FRIDAY MAY 15, 2015 VOL. 42, NO. 16
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The earth keeps moving
Kate Coffey on fundraising efforts in light of a second quake in Nepal
Dock bylaw
Preview to another public hearing
Generosity at work
Meet the board members of the Bowen Island Community Foundation
Little League season is in full swing down at the baseball field. The Bowen Island Mariners are one of three island teams for kids under 12 years of age. You can catch them in action, alongside the Pirates, every Saturday afternoon. A second team of the Pirates (ages 6 -8) plays on Sundays. From left: Zachary Ross, Escher Lorenz, Sam Jennings. Theresa Liptay, photos
Bowen declares the right of local residents to a healthy environment MERIBETH DEEN EDITOR
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s of Monday evening, every resident of Bowen Island has the right to live in a healthy environment including the right to breathe clean air, drink clean water, consume safe food, have access to nature, know about pollutants and contaminants released into the local environment and participate in decision making that affects the environment. The cities of Richmond, Vancouver, Port Moody, Squamish and Port Coquitlam have all passed similar declarations, which will be brought forward to the province with the aim of enacting an Environmental Bill of Rights. Councillor Sue Ellen Fast said she looked to the declarations made by other communities and tailored those to meet the specific concerns of Bowen Island. Point three of Councillor Fast’s declaration, that Bowen Island will consider the precautionary principle when making decisions, came under some scrutiny by other members of council. Councillor Gary Ander stated his concern that potential costs might be incurred by declaring residents have the right to participate in decision making that will effect the environment, and asked that someone speak to point three. It is written as follows: Bowen Island Municipality will consider cost effective measures to prevent the degradation of the environment and protect the health of its citizens, and the absence of full scientific certainty will not be viewed as sufficient reason for Bowen Island Municipality to postpone such measures.
Councillor Fast used Howe Sound examples to explain her point. “We can’t say for certain that an oil spill is going to kill all the little larval forage fish. And some organizations would say, well, you’re not sure it’s going to kill them all, so you shouldn’t do anything. That’s an argument we’re hearing from the LNG proposals. We’re hearing claims that the water-filtration system that is going to cool the plant would not harm the marine ecology. There’s other evidence that says it might. How can you have 100 percent certainty? The point is… you don’t need full scientific certainty.” Councillor Michael Kaile followed this up with further concerns that the proposed declaration would simply be another layer of legislation that sits on top of other pieces of legislation that say the same thing. “And I’m sorry but the term, in absence of full scientific certainty is not going to be well understood. It is going to be confusing, people are just going to shake their heads,” said Kaile. Councillor Maureen Nicholson argued that this concept is comparable to risk-management in finance or in the investment field, when professionals are forced to make decisions without 100 percent certainty of the outcomes. “I don’t see much difference from what happens in this context to what happens every day in the financial and investment fields,” she said. Councillor Fast reminded the group that the need for this declaration was brought forward by a citizen, Carolyn Neu, who made a presentation to council in March about the Blue Dot Campaign.
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Delays accompany Queen of Cap’s return to Bowen MERIBETH DEEN EDITOR
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om Matzen and his eight year-old son Tyler were so excited about the return of the Queen of Capilano that they made a plan to ride the Bowen Queen for her last sailing, and return immediately afterwards on the first sailing of the Cap. The Bowen Queen was delayed docking at Horseshoe Bay, and with another delay on the return trip, Tom and Tyler had just enough time to grab take-out for ride back to Snug Cove. This turned out to be just one of many delays for passengers travelling between Snug Cove and Horseshoe Bay after the Queen of Capilano’s return to service last Wednesday. One of the cited reasons for the delays is the ramp parking on the boat’s new upper decks, the ones that make it possible for fifteen more cars to board during each sailing. “A few training sessions for the deck crews prior to that first sailing would have helped,” says Adam Holbrook, chair of Bowen’s Transportation Advisory Commitee (BIMTAC). “People don’t like parking on that incline, particularly if they have a problem with their parking brake or a standard transmission. BC Ferries needs to put chalks on the cars on the incline, but the deck crews are still learning. By Monday of this week, the ferry was pretty much on schedule. By this morning (Tuesday), it seems to be running dead on-time.” Holbrook says that another struggle with the new boat immediately upon its return was that the loading area onto the second floor to and from the Horseshoe Bay Terminal could not be used because of low tides. “This is one of the really important upgrades on the Queen of Capilano, and it will really assist with people who are pushing strollers, or using the assistance of walkers or wheelchairs,” says Holbrook. “We’re going to suggest that BC Ferries publish the times when the tides will create a similar situation - which should only happen for one or two sailings a day, one or two days per month.” Holbrook says that while Bowen’s Ferry Advisory Committee will be telling BC Ferries that no matter what happens in the future with the Queen of Capilano, the Bowen Queen is an inadequate replacement, there is some good that came out of the Midlife Upgrade. continued PAGE 3
2 • FRIDAY MAY 15 2015
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→ REQUEST FOR Q U O TAT I O N
BIM-RFQ-2015-170 Slope Stabilization and Shoulder Widening Bowen Island Municipality is requesting quotes for the provision of supplying materials, equipment and labour to complete roadside slope stabilization and shoulder widening works on Grafton Road in 2015. RFQ details are available at Bowen Island Municipal Hall or can be downloaded from www.bimbc.ca . All quotations should be clearly marked with the RFQ title, placed in a sealed envelope and submitted to the Public Works Department in person, by mail, courier or email to rpryce-jones@bimbc.ca, by 2:00 pm Thursday, May 28, 2015. All inquiries must be submitted by email to Al Fontes, Public Works Engineering Assistant at afontes@bimbc.ca .
→ SHARE YOUR
BUSINESS STORIES
Please join the Economic Development Committee as we host interactive discussions about what makes Bowen businesses successful. Wed, May 20, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm or Sat, May 23, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm, Food and beverages will be provided. For more information and to RSVP as soon as possible, please contact Sheana Stevenson at 604-947-4255 or sstevenson@bimbc.ca Space is limited, sign-up early.
→ F R I E N D LY R E M I N D E R FROM THE BOWEN ISLAND VOLUNTEER F I R E D E PA R T M E N T
From April 15 to October 15, burning restrictions are in effect.
→ CONTRACT OPPORTUNITY Community Profile Writer/Editor The Economic Development Committee is seeking an experienced writer/ editor to prepare a short Bowen Island community profile. The community profile will include information about the location, demographics, community amenities, business opportunities and transportation options for Bowen Island. Some research materials and a template for the finished document will be provided.
→ EMPLOYMENT
OPPORTUNITIES
Roads Crew Position Bowen Island Municipality is seeking a permanent full-time Roads Crewperson. The Crewperson will primarily be responsible for assisting with the maintenance of the Municipality’s road system as well as some additional labour tasks related to other Municipal infrastructure. The position will require that the crewperson interact in a courteous manner with the public and is based on 35 hours per week. Please submit your cover letter and resume via e-mail, fax, or mail by Thursday, May 28, 2015 at 4:00 pm.
Casual Bylaw Services Officer Bowen Island Municipality is seeking a Casual Bylaw Services Officer at 7 hours per week. Working hours may include coverage during weekends. Duties will include gaining compliance with municipal bylaws through education and direct enforcement, and acting as Wharfinger, Animal Control Officer and Poundkeeper. The ideal candidate for this position has excellent communication skills, is proficient with computers, is comfortable handling dogs, possesses a valid B.C. driver’s licence, and works independently in all-weather conditions, must be able to perform light duties and has the ability to interact with the public in a courteous manner. Related bylaw experience is an asset. Please submit your cover letter and resume via e-mail, fax, or mail by Thursday, May 28, 2015 at 4:00 pm.
Parks General Operations & Snug Cove Maintenance Lead Bowen Island Municipality is seeking a Parks General Operations & Snug Cove Maintenance Lead. This a permanent full-time position working 35 hours per week. Hours of work will normally be Monday-Friday 8:00am3:30pm. Some evenings and weekends may be required. This semi-skilled, primarily outside labour position, consists of considerable variety in the maintenance, repair, operation and inventory of Municipal Parks, Beaches, Trails, and their facilities, as well as, the Municipal buildings, streetscapes, and public docks in Snug Cove. The ideal candidate will have experience in horticulture, completed their OFA Level 1 First Aid, and possesses a valid B.C. driver’s licence and air brakes endorsement certification. Please submit your cover letter and resume via e-mail, fax, or mail by Thursday, May 28, 2015 at 4:00 pm.
Cover letters and resumes for all opportunities to: Christine Walker, Human Resources Manager Bowen Island Municipality 981 Artisan Lane Bowen Island, B.C. V0N 1G2 FAX: 604-947-0193 EMAIL: hr@bimbc.ca WEBSITE: www.bimbc.ca For more information call 604-947-4255
The value of the contract shall not exceed $1,500. The project is expected to take approximately 40 hours of work and must be completed by Friday, July 31, 2015. Please submit your cover letter outlining your writing/editing experience, a brief resume and writing samples via e-mail to sstevenson@bimbc.ca by Monday, June 1, 2015 at 4:00 pm. Bowen Island Municipality Staff
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FRIDAY MAY 15 2015 • 3
As the earthquake continues, so does the need for donations KATE COFFEY
SUBMISSION
It’s been two weeks since that fateful day on April 25th, when Nepal suffered a massive 7.9 earthquake that resulted in the deaths of 8,000 and casualties of over 16,000 people. And news is just in - a 2nd large earthquake of 7.3 shook the Everest region on May 12th. As I write this, the number of deaths and casualties is still being assessed but if it is anything like the first earthquake, the numbers will be high. So far, SIRC has admitted 79 SCI patients with a further 120 expected as more spinal surgeries are performed in the coming weeks and more referrals are made as a result of the May 12th earthquake. There is still much work to do. Fundraising in Canada has been great with over $29,000 raised at the time of going to press. Wow! Dhanybad, we are most grateful for your generosity. Here’s how your donations have been put to work: • Thanks to Drs Peter Wing and Claire Weeks, three Nepalese doctors with SCI expertise have been repatriated from Dhaka and are currently working at SIRC. • We purchased equipment and medicals supplies (antibiotics, painkillers, beds, mattresses, blankets as well as specialized SCI tools) to establish additional wards and individual rehab programs for up to 200 SCI patients. • We now need sufficient funding to pay salaries for additional nurses, physios and OTs and other medical professionals to handle the expected increase in the number of patients with complex health conditions.
Besides monetary contributions, we have had brilliant support from the global SCI community. • Again through Drs Peter Wing and Claire Weeks, daily consults via Skype with SCI doctors in Europe and Canada have become part of the routine at SIRC. • On the ground SCI coaching & training at SIRC is underway from staff of BSMMU, Dhaka and Royal Melbourne Hospital. • Our Volunteer Coordinator is a volunteer herself! Fiona is planning SIRC’s needs in the coming months & matching international expertise appropriately.
And we have had many In-kind donations from local businesses and individuals in Nepal. • Received donations of food, pillows, gloves, masks, catheters, wheelchairs. Esha Thapa, SIRC’s Executive Director has been hard at work attending the various coordination meetings with Government of Nepal Ministries as well as Aid Agencies. Securing block funding for the sponsorship of a 3-month rehabilitation program for over 150 patients continues to be our focus. As is the funding to resettle these patients once their rehabilitation is complete. Most have no homes to go to, most no longer can rely on their income generating activities pre-earthquake. Their struggle will continue beyond the walls of SIRC. Preparing these funding applications is where my skills have proved useful. After this May 12th earthquake, your donations are needed more than ever. If you haven’t done so already, please donate if can. Tell your friends! All donations made prior to May 25th, will be matched by the Canadian Government.
“In my personal opinion, I think there should have been more public consultation on the decision to make a $12 million upgrade that allows more vehicles on board,” says Simpson. “What would it look like if we put that money into alternative transportation modes instead?” Tom Matzen, however, does not share this concern. “Anyone who wants to throw millions of dollars into something I use to make it better, and not ask me to pay for it is welcome to do so,” he says.
“With the through-bus option, we helped to create a demand for transportation alternatives,” says Holbrook. “It is still unclear how many cars that actually took off the ferry. However, we learned that people can actually break with their typical routines and be happy with that. There is always the risk though, that with increased capacity on the Queen of Capilano... if you build it, they will come.” For commuter and BIMTAC member Ken Simpson, this is a real concern.
DEPARTS SUN to THURS FRI & SAT SNUG COVE 11:15PM 12:15AM HORSESHOE BAY 11:30PM 12:30AM
Telephone: 604-947-2243 Cellular: 604-250-2630 24 Hour Service Special Event Cruises PRIVATE CHARTERS AVAILABLE ANYTIME The Queen of Capilano, post re-fit.
email: cormorantmarine@telus.net web: cormorantwatertaxi.com
Rafal Ibdebski, photo
604-947-2243
Since 1978
REGULAR SCHEDULE BC Ferries REGULAR SCHEDULE March 12, In Effect14 Mayto15October to October 13,2015 2014
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BOWEN ISLAND Snug Cove
Leave Snug Cove
5:30 am** 5:30 am 6:30 am** 6:30 am 7:30 am** 7:30 am 8:35 am * 8:35 am 9:35 am # 9:35 am 10:35 am 10:35 am 11:40 am 11:40 am 12:45 pm 12:45 pm 3:10 pm pm 4:15 pm pm†† 5:15 pm pm 6:20 pm pm* 7:20 pm 7:20 pm** 8:15 pm 8:15 pm## 9:10 pm 9:10 pm 10:05 pm 10:05 pm
VANCOUVER Horseshoe Bay
6:00 am * 6:00 am 7:00 am* 7:00 am * 8:00 am 8:00 am 9:05 am†† 9:05 am# 10:05 am 10:05 am 11:05 am 11:05 am 12:10 pm 12:10 pm 2:35 pm 2:35 pm 3:45 pm 3:45 pm 4:45 pm 4:45 pm 5:50 pm 5:50 pm* 6:50 pm 7:50 pm 6:50 pm * 8:40 pm 7:50 pm*# 9:40 pm 8:40 pm# 9:40 pm
Distance: 3 NAUTICAL MILES Crossing Time: 20 MINUTES
Leave Horseshoe Bay
“This is a way that communities in the Howe Sound area and in the Lower Mainland are moving together. A lot of communities are signing in to this movement as a way to let the province and the federal government know that their citizens are concerned, that they’re listening to their citizens who are concerned about LNG and oil pipelines and all kinds of things we see in the news.” A majority of council members voted in favour of the declaration, which will be forwarded to the Lower Mainland Local Government Association, the Union of BC Municipalities and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.
May 29, 2015 @ 7:15pm at the Clubhouse 810 Beach Dr. Non-members welcome
Proudly Celebrating Over 36 Years of Trusted Transport for Bowen Island & Howe Sound
Declaration allows municipalities to make a stand together from PAGE 1
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
OPERATING 7 DAYS A WEEK
Moving forward from the MLU from PAGE 1
BOWEN ISLAND GOLF ASSOcIAtION
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† THE WEDNESDAY THE WEDNESDAY SAILINGS WILL SAILINGS WILL BE BE REPLACED REPLACED BY BY DANGEROUS DANGEROUS CARGO SAILINGS. CARGO SAILINGS. NO OTHER NO OTHER PASSENGERS PASSENGERS PERMITTED. PERMITTED.
Become a Bowen Island Ambassador Tourism Bowen Island is proud to present our Tourism Ambassador program. We are seeking volunteers to ride the Bowen Island Ferry during the peak summer runs and to act as hosts at the Welcome Centres to help turn every visitor encounter into a positive experience. Our Ambassadors will learn more about our beautiful island and all the events and attractions that make this destination an awe-inspiring, vibrant and fun destination, all year round. A Bowen Island Ambassador will receive the tools and training to make just an ordinary visit, a truly “extraordinary” experience. Why have Ambassadors? Millions of dollars are spent marketing destinations but very little time or money is spent to focus on THE EXPERIENCE our visitors will have once they get here. That’s why, it’s more important than ever before to concentrate on the experience given to the visitor. The frontline is the face of that experience, they are what the visitors will remember and they are the emotional connection that can make (or break) the visit. If you are interested in becoming a Bowen Island Ambassador please contact Tourism Bowen Island: tourismbowenisland@gmail.com www.tourismbowenisland.com 604-312-1102
4 • FRIDAY MAY 15 2015
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viewpoint
GUEST EDITORIAL
The dreaded split-vote
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.
KATHRYN THOMSON SUBMISSION
I, and most of the people I know, ardently want to see the end of the Harper oligarchy in this fall’s election. There are so many sad, disturbing and democracy-corroding decrees coming from the PMO—many of which are eroding our charter rights (Bill C-51), stripping environmental protection laws, (Bills C 38 and C 45), and blatantly defying our national identity as leaders in socially and environmentally progressive policies and laws. There is so much cynicism about whether our votes can make a difference. And underneath that cynicism I believe there is tremendous longing and a great hope that we, as citizens, actually could make a difference. There is a big difference between voting against something or someone, and voting for what we believe in and long for. Many people I know are considering voting Liberal in order to defeat the Harper regime. There is a fear that if they vote with their hearts— that they will somehow “split the vote” and let a Conservative slip in again. But if we look back at past election results, it turns out that voter patterns are unpredictable. For example in 2008 Saanich-Gulf Islands saw Conservative incumbent win with 43% of the vote, the Liberals with 39% of the vote, and the Green party with only 10% of the vote. Fear of vote splitting in 2011 should have dictated that Greens not run in this riding at all. But in 2011 the Greens won 46% of the vote, Conservatives with 35% and Liberals with 6%. There are several more ridings where this has been the case. The point is that past voting patterns do not predict future voter behaviour. The point is that there is a chance for all of us, if all of us care enough to vote with our hearts, if we vote for what we most value. Please research what you’ve heard about “vote splitting.” You may find it to be based more in myth than fact. Look at the platforms for each of the parties. Think about what matters most to you. Start talking to friends and neighbours and colleagues. Above all, start talking to young people. Ask them what matters. Encourage them to vote for what matters to them. I’m supporting the Green candidate in this riding because the Green party best represents my values and my hopes for Canada. If you’re Green-leaning, or looking for a party to get excited about, or would just like to find out more about why the Greens present a robust alternative to the other parties, you are very welcome to come to Collins Hall on May 23rd, 3pm to 5pm to meet Green candidate Ken Melamed and learn how you can participate in re-creating a truly democratic Canada.
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.
All Advertising and news copy content are copyright of the Undercurrent Newspaper. All editorial content submitted to the Undercurrent becomes the property of the publication. The undercurrent is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, art work and photographs. We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage.
In celebration of Mother’s Day, cake was served at Family Place. Neil and Helen Reynolds from The Village Baker and Eva Kepesova from Winnie and Friends Family Daycare showed their support by donating the cakes and honouring mothers in our community.
Bowen Island Family Place, photo
Views and Visions Dear Editor, I write to offer a few observations on the value of protecting public spaces on Bowen such as the foreshore areas at Cape Roger Curtis. It is well known that Vancouver is consistently ranked as one of the world’s most liveable cities. There is even a worldwide movement in urban planning known as ‘Vancouverism’. The main principles of Vancouverism include the creation of public spaces, including green park spaces, and the preservation of view corridors. The renowned Chinese-Canadian architect Bing Thom described Vancouverism this way on CBC Radio: “It’s a spirit about public space … we built a city that really has a tremendous amount of space on the waterfront for people to recreate and to enjoy … people have access to the water and the views.” But Vancouverism didn’t just happen. It has a fascinating history. So much of what gives Vancouver its character comes from a 90 year old report, commissioned by the City of Vancouver in 1926, and known as The Bartholomew Plan. The vision and rationale set out in that ancient document is awe-inspiring. All the things that make Vancouver great are in there; rapid transit, green belts, neighborhood parks, and civic art. The Bartholomew Plan puts a lot of emphasis on the value of planning for park spaces. It says: “The people need them. They are fully as useful in promoting community health and happiness and contentment as any of the recognized urban necessities.” The Bartholomew Plan also put particular emphasis on the importance of securing public access to the lands fronting English Bay. (Today, we take those lands for granted as being part of the public seawall, including First, Second, Third and Sunset Beach, but at the time seventy percent of those lands were privately held industrial and commercial lands). The Plan also notes that parks have positive effects on property values. It says: “The ability of parks and other pleasure resources to increase the attractiveness of a city is no longer questioned.” It goes on to describe parks as “a form of insurance against a decline of neighbourhood value and attractiveness”, and it notes that areas with adequate parks “almost never lose value and they tend to keep property nearby from dropping in value.” The Plan concludes: “If a general plan is consistently followed, the ultimate scheme will produce remarkable returns. Vancouver will take a place second to none in the world if it can complete such a system of recreational facilities … The plan may seem extravagant to some, but it is not out of scale with the greatness of the city or beyond its future needs.” That is the definition of a visionary statement. I’d like Bowen to have the same kind of vision and foresight. I’d like Bowen to preserve access and view corridors at public foreshore areas, especially in environmentally sensitive, and high recreational value areas. It makes sense. It is tried and true. And it will pay dividends. To the whole community. Forever. I hope Islanders will resist any temptation to give credence to the negative arguments in the mail out published by Mr. Lucas, Mr. Atherton and Mr. Russell. It pains me to say this, because I like and respect those guys so much, but in this case they appear to be out of touch with relevant planning principles, community interests, real estate metrics, and the lessons of history. Yours truly, James Hickling
#102–495 Bowen Trunk Road, PO Box 130, Bowen Island BC, V0N 1G0 Phone: 604.947.2442 Fax: 604.947.0148 Deadline for all advertising and editorial: Monday, 4:00p.m. www.bowenislandundercurrent.com
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The docks, round two
FRIDAY MAY 15 2015 • 5
Living with wild things
MERIBETH DEEN EDITOR
This paper will be fresh and crisp, landing at the General Store just hours before what I predict to be to be the first real political battle of 2015. On Thursday evening will be a public hearing on our municipal land use bylaw and how it regulates dock construction, with a particular focus on the shoreline of Cape Roger Curtis. If you are new to Bowen or have not been following the details of this bylaw ammendment, there’s plenty of information to bring you up to speed in the 343 page agenda package for the meeting. The purpose of the bylaw ammendment is to make it illegal to build docks or moorage facilities on certain stretches of Bowen’s shoreline that are deemed geographically or environmental inappropriate for this kind of construction. The shoreline at Cape Roger Curtis is the first to be identified as such. A survey of Bowen’s entire shoreline, as conducted by the Parks and Greenways Committee, will identify other stretches. You will also find an ever-growing list of letters submitted by Bowen Islanders to Council concerning the issue. Here are a two, sent by the authors not only to Mayor and Council, but also to The Undercurrent.
Sent by Murray Atherton: I, personally, would like to express my concern over the decision of Council to proceed with the program initiated by the Stop The Docks consortia. The municipality operates on a shoestring budget with so many priorities that will benefit the overall population of the island, I would hate to see these minimal resources eaten up with unnecessary law suits and subsequent outlandish legal fees.
The municipality operates on a shoestring budget with so many priorities that will benefit the overall population of the island, I would hate to see these minimal resources eaten up with unnecessary law suits and subsequent outlandish legal fees. I am also fearful that your quest to stop the docks at The Cape on Bowen, if successful, can set a precedence for the entire island’s waterfront and negate the full use and enjoyment of those waterfront property owners. A subsequent council, if your proposed motions are put into operational by-laws, could force every landowner who proposes moorage to have their request denied. Worst-case scenario is for those who presently have dock moorage affixed to their property be forced sometime in the future to remove an amenity they have enjoyed for many years. I implore you to stop these proceedings and free the valuable staff time to concentrate on programs and infrastructure that will benefit the entire Bowen population and not to just please the very vocal minority who’s “last loudest voice” seems to get heard.
Sent by Gordon Reid: I am writing to encourage you to adopt all necessary changes to the local government OCP, Land Use Contracts, bylaws, and building permit procedures, (and to officially state your position to any other level of government), that would promote the prevention of the construction of private docks on the foreshore. I am also writing to support the passing of the proposed Bylaw 381, 2015 (Cape Roger Curtis Dock Bylaw).
A decision was made in West Vancouver to treat the foreshore as a treasured public asset that should be kept in a “natural and pristine condition” similar to a park and nature reserve. The program has been a success and accepted by the residents there. This type of restrictive foreshore policy has been adopted by the District of West Vancouver and has been enforced since the early 1980’s. A decision was made in West Vancouver to treat the foreshore as a treasured public asset that should be kept in a “natural and pristine condition” similar to a park and nature reserve. The program has been a success and accepted by the residents there. The high quality of West Vancouver is due, in part, to this policy as is borne out by the high quality of life as well as the high property values there. This I know to be true as I was the Land and Property Agent for the District of West Vancouver from 2007 to 2014 who’s duty, in part, was to review the foreshore policy, coordinate with other relevant levels of government and enforce the removal of encroachments on the foreshore which included docks or any other construction. The result of adopting a policy of no docks, or other foreshore encroachments such as patios, decks, ramps etc. allows for a pristine natural shoreline that can be enjoyed by all, not just those who are fortunate enough to afford to purchase the waterfront property that lies, adjacent to, and above the high water mark. There is a misconception among some people who believe that the property lying below the high water mark is able to be used by the owners of the adjacent upland parcel of land as though they were the de-facto owners. The ownership of all “land under water” below the high water mark is held by the Province. The control of land use from the high water mark to a line parallel to the shore and 1000’ from shore lies with the municipality. The Province will only issue a license of occupation for a dock if the municipality has no objection and even if a license of occupation is issued by the Province the municipal building permit must still be granted by the municipality. I believe that these facts were misrepresented to the public by some members of the former council. This is one of the many reasons that the past council was voted out. I am encouraged to see that you are attempting to correct the mistakes of the past council in this regard. I fully support your efforts with the introduction and passing of the proposed Bylaw No. 381, 2015 (Cape Roger Curtis Dock Bylaw) to prohibit docks from being constructed at the lands known as Cape Roger Curtis. I also encourage you to enact bylaws to prohibit the construction of other structures on the foreshore (decks, patios, ramps, sheds, boathouses, boat railways, etc.) on the Cape Roger Curtis foreshore and all other locations on Bowen Island. The first public hearing on docks (in November 2013) saw the municipal council chambers overflowing with passionate islanders, outraged because proposed ammendments to the Land Use Bylaw did not go far enough to protect public access to shorelines. While I have no doubt the amount of passion and political fervour at this public meeting will be equal to the last, the story will be very different this time around. For those of you who are not planning to attend but still keen on understanding how our island’s shoreline is likely to be developed in future... I’ll do my best to explain the situation as it unfolds every step of the way.
Bowen wildlife.
Theresa Liptay, photo
PAULINE LE BEL COMMUNITY CAULDRON
Mayor Skeels’ recent comment about herons got my attention. “If you’re going to have herons in the middle of downtown,” he said in council, “it doesn’t matter how much you write. People are going to say, this is crazy. And you’re going to say yes it is, welcome to Bowen Island…They rule us.” Isn’t this what we love about Bowen? That our hearts are big enough to care for another species? That we’re willing to tiptoe around their nurseries? Makes us feel good to value and protect something so ancient and so seemingly unlike us. Of course, it’s the law. In B.C. the Great Blue Heron is protected by the province’s Wildlife Act. Heron populations continue to be threatened by Eagle’s enormous appetite, and the capacity of humans to make such a racket that Mom and Pop Heron leave their nest. We’re not all that unusual in our efforts to protect another species. A friend told me about her first visit to Ireland. She’s of Irish descent and looked forward to a reconnection with her roots. On the cab from the airport, she noticed that the road, which was perfectly straight, took a sudden jog around a tree. “Fairies,” the cab driver told her. We value our herons; and the Irish value their fairies. In 1968, the people of the town of Ballymagroartyscotch, Ireland, were outraged when a proposed road included cutting down a fairy tree. The contractors were reluctant to destroy the tree. The story that spooked everyone was the one about the chap with the electricity board. He cut down a fairy tree, and the next day he fell off an electricity pole and died. Eventually, the road was diverted. In another example, a fairy mound (sidhe) was discovered to be in the way of a planned airport in Ireland; builders wouldn’t touch it. The airport sidhe became the focal point of intense controversy before the builders bypassed it. It’s crazy. Welcome to Ireland. Closer to home, other communities have discovered how to live in harmony with their wild things. The community of Whistler is home to ten thousand residents, more than two million annual visitors, and about one hundred black bears. They are learning to live together thanks to the Get Bear Smart Society (GBS). Over the last two decades, GBS has taken a leadership role in Whistler’s ongoing transformation into a Bear Smart community. They work with town officials, provincial conservation officers and bear managers, community and business leaders, waste management service providers, the RCMP, bear biologists, and concerned residents. They focus on public education, and train law enforcement officials and bear managers how to use non-lethal bear management options. We are fortunate on Bowen to have an enormous diversity of wildlife. Oh sure, the deer wreak havoc in the gardens and the rats get into the house in winter. We all have our challenges. My current challenge is to live in peace and tranquility with the slugs. My first impulse when I see them nibbling at my lettuce is to grab a trowel and stab them, brutalizing for both of us. The more I educated myself, the more I realized they play an important role in the Earth’s ecology. They process superficial organic wastes, and break down organic material to make these nutrients available to plant roots. Okay but do that processing somewhere else, please. I looked to the Compassionate Action Institute site for advice: “Education and compassion are the keys to coexisting with any form of wildlife. As wild animals find their natural environment shrinking daily, their interaction with humans increases with disastrous results for the animals. When they take up residence in someone’s home, destroy the garden, rummage through garbage cans or raid the songbird feeder, they are just looking for a place to live. They don’t deserve to be killed for such actions.” They suggest we humanely encourage them to move elsewhere. When a biologist friend told me you could throw slugs quite a distance without harming them, I discovered my non-lethal slug management option. Early in the morning, I grab a sweater, put on my gardening gloves, go to the garden, pick up those slimy little earth- processors, carry them up the hill and toss them gently into the forest, accompanied by the sweet sounds of the dawn chorus. This hardly qualifies me for a Jane Goodall Award, but both the slug and I feel better. If Whistler can co-exist with bears, surely I can live with slugs, and we can continue to live in peace with the ancient, prehistoric call of the gentle heron and the wonderful sight of these birds in flight. Pauline Le Bel is an Emmy-nominated screenwriter, award-winning novelist and the author of Becoming Intimate with the Earth.
6 • FRIDAY MAY 15 2015
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Meet Your Board: Bowen Island’s Community Foundation
CALL FOR APPLICATIONS 2015 Community Impact Grants
For 2015, the Foundation’s Board of Directors has approved $25,000 from its Community Impact Fund to be distributed as grants for community projects that will benefit Bowen Island and its residents. Send your good ideas by June 26th. Eligible applicants should send an initial proposal of no more than 500 words to the Foundation’s Grants Committee by Friday, June 26th.Visit the Foundation website and click on Call For Applications for full details about who is eligible, how to apply, and what you need to know about application deadlines: www.bowenfoundation.com. Attend our information session. On Friday, June 5, from 9-10am, our Grants Committee Chair Andrea Verwey will host an information session in the Rede Boardroom above Artisan Eats for any prospective applicants wanting to learn more about eligibility, the application process, and how to make the best case for a good idea. To RSVP, contact andrea.verwey@greenvalentine.com. Grant recipients will be announced on October 28, 2015.
The Bowen Island Community Foundation Board, Front row from left: Kathy Bellringer, Kristen Watson, Jennifer Hall, Joanne Gassman, Andrea Verwey, Jennifer Pardee. Back row, from left: Kim Stephens, Julia McCaig, Soren Hammerberg, Colleen O’Neil, Neil Boyd
Dayna Purdy, photo
BOWEN ISLAND COMMUNITY FOUNDATION SUBMISSION
The Bowen Island Community Foundation has been a part of Bowen’s culture since 2001, and now has almost $1 million in funds from community donations, with an annual granting programme, and the goal of using these funds to support arts, culture, education, recreation and the social wellbeing of Bowen Island residents. Who are the Community Foundation’s board members? Like Bowen’s population, the directors come from diverse backgrounds – we have three directors with extensive experience in business, three lawyers, two communications specialists, an environ-
2015 METRO VANCOUVER
mental expert, an educator, and a health professional. But even though one might want to classify members of the Board by their backgrounds, they can’t easily be grouped into occupational silos. Jennifer Pardee, one of our two most recently appointed board members, was the principal of Bowen Island Community School from 2010 until her retirement in 2015. She’s also committed to the environment, with kayaking and cycling on Bowen as longstanding pursuits. Our other most recent appointee, Joanne Gassman, a recently retired senior Vice-President with the Bank of Montreal, also serves as a member of the board of the Streetohome Foundation, a Vancouver–based organization dedicated to ending homelessness in the city.
continued PAGE 8 Frank Gurney Bowen Resident Master Engraver Art work on display at Juniper Gallery May 22 – 31st
TRANSPORTATION AND TRANSIT PLEBISCITE
Elections BC is administering the vote-by-mail plebiscite. You can vote if you are:
■ ■ ■ ■ ■
A Canadian citizen 18 years of age or older, on or before May 29, 2015 A resident of B.C. for at least six months, on or before May 29, 2015 Registered to vote in B.C. Living in Metro Vancouver
If you have not received a voting package, call Elections BC at 1-800-661-8683 before midnight May 15 to ask for one. Elections BC must receive your completed ballot package before 8 p.m. on Friday, May 29, 2015. Visit elections.bc.ca or call 1-800-661-8683 for more information.
ele c tio n s . b c .c a
1- 8 0 0 - 6 61- 8 6 8 3
Prints Silver engraving Gem engraving
Bowen Island Public Library Foundation Annual General Meeting Thursday May 21, 2015 7:00 p.m. at Bowen Island Public Library
WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM
Mariachi anyone?
FRIDAY MAY 15 2015 • 7
Visitor Information Centre ready to welcome the world to Bowen! JACQUELINE MASSEY SUBMISSION
The Visitor Information Centre (VIC) is open for business! Staff is on hand at the Boulevard Cottage in Snug Cove seven days per week, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm, to meet and greet tourists and other visitors. Bella Hauner, a university student who grew up on Bowen, has returned this summer season as the coordinator of the info centre. She will be on hand Monday – Friday to answer questions and help acquaint everyone with the many amenities of our island community. Heather Miller, a long time resident, will be hosting on the weekends.
The VIC will assist the pubic with information about attractions, services and special events and will feature a small gift shop showcasing the work of local artists and artisans. Working in partnership with Tourism Bowen Island, we are coordinating a pilot volunteer Ambassador Program. The intent is to have friendly volunteers ride on the Queen of Capilano during peak summer runs, answering questions about Bowen and offering assistance as needed to tourists. We invite anyone interested in spending time sharing their knowledge and love of the island to please contact the Visitor Centre at 604.312.1102, visitorcentre@biac.ca, or drop by and talk to Bella or Heather about their availability.
Local Resident, Amazon Best Selling Author Joanne Singleton’s book Don Rogelio, aka Roger Arndt of Mariachi Los Dorados.
now available at Phoenix Books & Caulfeild Pharmasave ... get your copy today!
Manuel Avila, photo
ROGER ARNDT SUBMISSION
I, Don Rogelio (aka Roger Arndt), will once again be the host for the 6th Mariachi Festival Canada. I am one of the founding members of Mariachi Los Dorados, a mariachi group based in Vancouver that have been together for over a decade. Los Dorados are well known throughout Western Canada fortheir mixture of Canadian and Mexican talent. Los Dorados have played at events and festivals across western Canada, the US, and Mexico, with feature performances at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, the 2011 and 2012 Calgary Stampede and a number of times at the Guadalajara International Mariachi Festival.They are the host band for this event. Returning for the second time is Maestro Armando Cervantes Tinoco who will be the musical director for the festival. Armando is a talented musician, composer, arranger, and a scholarwhen it comes to the history of Mariachi. He is from Guadalajara Mexico where he holds the position of
Commissioner to Safeguard Mariachi (Conasam-Crespial-Unesco), Musical Director for the International Mariachi and Charreria Festival, and the Musical Director of Traditional Mariachi National Meeting in Guadalajara, Jalisco Mexico. Mariachi is thought to have originated in Cocula, Mexico, and the government of Cocula awarded him with a lifetime achievment award for the preservation and promotion of Mariachi Music. He is the only person to recieve this honour. We are indeed fortunate to once again have him as our musical director. Following the festival, Armondo will be coming to visit Don Rogelio and to tour Bowen island. Mariachi has been called the Spirit of Mexico and is a unique musical spectacle. Come and share this unique presentation with us. For more information you cango to mariachifestival. com. For those of you who would like to experience this music but are unable to attend the festival, Mariachi Los Dorados will be playing from 3:005:00 pm at the Bowen Island Legion on June 14th.
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 Tickets: $10 children; $20 adults Available at the Gallery, Phoenix and online at biac.ca.
SUNDAY, May 17: Culture Matters: a Panel on Cultural Appropriation Cates Hill Chapel: 3 p.m.
For more information: authenticallyaboriginalonbowen.com
www.daughterofkate.com (Amazon - paperback and Kindle Edition). Book signing at the Grand Wailea Resort in Maui August 28, 2015.
Also, please call Joanne (604-970-2779) for all your real estate needs. Residential & Commercial, Angell Hasman & Associates Realty Ltd. www.joannesingleton.com
8 • FRIDAY MAY 15 2015
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Diverse skills and a love of Bowen is what makes the Community Foundation Board work from PAGE 7 Kathy Bellringer has an MBA from the Ivey School of Business, and has also been actively involved with both regional and urban art galleries. Our treasurer, Kristen Watson, is the Manager of Finance for the Bowen Island Municipality and a Certified General Accountant. She brings significant charitable sector accounting experience with her past work with Endswell Foundation and Tides Canada. She’s also an active volunteer with several Bowen Island organizations, and currently serves on the board of the Bowen Island Gymnastics Club. Jennifer Hall has extensive experience in communications and project management in Japan and Thailand, and is an avid outdoor enthusiast, with hiking and kayaking as an important part of her life on Bowen. She is also one of the founding members of Bowen Island Gives! (BIG!) – an Island group that organizes an annual charity climb up Mt. Gardner. Kim Stephens is a professional engineer and the Executive Director of the Partnership for Water Sustainability in BC, a non-profit society that is the hub for a “design with nature” approach to land development. Again, Kim’s skills extend beyond those of a professional engineer, into a portfolio of communications – linking local government initiatives with the provincial government, through his carefully constructed and collaborative processes of facilitation. Julia McCaig has a wealth of experience in publishing, media and marketing, and we rely on Julia for her knowledge of web technology. She also volunteers for Bowen’s Caring Circle Health Resource Centre.
And then there is Colleen O’Neil, who has worked as a nurse in a wide range of settings, from emergency to palliative care. Colleen is also actively involved in Bowen’s Caring Circle and in the community, whether working diligently to establish better health care for Bowen Islanders, or participating in a wide range of golf tournaments. Andrea Verwey, one of three lawyers on the Board, practised labour and employment law in Canada and Australia for a decade before moving into a management role with a Baker & McKenzie, a global law firm. She is now a consultant to lawyers and other professionals in the areas of communications, mentoring, productivity, and career effectiveness. On Island, Andrea recently co-facilitated the Municipal Council’s strategic planning process with Joyce Ganong. Neil Boyd is a 35-year resident of Bowen, who trained as a lawyer but works in the education field as a university professor – yet another crossover. And, finally, there is our indefatigable Board Chair, Soren Hammerberg. He is a lawyer, a teacher and mentor, having not only started his own litigation firm, but also having taught for both UBC Law School and Continuing Legal Education. It’s quite a cast of characters, and although we all have diverse backgrounds, what we share in common is a love of Bowen Island. We represent all Islanders, and it is our honour and our pleasure to serve you. We invite you to learn more about us, and about what we, in partnership with the community and our donors, are trying to do to help make Bowen a stronger and more caring community. Visit our website at www.bowenfoundation.com.
BOWEN ADVERTISERS! Don’t miss the opportunity to celebrate Bowen Graduates! Send your well wishes through the Undercurrent. Special Grad edition June 13. Contact Maureen to book your graduation ad now. contact ads@bowenislandundercurrent.com or call 604-947-2442 Deadline for booking is Monday June 1 at 4pm.
InHabit
Somatic Centre
566 Artisan Square Somatic Patterning Massage Craniosacral Therapy Ball Rolling Classes T’ai Chi Chih (778) 952-3757 Breathe Move Touch
Chiropractor
Dr. Tracy Leach, D.C.
595B Artisan Lane Tues. & Fri. Call for an appointment
(778) 828-5681
HEALTH & WELLNESS Dr. Utah Zandy 604-947-9830
CALL FOR APPOINTMENT OPEN TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS
Dr. Susanne Schloegl M.D.
Open Mon.Wed. Thurs. Fri. Call for an appointment Artisan Square
www.leachchiro.com
604-947-9986
Dr. Gloria Chao
Dr. Dana Barton
Family Dentist
Artisan Square 604-947-0734 Alternate Fridays 10am - 4:30pm Horseshoe Bay 604-921-8522 www.bowenislanddental.com
Naturopathic Physician 596 B. Artisan Square
604-730-1174 Natural Family Medicine
BOWEN ISLAND MASSAGE THERAPY @ #597 Wellness Centre & #595 next door!! 604-947-9755 EXT #1 TEXT: 604-653-9755
By Appt. 7 days a week
MARY MCDONAGH RMT HARMONY SHIRE RMT ROBYN IZARD RMT ALICIA HOPPENRATH RMT
Celebrating 27 years Community Healthcare
BODY VITALITY MASSAGE THERAPY Now 7 days a week! James Goldfarb RMT Fri, Sat, Sun, Mon 604-288-2860 Jenni Griffiths RMT Tue, Wed, Thur 604-240-6485 www.bodyvitaliy.ca
Psychologist Dr. Carolyn Nesbitt PhD, R.Psych #1484
604-376-9801 www.CarolynNesbitt.com
At entrance to Artisan Square Suite #597
CATHERINE SHAW Dr. Traditional Chinese Medicine/Acupuncturist
❦
MARY MCDONAGH RMT, DCH Registered Massage Therapist
❦
SANDY LOGAN Registered Physiotherapist
❦
COURTNEY MORRIS R.Ac, DCH Acupuncturist / Homeopath
Life Labs Tue @ Dr. Schloegl Thur @ Dr. Zandy 6:45am - 8:45am
For routine lab tests. Specialized tests & children may be referred to the mainland.
Returning flock marks memorable Doc Morgan’s opener
Birds in flight. JACK WHEATLEY SUBMISSION
The re-opening of one of Bowen Island’s most iconic institutions brought many faces, both local and visiting, to the once widely popular Doc Morgan's last Friday, May 1. but the restaurant was not the only building on the property that would house a returning crowd. The summerhouse briefly became home to a flock of Vaux's swallows, a.k.a. Chimney Swifts worthy of San Juan Capistrano. "We noticed them about 7 o'clock that same evening" said USSC operator Rondy Dike who along with his wife, Dorothy, watched the group of birds attract more of their kind and form a massive flock overtop the largest of the USSC's rental cottages. "Stunned" was the only word the head of housekeeping Barb Gibbard could find to describe how she felt. "You could see one bird in the window and that's happened before, sometimes one gets in," she said, but upon checking it out, it became quickly apparent that the problem was much more extensive than it had appeared. It
goes without saying the cleanup effort was an event all of its own. Some may see the gathering of swallows that accompanied Doc Morgan's opening night as worrisome, an omen of sorts, or at least a major nuisance, but perhaps there is some symbolism in the timing of the birds return. It was a grand night in celebration of a local favourite reopening under guidance of the family that crafted it. It attracted a flood of customers and staff both old and new. For many Islanders, Doc Morgan's has been a constant feature among the handful of family businesses within the community: a great stop for fish and chips. “It's been the face of the island, and such an integral part of Union Steamship,” says Oydis Nickle, daughter of Rondy and Dorothy. Oydis hopes to bring the restaurant back to the greatness it experienced in the 90s. Further aiding this effort is the return of some of the original staff that helped to give the restaurant it's great reputation; a place that for Waitress Laurie Woolly, a twenty year member of the Doc Morgan's family, "feels very much like home.”
WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM
FRIDAY MAY 15 2015 • 9
Come Sail Away with Bowen Island Yacht Club Learn 2 Sail programs this summer! The BIYC Mission is to grow our community of Bowen Island Sailors. We hope our programs, both new and old, will entice you and your family. You know those sunny summer days, when all the gripes about ferry overloads and price hikes melt away, and we feel nothing but totally blessed to live on an island? Well, those summer days get even better when your kids – or even you yourself – are out on the shining waters of Tunstall Bay, learning to sail. Our friendly and family-oriented club has been offering classes for 24 years and that core focus continues in 2015, but with exciting new classes on the schedule. Besides the sheer joy of being out on the water, sailing builds great character traits. Watching a seven-year-old set off bravely in a little boat is a terrific sight. As one of the coaches says: “Sailing teaches you to rely on yourself and on others. The confidence boost you see in kids from that are amazing. Also it’s a great way for kids to connect and learn to care for the ocean.” It is with pride that we have personally experienced the value of sailing through our own children and others. Not only do they acquire these valuable skills, some go on to become volunteers and instructors offering them the volunteer requirements needed for high school graduation and summer employment. The youth on Bowen are our ambassadors, grounded and rich in community. Information on all BIYC L2S programs can be found at: www.bowenislandyachtclub.com
New This Summer! Sail Away is a weeklong program that features sailing games and adventures in a variety of sailboat types for ages 8 and up. Kids up to 16 years old can participate if they’ve completed CANSail 1 or Wetfeet 2. Sailors will be grouped according to age and abilities. There will be a special session for teen’s age 12 to 16. Sail Away is a for fun no-certification program. The BIYC Fun Regatta will happen on the last Sunday of the month in July and August. Kids of all ages who have some basic racing experience can improve their skills and enjoy some friendly competition. Sailing Sundays is for adults and kids 16 and older. Sundays 12:00 – 4:00 pm. Come and get out on the water and either learn to sail or get instruction to improve your skills. Sailors are paired up in Laser 2 sailboats Opti Learn to Race is open to anyone over age 8. Sundays 12:00 – 4:00 pm. Sailors will learn racing skills and techniques. Must be comfortable sailing an Opti on your own. Private sailings lessons and programs are also an option. Get in touch and we are happy to put together a personalized program for singles or a group. Program Costs Benefits: • Fees are kept as low as possible • No time spent on ferries or fares • No costly gear or uniforms – a life jacket is the only requirement • Early Bird discount of $25.00 if you sign up before May 1 • Registration includes the annual membership to BIYC • Take part in the annual Commodore’s Cup at RVYC with lowest team costs • A bursary is available with the support of First Credit Union
How’s your Hearing? MAINLAND HEARING SUBMISSION
May is Speech and Hearing Awareness Month, here are some facts, figures and information. Hearing loss is the forth most prevalent chronic condition in Canada after mobility, pain and agility. It is the most widespread disability: 46 percent of people aged 45-87 have hearing loss. Only 1 in 5 people who could benefit from a hearing aid actually uses one. Ninety percent of people with hearing loss can improve communication with a properly fitted hearing aid, counselling or environmental changes.People who have hearing loss are 2-5 times more likely to develop dementia. Hearing loss is not just an age-related disability; it is affecting people at younger and younger ages. A study for Worksafe BC found that over 25% of young people entering the workforce had the early warning signs of hearing loss. Noise-induced hearing loss is the most cause of hearing loss among young people. When using earbuds to listen to music, Doctors recommend the 60% volume/60-minute rule. Turning up the volume, and using the earbuds more frequently for longer periods of time, can damage your hearing irreparably. Loud noise damages the tiny hair cells, that help send sound messages to your brain, in your inner ear, or cochlea. Unlike damage to other parts of your body, inner ear damage never heals. Noise-induced hearing loss from wearing earbuds usually takes a while to develop. Because it happens gradually, a lot of people don’t know they have a problem until it’s too late. Signs that you may have a hearing loss are: ringing, buzzing, or roaring in your ears after hearing a loud noise, and muffling or distortion of sounds. Here’s a guide to some typical noise levels, measured in decibels (dB). The higher the number, the louder the noise. Noise levels above 105dB can damage your hearing if endured for more than 15 minutes each week. But lower levels, such as between 80dB and 90dB can also cause permanent damage if you're exposed to them for hours every day. What does that level of sound look like? • normal conversation: 60-65dB • music player with earbuds, on loud: 112dB
• • • •
rock concert/ambulance siren: 120dB heavy traffic/lawn mower: 85dB hand drill: 98dB chainsaw: 115-120dB
Recent research and development has led to a transformation in hearing aid technology. Many of today’s hearing aids automatically adjust to different soundscapes. For example, they can allow the user to listen to one person in a crowded setting, while blocking out background noise. Some have a tinnitus reduction setting that can be helpful. Wireless, digital, hearing aids can also be directly connected to smartphones, TV and other electronic devices. You might have a hearing loss if you experience the following: • require frequent repetition. • have difficulty following conversations involving more than 2 people. • think that other people sound muffled or like they're mumbling. • have difficulty hearing in noisy situations, like conferences, restaurants, malls, or crowded meeting rooms. • have trouble hearing children and women. • have your TV or radio turned up to a high volume. • answer or respond inappropriately in conversations. • have ringing in your ears. • read lips or more intently watch people's faces when they speak with you. If you suspect you have a hearing loss, see your doctor (there are often correctible causes such as a build up of earwax or an infection) or an audiologist. Many audiologists will perform a thorough hearing evaluation for free. Choose an audiologist or hearing service provider who is recommended, and who provides the best follow-up service and has access to a wide variety of brands and products. Mainland Hearing has partnered with the Caring Circle to bring free hearing screening tests to Bowen Island. For an appointment, or for more information, contact Mainland Hearing, West Vancouver at 604281-3691.
Places of Worship Welcome You BOWEN ISLAND UNITED CHURCH Rev. Shelagh MacKinnon
FOOD BANK
Service and Sunday School: 10:30 a.m. Collins Hall Bookings: Helen Wallwork Minister of Music: Lynn Williams
DROP-OFF
BOWEN ISLAND COMMUNITY CHURCH Pastor Clinton Neal 1070 Miller Road 604-947-0384 Service 10:30 a.m. Sunday School 11:00 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.)
10:00 a.m. Worship • Sunday School: Tots to Teens Pastor: Dr. James B. Krohn
.com
Get exclusive access to the best offers in the city U -9 P T 1% O
SUBMISSION
Don’t miss our special grad edition. Send your photo and a 150 word submission by Monday June 1, at 4pm. Publication Date is June 13. Email: ads@bowenislandundercurrent.com or call 604-947-2442
One OR Two 8x12 Inch, 16x20 Inch or 20x24 Inch Custom Canvas Prints from InkDoodle.ca Ink Doodle Redeem Online
$79
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$8
U -5 P T 9% O
BOWEN ISLAND YACHT CLUB
CALLING ALL GRADUATES!
Full Surf Rental Setup, Including Surfboard or Bodyboard, Plus Wetsuit, Gloves, Boots & More at Live To Surf in Tofino Live to Surf Tofino, BC
$61.60
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10 • FRIDAY MAY 15 2015
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AGORA Forum: “ Democracy Now”
On the calendar FRIDAY MAY 15
Legion closed for the weekend
SATURDAY MAY 16
Green Man Festival Face painting in Snug Cove starts at 11:30 a.m. Community Challenge Golf Tournament, 3 p.m.
HANS BEHM SUBMISSION
THURSDAY MAY 21
Acupuncture for Nepal with Courtney Morris 9 a.m - 3 p.m by donation, for Doctors Without Borders Rotary Indian dinner to raise money for the eradication of Polio, suggested donation $20 RSVP 604-992-0034 by May 14
Tir-na-nOg Theatre School’s Youth Festival of Plays, 2015, presents: Peter Pan 7 p.m. Tickets $10 adult, $5 children
Duplicate Bridge @ Bowen Court Call Irene @ 2955
SUNDAY MAY 17
EDC Discussion on Bowen Business, 7p.m. RSVP Sheana Stevenson at sstevenson@bimbc.ca
Tir-na-nOg Theatre School’s Youth Festival of Plays, 2015, presents: Peter Pan 7 p.m. Tickets $10 adult, $5 children
MONDAY MAY 18
SATURDAY MAY 23
Meet Green Party Candidate Ken Melamed Collins Hall, 3 - 5 p.m.
THURSDAY MAY 28
Seniors Keeping Young (SKY) Victoria Day - No program! Authentically Aboriginal “Culture Matters” Panel at Cates Hill Chapel, 3 p.m. Tir-na-nOg Theatre School’s Youth Festival of Plays, 2015, presents: Peter Pan 7 p.m. Tickets $10 adult, $5 children
AGORA Forum: Democracy, the rule of the people 7 p.m. at the Gallery at Artisan Square
SUNDAY MAY 31
Visioning session on Grafton Lake Lands RSVP John Reid at isldpark@telus.net
TUESDAY MAY 19
AA Meeting Collins Hall 7:15 p.m.
WEDNESDAY MAY 20
Knitting Circle 2 - 5 p.m. Bowen Court - All levels welcome!
EDC Discussion on Bowen Business, 7p.m. RSVP Sheana Stevenson at sstevenson@bimbc.ca
The fourth and final discussion in this spring's AGORA series will take place on Thursday, May 28, at the BIAC Gallery at Artisan Square at 7p.m. In view of recent municipal elections and a federal one coming up in the fall it is timely that we discuss Democracy, the Rule of the People. What is Democracy, how does it
constitute itself? What is the role of the individual in it? Is our Canadian parliamentary system and process democratic? What are the dangers to democracy? These are a few of the fundamental questions which will be offered for discussion and many more will arise from them, no doubt. Please mark the topic, date and time on your calendar. Remember: We, the people are the ultimate government. HC Behm, hcbehm@shaw.ca
Tourism Bowen Island establishes a Charter Membership Program TOURISM BOWEN ISLAND SUBMISSION
The Bowen Island Chamber of Commerce closed its doors over a year ago. This past spring, the Bowen Island Economic Development Committee identified TOURISM as the number one economic generator for the island. Over the past 10 months, Tourism Bowen Island has been established and an application for non-profit society status is pending. They have a dedicated Board of Directors who are committed to ensuring Bowen continues to be recognized as an attractive tourist destination. Tourism Bowen Island is working with First Credit Union on the building of the Dick VanAelst Memorial Welcome Centre gazebo that is being built on the pier beside the ferry ramp,
which will have a variety of maps and island information for the visitor and islanders alike. They are partnering with the Bowen Island Arts Council to assist with the operation of the Visitor Centre in Snug Cove, and plan to establish a group of Bowen Ambassadors to ride the morning ferries during the summer months, to welcome visitors even before they land on our shores. Tourism Bowen Island is engaged in achieving financial goals that help ensure a vibrant tourism sector. Therefore they are establishing a Charter Membership Program and are asking for Bowen Island's support and participation. Read about the benefits of membership and join online at tourismbowenisland.com, or contact Murray Atherton, Chair, 604-312-1102, info@ tourismbowenisland.com.
BOWEN BULLETIN BOARD OIL PAINTED PORTRAITS 9” x 12” 14” x 18”
Gallery @ Artisan Square Presents
$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
Bowen Island - Don’t miss this one Just in time for Summer!!!
Gorgeous 3 bdrm/2.5 bath family home on the 8th hole with amazing ocean and golf course views and hot tub enjoyment!! This 3-year old 1700sf home has loads of deck, patio and enclosed yard space. Great for families and pets! Trails galore!! Contact 604-970-27 79 for further particulars and availability on this wonderful place you can call home!! Responsible for utilities.
Authentically Aboriginal on Bowen Presents the work of 12 indigenous artists 15 May – 21 June
Traditional Feast 16 May 5:30pm (Tickets at Phoenix) Opening ceremony 16 May 7pm
856 CAPTAIN’S WAY
SATURDAY MAY 16TH 2 - 4 PM
FREE !!! 40 YEARS OF FUNKY FURNITURE AND STUFF FROM A SUMMER COTTAGE
Call Mike at
778-829-2516
MAY 16,17 and MAY 23, 24 1529 Whitesails Drive (Tunstall Bay) Bowen Island, BC
EVERYTHING MUST GO Kingsize bed and mattress, 2 leather recliners (ala Lazy Boy), outside table and Chairs, Lawn Mower, Electric snow blower (used Once) Chairs, Ikea black leather Chair, Vita Mixer, cuisinart, knives, Lots of kitchen stuff... all good...books, cd’s TV and DVD player... bookcase, shelving units, some art...knick knacks etc.... 11 to 4 each day...
FREE
Brannon Brothers roofing& sheet metal
ESTATE SALE
BOWEN PRO-PAINTING Any paint job big or small Pro-Painting is the one to call For your free estimate call Steve @
604-970-0433
604.349.7402
info@bowenconcrete.ca
FOR ALL YOUR
RETE NEEDS CONC We Dig it, Form it, Mix it, Pump it
LANCE’S RECYCLING
I’ll pick up your recycling and AN ATTRACTIVE deliver to BIRC for CONCERT PIANO $25/load KEYBOARD FOR Kindling $20/box ‘PRACTICE’. HIGH VOLUME at Building Centre SPEAKER GONE CALL 947-2430 604-947-9372
WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM
FRIDAY MAY 15 2015 • 11
12 • FRIDAY MAY 15 2015
WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM
$ ra 130 is 00 ed !
Our affordable seniors residence may be the perfect choice for you!
Hello from Squamish, BC!
Lisa Friesen General Manager
Located just 40 minutes from Horseshoe Bay, Shannon Falls Retirement Residence has the perfect blend of spacious suites with spectacular views, all inclusive services and 24/7 staff.
Call Lisa today for a complimentary Lunch and Tour or inquire about our trial stay rates.
Help Eoin rebuild lives, and homes, in Nepal 21-year-old Ngima Yangjee cares for her two younger sisters and her daughter Pasang Chutin. Her husband makes an average of $15 a day. Their single-room house was destroyed in the earthquake that ravaged Nepal and they are now living a tent. Retired Burnaby firefighter Eoin White has become their “Pappa” over the 12 years he’s been leading tours to Nepal and Mount Everest. He has started a crowdfunding campaign to raise $35,000 to build Ngima and six other families a new home. Your donations will go directly to helping these families when you contribute to
604-848-2000 38225 3rd Avenue, Squamish
/nepal
www.shannonfalls.ca
Protecting Howe Sound Protecting the environment and Howe Sound is a priority. That’s why we are continuing to clean up the Woodfibre site, like our plan to remove 3,000 creosote-coated piles from the waterfront, which will provide a better habitat for fish. This is just part of our commitment to protecting Howe Sound.
Consulting With The Community At Woodfibre LNG, we always welcome your questions and comments. We’re nearing the end of our third round of formal public consultation, have held more than 300 community meetings, hosted two telephone town halls, and opened our doors in Squamish. To keep the conversation going, we’ve also launched our YouTube Channel and question and answer website, askwoodfibrelng.ca.
Community Involvement I M P O R TA N T TO YO U. I M P O R TA N T TO U S .
Listening On Electric Power
We want you to help us build a project that’s rightt for Squamish, and right for BC.
We heard that reducing air emissions is important to you, so early on we committed to powering our plant using electricity from BC Hydro. This decision will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by about 80 per cent when compared to burning gas, and will help make Woodfibre one of the cleanest LNG plants in the world.
John French has lived in Squamish his entire life, so he knows that to bring new economic opportunity to the region we must work closely with the community. In fact, that’s what attracted John to Woodfibre LNG – he sees how w Woodfibre is listening to people in the community and is acting on their priorities.
Investing In The Community
Building a project that’s right for Squamish. That’s our number one priority. woodfibrelng.ca
We are already providing financial support to youth sports and education programs, as well as community events and other local groups through our Community Sponsorship Program. As a proud contributor to a vibrant Squamish, we look forward to bringing responsible economic development to the community through local jobs, contracts and other contributions.