Bowen Island Undercurrent March 2 2023

CRC Park proposal moving to next stage

ALEX KURIAL Editor

Metro Vancouver’s plan to turn 97 hectares of land at Cape Roger Curtis into a regional park and campground took a step forward on Monday, with a first reading date established for sometime next month

Representatives from the organization were on Bowen for a site tour of the lands with council and staff in the morning, followed by a Committee of the Whole (COW) meeting in the afternoon There, Mike Redpath, director of regional parks, and Jeff Fitzpatrick, division manager of regional parks design and development, presented Metro Vancouver’s vision to council and dozens of members of the public present in the Council Chambers and online.

“We’ve heard loud and clear, not just from the Bowen Island community, but from residents across the region, of great interest in preserving lands for regional parks And we ’ ve also heard concerns about this specific park potential,” said Redpath

SHAKESPEARE

ON THE ISLE:

Despite an untimely snowstorm (or perhaps poetically given the title of the play), Theatre on the Isle’s rendition of The Winter’s Tale pulled off the final of four performances last Saturday as Bowen was blanketed with snow during the day and night. Kat Stephens, Thomas Newman, and David Cameron were among the thespians who made the show happen Head over to Page 7 to read more about how it all came together, and check our website this week for more photos from the show. / Bruce Steele photo

“We believe that many of the community’s concerns are our concerns as well, and we’re trying to learn and listen as we go along through the process, and most importantly propose some opportunities to address those concerns, ” he continued.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

Events

AllCouncilmeetingsareopen

Proposed Metro Vancouver Park Next Steps

AttheCommitteeoftheWholewithMetroVancouver,onMonday, February27,2023,Councilpassedaresolutiontorefertheproposed LandUseBylawandOfficialCommunityPlanamendments,toallow overnightcamping,tovariouscommittees,IslandsTrust,BCFerries, VancouverCoastalHealth,andtheSquamishFirstNation,andto reportbacktoCouncilataCommitteeoftheWholeatafuturedate

Thesearethepossiblenextsteps:

WatchtheCommitteeoftheWholeonourYouTubechannel: wwwyoutubecom/@BowenIslandMunicipality/streams

ReadmoreabouttheproposedregionalparkatCapeRogerCurtis: wwwbowenislandmunicipalityca/regional-park-at-cape-rogercurtis/

unity Centre - February update

Therehasbeensignificantverticalprogresssincethelastupdate. Haveyounoticedtherooftrussesgoingup?Theareaclosestto theroadwhereframinghasjuststartedisthebackstageareaofthe PerformingArtsAuditoriumNextyearwe’llbebookingticketsfor performances!

We’regettingclosertoamoveindateforthismuch-needed communityhubWe’rejustmonthsaway,ratherthanyearsThis versatilecommunityspacehasvastpossibilitiesforprogramming, events,communitygroups,publicmeetings,recitals,andmoreThis reallywillbealegacyforfuturegenerations

FAQ:Areweoverbudget?

Thebudgetisfirmat$18.7millionandhasbeenforseveralyears. PreviousiterationsofCommunityCentreplanshaddifferentprice tags,butasweconsolidatedthedesignandfactoredincreasing costoflabour,equipmentandmaterials,thebudgetwassetat$187 million.

FAQ:Areweunderfunded?

AttheCommunityCentreSelectSteeringCommitteeMeetingon February7,2023,BIM’sCFO,KristenWatson,presentedaSummaryof CommunityCentreCostsandFundingSources

We’vespentjustover$6millionofthe$187millionbudgetOfthe remaining$12,668,649,$10,492,854isconfirmedfundingand$22 millionisunconfirmedFundingmaybeunconfirmedforseveral reasons:

• We’rewaitingtoheartheresultsofseveralgrantapplications

• We’veidentifiedapossiblefundingsource/grantthat’sbeing investigated

• We’reexploringfundraisingopportunities

Speakingoffundraising,nowisagreattimetoconsideradonation toCommunityCentreandplayapartinbuildingthislegacyforthe communityThereareanumberofwaystodothis

Sponsoraseatintheperformingartsauditorium,namearoom,make aone-time,monthlyorannualdonationTodiscussoptionsplease contactJacquelineMassey,jmassey@bimbccaormakeadonation withyourcreditcardrightnow:wwwourislandplacecom/donate

Readmore:

www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/community-centre-project/

More details - and questions - on the Cape campground plan

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

The presentation reiterated the messaging Metro Vancouver has employed since the idea was first publicly announced last August – that a regional park is the best way to protect the sensitive and unique ecosystem the land boasts This includes a dry coastal bluff waterfront which is extremely rare in B.C., and at-risk species such as the Pacific Great Blue Heron and Northern Red-Legged Frog

“Once these sensitive ecosystems are gone, they will be gone forever,” said Redpath, adding the park would also promote ecological resilience, community cohesion, and reconciliation efforts

A major crux of the proposal – one which Metro Vancouver needs the support of Bowen council for, and certainly the most talked about angle online – is the campground component of the plan. More specifics on this were laid out during the meeting.

“The land acquisition is a significant investment, and the need to provide access to this landscape for regional residents who are not able to access the park on a day to day basis is important,” said Fitzpatrick “This is a unique landscape with disturbed areas that provide an opportunity for overnight access without additional clearing or disturbance to sensitive ecosystems The demand for camping is high, and it’s difficult to access camping close to home”

The land is currently zoned Rural Residential 1, which allows for a park but not overnight camping Metro Vancouver has submitted a rezoning application to the municipality to change this to Park zoning, which would allow for supervised overnight stays to go ahead.

Fitzpatrick says there would be no RV or trailer camping at the site, which would be staffed 24/7 by park rangers Camp

fires would not be allowed either

Metro Vancouver’s proposal is currently for 100 campsites, which they explained would be phased in over time until the day the maximum is reached. At that time, an estimate for site breakdown stands at 40-50 walk/bike-in sites, 25-35 vehicle accessible sites, 10 tent cabins, and 3-5 group camping sites

Fitzpatrick says with these numbers, they estimate 122162 people and 29-39 vehicles visiting the campsite on weekdays, and 186-243 people and 32-43 vehicles on weekends He says this is comparable to an alternative of potentially 24-48 dwellings on the lots, and offers a cheaper and lower-impact vacation experience to Bowen’s many Airbnbstyle rental options

Mayor Andrew Leonard queried if the 100 campsites was a set number, which Redpath responded that “At this time our rezoning proposal includes 100 campsites” When asked for clarification by Coun Alex Jurgensen, Redpath reiterated “At this time we’re saying we’re submitting a proposal for 100 campsites as part of this rezoning application Through the process that could be changed, but we’re starting that process now and we look forward to that dialogue”

Coun Tim Wake expressed hesitation over the dialogue process itself, echoing a well-voiced concern that the process is moving too fast. “Part of balancing connection and protection is going to be to make sure overnight use doesn’t overstep the protection side of things. You’ve acknowledged that there’s going to be a lot of questions, and you don’t have all the answers now. When will you have those answers?” said Wake

He added that the engagement process runs through the

end of the year, yet Metro Vancouver has asked for a rezoning decision ahead of that “To me those two things are in conflict,” said Wake

“Metro Vancouver needs to know that it’s securing property that it can ultimately have the land use on, ” answered Redpath “And then at that time through the fulsome engagement process we ’ ve detailed today, that level of balance of protection and connection can be determined.

We believe that process has been initiated. We’ve been talking to the municipality for almost a year now… and we are hearing the concerns as they come up, and we hope to address them over time,” Redpath continued.

One of these issues will need to be impacts on the Snug Cove – Horseshoe Bay ferry route, which was already full of overloads last summer Leonard says when he mentioned the park proposal to BC Ferries they were “surprised” to hear about it

Around a dozen members of the public spoke during the COW public comment section, and 100 letters were submitted in advance of the meeting. Speakers included former mayor Bob Turner, who plead the importance of maintaining small communities, and former councillor David Hocking, who was instrumental in working with Metro Vancouver on the park proposal during his time on council last year

Other details to be worked out include possible reservation systems for campers and day-users, timed restriction of vehicles, and transport to the park including a shuttle system A traffic study is currently being conducted on the route to the Cape

Council voted during the COW to send Metro Vancouver’s rezoning application to Bowen’s many committees, along with outside organizations such as Islands Trust, BC Ferries, Vancouver Coastal Health, and Squamish Nation, for consideration. Staff were also instructed to bring the feedback to council at a later meeting, likely next month Both motions were made official at a regular council meeting later on Monday night

Metro Vancouver will be hosting a pair of open houses at Bowen Island Community School on March 4 (10 am) and 8 (4 pm), and two webinars on March 9 (5 pm) and 10 (10 am)

EDITORIAL

A short but sincere thank you this week to the two gentlemen who helped me push my car out of the snow on Monday evening My eyes were bigger than my vehicle’s capabilities in tackling a tempting parking spot, which after getting stuck made me realize why it was most likely free in the first place After finding a new spot, the overnight snow dump made escape from that lot an adventure as well, though with some shovelling, a lot of revving, and a dogged determination to avoid needing rescuing twice in under 24 hours, I was able to blast my way out and onto smoother streets

All this to say, with more snow seemingly on the way, if you need your vehicle the next day be sure to think long and hard about where you ’ re parking at night Though, during my pair of winters here I’ve found there’s no shortage of locals more than willing to quite literally help you out of a jam And major thanks to our snow plow teams as well!

- Alex Kurial, Editor

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

A chance for Bowen seniors

To the Editor,

BC’s Seniors Advocate says the shortage of home support workers is a huge and increasing problem for seniors in this province, and it’s compromising the health of seniors and forcing them unnecessarily into nursing homes

Isobel Mackenzie says there are fewer seniors getting the care they need at home than there were five years ago, and the fortunate few getting care services are getting less of it And there’s no fix in sight

It’s yet another reason for Bowen to have its own residence for seniors Bowen will likely never have the medical infrastructure necessary for a nursing home, so Island seniors needing a nursing home will have to leave But the island can have a residence for seniors that provides support – meals, laundry, cleaning, security, entertainment, personal care services – and can efficiently bring in health workers if a higher level of care is needed All this staves off the need to go into a nursing home

We have a chance right now to create a supportive residence for our seniors Everything is in place to create a nurturing place for 24 individual seniors or couples, everything except an unexpected need for an additional sum of money at very short notice

Snug Cove House has $15 2 million to put towards the creation of this residence, but last-minute increases have pushed the cost of construction up to $17 6 million The extra $2 4 million is a large sum, equivalent to $1,400 for every Bowen household And the terms of the financing mean this sum must be raised by April 7, just five short weeks away

It’s a huge challenge But please seriously, and urgently, consider if you can play a part in meeting this challenge There’s a pledge form in the Snug Cove House ad in this paper The

pledge means Snug Cove House will need your donation only if this appeal gets enough to start construction Please take a minute to think about it

With many thanks for your consideration,

- The board of directors of Snug Cove House Society Martine Sampath, Pernille Nielsen, Cindy Macleod, Graham Ritchie, Susan Munro, Rev Lorraine Ashdown, Holly Mackintosh, Andy Powell-Williams

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. Please limit to under 500 words HERE’S HOW: To submit a letter to the editor, fax 604-947-0148 or mail it to #102, 495 Bowen Island Trunk Road, PO Box 130, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G0 or email editor@bowenislandundercurrent com

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VIEWS

Bowen Bumpkins

JUDITH GEDYE Bowen Island Municipality Councillor

You people have no idea how rare, unique and special this place is!

Why is it when developers discover Bowen, they think “bumpkins” , with none of our five senses attached to our awesome brains? I admit I was wearing gumboots, but still On February 27, Metro was giving council a CRC site visit The tour was educational First, we were supposed to meet at the turnaround at Huzsar Creek instead of council chambers, but when we arrived, they weren’t there Did they get lost? Cell phones!

They asked if we needed directions We laughed Eventually we met up ‘This is a cliff Those are fir trees Over there, you can see UBC And did you know, there is a network of old logging roads all through the site that would make good trails?’ Really. It’s a fundamental premise to know your audience.

Indeed, this is a rare chunk of spectacular land that has no equal in the park systems of the Lower Mainland, and Metro has made an expensive offer to purchase The chair and vice-chair of the Metro Vancouver Board were present and asked all the staff to walk away and let the elected people talk privately

First off, it is improper in a site visit by a proponent to speak privately to the decision-makers, but, being really curious what they wanted to say absent their and our staff, who are doing all the heavy lifting on this proposal, we listened

The tall one explained he had called in all his political chips to make this purchase happen, and the deal was entirely dependent on 100 campsites, and they had direct assurances from the previous council that there would be rezoning, and it would be completed last summer, before the election. Councilor Morse reminded him that she was on the last council and there had been no such assurances, that it was “always going to be pending a re-zoning process ”

I commented that it was Metro’s announcement about a campground on Bowen immediately before the election, which directly resulted in the council standing before him: no assurances, but willing to listen

Undeterred, both explained that it was all or nothing, and right away They had a deadline of May 9 for completion It is not clear if their offer is contingent on their having rezoning (for camping) locked down, or some other political agenda, but the message was an ultimatum

We left, us shaking our heads. Back at the Muni, there was a lunch break before the presentation by Metro at our Committee of the Whole (COW) meeting. Metro staff and politicians were late getting there so no time to socialize In a surprise move, the two Metro politicians decided to leave –they had other meetings – presumably more important ones, even though this meeting had been delayed three times to accommo-

date them, and until then everyone expected them to meet with our community My imagination conjured Kevin McCarthy and Mitch McConnell and their politicking, but that’s just me!

So what might they be up to? They are two senior politicians, who clearly believe they speak for the Board they have been appointed to, as if that Board were unanimous. However, there is nothing in the record of resolutions passed by that board which indicates solidity on either camping or the number 100.

And since the recent elections, many members of their board are new to the decisions

Mayor Leonard, our Metro Vancouver Board representative mused to some Bowen councilors: “It’s not my experience that the Metro Vancouver board is as homogenous as they’re representing” It begs the question of what is the motive at that senior political level

Metro’s mandate for acquisitions is to secure and protect natural habitat – but unlike a conservancy, it also is to connect urbanites with nature, in ways that continue to protect it They have policies for acquisitions and “Regional Parks Land Acquisition 2050” documents them, and in that, at p 30, step 7 of 8, reads: “MVRD and funding partners announce the acquisition after the transfer of title is complete” .

There has been a breach of their policy. The policy makes good sense, since here, for instance, once the purchase is complete, most likely the political pressure for rezoning will be reduced

So, what do we agree on? While the Metro politicians made no mention of the importance of the purchase for protecting CRC, and while the land has been heavily logged, it

remains a magnificent, rejuvenating, glorious space and you cannot help but feel better having been there If the entire space were managed as a conservancy with minimal human contact it could be even more incredible

On the side of the road, in blasted ditches full of rockfall, there were (at least a billion!) arbutus seedlings thriving in a microclimate at that south-facing cliff. How fabulous is that? Realistically, conservancy groups would be hard pressed to live with the cleared sites and those would be very difficult to restore to any sort of natural local habitat And most conservation groups do not have the deep pockets to afford the site

Next along a continuum would be “passive park” – in effect what it is now (although still in private hands). If Metro’s purchase completes, and they designate their Cape Roger Curtis lands as anything other than a limited access ecological zone, it would be advertised as part of their regional park system

There is no leverage for Bowen to demand any help from Metro with a Thompson Road access, extension of the multi-use path, negotiations with Translink or BC Ferries, shuttle buses from the City or Horseshoe Bay or Snug Cove, staffing levels, toilets, fire protection water tanks, or any other amenities all that follows from their strong desire to have camping

Still, why such strong pressure on council? I cannot figure it out I have no insider knowledge, and am not entitled to ask, but perhaps, if Metro has no escape clause in their offer, and the seller has met all its conditions, it might be a breach of contract situation, at the very least a loss of a $2M deposit as indicated by the Metro vice-chair CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

Cape Roger Curtis considerations...

Dear Mayor and Council,

We are writing to express our support for the creation of a Metro park at Cape Roger Curtis We do have questions and concerns – primarily about the scale of the proposed campground – but overall, we are very much in favour of preserving a large swath of beautiful coast and forest as parkland on Bowen Island for the enjoyment of all

We strongly support the creation of public spaces, and believe that providing such spaces with access to nature improves our collective well being and makes for a better society

We are well aware of the outcry on Bowen Island from some who are concerned about the park proposal, particularly with respect to the proposed plans for a campground Within this discourse, there is a lot of misinformation flying around and so far, we have not yet seen a willingness to thoughtfully engage in a discussion that considers both sides of the debate

It seems the “ no ” side has been very vocal (largely on Facebook), and that may

drown out the other voices We are aware of many people who support the park who are reticent to wade into the (sometimes nasty) public debate This should not lead Council to conclude that there is no support for the park among Bowen Islanders

We have filled out the Metro feedback form and hope others who support the park are also taking the time to do so

Our hope is that we can get past the initial knee-jerk reaction and have a true discussion that leads us to a win/ win conclusion - one that creates a new park at CRC while also addressing the valid concerns about camping, transportation, and potential overcrowding on our small island

Hopefully Council will not consider only the loudest voices who are crying foul, but will also find ways to hear from others in the community who represent different points of view

Respectfully,

Jennifer Hall & Peter Robinson

And what about the Ferry?

Dear Editor,

BC Ferries has no plan for Bowen’s future

In their newly released draft plan for 2024-2028 (available at bcferrycommission.ca), they acknowledge that Bowen has seen significant population growth (almost 16% in the 2016-2021 census interval), but – without any real explanation – they assume that even in 2029 we’ll have over 30% available capacity during peak.

There are no plans mentioned for capacity expansion of

Dear Editor,

I had a quick glance at the Metro Vancouver “Project Overview for Rezoning / OCP Amendment”

In its introduction Metro Vancouver makes a seductive and compelling pledge that “the park would preserve a large area of ecologically important and sensitive dry coastal bluff ecosystem ” The included map “Land Use map of the proposed Regional Park at Cape Roger Curtis” clearly shows 10 pods scattered around the 97 hectares with restrictive covenants to protect environmentally sensitive areas

The large buffer zones required to truly protect and help those environmentally sensitive areas to survive and thrive are replaced with camp grounds Those camp grounds will not “ conserve the integrity and resilience of the ecosystems” of the pods affected

The planned walk-in sites will be directly above and overlooking the men-

Dear Editor,

With reference to the letter by Susan Redmond and Doug Fleetham (Undercurrent, Feb 16, 2023), we couldn’t agree more with their concerns about the probability of camping sites ruining the already relative peace of our island We live near Snug Cove and have noticed a huge increase in traffic, ferry overloads, difficulty parking in the town square since the last four or five years All the reasons mentioned by the above writers about why we chose Bowen as our full time residence

the Snug Cove-Horseshoe Bay route, and indeed, the route is barely mentioned in the 163 page document Meanwhile, ferry traffic data I received for the off-peak (Nov. 2021-April 2022) period shows that – even outside tourist season – the ferry is full or nearly so during the morning commute period and other key times. See bowenferry.com and view the “Load Analysis Nov-Apr” tab for the data.

I grew up on Salt Spring, and the ferry there was a very different thing than it is here. I suspect part of the BC Ferries/

tioned “700 meters of ecologically diverse dry bluff waterfront”! While 25 (or so) car accessible tent sites will be squeezed between the environmentally sensitive pods located on lots E & D

Presently on Bowen Island Crippen Regional park, dogs have a God given right to roam off-leash and Metro Park does not enforce its regulation of maintaining dogs on leash How then will Metro Vancouver actually enforce the protection of “the unique and valuable habitat” of Cape Roger Curtis while it cannot enforce its very own rules and regulations?

It is evident that Metro Vancouver cannot fulfill its pledge of protecting Cape Roger Curtis’ ecologically sensitive areas and thus Cape Roger Curtis should join the other two Metro Vancouver’s Regional Parks that are Ecological Conservancy Areas

Sincerely yours,

- Anne Franc de Ferrière-Chollat

20 years ago, are totally valid

They should be taken into account when deciding whose priorities are more important : the local population, or the few businesses profiting from extra tourists with all the concomitant dangers to our environment and what we consider our right to maintain a level of calmness in our streets and clean air with limited traffic in our surroundings

- Loredana May-Brind, Bill Brind

Bowen disconnect is that given Bowen’s proximity to Vancouver our route is nearly unique in being a “ commuter route” , with traffic heavily concentrated in a “rush hour” period. The BC Ferries analysis (which uses the same approach for Bowen as it does for most other routes) says we have lots of capacity available, but it gives little comfort to someone who couldn’t make a full 8:35 am ferry to know that the ferry 12 hours later will be 90% empty.

Furthermore, the impact of the planned new park/ campground isn’t part of the model. The reality is that if Bowen’s population and tourist traffic keep growing rapidly without increases in ferry capacity, quality of life will be degraded for anyone who needs to use the ferry

The solution here is two-fold: first, BC Ferries needs to work closely with the Municipality, Metro Van Parks, and Translink to ensure they all have a common, realistic set of assumptions Second, BC Ferries needs to model the Snug Cove-Horseshoe Bay ferry appropriately as a commuter link

Please send your feedback to bcferrycommission ca/ share-your-thoughts/ and ask them to take these steps

Thank you,

Work to be done...

- Travis Beals

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

Bowen has some verbal good intentions, and possibly some handshake agreements, with no written contracts At this stage, I only trust our best practice: we will research and consider and be clear on our questions and pose them again (and again) and hope we get some answers

Is there some other hidden agenda? Can these politicians leverage this in their favour and against our interests? Why? A part of me hopes they complete their purchase and fulfill their mandate to protect rare sites, and maybe then we can get down to the real business of figuring out IF this can be made to work. The other part of me thinks there is plenty of other work to do.

Maybe, now that this has been stirred up, there will be other projects designed to enrich our enjoyment of the land.

- Judith Gedye, BIM Councillor

VIEWPOINTS

We couldn’t have done it without you!

To the Editor, Fourth time lucky! Islanders finally got to see Bowen’s finest in The Winter’s Tale the past two weekends, after three earlier attempts to go public with the play were torpedoed by Covid-19

Thanks are due to the coronavirus for staying away this time, and to the electrical grid for failing right after the play rather than during Thanks to Scott Stevenson for saving the final performance by clearing snow from Carter Road and parking areas, and to all the actors who shovelled and salted the stairs and footpaths, and all the actors who toiled for hours to build and then dismantle the stage and set And you the audiences who defied the February elements to come to see us and allow the Bard on the Rock Players to share the story with you.

Thanks to stage managers Jessica Wright and Maureen Sawasy, to lighting and lightning ace Ian Davidson, to Trevor Tunnacliffe for composing, performing and recording the Elizabethan music, to Jon Ritchie for the sound gear, to the wonderful Catherine Epps and her wonderful crew at Cates Pharmacy for handling ticket sales, to Kat Stevens for putting together the poster and programs, to Frazer Elliott for making many programs from one, to Sue Ritchie, Nancy Cox, Sasha McWilliam,

GrandfriendsValentine’s Day Special Delivery

SARAH HAXBY Bowen Island Community School

The Grandfriends Program is an intergenerational program that has run at BICS for over 30 years

Drew Hart, Lynn Williams, Sheilagh Sparks and Jeb Gutelius for taking those tickets at the theatre, to Sue Ritchie for baking all the intermission goodies, to Cates Hill Chapel for allowing us to build a theatre in its inspiring space, to Island Pacific School for giving us the actors’ green room, to the Little Red Church for letting us rehearse in the cosily evocative Collins’ Hall, to Marolyn Anderson for her prized basket and Ros Leggatt for turning it into the starring bassinet, and to Bruce Steele for his excellent photography

Last but definitely not least, thanks to Shirley Wrinch, First Lady of Bowen Theatre, for her beautiful costumes, without which we’d be a sorry-looking lot

With gratitude,

- Graham Ritchie

As part of the Bowen Island Community School’s Grandfriends program big and little buddies from Grade 4/5 and Grade 1/2 made cookies that featured dried blueberry, raisin and chocolate chip decorations, and delivered them to our neighbourhood grandfriends who live at Bowen Court

Handmade cards, cookies and songs were shared (‘It’s a Small World’ and ‘You are My Sunshine’,) on a crisp sunny day

A sense of belonging in a community is fostered by thoughtful acts of kindness and students wanted to let the grandfriends know that we are thinking of them.

Many thanks to Kiko, Gillian and Susan N for helping make the visit to Bowen Court happen, as well as to the residents of Bowen Court who came out to collect the cards, cookies and to enjoy and join in the singing

The Grandfriends Valentine’s Day event was also made possible thanks to the parent volunteers who helped with the baking Thanks also to the Big Buddies for taking a leadership role with the little buddies

Students were enthusiastic and joyful in their sharing of treats and wishing everyone a “Happy Valentine’s Day!”

Have your say!

Please join us at a public open house or webinar about the proposed regional park This will be an opportunity to meet with staff from Metro Vancouver, provide your input, and learn more about the project

Public Open Houses (Bowen Island Community School)

• Saturday, March 4, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

• Wednesday, March 8, 4:00 – 7:30 pm

Webinars

• Thursday, March 9, 5:00 – 7:00 pm

• Friday, March 10, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

To register for a webinar, complete a feedback form, and learn more about the proposed park, scan the QR code or go to metrovancouver.org and search “Cape Roger Curtis ”

Contact us

BowenIslandParkPlanning@metrovancouver org

604-224-5739

Sub-Zero Sleep Out

JENNIFER HENRICHSEN Island Pacific School

Last week went down as the coldest Sleep Out we ’ ve ever done at Island Pacific School - minus 4 but definitely colder with the windchill! The grade nines really appreciated that they could come inside to a warm school and yummy breakfast. They also have a greater appreciation of what homeless youth would be experiencing on a cold February night

The grade nines spent January and February fundraising and spreading awareness of the work Covenant House (our partners) does with homeless youth in Vancouver Their efforts paid off to the tune of $7,645 and growing! Well done students and thank you donors!

The fundraising link is live for another month so we’ll keep checking Kari, Isaac and Finn also recorded a podcast with Covenant House last week and Noam is creating a short video about the experience We’ll post those initiatives as they go live

For the first time since Covid-19 the students volunteered at Covenant House sorting clothes and talking to the youth outreach workers We then split into small groups and walked around the city with only a toonie to buy dinner We took public transit back to Bowen to sleep outside behind IPS

During our debrief, the students were mature and thoughtful discussing their observations and emotions during the walkabout downtown. Below are some of the reflections they wrote about their experience. As you can see, this was an eye opening and worthwhile experience to build

empathy and awareness for others in different circumstances. Thanks everyone for your support!

Student Reflections:

I’ve experienced, for one night, some of the problems of a homeless youth but I don’t really know the emotions hidden inside someone A perfect way to think about this is like rock climbing I have a safety harness and they are climbing free solo Though I do not want to fall down, I can still take risks knowing that they would lead to minor consequences However, for them, they can’t make mistakes- the consequences are so much higher

I found it interesting that small acts of kindness that we witnessed seemed 10x more powerful It’s like if someone shines a light in a dark room you notice the effect of the light way more

I do not feel good I never do in the mornings, but I really feel it now I’m still cold I’m tired I’m uncomfortable and there is no way I can go to school and feel confident in my abilities. If I was homeless I’d feel this everyday... I am not going to forget tonight.

When we were first getting into our sleeping bags, I realized I wasn’t warming up and I felt a kind of dread. I kind of assumed it would be warm enough to be comfortable but I took that feeling for granted I cannot imagine how that night was for someone without a sleeping bag

I felt almost hopeless but also motivated to try and help and make a difference Even though I might not be able to make a big impact - starting small is always something

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Thursday, March 2

Film Night at Bowen Library

This week’s showing is Carmen (2022), directed by Valerie Buhagiar, at the Bowen Library Won Best Film at Canadian Film Festival in Toronto Drop in, no registration required Come a little early and grab a comfy chair film starts promptly at 6 pm, and runs 87 minutes Rated PG

Friday, March 3

Snug Cove Music Fest Tickets

Sales begin for the summer festival at 8 am The festival takes place July 23 at Union Steamship Marina Tickets at eventbrite.ca

Friday, March 3

Dinner at the Legion

Former Legion manager Jules is making Mighty Meatloaf with Twice-Baked Potatoes Doors at 5:30 pm, dinner at 6:30

Saturday, March 4

Metro Vancouver Open House

Discussion of proposed park and campground at Cape Roger Curtis 10 am at Bowen Island Community School.

Saturday, March 4

Open House at Collins Hall

Coun. Judith Gedye open house at 3 pm Everyone welcome to come enjoy conversation and treats

Sunday, March 5

Book Donation Day

Friends of the Library volunteers are accepting donations of clean, good condition used books and DVDs Donations toward our book sales can be brought to the Library Annex starting at 10:30 am until the volunteers’ bins are full (no later than 12:30 pm). We thank everyone who donates books for their contribution—your books help raise funds for the Library through book sales!

Sunday, March 5

French Connections at the Library

Drop in and join us to practice your conversational French, and get to know other French speakers on Bowen Island! The focus will be on beginner and intermediate speakers, but all levels welcome 1 to 2:30 pm

Sunday, March 5

Meat Bingo at the Legion

The popular Meat Bingo is back and you have the chance to win seven different kinds of gourment meat entrees

From 1:30 to 4:30 pm

Monday, March 6

Seniors Keeping Young Talk

1:30 pm in Elliott Hall at Bowen Court, at 1070 Miller Road. Recent developments regarding the Health Centre will be discussed, and what they mean for SKY

Monday, March 6

TBI Public Engagement Session

Tourism Bowen Island hosting a public engagement meeting to develop their responsible tourism plan. 5 to 7 pm at the Bowen Island Library Annex

Wednesday, March 8

Metro Vancouver Open House

Discussion of proposed park and campground at Cape Roger Curtis 10 am at Bowen Island Community School.

Thursday, March 9 & Friday, March 10

IPS presents ‘Nailed It’

An evening of satirical shorts 6:30 to 8:30 pm, doors open at 6 Free shuttle bus leaves Snug Cove at 6:15 pm and returns at 9 pm Cates Hill Chapel, tickets $15 All ages show

Friday, March 10

Karaoke 3 at the Legion

Warm up those vocal cords and get set for a night of singing and fun. The show starts at 8 and goes until late.

Saturday, April 1

Poetry Month Kickoff

Join us starting at 2:30 pm with a Poet Talk and Q&A with Jane Munro, at the Bowen Library Jane Munro is a Canadian poet, writer, and educator, with several published books Blue Sonoma won the 2015 Griffin Poetry Prize Munro’s newest poetry collection is False Creek

TUESDAYS

2nd and 4th Tuesdays of every month from 11:30 am to 1 pm Adult only, drop-in event $10 for a full lunch

Yoga at Collins Hall

Tuesdaysfrom1to2pm AgingwithGrace Easyyogaformobility, flexibility, strength, balance and stress reduction for Body and Mind $15 e-transfer or cash Drop in welcome Email jackie minns@gmail com or call 604-220-9092

WEDNESDAYS

Storytime at Bowen Library

10:30 to 11 am A free drop-in program of stories and songs for 2 to 4 year-olds and their caregivers! To March 8

Bowen Bridge

We meet from 1:30 to 4:30 pm at Bowen Court on Wednesdays

Fee is $5 per person per session Your place at the table must be arranged - by email - no later than 6 pm on the Monday before To make your booking or to seek more information, please email bowcates@yahoo ca We look forward to seeing you

THURSDAYS

March 2

Intro to Acrylic Painting

Learn how to paint in a stress free, fun environment. 9:30 am to 12:30 pm. No experience necessary. Small class size. Thursday Art Group

We meet every Thursday at Collins Hall (9:30 to 11:30 am) to paint, sketch, draw, etc. Contact Marie@marieneys.com or MarieNeys.com for both TAG and Acrylics.

We’re hiring – Weekend Library Supervisor

Bowen Library is hiring a permanent part-time Supervisor to provide outstanding customer service and to take responsibility for the management of the library on weekends.

Working collaboratively with the team, the Supervisor creates a welcoming, customer centered experience through the delivery of responsive services, and programs The Weekend Supervisor responsibilities include opening and closing the library; supervising weekend staff; dealing with any facilities issues, and presenting and enforcing the library’s services and policies to the public

The successful candidate will have:

• A minimum of two years supervisory experience in a public service role

• Demonstrated proficiency in customer service skills

• Demonstrated proficiency and interest in using of a variety of technologies

• Strong interpersonal, oral and written communication skills

Desirable training or experience:

• Library specific training or experience is preferred.

• Valid B.C Driver’s License

A criminal records check is required

To find out more about the position, read the full job description on our website www.bowenlibrary.ca/about-us/library-information/job-opportunities/

We will continue to accept applications until the position is filled. To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter to:

Tina Nielsen, Chief Librarian info@bowenlibrary.ca 604-947-9788

We thank all applicants but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

You Can Make It Happen!

Snug Cove House Is Almost Ready

✓Registered Charity: 890207970RR0001

✓Project Manager: SiFo Construction

✓Architect: Wheeler Crawford and Sons

✓Construction Manager: Kindred

✓Appraiser: Westbridge Group

✓Market Study: Lumina Seniors’ Housing

✓Auditor: MacCormac and Company

✓Freehold Serviced Land 1082 Miller Road

✓Plans for 24-unit Residence

✓Rezoning, Development Permit

✓Development Variance Permit

✓Building Permit (ready in March)

✓Society Assets: $3,600,000

✓Construction Loan: $11,600,000

Can You Help Us

Check the Last Box?

Still Needed: $2,400,000

Everything’s in Place to start building Snug Cove House, the supportive residence for Bowen seniors

24 one-bedroom Apartments

Large Balconies

Close to Snug Cove Village

Protected vehicle Parking

Surrounding Parkland

Commercial Kitchen

Spacious Dining Room

Top floor view Lounge

Weekly Laundry & Cleaning

Personal Care Services

Social and health Activities

Shopping & Leisure Trips

Community Events

Attentive Staff

Experienced Management

Except

Still Needed: $2,400,000......................

in interest rate increases and inflationary price increases for materials, labour and insurance

We have 88% of our Construction Budget

Construction Cost: $17,600,000

We have: $15,200 000

We need: $2,400,000.............................

That’s a lot of money, $1,400 for every Bowen household, but anything you can contribute will help, even to show other potential funders that every Bowen household cares and contributed something

And please do it now. A condition of our funding is that we must raise the remaining 12% with a very tight deadline - April 7th That’s only five weeks.

Your contribution is as a pledge, redeemable only when we have enough for construction

I pledge a gift of $ to the construction of Snug Cove House. (Pledge is redeemable only if we raise enough to begin construction )

Signature: Date Signed: Name: Address: Phone: Email: