THURSDAY NOVEMBER 22, 2018 VOL. 44, NO. 45
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HEALTH CENTRE
Lessons Bowen can learn from Gabriola Island’s health centre.
THE SLOW LANE
Marcus Hondro reflects on Remembrance Days past and some Bowen veterans
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BITS gives Mt. Gardner trail markers a makeover BRONWYN BEAIRSTO CONTRIBUTOR
Historically, one of the challenges of hiking up Mt. Gardner has been to figure out exactly where the trail is. School groups, tourists, locals, haveall lost their way amidst the cedars and pines and branching trails at one point or another. But the trek up Bowen’s tallest peak just got a little bit easier. Armed with coffee, hammers, mallets and some brand new industrial reflective red markers, a brigade of more than 20 volunteers spent last Saturday methodically marking the Mt. Gardner trail. The Bowen Island Trail Society (BITS) organized the work party, which involved just as much pulling down old unofficial markers, left by various community members over the years, as putting up new ones. “There’s sort of a cocktail of different trail markers,” said the project’s volunteer coordinator, Bob Shutlz. Shultz says that they found markers ranging from painted tin can lids, orange blazes and flagging tape to action figures, plastic chickens and a porcelain wizard. “There’s less noise on trail now,” said Shultz. The society is part of a Bowen trails coalition formed last May. In partnership with the Crown (which owns 40 per cent of the land on Bowen, including much of Mt. Gardner), Bowen Trail Riders Association and Bowen Island Horse Owners and Riders Association, BITS is trying to improve signage and navigation on Bowen trails. Continued on page 3
Elisabeth Mueller admires one of her charges’ drawings at the daycare she operates out of her home. Elisabeth now offers $10 a day daycare, part of a provincial pilot program.
Bowen daycare part of universal childcare program BRONWYN BEAIRSTO EDITOR
A few weeks ago, Elisabeth Mueller gathered the children and parents of her daycare, Kinderhaus, and told them they’d be paying $10 a day for childcare, rather than the $50 plus they’d been paying up to
that point (costs vary by age.) Parents said it was like winning the lottery on Bowen. “They were nearly in shock,” laughed Elisabeth. The Bowen-based Kinderhaus is one of 53 daycares B.C.-wide selected as a prototype site for the prov-
ince’s universal childcare project. This means that families are paying $10 a day for a child’s care, to a total of no more than $200 a month. The pilot project was one of B.C. Premier John Horgan’s campaign promises during last year’s election. It runs until March 2020.
Elisabeth said that most of the selected day cares are larger, with only nine sole-proprietor operations part of the program, but that it’s important to support daycare diversity as different children have different needs. Continued on page 3
2 • THURSDAY NOVEMBER 22 2018
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Event Calendar
Business Licences on Bowen
Nov 26 2018 6:15 pm Regular Council Meeting
Nov 27 2018 7:00 pm Transportation Advisory Committee Meeting
Dec 7 2018 9:00 am - 1:00 pm Metro Vancouver Board Meeting 4730 Kingsway, Burnaby
Dec 7 2018 9:30 am Housing Advisory Committee Meeting
Dec 10 2018 6:15 pm Regular Council Meeting All meetings are held in Council Chambers unless otherwise noted.
Effective January 1, 2019, businesses operating on Bowen Island will need a business licence. This applies to commercial, home-based, non-profit and contractor businesses. This also applies to off-island businesses who are coming into the community to perform work. Types of businesses that will need a licence include commercial businesses such as grocery stores, restaurants, bed & breakfast accommodations and contractors. Homebased businesses will also require a licence; the nominal licence fee will depend on whether the business has hours open to the public.
Public Notice SEEKING PUBLIC COMMENT FOR TWO APPLICATIONS (203-992 Dorman Rd) 1. TUP-02-2018 2. Provincial Referral 04-2018 PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
A Temporary Use Permit application and a Provincial referral application has been submitted for 203-992 Dorman Road (shown on map) to allow a non-medical cannabis retail store in a 613 square foot, ground level unit adjacent to the Village Baker in Village Square. As of October 17, 2018, Bill C-45, the Cannabis Act, created a national framework enabling access to a regulated supply of cannabis. In response to this, the Province established regulatory requirements for private cannabis retail store licences in B.C. The applicant is simultaneously pursuing an application with the Province for a non-medical cannabis retail license.
Some types of businesses will not require a licence, such as garage or yard sales, buskers and street performers, and vendors who are selling goods at a farmer’s market or craft fair that is already licensed. A transition period will apply in early 2019 while municipal staff work on setting up the program, including an online business directory. Applications will be accepted beginning in January 2019. The fees for business licences are nominal and based on a simple structure to minimize impacts to businesses. For more details about the Business Licence Bylaw and program, please visit our website at:
www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/licences
MORE INFORMATION AT MUNICIPAL HALL: The applications may be viewed at Municipal Hall between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday (excluding statutory holidays) or on the Municipal website at www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/planning.
Committees seeking members Bowen Island Municipality is seeking volunteers to serve on the following Committees of Council: Finance Advisory Committee Parks, Trails and Greenways Advisory Committee Bluewater Park Water System Local Advisory Committee
Phone: Fax: Email:
Bowen Island Municipal Hall 981 Artisan Lane Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2
604-947-4255 604-947-0193 bim@bimbc.ca
To ensure a fair process, submissions cannot be accepted once the meeting has ended.
Questions? Please contact Sara Huber Planner I, at 604-947-4255 or shuber@bimbc.ca
Find us on Facebook Hours: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Monday - Friday, excluding statutory holidays Nov 22, 2018
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For more information about these committees please go to our website www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/committees or contact Stef Shortt, Committee Clerk at sshortt@bimbc.ca for an application form. Forms can also be obtained at Municipal Hall, 981 Artisan Lane. Applications must by submitted to the Committee Clerk by November 26, 2018.
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Submissions may also be made to Mayor and Council at the meeting: 6:15 PM on Monday, November 26, 2018 in Council Chambers, Municipal Hall
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YOUR COMMENTS ARE WELCOME: Written submissions may be delivered to Municipal Hall (contact information below): • In person • By mail • By fax • By email to bim@bimbc.ca
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Learning from other health centres
COLLEEN O’NEIL
B O W E N I S L A N D H E A LT H C E N T R E F O U N D AT I O N
You don’t have to travel far from Bowen to see how an island community can bring health care close to home. In June 2012, Gabriola Island opened the doors of a new health care facility. It has radically improved health care access for their community. It also serves as an inspirational and instructive case study as we move forward with our own health care centre here on Bowen. Gabriola and Bowen share some basic realities. Our year-round populations are about the same. Like Bowen, Gabriola lies a short ferry ride from numerous primary care physicians and ancillary medical services. Before they built their health care centre, about two-thirds of Gabriola residents went off-island for their primary care – roughly similar to what we find on Bowen today. However, once Gabriola’s clinic was up and running, things changed. Eighty-seven per cent of Gabriola residents now get their primary health care on-island. Islanders have access to extended hours for urgent care, as well as to a much-expanded range of health services. I was part of a field trip by
Bowen’s Health Centre Foundation to the Gabriola clinic, and I was greatly impressed by what I saw and heard. Three takeaways, among others: Build it and they will come: The centre has made it much easier for Gabriola to recruit physicians and attract ancilliary services. Now everyone on Gabriola can have their primary care doctor on-island. Team approach benefits patient care: Health centre physicians can now easily consult on individual cases with their primary care colleagues, as well as with visiting physicians and other health and social service providers who work out of the centre. Community pride and ownership: Gabriola residents were generous both financially and with a remarkable volunteer effort in building the centre. They feel a strong sense of community ownership. Even those who kept their off-island primary care physician know the clinic is there for them when and if they need it. I was lucky enough to conduct a video interview with Dr. Tracey Thorne, one of Gabriola’s primary care physicians, who gives a compelling account of how things have improved for patients and doctors since the centre was built (check out her video on our Bowen Island Health Centre Foundation website by clicking “The Solution” on the
Diverse daycare options needed
“Health Care Today” menu.) To be clear: we are not looking simply to duplicate what was done on Gabriola here on Bowen. Our foundation aims to provide access to health care services that best address the specific needs of Bowen residents. We are working in close consultation with Bowen’s health care practitioners to ensure we do that. Moreover, the type of facility we build, and how we build it, will be the product of local realities with respect to zoning, economics, labour availability and other factors particular to this island. Thus our solution to health care access will, in every sense, be “made on Bowen.” Nevertheless, the Gabriola experience teaches us a great deal. It underscores the very real need for better access to health care on an island like ours. It proves that others have faced the same challenge, dealt with it decisively, and are seeing multiple benefits as a result. Finally, it shows that when everyone gets behind a project that is so fundamental to our common good, it bonds us together even more closely as a strong and caring community. The Bowen Island Health Centre Foundation is dedicated to bringing health care close to home on Bowen. For more, visit bowenislandhealthcentrefoundation.com
BITS wants to maintain trails’ raw nature
Continued from page 1 As BITS is working with the province, all markers and signage need to have B.C. Parks approval, otherwise Shultz jokingly added, action figures would have pointed the way to the top. Shultz says that the new reflective markers should make the trail discernible, even in bad weather or darkness.
This Mt. Gardner project is a trial run and BITS is looking for community input about how useful hikers find the new markers. For that email info@bowenislandtrailsociety.ca, or message the society on Facebook. Phase two of the project would be proper and consistent signage on the trails. The society has got a couple of
prototypes in the works, but Shutlz says that the organization is aware that this could be a sensitive point on Bowen. “What everybody loves about these trails is that they’re really raw,” he says. “You can feel like maybe you’re the first one to walk there in a while. “The last thing we want to do is overdevelop the trails,” he says.
Bowen Island Arts Council is rebranding as “The Hearth, arts on Bowen” Unveiled at their AGM last weekend, the council’s executive director Jacqueline Massey says that while the organization will be keeping its legal name, locally they hope to eventually just be known as “The Hearth.”
BOWEN ISLAND UNITED CHURCH BOWEN ISLAND UNITED CHURCH Shelagh Mackinnon Marie Paul Rev.Rev. Shelagh MacKinnon
Helan Wallwork Helen Minister of Music: Lynn Williams
FOOD BANK
FOOD DROP-OFF BANK DROP-OFF
BOWEN ISLAND COMMUNITY CHURCH Pastor Clinton Neal ST. GERARD’S ROMAN 1070 Miller Road 604-947-0384 Service 10:30 a.m. Sunday School 11:00 a.m. CATHOLIC CHURCH
Sunday Mass: 10:30 a.m.
ST. GERARD’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Administration Office: 604-682-6774 Mass: 10:30 a.m. Priest: Father James Comey
604-988-6304
CATES HILL CHAPEL
www.cateshillchapel.com 604-947-4260 CATES HILL CHAPEL www.cateshillchapel.com 604-947-4260 (661 Carter Rd.)
10:00 a.m. W 10:00 a.m. Worship
(661 Carter Rd.)
10:00 a.m. Worship • Sunday School: Tots to Teens Sunday School: Tots to Teens
Pastor: Dr. James B. Krohn
Pastor: Phil Adkins
freedom to work more and have an hour or two to herself. But she said that Kinderhaus’s selection is about more than the money, it’s giving Elisabeth recognition. “She’s really something exceptional,” said Hilary. “Not just for the kids, she looks after the parents too.” Elisabeth holds themed parent nights where she serves tea and cookies and discusses daycare-related topics such as educational philosophies (Montessori, IB, etc.) or the importance of play. Inevitably this leads into discussion of what’s happening at Kinderhaus. “This exchange and communication and collaboration is important for me,” said Elisabeth, who has decades of experience working with large (more than 100) and small (fewer than seven) groups of children in Canada and Germany. “I learn about the families and the child.” It is this intimacy that allows Elisabeth to figure out what some children, who otherwise have trouble with daycare, need. Hilary’s daughter Max had been at Bowen Childrens Centre, (which Hilary maintains is an excellent institution) but the transition to the group care setting was too much too soon for the toddler. Max didn’t embrace daycare until she went to Kinderhaus. “She’s stoked to go there now,” said Hilary. Elisabeth said that there aren’t enough options and opportunities for childcare in B.C., an issue that’s exacerbated by strict licence regulations. “It scares everybody off,” she said. “They should be more flexible.” Elisabeth’s current licence requires her to work out of her home and as a renter on Bowen this comes with its own set of troubles. “It’s so tricky to manage,” she said. She also notes that Bowen has a dire need for care for children under three (according to the 2016 census there were 165 children under four on the island.) Elisabeth said that her seven daily spaces are currently full and that there is a waiting list.
On December 25, & January 1 service will begin with the 8:35 am sailing from Bowen Island and the 8:00 am sailing from Horseshoe Bay.
▼
BOWEN ISLAND Snug Cove
5:20 am^ 6:20 am> 7:30 am< 8:35 am 9:40 am 10:50 am 12:00 pm 1:10 pm 2:55 pm 4:00 pm† 5:10 pm * 6:15 pm 7:25 pm* 8:30 pm# 9:30 pm 10:30 pm
VANCOUVER Horseshoe Bay 5:50 am> 6:50 am< 8:00 am 9:05 am† 10:15 am 11:25 am 12:35 pm 2:20 pm 3:30 pm 4:35 pm 5:45 pm* 6:50 pm 8:00 pm* 9:00 pm# 10:00 pm
Distance: 3 NAUTICAL MILES Crossing Time: 20 MINUTES
Leave Horseshoe Bay
Service and Sunday School: 10:30 a.m. Service and Sunday School 10:30 am Collins Hall Bookings: Helen Wallwork MinisterCollins of Music: Williams HallLynn Bookings:
Continued from page 1 The program began Nov. 1. “We’re showing them how small daycares work,” said Elisabeth. “With a range of structured, semi-structured and spontaneous learning opportunities, Bowen Island Kinderhaus gives little learners the freedom they need to explore the natural world around them,” said Katrina Chen, Minister of State for Child Care in a government press release in early November. “The children learn vital social skills including communication, co-operation and patience with their peers, and are exposed to life skills such as food preparation of morning smoothies.” More than 300 daycares underwent the thorough application process for the pilot program. Elisabeth, who applied back in July, said that the Ministry of Children and Family Development required complete transparency: how the daycares function, educational frameworks, facility profiles and financial statements – all laid bare for the government. But Elisabeth said she saw project as an opportunity: the chance to work with the government to improve subsidized care in the province and the chance to support parents. “I do anything to support parents,” said Elisabeth. “Because I realise how hard it is for parents on Bowen to combine work and children.” Hilary Murfitt and her partner moved to Bowen about a year ago with their toddler Lily Max. Max (as she’s known) started attending Kinderhaus last March. At the time, it cost $62 a day for Max to attend daycare (after Max turned three in September it became slightly cheaper.) Hilary, whose partner travels for extended periods for work, found it difficult to balance working, personal time and childcare – it was almost more economically feasible to stay at home with Max. With $10 a day care, Hilary said that they’re saving between $400 and $500 a month, giving her the
Schedule in Effect: October 9, 2018 to March 31, 2019
Leave Snug Cove
Places of Worship Welcome You
THURSDAY NOVEMBER 22 2018 • 3 THURSDAY NOVEMBER 22 2018 • 3
* DAILY EXCEPT SATURDAYS > EXCEPT DEC 25 & JAN 1 < EXCEPT SUN AND DEC 25 & JAN 1 # DAILY EXCEPT SUNDAYS ^ EXCEPT SAT, SUN AND NOV 11, DEC 25 & JAN 1 † DC WEDNESDAY SAILINGS WILL BE REPLACED BY DANGEROUS CARGO SAILINGS. NO OTHER PASSENGERS PERMITTED.
4 THURSDAY NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 22 2018 4 •• THURSDAY 22 2018
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. National NewsMedia Council. The Undercurrent is a member of the National NewsMedia Council of Canada, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please email editor@ bowenislandundercurrent.com or call 604-9472442. If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the website at mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.
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Atherton resigning from Tourism Bowen board Dear Editor: After 18 years of non-stop volunteering (Bowen Chamber, Spirit of B.C./Olympic Committee, First Credit Union, Economic Development Committee, Tourism Bowen) and other non-board duties with Friends of the Library, Garden Club, Community Choir, (and I have a feeling I’ve forgotten some) it is time to step aside. We started Tourism Bowen to re-establish Bowen’s lost presence in the Metro Vancouver tourism marketplace. With the amazing support from DestinationBC and the extreme commitment from Jody Lorenz, we have done that. Tourism Bowen Island deserves more than a salesman. We need to have a strategic planner who can develop and administer our long-term vision for tourism on the island. I am not that person. I’m now 72 years old. I don’t have the patience nor energy to monitor our progress, nor develop strategic plans. In early November we hold our AGM. At
that time, we will be looking for a new chair and a new treasurer. Our present treasurer has embarked on a new career that takes him off island for extended periods of time and he cannot continue his duties long-distance. If acceptable to the board, I would like to stay involved and work on special projects like the secrets brochure and membership. I would like to represent Tourism Bowen in encouraging council to amend the Land Use Bylaw and the Official Community Plan to recognize tourism as a major economic generator. Without the short-term vacation rentals and no hotel, we will lose so much of the economic activity we have generated over the past few years. I can only hope that my successor brings to Bowen the energy, the talent, the knowledge and the love of the island that has kept me going for almost two decades of full-time living and volunteering on Bowen. It really isn’t that awful here! Murray Atherton
Chantal Rescues Ducks
Chantal rights her shoulders, dashing out on the rain slicked paving, as she gasps, “Oh, no, they’re walking on the road.” All in the Cove Gallery focused on her targets: a miniature parade, one side waddle after another, of follow the leader, and heading for the docks. Just leaving safe Bowen lagoon, luckily in a rainfall near 11:30 am, so few trucks seemed growling by as no routine ferry was loading nor unloading traffic. We counted 18 stubby, stubborn ducklings being clucked by their slow mother hen with her two young ones toddling one by one in her proud wake on their route to some new fresh cove. Chantal was last in natural formation, ready to flail her arms, yell aloud and stare daggers at any growling trucks that may appear to interrupt their rite of passage. Ten minutes dragged on, as we waited until sans coat and dripping wet, she panted “They all made it safely.” Chantal’s our wildlife heroine! Bernice Lever
Kids’ shopping at the Knick Knack Nook returns for seventh year It’s that time of year again. Bring your children between the ages of three and 12, to the Knick Knack Nook for the seventh annual children’s holiday shopping afternoon. The store will be closed to adult shoppers for the day. Instead, it will be full of special items, chosen throughout the year with the children in mind. When the children arrive, a volunteer will
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meet them at the door and help them with their choices. Parents are asked to wait outside with hot punch, cookies and a firepit providing fortification against the weather. We hope that parents will talk to their children about the pleasures of giving and choosing gifts for the special people in their lives. Each child should come with a small list of the people they would like to buy gifts for. If
you have more than one child participating we ask that each child is provided with their own money. It is always difficult for the children to try and hide gifts that they are purchasing for their siblings if they have to line up and pay together. The shopping afternoon is Saturday, December 8, between 12 and 2 p.m. Catherine Bayly
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First-past-the-post is past its best-before date, vote yes
Dear Editor: First-past-the-post was a good enough system in its day, I suppose. Back in those days, which I’m old enough to remember, the world was a much more binary place. Apart from Liberace, who was so obviously and flamboyantly enjoying himself, there were no gay people, for instance. There were only men and women, with the subsets of “confirmed bachelors” and “spinsters.” (Never mind the rainbow of gender identities we’re presented with these days.) Pretty much everybody in the ‘burbs, when I was growing up, had white skin. I only recall one black person; he drove an old truck and picked up people’s used newspapers. Everyone knew their place; bras had yet to be burned. (And the plastic drinking straw and shopping bag didn’t yet exist; yes, things were extremely primitive back then.) My point is, the world is, and always was, a complicated place, though this was easy to overlook at the time. Back then, complexity wasn’t really on the radar (and, also, it was much easier to distinguish between the platforms of the major political parties.) We were still basking in the simplistic afterglow of the Second World War, which really was a war
against pure evil – and first-pastthe-post seemed much fairer, since it was much more meaningful, at that time. It’s fair! It’s basically fair! Just like neo-liberal capitalism is fair – and it still leaves you with plenty of choice. Look!: Now that all the little players–the people who used to be referred to as neighbours–have been dealt with, would you prefer to buy all your cheap junk from Costco or Walmart? Would you prefer to have all your personal information stolen by Facebook or Google? Feeling peckish? Will it be McDonald’s or Wendy’s? Feeling patriotic? There’s always Tim’s. And so on. People who are all for first-past-the-post are used to living in a first-pastthe-post world: they bought houses when they were affordable (on one income) and went to school when schools were properly funded and before universities became for-profit rackets, for example. They “got theirs” and see no reason to change things. Just the other day, I asked my friend, How come the provincial government is suddenly doing so much stuff? And my friend said, because it’s a minority government, dummy! That’s right – the players
who don’t normally have a voice because their ideas are too radical – ideas like “from each according to their abilities, to each according to their needs” – the sort of silly nonsense that only commies and bleeding hearts would actually subscribe to – actually have a voice in setting policy and get to prevent the party in power from flagrantly abusing its privilege (can you say “lucrative government contract?”) – privilege which the majority of voters didn’t in fact endorse. “All the other social democracies have prorep, Dad,” says my daughter. I’ve reached that age where I turn to my kids for sensible advice. It saves a lot of time and hard thinking and I highly recommend it. (They’ll be running the world soon anyhoo.) It also gives me plenty of time to do what I do best, which is nothing, apart from writing the occasional pissed-off letter to the Undercurrent. Doing nothing suits me because it doesn’t require any special clothes and is low-cost and environmentally friendly. Having said that, I strongly recommend that you get up off the couch, pick up a pen, and fill in your ballot – and vote for prorep. Michael Epp
An Hour Early CSA is seeking volunteers For David and Emily I had company at the cafe, this morning.
A big creamy breasted gull with her blood tipped beak. She nodded her approval at my slim pickings. If I could reach through the window and touch you, stroke your proud head I could show you my hemorrhaging heart. We both sit and watch the world as if it had something to teach us. Generosity is tossed like bird seed by accident, as strangers, the witnesses, blanket us in protective gazes. You and I both wait for scraps of kindness, bones and fish, fat slices of loud laughter. We see each other through our need and I raise my arms to greet you. You look away knowing I cannot take to the sky, or you to my anchored horizon. Joined by the unfamiliar bond of waiting. I am filled by the unspeakable joy of this moment, locked together in its benign singularity. Jude Neale
ALEXIS COOPER
COMMUNITY SCHOOL A S S O C I AT I O N
The Community School Association has been gifted the refundables program for the month of December by the Bowen Island Recycling Depot and they are looking for helping hands from the community to fill their roster. The refundables program is an important fundraising program for many organizations on Bowen and for our organization it helped raise over $4,000 last year. These funds are used for upcoming initiatives. Some of the association’s current projects include: • Supporting the Welcome Carving, a public art project in progress that will represent Bowen as a welcoming and inclusive community • Bringing the Vancouver Symphony to Bowen Island Community School (West Coast Symphony) twice a year • Holding community nights
in the BICS gym Funding the Learning Lounge (former Homework Club) after school program • Sponsoring educational programs such as the Garden and Nutrition Program for students to visit local farms to learn about where our food comes from and food sustainability The CSA also provides rental subsidies for: • Agricultural Alliance (Farmer’s Market) • Bowen Island Community Choir • Fibre Arts Guild • Cates Hill Homeowner Association If you or someone you know might be interested in contributing some of your time next month, please visit the website for the full schedule and details www.slotted. co/csabird2018. All training will be provided and it’s a wonderful opportunity to get in the holiday spirit and connect with your community. •
Up next: Giving on Bowen edition One might say that the nave of this community is its volunteership. Islanders are giving with their time, their money and their words. We have the annual August Undercurrent edition that celebrates “citizens who make a difference,” but this cannot fully cover everyone who does good on this island. For next week’s “Giving on Bowen” edition, we’re looking for your stories of the quiet but steady volunteers. We’re looking for the employees who go the extra mile when no one’s looking or the harried parents who take a second to help a neighbour while trying to
wrangle their gaggle of children. As we enter the giving season, we want to hear how non-profits on-island have helped you or your family. Or, if you just have a lovely story of giving, we’d like to hear that too! If possible, we’d like all contributions to be in by the evening of Sunday Nov. 25. If you have questions or concerns about a story you’d like to write, I’d be more than happy to help you out. Email at Editor@ BowenIslandUndercurrent.com or call 604-314-3004. Bronwyn Beairsto Editor
THURSDAY NOVEMBER 22 2018 • 5 THURSDAY NOVEMBER 22 2018 • 5
ProRep needs clarifying
Dear Editor: Regarding the referendum on electoral reform for British Columbia, there are many issues I do not understand. These include: 1. We have had two previous referendums on electoral reform, one in 2005 and one in 2009, both of which failed to endorse a system of proportional representation. So, I don’t understand. Why another? And why now? 2. We had a Citizens Assembly on Electoral reform in 2004 and 2005. This group travelled throughout B.C. at citizens’ expense to gather information and make recommendations regarding change to the electoral system. The recommendations were to look at BC-STV as the form of proportional representation that would require approval by 60 per cent of voters and simple majorities in 60 per cent of the 79 electoral districts to pass. This did not pass. So, I don’t understand: why the BC-STV is not one of the options being proposed. Where the three options proposed originated? Who came up with these options, what is the rationale for each and what was the citizen involvement in proposing them? Why was the 60 per cent approval reduced to 50 per cent?
3. A basic premise of democracy is that the average citizen understands and can explain the system used to elect their government. After studying the three models (dual member, mixed member, and rural-urban), I have found it difficult to fully comprehend and even more difficult to explain. (I like to think that our electoral model could be explained to a young person of non-voting age. I would have difficulty doing this). These models have not been explained well. Two of the three have never been used before. So, I don’t understand: why would we be asked to vote on unclear, untested and complicated models as our first attempt at proportional representation in government. 4. Further to the three models, the government has stated that the “details” will be worked out later if the referendum passes. My experience is that the devil is in the “details.” So, I really don’t understand: how I can vote for a system of proportional representation without these details being outlined prior to voting? I am not against change but let’s not leap until we see the ground below. Gary Walsh
Give real democracy a chance Dear Editor: November 30 is fast approaching – the deadline for our choice in the proportional representation referendum. Last year, a few days before Canada’s 150th birthday, I took part in a citizenship ceremony at the Bill Reid Centre. There, 36 applicants from 17 countries were inducted to Canada. For many it was the end of an arduous road and for all the first step onto the path of a new journey. I wanted to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of receiving my own citizenship. Some things had changed. There was good food and drink, pomp and circumstance, glowing speeches by a former immigrant of Asian origin, a Mètis leader and a descendent of European immigrants. All spoke of their reasons to be grateful to be citizens of Canada, though saying clearly, each in their own way, that it required constant vigilance and participation. Democracy is a living idea. It needs to change and adapt to the evolution of society without giving up the principle of justice and opportunity for all. Watching the struggle with democracy of our southern neighbours, we see a clear example of how dangerously out of step an antiquated electoral system
can be, one that remains virtually unchanged for nearly 250 years. The current referendum for proportional representation in B.C. is the closest we have ever come to reaching a fair distribution of decision-making power in government. Closer to 100 per cent of the voters will participate in decision making, rather than fewer than 50 per cent in the present first-past-the-post system. Democracy is about compromise as demonstrated by the Grand Coalition in Germany. The opposition can no longer be the proverbial nay-sayer, it has to co-govern. Thus, the dictatorship of an absolute majority (incidentally a misnomer) is unlikely. The second part of the referendum offers dual, mixed and rural-urban member representation. We will always have an elected member from our riding in the Legislature but the other choices create a fairer distribution of power between urban and rural regions and other parties. For me, proportional representation is a fairer form of governance because it allows more representation for people in debate and decision making. HC Behm
October police statistics Cpl. Paulo Arreaga provided the Undercurrent with these statistics in what we hope will be a monthly contribution. The Undercurrent has had several community members request such information – if there’s other information you’d like in the paper, please let us know: Editor@ Bowenislandundercurrent.com. Bowen Island responded to 47 calls for service in the month of October. The files of interest include • Three impaired driving investigations
• • • • • •
• •
Six road blocks Three trespass investigations One mischief complaint One fraud Two thefts One stranded person (tourist lost in forest and located by RCMP) One utter threats Three suspicious person/ vehicle/occurrences
The October traffic stats not yet available but September saw 15 traffic violations issued.
6 • THURSDAY NOVEMBER 22 2018
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THURSDAY NOVEMBER 22 2018 • 7
• WINTER 2018 •
BOWEN ISLAND real estate guide • what sold what’s next
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THURSDAY NOVEMBER 22 2018 • 9 THURSDAY NOVEMBER 22 2018 • 9
Bowen Island saw half of its gains over the past decade in the last 2 years TIMOTHY RHODES
3
4
2018
5
61
0
6
0.0%
10 20 30 40 50 60 70 2018
2017
+37.3% 10
20
30
2018
$$$
37
0
40
0
New Listings October
0
20000000
10 2018
20
15
50000000
0
80000000
2017
500000
per cent increase over today’s average or $1.7 million by 2018.
20000000 40000000 60000000
Timothy Rhodes is a REALTOR® with Angell Hasman & Associates, Realty, Ltd. For more information : www.rhodesonbowen.com/blog-main
-23.5%
-7.9%
2016-2017 REBGV
2017
0
$968,200
+1.0%
$958,900 200000
500000
800000
OCT 2018
OCT 2017
REBGV vs Bowen Island Percentage Change 2016–2018 YTD Dollar Volume of Sales
01 Jan — 31 Oct
0 -10 -20 -30 -40
-12.0%
$66,333,200
OCT '16 – OCT '17
REBGV vs Bowen Island Percentage Change 2016–2018 YTD Number of Sales
Bowen Island YOY at 31 October 2018: MLS®HPI: $986,575 Median Sales Price: $966,000 Average Sales Price: $1,129,468
60
MLS®HPI Oct
800000
OCT '17 – OCT '18
50
2017
2018
+4.8%
$922,000
40
$58,385,500
2017
$966,000
0 200000
30
Dollar Volume YTD
Median Sales Price YOY $$$
11 5
+11.5%
$64,745,200
2018
-54.5%
10
2018
$72,181,500
2017
536
58
Dollar Volume YOY
Total Inventory Oct 27
0
-10.3%
52
2017
$$$
2
61
# SALES
6 1
Sales YTD
$$$
# SALES
# SALES
-50.0%
3
0
LIST
cent for the same period. The MLS® YOY change Median Sales Price 20162018 is up a modest 2.3 per cent for the REBGV while Bowen is ten times this at 25.5 per cent, and for 2017-2018, Bowen outperformed the REBGV by 500 per cent. Forecasts for the REBGV market are for slow recovery followed by continued growth. The BC Real Estate Association (BCREA) reports that recovery is already underway, and predicts a modest increase of 0.6 per cent in the MLS® Average Price in 2019. (bit.ly/BCREAforecast). Real estate analyst Dane Eitel, less optimistic about the short term, forecasts the current slump to continue with the average price bottoming at $1.4 million, remaining flat through 2021, reaching 2017 peak average prices in 2023 and then doubling by 2028 “to around $2.8 million—a 100 per cent increase from the 2021 average.” (The Western Investor: bit.ly/detached-homeprices-will-soar). This growth is similar the past decade (2008-2018), during which time the YOY Average Sale Price increased by 96.1 per cent for the REBGV and 39.5 per cent for Bowen; however, Bowen Island saw half of its gains—20.6 per cent—over the past two years (2016-2018) while the REBGV decreased 2.0 per cent over the same period. If Bowen Island continues to perform relative to the REBGV as it has over the past decade and the past two years, the market can anticipate a relatively stable but flat market for the next 12-18 months, followed by a 50
LIST
New and increased taxes on real estate, the Bank of Canada rate edging upwards, and the mortgage stress test has had a dramatic impact on the dollar volume and number of sales throughout the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV), especially in the luxury housing market. The impact on the Bowen Island market has been much less significant. Bowen is a micro-market where a single sale can have a significant impact on the statistics month over month, making Year-over-year (YOY) and year-to-date (YTD) data a more reliable indicator of market trends. YOY and year-to-date YTD data does not indicate a market advantage to either sellers or buyers on Bowen Island. YOY data for Bowen Island indicates stability and modest growth, with YOY Number of Sales equal to 2017, Dollar Volume of sales up 11.5 per cent, and Median Sales Price up 4.8 per cent. The YTD trend indicates a slowing of activity and suggests year-end totals for 2018 will be close to those of 2017. YTD Number of Sales are down 10.3% and Dollar Volume is down 12.0 per cent; however, the Median Sales Price remains stable, with a 1.0 per cent increase YTD. Over the past 2 years, Bowen Island has significantly outperformed the REBGV market. The REBGV YTD Number of Sales are down 51.3 per cent from 2016 while Bowen is down 17.5 per cent, and the REBGV Dollar Volume is down 53.1% while Bowen’s Dollar Volume is down only 0.5 per
Sales YOY
Sales Month of Oct
CONTRIBUTOR
01 Jan — 31 Oct
20 10 0 -10 -20 -30 -40
-36.4% -10.3%
2017-2018
Bowen Island
+13.0%
-24.0%
-38.3% -12.0%
2016-2017 REBGV
2017-2018
Bowen Island
Data represents the MLS® detached single family data only as at 31 October 2018. Data source © 2018 BC Northern Real Estate Board, Chilliwack and District Real Estate Board, Fraser Valley Real Estate Board, and Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver. All rights reserved. Data deemed reliable but not guaranteed.
SUN. OCEAN VIEWS. GOLF COURSE LIVING. Bowen’s newest development in Seymour Landing at Cowan Point CO WA N
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Russell Lane has been a hive of activity over the past few months. Construction of the homes on Lots 3 & 5 is almost complete, and the purchasers of these striking residences will be taking possession in January 2019. Lot 2, also under construction, is available for sale for $1,275,000 (plus GST). This single-level, 1,935-square-foot, 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home will be ready for move-in just in time for the start of golf season! Lot 4 is slated for a spacious 2,500-square-foot, 2-storey home and will be available for sale shortly. All of these homes are located above the ninth fairway of Bowen’s 9-hole golf course and enjoy a sunny south-facing location with ocean views to the east. Check our website or call 604-947-0000 for the most up to date info.
NE
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4 COMING SOON
GOLF COURSE
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Beautiful ocean-view home on .73 acres in coveted Sealeigh Park neighbourhood. Extensively and stylishly renovated offering peace of mind for years to come. Professionally landscaped, lowmaintenance garden with mature fruit trees. Only a 5 minute walk to the best beach on Bowen!
Timothy Rhodes REALTOR®
Community, naturally
RHODES ON BOWEN 604-341-9488 tim@rhodesonbowen.com rhodesonbowen.com
Vaune Kolber, Realtor® BetteronBowen.com 604-506-7534 kolber@dexterrealty.com
BOWEN HOME SERVICES love the life you live Pernille Nielsen Notary Public
Real Estate Purchase & Sale Documentation Mortgages - Refinances Wills and Powers of Attorney - Notarizations Serving Bowen since 2002 #27 Seabreeze Building P. O. Box 19 Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G0
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THURSDAY NOVEMBER 22 2018 • 13
Carmen Dives
Ian’s Featured Listing-103 Belterra
604.802.8267
BOWEN ISLAND
carmendives@gmail.com www.bowenislandproperties.com
E US 4 HO 2 N 1 PE UN O S
Enjoy the peace of mind that a 3 yr old Green Gold certified building provides. Warm your feet & soul with radiant heat, gourmet gas cooking! This thoughtfully laid out townhouse features 2 large bedrooms with walk-in closets, 2 bathrooms-the main has a luxury soaker tub and glass shower, high end appliances, tile and bamboo floors. An amazing common house c/w 2 guest suites completes the package. Call Ian today for a private viewing-offered for $688,000.
Trusted Personal Real Estate Service since 2004 Ian Massender REALTOR® Sutton Group Bowen Island Realtor 604.787.7763 ianm@sutton.com
$1,269,000 1153 Senator Road 3 bed 2 bath This home has it all, unparalleled location, magnificent views, quiet street, new decks, gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances, lots of room for guests all within 3 minute walk to a very popular beach, walking distance to ferry, schools, trails, shops and restaurants.
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Oh what fun it is ... Christmas has arrived at the Bowen Building Centre Lights, decorations, crackers and great stocking stuffers!
Bowen Building Centre 1013 Grafton Rd Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. .m.
Thank you for shopping local.
A message from the BIM Economic Development Committee.
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THURSDAY NOVEMBER 22 2018 • 15 THURSDAY NOVEMBER 22 2018 • 15
BOWENBEAT
Abby Walters (centre), a grade 4 student at BICS, won of the Be Bright at Night on Bowen poster competition organized by the Rotary Club of Bowen Island and the Snug Cove House Society. Ida Goodreau (left), board director of Snug Cove House Society and Hilary Butler, Rotary’s projects director presented Abby with a cheque for $50. The poster is posted in prominent spots on Bowen. Runners-up were Laura Loughrey, Isaiah Lee and Arjun Bristowe. Photo: submitted
Gallery@Cove Commons curator Emilie Kaplun puts the finishing touches on Bowen Island Arts Council’s annual “It’s a Wrap” exhibit and sale Tuesday afternoon. More than 30 Bowen artists and crafts people are featured in the sale, which includes paintings, furniture, knitwear, pottery, dog beds and more. The opening reception is Friday, Nov. 23 between 7 and 9 p.m. The exhibit runs until Dec. 30.
BITS party: More than 20 people gathered Saturday to help the Bowen Island Trail Society put up markers on the trail up Mt. Gardner. Left: Karl Schimann (on ladder) and Monique Schimann (foreground) participate in BITS’ work party. Photo: Andrew Wong Right: Vishaal Kapoor (left), Renley the dog (centre) and Richard Attfield (right) pose for the camera Photo: Bev Attfield
Chuck Venhuizen briefs volunteers at the Bowen Island Trail Society’s work party Saturday morning. Photo: Bev Attfield
16 16 •• THURSDAY THURSDAY NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 22 22 2018 2018
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ANNUAL EXHIBIT & SALE
Fine Art Creations By Local Artists Nov 21 - Dec 30, 2018 GALLERY @ COVE COMMONS
Photo: Lorraine Ashdown
Refrain not – join the (choir) chorus JULIE SAXTON
CONTRIBUTOR
FESTIVE RECEPTION Friday, Nov. 23 7 - 9pm Music by Marc Gawthrop
LATE NIGHT SHOPPING THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13 OPEN TO THE PUBLIC 6 - 8PM
LATE NIGHT SHOPPING Thursday, December 13 6 - 8pm Open to the Public PRESENTED BY THE PRESENTED BY THE BOWEN ISLAND BOWEN ISLAND ARTS COUNCIL ARTS COUNCIL www.biac.ca WWW.BIAC.CA
Community: friendly association; fellowship. Choir: a group of singers organized and trained to sing together. For more than 20 years, the Bowen Island Community Choir has been creating beautiful music for the pleasure of Bowen Islanders. Members of the community choir spend many hours practicing under the wise guidance of our director Ellen MacIntosh, in a warm, friendly and supportive environment to prepare for December and May concerts. Why do we do all this? Number one, we enjoy making music together. Even better though, researchers have demonstrated that communal singing offers many mental and physical benefits. Furthermore, psychologists tell us that community singing is an excellent icebreaker, creating bonds that improve our social network and reduce the risk of isolation, a growing concern in today’s online world. Bowen Island Community Choir members experience the inclusivity of communal singing from the outset. Whether it is the help those who read music offer those of us who don’t, volunteering their time to create practice materials or lead the group, the kind guidance of our superb accompanist Sheilagh Sparks or of course Ellen’s expertise in drawing out the intricate harmonies she is confi-
dent the choir can master. It is perhaps unsurprising that such a positive environment has nurtured many friendships over the years. Then there are the little extras. Twice a month, members have an opportunity to learn about music theory and harmony. The choir has participated in several Kiwanis Music Festivals in Richmond over the years, where we get feedback from professional adjudicators and enjoy performances by other community choirs from around the Lower Mainland. Not to mention the fun we had learning some beautiful choral arrangements of familiar songs by Sting and David Bowie during a pop and jazz choral workshop with musician Dale Rasmussen, a choral arranger and director from Victoria. And then there are our after-show parties at which members wind down after an intense day of performing with more singing, food, fellowship and good cheer. So who can resist the opportunity to share the sheer joy of communal music-making? The Community Choir’s Christmas concert on December 8 is now less than a month away. It forms one of Bowen Island’s many seasonal celebrations. We hope you will come along to the afternoon or evening concert at Cates Hill Chapel to enjoy songs, old and new, from different holiday traditions. And who knows, maybe you’ll even be inspired to join us in January for the next session! For more information please visit: bowenislandcommunitychoir.ca.
The Bowen Agricultural Alliance (BAA) is hosting a
BAA Winter Market and Craft Fair The Little Red Church Christmas Craft Fair
Bowen Island Community School Sat. Dec. 8th, 10-1pm, BICS gym
Sat. Nov 24th, 11am-4pm & Sun. Nov 25th, 12pm-4pm Collins’ Hall Local crafts, concession by Little Red Church. Please join us for Christmas treats.
Bowen Island Legion’s
CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR Sunday November 25 11 am - 4 pm
Crafters, sauces, jams, preserves, food, fruit leather, kale, squash, Winter vegetables, baked goods, seeds, artisans and more! All ages welcome
15 tables of local crafts. Proceeds from concession supports Bowen Gymnastics Festive fun for the whole family.
Community News
ONLINE
www.bowenislandundercurrent.com
Sunday Dec 16th, 2 pm
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THURSDAY NOVEMBER 22 2018 • 17
Seasons’ crafters ready for CSA Christmas craft fair
KATIE COOKE
P R O M O T I O N S C O O R D I N AT O R
Not only is crafting growing in popularity, but more and more people seem to be turning to craft fairs for unique, handmade gifts to give away during the holiday season. If the attendance at last year’s Community School Association Christmas Craft Fair is any indication, Bowen Islanders want to buy local, rare products that are not mass-produced. For the first time ever, the 33rd annual CSA Christmas Craft Fair’s vendor registration sold out in less than 24 hours. Although Bowen Island has always been home to many talented artisans and crafters, it seems that crafting has surged in popularity recently and, along with many seasoned crafters, there are many newer crafters who will be selling their wares at this year’s fair. We all want to own or give something special, something that feels exclusive and connected to our amazing community. From cozy wool socks, to soy candles scented with essential oils, gifts for our fur friends, knitted and handsewn textiles, wood-working, pottery, handcrafted jewellery and beauty products, there is something for everyone at this year’s CSA Christmas Craft Fair. This event is an island tradition (33 years and still going strong), a favourite time of year for many and a great chance to keep our hard-earned dollars on-island. The cafe will be stocked with a plethora of lunch options for the whole family, our island youth will be showcasing their crafts from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and the cake walk will be in full swing at 11 a.m. Come on down to the CSA Christmas Craft Fair at the Bowen Island Community School on Sunday, December 2, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to visit with neighbours, support your local artisans and purchase one-of-a-kind gifts for your loved ones this holiday season!
Patient of the Week Meet Bubba. This handsome boy showed up in emergency not feeling so great. The team at Mountainside took x-rays and administered IV fluids and antibiotics. As in human medicine, antibiotics are not given unless warranted but it was felt that they would be helpful in treating Bubba’s gastroenteritis. After 24 hours in hospital, Bubba felt much better and returned home.
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LIGHT UP BOWEN SatURDAY December 1st Arts Pacific Gallery is having a Party!
6:00 CATES VILLAGE SQUARE 6:30 LANTERN PARADE 7:20 SANTA ARRIVES
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK lightupbowen@gmail.com
TheArt of Giving
December 9th 11 - 4 Enjoy festive treats and seasonal music while you browse for the perfect gift selected from our unique and diverse artistry. Enter to win a gift of your choosing ($150 value). Draw will be held Dec 22nd at the gallery and the winner will be called same day. We look forward to seeing you! Arts Pacific Gallery in Artisan Square • (604) 947-0489 Wed - Sunday 11am - 4 pm & enjoy extended shopping hours Dec.22 - 24 • 10am - 5pm.
18 THURSDAY NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 22 2018 18 •• THURSDAY 22 2018
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Slow Lane Chronicles
Bowen Island Community Choir
Remembering on Remembrance Day MARCUS HONDRO
Concert Saturday
Dec. 8
Performance: 2:30pm & 7:00pm
Cates Hill Chapel
Adults - $15, Seniors - $10, Children - $5
Music director: Ellen Maclntosh
Accompanist: Sheilagh Sparks
Tickets available at Cates Pharmacy or at door
Photo by Sarah Haxby
Bowen Island Conservancy November 24: Annual General Meeting Bowen Island Community School, Multipurpose Room Agenda: 1:00 pm: Formal business meeting 1:45 pm: Coffee break 2:00 pm: Dr. Andrew Wright will talk about his exhibit GroundTruth: Anatomy of a Pipeline Andrew has travelled 20,000 km on land and spent 100 days in a boat along the route of the Northern Gateway Pipeline. Our economy supports a prosperous life, but it is also dependent on the extraction of resources. In a world of accelerating climate change and diminishing biodiversity, we need to ask ourselves ‘How does Canada transform its economy, in order to preserve its prosperity and contribute to the conservation of the country and the planet?’ 3:00 pm: Closing remarks
COLUMNIST
The Remembrance Day ceremony on Bowen is a favorite gathering but in the past I have felt somewhat guilty about liking it so much. After all, the reasons we meet at the cenotaph each November 11 are grave and yet seeing so many friends and acquaintances gathered in one place, and doing so to honor others, is nothing short of enjoyable. But in the end I shed my guilt and chose instead to look upon it as another reason to feel gratitude toward, and thank, our military veterans. They not only gave us their service – and in the two world wars alone for more than 100,000 Canadian men, and dozens of women, that meant giving up their lives – they have given us reason to come together as a community in quiet celebration. This year marked the 82nd consecutive Remembrance Day ceremony to take place at our community’s cenotaph, one having taken place there every year since it was erected in 1936. During the ceremony of 2018, I thought of two Bowen Islanders who took part in the Second World War and who are now deceased. They are many others of course, but I thought of Jan Furst and Charlie MacNeill. Both left us seven years ago and were kind-hearted, with engaging personalities and engaging stories to tell. Islanders who arrived on Bowen after these two veterans’ deaths have missed knowing wonderful people who contributed greatly to our community. Each lived into their 90s and took an active part in island life right up until their passing. Jan Furst spent half his life in Canada, his early years here in Newfoundland. He and wife Nenna, who died in 2000, moved to Bowen in their late 70s. As many islanders will tell you, Jan routinely contributed to the lives of others and greatly enjoyed social occasions. He was among the first up to dance at the annual Dock Dance and his 2009 appearance as a troll in the Bowfest Parade, at 96, was highly amusing and his smile throughout the parade heartwarming. A shipbuilder by trade, he was also a published author, both non-fiction and fiction. Among many other pursuits he was a fencer and while in his 90s, began a fencing club for youth and adults on Bowen. The connection to Remembrance Day? During the Second World War, Jan Furst was a member of the Norwegian resistance and of his native country’s merchant marine.
YOU DO NOT HAVE TO BE A MEMBER OF THE CONSERVANCY TO JOIN US FOR THIS FREE MEETING AND PRESENTATION.
Are you a former resident of Woodlands? If you were a resident of Woodlands, also known as Woodlands Institution and Woodlands School, in New Westminster, B.C., you may be eligible for a payment from the provincial government. People who resided at Woodlands prior to August 1, 1974 will receive $10,000 in an ex-gratia payment. In addition, people who resided in Woodlands after August 1, 1974 will receive up to a maximum of $10,000. The process to determine eligibility is very simple. To apply, you or your guardian or caregiver can call toll free 1 888 523-7192 or email woodlands.care.facility.residents@gov.bc.ca.
Jan Furst at Bowfest 2009, dressed as a troll. Photo: Marcus Hondro
Charlie MacNeill at Remembrance Day 2009. Photo: Marcus Hondro In addition to having stories to tell about the war, and about life in general, he loved to hear the stories of others. Islander Chris Corrigan once told me Jan asked people who were coming to his birthday parties not to bring a gift but instead to bring someone he’d never met, someone new he could learn about. Jan Furst died on September 24, 2011 at the age of 98. Charlie MacNeill attended every Remembrance Day service at our cenotaph after moving to Bowen right after he finished his service in the war, each November 11 for 65 years in a row. From Prince Edward Island, he was a member of the P.E.I. Highlanders – his company transferred over to the North Nova Scotia Highlanders during the war – and Cpl. MacNeill’s regiment took part in the Normandy Landing and fought in 12 other engagements. He once told me that after returning to Canada from the war he decided he would never again go to Europe because he had left too many friends behind, soldiers who had been killed in battle and would not get a chance to see Canada again. “I lost a lot of friends over there,” he said. “And I don’t ever wanna go back.” Charlie was a renowned storyteller who partook in Bowen life for all of those 65 years, working as a heavy machine operator, a trade that literally saw him help build this island. He was one of 16 veterans who pitched in to build the Legion, circa 1969. The Walker family were Charlie MacNeill’s neighbours for some 25 years and Caroline Walker of the Bowen Island Flower Shop said that they benefitted greatly from his friendship. Her three children grew up thinking of Charlie as a grandfather and they loved his stories and cherished the time he gave to them throughout their childhoods and beyond. Dozens of islanders felt grateful to have known him and after his passing many wrote on the Bowen forum about what a joy he was to have in their lives. Caroline Walker called Charlie generous, an island “legend” and “an inspiration to us all.” Charlie MacNeill died on April 10, 2011 at the age of 95. The Bowen Island Museum and Archives has recorded interviews with Charlie MacNeill and other material on Charlie and Jan Furst, including articles, photos and letters. They also have historical material on the lives of many other islanders now passed, going back decades and available for islanders to view. Archivist Cathy Bayly notes it is best to check their website for hours and to call ahead.
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THURSDAY NOVEMBER 22 2018 • 19
Bowen Island Community
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All advertising published in this newspaper is accepted on the premise that the merchandise and services offered are accurately described and willingly sold to buyers at the advertised prices. Advertisers are aware of these conditions. Advertising that does not conform to these standards or that is deceptive or misleading, is never knowingly accepted. If any reader encounters non-compliance with these standards we ask that you inform the Publisher of this newspaper and The Advertising Standards Council of B.C. OMISSION AND ERROR: The publishers do not guarantee the insertion of a particular advertisement on a specified date, or at all, although every effort will be made to meet the wishes of the advertisers. Further, the publishers do not accept liability for any loss of damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of an advertisement beyond the amount paid for the space actually occupied by the portion of the advertisement in which the error occurred. Any corrections of changes will be made in the next available issue. The Bowen Island Undercurrent will be responsible for only one incorrect insertion with liability limited to that portion of the advertisement affected by the error. Request for adjustments or corrections on charges must be made within 30 days of the ad’s expiration. For best results please check your ad for accuracy the first day it appears. Refunds made only after 7 business days notice!
BUD HAYNES and WARD’S Premier Firearms AUCTION. Saturday, December 8 at 10 am, 11802-145 Street, Edmonton, AB. Over 800 Lots -Online Bidding. Antique and Modern Firearms. Check the website. To Consign, call Linda Baggaley 403-597-1095 Brad at 780-940-8378; www.budhaynes@auctioneers. com; www.wardsauctions.com
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SAWMILLS from only $4,397 Make money & save money with your own band mill - Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. FREE Info & DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com/400OT 1-800-567-0404 Ext:400OT
ANSWERS
CRAFT FAIRS/ BAZAARS
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&(= 5#:" '"(( %$7($=#"0! &:%*(A MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career! Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get the online training you need from an employer trusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855768-3362 to start training for your work-at-home career today!
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To advertise in the Classifeds call
604-630-3300
HEALTH & BEAUTY GET UP to $50,000 from the Government of Canada. Do you or someone you know have any of these Conditions? ADHD, Anxiety, Arthritis, Asthma, Cancer, COPD, Depression, Diabetes, Difficulty Walking, Fibromyalgia, Irritable Bowels, Overweight, Trouble Dressing...and Hundreds more. All Ages & Medical Conditions Qualify. Call British Columbia Benefits 1-(800)-211-3550 For Your Free No Obligation Information Package TODAY.
LEGAL SERVICES CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer Employment/Licensing loss? Travel/Business opportunities? Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US Entry Waiver. Record Purge. File Destruction. Free Consultation 1-800-347-2540, accesslegalmjf.com
CHIMNEY SERVICES Santa’s Chimney Services Sweeping, Repairs, Re-builds
WETT Certified 778-340-0324
bowenislandundercurrent.adperfect.com
TODAY'S PUZZ
HEALTH & WELLNESS Dr. Susanne Schloegl M.D.
Appointments Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri, 9am - 5pm ECG and HOLTER monitoring Artisan Square
Bowen Island Chiropractic
Dr. Tracy Leach, D.C. Certified provider of Active Release Techniques Artisan Square Tues. & Fri.
778-828-5681
www.drtracyleach.ca
BODY VITALITY MASSAGE THERAPY James Goldfarb RMT HOLISTIC BC#05279 COUNSELLING Fri, Sat, Sun, Mon Brooke Evans,
MSW, RSW
Call 604-288-2860 604-781-3987 text 250-726-8080
brooke@becounselling.ca becounselling.ca www.bodyvitality.ca
Dr. Dana Barton
Naturopathic Physician 596 B. Artisan Square
604-730-1174 Natural Family Medicine
Dr. Gloria Chao
At entrance to Artisan Square Suite #597
MASSAGE THERAPY
Located in Artisan Square
604-947-9755 EXT #1
Online Booking: www.birchwellness.com
@ Artisan Square
MARY MCDONAGH RMT
Dr. Alea Bell, ND Naturopathic Doctor
778-891-0370
Courtney Morris, R.Ac Registered Acupuncturist, Homeopath, Doula
CATHERINE SHAW Dr. Traditional Chinese Medicine/Acupuncturist
❦
MARY MCDONAGH RMT, DCH Registered Massage Therapist
❦
604-947-9986
Dr. Utah Zandy 604-947-9830
ALICIA HOPPENRATH RMT
Compassion minded counselling
Julie Hughes, RPC
Registered Acupuncturist Registered Nutritionist
KIM HOWDEN RMT
778-858-2669
Book online bowenislandwellnesscentre.ca
CALL FOR APPOINTMENT OPEN TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS
NexGen Hearing
Artisan Square 604-947-0734
604-281-3691
Alternate Fridays 10am - 4:30pm
FREE
www.bowenislanddental.com
BOWEN ISLAND
BOWEN ISLAND WELLNESS CENTRE 604-947-9755
HARMONY SHIRE RMT
Family Dentist
Horseshoe Bay 604-921-8522
SPROTTSHAW.COM
SUDOKU
BC WIDE CLASSIFIEDS AUCTIONS
PRACTICAL NURSING
Phone Hours: Mon to Fri 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Office Hours: 9 am to 5 pm
Call us at
Hearing Testing On Bowen Island @ Caring Circle West Vancouver
604-338-5001
Mary Coleman, MSW, RSW 778-233-4425 Counselling
Celebrating 29 years Community Healthcare
INHABIT SOMATIC CENTRE Massage Therapy Matthew van der Giessen
RMT (778) 952-3757 566 Artisan Square www.inhabitcentre.ca
Breathe Move Touch
SANDY LOGAN Registered Physiotherapist
❦
HEIDI MATHER
Psychotherapist ~ Hypnotherapist Online & Artisan Square
Dr. Diane Greig PhD, RCC #701, CSCH 604-727-7794 • drdianegreig@gmail.com
Psychologist Dr. Carolyn Nesbitt PhD, R.Psych #1484
604-376-9801 www.CarolynNesbitt.com
Lifelabs Dr. Zandy’s Office Tues - 6:45 - 8:45 a.m. Thurs. - 6:45 - 8:45 a.m. For routine lab tests. Specialized tests & children may be referred to the mainland.
20 2018 20 •• THURSDAY THURSDAY NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 22 22 2018
WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM
PRE-HOLIDAY CALENDAR
Friday November 23
Children’s lantern workshop BICS 3-6 p.m. Your children can create a unique lantern for Light Up Bowen lantern parade. Register at Bowencommunityrecreation. com $15/child Wine tasting with Matt Dumayne winemaker at Okanagan Crush Pad Bowen Beer and Wine Cellar 3-7 p.m Just in time for holiday entertaining - learn about orange wines and organic wines at this free tasting with
books, cards, and toys runs until December 30th during gallery hours.
Saturday November 24
Little Red Church Christmas Craft Fair Collins Hall at the Little Red Church 11 - 4 pm Local crafts, goodies and treats. Bowen Island Conservancy AGM BICS, Multipurpose Room 1 p.m. Guest speaker Dr Andrew Wright will talk about his exhibit “GroundTruth: Anatomy of a Pipeline
Dinner at the Legion Bowen Island Legion Doors 5:30 pm Dinner at 6:30 Members and guests welcome
Brandon Hart with Bowen DJ RoRaven & DJ Natural Bowen Island Pub 9 p.m. Get ready for a dance party! No cover
It’s a Wrap - Annual Exhibit & Sale Gallery at Cove Commons Festive reception 7-9 pm The Bowen Island Arts Council’s annual exhibit and sale of fine art, crafts, giftware, furniture, decor, jewellery,
Oil Pastel Demo with artist Denise Richard Arts Pacific Gallery at Artisan Square 1 p.m. Men On the Rock Winter Concert Tir-na-nOg Theatre 7:30 p.m. Don’t miss the
chance to warm up with MOR’s winter tunes with special guest Buff Allen. Advance Tix at Cates Pharmacy and tix at the door.
Snug Cove House AGM Bowen Court 10:30 a.m. All very welcome.
Sunday November 25
Outdoor Meditation Circle Meet at the picnic tables at the entrance to Crippen Park 11 a.m. Open to everyone. Dress warmly, tea will be served. No cost. lisa. shatsky@gmail.com BI Legion Christmas Craft Fair Bowen Island Legion 11 - 4 pm Fifteen tables of local crafts, fun for everyone, concession in suppport of Bowen Gymnastics. Little Red Church Christmas Craft Fair Collins Hall at the Little Red Church 12 - 4 pm Local crafts, goodies and treats.
Monday November 26
Seniors Keeping Young 1070 Miller Road Exercise at 9 am, coffee at 9:45, Guest speaker at 10, Yoga at 11:15. Annual membership $20 or drop in $3. Regular council meeting BIM 6:15 p.m.
Tuesday November 27
Art Workshop 1070 Miller Road(Seniors Court) 9 – noon Informal painting-drawing group meets every Tuesday. All stages and ages welcome. Drop-in $7 Bowen Island Community Lunch Bowen Island Legion 1:30am to 1pm S $5 per person Adult only event.
Wednesday November 28 Free Diabetes Talk (Type 2) Bowen Island Library 7 p.m. Learn how proper diet and exercise can help you manage diabetes and prediabetes (type 2) with Ellie
Return Your Referendum Ballot Today
2018 Referendum on Electoral Reform Deadline: Elections BC must receive your completed voting package by 4:30 p.m., November 30, 2018
Voters are encouraged to return their completed voting package as soon as possible. The Chief Electoral Officer has the authority to extend the voting period if necessary as a result of rotating strikes at Canada Post.
How can I Vote? Don’t have a voting package? You can ask for one until midnight on November 23, 2018. Call Elections BC or visit our website. You can return your completed voting package to Elections BC by mail or in person to a Service BC Centre or Referendum Service Office (find a list of locations at elections.bc.ca/rso). Make sure you return your completed voting package soon so Elections BC receives it by the deadline.
What are we voting on? You are being asked:
should we keep the current First Past the Post voting system or move to a system of proportional representation? if proportional representation is adopted, which proportional system do you prefer? - Dual Member Proportional (DMP) - Mixed Member Proportional (MMP)
Mackay, Registered Dietitian. 12 Step Codependency Group Elliott Hall, 1070 Miller Road 6:30 - 7:30 pm
Thursday November 29
Duplicate Bridge Bowen Court 6:45 - 10 pm Info call Irene 604-947-2955
Friday November 30
Dinner at the Legion Bowen Island Legion Doors 5:30 pm Dinner at 6:30 Members and guests welcome Sounds of Christmas Cates Hill Chapel 7:30 p.m. The Ladies Madrigal Singers present their annual concert. Tix at Cates Pharmacy or at the door.
Saturday December 1
Knowing Our Place: The Book Club Library Flex Room 11:0012:30 pm The Book Club discusses Leanne Betasamosake Simpson’s “Islands of Decolonial Love.” Register at bit.ly/BookClub2Fall2018 Light Up Bowen - Lantern parade and Santa Arrival Village Square & Snug Cove 6 p.m From goodies to carol singing, to a lantern parade, live nativity, festival trees and the arrival of ol’ St. Nic’ by ship and more It’s Bowen with a heart truly three sizes too big.
Monday December 3
Seniors Keeping Young 1070 Miller Road Exercise at 9 am, coffee at 9:45, Guest speaker at 10, Yoga at 11:15. Annual membership $20 or drop in $3.
Tuesday December 4
Art Workshop 1070 Miller Road(Seniors Court) 9 - noon. Informal painting-drawing group meets every Tuesday. All stages and ages welcome. Drop-in $7
Wednesday December 5
12 Step Codependency Group Elliott Hall, 1070 Miller Road 6:30 - 7:30 pm
Thursday December 6
Duplicate Bridge Bowen Court 6:45 - 10 pm Info call Irene 604-947-2955
Friday December 7
Wine tasting with Andrew Moon, chief viticulturist, Tinhorn Creek Bowen Beer and Wine Cellar 3-7 pm More holiday entertaining ideas at this free wine tasting. Dinner at the Legion Bowen Island Legion Doors 5:30 pm Dinner at 6:30 Members and guests welcome
Saturday December 8
Free Poker League Bowen Island Pub 7 -10 pm
BAA Winter Market and Craft Fair Bowen Island Community School 10- 1 p.m. Crafters, artisans, sauces, jams, preserves, food, fruit leather, kale, squash, winter veggies baked goods and more.
33rd Annual CSA Christmas Craft Fair Bowen Island Community School 10 - 3 p.m Local crafts, cake walk, yummy cafe, silent auction, raffle draw and more including a not-to-be-missed youth craft fair until noon.
Kids shopping day at the Nook Knick Knack Nook 12 - 2 pm. A secret shopping day for kids while their parents mix and mingle outside! Volunteers will help the wee shoppers and items will kid priced. Kids only! Ages 3 -12
Outdoor Meditation Circle Meet at the picnic tables at the entrance to Crippen Park 11 a.m. Open to everyone. Dress warmly, tea will be served. No cost. lisa.shatsky@gmail.com
BI Community Choir Winter Concert Cates Hill Chapel Two performances 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. A perennial holiday favourite directed by Ellen Macintosh with accompanist Sheilagh Sparks.
Sunday December 2
- Rural-Urban Proportional (RUP) You can answer both questions or just one and your ballot will still count.
For more information about all four voting systems on the ballot, including short videos, visit elections.bc.ca/referendum. Refer to information from all sides in the debate, make an informed choice, and remember to vote.
1-800-661-8683 | elections.bc.ca
Can this be recycled? Check the BC RECYCLEPEDIA www.rcbc.ca RECYCLING COUNCIL OF B.C. MEMBER