Emily van Lidth de Jeude has taken part in foraging since she was a child and has grown to love the activity. Emily says here on Bowen we are spoiled with an abundance of available food in the wild (such as here at the Cape) and she is looking to help others unlock the potential of what is out there. You can find out more about foraging from Emily on Page 20 (including how to take part yourself!) and also keep an eye out this issue for a tasty recipe from Emily too! / Markus Roemer photo
Beach access at Dorman Point to be restored
ALEX KURIAL Editor
Plans to replace a staircase will once again allow people to safely descend to the beachfront at Dorman Point.
After purchasing the property five years ago, Metro Vancouver expressed interest in fully connecting Dorman Point to Crippen Park. The location is already a popular lookout spot following a switchback-filled hike (or shorter trip up from the end of Robinson Road), and work has since continued on expanding the area’s trail network to reach the rest of the point including the beach.
This work involved a request to council for a development variance permit in order to construct a staircase to the beach which lies a steep drop down the neighbouring cliff. An existing staircase has fallen into disrepair and is very unsafe for use. Metro hopes to fully replace the dangerous structure with a new and safe pathway to the beach.
“The variance request appears to be low impact and will reopen public access to an attractive natural location,” said island community planner Drew Bakken.
In response to concerns raised over potential disturbance of wildlife, manager of environment and parks planning Carla Skuce said no forage fish habitats were identified at the beach area.
“I don’t think we found any forage fish eggs through the volunteer monitoring that people have been doing for several years As far as I can tell no harm is coming to our public beaches and nobody has raised alarm bells about that on even our most used public beaches,” added Coun. Sue Ellen Fast.
Future work by Metro at Dorman Point also includes a trio of viewpoints offering various views of Howe Sound, along with a weather shelter There’s no timeline yet though on these structures.
“I’m looking forward to this property at Dorman, under the management of Metro Parks, being open and ready for the public,” said mayor Andrew Leonard. “I think it’s a beautiful extension of equipment. For all of the challenges we’ve had with Metro Vancouver in regards to Cape Roger Curtis, I think their management and development of Crippen Park... over the years has been outstanding.”
The staircase variance passed in a 6-1 vote with Coun. Judith Gedye opposed.
A map showing part of Metro Vancouver’s envisioned plan for Dorman Point, featuring an expanded trail network and new structures The location of the new staircase to be built can be seen in the top left corner / BIM Map
As you’velikelyseenorheard bynow afederal election wascalledinCanadathisweek, with thevotetotakeplace in exactly amonth from this issue’spublication date.Tohelp us make adecision hereinour riding, West Vancouver -Sunshine Coast-Sea to SkyCountry,soon we’ll be sendingout aquestionnairetothe candidatesasking for their takes on Bowenissues. It will takethe format of the municipaland provincial ones you’ve seen in theUndercurrent pagesinrecentyears,and hopefullywill shine a lightonhow each candidatefeels aboutthe issues on ourisland, in ourriding, andpossibly in the countryasa whole.If youhavea question you’d liketosee thecandidatesanswer, pleasesend it ourway in the nextweekorso!
Beforeall the federal election excitement though thereisanother election righthereon Bowenon April5!Yes it is theSchoolTrustee By-Election for the West VancouverSchool District wheresomebodywillclaim the vacant school boardseat. Naturallythis vote carries abit lessswaggerthan theloomingfederal election, butitisstill one to keep inmindand hopefullyone we canimprove thenumbers for -schooltrustee by-election turnout percentages canoften be countedonone hand.
While it’s of course importantifyou havea child in school to knowwho is making decisions that will affectyourkid, if we zoom out thesechoices have awider effect too. Thekids in ourschools nowwill one daybecomeadults, and the paths theytakeare heavilyinfluenced by what theydid (ordidn’t)experienceduring their education. Whether we’re parentsor not, ourcommunitybenefits from all kids doing well in school, whichinturnisdetermined by whoismakingthe decisions thatimpact them. Though this is far from the most important election of April, it’s one wecan certainlytry andboost the turnout percentage forabit -AlexKurial, Editor
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CARTOONIST
VIEWPOINTS
The Slow Lane Chronicles
For years the Undercurrent ran a column written while on the ferry or in the Ruddy Potato, even while playing a soccer game
Writer Marcus Hondro won The Canadian Community Newspaper’s Columnist of the Year for it in 2011. One column that year was about something Bowen was then experiencing similar to what we’re experiencing now. Not a cougar, no, but a wolf, a wolf-dog, was killing sheep and pets at an alarming rate It was months before the province granted a licence for it to be hunted but finally it did and a hunter tracked and shot the unfortunate beast his first night here. Prior to that ending, ‘The Slow Lane Chronicles’ tackled the subject.
Wolf-dog Hunting Party strikes out on Bowen Island to confront the beast
WRITER OVERCOMES FEARS, CO-LEADER PEES
MARCUS HONDRO
Bowen Island Undercurrent
I am told there is a small chance of being fallen upon by the hybrid wolf-dog at-large on Bowen and I admit to possibly maybe being a bit afraid of going into the woods just now. I have more likelihood of being waylaid by my wife, but still.
The Vancouver Province associated the wolf-dog with the death of one of our “prized swans” but that is pure conjecture. Further, there was only one swan and, frankly, it was not prized but a nasty piece of work; I was attacked by it on two occasions, each time it rushed upon me from the water as I innocently walked along the lagoon.
But back with the wolf-dog, the National Post also wrote about it, claiming we are afraid of it and that Bowen Island is a community “under siege,” but that is hyperbole. Maybe we are under siege by the Parks Canada issue, but not by the wolf-dog.
To prove the Post wrong and show them that it’s life as usual around here, I am about to lead an expedition into the woods of Crippen Park We intend to teach the Post, and anyone else who questions our courage,
that we islanders are made of sturdy stuff
It is Wednesday March 2nd, 2011 at 8:05 a.m. and my team is assembled. I am company leader and with me on the mission are two 9-year-old boys, Privates Keelan J. Hondro and Benny Boy Welsh My co-leader is Goldie Wright-Urquhart, a dependable, enthusiastic and furry companion who possesses a rather weak bladder
In addition to the creature to be wary of – why do I keep thinking about my wife? –there is also the storm. The wind was blowing strong when the mission alarm clock went off but there is no turning back, stiff upper-lip, etc. etc.
Our neighbour Penny Wright, declined to accompany us while Kylee Lightbody, who, due to her spunky nature, would be a great asset should we happen upon the thing, will not be coming either. This is because Kylee got up late and will have to be driven to school by her mother, Carmen Lane Her loss is a blow, but we shall overcome.
Our mission is not simply to let the grievously uninformed, la-de-da National Post, any other detractors and the beast itself know of our resolve, but also to get Keelan and Ben to BICS on time. If we manage the second task it shall be the first time my son has not been late to school since November of 2009.
My father, who for years lived in the mountains of Arizona with a real wolf, lends us his walking stick for a weapon and warns us that if we encounter the thing not to look it in the eye for fear it will attack. I have the same policy with my never mind.
We meet Paul Welsh, the father of Pvt. Benny Boy Welsh, and he escorts us to the park entrance He declines to join our team, claiming he has something called a job - ??? – and must “get on the ferry and go to the office.” He wishes us luck, takes a photograph of the team for posterity and we shake hands Keelan, Ben, Goldie and I plunge headlong into the dark (not all that dark, actually) woods.
“Feel a little tense,” I write as we begin. “But glad to be underway.”
False start. Goldie must poo. Good place for it. Well done Right. Excellent. We are back on course. Keelan and Ben have taken the lead and, with my co-leader, will form a shield around me should the beast attack. This way I might continue to take notes while they fend off the hybrid creature, for any encounter must be chronicled and my human companions have only just learned to print
Bushwacking through the underbrush,
BITS 30x30 Returns!
BOWEN ISLAND TRAIL SOCIETY
It’s time for our annual April 30x30 – Get Outside Challenge!
Bowen Island Trail Society wants you to join us in getting outside everyday in April.
All you have to do is get outside for 30 minutes a day for the entire month of April.
You can hike, paddle, run, walk, ride, swim, chop wood, golf, garden etc. – the goal is to be outside and be moving!
We’re hosting some trail clean up days in April including a trail trash clean up with the goats.
New this April: Outdoor Enthusiasts Gear Swap, Sale ,and Fix it Fair - Saturday, April 26 at the Bowen Legion from 12 to 4 pm
Sign up by sending us an email at
more fun than taking the path, I lecture the three upon the importance of communication and how, for safety, we must stick together, but get no response. Goldie has begun in earnest to pee upon bushes and the young lads are engaged in leaping about and laughing.
At last, I get a report:
“Look, Dad,” my young charge, Pvt. Hondro, says “The only way we could get hurt is if a tree falls on us.”
I hadn’t considered that. It is windy. I instruct Benny Boy to watch for the beast, Keelan to watch for falling trees. Both ignore me completely – again, I think of my wife –but we continue hacking our way through the thick, thick brush (not all that thick, actually).
Before long, unlike Percy Fawcett and his two charges who searched for the Lost City of Z, we safely emerge back into civilization.
bowenislandtrailsociety@gmail.com and we’ll send you an activity tracking calendar and a schedule of these awesome events
And let us know what you get up to – tag us or send us your pics! There will be some great prizes along the way for participants (winners randomly chosen).
Participation is totally free for 2025 BITS Members or $10 for non-members
And don’t forget about our popular doggo category! Your four-legged friends can participate too. They just need to be getting out there for at least 30 minutes everyday Dog participants have free entry, but for a $15 donation can receive an official BITS-branded bandana when they sign up
See you outside Bowen!
Miller Road! Success!
Making our way along sidewalk, I exult in the knowledge that we have shown the elites at the Post that we islanders are not afraid and shall stick to our routines though let’s keep the cat in at night and avoid petting strange-looking German Shepards
In addition to our successful mission, Keelan and Ben have arrived to Mrs. McKay’s class on time I say goodbye to the young lads and thank them for their dedication.
“Sure, Dad,” Pvt. Hondro says “Just make sure that you watch out for falling trees on your way home.”
With my trusty, furry co-leader by my side, peeing on the tires of parked cars and oblivious to the danger we have just been through, I return by way of safe, tranquil, Snug Cove.
Goldie and I walk together and we are not afraid.
BICS “One Hundred and One”
ROGER BROWNSEY Contributor
It’s been a struggle lately, trying to stay positive with news so dominated by taunting, disrespectful comments and streams of lies. So I got lucky when my daughter threw me an unexpected lifeline. She asked if I had time to help with “101 Dalmatians” , a musical being planned by Bowen Island Community School. I had no idea how transformational this request would prove to be.
My task was to help with building the stage sets - mysteriously shaped pieces of plywood, some as much as 12 feet high. With limited wood-working skills, I wasn’t sure how much help I’d be, except I’m a willing go-fer.
However the team-planner knew a thing or two because the “skill guy” recruited to the set building team was one of the best Bowen carpenters. An initial discussion with the set designer, Eleanor, allowed us to get our plans figured out.
The following night, we met up at 5 pm sharp Jim the Carpenter was already soaked after a long day working outdoors. Even so, he arrived with a smile and a car load of tools. Over the next three hours all the boards were shaped, cut and ready for painting. More specifically, Jim did all the shaping and cutting and I carried bits back and forth.
By the time we’d finished the first few pieces, the painting team had already arrived and they got to work. They must have been working until the wee hours The next
day, once the paint had dried, the assembly team put it all together.
Fast forward a week and we all packed into the school gym for the performance. It was my first sight of the stage sets in finished form. Eleanor’s vision sprang to life as the various shapes transformed to provide the set structure and also to serve as the screens for projected images. It was a stroke of genius, with various pictures producing the backdrop of the musical. But the physical set-up was just the tip of the iceberg.
What followed in the next hour (it seemed like five minutes) was truly inspirational. In most of the school shows we’d seen before, each grade made individual contributions but this show was different. This was a full ensemble production, with 100 or more students involved in the nonstop action.
The costumes alone must have taken the work of a small army. Full-length white onesies decorated with black spots, paws, ears and tails. Not to mention the other breeds including the boxers (with boxing gloves, of course) and Scots terriers clad in tartan and kilts. Kids of all ages and sizes decked out as puppies and full-grown dogs. Fan favourite Cruella de Ville was unspeakably evil!
The sight of all the creatures was only surpassed by the stream of music and dance routines. The school staff must have spent countless hours coaching and encouraging the kids to learn the words, the dance moves and the team coordination to get on stage at the right moment and then to melt away as the next act came alive.
It was seamless and left an enthralled audience cheering
Hard work during rehearsals made for a wonderful performance of 101 Dalmatians. / Alex Kurial photo
and clapping in a standing ovation. The energy and unbridled excitement of the kids was something else.
Even though the show was a most enjoyable community event, it also struck me as a microcosm of something bigger. It showed how much can be achieved when a community of generous folk with vision and enthusiasm pulls together. It was a perfect antidote to the everyday nastiness we hear so often.
SwimBowen Registration opens April 1!
MARY LETSON SwimBowen
Registration for the 8th Annual SwimBowen Fundraiser opens April 1 at 10 am for 75 lucky swimmers!
The swim is on Saturday, July 12 at 10 am with registrants swimming either 750 metres or 1500 metres in Tunstall Bay. We sell out quickly, so hop onto swimbowen.com to register early to avoid disappointment!
All proceeds benefit the SwimBowen Cancer Care Fund, supporting Bowen Island residents in active cancer treatment. Thanks to all of you, to date the Cancer Care Fund has gifted a remarkable $145,000 in cancer care gifts.
Thanks to our amazing community and corporate sponsors, we will celebrate event day with an awards ceremony bursting with prizes recognizing the top overall finishers in both the 1500 and 750 metre events, fun draw prizes, and a deluxe three night Whistler Getaway for the top single fundraiser
Want to register as a team? We’ve got you covered. Teams of up to 4 swimmers can register with the top fundraising team winning - you guessed it - a great prize. How it works: the team captain registers first and registers the team name.
Team members can then register, search for their team name and join.
Do team members have to swim the same distance? No! What if I want to switch teams? No problem These details can be edited after registration.
Chip timing is back! SwimBowen is feeling all grown up with professional timing. Like last year, this addition was a game changer for both swimmers and volunteers improving the overall event experience for everyone.
We are again offering FREE registration to those swimmers raising $400+ on their SwimBowen fundraising page. Every participant has an online page to customize with a photo, a fundraising goal, and an opportunity to tell us what lights you up about ocean swimming and SwimBowen.
Or heck, tell us a big beautiful story and be included in an amazing draw prize! Share your SwimBowen goals with friends and family and watch the magic unfold.
Every year the SwimBowen team marvels at how this event brings together swimmers, volunteers, donors and sponsors for this joyful event all while raising funds for our friends and neighbours working hard to get through cancer treatment. Together we can make it a little easier and create a sense of agency in the face of a disease that can make us feel so utterly powerless.
www.tippys.ca
The first wave of swimmers hit the water at Tunstall Bay during SwimBowen 2024. / Scott Robarts photo
Option to completesaleearly,withpotential savings on construction financing &transfertax.
765SeymourBayDrive(Lot7)
•1,872 sf,2-storey, open-conceptliving.
•Multipledecks.
•3 bedrooms +den, 3.5bathrooms.
carport.
Islands Trust appoints Laura Patrick as chair
JORDAN COPP
Coast Reporter /Local Journalism Initiative
On March 11, the Islands Trust welcomed itsnew chair, Laura Patrick.
Patrick is no strangertoIslands Trust, she’s been aSalt Spring Island Local TrustArea trusteesince 2018 and is serving her second term on the council.
In the release, Patrick said it is an honour to be elected, “Aswenavigate the challenges and priorities ahead, Iamcommitted to workingcollaboratively with my fellowtrusteestomake progress on the issues thatmatter to islanders.The work of local trust committees, Bowen Island Municipality, and the Islands Trust Conservancy is essential in this, and Ilookforward to supporting continued cooperative effortstopreserve and protect the Islands Trust Area.”
Islands Trust works to preserve 13 major islandsand 450 smallerislands across a5,200 square kilometre area.
Thechair’srole involvesguiding discussions at the IslandsTrustCouncil, Islands TrustExecutiveCommittee andcertain local trust committee meetingsand acts as the spokespersonfor the organization.
Some keychallenges Islands Trust facesinclude climate change, lack of affordable housing,freshwaterlimitations, speciesatriskand development and tourism pressures
The previous chair, Peter Luckham, servedfor three terms andwillcontinue hisworkwithIslands Trustasatrustee for the ThetisIsland Local TrustArea, where he has served since 2005.
The IslandTrust release said, “Throughouthis tenure, hehas been adedicated leader, bringing passionand commitment to the role,” and thanked Luckham forhis years of service as Chairand looks forward to hiscontinued contributions as atrustee.
PROVINCIAL PERFORMANCE
Mischa LaRochehad astrong showingatthe High School Provincial GymnasticsChampionships on March14atDelta Gymnastics.She came away with aTop Tenfinishonthe Floor Exercise by placing 9th,whilealso finishing 14th overall on theBalanceBeam. /LisaBrougham submission
Modest gains as downward pressure continues
Contributor
The2025 Bowen Island MLS®HPI1 wasup 0.67 percent LTM2 from Jan. to Feb. 2025 and represented the largestchangeacrossMetro Vancouver municipalities—a 2.4 percent increase from Feb. 2024. The averageMLS® HPIincrease Jan. to Feb. 2025 acrossMetro municipalities was2.9 percent, with thelargest gain in Burnaby at 6.3 percent while WhiteRock registeredalossof-0.2 percent.
Of the 8properties shown as Closedor Pending Sales from Jan. 1through Feb. 28, 2025, twoproperties soldatlistand 6sold below list. Properties wereprice-reducedbySellersan averageof-8.3% from the first date of listingand byanother -3.4% to reachanacceptable offer –a total of -11.7% fromthe original list price.
The 2properties valuedgreaterthan $2 million were reduced by Sellersanaverageof -12.4% from the first date of listing and another -8.9% during negotiations, fora totalof-20.2% below the originallistedprice,indicating asofter market forhigher value properties
The lengthoftime from listing to sale for the 8properties was215 days –the shortest MLS® CDOM (Cumulative Days on Market) was2 days,the longestwas 565 days
The MLS®reportedfoursales in Feb.,upone from2024. LTMSales wereup38.5 percent
from 2024, NewListings up 17.0 percent, Days on Market down -22.7 percent, and Inventory up +54.5 percent. Compared to Feb. 2024, the MLS®HPI wasup2.4 percent, the AverageSale Price down -1.8 percent, andthe Median Sale Pricedown -7.0 percent.
There were 39 Active Residential Detached Listingsand 18 Active Vacant LandListings on Bowen at this writing.TheDollar Volume of Salesfor Feb. was$11.5 million,almost twice theamount for the monthin2024 andthe total Dollar Volume LTMwas $84.4 million, up36.0 percent from 2024. The monthofFeb.registered no vacant land sales.
The Bank ofCanadareducedits rate by -0.25 percent to 2.75per centonMar.12 and will reviewthe rate again on Apr. 16.The erratic actions of the Trump administration have createduncertainty in everysector of theeconomyand arelikelytoadversely affectinflation. “Lookingahead, it is unclear wherehome prices maygoin2025, giventhe uncertaintysurrounding both the possibility of atrade warwith the U.S. and the length of the Bank of Canada’scurrentmonetarypolicy easing cycle.”3
Sellers should use sharppencils when pricing theirpropertyandcan expect continued downward pressure from Buyers
MLS® HPI(Home Price Index) –HPI measures the change inthe price of housingfeatures.
LTM- Last TwelveMonths. Represents 12 months activity https://www.biv.com/biv-rss-newsletter/no-moreboom-and-bust-bc-real-estate-sees-balance-headinginto-2025-10264275
TimothyRhodes,REALTOR® tim@rhodesonbowen com
2025 DETACHED HOMES PRICES
SALE PRICEvsLIST PRICE
Low$ 955,000 $955,000
3-Bed |3-Bath|2,534 SF
High$2,000,000 $2,250,000 4-Bed |2-Bath|2,620 SF
AverageSale in Feb$1,538,750
Median Sale in Feb$1,600,000
February home sales on Bowen
ALEX KURIAL Editor
February proved to be one of the biggest property sale months in recent memory on Bowen. Seven homes and one lucrative lot at Cape Roger Curtis made up the final tally, with three of those houses standing on their own by reaching the $2 million mark.
Tops among these is the threebed, five-bath oceanfront property at 295 Robert Road. Measuring 4,164 square feet, the stunning home on the shores of Deep Bay sold for $2.7 million. The 14-year old home sits on 0.35 acres of land.
In addition to entertainment space which flows both indoors and outdoors, windows are positioned to offer water views and beyond in most rooms The lowest floor of the four-storeys is self contained, and there is an elevator to help navigate throughout the house. A short path down to the beach reveals ample space to swim, enjoy water sports, or just relax.
The next two sales each came to exactly $2 million total. We’ll start nearby with a home that is essentially the top sale’s neighbour (with a hill in between) at 297 David Road. The four-bed, two-bath house measures 2,620 square feet and is located on a half-acre of land.
While it may not be waterfront there’s no shortage of water views. And though the official build year is 1986, a full renovation that took place seven years ago has given the place a modern, sophisticated look. A large garden features a swath of trees and fruits including berries, roses, magnolias, dogwoods and maples.
The other $2 million sale of February is on the southern end of the island at 765 Seymour Bay Drive. At just a year old the 1,872 square foot house hit this total by going for over asking price. The two-storey home has three bedrooms and three bathrooms, with total property space coming to 0.34 acres.
The waterfront home at 295 Robert Road was February’s top home sale closing for $2.7 million (above). Looking directly north from the property you can see the secondhighest sale of last month at 297 David Road, which went for $2 million (below). / Zealty.ca photos
Recipe of the Month: Dandelion Wild Berry Scones
EMILY VAN LIDTH DE JEUDE Contributor
Preheat oven to 400°F.
Line a baking sheet or pie dish with baking paper, and set aside.
Combine in a bowl:
1 cup sweet white sorghum flour
½ cup tapioca or sweet white rice flour
1 cup (slightly packed) dandelion petals
1
½ tsp cream of tartar
¾ tsp baking soda
1 tsp xanthan gum
¼ tsp sea salt
4tbsp unrefined sugar or maple syrup
Mix into the flour mixture until it resembles course meal: 4tbsp non-dairy butter or cream from the top of separated coconut milk.
Slowly pour over flour mixture, mixing until dough forms large clumps: ½ cup rice milk or the watery part of the coconut milk.
Stir in (optional): 1/3 cup wild gooseberries, currants, huckleberries or blackberries (trailing blackberries are better due to their flavour and small size).
On baking sheet pat dough into a circle, 3/4” thick.
Cut into 8 wedges, and pull apart to separate wedges by just 5mm or so.
Brush top with non-dairy milk and sprinkle top with sugar, if you like.
Bake until just barely browned; should bounce back when poked with a finger.
Emily van Lidth de Jeude is a big fan of using wild ingredients in her food, including this vegan and gluten-free recipe for Dandelion Wild Berry Scones. You can find more tips from Emily for safe and tasty foraging in a few pages. / Markus Roemer photo
Orcacalf descendentofone of last killer whalescaptured in North America
DARRON KLOSTER Times Colonist
Anewborn orca discoveredeastof Victoria near the SanJuan Islands hasbeen identifiedasadescendantofone of the last killer whales captured in Washingtonstate for SeaWorld.
Theyoung Bigg’s orca,whichhas been designated T046B3A,was photographedlast weekalongside its mother,Sedna,a 14-yearold andpartofa well-known line of transientkiller whales in the Salish Sea.
In March1976, Sedna’sgrandmother, T046, known as Wake,was one of sixwhales captured and temporarilyheld by SeaWorld in Washington’sPuget Sound.
ThePacific Whale Watch Association said thefamilystory mighthavebeen“cutshort” haditnot been for apublic outcry and alawsuit.
Wake and the other orcaswerereleased after Ralph Munro, assistanttothen Washington governor DanEvans,witnessed the captures while sailingwith friendsand wasappalled, said associationspokesperson Erin Gless.
Shesaid Munrohelped to file alawsuit againstSeaWorld, whichled to the whales’releaseand aban on anyfurther
ROSIE
Meet Rosie, our Dog of the Week!
She’saone-year-old Korean Jindo mix, and she’sgot the heart of asocial butterfly.Whether it’s dogs, kids, or adults, Rosie loves everyone—though if you want to win her heart, treats are the key!
Rosie’sjourney hasn’t been without a few bumps.Amonth ago, she arrived at my home on Bowen Island, and within hours, she managed to slip away.For awhole 24 hours, she was missing, Thankfully,after atense day of searching, akind couple found her and brought her back home. It was ahappy reunion that left us all breathing asigh of relief, and Rosie’s spirit hasn’t been dampened one bit!
Rosie visited Bowen Vetfor the first time for her annual wellness we were happy to report aclean bill of health.
orca captures
Theorcas were thelasttobecapturedin North America,but theoperators of marine parkssoon turned their attention to orcas around Iceland, wherecaptures continued until the endofthe 1980s
Wake went on to produce eightcalves, 16 grand-calves and sixgreat-grand-calves, said Gless.
“Without the directefforts ofRalph Munro, at least30Bigg’skiller whales would have neverbeenborn,”she said.
Coincidentally, Munro’spassing at the age of 81 wasannouncedMarch 20, the same daythe neworca calf wasspotted.
BayCetology estimates thereare about 380 Bigg’s orcasinthe coastal waters of British Columbiaand Washington, feeding mainlyonseals,sea lions and porpoises.
Meanwhile,the population of endangeredsouthern residentkiller whales languishes at about73animals becausethe supplyoftheir main food source,salmon, hasbeendwindling.
Local whalewatch tour companies focus on Bigg’s killer whales and not theendangered southern residents
Thewhale watch association said because of theabundanceoffood, about140 new Bigg’s calves have been born over the
Anew calfsurfaces beside T046B3 “Sedna”in the eastern Juan de Fuca Strait lastweek./ TomFilipovicphoto(Eagle Wing Tours)
past decade
Thenew calf hasbeenspotted multiple times sincethe original report.
Glesssaid the images showfetalfolds and adistinctive orange coloration. “These factorsare normal and indicatethe calf is quiteyoung, likely aweekortwo at most,” shesaid
Gallery director prepares for new solo journey
ALEX KURIAL Editor
Catching Stars owner Emilie Kaplun is embarking on a new chapter as sole Director of the art gallery.
While the solo position is new territory, the Snug Cove gallery is a place Kaplun has called home since founding it, along with Pauulet Hohn and Marie Neys, in 2018. The trio had previously worked at Arts Pacific Gallery in Artisan Square and knew they worked well together. When a space became available under the (new) Pub, they decided it was time to carve out a presence in Bowen’s most central location.
“It was a really fun process to go from the ground up especially with a brand new building where you can really have a say in how everything is set up… that was really exciting,” says Kaplun.
Emilie had prior forays into the art gallery world including running Raspberry Retreat in Vancouver with her good friend Michelle Crowley Together they showcased local artists while emphasizing pieces revolving around ‘Women, Wellness and Creativity’ . Before that, as a teenager in Port Stanley, Ontario, Kaplun and her friend even had their own brick and mortar store named Eldora Jewellery. Emilie also worked as the Curator at the Hearth Gallery for four years.
“It’s always been a passion for me, arts and crafts and working with makers and supporting them to do what they love,” says Kaplun, who had originally planned to be an Art Therapist following her Humanistic Studies degree from McGill University She lists therapeutic qualities among the many benefits of creating artwork, and one of the reasons she loves working in the gallery setting.
“For me, making jewellery is a meditation. It’s my downtime, it’s my creative time I wanted to support other artists through the store I had in Vancouver and through the different galleries I worked at here. I really believe in supporting artists to do what they love, not just for the financial part and making it part of their life, but for the healing and positive benefits it has for all of us,” she says
The gallery operates under a co-operative model, meaning members have their artwork on display and are present at the gallery a few days a month There’s a feature artist each month, and non-members also have the opportunity to display their works. Emilie says the different approaches attract a welcome range of artistic styles and personalities
inside the walls
“There’s so many cool artists out there. I love going to different shows and finding new artists, especially the people who’ve just started and just got into it… I love our Bowen artists so much, it’s such a great community,” she explains
The artists and works on display form part of the puzzle; another crucial element of the gallery is the atmosphere when you walk in the door “Come in, have a cup of tea, sit on the cozy chair, have a chat… It combines my passion for community, being around people, conversations and art, and talking about the artists’ work.”
This approach goes for all age ranges, from young children starting their artistic journey to those journeying away from home for the first time “I want things to be accessible to kids too, to inspire them… Kids come in and they buy a magnet or a bookmark and there’s just so much excitement. They’ve got their change in their hand and they’re counting it out; I really just want to give them the art piece but I know it’s important for them that they’ve saved up,” she says, adding that she also loves to see a kid heading off to university grab a piece for their new place.
Another type of visitor always makes Emilie smile when they come through the door – those from far away. “You learn a little bit about their lifestyle and what it’s like there, and you can share Bowen with them,” she says, recalling in particular a visitor from Nepal who came into the gallery this month “I love that Bowen has that tourism element, you just never know who you’re going to meet.”
Kaplun has been in the solo director role for four months now since former co-owner Kathleen Ainscough moved to the Okanagan. She credits her, and the many other gallery directors over the years, for helping make the Catching Stars journey successful. “Every different partner has brought different skills to the gallery that’s evolved it and made it what it is now,” she says. “All of the previous owners are still involved in the Gallery in different ways which is amazing.”
One of Kaplun’s goals for the year ahead is increased collaborations with other Bowen businesses. This month her partner was Copper Spirit Distillery, so Emilie decorated the gallery in copper and green and encouraged artists to make pieces in those colours and materials (she made a copper necklace herself with green Malachite stones). The month concluded with an evening of celebration at the Gallery and a Whiskey Tasting for their dedicated clients
“Cross promote and do something fun, community ori-
Emilie Kaplun is the director and owner at Catching Stars Gallery. In her spare time you may find her dancing with the Bowen Adult Dance aka B.A.D. Team at Kelly Konno’s dance studio. Kaplun was one of six dancers who helped bring the magical island of The Tempest to life in Bowen’s recent Bard on the Rock production. / Deb Stringfellow photo
ented, and celebrate our local businesses,” are the collaboration goals says Emilie “It can be a struggle to be a business on Bowen and keep everything going, so the more we can support each other and get the word out is good.”
Emilie says she’s excited to press on in the Director role, surrounded by a great team at the gallery. This of course includes her family who have been with her each step of the way, husband Link – who came up with the gallery tagline ‘Find What Inspires You – and son Sam, who helps with graphic designs and even covers some shifts at the gallery.
“The Associates and Members all contribute their amazing gifts to keep the Gallery running and I’m so grateful for them,” she says Together the Catching Stars team is excited to celebrate their eight-year anniversary in June, and many more beyond.
Please
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Saturday, March 29
French Conncections at the Library
Drop in and join us to practice your conversational French, and get to know other French language learners on Bowen Island! Runs 10:30 to 11:30 am. The focus is on French speakers with beginner and intermediate conversational skills bipl.ca/French
Saturday, March 29
Garden Club Talk
Bowen Island Garden Club presents: A Painter’s Garden by Dante Baies who worked at Monet’s Giverny Garden for 4 years. The presentation provides an overview of what shaped the gardens he created there and how those gardens were restored in the late 1970s. At Collins Hall from 1 to 2:30 pm, $5 or free for Garden Club members
Sunday, March 30
Wild Food Tours
Come learn best food foraging practices with Emily van Lidth de Jeude Taste and identify local plants & get to know our ecology. From 2 to 4 pm, register by writing to wildartwithemily@gmail.com or calling 604-947-9563. You can learn much more about foraging on the next page
Sunday, March 30
Meditation Sessions
Amrita, long time certified hatha yoga teacher is offering a two hour meditation, ball rolling, yoga class in the space next door to Movement (582 Artisan Square). Takes place from 4 to 6 pm and she would love it if you could come. Space is limited to 6, suggested donation of $15-20 towards the Pamoja foundation. Please email Amrita at movementglobal@gmail.com to register.
Monday, March 31 (& other dates)
SKY Hangouts
Drop in at the Seniors Cottage on Cardena Drive. We will be offering a welcoming place to stop in for a drink & visit with friends Hangouts also April 1 & 4, all 1 to 3 pm All three hangouts feature a guest speaker.
Friday, April 4
Youth Nail Art Night with Bowen Rec
Turn your nails into a masterpiece with Paige Tweeten. Ages 12-15, 5 to 8 pm at the Youth Centre All supplies and pizza dinner provided.
Saturday, April 5
School Trustee By-election
West Vancouver School Trustee By-election Day. You can vote at Bowen Island Community School from 8 am to 8 pm.
Saturday, April 5
Conversational Italian at the Library
Come explore Parliamo Insieme: a Conversational Italian Group. Drop in and join us to practice your Italian, and get to know other Italian speakers on Bowen Island! All ages of adults and youth welcome! 11 am to Noon. bipl ca/Italian
Saturday, April 5
Judi Gedye Open House
Come chat about local issues with Bowen Island Councillor Judith Gedye at Collins Hall from 3 to 4 pm
Saturday, April 5
Logger Sports Show Fundraiser
Johnny Cash Tribute Band at the Bowen Legion. Tickets $25, full details at www.bowenloggingsports.com
Saturday, April 12
Grafton Commons Season Opener
HAVE YOU RECEIVEDYOUR COPY OF THIS YEAR’S BOWEN ISLANDEVENT PLANNERINYOUR MAILBOX?
Come see what is going on in the community garden! Check out the box garden, visit the pop-up market, meet up with volunteers, and enjoy light refreshments. Straw bales will be on sale. From 1 to 3 pm, across from Grafton Lake.
Saturday, April 12
Still Life in Motion Fundraiser
Join us for a fun filled event featuring 8 Artists who will create from the Still Life Objects placed in front of them! $20 ticket includes appetizers, drinks and prizes. Silent Auction. From 1 to 4 pm at Collins Hall.
WEDNESDAYS
Storytime at the Library
A free, drop-in program of stories and songs for 2-4 yearolds and their caregivers! 10:30 to 11 am bipl.ca/storytime
THURSDAYS
Thursday Art Group
Join the Thursday Art Group (TAG) at Collins Hall to see what’s new. Meetings from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm. For further information please contact shannonrondeau@shaw.ca
Babytime at the Library
A free, 30-minute drop-in program of songs, books, and rhymes for babies 0-24 months and their caregivers! Starts at 11:30 am. Join us afterwards, at 12 pm, for a casual baby & caregiver social hour in the Annex bipl.ca/babytime
Scottish Country Dancing at Tir-na-nOg
Come try out Scotland’s social dancing. Beginners welcome, runs 7 to 9 pm Contact alison.imbriaco@gmail.com
SATURDAYS
SKY Mahjong
Come and play Mahjong at the Seniors Cottage on Cardena Drive. 1 to 3 pm, RSVP info@skyonbowenisland.ca
It’s Wild Food Time!
EMILY VAN LIDTH DE JEUDE
Contributor /Forager
Ican still remember my mother’sface when Itold her I’d burned my hands because we were poor. She laughed. Her beautiful crescent moon of asmile looked lovingand full of joy. What!?
“Mum!They burnedmyhands right through the plastic bag! Look —I havea hole in my thumb!”
Shecarried on smiling, as Iput my small basket of nettles onto the counter besidemy brother’s. And Isulked away to my room, so sadthat we had to pick vicious harmful plantsfrom under the maple tree for our dinner. They do taste good braisedwith a little salt or butter,though. We eat them every spring
Anditwasn’t until Iwas an adult that I rememberedthis event and laughed, myself. We don’t pick nettles because we‘re poor —wepick nettles because we were rich. Same with licorice fern roots, ladyfern fiddleheads, sourgrass,maple blossoms, and allkinds of wild berries andmushrooms. I grew up on this island with the taste of wild foods in my mouth, and the feeling of being part of my own ecology. That is awealth I’ve spent my whole adult life sharingwithmy ownkids, and others.
We’re unbelievably lucky to live wherewe do.Our ecology is somewhat protected by way of being separated fromthe mainland. Sowhile we do have increasing impacts from invasive species and development, we
still have quite arich diversity of life, here.
Did you know we havefreshwater sponges,clams, and crayfish in Killarney Creek? Wedo! Andasimply enormous assortment of edible greens, at this timeofyear.Later on it willbetime for wild needle teas and fresh berries. Later again, mushrooms. And when thewinter startsrollinginitwill be time to harvest roots
Socan weall survive on wildfood, here? Definitelynot.AsI mentioned,wehave an increasing pressure from development, andthere has always been commercial harvesting happeninghere, which decimates what we have.Sure, you can go pick agreat bunch of nettlesfor dinner, and they’ll grow back next month,tostill flower and seed, come fall. But there aren’tenough for all of us, partly becauseour cultureisnow accustomedto waste and over-consumption.
Eatingwildfoodneeds to be looked at through alens of conservation: Take alittle, andleave alot behind. Areally great wayto eat wild food sustainablyistoencourageit to growinyour own yard, or even on your balcony or doorstep,if youdon’t have a yard. You’ll learn to harvest in such away that it keeps coming back, and you’ll always havemoreonthe way.
Inow have anearlyyear-round supply ofsheepsorrel and miner’s lettuce growing in plantersonmyporch. But Istill go outto pickinthe wild, too. Partlybecause it keeps me connected to my own ecology.And it makes me happy
I’ll be leadinga couple of 2-hourwalking tours this spring, if you’d like to learn more
PlacesofWorship
Emilyvan LidthdeJeude’skidsshowoff someoftheir foraging finds.Emily is offeringapair of tourscoming up to teach peopleall the do’s and dont’sof theforaging lifestyle./Submitted photo
aboutthe ecology of ourhome, and what parts of it are edible (andpoisonous!)
Ihighlyrecommend doing both tours. They’re fiveweeksapart for areason: It gives us achance to see how things change as the seasonprogresses,and to discover new plants and new ways of using the plants we already know. Wild Food TourswithEmily starts this Sunday,March 30 from 2to4pm. Thenext session is on May 11, alsofrom2 to 4pm. Youcan register by contacting me, Emily,at wildartwithemily@gmail.com or by calling 604-947-9563.
BOWEN ISLANDUNITED CHURCH Sunday Massat9.30 Contact AngelaPowell604-947-2515
CATES HILL CHAPEL www.cateshillchapel.com 604-947-4260 (661CarterRd.) ST.GERARD’SROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
SHIRAT HAYAM (Song ofthe Sea) BOWEN’SJEWISH COMMUNITY ShabbatGatherings ~Holidays Sunday Worship 10:30 am Rev.Lorraine Ashdown www.biuc.ca |1122 Miller Road 778-688-2061 OFFICE HOURS WEDNESDAY 10-4 OR BYAPPOINTMENT
DEPART B 5:20 am - e 6:20 am 7:30 am 8:35 am 9:40 am 10:50am 12:00pm 1:10 pm 2:55 pm 4:00 pm -except Wednesdays 5:10 pm 6:15 pm 7:25 pm -exceptSaturdays 8:30 pm 9:30 pm 10:30pm
BOWENISLAND exceptSundays& April21 QUEEN OF CAPILANO FERRY SCHEDULE APRIL1 2025 TO MAY142025
DEPARTHORSESHOE BAY 5:50 am 6:50 am 8:00 am 9:05 am -exceptWednesdays 10:15 am 11:25 am 12:35 pm 2:20 pm 3:30 pm 4:35 pm 5:45 pm 6:50 pm 8:00 pm -exceptSaturdays 9:00 pm 10:00 pm
Where’sthe ferry rightnow?- checkwww.bowenferry.ca Scheduleschange on statutoryholidays. Stay up to date at www.bcferries.com
Bowen Island Football Club gets In The Game
ALEX KURIAL Editor
Bowen Island FC players and coaches took part in a special training session at the EA Sports campus in Burnaby last month.
Players from the island organization (BIFC) were invited out to participate in the FC Futures program, a component of the video company’s flagship soccer game EA Sports FC Together with European soccer organization UEFA, the groups develop training regimens which are tested by athletes around the world with the goals of implementing them into the game and making them available for coaches and teams in real life.
“This year we were really lucky that we were able to put Bowen Island FC forward as one of the teams that took part in those sessions,” said Andy Gillooley, a coach and board member with BIFC and a creative director at EA As part of its efforts FC Futures has also built several soccer fields and outfitted them with equipment in communities around the world.
At the Burnaby campus, 36 U12 and U13 players from Bowen took part in drills which involved dribbling, passing and shooting. The different elements emphasized quick reactions in a fast-paced setting as the kids continually ran around the field to complete the next part of the drill. The practices are tracked electronically in order to become playable modes within the video game and to be shared with teams
Gillooley points out that while our local coaches punch well above their weight, the chance to work with professionals who have worked at the highest levels of the sport doesn’t come around everyday. “The coaches are of a really high calibre, they’ve got experience throughout the European systems So it’s just a huge opportunity for the kids.”
The BIFC coaches also took away plenty
from the experience “They got to feed off the energy of the kids. I think it was a huge opportunity for them to see what the power of sports is at a high level,” says Gillooley on the adults collaborating with the UEFA coaches
Aside from the soccer, Gillooley also hopes the adventure might act as a sort of career day for the kids by giving them a behind-the-scenes look at the entertainment company’s facilities, which the team was able to explore following the practice
“I think it’s huge for Bowen Island and our soccer community,” says Andy on the takeaways from the day. “It all comes down to what a well organized club we’re lucky enough to have.”
“It was always thought of as something that should be run professionally, that should offer a true pathway into soccer for our young players, and put back into the community as much as possible We have a very open-minded board that are always looking for opportunities and how to take advantage of the diversity of people that are on the island. The volunteers that we get all bring different skills, so this is just one area that we’re able to take advantage of that,” he says.
Back on Bowen the BIFC season is ramping up with spring signups. Programs this year include those for youth – Mini House for younger kids and Academy for those older – and for adults, a Co-Ed, Women’s, and Over-50 leagues Adult leagues start April 1 and Youth Leagues get going on April 12.
“If somebody’s never kicked the ball before there’s probably no better place to come and take your first steps than at BIFC,” says Gillooley. “Everybody understands that we’re part of a fantastic local community and we want to keep that going with the sporting opportunities that we provide as well,” he adds, also pointing out that the club is always open to ideas on how to expand BIFC’s range of programming.
Players & coaches from Bowen Island FC took part in a special practice with the EA Sports FC Futures program in Burnaby last month. / BIFC photos
“We’re constantly looking for ways to bring new ways to engage in the sport to all our levels of soccer With a World Cup coming up (Canada-USA-Mexico Summer 2026) we might look for ways to get the kids
out to watch a game together. We’re very much open to the world around us and what we can do as a group to make sure that everyone gets the most out of the club,” says Gillooley.
Sat, April12, 2025 1- 4pm
IN STILLLIFE MOTION FUNDRAISER
It's time forour annual April30x30 GetOutside Challenge!
BowenIslandTrail Societywantsyou to join us in gettingoutside everyday in April. Allyou have to doisget outsidefor 30 minutes aday forthe entire month of April. Youcan hike,paddle,run, walk,ride, swim,chopwood,golf, garden etc. – thegoalistobeoutside andbemoving!
#bitsapril30x30 #getoutsidebowen
We'rehosting some trailclean up days in Aprilincluding atrail trashclean up with thegoats. NewthisApril :Outdoor EnthusiastsGearSwap, Sale ,andFix it Fair :Saturday April26atthe BowenLegion12pm- 4pm.
Sign up by sendingusanemail:bowenislandtrailsociety@gmail.comand we’llsendyou an activity tracking calendar anda schedule of these awesomeevents. Andlet us know what youget up to –tag us or send us your pics!#bitsapril30x30 #getoutsidebowen
There will be some greatprizesalong theway forparticipants( winnersrandomlychosen) Participationistotally free for2025BITS Members or $10for non-members
Anddon't forget aboutour populardoggo category!Yourfour-leggedfriendscan participatetoo. They just need to be gettingout there for at least30minseveryday. Dogparticipantshavefreeentry,but fora $15donationcan receiveanofficial BITS-branded bandana whentheysignup. Seeyou outsideBowen!
