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DISINFECTING: BIFS urges caution with cleaners
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THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2020
THE ZOMBIES OF DEEP BAY
VOL. 46, NO. 20
BIUndercurrent
Of course this is a Ron Woodall story PAGE 9
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UNDERCURRENT PHOTO
FIRST RESPONDERS: Fire, police and ambulance on the scene of a crash in Snug Cove Tuesday afternoon.
Everyone ok after dramatic crash at the ferry dock Tuesday BRONWYN BEAIRSTO
Editors
Everyone walked away after a van hit a hydro pole at Snug Cove Dock midday Tuesday. One of the poles crashed down across the roadway entrance to the ferry berth, causing the cancellation of three ferry sailings. The crash affected four poles and eighty customers, a spokesperson for BC Hydro said. While two poles were BC
Hydro’s and were fixed Tuesday, another two belong to the Bowen Island Marina and BC Ferries respectively and haven’t been fixed as of Wednesday morning, affecting power in those locations. The ferry has had to use ship-to-shore power to for its ramp, slowing the crossing. The family of Jack Callister, the van driver, posted a statement on Facebook Wednesday. “To avoid speculation we would just like to update the community that the incident was due to a medical issue that resulted in a loss of consciousness,” said the statement. “We are immensely grateful that he walked away
with minor injuries, is now recovering, and that no one else was hurt...” The family also expressed thanks for the first responders and the support they’ve received from the community. Several witnesses saw the van coming quickly down Trunk Rd. toward the dock. “I heard him and he was driving really fast,” said Michael Epp. “My first thought was wow, someone’s really desperate to get on the ferry [but there was no ferry].” “He went whipping past,” said Epp. “And then I heard the impressively loud crash.”
COMING SOON!
3/4 bed 2 bath home, separate lower entrance, sunny large flat yard with storage, wonderful family neighbourhood.
FRANCES FROST & FELICITY BUSKARD • bowenislandrealestate.info • RE/MAX Crest Realty - Bowen Island
604.947.9090
2 • Thursday, May 21, 2020
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Event Calendar May 25 2020 6:15 pm
SHORT TERM RENTALS OPEN HOUSE
All meetings are on Zoom and open to the public.
HAP-01-2020 (1314 Miller Rd)
Virtual Meeting Thursday, May 21, 2020 7:00 - 8:00 PM
Regular Council Meeting Municipal Hall is closed to the public.
Seeking Public Comment
To implement the Short Term Rental Policy #19-05, Council is now considering amendment bylaws for the Land Use Bylaw, Business Licensing Bylaw and the Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw. Join the virtual open house to learn more, ask questions and have your say! You will need to register ahead of time - for more details go to:
www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/voh You may also email your questions and feedback to: echow@bimbc.ca
Free FireSmart Workshop
Regular Council Meeting 6:15 PM on Tuesday, May 25, 2020 Virtual Meeting PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
A Heritage Alteration Permit application has been submitted for 1314 Miller Road (shown on map) to vary the lot coverage and protect a heritage structure. The application is to extend an existing primary residence by 8.25 sq m (88.84 sq ft) and extend roof overhangs of an accessory building by 18.32 sq m (197.29 sq ft) which would increase the existing nonconforming building lot coverage to 1,063.02 sq m (5.9% of the lot size), while also protecting an existing heritage structure and providing public signage and views of the heritage structure.
We are offering FREE virtual workshops to get Bowen Island residents familiar with and participating in the FireSmart program. Join us to learn what you can do to make your home and your island more resilient to wildfires. There’s lots of time for Q&A, so bring your questions! FREE Virtual FireSmart Workshop with Bruce Blackwell Wednesday, May 27, 2020 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Stop the spread of COVID-19 STAY HOME
Online via Zoom Meeting ID: 817 3544 7419 Password: 843282 Or you can watch live on our YouTube Channel: youtube.com/bowenislandmunicipality Learn more about FireSmart
www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/fire-smart
We’re hiring Summer job positions Bowen Island Municipality is hiring students for the following temporary full-time and temporary part-time positions:
MORE INFORMATION AT MUNICIPAL HALL: Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Municipal Hall is currently closed to the public. The applications may be viewed on the Municipal website at
PARKS & PUBLIC WORKS MAINTENANCE CREW - 2 positions 35 hours per week Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM June 15, 2020 to September 4, 2020
www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/planning
or contact Jennifer Pierce at jpierce@bimbc.ca for information on how to obtain a paper copy of the applications.
ADMIN/FINANCE CLERK 35 hours per week Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM Start date: TBD
STAY 6 FEET APART
YOUR COMMENTS ARE WELCOME:
www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/jobs Please submit your cover letter and resume by 4:00 pm on Monday, May 25, 2020 to Human Resources
Summer job positions are partially funded through a grant from the Canada Summer Jobs program.
Contact Us
Phone: Fax: Email:
Bowen Island Municipal Hall 981 Artisan Lane Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2
604-947-4255 604-947-0193 bim@bimbc.ca
By letter to the mail drop-off box at municipal hall By mail to 981 Artisan Lane, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2 By email to bim@bimbc.ca At the virtual meeting
To ensure a fair process, submissions cannot be accepted after the meeting has ended.
By mail: 981 Artisan Lane, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2 Email: hr@bimbc.ca Fax: 604-947-0193 Telephone: 604-947-4255
General Enquiries
• • • •
Questions? Please contact Jennifer Rae Pierce, jpierce@bimbc.ca
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RECREATION: Daycamp Leaders - Mon to Fri, starting June 15, 2020 Daycamp Assistants - Mon to Fri, starting June 15, 2020 Playcare Assistants - Part-time, starting July 2, 2020
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Thursday, May 21, 2020 • 3
Avoiding toxic disinfection When on the water, watch out for whales BIFS IS WORKING ON A CAMPAIGN TO LIMIT THE USE OF COSMETIC PESTICIDES ON BOWEN ISLAND
MERIBETH DEEN
Bowen Island FoodResilience Society
We’ve been trapped in our homes with the threat of a devastating virus hanging over our heads. We’re all washing our hands more, cleaning doorknobs, food packaging and anything else that might have come in contact with COVID-19. The shelves of grocery and hardware stores reflect our collective quest to disinfect: bleach and other cleaning products are in high demand, and by some accounts are as hard to come by as toilet paper and dried pasta. While we act to deal with this immediate threat, Bowen Island FoodResilience Society (BIFS) would like to remind people to keep the long-term toxic effects of many disinfecting products in mind and to consider the alternatives. BIFS has been working with Belterra resident Bruce Lanphear on a campaign to limit the use of cosmetic pesticides on Bowen Island. Lanphear is a professor of Health Sciences at Simon Fraser University and he researches the impact of toxic chemicals on children’s brains. Lead, mercury, organophosphate pesticides, BPA and other chemicals with proven toxic impacts are found in a majority of children’s bodies. We are exposed to these chemical through
everyday industrial products including cosmetics, receipts, mattresses, cleaning products and packaging. Lanphear argues against industry claims that they are found in doses too small to make an effect and also points to the fact that cumulative effects are not studied. “In Canada and the US,” he says. “Chemicals are used in consumer products before they are tested for toxic effects. By allowing our children to be exposed to these chemicals without knowing about their toxicity, we are unwittingly subjecting them to a massive experiment.” To limit chemical exposure, Lanphear urges individuals and families to eat fresh and frozen foods (preferably organic) and to avoid processed foods. Also, avoid exposure to pesticides and consuming fish known to be high in mercury (especially if you are pregnant, or plan to be). Lanphear says that pandemic-oriented trends like cooking from scratch and growing your own vegetables are helpful in this regard. “It would be great if some of these habits could stick,” he says. Members of BIFS couldn’t agree more. We’re also in agreement that all chemicals, whether they’re found in cleaning products or pesticides, need to be used with great caution and consideration. That’s why we’ve put pamphlets up on social media, at the General Store and at the Ruddy Potato directing you to places where you can research safe disinfectants (which by the way, still include: vinegar, lemon, essential oils and Castille soap). Your choice of cleaning products may seem like a small and insignificant thing, but as Covid has reminded us: little things can make a very big impact.
DI IZDEBSKI, BOB TURNER
• •
Contributors
With warmer weather on the way, Bowen Islanders are beginning to once again venture out in enjoyment of the beautiful waters of Howe Sound. But when taking to the sea it is important to remember that this place is shared by wildlife that depends on a safe, healthy ocean for survival. Some of our aquatic neighbours include large marine mammals such as orca, humpback, sea lion and porpoise; as well as smaller mammals, fishes and sea birds and all are at risk of disturbance or collision from marine traffic. When boating there are several things you can do to be aware and respectful of the marine life in Howe Sound and ensure safety for both boaters and wildlife: • Always be on the lookout for blows and other indicators of whale or marine mammal presence such as aggregations of birds or boats. • Use extra caution in areas with higher whale activity such as Dorman Point and Collingwood Channel.
“If you see a blow -- go slow!” Watch for vessels flying the whale watch flag this signals that whales are near. Minimum approach distances for vessels: • 400 m for all orca/killer whales in southern BC waters as of June 1, 2020. • 200 m for other whale, dolphin and porpoise species with calves or in resting position. • 100 m for all other whales, dolphins and porpoises. If you have witnessed an incident of concern, including contact with a marine mammal and a vehicle or fishing gear, please call the DFO Incident Reporting Line at 1-800-465-4336. Visit mersociety.org/seeablowgoslow for current regulations and more information. Are you interested in learning more about marine life around Bowen Island? Join the Bowen Island Conservancy for an online celebration and launch of our new book Exploring Bowen’s Marine World: A Marine Atlas of Nexwlelexwem/Bowen Island on Sunday May 24, 7 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. Email Susan Munro at susanmunro@shaw.ca to join. MARCUS HONDRO PHOTO/CAPTION
A pandemic isn’t keeping longtime islander Michael Epp from enjoying spring flowers. When visiting the beautiful display outside the library, as he was on this Saturday afternoon, the affable Epp is always good for a socially distant and amusing chin wag.
2020 Property Tax Property tax notices will be mailed the last week of May, 2020. Property tax payments and home owner grants are due July 2, 2020. Due to COVID-19, Council has amended the penalty schedule on late payments for residential properties . A penalty of 2% will be applied on July 3, 2020 to any unpaid taxes, and a further penalty of 8% will be applied on September 1, 2020 to any unpaid taxes.
https://www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/property-taxes
On-island composting facility Are you supportive of the on-island composting facility project? The feasibility study is complete and we are now looking for funding and gathering your feedback. Please visit our website to find out more about the project and the proposed technology, post comments and questions and let us know what you think.
www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/on-island-composting-project
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VIEWPOINT
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Thank you, BTS Celebrating written media DEAR EDITOR: I am writing on behalf of Council to express our most sincere thanks to the Bowen Island Transportation Society for stepping up in a time of need to provide interim bus service for our community. We appreciate how quickly and safely BTS was able to spring into action with the very short notice from TransLink that all bus service on the island was to be suspended as of May 2. I understand that TransLink has reinstated bus service to pre-pandemic levels effective May 11 but I am sure that the bus riders who rely on public transit appreciated the temporary service for the week that no other option was available. We acknowledge that some drivers volunteered their time to keep the temporary bus running throughout the week, and for that, we thank them for their service. The community spirit shown by BTS in this endeavour was admirable, and we are proud to have partnered with them to help our community in these challenging times. Once again, thank you, Bowen Island Transportation Society, for everything you do in our community. Sincerely, Gary Ander Mayor, Bowen Island
Holding conundrum MADAM EDITOR: I was concerned to note that, due to the Cove sewer system being at capacity, we are now “in a bit of a holding pattern.” I would greatly appreciate being advised when I can stop holding. Eric Pugash
DEAR EDITOR: As long-retired newspaper and magazine hacks, we want to commend the Undercurrent editor and the contributors of the latest special Pandemic issue. While the written media faces a slow extinction, a local paper like Bowen Island’s can provide vital and heartening information at a time of crisis. Along with reminding everyone to avoid non-essential travel and welcoming the return
of the Bowen bus, this edition had various writers pen Silver Linings paeans about a group of women who find joy despite COVID-19; how Mary Letson finds bliss in the van Berckels’ garden, ponds and orchard and in her own garden during this difficult time; and how the Hearth has embraced virtual art gallery and studio visits, among them a visit to potter Babette Deggan and her husband Paul, who will also give a live online talk about his pastel drawings
of island woods. We also commend the B.I Community Foundation for its financial support of this issue. And of course we salute a fellow oldster, the editor›s father, for suggesting the Silver Linings idea. Paul and Audrey Grescoe
SHORT STORY
Jurrasic Park, Universal Studios JUDE NEALE
Contributor
I’m afraid that I’m going to fall off and die. That’s one reason and the other is my underwear. Or the sad truth of their saggy elastic designed to NOT be hit by a bus, in this particular instance. As usual, I was dressed inappropriately. Black lacy mini dress already sticking to my burned skin. And little gold shoes. I’d be a perfect loser in a strip poker tournament. But how could I resist him now? Weren’t good mother’s supposed to be brave? And eager. But oh god, I didn’t wear heels for nothing. I’m not going to just any foreign territory. But to be whisked off my feet with no reason I could see—that was another matter. I was definitely between a rock and a hard place. Frivolous or feeble. My mum warned me never to let go. So it became my ambition to fly. I was afraid of water, bridges and tunnels. But most of all being the cause of disappointment to my offspring and then to myself. So I
knew his enquiry wasn’t to be taken lightly. He shifted his position and said louder, “Please mum?” So I said the only thing I could think of, “I’m afraid.” “I’ll hold your hand, it’ll be fun!” I knew there was no possibility of that because how else was I going to pin down my dangerously short skirt? So he pulled me onto the boat stopped in the Hollywood stream and the rest of the family joined us. Then the crash bar came down over our waists and I laughed as my skirt migrated north. See mum. Look at all the little kids. I felt almost at benevolent peace. This was easy. This was fun. A little boat ride on a glittering night in June was an effortless bonus to the sure knowledge I was being a game mum. Then it started. The water below the little craft trickled and hummed.The air was perfect and our knees touched as we came to the first tunnel...Bloody Hell...Turn on the lights. “See mum. Isn’t this awesome?”
“No darling. I can’t see anything.” “It’s just a little boat ride in the dark.” We jerked to a stop. In the dark. In a boat. And then I heard it. The loud gush and swoop of something like a river. Before I could scream we were hurtling through the tarry darkness that smacked the open oh of my mouth. Like a cork from a champagne bottle, we came out of the night and I could see for the first time we weren’t in Kansas anymore. We gathered steam then stopped abruptly at the lip of a mighty waterfall. Before I had a chance to bellow my objection we were launched and plunging nose down in the froth and stifled screams to my greatest known fears: water, heights and rollercoasters. Would I wring myself inside out with hysteria and stain the air with my terror or would I laugh and give into the freeing innocence of childhood? I had no other choice. I just closed my eyes, and simply let go and soared.
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.
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.
#102–495 Bowen Trunk Road, PO Box 130, Bowen Island BC, V0N 1G0 Phone: 604.947.2442 Fax: 604.947.0148 bowenislandundercurrent.com DEADLINE for all advertising 4 p.m. Monday. Deadline for all editorial 5 p.m. Tuesday. Bowen Island Undercurrent Subscription Rates: Mailed 1 year subscription on Bowen Island: $55, including GST. Within Canada: $85 including GST Newsstand (Single Copy) $1.50 per copy, including GST ISSN 7819-5040
National NewsMedia Council.
EDITOR BronwynBeairsto editor@bowenisland undercurrent.com
ADVERTISING Tracey Wait ads@bowenisland undercurrent.com
CARTOONIST Ron Woodall
PUBLISHER Peter Kvarnstrom publisher@bowenisland undercurrent.com
2011 CCNA
CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2011
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 604-947-2442. 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.
bowenislandundercurrent.com
POEM
When we come out of this time of coronavirus
May it be that I do not forget this moment of pause this forced halt this slowing of breath and heart as if something in me exhaled wildly and freed itself from living too fast without knowing how fast until stopped. May I remember the feeling of standing in the morning sun with no plans no sense of time no idea how long it would last only light everywhere and my breath my thankfulness for being here. When we come out of this time of coronavirus, may it be that I remember how much I missed your hands in mine. How I longed to lean closer to your face to feel the sun of you, the warmth the light the bright of you. May I remember the days we could not hug so when we hug again may I do so with all of my being so we both remember that right now right here we are alive. When we come out of this time of coronavirus may I no longer take for granted what I took for granted; shopping at our local store for onions and peppers and avocados was never only about the vegetables but about the conversations among the bananas,
the laughter by the apples the stories that emerged as we accidently rubbed shoulders and touched hands when we reached for our tomatoes hothouse or roma or vine or field each one had a story a grandmother with a recipe a preference a lifetime. Then to meet you again by the fresh bread or the cereal or the hummus and share the day some more, the grocery store our community hall our town square our touchstone. When we come out of this time of coronavirus, may it be that my eyesight is better so to see all the frontline people doing the extraordinary. Stocking and stacking and packing, unpacking and wrapping and cleaning, wiping and mending and healing, cooking and serving and delivering, writing and singing and listening, listening listening soothing and calming and saving. One person at a time. Ordinary heroes. Our lifelines our lighthouse keepers our fog horns. When we come out of this time of coronavirus may it be that I remember I was here when the homecoming happened. When the animals
returned and the Earth sighed in relief that for one small moment we were silenced. Swans came back in Milan, dolphins returned to Venice canals, turkeys and donkeys and camels came out of hiding, turtles and frogs renewed their ancient hymns, birds and their songs grew louder than cars, the earth was cleaner the skies were quieter and we were here you and I witnessing the unfolding the impossible (or so we thought) and standing in the burning yearning questions at our feet: how to keep the homecoming coming. How to live differently and if not now then when, when? When we come out of this time of coronavirus may I come alive again with a new found patience and softness of heart and never forget that waiting for a bus or waiting to be served or waiting in line somewhere, even at the bank, is a privilege, a blessing, an excuse for us to meet and find each other, and go slower go softer go kinder for everything now depends on these. Lisa Shatzky May 2020
A note from your KKN The executive of the Knick Knack Nook have had a couple of virtual meetings the last few weeks and have agreed that we will not open until at least the end of June and then only if we can be assured of the safety of our volunteers and the public. As well, the recipients of our excessive amounts of donations are mostly not wanting to take our donations at this time. As you all know, we are given such wonderful amounts of things from our generous community that we cannot sell it all here on Bowen and we send a good part of it to charities in Vancouver. They are not able to pass things on at this time. One or two charities need rain jackets and some other items and a couple of our members went in and packed up things for them last week. And we will go in again this next week to do a bit of cleaning up. And some culling of clothing. Please keep your donations for us at home and when we reopen we hope they can come to us in limited amounts that will not overcome our great volunteers. All our members look forward to reopening and getting to meet again with our community. Until then, keep well and wait patiently for better times and the usual great bargains. David Wrinch for the KKN
Recognizing essential workers:
Editor’s note: we’ve been publishing nomination notes as we have only five prizes drawn at random and there are so many deserving people on Bowen. Here’s another nomination note. I would like to nominate Heather Miller and her mom, Christine Miller who along with their one in town driver, have continued to struggle to keep “The Office” at Artisan Square open and running. Each day their only driver goes to town (a struggle in itself) and picks up a full truck load full of packages from UPS, FEDEX and other locations all around our city and communities and returns to The Office in late afternoon. Christine and Heather have on many occasions finished work after 9 p.m., as delivering the packages to us, is a huge job, and this repeats again each day and many weekends. Heather and Christine also pick up from The General Store, Cates Pharmacy, Ruddy Potato and The Building Center, supplies needed by those unable to travel and delivers free of charge. These two lades are working so very hard and are exhausted. I would like to add their names to your list, just two of the many many deserving Islanders. Lynn Williams
Recognizing our essential and front-line workers
The fourth in a series of five people who will receive $100 in recognition of their essential work during the pandemic is Jessica Blackbourn, an ER nurse at St. Paul’s A few of weeks ago we announced that an anonymous donor came forward with a proposition to recognize some of Bowen’s front-line and essential service workers. The idea is that people nominate those who are in the public sphere, continuing to do their jobs to keep our society functioning during the pandemic. These can be paid workers or volunteers. Once a week for a total of five weeks (we’re on week four now) we’re drawing at random someone who works in the public sphere. This person will receive $100 to recognize their service to the community and society. (This money is coming from the donor, not the Undercurrent!)
604-947-2442 ads@bowenislandundercurrent.com
Thank you for your support of local journalism now and always. If you are not sure if you have renewed, please call us to avoid disruption
So far, we’ve received 85 nominations, but it’s not too late! There’s one more week of this, so please send in your nominees to editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com. Though we can’t recognize everyone with $100, I’ll do my best to publish as many notes that accompany the nominations as possible. The work you’re all doing is important and valued. As the anonymous donor puts it, “We see what you’re doing for us and we want to thank you.” This week’s recognized person is Jessica Blackbourn, an ER nurse at St. Paul’s. Thank you so much for your work during the pandemic Jessica. Bronwyn Beairsto, editor
UNDERCURRENT PHOTO
Last week’s recognized worker was Jenny Lee of Bowen Pet Supply. Thank you for everything you do Jenny!
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Thursday, May 21, 2020 • 5
6 • Thursday, May 21, 2020
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR
THURSDAY MAY 21
7:30 pm Artist Paul Deggan presents Pastel drawings inspired by the Spirit of Bowen Woods in the time of COVID-19. To receive the zoom invitation please email: creative@thehearth.ca or go to thehearth.ca to sign up for the newsletter.
Short term rentals virtual open house 7-8 p.m. Find out more and preregister: http:// ow.ly/e29950zEvfX. Email echow@bimbc.ca
SUNDAY MAY 24
Marine Atlas Celebration and Launch see information on p. 3
Like for many across the country, lots of soap is getting Helen Platts through the pandemic. But for Platts, it’s a bit different. When Platts started Bowen Island Soap Co. as a side business a little more than a year ago, she didn’t know what was coming. But now, laid off from two jobs due to COVID, she’s turning full-time to what was once a weekend endeavour.
Free FireSmart workshop with Bruce Blackwell 7-9 p.m. Learn what you can do to make your home and island more resilient to wildfires. Meeting ID: 817 3544 7419 Password: 843282
TUESDAY MAY 26
Live Presentation and Discussion
DEPARTS SUN to THURS FRI & SA. ed SNUG COVE 11:15PM ns suspend5AM u rr HORSESHOE BAY 12:30AM mmute o c d n a t h ig S Afternoon Commuter Runs Late n
Mon - Fri Horseshoe Bay - Snug Cove
We’re still here for essential services such as ambulance transport and we’re here for your private charter needs. Please feel free to call us with your questions as we chart these waters together.
Proudly Celebrating 42 Years of Trusted Transport for Bowen Island & Howe Sound
Telephone: 604-947-2243 Cellular: 604-250-2630 Tug & Barge services Special Event Cruises
PRIVATE CHARTERS AVAILABLE ANYTIME email: cormorantmarine@telus.net web: cormorantwatertaxi.com
604-947-2243
BOWEN ISLAND SOAP-MAKER HELEN PLATTS TURNS TO HER PASSION TO GET THROUGH THE PANDEMIC Editor
Caring Circle virtual AGM 7-8 p.m. Join on your computer: bit.ly/3cf3RmA or on your smartphone bit. ly/3cf3RmA.
Inside the Actor’s Quarantine 7:30 pm Check Facebook page for details of this week’s play reading from Theatre on the Isle Regular Council Meeting 6:15 pm On Youtube or Zoom
Suds to the rescue: Bowen Island Soap Co.
BRONWYN BEAIRSTO
WEDNESDAY MAY 27
MONDAY MAY 25
COVID FILES
Since 1978
Platts grew up in a small mining town in Yorkshire before moving to Edinburgh and then Canada in 2012. “I think change is good for you and so it was time to do something else and be somewhere else,” she said. While living in North Vancouver, Platts began searching for somewhere she could buy a house, fell in love with Bowen Island and a little home on the West side of the island. “I was like, ‘Oh, my gosh, this place is amazing––I wish I could afford to live here,’ because I didn’t have two pennies to rub together to buy a house.” In a bittersweet twist of circumstance, all of Platts’ grandparents died in a six-month period, one leaving her with enough money to put a deposit down on the house she’d eyed. She moved to the island in 2012. “It is hard work,” said Platts. “It’s hard work to stay here and to look after a house. I’m having to look after it by myself now and that’s hard.” Platts took on three part-time jobs to be able to pay her mortgage, including starting the soap company in late 2018. Beyond bars of soap, Bowen Island Soap Co. does skin care, a series of balms, body butter, shampoo bars and conditioner, soon-to-come liquid hand soap and more. The products are organic, small-batch, often vegan and free of palm oil, detergents, artificial colours or artificial fragrances. Platts taught herself to make soap after coming to the island. “It was really just because there was a huge gap in the market,” said Platts. “All of our soap makers were gone. “I mean, I wanted, you know, decent soap that wasn’t full of all kinds of awfulness and there just wasn’t any.” So Platts got to reading about soap and researching on well-established soap makers. “Then just jump[ed] in and [made] it,” said Platts. “I mean, that’s really how you learn to do anything that’s hands on.” Through trial and error she created and honed her recipe–– the early efforts she describes as utterly hilarious. “I go and look at them every now and again…they look like blue cheese,” she laughed. Though what started out of opportunity turned to passion. “I really do love my business,” said Platts. “Even when I’m… so exhausted and I can barely put one foot in front of the other.
Schedule in Effect: May 14, 2020 to June 22, 2020 CHECK FOR SERVICE NOTICES
Leave 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 3:10 pm 4:15 pm< 5:20 pm 6:30 pm 7:45 pm> 8:50 pm 9:50 pm 10:50 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 2:35 pm 3:45 pm 4:50 pm 5:55 pm 7:10 pm 8:20 pm> 9:20 pm 10:20 pm
Leave Horseshoe Bay
▼
BOWEN ISLAND Snug Cove
Crossing Time: 20 minutes Distance: 3 nautical miles Note: This is a non-reservable route *
PHOTO COURTESY OF HELEN PLATTS
Helen Platts, owner of Bowen Island Soap Company, is throwing everything she’s got into her young business. I just love it so much.” When COVID hit, most of Platts’ sales were in-person and wholesale, and those sales have decreased, she said. But she’s thrown a lot of effort into online sales, which have increased. “I couldn’t say if [the increase in online is] as a result of COVID? Or if it’s just because I’ve made a concerted effort to E grow that market,” she said. In early May, Platts organized a virtual craft fair. “[It’s] just to do something a bit new and to sort of pull people out of comfort zone…to show them that there are otherE options,” said Platts at the time. “Because it’s tricky in this kindc of situation when you’re a small business and you wonder what the heck you’re going to do and how you’re going to pivot.” s Now laid off from both of her other jobs, Platts is pivoting to full-time soap making, which luckily is in demand during aw pandemic. “I’m really grateful that I am doing this and that people seemK to like it and they just keep coming back,” she said. t s w f t
Places of Worship Welcome You BOWEN ISLAND UNITED CHURCH Now offering a youtube channel of reflections and hymn/songs with Reverend Lorraine Ashdown and Lynn Williams. youtubewatch?v=tejV7Y6jo
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Thursday, May 21, 2020 • 7
NERP neighbourhood kiosks coming Bowen gardeners planting it forward NEIL BOYD
Bowen Island Community Foundation
This pandemic has changed our world and our island––physical distancing, frequent handwashing and the appearance of face masks––but imagine other emergencies in our future. Imagine a large earthquake: homes and trees toppled, power and internet down, roads in ruin and connection to the mainland severed. Imagine a forest fire raging out of control or a chemical spill endangering us all. Bowen’s Neighbourhood Emergency Response Program (NERP) is working to prepare us for these very real possibilities. And the Bowen Island Community Foundation has just given NERP a grant of $15,000 to build a series of kiosks in Bowen neighbourhoods. NERP plans to build at least 10 kiosks across the island at a cost of about $1,500 each. Likely locations are: Bowen Bay Beach, Bluewater, Hikers Trail, Deep Bay, Tunstall Bay, Miller’s Landing, Eaglecliff, Cowan Point, Cates Hill, and Queen Charlotte Heights. The first of these will be built in Upper Oceanview, off Miller Road. The kiosks will contain information to help islanders prepare for and build resilience against the next island-wide emergency. “The kiosks will be supplied with up-todate information from municipal, regional and provincial emergency planners and maintained -- both the content and the physical space – by community volunteers,” said the grant proposal. The goal of the kiosks is to increase com-
munity safety, particularly for those who are vulnerable, and to enable islanders to respond more speedily and effectively in order to recover from an emergency. During the initial construction phase, the kiosks will have a relatively simple structure – two posts, a roof and a notice board. The specifics are fairly straightforward – cement footings and hardware for posts, treated wood for the uprights, roof support and a signboard, an easily visible paint/stain for weather protection and metal roofing and hardware. Site preparation will be required and a small honorarium will be provided for construction of the kiosks. The goal, however, is to expand the possibilities -- to provide space for additions to each kiosk: a bench for sitting, a storage area for first-aid supplies, an AED for the possibility of cardiac arrest, a solar panel and USB for charging phones and tablets. The photo that accompanies this story provides an example of what each kiosk might ultimately look like. It’s important to note that NERP, a volunteer organization, is looking for assistance with this project: donations of materials or labour with construction and painting, and possible savings through bulk purchases and mass production. The organization could also use help with advertising, with social media, bookkeeping, and the organization of displays. If you have time, energy or resources to contribute to this project please contact Bowen’s NERP co-ordinator, Edward Wachtman, at edward@bimbc.ca or Judi Gedye at jgedye@ telus.net.
A little chipped piece of Bowenia BRONWYN BEAIRSTO
Jillian and Elliot Rushton are starting a community “plant it forward” project this week to distribute seeds to islanders. Jillian explains what you need to know about the project in the following Q&A: What’s Plant it Forward? “Plant it Forward” is a community project aimed at making vegetable gardening more accessible to Bowen Islanders. We’ll be distributing seed starting kits to those that need them. The kits will include easy-to-grow seeds (three vegetables and one edible flower) and instructions for how to get started. What gave you the idea? Personally I’ve seen the benefits that vegetable gardening can have on your lifestyle, nutrition and mental health. With that said, there can be many barriers to gardening (knowledge, cost, space). My husband and I started this project to help make vegetable gardening more accessible in our community. What is the cost to participate? There is no cost to participate. This project
has been generously funded by the Bowen Island Community Foundation and the Vancouver Foundation, in partnership with Bowen Island Municipality. Who can be nominated — and when? Anyone who lives on Bowen can be nominated. The sign up form opens on Thursday, May 21 at Noon, and will close when all spots are filled. How many packets do you have to distribute? We have put together 45 seed starting kits to distribute to Bowen Islanders. How do you apply? If you’re interested in nominating a neighbour or friend (or requesting a kit for yourself ), please complete our sign up form: bit.ly/ BowenSeedKits Anything else? Big thanks to Caroline and Devon at the Bowen Island Flower Shop for supporting us with a large seed order. And thanks to Cheryl Cook for helping us decide on seed varieties to include in the kits.
PHOTO COURTESY OF JILLIAN RUSHTON
Last summer’s harvest, courtesy of Jillian Rushton.
Editor
This week, former islander Lynda Vanden Elzen is drinking her morning tea from a teacup held together with Krazy Glue. Needless to say, it’s a special mug with a story. Back in 2007, after leaving a toxic job, Lynda was working at the Snug Cafe. In those days, next door to the Snug was the late Joan Knight’s pottery shop, Vonigo (Knight ran the pottery shop in various locations until she was 95). Every day, the Snug’s Joan Hayes would send someone over to fetch an order from the elderly islander and the job often fell to Lynda. “Every day she would sit at her little desk at the pottery shop and she would try to tell me that she wanted to have...little apple pies…or cookies or something,” said Lynda. But Knight was diabetic and the Snug was under strict instructions not to give her sugar. “She would ask for a pie and I’d bring her soup,” recalled Lynda. “One evening, when we were closing the shop, Joan’s daughter Susan showed up with this mug,” said Lynda. “She had discovered it had a small flaw and so she did not feel she could sell it. She gave it to me to thank me for looking after her mother as best I could.” And the mug became a prized possession. It travelled with Lynda up and down the province after she left the island in 2012––surviving 11 moves. At one point, the mug was in a car crash in Fort St. John. The mug was in Lynda’s roommate’s car when the roommate’s boyfriend totalled the vehicle. The roommate paid to get into the ICBC impound lot just so she could retrieve the mug, which miraculously survived unchipped. “I have had my tea in this mug nearly every day for 13 years,” said Lynda. And every morning, as she drank her morning tea, Lynda would think of Joan and Bowen and the Snug. “I resist sentimentalizing things, because I try to live with only the things I need,” said Lynda
PHOTO COURTESY OF LYNDA VANDEN ELZEN
Lynda Vanden Elzen has hauled this mug up and down the province for nearly a decade. When it finally broke, she reached out to see if she could get a replacement. in an email. “It is easier to let go of things when they are not tied to a story but as I age, every belonging has a story and I am particular about what I keep.” But few months ago, the mug was in the cupboard, fell out and a piece broke off of it. Out came the glue. Then Monday evening, Lynda wasn’t feeling well and her iPhone cord was wrapped around the mug. She pulled the cord and the mug fell––the rim breaking into several pieces. While it still holds liquid, Lynda turned to Facebook with her story––posting on Bowen Island Everything Else asking if anyone knew where she could get a replacement. Of course Joan Knight’s daughter is Sue Clarke, who was already planning on firing a new batch of mugs. Lynda should have her new mug next week. But the old chipped mug isn’t going into the garbage––Lynda is thinking of finding a way to have the cracks filled, like the art of Kintsugi, giving a new life to the old keepsake.
We're looking for your stories and pictures for our annual grad edition in June Please email Bronwyn editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com
8 • Thursday, May 21, 2020
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Connecting with a new community, 6 feet away Photographer Nina Schmidt has been taking pandemic portraits of islanders for the past couple of months. The following is an Undercurrent Q&A with Schmidt. BIU: Tell me about your project! I would love to. My project is called “PAUI ISE.” I started photography as a teenager and worked in a portrait studio in Berlin, Germany. When I moved to Vancouver in 2009 I assisted on wedding shoots. But then I slowed down, had a kid. Photography is my one passion though that surrounds me on a daily basis. Wherever I go I capture moments with my eyes. It is so important for me to have major life moments captured. This is wheremy isolation project “PAI ISE” comes into play: capturing the Bowen community during COVID-19, while they stay home. I come to islanders’ houses and take pictures from a safe distance through their windows or doorsteps. How did this project come up? I had this urge to pick up my camera one day and started capturing my own family. It made me happy being able to capture this unique time. Then, I texted my neighbour Harmony to see if I could take some pictures of her family through their window. It felt great being close to other humans again, yet from a safe distance. That’s when I came up with the idea to capture the Bowen community while also getting to know them in some way as I haven’t had the chance yet, moving here at this challenging time. What kinds of moments have you captured? Mainly moments of joy. There is beauty in needing to slow down and having time to be with loved ones or yourself or animals. Time to reflect what we actually need and want in life. The people I’ve met so far, from a safe distance, are all so welcoming. The joy on their faces to see another human will never get old. How wild is that. Photography for me is about getting to know people, getting close to them. Observing them and following them around. I
like to create a story rather than a posed picture. The restriction in interaction and movement definitely made this harder but yet it feels even more rewarding when you were able to make a connection from six feet away through a window. How did you come to live on Bowen? A series of signs from the universe. It all happened in January within a couple weeks. We had only been to Bowen once before, for a hike. So it was definitely very spontaneous and a tiny bit nerve-wracking. Plus moving with a three-year-old is no joke. But all so worth it. We had outgrown our 600 sqft apartment in Vancouver. And we were dreaming of growing our own food, working towards less waste, having our wild child grow up surrounded by nature in a beautiful community. We were so lucky to have moved a few weeks before the lockdown. I couldn’t imagine this time in the city. How has this project affected how you see the island (as a new resident!) ...it helped me fall in love with Bowen Island even faster. It feels like a dream that I get to live here. The nature, the people and the light....oh I don’t how many times a day I comment how beautiful the light is. Every photographer’s dream. This island is literally everything I wanted. I had the urge for years to move back home to Europe but I am pretty certain I found my home here. I am dreaming of building a house on Bowen. Are you still taking photos for the project? Yes most definitely! Life won’t be back to normal for a while so I would love to capture as many people as possible. What is your dream at the end of this project? An art show would be awesome! And ideally one where we are actually all allowed to come together to reminisce over this special time Also I am just finalizing my website www.nina.ca and I am hoping for more interesting projects.
NINA SCHMIDT PHOTO
NINA SCHMIDT PHOTO
NINA SCHMIDT PHOTO
Always from at least six feet away, often from the other side of a window, Nina Schmidt has photographed islanders in their home environments. “ The restriction in interaction and movement definitely made this [project] harder but yet it feels even more rewarding when you were able to make a connection from six feet away through a window,” says Schmidt.
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Thursday, May 21, 2020 • 9
Meet the zombies inhabiting RonWoodall’s yard Strange figures with outstretched arms inhabit the Woodalls’ yard in Deep Bay. While they’re not the living dead, they are the stuff of horror movies. “Czechoslovakia had a reputation for great exhibit design and fabrication and built many of the components of Expo 86 in Vancouver,” recounts Ron––Expo 86’s creative director. “One theme pavilion in the old CPR roundhouse was built by design group named Art Centrum in Prague. “The roundhouse theme was the retrospective, the history of transportation. Like all Czech contributions, it was quite quirky. One
element was a bunch of dead inventors holding patent models of their contraptions. “At the closing of the fair, the patent models went to Science World but the figures were auctioned off with the office furniture. “I learned later that they had been bought by a film production company that planned to soak them in gasoline and burn them in a horror movie. “Later, I heard about a props sale that included some of the figures and I bought them and have been dragging them around for 33 years.
PHOTO/CAPTION COURTESY OF RON WOODALL
“At the sculptor’s studio in Prague wearing a TIE . The irony is that this guy has gone on to fame in Europe.”
Bowen Island Arts Council Is looking to hire for the role of
Cultural Connector 2020 Season
Full-time/seasonal – June to September The Hearth - Arts on Bowen operates the Gallery @ Cove Commons, home to the local Bowen Island Arts Council supports the art scene on Bowen Island, BC
We are currently looking for a Full-time/seasonal Cultural Connector to assist the Executive Director, Gallery Curator & Programmer in administrative matters, marketing and gallery operations. Hours of work: full-time up to 35 hours per week, will include weekends and some evenings. Rate of pay: Depending on experience. Please visit our website for more details Website: thehearth.ca
PHOTO AND CAPTION COURTESY OF RON WOODALL
“We wanted a huge train wheel. This is being built in Celokovice. It was flown by cargo plane in parts then assembled and painted in metallics.”
Patient of the Week STUART Stuart recently came to BVS to be spayed. Because she has been dealing with seizures of unknown origin since she was quite young, we took extra precautions with her anesthesia and spay procedure. The health benefits of spaying still outweighed the slight risk of the procedure. After a couple weeks of rest, she will be back to her usual playful self. PHOTO/CAPTION COURTESY OF RON WOODALL
“What the big one looked like on exhibit. Now, it’s beside my Sequoia Tree. (Which may challenge Opa.)”
RON WOODALL PHOTO
One of the sculptures once featured in the history of transportation display at Expo 86 now featured in Ron Woodall’s yard.
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FICTION CORNER Editor’s note: the following the fourth in a series of segments from Island Pacific School student Hannah Florendo’s short story continuation of Peter Pan.
Gwennie goes to Neverland HANNAH FLORENDO
Contributor
“Tink!” cried Peter. “Let her go! If you crush her I’ll never be able to get back to Neverland again, and I will be stuck here and forced to grow up! Let her go, I say! Let her go!” Annie may not have understood his words as part of what he said was in Faerie Tongue, but she understood his tone very well. With a sniffle she shook Tinkerbell one last time and handed her over to a relieved Peter. Tink, who
was rather dizzy and had a bad headache let loose a tinkling swarm of her most foul language; there was such a large quantity of the most ghastly language that Peter looked horrified at her tirade. “Tink!” Peter said, forgetting that the others could not understand Faerie Tongue. “What did she say, Peter?” asked Gwennie. “Yeah,” said James. “And why’d she sound like a bell?” “Best I not repeat it to you.” Peter replied. “As for why she sounds like a bell, it’s Fae
Tongue.” he explained. “That’s why you made bell noises too, right?” siad James. “You were communicating with the fairy.” “Yes.” said Peter at the exact moment a voice was heard heading up the stairs. “James?” Wendy Goldenstar asked. “Who are you talking to?” “Quick,” hissed Peter. Hurriedly he shook Tink over each one of them. “Now all you have to do is think a happy thought, and you’ll be off.” he whispered. “But do it quickly now.” “That’s easy,” said James. “Pirates!” and he shot toward the ceiling like a cork out of a bottle. Annie thought of her gold-dusted hands and imagined all the fairies waiting for her that needed to be shaken up a bit, and slowly, more gently than James she drifted toward the
Thursday, May 21, 2020 • 11
ceiling. Gwennie took a little bit more time. First, she tried to imagine meeting the fairies and mermaids and all the other inhabitants of Neverland, then a small voice in her mind whispered ‘you included Hook.’, and she shook her head hard to rid herself of the image of the tall pirate captain. Then, she tried to imagine racing along, laughing, exploring and adventuring all over the island with James, Peter, Annie and all the Lost Boys. the little voice whispered ‘but what if someone gets hurt? Would they never heal, due to the magic of the island?’. Gwennie shook her head again. “Come on, Gwennie.” Peter said impatiently. “The footsteps are just outside the door.” Peter, Gwennie thought. I’ll be with Peter, and everything will be alright. And she shot clean out of the window and into the night. To be continued...
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Navigating Phase 2 how to get your groceries
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