May 17, 2024

AURORA BOREALIS

Many Islanders were treated to a fantastic show last Friday night as the Northern Lights made a special visit to Bowen along with many places around the world. Those who stayed up late were rewarded with a view of the lights which is usually reserved for those who live much further north, making it a very memorable occasion. See more photos inside! / Chris Wilson photo

This year’s municipal property tax increase falls just short of a double digit raise.

Council approved a 9.5 per cent increase in the property tax for the 2024 budget. The raise will create $715,350 in revenue over the 2023 total. In real dollars per household this will mean an approximate $317 more on average, based on Bowen’s average home value of $1.585 million.

Chief financial officer Kristen Watson explained the tax increase was due to several factors. These included past deferrments of several projects which can no longer be put off, including work on the Carter Road Bridge and Headwaters Park Boardwalk. New equipment for the Fire Department is also a substantial cost this year, along with culvert replacements and dock and wharf renewal.

Reserve funding ($3,213,344) and debt servicing ($1,013,337) are also significant contributors.

The municipality’s Five-Year Financial Plan also includes 9.5 per cent raises in property taxes for 2025 and 2026, before dropping to four per cent in 2027 and 2028.

1970s SPLIT-LEVEL •RENO-READY

ALEX KURIAL Editor

Events

AllCouncilmeetingsareopen tothepublictoattendin personorelectronically,unless notedotherwise.

May 27,2024 1:00 pm

PublicNotice

Land Use Amendment 1034Miller

RegularCouncilMeeting

1:00pmonMonday,May27,2024

CouncilwillbeconsideringFirstReadingofBylawNo.652,2024atits RegularCouncilMeetingheldat1:00pmonMonday,May27,2024.This meetingwillbeheldattheMunicipalHallandonlineviaZoom.Notice ofFirstReadingisbeingprovidedasCouncilmaydecidetonotholda PublicHearing.

WHATISTHISAMENDMENTABOUT?

Thisamendmentwilladd“GeneralServices”tothelistofPrincipal UsesofLand,BuildingsandStructuresintheVillageCivic(VCi)zone Theamendmentwasrequestedbytheownersof1034MillerRoad inordertopermitthecontinuedoperationofaninsuranceoffice withouttheneedofaTemporaryUsePermit.Allpropertiesmarkedin blueonthemapwillbeaffected.

MOREINFORMATIONATMUNICIPALHALL:

TheapplicationmaybeviewedatMunicipalHallbetween8:30AM and4:30PM,MondaythroughFriday(excludingstatutoryholidays)or ontheMunicipalwebsiteat www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/planning

YOURCOMMENTSAREWELCOME:

WrittensubmissionsmaybedeliveredtoMunicipalHallby 11:00amonMay27,2024inperson,bymail,byfaxorbyemailto mayorandcouncil@bimbc.ca

VerbalsubmissionsmaybemadetoMayorandCouncilatthe meeting.

TheCouncilMeetingwillbeheldinpersoninCouncilChambersand onlineviaZoom

Questions?

PleasecontactDrewBakken,IslandCommunityPlanner,bycalling 604-947-4255ext233orbyemailatdbakken@bimbc.ca

Community Grant applications

BIMisnowacceptingapplicationsforthe2024CommunityGrant cycle.Applicationswillbeaccepteduntil4:00pmonWednesday, June12,2024.Council’sfinaldecisionwillbemadeinlateJuly

TheCommunityGrantsprogramisintendedtoassistandencourage BowenIslandcommunitygroupsandorganizationswithintheterms oftheCommunityCharter.BowenIslandcommunitygroupsand organizationsaredefinedasthosewherethemajorityofthemembers residewithintheMunicipality.Communitygroupsandorganizations mayapplyforaCommunityGrant.

https://bowenislandmunicipality.ca/community-grants/

CarterRoad bridge replacement

ThebridgeonCarterRoadhasreachedtheendofitsserviceablelife andisdueforreplacement.CarterRoadwillhavetobeclosedduring bridgereplacementthroughoutthesummerof2024

Whenisthishappening?

ConstructionisscheduledtostartJune24andisestimatedtofinish bySeptember4,2024

WorkwillhappenMondaytoFridaybetween7:00amand8:00pm(in accordancewiththeNoiseControlBylaw).

Whattoexpect

Theroadwillbeclosedtovehicletrafficonbothsidesofthe bridgebetween661and650CarterRd(CatesHillChapeltoBowen Children’sCentre).Constructionvehicles,workersandnoisewillbe presentonCarterRoadonbothsidesoftheconstructionarea. Pedestriansmayusethehikingtrailbelowtheconstructionareato cross

Thereisanalternateaccessrouteforthepropertieswestofthe bridgestartingfromthegravelsectionofCarterRdatMountGardner Rd.Temporarytrafficlightswillbeoperatingduringconstructionfor thealternateaccessatthetopandbottomofCarterRdatMount Gardner,aswellasdetoursignagepostedatbothCarterRdatMount GardnerandCarterRdatGrafton

Readmore:

www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/carter-road-bridge-replacement/

FireSmart Neighbourhoods

BABlackwell,aforestfireconsultantcompany,iscomingtoBowen. TheywillbepresentingonFireSmartneighbourhoods.

Theneighbourhoodrecognitionprogramisallaboutneighbours comingtogethertomaketheirneighbourhoodFireSmart.Every FireSmartneighbourhoodneedsaFireSmartchampion.

TheonehourpresentationwillbeanintroductiontoaNeighbourhood RecognitionProgramunderFireSmartCanada,thebenefitsof becomingrecognizedasaFireSmartNeighbourhood,andthestepsto becomearecognizedneighbourhoodaswellastoremainrecognized.

www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/firesmart-neighbourhoods/

Biodiversity and Bowen

BOWEN ISLAND CONSERVANCY

The Conservancy will soon launch a new initiative focused on Bowen’s biodiversity, Caring for Nature: The Nexwlélexwm / Bowen Biodiversity Conservation Initiative. Watch for information in the next few weeks.

Nexwlélexwm / Bowen Island is not just a place; it’s a living, breathing tapestry of Nature’s finest displays, from lush rainforests and dry coastal bluffs to streams and wetlands and vibrant marine life Those of us who call it home share a unique bond with the island’s Nature, a connection that goes beyond simple geography to touch the very essence of who we are.

So, we might ask, how is Nature doing on Bowen Island? When assessing the health of Nature in any place, whether Bowen Island or Borneo or our entire planet, scientists consider its biodiversity short for biological diversity as an important measure of Nature’s health and resilience. Biodiversity is the rich variety of life on Earth and it shapes every corner of Bowen Island, from the whispering trees of Crippen Regional Park to the rugged shores of the Wild Coast Nature Refuge.

It’s the mosaic of plants, animals, fungi,

and microorganisms, along with their genetic diversity and the complex ecosystems they form.

Nexwlélexwm / Bowen Island is a mosaic of different ecological habitats – mature forests, dry coastal bluffs, wetlands, lakes and streams, and intertidal shores. Each such habitat has its own mix of life; the more diverse the life is in each habitat, the more likely its ecological function can remain healthy in the face of the climate extremes that are coming.

Each species, no matter how small, has an important role to play and helps maintain the balance of the ecosystem. The decay of fallen trees, for instance, nourishes the soil, promoting lush plant growth which in turn supports a wider range of animal species.

The forests and marine plants of Bowen are more than just habitats; they are guardians of the climate, absorbing carbon dioxide and helping stabilize our climate. This natural process of carbon sequestration is vital in our fight against climate change, making the island not just a refuge for wildlife, but a player in global environmental health.

The value of Bowen Island’s diverse Nature extends beyond ecology. It is also the backbone of our local economy. Friends, family, and tourists visit the island, drawn by

its natural beauty, hiking trails, and wildlife. Their spending supports local businesses and artisans, who find inspiration in the island’s landscapes to create unique, beautiful crafts that reflect the spirit of Bowen. Conservation efforts such as controlling invasive species and protecting wildlife habitats not only enhance the local biodiversity but also serve as a living classroom for both residents and visitors. Local schools and programs leverage these conservation efforts to teach young people about environmental stewardship, instilling a sense of responsibility and reverence for nature that can last a lifetime.

As Bowen Island grows, the challenge

remains to harmonize human activity with the preservation of its unique natural landscapes. Biodiversity is not merely an indicator of ecological health but a blueprint for sustainable living. By cherishing and protecting our local biodiversity, we enhance our own quality of life and ensure that future generations can also enjoy the natural wonders of Bowen Island. This isn’t just conservation; it’s a commitment to life itself and our Bowen home.

The Bowen Island Conservancy is a land trust and registered charity, that works to protect and preserve the natural environment of the island from endangered coastal bluffs, to inland lakes, to wetlands and fens.

Sheree Johnson (left) & Will Husby (right) photos

VIEWPOINTS

EDITORIAL

Crowded Weekend

It wasfun workingwith the Bowen Island CommunityChoir to help lightuptheir Spring concertslastweekend (with IanDavidson’s assitance of course). It wasa wonderful medleyofsongs,voices and instruments,and a very impressive performance from guestconductor KipJohnson who came in with just a weekbeforeshowtime butstillmanaged to bringout the best from the choir’s many-dozen strong voices.Everyone who came to CatesHill Chapel wasinfor atreat.

This weekend is the Victoria Daylong weekend, so hopefullyyou plan to take advantage of thebreak either with some funhereon Bowen oratripoff-island. If you’restillaroundon Saturday, the FarmersMarketisopening for the season at 10 am.And after that you can head downthe hill to checkout therevamped Queenvs. GreenFolk Festival.

Thefollowing weekendisveryfull, as you will quicklytell from aglance at theCalendar There’smultiple dances to getyou moving, and also it’s the BowenArtsTourwhich runs both days and spans all acrossthe island.You can plan ahead with the tour guide whichcamein themail, and is alsoavailable around town.It’s goingtobefun exploringall of Bowen’s artistic talent;writers,musicians,painters, andmore.

Enjoythe holiday and seeyou next week!

-AlexKurial, Editor

Bowfest taking the plungethis year

It’sofficial,thankstoallwhovoted.Thetheme forthis year’s Bowfestparade is Underwater with 43 votes. Circusgot 17 and Geographygot 10. Theparade is goingtobeleaving following the 10:40 am ferry on Saturday,August24from the BowenIsland CommunitySchoolparkinglot.Pleaseend me an email (rob.wynen@ gmail.com) if you areenteringafloat andlet me knowifyou have anyspecial requests.

-Rob Wynen Bowfest

THE WRITE STUFF. TheUndercurrent encouragesreaderparticipation in your community newspaper.You must include your full name and adaytime phone number (for verification only). Theeditor reservesthe righttoeditfor clarity,legality, brevityand taste. Please limit to under 500 words. HERE’S HOW:Tosubmit aletter to the editor,fax 604-947-0148 or mail it to PO Box130, BowenIsland,BC, V0N 1G0 or email editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com

All Advertising and newscopycontent arecopyrightof the Undercurrent Newspaper.All editorial contentsubmittedtothe Undercurrent becomes the property of the publication. TheUndercurrent is not responsiblefor unsolicited manuscripts,art work and photographs

National NewsMedia Council.

TheUndercurrent is amember of the National NewsMedia Council of Canada, which is an independentorganization established to dealwithacceptable journalisticpractices and ethical behaviour. If youhave concerns about editorial content, please email editor@ bowenislandundercurrent.com or call604-947-2442. If youare not satisfiedwiththe response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the websiteatmediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 foradditional information.

FINCHAM, Francine

August 11, 1963 – November 15, 2023

It is with great sadness we announce the unexpected passing of Fran. She is survived by her children, Elissa (Jonathan) Kurbis and Tyler Maddison. Also survived by grandchildren Emily, Katie, Faith, Carson, Sophie & Saige Kurbis. Sister Jill Fincham and brothers Greg (Veronica) and Glen Fincham as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and amazing friends. Fran was pre deceased by her parents Jacqueline & Gerald Fincham. She loved to travel and spend time outdoors and had the biggest heart for animals.

Fran sold her home in Chemainus in 2022 and made her dream/passion to travel come true. She bought a motorhome and headed to Mexico. With the company of her dog Lola, she spent the winter enjoying the sunny days and the beach.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cowichan Cat Rescue.

A celebration of Fran’s life will be held in Chemainus on July 27 2024, 2-5pm. All welcome to attend.

Please call/text Elissa @ 403-854-1049 for the address.

ROOM WANTED

Iama PhDstudent,who worksand studiesfull-time,looking fora placeto rent starting June 1st. Asmall unfurnishedorfurnished room within $500 to $600 in asafehomeclose to theFerry.Willdochoresifrentmore than my budget.I have livedonthe island 4years.

3Bdrm|3Bath|2,555 SF Wrap-around decks.Arare opportunityinHood PointWest

Bryan Baker captured the Aurora Borealis show magnificently from King Edward Bay.

FINDING PLACE: Art inspired by love, wonder and the West Coast

ARTIST RECEPTION AT HEARTH THIS SATURDAY

PATRICIA ADAMS

Contributor

Bold colours, fearless strokes and dramatic contrasts these are elements that Danielle Adams uses to depict her special places. Finding Place, her solo show at the Hearth Gallery here on Bowen, runs from May 15 until June 2, with the artist’s reception held on Saturday, May 18.

Mountain peaks, shadowed valleys, log-strewn beaches are stylized, swirled and exaggerated under Danielle’s brush, yet these landscapes remain recognizable and familiar to the viewer. The love of nature and the wonder of where we tread are evident in her interpretation of the west coast, which is indeed “our” place.

Uniquely knowledgeable of the back country of the province, she is an avid mountain explorer regularly taking to the hills and valleys on back country skis. As well, she has spent time in northern B.C. where she was part of tree planting crews. Her enthusiasm for the outdoors informs her art.

Danielle chooses now to live in

Squamish where the chance to explore wilderness at close range allows her to bring a special authenticity to her paintings. Her commitment to art and her wonder of nature combine in this exhibit aptly titled Finding Place.

Danielle’s “place” would also include Bowen Island. She has a strong connection here, visiting with grandparents Pat and Bob Adams, and family over many years. Her early inclination for painting prompted her contributions to the Bowen gallery art auction.

Her first canvas submitted was in 2012 when she was 14. Since then, she has participated regularly in these events, having painted chairs for the Take a Seat projects and acrylics for gallery auctions since that time.

She is a member of the Federation of Canadian Artists and holds a Bachelors degree in Design and Illustration. In pursuing a career in fine art, she is currently represented by the Empty Wall Gallery on Granville Street in Vancouver In “Finding Place” it is fitting that her work will once more hang in our gallery, and she is profoundly grateful for the opportunity to bring her paintings to Bowen.

We are currently searching forastaffperson to join our team at the Hearth Gallerytoassist in administration, artsales,marketing and general operations.Agreat position to add to your resume!

Full time position: includes weekends and some evenings. MidJune to MidAugust

Application deadline: May24th at 5pm

Please forwardcovering letter and resume by email to hello@thehearthartsonbowen.ca

Canada Summer Jobs program:

Must be between 15 and30years of age,isa Canadian Citizen, permanentresidentorperson on whom refugee protection has been confirmed. TheHearth supports the EmploymentEquityAct.

Danielle with one of her vibrant, stylized landscapes. / Submitted photo

Introducing Bowen Arts Tour Artist Jean Bradbury

MARIE NEYS

Co-Chair / Bowen Arts Tour

Meet Jean Bradbury. Jean is one of the 130 local artists opening their home art studios or gathering at one of the 21 Art Hubs across Bowen Island for the arts tour called Here’s Bowen Arts Tour 2024.

Jean paints large scale murals as well as small intimate paintings and her diversity is inspired by her celebration of the richness of human life and nature. Her murals are featured across Canada and the United States and her paintings are highly sought after.

Here’s Bowen Arts Tour 2024 celebrates the arts on Bowen Island and is a free self-guided tour taking place the weekend of May 25-26, 2024, from 11 am to 4 pm.

We ask... if you lived on one of Canada’s most beautiful islands would you be inspired to make art? Would you paint the dramatic shoreline? Would you carve wood from the forests? Would you create jewelry that mimics the sculptural forms

of nature?

Swing by Jean Bradbury’s Studio (Art Hub 20) along with other venues to find out how the artists of Bowen Island are inspired by their surroundings during the tour.

The 21 art locations include artist’s studios, local homes, historical buildings as well as delightful venues - like our two cider houses, the picturesque golf course and several art galleries. What could be more inspiring!

Come and shop for art, crafts, paintings, jewelry, ceramics, woodwork, and sculpture. You can enjoy music, dance, and spoken word performances and choose from our many restaurants to refresh yourself. Enjoy your coffee and watch an artist create a painting or stop for lunch and listen to a musical performance. End your day with a poem read by one of Bowen Island’s celebrated poets.

Our website www.BowenArtsTour.com has all the information.

We are a small island, but our inspiration is mighty! And we want to share it with you

MARIE NEYSFINEART

Jean Bradbury will be welcoming visitors to her art studio during the Bowen Arts Tour later this month. / Submitted photo

VIEWS

Colours of adifferentkind -Ron Paley took apictureofthis vibrantlooking tree, while Breanna Himmelrightwas ready and waitingwithher camera when the NorthernLights made an appearanceonFridaynight.

MATHILDA

Meet Mathilda- or ‘Tillie’for short! This joyful, quirky girl is awhirlwind bursting with puppy energy and the latest addition to Bowen’s big pet community. She mesmerizes the whole staff with her sweet puppy eyes and gets plenty of cuddles and treats from everyone. Tillie is cominginto our clinic for her puppy checkup and vaccines. If you add a new furry familymember,we are happy to welcome them to our community and make sure they are healthyand got everything they need to stay so.Just giveusacall or pop by! We are open Mon -Fri 9am -5pm.

ThankYou Knick Knack Nook!

An enormous thank youtothe volunteers at theKnick Knack Nook forall their support and fundraising overthe past fewyears leading uptoand duringthe opening celebrations ofthe Bowen Island Community Health Centre.

They spent countless hours receiving, cleaning,reframing, researching, pricing, and mountinganart show of works forsale as partofour openingevents.This show plus previousauctionsales and saleswithin their storeraised over $20,000 and also acted as the catalyst for many private donations to HealthCentreFoundation.

There were many volunteersinvolved –toomany to name themall –but aspecial thank youtoKatherine Lawrence is in order. Katherine spearheaded the activitiesover the years and with the help of AnnRamsey, Cathy Bailey,and Donna Scorerwas instrumental in making the art saleatthe Health Hentre happen. Truly anotable community effort forour CommunityHealth Centre

With thanksand gratitude, -Tim Rhodes On behalf of the Board of the Bowen Island Health Centre Foundation

BICS students take classroom outside

SARAH HAXBY

Community School Coordinator / BICS

What a Great Day! There’s lots to learn all over Bowen Island.

On May 8 Bowen Island Community School (BICS) went on a whole school field trip. Classes went to one of three sites with trips to Endswell Farm, Cates Bay Beach and to the Bowen Island Golf Course. The outdoor, experiential placebased learning day was an opportunity to see how much there is to learn and do on Bowen Island, to build community connections, and to meet people in the community who provide services and make the island a better place.

Location #1 - Who’s Your Farmer and how much food can we grow on Bowen? These were some of the questions we wondered on our way to Endswell Farm.

Endswell Farm is one of the oldest working farms on Bowen Island, but with all the ongoing upgrades, restoration of the old buildings, and investment in newer assets such as the large greenhouse, the old Endswell farm is a dynamic, versatile and vital site that is steeped in its history, and also feels in many ways like the newest farm on Bowen Island!

Students went on a walking tour and saw real, working barns, the heritage farm house, and many farm animals including donkeys, sheep and chickens; all happy and out and about in a pastoral setting. Students got to see the workings of the market garden food production, the farmhouse garden and pastures.

The students also took a tour of the massive greenhouse which helps to grow food for locals to buy and eat at sites such as grocery stores, the Farmers’ Markets,

local restaurants, at-the-farm sales, and subscriptions of bins ready to go to peoples’ homes that are available through a Community Shares Agriculture subscription that people can sign up for to get weekly servings of fresh, nutritious, locally grown food.

Students met some of the friendly, hardworking and knowledgeable Endswell Farm staff and learned how some people live and work locally, but some people travel the world to work in farms to learn how to grow food! Students talked to a chef who works on the farm and got to snack on delicious fresh-harvested radishes, which were surprisingly mild, and chomped into delicious, tender lettuce.

The trip to Endswell Farm was a huge hit, and we really appreciate all the work that staff and volunteers put into making all the class visits possible. Thank you to the three generations of the Montgomery and Pryce-Jones family that helped with this farm visit: Rosie and Noah and a special shout-out to young Dillon for being a super host - not only just of his fellow classmates, but also for all the classes that visited!

Location #2 - Bowen Island Golf Course

Physical literacy skills, etiquette, and understanding golf techniques as part of the First Tee program in a magnificent outdoor setting was the expedition for most of the Grade 4-5 students.

A huge thanks to Katie Brougham and all her staff for organizing all the elements of the indoor and outdoor stations. Students got to learn, try and do in a well-organized, beautiful and accommodating site. Check out the Bowen Island Golf Course to learn more about golfing on Bowen, and how Bowen kids play for free.

Location #3 - Cates Bay Beach

Clean-up and Q&A with local diver and ocean-cleaning ambassador Amber Spitovski, and Margaret ButlerGutelius, a BICS parent and active community-volunteer who helped with the shoreline clean-up.

Amber gave a brief talk about the many years she has spent as a professional diver and how it has led to her personal passion as an eco-activist helping with cleaning up the sea around Bowen Island and the waters of B.C. Additional thanks to Bowen Island Municipality for being supportive of local clean-up dives and helping to remove the refuse, and thanks as well to Bowen Island Recylcing Depot.

Amber S. dove under water in search of examples of underwater garbage and talked to students about how garbage impacts our local ecology and sea creatures. Students combed the beach with Margaret to help clean it up while Amber was diving under water. Students learned about the impor-

tance of eelgrass initiatives, and the types of many creatures living in the intertidal zone, as well as underwater.

Students enjoyed the beauty of Cates Bay Beach and appreciated the opportunity to learn about what creatures live under the sea and how everyone can help to make the environment better. We can all help to stop littering and helping to clean-up as good citizens.

The whole school field trip was made possible thanks to funding from the BICS PAC (Parent Advisory Council), as well as funding from the CSA (Community School Association,) to help build community connections and explore how much there is to learn on Bowen Island.

Special thanks to Colin Turnbull for being the bus driver extraordinaire willing to take on a very complex schedule, and to all the BICS staff, parent volunteers and community partners for your support, flexibility, and help that made for a wonderful day of local, outdoor learning. What a great day!

SURVEY LOT1 COMMUNITY LANDS

How do we develop the nextfew stepstowards buildingnon-markethousingwithin the next 5years on Lot1 of theCommunity Lands?

Withthe supportofthe municipality -BIRCH +Tomo Spaces are workingtocreate a phased development plan for Lot 1. Please complete our quicksurvey(3-5mins) to letusknowyours thoughts. Closes May 20! useyourphone camera toscan theQRcode

Endswell Farm (above, Sarah Haxby photo) & Cates Bay Beach (below, Laura Magrath photo) were two of the stops during a field trip for BICS students.

FASTPITCH

The Cruisers used an explosive 4th inning toeventuallypull away from the Brewers on Tuesday night.

From the first at batthere were good omens that it mightbea strongnight forthe Cruisers as Keelan Hondroreached base and waslater drivenhome by aGrady Huskisson triple.Asingle by ClaytonHunter-James laterbroughtGrady himself home.Iishan Cruz scored on aRandyPoulinRBI in the home half of theinning, butthe Cruisers were rightbackatit in the2nd with 2more runs- another of them by Hondro, this time on aPeter Blomberg single -toopenupa 4-1 lead.

TheBrewers chipped away though and eventually tiedthings up in the 3rd. Pete Scottwas broughthome on adouble by James Strang, and lateranalertConnor McLeod took advantage ofawildpitch to hustle home from 3rdbaseand even things at 4-4.

Butinthe 4th the Cruisers took back the leadfor good with amax 5-run inning where theysent8batters to the plate. Benset the tone with aleadoff walk and wasthe firstto scoreona2-RBIsingle by Blomberg.Clayton sent Peteracrossthe platewith asingle, and fresh into the game Brad MacDonald smackedadouble to scoreClayton and his brother Erik to bringthe inningtoa

maximumconclusion.

Meanwhile on themound, Jamie Weismiller took over for Gradyafter 2 inningsand despiteallowing5runsinhis first2inningsofwork, closed thegameout with 3completeshutout innings of work, only allowing 2hits over that span. Despite the Brewerscuttingthe lead to 10-7, they nevergot anycloser-the Cruisers added an insurance runbyKeelan, his 3rdofthe game,inthe final inningto reachtheir victory scorelineof11-7.

Thewin moves theCruisersto4-1, which (as of Wednesdaymorning) tiesthem atop theLeaguestandings asall teamsapproach or pass the5-gamemark. The4-1 Firemen doholda significantrunsadvantage,they’ve crossedhome plate56times nowwhichis byfar the mostinthe league.The Cruisers 38 runs is 2nd though asthey’ve also proven themselvesanoffensive force.

TheDiggers are3-1 with 1lessgame played to roundout theteams with winning records.Behindthem arethe Twinsata game back of .500 at 2-3, and the Shakerssitting at 1-4. With Tuesday’slossthe Brewers fall to 1-5 so far

Upcominggames when play resumes afterthe long weekend include theBrewers vs.Shakers on Wednesday, May22, and Firemenvs. Twins on Thursday,May 23.

Hunter-James (#64) wasinazone during hisatbatsonTuesday.A very consistent zone in fact, as he hita single eachofhis 4trips to the plate for aperfect dayofbatting.Thiscreated apairofRBI’s and the Left Fielder came home to scoreoncetoo.Jamie Weismiller came in to take careof things on themound forthe final 5innings,allowing 5runs and shutting theBrewers out in the final 3inningswhen the game got close.Jamie also downed 3opponents with strikeouts.Atthe plate Weismillerhad asingle and reached base twice. Just 4Brewers batters came to the plate in the 5th and 7th, and Weismillerworked aperfect 1-2-36th inningtosecure the win.

Clayton

CABINET REFINISHING

Artist & Q A

We specialize in Protecting Your

This week apair of artists join the Undercurrent forQ&A. nextmonth. Jude Nealeand Nicholas Jennings arethe pair behindthe new book WaterForgets ItsOwn Name -which combines Jude’s poetryand Nicholas’paintings. Jude and Nicholas will alsoappearatthe BowenCiderHouse during theBowen Arts Tour laterthis month.

Jude-Whatinspiredyou to write this book,and what themes do youexploreinyour poems?

Iwas giving alaunchofmybook at The HearthGallery and ran into Nicholas Jennings, awellknown artist and painter of ourisland, Bowen Island. Because Ihave done over 30 collaborations, from jazz trios,dance, symphonies, EP’s, and amyriadofothers, Iwas also interested in marryingmyfourdecades livingand working on Bowen. Iknew thesubject well.

to create WaterForgets ItsOwn Name.

Love your cabinets, butnot howthey’reworn? GleamGuard offers asimple, cost-effective solution.Wealso refreshcabinets which costs less than refinishing.

Text cabinet pictures to 1-604-218-7470 orcall. www.gleamguardcabinetrefinishing.ca

Nick had movedhereand was captivated by the unique feeling of the island. Iasked him if he would consider collaborating with me on aPoetry/Artbook. He willingly said yesand we completed the book in amonth. This is our tribute to Bowen Island and itswonderful traditions and community.

Nicholas -How did youdecide on the paintings for this book and what do they convey?

IcametoBowen to refresh and heal.Ispent many hours drivingaroundthe island capturing the islandinall its sea-

Join a Climate Action Dialogue

Sustainable transportation

Transportation is theregion’slargest source of greenhousegas emissions.How do we makeit easier to movepeopleand goods around in this region without relyingonindividual vehicles?

Join the conversation,hearfromanexpert panel, andnetwork withothersustainably minded residents.Learn about solutions that will work in this region.

Surrey | May28, 2024, Noon–1:00pm Surrey CityHall

Vancouver | May30, 2024, 7:30am–8:30am SFU Wosk Centre forDialogue

Webinar | June 6, 2024, Noon–1:00pm

Optional 30-minute networking session with refreshments following in-person events

Registerfor an event using the QR code, or go to metrovancouver.org and search “climatedialogues”.

Jude Neale& Nicholas Jennings collaborated

sons. The paintings resonated withJudeina major way. It allowedmetoshow many of my painting techniques which provoked memories with Jude

Jude -Doyou have apoemthatstands outspecifically toyou,and why?

Yes IdoAlex. It is thesamepainting thatNickloved painting of TunstallBay.Incrediblepalletofbluesand thebeach. It is from this painting came this:

Skipping

When you were five, you’d skip flat rocks, and flick them expertly, into the mirrored sea. They left behind widening concentric circles— much like areflection of our own lives. You knew how to throw and release, amother’s greatest quest, the picking upand letting go, atruth so hard for me to learn. You once said, ‘just graze the surface’. When Idid, the stone skipped three, four, five times, across the sheet of gold. You took my breath away. For you were already reaching towards your future, with the flick of awrist, you were grown.

Nicholas -Same question as above abouta specific work, but for apainting.

Well Alex, Itoo chose the picturethat goestoJude’s favourite —Itwould be theblueTunstall Bayone, Iwould say.Inspiration for it is hardtopin down;however,itwas fairly early on in my stones-focused phase, and Irelished the idea of producing close-up detailand havingthat detail recede allthe wayback toward thesunset

Both- What is one (or some)place on Bowen you draw inspiration from?

The beaches and water,forests and roads,the ordinary and unseen

Both- You’ll bothbeatthe Bowen Arts Tourlater this month,whatare youlookingforward to at theevent?

Weare givinga PowerPointpresentationinHub 9(Bowen Cider House/Meadowbrook Market) on both May25&26. We will project on abig screen the book and Jude willdoa reading.

Both -Whatdoyou hopepeople takeaway from Water Forgets ItsOwn Name?

Thatparadiseisall around us on Bowen if you just lookcarefully.

DEPART BOWENISLAND

5:20 am -exceptSundays 6:20 am 7:30 am 8:35 am 9:35 am 10:40am 12:05pm 1:15 pm 2:40 pm 4:00 pm -exceptWednesdays 5:10 pm 6:15 pm 7:20 pm -exceptSaturdays 8:50 pm 9:50 pm 10:50pm

Tunstall BayatSunset, acrylic

CALENDAR

Saturday, May 18

Farmers Market Opening Day

The Bowen Island Farmers Market is back for the summer. Come say hi to all the vendors and check out all the food, crafts, clothes, & more at Bowen Island Community School. Market runs from 10 am to Noon.

Saturday, May 18

Let’s Chat in English! at the Library

A Drop-In Conversation Club for English Learners. Come meet with other English language learners and practice your conversational English in this friendly space. All levels of learners welcome. This one-hour session is led by a volunteer with experience teaching English to new speakers Free, drop-in. Starts at 10:30 am.

Saturday, May 18

Queen vs. Green Festival

Experience the traditional folk battle between the forces of Winter & Spring, reimagined by Bowen youth From 11 am to 1 pm

Saturday, May 18

Hearth Artist Reception

New works by Danielle Adams will be featured. Gather at the gallery from 6 until 8 pm to meet the artist and view her vibrant acrylics Learn more on Page 6.

Saturday, May 18

Canucks vs. Oilers Game 6

From Rogers Place in Edmonton it’s the first elimination game of the series between the Vancouver Canucks and Edmonton Oilers. Watch with fans at either the Bowen Pub, Bowen Legion, or Doc Morgan’s, all showing the games. Puck drop TBD. If the series goes to Game 7 the deciding game will take place on Monday in Vancouver

Decals will be available for sale at theSnugCove General Store from May 18th to May 26 h ONLY

Dro·poff will be done by appointment ONLY.

Onceyou have picked up your decal, you can call Bowen Waste Solutions @604-947-2255 to book an appointment.

The final day for booking appointments will be Tuesday,May 28th at 3:00PM.

Alimited number of appointments will be made available.

Drop offofmaterials will be inside the BIRD yard from Thursday, May 23rd to Friday,May 31st ONLY

Note: 1decal per household only.

ABSOLUTELYNO, Paint, Hazardous Waste, Tires or Drywall

Check out

www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca

Sunday, May 19

Book Donation Day at the Library

Starts at 10 am and runs 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 Find out more at bipl.ca/donatebooks

Tuesday, May 21

SKY Trek to Fort Langley

Experience the excitement of Fort Langley during a day trip with Seniors Keeping Young. Trip starts at 8 am, please RSVP to info@skyonbowenisland.ca

Wednesday, May 22 & Friday, May 24

SKY Walks

Meeting at Quarry Park to walk through Headwaters.

Saturday, May 25 & Sunday, May 26

Here’s Bowen Arts Tour

Celebrate the Arts on Bowen Island and join the free self guided tour Here’s Bowen Arts Tour 2024 runs Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm and showcases the art of 130 Local Artists (Visual, Literary & Performing) at 21 Art Hubs BowenArtsTour.com to learn more. Do the Tour!

Saturday, May 25

French Connections at the Library

Drop in and join us to practice your conversational French, and get to know other French language learners on Bowen Island! The focus is on beginner and intermediate speakers. Meets from 10:30 to 11:30 am. bipl.ca/French

Saturday, May 25

Hip Hop Gathering

Skinny Buff presents the Manifest Hip Hop Gathering, a free dance party in Crippen Park Family friendly live performances run from Noon to 7 pm Activities & giveaways

Saturday, May 25

Spring Hoedown

SPRINGCLEAN-UP 2O24

You’re invited to a Spring Hoedown dance party at Island Pacific School. The 19+ fundraiser will celebrate the Colin Ruloff Community Field House’s grand opening Guests will also be saying a fond farewell to Head of School Scott Herrington. So come saddle up for a rip roaring good time! Tickets $85 (includes meal) at Cates

Pharmacy & Phoenix

Saturday, May 25

TBCA Spring Wine Tasting Series

Tunstall Bay Clubhouse is holding a series of Wine Tastings. Come join local wine travellers/enthusiasts Jennifer Strutt and David Smith and swirl, sniff and sip your way to new wine knowledge, wine friends and some new go-to wines for the summer Search “TBCA” on Eventbrite for tickets Another tasting takes place Saturday, June 8.

Sunday, May 26

Garden Club AGM/Tour

Join the Bowen Island Garden Club for their Annual General Meeting and Garden Tour of Sunset Nursery. Takes places at 511 Sunset Road from 1 to 3 pm

WEDNESDAYS

Storytime at the Library

A free, drop-in program of stories and songs for 2-4 yearolds and their caregivers! Runs from 10:30 to 11 am. Runs through June 5. bipl.ca/storytime

Bowen Bridge

1:30 to 4:30 pm at Bowen Court. Fee $5 per person per session. Book by email (bowcates04@gmail.com) no later than 6 pm on Monday Also email for more information.

THURSDAYS

Babytime at the Library

A free, 1/2 hr drop-in program of songs, books, & rhymes for babies 0-18 months & their caregivers! Starts 11:30 am, join us afterwards, at 12 pm, for a casual baby & caregiver social hour. bipl.ca/babytime