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This Episode Features:

(29:45) Award-winning performer Zachary Stevenson, who grew up in Parksville, shares his remarkable journey from Vancouver Island orchards to international stages across Canada, the United States, and Europe. Zachary discusses his Holly Jolly Christmas tour coming to the Port Theatre in Nanaimo this December, blending classic Buddy Holly hits with festive rock and roll favourites from Elvis and Chuck Berry. Living between Chicago and Vancouver, Zachary reflects on what Vancouver Island means to him, his award-winning Chicago theatre success, his wife Molly's acting career, and his deep appreciation for returning home to Island audiences.

(06:14) Cheryl Dill, President of the Parksville Beach Festival Society, announces the 2025 festival gave a record-breaking $88,201 back to Vancouver Island community organizations—pushing their total community contributions to an impressive $1.2 million since implementing the pay-it-forward model. With 119,092 visitors experiencing the world-renowned Quality Foods sand sculpting competition, the festival successfully relocated to a new venue in Parksville Community Park. Cheryl discusses plans for future entertainment at the outdoor theatre, including another major Canadian band for the 2026 opening concert.

Episode Highlights & Quotes:

"We gave away $88,201, which was tremendous for a little old Parksville Beach Festival Society. And that pushes our total giveaway since we've been incorporating this pay it forward model to $1.2 million back to the community." - Cheryl Dill, President of Parksville Beach Festival Society

“Growing up in Parksville, I realize what a privilege it is to grow up on Vancouver Island. Now that I'm an adult and I've spent time working and travelling and living in a whole bunch of different cities... Every time I come to Parksville, I think, wow, what a beautiful place. This is what an awesome place it is to live." - Zachary Stevenson

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