Bowen Island Undercurrent March 23 2023

DR. LYNN BEATTIE, C.M. - Bowen’s own Dr Lynn Beattie travelled to Ottawa in November to receive the Order of Canada for her distinguished career in geriatric medicine She was presented the honour by formerGovernorGeneralMichaëlleJean,withherdaughter,son,andgrandsoninattendance Beattie’sachievement was announced in 2020, but as she tells us it was important to wait to attend the Rideau Hall ceremony in person. Highlights of the ceremony and Beattie’s career can be found in our story on Page 21 / Alex Kurial photo

Five-year financial plan draft stage gets underway

PROPERTY TAX RAISE OPENS AT 13.3% WITH CAPITAL COSTS DUE

ALEX KURIAL Editor

Residents got an early glimpse at the municipality’s financial five-year plan earlier this week

Chief financial officer Kristen Watson presented the course Bowen could expect to chart economically over the next half-decade But, she was sure to note the draft is in its early stages, and likely to undergo a series of changes before its official submission in May

The number home owners are most likely focused on is the property tax, which starts negotiations set for a rise of 13 3 per cent this year This jump from last year ’ s budget – which settled on a 7 8 per cent increase – wasn’t unexpected. Reducing the property tax from double to single digits last year came with an estimate that the 2023 jump would be at least 12 per cent.

Using an average Bowen home value of $1,486,000, this means the average payment will be $347. This number will drop a bit though due to non-market changes – new construction plus changes to property status. The $25.7 million expected to be added through this method will effectively make the property tax increase 12.5 per cent, for an average payment of $327.

The double digit property tax hike is predicted to drop dramatically in the years to come: 2024’s increase is expected at 5.8 per cent, with the 2025-27 rises estimated at 3.4, 6.8, and 3.5 per cent respectively.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

Events

AllCouncilmeetingsareopen tothepublictoattendin personorelectronically, unlessnotedotherwise.

March 27, 2023

3:30 pm

CommitteeoftheWhole

Budget-CapitalProgram

Overview

March 27, 2023

6:15 pm

RegularCouncilMeeting

March 30, 2023

2:00 pm

BudgetOpenHouse#2via Zoom

Seeking Public Comment

DVP2022-0376for1666TunstallBlvd TunstallBayCommunityAssociation

PROJECTDESCRIPTION:

ADevelopmentVariancePermitapplicationhasbeensubmittedfor 1666TunstallBlvdtoreducetheminimumsetbackfromthenatural boundaryofthesea.

Theapplicantswishtoreplacetheexistingcommunityswimming poolonthepropertyBecausethepooliswithintheminimum30m setbackfromthenaturalboundaryofthesea,theyhaverequested toreducethesetbackto15mforthenewpooland21mforan accessorychangeroom/washroom

We’re Hiring

Part-time Building Inspector

BIMhasavacancyforanon-call,casualBuildingInspectorinour PlanningDepartmentstartingMay,2023Thepositionisresponsible fortheadministration,interpretationandenforcementoftheBC BuildingCodeandmunicipalregulationsandbylaws

wwwbowenislandmunicipalityca/work-with-us

Summer Jobs are Here

Summer Daycamp Staff - Recreation

BIMhasopeningsfor5stafftodevelopandrunchildren’sdaycamp programsthissummer,aspartoftheRecreation&Community Servicesteam

Learnvaluableskills,providementoringtoyouthvolunteers,and supportBowenIslandchildrenandfamilieswithfun,meaningful campexperiencesStartdatesareflexiblebasedoncandidate availability.

DaycampLeaders(mustbe18+).ApplybyMay26,2023. DaycampAssistants(mustbe16+)ApplybyJune1,2023

Summer Roads Crew - Public Works

MOREINFORMATION:

Viewtheapplicationonthemunicipalwebsiteat: www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/planning/

oratMunicipalHallbetween8:30amand4:30pmMondaytoFriday (excludingstatutoryholidays)ContactDrewBakken,Planner1,by emaildbakken@bimbc.caorcall604-947-4255ext233.

TIMELINE:

March23,2023

YOURCOMMENTSAREWELCOME:

WrittensubmissionsmaybedeliveredtoMunicipalHallby4:00pm onMarch27,2023:

• Inperson

• Bymail

• Byfax

• Byemailtomayorandcouncil@bimbcca

VerbalsubmissionsmaybemadetoMayorandCouncilatthe meeting:

6:15PMonMONDAY,March27,2023

inCouncilChambers,MunicipalHall,OR VirtuallyviaZoom

www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/council-meetings

BIMhasopeningsfortwogrant-fundedtemporaryfull-timesummer positionsontheRoadsandParkscrew

Learnvaluableskills,workinasupportiveteam,andcontribute totheoverallhealthofBowenIsland’sparks,beaches,trails,and infrastructureStartdatesareflexiblebasedoncandidateavailability Applicationswillbeaccepteduntilthepositionsarefilled

wwwbowenislandmunicipalityca/work-with-us

Phone: 604-947-4255

Fax: 604-947-0193

Email: bim@bimbc.ca

Website:

BowenIslandMunicipalHall

981ArtisanLane

BowenIsland,BC V0N1G2

Hours:8:30am-4:30pm

MondaytoFriday

Closedstatutoryholidays

Water System

Local Advisory Committee Meetings

BIMwillbeholdingMunicipalWaterSystemLocal AdvisoryCommitteeMeetingstoreviewthe2023 budgetforeachwatersystem Allarewelcometo attend.Therearetwoopportunitiesforpublicinput: rightatthebeginningofthemeetingduringpublic comments,andduringquestionperiodattheendof themeeting AttendviaZoomorwatchthe livestreamonourYouTubechannel

TunstallBayWaterSystemLocalAdvisory Committee:

Tuesday,March28at5:00pm.

BluewaterParkWaterSystemLocalAdvisory Committee:

Tuesday,March28,2023at7:00pm

BowenBayWaterSystemLocalAdvisoryCommittee: Wednesday,March29,2023at7pm

SnugCoveSewerLocalAdvisoryCommittee: Thursday,March30,2023at5:00pm

HoodPointWatersystemLocalAdvisory Committee:

Thursday,March30,2023at7:00pm

CoveBayWaterSystemLocalAdvisoryCommittee: Monday,April3at5:00pm

EagleCliffWaterSystemLocalAdvisoryCommittee: Thursday,April6at5:00pm

KingEdwardBayWaterSystemLocalAdvisory Committee:

Thursday,April6at7:00pm.

Allinformationaboutagendapublication,meeting linksandmorecanbefoundhere:

wwwbowenislandmunicipalityca/watersystem-meetings/

Seeking Public Comment

Five Year Financial Plan & Budget 2023

BIMwouldlikeyourfeedbackonthedraft2023-2027FinancialPlan,whichcontainsourproposed operatingandcapitalbudgetsandtheproposedmunicipaltaxincreasefor2023 Thereareseveralways tofindmoreinformationandprovidefeedback.

OpenHouseBudgetMeetingviaZoom

Thursday,March30,2023at2:00pm

CommitteeoftheWhole–CapitalProgramOverview Monday,March27,2023at3:30pm

Questions/Comments?PleasecontactKristenWatson,ChiefFinancialOfficer,byemailat budget@bimbc.caorcall604-947-4255extension256.

www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/2023-budget/

Capital Project Update

Bluewater Park Water System Replacement

OnJanuary5,2023,BIMgaveNoticeofIntentiontoborrowupto$3,100,000forimprovementsunless 50%ofBWPpropertyownersobjectedbypetitioningagainsttheborrowing.Lessthan20%objected.

AttheFebruary27CouncilMeeting,Council:

DirectedstafftorefertheLoanAuthorizationBylawtotheInspectorforMunicipalitiesforapproval Approvedprojectnextstepsandwellexploration DirectedstafftoevaluateperformanceimprovementsuptoNovember2024,andreportback Directedstafftoprovidequarterlyupdatestothecommunity

NextSteps:IftheInspectorofMunicipalitiesapprovestheLoanAuthorizationBylaw,anditisadopted byCouncil,borrowingmaybeconfirmedasearlyasMay/June2023 BIMwillbeabletoproceedwith detaileddesignandconstructionstartingJune/July2023 Formoredetailsgotoourwebsite

www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/capital-projects/

Capital Project Update Cove Bay Water Treatment Plant

Followingtheinstallationofbreakheadtankandpumps,theadditionalretrofitworkidentifiedbyPurifics (filtrationequipmentvendor)hasbeencompletedandwillneedtobeinspectedandapprovedbythe designengineers Oncetheretrofitworkhasbeenapproved,wecanmoveintothefinalphase: Recommissioning

Recommissioningprovidesanopportunitytocheckandconfirmallequipmentbeforeandduringthe start-upoftheWTPbeforethewaterisdistributed

Theintentofre-commissioningisto

testtheoperation,controlandcapacityofthenewlyinstalledfiltrateboostpumpssystem confirmlevelcontrolofthetank confirmchlorinationofthefilteredwatertothereservoir confirmallcomponentsoffiltration,rinse,flushinganddischargeareoperational confirmperformanceoffiltrationrun-time,waterquality,alarms,back-upsystemsandother operations

wwwbowenislandmunicipalityca/capital-projects/

VIEWPOINTS Thanks folks!

What an amazing submission response this week! While in my experience that isn’t necessarily surprising - especially during an IslandWide week - I’m continually impressed and grateful for all the support everybody shows to help the Undercurrent get out the door with a wide variety of Bowen content each week

I was particularly happy with the expansion of the letters section When word came in we’d be moving up to 28 pages (nearly a record), it offered a chance to play some serious catchup on that front You’ll find 10 letters in the pages ahead, which made a serious dent in our stockpile For any that didn’t quite make it, stay tuned in the week or two ahead for your piece.

We’ve got gardening and gymnastics, fitness and food, and artists and Orders of Canada. We hope you enjoy it all (or in the case of the numbers-heavy budget story, at least find it informative).

Thanks again everyone, see you next week!

- Alex Kurial, Editor

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Bowen donors buy extra time

To the Editor,

118 Bowen households have so far pledged $222,065 towards the construction of Snug Cove House In just four weeks

This impressive demonstration of support has persuaded the project’s major financier to extend the deadline for finding the last of the money needed to build the supportive seniors’ residence Instead of early next month, Snug Cove House Society now has until early summer to find the final funding, a huge reprieve The society is also urgently tracking down more ways to lower construction costs

So thank you Bowen for keeping alive the hopes for an important piece of that magical thing we call a community - 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

#102–495 BowenTrunk Road, PO Box 130, Bowen Island BC,V0N 1G0

Phone: 604 947 2442 Fax: 604 947 0148 bowenislandundercurrent.com

DEADLINE for advertising Monday, 4 p m DEADLINE for editorial Tuesday 5 p.m.

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

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

National NewsMedia Council.

EDITOR Alex Kurial editor@bowenisland undercurrent com

CARTOONIST Ron Woodall ADVERTISING Tracey Wait ads@bowenisland undercurrent com

PUBLISHER Matt Blair publisher@bowenisland undercurrent com

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

Walks with Binkie

Sometimes in life, it’s the dreaded thing that turns out to be a blessing

I wasn’t all that happy when my wife and daughter came home with a puppy about a year ago. We had dogs growing up. Those years informed me that dogs seldom get the long end of the stick, so I decided then to never take a dog home again.

Fast forward, after some fierce resistance, things have changed.

Every morning, Binkie and I go on a hike in the backcountry of Nexwlélexwm/Bowen Island. Up the mountain by our house, we access an area that is stunningly beautiful. The changes day by day, rain, snow, mist, sun, cloudy, are extraordinary. And it is great fun exploring it with a just as curious a hiking partner Like this Monday morning as we stood in awe watching a bald eagle riding an upward current

just above the bluff we were hanging out

These walks have triggered a change in me It took a few weeks, but one day during the hike I noticed, I was right at home again in nature

Just like it happened during my first big trip to Canada Then I always camped, which gave me access to a natural world I had never seen or experienced before It was life changing

For that camping experience to be successful had everything to do with access to things to do. After all, you’re not going to hang out in your tiny tent all day.

You want to hike or bike the trails, go on a guided back country hike or nature tour, e-bike, e-scooter, visit a museum, go to the beach, swim, snorkel, sail. kayak, canoe, learn about the Squamish Nation, learn about UNESCO Átl’ka7tsem Biosphere Region, do the Killarney Lake trail, do the logger’s days and, of course at the end of the day, eat out, visit the pub or one of cideries, do Bowfest, shop locally

Clearly we have things to do on Nexwlélexwm/Bowen Island, and now the question facing our community: Will

What aboutThompson Road?

It was very upsetting to hear the pronouncement that Whitesails Drive will BE the entrance to the park No discussion!

I do not live anywhere near Whitesails nor on any major road on the island, but as a supporter of The Park, I would like to express my disappointment that you have not looked at Thompson Road.

Thompson Road is a very short road off Sunset Road… a relatively new road (compared to most of the island roads) which was purposely built vs blacktopping over dirt paths and is less than a three minute drive once you turn off Adams Road. By way of an extension by either a walk-in trail or road, visitors will proceed past the protected Fairy Fen (stop for photographs) and enter at the (new) official entrance to The Park

There would be NO interference of more than a hundred homes on Whitesails and would save about 10 minutes driving

through the privately owned and inhabited areas of The Cape! (Saving carbon emissions especially though a heavily populated area).

I am sure Metro Vancouver Parks ecological experts can easily come up with a way to circumnavigate Fairy Fen and make it an important part of the Park Experience!

Thank you for your consideration to this concept

While I have your attention… could I suggest that instead of insisting for the 100 campsites A little less intrusive “sell” to the concerned islanders you request for UP TO 100 sites, but with a phase-in model of, perhaps 10 sites of each style of camping so you can understand how the different styles of camping (and glamping) will work best on the island.

- Murray Atherton

camping become part of that mix too?

I cannot deny anyone the role camping has played in my life, but proposing a campground at a site that is possibly the furthest away from the only marine access point, and most things to do, makes transportation one of the two things that are the make or break issues of this project. Others have pointed that out too.

Most people will take the car, so a 90 car parking lot at the site is needed, but also a larger ferry to carry that extra load.

The other big issue is the threat of logging of the island’s public forests lands. BC Timber Sales can come knocking any day now. If we want to offer visitors a nature experience protection of these public forests is key.

In other words, a campground can only work if it fits into a larger plan that respects and comes from our community, and provides opportunities locally.

A campground by itself will become a burden, fitted into a larger plan it could become a blessing

- Anton van Walraven

Sharing our Wealth

Bowen island is a unique resource within the Metro Vancouver (or GVRD) area Those of us lucky enough to live here know what a wonderful and restorative place it is, an escape from the increasing stresses of city life, and a place of outstanding natural beauty.

No one wants this natural wealth compromised in any way

All the residents of Metro and British Columbia contribute directly or indirectly to the costs of Bowen Island; the existing parks, the ferry service, the emergency services, grants towards roads, bike paths, public facilities, etc We also have the luxury of a short ferry ride to a major Canadian city with all the services and amenities available there for us

One can make a case that Bowen should share its unique “wealth” with the region and

a well designed, well managed Metro park at Cape Roger Curtis can be part of that sharing

It is imperative that the Muni, Metro, The Islands Trust, and the residents of Bowen respectfully collaborate to make this new park successful.

Ferry access, road access (for cars and bicyclists) need analysis and investment to minimize the inevitable impacts of increased use Camp sites, as are available on many other B C islands, need to be carefully planned, phased in over time, and monitored. An on-site resident park manager 24/7 should be part of the planning so issues of noise, fire, etc will not arise

It is possible with careful planning that this new Metro Park can be a win-win addition to the Island, our residents, and visitors

- Bob McGilvray

A stretch of sunny days last week offered plenty of chance to get out and explore The Dorman Point hike and its sweeping views makes for an especially nice place to watch the sun set / Alex Kurial photo

Susan grew up happily in Winnipeg in a large active family From a young age on Susan loved to frequent the local library where she became a lifelong reader - one who over time would create her own large eclectic book collection Susan also enjoyed live theatre and was an active member of the Kelvin High School drama club

Susan began her university education at the University of Manitoba where she made lifelong friends including her Winnipeg sorority sisters She later transferred to the University of British Columbia where she graduated with a degree in Commerce - one of only two women in her class Shortly thereafter, Susan met and fell in love with Michael Sheehan, a photographer and commercial art teacher, while they were both undergoing cancer treatment They were married in 1970 and enjoyed a brief and beautiful marriage They delighted in travelling throughout British Columbia and especially enjoyed their time on Bowen Island In 1971, Susan lost Michael to cancer She forever treasured their relationship and kept his beautiful photographs nearby Susan had an extraordinary career She started with the Vancouver Credit Union before joining the British Columbia Public Service as an economic development officer Her time travelling the province to visit proposed projects bestowed upon her an encyclopedic knowledge of BC towns and highways While on secondment with the Federal government in the 1980 s, Susan s policy and financial analysis expertise enabled her to contribute significantly to women s economic equality in Canada While at Status of Women Canada, she provided the data, analyses, and arguments for pension reform, pension splitting on marriage breakdown and the expansion of survivor benefits

Susan briefly returned to BC and enjoyed her role helping with the successful Expo 86 World Fair During this time she designed and transformed her property on Bowen Island into a lovely comfortable oasis which was enjoyed by many friends and family over the years However the Government of Canada beckoned once more – this time with a permanent position in procurement policy at Supply and Services From her position at Supply and Services she progressed to Foreign Affairs and International Trade as senior negotiator and team leader on government procurement issues within WTO and for the GATT multilateral trading talks She was according to colleagues exemplary in this role and famously discreet

Upon retiring, Susan returned to Bowen Island where she frequently hosted friends and family, including holiday get togethers An avid traveler, she continued to love time spent in Europe and anywhere warm with a beach For many years, she was a valued volunteer with the Alzheimer’s Society and the Bowen Island Library Susan was a loving and tireless caregiver to her sister, Ardith and a special great aunt to Audrey and Jack Susan cared deeply for her and is described as their rock, always there for them

In 1989, Susan was reunited with her birth daughter, Sheri, and became a loving member of Sheri s immediate and large extended family Susan treasured her time with her grandson Cory - Grandma Sue, having had the opportunity to be there from the time of his birth, sharing her love of museums, art, music and books She even taught him to like vegetables Sheri will always be so thankful for Susan s support as she and Bill raised Cory, and as her confidant and friend for life

After a lengthy struggle with Alzheimer’s disease Susan died on March 17 2023 in Stoney Creek Ontario at the age of 75 She will be dearly missed by her daughter Sheri Harris (Rick Lezon) grandson and granddaughter-in-law Cory and Alannah Annable (great granddaughter Adalyn) siblings Stacy Johnson (Dennis) Dermot Shane (Eva) and Aynslie Price (Scott) as well as her much-loved nieces and nephews; Stephanie Johnson Madeline Shane (partner Mat Audrey Jack) Haley Price and Jack Price Susan was predeceased by her husband Michael Sheehan parents Audrey and Walter Shane nephew Cameron Johnson great-grandson Owen Annable sister Ardith Shane and sister-in-law Nancy Falck She will be greatly missed by dear friends made during her time in Ottawa amongst them Monique Charlebois The family will always be grateful to Monique for her love and support and her countless visits with Susan particularly in the last years of Susan’s illness She will be fondly remembered by her former son-in-law Bill Annable and Sheri’s parents and siblings

Her family wishes to thank the teams at Chartwell Waterford, Amica Stoney Creek and Best Care for helping Susan to live her very best life in her last years ’ while Alzheimer’s continued to take away her extraordinary capabilities Susan was gracious, charming, and sweet to the end of her days Cremation has taken place Friends will be received at the DONALD V BROWN FUNERAL HOME, 36 Lake Avenue Dr , Stoney Creek on Saturday, March 25, 2023 from 2pm until the time of Funeral Service at 4pm in the Funeral Home Chapel In her memory, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Alzheimer Society would be greatly appreciated Notes of sympathy and condolence may be left at www donaldvbrown ca

VIEWPOINTS

Shepherding in Positive Change

Dear friends/neighbours/Islanders,

From my personal experience, wonderful, delightful, magical things can come quite unexpectedly from adversity Change is scary and I am no fan of it That said, change is the only way that we grow and evolve, inspire and aspire

Right now, I think for us islanders it feels scary: there’s an angry debate pitting neighbour against neighbour about a proposed Metro Vancouver park at our beloved Cape Roger Curtis And to many it feels daunting and threatening to contemplate the concept of new and unknown parkland on our beautiful little island

But in reality, the choice is simple:

1 ) Some kind of park yet to be imagined

OR

2 ) “No trespassing” signs on private property

That’s it

Please search your heart and ask yourself which of these two choices is truly the best one? Not just for me and you personally, but for everyone?

Right now is the chance to make our voices heard A NO for the park means a YES to privately owned 10-acre estate lots and drastically limited public access Forever The Cape will no longer belong to us (It actually never has, but the private land owners have been pretty darn gracious for a pretty long time )

We all have concerns about implications and impacts from a park That is completely understandable and reasonable We can hash these things out Metro Vancouver has pledged $40 million to protect and preserve this land for the public in perpetuity, and at least $15 million more to build the infrastructure to support park operations This

A Grander Vision

After attending the Metro Vancouver Regional Parks Open House and speaking to a number of its representatives, it is apparent that the proposed Cape Roger Curtis park is barely more than a concept. Many of the practical challenges and issues critical to the success of the proposed plan (ferry, on-island traffic, camping, etc.) are in the very initial planning stages.

Of particular concern is that MVRP seems to be approaching this project in similar ways as they have done with other regional parks. This ‘cookie cutter’ approach is problematic.

First, this would be the sole MVRP park with water access only; there are numerous unique logistical issues which MVRP has never faced still to be addressed. Second, Bowen being an island has a very distinctive and in some areas fragile ecosystem that could easily be damaged by over use and visitation.

However, within these potential problems there are some very interesting opportunities as well. Bowen sits in the Howe Sound UNESCO Biosphere Region; a stunning

chance will not come again

What I love about our community is how we look after each other, safeguard our quiet spaces, and share a passion for the natural beauty of our island We have so much more in common than not I’ve lived here for about 20 years and raised my kids on Bowen I’m a single mom who just built a small house here and my plan is to stay forever til they wheel me away in a pine box (or something more compostable, I hope)

I have always commuted to the city and still do I hate the ferry overloads and love this island as fiercely as any of us I also managed our community farmers’ market with other volunteers for about 10 years and always found Metro Vancouver to be a sensible and open-minded partner to collaborate with I support affordability, eco-diversity, sustainability, tolerance and transparency, equity and inclusion, empowering youth, and protecting our natural resources and wild spaces

If you want to say NO to privately held land and YES to beginning a conversation about a park that we design together, please write your letter now to the Bowen Island Municipality (mayorandcouncil@bimbc ca) and Metro Vancouver (bowenislandparkplanning@metrovancouver org)

Our island will change, just like everything else in this world changes Let’s shepherd that change in a hopeful, positive, earth-friendly direction that serves the greater good and sets an example of how other small communities might do the same Thank you so much for listening to my point of view

With respect and affection,

- Michelle (Elle) Pentz

achievement in its own right The already cleared and serviced lots which one might assume is a significant reason MVRP found these lands so desirable as camping areas could alternatively serve as real time explorations in revitalising and restoring lands that had formerly been earmarked for development

MVRP and Bowen Island could possibly partner with Squamish Nation, research universities, conservation groups, and even local school districts to convert the CRC lands into a part of the larger Howe Sound UNESCO Region If done correctly, we could collectively create a potentially world class educational and research demonstration site focused on best practices for land reclamation

Let’s challenge MVRP to think big, bold, and differently They are spending many millions more on this land acquisition than they have in the past

This is their and our rare opportunity to do something innovative, leaving a legacy far more valuable than a mere ‘park’ and much more far reaching

- Edward Wachtman Sheree Johnson

Park Finances

The following is a summary of a letter sent to Council. It is not intended as a judgement for or against the park, but as information I hope will help inform the discussion.

After watching the Committee of the Whole Meeting on February 27, I was curious about the revenue implications over time of removing the 24 lots at The Cape from the tax role After significant research and calculations, I discovered that over the next 10 years property tax on the vacant lots remaining would contribute $1 8 million to the municipality, and if developed over the same period, could contribute as much as $2 8 million

Following are the assumptions used:

• Assumptions for BC Assessment

Increase in BC Assessment at two per cent annually.

• For the eight waterfront lots

Double the value of a lot when developed and develop one lot per year from 2026 to 2033. Development of the first waterfront lot would have a total assessed value of $7.220 million (land at $3.610 million and buildings at $3.610 million).

• For the inland lots

Increase the value of a lot when developed by a factor of 2.25, develop the first inland property in 2025, and develop two lots per year from 2026 to 2033. Development of the first inland lot would have a total assessed value of $2.760 million (land at $1.227 million and buildings at $1.533 million). Given the cost of building on Bowen and the likely aspirations of prospective buyers, these are conservative assumptions, although uptake on development could be slower.

• Assumptions for Property Tax

For the first five years apply the tax increase shown in the BIM five-year Financial Plan Draft with the 2022 mill rate as a base Beyond the five years apply an

Please Pick Up after Yourselves

increase of 4.0 per cent per year Parcel taxes are not included.

Using these assumptions, with the 24 lots remaining vacant through 2033, the annual municipal tax revenue increases 87 per cent overtheperiodwhilethetotalrevenuegained over the 10 years is $1.8 million. With development over the same period, the annual revenue could increase by 292 per cent by 2033 and the total revenue gained over the 10 years could be $2.8 million. (Spreadsheet at homesonbowen.com/CRCpark)

Bowen Island has struggled with the cost of roads, water, and sewer for the last 20 years With much of our aging infrastructure proving inadequate for our current needs, we are facing approximately $35 million in new capital projects recently completed or under construction, and the Snug Cove Sewer Treatment Plant, Municipal Works Yard, and Local Water Systems projects still to come

A park at The Cape will represent significant infrastructure maintenance and replacement costs for the municipality If the community decides the benefits of a park outweigh the downsides, in its negotiations with Metro the municipality should require compensation for the loss of significant tax revenue and ongoing contributions to mitigate what will be significant infrastructure costs

The idea of the park is enticing but we must accept there will unintended consequences If Metro is eager to preserve ecosystems on Bowen Island and provide opportunities for residents of the region to connect with nature, perhaps it should buy or partner with the Province to protect some or all of the forty per cent of Bowen that is Crown land thereby providing access to a truly significant park in the UNESCO Biosphere in a manner that will not forever change our fragile community in ways we cannot yet predict.

Sincerely,

- Tim Rhodes

Saturday was such a gorgeous spring day! I was walking down Bowen Bay trail and decided to move off the path to walk the road where the sunshine seemed to be the most prevalent.

As I walked, I saw one, two, three beer cans tossed on the right hand side of the road. They were in the ditch and I couldn’t just walk by, so I picked them up and thought I’d just carry them back home with me Less than 25 metres further - more cans and I found the same a little further down.

I had to leave about 10 small piles all the way down the road to Holdings Road and hope that someone would stop and collect the piles I had made If you had to sleuth your way to uncover the crime, I can only provide the following cheap beer cans thrown all the way down and on both side of Bowen Bay Road.

Some were recent - others had been there a long time - disgusting! Who would do something like this? It wasn’t like someone

NIMBY Nonsense

Those who use the notion of NIMBYism as an argument against those of us who have valid concerns about the potential problems surrounding the proposed campground/park at Cape Roger Curtis are using an irrational, ad hominem attack meant to denigrate those concerns It is not helpful, meaningful, or constructive

Instead, it’s rather divisive In my corporate career we regularly made decisions reaching into the tens of millions of dollars We used a robust process for making those decisions (Kepner Tregoe Decision Analysis) which all decision makers were thoroughly trained in. After a “best fit” alternative was chosen, the next step was to do a “potential problem analysis”

In this step we identified all adverse consequences of the chosen alternative We then determined the severity AND proba-

lost them out of the back of their vehicle on the way to the BIRD.

I only scratched the surface - collecting the cans I could reach and there was too much garbage that I just couldn’t collect without gloves and a garbage bag. If I was the Easter Bunny, I left several nests to be collected, but 24 hours later - they were still there I returned with my vehicle and a few boxes and collected the mess

I have two requests please do not throw garbage out your window on our lovely island. It’s so very wrong on so many levels And if you happen to be on Bowen Bay Road or are in a position to organize a clean-up - you’d be most appreciated and gain big points with Mother Nature!

Here’s to a beautiful spring Let’s continue to do our part to preserve the beauty of Bowen Island.

- Colette Cada

bility of occurrence for each adverse consequence Finally, if there was any ONE consequence that was considered to be a high probability and high severity problem with no solution, THE ALTERNATIVE WAS THROWN OUT

The “anti-NIMBY” proponents seem to want to avoid this step. However, there ARE severe, high probability consequences with this proposal.

The ferry issue alone would qualify. Does anyone really believe that BC Ferries is going to make massive investments in upgrading the ferry capacity to Bowen Island with its 4,000 residents? The best Metro Vancouver is able to come up with is that they “will engage with BC Ferries” . Unless they can come up with a specific solution and a HARD COMMITMENT to implement a specific, detailed solution in a realistic timeframe, this proposal should be DOA

- Dennis Vetter

VIEWPOINTS

Known and Unknown

We all know, including Metro Vancouver, that the launch of the Cape Roger Curtis Park project was not the ideal way to allow us to understand at the start that this was something to work with them on, not something being imposed on us. Unfortunately, the opportunity to purchase the land for a park came sooner than the process could be launched. Ever since they have been reaching out to collaborate

I think of it as the “known” and the “unknown” Human nature is to fear the unknown To me, all those unknowns present a huge range of opportunities for solutions and improvements to issues that already exist and allows us, and council and the municipality, to envision, create and solve alongside an unparalleled experienced and motivated partner in MV Parks But “NO!” is much easier than “yes” “Yes” takes the belief in our own power and strengths to creatively solve these issues

The “known” may feel safer, but in this case, the known is the undeniable - the devastation for the ever-dwindling incomparable beauty of this area of special coastal region. And it denies us and future generations access to the transformative experience of being immersed in nature in this beautiful spot

The “known” is sentencing the land to 24 estates,inaccessibility,“NOTRESSPASSING” signs, no collaboration with First Nations, and the allowable potential of 48,438 square feet of buildable area on each lot, including up to 20 additional structures - up to three stories high - as is determined by the current zoning is the known.

The “known” is the countless trucks required to haul off the downed timber, and thousands of trucks of building supplies and trades people to build those structures – for many many years to come, as well as the destructive impact on the land and water supplies for that scale of building and landscaping

I assume most of us are here because of the natural beauty and the relatively rural atmosphere, with the added bonus of access to a major city, (and also why it is so desirable as a destination for a Provincial Park).

Many may own their little plot of land, but we are all still visitors Every one of us arrived a stranger at some point and is now a treasured neighbour, friend, and member of the community.

I venture that families and those who choose to sleep in sleeping bags on the ground to have a more immersive nature adventure at a pre-reserved monitored campsite are good souls and create a far less invasive element than is feared. The fact that they don’t own a waterfront/forest-front home should not bar them and their children from the experience of visiting and sleeping in such a beautiful spot

But more importantly, as a community with a governing framework, we are also stewards of the island. And as such, have an onerous responsibility to make wise decisions focused on its preservation for future generations in perpetuity Decisions that were made decades, and in case, a century ago, often despite great resistance, for every municipal, city, provincial, state, and national park in North America

I have walked in Crippen Park almost every day for the past 30 years I’ve been on this island, and it too was preserved by a dedicated group of people – which included what is now called Metro Vancouver, who understood the value of doing so Watch Ken Burns’ “National Parks” It’s very inspiring Transportation is the number one concern for both islanders and MV, who will be a highly motivated partner to help make it a reality. To date, that service has not been sustainable given its reliance on commuters only. The resulting two-way traffic with the park and commuters is key for both Bowen and MV for that service (and the park) to be viable

To vilify Metro Vancouver as “the man” is misplaced anxiety in a turbulent time And so far our treatment and response to them

has been regrettably disrespectful Front and centre for me will always be preservation - not of my lifestyle here - but rather of the rapidly dwindling precious rainforest and accessible natural spaces Our time here is a blink of an eye We hold responsibility to protect these areas now, or they are lost forever

And in these ever increasingly anxious times, fostering opportunities that create positive experiences for individuals and families that are unparalleled by immersive time in the natural world, is an important link in our health as a society, and in our future We have the opportunity to “be the change we want to see in the world” , which may sound trite but is very real here

- Shari Ulrich

Let’s put the Horse back in front of the Cart

A $40 Million park development on Bowen Island certainly requires adequate consultation with the citizens of the impacted municipality. Adequate consultation cannot simply be replaced by marketing predetermined ideas in glossy ads, sleek power point presentations to Council, and deep-pocket style public engagement sessions that are out of sync with research, hard evidence-delivering impact studies, and fixed timelines that are driven by undisclosed purchasing agreements between Metro Vancouver and one private property owner

Instead, Metro Vancouver’s unsolicited park proposal to Bowen Island is pitched in the style of a notorious schoolyard bully who leaves little doubt of the expected outcome of his/her/its proposition.

A park proposal that hinges on changing key policies that are foundational elements of Bowen Island’s municipal identity must expect to be rejected especially when urgent timelines are imposed on a sovereign municipality to amend its Official Community Plan and Land Use Bylaw without any credible

Time

analysis and adequate research to address the multiple and far reaching impacts of the proposed park and the adamant insistence by MV on 100 campsites

A park proposal that was developed in secrecy and pitched without adequate consultation and satisfactory consideration of Bowen Island’s needs and motivated only by MV park’s unilateral vision, underpinned by delusional visions of electric ferries, non-existing parking solutions, etc must be rejected.

The cart-before-horse proposal must be withdrawn, and a hard reset is required.

Let’s start over, let’s put the horse before the cart, the horse being the community of Bowen Island. How about starting a new conversation, without any predetermined ideas and plans with an open question: How can Bowen Island and MV work together to find a solution for enhanced nature experiences for MV citizens on Bowen Island?

Respectfully yours,

Spring!!

- Lesley Gaunt

D'S CORNER!

Children and youth, of B Burrow's new

owen Island, we want you to be part of the nthly kids corner in the Undercurrent!

Send us pictures of your art work, jokes, poems, short stories and comics, for a chance to have your work published in the paper! All entries will also be entered into a draw for a monthly prize!

We are also very excited to share that we are bringing back the Birthday announcements for children under 18! send all submissions to Sara at info@theburrowbowen com

THE THEME FOR THE NEXT ISSUE IS "SPRINGING

Please submit by April 20 info@theburrow com

This new feature page is brought to you by the contributions of many local businesses and organizations featured here, who wish to encourage and inspire the creativity in all Bowen children and youth! Please help support them!

KAWAII FROG COOKIE BY IONE EDWARDS -AGE 11

Budget 2023: Capital projects could still be added; public feedback sessions begin

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

In addition to deferments from last year ’ s budget, one of the reasons for the 13.3 per cent hike in 2023 are substantial costs due on capital projects, with a total $15,867,235 going toward these projects this year The majority of this - $12,663,896 – is for the Community Centre, with other significant, albeit much lower, expenses budgeted for the Multi-Use Path, the future On-Island Composting facility, and roads and infrastructure work

The largest capital expense following this year is expected to be $3 5 million to upgrade the municipal works yard in 2025 That year also includes spending $395,000 for a new fire truck to replace Engine 32 Capital costs will exceed at least $6 million in two years, which accounts for the 2026 property tax raise of 6 8 per cent being higher than surrounding years

There may be additional capital work on the horizon though. Engineering director Patrick Graham has indicated a pair of projects he’d like considered – replacement of the Carter Road bridge at an approximate cost of $850,000, and upgrades to Woods Road costing around $1 million. Graham will present the plans for both to council at their March 27 meeting

Aside from capital projects, the other main reason for this year ’ s property tax rise is an increase in debts which are coming due This includes $4 million for the Community Centre and $3 million for the new Fire Hall. Total debt servicing payments of $662,648 this year account for essentially half of the average $347 property tax payment, at $177.

Watson said the Community Centre is expected to open in October, but is still relying on financial contributions to see it reach the $18.7 million final cost finish line The CFO says the municipality is expect-

HALO

This sweet girl had a gastropexy surgery along with her spay done this week. It’s a procedure done on large breed, deep chested dogs to prevent gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) which is a life threatening disorder. When a gastropexy is performed, the stomach gets attached to the body wall to prevent it from making the twist that results in GDV.

REGULAR HOURS

Mon-Thur 9

Fri 9-1

ing a $732,000 grant from the federal Canada Cultural Spaces Fund, and for a minimum of $936,000 to be gathered through the current fundraising campaign. The facility will require about 2.75 new fulltime equivalent staff to hire a facility manager and custodial crew.

The debt will be a number to keep an eye on going forward as Bowen has reached the 1/3 mark of the provincial liability servicing limit Planned upcoming loans, such as $3 5 million for works yard fixes, $3 1 million for Bluewater Park water upgrades, and $6 million for Phase 2 of the Snug Cove Wastewater Treatment Plant project will potentially raise Bowen’s borrowing to half or close to 2/3 of the allotted amount Watson said the municipality should start budgeting for these future costs now

She also recommended the creation of a new reserve fund for police services While the cost for local RCMP is currently covered by the province, once Bowen hits a permanent population of 5,000 the municipality will have to bear some of the price tag The fund would begin next year with a $50,000 contribution, rising to $150,000 by 2027

The population answer won’t be revealed until the 2026 census numbers are counted A spike similar to what Bowen saw between 2016-21 – where the island grew 15 7 per cent to reach the current total of 4,256 – would bring the number of people very close to 5,000 in three years time Watson said it’s important to be prepared with some reserves for policing in case Bowen ends up exceeding growth expectations again

The draft five-year plan is now in the public engagement stage, with an online open house held on Monday and another scheduled for

Thursday, March 30 at 2 pm. It will be discussed by council again at their March 27 meeting before public feedback is discussed April 11

Three readings are expected when council meets April 24, followed by adoption of the budget May 8 in advance of the May 15 submission deadline

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A glimpse at current capital costs

b u d g e t e d by the municipality over the next five years

N u m b e r s aren’t final yet and subject to revision. / BIM charts

BOWEN ISLAND

Acreage, with 2 houses. Since the owners purchased this property they have put years of love and hard work into it, creating a special oasis for gardening, relaxing, extended family, and kids to run free. The original house has been lifted and completely rebuilt, with 4 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, and just a bit of the history remains with some of the original logs showing Pine floors throughout, and lots of different nooks for reading, homework, or crafts. The main Bedroom is on the top floor with a lovely ensuite, and French doors that open to a private deck, perfect for your morning coffee The second house is new, wheelchair friendly, with 2 Bedrooms, a full bathroom on the main, and a 2 car garage below, with more space and a bonus second bathroom A 24 x 16 workshop for the serious carpenter or artist is located near the Main House Beach access below! This amazing property offers so many possibilities

904-908 CONNOLLY

$2,675,000

This three-acre property exudes character and charm Settled within a quiet neighbourhood, 904-908 Connolly is a perfect opportunity for hobby farmers, horse riders, or those looking for total privacy while still being close to Snug Cove

$998,000

This is a unique opportunity to own a beautiful 4.94-acre property on Douglas Road. The park-like property is a serene and private forested oasis, perfect for those who seek an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life Co-listed with Oakwyn Realty

I felt prioritized the entire way through this process Your dedication to the sale of the house and your patience with us as we navigated the process was phenomenal and much appreciated And your support during the sale and after was above and beyond It was great working with you Tim and I would do it again without question

Christie Stashyn

REM. DL 3042

$2,498,000

47 acres in Bluewater Subdivision/development potential, or could be an exceptional private forest estate. Features view points and trails, and close to Clipper and Crayola Beaches, as well as trails up and around Mount Gardner

ROAD

1570 DOUGLAS ROAD

SNEAK PEEK - COMING

Returning to pre-COVID activity levels

SLIGHTLY FAVOURING BUYERS

TIM RHODES

Contributor

March 8, 2023, marked one year since the Bank of Canada began raising interest rates from 0.25 to 4.50 in January 2023. There was no increase in March, and the impact of the tax increases has served to slow the Bowen market. From September 2022 through February 2023 there were 16 detached home properties sold. Only 2 of the sales were over $1.5 million and the highest sale was $1.675 million. While this is a dramatic change from a year ago when for the same period there were 33 sales with 10 over $2.0 million, it is not a dramatic change from 2019 (pre-COVID) which also registered 16 detached home sales in the same period.

January2019sawtheMLS®HomePriceIndex or benchmark price decline from $985,433 to $921,817 or -6.5 per cent by April 2020. The COVID effect saw Bowen’s benchmark price rise 67.1 per cent, peaking in September 2022 at $1,540,567. Since September we have seen a gradual decline to $1,512,775 or -1.8 per cent at the end of February 2023.

Sales of 3 detached homes in February 2023 represents a 50.0 per cent decrease from the 6 detached sales recorded in February 2022. The benchmark price for detached properties is $1,512,775 which represents an 8.4 per cent increase from February 2022 and a -1.2 per cent decrease compared to January 2023.

The Average List Price of $1,182,000 was -0.3 per cent below the average BC Assessment.

The Average Sale Price for the 4 sales in January and February ranged from 8.7 per cent above to -18.1 per cent below the Assessment and the Average Sale Price of $1,133,725 was -4.3 per cent below average of the four Assessments

The Bowen market has returned to preCOVID activity levels with number of sales in January and February closely resembling 2019. The market is strongest for properties under $1.5 million and half of the 19 detached homes currently sale have been listed or brought back to market since the beginning of 2023. Inventory is high which is typical for this time of year and the average listing has been on the market for 117 days; however, the market appears hungry for new inventory as the sales in January and February averaged 3 days on market with a high of 7 and a low of 1 day.

Prices will continue to be moderated by interest rates as we move into Spring Very modest growth is anticipated over the coming year

Timothy Rhodes, REALTOR® tim@rhodesonbowen com homesonbowen com/stats

February property sales – with bonus Keats Island purchase

ALEX KURIAL

Editor

Home sales are trending back up on the island as February’s trio of transfers was more than the previous two months combined.

All three sales closed north of $1 million, making it the first time since November that Bowen properties went for seven figures That month also had three overall sales

The three houses are all relatively close geographically on the east side of the island, including the property at 1218 Miller Road The four-bedroom, four-bathroom home topped the monthly list by selling for $1 36 million

The 35-year-old home spent just over three months on the market since its November 2022 listing, and ended up netting within $100,000 of the original $1 45 million asking price The house clocks in at 3,179 square feet, and sits on a 0 53 acre lot

A “ warm log cabin feel” was one of the home’s selling points, along with options for converting part of the home into a separate unit if desired Nearly 1,600 square feet of deck space was also likely an enticer for those who like to spend time outside

A short drive north brings us to February’s second-highest home sale at 356 Creek Road. There was no fussing with this one –the three-bed, two-bath house sold for its asking price of $1.095 million after exactly one day on the market

The 1,394 square foot home is a mere five years old, and sits on a skinny 0.5 acres of property. It, quite literally, contains a rather unique element – it’s the only Honomobo

container home on Bowen. The house was constructed out of steel from shipping containers; its sustainability intended to “’steal’ your heart”

A large covered deck in the backyard and full workshop are some of the amenities to enjoy at this property, along with floor-toceiling windows for a good view of everything out front The house is also close to Scarborough Beach

Just about a kilometre north sits 226 Highland Trail, which joined the million-dollar club with a sale of $1.080 million. This 1,685 square foot home, sitting on 0.53 acres, was also a quick seller, spending just a week in the listings after coming down from its original $1.195 million ask

The 1997-built home features both ocean and mountain views from several areas inside and outside the home, boosted by also having ceiling high and cathedral windows throughout the rooms There’s also an existing 522 square foot guest house located above the car port

And finally, one buyer last month decided the hustle and bustle of somewhere like Bowen may be too much, opting instead to purchase a vacant lot on Keats Island. Lot 8 – the 0.21 acre space on Esplanade Road –sold for a final price of $155,000.

The lot had been up for sale since last summer, with the agreed price coming in just $15,000 less than the initial ask after 183 days on the market It will likely be a hot commodity as Bowen’s island neighbour continues to develop and untouched lots on Keats become rarer A cabin is one possibility for the space, with drinking water and power hook-ups available

Note* Dates are based off the day of reported sale.

1218 Miller Road (above) was February’s top selling home at $1.36 million, while the unique Honomobo shipping container home at 356 Creek Road (below) was next highest after a $1.095 million sale. / Zealty.ca photos

Catch the Latest Buzz at Catching Stars Gallery!

EMILIE KAPLUN & KATHLEEN AINSCOUGH Co-Owners / Catching Stars Gallery

At Catching Stars Gallery, it’s been buzzing, like bees to blossoms, with creative energy and new arrivals, just in time for our busy Spring season Already, the visitors have come out in great numbers and are enjoying the experience of being amongst the creations of over 50 artists now in the Gallery.

Several artists have joined us recently and we are pleased to introduce them and their collections Recently welcomed into the Catching Stars artist family are these artists:

That Lady Heather – Resin art; cutting boards, pendants, candle holders, flower preservation

Studio on Tenth – French linens, greeting cards, and market bags

Elaine Brewer-White – Ceramic platters, jugs, mugs and whimsical sculptures

Mary Rose Drescher – Stunning abstract landscape oil paintings

Stop in and see their work in person and learn more about their stories, processes and inspirations while you visit. Each of our artists has a fascinating story behind their creative processes.

Who can resist the sweet delights of Easter! We are celebrating with a Spring themed collection of bunnies, blossoms, birds and bees... and baby animals! French linens, cards and bags by Studio on Tenth, whimsical ceramic platters, mugs and sculptures by Elaine Brewer-White,

bunny cards by Katie

by

Small Grants. Beautiful Ideas.

Our little island has become a very popular place to celebrate special occasions, and weddings and grads are big ones! From very special rings and jewellery, handcrafted and custom made tiaras, hats and fascinators, to art and collectibles for a new home, there is something for every occasion. And for those who prefer to choose for themselves, a gift certificate is a perfect option. Watch for our listing in the new Bowen Island Events Guide

This year, we have added an exciting new Feature Artist opportunity. Artists may apply to showcase their work for one month at the Gallery on our Feature Wall. Feature artists receive a larger percentage of their art sales and will receive extra marketing and promotions of their work It is a great opportunity to showcase and sell more of their art, have an event related to the show, and introduce new collections to our clientele.

Artists can apply for a Featured Artist session by contacting us through the website submissions page or email info@catchingstarsgallery.com. Dates will be determined at the time of the application.

The gallery will soon celebrate its fifth anniversary and another successful year of operation so watch for the announcement of the CSG Fifth Anniversary Party! As owners and directors, Emilie Kaplun and Kathleen Ainscough and Catching Stars Gallery’s collective of amazing artists are grateful for the support we have had from our valued patrons throughout these unpredictable years, and we are hopeful that we will continue to thrive as we embark on the sixth year of this Gallery.

Interested in finding out more? We would love to hear from you Check out the website submissions page at www.catchingstarsgallery.com or email us with your questions and to set up an appointment to meet with us at info@catchingstarsgallery.com

Mainwaring, bunny prints and notebooks

Jean Bradbury, and baskets of goodies by SeaLuxe, Yookyoung Yong Ceramics, Tealish Teas, pastel prints, including the legendary Jackalope, by Elle Wild.

Easter display featuring works by Jean Bradbury, Elle Wild, Elaine Brewer-White, Sealuxe, Tealish and Yookyong Yong / Kathleen Ainscough photo

A reference wall for the new Feature Artist Display opportunity / Kathleen Ainscough photo

Welcoming back the Dog Days of Summer

KIM SINCLAIR Coast Animal Wellness & Education Society

Dog Days is coming back to Bowen.

Mark your calendars for August 20, 2023 - Dog Days - Resurgence, is in the planning stages The family favourite event will be organized by Coast Animal Wellness and Education Society (CAWES) in collaboration with the wonderful USSC Marina and Doc Morgan’s folks

The event promises to include all the old favourite games and contests and much more It’s so exciting we had to let you know right now so you have as much time as possible to work on your best tricks, costumes (weather permitting) etc

We have a very famous and super fabulous MC this year too! Ms Connie Smudge is onboard to announce all the events and tell a joke or two Her most fabulousness is donating her time to make the day “sparkle”

And YES - There will be a Dog Of The Year and maybe even a whole entourage - who knows? The possibilities are endless And of course those dogs will be in the Bowfest Parade in all their glory!

Local vendors and artists are invited to take part by renting a table for the “DD Marketplace” and any animal related non profits are also invited (space permitting). If there is any person or organization you would like to see there please let us know and CAWES will make it their mission to bring them to our beautiful island.

CAWES is also hoping to find wonderful volunteers to assist with the event on the day and be part of the organizing committee If you have the time, would like to have some fun, and love our Bowen critters, please contact Kim Sinclair at 604-947-2555, or email at info@ cawes.org We would love to hear from you.

The dog parade got kicked off 2015’s event / Martha Perkins photo

Thomas Britton and his dog Charlie might have both been on the injured list, but they rallied to win the 2015 costumed dog prize / Martha Perkins photo

photo

Athletes & Artists

BICS students spent last Fall and Winter creating a 300-tile whale mural in the school gym Seen here during December’s Winter concerts, school coordinator Sarah Haxby and local artist Susan Hillmann guided kids through the project The mural was stored for the remainder of Winter, but can now be seen as part of the Hearth Gallery’s Bowen H₂O exhibit, featuring art inspired by local ecology

BowenGymnasticsathletesarebusypreparingfortheWorldGymnaestradaevent in the Netherlands later this summer and they’re getting creative with some of their equipment use. During training last week at Bowen Island Community School, a paddleboard was brought in to simulate the conditions the gymnasts will encounter on their trip. The team had some extra help over Spring Break as gymnastics coach Erin Hipkiss (right) was visiting from Quesnel to help the team train. Bowen’s contingent will travel as part of the Sea to Sky Performance Team, with gymnasts aged 12-25 joining them from Squamish, Whistler, Pemberton, and Vancouver The team was chosen via qualifications at Canadian Nationals Their performance at the Gymnaestrada will celebrate and tell the story of the Sea to Sky region from the waters of Howe Sound/Átl’ka7tsem to the eagles of Squamish/Skwxwú7mesh and the mountains of Whistler/Pemberton Lil’wat. The club will be fundraising for their trip in the months ahead, including a Yellowstone concert at the Legion next month. Check the calendar for more info.

Finding Trust in a Changing World

ekstasis editions announces new poetry

The Flaw

by Jude Neale

This new poetry by Jude Neale deserves to be savoured, in its way a culinary adventure, with its own course like a flight of insight, beauty, and sensory engagement Bill Arnott, author of Gone Viking: A Travel Saga and Gone Viking II: Beyond Boundaries

Jude Neale has brushed up against a measure of greatness within herself

In her latest book, The Flaw Her words make you pause, for there is always a glimmer of hope then there isn’t ’ Their weight can last a lifetime Ruth Hill has published over 400 poems

Lesley Pitts, CS

Pitts

Who or what can we confidently depend on? God, that’s who “God’s love, goodness, and intelligence never change and are always available,”says Lesley Pitts, an international speaker and practitioner of Christian Science healing. “When we discover God’s love and care for us, we can confidently turn to this divine presence and find our lives transformed and healed”.

Join us for a lecture by Lesley titled Finding Trust in a Changing World on April 1, 2023 at 11am at the Christian Science church in West Vancouver (714

20th Street, West Vancouver). Join us in-person or online at christianscience.bc.ca. Free parking and childcare provided Spend the hour exploring accessible healing ideas found in the Bible, including Christ Jesus’life and teachings, and in Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, written by the founder of Christian Science, Mary Baker Eddy Lesley will explain how we, too, can see healing in our own lives and the lives of those around us.

Originally from the UK, Lesley Pitts travels from her home near Boston, Massachusetts, speaking to audiences worldwide as a member of the Christian Science Board of Lectureship.

Through her poetry, Jude accomplishes what few of us can – she beams that healing light into those places of pain and sorrow – and celebrates them

Edythe Hanen

As in the Japanese art of Kintsugi, where vessels are made whole, where jagged shards are healed with gold, Jude Neale deftly calls in magic to heal our collective heart, in her book, The Flaw

Sylvia

Taylor, author, poet and editor/writing coach

There is an honest sincerity and care in these poems and the kind of deep empathy too often negated in our dystopian age As Jude Neale writes, “ will you raise the white flag or dance with the angels ”

Timothy Shay author of This Cabin is the SS Titanic

Jude Neale’s poems are a leaping-off place where the soul begins to search for home The Flaw is both the wound and the healing

Angela Rebrec

The Flaw is a masterful poetic precis of what it is to be human.

Dennis

E Bolen, author of Black Liquor

Available for purchase online via paypal at www ekstasiseditions com

Contact Ekstasis for details or to arrange appearances, events or media opportunities

For further information: Richard Olafson or Carol Sokoloff

phone & fax: (250) 385-3378

web: www ekstasiseditions com e-mail: ekstasis@islandnet com

Available Now

isbn978-1-77171-478-5

Poetry 120 pages

x 9 $23 95

Bowen doctor receives the Order of Canada

ALEX KURIAL

Editor

One of the newest recipients of the Order of Canada – one of the highest honours in the nation – is Dr Lynn Beattie from Bowen Island. And while it took a little while for her to be recognized in person, the pioneer in geriatric medicine says it was well worth the wait.

“I made up my mind at the very beginning of it all that I was appreciative of receiving the notice of the honour, but that I was going to wait until I could actually go to Rideau Hall to go to the investiture,” says Beattie The reason this was ever a question was because she found out she’d be receiving the honour in March 2020, days before pandemic lockdowns brought in-person events – including the medal ceremony with the Governor General in Ottawa – to an indefinite halt

But last winter the opportunity came back around, and, along with her daughter, son, and grandson, Beattie made the trip to the nation’s capital to receive her recognition

“It was very special to go to Rideau Hall It’s a happy occasion, everybody is very welcoming They have nice staff there that look after everybody. Many of the staff, in the process of getting people there, get to know individuals, and then they actually meet them in person, ” says Beattie

As for her special guests, who journeyed from Washington, Virginia, and Texas, “I definitely wanted them to be there It was important for them and it was important for me And it was important that we didn’t have a Zoom investiture We all wanted to be in Ottawa for it, so we waited.”

The current Governor General is Mary Simon, however Simon was ill during the November 17 investiture. So, former Governor General Michaëlle Jean stepped in to perform the ceremony. Beattie says meeting Jean was a wonderful experience, along with the staff involved and other recipients

In a serendipitous moment, one of the fellow recipients that day was Dr Roger Wong from the UBC Faculty of Medicine – a doctor who Beattie trained during her

accomplished medical career

That career began back in 1971 when Beattie began her work in geriatrics at the University of British Columbia Following a speciality in internal medicine, one of her advisors in Toronto suggested pursuing the field of geriatrics full-time Before long, Beattie had returned to UBC to develop and head the university’s new geriatric medicine program

“There was a saying in those early days: ‘Remember one equals zero ’ If you’re the only person, it’s practically like there’s not anybody there,” says Beattie of the program ’ s origins. But it wasn’t long before things started to take off.

“We recruited one or two people to our training program and then we started training more people. Right now it’s quite rich relatively, but we still need more because the population continues to age, ” she says

The field of geriatrics evolved rapidly, thanks in large part to Beattie’s efforts, and soon became a speciality discipline with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada Beattie also served as medical director of UBC’s Clinic for Alzheimer Disease and Related Disorders – a disease which intertwines heavily with geriatrics due to the results of aging – for 30 years before retiring in 2013.

Beattie’s retirement was really in-name only though She remained as a Professor Emeritus at UBC, and continues to edit journal articles and craft textbooks through the university. Here on Bowen the doctor has been extremely active in the Garden Club, including a stint as the group ’ s president (under her alter ego of Lynn McArthur).

Earlier this month a tea party was held at Collins Hall to commemorate Beattie’s achievements She proudly bore the medal she waited two long years to finally receive

“It’s a very special honour There are other people that have been so honoured and it’s been very wonderful to meet more people that have had the honour,” says Beattie.

And, is Beattie glad she waited? “There’s no question about that – we couldn’t have missed it. For my 12-year-old grandson it was an amazing experience,” says the Order of Canada recipient

Lorraine Ashdown congratulated Dr Lynn Beattie on her appointment to the Order of Canada during a celebration at Collins Hall on March 8. / Murray Atherton photos

Get out your Gardening Gloves

KEITH FULLER

Bowen Island Garden Club

You might have noticed perky yellow daffodils popping up along Bowen boulevards and public spaces They’re a legacy of generations of Bowen Island Garden Club members

The tradition began in 2004 when Sheila Webster painted her vision of an Island where daffodils bloom along the roadways and in barrels beside post boxes for everyone to appreciate these wonderful harbingers of Spring Over the years, pick wielding volunteers have battled compacted gravel and searched out bedrock niches to tuck in a few bulbs

Most recently the club supplied spring bulbs to students at BICS and Island Pacific School to plant up the new Firehall landscape beds

The Bowen Island Garden Club grew from “The Joy of Gardening,” a regular 1980s column in the Undercurrent Its mission is to promote the love of gardening, encourage sound and resilient horticultural practices through education, and enhance civic beautification. Programs grow out of the interest of members. Through the winter, guest speakers inspire us with engaging presentations on all aspects of the garden.

With spring comes the ever popular Open Gardens The public is invited to enjoy these informal visits to some very interesting and beautiful Island gardens This year ’ s Sunday Open Garden dates are: Riley’s Cidery Orchard tours, May 7; O’Donnell’ Conifers, May 28; Dual MacDonald & Izdebski Gardens, June 25; MacDonald, July 9; and Rosell & Staples, August 20.

New this year is a special event on July 22. A mid- summer soirée, Art in the Garden will be a festive evening featuring original work by Bowen Island artists, music and wine tasting in a beautiful three-acre garden.

Tickets will go on sale shortly and entitle visitors to a curated tasting of three wines Proceeds from art and wine sales will benefit the Bowen Island Conservancy’s new Wild Coast Nature Refuge at Cape Roger Curtis

The Bowen Island Garden Club is a perfect example of Boweners sharing a common interest in gardening, and getting together throughout the year to learn from guest speakers and take inspiration from some of the beautiful island gardens that are generously opened up for the public to view. We invite you to come out to some of the public events noted above, or even to join us to get access to the activities that require membership to attend.

For more information please feel free to reach out to us at bowenislandgardenclub@gmail.com

Queen of Capilano Ferry Schedule

Nov 19 - March 31 2023

pm

pm - except Saturdays

Note: Schedules subject to change without notice

Please check BCFERRIES.COM

Schedule changes on statutory holidays

Scenes from past Garden Club events, including a 2014 tour of Sheila Webster’s garden (bottom left, John Lawrence photo) and a discussion between Doug Elliott and Phil Gregory about regenerative gardening (below, Garden Club photo) This Sunset Road garden (above, John Lawrence photo) featured during one of the club’s 2018 tours

Connect + Reflect + ACT!

SUSAN SWIFT

Contributor

What do you call a gathering of 100-plus passionate islanders from west coast BC communities? Organizers with the Rural Islands Economic Partnership (RIEP) refer to their April 25-27 Forum event on Gabriola Island, as an “unconference.”

While the three-day event will be filled with ‘the usual’ conference programming, such as keynote panels, showcases, and ‘action lab’ break-out groups, there will be opportunities for networking and recharging as well—during meals, after sessions, and in nature around Gabriola’s seaside retreat centre, The Haven.

“The Forum is about people with shared goals moving ideas to action. It is time to ‘Connect, Reflect, and Act!’ so we can develop solutions in real time,” says Vaune Kolber, Chair

of the Community Economic Development Committee on Bowen Island who will be traveling from Bowen to attend the 2023 Forum

As the title of the ‘Connect, Reflect, and Act!’ Forum suggests, RIEP staff and Board members are planning a participatory, outcome-oriented program that will showcase best practices and support actual problem-solving Among the timely topics to be addressed are: The Economics of Climate Change; Regenerative Tourism – Ensuring Travel Is A Force For Good; Housing Lessons Learned –Policy Changes Now; Working with Indigenous Businesses Through The Lens of Reconciliation; and Food Hubs and Agri-Food Businesses

Vancity has signed on as the Presenting Sponsor of April’s “unconference,” which builds upon RIEP’S virtual forum held in November 2022. At that event, RIEP adopted a four-point “Values Framework” focused on Creating Resilient Economies; Ensuring Basic Needs & Services; Fostering Connections to Build Community; and Taking Collaborative Action.

The Forum program will include a deeper dive into

Recipe of the Month - with Nancy Lee

This is one of my favorite recipes and it is always a crowd pleaser A few years ago I served this cake for dessert and the couple who were planning their wedding asked me if I would make their wedding cake I said you will have to ask me when I have not been drinking

Well I had never made a wedding cake before but I agreed to do it I borrowed some cake pans and made a three-tiered carrot cake with cream cheese icing and two chocolate groom ’ s cakes shaped like logs The mother of the bride commented that it was the only wedding that she had been to that everyone ate the cake By the end of the night there was no cake left Cake

2 1/2 cups all purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon cinnamon

2 cups sugar

1 cup oil

2 teaspoons vanilla

2 eggs

2 cups shredded carrot

1 (398 ml) can crushed pineapple, well drained

1/2 cup raisins

1/2 cup chopped nuts

Preheat oven to 350 F Grease and flour a 13”x9” pan or line with parchment paper In medium bowl combine flour, baking soda, salt and cinnamon; set aside In large bowl combine sugar, oil, vanilla and eggs; beat well Stir in flour mixture, mix well Stir in carrots, pineapple,

‘Doughnut Economics’ and how this globally-recognized conceptual tool can be used to support BC’s rural island communities

“Merging our recently developed rural islands Values Framework with the perspective of Doughnut Economics opens all kinds of possibilities for planning,” says RIEP Board Chair Francine Carlin, adding that “the Framework offers a vision of a unified approach to achieving our goals, and the Doughnut provides the context and language of ecological and social justice, so it’s a very common-sense approach for us to take”

“Leave your car at home” is one of the key messages that event organizers are sharing with those who register In the spirit of helping to reduce the event’s carbon footprint, Tour Salt Spring, a Forum sponsor, will provide participants with a Gabriola van shuttle service that runs on vegetable oil

RIEP is offering an ‘Early Bird’ discount for those who register before April 7. There are also a limited number of sponsorship opportunities

For more information, please visit: RIEPForum ca

raisins and nuts Pour batter into prepared pan Bake at 350 F for 50 60 minutes or until cake springs back when you touch the center Cool completely

Creamy Frosting

4 oz cream cheese

2 tablespoons butter, softened

1 cup icing sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla

In small bowl, combine cream cheese and butter, beat until smooth Gradually beat in icing sugar and vanilla Spread over cooled cake

Tending to the community we love – what’s next?

SHEREE JOHNSON Contributor

It’s time for another conversation!

In 2017, your Bowen Island Community Foundation (BICF) hosted the second “Vital Conversations ” Sixty enthusiastic Islanders gathered to provide ideas and insights to create a clearer picture of our local needs, identify priorities for individual and organizational action, and guide the Foundation’s work for community granting

That Vital Conversations identified eight priority areas articulated by Bowen Islanders: develop housing for all, bring healthcare close to home, support our youth, celebrate diversity and inclusion, expand our transportation options, create gathering places for all, and take responsibility for the stewardship of our environment The report from the event

(available on the Foundation’s website) was widely shared and whole-heartedly received among Island residents, community groups, and the Municipality.

Bowen Islanders quickly stepped up and took action in all of the priority areas, to varying degrees While there is still much to be done, we can be proud of what we have collectively accomplished, including these exciting projects: the Cove Commons Community Plaza; assessment of seniors’ needs; girl power and boy power programming for youth; Bowen bike park; affordable housing feasibility study; disc golf course; truth and reconciliation workshop; community health centre operations and governance study; Mt Gardner trail navigation project; a children’s garden; horse riding ring upgrade; and a westside natural playscape destination

These are a just a few of the initiatives the BICF has supported through grants

totaling $689,050 which addressed the Vital Conversations priorities over the last five years.

Things have changed since 2017 and it’s now time to come together for another Vital Conversations; time to revisit our Island needs and again identify and discuss what matters most to us Insights provided by participants will again help shape our civic engagement and BICF’s future granting decisions, ensuring that these are based on the priorities identified by the community

“Our community is powered by the people who live here This is a chance to hear from a diverse range of Island residents about what matters to them With this input, we can help facilitate actions that contribute to the quality of life of our Island home,” says Vital Conversations Committee Chair and BICF Director Richard Smith

Over the next few months, BICF will be conducting an on-line survey as well as a day long workshop to discuss the

types of projects and charitable initiatives that will help keep the community strong and make our Island community an even better place to live. Details will be provided here in the Undercurrent, on our website (https://bowenfoundation com), through social media, and through Island-wide mailings

Keep your eyes and ears open for more news soon!

“What makes our community a great place to live? How can we make Bowen even better? These are some of the questions we hope to explore through the Vital Conversations process, and from there, to identify priorities for action and ways to work together to achieve common goals This is a chance to share ideas on how to enrich our community We want to hear about the issues that matter to Bowen Islanders”, added Holly Graff, BICF Chair

Please participate in the upcoming Vital Conversations!

Sometimes less More Often equals More

A gym member arrived at the Studio the other day frazzled and struggling to find time to fit in her routine Between juggling work, kids, and just getting things done, her fitness time was getting the squeeze

We chatted a moment about options and possibilities and by the end of the conversation she was inspired and ready to change things up A quick re-think of her workout landscape was all she needed to ensure she didn’t always end up last thing on the list

The biggest challenge I think is that we get stuck (yours truly included) on the onehour-or-nothing principle for our workouts. It seems to be the go-to, the best seller for fitness scheduling. Which is all fine and well when you have lots of time, your motivation is high (think January resolutions) and barriers are low.

WorkBC will help you find training, resources and financial support to advance your career.

Learn more at WorkBC.ca/FindYourPath

Plus, get one-on-one job support at your local WorkBC Centre.

But as soon as regular life creeps in and other priorities rear their heads, fitness is tossed on the back burner Or worse, right off the range Busy schedules can easily swallow up that one hour window you thought you had. The meetings go longer The traffic is brutal. The ferry runs late Now you only have 30 minutes Or less So why bother – right?

I’m here to tell you that it is absolutely worth the bother A quick, focused 30-minute workout is just what your body, mind and spirit have ordered. Try fitting this in three times a week to build the habit

Once this flow is feeling like a groove, see if you can build in two more 30-minute stints during the week That’s a total of 150 minutes of exercise – the minimum required for your beautiful vessel to maintain health

You can also split those 30-minute packages of fitness joy into two 15-minute exercise parties. Save the longer workout stretches for the weekend.

What does a great 30-minute regime look like? For strength training, try one of these three combos on for size:

1) legs (squats, hamstring work, balance), followed by core (plank variations) and stretching

2) upper body (chest press, seated row, triceps), core (bridging variations, superman variations and stretching

3) core only and stretching With each combo, shoot for two or three sets each of four different exercises, finish with five minutes of stretching and voila!

If you were feeling very keen and wanting to jump start this whole fitness adventure with daily 30-minute routines, just make sure you switch up the workouts so your body has an opportunity to recover from the day before For instance, your leg/core day could be Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and upper body body/core routine could be Tuesdays and Thursdays

The trick is to trust that shorter routines done regularly work, and know that less done more often is so much better than more done rarely.

MARY LETSON Contributor

Anna Fenn shows off her side plank / Submitted photo

CALENDAR

Friday, March 24

SKY Walk

10:30 am meet at Quarry Park lot for a walk through Headwaters For further details about the walk email SKYonBowen@outlook.com

Friday, March 24

Dinner at the Legion

Chef Jeff Ostash is making Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Sauce, accompanied by Steamed Potatoes and Savoy Cabbage Doors at 5:30 pm, dinner at 6:30. Members $13, non-members $15.

Saturday, March 25

Community Cleanup at Camp Bowen

Join Alex Jurgensen and other volunteers to help Camp Bowen prepare for summer campers 10 am to 4 pm

Saturday, March 25

Teen Advisory Group meeting

The Teen Advisory Group is for teens who want to make the Library better for themselves and for other teens! Joining TAG gives you a voice in what happens at the Library! 2 to 3:30 pm, drop-ins welcome

Saturday, March 25

‘Sampler’ Evening of Art

Join a trio of Bowen artists as they share their art, music, and literature. Sam Adkins, Sarah Haxby, and Cindy Fairbank will be at the Hearth Gallery from 7 to 9 pm.

Saturday, March 25

Coffee House with Bowen Island Community Choir

7:30 pm at Cates Hill Chapel, featuring local artists. MC duties from Graham Ritchie, tickets $20 at the door

Sunday, March 26

Gather for Games with SKY at the Library

Seniors Keeping Young and the Bowen Library invite you for fun and friendly games for those 55+ Drop in at the Bowen Library Annex Free to attend (SKY member-

ship not required). Tea/coffee & casual games. Good for your brain, great for your soul!

Sunday, March 26

Open House with Bowen Island Conservancy Conservancy, Nature Club, and Library members will be teaching visitors about the many forms of life which call Kwilákm (Mannion Bay) home Event runs from 3 to 5 pm, and includes a short nature walk of the bay for those interested in seeing its biological richness up close See Page 3 for more details

Tuesday, March 28

Career Advisor Drop-In

Drop in for a WorkBC Career Advisor session at the Bowen Island Library! Come get one-on-one help with resumes, cover letters, interviewing, job searches, insights on the job market, career and education advice, and more from Janice, a WorkBC Career Advisor This free drop-in service is in the Library Flex Room from 11 am to 2 pm

All April

Trail Society 30x30

Get outside for a minimum of 30 minutes every day in April. This event is FREE for BITS members Registration for non-BITS members is $10. Sign up on email and we’ll send you a calendar with some featured group activities: bowenislandtrailsociety@gmail.com

Saturday, April 1

Poet Talk: Jane Munro

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.

To April 1

‘Primary Colours’ Kids Art Show

Works from Bowen’s youngest artists at the Hearth Gallery

Thursday, April 6

Film Night at the Library

Join us for a showing of the film The New Corporation (2020), directed by Jennifer Abbott and Joel Bakan Drop-in, no registration required Come a little early and grab a comfy

chair film starts promptly at 6 pm, and runs 105 minutes Rated PG (Ontario)

Saturday, April 15

Wild West Yellowstone Concert

Fundraiser for the Gymnastics trip to Amsterdam for World Gymnaestrada Black Molly plays 8 pm at the Legion, tickets $30 at Phoenix and Cates Pharmacy.

Saturday, April 22

Daniel Wesley at the Bowen Island Pub

Wesley will be playing with special guest Cannery Row. Advance tickets $29 on Eventbrite

MONDAYS

Chair Yoga

Attention SKY members and Community members 55+ Diana Kaile will be resuming her in-person “Seniors Keeping Young” chair Yoga classes, 10:30 am at Bowen Court, 1070 Miller Road No charge, although donations are happily received For details please email: skyonbowen@outlook com

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

Bowen Bridge

We meet from 1:30 to 4:30 pm at Bowen Court on Wednesdays Fee is $6 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

Thursday Art Group

The Thursday Art Group (TAG) meets every Thursday at Collins Hall from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm to create, paint, sketch and enjoy meeting like minded souls If you think this group might be for you, pop by and see what we are all about

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: $2,195,485..................

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

Pledges to March 20th $204,515

Still Needed: $2,195,485 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: $15,404,515

We need: $2,195,515

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 financing is that we must raise the remaining 12% soon. 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: