FRIDAY MAR 28 2014 VOL. 41, NO. 12
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The economics of sharing
Creature of the week
The Towers of Tuscany
A green entrepreneur comes to Bowen to talk about the “new economy”
Pretty purple sea stars are a keystone species, and crafty predator
More Bowen-lit comes to print
Proposed OCP amendments raise alarm Amendments remove limits on tourist accommodations, open door for camping and trailer parks MERIBETH DEEN EDITOR
On Monday, the former chair of the Official Community Plan (OCP) Steering Committee, Sue Ellen Fast, asked council to respect the community input presented in the plan by refraining to make further amendments to it. In September 2011, the previous municipal council, led by Mayor Bob Turner, passed a series of amendments to the document, originally crafted in 1996. On Artist Josh Van Dyke in his studio. Van Dyke was hoping to attend Capilano University’s Art Institute, but with the closure of the fine arts program at the University, he is looking for Monday, council unanimously opportunity elsewhere. passed another series of changes, Meribeth Deen, photo as recommended by the Economic Development Committee (EDC), through first reading. Fast says she is concerned both about the transparency of the process by which the OCP is being amended, and by the content. “I think these changes will come MERIBETH DEEN at Capilano was coming to an end. Bowen Islander as a big surprise to many islandHans Christian Behm was one of them. On Monday, EDITOR ers,” she says. “I see a watering he asked Bowen’s municipal council to pass a resodown of environmental protection, Less than one year ago, just weeks before the end lution asking the governors of Capilano College to and changes that will lead to urban of term at Capilano University, students in the fine declare a moratorium on the program’s closure. sprawl across the island.” arts program learned that their department was Fast points specifically to changclosing. The younger students enrolled in the Studio continued, PAGE 3 es proposed to “Goal 6” of the Arts program would be able to complete their two“Twelve Fundamental Goals of the year diplomas, but for mature students in the Art OCP,” as an example of the lowerInstitute program, the closure meant their education
Former student looks to North Shore municipalities to save art school
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MER IBET ration H DEE N s will be those detail ntal assessment proEDITO H DEEN R MER IBET the environmeit is conducted by the Howe Soun R ncial govish cess, whether d is a place EDITO Bowen is nment, Provi wher mill near Squam one Federal gover A former pulp shores of Howe erning this of five governing e watersheds and both. boundarie West ernment or Ngo says Woodfibre s converge. estry distr region are the Islan municipalities on on the North a chance at a secicts, First Howe Soun get ds Trusts, However, o to provide Hydr Elect Natio three Sound may Liquefied Natural Gas y, d. Also govBC ed ns, as regio offic a is expecting compress the Sound have ials from the commwell as provincia nal districts, three ond life as ssing and export facilit needed to (the gas forbeen meet unities whos l and federal the power liquid form est, they come (LNG) proce National Energy Board gove ing for a a- natural gas into d to approximately decade to e watersheds feed rnments. together unde Forum. At now that the the company’s applic coole into the r the bann discuss issues of their last needs to be Celcius). common palities, regio er of the meeting, has approved t LNG. The Canadian es Howe Soun inter the represency -160 degre together to nal governments eleven signees d Commun n, Bowen’s tion to expor Assessment Agen Frinto Air (whi and Peter urge ntal ity Clean ch include the Squamish the federal coordinat Environme g for public comment Sea to Sky conmuniciand ed Natio tative to the while the Society is n 14th, they strategy for the Sounprovincial governme n) agreed to work is now askin federal environmensays lizatio ty, are hoping a Socie to give to the re-industria on whether is required, and to hear whatd. At their next meetnts to help build a the cerned about d in general, the use y ing, on Janu higher level al tal assessmentrequest by the Province Bowen munprocess. largel s of governme ary d for the annu of Howe Soun icipal coun ct the e of power meeting as nt are willin whether the zed bia to condu d be of hydro as a sourc of Howe Soun a representa cillor Wolfgang g illy waters Trust. rns about locali of British Columassessment, shoul Dun tive of Bow the chilly ntal alleviates conce en but also tz will be attending mers brave environme “Part of this as a trust water)! Swim air pollution. need to know the speee from the wanted to the reason I ran as approved. ct goes forward, inside (the suka, photo Islands a trust change the I think if “We really Baby it’s cold focused on If the proje 3-4 tankers – each fact that the ee with the Islan Frinton, “butal gas to dip. Kami Kanet says ” , Bear the ely ds cifics organizatio issues just Trust is beca Polar “And I can approximat and a half times the burning natur affec n was use they were plant they would likely the region tell you that that hasting the specific Gulf so inward looking, I roughly one Ferries Coastal Class their r is seeing . From powe an avalanchechanged drastically Islands,” says Dun so opposition The “thre size of a BC the ferries that tz. as , I am a lot in the past of threats. face a lot more he says peopats” Duntz points Ferry (such Horseshoe bay and perspective big pic” year as now to en the my personal years ago. le in the Southern include shellfish travel betwe will pass by Bowen rned about and in the farm Gulf Islan more conce comes to air quality, ds were relati ing, whose impa “After a num Nanaimo) month. Propelled by the paramedics it gas ct directly to ture when vely naive ber of these as a lance. does to the say, greenhouse Island every the patient about five proje using diesel of the ambu , we call the thee age of questions about d through the natual gas and lled nger seats debris and landscape and they cts have gone throu create an emergency the message,” natur fuel, the double-hu tonnes iverr and passe paged forKare dam don’t like drive emissions try as a whole.” ed it,” he says. gh, people see what Duntz says age that gets left back-up million n receiv n we get ed Hughes 2.1 we indus we’ve , “Whe n-bas gas carry that behin lance “And it DEEN new prop ral and a few rm H d when they they see all geoducks , the Bowe to China the ambu tankers will osals for eth Deen MER IBET her to confi n weMerib tcher get into , which is the ispatc natural gas Merran Smith Energy with dispa photo tcher as it of her “homied “Whe entirely new similar projects close down.” will mean dispa ies” at the of liquef R Clean 225 was (incl tank EDITO ays Donohue. ation collected by the says the thing to com- director of endgerofofthe year. ce Station through the ers shipping, coal,to the region), plus uding the farm da, says that that it is a Year’s eve lance Servi scho ing of ed soft- every n Ngo, the mana al olTides area have get the inform indu oil and liqui day Cana he BC Ambu in the lead up to Newhue says that LNG is Mario fibre Natur at BICS “Before we raise offer is updat about d natural strial plans that busy . s with Wood comes in.” new system does not es the ambulance make judge d the alarm. remember an Dono gas will be unusually tion,” says munication the project is still in edic Brend ber 29th ments on going that ensur Dun What the locations. fossil fuel. these thing this year. Paramen midnight on Decem PAGE 2 GPS system to four The islan tz. MER route emergency il, this is Gas Ltd., says s of planning, so eles, we need continued, ware for the the most directIBET H DEEenNO’Ne shift betwe ber 30th, he responded lly more infor that could ds in Howe Soun the early phase technology, engir Colle during his typica E D I T inato rs take d face a whol maDecem the drast g ding on drive cts O coord ically ight R durin regar Circle in the change the e other ments and midn he says, is unusual cts of the proje For Caring to those calls a comregion’s lands set of projects , 2 neering and impa a rn. - a large hotel hue drove On the last whole other proposals calls, which cape: ued, PAGE a major conce equipped with r season. Dono -marina of school Hughes said daycontin - a gravel Hughes saidstory.” slow winte ambulance, which is . 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Maureen Sawasy 604.947.2442
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FRIDAY 4 JAN 03,, N201 O. 01
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ing of environmental protection as a priority. As the OCP is currently written, Goal 6 is: To manage growth in a way that is conditioned by the natural environment and respects social and economic diversity. The proposed amendment rewrites the goal as: To manage growth in a way that respects social and economic diversity, and the natural and built environments. Fast told council that the OCP Steering Committee “took in over 700 points of community contact” in the form of community meetings, surveys, and individual submissions prior to writing the amendments to the plan. “This is the community’s Official Community Plan,” says Fast. “People told us time and again that they want Bowen to be a green oasis, to keep the parks as parks, and a compact village centre. These amendments make way for the Cove to sprawl and for the north side of the Cove, which is now parkland, to be developed.”
ble and Treata Detectable
2 • FRIDAY MARCH 28 2014
WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM
Give a thumbs up to Bowen LIFT, Bowen LIFT might just give back DG BLAIR
Is sharing the solution for Bowen’s economy? MERIBETH DEEN EDITOR
SUBMISSION
Bowen LIFT (Linking Islanders through Friendly Transportation) wants to grow and we need your help. Over the next six months, Bowen LIFT is going to be running some programs to encourage ride-sharing. The more people we have participating, the easier it will be to share rides! To kick things off, we want to build membership on the Bowen LIFT Facebook group. The Facebook group exists to help drivers and riders from Bowen Island find rides and riders both on and off island. It is a secure site -all participants are vetted by a group administrator to make sure they are part of the Bowen Island community. Our aim is to get to 400 members by the end of 2014. To encourage ride-sharing and make it more fun, we're offering a gift certificate each week for the next six weeks to a lucky driver who offers a ride through our Facebook page. We have had an awesome start: we have increased our membership from 140 to 305 members in just one week, surpassing our expectations! Congratulations to Peter Wrinch who offered a ride this week and has won a $10 gift certificate to The Snug. Upon receiving the certificate, Peter commented “I really love the LIFT idea. It is cool to travel with people and it is good for the Earth. Total win-win. Thanks for the gift certificate.” Each week for the next five weeks, we'll announce another winner from those who offer rides through our FB group. So don't forget to invite your Bowen FB friends to join Bowen LIFT and share rides. The more members, the more ride sharing. Go to www.bowenlift.com to find out more or to join the Bowen LIFT Facebook group.
Enthusiasm for LIFT and LIFT gift certificates abound. Peter Wrinch holds his gift. DG Blair, photo
I N V I TAT I O N T O P U B L I C O P E N H O U S E
COMMUNITY LANDS REZONING (LOT 2) Monday, April 14, 2014 • 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm Cates Hill Chapel, 661 Carter Road, Bowen Island, BC (A presentation and Q&A period will be held at 6:30 pm) Bowen Island Municipality is considering amendments to Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 282, 2010 and to Land Use Bylaw No. 57, 2002 to provide for the development of the southern half of Lot 2 of the Community Lands for a range of residential, commercial and civic uses, including a future community centre. The area under consideration consists of approximately 6 acres situated on the north side of Bowen Island Trunk Road between Seniors Road and Bowen Island Community School. The purpose of Bylaw No. 353, 2014 is to amend the Official Community Plan to add Village Commercial uses to the Village Residential and Institutional uses allowed under the current designation, and to make a number of amendments to provide for future development. The purpose of Bylaw No. 354, 2014 is to amend the Land Use Bylaw to rezone the property from Passive Park, to a comprehensive development zone that would permit a “Community Campus” which could include fitness and recreational space, performance and cultural space, municipal offices, and other civic uses, townhouses and apartments, daycare, and secondary office, retail and medical clinic uses. You are invited to attend this preliminary public open house and provide your comments on these proposals. Should Council give initial readings to bylaws, a formal Public Hearing will be held at a later date. Background information, including draft bylaw amendments, background reports, and a comment sheet are available on the municipal website, under “Current Topics” at www.bimbc.ca. • 981 Artisan Lane, Bowen Island, BC, V0N 1G2 • TEL: 604-947-4255 • FAX: 604-947-0193 • • e-mail: bim@bimbc.ca • website: www.bimbc.ca •
The Knick Knack Nook, Bowen Island LIFT, and the Bowen Buy/Sell/Trade/Loan Facebook Page are all great examples of our community’s inclination to share, re-use, save a few bucks and cut the amount of junk we’re sending to the landfill all at the same time. We might not know it but, by buying, selling, donating and loaning, we are participating in the “sharing economy.” It’s also known as the collaborative economy, and David Van Seters says that there is always room to grow it, and by doing so our local economy can find the boosts it is looking for without having to “attract” dollars from the global economy. “The old model of economic development looks to create full-time jobs, looks for inputs from the outside,” says Van Seters. “Things are changing, and in the new economy people engage in multiple activities that add up to the same, or provide even greater benefit, than a single job. Small communities in particular tend to find greater success in tapping their idle assets.” Van Seters says Facebook is not actually the ideal platform for sharing and trading. “It wasn’t designed to be a buy and sell, and when you compare Facebook to platforms that are, its shortcomings are obvious. If Bowen is serious about a sharing economy, the community should establish a separate platform for the express purpose of sharing and trading goods and services. Imagine one place where you could go to see what’s available in terms of land, cars and clothing? In a small community, you also have the opportunity take these things from the digital to tangible events easily, making them even more relevant.” Van Seters is the entrepreneur behind Spud, a grocery delivery service that started with the aim of cutting out the middle-man between farmers and food buyers, delivering to homes on a direct route to cut the consumption of fossil fuels. Van Seters also comes by his interest in sustainability honestly, as he is a trained environmental biologist who learned business by necessity when he was made a manager of the environmental consulting company that he worked for, “Midway through my MBA I realized that if we really want to solve environmental problems we need to change the way the traditional economy operates,” he says. Van Seters says that no economic model has impressed him quite like the sharing economy. “From an environmental perspective, it’s a direct method of curbing consumption. From a social perspective, sharing builds community, but when you look at it from an economic perspective, that’s where the benefits are really compelling.” continued, PAGE 8
B O W E N I S L A N D M U N I C I PA L I T Y
GRANTS-IN-AID Spring Cycle 2014 Deadline for Applications March 31, 2014 Applications for the fall cycle Grants-in-Aid will be accepted until March 31, 2014. Information about the program criteria, Grants-inAid policy and application forms are available at Municipal Hall, and on our website www.bimbc.ca or contact Municipal Hall at 604-947-4255. Bowen Island Municipality 981 Artisan Lane Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G0 Fax: 604-947-0193
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FRIDAY MARCH 28 2014 • 3
A last-minute rescue effort for Capilano University fine arts
Hans-Christian Behm holds a piece of his calligraphic watercolours and stands behind a wood block carved for printing. Since Capilano University shut down its Art Institute, Behm has been working from his tiny Snug Cove apartment. Meribeth Deen, photo
from PAGE 1
Behm says that Bowen Island and other North Shore municipalities will suffer because of the closure of Capilano’s fine arts program, because its graduates receive a unique education which prepared them for a lifetime of contribution in artistic fields but also one which prepared them with the skills and tools required to live well and engage with others. Behm, who is 74 years old, started his career as an artist in 2008 with his entry into the Capilano Art Institute. “My daughter in-law’s grandmother recommended me, and when I told them that I used to be an architectural designer they were really happy to let me in because they valued my experience,� says Behm. Behm says the relationship between the Art Institute, which could be compared to a residency for mature artists, and the Studio Arts program was one of mentorship. “Wayne Eastcott, who is one of Canada’s premiere printmakers, this was his idea,� says Behm. “The philosophy is that the more experienced people can demonstrate skills and help to engage the younger students, and in return they offer us the sense of excitement, and the newness of life. The young people I worked with over the years in this way have become like family to me in a way, and when I liked their work, I would trade them for it, and so I am invested in their careers.� Behm says he was always astounded by the discipline, concentration, and dedication of the young students he worked with. “I never saw a fight among them,� he says. Behm says that the school’s resources, both in materials
and in the knowledge of their teachers, are invaluable. “I will be devastated to see the materials sold for scrap,� he says. “In the printmaking studio we had a printer worth $27 thousand, and what will happen to that? When you look at the bronze foundry, you have all of this casting equipment, cauldrons, moulds. These are things that on their own are not valuable; it is in this context they become extremely valuable.� Behm says that the school’s bronze foundry was run by George Ramel, “Bill Reid’s main man, and one of Canada’s greatest sculptors.� “As Bill Reid’s Parkinsons progressed, it was Ramel who would execute his ideas,� says Behm. “I saw George Ramel on his knees at 6am trying to help a student finish up his graduation project. His dedication to them is incredible.� Bowen-based artist Josh Van Dyke, who was set to enter the Art Institute Program just prior to its closure, but had the already attended Capilano as a student in the Studio Arts program in 2002. “It was a really amazing experience,� says Van Dyke. “At Capilano you actually learned how to make things, how to paint or how to build, which is a refreshing alternative to other schools.� He says that after a stint learning metalwork in Scotland, he was inspired to go back to Capilano in part because of the access it would provide him to their foundry. “As an artist, I expect these kinds of hiccups,� he says. “I can’t build a metal foundry at my house, but there are various options for accessing foundries. What I can’t replace that I would have gotten at Capilano was the opportunity
T IDES
REGULAR SCHEDULE
In Effect December 30, 2013-March 31, 2014
Leave Snug Cove
5:30 am # 6:30 am** 7:30 am** 8:30 am 9:30 am 10:30 am 11:30 am 12:30 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm †5:00 pm 6:00 pm 7:00 pm * 8:00 pm 9:00 pm 10:00 pm
VANCOUVER Horseshoe Bay
6:00 am** 7:00 am** 8:00 am 9:00 am †10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 2:25 pm 3:30 pm 4:30 pm 5:30 pm 6:30 pm 7:30 pm * 8:30 pm 9:35 pm
Leave Horseshoe Bay
â–ź
BOWEN ISLAND Snug Cove
Distance: 3 NAUTICAL MILES Crossing Time: 20 MINUTES
HIGH FEET Fri.
#
DAILY EXCEPT SUNDAYS AND STATUTORY HOLIDAYS
*
DAILY EXCEPT SATURDAYS
**
DAILY EXCEPT JAN 1
â€
THE WEDNESDAY SAILINGS WILL BE REPLACED BY DANGEROUS CARGO SAILINGS. NO OTHER PASSENGERS PERMITTED.
H:12 L: 6
0451 1644 Sat. 0529 1745 Sun. 0604 1840 Mon. 0638 1933 Tue. 0711 2025 Wed. 0744 2119 Thurs. 0817 2214
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LOW FEET 1105 2302 1150 2351 1233
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0037 1314 0121 1356 0205 1437 0251 1518
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to work with people like George Ramel. I know that he is someone I could learn a lot from, but also someone who knows how to just let his students be artists.� Another Bowen-based artist, Gregg Simpson, is supporting Behm in his bid to keep Capilano’s Studio Arts programs alive. “Art schools these days are not like when I went to the Vancouver School of the Arts, when everything smelled like oil paint,� says Simpson. “They are about theory, and cultural theory. This kills the poetic spirit, and people don’t want to go see art that comes from a place like that.� Simpson says he has received a letter from North Vancouver Mayor Richard Walton saying he would write a letter asking for a moratorium on the closure of the Capilaon fine arts program. “We’re not going down without a fight,� says Simpson. Mayor Jack Adelaar told Behm that he has already written one letter against the closure of the art program at Capilano. “I believe I have a good relationship with other mayors, and I’d be willing to stick my oar in the water for you on this issue,� he said. Council decided to wait until April 14 to make a decision about Behm’s proposed resolution. Behm says that time is of the essence, and he will move forward on bringing his request before the other municipal councils as soon as possible.
Places of Worship Welcome You BOWEN ISLAND UNITED CHURCH Rev. Shelagh MacKinnon
Service and Sunday School: 10:30 a.m. Collins Hall Bookings: Helen Wallwork Minister of Music: Lynn Williams
FOOD BANK DROP-OFF
BOWEN ISLAND COMMUNITY CHURCH Pastor Clinton Neal 1070 Miller Road 604-947-0384 Service 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10:30 a.m.
ST. GERARD’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Mass: 10:30 a.m. Priest: Father James Comey
604-988-6304
CATES HILL CHAPEL www.cateshillchapel.com 604-947-4260
(661 Carter Rd.)
B N 8PSTIJQ r 4VOEBZ 4DIPPM 5PUT UP 5FFOT 1BTUPS Dr. James B. Krohn
4 • FRIDAY MARCH 28 2014
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EDITORIAL
Spring Cleaning and no Spring Clean-Up MERIBETH DEEN EDITOR
A few months ago someone walked into the office of the Undercurrent, to pay a bill I think, and started offering his opinions as people often do. He said that there is a dark heart to Bowen Island, and it sucks people in and if they are lucky, it spits them out. I realized last Friday evening that the dark heart is in fact, the Undercurrent office. I’m not sure how long the paper has been run out of this particular location but I am fairly sure that it has never been cleaned. It also appears that at least some of the people who worked here had a tendency toward pack-rat type behaviour, and never bothered to clean up their belongings upon departure. When our new publisher agreed to pay for a
paint job of our place, I never imagined the random loot we’d dig up in here. If you’re at the Nook this weekend you might happen upon some of it. Many of the other odds and sods are being sorted through at BIRD as I write, I am sure. I am deeply thankful for these Bowen institutions, simply for existing and taking all this stuff off our hands. It would be much easier just to dump it, but it would also induce a lot of guilt, and probably end up costing more in the end. Which brings up another matter of concern: the municipality, in their persistent belt tightening, has cut Spring and Fall Clean-Up Days. This will save us taxpayers $31 thousand per year, but will it cost more in the long-run?. I know that a great many of us here will do what we’re supposed to, and call up Bowen Waste Service or Mike’s Bins and pay them directly to
Five is fine with me Dear Editor,
The Write Stuff. The Undercurrent encourages reader participation in your community newspaper. You must include your full name and a daytime phone number (for verification only). The editor reserves the right to edit for clarity, legality, brevity and taste.
While it is unfortunate Wolfgang Duntz and Daron Jennings chose to resign, I think it appropriate to give them credit for the good things they did during their 2.5 years on council. Some are far too quick to criticize for that thankless, underpaid position while many of us, myself included, are not prepared to sacrifice both our business and personal lives for public service. We can speculate until the cows come home, should they or should they not have stood for election in the first place? In light of their election success (as in number of votes) many thought they should, in spite of the “conflict of interest” baggage they possessed. I give them credit for trying and equal credit for their resignation decision late in their term in order that taxpayers need not be subjected to the cost and dis-
Here’s how. To submit a letter to the editor, fax 604-947-0148 or mail it to #102, 495 Government Rd., PO Box 130, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G0 or email editor@ bowenislandundercurrent.com. B.C. Press Council. The Undercurrent is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body governing the province’s newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about the conduct of member newspapers. Directors oversee the mediation of complaints, with input from both the newspaper and the complaint holder. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the B.C. Press Council. Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent to B.C. Press Council, 201 Selby St., Nanaimo, B.C. V9R 2R2. For information, phone 1-888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org.
haul-off our old mattresses and such. I also have this niggling feeling that there will be people who won’t, and mystery junk will line our streets. So while the municipality is doing nice things like helping good citizens discard waste they find on our beaches, and helping others to bring tourists to the island... garbage and how our community deals with it may-well cease to remain a point of pride. I am worried about this, but I think it will bother me less if I just hide in the office. After all, we’ve already disposed of all our junky furniture. Thanks to a fresh coat of paint, and Maureen Sawasy’s very powerful vacuum cleaner, I think we can now officially deem the Undercurrent a safe-zone. You’re all welcome to visit, albeit briefly, we’ve got deadlines. While you’re here, please check the lost and found, I think we’ve got your old flip-phone..
Moving on Dear Editor and Fellow Islanders, My husband, Don and I moved just last week from Bowen to Vancouver after almost eighteen years. We wish to thank all of you that we have had the pleasure of knowing during that time and in particular, our Mt. Gardner neighbours. We have found Bowen to be a place of fiercely passionate, independent people. We have been enlarged by them and by the beauty of this place. As we leave, we offer this blessing:
here of a shared love. Through your example may we walk a middle-way between poles of opposites, Where people can have their opinions yet be held by the tensile thread of connection. May deer, seal, chickadee, crow, Merganser, raven and heron remind us of our animal nature. May your “real beauty” be found within your darkness. May you dream awake the dream of being resilient in the days to come.
May your immense beauty of trees, rock and ocean remind those who live
With love and gratitude from Don and Diane Marshall
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traction of a byelection. I have full confidence in the remaining five elected council members and suggest the $15,000 cost, plus city hall staff time of a byelection, would be far better spent on some other more pressing needs in the community. Take your pick as there are many. I sense the “political need” for a byelection is political in more ways than one, so let’s leave the politics to the full election which is only six months away. Really, let’s balance the risk of finishing off this term with five council members vs. the gain and cost (byelection and salaries) of seven. It will not be long before we are into the ramp-up to the full election so why start it any earlier than is absolutely necessary? Many other small communities do quite fine with councils of five! Sincerely, R.B. (Bruce) Russell
Special thanks to Davies Pharmacy for making medical equipment accessible Dear Editor, The Med-Shed (previously known as the Community Cupboard) is extremely grateful to the kind folks at Davies Pharmacy in North Vancouver for their recent donation of two four-wheeled walkers valued at $500 new. For those who might not know about our existence, the Community Cupboard loans out medical assistive
devices to Bowen Islanders in need. The Med-Shed is located just behind the library and has a wide assortment of crutches, canes, walkers, grab bars, and raised toilet seats. Drop by during library hours to check out the supplies. Sincerely, Sandy Logan and on behalf of the Bowen Island Library’s Med-Shed program
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FRIDAY MARCH 28 2014 • 5
From baseball to retirement: This week in Undercurrent history Four short pieces in The Lane MAUREEN SAWASY
MARCUS HONDRO
UNDERCURRENT HISTORIAN
THE SLOW LANE
25 years ago in the Undercurrent
The Islands Trust had given the Union Steampship Marina bylaw a fourth reading making it final. A development permit was issued to determine the style of the buildings. The Cates Hill project, put forth by Doug Berry and Wolfgang Duntz was referred to the APC. Once it was through this process, Duntz and Berry could then send in an application to the Trust. Ambulance Station Bylaw #80 was given a second and third reading effectively passing the bylaw allowing for a new ambulance station on Miller Road to be constructed.
20 years ago in the Undercurrent
The headline on the March 25, 1994, the Undercurrent read: “Architects plan first community centre – Centre to house meeting rooms, library, preschool, pool and a 200-seat auditorium with a stage.” Architectural firms had been hired by the Bowen Island Parks and Recreation Commission to explore the conceptual design. Estimates put the cost at $120 per square foot with the site likely being built on the nine acres of GVRD-owned land to the north of the community school. Construction would take upward of 10 to 15 years to offset the cost and approval for the project would have to come from a community referendum.
15 years ago in the Undercurrent
After five months of attempted negotiations the GVRD Electoral Areas Committee voted to authorize legal action against the Legion for failing to address noise complaints. GVRD Director Richard Littlemore expressed that he had been trying to contact the Legion to work through a resolution but the Legion had yet to respond to any of his letters.
10 years ago in the Undercurrent
The Bowen Island Municipal Council were making headway in their effort to enforce a noise complaint bylaw that had been inherited from the GVRD when Bowen became its own municipality. In the bylaw, to be included in the two-year strategic plan, proposed penalties ranged from $50 for a first offence to $500 for continued non-compliance.
5 years ago in the Undercurrent
The RCMP reported their stats for 2008: thefts – 52 disturbing the peace – 46 suspicious occurrences – 37 property damage – 28 break and enter – 22 assaults – 14 drug incidents – 8 animal calls – 7
Ring in April with a gag against ridiculous plans for BC Ferries Dear Editor and Bowen Island Community,
Scheduled fare increases (arriving April 1) and service cuts are no joke. Still, some of us think it is worth using our our collective island wit to show BC Ferries and the BC Liberal government what we think of their ridiculous proposals. On Sunday March 30 at 1pm down by the ferry dock in Snug Cove come gather with us as we play a joke on BC Ferries for once. We are busy making up a sign that will make you grin and want to have the biggest group of islanders standing behind it so we can say to BC Ferries and to the Liberal government that their plans are a Joke! We had a good turnout for the protest but now let’s blow that turnout out of the water. So feel free to bring along any funny signs and goofy smiles! On April 1 we will then send our April Fool’s photo to Christy Clark, Todd Stone (Min. For transportation and Infrastructure), Jordan Sturdy (MLA West Vancouver/Sea-to-Sky) and the press to say Stop this Silliness! Looking forward to seeing you this Sunday! Bowen Islanders for Ferry Fairness. Please see our Facebook page BIFF: Bowen Islanders for Ferry Fairness, Bowen Island Forum postings, and website (sites.google.com/site/biffonbowen) for updates. Sincerely, Melanie Surtees-Mason Bowen Islanders for Ferry Fairness
My all-time favourite Slow Lanes are easily those ones where I use italics at the top of the column to denote something different about it, as I am doing here. I feel almost chuffed at including italics at the top and suspect it somehow makes me feel more important. At any rate, today italics are being utilized to inform you that this is not one continuous, connected column, but rather a series of four short pieces on various unrelated topics. So, well, without further ado: Bowen baseball begins sometime toward the end of April, so it is almost time. In my experience, players and teams earnestly consider having a practice before the season starts, but the best laid plans of mice and island ball players often go awry. Which is another way of saying that often the teams assemble for the first time on opening day. Last year the Firemen got back to winning, that coming after the Shakers finally won a championship in 2012 and the Diggers in 2011. I never won a championship in my seven seasons, though I got to the final once. The final is fun to play in, lots of fans and a nice buzz to the park. I remember I got a hit in the final, though don’t recall if it was off of Phil “Philbert” Wood or Mike ‘the Cannon’ Carachelo. If you haven’t experienced it, Snug Cove Field is a great park to watch a game in. Sitting in the sun with friends and neighbours and watching baseball while the kids shove one another about in their quest to be the first to get to a foul ball and earn 50 cents, is a fine way to spend an island evening. It is coming again soon and for, I believe, the 28th consecutive season. _______ I’ve always felt living in a smaller community should make some potentially contentious events be less so due to the greater likelihood of knowing one another. You have a better idea of someone’s character after talking to them on the ferry umpteen times or at the Thanksgiving dinner, etc. I sat next to Premier Christy Clark at one of my son’s hockey games. Her son, Hamish, is also a goalie and Keelan plays Hamish’s Kits team – but I don’t know her as I do local politicians. Indeed, I can’t recall more than nodding hello and mostly all I remember is some of the mothers on our team continuing to cheer loudly when our West
Van kids scored despite already being up by four goals. It felt kinda embarrassing, like we were rubbing it in. Anyhow, the point is that on island we can get to know others easily, our politicians included. So it is that I know Wolfgang Duntz and Daron Jennings a little and know them to be caring, honest humans. I don’t care what business they’re involved with, or that they felt they should resign council to avoid the potential of a perceived conflict of interest. I know they each have our best interests at heart and wouldn’t try and hoodwink islanders or in any way be duplicitous. Period. ________________________________
I expect we most of us consider now and again how it is that we should behave in the world. I do. I might consider if I’m too loud, too nosey, do I tell overlong stories, pontificate too much or present opinions that could be categorized as foolish or, worse, objectionable. Sometimes I’ll get on the ferry and think the following: “Let’s just have a quiet ride.” If I’m lucky enough to be with the wife that trip, I’ll try to stick by her and simply smile nicely at folks who walk past and just say hi. I’ll aim for a ride with no jokes, no kibitzing, no hungrily wandering about looking for the most fun group to spend the trip with. Just be “normal” and sit and talk quietly, or even not talk at all. I haven’t managed to do that yet but hey, it’s only been a decade of trying. ________________________________ I was unaware Louise, an excellent and long-serving ferry employee, retired in December. One gets accustomed to ferry workers taking vacations and then by happenstance not being onboard during one of their shifts for a while and such, and so it that it took a while before I noticed her missing and asked. Most of you will know her and join me in wishing her many happy and healthy years not serving us and of getting to be elsewhere. If Lynne or Barb or anyone else on the ferry is in touch with her perhaps they will pass along this: all the best from Bowen Island and thankyou for the many years of cheerful service. We all of us have but a limited amount of trips on the Bowen ferry.
Personal planning trumps democracy Dear editor, Even if I lived on the other side of the island I would be actively objecting to the method of ‘behind closed doors’ planning that has taken place as it has the appearance of creating development opportunities for the two councillors who ran for and were elected to council in 2011. Their recent resignations appear to be an example of personal planning trumping any vestiges of service to the constituents of Bowen for whom they had purported to want to serve by running for council. “Conflict of interest” hardly describes what now appears as their possible business intent to bid on Lot 2, of the “community lands” so development, possibly under their control, could happen. How does that contribution to decision-making that involves those lands and the rezoning of them, not suggest manipulation of the democratic process? Addressing only one aspect of seemingly planned intent will not adequately hold to account any inappropriate influence over development outcomes on community lands. What has been lacking is total transparency and open and accessible opportunities for the citizens of Bowen to hear and participate in discussions for the use of those lands. Understanding how all the parts
work together to produce an end result is critical to homogenous island living. However, that “end result” in the case of the “Community Campus” design, appears to have provided a possible open door opportunity for these developers to bid on land they will have made ripe for the bidding. Participatory democracy is not just an ideal to be ignored it is the basis for our very way of life. Proposed changes to the OCP to accommodate the density that the “community campus” design requires is just one questionable element in this “process.” The two other parts to be examined are both the number of times conflict of interest by the developers required them to leave the council chambers; and also the formation of community ‘advisers’ some of whom might possibly be sympathetic to such planning due to benefits to be accrued in terms of secondary (to the developers’ interests) interests being realized. Wise and careful recognition of the incredible value of Bowen’s community lands to future ongoing benefits for this island should have been, and still should be, open to discussion by the whole community of Bowen. Sincerely, Edna Thomson
6 • FRIDAY MARCH 28 2014
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A constellation of a keystone species DENIS LYNN SPECIAL TO THE UNDERCURRENT
A tird of ochre or purple sea stars off the coast of Bowen Island. Adam Taylor photo
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The carnivorous purple sea star, Pisaster ochraceous, is an echinoderm (echinos = hedgehog; derma = skin), related to sea urchins, sand dollars, and sea cucumbers, found in the intertidal zone of the Pacific Northwest. This colourful species, ranging from orange to deep purple, grows up to 25 cm from arm to arm, may live up to 20 years, and is strong enough to pull their preferred prey of mussels off the rocks and drag them deeper into the ocean to eat them. If they cannot pull the mussel off, the sea star will cough up its stomach, and sneak into the clam or mussel through openings as small as one-tenth of a millimeter. It will proceed to digest its prey from the insideout. It will then contract its muscles and pull the stomach back in. Robert Paine, with the University of Washington, noticed that when P. ochraceous was abundant the diversity of the intertidal community was higher than in its absence. From this observation, he proposed the concept of a keystone species. An organism that falls into this category plays a critical role in maintaining the ecological structure of its community. When Paine and his collaborators systematically removed a group of sea stars (a tird, such a group is called) from a habitat, more than 20 species of other invertebrates disappeared. The Mytilus californianus, or California mussel, took over (and this mussel, as it happens is the sea star’s favourite prey). Thus, the presence of the purple sea star can be used as an indicator of the “health” of the intertidal zone, if one considers a healthy intertidal zone to have a higher diversity of species. According to Bowen Island diver and marine enthusiast Adam Taylor, Pisaster ochraceous have not suffered as much as other kinds of sea stars from the recently reported die-off of sea stars in the Pacific Northwest. This has been caused by Sea Star Wasting Disease. “My personal observations from 70-odd dives over the past year are that sunflower stars had a 99% die-off and other stars saw a 25-75% die-off,” says Taylor. “There is no 'smoking gun' as to the cause but most experts feel that the recent overpopulation of sunflower stars left them vulnerable to disease. They were literally stacked on top of each other and were eating almost everything in the 10-45 foot depth range. They were beautiful to see but it was obvious that they were overpopulated.” Taylor says that the purple sea star populations face other threats. “Their numbers have been in decline for the past 25 years or so. There used to be huge rafts of them along Bowen's rocky shorelines, sometimes 100 metres long. A parasite has been eating the male gonads, lowering their numbers and limiting their population. This is essentially a parasitic castration.” Denis Lynn is a professor emeritus in integrative biology, University of Guelph, and an adjunct professor in Zoology, University of British Columbia.
A note from Dax Hutcheson No dog had a better life than I did. My dad, Chuck, rescued me. He brought me to Bowen Island where I made lots of friends…fourlegged and two-legged. I hiked, boated, swam, ran, sat in the sun for hours…and had lots of bacon! Everyone was so generous to me with their time, their smiles, their pats and scratches. Everyday was full of fun and happiness for me. Thanks to all of you for a great dog’s life. I’ll miss you all….especially my dad. Dax Hutcheson passed away peacefully in the arms of his best friend on March 24, 2014!
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Brownie points galore on Mother’s Day KAREN COWPER SUBMISSION
You could make May 6th a very special evening, whether as a romantic evening out, a wonderful gathering for friends, or THE BEST MOTHER’S DAY OUTING EVER! Your mother would love you for it- an evening cruise, dinner at the Rowing Club, a wonderful musical show, door prizes and fun. Brownie points galore! No doubt your mother does already love you a lot but I say take her out and celebrate! We are talking about the Tuesday evening before Mother’s Day, a terrific day to take out any mother. Take your mom out. Take your wife out or if you’ve got little kids let her loose for a night out with some other young mum friends. The evening would be great for a teen to accompany Mom if the hour is not too late for that teen. If you have a town student perhaps it could be a town night and the hours would work really well. And all of this would be in support of our own Tir-na-nOg Children’s Theatre School so mom or no mom, come. This will be the third May that Tir-na-nOg has been given the chance to fundraise through the Synergy Collective. Synergy supplies the venue, the beautiful Rowing Club in Stanley Park, makes us a delicious dinner, vegetarian option provided and they sing! The charity they run gifts other small charities with a gala night event. You can make this a very special evening for Tir-na-nOg just by showing up and having a wonderful time. Remember those brownie points? You will receive a full donation tax receipt for what you give
for your seat. All of it, 100%, will go to support Tir-na-nOg! We are very happy with donations of 50$ and more per attendee. We are absolutely delighted that many attendees dip into their pockets for $100. If you would like to have a table of 9 or 10 we’d love that too! This year the performers will be the incomparable Yvonne McSkimming with her friends and fellow Synergy co-conspirators, Beverly Elliot and Mark James Fortin along with guests, singer Kate Reid, acoustic guitarist David Sinclair and Bowen’s own Adam Woodall. Prepare to have your socks knocked off! It is a very exciting musical line-up. Ask anyone who’s been to the previous parties, it will be a terrific evening. The Rowing Club doors open at 6, dinner begins about 6:30 and the singing goes until about 10pm. Our MC is hilarious. You will love the raffle prizes. Cormorant Marine will provide a cruise to the Rowing Club dock leaving at 5:30 at Snug Cove’s Government Dock and returning about 11pm. The subsidized, but not tax-deductible, return fare is $25. For further information and reservations please contact Karen Cowper at karenlea@telus.net or call 947-2403 or ask at Tir-na-nOg.
FRIDAY MARCH 28 2014 • 7
Memorial service
Brian G. Hotel “In loving memory of Brian G. Hotel, a Memorial Service will be held at the United Church (The Little Red Church), 1120 Miller Rd., Bowen Island, @ 1:00 p.m., Sunday, March 30, 2014. Reception to follow at The Rustique Bistro in Snug Cove village.” B O W E N I S L A N D M U N I C I PA L I T Y
SUMMER PARKS MAINTENANCE CREW Bowen Island Municipality seeks two full-time temporary Park Maintenance Crewpersons (Summer) for employment for the period of May 12th - August 29th, 2014, based on 35 hours per week. Crewpersons will primarily be responsible for maintaining the Municipality’s parks, trails and public beaches as well as some additional labour tasks related to other Municipal infrastructure. The position will also require that the crewperson interact in a courteous manner with the public. A complete posting, including required skills and job description is available on the Municipal website (www.bimbc.ca), or from the Municipal Hall. Please submit your cover letter, resume, and references via mail, facsimile, or email by April 14, 2013 at 4:00 pm to: Christine Walker, Human Resources Manager 981 Artisan Lane, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2 E-mail: hr@bimbc.ca Telephone: 604-947-4255 Facsimile: 604-947-0193 We wish to thank all candidates for their interest, however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.
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A musical rendition of The OCP Amendments Princess Bride She says these are major changes, and are hapfrom PAGE 1
Akshay Dua as The Great Vizzini holds hostage Princess Buttercup, played by Aria Willis hostage. Tiffany Scorer, photo
ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL
cal adaptation of the 1987 film, The Princess Bride. Special thanks go to parent Anne Wilson for her sewing wizardry and Carrie Thiel for her lessons in stage combat.
SUBMISSION
On March 13 and 14, students at Island Pacific School enthusiastically took on the job of singing, acting, and stage managing a musi-
Sharing economy from PAGE 2
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pening without public input. “It took us more than a year before this even got to first reading, and now, suddenly, with no public notice we see a series of significant changes to our community plan are being made by a handful of people, the Economic Development Committee and the Community Lands Committee (Temporary Advisory Board), whose meetings have all been closed to the public, and our reduced council. Where is the public input?” Former councillor and mayoral candidate Nerys Poole also attended this week’s council meeting and shares Fast’s concerns. She points to the removal of “the current non-permission for campgrounds for recreational vehicles and trailer parks” as a major point of contention for her. “I think it is interesting to look at this in the context of our National Parks debate, in which there was major fear-mongering about the number of visitors that would be coming to the island,” says Poole. “The Bowen community has a long-standing opposition to the idea of vehicle-based camping on island. When I was working with Parks Canada, in our first conversations we said ‘If your plans are to put vehicle-camping on Bowen you might as well go home.’ Maybe people have changed their minds about that, but we have to find out. Meanwhile these changes are being pushed through as if they’re housekeeping changes.” Following Fast’s presentation to council, Councillor Tim Rhodes made a brief response. “This isn’t about encouraging sprawl,” he said. “It’s about removing the stranglehold on Snug Cove.” In a later interview, he elaborated on the comment. “In the current OCP, Snug Cove is limited to developing only south of where businesses currently exist. There’s no room to develop anything there! Proposed amendments would allow for the patch of brambles that run on the north side of Government Road down to the ferry to be developed. Yes it is park, but it’s not particularly well used, and in this council’s term we’ve encountered businesses that have wanted to open in the Cove, but couldn’t find a place. The businesses that are already there suffer due to the fact that the rents are so high. That’s what happens when you have zero vacancy.” With regards to the subject of sprawl, Rhodes says he’s not sure how proposed OCP amendments will create sprawl. “Seymour Bay is already zoned for hospitality, and the Cove could expand into lots 2 and 3 of the community lands, but that is a part of the walkable village.” In response to concerns about changing rules about camping and RVs, Rhodes says, “why not
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have a campground?” “If someone comes along and makes a proposal, then we can decide whether or not it’s a good idea. If it is, really, a good idea it will work, but in most cases the island will decide. We don’t need to worry about someone coming to Bowen and building a 14-storey hotel. If they do they’re going to fail. Would it be economical for someone to start an RV park here? Well, there is not a lot of land to chose from and it probably wouldn’t be economical, but the whole point of changing the OCP is that we don’t want the language of the document to stop people from even thinking about things.” Rhodes says that the OCP as it is, is a “good document” except for that the language is vague in parts, and argumentative in others. “It is a lopsided document, and it has a very strong environmental representation but it doesn’t accommodate other concerns, and the committee which drove this process forward before the previous amendments was equally lopsided. I would say it is more an environmental plan than a community one.” Murray Atherton, a member of the Economic Development Committee (EDC), says he participated in the meetings in the lead-up to prior OCP amendments, and does not feel that his concerns were represented. “The whole process was a sham, because at the end council added on 14 pages. There is very little in there regarding how the island can sustain itself economically.” He says that while the EDC did not do extensive consultation with other groups in formulating the suggested changes to the OCP, they felt comfortable making recommendations knowing those changes would be put forward before the public before being passed. “Things are changing on Bowen and we need this document to reflect that. When I was with the Chamber of Commerce, the only accommodations on the island were bed & breakfasts. Now people are renting out their properties as vacation rentals when they’re not here, and they have to do that in order to pay the bills. The way the OCP is right now, you would think we don’t want any investment at all. We need a document that shows we are actually open to growth and want to encourage business.” In the discussion paper drafted by municipal planner Annie Dempster, the amendments to the OCP will follow the rules laid out by the Local Government Act which states that the municipality will provide “one or more opportunities, other than the public hearing,” for consultation.
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FRIDAY MARCH 28 2014 • 9
Classical Concert Series presents: Infinitus BOWEN ISLAND ARTS COUNCIL SUBMISSION
Infinitus is a trio of extraordinarily talented string players who are coming to Bowen on Sunday, April 6. The trio will be giving a high energy, interactive, and fun performance of the classical repertoire. The trio consists of Alex Cheung who plays the cello, his twin brother Anthony and their friend from university, John “Adidam” Littlejohn. According to the twins’ parents, they were the result of a Lansing, Michigan K-Mart, “Buy-OneGet-One-Free” coupon. Alex says being the eldest by five minutes has had its privileges. There was a wise family rule that siblings were not allowed to choose the same instrument for fear of competition. He got to pick which instrument he wanted to play first. To be honest, Alex did not think there was much else he could do in the world, except music. He says he was pretty lazy and much of his attention was spent on thwarting his evil twin brother’s hare-brained schemes. He was finally able to strike a balance between university studies in Michigan and the University of British Columbia and keeping a close eye on his twin. Anthony believes he is the mutated carbon copy of his twin. He grew up watching his older brother and sister playing musical instruments. Inspired to make lots of noise and not get in trouble for it, he gravitated toward the piano and violin. In his teens, he discovered the endless opportunities that playing the viola had to offer (due to an eternal shortage of violists), and accidentally fell in love with the sound.
After high school, Anthony realized he was too lazy to do anything else and also made his way to the University of Michigan, where he was accredited with wasting numerous hours hanging out in practice rooms. He briefly toyed with the idea of being a martial arts practitioner. However, on discovering he would not be the next Bruce Lee, he decided to be a musician. John “Adidam” Littlejohn had no idea what he was doing when he signed up for sixth grade orchestra at an inner-city middle school in Lansing, Michigan. He thought he was signing up for the jazz band and was very disappointed when he arrived to a room filled with stringed instruments. In an attempt to make the best of the situation, he asked to play the only instrument he recognized: the double bass. There was only one and it was taken. He then selected the cello, which kind of looked like a baby double bass, but it was already spoken for. He was given a violin instead. That day began his lifelong love affair with the violin. After graduation in 2000, he was accepted into the Peabody Conservatory where he completed a master’s degree, a GPD (“Graduate Performance Diploma,” aka “Graduation Postponement Degree”) and managed to pick up a few honours, awards, orchestra positions, hip-hop cd’s, and solo tours along the way. People wishing to see the highly accomplished musicians can do so by going to Cates Hill Chapel on Sunday, April 6. Doors will open at 3pm with the performance starting at 3:30pm. Tickets will be available at the door for those who do not have a subscription.
Review: The Towers of Tuscany
ANDREA VERWEY GUEST REVIEWER
The arrival of a new novel from a Bowen Island writer is always exciting news. This is especially true in the case of Carol Cram, who has made an elegant entry into the world of historical fiction with The Towers of Tuscany. It’s a page-turning pleasure that will appeal equally to history buffs, Italophiles, painting enthusiasts, and explorers of the creative spirit. Cram’s novel takes place in 14th century Italy during the last decade of the golden age of Sienese painting. It is the story of Sofia Carelli, who has spent an unusual childhood apprenticed to her father, a master painter in San Gimignano, the Tuscan city of towers. We meet Sofia in her own
small tower, continuing to paint in secret for her father’s workshop as artistic respite from an oppressive marriage to Giorgio. When her father is killed—in a scene straight from The Godfather–-Sofia flees to Siena to begin again as Sandro, a painter in Maestro Manzini’s workshop. With action-packed narrative and unexpected characters, the story follows the perils of seeking love, family and creative freedom as a woman in medieval Italy. In her acknowledgements, Cram mentions that during her research she had access to a scale model of San Gimignano as it appeared in 1300. It’s a detail I mentioned because one of the biggest successes of this novel is how expertly Cram draws us down into that world. Her voice is easygoing and credible, making life in medieval Italy fresh and accessible – including the luscious details about that period’s art materials, techniques and transactions—and Sofia is a well crafted guide. I quibbled briefly with a couple of bosom heaving moments in the latter half of the book, and the effectiveness of the painterly quotes starting each chapter. But these are minor quibbles. Overall, it’s a smart, ripper read. Cram’s next work of historical fiction with an artistic twist is well under way. It is the first in a planned series of novels about a concert pianist who launches her career in Vienna on the day Beethoven is buried. I can picture my setting already: a beautiful Bowen day, a turntable loaded with Romantic music, and a chair by the fire or hammock on the porch with a Cram to hand. The Towers of Tuscany is published by New Arcadia and is available from the author (details on www.carolcram.com) or through Amazon in print and ebook formats. Copies will also be for sale at the Bowen Island launch this Sunday, March 30 at 3.30 pm at the Gallery at Artisan Square. Carol Cram will read from her book and talk about some of the art featured in it. There will be food, Italian wine, and plenty of time for literary chat. Everyone is welcome.
MERIBETH DEEN EDITOR
Infinitus trio Bowen Island Arts Council photo
Bowen Island Conservancy, Bowen Island Eco-Alliance, and Bowen Nature Club
Why should we care about herons? SATURDAY, APRIL 5TH 2014 3:00 PM AT COLLINS HALL The 2014 heron nesting season is underway. Why should we care? What is important about these birds in particular? To answer these questions, and more, we have arranged for a presentation and discussion by Ross Vennesland, a local ecologist with specialized knowledge of Great Blue Herons and their habits. Ross will talk about the heron life history, status, and population trends, and the implications of disturbance on their continued well-being. Everybody is welcome to attend this free informative session and learn why we should all care about the herons on Bowen Island.
For more information, email info@bowenislandconservancy.org
“Clinging to the Rock” Mental Health Support on Bowen Caring Circle is hosting an evening (“Clinging to the Rock”) of information and discussion about mental health and wellness including support options and local resources. The evening will be facilitated by five mental health professionals. We will develop a support program for Islanders based on the expressed needs of those who are in attendance at the meeting or who respond to our survey here at this link or QR code….http://fluidsurveys.com/s/caringcircle/ Survey can be accessed via smart phone and computer. Help us develop this program by sharing your knowledge or telling us what would be helpful for you, your family or your friends. Join us on APRIL 2 at 7 p.m. at Collins Hall
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Learning to ride DEBRA STRINGFELLOW CONTRIBUTOR
There’s nothing like tuning up the bike and going for a ride, especially after a long winter. Dan Cowan’s bike camps proved very popular over spring break and its easy to understand why. His ability to gauge experience level while still challenging the kids is truly his trademark. It’s evident when watching him in action with the kids that safety while mountain biking is at the heart of his teachings. Cowan’s talents in the bike park are most impressive and on occasion, if the kids ask politely, he sometimes will demo a few advanced moves and jumps for them. Something cool to strive for!
From bottom left: Olivia, Will and Alex, Dan Cowan, Sam. Deb Stringfellow, photos
Ancient ballads and blues with Chris Coole and Anne Louise Genest
Chris Coole and Anne Louise Genest. photo http://www.annielou.ca
LORRAINE ASHDOWN SUBMISSION
On Saturday, March 29 at The Gallery at Artisan Square at 7:30, Bowen Island music fans are in for a treat. Anne Louise Genest and Chris Coole will be gracing the stage to share their love of bluegrass and old time songs and tunes. Chris Coole is known as one of Canada's finest proponents of old-time music. He is also a noted singer-songwriter, guitarist, and banjo player. As the guitarist of The Foggy Hogtown Boys of Toronto, he has taken bluegrass across this country and back, and to far-flung places such as Israel, Ireland, the U.K., Germany and the Czech Republic. From his start as a busker on the streets and subway system of Toronto, to his busy current schedule playing and teaching around the world, he has made music his full-time profession for over 20 years. His banjo playing has been called "incomparable" (Penguin Eggs Magazine)
and "highly accomplished and understated" (Bluegrass Unlimited). Chris juggles several musical projects, but has spent much of his time the last few years playing banjo and guitar for three-time Juno award winner (and current nominee) David Francey. Vancouver Island-based Anne Louise Genest has been touring major festivals and stages across Canada with her Junonominated band Annie Lou for several years. Drawn to the stringband sounds and story songs of old-time mountain, bluegrass, and traditional country music, her original songs are steeped in these influences. Genest’s debut Annie Lou album was nominated for a 2010 Juno award, and her latest release, Grandma’s Rules for Drinking, brought her two 2012 Canadian Folk Music Award nominations for English Songwriter of the Year and Solo Artist of the Year and was at the top of the International Folk DJ charts for 2012. She writes and composes on both guitar and
banjo, and her original songs, stellar playing, and great big vocals are the centrepiece of Annie Lou. Although this is their first tour, Anne Louise Genest and Chris Coole have spent countless hours lost in songs and tunes together over the past 10 years. Their friendship has been bonded together by a mutual love of song that makes you cry, a tune that makes you dance, a joke that makes you laugh... not to mention the odd gin and tonic that, can make you cry, dance and laugh ever harder! Both musicians stand out for their "serve the song" approach to playing music, an approach that makes the stories and tunes come to life. Ancient old-time ballads and blues mix seamlessly with new heart songs and banjo breakdowns to create a thoroughly compelling night of music. Tickets are $20 and available through reservations at 604-947-2061. Please ask for Lorraine.