Bowen Island Undercurrent October 27 2023

SENIORS FEATURE PAGES 6-8

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2023

CARING CIRCLE

VOL. 49 NO. 42

BIUndercurrent

BowUndercurrent www.bowenislandundercurrent.com

Health service charting new path PAGES 6-7

Muni to pursue more MUP grants ALEX KURIAL Editor

POLIO PIGGIES Tracey Hearst and Catherine Epps were in charge of treats and information at the Bowen Island Rotary’s Polio Pigs fundraiser last weekend. Contributors received a pig-shaped cookie, including a gluten-free option if they donated to the freckled pig. On Saturday alone the Rotary’s efforts raised $500. The pigs will remain out for a few weeks at businesses around the Cove. / Alex Kurial photo

The municipality resolved to apply for a pair of funding options for the next two stretches of the Multi-Use Path.

The current stretch of work, which can be seen under construction, will run from the path’s end-point at the Artisan Lane bus stop nearly 600 metres to Charlies Lane.

About 80 metres will be completed this year, with the rest scheduled for 2024.

The municipality (BIM) will apply for Translink funding totalling $207,000. If successful, BIM would need to contribute $69,000 of their own funds to obtain the grant.

Following Charlies Lane, a substantial 900 metre stretch of trail to the next checkpoint at Grafton Lake awaits the MUP project. Staff recommended BIM seek $500,000 from the BC Active Transportation Infrastructure Program, which would translate into $214,286 due from the municipality.

Chief financial officer Kristen Watson said the Bowen amounts, totalling $283,286, would be raised through taxes, pending future council approval. The decision to apply for the grants passed 4-3, carried by Coun. Sue Ellen Fast, Judith Gedye, Alex Jurgensen, and Tim Wake.

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Friday, October 27, 2023

A2 • bowenislandundercurrent.com

Development Cost Charge Increase

Request for Volunteer Library Board members

Events All Council meetings are open to the public to attend in person or electronically, unless noted otherwise.

October 31, 2023 7:00 pm Regular fireworks & hot chocolate @ the causeway November 2, 2023 Municipal Hall closed for Emergency Operations Centre training November 14, 2023 1:00 pm Regular Council Meeting

Bowen Island Municipality and Bowen Island Public Library are seeking applications from Bowen Island residents interested in joining the Bowen Island Public Library Board. We are seeking applications from members of the public with diverse skills and interests who are committed to the ideals of open and equitable access to information through public library service.

BIM collects Regional Transportation Development Cost Charges (DCC) on behalf of TransLink for all building permits issued and subdivisions approved on Bowen Island. This is an additional fee on top of the BIM permit application fees.

TransLink is proposing an increase to its DCC. The proposed increase reflects an annual inflationary adjustment to TransLink’s DCC rates. This proposal is still subject to approval by the Inspector of Municipalities, and barring any changes, it will be presented to TransLink’s Board of Directors for approval and adoption on December 6, 2023.

Key duties of the Library Board are: 2022 rates will apply to all applications submitted prior to December 6, • Setting the strategic direction and goals of the library.

2023.

• Determining policy and rules for managing the provision of public library services and for regulating the use of the library facilities and programs by the public.

• Appointing and reviewing performance of the Chief Librarian.

• Preparing an annual operating budget to present to Council.

• Reviewing the annual operating budget and monitoring revenue and expenditures through the year.

The Board meets 10 times per year on the third Thursday of the month.

Interested individuals are asked to submit a one-page summary of their background, skills and expertise relative to the duties and responsibilities of the position.

Information about the role of Library Board members can be found at https://bowenlibrary.ca/board/ and further questions can be emailed to info@bowenlibrary.ca.

Interested applicants are asked to respond in writing, via email, fax or regular mail, with the requested information by Friday, November 3, 2023 at 4:00 p.m. to: Sophie Idsinga, Interim Corporate Officer sidsinga@bimbc.ca Bowen Island Municipality 981 Artisan Lane, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2 FAX: 604-947-0193

www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/development-cost-charges/

Municipal Hall closures for Emergency Operations Centre training Thursday, November 2 Wednesday, November 8 Wednesday, December 6 During a major emergency or disaster, a local emergency operations centre (EOC) is activated to provide overall jurisdictional direction and control, coordination and resource support to provide servcies and to protect the health and safety of Bowen Island residents.

Work with us

Municipal Hall will be closed on three separate days to allow for EOC training and a full-day disaster simulation.

Facility Manager

New position to oversee the opening and operations of the Community Centre.

The last time BIM activated an EOC was in 2021 during an atmospheric river when the island experienced flooded roads, washouts and damaged culverts.

For more information and pay rate:

Read more about BIM’s Emergency Planning as well as how you can be better prepared:

www.bowenislandmunicipality. ca/work-with-us

www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/services/emergency-program/

Contact Bowen Island Municipality PAID ADVERTISEMENT October 26, 2023

Phone: 604-947-4255 Bowen Island Municipal Hall Fax: 604-947-0193 981 Artisan Lane Email: bim@bimbc.ca Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2 Website: www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca

Hours: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Monday to Friday Closed statutory holidays

Find us on Facebook Bowen Island Municipality

Subscribe to our mailing list bowenislandmunicipality.ca/subscribe

Friday, October 27, 2023

bowenislandundercurrent.com • A3

Dissenting Views/Viewing Dissent: Voices of Resistance MATHILDE ROHR Cultural Connector / Hearth Gallery Raghavendra Rao Karkala, also known as Raghu, is an established local artist who relocated from Bangalore in South India to British Columbia about 12 years ago.

When he is not running the Indian PopUp Kitchen on the pier or driving the bus around Bowen, Raghu puts his heart in his art.

Both metaphorical and visceral, Raghu’s art practice is strongly informed by past and current socio-political events. Inspired by the ones who have taken action to change the world and make it better for all, he captures, in this new solo show, the spirit and act of dissent in multiple forms and through multiple voices.

“I seek to tell the stories of those who occupy little space in the grand narratives of our world, minorities not only in terms of race, gender, and religious affilia-

Looking Southeast from Eagle Cliff, Murray Atherton managed to capture the Misty Mountains of the North Shore last weekend, including Whytecliff Park, UBC, and even the travelling Queen of Capilano. / Murray Atherton photo

Bowen RCMP stats - September BOWEN ISLAND RCMP Bowen Island RCMP responded to 68 calls for service in September 2023.

Of those files: 9 were Traffic complaints/collisions or enforcements; 6 Thefts; 6 Found or lost property; 5 Liquor Act; 3 Causing a disturbance; 2 Fraud; 2 Immigration Act; 2 Explosive Act;

1 Harassing Communications; 1 Assault; 1 Mischief; 1 Well being check.

Bowen Island is currently experiencing a rise in the number of reported property crimes such as theft. Please ensure that your property is secured and avoid leaving keys in your vehicles when left unattended.

Bowen Island RCMP is seeking volunteers to join the speed watch program on Bowen Island. Speed Watch is an educational program aimed at reducing incidents of speeding.

Speed Watch checks are conducted by volunteers trained by police or qualified

tion, but those who dissent against oppressive mindsets and overwhelming power,” he says.

Funded by the Canada Council for the Arts, Dissenting Views/Viewing Dissents, examines the struggles of many communities around the world: the Uyghur community, the Intelligentsia, farmers and religious minorities in India, members of the Black community and Native Americans in the US, Indigenous communities, and climate activists in Canada and beyond.

In this new series of work, Raghu portrays great icons who have changed and created history, but also the unnamed ones who joined the fight with as much determination and dignity in order to stop oppression and transcend collective trauma.

Dissenting Views/Viewing Dissent by Raghavendra Rao Karkala is on at the Hearth from to November 6. An Artist pARTy will be held October 28 from 6 to 8 pm with bar service and snacks.

operators. Using portable radar equipment and an electronic digital board, volunteers monitor speeds in neighbourhoods, school and playground zones and particularly near identified high risk locations.

If you are over the age of 19 and willing to have a criminal background check, please reach out to the Bowen Island RCMP to enroll or to get more information about the program.

Cpl Robert Notari 604-947-0516

W HALLO EEN dance

@ THE LEGION LIVE BAND

ROCKET RADIO Peter Clarke, Bert Clarke, Rob Weaver, & David Graf.

individual & group COSTUME PRIZE ES !!! saturday oct 28th 7:30 pm

TIX $2O TIX AVAILABLE TUES, WEDS, THURS, OR FRIDAY Y AT THE LEGION

members and guests welcome

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Hearth Arts on Bowen (Bowen Island Arts Council)

Wed December 6th at 7 pm Hearth Art Gallery Review of:

Annual Report Financial Update Election of Board Directors

A4 • bowenislandundercurrent.com

Friday, October 27, 2023

VIEWPOINTS EDITORIAL

Trick or Treat!

Well folks Halloween is finally here! The big day is on Tuesday but there is a lot to do before then as Bowen gets into the spooky spirit.

First, if you are reading this paper very early Friday morning, is a Trick or Treat session at Artisan Square this morning at 10:45 am. Get a jump start on candy collecting by taking your kids to the different shops around the square.

Older kids are invited to the Library on Saturday afternoon for a Murder Mystery Movie Afternoon at 1:30 pm, and then on Saturday night it’s party time for the adults with two separate song and dance parties. The Legion gets things going at 8 pm with live music from Rocket Radio, and prizes for best individual and group costume. And at 9 pm Scary-oake is on at the Pub, where guests can sing and dance along with a live band. Tickets are available at the respective venues. If a party is not up your alley, the mysterious stories of The Weir are on display at Tir-na-nOg on Friday and Saturday night, which you can find more information on in Graham Ritchie’s review on the next page.

Then on Tuesday it is time for Halloween’s official arrival, as Bowen children descend on the Lenora Loop (and neighbouring roads) for the annual Island Trick or Treat. From my first Bowen Halloween experience last year, the night also serves as a mini block party, and whether you are Trick or Treating or not it is lots of fun walking around and seeing the incredible efforts people put into decorating their houses, and the creative costumes too. Be sure to make your way to the Causeway at 7 pm for the annual Fireworks Show and hot chocolate thanks to the Bowen Fire Department!

As for scary movies later that evening, two I’ve recently enjoyed are The Boogeyman (2023) which is good classic horror fun based on a Stephen King story, and The Void (2016) which is an absolute must-see if you’re as mesmerized by the concept of liminal space as I am. Whichever frightening film you may choose is a perfect way to close the evening.

Happy Halloween everybody!

- Alex Kurial, Editor

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EDITOR Alex Kurial editor@bowenisland undercurrent.com

ADVERTISING Tracey Wait ads@bowenisland undercurrent.com

CARTOONIST Ron Woodall

PUBLISHER Matt Blair publisher@bowenisland undercurrent.com 2011 CCNA

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2011

The Undercurrent is a member of the National NewsMedia Council of Canada, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please email editor@ bowenislandundercurrent.com or call 604-947-2442.

If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the website at mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.

Friday, October 27, 2023

bowenislandundercurrent.com • A5

VIEWPOINTS Man of Many Hats

By now most Bowenians must be acquainted with Raghavendra Rao, more commonly known as Raghu. Although he is primarily an Artist, you may have tasted his South Indian food, at Raghu’s Indian Kitchen, prepared on the pier at Tell your Friends, now on Sundays.

At this family affair, you will also find Raghu’s wife Anne helping out and his 12-year-old son Kabir working the till with friends. If that isn’t enough, many kids ride in the school-bus when driven by Raghu.

He drives the regular bus on Saturdays and Mondays.

More incredible are the circumstances that brought Raghu to Canada and eventually Bowen Island. Although he had done short stints abroad as an artist in residence, Raghu had no thoughts of leaving India to live abroad.

In 2010 while working as a teacher of art in his hometown Bangalore, he stepped in for a friend who was unable to come to Vancouver as an interpreter for the singer Mukhtiyer Ali. Ali was to perform at an event on the Sufi poet-saint Kabir. It just so happened that Anne Murphy, a History professor at U.B.C., was the organizer. Their connection must

have happened immediately because 18 days later they were married.

They first lived in Vancouver but Anne had friends on Bowen, so they made a couple of visits and liked the feel of the place.

While in Lahore, Pakistan in 2019 they made the decision to move to Bowen, and on January 1, 2020, they viewed a house and that was it.

It was a huge life changing move and obviously one that has worked. Raghu mentioned he felt no sense of belonging in Vancouver, but Bowen with its community feeling, gave the sense of belonging.

Raghu’s next art exhibit is Dissenting Views/Viewing Dissent at the Hearth Gallery starting October 25. He’ll be at the Artist Party on October 28.

And one more feather in Raghu’s cap, is the upcoming Diwalleen Festival, a combination of India’s wonderful festival of lights and Halloween. Billed as a celebration of light, costume and food, it will be held at Endswell Farm on November 5.

One wonders what he might come up with next.

- Kami Kanetsuka

Play Review: The Weir

Raghu keeping busy at Tell Your Friends Cafe.

A village pub in Ireland. It’s raining and windy outside, but warm and companiable inside, where three regulars are entertaining a visitor with local tales. Irish playwright Conor McPherson brilliantly uses this simple setup to strip off layers of ever-deeper reality like peeling a pickled onion. Is consolation finally to be found in the empathy of fellow humans, or perhaps in a ham, cheese and pickled onion sandwich?

The answer will be provided, this week and next, by five of Bowen’s most accomplished actors Calder Stewart, Thomas Newman, Kat Stephens, John Parker and Frazer Elliott, guided by the thoughtful direction of Martin Clarke.

The Theatre on the Isle production, suitable for adults, has two remaining showings at Tir-na-nOg Friday October 27 at 7:30pm, and the finale Saturday, October 28 at the same time. Tickets are $25 at Phoenix Books.

- Graham Ritchie

The amphibious Barge-O-Saurus roams the waters of Deep Bay during a recent foggy day on Bowen. / Sarah Haxby photo

Join Our Board

We need your skills, interest and commitment to the Arts on Bowen The Hearth

Contact details

As Bowen’s arts council, The Hearth supports all forms of artistic expression by Bowen or visiting professional artists, aspiring youth and community groups either at The Hearth Gallery’s beautiful, purpose-built space in the Cove Commons in Snug Cove or elsewhere on the island. When the new Community Centre is built, The Hearth will also be supporting artistic use of the performance space.

If you are passionate about supporting the arts on Bowen and interested in fulfilling a role on the Board, we would love to hear from you. Please express your interest in an email to hr@thehearthartsonbowen.ca including your contact details.

The Board - who we are looking for The Board wants to increase both its numbers and the diversity of backgrounds, skills and experience of Board members. As an equity-seeking organization, The Hearth is committed to upholding the values of diversity, equality and inclusion and welcomes interest in joining the Board from any residents, both long standing and newcomer and particularly those with diverse backgrounds.

An artistic background is welcomed however it is not a prerequisite. One of our guiding principles is ‘We are all artists here’.

Or visit us on our website at https://thehearthartsonbowen.ca/board-application A Board member will follow up your expression of interest for an informal discussion.

Please send your email by Monday November 6th 2023

Snug Cove on Bowen Island thehearth.ca

A6 • bowenislandundercurrent.com

Friday, October 27, 2023

Caring Circle & Colleen O’Neil headed for new home ALEX KURIAL Editor A Bowen institution for the past decade has begun a new chapter in its role to continue helping islanders navigate the health care system.

Colleen O’Neil has been behind the Caring Circle since its inception in 2013.

The group was originally started as a way to centralize questions about medical options on the island. The inspiration was partly from Colleen’s own cancer diagnosis, which presented challenges in addition to fighting the disease.

“During that experience I felt like I was lost at sea and felt like nobody knew how I would get the care that I needed,” recalls the former nurse and actress. “I had to navigate the health care system by myself, and for my case it was very confusing. There didn’t seem to be a singular source where

I would get the information I needed.” She also noted the absence of many primary health services on Bowen Island at the time.

After beating the cancer O’Neil worked with a health care navigation company in Vancouver part-time – hired at their request after she was referred to them in her search for answers on the mainland. Soon Colleen sought to bring these services back to Bowen, and got off to a running start along with Diane Marshall by producing the Bowen Island Health Resource Guide.

“We just sat and brainstormed, what do people call about?” says O’Neil.

The guide – which includes a myriad of information such as how to contact people with Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), how to receive assistance with food and transportation following a procedure, or how to get a physiotherapist – was meant to help answer the

same questions Colleen and many other Bowen residents had faced over the years. It was mailed out to every home on Bowen, and is also available online.

Colleen’s work was far from finished once the guide was complete. “I don’t think Diane was ever expecting me to make a job out of it. Then I just decided to open an office,” she says.

Initially starting in Village Square, Colleen was eventually offered use of a room in the Blue Cottage while she explored if her pursuit was viable. “And it was. Tons of people were coming in.”

New questions emerged constantly as the Caring Circle became known as a place to go for health care answers. The queries – how to find a wig after chemotherapy, filling out disability pensions, various home care questions – soon included people from off-island too inquiring about their relatives. “You never know what

was coming in on any given day,” says O’Neil.

Several programs were born out of discovering residents’ needs, such as the Community Lunch Program (which continues today on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month) and Help in the Home, where local services are offered including cleaning, shopping, transportation, and more. This could be going to pick up groceries or prescriptions, or simply going out for a coffee or ice cream. “They’ve allowed all sorts of families to stay on Bowen instead of moving into care,” says O’Neil.

Caring Circle had become an invaluable part of the community, but the issue of Bowen’s scarce on-island major health services remained. A meeting of medical minds – counsellors, pharmacists, therapists, and others – met to discuss the island’s needs. Organized

by O’Neil and Marshall, the

emerging consensus was an existing one: Bowen needed more doctors.

Several members of the group went to Gabriola Island following the meeting to tour their health centre, and came back with a hope that it could be done on Bowen too. There was no misconception it would be easy though. “It was kind of an impossible dream to raise millions of dollars and build a building and find practitioners,” says O’Neil.

“Early on it felt like a pipe dream, but we just stuck with it.”

Fast forward to today, and that dream is nearly complete. The Health Centre on Miller Road is nearing completion and several doctors and staff have been hired to fill the space. One of those hires is O’Neil, who will be serving as the newly minted ‘Community Health Worker’ for the island. But while her title may be new, Colleen says the services offered by

Why Choose

Caring Circle during the past 10 years will remain the same.

“We built up a reputation in the community with Caring Circle, it took a lot of years,” says Colleen. “So we were trying to figure out a way to retain our name.

I’m not sure if that’s going to happen, but I do want the community to know what I’ve been doing in the community, I’ll continue to be doing the same kind of job – health navigation – in the Health Centre.”

O’Neil’s role will be expanded as well, allowing her more time for community outreach including meeting with social and mental health workers in Vancouver.

She says the centre will “potentially touch everybody that lives on Bowen in one way or another. Their parents, their children, more mental health support, more support for addictions, more support for families… a full dental practice.”

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Friday, October 27, 2023

bowenislandundercurrent.com • A7

SKY is a Bowen Island group for seniors helping seniors by promoting the physical and mental well-being of our Island’s ageing community through social interaction!

Colleen O’Neil (second from left) with organizers and attendees from a Community Lunch at the Bowen Island Legion. / Submitted photo O’Neil herself is also looking forward to the change of location. “I’m excited because I’m a people person. Working alone in the little cottage by myself and working at home, I’m working by myself. I love the idea of working with the team.”

As Caring Circle wraps up under its current name, Colleen reflects on its

impactful history, which now receives hundreds of inquires a year for assistance.

“I think we’ve helped people age in place with less fear and anxiety than they might have had if there wasn’t somebody they could call about what care they might be able to get on Bowen,” she says.

And with the calls has

come an overwhelmingly positive response from the community.

“It’s a pretty rewarding job, because I’d get those kind of kudos all the time. I just knew I was making a huge difference,” says O’Neil.

A goodbye party for the Caring Circle will be held Saturday, November 25 at the Legion, at 1 pm.

BETTER AT HOME on Bowen

SENIORS SENIORS and and

You You have have questions… questions…

Rob Rob has has answers answerrss

We are looking for outstanding people to put on the blue t-shirt and donate a few hours a month as:

If you could give that gift, $'%)*(�& "'%!

Seniors Keeping Young g info@skyonbowenisland.ca www.skyonbowenisland.ca

CANNABIS CCA ANNABIS

Help us help Bowen Seniors age in place

Drivers Friendly visitors Gardeners Handy people.

SKY Treks (excursions) Guest Speaker Series Weekly classes of Yoga, Strength, and Musical Movement Workshops such as genealogy, writing, and upholstery More coming!

OPEN OPEN 7 DAYS DAYS A WEEK WEEK PERSONAL PERSONAL APPOINTMENTS APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE AVAILLAB ABLE ON ON REQUEST REQUEST

Call Kim Sinclair at 236 988 9704 kim.sinclair@nscr.ca

rob@happyislecannabis.com rrob ob@happyislecannabis.com 604-947-9888 604-947-9888 www.happyislecannabis.com w w www ww..happyislecannabis.com

A8 • bowenislandundercurrent.com

Second Chance for Snug Better to Be at Home Cove House success Dear Editor,

Four months ago, the seniors’ support group Snug Cove House had to abandon plans to create a place where our oldest citizens could comfortably and safely stay without having to leave the island.

Firm construction quotes had just shot up way past initial estimates, way past any hope of raising the necessary funds, and this newspaper printed a letter that began…

“With much regret, the board of directors of Snug Cove House Society has to inform fellow islanders that its effort to create a supportive residence for island seniors has failed, at least for the foreseeable future.”

That was read by a contractor from the North Shore who happened to be holidaying on the island, and he decided after some research that this was a good project that could be built for less.

Many meetings later, with much sharpening of pencils and honing of plans, it’s beginning to look like the residence

can be resurrected. Not definite, but definitely hopeful.

The proposed adjustments won’t change the building’s size or how it will operate.

They’re more a different way of thinking about materials, tender details, construction methods and administration. BC Housing assures us that their mortgage offer is still valid.

Meanwhile the society is also carrying on its other senior support activities, such as the Better Meals meal-delivery program, now in its 28th year, our share of the Community Lunch Program, and the Seniors’ Hub information service.

If you’re interested in getting involved, the society is looking for more directors for its board. And we’d like to take this opportunity to give a huge thank-you to Martine Sampath, who regretfully is stepping down after three highly productive years during which she served as Treasurer and streamlined our fiscal procedures, bringing on board a book-keeper, and overseeing the transition to audited accounts.

Friday, October 27, 2023

various offerings, including drivers, gardeners, or repair people.

The Better at Home coordinator for Bowen Island is Kim Sinclair, whose friendly face many residents likely already know from her work with the Coast Animal Welfare and Education Society (CAWES). Kim can be reached by email at Better at Home on Bowen is one of the kim.sinclair@nscr.ca , or by phone at community resources available to Island (236)-988-9704. She’s eager to hear from seniors who may be looking for assistance you, so don’t hesitate to reach out! “aging in place”.

The program operates under the umbrella of North Shore Community Resources, and is available to Bowen residents age 65 and up, or age 55 to 64 if on disability assistance.

Participants must be living by themselves in their own home, rather than a long-term care home or assisted living facility.

Several services are available through the volunteer-run program, including home and yard work, transportation around Bowen or off-island, supply pickups (groceries, medication, etc.) and phone calls or visits to make sure anyone living on their own maintains a healthy social life.

These services and more can be found at seniors.nscr.ca/better-at-home-on-bowen/ , or by contacting the island coordinator. The Scan the QR Code for a direct group is also welcoming of volunteers for the - The board of directors of Snug Cove House Society: Andy Powell-Williams, Holly Mackintosh, Rev. Lorraine Ashdown, Pernille Nielsen, Cindy Macleod, Graham Ritchie, Sheilagh Sparks, Lori Canning.

link to the Seniors Hub, a onestop information source for Bowen seniors and their families, friends, and caregivers. Brought to you by the Caring Circle and Snug Cove House Society.

What does remaining at home mean to you?

Whether it’s just a little assistance for daily tasks or live-in care, Bayshore’s caregivers can ensure you are living your best life while remaining at home on Bowen Island.

LET’S TALK.

604.873.2545

northshore@bayshore.ca bayshore.ca

PERSONAL CARE | HOME SUPPORT | NURSING

Friday, October 27, 2023

bowenislandundercurrent.com • A9

Trick or... Bat trivia? Celebrate Bats during Halloween DANIELLE DAGENAIS Regional Bat Coordinator / Community Bat Programs of BC As Halloween approaches, images of scary bats become commonplace. This is the perfect time of year to counter bat myths and do something to help bats, by taking part in International Bat Week, running from October 24 to 31.

Bat Week is all about appreciating these amazing animals and their benefits, which in Canada centers around eating insects, and in other parts of the globe they additionally pollinate flowers, and spread seeds and nutrients.

This Bat Week, consider teaching your kids, grandkids, or friends about the wonderful lives of bats. How about preparing bat trivia questions for them? Take them to your local library and sign out bat books. Or if you want to get proactive, organize a bat event or party!

You can find more information on bats at www.bcbats.ca or at www.batweek.org Contact your local nature centre, museum, or public park offices to see if they are offering any bat talks, or come out to Science World on Sunday, Oct. 29 to learn about bats with myself, Regional Bat Coordinator Danielle Dagenais.

In BC, there are at least 15 species of bats and they are all major predators of insects including moths, beetles, mosquitoes and flies. A single bat can eat up to its body weight in insects each night. Eating all of these insects helps protect our food crops and forests from insect pests, saving farmers and forest managers billions of dollars each year. No matter where you live, it is almost certain that there are bats living near you.

Providing safe and healthy habitats for

bats is critical, as over half the species in this province are considered at risk. Since the fungus that causes White-nose Syndrome (WNS) was detected in Grand Forks last year, bat conservation is more important than ever. We expect to see impacts in BC in the near future. WNS is a fatal fungal disease that has killed millions of bats. It does not affect people or pets.

To help us with WNS surveillance, report dead bats or sightings of winter bat activity to our website. But also exercise caution and never touch a live or dead bat. BC residents can help bats by following Bat Friendly Community guidelines, including protecting bat habitat, planting a bat-friendly garden, preventing bats from drowning in pools or rain barrels, keeping cats indoors or in catios, and much more.

Bat Week marks the time of year when bats disappear from our neighbourhoods, until the return of warmer weather in spring. As insect-eaters, our BC bats must leave their summer roost sites and migrate or hibernate to survive the winter.

This absence means that this is the time of year to do home renovations that you have delayed due to bat presence. You can clean out and repair a bat box, or do bat-friendly exclusion work, without disturbing or injuring bats.

In partnership with the BC Government, and funded by the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, Forest Enhancement Society of BC, Habitat Stewardship Program, the BC Community Bat Program provides information and promotes local stewardship and citizen science.

You can report winter bat sightings, find out more about the BC Community Bat Program, Bat Week activities, and options for helping local bat populations, at www. bcbats.ca, vancouver@bcbats.ca, or 1-855922-2287, ext. 11.

Hello Sailing Community We’re wrapping up our 2023 year with the BIYC Annual General Meeting, which will be held at Doc Morgan’s Downstairs.

Tuesday, November 14, 2023 Social/Food @ 6pm with Meeting start @ 7pm

Please RSVP to membershipbiyc@gmail.com to attend in person or for Zoom link.

Come hear about our exciting year building a community of sailors and share the journey moving forward!

With kind regards, Simon Fowler, Commodore

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Saturday November 18th 10:30am Collins Hall Refreshments provided

Please advise Graham Ritchie 604-947-0225 if you are interested in putting your name forward to be a director

REGULAR HOURS

LEON Meet Leon!

This handsome boy came into us recently for his annual check-up, he has recently transferred off puppy food and is looking for a new kibble. We recommended staying away from any grain free diets for your furry friend, if you have any questions about your pets diet make sure to give us a call.

Mon-Fri 9-5

CONTACT reception@bowenvet.com

604.947.9247

Closed Sat & Sun

Friday, October 27, 2023

A10 • bowenislandundercurrent.com

Your Community

MARKETPLACE

Call or email to place your ad, Monday through Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm

604-362-0586 • 604-653-7851 classifieds@van.net

bowenislandundercurrent.com

BC WIDE CLASSIFIEDS gnome matter what it is s...

People love a bargain!

604-653-7851 '!(""#*%&"),($+$%-

TODAY'S PUZZLE ANSWERS

Community News

ONLINE

www.bowenislandundercurrent.com

Health and Wellness on Bowen DR. GLORIA CHAO FAMILY DENTIST

FRIDAY 10-4:30 PM AT ARTISAN SQUARE

604-947-0734 NEW PATIENTS WELCOME HORSESHOE BAY

604-921-8522 www.bowenislanddental.com

To advertise here please call the Undercurrent at 604-947-2442 or email ads@bowenislandundercurrent.com

$12 per week

Friday, October 27, 2023

bowenislandundercurrent.com • A11

BOWEN BOW WEN HOME SERVICES

llove ove tthe he llife ife y you ou live

100% Local Bowen Island Electricians

RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL SERVICE

604 328 4329 stra angbrothers@gmail.com

Now booking FALL projects!

Decks, fences, stairs.......

Serving Bowen & the North Shore for 15+ years

604-928-6926

www.kanecustomprojects.com

REALTOR®

604.341.9488

RHODES ON BOWEN

NEW CONSTRUCTION RENOVATIONS RESTORATION ADDITIONS SECONDARY STRUCTURES UNIQUE OUTDOOR SPACES SUB CONTRACT WORK

BUILT GREEN BC BUILDER CONTACT US FOR A FREE QUOTATION WWW.WHITEHART.CA ADDRESS 302-566 ARTISAN LANE BOWEN ISLAND,BC PHONE 1(778) 999-3434

REAL ESTATE MARKETING going that extra mile rhodesonbowen.com tim@rhodesonbowen.com

• Irrigation • Landscape Lighting • Hydroseeding Call now for Landscape Lighting Services and Installations

Office: 604-947-9686

COURIER SERVICE

Window Blinds

NOW 5 DAYS A WEEK!

On Bowen 778-995-1902

MONDAY TO FRIDAY

Call 604-947-9703

bowenislandfreight@gmail.com

Stories and and photos photos from from Stories

your community community your

In print and online all the time

& AWNINGS

604-785-0990

Charmaine Heffelfinger Cheffelfinger@budgetblinds.com

SNUG S N U G COVE COVE CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION COMPLETE HOME RENOVATIONS INTERIOR & EXTERIOR QUALITY WORKMANSHIP

6 0 4 925 604 9 2 5 8711 8711

RED SEAL TICKETED & INSURED

"We do good work!"

BOWEN TOWING Local towing and recovery,, battery boosting, unlock vehicles, tire change…….

Call 604-341-6351

I&.ITOWING

• AN D HAULING LTD • • Flat Deck Towing • Equipment Moves • Material Deliveries • Scrap Car Removal 604-947-1717 | ianditowhaul@gmail.com

Gary Charette Roofing inc

Serving Bowen Island since 2000

All types of roofing Professionally Installed

ROOFING SPECIFIC LIABILITY INSURANCE & VALID WCB

bowenislandundercurre rent.com t com m

®

FULLY INSURED

LANDSCAPE CARPENTRY | STONE & MASONRY

Tim Rhodes

Andy Rainsley: 604-947-0674 • CELL 778-231-7283 Bowenshirelandscaping.ca • info@bowenshirelandscaping.ca

Style and service for every budget.

On Bowen serving Sea to Sky

WWW.GARYCHARETTEROOFING.COM

Metal roofing | Sheet metal flashing Flat roofing | Asphalt Shingles | Repairs

604-987-7663

Trade ticket certified #00012-RO-96

Friday, October 27, 2023

A12 • bowenislandundercurrent.com

CALENDAR

dogs, rabbits, horses, etc.) ages and spiritual paths welcome.

Monday, October 30 SKY Speaker Series Charles McNeill, “The Critical Role of Transforming Our Food System To Protect The Climate, Nature and Our Own Health”. 10:30 am at Bowen Court.

Tuesday, October 31 Halloween at the Loop Trick or Treating at the Lenora Loop from 5 to 8 pm.

Fireworks and hot chocolate at the Lagoon Causeway at 7 pm.

Wednesday, November 1 Various SKY Events 10:30 am walk at Bowfest picnic shelter, followed by monthly social lunch at Pub at Noon. Non-members welcome. 7 pm, Intro to Investigating Family History w/ Danae Tilley. Members free, or $5. RSVP info@skyonbowen.ca Saturday, November 4 BIHPA AGM Bowen Island Heritage Preservation Association AGM at Collins Hall and online. 11 am to Noon. Email bowenheritage@gmail.com, with AGM in the subject line, for the link. Help to preserve, educate and celebrate Davies Orchard, a Bowen Island gem.

TUESDAYS Chair Yoga Starts Sept. 5 at Collins Hall. Drop-in from 1 to 2:15 pm.

Classes are $20 or by donation. Contact Jackie Minns for more info, 604-220-9092, or jackie.minns@gmail.com

Saturday, October 28 Book Donation Day Friends of Bowen Island Library Society accepting book donations at the Library Annex from 10 am to Noon. Primarily seeking novels and childrens books – will consider other categories based on relevant subject matter and book condition.

Saturday, October 28 Murder Mystery Movie Afternoon at the Library Join us for a showing of the film Death on the Nile (2022), based on the book by Agatha Christie. Drop in, no registration required. Come a little early and grab a comfy chair, film starts promptly at 1:30 pm, runs 127 minutes. Rated PG. Presented by library Teen Advisory Group. bipl.ca/movies Saturday, October 28 Scary-oake at the Pub Dress up in your Halloween costumes and come sing karaoke with a live band! Hundreds of songs available with costume and performance prizes. Tickets $20, 9 pm start.

Saturday, October 28 Halloween Dance Party at the Legion Rocket Radio on the stage! Costume prizes for individual and groups. Tickets $20 at the Legion. Runs 8 to 11:30 pm.

Sunday, October 29 Pet Blessing (Rescheduled) 10:30 am at Bowen Island United Church. All pets (cats,

em Sign up for our

Bowen Bridge 1:30 to 4:30 pm at Bowen Court. Fee $5 per person per session. Your place must be arranged by email no later than 6 pm on Monday. To make your booking or to seek more information, please email bowcates04@gmail.com WEDNESDAYS Storytime at the Library A free, drop-in program of stories and songs for 2-4 yearolds and their caregivers! Runs to Dec. 13, from 10:30 to 11 am. bipl.ca/storytime THURSDAYS Exploring Insight Meditation with SKY With facilitator Laura Quilici. No charge for SKY members, non-members $5, 55+. 11 am to 12:30 pm, runs thruough Nov. 2. Register at SKYonBowen@outlook.com FRIDAYS Legion Dinners Dinners held every Friday except for long weekends. $13 for members and $15 for non-members. Doors open at 5:30 pm, with dinner at 6:30 pm. Tickets on-sale at Legion on Thursday afternoon, and at door Friday if not sold out.

WEEKENDS Yoga on the Pier Saturday/Sunday, 10:15 to 11:15 am. Join the Nectar Yoga team for a relaxing yoga session at Snug Cove North Dock (left of the ferry ramp). Bring a yoga mat, water, and sunscreen. Sessions weather permitting. Pre-registration recommended, drop-ins possible. Sign up at nectaryoga.ca

ail newsletter

Sat. Nov 4 Bowen Island Heritage Preservation Association AGM at Collins Hall and online, 11am-noon.

Email: bowenheritage@gmail.com, put AGM in the subject line for the link. Help to preserve, educate and celebrate Davies Orchard, a Bowen Island gem.

Places of Worship Welcome You BOWEN ISLAND UNITED CHURCH www.biuc.ca | 1122 Miller Road

FOOD BANK

Sunday Worship 10:30 am Rev. Lorraine Ashdown

DROP-OFF

778-688-2061

OFFICE HOURS WEDNESDAY 10-4 OR BY APPOINTMENT

ST. GERARD’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Sunday Mass at 9.30

Contact Angela Powell 604-947-2515

CATES HILL CHAPEL

www.cateshillchapel.com 604-947-4260 (661 Carter Rd.)

Sunday Worship 10:00 Rev. Phil Adkins SHIRAT HAYAM (Song of the Sea) BOWEN’S JEWISH COMMUNITY Shabbat Gatherings ~ Holidays Contact aryana.rayne@gmail.com • www.shirathayam.ca

Queen of Capilano Ferry Schedule NEW OCTOBER 10 - MARCH 31 2024 DEPART BOWEN ISLAND

DEPART HORSESHOE BAY

5:50 am 5:20 am - except Sundays 6:50 am 6:20 am 8:00 am 7:30 am 9:05 am - except Wednesdays 8:35 am 10:15 am 9:40 am 11:25 am 10:50 am 12:35 pm 12:00 pm 2:20 pm 1:10 pm 3:30 pm 2:55 pm 4:35 pm 4:00 pm - except Wednesdays 5:45 pm 5:10 pm 6:50 pm 6:15 pm 8:00 pm - except Saturdays 7:25 pm - except Saturdays 9:00 pm 8:30 pm 10:00 pm 9:30pm 10:30 pm Note: Schedules subject to change without notice Schedule changes on statutory holidays. Please check BCFERRIES.COM