PQBeat

Host Peter McCully welcomes Rob Duncan, vice chairman of the Parksville Qualicum Foundation; 2024 marks the foundation's 25th anniversary. Duncan sheds light on the impact of these grants on diverse organizations, ranging from the Society of Organized Services to emergency response organizations, support for hospices, educational initiatives and community engagement projects, emphasizing the local nature of the foundation's efforts. "During the past 25 years, the total amount of grants and scholarships distributed by the foundation is $1.8 million,” said Duncan. “This represents all the funds we manage for both the foundation and for others.The idea is that all of the money raised in the community stays in the community." The podcast offers a comprehensive overview of the foundation's mission and impact. The conversation also highlights the Neighborhood Grants program, promoting community building with grants of up to $500 for individual projects. Duncan encourages individuals to apply for initiatives that enhance social connections and skills sharing, fostering a sense of community belonging. The Parksville Qualicum Community Foundation's role as an umbrella for various funds and scholarships is explained, offering contributors flexibility in directing their donations. More information can be found at: ParksvilleQualicumFoundation.com, for more information on grants, donations and the 25th anniversary celebrations. The PQB News podcast PQBeat can be found here.  You can also search ‘PQBeat’ on Spotify, Google Podcasts, iTunes, iHeart, Amazon or the Podcast App on your iPhone).   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Peter McCully welcomes Jen Bate, the director of the MacMillan Arts Centre, to the PQBeat podcast. Bate reflects on the success of hosting Canada's National Mosaic conference. "We welcomed probably 11,000 people to the MAC this summer,” she said. “We drew visitors from all over. We had a wonderful opening cocktail with mosaic artists from all over the country and then proceeded with what was a significant exhibit in the area for mosaics artists and fans out there." Looking ahead, Bate explains that for BC Culture Days 2024, Parksville has been chosen as the opening city for the province, promising a spectacular celebration of arts and culture. "Not only are we going to run some great programs that we have done every year but we are going to be the kickoff city for the province." The episode also touches on the collaboration with the Beach Festival Society, highlighting the anticipation for Rock the Park Festival with a lineup featuring iconic bands and plans for a Route 19A Music Festival in September, showcasing a diverse range of music in various venues. Bate provides a sneak peek into upcoming Mac School spring classes, offering a range of artistic experiences from block printing to mosaic workshops and shares the story of the Mac Community Garden, a 4,500-square-foot experimental space promoting conversation and education about food security. The PQB News podcast PQBeat can be found here.  You can also search ‘PQBeat’ on Spotify, Google Podcasts, iTunes, iHeart, Amazon or the Podcast App on your iPhone).  You will find more podcasts here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Peter McCully welcomes Paul Drummond, the recently retired general manager of Tigh-Na-Mara Resort in Parksville. Listeners are treated to a captivating journey of Drummond’s extensive career in the hospitality industry. Using humorous anecdotes and reflections, he shares insights from his 16 years at Tigh-Na-Mara and his adventures across the globe. Drummond entered the industry at the age of 16, securing a job at the Regina Inn after a brief stint at McDonald's. The conversation weaves through time, traversing his experiences in various locations, including Chicago, Minneapolis and Singapore. Listeners hear tales of encounters with notable figures like Barack Obama and Oprah Winfrey during Drummond’s time in Chicago. Drummond has worked in exotic locales such as Cairo and marvels at the ancient pyramids while sharing heartwarming memories of camel rides with his daughter in the Sahara. A rapid-fire round of questions reveals intriguing facets of Paul's life, from serving Lady Diana to his favourite regional dishes from Malaysia. Drummond and his team have been holding the annual Tigh-Na-Mara Toy Drive for the SOS for 15 years. He reflects on the community's generosity. "The community has donated over 20,000 toys, $42,000 in gift cards, $107,000 in cash and cheques,” he said. “So absolutely incredible, and I tell you, it's got to put a lot of smiles on kids’ faces that wouldn't have smiles ordinarily." Listeners gain insights into his future plans, centered around family, travel and the pursuit of a well-deserved retirement. His advice to aspiring hospitality professionals serves as a fitting finale, underscoring the endless opportunities and rewards the industry can offer. The PQB News podcast PQBeat can be found here.  You can also search ‘PQBeat’ on Spotify, Google Podcasts, iTunes, iHeart, Amazon or the Podcast App on your iPhone). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Peter McCully welcomes Patricia Plumley, a seasoned music professional and the musical director for 'A Cappella Plus' and 'Village Voices of Qualicum Beach.'" From her beginnings in Guelph, Ontario, where her love for music emerged, to her diverse musical pursuits, Plumley shares her experiences as a music teacher and director spanning over 30 years. McCully asked what impact on music can have on emotional and mental well-being. "I think it's the big healer”, says Plumley. “I think that people turned to videos and music recordings, virtual recordings. I think that was a huge part of keeping people happy, keeping people connected, keeping people in a humorous state, keeping people appreciative of all the things that were going on to help human beings stay together." Plumley has taught students as young as two and as old as 92, emphasizing the universal appeal and impact of music on individuals of all ages. The discussion reflects on her musical journey across the globe, including tours with choirs to destinations like New Zealand, Europe, China, and more recently, Spain. The Musical Director shares how the shift to online teaching brought unexpected positives, discussing virtual choir experiences. The podcast offers two musical selections, Silent Night, performed by A Cappella Plus and Christmas Lullaby, performed by the Village Voices. The PQB News podcast PQBeat can be found here.  You can also search ‘PQBeat’ on Spotify, Google Podcasts, iTunes, iHeart, Amazon or the Podcast App on your iPhone).   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Peter McCully welcomes Staff Sgt. Travis De Coene of the Oceanside RCMP, who provides insights into his experiences and challenges as a law enforcement officer. De Coene reflects on his return to the Island, childhood influences shaping his career choice, and a defining moment during a severe storm that tested the resilience of his team in Hope. McCully asked about the impact of technology on policing. "Big thing with us is AI hasn't really affected us too much right now,” said De Coene. “ALPR allows us to scan 360; it looks at all the plates, and it can run hundreds and hundreds of plates an hour." De Coene says recruitment is a significant challenge for law enforcement agencies, including the RCMP. “It's really challenging,” he said. “And of course, it's not just the RCMP, it's every other municipal force in the country that's all vying for that same small group of people." De Coene also offers valuable advice on recognizing and avoiding potential threats and scams. The PQB News podcast PQBeat can be found here.  You can also search ‘PQBeat’ on Spotify, Google Podcasts, iTunes, iHeart, Amazon or the Podcast App on your iPhone).  You will find more podcasts here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Peter McCully welcomes Gary Shade, founder of FLED (Find Lost and Escaped Dogs Vancouver Island), who shares the inspiring story of his journey in dog rescue spanning over 15 years. Originally under the radar, FLED became a charity in 2013 and has since grown exponentially. Gary discusses the challenges faced during the recent attempt to capture a wolf-dog hybrid in the Coombs area, highlighting the limitations posed by authorities and the unexpected obstacles encountered during the rescue mission. The conversation delves into the motivations behind lost dogs, the use of technology like cellular trail cameras and the unique difficulties in the rescues. "The best is a cellular trail camera," said Shade. "That's the biggest plus we've had. You can set your trap up or set the camera up, and you can monitor 24/7, even be at home." Gary also shares heartwarming success stories of reuniting lost dogs with their owners, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of these situations. "We've had a few that have been a long time,” he said. “They're out in the bush for maybe 30 days. We actually got a little border collie. He escaped from Nanaimo, and he went from Nanaimo to Duke Point, to Cassidy, to Cedar, to South Nanaimo, to Parksville, Northwest Bay, Lantzville – and we finally got him after 74 days.” The podcast sheds light on FLED 's partnerships with animal control, the SPCA, and other organizations, as well as the support received from the community. Shade provides insights for individuals encountering lost dogs and encourages support for FLED 's mission. More information on FLED can be found here. The PQB News podcast PQBeat can be found here.  You can also search ‘PQBeat’ on Spotify, Google Podcasts, iTunes, iHeart, Amazon or the Podcast App on your iPhone). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Peter McCully chats with Josie Osborne, the MLA for Mid Island-Pacific Rim and Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation. In a wide-ranging interview, discussion includes Osborne's background, experiences and insights. The episode begins with a lighthearted introduction, revealing some interesting facts about Osborne, including her self-description as a pragmatic optimist and her love for Star Trek. Osborne elaborates on the geographical area of her riding, highlighting its diversity and the unique challenges and opportunities each community faces. Common themes such as housing and climate change impact are discussed, along with the recognition each area has its own distinct issues. The conversation delves into Osborne's background in marine biology and her previous role as a fisheries biologist. She addresses the current challenges facing the fish farming industry on Vancouver Island, emphasizing the importance of protecting wild salmon and the need for a comprehensive transition plan. "First and foremost, it's really important to acknowledge that I think everybody, the fish farming industry, First Nations communities, people across BC, really value and treasure wild salmon,” she said. As the Minister of Energy, Mines, and Low Carbon Innovation, Osborne addresses the province's readiness for electrification, discussing the growing adoption of electric vehicles and the need for additional charging infrastructure. “We are ready for electrification, and we are going to get even more ready,” she said. “B.C. Hydro recently announced that they will be putting out a call for power in spring 2024 looking for about 3,000 megawatts to add to B. C.'s electricity grid." The podcast offers a speed round of questions, giving a glimpse into the MLA’s personal interests. You can also search ‘PQBeat’ on Spotify, Google Podcasts, iTunes, iHeart, Amazon or the Podcast App on your iPhone).  You will find more podcasts here.            See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Peter McCully welcomes Tigh-Na-Mara General Manager Paul Drummond and SOS Executive Director Susanna Newton, who discuss the impact and significance of this community-driven event. Paul Drummond, in reflecting on the 15 years of the Tigh-Na-Mara Toy Drive, discusses the structure of the event, which includes a hybrid approach involving a traditional breakfast for donors through Cedar’s Restaurant and at the Community Buffet Breakfast on Wednesday, November 29th. "Unbelievable, isn't it? You look back and, yeah, 15 years ago, we started this event, and it's grown and grown and it's just, it's remarkable’, said Drummond. "It's the start of Christmas, and they (Staff) really feel like they're doing something very big and important for the community." Susanna Newton talks about the impact of the Toy Drive, "Last Christmas, we saw over 1,000 local adults, including many seniors, and provided gifts for over 1,000 children and youth. So, it has significant impact for the local community.” And stressed the importance of financial donations, which assist in providing essentials like food, rent, gas, and prescription medications for those in need and seniors. The community's generosity is vital, especially in a time when many people are struggling due to the high cost of living”. From Nov. 13 to Nov. 24, Mon. – Fri., bring a new, unwrapped toy, gift card or cash donation to Cedars Restaurant during breakfast hours, and receive a free Traditional Breakfast. On Nov. 29 from 6:30 am – 10 am, the Toy Drive Breakfast event will take place. There will also be a drive-through donation drop-off from 7:30 am – 10 am. The event allows people to contribute by donating cash, gift cards, or new unwrapped toys.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Peter McCully welcomes Sarah Neal of Lantzville, who shares her remarkable journey from having a background in the frozen food industry to creating her unique business, InstaCake Cards, located in Parksville. Neal recently struck a deal with Dragons Robert Herjavec and Arlene Dickinson on the TV program 'Dragons' Den,' a significant milestone for any entrepreneur. The cards began with a simple idea: sending birthday cards with a birthday cake. Her innovative solution was to create a product that combined a cake mix, frosting, a candle and a card in an easy-to-ship package. Her background in the food industry and a eureka moment inspired her to turn the idea into reality. Neal emphasizes the advantage of thinking differently due to her dyslexia, which has made her more creative and allowed her to see opportunities where others might not. "I've actually now turned it around,” she said. “I think it's an advantage. For anybody out there, don't take it as a disadvantage, especially young kids who have learning difficulties. Turn it around, make it your strength, because it makes you see things differently." The episode also explores her appearance on 'Dragons' Den’, where she sought investment to take her business to the next level. She wanted to partner with Dragons who could offer valuable guidance. The surprise came when Herjavec and Dickinson offered her a deal with a lower percentage than she initially asked for, which left her in shock. The podcast also highlights the uniqueness of InstaCake Cards and the heartwarming stories from customers who have used the product to celebrate special occasions. Neal offers advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of following your dreams, listening to your instincts, and not letting anyone deter you from pursuing your vision. "If I don't do this, would I regret it on my deathbed?” she said. “And if it is, then you must do it because I knew that if I let InstaCake go, I was going to regret it." The PQB News podcast PQBeat can be found here.  You can also search ‘PQBeat’ on Spotify, Google Podcasts, iTunes, iHeart, Amazon or the Podcast App on your iPhone).   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Peter McCully welcomes world-class athlete Michelle Stilwell, recently inducted into the Canadian Disability Hall of Fame. The Parksville resident humbly acknowledged the company of her fellow inductees, including Chantal Benoit and former Prime Minister Stephen Harper. Their collective accomplishments have made significant strides towards inclusion and employment for individuals with disabilities, a testament to the power of advocacy. Stilwell’s Paralympic career has taken her to various corners of the world, from Beijing to Switzerland, France, Australia, New Zealand and many more. While her busy schedule often limited sightseeing, her time training in Australia holds a special place in her heart. Reflecting on her time on the podium, Stillwell shared that those moments are not just about national pride but also personal achievement, adding “I wish I could bottle those feelings and sell them.” The former Parksville-Qualicum MLA (2013 to 2020), Stillwell empowers and motivates others with her storytelling. She connects with her audience by sharing her experiences, showing them hope and inspiring them to make positive changes in their lives. She has been in demand as a public speaker, once addressing a group at NASA. The podcast delves into Stilwell’s role as a supporter of the Pacific Autism Family Network, a cause close to her heart as her son Kai is on the autism spectrum. Kai's remarkable journey from a young child with challenges to a successful entrepreneur is a testament to the power of support and understanding. He now runs a gourmet popcorn business and actively participates in the community. Stilwell's story is a poignant narrative of resilience, determination and the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity. "Obstacles are just something that's meant to get around. Something that stands in your way and you have to find a way to get around it,” said Stilwell. The PQB News podcast PQBeat can be found here.  You can also search ‘PQBeat’ on Spotify, Google Podcasts, iTunes, iHeart, Amazon or the Podcast App on your iPhone).  You will find more podcasts here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Peter McCully chats with Shelly Stouffer of Nanoose Bay, one of four inductees into the 2023 class of the BC Golf Hall of Fame, alongside Brian DeBiazio of Qualicum Beach. Golf was not an integral part of her upbringing in Prince Rupert. It was only when her parents retired to Fairwinds and while she attended Vancouver Island University that she wholeheartedly embraced the game. Shelly took a bold step in the fall of 1997 when she decided to turn professional. Her career led her to play in Asia and on mini tours in the United States, including the Futures Tour and the Players West Tour. Although she continued as a pro until 2004, Shelly put her dreams on hold to have a family. She eventually reclaimed her amateur status in 2011. One of the most remarkable moments in Shelly's golfing career was her victory at the 60th United States Senior Women's Amateur Championship in Alaska, making her the first British Columbian and only the fourth Canadian to achieve the feat. “A lot of people stuck around and watched the whole thing,” said Stouffer. “It was great. I had champagne sprayed on me. After I finished playing, I had to go do some stuff in the clubhouse, and then I came out. And they were singing, ‘O Canada’. It was very cool.” Stouffer credits her success to training. Her background in human kinetics and physical education led her to design a golf-specific fitness regimen that enhances her game. She emphasizes the importance of staying flexible and strong, even as one gets older. Brett Stouffer, Shelley’s son, has been her caddy on numerous occasions. She describes their shared adventures on the golf circuit, including trips to California and Oregon. Mom proudly reveals he recently broke par for the first time, at the age of 16. Stouffer shares insights into how the competition schedule, combined with frequent travel, impacts her life and rhythm as a golfer and reveals her strategic approach to playing on courses like Bel Air with different sides – the shiny side and the dark side. Her advice for youngsters pursuing an athletic career? "If you have a dream and you want to do anything, just keep going at it. Just believe in yourself and go do it."   The PQB News podcast PQBeat can be found here.  You can also search ‘PQBeat’ on Spotify, Google Podcasts, iTunes, iHeart, Amazon or the Podcast App on your iPhone). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Peter McCully welcomes Kelsey Pringle, co-founder of the UPLIFT Business Summit for Women, being held in Victoria. Pringle is a partner of the 5 Star Media Group, based in Parksville. The summit is a beacon of inspiration for women seeking to advance their careers, scale their businesses and prioritize their mental health and wellness. “UPLIFT came to fruition when myself and my business partner, Kathy Peterson, were chatting about what the woman experience is when you're trying to either scale your career or if you're trying to scale your business,” said Pringle. “I want you to leave with some tools that you're actually going to be able to implement the second you walk out the door, and it's going to help you better become a better version of yourself." The pair recognized the dearth of resources and mentorship for women, particularly in the domains of financial literacy, leadership and entrepreneurship. With a unique blend of analytical and creative minds, they crafted a summit that empowers women to overcome challenges, acquire practical tools, and build an uplifting community. Pringle introduces remarkable speakers like Jamie Kern Lima, who founded IT Cosmetics from her living room, and Sarah Nicole Landry, known as the Bird's Papaya, who champions body confidence. The podcast provides a comprehensive overview of the summit, highlighting its mission to empower women from diverse backgrounds and career stages. It emphasizes the practicality of the event, offering attendees tangible tools to enhance their lives and careers. Kelsey's passion and dedication to this cause shine through, making it a must-listen for anyone seeking personal and professional growth. More information on the summit can be found here. The PQB News podcast PQBeat can be found here.  You can also search ‘PQBeat’ on Spotify, Google Podcasts, iTunes, iHeart, Amazon or the Podcast App on your iPhone).   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Peter McCully welcomes Sigmund Sort of Qualicum Beach, a volunteer pilot with Hope Air. Sort is now in his fourth year of volunteering his small plane and piloting skills to individuals in financial need, particularly those seeking medical care away from home. Sort’s background as a captain in the Royal Canadian Air Force and an airline pilot made him an ideal candidate for this volunteer role. “There's just going to be a handful of us on Vancouver Island and I know there are three in Vancouver for sure. I've met them, spoken with them, shared our experiences and so forth,” said Sort. Hope Air aids more than 10,000 people annually, primarily through commercial airliners and small planes during fair-weather conditions. Sort highlights the need for such services, especially for patients who can't endure lengthy bus or train journeys. “Typically, because I'm on Vancouver Island, I'll handle patients from Vancouver Island or nearby Campbell River, Powell River, Vancouver and Squamish. It depends on the availability of myself and the weather, as well as other pilots in the program,” he said. The pilot shares his experience attending the Oshkosh Air Show and witnessing advancements in personal small air flight. “This year I got to sit in and be up close to a pilotless air taxi,” he said. “A six-seater, a big yellow taxi, six engines, vertical takeoff and landing, fully autonomous. It already knows where you're going and it just takes off and takes you there. No pilot. It's here. It's mind-blowing and it's simply amazing.” More information can be found on Hope Air here. The PQB News podcast PQBeat can be found here.  You can also search ‘PQBeat’ on Spotify, Google Podcasts, iTunes, iHeart, Amazon or the Podcast App on your iPhone).     See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Peter McCully welcomes Oceanside Generals general manager Rick Hannibal to the podcast. Hannibal talks about several changes for the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League team this year, including the loss of many key players in the off-season. “We lost 17 players,” he said. “(Some are) aging out, we traded one player away, four or five of them went up north to go and work to get on with their life - and some guys we've promoted up to Junior A.” The team GM says he’s been out scouting talent as far away as Las Vegas. “We had a year-end banquet on the 19th of April,” said Hannibal. “And two days later, I was in a rink in Duncan. And then a week later I was in Vancouver. And the two weeks after that I was in Calgary. And a month after that, I was in Las Vegas recruiting down there.” With the league’s change to Junior A status, the team we will having a new dressing room built at Oceanside Place. “We also have a new sound booth that we've put in there, it's a lot more room,” said Hannibal. “A lot more private for when our announcer is announcing the games and when our play-by-play guy is calling the game. It makes it a lot more professional that way.” On the podcast Hannibal talks about billeting players, the teams’ fan support and championship rings presented to players from the 2022-23 squad.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Peter McCully welcomes Peter Jory, the superintendent of schools for the Qualicum School District. Jory discusses various aspects of education, the challenges faced by students, the impact of COVID-19 on the school system, and the evolving role of artificial intelligence. The superintendent says the district has finished their strategic planning process, which began in the spring of 2022. ‘We’ve taken all that data through the spring working in a large diverse group of 40 volunteers and put together what we think is a plan that's going to address the needs of our kids and help us all to work towards improving educational outcomes in the next five years,” he said. Jory also talks about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the school system, emphasizing the importance of returning to the positive and enjoyable aspects of school life that were temporarily put on hold during the pandemic. McCully asks about the topic of letter grades. Jory explains they have been phased out in the district through Grade 9. However, letter grades remain a necessity at higher levels due to the practicalities of university admissions and scholarship eligibility. “The letter grades end up being a de facto sorting system,” he said. “As far as teaching and learning goes, they are an inferior product. It is just not as good set of information as what we provide through feedback, through conversation, through the proficiency scales themselves.” With artificial intelligence being used more and more in everyday life, Jory was asked about AI use in schools. “I think in everyone's best interest that we do our best to understand it and figure out how it's going to improve student learning, how we can help our kids to make good choices, to use AI to support whatever work they're doing,” he said. “The sooner that we embrace it, manage it, understand it and have our students do the same, I think the better off we're going to be.” The PQB News podcast PQBeat can be found here.  You can also search ‘PQBeat’ on Spotify, Google Podcasts, iTunes, iHeart, Amazon or the Podcast App on your iPhone). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Peter McCully welcomes Cindy Thompson to PQBeat. Thompson is a registered clinical counsellor, a certified executive coach and host of the podcast, ‘A Resilience Project’. “Our Resilience Project started in 2020 when we were all going through the pandemic,” said Thompson. ‘It seemed timely that there was a need to identify ways that we could help make a difference. I'm in the humanitarian field as a clinical counsellor. As a coach, I'm all about helping people and I felt like this was an opportunity to reach a broader population and make a difference at a time where we really needed it the most.” The podcast offers interviews that provide a message of hope. Thompson talks of her interview with Kaleb Dahlgren, a survivor of the Humboldt Broncos bus crash. “He was 19 at the time, but it was only by the fact that he was at the back of the bus that he survived and several of his teammates died in the crash,” said Thompson. “I interviewed him and he's just this amazing young man that speaks about his practices and what got him through emotionally and physically in his healing.” Thompson describes herself as a ‘possibilitarian’. “I've been working with people to realize their possibilities, and to me, I see myself as a conduit or facilitator to help people realize possibilities, because we often limit ourselves,” she said. “We have limiting thoughts. We put ourselves in a box and tend to not want to stretch outside of that. Even through doing the podcast, I'm stretching myself. It's been a huge learning curve. I also encourage people to explore possibilities within themselves that haven't yet been realized’. You will find the podcast here. The PQB News podcast PQBeat can be found here.  You can also search ‘PQBeat’ on Spotify, Google Podcasts, iTunes, iHeart, Amazon or the Podcast App on your iPhone).    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Peter McCully chats with Emilie van den Hout, a remarkable nine-year-old girl from Qualicum Beach, making a significant impact in her community as she continues to raise funds and awareness for cancer research on Terry Fox Day.\ "I wish everybody knew how Terry was suffering from cancer and he was suffering through cancer to help other people and to make their experience a bit better," said Emilie. Emilie's dedication and connection with Darryl Fox, Terry's brother, have also become sources of inspiration. The two have corresponded over the years, exchanging heartfelt messages. Darryl's encouraging words to Emilie have played a significant role in fueling her passion. "Dear Emilie, I hope you always find strength in Terry's story. Anything is possible if you try," read a touching message from Darryl. From online campaigns to door-to-door and driveway fundraisers, Emilie has gone above and beyond to contribute to the cause. One standout event was her Terry Fox ‘Fancy Party Gala’ held at the Qualicum Beach Inn, where attendees and guest Darryl Fox enjoyed silent auctions and delectable food. This successful event will become an annual tradition called ‘Friends of Fox.’ Through her various endeavors, Emilie has raised $11,000 for the Terry Fox Foundation, with the continued support of her family organizing unique driveway fundraisers where she sold cookies, water, dog treats and bracelets. ‘I have all the T-shirts. I got most of them through the Terry Fox Foundation,” said Emilie. “A woman sent them to me and said, ‘a special friend of mine would like to send these to you.’ I'm pretty sure that was probably Darryl. To stay updated on Emilie's fundraising initiatives and participate in future events, visit her website at foxsfriends.ca. Emilie’s unwavering commitment to Terry Fox's legacy is a testament to the enduring impact of one person's determination to make a difference. You can search ‘PQBeat’ on Spotify, Google Podcasts, iTunes, iHeart, Amazon or the Podcast App on your iPhone). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Peter McCully welcomes Jeremy Humpherville to the PQBeat podcast to chat about a TV show featuring the gallery and its artists. The program will trace the creation of art pieces, from the search for the right material, through the artistic process up to completion. The gallery artists do a lot of multimedia work, anything from wood to glass, iron and stone. Humpherville said the idea was initially floated five or six years ago. He was discussing a project with a client, whose brother has a connection to the film world and was impressed with the custom projects — and even more impressed when he saw the gallery. The series is planned to be 13 episodes, each approximately 30 minutes long. “We’re basically just following them as artists, kind of the life of an artist, what it’s like here on the West Coast,” said director Darren Niblock. Also appearing in the series are Jeremy and Darlene’s daughter, Thea Humpherville, as well as Levi Purjue, Lorne Hussey, Lisa Shepherd and Christopher Smith “It was very respectful. Respectful of the art, all of our artists,” said Jeremy Humpherville. He added it took some time to get used to the film crew, but after a while they forget they are being filmed. Humpherville also talks about functional art and the ‘Music by the Sea’ house project in Qualicum Beach, one of the most awarded homes in Canada. “That house is really a living piece of art,” said Humpherville. “I'm hoping it's preserved forever because, it's really a testament to this area and what we have in local talents. It was amazing what that house on Vancouver Island has accomplished in our community.” You can also search ‘PQBeat’ on Spotify, Google Podcasts, iTunes, iHeart, Amazon or the Podcast App on your iPhone). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You can also search ‘PQBeat’ on Spotify, Google Podcasts, iTunes, iHeart, Amazon or the Podcast App on your iPhone).    Host Peter McCully welcomes Kim Burden, one of the co-founders of the 100 Fine Gentlemen of Oceanside, a charitable group in Parksville Qualicum Beach. This group has been dedicated to raising funds for local charities, providing significant contributions to various organizations in need. When asked about the group's origins, Burden explained, "I looked at what the 100 Women Who Care Group were doing and the money that they were raising for various charities in our community. And I thought, the men need to step up." Inspired by the women's efforts, he sent out an email to three quarters of his Rolodex and received an overwhelming response. For Burden, the significance of their work is deeply personal. "Scrambling for money takes way too much time and takes away from actually doing the work of the organization," he said. "If we can provide them with a significant contribution, you can actually do something with that money.” Charities interested in qualifying can fill out a form on the 100oceansidemen.ca website. Burden admitted making these decisions can be challenging. "There are good groups in our community that are doing really good work," he said. "We've given roughly $150,000 to the community over the almost four years that we've been in existence." Always eager to welcome new members, the 100 Fine Gentlemen of Oceanside offers an open membership with a simple commitment to donate a hundred dollars four times a year.   You can also search ‘PQBeat’ on Spotify, Google Podcasts, iTunes, iHeart, Amazon or the Podcast App on your iPhone). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Peter McCully chats with Darren Lee of Langley who has won numerous awards for his tribute performances, including the "Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist" award at the prestigious Elvis Presley Enterprises competition in Memphis, Tennessee. Lee had a successful run in Las Vegas performing nine shows a week for 11 years as a star in the American Superstars Show, as well as a show in Maui for 4 years. McCully asked Lee about his resemblance to Elvis, and asked if he gets strange looks now and again when out at the grocery store. ‘I have a normal job where I drive a truck for a restaurant supply company. If a restaurant needs a stove or an oven or napkins or dishes or whatever, I deliver it. There are days where I will have a show that night, and so I'll go to work fully on - hair and makeup and everything and it's, Hey it’s Elvis! Another day they'll see me with a hat on my head, not shaving for a week. And then it's, Oh my God, it's Elvis! It goes with the territory and it's cool.’ Lee's tribute to Elvis is a celebration of the music and legacy of one of the greatest entertainers of all time. His attention to detail is impeccable, from his signature jumpsuits to his trademark hip-shaking dance moves. Lee’s fans rave about his energy and charisma on stage. Robin Lee, Darren’s brother is also an Elvis tribute artist. ‘He was left-handed when he was born, but my mother turned him right-handed. When he dances, it's the complete opposite of me. So, we've done a lot of shows that we call the Presley’s. It's the two of us doing the show. We don't say you are Jesse and I'm Elvis, but it was basically, what if Elvis's twin brother hadn't died at birth, would there have been two of them?’ You will find a listing of Lee’s upcoming B.C. performances here. He is scheduled to perform as part of the ‘Rock the Park’ Weekend in Parksville, Sunday August 13th at 4pm. You can also find ‘PQBeat’ on Spotify, Google Podcasts, iTunes, iHeart, Amazon or the Podcast App on your iPhone). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.