Bowen Island Undercurrent

EXCITING CHANGES FOR NEW SWIMBOWEN SEASON PAGE 9

$1.50

inc.

GST

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2024

VOL. 50 NO. 06

BIUndercurrent

BowUndercurrent www.bowenislandundercurrent.com

HAVE A HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!

Breaking down the Christmas Bird Count SURVEY FUN & HELPS ECOSYSTEM TOBIN SPARLING Contributor

GRADIENT NIGHTS The sky showed off during early evening sunset at Tunstall Bay this week.

Days are now lit past 5 pm, and getting even longer as Winter’s days dwindle. / Lisa Brougham photo OPEN HOUSE

W NE

SUNDAY FEB 11

On January 1, 47 Bowen Islanders went outside to participate in one of the world’s biggest bird surveys: the Christmas Bird Count (CBC).

It began 124 years ago, when a group of conservationists wanted to promote counting birds instead of shooting them as a Christmas activity. It is now the longest lasting annual citizen science project in North America, and has spread across the Americas to more than 20 countries.

Birders all head out and ID all of the birds they can, then add up their results. But what about double counting a bird? Everyone in a region goes out on the same day (this year on Bowen it was January 1) to avoid this.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

12PM - 3PM

A SUNNY POLLINATOR PARADISE WITH OCEAN VIEWS

This charming and well-loved property has been a labour of love for almost 40 years. Multiple terraced gardens are filled with fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers selected specifically to attract bees and other pollinators and to help foster a healthy and vibrant ecosystem.

South-facing with excellent sun exposure there are views to Passage Island and beyond. On a clear day you can spot ships and ferries navigating Active Pass in the distance.

1511 EAGLE CLIFF ROAD $1,250,000 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • 1603 sf • 0.44 acres

TOP 10% of all Realtors in 2022 according to REBGV MLS Sales Statistics

MARY LYNN MACHADO PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

604.220.7085 buyonbowen.com

Friday, February 9, 2024

A2 • bowenislandundercurrent.com

Medical Assured Loading Policy

Short Term Rental Accommodation

Council is considering a Medical Assured Loading Policy for Snug Cove.

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

February 12, 2024 1:00 pm Regular Council Meeting

What is Medical Assured Loading (MAL)?

MAL means priority vehicle loading on the ferry when certain criteria are met.

Why do we need a policy?

MAL is currently available on Bowen Island for eligible patients and health care professionals travelling from Bowen Island to Horseshoe Bay, so why create a policy? We need a policy, approved by Council, that we can refer to when needing guidance on how to adjudicate a MAL request.

Is this connected to BC Ferries MAL procedure?

BC Ferries’ MAL policy applies to all their terminals but is not administered by them for travel from Snug Cove; BIM’s MAL policy fills this service gap.

Tell us your views. Take the survey.

We are considering changes to how we regulate short-term rentals on Bowen Island. In particular, Council is considering whether or not to adopt new Provincial regulations which would limit short-term rentals to a host’s principal residence or secondary residence on the same property.

For more information, and to complete an online survey to share your views, please visit: www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/short-term-rental-policy-project/

Who qualifies for MAL? To be eligible, patients must be both: 1. Travelling to a critical or emergency medical appointment or be travelling due to a life-threatening illness, AND 2. Experiencing undue or extreme discomfort and difficulty waiting extended periods in the ferry line.

MAL is not available for general doctor, dentist or specialist appointments, or scheduled surgery.

To be eligible, health care professionals must: • carry documentation provided by their employer authorizing their use of BC Ferries MAL and display windshield placards provided by their employer OR • be driving marked Lifelabs vehicles How do I get MAL vehicle cards?

Patients must procure a MAL letter from their Medical Practitioner and bring it to BIM reception at least one business day in advance of travel.

BIM will issue MAL vehicle cards to display at the front and back of vehicle.

Submit your photos

We’re looking for some fresh new photos of Bowen Island to feature on our website, social media and print materials such as the Island Plan and Where do I park in the ferry lineup in Snug Cove?

Annual Report.

MAL is in the designated cross-hatched area in the ferry line-up in front of the General Store for patients. Arrive at least 15 minutes in advance of If you’d like to donate your photos and see them featured online or in the scheduled sailing’s departure. print, please get in touch with us. In particular, we’re interested in: What is a MAL letter?

A MAL letter is issued by your medical practitioner and must include the following: Letterhead of medical office/hospital, date of issue, medical practitioner’s signature, patient’s name, statement that the individual requires priority loading as an extended wait at the Snug Cover ferry terminal could cause risk to their health and an expiry date or period of time during which MAL is required There are several ways to comment:

• • • • •

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iconic images of Bowen Island landmarks community events imagery of the beautiful nature that surrounds us

You can submit your photos online, below, or send them by e-mail to website@bimbc.ca. Please send your digital photos in .JPG or .PNG format (10 mb maximum file size). www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/submit-photos/

By mail to 981 Artisan Lane, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2 By fax to 604-947-0193 By email to Doug Woods at dwoods@bimbc.ca By joining our new online discussion at www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/discussions/ Comments will be received until 4:00 pm on February 29, 2023.

www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/mal-policy/

Contact Bowen Island Municipality PAID ADVERTISEMENT February 9, 2024

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, February 9, 2024

bowenislandundercurrent.com • A3

Court says unpermitted structures must go ALEX KURIAL Editor The BC Supreme Court has ruled that structures built in violation of Bowen’s Building Bylaws must be demolished.

The case between Bowen Island Municipality – the petitioner, and respondent David Pelletier was settled in court in December. It stemmed from the construction of several structures both on Pelletier’s property and bordering Crown land that had neither municipal or provincial permission to build and occupy. These included a deck, dock, gangway, and multiple sets of stairs connecting these structures on the westside waterfront property.

Court documents show that the municipality (BIM) became aware of the structures in 2021, none of which had municipal building permits. Additionally, the portion of property that borders the water is Crown land and no approval had been given by the provincial government for building. BIM attempted to discuss options with Pelletier to bring the structures into compliance via site visits and a variety of written means including letters, bylaw offence notices, stop work orders, and letters from legal counsel.

When none of these methods worked, in September 2021 BIM ordered Pelletier to remove the structures, which he didn’t comply with. The court noted that building bylaws apply to both structures constructed by current or prior

owners of the property.

In his defence Pelletier said he was being singled out by the municipality since the use of Crown land for personal structures is widespread on the island, including on his own street. Justice J. Miriam Gropper concluded there was no acceptable evidence to support Pelletier’s position.

From the evidence provided Gropper found that Pelletier both built and continues to use the structures in question, actions in violation of several sections of the Building Bylaw. The judge ordered Pelletier to apply for a demolition permit within 30 days of the verdict, and to demolish the deck, stairs, and gangway within 30 days of the permit being issued. If these steps aren’t taken Gropper authorized the municipality to carry out the work at the respondent’s expense.

Pelletier was also found responsible for covering the municipality’s legal bill of $4,366.08.

Applications due February 15th before 5pm

Good idea?

That’s granted.

The Bowen Island Community Foundation supports projects that improve our community.

We need two things from you (in addition to your great idea): a 500 word proposal and that you be partnered with (or just be) a charitable organization.

The detailed application package is available on the Foundation’s home page: bowenfoundation.com.

If you’re looking for ideas, the 2023 Vital Conversations report outlines opportunities for improvement on Bowen Island.

Email your proposal to grants@bowenfoundation.com.

community grows here

Knick Knack Nook SMALL GRANTS PROGRAM Do you have any project that might contribute to the environmental or social sustainability of our community? We encourage you to apply for one of our grants.

Application deadline: February 15, 2024 at 5 PM Download the grant application from the Knick Knack Nook website: https://www.knickknacknook.org/ small-grants-program.html Submit your completed application by email to: Bowen Island Community Foundation. grants@bowenfoundation.com

A4 • bowenislandundercurrent.com

Friday, February 9, 2024

VIEWPOINTS

Bowen Island was the subject of Sigurd Sabathil’s affections on Valentine’s Day in 1976. He penned this love letter to the island, which was shared by the Museum & Archives. You will find that many of Sigurd’s lessons of love still ring true nearly 50 years later. Happy Valentine’s Day everybody! - Alex

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 PO Box 130, Bowen Island, BC, V0N 1G0 or email editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com All Advertising and news copy content are copyright of the Undercurrent Newspaper. All editorial content submitted to the Undercurrent becomes the property of the publication. The Undercurrent is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, art work and photographs.

#102–495 Bowen Trunk Road, PO Box 130, Bowen Island BC, V0N 1G0 Phone: 604.947.2442 Fax: 604.947.0148 bowenislandundercurrent.com DEADLINE for advertising Monday, 4 p.m.

DEADLINE for editorial Tuesday 5 p.m.

Bowen Island Undercurrent Subscription Rates: Mailed 1 year subscription on Bowen Island: $55, including GST. Within Canada: $85 including GST Newsstand (Single Copy) $1.50 per copy, including GST

ISSN 7819-5040

National NewsMedia Council.

EDITOR Alex Kurial editor@bowenisland undercurrent.com

ADVERTISING Tracey Wait ads@bowenisland undercurrent.com

PUBLISHER Matt Blair publisher@bowenisland undercurrent.com

CARTOONIST Ron Woodall

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, February 9, 2024

bowenislandundercurrent.com • A5

VIEWPOINTS

The Green Dragon

Re: “Grafton Lake now on-leash area for dogs”

I’m writing in response to new by-laws enforcing dogs to be “on-leash” for the Grafton Lake loop.

Yes, indeed, I am one of those dog owners who are dismayed that yet another area on Bowen Island has been restricted to enjoy walking our dog “off-leash”. Grafton has become our favorite alternate lake walk after Killarney was enforced as a leashed area for dogs. And standing around the designated “off-leash” muddy field is not our idea of exercise or enjoyment.

I find the reasons given in the January 26 Undercurrent article to be weak in citing that: - “scientific evidence” supports “impacts can be reduced by keeping dogs on-leash” - “dogs [are] disrupting sensitive wildlife at Grafton Lake including groundnesting birds” Are these not hypocritical reasons given that hundreds of residential building permits have been given out for development

LINUS

around Grafton Lake? Or how about the fact that a gravel path was plowed around the lake in the first place replacing a much less invasive single-track pathway?

To iterate the phrase we often impart on our kids when they were young… “sharing is caring”… and in service of this value could we not entertain options such as time sharing “off-leash” and “on-leash” hours or designating a section of the lake for off-leash?

Because news flash: Dogs are here to stay, and there are a portion of responsible dog owners who enjoy walking with them off-leash.

We will not be respecting these new “bylaws” and using a leash on our dog... the $200 fines can be added to our property taxes that have doubled in the last 21 years that we’ve lived here.

- Isabel Ruediger

The Chinese New Year is based on the Lunar calendar, and marks the first signs of Spring. It is comprised of 1 of 12 animals (the influence of Heaven), paired with 1 of 5 elements (the influence of Earth). This creates a rolling 60-year cycle, and this new year begins on Feb. 10, and is the year of the Green Dragon. What does this mean?

This is not going to be a quiet year…

It’s been said that Dragon years can be quite eventful. The mythic Dragon is larger than life, a symbol of a bold and unpredictable year. The Dragon brings strength and flair to the year, and often heralds a fortuitous time. But the Dragon year has to be interpreted in conjunction with the element governing the year, and 2024 is Yang Wood.

Wood symbolizes Spring, growth, the colour green (hence Green Dragon) and a huge push forward. We know wood here, in BC. We see wood all around us, pushing upwards. Just think about the power of grass shoots in the springtime, pushing up through concrete. It finds a way. This is the motivating energy of doing. So adding this forward momentum of the wood element with the power of the Dragon, and you can see why this is primed to be an eventful year.

Find a way to channel that creative motivating energy into something meaningful, otherwise it will generate internal pressure.

It needs to find an outlet, just as a tree will

REGULAR HOURS Mon-Fri 9-5

CONTACT

Closed Sat & Sun

You may have noticed an absence reception@bowenvet.com 604.947.9247 at Bowen Vet this past month, and that’s because our sweet clinic dog, Linus, was peacefully laid to rest on Boxing Day. Linus could be found most days at the clinic either greeting clients, comforting patients, or generally providing emotional and comical relief to us all. He will be tremendously missed by the staff here, and most of all by Bayley, Josh, and the rest of his family. Linus was the perfect example of an inherently good dog, despite a very rough past. And although his earthly life was not long enough, his impact was profound and will last years to come.

burst through confines in order to grow.

If we look at the interactions of the 5 elements as used in Chinese Medicine, we can see some strategies to support the healthy expression of the wood element this year: Wood fuels fire – so spend time with loved ones and find time for joy, laughter and compassion in your life, to burn away some of that pressure.

Wood needs the still cool nourishment of water to grow – find time for quietness, to rest and recover. Wood hours are between 11 pm and 3 am, so make sure you go to bed before 11 pm in order to prevent the strong wood energy from draining your water reserves.

Wood tends to overwhelm earth if it doesn’t find a healthy expression. We can all recognise the experience where you had to write an exam or sit for an interview, and the stress upset your digestion. This is wood attacking Earth. This means that we have to protect our digestive system, which is the system associated with the Earth element. So eat simple fresh seasonal foods. Do not over or under eat and allow some time in between your meals to rest your digestive system.

And lastly, move your body. This will help to soothe the wood element so that you can experience the positive, visionary, creative and motivating aspects of wood.

There will be a Dragon Parade to welcome in the new year in Chinatown, downtown Vancouver, on Sunday, Feb. 11 at 11 am. I wish you all a creative, energising and visionary year of the Green Dragon!

- Heidi Mather

Friday, February 9, 2024

A6 • bowenislandundercurrent.com

Friday, February 9, 2024

bowenislandundercurrent.com • A7

Warm a heart, support local

How do we love you Bowen: let us count the ways.

BOWEN BUILDING CENTRE

The Building Centre is proud to be a part of building on Bowen since 1972! Thank you to all of our customers.

We truly know home is where the heart is.

1013 Grafton Road 604-947-9622

THE BOWEN ISLAND PUB The Bowen Island Pub has been serving this community for over 36 years and we are proud to have been blessed with the opportunity to run it for the last 11 of those years. We love Bowen Island and all the wonderful people who make us feel at home here. Thank you to all of you.

FRAZER ELLIOTT As a proud Bowener since 1988, I enjoy sharing my love for this island with people hoping to make it their new home. Frazer B. Elliott Personal Real Estate Corporation - Macdonald Realty Ltd. BOWEN ISLAND ROOFING AND GUTTERS Thank you Bowen Island and the wonderful community that lives here. Bowen Island Roofing is proud to call Bowen home and to provide you reliable, quality service you can depend on.

SQUIRREL ON BOWEN Without you nuts, Squirrel wouldn't be .....

So a million thank yous and much love to every one of you (heart) Squirrel. Next to Tippy's.

FAB FEB SALE on all clothing!!!

Winter wed -sun 11-5 604 816 0830 @squirrelonbowen

UNION STEAMSHIP MARINA & DOC MORGAN’SUnion Steamship Marina & Doc Morgan’s is proud to be serving and part of Bowen Island since 1985! The Bowen Island community is part of the Dike family’s heart and soul. Thank you all for all your love and support through the years! Ellen, Rondy & Oydis

♥

BOWEN VETERINARY SERVICES

The team at Bowen Veterinary Services wish all the pets and families of Bowen a warm and fuzzy Valentine's Day and a purrfect Family Day. We are so grateful to be able to provide care and support to all your four-legged friends.

ISAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

Island Pacific School deeply appreciates our community's support of the Colin Ruloff Community Field House & events like our Monsoon Madness Mudder and Science Fair.

Thanks for fueling our mission! islandpacific.org

BRANCH ON BOWEN Handmade burritos and rice bowls crafted with love, perfect for post-hike refuelling.

Treat yourself to the creamy goodness of Earnest Ice Cream as you stroll along our picturesque beaches. And don't forget to explore our gift shop, Narwhal for unique mementos to remember your island adventures! Join us Fri-Tue, from 11:30am to 6:15pm

TOSH HOME & GARDEN

FRANCES FROST Matching Sellers and Buyers on Bowen Island for over 30 years.

Happy Valentines Day from us at RE/MAX Crest - Bowen Island Real Estate

Home should be an expression of who you are and things that you love. At Tosh we are always sourcing new things to love!

Love your home Love your garden Artisan Square www.toshdecor.ca

♥

♥

BOWEN ISLAND TATTOO SHOP

Be ready to show them off for the summer!

Tattoos by Kelly bowenislandtattooshop@gmail.com Tattoos by Lacey laceyjoneill@gmail.com Piercings by Justine 778-928-1551 www.bowenislandtattooshop.com

BUDGET BLINDS ON BOWEN

Charmaine Heffelfinger loves interior design and working in her community. She offers window coverings that are both practical and beautiful, offering thermal comfort, privacy and sun protection. Love up your home with Budget Blinds. cheffelfinger@budgetblinds.com

RILEY’S CIDERY

We feel so grateful to be part of this amazing island community! If you haven’t had a cider tasting with Frank Patt our Cidery Ambassador and Tasting Room Manager you are missing out. Frank connects cidery visitors to the uniqueness and biodiversity that is our orchard. His amazing voice, storytelling abilities and genuine kindness make every visit a true joy. Thank you for all you do Frank!

HOWE SOUND AUTOMOTIVE LTD Thank you Bowen Island for all the love you show our family business each and every day! The Degners and Howe Sound Automotive Ltd.

A8 • bowenislandundercurrent.com

Friday, February 9, 2024

Thousands of birds found during CBC CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

For next year, Bowen birder Owen Raybould is working to update the Bowen Island zone maps for even more accuracy. Regions are then subdivided and each group of birders has to sign up to take part (it’s free!)

This year, I was assigned to Killarney Lake. Others took charge of the meadow, the Cape, the Cove, and many other regions on Bowen, 16 locations in total. I brought my whole extended family out for the event – a chaotic way to bird, but what a fun activity!

At the end of the day, eight of the enthusiastic birders met up at Collins Hall to debrief the day. Wow, do these people ever know a lot about Bowen’s birds! It was super interesting to listen to everyone share how they have noticed trends of birds change over the last 20 years.

Which gets back to why this survey is so important. Many birds migrate away during winter, but some stay.

Surveys like this help to monitor which birds are staying longer into the winter, and which aren’t coming here anymore.

Bowen Island Garden Club SPEAKER SERIES PRESENTS:

Jack Oostenbrink on Pruning Saturday, February 17 @ 1:00pm (Doors open at 12:30pm) Jack Oostenbrink and family, operate a boutique garden nursery + store in Chilliwack, Fruits and Shoots Plant Farm. We are excited to have Jack speak on designing and planning edible gardens and incorporating edibles into landscapes, pruning techniques including how to train espalier and cordons for small space gardens, reducing pest pressure using natural and organic methods.

Bowen Island Legion, 1265 Scarborough Road Free to club members, $5 admission to all others Become a member for $25 annual fee, sign up at the talk.

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

Waterfowl: Canada Goose; Mallard; Ringnecked Duck; Greater Scaup; Lesser Scaup; Surf Scoter; White-winged Scoter; Black Scoter; Bufflehead; Common Goldeneye; Barrow’s Goldeneye; Hooded Merganser; Common Merganser; Ruddy Duck Loons and Grebes: Pacific Loon; Common Loon; Pied-billed Grebe; Horned Grebe Cormorants: Double-crested Cormorant; Pelagic Cormorant Wading Birds: Great Blue Heron Birds of Prey: Bald Eagle; Immature Bald Eagle; Red-tailed Hawk Shorebirds: Black Oystercatcher; Black Turnstone Gulls: Bonaparte Gull; Short-billed Gull; California Gull; Glaucous-winged Gull; Iceland Gull Seabirds: Marbled Murrelet Owls: Barred Owl Hummingbirds: Anna’s Hummingbird; Unidentified Hummingbird Woodpeckers and Allies: Belted Kingfisher; Red-breasted Sapsucker; Downy Woodpecker; Hairy Woodpecker; Northern (Red-Shafted) Flicker; Pileated Woodpecker; Woodpecker spp.

Delivered to your Canada Post mailbox every week for $55 per year ($85 to off island addresses) Thank you for your support of local journalism.

An increasingly important problem as the climate continues to change and the effects it has on species can be difficult to monitor.

Citizen science bird surveys are frequently cited in academic research, and the bird journal Audubon lists over 300 peer-reviewed articles that use data from the Christmas Bird Count.

Luckily, bird surveying is free and really easy (and fun) to get into.

Mobile apps such as eBird, iNaturalist, and Merlin, are extremely helpful for new birders. iNaturalist and Merlin can both help you identify birds, whether it be through photos or sound, and eBird and iNaturalist are great ways to report where you observe the birds.

This survey gets people outside in the cold to go check what birds are still here. This year Bowen birders found 3,385 individuals and identified them into 64 unique species. To do this, 47 people went out and walked a total of 81.5 kilometers.

These are the birds we spotted on Bowen on January 1. How many of them can you find?

Two of the birds discovered during Bowen’s Christmas Bird Count were the Steller’s Jay (above) and BlackCapped Chickadee (below). / Tobin Sparling photos

Corvids: Steller’s Jay; American Crow; Common Raven Chickadees and Nuthatches: Blackcapped Chickadee; Chestnut-backed Chickadee; Red-breasted Nuthatch Small Passerines: Brown Creeper; Pacific Wren (formerly Winter); American Dipper; Golden-crowned Kinglet; Rubycrowned Kinglet; American Robin; Varied Thrush; European Starling Sparrows: Spotted Towhee; Fox Sparrow; Song Sparrow; White-crowned Sparrow; Dark-eyed (Oregon) Junco Finches: Purple Finch; House Finch; Pine Siskin

To subscribe please call 604-947-2442 or email ads@bowenislandundercurrent.com

Friday, February 9, 2024

bowenislandundercurrent.com • A9

SwimBowen sign-up April MARY LETSON SwimBowen Save the date! The 7th Annual SwimBowen 750 and 1500 metre swim event in Tunstall Bay is Saturday, July 13 at 10 am.

If you love to swim, this is a superb goal for ocean swimmers looking to increase their endurance, or pool swimmers looking to expand their horizons and splash out in our aquatic backyard. Beyond fitness goals, SwimBowen is our not-to-be-missed island fundraiser for Bowen Island’s Cancer Care Fund supporting island residents in active cancer treatment.

To date SwimBowen has gifted $80,800 in Cancer Care Funds to our island friends and family doing the hard work of treatment.

Registration opens at midnight on April 1.

Spaces fill lickety split.

Big news! David Bellringer and Michael Henrichsen are stepping in as SwimBowen’s new event directors. These long-time islanders bring their passion for community, keen organizational skills, and a love for open water swimming (these two dudes swam around the entire island last year as part of their “just for fun, pre-event” experience).

All this comes wrapped up with a deep

appreciation for the healing power of the Cancer Care Fund. Their team leadership will take this adored community event to the next new level ensuring SwimBowen will remain a legacy event and fund to be celebrated for years to come.

Founder Mary Letson will remain as Chair of the SwimBowen Society and will lurk in the wings to assist the transition to the new event directors. Mary is looking forward to spending more time building her fitness business and leaning into her swim training as she will be a participant on July 13!

We are also improving the registration options this year with the addition of teams.

A great way to boost camaraderie and friendly fundraising competition, we are inviting corporate, family, and neighbourhood teams (and any other kind of team that comes to mind!) to register. Along with our other legendary fundraising prizes, the top fundraising team will also be recognized.

Details coming soon!

SwimBowen is also splashing out and feeling all grown up with the introduction of professional timing for the 2024 event. Don’t worry, we are not going all “downtown”. This won’t detract from the grassroots, community feel that everyone raves about. We are however improving the entire experience for both swimmers and volunteers.

Top 2023 fundraisers David Bellringer (left) & Michael Henrichsen (right) show off their finish line smiles at last year’s event. / Scott Robarts photo Previous events have been timed manually with volunteers at the finish line to site swimmers, call numbers and input swimmer numbers. It’s a tricky task. And not necessarily all that fun. The entire finish line organization will be hugely streamlined and de-stressed with this addition. Swim times will be available almost immediately. It’s a win-win-win for everyone.

Keen to be a SwimBowen Sponsor? Or volunteer? You can email swimbowensociety@gmail.com and let us know you would

like to support the event. We can’t wait to hear from you!

With all the new additions to SwimBowen, please know that the best things about SwimBowen will remain the same. The amazing range of swimmers coming from down the road or across the country, all united in their love of ocean swimming and caring for others. It’s all of you who are the constant. You are the core of the SwimBowen joy that buoys this biggest little event in the Salish Sea.

Enjoy our Homemade Burger plus fries plus beer for $15 before 5 pm daily.

JJ’s Kitchen and Bar 5775 Marine Drive

(across from the Thunderbird Marine)

604-926-4523 • jjskitchen.ca

Book now for

EARLYBIRD (discount) 2023 prices before April 6

2 for 1 (Thursdays)

Thursday rentals Apr/May/June

947 (for residents only)

$9.47pp 2-hr dbl kayak rental on Tuesdays in May/June

Bowen Island Sea Kayaking www.bowenislandkayaking.com

Friday, February 9, 2024

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

QUEEN OF CAPILANO FERRY SCHEDULE QUEENNEW OFSCHEDULE CAPILANO FERRY SCHEDULE IN EFFECT - JANUARY 8 - MARCH 2024 BCFERRIES.COM

BCFERRIES.COM SCHEDULE DEPARTNEW BOWEN ISLANDIN EFFECT - JANUARY 8 - MARCH 2024 DEPART HORSESHOE BAY DEPART BOWEN ISLAND 5:20 am Mon (except Mon Feb 19) Tue - Fri. DEPART5:50 HORSESHOE am Mon BAY - Sun 5:20 am MonTaxi (except Mon Feb 19)Saturday Tue - Fri. Water Service Only: 5:50 am6:50 Monam - Sun Mon - Sun Water6:20 Taxiam Service Mon -Only: Sun Saturday FULL BERTH CLOSURE 6:50 am8:00 Monam - Sun Mon - Sun 6:20 am Mon Sun - Sun 7:30 am- Mon FULL BERTH CLOSURE • Saturday, March 9 am9:05 8:00 Monam - Sun Thu Fri Sat, Sun, Mon, Tue 7:30 am Mon Sun - Sun 8:35 am- Mon • Saturday, March 9 (full day) 9:05 am9:05 Thu Fri Sun,Dangerous Mon, Tue goods amSat, Weds: 8:35 am Mon Sun - Sun 9:40 am- Mon 9:05 amonly Weds: Dangerous goods No passengers.

10:50 am Mon - Sun (full day) 9:40 am Mon - Sun Water taxi service will onlybeNo10:15 passengers. am Mon - Sun pm- Mon 10:50 12:00 am Mon Sun - Sun pm Mon serviceduring will beberth provided 11:25 Mon - Sun 10:15 am Monam - Sun 12:00 1:10 pm Mon - Sun- Sun Water taxi 2:55 pm- Mon 1:10 pm Mon Sun - Sun provided closure will follow 12:35 Mon - Sun duringand berth 11:25 am Monpm - Sun 4:00 pm- Sun 2:55 pm Mon 2:20 pm Mon - Sun of Cap regular closurethe andQueen will follow 12:35 pm Mon - Sun Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun, Mon,the Tue 4:00 pm n Mon - Sun sailing schedule.

Monpm - Sun Queen of Cap regular 2:20 pm3:30 4:00 pm Weds: Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun, Mon, Tue sailing schedule. n Mon - Sun No vehicle traffic is3:30 pm4:35 n Monpm - Sun Dangerous 4:00 pm Weds: goods only n Mon - Sun available n 4:35 pm5:45 Monpm - Sun No vehicle trafficon is this date.

No passengers.

Dangerous goods only n Mon - Sun n 5:45 pm6:50 Monpm - Sun available on this date.

5:10 pm Mon - Sun No passengers. n Mon - Sun n 6:50 pm8:20 Monpm - Sun 6:15 pm- Mon 5:10 pm Mon Sun - Sun Mon, Fri, Sat n 8:20 pm9:30 Monpm - Sun 7:40 pm- Mon 6:15 pm Mon Sun - Sun Taxi 9:30 pmWater Mon, Fri, SatService Only: 8:55 pm- Mon TODAY'S 7:40 pm Mon Sun - Sun Tues.

Wed. Only: Thurs. and Sunday Water Taxi Service 10:00 pm Mon, Fri, Sat Water Taxi Service Only: 8:55 pm Mon - Sun 10:30 pm Mon. Water Taxi Service Tues. Wed. Thurs. and Sunday Thursday and Sunday PUZZLE 10:00 Tuesday pm Mon,Wednesday Fri, Sat Water Taxi Service Only: Only: Tuesday thruService Sunday 10:30 pm Mon. Water Taxi 11:00 pm Mon. Water Taxi Service Only: Tues. thru Tuesday Wednesday Thursday and Sunday exceptthru Mar 8 it’s the ferry!

Only: Tuesday Sunday ANSWERS except it’s theOnly: ferry!

11:00 Sunday pm Mon. WaterMar Taxi8Service Tues. thru except Mar 8 it’s the ferry!

Sunday except Mar 8 it’s the ferry!

gnome i . matter what it is.. s...

People love a bargain!

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Friday, February 9, 2024

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CALENDAR

Saturday, February 10 Teen Advisory Group at the Library TAG is for teens who want to make the Library better for themselves and for other teens, and get volunteer hours too!

Drop-in from 1:30 to 3 pm. bipl.ca/tag Saturday, February 10 SKY Mahjong Players 55+, all skill levels welcome. 1 pm to ~3:30.

Mahjong is easier to learn than you may think, and coaching is available for beginners. Contact info@skyonbowenisland.ca for details and/or to reserve seat at a game table at Seniors Cottage.

Saturday, February 10 Rotary Valentine’s Dinner There are still tickets available for Bowen Rotary’s Fundraiser Dinner in support of the PEKA orphanage in Lesotho, Africa. Come enjoy a Mexican Valentine Evening.

The ticket includes dinner, a free drink, live music, and a silent auction. For information and tickets, please visit: https://shop.bowenrotary.com/shop/ Sunday, February 11 Book Donation Day at the Library 10 am until volunteers’ bins are full (no later than 12 pm).

A volunteer will pre-screen your donations while you wait and will accept those that meet donation guidelines. Donors will need to take back any items that do not meet the guidelines. Primarily looking for novels and children’s books. Find out more at bipl.ca/donatebooks Sunday, February 11 Bring Your Own Book Club at the Bowen Library A casual book club to discuss books you’ve read — old and new, loved or hated. Get recommendations and meet

We

Friday, February 9, 2024 other book-loving locals! All ages of adults and youth welcome to drop in. bipl.ca/byobook Monday, February 12 SKY Mornings at Bowen Court Stretch & Strength 55+ from 9 to 9:45 am. Then at 10:30 am, the SKY Speaker Series 55+ featuring Maureen Mackey on Resilience (Part 1). Runs till around Noon.

Monday, February 12 Regular Council Meeting 1 pm at Municipal Hall, or follow BIM YouTube channel.

Monday, February 12 Rotary Meeting Tim Rhodes, President of the Board of Bowen Health Centre, and Dr. Matt Blackwood will provide an update on the Bowen Health Centre, at the Bowen Rotary meeting at 7:30 pm at Artisan Eats Cafe. Everyone is welcome!

Tuesday, February 13 SKY Musical Movement 55+ at Bowen Court, runs from 10 to 11 am.

Wednesday, February 14 SKY Walk and Writing Workshop Meet at Bowfest Field at 10:30 am for the SKY Walk, lasts till around Noon. (Walk on Friday, February 16 at same time and place.) Followed by Craft of Writing (fiction) with Carol Cram at Seniors Cottage on Cardena Drive (Blue Cottage) from 2 to 4 pm. Please RSVP for the workshop.

Thursday, February 15 SKY Yoga Yoga at Bowen Court from 10 to 11 am.

Saturday, February 17 Garden Club Speaker Series Jack Oostenbrink will be talking about Pruning at the Legion, 1265 Scarborough Road. Doors open at 12:30 pm, with Jack speaking around 1. Free for club members, $5 admission for all others.

you for buying local.

Tuesday, February 13 Bowen Island Wears Red for Women’s Heart Health Heart disease is the number one killer of women worldwide, yet women remain underdiagnosed, undertreated, and understudied.

Bowen Island residents will wear red on Tuesday, February 13 in recognition of Wear Red Canada, a country-wide initiative to promote women’s heart and vascular health. As part of the 2024 campaign, several virtual events and activities are being held. Canadians are encouraged to take pictures with friends, family and colleagues donning red clothing and are invited to share their images on social media using the hashtags #WearRedCanada and #HerHeartMatters.

Wear Red Canada, now in its sixth year, is run by the Canadian Women’s Heart Health Alliance, a group of clinicians, scientists, allied health care providers, and persons with lived experience with heart disease from across Canada. The CWHHA is powered by the Canadian Women’s Heart Health Centre.

Heart disease is the #1 killer of women worldwide and it affects women of all ages. One in three women will die as a result of heart disease or stroke. Despite this, women are underdiagnosed, undertreated, and understudied when it comes to heart disease. Women and their health care providers are also under-aware about their risk factors and the common signs and symptoms of heart disease in women.

For more information about women’s heart health, WEAR RED CANADA and how to get involved, visit WearRedCanada.ca - Canadian Women’s Heart Health Alliance, shared by volunteer Zoë Rose

ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL INVITES YOU TO OUR

SCIENCE FAIR +

OPEN HOUSE

IT’S SURE TO BE OUT OF THIS WORLD!

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 14TH, 2024

Time: 5:30pm - 7:15pm Location: Island Pacific School

bus shuttle from

SNUG COVE

at 5pm and return shuttle at 7:20pm