FRIDAY MAY 1, 2015
VOL. 42, NO. 14
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Destination Imagination
BICS students want to show their brain power in Knoxville, Tennessee
Aboriginal Art on Bowen
Looking ahead to BIAC’s new show focusing on Aboriginal art and culture
Fastpitch fury and fun
Katalina Bernard reports on the 2015 season opener
Through bus service to be extended until end of June
MERIBETH DEEN EDITOR
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Bowen Island’s Cubs and Scouts are ready for an adventure-filled spring and summer. They’re also looking for new adult volunteers to step up and lead a new troup of Beavers, ages 5 - 7. EMILY VAN LIDTH DE JEUDE, photo
Bowen’s beaches help to feed the Salish Sea MERIBETH DEEN EDITOR
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healthy shoreline is good for human security, ecology and economics, and Bowen’s shores have a lot of potential, says biologist Ramona DeGraaf. DeGraaf sampled soft-sediment beaches all around Bowen last October to assess their suitability for forage fish spawning, and delivered the results to council this week. “I sampled 75 beach units, with a beach unit being an area no more than 300 metres long. Fourty beach units I sampled equalling 3.4 kilometers, are amenable for surf smelt or Pacific sand lance spawning,” says De Graaf. “Being a Howe Sound Island, the shoreline is mostly made up of hard rock, limiting the amount of shore-
line that is available in the first place.” De Graaf explained to council that sandy, gravely beaches as well as the subtidal zone with eelgrass beds and other seaweeds act as critical habitat for forage fish, who lay their eggs in these areas. These fish (surf smelt, Pacific sand lance and herring) provide the critical link in the coastal food chain, converting zooplankton into food for animals at higher levels at higher levels. For example, sand lance and herring account for up to 78 percent of a Chinook salmon’s diet. One of the Bowen beaches that stands out for De Graaf is Tunstall Bay.
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n May 5, a revamped Queen of Capilano will be back in action between Horseshoe Bay and Snug Cove, with room for 15 extra cars on deck. Councillor Melanie Mason is hoping that those extra spots won’t actually be necessary, as efforts to reduce travel by car as well as the Bowen Island Municipal Transportation Advisory Committee (BIMTAC) works on bringing on more options for alternative modes of transportation. “In January of 2015, we saw roughly 33 fewer cars getting on the ferry every day in comparison to January 2014. Also, we saw 2,000 extra foot passengers this January, which translates to roughly 93 extra foot passengers per-day as compared to January 2014,” says Mason. “The focus of my work when it comes to transportation is to make the transportation alternatives easier for commuters than taking the car would be.” At council this week, Municipal Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Kathy Lalonde said that meetings with TransLink yielded positive results for at least the temporary continuation of the express bus that takes commuters downtown and back. TransLink agreed to temporarily transfer the Independent Transit Service (ITS) agreement to the Peter King, who runs the service, until the end of June. For the bus service to continue, either Peter King or the municipality will need to apply to the board of TransLink for a permanent ITS transfer. BC Ferries also agreed to offer the bus the Experience Card rate for it’s journey back to Snug Cove on the 6:30 p.m ferry. This will bring the cost of the trip down by approximately $50. Councillor Mason says that while ridership on the bus still needs to increase by roughly 20 people per day, she is hoping that the consistency, flexibility and reliability of the service will help bring those numbers up. Mason says that thanks to John Reid, half of the Rennison parking lot will continue to offer commuters free parking for the day.
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Islanders hear from Federal Liberal Environment Critic
MP John McKay from the Scarborough-Guildwood riding in Ontario sits with Pamela Goldsmith-Jones, Liberal candidate for the Sea-to-Sky riding, at Bowen Island Children’s Centre. Meribeth Deen, photo
MERIBETH DEEN EDITOR
“This past week has not been a good week for the environment, not that we’ve had many good weeks in the past 10 years,” Liberal Member of Parliament John McKay told Bowen Islanders last weekend. “This past week was budget week, and Mr. Harper presented a 518 page document, which is really the Conservative plat-
form dressed up as a bogus balanced budget, and it did not mention climate change once. Five-hundred and eighteen pages, and the existential threat to human-kind does not get mentioned once.” McKay came to Bowen Island alongside the Liberal candidate for the Sea-to-Sky riding, Pamela Goldsmith-Jones, to speak with islanders last Saturday. McKay, from Pickering, Ontario, has served six-terms as a Liberal MP, and has been the opposition critic on the environment since 2013. He told islanders about Liberal leader Justin Trudeau’s carbon pricing plan (the “medicare” approach) and said that he viewed Canada as a renewable energy superpower, sighting all the untapped hydro-potential in British Columbia and the $1 billion worth of solar panels that are now generating power in Prince Edward County (east of Toronto). McKay also answered a variety of questions from the audience. On the subject of the Liberal policy on Liquified Natural Gas (LNG), McKay responded that the issue hinges on Canadians’ confidence in the regulatory framework including the National Energy Board. However, an audience member did inform him of the fact that internationally and in the US, there are specific LNG regulations. When asked how a new government could possibly start to rebuild all of the environmental legislation that has been destroyed by the Conservatives over the past decade, McKay said that if it were up to him he would “legislatively reverse” each individual bill that has been watered down by the Conservatives (ie: the Species at Risk Act) and try to pass each one again in Parliament. Goldsmith-Jones responded that the number-one job in this regard is to “get back to a level of respect where the federal ministers treat the premiers with respect, recognize the incredible role the mayors and councillors have... in every community that comes out differently, I think that leadership is important.”
Five Year Financial Plan builds in room for community centre, firehall, water treatment plant MERIBETH DEEN EDITOR
On Wednesday, municipal councilors unanimously approved of a 2.4% increase in property taxes for this year as well as a plan for the next five years of the Bowen Island’s financial future. According to Bowen Island’s Community Charter, the Five-Year Financial Plan must be adopted every year prior to the adoption of the Annual Property Tax Rates Bylaw is adopted on May 15. With the new tax rate, the municipality expects to derive a total of $3,899, 228, or 41.4 percent of its total revenue, from property taxes. Although a 6.8 percent increase in tax rates the following year will bring the revenue generated by property taxes to $4,167,141, it will
account for only 29.1 percent of the municipality’s total revenue. “This number takes into account interest and prinicipal payments if the municipality were to move forward with capital projects, including a community centre and firehall, which would require loan payments on $4 million,” explains Kristen Watson, the municipality’s Manager of Finance. At this week’s meeting, council also approved changes to several parcel tax rates to be paid by Bowen Islanders. The cost of a solid waste disposal will increase $3 to $218 per year. Garbage decal prices will also increase $1 to $92 per year. On Monday, when council passed these measures through third and fourth reading, Councillor Michael Kaile expressed his approval of this budget based on its thoroughness. “This budget clearly shows what we will have to go through if we want these community assets,” he said
Sea-level rise will force re-thinking of Bowen’s shorelines from PAGE 1 “It is one of the outstanding beach areas in Howe Sound for forage fish production, and in that, it is critical to the health of the Salish Sea,” she says. “It has a sandy gravel beach, and a shallow subtidal zone that’s excellent for eelgrass and herring spawning. When it comes to valued ecosystem components, Tunstall Bay has all of them.” One of the beach’s challenges, she says, is the stretch that separates Tunstall from Sealeigh beach. “In order to secure docks and piers, the waterfront property owners have used large boulders to stop erosion,” says De Graaf. “But in the past 15 years, new technology has been developed that maintains the soft-shoreline and effectively mitigates erosion. In any case, sea-level rise is going to force change in areas like this. I’d like to see it done in a way that creates a win-win situation for the ecosystem and for people who want to use the beach.” On the subject of sea-level rise, DeGraaf points to Mannion Bay as another example of an area that will be forced to change. “Now might be the time to start a conversation that might last
for five years, about how the bay is going to cope with all the existing pressures, plus the pressures that can be expected with predicted sea level rises,” says De Graaf. “It would be a challenge, but I think Mannion Bay could be a prime location for a major habitat restoration project that would be as good for people as it is the ecosystem. I think Mannion Bay is ripe for something really great.” De Graaf says that for her, working with local governments is the best way to get traction in terms of protecting critical habitat for forage fish. “There are so many tools we have within local governments, and I think we just need to expand on those. At this point, we have Land Use Planning, why not Beach Use Planning in coastal communities? This would benefit fish, people and the economy.” Municipal Councillor Sue Ellen Fast says that these ideas already fit in with several of council’s strategic priorities. “In 2015, surveying Bowen’s shoreline to figure out where docks are appropriate and where they are not appropriate is already on the agenda,” says Fast. “Next year we plan to tackle the hazardous slopes bylaw. These both fit in to the category of shoreline protection.”
FRIDAY MAY 1 2015 • 3
When the Cap comes back from PAGE 1 Mason says that helping to create a reliable and sustainable water taxi service for Bowen will be nextup on BIMTAC’s agenda, as there are plans to create a water taxi action group with councillor Michael Kaile acting as the liason.
Bowen Island Fish & Wildlife Club AGM Thursday, May 7th 7 PM to 8:30 PM People considering membership in the BIFWC are welcome to attend our AGM at 7 PM, Thursday, May 7th in the Bill Rush Memorial Classroom in the hatchery. Parking is available on Mount Gardner Road across from the Public Works Yard and Gas Station.
Experienced volunteers will be on hand to answer questions about wild salmon and salmon enhancement efforts on Bowen Island.
Memorial Garden Sociey AGM WED. MAY 6, 2015 11:00am Bowen Court 1070 Miller rd. Everyone Welcome
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viewpoint
In recognition of Dick Van Aelst Dear Editor,
As Chair of Tourism Bowen Island, I was very pleased with your writeup on the “Tourist Gazebo” in last week’s Undercurrent. Any mention of Tourism on Bowen pleases me. I have to admit, I was very nervous about the heron situation and very thankful for the Municipal Council and staff who bent over backwards to make this happen. However, as Chair of the First Credit Union Community Advisory Committee, I have to thank the First Credit Union CEO, Dave Craigen for, not only believing in Bowen and opening the Credit Union 7 years ago, but for presenting us a cheque to construct a memorial for the late Dick VanAelst who served as a Director of the Bowen Board until his passing 2 years ago. The Credit Union’s Community Advisory Board had considered numerous concepts on how to recognize Dick’s service to the Island. The Bowen Golf Course had already constructed the VanAeilst/
Thanks again from the VIMFF team Fraser stone bridge at the 9th hole in memory of both of these amazing gentlemen. We decided that a “Welcome Centre” would be ideal for our visitors and islander’s alike. It will house some very informative maps of the attractions, shops and trails of the island. Kevin Manning and committee member Tom Mitchell worked closely with the Municipality to ensure that the structure meets all engineering standards. The Bowen IRLY Building Centre assisted in providing materials with very generous pricing. The actual building of the Welcome Centre has been done entirely by volunteers on the weekends…. Thanks so much to Andy Rainsley (Bowenshire Stoneworks and Landscaping), Dave Atkinson (Kore Residential), Kevin Manning (First Credit Union) and Alec Pelzer (Valek Fine Homes). This is, indeed, a community legacy. Murray Atherton Chair, Tourism Bowen Island
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RE: Even more concerned citizens Dear Editor, Thank you for this opportunity to respond to concerns raised by Anton van Walraven in the Bowen Island Undercurrent last week. At Woodfibre LNG Limited, safety is the number one priority, which is why, should our project go ahead, we will have firefighting capabilities on land and on the water. In particular, we will have a tugboat equipped with firefighting capabilities at the Woodfibre site, and it will be available to respond should an incident, similar to what happened at Squamish Terminals, occur in the future. In terms of potential fuel spills, the LNG carriers that would come to and from our proposed project will primarily use the boil-off gas (methane) that they are transporting as fuel. In the unlikely event of a spill, LNG does not pollute water. It turns back into a gas and quickly dissipates. LNG carriers have complex containment systems and double hull protection, and they carry bunker fuel as a back-up fuel. In terms of marine-traffic related to the Woodfibre LNG project, we are licensed by the National Energy Board to export 2.1 million tonnes
Jud Berry and the outside45 VIMFF team
Accidents happen: Is Woodfibre LNG worth the risk? 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. 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.
Last Saturday’s film festival event at BICS was a wonderful gathering of community and despite the numerous events on the island that night the turn out was incredibly rewarding. Thank you for coming. And thanks so much to all the volunteers and sponsors who made this evening possible.The funds raised on Saturday will be used to purchase communal gear for the outside45 students use. The students enjoyed hosting this event and also wish to thank you for supporting their endeavours. We hope to see you for another film festival movie night next spring!
of LNG per year. The natural gas that we will export is the same gas being distributed to homes on the Sunshine Coast and in Squamish. We expect an LNG carrier to arrive at the Woodfibre site three to four times per month (up to about 40 vessels per year), escorted by at least three tugboats, and piloted by two BC Coast Pilots who know our coast best. The application before the Environmental Assessment Office does not call for the exaggerated number of tanker return trips per month claimed in last week’s letter to the editor. At Woodfibre LNG we are committed to building a project that is right for the region. If you have questions, please contact us. Our email address is info@woodfibrelng.ca and you can reach us by phone at 1-888-801-7929. More project information can also been found at our website (www.woodfibrelng.ca) or at our new questions and answer website (www.askwoodfibrelng.ca). John French Community Relations Manager Woodfibre LNG Limited
The environmental tragedies of the last two weeks have made one thing clear: accidents happen. On Wednesday 8th April, 2,800 litres of toxic bunker fuel was spilled in English Bay, and the black tar-like sludge has been washing up on Vancouver’s beaches. A little over a week later a dock fire at Squamish Terminals blazed out of control, with toxic smoke from the burning creosote pilings lingering over town. The details of the emergency response for these two accidents show that the Provincial and Federal governments don’t have the capacity to deal with these kinds of accidents. Even Premier Christy Clark admitted: “We don’t have world class spill response on our coast.” In English Bay, the emergency response was delayed by several hours because the Harper Conservatives closed the Kitsilano Coast Guard station in 2013, turning this relatively small spill into a major tragedy. Responders from the Kitsilano Coast Guard could have been on site with the right equipment in 6 minutes, preventing a costly cleanup of Vancouver’s beaches. To add salt to the wound, the company contracted to clean up the mess in English Bay is more than 50% owned by Kinder Morgan. This for-profit company has the capacity to profit from any oil spill, which is a huge conflict of interest. The bigger the spill, the bigger the bill. In Squamish, the Coast Guard response was much quicker (potentially because of the political backlash the previous week) however, the emergency response was still heavily reliant on volunteer firefighters fighting alongside career firefighters from Squamish, Whistler, and the City of Vancouver – all of whomworked around the clock and did a tremendous job. How does this relate to Woodfibre LNG? Government cuts have created a situation where regulators do not have sufficient staff, knowledge, or money to effectively regulate the oil and gas industry, leaving industry to monitor itself. Remember Lac Megantic? What about the Mt Polley tailings pond spill? These accidents were never meant to happen. Negligent government oversight and a self-regulating industry, combined with a lack of emergency response capacity can only mean that we will see more incidents like this in the future. Woodfibre LNG and its associated tankers, pipelines, and compressor stations pose an unacceptable safety risk for people in Squamish and other communities along the shores of Howe Sound. We need to stand up and say enough is enough. Tracey Saxby Co-Founder of My Sea to Sky
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What’s that on the wharf? The Dick Van Aelst Memorial Gazebo will serve tourists and Bowen Islanders alike FIRST CREDIT UNION SUBMISSION
The new structure, located on the municipal wharf, will serve as a ferry shelter for high school students, commuters, locals and tourists alike. It will also be a bandstand for Steamship Days Festival, a bar or ticket booth for the Dock Dance and act as an info and welcome centre as it will house maps of popular Bowen Island sites and trails and information on commercial centres and local businesses. “Dick was a member of the original Bowen Island Credit Union Board and contributed many hours and immeasurable positive energy and guidance into the branch in the formative years”, shares Manning, “this type of community hub is an ideal way to honour the memory of him.”
“On behalf of First Credit Union, I wish to thank the volunteers and the Bowen Building Centre for their kind support of this project,” says Manning. Among the volunteers were Alec Pelzer of Valek Fine Homes, Andy Rainsley of Bowenshire Stoneworks and Landscaping and Dave Atkinson of Kore Residential. Funds for the project were donated to the community by First Credit Union in 2013 when the Bowen Island membership of First Credit Union voted to eliminate the unique to Bowen E-shares and switch from the Community Partnership Branch model to being a standard branch under the First Group of Companies umbrella. Construction of the Dick Van Aelst Memorial Welcome Gazebo commenced April 18th and is scheduled to be complete by May 15th, 2015.
Memories of war’s end, 1945 Continued from last week’s paper. At the end of last week’s story, Hans recalled one of the Russian refugees taking shelter at his parents farm who gave him a toy to celebrate Easter. HC BEHM SUBMISSION
Shortly after Easter the Russians left, but the refugees needing help from us, increased. The news from the advancing Russian front must have been horrifying. I remember the screams of babies and so many faces and voices I did not know, day and night. I felt, that something dark, heavy and gloomy was approaching. Mother had less and less time for my one and one half year old brother and me. So I was put in charge when one of mother’s helpers could not look after us. I remember feeling abandoned and desperately looking for my mother. Meanwhile, she was preparing the village and us to flee, to join the stream of refugees, if necessary. All motorized transport had been confiscated for the war effort. But we had horses and each family in the village was given a horse, if they wanted to leave. People loaded a wagon in front of our house with important farm and family things. On the evening, before we wanted to leave (April 27, Hitler forbade anyone, who was not already on the road, to flee, because he wanted to bring any available troops to Berlin in a last effort to stop the Russian advance. To enforce this command, two armed guards were placed at the two main exits of our farmhouse. One was a fifteenyear old member of the Hitler Youth the other was a clubfooted man in his seventies. Both were armed and ordered to shoot. That evening two ladies from mother’s school days stopped in to feed and rest their horses. Hearing of our situation, they convinced mother to pack the absolute necessities and climb onto their wagon early next morning. Before dawn we crawled out of a basement window undetected, mother carrying my little brother and I dragging a small suitcase. The farmhouse and garden were surrounded by a white picket fence. We slipped through a hole in the fence, where the Russians had pulled off slats to make the toys for us children. Hiding behind a hedge we spotted our friends’ horse drawn wagon and settled amongst several big crates. It took us an hour and a half to break into that panic driven endless stream of refugees. Both sides of the road leaving the village of Mestlin were lined with mounds of all types of broken down transport and abandoned belongings. Mid morning we heard the drone of aircraft engines. Within seconds they were upon us. Russian, English, American? We never found out. Mother’s friend, who rode the lead horse pulling the wagon, was able to reach a small forest. Thick branches gave us cover. As I looked across the country highway I
saw a woman handing a small bundle to a man on the ground. I blinked for a moment. When I opened my eyes again I saw the two figures and the little bundle collapse in an explosion of blood. That same blast form an aircraft also spooked our horses so much, that they suddenly jerked forward and dislodged the crates. Between them our friends’ little dachshund was crushed. I can still hear his last gasping yelp. Apparently, the air raid was triggered because German military units were using the same road, which made the refugees targets, as well. I heard screaming and yelling and saw fires. Ahead of us were several destroyed wagons, injured and dead people and animals. It took a while for survivors and helpers to make the road passable again, until the trek could continue to move. After several hours of crawling forward, at about noon, we were stopped again. We had come close to the Stöhr Kanal, carrying waters out of the Schwerin Lake near Mecklenburg’s capital. At the Yalta Conference Churchill, Stalin and Roosevelt had declared this waterway as part of the boundary between the future Russian Zone to the East and the British to the West. Across it led one of the few bridges still intact. It was a drawbridge in two sections, one on either shore, which could be raised to let boat traffic through. Late that afternoon it was our turn to cross. The bridge was so worn out, that the weight of the horses pulling our wagon pushed the half under us down. The horses spooked, but our friend reigning them from the saddle, was able to calm them enough to climb on the other half , bringing it down to an even level, that the wheels could roll across the crack without getting stuck. We made it. After a while the rider pulled over, slipped out of her saddle in utter exhaustion and walked back to the wagon. I saw my mother and her two friends hug and embrace one another and the horses were fed and given water …. and a few pieces of sugar. That evening, about five hours later, the Russians reached the bridge and no one was allowed to cross anymore. It was April 28,. We by-passed the city moving West and reached my mother’s uncles farm late that evening. All of us, and the horses, had a few hours of rest. Some time after mid night we were on the road again, to avoid air raids. Traffic was light. At dawn we reached my grandparents’ estate, the house, where I was born. I ran toward them. I can still feel their arms around me. Breakfast was waiting and it smelled good. The radio was switched on and the program was interrupted with sombre music and then a voice came on. I saw all the adults around me stiffen. After a moment my grandmother raised her hand and laid it on grandfather’s with words: “Finally, finally the monster is dead.” Hitler had committed suicide.
FRIDAY MAY 1 2015 • 5
The hope of Howe Sound: Part 6 PAULINE LE BEL COMMUNITY CAULDRON
At the Concerned Citizens of Bowen LNG information meeting last month, I heard anthropologist Wade Davis say that the re-industrialization of Howe Sound which he calls the most magnificent fjord in the world - has everything to do with ideology. This is good information. Ideology is a way of looking at the world, a set of conscious and unconscious ideas that shape our goals and motivations. Ideology is, of course, just a fancy word for story; and stories can be changed. If it’s story driving this threat to our home, then let’s create more thoughtful stories - stories that focus on how we can maintain and even enhance the beauty of Howe Sound and promote alternative industry - stories that acknowledge the sacredness of the waters and the land as part of a living and generous organism that supports our lives and the lives of countless (we’ve only just begun to count them) other beings that add to the enjoyment and quality of life in our inlet. We could start by taking a look at what is wrong with the current political and industrial ideology in B.C., one that focuses on extraction, rather than production, to power our economy. To get a two-minute glimpse of the inefficient process that is LNG and the extractive economy, in general, I suggest you go online and watch Damien Gillis deliver: LNG in a Nutshell. The current system of managing water, air, soils, fish, minerals and wildlife is utterly dysfunctional because the focus is on the production of wealth for a few, and not on the collective public good. We need to ask who benefits? Who takes the risks? And that “who” must include the waters, the land, the Squamish Nation, the salmon, the forage fish. We must determine how they will benefit and how they will shoulder the burden of risk.
We cannot enhance the economy of our bioregion by killing Howe Sound. So I offer a couple of optional stories, other ways of looking at our home. We cannot enhance the economy of our bioregion by killing Howe Sound. So I offer a couple of optional stories, other ways of looking at our home. We could view Howe Sound as the dynamic living system that it is, a web of intricate relationships that includes the land, the waters, the air, the flying things, the swimming things, the walking things. Each one is a participant in this living habitat with a stake in its well-being. You take one of them away, or endanger its health, and you disrupt the elegant workings of the bio system. This thinking leads us to the concept of The Commons – a story that was the foundation of most indigenous cultures and many cultures in medieval Europe. The land and those who occupy it are bound together; if the land suffers, the people suffer. The Commons includes the cultural and natural resources that belong to all members of a group. It involves self-restraint and individual stewardship. No one takes more than their share and everyone participates in the care and protection of home. The idea of the Commons is making a comeback. If it takes hold, it would make it extremely difficult – impossible – for corporations to extract our water, our minerals, our fish for their own benefit. Here’s another proposal for a better story. We could nominate Howe Sound as a Mission Blue “Hope Spot.” Mission Blue is an initiative of marine biologist and deep sea diver, Sylvie Earle. Their plan is to make a global network of Marine Protected Areas; the goal is to have 20% of the ocean protected by 2020. Currently, less than 3% of the ocean is protected in any way. They have currently identified 50 Hope Spots – areas that need protection from the stresses put on marine ecosystems by human activity. Why not Howe Sound? I talked with Karen Wristen, executive director of Living Oceans Society. Karen believes it’s a good idea but they don’t have all the data for Howe Sound - yet. She anticipated “collecting a good deal more in their collaboration with the various groups working on protecting the Sound…We probably wouldn’t be in a position to advise on areas in need of protection for several months.” I’ll follow up on that. While we work to Save the Sound, let’s savour the Sound. Get out on the waters, the land, get to know the trees, the birds, the fish, the beaches. This is our home. Love it. Love it the way you would love the best present you ever received. It probably is. And I invite you to share your stories to help realize the hope of Howe Sound. This is my last column on Howe Sound – for now. It takes a lot to change a Big Story. That’s okay. I’m in this for the long haul. Pauline Le Bel is an Emmy-nominated screenwriter, award-winning novelist and the author of Becoming Intimate with the Earth.
Apologies to Bruce Russell AND Snug Cove House For cutting the end of last week’s letter: Senior’s housing vs. the Docks ... Against a backdrop of the current 2015 – 2019 Financial Plan Budget Consultation Meeting, this is a perfect time to consider the most appropriate use of our taxpayers’ monies and priorities in the community. Let’s focus more time, support, effort and resources on seniors’ housing. So keep up the good work Snug Cove House directors and “long live our seniors”, hopefully on Bowen! Yours truly, Bruce Russell
6 • FRIDAY MAY 1 2015
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Grades 6 & 7 students have qualified for the Olympics of creativity and imagination! Photo: Abigail Creswick in her role as “Mr. Lalala” - a teacher on the planet Retipuj. The script was written by Anna Corbett and Bebel Gill-Norriss and performed by the rest of the team.
May 15 - June 21 Gallery @ Artisan Square
featuring the diverse art forms and practices of 12 Indigenous artists from all across BC
SATURDAY, May 16: Grand Reception 5:30 pm: Traditional Native Feast 7 p.m.: Official Welcome & Reception
BRIAN CRESWICK
Tickets: $10 children; $20 adults Available at the Gallery, Phoenix and online at biac.ca.
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SUNDAY, May 17: Culture Matters: a Panel on Cultural Appropriation Cates Hill Chapel: 3 p.m.
For more information: authenticallyaboriginalonbowen.com
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A team of seven grade 6 &7 students from Bowen Island Community School have made it to the global final competition in a program called “Destination ImagiNation”. This is an innovative organization that teaches creativity, teamwork and problem solving to students in more than 40 countries. It is an unconventional learning experience where children and youth solve mind-bending challenges. Participants are tested to think on their feet, work as a team, and devise original solutions that satisfy the requirements of specific problems. Over the past several months, thousands of teams throughout the world have presented their individual challenge solutions in local tournaments, and select teams have advanced to the Global Finals, the culmination of every Destination ImagiNation season. Our little group from Bowen Island chose a struc-
tural engineering challenge as their main entry element – one of 5 challenge possibilities (each challenge is weighted towards engineering, theatre arts, science, or applied arts). In addition to building a weight bearing structure conforming to some highly technical specifications, the team also had to apply their creativity to interpret their design into a theatrical performance with a central prop that was required to transform in some way during the narrative. In the BC regional competition, the team, consisting of Anna Grace Corbett, Abigail Creswick, Meghan Creswick, Oliver Creswick, Carter Gaudet, Bebel Gill-Norris, and Emma Reynolds, were able to create a structure that was technically superior to those of all teams at all levels including the senior high school teams. This, along with high scores achieved for their performance piece, and the creativity and quality of their costumes, allowed them to qualify for the Global Finals in Knoxville, Tennessee. All team members and their parents MUST sign a contract of “non-interference” which states the entire challenge will be done by only the children, including all ideas, research, planning, and construction. The team of 12 year olds did all the measuring, cutting, gluing, tensioning, and adjusting themselves. In addition, they scripted, directed and performed a play, as-well-as making their own costumes, makeup, props, and set.. This is like the Olympics of the imagination and it is an incredible honour for a small island community to have won. We are incredibly grateful to West Jet for given the whole team flights for an extremely reduced rate and also to Toshiba Business Solutions for providing all printed material for our campaign efforts. The team is still looking for community support to help cover the costs of accommodation and food while in Knoxville. If you are a facebook user please join and share our facebook group; “Bowen Island Destination Imagination” where we have news updates and an easy paypal donation link. Otherwise look out for community fundraising events and help the kids make it!
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How to help Nepalese earthquake victims SIRC staff members Hasti (3rd right), Sonika (4th right) and Vocational Trainer (5th right) taking refuge under a tarp in Jorpati, Kathmandu.
FRIDAY MAY 1 2015 • 7
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KATE COFFEY SUBMISSION
This article was meant to be a good news story, letting you know of the great night we had at Sue and Jerry Hurn’s home on April 17th. Sue and Jerry were the winners of the raffle prize “Nepali Dinner for Six,” from my January 18th fundraiser at The Gallery. It was a great night, lovely meal and interesting group of people, all with a love of Nepal. How things change in a matter of a week. Saturday April 25th at 12 noon Nepal time, saw a massive 7.9 earthquake causing significant damage in the centre of Nepal including the Kathmandu Valley (pop.2.5 million). As I write this, deaths number 2,500 and rising, casualties number 6,100 and also rising. Much of the country is devastated with the already tenuous infrastructure severely affected and many homes and buildings have collapsed. The aftershocks continue and are strong making it difficult to return home. People are sleeping outside in makeshift tents. It’s raining and miserable. Roads are inadmissible. Potable water, food, electricity and medical supplies are scarce. Emergency aid is starting to arrive and hopefully life will improve for the people. The Nepalese are a resilient bunch, creative and have a huge sense of community. They are joining hands (the term they use to work together), rolling up their sleeves and improving their situa-
tion as best they can. I did not expect anything less. As for Spinal Injury Rehabilitation Centre (SIRC), they fared better than most. The earthquake-proof building did indeed survive the massive earthquake and there were no fatalities or casualties at the centre. A miracle really. And in no small thanks to Swiss construction standards. Despite no damage to the building, over 50 spinally injured patients, their families and SIRC staff all slept outside in tents on Saturday night as a precaution. They have now returned inside the building and SIRC is beginning their preparation to receive many of the casualties with spinal cord injuries in the coming days. Many of you have asked how you can help SIRC in their provision of medical care to the Nepalese. As we go to press, that list of needs is being defined. Please check our blogs for updates, as well as postings on the Phorum as more is known. I am keen to ensure all donations made to SIRC are spent as intended. Your continued interest and support is very much appreciated by the Nepali people. Thank you. www.bowen2bangladesh.wordpress.com http://spinepal.orthopaedics.med.ubc.ca/ Also, Bowen Island Rotary will be setting up a Shelterbox tent outside of the Snug Café this Saturday to collect donations in support of temporary housing for the victims of the earthquake.
Editor
Bowen Island Undercurrent The Bowen Island Undercurrent, a weekly award-winning community newspaper is seeking an editor to fill a one-year maternity-leave contract. Reporting to the publisher, the editor will be instrumental in guiding the overall strategic direction of the Bowen Island Undercurrent. The successful candidate will possess above average leadership skills, will be a strong communicator, pay attention to detail and can manage and work under pressure in a deadline driven environment. This person will perform editorial and reporting tasks. Strong design skills are required, with knowledge of InDesign and Photoshop. The position is 37.5 hours per week. You have a passion for, and are comfortable with, all aspects of multimedia journalism. You have a track record of turning around well-written, fact-based, concise, well-produced content quickly, for posting online that day—with collateral (text, photos and video).You have demonstrable skills in all aspects of web journalism. Forward resumé and cover letter by Friday, May 15, 2015 to: Bowen Island Undercurrent Peter Kvarnstrom, Publisher email: pkvarnstrom@glacermedia.com
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8 • FRIDAY MAY 1 2015
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Island to focus on Aboriginal Culture
Small Grants Program 1. Environmental Sustainability Grant
Applications are invited from the Bowen Island Community for this grant In 2015, The Knick Knack Nook Re-Use It Store Society approved grants to be distributed to Bowen Island initiatives that will contribute to the environmental sustainability of the community.
GRANT SELECTION CRITERIA
(weighting shown in brackets) Project will contribute to the environmental responsibility of the community of Bowen and must include one or several aspects of the following goals: • Principles of zero-waste • Recycling • Composting • Food security • Encouragement of minimal consumerism, and/or Education regarding any of these goals. (5) • The project should be supported by a network of volunteers who are prepared to do the work and can demonstrate their ability to accomplish their goals (3) • Initiatives that create intergenerational linkages are of interest (2)
Applications must be submitted electronically to the Bowen Island Community Foundation by May 15th: info@bowenfoundation.com Attn: KKN/BICF Grants Committee Foundation
2. Social Sustainability Grant
Applications are invited from the Bowen Island community for this grant In 2015, The Knick Knack Nook Re-Use It Store Society approved grants to be distributed to Bowen Island initiatives that will contribute to the social sustainability of the community.
GRANT SELECTION CRITERIA
(weighting shown in brackets) The Project will contribute to the social sustainability of the community of Bowen through: • Assistance to seniors • Assistance to children, youth and families • Encouragement of diversity and inclusiveness on Bowen • Promotion of wellness and safety, and/or • Education regarding any of these goals.(5) • The project should be supported by a network of volunteers who are prepared to do the work and can demonstrate their ability to accomplish their goals (3) • Initiatives that create intergenerational linkages are of interest (2) Applications must be submitted electronically to the Bowen Island Community Foundation by May 15th: info@bowenfoundation.com Attn: KKN/BICF Grants Committee Foundation
Bowen Island Arts Council, photo
Some examples of KKN Community Grants in past years include:
BOWEN ISLAND ARTS COUNCIL SUBMISSION
• Tech Tutor program at the library that provides free computer assistance to all Bowen Islanders. • Garden project operated by BICS • The purchase of a higher capacity composter for the Montessori school Zero Waste Project
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This mask carved by Simon Windazi James will be on display alongside the works of 12 other aboriginal artists from all over British Columbia.
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The Bowen Island Arts Council (BIAC) and the Gallery @ Artisan Square are thrilled to be presenting Authentically Aboriginal on Bowen -- a multi-media event highlighting Indigenous culture through the display and celebration of tradition and contemporary art forms and practises. The arts organization, in collaboration with guest curator Simon Daniel James Jr., is mounting a first-of-itskind exposition on Bowen to include an exhibit and art sale, a reception featuring traditional dancing, singing, drumming and feasting, a panel on the subject of cultural appropriation, artist talks and demonstrations plus a number of other special events. James, also known as Winadzi, is from the Kwakwaka’wakw Nation. He explains the choice of title of the exhibit and its rationale: “Authenticity is something we as native artists strive for. Indigenous art and craft are a reflection of the sophistication, diversity and resilience of indigenous culture. There is very little that is more important to the well being of our people than the protection of our designs, artworks and artistic traditions. “This exhibit and performances will reinforce this conviction, as well as provide an opportunity to share with non-natives, to enhance deeper cultural understanding and develop a stronger sense of connection and community.” The exhibit will present creations and work by 12 artists from all over British Columbia and from a number of different nations and tribal affiliations, including Cree, Haida, Heiltsuk, Kwakwaka’wakw, Coast Salish, Musqueam and Squamish. The work to be showcased includes beading, weaving, textiles (i.e. button blankets, ceremonial regalia, wall hangings, clothing), jewellery, carvings, etc. Exhibit & Feast Authentically Aboriginal on Bowen will be on display at the Gallery @ Artisan Square at 589 Artisan Lane, Bowen Island, from May 15 – June 21. The grand opening and reception, to include a community feast featuring a traditional native menu and live performances, will be held on Saturday, May 16. The cultural appropriation panel is set for Sunday, May 17 at Cates Hill Chapel, 661 Carter Road, Bowen Island. Supporting Families of Sisters in Spirit A number of participating artists are also donating work, for a silent auction, with proceeds to support Families of Sisters in Spirit. This grassroots, nonprofit organization is dedicated to supporting families of missing and murdered Aboriginal women and girls. (Please see attached fact sheet.) Culture Matters – a panel on Cultural Appropriation Another component of Authentically Aboriginal on Bowen is the special event: Culture Matters – a panel on Cultural Appropriation, set for Sunday, May 17, 3 pm. At Cates Hill Chapel. Hosted by Paul Tennant (Ph.D), Professor Emeritus, we will launch a conversation on this topic, exploring the difference between cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation. We’ll explore the subject in a thoughtful, compassionate and respectful manner with the hope of creating awareness and understanding of the subject. Other Special Events Throughout the duration of the show, the exhibit will be open to welcome school groups and others. Artist talks and demonstrations are also being planned. Please stay tuned.
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FRIDAY MAY 1 2015 • 9
Fastpitch season opener: Not a dull moment on day one at the diamond CONTRIBUTOR
A conversation on assisted suicide MERIBETH DEEN EDITOR
opinion about the legality of assisted suicide. He adds that many practical points, such as the availability of a representation agreement (through which you can appoint a loved one to take-over decision-making for you should you be unable to make those decisions yourself) at Caring Circle, or the fact that if you have a “Do not recussitate order” it should be posted clearly on your fridge, where a paramedic might actually find it. “The beauty of our conversation was that so many subjects were touched upon,” says Behm. “But in the end we found consensus, that we must go forward with the legalization of assisted suicide.” Behm says he looks forward to one further discussion, on state of democracy in Canada, and then will take a break from hosting these forums at least until the fall.
Twenty-two years ago, the Supreme Court of Canada told Sue Rodriguez, who had been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) just a few years earlier, that she had no right to take her have a doctor’s assistance in taking her own life. This February, the Supreme Court, led by Judge Lynn Smith (former Dean of UBC) reversed that ruling by allowing for doctor-assisted suicide in some cases. A few weeks ago, Bowen Islanders attending the AGORA Forum at the Gallery at Artisan Square heard about the case, and discussed the issue, under the guidance and moderation of Provincial Court Judge Judi Gedye. “I feel this is really a Bowen topic,” says AGORA Forum organizer, Hans Behm. “Especially since Mrs. Jillian Bennett took her own life here. But before that even, I think Sue Rodriguez’s fight is something many of us BOWEN ISLAND UNITED CHURCH remember and for me at Rev. Shelagh MacKinnon FOOD least, is her question – if Service and Sunday School: 10:30 a.m. BANK Collins Hall Bookings: Helen Wallwork it’s not my body, whose DROP-OFF Minister of Music: Lynn Williams is it? – it rings in my ears.” Behm adds that for BOWEN ISLAND COMMUNITY CHURCH him, the experience of volunteering with palPastor Clinton Neal liative care patients at 1070 Miller Road 604-947-0384 Lion’s Gate Hospital for Service 10:30 a.m. Sunday School 11:00 a.m. 10 years has convinced him that in so many cases where people are ST. GERARD’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH in desperate situations, Mass: 10:30 a.m. Priest: Father James Comey regulations and fear of 604-988-6304 law suits leaves people in need as good as forgotten. CATES HILL CHAPEL www.cateshillchapel.com 604-947-4260 The discussion par(661 Carter Rd.) ticipants, Behm says, all entered into the conver10:00 a.m. Worship • Sunday School: Tots to Teens sation cautiously, none Pastor: Dr. James B. Krohn with a strong or forceful
Places of Worship Welcome You
Eddie Weismiller playing with the Cruisers. Casey Grundy, photo
REGULAR SCHEDULE BC Ferries REGULAR SCHEDULE April 1 to May 5, 2015 In Effect May 15 to October 13, 2014
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BOWEN ISLAND Snug Cove
5:30 am** 5:30 am 6:30 am** 6:30 am 7:30 am** 7:30 am 8:30 am * 8:35 am 9:30 am 9:35 am 10:30 am# 10:35 am 11:30 am 11:40 am 12:30 pm 12:45pm^ pm 1:30 3:10 pm 3:00 pm 4:15 pm †† 4:00 pm 5:15 pm 5:00 pm* 6:20 pm 6:00 pm* 7:20 pm 7:00 pm*# 8:15 pm 8:00 pm# 9:10 pm 9:00 10:05pm pm 10:00 pm
VANCOUVER Horseshoe Bay
6:00 am * 6:00 7:00am am* 7:00 8:00am am* 8:00 am 9:00 am† † 9:05 am# 10:00 am 10:05 am 11:00am am 11:05 12:00pm pm 12:10 1:00pm pm^ 2:35 2:25 pm 3:45 pm 4:45 3:30pm pm 5:50 pm 4:30 pm * 6:50 5:30pm pm 7:50 6:30pm pm* 8:40 pm # 7:30pm pm* 9:40 8:30 pm# 9:30 pm
Distance: 3 NAUTICAL MILES Crossing Time: 20 MINUTES
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The men of the Bowen Island Men’s Fastpitch League opened the 2015 softball season with all the style, silliness, and occasional grace we have come to expect in the early days of a fresh, young season. The weather gods were quite as highly entertained as the fans, and favoured the League by withholding the rain until after the final game had ended. Or it’s possible that they misinterpreted Glen MacGregor’s backward-running, tumbling pop-up catch at first base as a form of sacrificial appeasement; either way, the fans and players were chilly, but mercifully dry. Clayton Miller of the Bowen Island Mariners little league team threw a zinger of a first pitch to start the season off just right, and the first official match-up of the season was an exciting, back-and-forth battle between the Twins and the Diggers. Both teams are known for their impressive arsenal of pitchers and batters, and it showed. The Twins were up by two, then the Diggers matched them and pulled ahead by one, only to have the Twins sneak up again. With two out, one runner on base, and the final minutes of the timed game ticking away, the Diggers needed two runs to tie the game. Fortunately for the Diggers, Daniel Cowper is no stranger to clutch hitting. He smashed the first home run of the season right over the left field fence, sending the fans to their feet and the dugout into full rally mode. Some excellent base running by the next batter to put him in scoring position at third, followed by a perfectly placed base hit by a Digger rookie, and it was all over. The Diggers secured a very close and hard-fought win, 7-6 over the Twins. The second game had some back-and-forth moments of its own, with the Firemen opening the
scoring in the first inning. The Brewers, who have been practicing since at least Christmas, didn’t quite get their bats in stride until the third inning, but when they did, they sure knew how to use them. They hit a lot of well-placed balls that even the Firemen’s refreshingly tight defence couldn’t contain, including a massive homer by Derek Sinke, and inning by inning, run by run, they crept ahead of the red boys. The Firemen pulled together for a bit of a rally to close the scoring gap in the final inning, but they just couldn’t chip away enough of the Brewers’ strong lead to get a win. After a controversial call over a ball who just wanted to be fair, the Brewers walked away with an 8-5 victory over the Firemen. The Shakers and the Cruisers finished off the opening day fun, helped and heckled along by the Brewers who had taken to the stands to celebrate their win and show off some coordinated cheerleading moves accompanied by questionable spelling prowess. Rumour has it that the team is now sponsored by National Lampoons. The Shakers appeared unshaken by the good-natured, egalitarian heckles, and the Cruisers cruised on through the game with a few select Jim Gibson-esque spears of their own. This was a hard-hitting, high-scoring, home run-smashing game, with too many big hits to list here. Cruiser pitcher Spencer Grundy’s “Scorpion” just couldn’t quite outdo Shaker pitcher Steve’s “Moustache of the Baskervilles,” and the Shakers shook down Eddie’s Cruisers in a wild 16-11 bruiser of a game. It’s not every day you get to see baseball this exciting, featuring a roster of all your favourite male Bowen friends and neighbours. Unless, of course, you come down to the ball diamond every day. Games are Monday-Friday, starting at 6:30 every night. Bring a blanket, bring a friend, bring home a sweet spring memory.
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KATALINA BERNARD
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DAILY EXCEPT DAILY EXCEPT SAT, SUN SAT, SUN && MAY 19, JUL FEB. 93 1, APRIL AUG 4, SEPT 1 & OCT† 13 THE WEDNESDAY SAILINGS WILL BE REPLACED BY DANGEROUS THE WEDNESDAY CARGO SAILINGS. SAILINGS WILL NO OTHER BE REPLACED PASSENGERS BY DANGEROUS PERMITTED. CARGO SAILINGS. NO OTHER PASSENGERS ^Wed to Fri PERMITTED. ONLY
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B OW E N I S L A N D ’ S R E - U S E - I T S TO R E
STUDENT BURSARIES FOR ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY BURSARY FOR ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
The Knack to foster environmental responsibility through The purpose purpose of of The KnickKnick Knack NookNook is to isfoster environmental responsibility through both both actionaction and and education. To that Bursaries will bewill awarded in 2015in to2013 students with tieswith to Bowen are education. To that endend $2,000 Bursaries be awarded to students ties to who Bowen and whocareers are pursuing careers in support ofsustainability environmental sustainability studies (gr. at the pursuing in support of environmental through studies atthrough the secondary 12) undergraduate or post-graduate level (or equivalent). and post secondary levels. The applicant must should provide following information, May30, 15,2013: 2015: An applicant provide thethe following information, byby April Her/hisfull fullname, name,address, address,telephone telephonenumber numberand andemail emailaddress. address. 1.1.Her/his letteroutlining: outlining: 2.2.A Aletter • The course of studies being pursued; • The course of studies being pursued; • How the applicant’s course of studies will help her/him foster environmental • How the applicant’s course of studies will help her/him foster environmental sustainability; sustainability; •• The The applicant’s applicant’s connection connection to to Bowen Bowen and and the the Bowen Bowen community; community; •• Volunteer Volunteer or or other other work work that that relates relates to to community community life life and and environmental environmental sustainability; sustainability; •• Her/his Her/his financial financial need need.and the assistance the $2,000 Award would provide. 3.3.Proof Proofofofacceptance acceptanceatata arecognized recognizedCanadian Canadianpost-secondary post-secondaryinstitution, institution,including includingthe the applicant’s applicant’sstudent studentnumber numberand andthe theaddress addressofofthe theinstitution. institution. 4.4.A Aletter letterofofreference referencefrom fromsomeone someoneother otherthan thana arelative. relative. 5.5.A Acopy copyofofthe theapplicant’s applicant’sofficial officialtranscript transcriptofofscholastic scholasticstanding standingfrom fromthe themost mostrecent recentyear yearofof attendance attendanceatataarecognized recognizededucational educationalinstitution institution(either (eithersecondary secondaryororpost-secondary). post-secondary). Please submit the full application electronically to: Bowen Island Community Foundation info@bowenfoundation.com Please preference will willbe begiven giventotoapplicants applicantsdemonstrating demonstrating strong to Bowen to Please note that preference strong tiesties to Bowen andand those who have already shown a commitment to environmental sustainability. those who have already shown a commitment to environmental sustainability.Though Thoughnot notthe the primary primary determining factor, factor,financial financialneed needwill willbebe a consideration should there be several candidates determining a consideration; andand should there be several candidates who who appear deserving, the selection committee may for further, financial appear equallyequally deserving, the selection committee may ask for ask further, financialstandard documentation to documentation to assist in its decision making. assist in its decision making.
10 • FRIDAY MAY 1 2015
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On the calendar FRIDAY MAY 1
Legion Dinner Doors open at 5 p.m., dinner starts at 6:30 Youth Week begins with Sports Challenge at the Bowen Island Youth Centre, 4 p.m - 7 p.m. Tashi & the Monk: Documentary Screening at Bowen Island Yoga, 7 p.m
2 - 5 p.m. Bowen Court - All levels welcome!
Annual plant sale and raffle coming up!
THURSDAY MAY 7
SUBMISSION
Duplicate Bridge @ Bowen Court Call Irene @ 2955 Bowen Island Fish and Wildlife AGM Bill Rush Memorial Classroom in the hatchery Starting at 7 p.m.
SATURDAY MAY 2
Deep Fry Night at the Bowen Island Youth Centre Bring your creative food item, we deep fry it!
SUNDAY MAY 3
UPCOMING MAY 9
Skate Day at the Firehall 4 p.m - 7 pm
MONDAY MAY 4
Seniors Keeping Young (SKY) 9:00 - Exercises followed by a return visit of The HSB Band with Susanna Braund,Doug Stepple, and Doug Hillhouse 11:00 YOGA with Diana Kaile Spring tune-up for runners, cyclists and hikers 12:30 p.m at Bowen Island Yoga, $30
TUESDAY MAY 5
Free hearing tests, hearing aid cleaning and checks Caring Circle. Call 604-281-3691 Cut-off for donations to the Bowen Island Children’s Centre Clothing Sale AA Meeting Collins Hall 7:15 p.m. Synergy Cabaret, dinner at the Rowing Club Fundraiser for Tir-Na-Nog Theatre School For more info contact Karen Cowper at 947-2403
WEDNESDAY MAY 6 Knitting Circle
Bowen Island Children’s Centre Clothing Sale Cates Hill Chapel, all items priced at $2 Bowen Island Garden Club Annual Raffle and Plant Sale, see details, right
MAY 14
Bowen Island Children’s Centre Clothing Sale
Free hearing tests, hearing aid cleaning and checks Caring Circle. Call 604-281-3691
MAY 14
Grand Reception for the Authentically Aboriginal Art Show, 5:30 p.m. Community Traditional Native Feast (delicious menu to come) 7 p.m. Grand Opening of the Exhibit featuring formal welcome, performances including dance, drumming. Everyone welcome! Tickets $20 adult; $10 children available online at biac.ca or at the Gallery @ Artisan Square
MAY 20
Bowfest AGM 7:15pm Doc Morgans
BOWEN ISLAND GARDEN CLUB
The Bowen Island Garden Club’s Annual Plant Sale and Raffle will take place on Saturday, May 9. The Plant Sale and Raffle is the Club’s annual fundraiser. Islanders are reminded that the funds raised support a number of beautification projects which are of benefit to the whole community. For example the Club has renewed its commitment to fund the regular maintenance of the Library garden in 2015. The Plant Sale and Raffle will open at BIC’s at 11 a.m., and lasts for one hour only. Be sure to allow yourself plenty of time to get a place in the front of the queue. The better items sell out very quickly! The Club’s 300 members have been
busy collecting a wide variety of plants and shrubs over the last six months to ensure that there will be generous choices available for your gardens. Prices, as always, will be competitive. Given the ravages of our resident deer population expect to find a large collection of ‘deer resistant’ plants for the unfenced portions of your property. Through the generosity of our many donors, both on and off Island, the raffle will offer over a dozen different baskets of prizes. Tickets will be on sale at the General Store May 2nd and 3rd and Friday May 8th; at the Legion dinner on the 8th: at the Library; and at BICs on the 9th. The raffle draw will take place just before the conclusion of the sale. Be sure to get your tickets now!
Congratulations to Holly Graff On Saturday April 25th at the Whistler Fairmont Chateau, the British Columbia Society of Landscape Architects presented Holly Graff with the 2015 BCSLA Community Service Award. BCSLA recognizes individuals or couples who have, in their day to day activities, made the landscape of our world a more delightful and better place to live whether it be in their creation of a small garden that many people enjoy or in their campaign to
preserve a portion of our environment. Holly Graff, a dedicated volunteer who works on the Bowen Island Garden Gateway project, a 160’ long linear pedestrian gateway garden proposed for the entry to Snug Cove, Bowen Island. Ms. Graff is being recognized for her commitment this community project by raising funds, working with the municipality, and more. Her dedication will result in a positive outcome for many years.
Gallery @ Artisan Square Presents Gallery @ Artisan Presents
Beyond the Edge Featuring photography by youth photographers Tristan Deggan & Emmett Sparling 24th April - 10th May
OIL PAINTED PORTRAITS 9” x 12” 14” x 18” $150.00
ALAN BLAIR WILL PAINT A LIMITED NUMBER OF PORTRAITS IN OIL
@ $150
ea.
No obligation to buy.
Contact Alan at 947-0211
or on his website adblair.com
LANCE’S Brannon RECYCLING
I’ll pick up your recycling and deliver to BIRC for $25/load Kindling $20/box at Building Centre
CALL 947-2430
Brothers roofing& sheet metal
Call Mike at
778-829-2516
ads@bowenislandundercurrent.com
BOWEN BULLETIN BOARD Advertising deadlines: 4pm Friday to book the space 4pm Monday for artwork Contact Maureen to book your ad today. 604-947-2442
Did you know you can advertise in this space for as little as $10/week?? Think of this as the Bowen Island ‘unclassified’ section. Garage sale, add jobs, work wanted, help wanted, items for sale, items found, items lost, etc... This space available
$10
a week! FOR SALE
Call/email Maureen to advertise here!
604-947-2442
• ads@bowenislandundercurrent.com
LOST
WANTED
WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM
FRIDAY MAY 1 2015 • 11
12 • FRIDAY MAY 1 2015
WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM
Multiplying The Benefit Woodfibre LNG will employ more than 650 people each year of construction and create more than 100 local jobs during operation. During construction, our project will also help to create another 1,080 jobs in the community through indirect* and induced** employment. This means Woodfibre LNG can help contribute broadly to the local economy.
Jobs Here At Home We know that some people have to leave the community each day for good-paying jobs. If our project is approved, we will hire a local workforce and contract local businesses and suppliers whenever we can. In fact, our project already employs eight people in Squamish, and we’re purchasing services like printing and graphic design from local businesses.
Community Benefits I M P O R TA N T TO YO U. I M P O R TA N T TO U S .
Building A Strong Community We want to support the things that give Squamish its strong sense of community, so we’re providing financial support to youth sports and education programs, as well as community events and other local groups. So far, we have given more than $100,000 to groups in the community.
There are many reasons to be optimistic about the future of Squamish. Having been with Woodfibre LNG since the beginning, Byng Giraud knows how important it is to build a project that’s right for Squamish. For him, it’s about ensuring Woodfibre LNG is an active member of the community; a company that respects the local environment and that works to create long-term local jobs.
Paying Our Share We are a member of the community, just like you, and so we’ll pay our fair share of property tax to the District of Squamish. In fact, as the site’s official owner, Woodfibre LNG is already a contributing taxpayer to the District of Squamish. We have offered to pay at least $2 million in property tax each year of operation, an amount that could help ease the tax burden on local residents.
Building a project that’s right for Squamish, and right for BC. That’s our number one priority. woodfibrelng.ca
* Indirect impacts arise from changes in activity for suppliers. ** Induced impacts arise from shifts in spending on goods and services as a consequence of changes to the payroll of the directly and indirectly affected businesses.