SLUGGING IT OUT
The veteran Sluggers methodically made their way through all the competition over the weekend to go unbeaten en route to claiming the 2024 Bowen Island SloPitch League championship It’s the second title in three years for the Sluggers who were dealing in all departments from loaded bats to shutdown pitching. Check out Pages 10-11 for a recap of the tournament from Henry Campbell, and plenty of photos of all the ball field fun too. / Submitted photo
ALEX KURIAL Editor
More than three years since it was scheduled to be up and running, the Cove Bay Water Treatment Plant could be coming online within the next few weeks.
Director of engineering Patrick Graham provided an update on the project during council on Monday, offering the most optimistic timeline the plant has seen since its original commissioning in May 2021. “We should be on track to have the commissioning steps and all the testing that Vancouver Coastal Health requires before the end of the month,” said Graham.
Over the past three years numerous technical delays due to faulty equipment along with disagreements between the municipality and Purifics, the supplier of the purification equipment, have stalled the Water Treatment Plant (WTP) from coming online. New equipment arrived on Bowen last week, and Graham expects the chief technology officer from Purifics to be on-island next week for start-up and recommissioning of the facility.
AllCouncilmeetingsareopen tothepublictoattendin personorelectronically,unless notedotherwise.
September16, 2024 11:00 am BoardofVarianceMeeting
September23, 2024 1:00 pm RegularCouncilMeeting
BoardofVarianceMeeting
11:00amonMonday,September16,2024
ABoardofVarianceapplicationhasbeensubmittedfor860Captain’s Way(shownonfigure)tolegalizeanexistingaccessorybuildingby reducingtherearsetbackfrom7.5metresto1.1metres
MOREINFORMATIONATMUNICIPALHALL:
Theapplicationmaybeviewedonlineat www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/planning/ oratMunicipalHallbyappointmentbetween8:30amand4:30pm, MondaytoFriday,excludingstatutoryholidays Call604-947-4255ext6oremailplanning@bimbc.catomakean appointment
YOURCOMMENTSAREWELCOME:
WrittensubmissionsmaybedeliveredtoMunicipalHallbefore12:00 pmonFridaySeptember13,2024:
• Byemailtoplanning@bimbc.ca
• Inperson
• Bymailto981ArtisanLane,BowenIsland,BCV0N1G2
• Byfaxto604-947-0193
Toensureafairprocess,writtensubmissionscannotbeaccepted afterthedeadline.VerbalsubmissionsmaybemadetotheBoardat themeeting.
Questions?
ContactDrewBakken,IslandCommunityPlanner,bycalling 604-947-4255extension233orbyemailingdbakken@bimbc.ca
BIMhasavacancyforacasualpart-timePlaycareAssistant, supportingoneofBowen’slongest-runningandmostbelovedchildmindingprograms.
Thisjob-sharepositionisapproximatelyeighthoursperweek, withadditionalshiftsavailablefromtimetotime.Readthefulljob description onourwebsiteformoreinformation.
Interestedapplicantsareencouragedtosendacoverletterand resumetoKatStephens,HRCoordinator,athr@bimbc.caorin-person atMunicipalHall,981ArtisanLane.
www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/work-with-us
FireSmartassessmentapplicationsopenSeptember16,2024
BowenIslandresidentscanapplyforafreeFireSmartassessmentfor theirproperty.Onlyalimitednumberofassessmentsareavailable, andpreferencewillbegiventopropertyownerswhohaven’thadan assessmentbefore.
Onceyou’vereceivedtheassessment,andhavecompletedthework prescribedtoFireSmartyourproperty,youmayqualifyforarebateof upto50%ofeligiblecoststoamaximumof$1000.
TheFireSmartprogramisdesignedtoencouragelocal,self-organized groupsofneighbourstoimplementsolutionsforwildfiresafetyby engagingandsupportinghomeowners,communityleadersandothers insharedeffortstoprotectpeopleandpropertyfromwildfire.
www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/fire-smart/
Chimneyfiresareafrighteningprospectforanyhomeownerwho burnswithwood(orpellet).
Beyonddamaging yourchimney, chimneyfirescan spreadtoyourhome causinginjuryand deathaswellas extensiveproperty damage.Chimney firescanreach2000 degreesFahrenheit, whichishotenough todistortorcollapse metalchimneyliners.
Getyourchimneycheckedandcleaned!
www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/chimney-fires/
September13,2024
ALEX KURIAL Editor
The consequences of continued delays with the opening of the new Community Centre are beginning to manifest in various forms.
The Bowen Island Trunk Road facility, which will also be home to the new Municipal Hall, was originally slated to open around a year ago. Progress on multiple construction benchmarks has been missed since then however, and an estimated opening of August saw last month come and go without anyone save for construction workers regularly passing through the front doors.
“I don’t think anybody is pleased to see the Community Centre project drag on beyond this summer,” said chief financial officer Kristen Watson in an update to council this week. “There are continuing project delays which unfortunately have now pushed the planned occupancy date to mid-October,” she said
“It’s become a situation now that we have asked for regular weekly meetings with senior management of Signia to
come and review weekly progress with us,” said the CFO regarding the construction company in charge of the build. Municipal staff have met with Signia staff multiple times on-site during the last few weeks.
“We do feel that they (Signia) are listening and trying to be responsive,” added Watson. “They were quite frank with us that they want to see the end of this project just as badly as we do.”
In addition to a year of missed community programming at the centre, the delays have also had a financial impact with the project now estimated to be around $200,000 to $300,000 over the original $18.7 million budget. Much of this is due to continued consulting fees with architect and project managers. Overall this would reflect an approximate one to two per cent increase to the project total.
Regarding whether any of the overrun could be recouped due to the delays, manager of recreation Gillian Drake said it was unlikely due to the absence of a liquidated damages clause in the building contract. “I don’t believe that is a clause in the contract right now. We’ve been advised that it’s very challenging to get those funds back after the fact,” said Drake.
Aside from the financial burden, a new problem is looming as the municipality’s tenancy at their current Artisan Lane location runs out at the end of October. “Given that 100 per cent of the deadlines for this project so far have been missed, the level of confidence from this seat about the end of October being firm is in question for me,” said Mayor Andrew Leonard.
“We are holding them very much accountable for any further schedule slippage because we do have that drop dead date for us of Oct. 31,” said Watson, explaining staff are “holding them (Signia) to task by being very diligent about requiring explanations for delays, by really being on top of the schedule, and asking questions about how any changes or decisions made will further impact the schedule.”
“I think we’ve noticed that the contractor is more responsive and appears to be putting more resources into the project. They’ve added a new superintendent to support the existing one,” added Watson, though she noted the municipality will need to draw up a contingency plan in case they are left without a home at the end of October.
ALEX KURIAL Editor
Bowen Island meets the numerical requirements of a new housing law, but there’s still many questions about what type of housing that will look like and what the provincial government’s role will be in the process.
Over the next 20 years it’s estimated nearly 1,400 housing units will need to be made available on-island to meet the needs of residents while factoring in the province’s focus on developing small-scale, multi-unit housing. The catalyst for determining an exact number comes from Bill 44, which passed in the provincial legislature last fall and gave municipalities and other local governments until the end of 2024 to develop a Housing Needs Report (HNR) identifying the housing needs in their community.
The HNR projects housing needs for both five and 20 years down the road, and was calculated using a formula drawing from six main categories of current and anticipated population and residency numbers. Metro Vancouver Housing performed the calculation for Bowen Island. Once the initial HNR is complete communities have a year to show they have the ability to meet the 20-year target number.
In Bowen’s case this was 1,393 new units needed over the next two decades. This doesn’t mean that many new builds need to be constructed, rather that, in Bowen’s
case, the Official Community Plan and zoning bylaws could allow for that many to be units to be turned into available housing. The island has 287 vacant properties which count toward this total, as do around 350 units of upcoming development in the areas of Grafton Lake and Seymour Bay along with the upcoming BIRCH housing project on Miller Road.
Also factoring in the ability to subdivide nearly 700 lots to create primary and secondary units, Bowen more than surpassed its minimum mark with the potential for 2,008 new units on the island.
“Our current Official Community Plan (OCP) meets the numbers that we need, but I do think it’s a discussion that the OCP Steering Committee and council will have –does that housing that’s being provided for in our OCP meet the goals that we want as Bowen,” said manager of planning Daniel Martin.
“We’re free to plan Bowen as we see fit knowing that we’re not reducing the number of units in the OCP and that we’re still compliant with provincial legislation,” added Martin.
While encouraged by the island’s housing potential, Mayor Andrew Leonard said the province will need to show its commitment to building new infrastructure if they expect municipalities such as Bowen to successfully implement the new units. “I feel as if the province has some more work to do to translate this into actual on-theground housing… on Bowen that involves connections to water, you’ve got a Snug
Cove Sewer System that we have no idea how we’re going to pay for an upgrade for – and we can’t densify in our town centre until that happens – and connections to public transit. We know TransLink is beleaguered right now particularly with their funding from the province,” said the mayor.
“I would like to see from the province, just as some of my other mayoral colleagues in other jurisidctions are asking for, what is the province’s plan to fund infrastructure in municipalities so that we can actually get housing built.”
“There’s also a question for me
being on an island and being part of the Islands Trust, and particularly as we go through the OCP review and rewrite. what happens if we can’t sustainably build those? What happens if there isn’t enough water, what happens if because of the pressures related to climate change there are some basic infrastructure pieces that we just can’t make happen for that amount of housing?” concluded the mayor.
For now, work for staff next year will involve looking at the Land Use Bylaw to make sure all laws are set for the proposed zoning changes to meet the new units total.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
From there the WTP could be online by Sept. 30; “Assuming that everything works the way it’s supposed to,” said Graham
The extended delay was a main topic of discussion during a visit by Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) to council earlier this year. The Cove Bay water system was failing many of the organization’s treatment standards, including turbidity (cloudiness) levels and cyst reduction.
“Many of these concerns would have been ameliorated or eliminated with the new filtration plant that was supposed to go into Cove Bay,” said VCH medical health officer Dr. Alex Choi in March of the oft-delayed facility.
But, with Bowen’s largest water system serving more than 650 properties finally on the verge of a working plant, both VCH and the municipality expect Cove Bay’s water issues to be cleared up once the WTP is brought online.
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JUDITH GEDYE
Bowen Island Municipality
It was a small group at my Open House on September 7 with Alex Jurgensen joining to help field questions. I started with my usual: “What brings you out today?”
The first question was about Metro’s camping proposal. There is no update There are rumours that Metro is negotiating with Bowen Island Conservancy and their offer of $30 million, perhaps increased to $32 million. If there are any discussions, they must be happening in closed meetings: Metro has made nothing public.
Metro’s rezoning application has not resurfaced and we were not aware if they are considering any changes. The Regional Parks Committee Chair changed recently, which would be a major change for them, but it is unclear if that will have any impact on Metro’s desire for camping at the Cape.
Greenline Ferries, an all-electric passenger-only ferry to/from Vancouver to Gibsons, Bowen and possibly Squamish, is moving ahead with their plans, part of which is docking at Seymour Bay. Councillor Jurgensen reported that Greenline has an agreement with Translink to provide bus service if a terminal gets built on the south side. There was a recent public meeting by the developer of Seymour Bay to introduce their proposal for density housing It’s safe to predict something will be coming to council in the not too distant future.
There was considerable discussion about BC Ferries (BCF) First was a question why a water-taxi was not arranged for foot-passengers on Bowen when capacity was reached for those first loading and cars were left behind. The lack of staff and facilities on Bowen, lack of water taxis either in the fleet or privately, short notice, and a lack of planning for the return when there is high volume ticket sales. Bottom line: BCF has no budget or mandate, outside of emergencies, to arrange for water-taxis.
There are similar problems with implementing “priority” boarding and a separate lane for marshalling “locals only” on either side of the run. Another issue in Horseshoe Bay (HSB) was unloading a bigger boat part-way through loading Bowen. All the drivers who start their cars and the resulting emissions and work-safe conditions make unloading a priority. Reducing congestion by moving the Nanaimo run to Tsawwassen was suggested a few years ago but abandoned. Scheduling seems simple but with so many unpredictable variables, that too gets complicated.
Parking in Snug Cove, behind the commercial spaces, has been considered but the land belongs to Metro. Their renovations in Davies Orchard are taking forever, and, in my opinion, filling that heritage area with parking would be wrong. A member of the Ferry Advisory Committee pointed out that committee is neither a municipal nor provincial appointment, reports solely to BCF and serves as a path for information to BCF, but nothing more. It is hoped there will be good statistics from this summer made available by both BCF and Translink, and improved discussions to find even a few solutions in the complexity of issues.
In very broad terms, the contract for BCF services for Bowen rests with the Minister of Transportation. Council has a meeting with the Minister scheduled for the upcoming Union of BC Municipalities conference and we will have a strategy to best use that 15 minute opportunity.
There was an observation that on Sunday of the long weekend there was a group of three dozen bicyclists crossing the island. Cars could not pass and it was a very slow drive to the Cove. There are plans for the multiuse path route across to Tunstall, and grant applications submitted to pay half or more, nevertheless our share is expensive and the whole route will take a long time to complete. Options for the most difficult corner at Charlie’s Lane are being considered, but it’s not clear what the final result might be.
There were concerns about swim-
ming in Grafton Lake, and how locals and day-trippers are crowding in with total disregard of the no swimming ban – and why wasn’t there more enforcement? I wondered if so much of our local culture depends on an honour system and familiarity with local custom, when we are experiencing such large numbers of people new to Bowen, one-off visitors or home-grown ‘anarchists’, how we could educate and nurture our “lifestyle” since enforcement on so many fronts is unrealistic.
I’d heard of two visitors fighting over the last jar of marmalade at the Farmers Market, and how no-one interrupted their argument. I’ve been thinking that if two kids were arguing and it was noisy and upsetting to bystanders, I am pretty sure someone would interject. There are constant problems with the ferry line-up, and there was mention of chaos at the Government Dock with no wharfinger.
Why does it feel like we are mostly passive to the significant impact of tourists? That’s a rhetorical question, but still, if we want to maintain and improve our civil society, how do we do that? The role of the RCMP and our three bylaw officers was raised, and a suggestion of a summer work program for [a small army of] students.
The Community Centre completion date continues to be pushed out Alex and I both commented that we are looking forward to our next meeting (September 9) and an update. The issue of capacity in the new centre and prioritizing of programmes for children and/or seniors was raised. We need to get the space opened before we will have a better sense of programming demands. A question of competing interests was also raised about storage space for either paper files or costumes.
We finished on that note. The hour passed quickly, with a couple of new questions, many of the old nuggets and a relatively easy return to the business of politics on Bowen. Alex commented that my Mom’s oatmeal cookies were “delicious”. I hope you all had a great summer and welcome back!
Last week’s cover photo caption recapping the top local runners in the Handloggers Half Marathon missed Kane Murray who completed the course in a time of 2:27:25 to place second among all Bowen runners in the Men’s Race and 29th overall. Murray’s time was especially impressive as it was his first crack at the event. Sources say he had been training for months and the strong finish proved it. Congrats to Kane and every runner who took part in the Handloggers Half!
Abby
Becker photo
The “Share the Bounty” story about the Low Hanging Fruit initiative in the August 23 issue (Page 19) contained the wrong contact email. Please write to Hasan Hutchinson at lhfruit22@gmail.com if you are interested in picking and/or donating fruit.
PAM MATTHEWS Contributor
On September 15, 2024, Canadians from close to 600 communities across the country will participate in the 44th annual Terry Fox Run, continuing Terry’s dream of a world without cancer by raising critical funds for life-changing cancer research in Canada.
This year, approximately 3.6 million Canadians are expected to participate in the annual fundraiser, either with their local community or school.
Canadians are encouraged to register, fundraise, and participate in the Terry Fox Run to make an impact on cancer research.
All proceeds will support bold, extraordinary research across the country to end
cancer. Participants are welcome to walk, run, or stroll to participate in this iconic Canadian tradition and help raise funds for cancer research.
To learn more, sponsor a participant, form a team, or register to fundraise, please visit the Bowen Island run site at https:// run.terryfox.ca/bowenisland
If you have any questions or would like to help on the day of the event, please contact me at pammatthews633@gmail.com
The Bowen Island run will be held at the Collins Hall/United Church yard and the participants can choose their own distance along the Crippen Park trails or follow the 2 km course along the trails. Registration starts at 11 am and runs until 12:30 pm. Participants can start at any time.
On Bowen, all are welcome including dogs on leash!
An invitationtolearnmoreand share your thoughts
This fall, Bowen Island Properties intendsto submita rezoning application foranareaof Seymour Landing as a next step in creating a morecomplete community.
To help address afew immediate and ongoing needs—including housing options forageingin-place, supportfor our Island economy,and creating spaces to socialize—this areacan accommodate:
•A rangeofcompact,comfortable andattainable housing types and tenures;
•Neighbourhood-serving retailspaces, including small-scale hospitality uses;and,
•Indoor/outdoor spacesfor social gathering.
Giventhe capacity of existing infrastructure at Seymour Landing—includingpotablewater and sewage treatmentsystems—BowenIsland Properties is well suitedtoimplement thisvision.
Andwhile the largervision of Seymour Landing— including the potential foran electricpassenger ferrydock, health and wellness services, and more diverse housing options—continues to be Bowen Island Properties’aspiration, this “pilot project” can happen moreimmediately.
So… whilewehaveearly ideas about this area and the opportunity, we want to hear from you!
DROP IN FORANOPEN HOUSE
•Wednesday, September4 from 3–7pmatCollins Hall
• Saturday, September 14 from 12–4 pm at CollinsHall
LEARN MORE ONLINE
•Visit: rezoning.bowenislandproperties.ca (and pleasenote: this website willgrowasmore material becomesavailable)
Beautiful decor to warm up your home forFall &Winter
Unique gifts forall ages Gift registry, gift boxes gift wrapping, Island delivery Artisnn Square toshdecor.ca
HALF PRICEKAYAKING
Join us before the season ends forhalfprice paddlingonrentalbookings every Tuesday andThursday until Thanksgiving.
PurchasingArt Supplies at Marie Neys Fine Art callor email for appointment 780-720-5268
Marie@marieneys.com MarieNeys.com
Wemeet every Thursday at Collins Hall- 9:30 to 12:30 to paint, sketch,draw if you want to connectwith other like minded creatives...join the fun! $30 monthly or $10 drop-inthat to helps pay for Hallrental andother club costs. We also host workshops and other events. Contact Marie@marieneys.com or Shannonrondeau@shaw.ca
It’s back! Happy Hour for ourgreat Bowen customersdaily 3-6pm. Fridaysare Prime Rib night! We have daily lunchspecials anda weekend Fresh Sheet.
We love harvesting fruitand pickingvegetables from thegarden, and we love se ling produce at the Farmers'Market! Come join us on Saturday morningsfrom 10am to 12 noon at the Bowen Farmers' Market at BICS with otherlocal farmers, artisansand creative crafts. bowenfoodresilience.ca
in the cove
Whywait forSunday when you canhave Brunch everyday of the week allfalland winter long.
Organic +Eco Friendly+ Sustainable +Versatile Bamboo Clothing : West Coast Style formen and women designed locally. Artisan Square and 24/7 at movementglobal.com
Ready to get tattooed?
Check out our website to book in withKelly or Lacey
www.bowenislandtattooshop.com
We look forward to helping you decorate your earthvessel!
Email or phone: ntzharmonium@mac.com or 778-926-4286 Fall treasures for men and women arriving daily
NEWLOCATION
1037 Miller Rd-Unit 114
To sign up foramembership visit: www.thegymonbowen.ca
See youall down there!
Get decked outfor Fall in anew pair of Olukai’s. Premiumfull-grain waterproof leather effortlessly blends style andversatility.Perfect forWestCoast living.Available now at The UnionSteamship CompanyStore. Open 10 am to 5pm. New Fall home décorand holiday gift items everyday!
Bowen’sLow HangingFruitproject is in full swing! If you have fruit trees you are not using, or if you wanttodo some picking of fruit please join us for these great fall activities. Contact Hasan at: lhfruit22@gmail.com
Supportedbythe Government of Canada’s New Horizons For Seniors Program
Beginners to advanced 30 plus years experience. Only afew spots left.
Locals Night at the Pub…every Friday evening with Happy Hour from4-6pm and Live Music from6-9pm LOCALSNIGHT AT THEPUB
Our Fall programsare back up and running, andwe'll be on thepitch come rain or shine. It's still not too late to sign up andjoin at BowenFC.com
Photographers:Bogdan Gheorghe,Marcus Hondro, BISL& Teams
HENRY CAMPBELL Contributor
Seven teams. Three days. One torn calf. Many bruises and skinned knees.Injured pride. Big smiles.The Slopitch 2024 Tournament had it all The Bowen Island Slopitch League (BISL) Executive prioritizessportsmanship, inclusivityand fun. Their efforts were rewarded with astanding ovation on Saturday night. While theentire Executive is dutiful and hard-working, special attention must be paid to President (andmost Sportsmanlike Male Player) Lee Vincent who bothhates being singled out for praise andrichly deserves it.
All the coaches notice new players on other teams. We notice their skill progress, their baseball IQ develop, and (hopefully) their love for the game grow.Werootfor you —especially those playerswho found the game later in life.
There’s nothing quite like watching someonestruggle at the start of the season and then blasta triple over the head of an outfielder who underestimated them at the end. This year, Iwant to sing the praisesof some of these unsung heroes.
The Blu’s Coaches of theYearLindaGiusti and Peter Scott are dedicated andsupportive —though Linda is aYankeesfan (nobody’s perfect). The defending championscame intothe year-end tournamentputting up three wins in their final four regular season contests. The Phoenix took them out on Saturday but they had great seasons from rookiesJamieArnold, Ben Hart, GerryMiller and SherylMcKercy all of whomcame up with good plays in the tournament— but the most spectacular moment of all was Indigo Grant’scatch in deep centrefield. The crowdatSnug Cove diamondlosttheir collective minds as shetook away asure extra base hitfromthe Loggers.
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Pleaseemail your listing to Alex by Tuesday5 p.m. forthat week's edition.
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Bolstered by standout rookies Jessie Alder and Guthrie Gloag (who led the team in home runs and was voted Male Rookie of the Year) the ‘Combers had an excellent regular season, winning the League title with a 14-1-3 record. But a crafty game from the Burley Batters and a comeback performance by the Overloaders quashed their post-season dreams. They consoled themselves with the prestigious “Fun Points” award and the Legion dance floor. Police are still investigating the dance floor’s murder.
New bench boss Scotty Cooke had his squad in fine form this weekend, putting up an impressive win against the Basecombers and two gutsy efforts against the Sluggers and the Phoenix. Erik Helssen didn’t look a day over 45 as he pulled off a great double play at shortstop but rookie Paul Towne really brought his A-game. The 51-year-old hit .700 in the tournament and made several great defensive plays despite “leg carnage.” He also fought off a cougar attack with a rock in 2016. Off-island. Relax.
The always dangerous squad looked to rise from the ashes of an average regular season. From Wilson Dives’ expert fielding and infectious enthusiasm to Most Improved Player Daniel McGregor’s reliable smile at home plate, they have a lot of weapons but perhaps none as impressive as Danielle Savioz at shortstop. Savioz made a great grab, spun a 360, and fired a strike to Jay Layzell for one of the cleanest double plays the league has seen all year.
Coached by the four-headed monster of Rachel Klingler, Rich Ralph, Shannon Farley and Jesse Lyon the league’s newest team struggled out of the gate putting up a 4-14 regular season but they found their game when it mattered most. The improbable underdogs eliminated both the Phoenix and the top ranked Basecombers and made the semi-finals. Vanessa Gustafson had never picked up a bat or a glove in her life before
this season. She made clutch catches and good hits throughout the tourney and Agata “Aggie” Cibinski’s steady glove at home snatched away an in-the-park homerun.
Always dangerous, always fun-loving the Loggers are often considered the most talented and underperforming team in the league. But this year they bucked up past performances and cut right to the finals, narrowly losing to the Sluggers in a contest as tight as Iishan Cruz’s cut-off jean shorts. Female Rookie of the Year Chelsea Strang impressed everyone with her gritty play and dedication to practice. Strang blasted crucial hits, made high IQ plays and was a key part of the Loggers’ run to the finals. Veteran Courtney Morris was just as dangerous, from her incredible grab in deep right field to deadly left field line drives, she had other team’s outfielders in fits.
Oh, the Sluggers. What can you say about them that hasn’t already been said about Ozzy Osbourne? Indeed, everyone’s favourite senior players (average age 49.03, even including a 20-year-old) rode a crazy train through the playoffs to become Tournament Champions for the second time. The dynamic pitching duo of Diana “Dutchie” Jennings and Kevin “Kev” Manning proved unbeatable. Dutchie started each game and always gave Kevin the mound with a lead or a tie. Together they combined for an incredible zero walks in the entire tournament and caused a lot of great hitters to pop up or ground out.
As the dust settles on Snug Cove field this season, it is truly amazing how much so many people put into this league. From meetings, to practice, to scheduling, to coaching, to umping, to field maintenance (special shout out to Christian “Oda” Iverson at Metro) to full-on skills clinics (huge shout out to President’s Award Winner Bailey Hathaway whose dedication and love of the game are second to none) this league is truly one of the best parts of living on Bowen Island. May the 2025 season be even better
Dave Atkinson
Lauren Tufts
Stef Shortt
Brad Rypien
Kevin Manning
Suzy Casilio
Mike Kenney
Jill Kenney
Seanna Strubin
Jill Taylor
Greg Bosworth
Richard Wing
Shawn Ohler
Spencer Grundy
Diana Jennings
Becca Behm
Casey Grundy
Randi Topp
Jacob Sims
Andy Behm
Andy Rainsley
Evan Sims
Diana Ray
Cindyl Arnold
GREG GIBSON BowenIslandCommunityFoundation
The Bowen Island Community Foundation is pleased to announce $115,000 in fundingtosupport the Bowen Island United Church’s Collins Hall improvement project through the GovernmentofBritish Columbia’s Community Prosperity Fund.
The Community Prosperity Fund is a$25 million investment from the Government of B.C. that advances poverty reduction and social inclusion. The fund was announced on the inauguralB.C. Nonprofit Recognition Day.
This fund is part of the Government of B.C.’s commitment to supporting the non-profit sector and empowering local communities to make decisions about what would most benefit them and their communities. Through the Community Prosperity Fund, funded recipients have an opportunity to implementthe funding over up to three years and support operational expensesorproject delivery.
Since 1964, Collins Hall has been a hub of community activity on Bowen, aplace where Islandershave come together to enjoy performances, share skills and knowledge, convene
meetings, and celebrate eventsofall kinds.After sixdecades of providing this vital gathering space, the hall requires urgent upgrades to improve accessibility, safety, and long-term viability.
The CommunityProsperity Fund grant will be devoted to implementing arange of improvements to ensure thatCollins Hall remains asafe, accessible, and welcoming space forall Bowen Island residents and visitors for manyyearstocome.
Reflecting on theapplication review process, Community Advisory Committee chair Joanne Gassman recallshowthe committee was “so impressed with thenumberofapplications —all were well-thought-out initiatives thatwould havebenefited our communityinvarious ways.”
“Our task was adifficult one, however. In theend it came down to which project would have the greatest impact to theBowen community and we were unanimous in our decision to fund the proposed upgrades to Collins Hall,” said Gassman
For more information on the Community Prosperity Fund, visit theVancouver Foundation’swebsite.
Formore informationonthe Bowen Island CommunityFoundation, visit our website or email us at info@ bowenfoundation.com
communityeventsthroughout the year,including
It’s time for an encore!
The North Shore News is now accepting submissions for the second annual Coast Mountain Film Festival following a successful launch of the event earlier this year. The festival is a celebration of the vibrant and diverse filmmaking talent right here in our community via a weekend film festival.
Our community has become a hub for creativity and cinematic innovation, and we at the North Shore News love showing off that talent!
Who can submit
We invite local filmmakers of all levels, from seasoned professionals to emerging talents, to submit their original works for consideration. Whether you’re a graduate of Capilano University’s esteemed School of Motion Picture Arts, a local independent filmmaker, or someone with a compelling story to tell through film, we want to showcase the richness of our community’s cinematic voice.
Films must be produced by individuals residing or working in North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Bowen Island, Sea to Sky Country or surrounding areas.
Submission categories
The festival is open to films of all genres, including but not limited to narrative, documentary, animation, shorts and experimental works. We encourage submissions that highlight the unique character of the North Shore and its residents, fostering a sense of community and creativity.
Following the success of the inaugural festival in 2024, we intend to have specific screenings for environmental impact and outdoor/action sports. If you’re a mountain biker, kayaker or mountaineer and you’re holding onto amazing content from the past few years, let’s put it up on the big screen.
Important dates
Submission deadline: Dec. 2, 2024, 5 pm
Notification of acceptance: January 2025 Festival dates: coming soon. Follow us on Instagram for updates.
Submission guidelines
Submissions can be of any length, but preference may be given to shorter films to accommodate a diverse program. All genres and styles are welcome.
Films must be submitted electronically by the deadline. Submitters must have rights to show films in a ticketed film festival setting.
How to submit
Attendees enjoy the show at one of five screenings held during the inaugural Coast Mountain Film Festival hosted by the North Shore News in March and April of 2024. / North Shore News photo
To submit your film please email a link to publisher@nsnews.com. Please include a brief synopsis, filmmaker bio, and any relevant production details.
Selected films will be showcased during the festival, providing filmmakers with an opportunity to engage with audiences and fellow creatives.
The inaugural festival had close to 1,500 attendees over five screenings in March
and April of 2024, and we owe a big thanks to the participating filmmakers as well as our sponsors – we couldn’t do it without them. For inquiries, to become a sponsor or for more information, contact Matt Blair at publisher@nsnews.com
We look forward to building on the first festival and continuing to share the brilliance of the North Shore’s filmmakers with our community!
Friday,September
Friday,September13toSunday,September 15
Write on BowenFestival
Thefestival, sponsored by the BowenIslandPublic Libraryand the Hearth,ArtsonBowen, will onceagain bepresentingavarietyofworkshops,plus eveningevents onFridayand Saturday. Find more details online at www.writeonbowen.com
Sunday, September15
TerryFox Run
The44th annual TerryFox Runtakes placestartingat Collins Hall from 11 am to 12:30 pm.Check Page 6for all thedetails.
Sunday, September15 (& otherdates)
SKY Hangouts
Drop in at the Cottageon CardenaDrive.Wewill be offeringawelcomingplace to stop in foracoffee, tea anda treat while visitingwith fellowseniors or friends.From1to3 pm. Hangouts alsoSept.16, 17, 18, &20.
Wednesday, September 18
Community Choir Callout
Registration and practice continuesfor BowenIsland CommunityChoir at CatesHillChapelfrom7to9:15 pm. New members welcome; no audition, just bringexcitement!
To Thursday, September19
MountGardner Exhibit at theMuseum& Archives
Extendeddates! Visitthe Museum &Archivesfor “Mount Gardner Park:Art,History,FamilyTiesand theEastman/ McNeill Journey” .
Thursday, September19
BC LibrariesAuthor Talk
Following the successofher groundbreaking memoir ‘A
Mind Spread Outonthe Ground’, AliciaElliot’snew novel ‘And Then SheFell’has quicklybecome an award-winning national bestseller. Forthe first eventofthis fall lineup, join AliciaElliott in conversation with award-winningauthor Carleigh Baker. Virtual event, registervia Librarywebsite Runs from6:30 to 8pm.
Friday,September20
SK8Day
BowenRecreation breaks outthe ramps, rails,boxes,and wedges at Fire Hall #2 (WestSide).Get yourshred on!All ages welcomebut kids under 10 need an adult with them. Helmets aremandatory.FromNoonto2:30 pm
Friday,September20
Youth Equinox Party
Gettogether at the YouthCentretocelebratethe Fall Equinox. Food,music and funwill be had. This is agreat opportunityfor youngerand older youth to be introduced to theYouth Centre and what it hastooffer.Freeevent from 4to9:30 pm,moreinfoatbowencommunityrecreation com
Saturday, September21
SKY30YearAnniversary
Youare invited to aspecial celebration on BowenIsland! Join us as SKY marksits 30th anniversaryand officially opens itsSeniorCottage.Thismomentous occasion is the perfectopportunity to cometogether and experience the friendlinessand spirit ofour society! By attending,you will be supportingSKY’s mission to encourage wellness,connectionsand camaraderie amongstcommunity residents.From 5:30 to 8:30 pm,featuresappetizersand low-cost bar.
Sunday,September22
Tree Guilds Workshop
Help your fruittrees to thrive. Free workshop with Lisa Holland, PermacultureDesigner at Grafton Commons Garden (acrossfromGrafton Lake).Runs from 8:30to10:30 am.Registeratbowenfoodresilience.ca
Sunday, September22
EmergencyFirst Aid&CPR/AEDCourse
Ablendedonlineand in-person FirstAid course offering lifesavingfirst aidand cardiopulmonaryresuscitation(CPR) skills forthe workplace or home.Participants must completeanonline course priortothe in-classsession on Sept 22. Theinteractiveonlineclass will takeanaverage of 3-4 hours. Runs 9:30 am to 1:30pmatBowen Island Community School.Moreinfo onlineonBowen Recwebsite
To Monday,September23
Allthe Pretty Colours at theHearth
Artexhibit featuring oil paintings from Bowenartist MichaelEpp.
THURSDAYS
Join the Thursday ArtGroup (TAG) at CollinsHalltosee what’s new. If youare acreativeand wish to find other like mindedsouls,TAG meetsevery Thursday to sketch, draw, andpaint. $30per month to help pay forthe Hallrental. If youare new -come fora freeday to seewhat we are all about. Meetings from9amtoNoon. For further information contact Shannonrondeau@shaw.ca
SATURDAYS
Farmers Market
TheBowen Island FarmersMarketisbackfor the summer. Come sayhitoall the vendorsand checkout all the food, crafts,clothes, &moreatBowen Island Community School Market runs from 10 am to Noon.
Meet Matilda, ouralmost six-year-oldBerner-doodle. She enjoysher walks on thebeach and in thewoods of Bowen Island and has made manytwo-legged and four-legged friendsover theyears. Matilda loves comingintothe vetand eagerly hops on thescale for her treats and to see her doctor and theteam
reception@bowenvet.com 604.947.9247
Mon-Fri9-5 ClosedSat &Sun
