FRIDAY DEC. 23 2011 VOL. 38, NO. 35
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Missing turkeys
A happy dog
It is back!
Tempers ran high when a shopkeeper wasn’t prepared for holiday feasts
Ziggy finds a foster home but other pets are not so lucky
The chamber of commerce has a new manager and big plans for 2012
Poster blitz Crime Stoppers team up with police and BC Ferries to seek information on the disappearance of Jodi Henrickson SUSANNE MARTIN EDITOR
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n unprecedented partnership has brought together Sea to Sky Crime Stoppers, the RCMP Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) and BC Ferries in an effort to shed light on the case of Jodi Henrickson. “This is a new approach and it is the first time in B.C. that we have {such] a partnership,” says Larry Murray, chairman of Sea to Sky Crime Stoppers. After posters calling for information on Henrickson’s disappearance went up last week, Crime Stoppers has already received a number of calls. “Some of them are quite solid,” Murray said. Henrickson, a 17-year-old from Squamish, was last seen on Bowen Island after a house party and Murray says that there is a strong indication that this was a homicide. “Both Squamish and Bowen Island are part of the jurisdiction of our division and the board decided to put some effort in the Jodi Henrickson file from a Crime Stopper perspective. We want to provide the opportunity for the public to come forward so we set up a poster campaign. “We thought it would be important to get the information on the ferry because that’s how young people travel back and forth,” he adds. It was only two weeks ago that BC Ferries gave the green light to participate after Crime Stoppers
had approached them with a solid campaign. There are now new posters on the ferries and in the terminal area. Other areas of distribution are the public spaces in Horseshoe Bay, Squamish and Bowen Island. Murray traveled to Bowen last Thursday with another board member to distribute the posters to local businesses. They received strong support. “We have the posters in the Bowen grocery store, the post office and such. We also covered the Squamish area,” he said. “We are getting a lot of interest on the topic.” Murray also dropped in at the Bowen Island RCMP to review the case with Cst. Bryan Mulrooney. “One of the key problems around this homicide is a cone of silence,” Murray said. “There were dozens of young people at that party. Some don’t say anything because they are fearful. Others think this is not their problem. But we are trying to encourage the citizens who have information to come forward. Of course they can go directly to police, but if they don’t want to do that, crime stoppers is the logical place to go.” Murray says, “Crime Stoppers allows citizen to bring forward information about crimes in a totally anonymous way.” No names are required and the office doesn’t use call display or ask for continued, PAGE 11
Santa put a smile on many faces when he visited the pre-school’s Christmas party. The Park brothers took advantage of the visit to share their wishes. More photos on page 12. Susanne Martin photo
Islanders support local charity at Christmas MARCUS HONDRO CONTRIBUTING WRITER
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he number of people donating to charities on Bowen goes up during the holidays. The food bank is one example and another is
the Bowen Island Community Foundation. Joyce Ganong, chair of the BICF, says that Christmas is very much a time when Bowen Islanders think of others. Ganong told the Undercurrent earlier this week that the foun-
dation receives up to 80 per cent of its donations over the holidays and that while the giver can ask that the gift be directed to a specific cause, such as the local food bank, more often the gifts are for endowments. continued, PAGE 3
Wishing you a Joyful Christmas from your friends at Phoenix HOLIDAY HOURS: Dec. 24 ....................9:30-3:30 Dec. 25-28 .................... Closed Dec. 29-31 ..............9:30-3:30 Jan. 1-3 .......................... Closed
604-947-2793
2 • FRIDAY DECEMBER 23 2011
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Last Saturday’s team Red Nose had its headquarters at the Union Steamshop Marina. Agnieszka Wyka photo
An evening with team Red Nose AGNIESZKA WYKA SPECIAL TO THE UNDERCURRENT
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t is 8:30 on a dark, rainy Saturday night and one by one Operation Red Nose volunteers descend on a room at the Union Steamship Marina – operation headquarters for the evening. They range from 23 years young to somewhere in their golden years and tonight they are giv-
ing up their weekend night for a noble cause – to help people who feel unfit to drive get back home safely in their own car. Operation Red Nose, with its provincial sponsors, ICBC and CTV, has been making provincial roads safer since November 25 and will continue through the biggest party night of the year – New Year’s Eve. So far this season, Operation Red Nose on Bowen has given 37 rides to 55 people.
But back to our local headquarters. There are a number of Christmas parties on the island tonight and the team is told to prepare for a busy night. “There is a lot happening on the island so it could be a very busy evening,” warns team leader Bawn Campbell, who brought Operation Red Nose to Bowen just last year. The nine men and women are a fraction of the 72-person team who signed up this Christmas season to ensure that Bowen revelers get a safe ride home from their holiday festivities. “Some people put in just one shift over the entire season while others do it every weekend. We appreciate every ounce of time that is given to us,” says Campbell. Whether it is for one evening or 10, volunteers can choose the amount of time they can dedicate to Operation Red Nose. This enthusiastic group gathers around their team leader to find out just what is in store for the next six hours. “There is fog tonight, and there could even be wet snow on some parts of the island,” chimes in one of the drivers. “It’s not just the weather that we have to look out for,” Campbell reminds them, “it’s also the shape the vehicle is in. Remember that safety is our number one concern.” By 9:05 p.m., everyone is organized and ready to go and while it’s still too early for calls to be coming in, volunteers are far from sitting down and waiting. Sporting the infamous twinkling reindeer antlers and bright red Styrofoam noses, the red-vested volunteers embark on a fundraising and awareness mission through the town. They stop at the
local pubs and restaurant to hand out flyers and remind partiers they have a safe option for getting home. Oh yes… and while they are at it they sell the antlers and the noses to raise money for charity. You see, in addition to promoting safe driving in a non-judgmental manner, Operation Red Nose is also a fundraising campaign for nonprofit youth and/or amateur sports organizations in our country. Here on Bowen Island, the money raised will go toward youth programs and the Rotary Club. Tonight, the noses are a big hit; who wouldn’t want a festive reindeer nose? And the antlers make a great prop and conversation starter for any Christmas on New Year’s Eve Party. Back at the headquarters, switchboard operator Sheila Webster fields calls from partiers and dispatches teams to their assignments. She is accompanied by back-up driver Annie O’Dea. It is clear that these volunteers are gaining much by than giving up their Saturday night. For a mere six hours of service with Operation Red Nose they get steaming hot coffee provided by Snug Café, tantalizing pizza from Tuscany, an evening of camaraderie, connecting with their community and being of service, and above all the knowledge that their selfless actions save lives. As a footnote: Operation Red Nose will be taking a hiatus this weekend but will be in full swing for New Year’s Eve. If you need a ride on the 31, please call 604-619-0942. The service is free but donations are welcome.
Bowen IslandIsland Municipality Bowen Municipality
REMINDER Driveway Drainage
BC HYDRO VEGETATION MAINTENANCE - PADMOUNTED TRANSFORMERS
Property owners are reminded that it is your responsibility to ensure drainage from your driveway, driveway ditch, or wing deflector does not allow water, gravel or debris to flow onto the road. In addition, it is the property owner’s responsibility to ensure that driveway culverts are free of debris and are not blocking the ditch. These conditions can cause dangerous situations on the roads during heavy rainfall or in freezing weather.
To assure continued safety and system reliability, BC Hydro is removing vegetation around all BC Hydro pad mounted transformers to clearance standards.
Snow Clearing
Vegetation management work on Bowen Island will continue until March 31, 2012. BC Hydro requires the area around its electrical equipment to remain clear for the following reasons: ã ã ã
for the safety of our employees operating the equipment, to prevent overheating of the equipment, and to facilitate emergency repairs or replacement of the equipment.
The clearances around the transformers are: ã ã
2.5m from any and all doors 0.9m from all other sides
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Prior to BC Hydro removing the vegetation, customers may prune or maintain vegetation around transformers on their property to these clearances. If not, vegetation removal will be completed by BC Hydro crews. For more information about safely planting near BC Hydro equipment and clearance standards, visit bchydro.com/safety
For 50 years, BC Hydro has been providing clean, reliable electricity to you. Today we are planning for the next 50 years by investing in new projects, upgrading existing facilities and working with you to conserve energy through Power Smart.
During winter road maintenance operations, trucks fitted with ploughs and salt/sand dispensers need to be able to manoeuvre freely throughout the island. Please ensure that vehicles or other items are not parked on or blocking roadways and/or cul-de-sacs.
PLEASE HELP US IN MAKING BOWEN’S ROADS SAFER FOR ALL. For Information call 947-4255
Bowen Island Municipality New Members Requested for the Advisory Planning Commission The Council of Bowen Island Municipality is requesting applications from members of the public interested in serving on the Advisory Planning Commission. The role of the Advisory Planning Commission is to advise the Council on any matter referred to it by Council under the Local Government Act regarding land-use, community planning or proposed bylaws, and permits. For further details regarding this mandate and role, please reference the Advisory Planning Commission’s Establishment Bylaw No. 85, 2003 on the municipal website at: www.bimbc.ca/bylaw_administration. Applicants are requested to submit a brief biography or resume outlining their qualifications and a statement identifying why they are interested in serving on the Advisory Planning Commission. Please respond in writing by January 6, 2012 at 4:00 p.m. to: Kathy Lalonde Corporate Officer Bowen Island Municipality 981 Artisan Lane, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2 e-mail: bim@bimbc.ca • FAX: 604-947-0193
For Information call 947-4255
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The story of a black Christmas
Inspired to help
This 60-year-old poem dramatizes the moment in Bowen history when the islanders realized that the Union Steamship Company storekeeper had flubbed his mission and there were no turkeys for Christmas. The players are Cec Black, one of a long line of storekeepers and managers between 1924 and 1976, Cec’s wife, Gwen, Murray Hume, postmaster and peacemaker and an unruly gathering of angry islanders. The story is attributed to sports writer Eric Whitehead.
Nine-year-old raises money for the food bank SUSANNE MARTIN EDITOR
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he folks were whooping it up one day In the Bowen Island store. They’d come from near and from miles away And the place was crammed to the door.
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efore they eat, nine-year-old Colleen Treleaven and her mom usually take a moment to think about where their food comes from. One evening at dinnertime during the last week of November, Colleen learned that Bowen Island’s food bank was looking for assistance. “I remembered that some kids at school might have a hungry tummy,” Colleen says. She came up with an idea of how to help. She drew a picture of a family receiving a gift with the caption: “please give and you will help.” Then she taped it to an empty milk jug and gave it to her mother, Janis Treleaven, to take to choir practice. Colleen decided to tag along. Rev. Shelagh McKinnon is a member of the choir and also helps out with the food bank. “Colleen brought along that jug and stood up in front of 100 strangers. She told us that she thought there might be hungry children sitting beside her who might not have had breakfast and she wouldn’t know.” Colleen’s little speech moved many members of the choir to make a donation and, over the course of four rehearsals, the jug filled up with coins and bills (there even was a $50 bill in the mix) to a total of $300. After the last rehearsal, McKinnon took the money to the food bank. “Colleen told us that these are our friends, our neighbours who might be hungry. It is just beautiful when children have that spirit of generosity.”
The air was filled with terrible cries And it sang with a ugly hum As the customers glared with bloodshot eyes That were bleary with Christmas rum. Across the counter, against the wall Pressed flat as yesterday’s beer Was the man that the mob was preparing to maul And he shuddered with awful fear.
Colleen Treleaven delivered a milk jug of donations from the community choir to Reverend Shelagh McKinnon. The $300 will help ensure that all families on Bowen have a festive Christmas dinner. Susanne Martin photo Colleen was pleased by the response of the choir members. “They gave lots of money. I was really glad to help.”
Foundation supports full range of community continued, PAGE 1 “The majority of [the fund’s] assets are gifts that are invested, held in perpetuity, with the income from those investments returned as grants to the community,” she said. “Rather than focusing on annual fundraising for the next year’s expenditures, community foundations build endowment funds for the future.” BICF was launched in 2002 and has already grown to an endowment of more than $500,000. In 2004, the foundation started giving grants and Ganong said since then it’s “provided over $44,000 in grants to the full range of the community: children, youth, seniors and for the arts, health, environment, heritage and recreation.” Since 2009, 18 scholarships totalling $9,050 have been awarded to local students. Ganong said they focus on grants that help organizations “become more viable, sustainable; we really try to give grants that will expand the ability of those organizations.” An example is a
grant given to Seniors Keeping Young (SKY) to purchase a big-screen TV. SKY uses the TV to enhance their exercise classes and speakers use it for presentations. Bequests are also a way of honouring the role the foundation plays. “Maggie Cumming wanted to leave her beloved island a nest-egg to carry on her work of preserving the natural beauty while increasing the network of trails. She made her gift as a residual benefit from her estate.” Ganong noted that students at BICS have given to the foundation. “In June of 2011, the students rom Kindergarten through to Grade 8, in their study of the virtue of service, launched a “Pennies for Bowen” campaign,” she said. “They collected 194,440 pennies and gave them to the foundation to be added to the community endowment fund.” For information about donating to the Bowen Island Community Foundation, please visit their website at www.bowenfoundation.com or call Joyce Ganong at 604-947-2802.
All are welcome!
The creature whose hulk they were going to tear Asunder, piece by piece This creature sunk in the toils of despair Was the storekeeper…. known as Cec! From out of the bedlam there shrilled a cry, Accusing and deadly clear…. “You promised us turkeys…an infamous lie! For nary a gobbler is here!!! The mob then surged forth with an angry yell And a meat cleaver sailed through the air.. You could near see the blood of the storekeeper jell, As it gently parted his hair. But “Stay!” cried a voice,” Pray, good people stop! Let blood flow not in this room!” They turned to see out of his cubby-hole pop The head of the postmaster, Hume! “Good people, “ he spake,”Think first what you do, Before you go madly beserky! Will a storekeeper’s corpse be of service to you? Can he take the place of a turkey? They turned then to view this carcass from which The life was about to be snuffed. Would he be tender and tasty and rich? And would he look savory – stuffed? The storekeeper, Cec, then pleadingly quoth: “Dear people, I give you my word!
Cates Hill Chapel warmly invites you to our CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT SERVICE to be held at 5:30pm at Cates Hill Chapel. Our CHRISTMAS MORNING SERVICE will be at 10:00am on Christmas Day.
FRIDAY DECEMBER 23 2011 • 3
If there is a turkey on Bowen – my oath – I swear that I’ll give you the bird!” A murmur ran over the uncertain throng And they whispered to and fro. Should they bargain with blood for this terrible wrong? Should they let the scoundrel go? Then all of a sudden, a sharp command Cut through the air like a knife! And there at the door with a gun in each hand Was Cec the storekeeper’s wife! “Reach! She ordered and reach they did. The post office wicket clicked shut. “You critters,” she said, “ just do as you’re bid, Or I’ll blow off the top of your nut!” The storekeeper Cec then gathered his wits And came to his spouse’s side. “Let’s beat it” he said,” or they’ll tear me to bits. Let’s off to the hills and hide!” “No, Cecil” she said,”There’d still remain A blot on our family honour. So go forth alone and remove the stain Or, socially, bub, I’m a goner!” “Yes, go while I cover this bloodthirsty pack Our fair name shall ne’er remain murky!! Hie to the forest and never come back Till you’ve tracked down a goodlysized turkey!” And so while the people looked sullenly on The Storekeeper sadly departed And little they knew when at last he had gone What a terrible trek he had started. For Christmas did come and Christmas went And Christmas came again! And Cec was still in the woods, hell-bent To track down a turkey-hen. The Storekeeper’s wife is now old and grey And she spurns all talk of a truce. “For a turkey, “ she says, “ They drove him away And I guess they’ve cooked his goose!“
The Bowen Island United Church invites you to a
Places of Worship Welcome You
CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE
BOWEN ISLAND UNITED CHURCH
Saturday, December 24th at the Little Red Church. 5:00pm 7:00pm 10:00pm
CHILDREN AND FAMILIES LESSONS AND CAROLS CANDLELIGHT SERVICE
We welcome you also to our
CHRISTMAS DAY SERVICE 10:30am on December 25th. There will be a Regular Service New Year's Day Sunday January 1st at 10:30am.
Rev. Shelagh MacKinnon Service and Sunday School: 10:30 a.m. Evensong first Sunday of each month 5:00 p.m. Minister of Music: Lynn Williams
FOOD BANK DROP-OFF
BOWEN ISLAND COMMUNITY CHURCH Pastor Clinton Neal 1070 Miller Road 604-947-0384 Service 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10:30 a.m.
ST. GERARD’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Mass: 10:30 a.m. Priest: Father James Comey
604-988-6304
CATES HILL CHAPEL www.cateshillchapel.com 604-947-4260
(661 Carter Rd.)
10:00 a.m. Worship • Sunday School: Tots to Teens Pastor: Dr. James B. Krohn
4 • FRIDAY DECEMBER 23 2011
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viewpoint
EDITORIAL
Inspiring stories, and people
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here are some weeks when very few items that could be classified as hard news come across my desk. The weather may be calm and there are no council meetings, no fires, no accidents, no crimes. Progress of the various island initiatives may be steady but slow. And then there are the rare weeks when the calendar of events shrinks down to a few happenings. Yet there is one section in the paper that will never come up short: the lives and actions of inspiring Bowen Islanders. We have people who create amazing jewellery at age of 87. We have nine-yearolds who raise money for the food bank. We have people who deliver soup to the downtown eastside year after year after year. We have people who work hard looking out for pets and wildlife and people who are dedicated to reducing waste
and moving towards a more sustainable way of living. We have people who go over and above what is expected in running a business. And we have amazing artists, musicians, educators and thinkers who contribute much to our community. And we have a strong base of volunteers and activists. The list goes on. I feel very privileged to know some of those people or to meet them, to hear some of the stories and to share them. It is my favourite part of the job. And, as the holidays approach, I feel truly blessed by the generosity that I have seen in our community. And I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for doing what you do, for being who you are. You inspire me. Happy Holidays, Susanne Martin
The Write Stuff. The Undercurrent encourages reader participation in your community newspaper. You must include your full name and a daytime phone number (for verification only). The editor reserves the right to edit for clarity, legality, brevity and taste.
The Undercurrent is published every Friday by Black Press Group Ltd. All Advertising and news copy content are copyright of the Undercurrent Newspaper. All editorial content submitted to the Undercurrent becomes the property of the publication. The undercurrent is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, art work and photographs. We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) for our publishing activities.
To the Editor:
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was extremely disappointed to learn that our new council has decided to change council meeting times from Monday evening to Monday daytime. The effect of this decision is to render it impossible for hundreds of Bowen Islanders to attend council meetings. It is estimated that there are at least 500 commuters who travel to work in greater Vancouver every day. Many other Bowen Islanders have full-time employment on-island that requires them to be at work every weekday. If this change takes effect, none of these people will be able to attend council meetings in person without booking off work. All across British Columbia, from North Vancouver to Nelson, from Smithers to Squamish, the majority of municipal council meetings are held on Monday evenings. Holding meetings on a weekday evening ensures that the maximum number of citizens can attend the meeting if they choose. This decision is inconsistent with the values of transparency and accountability expressed by many of our new councillors during the election campaign. It is profoundly unfair to the working taxpayers in our community. I urge council to revisit its decision and return to a schedule of Monday evening council meetings. Susan Munro
Light Up of Cove visitors saw heritage cottage at its best
Here’s how. To submit a letter to the editor, fax 604-947-0148 or mail it to #102, 495 Government Rd., PO Box 130, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G0 or email editor@ bowenislandundercurrent.com. B.C. Press Council. The Undercurrent is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body governing the province’s newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about the conduct of member newspapers. Directors oversee the mediation of complaints, with input from both the newspaper and the complaint holder. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the B.C. Press Council. Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent to B.C. Press Council, 201 Selby St., Nanaimo, B.C. V9R 2R2. For information, phone 1-888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org.
Maximum number of people can attend council meetings on weekday evenings
To the Editor:
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Operation Red Nose on standby for New Year’s Eve To the Editor: Re: Rudolph “nose” the way udolph’s red nose has never shone so brightly and been so helpful to our community as the last four weekends, during the Rotary Club’s Operation Red Nose, “let us drive you and your vehicle home from your house party, bar or restaurant,” program. Operating Friday and Saturday nights from November 25, the last night Rudolph will be of assistance to the community is December 31. Four members of the Russell clan thoroughly enjoyed being volunteers in this first-class community service which enables those in a celebratory mode to have themselves, their vehicle and any passengers picked up at the party location, including a function at a private residence,
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and driven home. Babe Ruth never experienced such a meaningful and timely home run. On behalf of the community and RCMP, I thank the Bowen Island Rotary Club for providing this wonderful service. One hundred per cent of the donations (free service but donations most welcome) are used within the community for the benefit of youth activity. Does it get any better than that? As you celebrate the old and bring in the new on New Year’s, I encourage as many as possible to use the service. Call 604-619-0942 for some help from Rudolph. Merry Christmas to all and here’s to a happy, healthy and safe new year. I would also like to thank all the wonderful volunteers team Russell had the pleasure of meeting and working with both nights. It was fun. Bruce Russell
ight Up the Cove has become a wonderful Bowen event to open the Christmas season. One of the special features that has been part of the event for a number of years is the lovely museum cottage. Bowen Heritage restored and opened this 1930s cottage in 1996. Since then, it has been open for many Light Up the Cove celebrations. Decorated to represent Christmas of the past, it has seen hundreds of people come through to see the cottage and the historic displays of old toys and decorations. This year was no exception. The Heritage board and friends went all out to make it even more exciting. MacDonald Farm donated a tree, Huck and his crew strung lights outside, as well as on the tree which was decorated in an old-time fashion. Daphne and Jim Shaw donated and set up their old mechanical musical band, and the heritage gramophone was cranked up to supply Christmas music, much to the delight of the younger visitors. Greenery was gathered from the orchard to make corsages for guests, young and old. Hundreds of people walked through the museum cottage and saw a cottage at its best that night. We appreciate the hard work that went into the Light Up the Cove event and congratulate Lorraine Ashdown and Basia Lieske and the many others involved. Bowen Heritage is delighted to have participated as well. We hope that the enthusiasm for Bowen traditions will carry over into a larger appreciation of the value and potential of all the heritage cottages. Many are neglected; see the video at www.bowenheritage.org. Marion Moore, Bowen Heritage
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FRIDAY DECEMBER 23 2011 • 5
A surprise present under the tree SALLY HAMEL SPECIAL TO THE UNDERCURRENT
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e return home after a lovely candle-lit Christmas Eve service at the Little Red Church on Bowen Island. Some shortbread cookies, a small glass of sherry in front of the glowing fireplace with only the lights of the Christmas tree on. Yes, the Christmas tree, with carefully placed antique ornaments. Some are blown glass; some are china. Oh, how we have treasured this collection over the past 40 years it has taken us to bring them all together. We watch the fire and indulge in the first shortbread of the season while the cold winter wind blows past the chimney. We hear the cat door swing open and watch to see which one of our four-legged friends is joining us. A quick glance and we see Thumper, our Maine Coon,
coming towards us with a live rat wiggling in her mouth. The scream is horrific and, as we should have realized, she drops the rat! The rat could have gone many places but as we jump to our feet, it runs for protection – right up the Christmas tree. The tree that is decked out in all its antique glory. Those of us who are later labeled as cowards run upstairs to the bedroom and slam the door shut so the rat can’t open it. Everyone else examines the inside of the decorated tree to see exactly where the rat can be. There is great discussion about how to get the intruder down. Finally, it is decided that, despite the belowzero weather, the doors will be left open overnight so the monster can escape. God knows that we couldn’t shake the tree! We all grab extra blankets and firmly close our bedroom doors hoping the rat would leave
sometime during the night to spend Christmas with his family. Christmas morning, we get up to a freezing house. The brave ones in the family are sent down to see if the coast is clear. The plan seems to have worked – the rat cannot be seen anywhere in the glorious tree. Sweaters go on, the fire is stoked and the waffles are made. Christmas can go on as planned. I would like to say that this was the end of the Christmas Eve rat but that was not the case. A few days later, there was the foulest smell coming from somewhere in the kitchen. Our noses said it came from under the dishwasher. A call to our friendly local appliance man and there it was a very dead rat at the back of the pulled-out dishwasher. Our family had a great and memorable Bowen Christmas but it was a different story for the rat.
Inaugural ceremony a well-rounded and moving affair To the Editor:
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Soup from holiday leftovers will go to downtown east side To the Editor:
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n Sunday, December 18, we performed A Christmas Carol. Dickens’ magical words ring as true today as they did in Dickens’ time. I, as a portly gentlewoman, ask Scrooge for a Christmas donation and explain that “we choose this time, because it is a time, of all others, when want is keenly felt, and abundance rejoices.” With this in mind, I am asking you to make soup from your feast day leftovers. It can be put in the freezer just out-
side the door of Collins Hall from whence it will be taken to the soup kitchen on the downtown east side. After a night on the cold mean streets, often as the first meal of the day, our thick home-made soup is very, very welcome. Thank you to those who regularly make soup and for Don Nicolson for delivering it. May you all have a wonderful Christmas and may 2012 prove to be peaceful and happy. And so as Tiny Tim says, “God bless us, every one!” Angie McCulloch
us with his usual gusto in a performance of an original piece. He was followed by Chris Corrigan who sang so beautifully about Bowen a capella. Corporate officer Cathy Lalonde administered the oath to mayor Jack Adelaar. I was relieved to observe that the event was quite spontaneous and casual. The returning councillors, Alison Morse and Cro Lucas, and the new councillors, Wolfgang Duntz, Daren Jennings, Tim Rhodes and Andrew Stone, were sworn in and were then ready to assume their responsibilities on council. Duntz and Stone were appointed by motion of council to the post of trustees to the Islands Trust. The elected councillors, staff and our friends and neighbours stayed to chat and end enjoy wine and cheese. We felt that the evening was very well done and a privilege to attend. Ian Henley
Support for CAWES appreciated To the Editor:
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would like to thank all those who have so generously given to the Coastal Animal Welfare and Education Society (CAWES) this year and supported us with fundraising events. Every penny is spent on the animals. I know that if they could speak they would join me and our board in wishing you all a very happy festive season and that 2012 be full of love and happiness. Angie McCulloch president of CAWES
The womenfolk at Christmas time: the best Grundy singing along to The This column is a reprised and Little Drummer Boy. revised Lane that goes all the Most women live for these way back to Christmas of 2005. things but it seems the closest In the view of the Lane, circummost males come to an act even stances over the holidays have bordering on arts and crafts at not changed since it was first Christmas is choosing a colour written and so it is that it conscheme for the wife’s lingerie. tinues to be topical and, quite Not that there’s anything wrong frankly, long-lamentable. It goes with that. out especially to the women. It is more often the female who hristmas is a hulking thing puts time and effort into sending that careens willy-nilly out Christmas cards. The female about and it is at once makes the phone calls and does exhilarating and completely and the bulk of the organizing at absolutely exhausting. It is one Christmas. It is she who is more holiday that demands real effort. likely to make the Christmas Christmas then is no picnic. food, dishes of goodies ranging It seems that as soon as you get from shortbread cookies one problem solved, to rum balls to multipleanother one pops up. course turkey dinners. I Whose house? Who’s can’t think of any dishes invited? What car, bus, that men are the more ferry, plane or footpath likely to make. do you take? Who buys Except the dirty ones. for whom, who brings One of the bigger what and who picks Christmas tasks is buying whom up, and at what gifts and a trip to a mall time? Sometimes there’s or Artisan Square will tell even who isn’t talking to you who in most families whom, and why. newsroom@bowenislandundercurrent.com is doing that. The followThrough it all, someing is a random list of thing as clear as a midBowen women and it’s a nearnight mass bell is that it’s the certainty that each does more female who makes Christmas gift getting and gift wrapping work and by examining any than their male counterparts: aspect of it we’ll find that to be Jill Taylor, Victoria Rutigliano, the case. Let’s begin with arts Barb Bingham, Casey Grundy, and crafts, a wonderful part of Marlena Miller, Christine Christmas. It is women who Roocroft, Cynthia Nicholson, cut out decorative paper Santas Karen Nicholls, Joldine Lee and and snowflakes and hang them Tracey Wait. up on bulletin boards or dangle Now, before closing, it must be them from strings at home. Some said that there are things which women even put poems about men do at Christmas, for examChristmas right up there alongple on the big day we pick up the side the Santas. seniors, open our gifts, play with No man has ever done that. the kids, construct anything that I simply cannot imagine, needs constructing and eat and try as I might, father and sons drink with family and friends. We Eric, Jonas, Niko and Mattias also make certain to thank our Blomberg choosing a heartfelt wives and mothers and tell them verse about Christmas and then that they’re the very best for all together writing it out by hand that they have done; we do so and finally hanging it up from a without fail every Christmas day. tree. It’s easier to imagine a new And to all you women, that last ferry-marshalling plan. bit, the thanking you bit? That is Nor can I easily picture other totally sincere and do not think island males I know carefully that we say it, or that this missive cutting out and pasting a chubby was written simply to set you up Santa Claus on a Christmas colso that you’ll do it all again next lage. It’s Bowen so maybe a few, year. No way. We guys really, but not many. For example, I really mean it: you are the best, can’t image Neill Squire drawladies, the best. ing happy little snowmen or So Merry Christmas to each Tony Dives making a string of decorative snowflakes or Spencer and every one of you. The best.
C
slow lane
Marcus Hondro
Re Inaugural ceremony at Cates Chapel November 5 t was a real thrill to attend the inaugural ceremony on November 5 at Cates Chapel. It was impressive from the very start with a piper followed by RCMP Corporal Don Southern and his successor Corporal Nancy Joyce in their brilliant red serge. They were followed by fire chief Brian Biddlecombe and deputy chief Bob Clark in blue serge with sparkling buttons and gold-trimmed caps. Municipal chief administrative officer Brent Mahood addressed all present with an impressive welcome. He was followed by Jewel Maxwell whose lovely voice brought us to our feet to join in with much enthusiasm. The retiring council was presented to the appreciative audience. Reverend Shelagh Mackinnon delivered a very thoughtful invocation that touched all bases and made me wish I had a copy.
The brilliant keynote address was presented by David Podmore, chair of B.C. Pavilion Corporation. Podmore was described by Tony Whitney in West Coast Homes and Design with the following: ”Whether it‘s his company’s latest housing development (Concert Properties), his association with BC, Children’s Hospital or work on upgrading BC Place Stadium roof, David Podmore is wholly involved in the community, his family and, when time allows, leisure activities.” He has been a resident of Bowen Island for about 50 years. However, he has kept such a low profile that many of us would say, “David who?” if his name was mentioned as a local resident. I am told that we should thank Sheana Stevenson who organized the event. Again, I do hope that a record was kept of his very appropriate and useful comments. Marc Gawthrop entertained
Debra Stringfellow photo
6 • FRIDAY DECEMBER 23 2011
WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM
Happy Holidays!
From all of us at the Artisan Square was the place to be last Saturday when the Artisan Square Christmas Fair was in full swing. One of the attractions was the wishing tree at the Gallery that grew more beautiful throughout the day as children added their decorations. Susanne Martin photos
During the Holiday Season our thoughts turn gratefully to those who have made our progress possible. And in this spirit we say THANK YOU &
New plans for chamber of commerce
Merry Christmas from the captain & crew of the
UNION STEAMSHIP MARINA We will be open: FRIDAY Dec. 23rd 10 am to 5 pm SATURDAY 24th 10 am to 3 pm Call 947-0707 ext. 2
BOXING DAY SALE December 26th to January 8th 40% OFF Christmas, 25% OFF Everything Else!
T
he Bowen Island Chamber of Commerce is happy to announce that Robert Wall is now the new chamber manager. He will be starting in the new year and operating the chamber office out of the Rob Wall Gallery (robertwallstudio.com) in Artisan Square. On the island for 22 years, Wall has run his graphic design/digital/web business for 28 years and has just recently opened his on-island gallery/studio. He comes from an extensive advertising/marketing background that he will be utilizing to bring the chamber into the information age. Among the many tasks before him, he will design and build a live hub-based chamber website, broadcast and record meetings and post on YouTube, introduce marketing workshops, initi-
ate a Snug Cove development advisory board to advise council on the OCP, develop an overall marketing plan for Bowen, grow the membership, develop Bowen Island merchandising, promote the online features via QR codes on posters and other print media, and, of course, distribute the Bowen map, renegotiate the running of the info centre, support local events and projects. Robert is looking forward to taking on this challenge and hopes to contact people online or at the meetings in the new year (please wait until after January 1). Watch for the Undercurrent and email notices to every island business. The chamber is us, so only we can make it better! Daniel Heald and Robert Wall, Bowen Island Chamber of Commerce
A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year All the very best for 2012. We will be open Dec. 24th, Christmas Eve, until 4pm. We will reopen Jan. 15th.
from Jack at
Ocean Air ELECTRIC 59 Artisan Lane (Artisan Square) 590 We Wednesday - Sunday 11-5 Be Before and after-hours shopping by appointment 77 778-863-7770 • www.movementglobal.com
Season’s Greetings My family and staff wish you and yours a Merry Christmas, a Happy Hanukkah, and all the best for 2012. John Weston
North Shore Constituency Office Tel: 604.981.1790 Fax: 604.981.1794 Member of Parliament John.Weston@parl.gc.ca Suite 21 - 285 17th Street, West Vancouver - Sunshine Coast - Sea to Sky Country West Vancouver, BC, V7V 3S6
May 2012 be a de deLIGHT LIGHTful ful year for you all!
Celebrate
NEW YEAR’S EVE at
Doc’s
To reserve your place at Bowen’s biggest Dinner Party, Please call 947-9443
Happy Holidays, and a HUGE thank you Bowen! Dwayne Matthews & Henrik Nielsen Our new office is located on Bowen Trunk Road, lower level, corner building of Village Square.
“Putting your technology right, in shop or on-site!”
WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM
FRIDAY DECEMBER 23 2011 • 7
Give the Gift of Cleaning!
Leigh Automotive
TIMELY AND DISCRETE SERVICE
The get done the things you don’t have time for service, so that you can do the things you need to do and do the things you love to do!
will be closed from Dec. 24 to Jan. 2. We will reopen Jan. 3.
• House Cleaning • Pet/Plant Sitting • Errands • Service Appointments • Vacation Preparation • Airport Drop Off/Pickup • Event Planning • Gift Shopping • Organic Meal Delivery • In-House Special Breakfast Preparation
Your Staff CLEANING & CO CONCIERGE ONC ON NCI CIE IER ERG RGE GE
604-505-9351 • www.yourstaff.ca Member of The Canadian Concierge Association
Wishing Everyone a
Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year Year!!
Happy Holidays from
It’s great to go and see Santa - it’s even better when you can bring your pet. Santa Paws had a great time at Artisan Square greeting pets and their people. Susanne Martin photo
Christmas fair a great success
O
n behalf of the merchants at Artisan Square I’d like to thank Bowen Islanders for making our first Artisan Square Christmas Fair on December 17 a roaring success! The square was hopping with music and good cheer, along with plenty of pets, including a variety of well-behaved canines and even a couple of guinea pigs waiting their turn to get their photo taken with Santa Paws! We apologize to those pet owners who were unable to have their pet’s picture taken and for any confusion regarding the time that Santa Paws was available. A special thank you to our jolly elf, Peter Courtney, who did a splendid job of keeping the hounds (and their people) smiling. Many children decorated the Christmas wish tree in the Gallery at Artisan Square and four lucky residents took home
Christmas gift bags that overflowed with amazing gifts donated by Artisan Square merchants. A great team made the fair possible including Marc Baur from the Bowen Island Arts Council, Christie Grace from Christie Grace Studios, Coral Louie from The Sign Shop, Jeanne Sarich from Cloudflower Pottery, Shane Tweeten and Simon James from Shamon, and Rob Wall from the Rob Wall Gallery. Thanks also to all the other participating merchants including acos, Bowen Beauty Spa, Artisan Eats, WREN, The Pet Store, Gilt Gallery, Coastal Patterns Gallery, Arts Pacific Cooperative, The Sign Shop, Movement Global, The Office, and The Gym. And finally, thanks to Doug Berry for the sparkling light display. Carol Cram, Bowen Island Arts Council
(N ear COMA the R IN Ru NE dd R yP ota to)
Fabulous F inds on Bowen Fri. Dec. 23 • 10-6 Sat. Dec. 24 • 10-4 Closed Dec. 25, 26 Re-Opening Dec. 27 for fantastic Boxing Week Savings!
604-947-0881
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year From the Staff at the Building Centre Thank you to all for helping us make this a successful year. We are looking forward to the up and coming year.
Putting candy store on the map ARJUNA THIRA SPECIAL TO THE UNDERCURRENT
T
o the casual observer Bowen Island may appear like a dull place. However, the locals of this tiny paradise would be able to tell you that Bowen is full of hidden wonders. All you need to find them is a treasure map. I intend to help you mark your island map with x’s and remind you of the wealth of local talent. Today I am going to reveal a delicious, candy-filled hole in the wall hidden behind Miksa. It is appropriately named Candy in the Cove. This particular x on the map leads you not a pot of gold, but of
candy. It may well be the smallest candy store in British Columbia and this tiny nook reflects every child’s fantasy. The kids of Bowen often affectionately refer to it as Willy Wonka’s closet. This closet is stocked wall to wall with different types of candy. Candy in the Cove has dozens of different sweets from the past, it has candies from ‘toxic wastes’ to ‘pixie sticks’ and even Wonka products. I know that after a hard day at school, I like to stop by for a box of Maltesers before I embark on the journey home. Wether it gives you a blast from the past or a pirate’s treasure, your heart is sure to melt and your sweet tooth is sure to rot.
Come join us on Friday December 23rd at our Annual open house from 12:00 to 5:00p.m.
HOLIDAY STORE HOURS Saturday December 24th ............ 8:00a.m. to 12:00p.m.
MERRY CHRISTMAS Monday December 26th .....................................CLOSED Tuesday December 27th ....................................CLOSED Wednesday December 28th .......... 7:30a.m. to 5:00p.m. Thursday December 29th .............. 7:30a.m. to 5:00p.m. Friday December 30th .................. 7:30a.m. to 5:00p.m. Saturday December 31st ............ 8:00a.m. to 12:00p.m.
HAPPY NEW YEAR Monday January 2nd .........................................CLOSED Tuesday January 3rd.....................back to regular hours
BOWEN BUILDING CENTRE
604-947-9622
WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM
T I DES HIGH FEET
Fri.
15.4 14.8 15.7 14.8 16.1 14.1 16.1 13.8 16.1 13.1 16.1 12.1 16.1 11.2
1026 11.8 2246 0.7 1122 11.5 2332 0.7 1215 11.2 0015 1.0 1307 10.5 0056 1.6 1400 9.8 0135 2.6 1455 9.2 0212 3.9 1552 8.5
BOWEN ISLAND
â–ź
VANCOUVER Horseshoe Bay
Snug Cove 5:30 6:30 7:30 8:30 9:30 10:30 11:30 12:30 3:00 4:00 5:00 6:00 7:00 8:00 9:00 10:00
am # 6:00 am am 7:00 am am 8:00 am am 9:00 am + am 10:00 am am 11:00 am am 12:00 pm pm 2:25 pm pm 3:30 pm pm+ 4:30 pm pm 5:30 pm pm 6:30 pm pm* 7:30 pm* pm 8:30 pm pm 9:35 pm pm
Leave Horseshoe Bay
H: 6 L: 3
0530 1504 Sat. 0613 1558 Sun. 0654 1652 Mon. 0732 1745 Tue. 0809 1838 Wed. 0844 1934 Thurs. 0918 2036
LOW FEET
REGULAR SCHEDULE In Effect Oct. 12 - March 31, 2012
Leave Snug Cove
8 • FRIDAY DECEMBER 23 2011
Distance: 3 MILES Sailing Time: 30 MINUTES
# DAILY EXCEPT SUNDAYS AND STATUTORY HOLIDAYS
*
DAILY EXCEPT SATURDAYS
+ DAILY EXCEPT WEDNESDAYS/ DANGEROUS CARGO, NO PASSENGERS
Seven Hills Yoga Classes $15.00 - Drop in $12.00 - Registered Please see www.sevenhillsyoga.com for the current schedule and more information Jeffrey Simons CertiĂ…ed Hatha Yoga Instructor 1237 Scarborough Road, Bowen Island sevenhillsyoga@me.com 604-671-2845 Gift CertiĂ…cates Available
HOLIDAY HOURS: CLOSING EARLY: December 24, 4:45pm CLOSED: Monday December 26 & Monday January 2
CATES MEDICINE CENTER
604ďšş947ďšş0766
Ziggy’s life transformed IRIS CARR CAWES
Z
iggy was a very insecure animal from the day he was born. A couple of months ago, his and his mother’s caregiver died suddenly and her partner was unable to keep the dogs. Bowen’s Coast Animal and Wildlife Society (CAWES) took charge and tried to find a home for them. Louis Racine with Ziggy (left) who There was a worry that Ziggy, who is now a gentle giant. had not been neutered until recently, couldn’t be adopted because of his passive/aggressive tendencies. They were given up for adoption by Along came Louis Racine, Bowen their guardian because she was leaving Island’s dog whisperer. Under his care, the country. She even seriously considZiggy became a gentle giant. Ziggy ered euthanasia. will remain a CAWES fostered-for-life CAWES rescued them and they are dog and Louis will continue to take fostered on Bowen. Not everybody care of him. If thinks to adopt an anybody would older cat but the like to sponbenefits can be sor Ziggy, their rewarding – they donation will are socialized, go towards dog house trained and food and vet grateful for a corbills. ner on the couch. Marly is Tahoe and Riley Ziggy’s mom. Riley (left) and Tahoe are still are very comfortShe is nearly 14 waiting to find a permanent home. able around dogs, years old and kids, and other suffering from cats. They like to arthritis and other age-related comgo outside and will wait patiently at plaints. CAWES has a home waiting the door to be let in again. Riley is a for her in the wings. Things are looking up for those two dogs but there are lap warmer. Tahoe is the better hunter other stories that are still waiting for a and lives for a tummy rub. happier ending. Both cats love to be with people. Tahoe and Riley are two affectionCAWES will separate them if necesate and lovable 10-year-old sisters. sary but would rather not.
Bowen Island Golf Club "OWENä)SLANDä)NSURANCEä!GENCYä,TD
presents
Snowman Scramble Low Net Format
MONDAY, DECEMBER 26 Register Soon!
Space is limited. Open to the public, members and guests.
Ho liday Hour s Dec. 23rd Dec. 24th, 25th & 26th Dec. 27th, 28th & 29th Dec. 30th Dec. 31st, Jan.1st & 2nd Jan. 3rd
- 9 am - 12 noon - Closed - 9 am - 5:30 pm - 9 am - 12 noon - Closed - Regular Hours Resume
P: 604-947-2113
My Card‌
DEE ELLIOTT
Corbin
MacDonald Realty Œ‰‰‰Œ‰‰‰Œ MEDALLION CLUB
2010 4 YEARS
We're below the pub with plenty of parking.
Winter Hours: 11 - 5 every day
604-947-9355 (94-SWELL)
C: 604-250-2005
here’s h here ere e re’ s
hoo.com Email: dee_elliott@ya www.bowenhomes.ca
HOLIDAY HOURS: 24th open 8 - 3 • 25th, 26th, and Jan. 1st closed 27th to 31st open 11 - 5
Wishing you and yours a safe and happy holiday
Registrations can be emailed to the proshop at proshop@bowengolf.com or by calling the proshop at 604-947-GOLF (4653)
Cel: 604-612-7798 -7798 Toll Free: 1-866-612
We wish you the special gifts of the holiday season - peace, joy, and happiness... ...and don’t forget the batteries for the toys.
Applied with finesse - and measurable suc cess! Accented, effervescen t, Keeps luminescent, picturesq ue! Ever-so-fresh, with na ry a speck Painting! where it must not get! 604-9
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The Snug Cove General Store
Holiday Hours Dec. 24 Dec. 25 Dec. 26 Dec. 31 Jan. 1
8-8:30 Closed 8-7pm 8-8:30 8-7:30
The bottle depot will be closed Dec. 24th and Dec. 31st. 947-9619
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FRIDAY DECEMBER 23 2011 • 9
On the calendar • AA Meeting: Women’s: 9:15 a.m., Collins Hall.
FRIDAY, DEC. 23 • Bowen Building Centre open house: noon - 5 p.m.
TUESDAY, DEC. 27
• Youth Centre: 6 -10:30 p.m. Free food, free movies. Drop in. SATURDAY, DEC. 24 • Christmas Eve service: 5:30 p.m. Cates Hill Chapel. • Christmas Eve service: 5 p.m. Little Red Church. SUNDAY, DEC. 25 • Christmas morning service: 10 a.m. Cates Hill Chapel. • Christmas day service: 10:30 a.m. Little Red Church.
Exciting changes for Bowen Taekwondo TITANIA MICHNIEWICZ B . I . TA E K W O N D O
O
n Saturday, December 10, three young students of Bowen Island Taekwondo tested for their black belts. Devon Thompson and Brian Cuba achieved the rank of second Dan (or degree) black belt and Dawson Taylor achieved his first Dan black belt. Congratulations! It is with sadness that Bowen Island Taekwondo students have said goodbye to Master Chris Ryu. Master Ryu is returning to Korea to be with his fiancée and his family. He is very sad to leave Bowen Island Taekwondo and all the students who he considers dear friends. One consolation is that Master Ryu will again be able to train with his master in Korea. It is a new chapter in Master Ryu’s life, and a new chapter for those who train in Taekwondo on Bowen. Master Ryu has taken much care
in selecting a new leader for Bowen Island Taekwondo, Master In Duk Jang. Master Jang brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role as he is a sixth level black belt in Taekwondo, a sixth level black belt in HaeDongKumDo (a Korean sword martial art) and a fourth level black belt in Hapkido. Master Jang lives in Burnaby with his wife and children and will lead a full schedule of classes in 2012 including a family class on Saturdays. The new training session for Taekwondo starts on January 9. Practicing Taekwondo leads to a high level of fitness while teaching valuable self-defence skills in a friendly and supportive environment. There are openings available for children, young adults and beginner adult classes. Please contact Master Jang (masterjang@hotmail.com, 778-887-8998) or come visit the Dojang at Artisan Square.
THURSDAY, DEC. 29 • Youth Centre: 4 to 6 p.m. Practise with your band or listen to music. Free food.
• Bowen Island Dementia Caregiver Support Group: 7:30 to 9 pm. For more information please contact: Kerri at 604-984-8348 or e-mail: ksutherland@ alzheimerbc.org. WEDNESDAY, DEC. 28 • Drop-in knitting group: 2 to 5 p.m. in the lounge at Bowen Court. All levels welcome.
MONDAY, DEC. 26
Devon Thompson, Brian Cuba achieved the rank of second Dan (or degree) black belt and Dawson Taylor achieved the rank of first Dan. Master Chris Ryu is in front. Titania Michniewicz photo
• AA Meetings: Open Meetings, 7:15 p.m. Collins Hall/United Church. 604-4343933.
• Bowen Boxing Day specials: Fabulous Finds, Bowen Coffee, Union Steamship Marina and others.
• Post Partum Support Group: Meets two evenings/ mo. (604) 947-2717.
• Snowman Scramble at the Bowen Island Golf Club: open to public, members and guests, register at 604-947-4653 or email proshop@bowengolf.com.
• Weight Watchers: Collins Hall. 6:15-7:15 p.m. Call 9472880. New materials and updates to the PointsPlus program for 2012- visit a meeting for FREE.
• Christmas bird count: Open to anyone keen on birds. Get-together afterwards. Contact Pam Dicer at 9558 or bobandpam@shaw.ca
• Rotary Club: Operation Red Nose takes a break for Friday and Sat. the 23 and 24 but will be back for New Year’s Eve. Call 604-619-0942 for a safe option. Next club meeting January 5th, 2012. The Snug Cafe’ 7:30-9.00 p.m. • The Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 150 would like to thank all our volunteer cooks and bartenders for their wonderful service all year. Also a big thank you to our members for their continued support through out the year. Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year with your friends and Family, see you all next year.
589 Prometheus Place Artisan Square, Lower Level Tel: 2522
HOLIDAY OPEN HOURS WED. DEC. 14 - SAT. DEC. 30, 12-5 pm Closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day
SECONDS SALE! One day only on BOXING DAY 12-5 pm but come early!
Sign up for a class before the New Year starts for a
Holiday Hours: Christmas Eve: 9-4pm • Boxing Day: 10-4pm New Years Eve: 9-4pm Closed Christmas and New Years Day Boxing Day Specials...Everything on Sale! One Day Only....Don’t Miss Out! 100% Certified Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee...Just arrived! We were lucky enough to get our hands on one 9kg Barrel of 100% authentic Jamaican Blue Mnt coffee. Only $19.95 per 100g... First come, first served... Happy Holidays!
10% DISCOUNT Merry Christmas
Next to the New Beer and Wine Cellar
604-562-0024
TOM ROOCROFT EXCAVATING INC.
BOWEN ISLAND WELLNESS CENTRE 604-947-9755 CATHERINE SHAW Dr. Traditional Chinese Medicine/Acupuncturist
u MARY MCDONAGH Reg. Massage Therapist Classical Homeopath
u SANDY LOGAN Registered Physiotherapist
To advertise ®on the Health Page call 604-947-2442
®
HEALTH & WELLNESS Bowen Island Family Physicians
BLOOD TESTS, URINE TESTS OR ECGS Dr. Susanne Schloegl
6:45 - 9:00 A.M. EVERY THURSDAY DR. ZANDY'S OFFICE
Dr. Utah Zandy 604-947-9830 CALL FOR APPOINTMENT OPEN MONDAY, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY
Dr. Gloria Chao Dr. Peggy Busch Dentists
M.D.
Call for an appointment 566 Artisan Lane, Suite 203
604-947-9986
Chiropractor Dr. Tracy Leach, D.C. 566 Artisan Lane, #205 Call for an appointment
(778) 828-5681 Dr. Dana Barton
Naturopathic Physician 596 B. Artisan Square
Artisan Square • 604-947-0734 Fridays 10am-5pm
604-730-1174
Horseshoe Bay • 604-921-8522
Natural Family Medicine
Rock Walls Landscaping Clearing Grading Site Preparation Large and Small Machines Available
TOM ROOCROFT EXCAVATION ARTIST Phone: 604.947.0812 Cell: 604.916.TREX (8739) CHRISTINE ROOCROFT Gardener Cell: 604.319.8739
BIG
BOWEN ISLAND GENERAL
CONTRACTORS
Weeding Weedeating Mowing Pruning Hedging Yard Maintenance
Doug Jamieson Ph: 604-947-9434 Cell: 604-690-3328
HOUSE & HOME Brannon Brothers THE PAINTER roofing & sheet metal Call Mike at
604-338-2516
Allan Pedley Ph: 604-307-0423 Fax: 604-947-2323
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WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM
Crime Stoppers hopes people will rethink ‘cone of silence’
New store holds draw on Christmas Eve
continued, PAGE 1
SUSANNE MARTIN
phone numbers or contact information. Murray hopes that the poster will remind people to help. “When a tip comes in, the police get the information within 15 minutes. By getting the poster program front and centre, we hope that people will rethink their positions. They might think, ‘It is time that I say something.’” Murray says that isn’t unusual for a period of time to pass before people speak out. “In Squamish, it took five years for someone to come forward with an anonymous tip about the death of Bob McIntosh that led to an arrest.” “In 2012, it’s going to be three years since Jodi died,” Murray said. “The poster is an excellent way to remind people and get them involved.” The $2,000 reward money is the regular amount that Crime Stoppers offers for big crimes. Murray says, “I found it interesting that many people who report crimes and bring forward excellent information don’t call back for the reward. I think that money is not really a motivator; the whole notion is to get the information out.” Murray thinks that a number of youth who were at the same party as Henrickson might have valuable information and may have shared it with their parents. “The key message is to come forward and get that information into the mix,” Murray said. “The police have to be sure they got the right person or people and any information can be helpful.” Murray also mentioned the new QR code on the posters that links people with smart phones to more information. Crime stopper’s phone number is 1-800-222-8477 or text BCTIP (274637). Sea to Sky Crime Stoppers is a non-profit society with an active local program dedicated to crime prevention. It covers the corridor region from Bowen Island to north of Pemberton. Murray says that he would welcome having a representative from Bowen Island on the board.
FRIDAY DECEMBER 23 2011 • 11
EDITOR
N
ew signs went up last weekend at Artisan Square to point the way to acos, a small but well-stocked store located a few steps down and around the corner from The Office. Acos stands for arts, crafts and office supplies. The store is the newest venture of Theresa Anderson and Maggie Hocking. It opened in November and will hold a grand opening draw on December 24. Anderson said, “Our prizes include ski tickets to Cypress, dinner theatre tickets, an acos gift certificate, chocolates from Cocoa West, a $100 gift certificate for IRIS, the visual group, and more. We’ll hold the draw on Christmas Eve at 3 p.m. so that people have a chance to come in and collect their prizes before the holidays.” There is still a chance to enter the draw. The store is open Wednesday to Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This is not the first time acos has given away prizes. In November, islander Shelly Hymel came into the store looking for a gift for her husband who is a painter. The display of one-of-a-kind hand crafted wooden pens caught her eye. Hymel left without purchasing the pen but she entered a draw organized by acos and nine other retailers on Bowen Island. Hymel proved to be a lucky winner and was pleased to learn that her prize was one of the pens she had admired plus a gift certificate for acos. Hymel promptly picked an
Theresa Anderson and Maggie Hocking enjoy their new store at Artisan Square that holds many treasures. Susanne Martin photo additional wooden pen: a sketching pencil. Anderson and Hocking have been on Bowen Island since 2008. At that time, Anderson had an office above Artisan Eats. “I have a business in marketing and advertising and at one point I realized that there are some things I couldn’t get on the island. It made sense to consolidate the office into a space behind the store.” “Theresa is always generating new ideas,” said Hocking who is researching prices and new products while Anderson is running the store. “We are like kids in a candy store,” says Hocking when they bring out some of their new products: erasable pens and brush pens that are suitable for calligraphy. They also carry locally made products. Anderson sent out a flyer before opening the store to ask for input. “Most of the people who responded
were artists. They have been very enthusiastic and supportive.” Anderson also wants to focus on service. “We’ve approached some businesses to let them know that we can bring in office supplies,” she said. “If we get more businesses, then we can get better prices.” For instance, acos can stock printer cartridges. Anderson said, “And if you need to print something and run out of ink, even on a Sunday afternoon, call me and I’ll get it.” Anderson took a course in mobile marketing and is excited to implement what she has learned. One of the initiatives she has started is a SMS campaign where customers sent text messages to enter a draw. “I want to do that on an ongoing basis and build a network of customers.” Anderson sees the opening of the store as an opportunity to get connected to people on Bowen Island.
12 • FRIDAY DECEMBER 23 2011
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The last couple of weeks have been very busy for Santa but he’s made the time to visit the children and pets on Bowen Island. Debra Stringfellow and Susanne Martin photos
Season’s Greetings from the Dives family
Peter and Carmen Dives carmendives@gmail.com • 604-802-8267 divespeter@gmail.com • 604-802-8559 www.bowenislandproperties.com