by Corey Matsumoto & Eva van Loon

Our last issue of 2007 is dedicated to trees –the lungs of the earth and symbols for strength, shelter, and longevity. How we depend on trees! We build our homes out of trees, burn trees for warmth, create musical instruments and works of art with trees, and write love letters and publish books on tree products. We even wipe our behinds with trees (how insulting!).

You may have noticed our new paper stock if you are reading a printed version of this issue (kudos to those who choose to download digital copies from our web site). We are experimenting with an FSC-certified paper (Forest Stewardship Council–www.fsc.org), which guarantees that the paper comes from properly managed forests. It is a small step towards reducing our impact on the planet.

Our first publication of the new year will be in February, to allow for a bit of time off to play catch up with our own lives. We are looking forward to an excellent 10-issue year in Powell River, 2008.

We invite you to think through your expectations for 2008, from Kathuamixw and sports events to the proliferation of arts and business and the elections slated for the fall. Thanks for supporting local Powell River artists and businesses, the lifeblood of our community.

We wish you all the best over those Holly Daze and into the Year of the Rat.