FAMOUSFRIENDS Island Pacific Schoolhosted alively SpringHoedownlast Saturday, the dance servingasbothafundraiserand grandopening forthe ColinRuloff Community Field House, and agoodbye forheadofschool ScottHerringtonwho issteppingdownfrom the role afterthisschool year Someofthe Cowboys and Cowgirls in attendanceincluded(L-R)Graeme Saruk, Ross Allan, Walt Ruloff, and Anne&Chris Wilson. Moseyon over to Page27 to seemoreofthefun! /BasiaLieskephoto
ALEXKURIAL Editor
Bowen Island’s topadministrative staffmember will be swappingoneisland CAO jobforanotherafter the summer.
Chiefadministrativeofficer Liam Edwards made the announcementduringthe May27councilmeeting, nearly four years to the day sinceheoriginally beganthe role on May 25, 2020. Edwards saidhe’s accepted the CAO job in the town of Sidneyon Vancouver Island,a municipality of approximately12,000 people withinGreater Victoria.Prior to arrivingon Bowen, Edwards had worked withtheprovinceof B.C. fortheprevious14 years.
“It wasadifficultdecisionand wasn’t easy,” said Edwards during Monday’s meeting. He noted it would be especially hard to leave council, staff,andtheislandin general.
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AllCouncilmeetingsareopen tothepublictoattendin personorelectronically,unless notedotherwise.
June10,2024
1:00pm RegularCouncilMeeting
BIMistakingapplicationsforthe2024CommunityGrantcycle. Applicationswillbeaccepteduntil4:00pmonWednesday,June12, 2024.Council’sfinaldecisionwillbemadeinlateJuly.
TheCommunityGrantsprogramisintendedtoassistandencourage BowenIslandcommunitygroupsandorganizationswithintheterms oftheCommunityCharter.BowenIslandcommunitygroupsand organizationsaredefinedasthosewherethemajorityofthemembers residewithintheMunicipality.Communitygroupsandorganizations mayapplyforaCommunityGrant.
www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/community-grants/
TaxesDue:4:30pmonTuesday,July2,2024 10%latefeeappliedafterduedate.
PropertyTaxNoticesareinthemail.Ifyouhaven’treceivedyourTax NoticebyJune7,pleaseemailfinance@bimbc.caorcall 604-947-4255extension8.
ThebiggestsourceoflatepenaltiescomesfromunclaimedHome OwnerGrant.
Ifyouqualify,andyoupaythediscountedpropertytaxamount,you mustalsoCLAIMtheHomeOwnerGrant.UnclaimedHomeOwner Grantsareconsideredunpaidtaxes.Youmayqualifyifyourhomeis assessedatunder$2,264,000.
ClaimyourHomeOwnerGrantnowbygoingonline:
Youcanalsocall1-888-355-2700forassistanceorcomeinto MunicipalHallandwe’llhelpyouwithyouronlineclaim.
Ifyou’rethinkingofdeferringyourtaxesforthefirsttime,seeifyou qualifyat:gov.bc.ca/propertytaxdeferment
Questions?ContactourFinanceTeambycalling604-947-4255ext8 oremailfinance@bimbc.ca
This Saturday will see Bowen Island’s first publicPride event, a Pride Stride, Ride &Picnic!
Open to everyone,this event kicks off at the Farmers Marketfrom10am to 12 pm, withcrafts,bikedecorating, sign making, nail painting, book displays, andmore
Just afterthe Noonferry leaves, we’ll ride and stridedown the Multi-Use Pathway down to the Librarycornerandacross to the BowFestfield. Then we’ll have acommunity picnic,wherefolks areencouraged to bring food forthemselves to enjoy in the park
Folksarealso welcome to bringafinger food or snack to shareiftheylike. Games,a photo booth,andmore will make thisafun eventfrom1 to 3pm. Thisall happens rain
or shine, and we have twopicnicshelters bookedand some tentsin case the weather turns out to be more rainthan rainbow(just kidding, it willdefinitely still be rainbow,no matterthe weather!)
This eventis volunteer-run,funded by the Literacy Task Group, and supported by Bowen Island Community School Parent Advisory Committee, Bowen Island Farmers Market, Island Pacific School, Bowen Island Library, Knick Knack Nook, Village Baker, Tell Your Friends, Bowen Island Children’s Centre, andQmunity.
We hope to see youon Saturdayforone orall partsofthis event, joining togetherin support of all 2SLGBTQ+ folkson Nexwlélexwmand everywhere, andincelebrationofPride Month! Find outmore details at bowenislandpride.com
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“Butultimately it wasthe bestdecisionfor myselfand my family,” said Edwards. “I do want to thank everybodyforthegreat work and support that I’ve hadduring my timehere.”
Edwards will remainon Bowenthrough mid-August whilehecontinues to work on various capitalprojectsand turnan eye toward findinga replacement. “I’mglad to have been able to secure a September start date (as Sidney CAO) so that I can stay on boardherefor at least three moremonthsandhelp outas I may withthe recruitmentprocess(for a new CAO)andalso to try to bring some oftheprojects I’ve been workingon tocompletion.”
The CAO pointed outhe was particularly excited abouttheprospectof seeing the Community Centre completed and open beforedeparting.
MayorAndrew Leonardthanked Edwards forhis work withthe currentcouncil,the majority ofwhomentered their positions freshfollowingthe2022 municipalelection.
“Thank you for your valuableadviceand assistanceandprofessional backgroundin assistingthisnewcouncilas we gotupand running. It’s beeninvaluableas we’ve gotten ourfeetunder ourselves overthe last yearand-a-half,” said Leonard.
“Yourcompassionateand team-centred focusinleadingandtaking overthe staff team here was much needed,” added the mayor.
Thisfallthe BowenAgriculturalAlliance (BAA) will begintheprocessofdissolving, andthe two remaining board members, DavidGriffithsand Lisa Hollandare joiningincollaborationundertheumbrella of Bowen Island Food Resilience Society(BIFS) to strengthentheir work on theisland.
Forthe past 12 years, led by Sarah Haxby, BAA has been widelyknown asthegroup whocreated the Bowen Island Farmers Marketwherelocalfarmers, gardeners andartisansconnect withthecommunity to supportfood resiliencyandpromote information abouthow to grow food on Bowen Island.
BIFS isanorganizationthat ishome to backyard and market gardeners, climate visionaries, and community-minded islanders/volunteerswhoare working together to create a resilientfood system. Our currentinitiativesinclude
Grafton Commonscommunity garden, educationalprogramscoordinated with Island Pacific School, Island Discovery Learning Centre, and Bowen Island Community School,along with othercommunityinstitutions such as the Bowen Island Public Librarytalks, and Undercurrent articles.
We use science-based regenerativemethods, rooted in Indigenousknowledge and stewardship. We valueliving systems both in nature andin society-from restoringbiodiversity in the soil to buildingcommunity while working together.
The Bowen Island Farmers Marketis a perfectadjunct to BIFS’initiatives. The marketisopen every weekend(mid-May to mid-October)from10am to 12pm at Bowen Island Community School(BICS).
BIFS welcomes Davidand Lisa with openarms!
To volunteer with BIFS please email: bowenfoodresilience@gmail.com
And you canvisit our website at bowenfoodresilience.ca
Wowwhatapaperthis week! These32 pagestie arecordweset awhile back for total pagelength,anditisalwaysanadventure to revisitthat territory.Ofcoursethatmuch paper wouldnot be even closetopossible withoutthat much content, both editorialand ad-wise,sothank you very muchtoeveryone whocontributedthis week! Thepaper works becauseofyou this weekand everyweek, offeringuniquelooksintosomanydifferent areasofIslandlife.Ithink therewill be something for everybodyinthisfinal Island-Wide of May,and Ialsothinkitis very likelyyou’ll seeeitheranarticleorphotoofsomebodyyou know...andquitepossiblyyourself too!
Soonwewill turn ourattentiontothe June Island-Wideandoneof ourbiggest events of the year,theGrad Issue! More on that soon. Fornow,Ihopeyou enjoy this bigpaper alot. And ofcourse,readallthe wayto theendfor the Calendar becausenow that we’reentering thefull Summerswing hereonBowen,these weekendsaregettingfulloflocalevents!
Hope you all have an awesomefinish to May and we will seeyou rightbackhereinJune!
-AlexKurial, Editor
TheSeaLions continuetheir extended stayonthe variousdocksandpiers of BowenIsland -andtheyaresure to announcedtheirpresencetoo!/ LisaBroughamphoto
THEWRITESTUFF. TheUndercurrent encourages readerparticipationinyourcommunitynewspaper.Youmust include your fullname and adaytimephonenumber(for verificationonly). Theeditorreservesthe righttoeditfor clarity,legality, brevityandtaste. Please limit tounder500 words. HERE’S HOW:Tosubmita letter to theeditor,fax604-947-0148 ormail it to PO Box130, BowenIsland,BC, V0N 1G0 or emaileditor@bowenislandundercurrent.com
#102–495
Phone: 604.947.2442 Fax: 604.947.0148 bowenislandundercurrent.com DEADLINE foradvertising Monday, 4p.m. DEADLINE foreditorial Tuesday5p.m. BowenIslandUndercurrentSubscription Rates: Mailed 1year subscriptionon BowenIsland:$55,includingGST.Within Canada:$85includingGSTNewsstand(Single Copy)$1.50per copy,includingGST
ISSN7819-5040
All Advertisingandnewscopycontent arecopyrightof theUndercurrent Newspaper. Alleditorial contentsubmittedtotheUndercurrent becomesthe property ofthe publication. TheUndercurrent is not responsible forunsolicited manuscripts,art work and photographs.
National NewsMedia Council.
TheUndercurrent is amemberoftheNational NewsMedia CouncilofCanada, whichisanindependentorganizationestablished to dealwithacceptable journalistic practicesandethical behaviour.Ifyou have concerns about editorial content, pleaseemaileditor@ bowenislandundercurrent.comorcall604-947-2442. If youare notsatisfied withthe responseand wishtofilea formal complaint, visitthe websiteatmediacouncil.caorcall toll-free 1-844-877-1163 foradditional information.
Inmid-February of 2024, the West Vancouver SchoolDistrictannouncedthat it wasdiscontinuingthe Community School Coordinator position at Bowen Island Community School.
Thisdecision was made withoutany consultation withthe Community School Association, Parent Advisory Councilorany ofthe partnerorganizationsorcommunity supporting BICS -and withno senseofthe consequencesandimplications of terminatingthisimportant position.
We stand to losethe very heartof our Community Schoolinlosing our Community School Coordinator.
Thedreamof having acommunity school began50 years agowhenthe Bowen Island Community SchoolAssociation was formed in 1974. The Community School Coordinator position has beeninplace sincethe Community Schoolopened at 1041 Mount Gardner Roadin1980.
The roleof Community School Coordinatoriscomplex,asitbridges the needsofthe publicelementary school,as wellastheneedsofthecommunity. It is a positionthat weaves together many elementsfromcommunitydevelopment to schedulingandcommunication,grantwritingandproject management. Acommunity schoolcoordinator servestheunique needsof each community, schooldistrict and municipalitythat they serve.
Overthedecadesthere have been several Bowen Islandersinthe roleofcommunity schoolcoordinator,including Martin Clarke,Andrea McKay, Gail Gallander, Shelley Shannon, TealAnder,and Sarah Haxby. The work they have doneincommunity education,community services, buildingcommunityconnections,and serving thecommunityisimmeasurable. It isdifficult to enumerate everything that community schoolcoordinatorsdo, becauseitis such supportive, diverse work that benefitsthewholecommunity,often in ways that are behindthe scenesandthat can go unnoticed.
It isfeared that ifthecommunity school coordinator positionislost, that it will never be regainedandthat thecommunity school willnottruly be acommunity school withoutthe caretaker role of the schoolcoordinator.
Fromprojectsof beautification to practicalmeasures such as site improvements,for example:thecommunity-accessibleexterior washroomsand outdoor classroom as well ashelping withinitiatives such asimproving theplayground,thecommunity school coordinatoris a caretakerwhoshepherds andadvocateas wellas beingacommunicatorand schedulerwhocontinually balances theneedsoftheelementary school,the communityand recreation servicesforthe bettermentofall.
Thecreationofthenew Community Centre doesnotnegatetheneed of the roleofthecommunity schoolcoordinator. The Community Recreation will stilldependon using the gym, tennis court, grass and turf fields,undercoverarea,and perhapsthe multipurpose room.Arguably,thecreation of the Community Centre is a newfacetthat activatesandincreasestheneed foran on-site Community Schoolcoordinator atBICS,who willalsoadd balancingthe schedulesandneedsofthe two buildings to their existing work to ensure seamless andefficient and cooperative, balancing betweenthe two sites.
Many community schoolsexist beside communitycenters,andthe reciprocal relationship betweenthe two sitesisforthe bettermentof each Onedoesnoteliminatethe need fortheother; theyneed schedulesand parkingandthe ability to function synergistically betweenthe two sites.
Removingthecommunity schoolcoordinator positionfrom the Bowen Island Community School wouldmeanthat itisa community schoolin name only, withan off-site rental and scheduling systemproposed. The Community School Coordinator positionisessential to actively work on writinggrants schedules,communications, and maintainingand representingthe many needsofthedifferentusergroups.
To have acommunity school without a designated coordinatorislikea snailshell withoutthe snailinit,theshell stilllooks pretty butit’s hollow inside.
The Community SchoolAssociation wouldlike to suggestthat ifthe position of Community School Coordinatorisnot possibleasafull-time position currently, that the position be reduced topart-time, andthat theprocessof changes to thecom-
munity school occur withproperconsultationandthe chance to adaptand re-grow inthefuture. We object strenuously to the entireeliminationofthe position at this timeandareasking the West Vancouver SchoolDistrict to re-negotiate withthe communityand to planonhow to keep alivethevisionandthedesire to have the community school model at BICS for the next50 years.
Please show yourconcern by signing our petition athttps://www.change.org/CSA_ petitionand/or by attending our AGMon Monday, June10 at 5:30pm at BICS.
Thanksfor your support!
AmonthlyopenhousesponsoredbyJudiGedye, BIMcouncillorandIslands Trustee.
There’s abrandnewislander!AngelaandBrendanRobertson areexcitedtoannouncethearrivaloftheirdaughter:
Thankyou to allof ourwonderful neighbours,friends, and the Bowencommunityatlargewhohavesupported us with meals, well wishes,and baby cuddles.
This year’s CohoBonVoyageatthe Hatchery willtakeplaceonSunday,June2 from11amuntil2pm.
Childrenandeverybodyin the Bowen communityareinvitedtohelpBowen IslandFish&WildlifeClubvolunteers releasecohofryraised at thehatcheryintonearbyTerminalCreek.Thisis anopportunitytolearnaboutcreepy,
crawlybugsinourcreeks,thesalmon lifecycle,andtheimportanceof protectingcreeksandriparianhabitaton BowenIsland.
Funforallsopleasejoinin.See youthere!
Thankyou,
-TimPardee
Anne Francde FerrièreChollathelped Wren Blombergsend cohoontheir way at Terminal Creekduringlast year’s Coho Bon Voyage./ Alex Kurial photo
Many of you know Bob Turner, ourformer Mayor, retired scientist, andamemberof the Bowen Island Conservancy Board. Bob makesshort, beautifulfilmsinorder to share the storiesof wild natureand marine life in Howe Sound and beyond.
This week,on Sunday, June2, Bowen Island Church folkandmembers of the community will gatherin Collins Hall at 10:30am. Coffeeand goodies will be availablethroughoutthetime. Bob will be speaking on “Staying Put” asa way to helpheal ourplanet,followed by showinghisfilm”My Adventures withthe Wild of Home.”
Bobis passionate about keeping our surrounding waters and marine lifehealthyandwhole. He has been a majorcontributor to our Community, givingendlessly ofhistime,talent andtreasure Please comeand join us andhearand seewhat Bob’smessage ofconservationisasheencourages andinspiresus to tend to our backyard marinelife gardenof beauty and amazing abundance.
Hope to see many of you there. As always, allare welcome.
- Rev. LorraineAshdown Minister,Bowen Island United Church
Bob Turner received a community spirit award forsharingandspreadinghis endlessenthusiasm for BowenandHowe Sound’s natural worldin June2020. /Bronwyn Beairstophoto
The island was buzzing last weekend for thefirst BowenArts Tour. Spanning 21locationsandincluding 130artists,it wasanambitiousshowcaseofall Bowen has to offer across many differentartisticmediums, including painting, jewelry, music, poetry,and much more.
Organizersforthetwo-day eventincluded Marie Neys, JanetEsseiva, Liz Nankin, Julie Vik, JeanBradbury,and Claudia Schaefer.
MarieNeys & Darryl Deegan photos. Youcanfind more Arts Tourphotoson Page23!
We arenowacceptingCommunityProsperityFundapplications!Withthis fundingprogramprovidedbytheGovernmentofBritishColumbia,the BowenIslandCommunityFoundationwillsupport abroadanddiverse rangeoforganizationsadvancingcommunityprosperity,affordability, andsocialinclusiononBowenIsland.TheFundwillprovideoperational grantsfor charitiesandnonprofitsforprojectsuptothreeyears.Ifthis sounds like your organization, applybyJune24.
Learnmoreandapplyat: https://www.vancouverfoundation.ca/grant-seekers/find-grants/ community-prosperity-fund/ www.bowenfoundation.com/community-prosperity-fund/
Dr. Midge Ritchie(centre) wasjoined by the team at Bowen Veterinary Services last week- boththe two and four-leggedmembers - to celebrate her 5 Year Anniversary at thehelmoftheclinic. It wasalsoanoccasion to kickoffthe Linus Fund,namedafterthe beloveddogwho was a mainstay at the clinic and alsolast year’s Dogofthe Year. Theinitiativewillprovidesupport to families who are inneed of assistance with veterinarybills,withthegoalof making sure nobodyis forced to endurefinancial hardshipinorder to providethebest carepossible for their pet.Linus passed toosoon and is dearly missed by his family Bayley Faragher(thirdfrom right, seenhere with Plum) & JoshSkuce. Buthis memorynowliveson and will help aidmany pets andpeople in thefuture. For moreinformationonhow you can supporttheLinus Fund youcan visitthe Bowen Vet’s website or their social media accounts. / Alex Kurialphoto
Father's Day - June 16
Day- June16
Tosh has a truckload for your Man!
Toshhas atruckload foryour
Heworkshard &deserves some pampering
He works hard&deservessomepampering
Somethingforgrooming or soothing orforthe thirsty orthesweet &spicy?
Somethingforgroomingorsoothing orforthethirstyorthesweet
Tosh -Home & Garden 574 ArtisanLane Now open 7days a week!
Tosh-Home &Garden 574ArtisanLane open7daysaweek!
andphotos
Last Saturday Georghad hisfirst experience in commerce at the Bowen Island Farmers Market.Helovesfinding rocks,sohe wasselling variousspecimenshe collectedduringfamilytrips to Fraser River, Monte Lake, Vancouver Islandand Alaska-agates, jasperand dallasite. The rocks were tumbledand polished by Georgandhis dad. Themarket wasabigsuccess (withsome sold-outcategories)and Georgwilltry itagainsometimethissummer,under the name ‘Georg, the Bowen RockHound’. / Alisa Seminasubmission
Planninganislandgathering?
Here’sa littleguide tohelpyou get started
ConstructionhasstartedatSeymourLanding’s newestsubdivision.Thesesunny,southeast-facing propertiesarenestledintothecoastalbluffs aboveSeymourBay,offeringviewsoftheStraitof Georgia,Vancouver,andMountBaker.Located justashortwalkfromBowen’s9-holepublicgolf course,thebeach,andanextensivetrailnetwork.
BUILDPACKAGESNOWAVAILABLE
759Seymour BayDrive (Lot 8)
•1,400sf,self-containedmainfloorwith 2bedrooms, 2bathrooms.
•1,300sflowerfloor—finish noworlater.
•Optionalcarport or garage.
•Startingfrom$1,725,000 +GST (pre-construction price)
765 SeymourBay Drive(Lot7)
•1,900sf,2-storey, open-conceptliving.
•Multipledecks,includingcovered forallseason use.
•3 bedrooms +den,2.5 bathrooms.
•Optionalcarport or garage.
•Startingfrom$1,795,000 +GST (pre-construction price)
More BuildPackages availableat www.bowenislandproperties.ca
Cole Westersund
(PersonalRealEstateCorporation)
Cell:604-360-0793
Email: cole@landquest.com
Website: www.landquest.com/realtors/cole-westersund May2024. Thisis
MARCH/APRIL 2024
TIMRHODES
Contributor
Attheendof April2024, Bowen Island’s year-over-year (YoY)* change inthe MLS® HomePrice IndexorBenchmark Price was-6.5 percentlowerthaninApril2023, thehighestYoYloss for the same period whencompared to other MetroVancouver municipalities,and areflectionthe YoY Dollar VolumeofSales($67,544,800)down -10.9 percentfrom2023 and -47.0percent from2022.
Thegoodnewsforthoseplanningon sellingisthatyear-to-date (YtD)thevolume of sales($28,800,452) wasup37.9percent from2023andthe AverageSalePrice was up9.5 percent YoY, althoughthe average numberofdaysonmarketYoY was46days, doublethatattheendof February.
Sellersreturning to themarkethave pushedtheinventoryto50 homesand24 lotsforsale.The averagenumberofdayson marketforhomesis65,with10homeslisted forover100 days.Forlotsthe averageis 148 days with6lotslistedforover200 days.
Thehighestsoldprice YtDfor adetached home was$3,250,000for a3-bedroom,
2-bathroomhomeon a10-acrelotand the lowestsoldprice was$887,500for a3-bedroom,2-bathroomhomein Scarborough.
Salepriceswere9.5%lowerthanlist pricesover Marchand April2024compared to 2.3%lowerthanlistforthe same periodin 2023.
Whilethehigherinventory/greater selection should servetoencourage more buyers, sellerscan expectcontinued downwardpressure onpricesfrombuyers.
TimothyRhodes,REALTOR®
tim@rhodesonbowen.com
WelcometoHayesRoad –thelatestofferingatArbutusRidgeonBowenIsland.Thisthirdphase featureseasybuildsitesonflatlots,withtrails,viewpoints, the Westside Playground, and beach access allnearby-within walkingdistanceofKingEdwardBay orBowenBay.Hookuptomunicipal water. Eightlotsstarting at$550,000.
We’veteamedupwithSMStudio(smstudio.ca) to create aunique,contemporary design forLot 9*. Interestedinbuildingat HayesRoad?Please call formoredetails.
*listpricedoesnot includebuildcosts.
ArareopportunityinBowen’sHood Point West!This home offers 3bedrooms, 3baths, over1800sqft of decks,andviewsofHoweSound, Gambier, and mountains. WatchfortheLangdaleferry. Featuresinclude aprivatebalcony offtheprimarybedroom,anopenmezzaninestudio, and adouble-sided fireplace. Theperfect year-roundhomeor weekend getaway. Tennisanyone?
520SMUGGLER’SCOVEROAD
Offeredat$2,699,000
3Bed |3 Bath|Studio|2,555Sq Ft |1.28Ac
Thissparkling7-year-old CatesHillhalf-duplex rancher,has asunnysouth-facing lot,andis ashortwalk to Snug Cove,the ferry, andschools.Perfect foryoung familieswithallbedroomsononefloorand alarge deck forplaydates. Idealfor downsizing,withaleveldriveway,entry, and one-floorliving.Morestorage than youneed in thecrawlspaceand outdoor access forbikes, kayaks,andmore.
945RIVENDELLDRIVE
Offeredat$1,298,000
3Bed| 2 Bath|2,555Sq Ft |1.28Ac
Discover thisprivate4.94-acreproperty ashortwalkfrom BowenBay beach. Featuring aprotectedmossybluff,agentledriveway,and asunny buildingsite,it’sready foryourdream home.Adrilled well, powerand communications at thelotline, zoning foradetachedsuite with asecond driveway roughed-in, it’s perfect foracabin, guesthouse,orin-lawhome.
Offeredat$1,100,000
Acreage | 2,555 Sq Ft | 1 28Ac
Discover serenelivingwithbreathtakingviewsofthe Strait of Georgia,Pasley, and VancouverIsland. Zeninspireddesign featuresnaturallightallday,a cook’sdreamkitchenwithThermadorappliances,and Redl cabinets.Radiant in-floorheatingand cooling,on-demandhot water, and aTesla Powerwall backupsystem.Secure, comfortable,andsurrounded by naturalbeauty.
Thelivingand dining room, gourmetkitchen, family room,andthreelarge bedroomsallopenon to expansivedeckswith panoramicviewsacross Howe Sound.The den/office hasanensuiteandseparateentrance, idealfor working fromhome.Perfect forfamiliesordownsizing(suitepotential)andwithin walking distanceofSnug Cove and ferry. Spectacularsunrisesincluded!
ferry advisorycommitteeand members of the public.
ferry wasrelocated to fill in,Mumford said.
Times ColonistB.C.Ferries’relationshipwithferry-dependentcommunitieshasdeterioratedinthepasttwoyears,saysa report fromtheB.C.FerryCommission,whichrecommendsthe companytakesteps“tomakecustomersfeelrespected, heardandvalued.”
Thereportsaidthosestepsshouldbedevelopedinconsultationwithcommunities,ferryadvisory committees,First Nationsandotherstakeholders.
“ProgresshasbeenmadeinIndigenousrelations, while engagementwithferrydependentcommunitieshasdeteriorated,”thereportsaid.
Thecorporationwastoldtomakesureitsonlinecommunicationoncommunitypagesis“relevant,comprehensive andtimely,”aftercomplaintsthatinformationwasnotcomplete or current.
Followingaperformancereviewin2022,thecorporation hashad“mixedresults”inimplementingthe commission’srecommendationstoimprovepublicengagement, thereportsaid.
AlowpointcamelastSeptemberat aSunshineCoast meeting involvingB.C.Ferriesrepresentatives,the local
Emotionswererunning high whenone woman saidshe would take agun toeveryone.Citingan increasein aggressive and threatening behaviour, thecorporationshutdown in-personmeetingswithcommunities.
Those meetingsarenowbeingrestarted, with acode ofconductintheworks,althoughadvisorycommittees havesaid they were notconsultedindrawingup new securitymeasures.
DianaMumford,whochairstheSouthernSunshineCoast ferry advisorycommittee,saidshe does notexpect aquick fixtoimproverelationswithB.C.Ferries.“Alotofdamagehas beendoneand Idon’t thinkwecanjustquicklywipeawaytheangstthatpeoplehave on theferries advisorycommittees.”
Boththecommitteesandthecorporationneedtowork hard torebuildthatrelationship and “thatwilltaketime,” shesaid.
The mostrecent online meetingwas awkward, said Mumford, whoalsoleads agroupofadvisorycommittee chairs.“You don’twanttostepover theboundariesand you’renotnecessarilysure what thoseboundaries are.”
The mainconcernattheSeptembermeetingwhere the threatwasmadewasa reductionofsailingsafterthe ferry Coastal Renaissance waspulledfromserviceand alocal
Ritinder Matthew, directorofmediaandissuesfor B.C. Ferries,saidthecorporation isreviewing the commission’s report.“We takethisfeedback seriously andarecommitted to strengtheningour relationshipswiththe communities thatdependonour service,” shesaid.
The commission welcomed B.C.Ferries’movetoseek public input on the futureof the corporation initsCharting theCourseproject.
B.C.Ferriessaiditwillbeworking withcommunities to review feedbackfrom anumberofinitiativesduringthe next severalmonths,includingholdingvirtualmeetings with each ferry advisorycommittee togo over feedback. In-person communityworkshopsare scheduledfor June andJuly,Matthewsaid.
Acommunity prioritization panel, madeupofthe chairs ofadvisorycommittees,will consolidatefeedbackfromall the regionsintoonelist.
B.C.Ferrieshas been talkingto communitiesinthepast month aboutprojectsintheirareasandthatwillcontinue, Matthew said.
“Theseactivities arepart ofour commitmenttobeing responsive and transparent. We arededicatedtomaking meaningfulimprovementsbasedonthe feedback we receive from the communitiesweserve.”
JOHNGIVINS
Contributor
John Givins is the author of anew book of poetry, ‘Blowing Up GrowingUp’. John will appear at the BowenIslandPublicLibrary on Sunday,June 2at1pm, wherehe’ll be readingpoems fromthe book.Here, John sharestheintroduction from hisfirst book of poetry.
Istartedwritingpoems inthelastfiveyearsasa creativeescapeduringmy wife’smarathontrials with coloncancer.Theseyears havebeenpepperedwith badtimes andI’verarelywrittenaboutthearduousspecificsofhertreatments.Duringthisjourney, Ihavebeengracedto beatherside.
Instead,I’veaimedat depictingscenes, likenut shellsfilledwithcondensed milk,ofthesmallbeauties
fromlife’smosaics,everydaymomentsthatcelebrate theordinary,recountingmy pivotalcrazyyears,honouringfriendswho have gone beforemeandrecapturing ourfortunatetravelexperiences.
Ihavedressedmypoems inplainvisibleclothing, drawingthereaderinto somedetails I’veseen andworn, growingupin Vancouver.Somecameeasilyothers hadtobepickled in aglass jarwith special poetryvinegarforweeks and weeks. Thereare longones that Icouldn’tcutshorter andshortones Icouldn’t makelonger.
Formyfriends,thismay bethefirstpoetrybook thatwillgraceyour home sincehighschool. Ihopeit won’tbetheonlyone.Billy Collinssaidaboutpoetry“it doesn’tneedtobebeaten with agardenhosetogetthe meaning out.”
Trish,myincredibleedi-
tor-in-chief,hasdissectedandaugmentedthem, using her finestpoetry licecomb, directingcare towards thereader and clarifying,farmorethan justcheckingforcommas andcapitals.
Open it anywhere,atthe frontor theback or vice versa,there arepartsof me insertedhere.So, welcome reader,Iamhappy, gratefuland lookingforwardto sharing thistimewithyou. Wordsare weaktoexpress mygratitude.
Meet ourpetoftheweek, Jake!He’sthe most handsome goodboy.Loves thespaandhisMama.He lovesanycarride, awalk, thebeachandhe’llalways findthe rayof sunlight to toasthisperfectlyroasted marshmallow coat.Our Bowen Vetteamloves gettingto knowyourfurry companions! We encourage you to stopin attheclinic anytime to say helloandget afew tastytreats.For those whoare alittleanxious this is agreatwaytomakethe clinic ahappyplacetovisit.
BowenIsland,NexwlélexwmtotheSquamishNation, isnestledintheheartoftheUNESCOÁtl’ka7tsem/Howe SoundBiosphere.Thisislandisnotjustaplacewecall home;it’saliving,breathingtestament to thebeauty, strengthandfragilityofnature.
Ourcollectiveconnectiontotheenvironmentformsthe veryessenceofour community.It’sthis bond thaturgesus toprotectthe richbiodiversitythatthriveshere—amission that’sbecomemorecrucialthanever.
Inthefaceofincreasingthreatssuchashabitatloss, climatechange,andinvasivespecies,ourisland’s natural treasuresstandat acrossroads.Arewe,asa community,up tothe challenge of seekingawayforwardthatcan address thesegrowingpressures?Will we bebystandersinthe unfoldingstoryofourisland?Orinstead,itsguardiansand itsvoice?
ThisiswheretheCaringforNature:TheNexwlélexwm/ BowenBiodiversityConservationInitiativesees opportunity.SpearheadedbytheBowenIslandConservancy,this initiativeisalong-termcommitmentto biodiversityconservationplanning,actions andmonitoring– inshort,acallto actionforresidents,businesses,organizations,andgovernmentsontheisland.
TheConservancyhasassembledan outstandingteam includingprofessionalswithenvironmental,conservation biology,communications,research,natureinterpretation, planningandgeographicinformationsystemsbackgrounds, aswellastwoBowenIslandmunicipalcouncillors.Allour volunteersproudlycallBowenIslandhome.
Ourinitiativeisunique—itmarries rigorousscientificmethodswiththewealthoflocalknowledgeandpassionthatBowenIslanderspossess.Thiscomprehensive approachwillallowustonotonlyidentifykey conservation options andopportunities but alsoto understandthe constraints wefaceandexploreviable solutions.
The resulting biodiversityconservationplancanserve asacriticaltoolforresidents,developers,the municipality,businesses,and communityorganizations, enabling informeddecision-makingthatprioritizesournaturalheritage. This canbebiodiversityplanningdoneright;drivenby thecommunityforthecommunity.
Overthecomingmonths,you’llhearmoreaboutour efforts.Fromenlighteningarticlestoengagingeventsand evenaBiodiversityPhotographyContest.We’re making sureeveryonehasachancetobeinvolvedandinformed.
Thisfall,theinitiativewilltakeasignificantstrideforward withanopenhouseandthefirstinaseriesofpublicengagementworkshops.Thesegatheringswillbe youropportunity toshareyourinsights,learnaboutourscientific findings,
andhave adirectimpactontheconservationdecisionsthat canshapethefutureofBowenIsland.
ImagineafuturewhereBowenIslandremainsabeacon ofenvironmentalresilience,culturalrichness,andsustainableliving.Byjoininghandsinthisvitalcause,wecanwork toensurethatourislandnotonlysurvivesbutthrivesfor generationstocome.Thisisourchancetostandtogether, tocelebrate,andsafeguardournaturalheritage...andto CareforNature.
Formoreinformation,visitourwebsitebowenislandconservancy.org/biodiversity
TheBowenIslandConservancyisalandtrustandregisteredcharity,thatworkstoprotectandpreservethenaturalenvironmentoftheisland—fromendangeredcoastal bluffs,toinlandlakes,towetlandsandfens.
JoinUsforanInteractiveCommunityWorkshop
BowenIsland
Date: Tuesday,June18,2024
Time: 6:00-7:30PM RSVPforfulleventdetails.
We’vegatheredalistofthefeedbackwe’veheardfromyour communityandFerryAdvisoryCommittee.Nowweneedyourhelp!
Wewanttounderstandwhich,ofthemanytopicswe’veheardabout, aremostimportanttoyou.Joinusforaninteractiveworkshopand helpusshapethelistofyourcommunitypriorities.
LearnmoreandRSVPat bcferriesprojects.ca/bowen-island orscantheQRcodetolearnmore.
bcferries.com
SARAHHAXBY
Community School Coordinator/ BICSWestVancouverSchoolsBowen Children’sFair2024: Getreadyand setforfree,familyfun!
Games,music,activities,snacks, resourcetables,achanceto connect andsocializewithlocalfamiliesare someofthehighlightsoftheannualFamilyFair.FamilieswithchildrenfromBirth-5,aswellassiblingsandcaregivers, are invited totheChildren’sFairDayat Bowen IslandCommunitySchoolinthegym onSundayJune9, from10:30am to 12:30pm.Thisyear, thethemeis Kindness,whichissomethingwecan allbewhenwegettogether.
TheFamilyFaireventishostedby WestVancouverSchoolsandissupportedbystaff,volunteersandlocal communitypartnersincludingrep-
resentativesoflocal childcare.This eventismadepossiblethankstofinancialsupportfromtheprovinceofBC throughthe MinistryofEducation andChildcare.
Family-favouritekid’s musician‘Musicwith Marnie’isourfeaturedperformerforthisevent. Marnie’smusicinspires childrento getmoving!Priortoher success as aChildren’sMusician, Marniewas anEarlyChildhoodEducator.These daysMarnieisdescribedasoneof the‘BestPerformersofhergeneration,’bytheVancouverInternational Children’sFestival.
Familiesareinvitedtodance,sing along,snackandplay,aswellas tovisitthegameandactivitystations.Representativesfromvarious communitypartner organizations suchasBowenIslandCommunity Recreation,BowenIslandChildren’s Centre, theBowenIslandHealth
Centre,BowenIslandPublicLibrary, andmore,willbesharingprogram andresourcematerials forfamiliesas wellashelpingwiththeinteractive gamestations.
Markyourcalendarsforthischance togatherintheBICSgymtobuildcommunity and have fun together at thisfree,fun,familyevent on June9 atBICS!
The Bowen CiderHouse/Meadowbrook Market akaHub9 wasabustling destination duringthe Bowen Arts Tour. Participantstraversing to hubson different sidesoftheisland could stopin for a break and enjoysomecider,asnack,andof courseadiverse rangeofartists Someofthe talented folkswhoset up shop at Grafton Roadincluded(clockwisefrom top right)singer/songwriter Marysia McGilvraywhokept guestsentertainedwithamusicalperformance of original songs./ Tour co-chair and painter Marie Neys (left)joinedjewelleryartistEmilie Kaplun on asunny Saturday. /Jude Neale gave a spoken word performancefromher worksofpoetry-includingone with fellowHub9artist Nicholas Jennings fromthe pair’s recent book ‘Water Forget Its OwnName’. (Alex Kurial photos)/ KatrinaGrabner’s bright paintings broughtsomelight to a rainySunday. During better weather shealsogave a demonstrationon making encaustic wax to use forpainting. (Marie Neys photo)
Saturday,June8,2024 at CollinsHall, 1120 MillerRoad 10:45 a.m. Doors open for membership sign-up andrenewal 11:00 a.m. Annual General Meetingincluding electionofBoardmembers
Refreshments will beprovided.
ECCAwelcomeseveryone who livesin EagleCliff, includinglong-term renters,tojoin.Pleasecometoour AnnualGeneralMeetingif youwouldliketolearnmore about ECCA,whatwedo, andwhat isgoingoninour neighbourhood.
Questions?Contact us at eccabowenisland@gmail.com
TOP OFTHEIRCLASS The RockridgeJunior Girls SoccerTeamcapturedthe North Shore Secondary Schools Athletic Association2024Championship witha2-1triumph over Argyleinthetitle gameon May15. This followeda3-1win over Handsworth inthe semifinal twodays before. The championship team features four Bowen athletes,Grade10students Makayla Toews& HadleyShannon, and Grade 8 students Sophia Toews& Maya Menten-Schubert. Bowen coaches Inga Behm&Jill KennedyaddsomemoreIslandinfluence to the team by guiding thesquadas coaches. / Inga Behmphoto
HelpWanted @$45 /hr
VacationRental /B&BHousekeeping
Popularandbusyshort-termrentalnearKillarneyLake requiresanon-callhousekeeper toturn overthe mainhome and 2separateB&Bunitsbetweengueststaysthisseason.This position is well-suitedforsomeonewith ascheduleflexible enoughtodoturnoversbetween10amand 3pm. Formore detailsorto scheduleanon-siteinterview,pleaseemail: bowenhospitality@gmail.com
Tuesdaynight’s game wasarelativelylow scoringaffairforthe Fastpitch Leagueasthe Firemen poured cold wateronthe Shakers bats to secure a5-3 win.
After startingpitcher JohnnyFranklin startedthe gameoff with aperfectinning onthemound,he went on to helphis own causeinthe bottomofthe framebycrushing atriplewhichscored AdamFranklinforthe onlyrun of the1st.
TheShakers struck back in the2ndthough and tooktheleadinexcitingfashionasJesse Durrant sent a3-runhome runoverthe rightfieldfence to scoreDougDurrant and MikeV.Aftershuttingdownthe Firemenin the2ndthe Shakerslookedpoisedtoblow the gameopeninthe topofthe3rdafter loadingthe baseswithnobody out. But Franklin worked astrikeout, gotaground ball to the Catcher at homeplate, andthena popup to Adam at Shortstoptoget outofthe very tightjamand keephis teaminit. That defensivedisplay turnedout to be
massiveasinthe bottomof theinningthe Firemen plated 4runstotakethelead for good. Samand Adam Franklin reachedon back to back hits- Adam’s scoringSam -beforeJohnnystepped to the plateand drovehimselfandAdamhomewith ahome runtocentre field. Onemorerun would comeacross lateras Liam Zahara scored Ewan McEachernon asacrificefly. It turned outthosewould be thefinal runs ofthegameasthe teamsplayedoutthe final 4inningsscoreless. Whilethe Shakerslost, they showcasedsomeincredibledefense withanextremely rare tripleplayinthe4th -pulledoff by Charlie Welsh,Riley Culver, andAlex L-O- and a6thinningwhereDoug Durrant, whopitched all 6innings,struck out theentireside.
On the Firemen side,Corby Bernard enteredaspitcherinthe5thinningandonly allowed1hit and 4total runners to reach base,allowing 0runsand strikingout3.
-AlexKurial, Scorekeeper
CorbyBernard(#14)&JohnnyFranklinlocked thingsdownon the pitchers moundon Tuesdaynight.Franklinstartedthegame and held the Shakers to 3runsintheopening4innings,strikingout 3andfinding away outof aparticularlysticky situationin the 3rdwithoutallowinga run. Johnny alsoadded 3 RBI by workingthe extrabases hits,smackinga tripleandlateronahome run. Bernardpitched the final3 inningsand shutouttheoppositionwhile adding 3strikeoutsand workinga perfect6th inningtohelpsecurethe win.
Ourdeepbondwiththeenvironmentcallsustoprotecttherichbiodiversity that thrivesonBowen.Asthreats likehabitat loss andclimatechangegrow, ournatural treasuresneedusmorethanever. The Caring forNature initiative is acalltoactionfor everyresident, business, andpolicymaker on theisland. Together,wecan safeguardournaturalheritage
to getinvolved.
Contributor
Ispenttheweekendhelping out backstage oftheKelly KonnoYear EndPerformance. Backstagewasbuzzingwithdancersexcited toshowoffnumberstheyhavebeenpracticingsinceSeptember.
Therewasanervousenergybackstageasthedancerspreparedtoshowoff theirbestmoves.Anentirecommunityof volunteersrunningaroundfromroomto roomhelpingdancersgettotheirplaces ontimeandgetintocostume.TheBowen AdultDance(BADTeam) atthehelmof thevolunteers.
KellyKonnomadetimeinbetweenbeing onstagetoconnectwithallthedancersgiving highfives,bigsmilesandhugstodancersbeforetheyranonstage.
Therewerethreeshows.OneSaturday afternoon,Saturdayevening,andSunday afternoon.Thelastperformanceofthe daywasaparticularlyemotional one. Three ofeightdancersintheAdvancedTraining ProgramatKellyKonno’sareleaving becausetheyaregraduating andare leaving foruniversity.
WylieStiver,SydneyFlorin,andTaya
MoylshavebeendancingatKellyKonno’s Studioforsixyears.TheATPteamtrains fivetosixhoursaweekandcompetedin twodancecompetitionsthisyear. Having threegirlsoftheeightdancersleavingthe ATPteamleavesaholeinthedancestudio. Manyofthe dancerscriedastheydanced theirlastdancetogethertoEvermore,asong byTaylorSwift
Itwasemotionalforeveryone watchingas itwasaclear markofthepassingoftime.A reminderhow quicklylifechangesandhow manygoodbyes we sayas we grow up and growold.
Sayinggoodbyeto dear friendswhom wedancedandcompetedwithfor years.Goodbye toourmentorswhom we’velookeduptoandwhohavebeen ourleaders.Goodbyetoourchildrenas theygetreadytoleaveourhomesandgo touniversity.
Itwasabeautifulandtouchingshow. Weareallsoproudoftheperformers andgratefulforthepeoplewhoworked behindthescenestohelpthisshowhappen likeourCommunity SchoolCoordinator, SarahHaxby.
AbigthankyoutoThomasNewman and KellyKonnoforbringingthisincrediblestudiotoourcommunity.Ourheartsarefull.
KellyKonnoprovides some finaltipsandencouragement to herdancers beforetheytakethestage at the year endshow (above left). Whenthe performancescame to anend foranotherseason, Konno wasquickly surrounded by allofherdanceclasses forafarewell-afinalone forsomeofher graduatingstudents(below)./Brittany Yu photos
TheSpringHoedown at IslandPacific Schoolon Saturdaywaspartly agoodbyeforheadofschool ScottHerrington (right)whoisenteringhisfinalmonth at IPS.Hemadesurepeopleleftwithfull stomachsandsomenewdance moves too. Theeveningalsomarkedtheopeningofthe ColinRuloff Community Field House, namedinmemoryofIPSalumni ColinRuloff.Herrington,Basia Lieske, andCharmaine &ParkHeffelfinger, alongwithmanyothers,workedhardto makethespecialeveningpossible.
Q:DoesSwimBowenlimitregistrationforBowen Islandresidents?
A:No.However -withonly 75spots,thereislimitedregistrationforeveryone!Registrationis on afirstcome,first servebasis.Plantoregisterthefirstmorningthatregistrationopens(April 1eachyear)andyou will getin.
Q:WhyisSwimBowenlimitedtoonly75swimmers?
A:Ourboardhasdiscussedatlengthwhether ornotto expandtheevent.Wehavedecidedtokeepitsmallforseveralreasons: thevolunteerworktopulltheeventtogether issignificant. More swimmersinthewaterdemands more skilledwatersafetymarshalsandinparticularmore lifeguards. Wearealreadytappedoutin thisregard.Aswell, theeventissuccessfulwithourcurrent,small sizeso –as theysay“ifitain’tbroke,don’tfixit.”Lastly,keepingitsmall ensurestheeventmaintains itsgrassroots, communityvibe thateveryonehasgrowntolove.
Q:Whyaren’tthere separatedivisions forwetsuit/ non-wetsuitswimmers?
A:Weunderstandfinish timesareaffectedbywhether ornotyouarewearing awetsuit.Unlikefor-profitathletic eventsthatstriveforthehighestpossiblenumberofparticipantsandincludecompetitiverankings,SwimBowen’s not forprofitmandateistoprovidethebestpossiblecommunityexperienceforallswimmers(beginnertoringer) inthe simplestfashionwithlimitedresourcesallwhileensuring amplefundsareraisedfortheCancerCareFundsupporting
Island residentsinactivecancertreatment.Wecareabout yourfinishtimes(we haveprofessionaltimingthis year!), howeverfocusing on competitiveswimmerdivisionsisnot partof theSwimBowen mandate.
Q: Whobenefitsfromthefunds raisedatSwimBowen?
A:Allproceedsfrom theannualSwimBowenevent supportthe CancerCare FundforBowenIslandresidentsin activecancertreatment.
Q:CanIreceive atax deductiblereceipt formydonationto SwimBowen?
A:No.SwimBowenisnot aregisteredcharity,we are anot forprofitsocietythatisunabletoissuetax deductiblereceipts.
Q:WhyisSwimBowennot aregisteredcharity?
A:Ourboard continuesto look intotheprosandcons of charitablestatusforSwimBowen. The numberone reason wehaven’tswitchedtothisdesignationisthatwe would loseourcurrentflexibilitytoissue CancerCareGifts. Giftingcashis highlyscrutinizedbythe CRA(forgood reason).Charitable status wouldrequire applicantstofollow strict CRA guidelinesrequiringapplicants toprovefinancial needthroughdocumentationsuch asNOA’sandothertax return information- agifting model that makessenseforan organizationworkinginalarge metropolitan environment where individualscouldpossiblyscamthesystem.
However in oursmall community where everyoneknows everyone, Cancer Care Fundgiftingis atonce safelytargeted andconfidentialandcan bedelivered withindaystothose individuals whoneeditmost.CancerCareGiftamounts wouldalso be limitedif wewere adesignatedcharity. Could
we raisemoremoneyasa registered charity?Probably. However, ourfundraisingachievements to dateare laudable.Weraisemorethanenoughfunds tosatisfy every Cancer CareFundrequest thattodatetotals$91,300.
Q:I’ve had acancer diagnosis butI’mnotsureif Iqualifyforthe Cancer CareFund.What are your requirements toapplyforsupport?
A:As notedabove, SwimBowendoesnot require proof of financial need.Weknow youhave enough on your plate withouthavingto fillout reams of paperwork.Weknow toothatifyou areasking forhelp, thatmeans youneedit. Askingfor help ishard enough without someonequestioning whetheryou trulyneeditornot.Wesimplyask thatyou completea CancerCare Fund application(foundonlineat SwimBowen.com/cancer-care-fund)confirmingyou are aBowenIsland resident, astampand signature from your physician confirmingyourprescribedleveloftreatment, along withanindication of your leveloffinancialneed (scale of 1– 10).
CATESHILLCHAPEL www.cateshillchapel.com 604-947-4260 (661 Carter Rd.)
BOWENISLANDUNITEDCHURCH SundayMassat 9.30 ContactAngelaPowell604-947-2515 SHIRAT HAYAM(Song oftheSea) BOWEN’SJEWISHCOMMUNITY ShabbatGatherings ~Holidays Sunday Worship10:30am Rev. Lorraine Ashdown www.biuc.ca |1122Miller Road 778-688-2061 OFFICEHOURS WEDNESDAY10-4ORBYAPPOINTMENT Sunday Worship10:00 Rev. Phil Adkins Contactaryana.rayne@gmail.com •www.shirathayam.ca
Thursday, May30 to Sunday, June2
ThreeComedies by AntonChekov
Presented by Theatre on the Isle,experiencethree of playwright Anton Chekov’s works onthe local stage. Shows takeplacenightlyfrom May 30 to June2,all at Collins Hall starting at 7:30pm.
Saturday, June1
Pride Stride, Ride,&Picnic
Meet at the Farmers’ Market at BICS at 10am to decorate yourselfand/or your ride (bike/scooter/stroller/walker),and make a poster or button. Then,show yourpride as we paradedown the MultiUse-Path just after12pm. We’ll land inthe Bowfest fieldforacommunityPride Picnicfrom1 to 3 pm Joininforoneorallofthese events— everyone welcome! Details at bowenislandpride.com & on Page 3. Saturday, June1
Let’sChatinEnglish!attheLibrary
ADrop-In Conversation Clubfor English Learners Come meet withother English languagelearners at the Library, andpractice yourconversational Englishinthisfriendly space.Alllevelsoflearners welcome. Thisone-hour session isled by a volunteer withexperience teaching English to new speakers.Free,drop-in. Starts at 10:30am.
Saturday, June1
Judi Gedye Open House
Join Councillor Judith Gedye to talk about localissuesand enjoy sometreats at Collins Hall at 3pm.
Saturday, June 1&Sunday, June2
Tir-na-nOgShows
Tir-na-nOg’sannual Youth Festivalof Playsopensthis weekend with Before, Between& Beckoning, afantasyplay,
showing on Saturday evening at 7pmand Sunday afternoon at 2:30pm, at the Tir-na-nOg Theatre School,located at 585 RivendellDrive.
Sunday, June2
Coho Von Boyage
Comedown to the Hatchery to release cohofry into TerminalCreek. 11am to 2pm, more infoon Page 6.
Sunday, June2
Poet TalkattheLibrary
Talk withlocal poet John Givins who will be launchinghis new book ‘Blowing Up Growing Up’. Starts at 1pm Find out more on Page 21.
Tuesday, June4
Science of Happiness Public Talk
Afree publictalkonthe Scienceof Happiness froma Buddhist Perspective, with two guidedmeditations. Class tought by Denise Fitzgerald,takesplace at Bowen Court (1070 Miller Road)from7 to 8pm. Everyone welcome,write denisefitzgerald23@gmail.com to learn more.
Wednesday, June5
SKY Social Lunch
A sociallunch at ArtisanEats. Please RSVP to Info@skyonbowenisland.cafora ride- meeting at Seniors Cottage.
Saturday, June8
Round Bowen Race
Keepan eye outfor100+ sailingshipsintheannual Martin Marine Round Bowen Race(10am to 5:30 pm)!Or joinus,detailsandcrew bank at biyc.bc.ca - The race starts just offof Mannion Bay withthedirectionaround Bowen TBDthemorningof. BBQ to follow on the USSC lawnwith Black Molly!
Saturday, June8
Social Teaatthe Museum
SKYin partnership with Bowen Island Museumand Archivespresentsanafternoon tea social at the museum.
From1 to 4pm,comeenjoy treats andfun on the lawn!
Saturday, June8
TBCA Spring Wine Tasting Series
Tunstall Bay Clubhouse is holding a series of Wine Tastings. Come joinlocal winetravellers/enthusiasts Jennifer Strutt and DavidSmithand swirl, sniffand sip your way to new wineknowledge, winefriendsand somenew go-to winesforthe summer. Search “TBCA” on Eventbrite fortickets.
Monday, June 10
BICS Community SchoolAssociation AGM
The Bowen Island Community School CSAAnnual General Meeting willtakeplace at the school at 5:30pm. Saturday, June 15
Catching StarsCelebration
Comecelebratethe6thAnniversary of Catching Stars Gallery. Cheersto 6 years! From2 to 4pm at 479 Bowen IslandTrunk Road. catchingstarsgallery.com
Saturday, June 15
Summer Danceatthe Legion
Hiphop, RnB, soul andfunk music withDJsRhekand Big Rube At the Bowen Island Legionfrom8pm to Midnight. Tickets$15 at the Legion,proceeds to raisemoney for a Legion barupgrade.19+ event, members & guests welcome!
WEDNESDAYS
StorytimeattheLibrary
Afree,drop-inprogramof storiesand songs for2-4 yearolds andtheir caregivers! Runsfrom10:30 to 11am. Runs through June5.bipl.ca/storytime
SATURDAYS
Farmers Market
The Bowen Island Farmers Marketis back for the summer. Come sayhi to allthe vendorsand check outallthefood, crafts, clothes,&more at Bowen Island Community School Market runsfrom10am to Noon.
BowenIslandFishand WildlifeClub
Salmon Enhancement, Streamkeepingand Education(since1967)
will take place Sunday June 2nd,between 11 AM and2 PM at theTerminalCreek Salmon Hatchery in CrippenPark. Parking is availableacrossfromthe Public WorksYard andgas stationonMount GardnerRoad.
BowenIslandFish& WildlifeClub http://www.bowenhatchery.org