by Corey Matsumoto

Welcome to our first publication of 2008. We enjoyed our time off in January but have been anxious to get on with a whole new year of publishing quality informative articles from the Powell River community.

You may have read in our July, 2007, issue (you can download past issues from our website) that we are intent on creating a magazine that is entirely locally produced and printed. We have been successful in keeping Immanence Magazine a fully local publication until the December/January issue, when we were forced to print about 85% of the print run out of town (gasp!) because of local printer breakdowns. This is a temporary setback. As you read this, we are working hard to acquire our own production machine, to ensure that locally printed media return to Powell River.

February 7th marks the beginning of a new cycle of the Chinese lunar calendar as the Year of the Rat returns at the head of the 12-year cycle. This symbolises new beginnings, and hope to all who wish for positive change in their lives and communities.

On this note, please participate in this month’s civic by-election by educating yourself about all six of the candidates and casting your vote on February 23rd. It’s your town, your future, and ultimately your responsibility to participate as members of the Powell River community. Help steer our city towards positive change and a prosperous future!