” he said. “When I retired, she said let’s live on Pender. I said sure, that’s fine. And here I am.”
“And I love it here.”
You can listen to his interview on my podcast, The Stories that Brought You Here.
Spotlight
Farmers’ Institute: Connecting Local Growers with Local Consumers
Each month, we’ll introduce one of the many groups, clubs, committees and non-profit societies that make our island community so special. Also see this month’s Pender Island Farmers’ Institute update.
Q: First, can you tell us what your group is about and what you do?
A: The Pender Island Farmers’ Institute has a broad membership of farmers, small growers, local food advocates, and supporters of rural life and the protection of agricultural land.
We are members of District A, a group of Farmers’ Institutes in the Vancouver Island/Sunshine Coast regions. Our main activities are the organization and management of the Pender Island Fall Fair and the Pender Island Farmers’ Market. We also support farmers through advocacy and education programs, and encourage young people through activities and bursaries.
Q: When was Pender Island Farmers’ Institute started, and what sparked it?
A: When Albert Menzies became the first president of the new Pender Island Farmers’ Institute in 1899, it was the first island-wide organization on Pender Island.
Q: Do you produce any community events or initiate special projects? If so, what do you typically sponsor or promote?
A: The Pender Island Fall Fair, Pender Island Farmers’ Market, Neptune Navy Grimmer – Ashton Ross-Smith Bursary in a field related to agriculture, Ellen Willingham – Tekla Deverell Bursary in volunteerism (a new bursary), Farm Food Hub (equipment to support farmers to distribute food to the community), as well as workshops and seminars for farmers.
Q: How often do you get together, and typically when? Can new members join anytime?
A: New members can join anytime. We get together a few times a year for business meetings and special meetings, and our annual AGM in March. Membership is only $5.00.
Q: How many volunteers are involved in running it? Are you currently looking for more?
A: We are always looking for volunteers, especially for the Fall Fair. Over 100 volunteers help put the Fall Fair together each year, in many capacities.
Q: What gets your members most excited in your meetings or activities?
A: Food!
Q: Is there a story or anecdote you’d like to share with readers?
A: The Farmers’ Institute provided a letter of support to the Agricultural Land Commission for the Community Hall where it is currently located, as a future site for the Fall Fair and Farmers’ Market. This letter of support was instrumental in the approval of the Community Hall as an allowed land use at its current location by the ALC.
Q: What’s in the future for your organization? Anything exciting in the works, or dreams you would like to fulfill?
A: We would like to review our goals for the next 10 years. One of these goals is to keep working on our Farm Food Hub to connect more local consumers with local food. Would definitely like to see more farmers involved with the Farmers’ Institute to provide their input and pitch in.
Q: How can people get in touch with you?
A: penderislandmarket@gmail.com, penderislandfallfair@gmail.com, http://www.pifi.ca.
Remembering
Carolyn Canny
September 5, 1947 – June 1, 2025
Carolyn Canny passed away on Sunday, June 1 at the age of 77 years.
A beloved mother, sister, friend, and force of nature, she passed away after a short battle with cancer, leaving behind a life lived with boundless curiosity, and a generosity of spirit that touched everyone lucky enough to know her.
Born to two geologists Bill and Maxine Farmilo of Calgary, Alberta, Carolyn grew up in a home filled with rocks, field notes, and a sense that the world was meant to be explored. Alongside her siblings, Jim and Mary Margaret, she had a happy, vibrant childhood instilled with an emphasis on learning, marked by the loyal companionship of her dog Jip, summer camping trips, dancing to a stack of 45s, and the joy of lifting her voice in song in her high school choir.
She pursued her academic passions at the University of Alberta, earning degrees in Anthropology and Zoology, and delighted in her work in the university lab. It was there that she met Christopher Canny, her future husband. Together, they built a life and a family—relocating to London, Ontario, where Carolyn became an energetic and devoted mother to their three children and forged many lifelong friendships.
Carolyn threw herself into family life with the same energy she brought to everything. She was an endlessly devoted mother and a tireless chauffeur to dance classes, singing lessons, violin, flute, hockey, dressage, and theatre rehearsals. She could never resist getting involved—sitting on boards, fundraising, hosting the cast party, and generally becoming indispensable to every organisation her children touched. After an educational exchange that her youngest son Ben took to the Caribbean island of Dominica, Carolyn was instrumental in helping his paired student Mckenry immigrate to Canada. Through Carolyn, Mckenry was welcomed into the family and to London where he has gone on to build his career and family.
Life eventually took her farther afield. With Chris, she relocated briefly to Atlanta and then to Abu Dhabi, a place she found fascinating. True to form, Carolyn embraced the history, the culture, the food, and the people of the region, immersing herself with openness and enthusiasm.
After her marriage ended, she returned to Canada, finding a new home—and renewed purpose—on Pender Island in the house built by her parents, Maxine and Bill. There, Carolyn began another remarkable chapter, creating a beloved bed-and-breakfast on Shingle Bay. Guests were enchanted not only by the ocean views but by her famously elaborate breakfasts and her homemade smoked cheeses, courtesy of her side project, The Smokin’ Sisters. Once again Carolyn made herself useful and became an integral cog in the island’s Emergency Program for a time. Pender Island offered her agency, deep friendship, and a true sense of belonging.
Even in the face of personal struggles and health challenges, Carolyn continued to evolve. A move to Victoria brought with it a profound spiritual renewal as she found strength, meaning, and community through her conversion to Judaism. The learning, friendships, and sense of belonging she found in this chapter were a source of strength and joy, and she spoke often of how meaningful it was to her.
As her illness progressed Carolyn expressed a longing to return to Calgary, to once again be beneath big sky with a view of the mountains and let the “prairie grass reach down to find her carbon”.
Carolyn was many things— intelligent, fierce, combative, caring, nurturing, controlling at times, curious, loyal, always unforgettable. She spoke her mind, and loved deeply. Her family, friends, and community knew her as someone who could be counted on to cut to the chase. She gave generously—of her time, her talents, her energy, and her opinion (whether requested or not).
She was so loved by her family, friends, and Jewish community and will be missed. In her own words as she neared the end of her illness. “I hate to tell you, I’m still here. Feisty to the end!”
Carolyn is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Erin and David James of Calgary; three sons and three daughters-in-law, Patrick and Amanda Canny of Brisbane, Australia, Benjamin Canny and Tamsin Wright of London, England, and McKenry Charles and Melissa Van Sas of London, Ontario; and seven grandchildren.
Carolyn is also survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Jim and Karen Farmilo, and Jean Anne Morewood and her sister and brother-in-law Mary Margaret and Ed Jackson of Vancouver, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She was predeceased by her parents Bill and Maxine Farmilo.
A funeral and graveside service were held in Calgary on June 4.
Laurie Auchterlonie
The Auchterlonie and Grimmer families invite you to celebrate the life of Laurie Auchterlonie, July 26 from 3 pm until 5:30 pm, at the Pender Island Golf and Country Club. Bring your stories and raise a glass to our brother and friend. Refreshments – hotdogs and Klondike bars(!) – will be served; there will be a cash bar. For more information contact me at penderfoxglove@gmail.com.
Government
MLA
It’s Time to Rethink BC Forestry—For Good
This is our chance to build something that will still stand tall, like our forests, for seven generations from now, in keeping with indigenous stewardship principles.
As British Columbians head into the woods this summer, I hope they’re reminded of the deep value our forests hold. Whether you’re a logger, a hiker, or a scientist, the province has a responsibility to manage our forests to benefit everyone.
So far, that responsibility hasn’t been met.
As another wildfire season begins, the forestry sector struggles, trade winds shift, and our ecosystems grow more fragile, responsible forest management has never been more urgent. Union workers have seen more than 10,000 jobs disappear since 2023.
In just the past year, wildfires have burned what equates to half the size of Vancouver Island. Less than 1% of BC’s big-tree old growth remains today. First Nations across the province have been sidelined in key forestry decisions that impact their territory, and small towns up and down the coast are suffering as mills shut their doors and operations move south to the United States.
So far, forestry policy in BC has prioritized short-term timber profits over long-term sustainability, with little political will for structural reform. The result is a system weakened by decades of deregulation, overharvesting, and legislative gaps. Now, the sector is at a crisis point, and we are at risk of undermining both ecological integrity and long-term economic resilience.
Protests, lawsuits, mill closures, and ecosystem collapse shouldn’t be the norm. We can prioritize clean water, biodiversity, and community and economic well-being, while sustainably harvesting timber. Solutions that don’t deal with all the interests at play are not solutions at all. In 2021, the BC NDP promised to modernize forest policy, committing broadly to conservation financing, industry-led stewardship, and collaborative landscape planning. Reviews and frameworks were established to help guide this work, including the Old Growth Strategic Review and the Biodiversity Ecosystem and Health Framework.
But, full implementation of these frameworks has been too slow.
Forest companies face mounting uncertainty—from fibre supply issues due to the pine beetle infestation, to the unresolved softwood lumber dispute with the U.S; and environmental advocates point to old-growth deferrals that haven’t materialized on the ground ,and unsustainable and unethical logging practices that continue in the interim. As part of our cooperation agreement with the NDP government, we’ve established a new Forestry Advisory Council. This council is tasked with building a long-term vision for our forests—not just a vision that pleases one side or the other, but one that actually works for the province. The goal isn’t just another report, and it’s not just an industry review: it’s a framework for the future.
While the council will make its own recommendations, I hope they echo what BC has long called for: permanent protection of remaining primary forests; real alternatives to logging revenue for First Nations, including Indigenous-led investment; a shift to value-added, climate-friendly forestry; and a modern system rooted in community tenure, transparency, and long-term stewardship.
It’s necessary for this industry to move with the times, and that means moving into the technology sector. With tools like GIS, LiDAR, drones, and satellite data, BC can map forests, monitor health, and make smarter, more sustainable decisions.
We can protect old growth, create good local jobs, and manage second-growth forests in ways that respect ecosystems and generate long-term value—not just short-term profit. To do that, we must prioritize ecosystem health and biodiversity, continue the shift toward selective logging, and invest in training programs that prepare workers for new roles in forest restoration, wildfire resilience, and beyond.
This transition can support aging workers into retirement while opening doors for the next generation—including Indigenous youth—to shape a revitalized forestry sector.
The Forest Advisory Council will offer a path forward—one that involves transformative change, but it’s still up to the provincial government to show leadership and act on it. We know what needs to be done. We just need the political will to turn that into lasting change.
In keeping with Indigenous stewardship principles, this is our chance to build something that will still stand tall, like our forests, for seven generations from now.
Islands Trust
Tsawout First Nation Gathering
On June 16, a gathering/feast was held at the request of Tsawout First Nation as a reconciliation gathering to rebuild the relationship between Tsawout and Islands Trust. We were welcomed with generosity and teachings, and it was shown that real relationship-building doesn’t occur through documents and meetings, but when we sit together, feast together, listen and learn. I will carry my experience of this gathering and feast with me into how I show up going forward.
South Pender Local Trust Committee
There will be a Special Electronic Meeting and Community Information Meeting on Friday, July 4 at 10:30 am to discuss the South Pender Bylaw Amendment Project updates. As this is a Special Meeting, only 48 hours notice is required, but we will request staff to provide public notice as early as possible.
The Arts
Pender Island Celtic Music Society
We spent the last month practicing and planning for the summer’s full schedule, which begins with participation in the Canada Day celebration at the Driftwood. The band enjoys being part of such community gatherings, rain or shine.
We are looking forward to our annual Show and Shine car show on Saturday, July 12. The cars will assemble at Port Browning at 10:45 am for the parade to the Jim Dunlop Field behind the Community Hall and the Farmers Market. If you have multiple vehicles to display they can be brought to the field the evening before. The show itself will be open from 11 am to 2:30 pm. Admission is by donation, and hot dogs and liquid refreshments will be on sale. The Highlanders will also play to welcome the parade of cars at 11 am, and at the top of each hour during the show.
The show welcomes anyone who has a special vehicle to share with those who appreciate the time and work invested in each project. Whether yours is a work in progress or a completed restoration, bring it to our no entry fee show. Take the time to show and discuss your work with other restorers and those who just like to appreciate vintage and specialty automobiles.
We really look forward to seeing you there.
Pender Island Concert Society
Our May concert with the Jessica Sparvier Trio was a great way to close the 24/25 season.
First and most importantly, we would like to invite all 2024/25 subscribers to our upcoming AGM on Sunday July 27 at 2 pm in the Hall lounge. Last year we passed a resolution to include society membership in our subscriptions, so that we could have a democratically elected board, which is a requirement for some grants. If you held a subscription this past year, please consider joining us to support and influence the future of your Concert Society.
We had our final concert of the 2024/25 season on May 19 and it was a great success. Jessica Sparvier-Wells, Cree flutist and composer, performed a selection of her own music with Connor Chee on piano and Holly Bhattacharya on viola. The music was beautiful and Jessica’s commentary was wonderfully engaging and enlightening.
We’ve now confirmed our full 2025/26 season and subscriptions are available until our first concert on August 16. If you’re reading this at the end of June, you still have a couple days to get our lowest early bird price before it goes up on July 1. You can find our order form on page 3 or buy a subscription in person at Talisman Books. The price will go up again on August 1, so the sooner you buy one, the better a deal you’ll get.
Please note that the time of the first concert had to change because we found out it conflicted with a Stoney Pocket show. We’re very fortunate that Diana and Roman are able and willing to perform earlier in the day, so you can attend both!
Diana Cohen, Violin and Roman Rabinovich, Piano
Saturday, August 16, 3 pm
Diane Cohen and Roman Rabinovich.
Diana and Roman’s program will include classical and romantic duos by Schumann, Strauss, and Lutoslawski, with a possible special appearance by Diana’s father, Franklin Cohen, on clarinet.
https://www.calgaryphil.com/portfolio-items/diana-cohen
https://www.romanrabinovich.ne
Alec Pearson, Guitar
Wednesday, November 5, 7 pm
Classical guitarist Alec Pearson
Alec Pearson studied classical guitar in Canada and Spain and currently teaches at UBC. We’re very excited to hear the program he’s putting together, though we don’t have any hints yet about what might be on it.
Ensemble Made in Canada Violin, viola, cello, and piano
Wednesday March 25, 2026 at 7 pm
Ensemble Made in Canada will be sharing some works by Canadian composers that they commissioned a couple of years ago. Though they’re a classical ensemble, the composers who wrote for them come from wide-ranging backgrounds, including jazz, pop, rock, and folk, so this promises to be a very interesting concert.
https://www.ensemblemadeincanada.com
Solidaridad Tango
Vocals, violin, bandoneón, piano, double bass, and two dancers
Wednesday April 22, 7 pm
Solidaridad Tango’s program features music by women composers from around the world and they’ll be performing with a pair of dancers. Since part of the hall will be taken up by the dance floor, there will be fewer tickets than usual available for this concert. The best way to ensure you get one is to buy a subscription.
Based on the results of the surveys at our last concert, a majority of respondents want to keep the flexible voucher system for subscriptions. Since we know a few of you find this quite onerous, we’re planning to offer an alternative for those who would prefer to receive all their tickets at the start of the year. An email will go out to all subscribers about this before the season begins.
https://www.solidaridadtango.ca
Pender Island Quilters’ Circle
Hands Across the Water
On May 27, fourteen of our avid quilters set off on a road trip to Duncan to participate in the Hands Across the Water (HAW) gathering of five quilting guilds (Cowichan Valley, Galiano Island, Mayne Island, Saturna Island and Pender Island). It was a fun event with 94 quilters in attendance. Our quilters enjoyed the opportunity to connect with others who share a passion for the art of quilting.
There was a program where the guilds presented completed quilts to the gathering. Quilters enjoy viewing the work of others; it inspires creativity. There were vendors with exciting and useful quilting products (fabrics, patterns, and sewing tools).
Pender quilters were greatly impressed with the Galiano guild who once again outdid everyone with their creativity and productivity. The amazing aspect is that they have only a dozen members. Our intrepid travelers told me they had a blast on the way home but were reluctant to share the details. I responded that I would make it up but they still didn’t divulge!
It is the Quilters’ Circle’s turn to host the next HAW gathering on Pender Island in May 2026. Our quilters made observations and took mental notes from the Duncan experience. We want to ensure we provide a similar pleasing experience.
Our June gathering.
The final monthly meeting of Quilters’ Circle was held on June 9 at the Anglican Church Hall. It was a celebratory lunch with cheerful conversation.
Collectively, our group planned the fall monthly meeting calendar. September 8 is our inaugural session for the 2025-26 quilting year and will feature a Pinning the Quilt skill activity. Our expert quilters, led by Eleanor Heslop, will demonstrate how to pin a quilt (front, batting, and backing) and help us pin our individual projects to prepare for quilting. Details will be circulated to the members prior to the September meeting.
The October 15 Quilters Circle meeting features Karen Watson leading us with a Pineapple Block pattern. On November 11, Karen Gagnier will provide a Christmas table runner project and on December 8 we wrap up the fall program with a Christmas party.
In April, I asked our members to share what led them to quilting and what encourages them to continue.
“I started quilting when I learned I was going to be a grandparent. I previously sewed garments and pot holders. I like the community of the Quilters’ Circle. I enjoy the way everyone shares their knowledge and I like to sew. I like to learn new techniques and patterns.”
“Quilting was a way for me to move on from the Newcomers group with friends. I sew special quilts for girls.”
“I wanted to do something meaningful with a friend. I love what I have learned, the friendships I’ve made, the skills I have learned, and the promise to learn more.”
We wish you all an enjoyable summer where you are able to enjoy your favourite activities. We will return in the September issue.
Quilter’s Philosophy: Quilting is a form of visual and tactile art. It calls for creativity, inspiration, and individual expression. Anything that engages our senses and calls us to create is art. It is not for us to judge but, rather, to appreciate.
Pender Photo Club
Misty rocks in a Tide Pool by Kathleen Theriault.
An outstanding evening was enjoyed by the Camera Club on Tuesday, June 3, when seven of our members gathered on Zoom to view nearly 40 photos. The meeting began with Treasurer Eve Pollard announcing a very healthy bank balance. To attract guest speakers (who will need an honorarium) we are re-instituting a $20 yearly membership, with the first period beginning in September.
Urs Boxler led a discussion of additional topics we might explore at our meetings, and it was agreed we should pursue special speakers, slide shows, teaching, etc. To start, Hans had prepared a time-lapse sequence of shots showing how Swamp Lanterns (skunk cabbages) grew during a year. Unfortunately, the software posed some difficulties and it will be shown at the next meeting.
The focus of this meeting was on how to improve your photo by shooting the subject from a different angle or by using editing software. The evening was very instructive, with images including everything from polished pebbles, to shop windows, to the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump.
The techniques to improve photos are wide ranging. The power of modern software was demonstrated time and again, although it was demonstrated that visualizing the photo and taking it well was also crucial. Many techniques were employed including straightening the horizon, judicious cropping, removing distracting objects, turning the photo into an abstract, etc. Conversation flowed (as did the wine) as we merrily critiqued the photos.
The next meeting will be our annual potluck starting at 4:30 pm on Monday, July 7. Spouses and new members are more than welcome. Contact Urs (ursboxler@gmail.com) for location.
Pender Solstice Theatre Society
The Solstice Theatre Society held its AGM at the Legion on June 8.
Three long-serving members are stepping away to relax after many years of incredible dedication and hard work. Thank you Margaret Alpen, David Chamberland, and Evan Llewellyn – you helped shape Solstice into what it is today.
Two new board members were nominated to the board at the meeting, Leslie Field and Larry Colcy. In addition the existing board members are Helen Lemon-Moore, Rutger Kamphuis, Sean Clazie, Allyson Culbert, Jane Harrison, Howard Southwell, and Barb Pender.
We are updating our website with a fresh face as well as links to previous Solstice performances. Preparation for the panto is already underway for the fall and we have a number of very exciting projects in the works for 2026 so stay tuned – you will be entertained.
PIJazz
Sometimes it’s great to just rehearse without the pressure of a performance and take the time to try new music, fix some niggling bits, and find nuance in our favourite tunes. That’s what we’ve been doing to end our 2025 Spring season. We are having a special celebration for past and present members and associates of the band, so if that’s you and you haven’t gotten an invite yet, let us know. Our memories are fond, loving, but a little sketchy on details through these many years.
We’re always open to new members as we look forward to our fall season: you know who you are! Give us a holler at brycewoollcombe@gmail.com with any questions. Keep up-to-date at http://www.ptarmiganarts.org/programs. We hope to see you soon.
Musical Musings: Never Wait to Celebrate
As mentioned, we’re having a bit of a private celebration for us. It’s not one of the big anniversaries, and it’s not to mark a triumphant world tour; it’s more important than that.
Andrea and David Spalding have been part of the band since nearly the early days, David playing piano and Andrea being an instigator, conspirator, social director, and unequivocal fan. If you don’t know them (and you really, really should), they are recording artists, performers, storytellers, authors, and long-time Penderites. They are off to Sidney, as many of us do when the practicalities of ageing arise. Don’t worry: they’re fine, just making a difficult but wise choice.
So they have given us an excuse to have a bit of a party, even though next year is our 20th anniversary (we think). And this is very good. It strikes me that, on our little slow island, it’s easy to take for granted our clubs and bands and squadrons and Legion and such. They seem to just go on but, in reality, they are just the shared vision of many people over many years. Sometimes those folks move mountains to make things happen, and sometimes the slow and steady support keeps us all going.
PIJazz has had enough members over the years to fill a decent hall, each making their contribution for times ranging from a few rehearsals to the entire run so far. We’ve also lost several folks to whatever fantastic jam awaits us on the other side. So we, like the Blues Brothers, are getting the old, big, messy, diverse, and fun band back together while we can.
I hope we all look at our various nested communities and conclude that it’s time to celebrate. Go, us!
Ptarmigan Arts
Here at Ptarmigan we are gearing up for a summer brimming with community arts events! This past month we opened submissions for the Pender Short Film Festival and are already thrilled to see entries landing in our inbox. We can’t wait to discover what local and visiting filmmakers share with us this year (submissions open until October 15).
Looking ahead, Mosaic Fest is officially just one month away with headliners Garret T. Willie, The Infinite Atom and The Brooks. We can already see it, the stage being set, soundchecks echoing, tents and lights going up, the scent of yummy food and drink in the air along with the buzz of building anticipation. We’re only missing one thing…you lovely folks to set foot in our magical forest festival among the pines. Tickets and passes can be purchased at themosaicfestival.com, Talisman Books, or (if you’re more on Pender time) at the festival entrance on the August long weekend.
Stoney Pocket Presents: Hannah Epperson
July 12, 7 pm (doors 6:30 pm)
2200 Clam Bay Road
Ptarmigan is excited to be sponsoring the Stoney Pocket summer series, with the first of three concerts hosting the talented Hannah Epperson.
With early ties to the American Southwest and Canada’s Pacific coast, Hannah first heard music and stories as a traveler between high mountain desert and ocean shores. Her music draws from a life of listening and play inspired by musicians and artists across a wide range of genres: from generous childhood mentorships with cowgirl Meghan Merker, a clutch of old time dance musicians, and Peter Shumman’s Bread and Puppet Theater; to practicing arpeggios and discovering the eclectic discographies of European artists like Bjork, the Cranberries, Arvo Part and many others who captured the imagination of a young North American.
With violin, loop pedal, voice and innovative rhythmic improvisations with proximate objects, she weaves an uncanny connection with her audiences, taking listeners on exhilarating journeys. As a companion in musical experience, she is powerful yet playful and gentle, often exploring the essential cultural and political matters of our age without ever leaving the miracle of the commonplace or us behind. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door at ptarmiganarts.org and Talisman Books.
Camp Create: Public Art
(Ages 10-14) August 11-15, 10 am – 4 pm
Community Hall
Camp Create for youth ages 10-14 is a new summer arts program facilitated by Ilse Phillips. The theme this year will be Public Art and youth will be able to explore a new medium of public art each day including: ceramics, glass mosaics, murals, free-form sculptures, and wood art, time permitting. On the last day there will be a showcase of all the works. The registration fee is $230 which includes materials, with a $50 sibling discount. Please contact us if you are unable to afford the fee as subsidies are available.
Stoney Pocket Presents: Pondside with Peach & Quiet
July 26, 7 pm (doors 6:30)
2200 Clam Bay Road
Pondside’s recent album release, Paper Thin, is a call for celebration. Ptarmigan is excited to sponsor the local folk-rock band’s album release party on July 26 with special guests, and fellow local musicians, Peach & Quiet. Tickets are by donation (kids have free entry) and can be found on our website or at the door. Don’t forget to bring a blanket or folding chair to sit on and warm clothes for when the sun goes down as this is an outdoor concert.
Mosaic Festival
August 1 – 3
The Pines behind the Community Hall
Tickets and passes available now
Mosaic Fest is one month away, happening August 1 – 3. We are excited to bring together live music, visual arts, food, beer garden, games, kids activities, nature programming and more in our biggest event of the summer. The newest addition to Mosaic, Art in the Pines (August 2 and 3), will host over 30 local artist’s work in the beautiful greenery of the Mosaic site. You can now find all the registered artists on our website along with examples of their work.
We are still looking for volunteers at Mosaic. Signing up for two, three-hour shifts gets you a crew t-shirt, a free weekend pass and the opportunity to camp on-site at no cost. We are so grateful for our volunteer team, we couldn’t make it happen without you. Sign up by filling out the form at themosaicfestival.com/volunteers.
You can find the full schedule and all festival information at http://www.themosaicfestival.com.
Weekend passes: general $95, family* $190. Day passes: Friday only $35, Saturday/Sunday $40, youth (12-18) $20 any day, family* $85 any day. Camping passes: $75 for 3 nights (tents or vehicles/trailers under 20 ft). *Family: 2 adults plus however many children within the same family up to 18 years old. Children under 12 are free.
Band Camp (Ages 10 and up)
August 25-29, 9 am – 4 pm
Monday to Thursday with final evening showcase on Friday
Community Hall
Registration now open
Join talented professional musicians and facilitators Sarah Smith, Sabrina Read, and Jonny Miller (Peach & Quiet) for a week of jamming, music mentorship, performances and (new this year) songwriting and sound recording. Campers select their role as either bass player, guitarist, keys, drummer or vocalist for the week. They will get to learn many songs with their band, participate in masterclasses for 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.
Band Camp is open to all ages 10 and up (we have adults rocking out every year, don’t be shy to sign up) and all skill levels of musicians – no prior knowledge of your instrument is necessary. The camp costs $360/person, please contact us if you are unable to afford the fee as limited subsidies are available. Due to the limited number of subsidies we can provide, our goal is to prioritize youth and first time applicants, we appreciate keeping this in mind while applying.
If you or someone you know in the community is interested in sponsoring a music loving kid or adult, we know that it would be very helpful to families. To offer your support please email info@ptarmiganarts.org.
Pender Short Film Fest
Submissions are now open for the Pender Short Film Festival happening on November 15 at the Community Hall. Send in your films to be part of the showcase highlighting filmmakers from the Gulf Islands, Vancouver Island and the mainland. It 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. Films must be less than 15 minutes in length – send them in to penderfilmfest@gmail.com before October 15th.
Weekly Community Gatherings
Every Friday, 12 – 1 pm
Community Hall
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.
On July 4 welcome Dean Marsland who will be playing a mixture of UK Britpop songs from the 90’s, as well as Americana, singer-songwriter, some classic rock/pop and a few originals. On July 11 we are looking forward to Isabella and the Sprouts sharing emotive, tender and personal lyrics that offer the listener an opportunity to sit presently with an open heart. On July 18, Willy Blizzard will be making the trip over from Vancouver. The acoustic duo plays original music in the folk/roots genre featuring beautiful vocal harmonies, guitars and stand-up bass. On July 25 we’re excited to host the leader of the weekly guitar jam, Bill Heintz, who will be sharing songs from across the decades.
Art in the Library
We are proud to partner with the Pender Island Library on their Art in the Library program. See its report for information on Gayle Burandt’s Out of This World show running until August 13.
All our tickets and program registrations can be found at http://www.ptarmiganarts.org. If you require assistance please contact info@ptarmiganarts.org.
A Goodbye From Lauren
Seven years ago on August 1, 2018, I had the immense pleasure of joining the Ptarmigan team and beginning a very fulfilling near-decade of working in the arts in our local community. The work I’ve been able to do has excited and challenged me year after year, whether it was starting the Mosaic Festival and the Fall Crawl Studio Tour in 2019, navigating the tenuous Covid years, helping to get the Gallery off the ground, writing legacy grants to provide the community with a bank of musical instruments, participating in the Thriving Non-Profits program, or seeing Ptarmigan grow in leaps and bounds organizationally, financially, and programming-wise.
It is said that every seven years or so in a person’s life is a time of change and reinvention, and I have felt that in a very physical and emotional sense since becoming a mother two years ago, navigating the balance of motherhood and working part time. The past couple of months have brought even more change to our little family, finding out that we are expecting twins in the autumn! We are very excited for this new season of life to unfold, which comes with some big changes for me as I’ve decided to step down as Creative Director of Ptarmigan Arts. My last event with Ptarmigan will be the upcoming Mosaic Fest on August 1 – 3, seven years to the day from when I started my role.
One of the biggest joys of the past seven years has been the relationships I’ve been able to build with artists and musicians from Pender, the surrounding islands, and across Canada, as well as with our beautiful community members and organizations here on the island. I’ve also had some of the best co-workers and board members that one could ask for and will be forever grateful to Lisa Fleming for her friendship as well as her steadfastness and dedication to the organization and community.
With this transition comes many mixed feelings that I’m sure I will be spending much time processing in the coming months. That being said, I leave Ptarmigan in ever-capable hands and am excited to see how the organization will continue to evolve to meet the needs of the community in changing times, and I look forward to being a part of future programming with three kids in tow. I also want to extend a deep gratitude to you, the Pender community, for continuing to support the arts. I believe a strong arts community is a sign of a healthy community, and we absolutely have that here on our little island. I look forward to celebrating with everyone at Mosaic Fest this year, finishing my tenure at Ptarmigan with a bang (and perhaps even with a little musical performance).
Community
Community Hall
Pender Island Recreation and Agricultural Hall Association
Our summer staff is gearing up for an exciting season filled with amazing activities. This summer includes three leadership development camps, four themed children’s camps, weekly Wednesday Markets (featuring youth vendors, garage sale treasures, and local artisans), weekly Youth Nights, and hands-on youth culinary skills training. And of course, we’re keeping all your favourites: films, Friday Community Gatherings, and Friday Fun for Everyone.
We’re also ramping up our Youth Leadership Program, giving local and visiting youth the chance to build skills, gain experience, and have fun across a wide range of programs, whether we run them directly or collaborate with local partners. To support this, we’re looking for a few adult mentors who can lend their time and talents to guide and inspire these emerging leaders. Whether you’re available occasionally or regularly, your support makes a difference.
Have you noticed the Airstream trailer parked beside the Hall? Don’t worry, we’re not becoming a campground. The trailer is being renovated this summer to become the future home of the Pender Radio Station.
Friday Fun for Everyone at the Community Gathering
Fridays, 11 am
Join the weekly Community Gathering for fun activities, delicious lunch, live music and a visit in the café. At 11 am, join our youth leaders as they present fun activities for everyone to join in each week. All ages are welcome; activities by donation.
July 4: L.I.T. Led Mystery Activity
July 11: Make Ice Cream
July 18: Community Quest Led Surprise Activity
July 25: Outdoor Games
Youth
Summer Youth Leadership Program
Ages 13 – 18. Free.
Build skills, make a difference, and gain volunteer hours for school programs. Choose how you want to get involved over the summer; help with kids’ camps, youth programs, seniors programs, food programs, markets, special events, and more.
Wednesday Artisan & Youth Market & Garage Sale
July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
August 6, 13 and 27
3 – 6 pm
Browse unique arts and crafts made by local youth and talented artisans; you may even find a few treasures at the garage sale tables. Enjoy a drink at the Youth Leadership Café and check out the stage, open to anyone who wants to share a song, poem, story or show. Register as a vendor here: http://www.penderislands.org/registrations
Youth Night
Wednesdays until August 27
6 – 8 pm
Youth Culinary Skills Training
Thursdays until August 28
5 – 8 pm
These weekly youth events are run in partnership with the SGI Neighbourhood House. See its report for details.
Summer Camps
Register at: http://www.penderislands.org/registrations
Leaders in Training Camp
July 2 – 4, 10 am – 4 pm (ages 13 – 18)
Step into leadership. This hands-on camp is perfect for young people ready to inspire and make a difference. Through workshops, games, and team challenges, you’ll build confidence, learn how to lead with heart, and gain real tools for working with children. Join us and become the leader you were born to be. Cost: $50, local subsidies available.
Hallside Explorers
Ages 6 – 12
Every week is a new theme and adventure.
Science Adventures
July 7 – 11
Dive into the wonders of science with exciting experiments, creative challenges, hands-on activities, and outdoor adventures. Play, learn, and explore the science all around us. Cost: $200.
Fields of Fun
July 28 – August 1
Explore what’s growing on Pender by joining our hands-on camp all about gardens, farms, and food. Packed with exciting activities including fun field trips, making tasty treats, creative garden-inspired crafts, and playing farm-themed games. Dig in! $200.
Outdoor Adventures
August 5 – 8
Put your sunglasses on as we head outside to enjoy the island’s great outdoors. Learn about the environment, play outdoor games and create nature themed crafts. Activities will include visiting the beach, fort building, nature walks and a scavenger hunt. Expand your nature skills and have fun in the sun. $160.
Creative Canvas
August 11 – 15
Get crafty at this week’s art themed camp. Dive into painting, sewing, sculpting and drawing as you create a fairy garden for the Hall and sew your own stuffed animal. All skill levels are welcome; our leaders will set you up for creativity. When you’re not crafting, play fun camp games and make great memories. $200.
Community Quest
July 14 – 18
10 am – 4 pm (ages 10 – 18)
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 (ages 13 – 18).
Fall Fair Leadership Camp
August 19 – 22
10 am – 4 pm $150 (ages 10 – 12), $50 (ages 13 – 18)
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 on August 23 for the big event.
FILMS
Doors open 15 minutes before films start. $5 – $10 suggested.
The Necessities of Life (Ce qu’il faut pour vivre)
Friday, July 4, 7:15 pm
Feeling particularly Canadian tonight? Watch this moving 2008 film that was shortlisted for the 81st Oscars Best Foreign Film category. Set in 1952, Inuit hunter Tivii (played by Natar Ungalaaq) is diagnosed with tuberculosis aboard a Canadian hospital ship. Removed immediately from his wife and family, Tivii is shipped south to a sanitorium in Québec City for whatever treatment existed. Unable to communicate, Tivii loses the will to live until a nursing sister locates a young Inuit man who is able to connect. “A quiet but deeply moving story that arrives at a beautiful affirmation of what we all share as humankind.” Genie award winner, in French and Inuktituut, with English subtitles. 1 hour, 43 minutes.
The Penguin Lessons
Friday, July 11, 7:15 pm
An Englishman experiences personal and political changes after adopting a penguin during a turbulent time in Argentina’s history. 1 hour, 50 minutes.
A Minecraft Movie
Friday, July 18, 7:15 pm
A mysterious portal pulls four misfits into the Overworld, a bizarre, cubic wonderland that thrives on imagination. To get back home, they’ll have to master the terrain while embarking on a magical quest with an unexpected crafter named Steve. 1 hour, 41 minutes.
The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel
Monday, July 28, 2:15 pm
British retirees decide to outsource their retirement to exotic, and less expensive India. Lured by advertisements for the newly restored Marigold Hotel and imagining a life of leisure in lush surroundings, they arrive and find that the Marigold is actually a shell of its former self. Though their new home is not quite what they had imagined, the retirees find that life and love can begin again when they let go of their pasts.
Volunteers Needed
We are looking for volunteers for films, Comfort Center, advertising and office support as well as activity leaders and Youth Leadership Program Mentors. All training will be provided. If you are interested in volunteering or need more information on what these positions entail, please call 629-3669 of email bookings@penderislands.org.
Featured Volunteer Opportunity: Guest Presenter and Mentors
We’re inviting community members to share their knowledge with local youth through short guest presentations or regular mentorships. Whether you’ve led teams, organized events, run a business, or love hands-on activities like cooking, science, or art—your story and skills matter. Our youth programs thrive when they learn from the richness of our community. This is a chance to spark curiosity, build confidence, and pass along wisdom in a way that fits your schedule; even if it’s just for half an hour.
AGM
The PIRAHA AGM will be held on Sunday, August 10 at 1 pm in the Upper Hall. This year marks the 25 year anniversary of the opening of the Community Hall. It’s a great opportunity to celebrate our accomplishments over the years and talk about plans for the future. All are welcome.
Gulf Islands Food Co-op
Bring it on!
A warm June (compared to last year) has brought on the fruits and veggies nicely. We plan to open our Co-op Sales Table at the market each week through Thanksgiving. Check Facebook each week for what’s coming to the table each Saturday. Galiano will also host a Co-op table each week, representing several of their local growers.
If you have excess produce and you’d like to sell it at our table, please contact me at rozkempe@shaw.ca for how to participate (there are some market rules to follow). We have volunteer table hosts who sell on behalf of a group of different growers, and each grower keeps all the proceeds from the sales of their produce. It’s perfect if you just have some extra, but don’t want to spend the day at the market to sell it. We’ll do that part for you. Give it a try.
On July 11, come on out to a S’DAY’ES Community Day to be with WSANEC community members for a land-healing day. See Special Notices. To register (free), please contact Madelin at madelin.emery@gmail.com.
It’s not too late to start some seeds – think relay cropping of lettuce and greens, beet and carrots, also beans for drying. Cabbage can be started in July for over-wintering, enabling a delightful early spring crop of hearty vegetables before anything else is around. Check the Pender Seed Library for locally adapted seeds, and for those we don’t have (like brassicas) check out some very good local seed companies: Salt Spring Seeds; BC EcoSeedCo-op; Metchosin Seeds.
If you’d like to try saving your own seeds this year, it’s easy. Just choose a couple of your healthiest looking plants (lettuce, peas and beans are the easiest), and instead of harvesting them to eat, just let them go to seed through the summer season. In the late summer or fall, the snarly dried-up plants will be full of seeds that you can place in paper bags to finish drying. Look for announcements in the fall for community events to use our new seed cleaning equipment, which helps separate the chaff (dead plant material) from the seeds. Once dried and cleaned, the seeds can be stored.
We welcome volunteers who are interested in helping with the seed library – sorting seeds, filling and labeling envelopes, sharing seed saving skills. Please get in touch if you’re interested.
We work on Pender, Mayne, Saturna and Galiano Islands to support our local food system in a variety of ways, from education events to lending equipment and much more. Join us if you want to help grow local.
Gulf Islands National Park
Gulf Islands National Park Interpreters are Back
The GINPR Visitor Services Team: back row, left to right Melanie Warwick, Evan Wilks, Avrel Cook, Haley Wirachowsky, Erin Slade, Ava Buckley. Front row, left to right: Jodi Evergreen, Danielle Bois, Stuart Ferrie and Gabriel Harrison.
Parks Canada Interpretation and Outreach will be offering a host of programs this summer led by interpreters Maddy and Aiya.
Maddy was born in Prince George on Lheidli T’enneh Nation land. She moved to the island four years ago, and is currently working on a degree in biology and creative writing. She loves being outside, painting, and baking in her spare time and says she’s grateful to be back working with Parks Canada in the beautiful Gulf Islands National Park Reserve.
Aiya is from W̱SÁNEĆ (Saanich) territory of the SENĆOŦEN speaking people. She is Coast Salish, born and raised on the Saanich Peninsula. She really loves nature walks occasionally when possible and says connecting with the native plants gives her an amazing feeling.
Our Plant Relatives
On Fridays throughout July (except July 25), watch for the return of W̱SÁNEĆ Cultural Interpreter Aiya Bartleman. Aiya will once again be helping you brush up on your SENCOTEN language skills as she shares what it means to call plants our relatives, and what connects the WSANEC people to the land. The drop-in “Our Plant Relatives” program is next to the Pender Islands Museum at Roesland from 12 – 2 pm. Hear some WSANEC Creation stories after a pop-up interpretive hike on Roe Islet. To get even closer to these relatives, join interpreter Maddy to create your own plant relatives field guide. This program is open to everyone.
On July 25, the Our Plant Relatives program is not being offered. Gulf Islands National Park Reserve Interpreters will be offering programming about Southern Resident Killer Whales from 12 – 2 pm at Roesland… come join us!
Farmers Market
July 19 and 26
We are happy to be coming back to the Farmers Market this year. Come see what stories and activities we have to share.
Parks Canada at Poets Cove
Throughout the summer, Parks Canada’s Southern Resident Killer Whale (SRKW) outreach team, along with GINPR interpreters and volunteers, will be at Poets Cove. They will be engaging with boaters coming into Canada about boating regulations and their importance in protecting the endangered SRKW population.
Parks Canada staff at Thieves Bay
World Orca Day
July 11, Thieves Bay, 12 – 3 pm
This year we are once again joining Pender POD and the Southern Gulf Islands Whale Sighting Network’s World Orca Day celebration at Thieves Bay. On July 11, from 12 to 3 pm, come learn how to help these amazing neighbours, and learn more about the work Parks Canada scientists are doing.
Pender Faces on the Visitor Services Team
Pender Islanders working with Parks Canada this summer: Gabe, left, and Dani, right.
Gabe was born and raised on Pender, and currently has one semester left of an environmental science degree at Simon Fraser University.
Dani has lived on Pender on and off for nine years and is now a permanent resident.
Moving Around Pender
Reclassification of Our Main Roads
I consider myself a conscientious driver, but I narrowly avoided hitting a pedestrian last summer. This occurred on the stretch of road near the Medicine Beach stores as I turned a 90-degree corner to drive uphill and was blinded by the sun, which shines directly into a driver’s eyes at certain times of day.
I narrowly missed the pedestrian walking on the paved road surface because there was no shoulder, and the road’s side slope was too steep to walk on. Cycling on Pender presents the same risks and hazards. Many people on Pender will simply not cycle, because they consider the roads too dangerous. In fact, a friend of mine broke his hip while cycling here last summer.
Prior to my retirement, I worked for 35 years in the federal and Yukon governments, in the Departments of Highway Engineering and Highway Maintenance.
In 1993, a Letter of Understanding (LOU) was developed and signed between Ministry of Transportation representatives and the Islands Trust, outlining necessary improvements for the Gulf Islands road system. The letter details the standards for the minimum widths for right-of-way areas, setbacks from clearing, and driving lanes, as well as surface and gravel shoulders.
There are four island road classifications – Major Rural, Main Rural, Minor Rural and Residential Rural/Local – based on their volumes of traffic. I’ve determined that the road system on Pender Island was classified as Minor Rural, meaning they do not require paved shoulders. However, they should have gravel shoulders of 60 centimetres, with slopes no steeper than 2:1.
Determining the road category based on vehicle traffic volumes is convenient, but does not consider the unique conditions associated with the Pender road system, which were constructed using the path of least resistance and have resulted in steep road grades, numerous curves, restricted sight lines and narrow clearing widths. Drainage ditches dug from the road surface have also created far sharper road side slopes.
Safety should be the number one priority used to identify which road improvements are needed. Using the existing road classification system to determine road improvements for Pender does not remove the risk for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.
I believe the main roads on Pender Island should be reclassified to Main Rural, potentially enabling the funding of paved shoulders and wider travel surface and could also allow the government to develop proper drainage.
There are no easy solutions to alleviate the road issues on Pender, but residents must advocate for improvements. Tragically, there have been fatalities and there will be more in the future with the increase in traffic and population.
Changes to the roads are needed to improve the safety and I am encouraging the public to voice their concerns.
Nu-to-Yu
Pender Island Community Service Society
Bursaries
Summer is here and school is out. The Nu-to-Yu Scholarship Committee received five applications for bursaries and we were happy and proud to be able to support them all. Ruby Bowes will be heading to UVIC to embark on her Bachelor of Education; Nicholas Croft will be attending the Victoria Conservatory of Music for a certificate in music, creativity and performance foundations; Soley Lapp is taking Adventure Studies at Thompson Rivers University; Molly Mawhinney is travelling to Medicine Hat College for her Bachelor of Education and Tucker Wissink will be attending BCIT where he will be taking a diploma program in Online Media and Broadcast Journalism. Congratulations to all the students and a job well done to all the families as well.
Board Changes
Last month brought a lot of changes to the Nu-to-Yu. Our president, Karen Hardie, resigned from her position to take on a new job. Her leadership has been invaluable to us and we are very sorry to see her go as she was patience and grace personified with true skills in the area of non-profit organizing, but we are also very excited for her and her new direction. Manfred Burandt, former Vice President, has taken over as President and Debbie Bleasdale is now Vice President and continuing her role as Store Manager.
Fine Art and Collectibles
We were also pleased to officially appoint Sean Clazie as our new Director of Fine Art and Collectibles. Sean brings with him not only a deep appreciation for art and antiques but also experience as a CPPA certified appraiser. He is a newish Pender resident but has a strong sense of purpose in supporting the mission of PICSS. As an accredited evaluation professional, Sean has already made a significant impact on our fundraising. By identifying valuable items donated to the thrift store, some of which might have gone unrecognized or undervalued, Sean has been able to broker specialty sales through reputable dealers in Victoria and Vancouver. These partnerships allow us to maximize the value of high-end and collectible donations, generating significantly more revenue than a standard thrift sale might allow.
“Many people don’t realize the kind of items that come through Nu-to-Yu,” Sean says. “We’ve seen fine art, designer goods, collectible coins and signed antiques, all generously donated by islanders who want to give back. It’s an incredible honour to help steward those gifts and ensure they bring the greatest possible benefit to the community.”
Sean’s role complements the core operations of the store and ensures that every donation, whether it’s a $5 sweater or a $5,000 painting, is handled with care and respect. His knowledge and professional network have helped us engage with ethical specialty buyers who share our commitment to value and transparency. This approach also aligns with the broader vision of PICSS: to make every donation count. Whether it’s cash or kind, your contribution helps fund local healthcare initiatives, student bursaries, social service grants and, of course, the new building project for Nu-to-Yu itself.
“Having Sean on board is a gift in itself,” says Manfred Burandt, newly appointed President of PICSS. “His expertise allows us to honour the intentions of donors while multiplying the impact of their gifts. We’re grateful for his work, and for every islander who continues to donate so generously to Nu-to-Yu.”
See Sean’s story about a beautiful and intriguing painting that came in recently, below.
We’re also very lucky to have several other experts on hand, including Hans Tammemagi who looks over all the photography equipment that is donated, bringing valuable pieces to specialty buyers.
Thank-you
As we look ahead to an exciting new chapter, one that includes the future home of Nu-to-Yu, we’re reminded of the powerful role this community plays in making it all possible. Thank you for every donation, every kind word and every hour of support. If you’re clearing out your attic or updating your art collection, keep us in mind. You may be holding onto something more valuable than you think. To learn more about how to donate high-value items or to speak with Sean directly about a potential contribution, you can reach out through the Nu-to-Yu website at http://www.nu-to-yu.com or leave a message at the store.
Your donations are what keeps our store ticking. We accept your donations on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 9 am and 12 pm and also on Saturdays between 11 am and 2 pm. We welcome goods in store-ready condition; clothes should be freshly laundered and not stained or in need of repair. We appreciate your patience and understanding that our volunteers must inspect all donations before we can accept them in order to be sure the donation is something we can sell. For a full list of what we cannot accept, please refer to our website: http://www.nu-to-yu.com/donations.
The Pender Roadshow
The breadth and depth of the life experiences and history of the folk on Pender never ceases to amaze me. The soul and the presence of such history and experience can sometimes be found in the objects sprinkled throughout one’s home. The donations that arrive at Nu-to-Yu all have stories but they don’t always get a chance to be told.
The motivation to donate has more weight than you might imagine. Paying it forward, supporting the community, family members passing, moving on, separation, promotion, are just some of those motivations.
A beautiful painting arrived at Nu-to-Yu the other day with a bit of a story and a bit of a mystery. It’s a large (18” x 12½”) very skillfully executed watercolour. A location (Craignair) is noted in the bottom right corner (a good starting point in research) and the artist’s name (W. Canning) along with the date 1927 was noted in the bottom left hand corner. The very kind donor who dropped this piece into Nu-to-Yu mentioned that the scene in the painting may have been a quarry in Scotland. And so the hunt began.
The location (Craignair) is a very wee village near Dalbeattie, Scotland. Craignair did in fact have a quarry of mostly granite which was used in commercial buildings throughout England and Scotland as well as for the Thames embankment.
The artist W. Canning was a bit more difficult to track down. Research led to a Mr. William Canning who was born in 1851 in Dalbeattie and died from injuries sustained in an auto accident one year after this painting was completed. Mr. Canning was a member of the Salford Temperance Association, the Cheshire Antiquarian Society and (importantly) the Athenaeum Graphic Club. As noted in his obituary, he was a skilled amateur painter.
Mr. Canning was a Manchester architect and the granite used in many Manchester buildings originated from the Craignair quarry. Since the early 1400s, architects have presented their renderings in pencil, ink and watercolour to builders and contractors to identify the colours they desired for their buildings. Perhaps this work was a tribute from the architect to the stone. Thank you to our donors.
Pender Earth
Anyone out there feeling overwhelmed these days with the state of the world? Anyone pondering whether the climate crisis can go on hold while every other catastrophe gets sorted out? Come join us to share thoughts and feelings related to these issues.
Our group has decided, given the weighty topics we address monthly, to begin our circle with something positive and/or encouraging that we are noticing these days. Last month this buoyed us up, increasing a sense of connection, as well as strengthening resolve to take action.
We will be meeting on July 4, at 9:30 am, in the Hall lounge or, if it’s sunny out, you’ll find us on the deck or in a circle under the trees.
We will also be meeting on August 1.
If you would like to be included in notifications of our events, you can email us at penderearth@gmail.com.
Pender Islands Conservancy
Welcome, summer team!
We are excited to welcome Erin Cho-Siksik, who joined our team in June, as our summer Conservation Interpreter. Erin joins Ecological Technician Casey Garrison on our small but mighty summer team; stop by the Nature Centre at Hope Bay or visit our booth at the Saturday Farmer’s Market to meet Erin and discuss conservation issues or learn more about our work on Pender. Erin will be joined at our market booth by a rotating cast of characters, including Casey, Gillian Craig (Education and Outreach lead), other Erin (Erin O’Brien, Ecology and Development Director), and Dan Baxter (Operations Director).
Artful Conservation:
Silent Auction in Support of the Pender Conservancy
Spawning salmon set against a backdrop of human disturbance and remnant intact habitat illustrates the struggle faced by wild species navigating human-altered environments. Judith Walker’s generous donation of her piece “Looking for a Safe Place to Be”, on display now at Kim Pollard Studio and Gallery at Hope Bay, supports the habitat conservation efforts of the Pender Conservancy. This piece features a Pender Island cedar frame by Brent Marsden and is truly a must-see in person. Thank you to Judy for her generous donation, and to Brent and Judy for both of their long-time support of the Conservancy. The silent auction runs until August 30; Kim’s gallery is open Wednesday to Saturday, 11 am – 4 pm.
Conservancy Nature Centre News
On the subject of butterflies… If you have ever wanted to know all the species that occur on the Southern Gulf Islands, you can see them now at the Nature Centre. Our Natural History Museum displays continue (on loan from the Royal BC Museum collection), with butterflies, dragonflies, woodpeckers and more visiting us for the summer. Grandkids visiting and looking for something to do? Send them to the Nature Centre for a nature scavenger hunt, check out the marine visitors to our light trap, or take a peek into the depths below the Hope Bay dock with our new underwater camera. There’s always something to see at Hope Bay.
New in the Conservancy gift shop: Old-growth Douglas-fir t-shirts, featuring our exclusive graphic created by Pender’s Stefani Williams of OMDL Coastal. Celebrate the protection of recruitment old-growth forests on Pender Island with this striking design: a veteran Coastal Douglas-fir towering over its reverent human companion. And just in, thanks to the creativity of Adrienne Moya (Mudware by Adrienne): Conservancy mugs. Available in deep ocean blue or forest green, proudly displaying the Conservancy logo in a raised design. Whether you’re looking for Pender-made handcrafted goods or unique gifts, the Conservancy Nature Centre Gift Shop has something for everyone. Our summer hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 11 am – 3 pm.
From Poop to Policy
Ecology and Natural History Dr. Deborah Giles discusses her research examining the health of endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales through the analysis of whale scat, as her research partner, Eba the scat detection dog, listens intently.
On June 6, we were honoured to host Dr. Deborah Giles and Eba the scat detection dog for a seminar in celebration of Ocean Week Canada, in collaboration with Pender POD. We learned how Dr. Giles’ work with SeaDoc Society and Wild Orca using non-invasive detection and analysis of whale scat is helping us to understand variation in health and stress levels of endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales, and how these data can help inform population recovery efforts.
World Orca Day at Thieves Bay (with Pender POD)
July 11, 12 – 3 pm
Thieves Bay
Join the Pender Conservancy, Pender POD and friends to learn about Southern Resident Killer Whales and other marine mammals. We’ll have spotting scopes set up to look for whales and other wildlife, information booths, kids’ activities, music and more.
Adam’s Nursery Notes
Let’s talk about sex. There are two forms of plant propagation (the process of making new plants from parent plant material). Vegetative propagation involves making an exact clone of the parent plant via cuttings, layering, division, etc. The other method is via sexual propagation, when two plants (of appropriate age and species) make a baby plant by mixing their genetic material. Unlike (most) humans, sexual reproduction in plants requires a third party*, commonly referred to as a pollinator. Pollinators and flowers – the throuple no one is talking about.
I never totally understood what was meant by the ‘Birds and Bees’ until I got into horticulture and started watching pollinators at work. Once I saw a cute, chubby bumblebee jam their face into a flower’s naughty bits, it all became clear. The bee, or other pollinating insect such as a wasp, moth or fly (the butter** kind, and also the less sexy, maggot variety) facilitate sexual propagation. Pollinating critters do this via an amazing bit of co-evolution with the plant and its intricate flower structure. The plant makes nectar to lure the pollinator in, they feed*** on it and/or bring it back to the hive (if not a solitary species). While crawling in to get the nectar the critter is forced to brush up against the anther, picking-up pollen on its way. Then it moves onto the next plant and, while cramming their way in to slurp up the nectar, will unintentionally deposit some of the pollen on the tip of the pistil called the stigma. The pollen grain moves down the pollen tube into the ovule. Now the flower has been pollinated and will begin forming seed and/or fruit.
As we all know, pollinators are critical to our food production and ecosystems. To encourage their survival, there are several things each of us can do:
- Landscape with native plants
- Plant pollinator-friendly species
- Avoid the use of pesticides
- Avoid the use of synthetic fertilizers
- Leave the leaves in your garden beds in fall
- Mow less often
*For some species wind is the pollinator and some plants are self-fertile meaning they can pollinate themselves.
**Why are they called butterflies? They don’t eat butter. Apparently, it’s because their poop (frass) looks like butter.
***Some pollinators also feed on the pollen grains.
For more ways to help pollinators, stop by the Conservancy Nature Center or Pender Native Plants and have a chat with us or get in touch via email. The nursery is open Saturdays from 10 am – 2 pm at 4506 Bedwell Harbour Road.
Pender Island Emergency Program
8 Things to Do Now to prepare for evacuation
1. Create a household emergency plan.
2. Register for PANS.
3. Download the Alertable app onto your device.
4. Build a grab-and-go kit for each family member and pet.
5. Know where to get accurate information in an emergency.
6. Get your BC Services Card.
7. Register with the Evacuee Registration Assistance tool.
8. Connect with the Pender Island Neighbourhood Program.
The Pender Island Emergency Program held its latest public forum, “Evacuation on Pender”, for an excellent crowd at the Community Hall, last month. Speakers from key safety agencies discussed steps to take, should an evacuation of the island be ordered.
While all the information shared was vital in the case of an emergency – and we all should have been there, really – here is a summary from each presentation.
Cst. Marcel Taekema, RCMP
Acting Detachment Commander, Outer Gulf Islands
An evacuation on Pender could be caused by a forest fire, tsunami, extreme weather or major chemical spill. The RCMP would focus on maintaining law and order, leading door-to-door evacuation efforts, and establishing roadblocks.
The Outer Gulf Island RCMP can also request aid and additional hands from RCMP outside of the region. They can also coordinate efforts with local First Nations, Parks Canada and BC Ferries.
Mike Dine
Chief, Pender Island Fire Rescue (PIFR)
With evacuation plans, one size does not fit all. They must be formulated at the time of the emergency based on the specific issues faced. There are two types of evacuations: tactical and strategic.
In tactical, there is imminent danger, and PIFR would focus on getting people out of their homes and toward safety. There is no imminent danger in a strategic situation, but an evacuation is likely. PIFR would lead on-ground preparation efforts.
Pender has many strengths in handling an evacuation, including early fire detection systems, access to properties and a good supply of water, and an adaptable fire and rescue crew. Their goal is a 12–14-minute reaction time for most calls. In the Magic Lake area, responses are usually closer to five minutes.
Shelagh Rinald
Neighbourhood Program Coordinator
The Neighbourhood Program (NHP) will quickly spread evacuation information to all participants through their email lists and telephone trees. This means residents that have registered and have their contact information up to date.
The NHP coordinators receive the alert and flag the telephone tree’s lead or backup contact person in affected areas. They would relay the information to their neighbourhood network. Updates can also be sent up the tree, from the residents on ground to their area contact person and on to the emergency operations centre.
Also check: the Pender Emergency Program Facebook page.
Brigitte Prochaska
SGI Area Emergency Management Lead
In an evacuation order, emergency management teams would establish one or several reception centres on the island. The centres are staffed by volunteers, who would connect evacuees with services, including temporary lodgings and transport off the island.
These centres typically have food stations, child-friendly space, and pet care available. The location of the reception centres depends on what is accessible and available. They are usually the Community Hall, Anglican Church Hall and the Legion, on North Pender; and Fire Hall 3’s community room, and possibly Poets Cove Resort banquet room, on South Pender.
Also, check the new Evacuee Registrations Assistance (ERA) tool online.
Corey Anderson
CRD Emergency Programs Manager
The CRD carries out strategic evacuations by declaring a state of local emergency, activating emergency operations centres and coordinating with first responders.
A State of Local Emergency (SOLE) is a temporary bylaw that can be ordered by the CRD letting authorities exercise extraordinary powers, such as entering private property without a warrant, commandeering land or resources, or ordering a strategic evacuation.
The CRD also provides emergency communications through Alert Ready, a warning system that notifies everyone with a cell phone, listening to radio or watching TV. Warning messages are also sent through an opt-in Public Alert Notification System (PANS), Regionally specific emergency alerts can also be found on the CRD Dashboard (crd.ca/pans, emergency.crd.ca).
If you evacuate too early, emergency services may not yet be in place. Too late, and first responders may not be able to safely assist you.
It is best to have a grab-and-go bag ready and prepare to leave when an Evacuation Alert is announced. If the alert is upgraded to an Evacuation Order, you will be instructed which reception centre to go to.
Pender Island Farmers’ Institute
Bursaries
Attention all graduating seniors going on for further studies, either to university or trade school. Are you planning to enter a field related to agriculture? Or have you volunteered in our community, perhaps at the Fall Fair? We have two bursaries available from the Pender Island Farmers’ Institute, with funds raised from the Fall Fair Bursary Raffle: the Neptune Navy Grimmer – Ashton Ross-Smith Bursary for studies in agriculture, and the NEW Ellen Willingham – Tekla Deverell Bursary for volunteerism. Prizes for the raffle are donated by private individuals, businesses, and organizations on Pender Island. The wonderful Nu-To-Yu volunteers, led by Janet Menzies, have been busy organizing and running the raffle this year; many thanks to everyone who has made these bursaries possible. Last year they raised $2,500 from the raffle, and we awarded five bursaries. To apply, fill in the forms at http://www.pifi.ca. The deadline is August 15th, and the bursaries will be awarded at the Pender Island Fall Fair on August 23. (And we are looking for Fall Fair volunteers and teen ambassadors.)
Farmers’ Market
The Farmers’ Market is well underway for the season, every Saturday, rain or shine, from 9:30 am to 1 pm at the Community Hall. Everything is made, baked, and grown on Pender Island, as it has been since the start of the market in 1978. As a member of the BC Association of Farmers’ Markets, we are participants in the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Coupon Program with our community partners the SGI Neighbourhood House, the Food Bank, and the Childcare Society (Dragonfly Daycare). We hope that the participants and farmers who are at the market have a bountiful market season. Thank you to Ptarmigan for arranging the music at the market this season, and to the musicians who entertain us all. Come and bring your visitors, meet your neighbours, and enjoy local farm food, baked goods, coffee, treats and special Pender artisan creations. To join the market, apply at http://www.pifi.ca.
Wednesday Food-Only Market
The Wednesday Food-Only Market is open at the back of the hall from 3-6 pm, and it also accepts Nutrition Coupons and the new digital cards, as well as credit, debit, and cash. There is lamb, chicken, pork, eggs, and fresh produce in season, as well as preserves and pies from several Pender Island farmers. For those farmers with extra food to sell mid-week, please contact us at penderislandmarket@gmail.com or learn more at http://www.pifi.ca.
Newsletter
Regional Agrologist Megan Halstead has a regular newsletter chock full of useful information. To subscribe, sign up for the Islands Edition e-bulletin at AgriService BC. The latest e-bulletin highlights a contest for volunteer crop and/or livestock reporters for those of us who are constant weather-watchers. If you report weekly for at least half of the growing season, your name will be entered into a draw to win a basket of BC food products valued at $150. You will receive a weather gauge if you sign up for the program at AgriService BC, as a bonus.
Fall Fair
Imagination Meets Innovation – Celebrating Creativity on our Island
Mark August 23 on your calendar. The Fair Catalogue can be found online at http://www.pifi.ca, hard copies at the Farmers’ Institute table at the Saturday Farmers’ Market and several retail outlets. A big thank you to Elaine Morrison who worked very hard producing our Catalogue and Fair Posters and getting our AssistExpo program up and running. There are quite a number of community members who generously help with the behind-the-scenes tasks and we’re grateful for their stellar efforts.
Guests of Honour
Tekla Deverell, left, and Ellen Willingham, right
Our guests of honour this year are the families of the late Ellen Willingham and the late Tekla Deverell. Both these incredible women made important and everlasting contributions in our community, notably their dedicated involvement with the production of the Fall Fair and their unwavering support for organic farming, growing, and promotion of agriculture over the decades. They were truly inspiring volunteer role models.
Easy Registration
You will find registering your entries for free on our AssistExpo online platform easy. Alternatively, the Catalogue has a registration form in it and these can be dropped off at the Dockside Realty Community box at the Driftwood Centre where there will also be additional forms you can pick up. Or, download from our site. As well, forms can be dropped off at the Farmers’ Market managers table on Saturdays or mailed to: Pender Island Farmers’ Institute, Box 38, Pender Island, V0N 2M0. Registration Deadline is August 17 midnight. Late entries on Friday, August 22 will incur a $2 fee per entry- age 18 and under, no charge.
Please read over the Catalogue to see if there’s an area where you could enter or help with.
New for 2025
Section N – Young Adults (15-18 yrs.), Bee Products in Section E, Ikebana in Section A – Floral and a wider range of shaped loaves (round, braided, etc.) in Class 3. Yeast bread, A.O.V. in Section G – Baking. There is prize money in all classes for younger people.
Check out the Farmers’ Institute website (www.pifi.ca) to get a preview of the Fair schedule, information on the entry process, judging standards, volunteer sign-up, and purchasing BBQ tickets. Reach us for any assistance at: penderislandfallfair@gmail.com.
This month is a good time to register your community group to set up a display at the Fair- please contact Sandra Tretick. You can also register your parade entry early- contact Parade Marshall, Jaime MacLean, both through the above email.
We welcome donations from individuals and businesses on the Island to help make the Fair happen, including the donation of time as a volunteer.
Our next Fall Fair Committee meeting is Tuesday, July 8 at 7 pm at the Community Hall lounge.
Fair go-ers can look forward to a wide variety of exhibits highlighting Pender’s talents, the Saturday Farmers’ Market, food, farm animals, kids zone, BBQ, beer garden, music and more. Join us for the year’s biggest community event put on by the Pender Island Farmers’ Institute and the hundreds of kind volunteers who assure its success.
Pender Island Fire Rescue
Hello, Pender Islands. As of June 15, our members have responded to 144 emergency calls this year.
Fire Permits
June saw warmer, drier weather along with a full closure of backyard burning, incinerator, and machine pile fires. Campfires by permit are still permitted at the time of writing, but please check our website (http://www.penderfire.org) for the most up-to-date conditions and regulations.
Wildfire Smoke
As everyone is well aware, the dry summer months bring higher wildfire risks across the province. Even if our region is spared from the direct effect of wildfires, their impact is widely felt due to the influence of smoke. Currently, we have healthy air quality, but it’s a good time to prepare for the risk of wildfire smoke.
Talk to your healthcare provider about your risk, especially if you or someone in your household has a health condition like asthma, heart disease or diabetes.
Set up a clean air room using a HEPA air purifier or a DIY box fan filter; you can find many versions on YouTube. The commercial versions can be in high demand during smoke events, so get one ahead of time.
Monitor local forecasts and air quality using trusted sites, such as Environment Canada, and bookmark the CRD emergency dashboard at emergency.crd.ca in your browser to stay up to date with all emergency alerts.
Remember to test your smoke detectors monthly.
Lithium-ion Batteries
The National Fire Protection Association has announced its 2025 fire safety theme: Charge into Fire Safety – lithium-ion batteries in your home. Most of the electronics we use in our homes every day are powered by lithium-ion batteries. Most everything that’s rechargeable uses this kind of battery.
Lithium-ion batteries store a significant amount of energy in a relatively small space. These batteries can overheat, start a fire, or explode if overcharged or damaged. By learning how to buy, charge, and recycle these batteries safely, you can prevent a fire in your home.
Look for a safety certification mark, such as UL or CSA, when buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery. Always charge your device on a hard surface. Don’t overcharge your device, and unplug it or remove the battery when the device is fully charged.
Stop using your device right away if the battery smells weird, gets too hot, makes popping noises, or changes in shape or colour. If it is safe, move the device away from anything that can catch fire and call 911 immediately.
Recycle your batteries responsibly. Don’t throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins because they could start a fire. Contact the Pender Island Recycling Depot for more information on recycling these batteries.
Public Survey
Three decades ago, Pender Island Fire Rescue consisted of one fire hall, one fire truck and a van, and averaged two calls a month. Today, we have three halls and nine emergency vehicles situated to optimize response times and to attend to over 300 emergency calls a year.
The Pender Islands Fire Protection Society is preparing a public survey to help identify how the fire department is meeting your needs. The survey will be launched during the month of July and we’d like to thank you in advance for sharing your impressions and recommendations with us through your participation. Look for more information on the Pender Island Fire/Rescue Facebook page and website in the coming weeks.
Pender Island Food Bank Society
For over 25 years, the all-volunteer-run, community-supported Pender Island Food Bank has supported Pender Islanders facing food insecurity. Over the past year, the board and volunteers of the Food Bank have been hard at work on a project that has encompassed all aspects of our operations and management.
We did it! We are thrilled to share that we’ve been accredited through Food Banks Canada’s new Standards of Excellence program. This accreditation is a testament to our team’s hard work and dedication to providing our clients with the highest quality of service. These standards are designed as a baseline set of guidelines to which we, and the rest of the food banking network, are accountable. These 76 standards will be used to benchmark future performance improvements in client service, food operations, safe food handling, and more. They reflect the food banking network’s thought, leadership, and commitment to continually enhance our collective capabilities to relieve hunger today and prevent hunger tomorrow.
Celebrate with us as we recognize this important accomplishment for our organization. This framework will help us thrive as we continue our journey towards a Canada where no one goes hungry. By becoming accredited, we can advance to an even stronger and more agile food banking system, activate shared learning, and amplify the network’s collective impact on Canada’s food insecurity problem.
For our clients, this is a sign of our promise to continue to provide you with safe, nutritious food in a setting that is supportive, dignified, and allows as much choice as possible. To the Pender community of donors and supporters – whether that’s through donations of non-perishable food, garden produce, donations of cash or Spirit Board points (#9) our accreditation is a sign that we are well managed, fiscally and operationally and that your contributions go entirely towards providing food for people in need.
As the Coordinator of the Santa’s Sac/Elf Tree program on Pender Island, I have been involved with the Food Bank for the eight years that I have lived on Pender Island. During my adult life, I have served on over 30 boards of businesses, non-profit organizations and registered charities. Rarely have I served on a board with a team as dedicated, hard-working, and kind as the board members of the Pender Island Food Bank. Pam Wright has been the President (and our fearless leader) for a few years now and has worked diligently to bring the Food Bank up to the standards of a registered society and CRA registered charity. Some of the compliance standards have taken time, physical restructuring of facilities, changes in food management practices, and development of new accounting records. Board members and volunteers continue to strive to provide assistance to help relieve hunger on Pender Island.
- FOod donations can be delivered to the Anglican Church on 4703 Canal Road Friday mornings between 8 and 9 am.
- If you need food assistance, please come on Friday morning and register at the church
- If you can’t physically get to the food bank, call 250-961-4861 or email penderislandfoodbank@gmail.com
For more information, visit our website.
Happy Canada Day – celebrate this great country of ours and this special place we call home.
Pender Island Health Care Society
Sun Safety
Well, last year at this time we reminded readers to protect their skin from harmful solar radiation…and it’s still true this year. So here’s a repeat: Slip on a shirt, Slop on the sunscreen (look for broad-spectrum, with SPF of at least 30 with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide), Slap on a hat, Seek shade, and Slide on a pair of sunglasses. For great information and resources, see http://www.canadianskincancerfoundation.com.
AGM and Nominations for Board of Directors
Nominations are now open for positions on the Society’s Board of Directors. New or returning directors will be elected at the Annual General Meeting on September 25, 2025, 10 am at the Legion, when audited financial statements will be presented to members. Those wishing to share their skills and expertise with this busy, volunteer working board are invited to contact any of the current directors (listed at http://www.penderislandhealth.org) or email the board president Bruce Waygood at kbwaygood@shaw.ca.
Art Therapy
Ages 8 – 12: Fridays, July 18 – August 8, 10 – 11:30 am
Teens: Thursdays, July 17 – August 7, 1:30 – 3 pm
Pender Islands Health Centre $75/person. Limit: five participants.
Pre-registration is required, and full subsidies are available.
Art therapy is a safe and effective way to help children aged 8 to 12 express themselves, manage emotions, and build self-confidence. Through creative expression, kids can explore feelings, develop coping strategies, and enhance their social skills in a non-threatening environment. Art therapy can be particularly helpful for children who may struggle to communicate their emotions verbally.
Art therapy, a form of expressive therapy, is effective for teens, offering a non-verbal way to explore emotions and thoughts.
The focus of art therapy is on the process of creation and the emotional exploration it facilitates, not on creating “perfect” artwork. No artistic skill is required, and activities can be tailored to individual needs and preferences.
Art Therapy with Teens and Art Therapy with Children are facilitated by Sandi Smoker, Mental Health Program Supervisor, Counsellor and Art Therapist candidate. See http://www.penderislandhealth.org/mental-health for details. To pre-register, or for more information, contact Sandi at 250-539-0905 or sandi.smoker@penderislandhealth.org. Payment can be made in advance at the time of registration by cheque to Pender Islands Health Care Society, or by e-transfer to accounts@penderislandhealth.org. Would you like to sponsor a participant? Contact us.
Urgent Care
As our island population swells in the summer, the medical clinic sees a large increase in the number of residents and visitors seeking urgent care. The medical clinic is NOT a walk-in clinic, but Pender is lucky to have a well-equipped Urgent Care Treatment Room for anyone needing immediate attention for serious injuries or conditions, and on-call providers after-hours. Please use urgent care services respectfully; inappropriate use may tie up resources, cause other patients’ existing appointments to be delayed, or unnecessarily call a provider out of bed.
What is urgent?
It’s something that cannot wait. Examples: a wound that needs suturing, sudden, extreme, worsening or unexplained pain, a significant injury, or uncontrolled worsening symptoms of a medical condition. For emergencies, or any life-threatening issue, call 9-1-1.
What is not urgent?
It’s something that can wait for your regular care provider, or until the pharmacy opens. Calling 8-1-1 (24/7) is a great option for non-emergency health information and advice. Examples: mild headache, illness, sprains, or questions about medications.
For truly urgent issues outside of clinic hours, call 1-800-866-5602 and the on-call doctor will return your call. Be ready to describe your symptoms. Sometimes, the doctor who calls you back may be on another island. Depending on the specifics, you may receive medical advice over the phone or arrange to meet the doctor at the clinic. More info under ‘Medical Clinic’ on our website.
Medical Information Envelopes
A reminder – you can pick up a medical information envelope at the clinic, or at our Open House on July 5. Fill it out, stick in on your fridge, and if first responders ever need to attend, they’ve got your emergency contacts, medications, allergies and BC Services Card number (health card) at their fingertips. While you’re at it, it’s never too late (or too early) to think about Advance Care Planning, including choosing who would make care decisions for you if you cannot.
Primary Care Providers – Our Skilled Nurse Practitioners
Pender’s primary care team includes two experienced Nurse Practitioners, Tracey Adams and Lee-Ann Jespersen. NPs are registered nurses who have successfully completed a master’s level NP program, and autonomously diagnose, treat and manage acute and chronic physical and mental illness. This advanced practice includes ordering diagnostic tests, prescribing medications, initiating specialist referrals and more. Check out the Profiles section of the latest ‘HeartBeat’ newsletter to learn more about these two valued and esteemed primary care providers and what they do, at http://www.penderislandhealth.org/society.
Health Centre Open House
Saturday, July 5, 11 am to 3 pm
Please join us for behind-the-scenes tours and an opportunity to learn more about your Health Centre. Come and meet some of the remarkable people at the Centre who put the health and wellness of Penderites and their families as their top priority. Chat with BC Ambulance paramedics and check out the ambulance itself. Look in on the Urgent Treatment Room (if not in use at the time), learn about the varied and numerous health and wellness programs available, see the latest renovations, and hear about some of the more immediate building upgrades that are required. Pender Lions will be on site serving hotdogs and cold drinks. We look forward to welcoming you and showing you around. It is, after all, your Health Centre, built By the Community, For the Community. Come with your questions, and leave with a deeper understanding of the Health Centre, as well as a (mostly) healthy goody bag.
Fundraising
The Green Angels woodchoppers have again made a significant and very much appreciated donation of $5,000, this time earmarked for site preparation for the planned modular building to house the cramped Medical Equipment Loan Program. A generous grant of $28,148 has already been received from the Kw’umut Lelum Foundation toward the total estimated cost of $48,000, and the project is expected to be complete by the summer of 2027. Read more about this well-used service, which lends out needed equipment at no charge, in the latest ‘Heartbeat’ newsletter.
Meanwhile, we are gearing up fundraising efforts for necessary upgrades to the fire suppression and water treatment systems – so that our stalwart legacy building continues to meet the needs of the community.
I recently came across this quote, attributed to Aesop: “No act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted.” Not a bad sentiment.
Click ad for full schedule.Community Support Programs
Maintain Your Independence (MYI) Exercise Classes
Classes are $8 for drop-ins. Registration (not required) and payment can be done on our website (www.penderislandhealth.org) under Community Programs. If the cost is a hardship, or you need help with registration, contact Marcella in the Community Support office at 250-629-3346 or activities@penderislandhealth.org. Many thanks to the CRD Pender Parks and Recreation Commission for their financial support of the MYI program.
MYI Weekly Activities
All summer classes are held at the Anglican Church in the Fireside Room.
Tuesdays, until August 12
Moderate Yoga with Candace Aldridge
9:30 – 10:30 am
This moderately paced class teaches foundational yoga shapes, introducing breath and the ability to flow from one posture to the next, with a focus on alignment, pranayama (awareness of breath), guided meditation, and a rooted sense of joy and play. You will build strength and mobility, flexibility and balance, while gaining range of motion in your joints and spine.
Chair Yoga with Candace Aldridge
10:30 – 11:45 am
Increase flexibility, stay limber, and improve balance. This class is suitable for those with mobility challenges, difficulty with balance, and is ideal if you are recovering or have arthritis or joint injuries. Please wear comfortable clothing.
Strength Training with Misha Kleider
12 – 1 pm
Build muscle strength, maintain bone density, improve balance, coordination, and mobility. Reduce your risk of falling and maintain your independence in performing activities of daily life. This is a slow full-body workout with bands that are provided. Bring a water bottle and wear comfortable clothing. Tuesday classes focus on legs, back, and biceps.
Wednesdays, until August 13
Strength Training with Misha Kleider
12 – 1 pm (See Tuesdays for description.)
Thursdays, until August 7
(See Tuesdays for descriptions)
Moderate Yoga with Candace Aldridge
9:30 -10:30 am
Chair Yoga with Shelley Easthope
10:30 – 11:45 am
Monday Activity Day at the Community Hall
See the Health Care Centre website for full schedule including lunch menus.
Special Activities
July 7
Marking Time Stitching Project
In this meditative hand stitching workshop, learn how to use stitching to reduce stress, slow down, and stay present. Thread and needles will be provided. Bring a meaningful piece of fabric to work on if you have one. Fabric pieces provided.
Group Walk on Molly’s Trail
Meet at 10 am by the front doors in the hall as we head off to explore Pender’s newest trail. The route is approximately 3 km and will take us on a winding path into Karl Hamson’s property. No dogs, please. Afterward, join us for coffee or lunch.
Seniors Advisory Committee
Share your ideas, connect with others, and help us create Monday Activities that matter to you.
Geriatric Kung-Fu with Tom Dodge
Tom has studied and taught Shaolin Kung-Fu for nearly 50 years here on Pender and throughout BC. He will be teaching a gentle class suitable for all levels of mobility and ability. This is a weekly drop-in class. Please wear comfortable clothing.
Caregivers and Grief Support Group
An opportunity for self-care, a place to discuss your concerns, get information, find out what others have done, share your feelings, and connect with others.
July 14
Book Club
Please read the book Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel. Relax, meet new friends, join in good conversation.
Geriatric Kung-Fu with Tom Dodge
See July 7.
Art & Artist Discussion Group
An open, free-flowing chat about creativity, accountability, being an artist, and making work.
Film: A Stitch in Time
This is a coming-of-age tale with a difference by Australian writer/director Sasha Hadden. When a former dressmaker, 80-year-old Liebe, meets a young Chinese fashion designer, Hamish, their new friendship quickly reignites a long-forgotten passion for her craft. This story tugs at the heartstrings and proves that it’s never too late to follow your dreams.
July 21
Artist Play Date with Audrey
10 am – 12 pm
All materials supplied. Paint, draw, collage, glue, and simply create. Please note that this is not a structured class. Audrey will be available to answer questions and give directions. No registration is required, $5 drop-in fee.
Beekeeping Presentation
Join us for an informative hour to learn about honeybees – their origin, their life cycle, how they pollinate flowers, how they collect nectar and turn it into honey, how they make beeswax to build their nest, their importance to our food supply, and much more. Presented by Barry of Barry’s Bees on Pender Island.
Geriatric Kung-Fu with Tom Dodge
See July 7.
Caregivers and Grief Support Group
See July 7.
July 28
Make Do & Mend Morning
Join Fix-it Peter, Tech Savvy Shon, and Sewing Expert Judy, all dedicated to sharing skills and giving new life to broken or worn-out items. Bring in your broken, confusing, or worn items and learn how to repair or use them alongside our wonderful helpers. Drop-in.
Book Swap
Bring a book and take a book.
Geriatric Kung-Fu with Tom Dodge
See July 7.
Film: The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel
See Community Hall report for details.
Acts of Kindness/Gratitude
This month, we are sharing a story from the Facebook group Astonishing. If you have an uplifting story to share, we would love to hear from you. Please contact Marcella at the Community Support office.
When 79-year-old George retired, he didn’t buy a golf club or a hammock. He hung a handmade sign in his garage window: Broken things? Bring ’em here. No charge. Just tea and talk.
His neighbors in the faded mill town of Maple Grove thought he’d lost it. “Who fixes stuff for free?” grumbled the barber. But George had a reason. His wife, Ruth, had spent decades repairing torn coats and cracked picture frames for anyone who knocked. “Waste is a habit,” she’d say. “Kindness is the cure.” She’d died the year before, and George’s hands itched to mend what she’d left behind.
The first visitor was eight-year-old Mia, dragging a plastic toy truck with a missing wheel. “Dad says we can’t afford a new one,” she mumbled. George rummaged through his toolbox, humming. An hour later, the truck rolled again – this time with a bottle cap for a wheel and a strip of silver duct tape. “Now it’s custom,” he winked. Mia left smiling, but her mother lingered. “Can you… fix a résumé?” she asked. “I’ve been stuck on the couch since the factory closed.”
By noon, George’s garage buzzed. A widow brought a shattered clock. “My husband wound it every Sunday,” she had said. A teen carried a leaky backpack. George fixed them all, but he didn’t work alone. Retired teachers proofread résumés. A former seamstress stitched torn backpacks. Even Mia returned, handing him a jar of jam: “Mom says thanks for the job interview.”
Then came the complaint.
“Unlicensed business,” snapped the city inspector. “You’re violating zoning laws.”
Maple Grove’s mayor, a man with a spreadsheet heart, demanded that George shut down. The next morning, 40 townsfolk stood on George’s lawn, holding broken toasters, torn quilts, and protest signs: “Fix the law, not just stuff!” A local reporter filmed a segment: “Is kindness illegal?”
The mayor caved. Sort of.
“If you want to ‘fix’ things, do it downtown,” he said. “Rent the old firehouse. But no guarantees.”
The firehouse became a hive. Volunteers gutted it, painted it sunshine yellow, and dubbed it “Ruth’s Hub.” Plumbers taught plumbing. Teenagers learned to darn socks. A baker swapped muffins for repaired microwaves. The town’s waste dropped by 30%.
But the real magic? Conversations. A lonely widow fixed a lamp while a single dad patched a bike tire. They talked about Ruth. Loss. And hope.
Last week, George found a note in his mailbox. It was from Mia, now 16, interning at a robotics lab. “You taught me to see value in broken things. I’m building a solar-powered prosthetic arm. PS: The truck still runs!”
Our community-based repair event, Make-Do-And-Mend, takes place on the fourth Monday of every month from 10 am to 12 pm, at the Community Hall. Dedicated volunteers Peter Murphy, Shon Tam, and Judy Boxler offer free assistance to repair broken items, promoting sustainability and reducing waste. Our skilled volunteers help with everything from clothing to electronics and computers, teaching valuable troubleshooting and basic repair techniques along the way. We don’t charge money, but we do serve tea. Who said a man with a screwdriver can’t change the world?
Pender Island Museum Society
Celebrate Our 20th Anniversary
Visitors lined up to see the new museum. We’d love to know who was waiting patiently on the steps.
Come along as we celebrate the museum’s 20th birthday from Thursday to Sunday, July 17-20. In the long tradition of Pender picnics, pack up a basket and head over to Roesland. The museum will be ready with old-fashioned lemonade, treats, lawn games, heritage craft demonstrations, and live music on Sunday afternoon. Plus, a surprise display of what could shape our next 20 years.
If you attended the official opening of the museum on July 16, 2005, we’d love to welcome you back. Be sure to share memories of those who founded the Pender Islands Museum Society in 1986 and persevered for almost 20 years until finally finding a permanent museum home.
Elizabeth Campbell (centre) and her husband, Peter, were founding members of the museum society in 1986. They had much to celebrate on July 16, 2005, when the museum opened.
When the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve became a reality in 2003, the former Roesland Resort and its original 1908 house were part of the new park. The museum society could see its potential as a future home, despite its dilapidated condition. After negotiating a 30-year lease with Parks Canada, dedicated volunteers began the hard work of conserving the Roe House, a unique “kit” house, then approaching its 100th year.
The house was lifted and its log base, much of it rotting away, was replaced with a stable concrete and wood foundation. Volunteers contributed countless hours clearing out brush, improving drainage, removing a massive, derelict hearth and chimney, taking down later additions, putting in services, and finally planning displays. That all of this was accomplished in two years is a testament to the “can-do” attitude that has characterized the Pender community through time. A couple of years later, construction of a replica of the porch that had long since disappeared restored the external look and feel of the 1908 home.
In 2009, Victoria’s Hallmark Society, which is dedicated to heritage preservation, presented the museum society with a special award recognizing “attention to detail and extraordinary volunteer effort in the rehabilitation and adaptive re-use of the Pender Islands Museum.”
It’s a legacy the current museum directors hold dear.
This sign was used for almost 20 years before a permanent museum home was found. The extra words reflect the achievement of finally opening.
For July and August, the museum is pleased to expand its regular open hours from Thursday to Sunday and holiday Mondays from 10 am to 4 pm.
Pender Island Parks and Recreation Commission
One last season for our trusty Magic Lake Swimming Hole dock.
Dogs in our Parks
The PIPRC is inviting interested Penderites to participate in the process of establishing a dog park and also to advise on matters relating to dogs in our parks and on our trails. The Commission is seeking to form a three to five person advisory committee. The committee will convene with Commissioner Tim Frick to provide community guidance and feedback to the PIPRC. Expressions of interest can be sent to Commissioner Frick preferably by email at penderparks@crd.bd.ca by July 24th. Please include your name, phone number and the reasons for wanting to volunteer. A first gathering of the appointed committee will take place after the July 28th Commission meeting.
Park and Trail Updates
The swing set at Shingle Bay park is once again in need of resurfacing. The Commission has approved the concept of raising the base slightly to provide drainage, and then replacing the wood chips with a safe alternative.
The Thieves Bay Park picnic pavilion project is on track to be ready for use by late Fall. Funding assistance and engineering factors are the next steps in the process.
At the Danny Martin Park, the final stage of the pump track project will see a connection between the track and the Schooner Way School Trail. Speaking of which, work on the Schooner Way Trail will begin this summer. For more information on the Schooner Way trail point your browser to http://www.crd.ca/projects/current-projects-initiatives/schooner-way-trail-pender-island.
Also at the Danny Martin Park two short interpretive trails are planned. These will provide safe access from the parking lot through to the Firehall/Disc Park trail and to the mailbox/bus stop area and will include educational components.
The ever popular Magic Lake Swimming Hole dock will see an upgrade in the fall to replace aging infrastructure and to make the dock accessible to people of all abilities. In the meantime the Magic Lake Picnic Area dock has been a hit with residents and visitors alike.
As always community support and involvement is encouraged in the PIPRC. The public is welcome to attend our next meeting which will be July 28 at 3:30 pm. Each year there are vacancies on the Commission. Keep reading our monthly column in The Pender Post for information regarding future opportunities.
Pender Island Pride Society
Everyone’s Invited: Pender Pride Celebrates Community and Connection
Pender Pride organizers and friends at the Pride Picnic at Twin Island Cidery in June.
Pender Pride season is in full swing, and this year’s events are already off to a great start. We kicked things off in June with a well-attended Pride Picnic at Twin Island Cidery. The weather cooperated, the crowd was incredible, and the energy was exactly what we hoped for. The afternoon included drag performances by Joelene, Getta Grip, and Owen, original poetry, lawn games, and even a wood chopping demonstration that drew quite a few cheers. It was one of those events that felt both celebratory and deeply local—exactly what Pride on Pender is all about. Thank you to everyone who came and helped make it such a success.
Woodchopper extraordinaire, Nicole Coenen and Joelene at the Pride Picnic.
Pride Golf Tournament
Sunday, July 13, 2 pm
Pender Island Golf Club
Whether you’re an experienced golfer or just want to spend the afternoon with friends and neighbours, all skill levels are welcome. Tickets are $75, which includes a full round of golf, dinner at the clubhouse, and a short ceremony afterward. It’s a relaxed, friendly event and a great way to support Pride on Pender while enjoying some summer fun. To sign up, just text Lesley at 519-240-7367.
Pender Pride Festival
Sunday, August 17, 1 pm
Community Hall
Looking ahead, we’re gearing up for the main event. The day kicks off at 1 pm with a colourful and spirited community parade starting at the library and finishing at the Community Hall. From there, the festival grounds will come alive with music, performances, and activities for all ages.
We’re honoured to welcome Green Party leader Elizabeth May as this year’s keynote speaker. The afternoon will also feature a fantastic lineup of local drag talent, including Joelene, Getta Grip, Owen, and Mr. Fist, with emcees Joelene and Nicole Coenen keeping the show moving. Musical performances will include Sarah Smith, a well-loved local artist, and Peachy Sundays, an upbeat group from Victoria. There will also be food trucks, a beer garden, and plenty of space to gather with friends, family, and neighbours.
Whether you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally, long-time islander or visitor, we hope you’ll join us. Pride on Pender is a celebration of identity, expression, and connection—and it’s shaped by the people who show up and take part.
Come to the golf tournament, attend the parade, take in a show, or just share a meal and conversation. However you join in, we’re glad to have you with us.
For more details and updates, follow Pender Island Pride on Facebook. See you soon!
Pender Island Public Library
Kids’ Summer Reading Club
The awesome 2025 Kids Summer Reading Club is in full swing. This year’s theme is “Colour Your Summer!” Come register and get a free reading record, bookmarks, stickers, a Reading Medal, and a special grab bag with painting and craft activities to discover the world of colour. Enter to win book prizes!
Hot Summer Days
We invite the community to come cool down at the Library during hot summer days. We have comfy chairs and air conditioning thanks to a CRD grant in 2017 for the installation of a heat pump system. See Library Hours, below.
Books by BC Authors
BC is home to tons of amazing authors, and several live right here on Pender Island. The Library is proud to launch the Read Local BC eBookshelf, a curated collection of eBooks published in BC. You can view this new digital collection using the Libby app, or stop by for a free tutorial on downloading Libby and our collection of eBooks, eAudiobooks and eMagazines with more than 40,000 free titles.
On Display
July’s book display theme is Summer Reads. We’ve got books featuring beaches and summer romance, BBQ feasts and foraging cookbooks, camping and hiking destinations, boating magazines, and gardening books galore.
Art in the Library
Featuring local artist Gayle Burandt’s fascinating exhibit, Out of This World. Gayle specializes in flow painting and mixed media, with current works produced on cotton canvas, using acrylic paints and a flow medium. Every piece is unique: “I will not, as I cannot, produce the same piece twice.” Exhibit: June 4 – August 13, 2025.
Outdoor Seating
The Library is a great place to meet up with friends and enjoy new outdoor seating. Come try our new picnic table with a big blue umbrella, and a new patio bench beside the building.
New Books
Adult Fiction
Other Worlds (André Alexis), My Friends (Fredrik Backman), He Who Would Walk the Earth (Griffin Bjerke-Clarke), The Tiger and the Cosmonaut (Eddy Boudel Tan), Speak to Me of Home (Jeanine Cummins), One Golden Summer (Carley Fortune), Fever Beach (Carl Hiaasen), Austen at Sea (Natalie Jenner), The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus (Emma Knight), The Enigma Girl (Henry Porter), Into the Gray Zone (Brad Taylor).
Adult Mystery and Sci-Fi
Death at a Highland Wedding (Kelley Armstrong), Hidden in Smoke (Lee Goldberg), Death by Chocolate Pumpkin Muffin (Sarah Graves), Marble Hall Murders (Anthony Horowitz), Contemplation of a Crime (Susan Juby), No One Was Supposed to Die at this Wedding (Catherine Mack).
Adult Non-Fiction
The Grassling (Elizabeth-Jane Burnett), Girl on Girl (Sophie Gilbert), How to Share an Egg (Bonny Reichert), The Let Them Theory (Mel Robbins), Theory of Water (Leanne Betasamosake Simpson),
Youth and Teens
Do Not Turn the Page! (Jane Blondie), Little Big Sister (Eoin Colfer), Barnacle Bay (Jana Curll), The Fabulous Edweena (Edwin Dumont), Eva for President (Rebecca Elliott), I am Connected (Kung Jaadee), The Cartoonists Club (Raina Telgemeier), I Love Salmon and Lampreys (Brook Thompson).
Library hours
Open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 10 am – 3 pm, at 4407 Bedwell Harbour Road. Email: libraryhelpdesk@crd.bc.ca or call 250-629-3722 to chat with friendly staff. Library will be closed on July 1 for the Canada Day holiday.
Pender Island Recycling Society
On May 28, Michelle Marsden and I travelled to the Ocean Legacy Foundation in Richmond to drop off over 125 kg of ocean plastics collected from Pender Island’s yearly beach and roadside cleanups. We had the opportunity to tour their facility and learn more about this important operation. Ocean Legacy was founded in Canada in 2013 and their mission is to develop and implement international response programs to combat plastic pollution in our oceans. One aspect of this mission is providing infrastructure to collect and recycle ocean plastics like nets, buoys, rope, crab pots and oyster baskets. Their facility processes nylon and plastics in-house, creating a recycled product that can be purchased wholesale by manufacturers. A few items collected like foam floats and styrofoam are sent for incineration at a waste-to-energy facility, but their focus is on finding alternatives wherever possible. It was inspiring to tour their facility, learn more about this important mission, and witness a group take on a difficult challenge and prove markets exist for the recycled products they create. For more info on the Ocean Legacy Foundation or to make a donation please visit their website.
Have you heard about the Plastic Free July Organization and challenge? Their goal is to help millions of people, businesses and organizations be part of the solution to plastic pollution. This is a worldwide movement aimed at bringing awareness to the plastic pollution problem, and challenging individuals to reduce or eliminate single use plastics. They list the top three single use plastic items as beverage bottles, takeout coffee cups, and plastic wrap. These items are easily replaceable with reusable items like refillable water bottles, insulated coffee mugs, and by replacing plastic wrap with wax wraps or reusable containers. Participants can pledge to avoid single-use plastics, specifically target takeaway items like bags, bottles, straws and cups, or go completely “plastic-free”. Challenges can take place for one day, one week, one month or can be a permanent change in your life. Visit their website, http://www.plasticfreejuly.org, to take a quiz, sign up for the challenge, and learn more about Plastic Free July.
With warm weather approaching we would like to remind you to please rinse your recyclables. Unrinsed beverage containers especially attract wasps, both here at the depot and your own home. Cleaning your recyclables also makes handling more pleasant for yourself and the attendants at the depot. We appreciate everyone’s efforts to keep their recycling clean and organised, the majority of depot users are very conscientious and we are grateful for their consideration.
If you’ve visited the depot over the last few weeks, you may have noticed the new paved section of our parking lot. This paved area will require much less maintenance than our gravel lot, and parking stall lines will be added soon to help visitors navigate. Our drivers and forklift operators are also enjoying easier loading and unloading of trucks and shipments. This project would not have been possible without the generous donations from the community, like membership purchases and refundable drop-offs, which have allowed us to save up for important improvements to the depot.
PAC
Pender Island School Parent Advisory Committee
The Pender Island School Advisory Committee (PAC) has wrapped another successful year of fundraising efforts and providing support for our island’s students and faculty, but low volunteer turnout could hamper efforts for next year.
The PAC has already begun preparing for the return to class next fall, selecting a new board of directors at a meeting at the end of June, and getting the ball rolling on welcoming back our students – and their parents – in September.
For the uninitiated, PAC is a collection of parents who advocate for the students of Pender Island. Most of our efforts go toward organizing special events and fundraising to offset the costs of student groups and extracurricular activities.
During the recently concluded school year, we raised more than $16,000, primarily through two major fundraising efforts: The school’s Read-A-Thon program and our celebrated Winter Carnival.
That money goes to funding school clubs, hosting events, supporting teachers in the classroom and offsetting the cost of field trips and other programs that may otherwise be too expensive to run.
The price of running clubs and sports groups at the school are offset by these efforts. Special school-wide lunches and ice cream socials are both paid for by PAC and rely on time spared by parent volunteers.
When a student comes home with a permission form for a field trip with minimal or no cost to parents, they are supported by money raised by PAC efforts. Last year, we covered more than $5,000 worth of field trip costs, alone.
Unfortunately, our ability to provide this assistance relies on PAC members stepping forward to volunteer their time and energy. It takes organization and many hands to pull off major fundraising efforts like the Winter Carnival, an exciting and much-anticipated event that raised more than $5,000 last year.
Not sure if you qualify to help? You do. All parents of Pender School students are PAC members, and anyone from the community can offer to volunteer at an event.
Finally, the core of our board of directors was selected at our AGM last month, though some duties are still in search of a home. Darcie Whittingham will resume her role as PAC chair in an interim capacity, while Treasurer Jenny Montgomery will also return to her post. Elissa Harvey was named Vice-Chair, and Lee-Ann Jespersen has been selected as Secretary.
The position of DPAC, our district representative, remains open. And coordinator roles for our key fundraising efforts are still available.
Anyone interested in helping at an event or with any other efforts should contact penderislandpac@gmail.com
Royal Canadian Legion
Once again, it’s time to celebrate Canada Day and the multiculturalism that has made Canada one of the most respected countries in the world. However, this year is going to be a little different as our very way of life is being affected by external sources we never expected. At this writing we are still being held hostage to the threat of tariffs and the whims and pomposity of a U.S. President who somehow managed to derail one of the greatest friendships ever created between two countries. For over 200 years (well, there was that little skirmish in 1812) we have stood side by side through World Wars, peace keeping missions and pandemics. For most of those years America led the way in the fight for freedom for lesser nations around the world. They were always there to assist during famines, disease or disasters. Now that is all disappearing with the cutting of foreign aid and the new doctrine of isolation that weakens the western world and emboldens our enemies.
There are countries in this world who do not bestow upon their citizenry the everyday freedoms that we take for granted. These are oppressive manipulating nations who are revelling in the fact that democracy is in disarray. Canada is now one of the few who continue to maintain the ideals of democracy and the basic rights for all to live in peace without persecution, this means all of us, no matter what colour, religion or lifestyle. This is what our ancestors fought and died for, and this is what I and the Royal Canadian Legion stand for.
On that note – the Legion will once again be presenting a Celebration of Canada at the Driftwood Centre on July 1. Things get underway at 10 am with free cake for all. There will be a short parade led by the Pender Highlanders Pipe Band. They will then perform a few musical selections and then Plumper Sound will entertain before and after our guest speaker steps to the microphone at 11 am. You don’t want to miss that. At 12 noon the festivities continue for the kids at Thieves Bay Park with free hot dogs and beverages. Adults can also eat for a small donation. Should be a fun day – see you there.
Summer BBQ’s are in full swing for the rest of summer – every second Friday join the gang for burgers, music and good times. This month’s dates are July 4 and 18 to be followed by one on August 1. Things start happening about 4:30 pm and run until 7 pm…. or until we run out of burgers. The Legion patio is a wonder unto itself. The Legion will also be doing hot dogs at the Show and Shine on July 12 and burgers at Art off the Fence on July 19 and 20. That’s three days in a row flipping burgers. What was I thinking?
There is no bingo for the rest of the summer but it was a successful winter for the bingo gang, with huge crowds the last two months. The final bonanza jackpot of $390 was a new high and hopefully next year we can build it up even higher.
Meat draws continue all year round, and now that it’s patio season why not enjoy a cool beverage outside and wait for the meat to start piling up – don’t worry, if no one wins inside we’ll call outside. We’ll also keep your steaks, chicken, salmon, pork chops etc. nice and cold in our walk-in cooler until you are ready to leave. You could also win a Tru Valu $50 gift card or walk away with some cash in our 50/50 draw. Draws start at 4 pm and the fun and laughter even earlier.
There will be no general meeting until September so if you have something to say right now, hopefully you were there on June 28.
Don’t forget the celebration of life for Chuck Spence on July 5 at Otter Bay Marina starting at 10:30 am. A chance to reminisce and say goodbye to an old friend.
I guess that’s it, except congratulations to the Edmonton Oilers for helping galvanize the majority of Canadians in an effort to bring the Stanley Cup back to Canada. They fell short but it was a good run. Shame on those Canuck and Flames fans who refused to cheer for anyone but their home team – I’ve been a Canuck fan since they were in the WHL but Melody and I were all in for CANADA!
PenderPOD
Salish Sea Whale Sighters
Humpback Big Momma with her calf off South Pender. Photo by Kathleen Durant
There has been a notable absence of the Southern Resident killer whales inside the Salish Sea. For the entire month of May and so far into mid June there have been no reports of them. We hope they are finding salmon somewhere.
On the flip side, there have been many reports of transient or Bigg’s killer whales with several large groups of multiple matrilines being observed. The humpback whales are also returning in large numbers. Some have been identified as new to the Southern Gulf Islands Whale Sighting Network, including Strike, Crenel, Cerulean, Kraken, and Yakima. Some are familiar such as Divot, Zephyr, and Big Momma who’s back with her 8th documented calf. The latter was first observed off South Pender in the early morning hours of May 21st. Since then they have been seen travelling and feeding around the Southern Gulf Islands and San Juan Islands several times. The little one has been seen breaching multiple times in a row by several observers and is full of energy. We encourage viewing whales from shore. Boaters are reminded to maintain their distance and follow all marine mammal viewing regulations.
Vessel Restricted Zones (formerly named Interim Sanctuary Zones) near Pender Island and Saturna Islands are now in effect until November 30.
The World Orca Day festivities will be held at Thieves Bay Park on July 11 between 12 and 3 pm. Come out to enjoy music and orca themed family activities. David Lumley will be playing his Tahlequah: Orca Song.
POD at Mosaic Festival
Heads up for an exciting POD activity at Ptarmigan’s Mosaic Festival.
The Festival will be on August 1-3 in Karl Hamson’s Pine forest behind the Community Hall. On Sunday August 3, POD will have a Baleinophone workshop at which youth will be invited to paint and play a Baleinophone. What is a Baleinophone you ask? It is a simply-made DIY instrument that allows humans to make sounds that mimic the singing of humpback whales. Come out and see how to make a one and/or paint an existing one.
Outer Gulf Islands RCMP
Happy Summer!
For the period of May 19 to June 19, the RCMP responded to 52 calls for service, which was up from 41 for the same period in 2024.
Chris Swain, who was posted to the Outer Gulf Islands Detachment in 2004, sent us a message he wished to be shared with everyone. I figured this would be a good place to post it.
Greetings Pender Islanders!
A close friend hinted to me that I should drop a line to the local paper and give people a Swain family update, but I will first use this as my opportunity to say thank you. Although our time on the island was short (2004-2006) we have many fond memories of both the place and the people we met. We were fortunate to call Pender home for the short time we were there, and fortunate to be considered a “local”.
Our daughters were young when we were there, but they attended Dragonfly and Ann’s school in Port Washington, we took advantage of the local parks and beaches, were frequent visitors at the library, the bakery, and the Nu-To-Yu (which has led to a lifelong passion for thrifting for the whole family).
Madeline is now an Information Technician for Vancouver Island Regional library, has a diploma in Library Information Technology, and is working towards a bachelor’s degree in libraries and global development. All of this, after living and working in the Swiss Alps, then a year of University in Ireland, then an internship program in Kenya where she co-founded The Roots Library for out-of-school youth in Mathare, an informal settlement in Nairobi (www.therootslibrary.org).
Emily just graduated from Vancouver Island University in June, with a bachelor’s degree in Child and Youth Care – Child Protection and Counselling, has been working for the provincial government in the child protection field, and is passionate about what she is doing. She has also spent several summers working at the local nursery, fuelling her other passion for plants and our garden.
We are so proud of both girls, what they have done and where they are going, but we have the Island and the people we met while there, to thank for the strong start they had.
I retired from the RCMP in 2022, after serving 30 years, but was only retired 4 days, as I was hired at the Legislative Assembly in Victoria as the Deputy Sergeant at Arms. Make sure you say hi if you are on your way through the building and want to connect. Cathy is retired now as well, but sometimes I feel she is busier than me with managing the house, gardens, dogs, and still volunteering with Girl Guides. We wish you all the best, and thank you again for all the memories, for some lifelong friendships, and for making us feel like locals when we were there
Chris Swain
Thanks for reading,
Salish Sea Inter-Island Transportation Society
We are pleased to announce that AquaLink, the Southern Gulf Islands’ community-focused water taxi service, is back this summer—but with a slightly different format. While the service won’t be offering regular inter-island routes this year, there will be a series of special summer trips between Pender and Saturna.
These one-off excursions continue AquaLink’s mission of building stronger ties between the islands, offering a scenic and convenient way to experience Saturna’s most cherished events and destinations.
Set Sail for Saturna
One of the season’s biggest draws is the Canada Day Lamb BBQ at Winter Cove on July 1. A long-standing tradition that dates back to 1950, the event is a lively celebration of community, featuring lamb roasted over open fire pits, live music, games, artisan vendors, and a beer and wine garden. It’s a perfect example of what makes island life so special—and AquaLink makes it easy to get there with direct transport from Pender Island.
Wine lovers will also want to take advantage of AquaLink’s special Sunday trips to Sage Hayward Vineyards, a small family-run winery located in Saturna Beach Estates. Known for their estate-grown Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and the popular Rosé “Camellia,” the vineyard is a peaceful spot to sip and relax. Visitors can also enjoy a locally inspired menu at the Feral Goat Bistro, set against a stunning vineyard and Plumper Sound backdrop.
Travel in Comfort
All AquaLink trips this summer are operated aboard Crabby, a 12-passenger vessel run by Pender Island’s own Wet Coast Marine. With limited capacity and breathtaking views, the ride itself is part of the adventure. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or bringing the whole family, it’s a memorable way to reach Saturna—without the ferry hassle.
Book Your Seat Early
Space on Crabby is limited, so early booking is recommended. Visit aqualink.ca for the latest schedules, pricing and trip details.
Even without regular service this year, AquaLink continues to create meaningful connections across the Southern Gulf Islands—one special trip at a time. Don’t miss your chance to experience Saturna this summer.
SGI Community Resource Centre
Housing NOW
Tune in to Shelter SGI, your monthly podcast exploring housing stories, challenges, and creative solutions across the Southern Gulf Islands. With our new summer schedule, episodes drop on the last Friday of every month—perfect for winding down your week with local voices and fresh insights.
Find us on most streaming platforms. Visit linktr.ee/sgihousing for episodes and updates.
Follow us on Instagram @sgishelterpodcast for behind-the-scenes content and guest features.
Save the Date: The Crisp
October 3 and 4
We’re celebrating the fifth anniversary of The Crisp, a vibrant community festival inspired by the 2020 event Let No Apple Be Wasted. Hosted on the beautiful grounds of the Pender Island Community Hall, this initiative brings people together through creativity, connection, and a shared commitment to sustainability.
The Crisp features two days of music, poetry, storytelling, and hands-on workshops – all rooted in themes of community wellness, food and farming security, and environmental sustainability. Enjoy apple-themed fun, art activities, and transformational performances. This year’s lineup includes Rose Cousins and her band, The Boom Booms, and many more.
Still Hiring for Summer?
Connect with Job Seekers Across the Southern Gulf Islands
The SGI Community Resource Centre’s job board is a great way to reach skilled and enthusiastic candidates across the islands. Whether you’re looking for summer help or long-term support, posting your opportunities on our board boosts visibility and connects you with job seekers who are passionate about contributing to our vibrant island communities. List your job openings today: tinyurl.com/sgicrcjobs.
Welcome to Our Summer Students
We’re thrilled to welcome this year’s summer students from Saturna, Pender, and Victoria to our team. Over the coming months, they’ll be working on a range of exciting and inspiring projects that support our islands’ sustainability, connectivity, and community well-being.
With tourism in full swing, we continue to support our local businesses and farmers markets, and celebrate the unique character of each island. From festivals and concerts to youth camps and family-friendly events, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the season. Islanders are known for their warm hospitality and deep-rooted pride in our communities.
SGI Neighbourhood House
Southern Gulf Islands Community Justice Program
On June 7 and 8, we were honoured to welcome Norm Leech—an Indigenous facilitator known for his work in decolonization and restorative justice—to S,DÁYES (Pender Island). We use the circle process to hold space for dialogue, rooted in Indigenous knowledge and responsibility. Norm’s visit reminded us of our shared connection to the land, each other, and all our relations. He offered powerful insights into decolonizing our thinking and working with trauma. Some memorable reflections shared during the training:
“The grandmothers noticed everything and helped people find their gifts. The land holds us like a grandmother.”
“You can never leave the universe—we’ve always been here.”
“The ancestors are always with us, and we can ask for help.”
The training left a deep impact. Norm’s grounded and joyful presence continues to inspire our work toward peace and community on the Southern Gulf Islands. To learn more about our work or future training, contact cjp@sginh.ca or find us on social media.
55+ Seniors Program
Computer Savvy Seniors is back. We offer up to two hours free in-home technology support. Is your computer acting up? Are you having challenges with your phone? Need to learn Zoom? We can help. Call us at 250-629-3665.
July Workshops
The Seniors Monday Activity Day has 12 workshops in July that are in person on Pender Island. Four of them can be accessed via Zoom on Saturna, Mayne and Galiano. Check out the online registration form at sginh.ca/seniors or call the office at 250-629-3665. Anyone wanting to attend Zoom MUST pre-register to receive the Zoom link. See the Health Centre website for more information.
Summer Youth Programs
Youth Nights
Wednesdays until August 27, 6 to 8 pm
and July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Community Hall FREE
Youth Nights are back this summer.. Open to youth ages 13 – 18, Youth Leadership participants, and Youth Market vendors of any age, evenings will feature potlucks and fun activities like dance nights, films, board games, art, cosplay, book club, D&D, trivia, spa night, and more.
Culinary Training
Thursdays until August 28
Open to ages 12 – 18 (or 10+ with Food Safe)
Community Hall FREE
Youth will plan and cook meals for the Friday Community Gathering while building kitchen skills and enjoying a shared meal. Register at http://www.penderislands.org/registrations, 250-629-3669 or bookings@penderislands.org.
Job Board
Check our job board for the latest opportunities (tinyurl.com/sginhjobs).
Recreation and Leisure
Pender Parrots T-ball
This season, we had 24 kids registered and six great coaches: Dan, Liis, Melissa, Rance, Shawn, and Vanessa, and our junior assistant coach, Buck. Our players developed their teeing, throwing, and catching skills. Together, we had so much fun! We will see you all at the Fall Fair at the bucket drop.
CanBoat
Pender Island Squadron
Canadian Safe Boating Week in May was an annual reminder to remain safe and secure while enjoying our waters. While the term “boaters” has traditionally been identified with larger craft, it applies equally to smaller vessels including personal watercraft. Wear your flotation devices, be aware of adjacent traffic and the wakes of larger boats.
14 students participated in our Grade 9 boating program at the Elementary/Secondary school. Pleasure Craft Operator Certificates were awarded to 13 successful exam students. A big thank you goes out to Port Browning Marina who offer use of their facilities and decks for instruction. Equal thanks to Pender Island Emergency Services, RCMSARS and Outer Gulf Islands RCMP for demonstrating safe boating practices and emergency response procedures. This year was particularly successful as students were able to visit and tour the RCMP vessel “Lindsay” as well as Coast Guard vessel “Cape St. James”. A special thanks goes to the captains and crew of each vessel for welcoming our students aboard.
We held our AGM on May 14. The event was held as a pot-luck reception at the residence of our Commander. Twelve members and guests were present including most members of the Bridge. The weather cooperated and we enjoyed a social gathering on the Kirsops’ deck.
Our membership remains stable at 32 members. Finances are in good order and a copy of our year-end financial reports have been submitted to the Victoria Regional Squadron and national office.
There were some significant milestones to celebrate at our AGM:
The Marti Tilley Grade 8 program began in 2001 and this year will be its 24th anniversary. It has become the Grade 9 program as we continue to host a steady stream of students.
The other milestone is that the we are marking our 45th anniversary this year. Definitely cause to celebrate!
Pender Island Garden Club
Half a century ago, in 1975, the seeds of the Pender Island Garden Club were sown: a group of ladies led by Audrey Dunn formed the Flower Growers’ Group. This was a sort of spin-off from the Farmers’ Institute. In due course, Audrey handed over the leadership to Marjorie Bailey (an especially beloved Pender resident who many of you will remember), but unfortunately ill health at that time forced Marjorie to step down almost immediately, and Sandra Johnstone stepped up. Sandra and her husband, David, were farming Iolanthe Farm at that time – which is now known to all of us as Raven Rock. Sandra guided the Flower Growers’ Group through many years and then handed over the reins to Ron and Mary Pollock, who together had the vision to rename the group as The Pender Island Garden Club. From this point on the club went from strength to strength led, in turn, by Patricia Callendar, Andrea Spalding and Carole Sheaves jointly, Leeanne Mueller, and Gail Kleisinger –- our current President.
On Thursday June 12 the Pender Island Garden Club hosted a special, strawberries-and-cream Lunch Party and Flower Show to recognize the past 50 years of enthusiastic gardening on this island and we were very privileged to be able to welcome all our past Presidents (with the exception of Audrey Dunn and Marjorie Bailey, both sadly deceased), and other special guests past and present. These included Sandra Johnstone, from Victoria, as one of our Guests of Honour, and Ron Pollock, from Vancouver, as the other, along with Jo Atkins, Annabel Cowie, and Michael and Kathleen Pitt, all former movers and shakers within the Garden Club. Current Garden Club members Diane Riedel, Stuart Scholefield, Gerry Smith, and Peter Taylor were also honoured for their longevity and continuing loyalty as members of the Club.
While the luncheon was excellent, it was the Flower Show that was the hit of the afternoon because almost all the 36 invited attendees arrived (as requested) bearing blooms from their Pender gardens, totaling something over 90 exhibits. It was a strictly non-competitive event intended to highlight and share the bounty of our gardens in the middle of June. The tables around the hall groaned with exuberant roses, annual flowers, June flowering shrubs, perennial flower bouquets, and arrangements including a well supported Ikebana category. Although there was no real competition, we did give everyone a chance to cast a vote for the one single exhibit that they liked the best, and congratulations go to Judith Young who received the most votes in a close contest for her beautiful Ikebana-style entry.
This was an amazing team effort, and my thanks go out to every single one of the attendees for making it such a success, so much fun, and so inspiring. Special thanks to Michelle Marsden for creating the beautiful welcome sign. Also many thanks to Janice Levy for her photography.
Pender Island Golf Club
June was another busy month for our course superintendent Greg Chaster and the volunteers at the Pender Island Golf Club. The course is in great shape due to the hard work by Greg and our very dedicated volunteer work crew.
The men’s and ladies’ leagues are in full swing with a handful of tournaments completed, including the Men’s Club Championship in June.
New Restaurant
In case you haven’t heard, the golf club has a new restaurant! The Clubhouse Restaurant is serving up delicious food and beverages at affordable prices. Featuring a beautiful patio overlooking the course, it’s open Wednesdays to Saturdays 12 to 7 pm and Sundays 11 am to 6 pm. (Taco Tuesdays coming July 1!)
Pro Shop
The pro shop has golf clothing as well as casual wear, perfect for hiking or other outdoor activities.
The Broom
For many years, we had an inter-island tournament between our ladies’ league and the Galiano Island ladies’ league called The Broom and for reasons that nobody can remember we stopped holding this tournament.
Five or six years ago Galiano club member Linda Nurse reached out to us to see if we would be interested in a less competitive format and could we take turns going to each other’s island course for a fun day of golf. In early June it was our turn to host the Galiano ladies again and share the love of golf, friendship, and laughter at our club. Many thanks to Therese Cochlin and Barb Souter for organizing this event including the gift bags for our guests, and to Janet Ellis for making her infamous “wet weather golf ball cleaning squares” to add to each bag. Thanks also to all of the ladies (and Jim) who contributed baked goods and veggies for lunch and morning coffee. Special thanks to Bruce McConchie for standing over a hot barbecue to grill delicious burgers for our lunch. It was a great day.
Visiting player Susan Smethurst from Ontario and good friend of Cindy and Bryan Bedford got a hole-in-one using a 4 hybrid on our 4th hole (113 yd. par 3) on June 18. Congratulations and well done Susan. Come back soon.
Upcoming Tournaments and Events
Ladies Club Championship
July 1, 3 & 8
PRIDE Tournament
July 13, 1:30 sign in, 2 pm tee
9 holes & dinner – all welcome
Call Leslie to register: 519–240–7367.
Mixed Roddick Tournament
July 22, 9 am 18 Hole
Stroke Play followed by lunch
Mixed Fun Nite
July 25, 4 pm
9 holes & dinner – all welcome
Celebration of Life for Laurie Auchterlonie
July 26, 3 – 5:30 pm at the Club
Pender Island Otters Swim Club
Otters swimmer Aurora, and her Novice ribbon for swimming at the Cowichan Valley Breakers meet on May 31.
Full summer is here, and we Otters are starting to attend some meets in our Region. I know we have some swimmers attending the Nanaimo meet on June 27 – 29, but since I am writing this well before that date I cannot give results. One of our Novice swimmers ,Aurora, attended the Cowichan Valley Breakers meet in Duncan on May 31, along with Coach Sidney and me. We all swam freestyle, with Aurora in the Novices swimming 25 meter, and Sidney and I swimming 50 meter races. We all did well and had fun, which is the most important part.
And on that note, I will remind everyone that you can still join us for summer swimming for July and August. The second half of our summer registration is open now, and the session ends on August 15. Please either go to http://www.penderislandotters.ca or contact us at penderottersswimclub@gmail.com for registration. We will still be swimming on Fridays between 10 am to 1 pm at Panorama Pool in Saanich.
Now, a very special announcement: I, and all Otters, would like to sincerely thank the Green Angels for truly being angels and supporting us this summer. Quite out of the blue, we had a call from them asking if we could use some support this summer. I guess they must have heard we had rather overreached ourselves with hiring of additional coaches and an extra hour of pool time due to high registration during the fall and winter sessions. We were in some financial stress until our other grant applications came through in late summer for the coming year (fingers crossed we are supported again on that count). This wonderful group had made a generous donation to our club, and now we will be able to continue to support our swimmers both in practice time for the rest of the summer, and in attending meets in our region.
There are still a number of meets to go this summer, and I am hopeful we can recount great stories about our adventures in the pool in the next issue of The Pender Post. Keep on swimming Otters!
Weather Observations for May
| Average Temperatures | Extreme Temperatures | Precipitation | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max | Min | Mean | High | Low | Rain | Snow | Total | |
| Magic Lake | 18.7 | 8.3 | 13.5 | 28.0 on 28th | 7.0 often | 43.0 | 0 | 43.0 |
| “Normal” | 18.2 | 8.4 | 13.6 | 32.5 in 2023 | -2 in 2002 | 38.8 | 0 | 38.8 |
The month of May always brings us a touch of summer with temperatures sometimes in the mid to high twenties. May rainfall is unpredictable and variable.
This year we had some beautiful sunny days in May and temperatures were close to average, but we only had one really hot day when the temperature reached 28 on the 28th and that is the day I should have gone for a swim, but other circumstances kept me out of the water.
May was quite dry for the first half of the month, but later we received enough rain to put our total precipitation for the month slightly above average. It is interesting, though trivial, to note how often this year rain has come at the end of the month.
July is, on average, our driest month. We had less than 10 mm of July rain in twelve of the last 38 years and in 2021 we had zero July precipitation. July is also our warmest month, just ahead of August. Weather is very changeable and there is really no such thing as normal weather, but Environment Canada defines “normal” as the average over a period of time.
Our total precipitation for the first five months of 2025 was well above average and it is noticeable that trees have benefited from this. Evergreen and fruit trees are looking very well except for the ones that the beaver ate and even they are sprouting new roots from the stumps.
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