by John Weston Heading toward my fifth year as Powell River’s representative in the House of Commons, I still marvel at the integrity and ingenuity demonstrated by citizens of the community. In the time that I’ve had the honour of being Powell River’s Member of Parliament, I have come to greatly appreciate the time that I get to spend in the most northerly city of my riding.
Within the past year, at the invitation of Catalyst Paper Corporation, I’ve attended the 100th anniversary of papermaking, which was the principal reason for establishing the community. I had the honour of officially opening International Choral Kathaumixw, and the same day, I was the ceremonial starter for the BC Bike Race. Cycling is a passion of mine.
At Remembrance Day, I was touched by the enormous contribution that Powell River made to the World War efforts, both in terms of commitment of soldiers, sailors and aircrew to combat, and to the construction of aircraft material at the pulp and paper mill. During the cenotaph service, while the names of those killed in action were read, I became more aware than ever of the community’s sacrifice in assuring our freedom.
Earlier this year, Gina Kendrick and Floyd George, two extremely worthy Powell River citizens, were selected to be among the recipients of the Queen’s Jubilee medal, emblematic of 60 years of Queen Elizabeth’s monarchy. After receiving and reviewing nominations from all over the riding, these two involved and committed citizens were chosen by the independent nominating committee that I established. I had the honour of presenting their medals in a ceremony at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 164 and learning more about the contributions they’ve made to the betterment of their community.
They are not alone. During my frequent visits to Powell River, I’ve met many people who have contributed to the social fabric of the city. Because of its relative isolation, Powell River has developed a sense of community that truly stands out as an example for other communities nationwide.
The city’s leadership has also done an excellent job of accessing federal funds. Millions of dollars have been spent to upgrade infrastructure, such as at the Powell River airport and at the south harbour facility. Powell River has time and again demonstrated the strength of good cooperation and communication among the various players who can help it flourish. That formula—good communication and cooperation—has, during my tenure, made Powell River one of Canada’s most successful communities in procuring funding for its various projects.
The community has a quality of life that’s exceptional. Salt and freshwater recreation, hiking and biking trails, incredible snow in the alpine regions, as well as the splendid Powell River Recreation Complex, make the community a four-seasons playground.
The federal Electoral Boundaries Commission has recommended that Powell River return to representation from a Vancouver Island Member of Parliament, a change that would be in effect for the 2015 federal election. Reflecting communication from Powell River’s mayor and other leaders, I recently apprised a Parliamentary committee of the desire of many Powell River residents to remain in the riding with the Sunshine Coast; I expressed the desire from other parts of the riding to stay with us as well. As I stated in that hearing, it is a great honour to represent the “most beautiful place on earth.”
John Weston is the Member of Parliament serving West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country riding.
