FRIDAY MAY 13, 2011 VOL. 38, NO. 14
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Watch for more online at: WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM
Wonders of the sea
Hatchery help
Elvis lives!
There is a beautiful hidden world in the waters around Bowen Island
Parks Canada could be a helpful partner, volunteer club says
He can still rock the night away, raising $4,300 for BICS library
Vote date up in air MARTHA PERKINS EDITOR
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owen Island councillors couldn’t agree on when to reschedule the community opinion vote about a possible national park but they were almost unanimous in their decision to cancel the June 25 showdown with the electorate. A split three-three vote defeated Councillor Nerys Poole’s motion to postpone the vote until the municipal elections in November. She got the support of Mayor Bob Turner and Councillor Doug Hooper - fellow members of the national park council committee - but Councillors Cro Lucas and Alison Morse lobbied for August 20 and Councillor Peter Frinton didn’t want to set an exact date. By the end of the hour-long debate on Monday night, council agreed to Frinton’s suggestion that they not set an exact date for the vote until after Parks Canada has released its revised concept plan for a national park. Frinton agreed to Hooper’s “friendly amendment” requiring council to talk about the date of the community opinion vote within two weeks of receiving that plan. continued, PAGE 4
WHALE MUSIC – Juno Award winner Said the Whale won a whole new generation of fans when they performed an outdoor concert at the youth centre last week. Not only was the band a hit with young Bowen Islanders, some of whom enjoyed hanging around with band members before the concert, but the band also helped Bowen Shares raise $4,000 to ensure children at the Royal Seed Orphanage in Ghana can get a high school education. Story and more photos on page 11. Tristan Deggan photo
BC Ferries want schedule changes, closure of pedestrian gate MARTHA PERKINS EDITOR
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C Ferries wants to make changes to when and how Bowen Islanders get the ferry and the island’s ferry advisory committee wants to know what islanders feel about those changes.
Most of the proposed changes involve changing departure times at the beginning and end of the day by five minutes, but BC Ferries also plans to close the pedestrian gate on Bay Street in Horseshoe Bay. The proposed changes are as follows: • Changing the first sail time
from Bowen Island from 5:35 to 5:30 year round. At present, it’s at 5:35 in the off season and 5:30 in the summer. The proposed change is to allow more time for crew change so that the 6 a.m. ferry leaving Horseshoe Bay can improve its on-time performance. • Changing the last sail time to Bowen Island from 9:35 p.m. to
9:30 p.m. during the off season. The goal of the proposed change is to ensure the last ferry leaving Bowen Island at 10 can be on time and avoid crew overtime costs. • Extending the summer schedule to between the Victoria Day continued, PAGE 2
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2 • FRIDAY MAY 13 2011
Ferry advisory committee wants feedback continued, PAGE 1 weekend and Thanksgiving weekend. Right now it’s roughly from Canada Day to Labour Day. When the summer schedule is in effect, the last ferry leaving Horseshoe Bay is at 9:45 p.m. and the last ferry leaving the island is at 10:10. The goal of the proposed change is to improve the on-time performance of the Queen of Capilano when there are extra sailings on the Langdale and Nanaimo routes. • Closing the foot passenger gate to and from Bay Street. BC Ferries is building an elevated walkway to allow pedestrians to safely travel between the upper parking areas and Horseshoe Bay. Pedestrians crossing on the parking level may sometimes delay the discharge of vehicles from the unloading ferries. It wants pedestrians to use only the elevated walkways; the ground level pathway would be only for bicyclists. The Bowen Island ferry advisory committee plans to meet with BC Ferries in early June and wants to be able to include feedback from the community as part of that discussion. Please send your comments to bim@ bimbc.ca attention BIMFAC (Bowen Island municipal ferry advisory committee.)
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Parks Canada can be helpful partner, hatchery volunteer says MARCUS HONDRO S TA F F C O N T R I B U T O R
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he Bowen Island Fish and Wildlife club has been operating the fish hatchery since it became fully operational in 1986 and though the hatchery is not in imminent danger, the director of the club feels that a national park would help ensure the hatchery remains viable. The hatchery, as well as the health of fish-bearing streams, on Bowen are two reasons club director Bill Newport says he, and, he says, the majority of club members, support a park. In a recent talk with the Undercurrent Newport said they are supportive of Parks Canada on Bowen in part because the lands tabled need protecting. The club has “about 20 members” and Newport believes they would benefit from the additional stewardship Parks Canada would bring and from any funding the federal organization might be able to contribute to the local fish and wildlife landscape. His group and Parks Canada met in March. “It is my understanding from the talk I had with Parks Canada that they would partner with us on some of our salmonrelated projects within the park and, in this case, funding would - if at that time they had some rehabilitation money - be easier. “Funding for our club activities outside of the park would still be our club’s responsibility, such as the Explosives Creek salmon climbing pools, bringing back the
herring, etc.,” Newport said. Newport said that while lands such as the hatchery and Davies Creek, for example, are protected, other unprotected lands, if they were developed, could have an impact on them. The current level of land protection is not adequate, he believes, to ensure that there will never be the kind of development that could be harmful to the hatchery and Bowen watercourses. If Crown land were protected, that would change things. “If Crown land had a guaranteed watershed protection and no commercial development then a national park would not really be required for protection purposes,” Newport says. “But Crown land has no protection from commercial purposes and no guaranteed watershed protection so in this case, for the hatchery and our fish bearing streams, the national park would offer the best protection. “In the case of Crippen Regional Park, all the water flowing from Killarney Lake and Terminal Creek plus Davies Creek and all the lagoon fresh water - all wild-salmon-bearing waterways - is supplied from areas outside of the park. In other words all Crippen Regional Park waters come from elsewhere and if protection is not kept up then Crippen will dry up.” Another area Parks Canada is active in is the educating of youth, an ongoing part of what the wildlife club does. An example is the Coho Bon Voyage. This year’s 18th annual, open to all ages, takes place
The fish and wildlife club’s volunteers spend hundreds of hours raising salmon at the hatchery as well as raising funds to pay for their efforts. Director Bill Newport, right, says Parks Canada would be able to help. Sunday June 5 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Terminal Creek Hatchery and 1 to 2 p.m. at the Lagoon Causeway. In an email, Wayne Bourque, superintendent of the Gulf Islands National Parks Reserve, told Newport that “educating youth and engaging them in the maintenance and restoration of the ecosystem is a corporate priority for Parks Canada. The agency is keen to collaborate with groups, such as the Fish and Wildlife Club, in these kinds of activities that actively promote community involvement in restoration and education programs.” Newport feels the Wildlife Club and Parks Canada could build a strong working relationship. “In my estimation it (would be) positive.”
Bowen Island Municipality INFORMATION TO THE PUBLIC
Bowen Island Garden Club
At the April 4, 2011 Special Council Meeting, the National Park Community Advisory Committee presented their final report entitled “Bowen Island National Park Reserve Community Consultation Report.”
Presents April Reeves at the Gallery
A copy of this report is available for review at Municipal Hall or the Public Library during regular business hours. It is also available on the municipal website at http://www.bimbc.ca/news_notices?nnid=693#693
Date: Monday, May 16th Time: 7:00 pm Theme
Council offers their sincere thanks to the National Park Community Advisory Committee members for their hard work over the past few months.
Food Security today: why you should garden seriously as a group All welcome
B OW E N I S L A N D P U B L I C L I B R A RY
STUDENT SUMMER JOB Bowen Island Public Library is hiring a Summer Reading Club Coordinator to plan, prepare and run a weekly reading program for children ages 5 to 12. The position is open to all students continuing post-secondary full time studies in September 2011. The successful applicant will be: - Enthusiastic for work with children, books and reading - Comfortable handling a group of 15 to 20 children - Able to work creatively and independently, and as part of a team - Organized and motivated - Skilled in web applications and standard computer applications, such as Word and Excel Experience working with children would be considered an asset. Terms of Employment: 30 hours per week, for 10 - 12 weeks. Some evening and weekend shifts may be required. Wage $13.00 per hour Start date, June 06, 2011
BOOKFEST 2011! An Invitation to You
BICS gym Saturday, May 28 & Sunday, May 29
DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS IS MAY 15, 2011 at 4 pm
Tuesday May 17th 2011 At 7:00 pm Cates Hill Chapel, 661 Carter Road, Bowen Island Announcing the recipient of the $5,000 major grant award Introducing the two youth delegates to the Community Foundations of Canada Conference
Resumes can be dropped of at the library (430 Bowen Trunk Rd.), emailed to info@bowenlibrary.ca , or mailed to P.O. Box 10, Bowen Island, B.C. V0N 1G0. For more information call Tina at 947-9788. Full details available at www.bowenlibrary.ca. We want to thank all applicants, however only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.
We welcome you to the BICF Open House & AGM
RSVP APPRECIATED: info@bowenfoundation.com
Great reading bargains!
GIVING BACK TO BOWEN www.bowenfoundation.com
WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM
FRIDAY MAY 13 2011 • 3
Scientists explore Bowen’s bounty
Join Quest for island’s watersheds MARCUS HONDRO CONTRIBUTING WRITER
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SUSANNE MARTIN CONTRIBUTING WRITER
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owen Island truly is a special place to live, and not just for humans. At a presentation on expanding our world through a national park, a crowd of about 60 learned that recent off-shore construction has nothing to do with local real estate prices but is a reflection of a recovering ecosystem. As Dr. Chris Harvey-Clark put it, “What is happening here almost defies belief. A system that has been hammered for 100 years is bouncing back. In Howe Sound, the marine food web is reborn. The porpoises are back. They eat ten kilo of fish a day. They’re here because something is happening. We had grey whales come up in the last two years. There has been a discovery of sponge reefs and bioherms, and a very recent discovery of gorgonian corals which haven’t been seen around here. And there has been the return of herring spawn and sixgill sharks. And of course, we have the Pacific white sided dolphins.” Harvey-Clark is the UBC director of animal care centre and the vice-president of the Marine Life Sanctuaries Society of BC. He joined Dr. Faisal Moola, program director of terrestrial conservation at the Suzuki Foundation, and Dr. Jeff Marliave, vicepresident of marine science of the Vancouver Aquarium, on April 29, at Cates Hill Chapel. The event was organized by Stephen Foster. Harvey-Clark presented a film about the underwater world around Bowen. He said, “The density of life is enormous. These are things you never expect to see from the surface.” The camera captured an amazing wealth of creatures such as giant sea slugs, starfishes, hermit crabs, sea pens, sponges and octopi. The nine-minute video was an instant hit. A member of the younger audience said, “I like the movie. I like it a lot.” Responding to a question about the vulnerability of the ecosystem, Harvey-Clark said, “The hand of man is lying heavily on the sound. But it is surprising that the cleanup of the pulp mill in Britannia made huge changes. But there’s still immense pressure so close to a huge urban area.” Harvey-Clark said he observed “10 times the biodiversity that you see on the other coast.” The second speaker, Dr. Faisal Moola, backed this theory. He said, “I did most of my research on the Atlantic coast and made a similar observation. In BC the ecosystem is
Stephen Foster (left) moderated a presentation on Bowen’s aquatic marvels with Dr. Chris Harvey-Clark, Dr. Faisal Moola and Dr. Jeff Marliave as part of the debate about impact and opportunity of a national park on Bowen. Susanne Martin photo incredibly rich both in numbers and in biodiversity.” Moola is a professor at the University of Toronto’s faculty of forestry. He said, “The forests are so critical because they sequester and store billions of tons of carbon dioxide and our situation would be a lot worse if we didn’t have them. Our true wealth is not found in our pocket books but in the remarkable natural richness. As biological creatures, we depend on nature to sustain our families and communities, but the value of the ecosystems is often taken for granted, especially when it comes to zoning. For instance, the lower mainland lost half of its wetland cover from 1986-2006. No wonder, it is a hotspot for endangered species.” Moola said, “We treat nature as if it had no value. That is extremely short-sighted. Without healthy ecosystems, we can’t have healthy economies.” Moola and his colleagues have been working to change that thinking and even put a dollar value on nature. They dubbed bees as “flying fifty dollar bills.” Moola added that there is a financial to benefit of establishing a national park reserve on Bowen. Harvey-Clark agreed, “This is an opportunity to have a massive park on the boundary of a large city. Wouldn’t it be great to preserve it not just for locals but for everyone? As for marine protected areas, we only have one in Western Canada. And how it works is, basically, you leave it alone. You can do non-consumptive things like look, sail, kayak, snorkel or swim, but you can’t kill. New Zealand protects 10 per cent of its coastline and the lobster and fish populations there are 15 times higher versus outside the reserve. The lobster fishermen enjoyed good catches adjacent to the protected area even in times when catches in other areas failed.” Harvey-Clark said “Here we have a cold water ecosystem. Species are slow-growing, have low reproductive potential, don’t move around a lot. They fish out and are very difficult to replace. Unharvested reserves seed surrounding areas. If we protect even 10 per cent of the ocean adjacent to Bowen that
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will help to ensure that our kids have fish to catch.” He also suggested the idea about voluntary reserves until real protection can be in place. One of Marliave’s roles is to supervise the biological and video imaging at ecological index sites and develop monitoring methods for marine protected areas. He said, “I started working in Bowen Bay in 1981. What we are finding is that the biodiversity is very stable in Howe Sound. It has more nutrients than any other place in the Georgia Strait. What is bad is that we didn’t realize how effectively we fished out rockfish. Rockfish give life birth to a quarter million babies but they all crash and burn until conditions are just right. They live for a century to ensure continued existence. Yellow-eyed rockfish used to be abundant around Bowen and in fact there is one reef in Howe Sound that has a big stock. It is very important that we protect these areas. If you see a boat with rods off Bowen, chances are that it is illegal.” Marliave urged islanders to report illegal fishing. Even though a timely response is unlikely, the activity is entered into a log and sometimes perpetrators can be identified and fined. A member of the audience cautioned that transportation might be an issue for visitors. Marliave said, “The interpretive centre could be close to the seashore and visitors could park in Horseshoe Bay. Islanders will have to decide if they can deal with more people. Some of the most successful national parks are trying to find ways to keep the cars out.” Moola also argued that federal regulation would protect Bowen’s extensive Crown lands. He said, “I also feel that it is important that kids have access to a national park. I am worried that Canadians are increasingly disconnected from nature. Parks Canada is suffering from reduced attendance, in the Maritimes, visitors have dropped by 18 per cent, in Ontario by 12 per cent. This is a sign that we are progressively urbanized. There are social implications and we need to reach young people. Once they are connected to nature, they’re much less likely to be apathetic.”
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he Bowen Island Nature Club has paired up with the Bowen Conservancy to send islanders on a quest to learn about, and experience, nature. The unique, free opportunity takes place Sunday, May 15. During a visit to Quarry Park, the first of three Quest locations, earlier this week, the Nature Club’s Cynthia Nicolson and D.G. Blair said that Questing began in the U.S. and is gaining popularity. Participants are given a map and directions and solve riddles while gathering information about their community. “I’m quite excited about it because it really makes us aware of things that are right there and that you might not otherwise pay attention to,” Nicolson said. “It’s about connecting to your own place, about the whole idea of learning about and appreciating where you live. In this case our Quest is about the watersheds.” Quest subjects can be a park, wetlands, historical sites or cultural places of interest. This Quest is part of B.C. Drinking Water Week. It’s intended to help participants understand how our drinking water arrives in our homes and what we need to do to protect our water supplies. A version was done in 2009 by Island students. It should take about an hour and a half and at the end you find a treasure box, which is a book you sign and a stamp to mark your accomplishment on your map or in a book of your own. The quest map, featuring a character called Raindrop, was conceived and written by Blair and Nicolson and while a labour intensive exercise, the result is amusing and informative. Here’s a sampling of Raindrop’s patter: From where, do you think, this water comes a-calling? As part of the cycle it comes from rain that’s falling - My water buddies and I take an enormous round trip - From the sky to the ground and up again we flip. Arrival time to begin at the Headwaters at Quarry Park is anytime between 1 and 2:30 and after you’re finished there you’ll go to Bowen Brook at Buchanan Park before finishing at Grafton Lake. The map has the details about where to go and what to look for. Parking areas there may be parking along roadsides. Parking is limited in Quest locations and Blair and Nicolson suggest car-pooling if possible. In addition to Park or Grafton Lake please take extra caution upon seeing cars parked along the roadside.
Places of Worship Welcome You BOWEN ISLAND UNITED CHURCH 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 MAY 13 2011
WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM
Vote’s timing decided after report released continued, PAGE 1 Poole appeared to abstain from voting; the others were in favour of the motion. The date change became necessary when Parks Canada announced that it would not be able to release the revised concept plan until late June. That would not give Islanders enough time to absorb the plan’s concepts before the scheduled June 25 vote on whether there was general support for the park. Interestingly enough, it was spectators at the meeting who first got to weigh in on when to hold the vote. There is a public comment session at the beginning of each meeting and several people signed up to address council. Most were there to request formal reassurance that the Mount Gardner dock not be included in any national parklands but the timing of the vote was also a matter of concern. Fitch Cady says that if the park vote coincides with the municipal elections, the park issue will dominate the campaign. “The park issue can swamp us,” he said. “It will become a single issue that will divide us.” He wanted an earlier vote, saying that once Parks Canada releases its concept plan “it’s not that complicated” to decide whether it’s a good plan. “What we need is resolution and decision. Your job is to get this process behind us and clear the election for other issues.... It’s time to put a leash on the national park and get this over with.” Will Husby disagreed with rushing ahead. “A lot of thought has gone into this process and we have to continue to do this. The fact that Parks Canada is taking its time is not a negative thing. They’re doing some things they’ve never done before... We need long, hard thinking and discussion; it’s not a back and forth
once because we’re both learning from what the other side is doing.” Jean Jamieson said, “I favour delaying referendum until the November election. It will give us time to hear more from Parks Canada and the specific way they’ll accommodate the island’s needs. It will give us time to read and evaluate the literature. It will save the municipality tax dollars because having two votes is expensive.” Don Youngson agreed. “What we have been demanding from Parks Canada is for them to get involved with the community and incorporate that into a conceptual plan, and then a plan in great detail. Typically that’s done in three to five years and we’ve said we want it done before we vote. We’ve had a federal election that will put a stop work on Parks Canada activities, changes in provincial ministries and from the information we gathered, there’s a large contingent that demanded more time – ‘you’re jamming it on us.’ “This is a great opportunity to have more time and take pressure off them.” He also said that the municipality needed to save the $10,000 that it will cost to hold the vote. (Parks Canada, which has paid for nearly all of the process, will not pay for the community opinion vote.) Then it was councillors’ turn. Nerys Poole spoke first, saying that she saw Parks Canada’s delay in releasing the revised park concept as a positive sign. “I believe that what they’re doing is considering the reports that they’ve received.... They’ve been given an awful lot of community feedback in the past month. I do believe there’s a difference between establishing a national park where no one lives and one where people live. This is the first time they’ve initiated
their urban engagement strategy. I’m in favour of giving them that time.” The three-member council committee did not think it was fair to hold the vote in summer. “People are away or they’re not paying attention. As well, the closer it comes to the November election, the less it makes sense to hold a separate vote,” she said. “If we were to spend $10,000 in September when there’s an election in November, I think it’s financially irresponsible.” She also wanted it noted that very little municipal staff time has been spent on the national park vote. Mel Turner, who retired from a 30-year career with BC Parks and negotiated on the province’s behalf when the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve was created, is advising council but his costs are picked up by Parks Canada. Parks Canada also paid for Casey Grundy’s assistance with the national park community advisory committee. “There’s no truth to the statement that we’re abandoning other issues,” Poole added. She said the national park will be an issue in November’s election “but it will also be an issue of how do you see the process unfolding - will you insist on another vote, would you support a negotiating committee.... As far as it taking up the election, it’s an incredibly important issue for our island.” Corporate officer Kathy Lalonde says the process for the municipal elections begins in late August. “I do not have the staff resources to hold a community opinion vote in September or October. We would need to hire a contractor.” It would also “be a stretch” to hold the vote in July or August. Councillor Morse said, “My druthers is we have the vote no later than August 20. There’s still
plenty of time if we get the information. There are a lot of people who are here in the summer. You actually might be enabling more people to vote.” Councillor Lucas said he was “definitely against” a November vote. “I’m cognizant of the fact that Parks Canada made it clear there’d be no new substantive information, that things would progress after the vote. I see postponing the vote as having a very negative impact for the community as a whole.” He wanted to hold the vote when summer residents were here and agreed with August 20. Councillor Frinton said, “the timeline has been largely driven by Parks Canada through [former minister of the environment Jim] Prentice who wanted an accelerated process. This is in contrast to the Southern Okanogan where they’ve been beating this about for six or seven years. “There are two questions embedded here,” he said. “It’s entirely appropriate to not hold the vote on June 25. It’s logistically impossible. The second question of when to hold the vote is premature. I don’t think it’s a good thing to combine it with an election. It does force an unnecessary focus on a single issue. There should be a vote when we’re ready for a vote. Wait till we get the report to see if some of the most more complicated issues are addressed, such as vision for Crippen Park. I don’t think it pleases anyone to go without a schedule but it’s one I feel most comfortable with. To me it’s far more important that we have good information. What we’ve asked for requires more.” Councillor Hooper said the two most senior Parks Canada people working on the Bowen Island feasibility study are retiring this summer. “They’ve got a practical issue and a turnover process that’s going to have to
pick up on all the recommendations we’ve made and build that team up again. “We know Parks Canada needs time to engage with Metro Parks about Crippen Park. They haven’t had time to attend to that piece. The reorganization of our federal and provincial government does have an impact. They have to get direction from their ministers. It could take some time for us to get some good answers. More complete information is what the community was asking for in advance of the vote.” Hooper disagreed with summer being a good time to vote. Voters don’t like summer elections. But he liked the idea of holding the vote with the municipal election. “It divorces or uncouples the issues from the politicians. [Candidates] will have to say whether they support the outcome of the vote or not. The community opinion vote will give that set of seven politicians great clarity, which I think is a gift.” Lucas said, “This is a very complex issue and it will take a great deal of time to get answers. The time could be years. I don’t think it’s relevant to the date of the election. Once the vote is done Parks Canada will start the process of getting the details that we can negotiate on and refine. We’re on the primary stage. I stand with earlier rather than later.” Mayor Turner support timing the vote with election. “The summer period is just inappropriate to conduct important business. The challenge of running it in the fall is a practical issue. We’d have to hire someone. It’s a weak way to run an election.... “I haven’t been persuaded that it would be a detriment to the election.” Frinton said, “we should be voting when we’re ready to vote. We’ve set two dates and they’ve both failed. Let’s not set the date; let’s wait until we get the information back.”
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
PUBLIC NOTICE
TEMPORARY AUXILIARY BYLAW SERVICES OFFICER
Application for a Liquor-Primary License for the Bowen Island Golf Course Clubhouse • The Bowen Island Golf Association has applied for a “Liquor-Primary License” for the Bowen Island Golf Course Clubhouse located at 917 Cowan Point Drive, Bowen Island, B.C. • The purpose of this application is to provide a licensed venue at the Clubhouse for the general public. The permitted hours of operation as outlined in the application will be Monday to Sunday between the hours of 10:00am – 11:00pm. The proposed person capacity is 44 for the interior and 75 for the patio. The Clubhouse will offer alcoholic, non-alcoholic beverages and food to community members and operate one beverage cart on the golf course as needed. Minors will be permitted on the golf course and in the Clubhouse until 10:00pm. • At their meeting on Tuesday, May 24th, 2011 at 7:30pm Council will be considering a resolution to support the issuance of this Liquor-Primary License to the Bowen Island Golf Association. • Council will receive written and verbal submissions from the Public at the abovenoted meeting. Alternatively, the Public are welcome to submit written comments in advance of this meeting by Friday, May 20th, 2011 at 4:00pm to: Jasmine Jawanda, Community Planner Bowen Island Municipality 981 Artisan Lane Bowen Island, B.C. V0N 1G0 Tel: 604-947-4255 Fax: 604-947-0193 Email: jjawanda@bimbc.ca
Bowen Island Municipality has an immediate opening for an Auxiliary Bylaw Services Officer, 21 hours per week for a minimum of 3 months, with the possibility of the position of becoming permanent. Regular working hours will be Monday through Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. This temporary position is intended to provide auxiliary support for the enforcement of municipal bylaws during the reorganization of the Bylaw Services division. Duties will include gaining compliance with municipal bylaws through education and direct enforcement, and acting as Animal Control Officer and Poundkeeper. The ideal candidate for this position will have completed high school, have proficiency in basic computer skills, be comfortable handling dogs, possess a valid BC driver’s license, and have the ability to interact with the public in a courteous manner. Related experience is an asset. A more detailed job description can be obtained by visiting the Municipality’s website at: www.bimbc.ca Qualified applicants are invited to forward a resume and cover letter, by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, May 27, 2011, to: Kathy Lalonde, Corporate Officer Bowen Island Municipality 981 Artisan Lane, Bowen Island, B. C. V0N 1G0 Tel: 604Ͳ947Ͳ4255 Fax: 604Ͳ947Ͳ0193 Email: klalonde@bimbc.ca The Municipality wishes to thank all candidates for their interest, however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted
For Information Call 604-947-4255
Mount Gardner Property owners around the Mount Gardner dock once again made it clear that they were opposed to having the dock included in any negotiations wit Parks Canada. They said parking is already an issue and there is little room to provide more access. Council had previously said that there’d be no consideration of including the dock until the neighbourhood was consulted but the neighbourhood says it wants the idea taken off the table immediately. Councillor oole said council had suggested having Parks Canada as a partner as a way to help pay for the costs of the dock. “But I hear your point – you want it removed.”
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FRIDAY MAY 13 2011 • 5
Family contributes to yacht club
Kids can learn to sail this summer
MARCUS HONDRO CONTRIBUTING WRITER
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he Bowen Island Yacht Club - and by extension Bowen Island itself has become the beneficiary of the generosity of a long-time Island family. Denys and Marguerite Ford, who have been on Snug Point since 1962, have given the club a sailboat for training kids and adults to sail. The Fords are handing over their Drascombe Longboat - a three-sail, fibreglass 22’ boat built in the U.K. - as a training craft. The family has owned the boat, which comfortably seats five or six adults, since the 1970s and Denys said they would like nothing more than to see it enjoyed by Bowen Islanders interested in sailing. The boat will be on lease to the Yacht Club for $1 a year indefinitely. Yacht club member Damien Bryan says the gesture is greatly appreciated. Beginning sometime in early June the club will be getting plenty of use out of it. Bryan, who has sailed many years and was involved with Outward Bound as an instructor, said that the Drascombe is perfect for the task of introducing people to sailing. “You really couldn’t find a better boat to learn to sail in and Denys’s wish is that the community uses it to teach sailing to kids and adults,” Bryan said. “All around this is a great gift to the community.”
Damien Bryan and Denys Ford are donating this Drascombe sailboat (now in storage) to the yacht club to be used for sailing lessons. Marcus Hondro photo The club’s existing boats, such as Lasers, will still be used but Bryan says that the Drascombe will get a lion’s share of the work. He is also on the board of directors for the youth centre and says that they, too, will be having the opportunity to learn and hone sailing skills, in conjunction with the yacht
club. Bowen’s yacht club offers a range of sailing opportunities with training classes and sponsoring of a number of sailing activities for Islanders to avail themselves of, such as the Spring Race Series and Round Bowen Race each summer. Details are available on their website at www.biyc.bc.ca.
Biking on Bowen summer camps
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he Bowen Island community recreation department’s popular summer biking camp is back this summer with twoweek-long half-day camps to choose from. Your four- to seven-yearolds will become confident on their bike and lose their training wheels when they attend Tykes on Bikes. For those who are a bit older (six to nine), Mountain Riders will have them gaining confidence to try out some trails on Bowen. Both camps run July 25 to 29 and August 22 to 26. Camp time is 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. with an exception on Wednesday when it will be 8:45 to 11:15 a.m. For more information, please call the community recreation
office at 604-947-2216 or visit www.shorebikecamps. com. Register in person at our office in the BICS undercover area (1040 Mount Gardner Road). Shauna Jennings, Bowen Island Community Recreation Programmer
n partnership with BC Sailing, the Bowen Island Yacht Club will be offering summer sailing camp for kids aged 6 to 10. The Mobile Optimist Sailing School (MOSS) travels the entire province and the Yukon each summer offering educational and fun programs that introduce children to the exciting sports of sailing. This year, MOSS will be making its stop on Bowen Island from August 15 to 19. The five-day course teaches the basics of sailing. Participants will learn some terminology, knots and how to sail by means of games and activities on and off the water. Sailors learn in seven-foot “Optimist” sailboats that are specifically designed for young children. Optis are more stable so easy to learn in, fun and, of course, safe. By the end of the course, students will become Captains of their own boats as they learn to sail on their own! At 10 years of age they can transition comfortably to sailing Laser sailboats. White and Bronze Sail Programs are also offered this summer. Safe boating practice is a constant theme throughout all BIYC sailing programs, starting with teaching children to act responsibly around the water. In addition to sailing skills, all the programs aim to develop confidence and leadership in its participants. Professionally trained, Canadian Yachting Association certified coaches ensure every experience is a positive one. Special Opti news: The BIYC wants its program to grow independent of BC Sailing. It needs to add three Optimist sailboats to its fleet. This would allow the club to provide programming for 6 10 year olds for four additional weeks during July and August. If you can donate, share or rent to make this dream a reality on Bowen, please contact Florrie Levine 604-947-2194 or Wendy Wanvig 604-947-0994 . For more information and to register, visit moss.bcsailing.bc.ca, or register online at www.biyc.bc.ca. Please register early as this program sold out last year and is expected to do the same this summer.
The Cape Roger Curtis Trust Society invites all those interested in the preservation of natural areas to its
Annual General Meeting Saturday, May 21, 2011 11:15 A.M. – 1:15 P.M. at Collins Hall, 1122 Miller Road, Bowen Island Please join us – everyone is welcome …
My Card…
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o Chris Sorrentin 604 861 5966 t csorren@telus.ne
Corbin 23 years experience (began apprenticing 198 8) Keeps Interiors / Exteriors Painting! Eco products/practices Fast, Fastidious,
Fabulous! 604-947-9454 corbinkee p@telus.net
This year, our guest speakers are:
Gwen Barlee and Joe Foy of the Wilderness Society Gwen and Joe will give us a power-point presentation and tell us about the Wilderness Society’s role in the campaign for a National Park in the Okanagan – what did and didn’t work. They are also willing to talk about issues regarding outreach on their other campaigns as a lot of them overlap in terms of successful strategies.
Important items on AGM Agenda are: • A report on the current state of the Cape lands and the perceived lack of monitoring of the development – a matter which we have taken up with the municipality. A slide show of what we have recorded at the Cape will be included. • Consultation with members: is there a future role for the Society? We need your input.
Peter Drake will be the facilitator. Refreshments will be provided and photocards will be available to purchase www.caperogercurtis.org
6 • FRIDAY MAY 13 2011
WWW.BOWENISLANDUNDERCURRENT.COM Published & Printed by Black Press Ltd. at #102, 495 Government Road, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1GO
viewpoint 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.
EDITORIAL
Island discourse, island spirit
O
h boy. Imagine, a split vote on council. This time it was about whether to hold the community opinion vote about the national park in conjunction with the municipal elections. All you’d have to do is tell many long-time council watchers that the vote was split and they could probably tell you, without knowing in advance the details, exactly how each councillor voted. This sense of stagnation - that the island can’t move forward on big issues - is indeed frustrating but it also shows that the system works. Islanders are split on these issues, too. It’s clear the community opinion vote will be delayed. If the vote melds in with the municipal election, there is a risk that some voters, and candidates, will turn this into a single-issue debate, which is not very constructive. But Councillor Doug Hooper is right in saying that regardless of how each candidate feels about the park, the real test will be whether they put those feelings aside if the community opinion vote doesn’t go the way they want. Kudos In the past week, Bowen Islanders donated $8,500 to two very worthy causes: the Royal Seed Orphanage in Ghana and the BICS
library. The money was raised at two very fun events which brought Islanders together not only to support children here and half a world away but also to build upon that sense of community that gives Bowen Island its real strength. Islanders may disagree on a lot of things but it’s usually because they care deeply about issues. The past week’s events were a positive outcome of such passion. Congratulations to everyone who made it happen, from volunteer organizers to participants. This island can do absolutely amazing things. BC Ferries But can Islanders’ sway the powers-that-be at BC Ferries? Let’s hope so. Some of the proposed changes, as outlined in this week’s story, will make getting off and on the ferry a lot more difficult for people. Islanders’ opinions about the changes should matter to BC Ferries. It’s the passengers who really make the system work, not just the staff. Existing rules ask a lot of those passengers and they have the right to ask for something in return - such as having their opinions about the changes be respected. Martha Perkins
To the Editor:
I
know you’re all just waiting to hear the results of last Saturday’s big competition. The hockey players may have let you down, but the kissing contestants at my Deep Fun concert last Saturday put everyone in a good mood. Four couples puckered their way to prizes: Jan Furst and Jana Tubinslak in the length category, Audrey and Paul Grescoe for their stunning reenactment of the royal wedding kiss, and Dana and Alex Torok who took our breath away with their passionate smooch. These three couples took home some of my homegrown garlic. Beata and Sarra Barinbaum were the grand winners of a Deep Fun CD for their mother-daughter kiss. Thanks to Shelagh MacKinnon for her bossy, whistle-blowing performance as the kissing judge, creating international standards of excellence as she went along. And thanks to all those who helped in so many ways: Paul Fast, Robert Ballantyne, Audrey Grescoe, Andrea Little, Jacqueline Massey, Will Husby, Matt Maxwell and Roger Willoughby-Price. Thanks also to Phoenix on Bowen and to our award-winning editor, Martha Perkins, and to everyone who came to make it a truly memorable night - a deep fun night. Merci beaucoup. Pauline Le Bel
Mother’s Day a real joy for Bruce Wilkie To the Editor:
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uch to his surprise and amazement, Bruce won the Bowen Children’s Centre’s Mother’s Day raffle - a basket for his wife Janey Cruise worth $600 of Bowen’s best services and gifts. The donations included: Studio B, Still Water Massage, the General Store, Epicure, Cold Beer and Wine Store, The Snug, Cates Pharmacy, Melodie’s Day Spa, BI Nursery, the Chandlery, the Rudy Potato, Miksa, Heartstone Spa, CocoWest, Mary McDonaugh, Bowen Beauty Spa, Arbonne products, and Out of the Blue. “Janey was happy and overwhelmed to win the spectacular basket,” said Bruce. “And we were glad that we were able to support the Children’s Centre programs.” For details on the gift basket donations, see the Bowen Children Centre’s website www. bowenchildrenscentre.ca. Ann Silberman
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 1-888687-2213 or go to www. bcpresscouncil.org.
And the prize for best kisser goes to...
Committee’s work finds appreciation To the Editor:
Quote should be seen as opinion rather than fact To the Editor: Re: Park vote likely delayed, May 6th Undercurrent
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usanne Martin quotes Rob Cairns, chair of the national park community advisory committe, as saying that “there is some confusion on the purpose of the vote. The purpose of the vote is to authorize council to continue communications with Parks Canada. It is not to say yes, we want the park, or no, we don’t want a park. This is an important distinction for some people.” This is not consistent with the motion
approved by council in their special meeting on November 15th 2010, as follows: “#10-273 It was moved and seconded that council commit to holding a community opinion vote, pursuant to section 83 of the Community Charter, to determine whether or not the Bowen Island Municipality electorate supports the national park concept plan for Bowen Island.” The motion is very clear, and the purpose of the vote is simple - does the electorate support a national park or not. In a decision as important as this I believe it is vital that we distinguish fact from opinion. John Lord
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he Bowen Island Community Foundation Board congratulates the national park community advisory committee for its thorough and objective approach, as evidenced in its concrete synopsis of the issues surrounding the creation of a national park on Bowen. We are so fortunate to have had such a large and diverse representation of our community on this key committee, and to have had their commitment to a comprehensive, inclusive set of processes allowing input by anyone who wished to express their knowledge, opinions and concerns. That their work was accomplished in a110day period that included a major holiday season is remarkable. And that special efforts were made to reach out to our youth and young families on the island is commendable. We appreciate their work, and we thank them for it. Joyce Ganong, Chair
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FRIDAY MAY 13 2011 • 7
Hondro is head honcho at Bowen polling place Marcus Hondro
The crowd had a ball at last Saturday’s clothing sale, mixing and matching and recommending outfits for one another. A rock bottom prices, the shopping didn’t need to break the bank and people left with bursting bags and boxes. Submitted photos
newsroom@bowenislandundercurrent.com
Clothing sale an unqualified success To the Editor:
A
ll day long I heard the same refrain: “Thank you for bringing the clothing sale back” as customers shopped till they dropped! Everyone was full of excitement and joy while finding great bargains, so thank you Bowen Island for supporting the Bowen Children’s Centre clothing sale. And gratitude must also be given to Johanna Wing, Diana
Jennings and all the volunteers who have been tirelessly sorting clothing since January; Cates Hill Chapel and Island Pacific School who hosted us and Steve, courtesy of The Office, who took the leftovers away! “Thank you soooo much”, says Shelagh McKinnon of the United Church food bank (recipients of the entrance fee to the clothing sale.) “The food has been safely stashed and some put on the shelves...the mon-
ies will help. This felt especially well timed as it was in time for Mother’s Day. Many who rely on the food bank are kids.” Didn’t make it to the clothing sale? Don’t worry, you will have another opportunity next year! For details and photos, see our website www.bowenchildrenscentre.ca. Ann Silberman, executive director Bowen Children’s Centre
Islander embodied serenity and peacefulness and helped to create a community with a very big heart To the Editor:
I
was saddened to hear of the passing of Georg Helenius Sr. Georg will be fondly remembered by his friends and the many Bowen Islanders who worked with him on the various projects which have shaped the nature of this great island community - a community with a very big heart. And those are surely the words which come to mind when we think of Georg and his life. His heart was as big as Bowen itself, such that there was nothing left but a truly humble human being who served with the utmost serenity and simplicity of purpose. That serenity and quiet wisdom was also beautifully reflected in his wife Rosa, a Haida princess in every sense of the word. Their spirits were so much a part of what Bowen is for all of us, and they live on in the sinew of our island and in the hearts and minds of those who knew them. Georg was a true mentor who was always there for so many of us when we needed his quiet presence and wise reflection to settle our thoughts and take stock of a situation. When he was regional director for Bowen Island under the GVRD, Georg was instrumental in setting the wheels in motion for the eventual creation of Crippen
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 Publications Assistance Program (PAP) toward our mailing costs. We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) for our publishing activities.
Regional Park - the culmination of an outstanding grass-roots effort spearheaded by David Smith and a broad-based committee of islanders. Lending his full support to that vision, Georg’s cooperative, practical and strategic approach made him the right person at the right time to shepherd this truly masterful community park proposal through the political process. I recall a conversation I had with a Native elder who was writing a book on his personal experiences with old aboriginal healers and medicine men. He likened his encounters with them as being in the presence of “an old tree”. Those who knew Georg will know exactly what I mean when I make that analogy in remembering him. If future generations can get a glimpse of that kind of serenity and peacefulness when they visit Bowen Island, we will have truly honoured ourselves and his memory as a community. Meredith and I join many hearts in extending our warm condolences to his son, Georg Jr. John Sbragia Editor’s note: This letter was intended for publication three weeks ago. We apologize for the inadvertent delay.
#102–495 Bowen Trunk Road, PO Box 130, Bowen Island BC, V0N 1G0
Editor
Contributor
Advertising
Martha Perkins
Marcus Hondro
Suzanne Carvell
Phone: 604.947.2442 Fax: 604.947.0148
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sit here in the BICS gym on Friday, April 22, 2011 at approximately 1:45 in the p.m. It is the first day of three for advance polling in our country’s federal election. I work our poll and with me are my staff members, for I happen to be in charge. Not nominally in charge, as I almost wrote, but actually in charge. Or sort of. I must accept it, not run from or make light of it, not deflect, but accept. I was the Central Poll Supervisor for Bowen’s advance poll or, in the vernacular of the biz, the CPS. Who gave to me this authority, you ask (as did my wife)? Elections Canada, that’s who. The decision was based upon three factors: I was available, willing and have good telephone manners. An outstanding staff had been selected. Sitting to my right is my registration officer, Devon McLeod, who has great handwriting and is able to adroitly fill out forms. On my left is my information officer, Devon’s little brother, Connor (should he read this, he’ll bristle at that; good). They are pleasant with the public and nose-to-the-grindstone type long-time Bowen Islanders. Keith and Anne work the hardest, the polling clerk and deputy returning officer. They are each highly meticulous, great at adding and capable of nursing the electorate through the process of casting a ballot. My main roles are to be here, sign official things - I’m chuffed about that and diffuse quibbles. We have only three hours training but Anne Gibson at Elections Canada is truly an outstanding trainer-person and I am confident this team, chalk full of integrity and with a combination of youth and veteran savvy, will get the job done. Stop the press! Two complaints right off the hop. Someone unhappy about the wait left with the intention of filing a complaint. I feel the wait not unduly long and that democracy is not like ordering fast food but respect his decision. There’s only one polling station for advance polls as more would be a poor
slow lane
usage of money (most of the day there will be few customers) but he’s gone before I can explain. Also, someone called us a “Mickey Mouse operation” though not sure why. In other countries people have serious issues surrounding voting etc. etc. and I believe the experience here relatively painless. I also wonder about the comment because I personally have never associated Mickey Mouse with poor organization. Donald Duck, maybe, but not Mickey Mouse. Most voters say they’re grateful we’re affording them the opportunity to vote early and seem buoyed to see their tax dollars in action. Speaking of action, when no one is about we see who can throw a small ball into a basketball hoop across the width of the gym. Any flak to be caught from this is on me since I okay it, feeling the team can use the break from the exacting work of serving the electorate. A member of that electorate found us at this game and said it was a nice touch of community - gotta love Bowen - and immediately became my third-favourite visitor; Keith’s wife, Shannon, and their ever-amusing daughter, Matilda K. Smilda, are my favourites as they brought us cookies and half a rhubarb cake. The anonymity of the vote must be guarded at all cost but revealing “so and so” was by is giving little away. Sean Delaney was in with his nimble daughter Raia, as was Gil Yaron and two former teachers of Devon and her little brother, Andrea McKay and Susan Ballou. Darcie Buzzelle, Tim Rhodes and Buzz Rhodes (his first election) came in late Monday and were the last advance voters of the polling place. Over three days we had 292 ballots cast and the experience was a taste of being part of something that holds import in our lives. While not brain surgery it was a contribution and we all of us walk away with our heads held high and, thanks to Shannon and Matilda, our stomachs full. Community, democracy, camaraderie, cookies and rhubarb cake along with the throwing of a small ball into a gymnasium basketball hoop. Somehow they all seem to connect. Canada.
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Publisher Aaron Van Pykstra 604.903.1022
Greg Laviolette 604.903.1013
Editorial: editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com Display & Classified Advertising: ads@bowenislandundercurrent.com Deadline for all advertising and editorial: Monday, 4:00p.m. www.bowenislandundercurrent.com
Production Manager: Jaana Bjork
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CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2011
Publication Mail Registration No. 4003110 Publications Assistance Program (PAP) no. 09531
8 • FRIDAY MAY 13 2011
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All about publishing at Write on Bowen APRIL BOSSHARD WRITE ON BOWEN
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o publish or not to publish? That is the question. And sooner or later, all writers ask it. Writers write first and foremost for themselves, but writers also write to be read by others so if you answered ‘yes, I want to publish,’ you won’t want to miss the 4th annual Write on Bowen Festival running this year from July 8 to 10. Susan Safyan, in-house editor at Arsenal Pulp Press, will offer a workshop called “Pitching your book to a publisher� on Saturday, July 9th. She reminds all writers who want to get published: “Expect and aim to learn a lot, to experience both success and disappointment.� Susan notes that editors look for submissions that are virtually publication ready. She advises writers to “get curious about publishing, to find out its complexities.� The good news is that editors are always looking for writers who write well, who share an understanding that editing makes the book better, and who can show courtesy, consideration, and ideally a sense of humor during the publishing process. “Believe it or not,� Susan says, “some writers see editors as adversaries they have to
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fight,� although she readily admits that “most of the time it’s a happy, productive process.� New York agent, Noah Lukeman cautions, “When setting out to get published, writers should prepare themselves for a marathon, not a sprint. Quite often, what makes the difference between authors who get published and those who don’t is simply the number of years they are willing to hang in there. Perseverance is everything.� Another option for aspiring writers is self-publishing—an increasingly viable option. At Write on Bowen, author and experienced workshop facilitator Julie Ferguson shares her wisdom about self-publishing in the electronic age in her workshop �Get Going with E-books, E-readers, and E-publishing.� Full festival passes and other ticket options are now available for purchase at www.writeonbowen.com. The festival passes provide the best value. A Full Festival Pass costs just $199 if purchased before June 1 and includes Opening Night with Annabel Lyon and Timothy Taylor, the Saturday Dinner Event & Gala, four workshops, two lunch sessions, bluepencil editing, and refreshments. Each workshop is limited to just 15 seats so register early.
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Gallery hires new curator
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Karen Watson (top) will take over the helm from Kim Kasasian (bottom) at the Gallery. Submitted photos
WIN!
he Bowen Island Arts Council and the visual arts committee are pleased to announce that Karen Watson is the new part-time curator at the Gallery @ Artisan Square. Andrea Little, chair of the committee, commented that Watson’s acceptance of the job was “great news for the gallery and artists on Bowen.� Watson, an artist and illustrator, brings to the job experience in hanging and professional presentation of exhibits. Formerly a visual effects artist for TV and film, she has a solid background in managing and coordinating projects, and working with artists, volunteers and committees. She replaces Kim Kasasian, who has been the acting gallery coordinator/ curator since July 2010. The committee applauds Kasasian for her steadfast dedication to the arts community and invites everyone to welcome Watson into her new position, which she will assume immediately. The gallery continues to showcase the work of mainly local artists, presenting 12 to 13 exhibits each year. A team of volunteers support the staff and work hard to keep the gallery open and thriving. The visual arts committee consists of Andrea Little (chair), Kim Kasasian, Diane Buchanan, Marg Witty, Jilly Watson, Greta Smith, Melissa Crenshaw, and new member, Ginger Lee Erskine. In addition to operating the Gallery @ Artisan Square, BIAC manages the Bowen Centre for the Arts, offers arts programming, stages the annual Write on Bowen Festival, coordinates the Bowen Art Walk and Studio Tours, participates in Arts & Cultural Week, the BC Cultural Crawl and Culture Days, and sponsors concerts, theatre and many other local events. BIAC is dedicated to representing and coordinating the creative efforts and programs of all cultural groups on Bowen Island. Its current top priority is the development and implementation of a cultural economic strategy that will benefit the entire community. For more information, or to become a member, visit our website at www. biac.ca, or contact Jacqueline Massey, the arts council’s executive director, at 604.947.2454, or info@biac.ca.
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Upcoming sale offers books for every taste LOIS MEYERS-CARTER FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY
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oming soon is the event that book lovers have been waiting for: the annual BookFest in its new site in the spacious BICS gym. The sale opens at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 28 and closes at 2 p.m. on Sunday, May 29. Mysteries and thrillers . . . family stories, romance, science fiction and all kinds of children’s books. Calvin and Hobbes and other cartoon books will be there too along with a tempting array of books on the arts - painting, photography, music and more. The Food and Wine section has a lovely selection of newer and older titles and the gardening books will offer every kind of current and historic guidance. The history section has an amazing variety of titles but so has the house and home area. Those who are paying attention to their health will find a splendid assortment of books on physical
and mental health. The smaller section called humour is full of quirky titles. Readers will find reference books, books on every aspect of nature and science, books on how to write and much more. Island readers have been so generous in donations that the sale is certain to have something for everyone. BookFest prices are set low to allow lots of happy purchases. Mass-market paperbacks are just 50 cents - a marvelous bargain in this age when new ones sell for $12 and up. Hard cover books and trade paperbacks are just $2. (A trade paperback is an oversized paperback: it could be a full-colour gardening book, or even a luscious collection of Tuscan recipes.) Thrifty readers will want to take advantage of the ‘Box of Books for Five Bucks’ sale, scheduled for all day on Sunday. After the 2 p.m. closing, the Friends team will inventory the remaining books and pack leftovers for delivery to off island service organizations.
Run with your heart at June 12 fundraiser MARY LETSON AARON’S RUN ORGANIZER
S
ome people unwind by painting, or writing or playing music. I unwind by, well, winding up. I run. Counter-intuitive you say? How can one relax by expending energy? Try it. You may not embrace this same sentiment the first time out. And maybe not the second time out. But follow a proper learn to run program (aka be reasonable) and I can almost guarantee that once you are in a routine, the instant feel
good rewards of a gentle jog on our fair isle can’t be beat. Drink in the fresh air, the bird song (take off your ear buds) on the quiet lake trail. For those of you already converted to the bliss of running, make sure you come out for Aaron’s Run Sunday June 12. Not yet converted but curious about a running event? Sign up for the 5km and walk, jog it: 30 seconds of jogging, four minutes of walking will get you to the finish line. Still not sure? The 2km is an extra friendly distance -
Aaron’s Run
except for that darn hill. But we love hills on Bowen, don’t we? For information, forms and route map, visit positivelyfit.ca and click on events. Or drop by The Bowen Island Community Recreation office to register. Registration deadline is Friday June 10. All proceeds benefit the Aaron Sluggett Memorial Scholarship Fund.
FRIDAY MAY 13 2011 • 9
Kingbaby offers cure for island discord DAVID CAMERON KINGBABY PRODUCTIONS
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owen is a crazy place these days. The island appears to be psychically split right down the middle between old and new, green and blue and me and you. The discord needs to be healed and Kingbaby Theatre thinks they have the cure. No, it’s not a focus group, a referendum or a slate of candidates. It’s laughter. The View is an original play written for Bowen Island by David Cameron. Kingbaby Productions first mounted it in 2006 to sold out crowds who were introduced to the story of a couple named Angel and Zorg. Angel is a Tantric healer and spiritualist. Zorg is a chainsaw artist. One day, the new neighbours come and knock on their door, hoping to convince the couple to cut down a tree in their yard, in order to improve their view. Of course, this being Bowen, nothing is going to be easy. Before the issue is resolved, the plot farcically
The cast of The View – David Cameron, Jackie Minns, Graham Ritchie and Heather Hodson – marvels at a Bowen Island phenomenon. Bruce W. Steele photo trips over all the challenges facing island life: Neighbours, trees, power outages, ferry ramps, infidelity and the deer. The play stars David Cameron, Heather Hodson, Jackie Minns and Graham Ritchie. Direction by Nina Hughes. Come and be cured. The View opens Thursday June 23 and runs through to
July 3 at 8 p.m. and is performed at the Tir Na Nog Theatre School under the umbrella of Bowen’s first Into The West Theatre Festival. The View is adult themed and tickets will be on sale at Phoenix. For more information about Kingbaby Productions visit www.kingbaby.com
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PROCEEDS BENEFIT AARON SLUGGETT’S SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION Register at Bowen Island Community Recreation 947 2216 Registration forms and maps www.positivelyfit.ca Information: Mary Letson 947-9601 positivelyfit@telus.net
10 • FRIDAY MAY 13 2011
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Spruced up for spring Please pause for CAWES T T JACQUELINE BAKKER
MEMORIAL GARDEN SOCIETY
he month of April was a very busy period for members of the Memorial Garden Society. Volunteers helped to clear away fallen debris accumulated during the winter months, removing the moss creeping over the edges of the pathways. On the following Saturday, a large pile of gravel was waiting and, much to my amazement, the parks board lent us a small machine and operator to move the gravel as required. The male volunteers Bruce, Van and Effron - raked and spread the gravel neatly on the pathways. The other volunteers, mostly seniors, raked up and removed leaves and debris. After a few well-spent hours, all retired to the Snug for coffee and a sandwich, well pleased with their work. Our sincerest thanks go to all who participated; the parks board for its assistance, the gift of gravel and a special thank you to Bruce for his powers of persuasion.
Thanks to a hardy and hard-working group of volunteers, the Memorial Garden was spruced up for spring. The parks board also assisted with spreading this large load of gravel onto pathways. Submitted photo
he Coastal Animal Welfare Education Society is fundraising again so it can continue its efforts to create harmony between pets, wildlife, and people on Bowen Island. There are three great prizes to be won this year. The grand prize – a solid wood deluxe slab coffee table – was hand crafted right here on Bowen. It is a beautiful piece of furniture that would add character and charm to any interior decor. Truly a functional work of art. One of the other two prizes is a gardener’s delight: a wheelbarrow donated by the building centre, loaded with gardening goodies, such as a bag of the finest Bowen Island horse manure and more when you want it; an assortment of plants from The Flower Shop; hummingbird feeder from Bowen’s Little Pet Shop; Nucelle’s Mandelic Sunsense Sunscreen products (valued at $110); potting soil, gardening tools, and other garden-related items donated by CAWES’s friends.
Decide for yourself. Learn more at HSTinBC.ca You‛ve probably heard and seen a lot about HST — some negative, some positive. Well, now you can have your say. From June 13th to July 22nd you‛ll vote whether to keep HST or go back to PST plus GST. It‛s an important decision for our province, so be sure to take the time to understand all the implications of the two tax systems. And before you decide, put each tax option to the test at HSTinBC.ca
Last but not least: three romantic nights at La Casa de Espíritus Alegres. This unique B&B establishment is in Guanajuato, considered to be the jewel of the colonial cities of Mexico situated in a sunlit canyon of Mexico’s central highlands (sorry... airfare not included). You can purchase tickets ($6 each or two for $10) from Angie - 9737, Carol -2990, Iris - 0032, Jen (778) 772-4322 or Kasara (604) 992-1176. Winning tickets to be drawn end of June. CAWES is taking this opportunity to send out a special thank you to the Cocoa West chocolatiers, who raised $67 for the animals with their draw. Some lucky person won a delicious, chocolaty Easter Bunny creation! CAWES is grateful to have so many supporters and thanks then for their continued help. Without such support, CAWES definitely could not do what it does for the Island’s four-legged and two-legged community members.
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FRIDAY MAY 13 2011 • 11
Is it surprising that an event organized by the island’s youth was so much fun? Said the Whale helped Bowen Shares ensure children at the Royal Seeds Orphanage in Ghana get a high school education. Enjoying the concert were Eliot Beamer, above, and Caro Johnson, Amanda Ockeloen and George Milligan, right.
Youth come together to make a difference PATTI-JO WIESE EVENT MENTOR
I
am overwhelmingly proud to tell Bowen Islanders that the youth of our island raised $4,000 (or 5000 cedis) for the children of Royal Seed Orphanage in Ghana last Thursday night. The youth-initiated-and-run Said the Whale benefit concert for Bowen Shares was an extraordinary success on many levels. Four hundred people of all ages attended the outdoor concert at the youth centre parking lot. It was a transformed landscape: a colorful, natural amphitheatre with blow-up orca whales and Ghanian and Canadian flags flying overhead. The vision and support of Ann Silberman at the Children’s Centre and the hard work and tenacity of Matt Neufeld at the Youth Centre redefined the plain parking lot into a vibrant public space. Parents sat on the slope, toddlers frolicked on the playground and teens danced in the mosh pit below. It all worked. Thanks to the skill and leadership of Joel Bravo and the support of Rob Van Dyke and Brad Ryan, the concert sounded incredible! Island sponsors such as the
Building Centre, Bel’Ochio, The Office, Tuscany, the recreation department and municipal hall supported youth in chasing a dream of a mid-week concert with Canada’s hottest band. Young Bowen islanders Lauren Spear and Emily Allen soothed the crowd with their delicate harmonies, followed by The Works, who rocked out with four original tunes. One song, dedicated to IPS students’ penpals at Royal
Seed Orphanage, brought the audience to its feet. IPS students one by one approached the stage and called out the dreams of their African friends. Teacher Jen Henrichsen, founder of Bowen Shares, watched the whole show on Skype from Ghana. Video and photos of the concert are now being edited by local youth to send to Ghana. Representatives from Free The Children/ We Day were also
in attendance. They were very impressed by the initiative and spirit of our island youth, noting that it was unique to have youth working as performers, writers, publicists, videographers, editors, decorators, musicians, cleaners and sound technicians. Bowen is breeding a wonderful group of young social activists. The adults of this community should know it! Bowen youth involved in this
CALLING ALL GRADS! It’s time to start thinking about being part of our 2011
Salute to Grads Issue Email a short bio and your favourite high-resolution grad pic by 4:00pm on June 6 to news@bowenislandundercurrent.com
event should feel very proud of their contributions. Working together to make this concert happen has made a big difference in the world. Just ask Ottilia, the young Ghanian girl at Royal Seed Orphange, who now gets to go to high school and chase her dream of one day being a pilot. You are the generation we have been waiting for. I believe that!
The outdoor concert raised a staggering $4,000 for Bowen Shares. It was also a chance to highlight the musical talents of island youth. Emily Allan and Lauren Spears brought the crowd to a magical silence with the sweet harmonies of their original music. At left, The Works – Alexander Bingham, Noah Gotfrid, Chad Ruloff, Kai Tocher-Wiese – opened for Said the Whale. Lorraine Ashdown, Patti Jo Wiese and Tristan Deggan photos
12 • FRIDAY MAY 13 2011
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PAC man
Elvis rocks the world of BICS library by raising $4,300 KATHERINE GISH BICS PAC
W
Elvis lives! Or at least he did on Saturday night when he and his band performed to a sold-out crowd at Tunstall Bay to raise money for the BICS library.
experience
life in their shoes
Lorraine Ashdown photo
“The Snug’s cooking dinner for you!”
The Hero In You® education program offers a series of FREE curriculum-linked lesson plans (grades 4-7) aimed to motivate children to find the champion within themselves. In addition, teachers can request a FREE classroom presentation delivered in-person by a Hall of Fame athlete!
Attention Teachers:
If you are a principal, teacher or parent and would like to book a presentation for your classroom, call Michael Markowsky (604) 647-7449 or visit www.heroinyou.ca to download lesson plans.
Dinners to Go at the Snug Serving dinner for you Monday to Friday and Sunday. Open 7 Days a Week 604.947.0402
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e’ve all heard the expression “Elvis has left the building” right? Well “Elvis rocked the building” on Saturday, May 7 at the Tunstall Bay clubhouse. His reappearance had women swooning, screaming, clapping and dancing (and not a few men too!) as he sang and danced his heart out on behalf of BICS Parents Advisory Council library fundraiser. Elvis....you MADE the evening and we thank you, thank you very much. Elvis didn’t appear on his own but came complete with back-up band members Buff Allen, Rob Bailey and John Stiver. Guys, thanks for giving up your Saturday evening to be with the King and all of us. It takes so many people to put on an event and I would like to take a few lines in the Undercurrent to publicly acknowledge and give sincere thanks to them. Starting with the Undercurrent itself, I would like to thank Martha Perkins and Lorraine Ashdown for the wonderful article in last week’s issue on the BICS library. Park Heffelfinger, owner of Memphis Blues Restaurant, gave us a “smokin’ deal” on his fantastic southern barbeque meal and served it up with panache. Thanks, Park! Thanks to “Mr. Suave MC” Ken Beatty who, sporting a white sports coat and bow tie, led us seamlessly through the evening. The dream team volunteers: Mary Ann Zakreski, Rebecca Salmon, Kim Morales, Carmen Lane and Nicola Murray. These women did everything and are ALWAYS there for BICS. Kat Kelly and Cam Hayduk of Turtlebox Productions created the Elvis poster and tickets. The always-kind Sandy Bristow from BICS office took care of ticket sales, Sarah Haxby put up posters. Mike Lightbody and
Richard Graham thought they were just delivering tables and chairs but ended up doing some serious furniture rearranging at the same time... thanks guys. Thanks to Jeff Matheson and Sue McIntyre who stuck around at the end to help put it all back. Theresa Wishart is an amazing baker... You might know her from her CSA Christmas Craft Fair cupcakes. She provided the utterly delicious chocolate cupcakes complete with Elvis theme. Thank you, Theresa! Peter King... well, what can we say about Peter and his bus service? Bowen Island is so fortunate to have this service provided. Picked up at an event and dropped off at your door - does it get any better than that? Thank you, Peter, for your donation of transportation for this event. Thanks also to Karai Killy who was the bus driver on the evening - apparently there was singing and good times as they trundled across the island. Thanks to Julie of Artisan Eats, Steven of Blue Eyed Marys, Sharon of Bell O’cchio. We gratefully acknowledge our supportive silent auction donors: Liz Watson, Yvonne McSkimming, Janet Esseiva, Donna Bottay, Catherine Epps, Katherine Gish, Nicola Murray, Damien Bryan, Brian Creswick, Mary Ann Zakreski, Ann Beatty, James Glave, Andrea Little, Dave Dobson, Melodie Mosier, Paul Welsh and Lorraine Ashdown. Cash donations were also made and thanks go to: Frank Gish and Joanna Mereu, Caroline Hurd, Carol Correll, Katherine Gish and Phil Kemp, and Tim and Jennifer Pardee. An event wouldn’t happen without all of the wonderful people who purchased tickets and turned out for this fundraiser. I am excited to report that we raised, with everyone’s help, $4,300 (give or take a couple of dollars!)
HEALTH & WELLNESS Genevieve McCorquodale
CertiÅed Massage Practitioner
wholistic massage & doula service member, Natural Health Practitioners of Canada gift certiÅcates available stillwatersmassage.ca • 604-722-4472
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
Dr. Dana Barton
Naturopathic Physician 596 B. Artisan Square
Dr. Gloria Chao Dr. Peggy Busch Dentists
604-947-2957
Artisan Square • 604-947-0734 Fridays 10am-5pm
Natural Family Medicine
Horseshoe Bay • 604-921-8522
Bowen Island Family Physicians
BLOOD TESTS, URINE TESTS OR ECGS
6:45 - 9:00 A.M. EVERY THURSDAY DR. ZANDY'S OFFICE
Lisa Shatzky B.A., B.S.W., M.S.W., RCC
Family Therapist Family, Child, Couples and Individual Psychotherapy
947-2246
Dr. Susanne Schloegl M.D. Call for an appointment 566 Artisan Lane, Suite 203
604-947-9986 Dr. Utah Zandy 604-947-9830 CALL FOR APPOINTMENT OPEN MONDAY, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY
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On the Calendar • Legion Dinner: Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Members and guests welcome. • Baby Connections: For new and expecting parents and babies. 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Family Place, 9476976. • Youth Centre: 6 -10:30 p.m. Free food, free movies. Drop in. SATURDAY, MAY 14 • B.I. Garden Club’s annual Plant Sale and Raffle: 11 a.m. to noon at BICS. Bowen Island Garden Club members offer wide variety of plants at rock-bottom prices. Raffle tickets on sale at BICS the morning of the sale. • Spring Concert: Bowen Island Community choir celebrates spring with two concerts, both at Cates Hill Chapel. 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets at Phoenix or at the door: $12, $10 for seniors, $5 children under 12. • Tir-na-nOg Theatre School’s 23rd Annual Festival of Plays: The Phantom Tollbooth, 7 p.m. Info: 947-9507 or tirnanog@telus. net. Tickets $8 at Phoenix or at the Theatre School; $10 at the door. SUNDAY, MAY 15 • Tir-na-nOg Theatre School’s 23rd Annual Festival of Plays: The Phantom Tollbooth, 7 p.m, Info: 947-9507 or tirnanog@telus. net. Tickets $8 at Phoenix or at the Theatre School; $10 at the door. • Parent and Tot Drop-In: 9:4511:15 a.m. in BICS gym. • Drop-in Meditation Circle 7:15 p.m. in the yurt at 903 Windjammer. Call Lisa 947-2246. • Bowen Island Community Museum & Archives: Open Sun. and Mon., 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Tues. and Thurs., 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. or by appt. For appt. call 947-9526 or 947-2440. MONDAY, MAY 16 • B.I. Community Foundation: Open house and AGM. Announcement of the major grant recipient for 2011. 7 p.m. at Cates Hill Chapel.
• B.I.Garden Club: April Reeves will speak about food security today: why you should garden seriously as a group. 7 p.m. at the Gallery at Artisan Square. All welcome. • SKY: 9 a.m. line dancing, 9:45 a.m. exercises, 10:30 a.m. singing and refreshments, 11 a.m. “Here Comes Treble” - six women singing.
• Bowen Children’s Centre: Community Daycare, and Bowen Island Preschool, 947-9626. TUESDAY, MAY 17 • Legion: Open from 4-7 p.m. Tues., Wed. and Thurs. Drop by for socializing, pool, darts and shuffleboard. • AA Meetings: Open Meetings, 7:15 p.m. Collins Hall/United Church. 434-3933. • Bowen Island Library: Library hours: Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Wed. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Now open Sun. Closed Mon. WEDNESDAY, MAY 18 • Drop-in knitting group: Every Weds., from 2-5 p.m., in the lounge at Bowen Court. All levels welcome.
S
hare your passions and your skills! The Bowen Centre for the Arts (operated by the Bowen Island Arts Council) is seeking workshop ideas and presenters in all arts-related areas. Do you have a course or a workshop you would like to give? Let BIAC know! In preparation of our fall/winter calendar, the BIAC programming committee will consider to offer programs in all genres of the arts, including visual, literary, performance and crafts. Also welcome are workshops related to
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Fax 604-947-0148 mail it to #102, 495 Government Rd., PO Box 130, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G0 email editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com.
THURSDAY, MAY 19 • Youth Centre: 4 to 6 p.m. Practise with your band or listen to music. Free food. • Bridge Club: 7 p.m. at Bowen Court. • Rotary Club: 7:30 to 9 p.m., Snug Cafe. Guests welcome.
To post your free listing here, send a one-paragraph description to news@bowenislandundercurrent.com
Arts centre seeks ideas and presenters BI ARTS COUNCIL
HOUSE & HOME
• Weight Watchers: Collins Hall. 6:15-7:15 p.m. Info: Angie 9472880. Free registration until May 28.
Please enlighten us JACQUELINE MASSEY
Allan Pedley Ph: 604-307-0423 Fax: 604-947-2323
BOWEN ISLAND GENERAL
.• Family Place: For parents, caregivers and children 0-6 years. Mon., Tues., Thurs., 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 947-6976. Lower Artisan Square. • AA Meeting: Women’s: 9:15 a.m., Collins Hall.
Doug Jamieson Ph: 604-947-9434 Cell: 604-690-3328
BIG 604-947-2442
FRIDAY, MAY 13
FRIDAY MAY 13 2011 • 13
the healing arts and holistic living. Workshops can be tailored to adults, children, teens, seniors, or a combination of age groups. The season runs from September, 2011 to June, 2012. The Gallery@Artisan Square is available for classes and workshops for all of January and is not available on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. If you are interested in presenting a workshop or course, please complete the workshop application form available for download at www.biac.ca. Email your form to admin@biac.ca by Friday, May 27.
Kindergarten in
Bowen Island Sept 2011? Community School
What is Full Day Kindergarten? Full Day Kindergarten is a play-based approach to early learning that provides children with the gift of time— time to gradually build language development, creativity, and problemsolving skills—all critical for success— at a pace that meets each child’s needs. Play-based learning helps to develop strong social-emotional skills through peer-to-peer interaction. A full day of learning also provides time for more— more music, more drama, art, dance, time with technology tools, and outdoor play. Our wonderful school facility also includes a large gym and an expansive library within a dynamic learning hub. At BICS, children develop their skills and interests under the guidance of expert teaching staff. The extended K day also allows for greater involvement of parents and famil ies. Each child transitions into Full Day Kindergarten based on his or her readiness. We look forward to welcoming our newest learners to Bowen Island Community School!
Kindergarten Registration It’s time to register for Kindergarten at Bowen Island Community School Bowen Island Community School (BICS) is a public elementary school in West Vancouver School District. At BICS, children thrive in an innovative and enriched educational environment, with a caring and supportive school community that encourages family involvement. When can my child begin Kindergarten? Children may begin Kindergarten in September of the calendar year in which they turn five years old (born in 2006 for the 2011/12 school year). “Welcome to Kindergarten”—June 1 (6–7:30 pm) We are pleased to invite all registered children to attend our FREE “Welcome to Kindergarten” orientation event!
Learn more at www.sd45.bc.ca
16 • FRIDAY MAY 13 2011
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B
C
F B A muddy D West Vancouver Secondary School ultimate team cheers for the Sentinel Secondary Spartans at the North Vancouver District ultimate tournament last Friday. The West Vancouver stormtroopers, coached by Bowen Islander Jesse Baker came in third while Sentinel took first place. The Island Pacific School team also competed. Susanne Martin photo C Young Irene is thrilled to catch a bubble on her finger on Mother’s Day at The Little Red Church. D Students at IPS created both the script and music to The Secrets of Sugarloaf performed at the Youth Centre on Tuesday, May 10 and Wednesday, May 11. James Milligan plays mandolin in the house band. E Nel Dumbrillle and Caelan Thomson share the tension. F Brenna, Sienna, Mimi, Savanah and Olivia command the stage. Lorraine Ashdown photos.
Around Bowen
E
The new ownership, management and staff of Doc Morgan’s are proud to announce that we are
now open 7 nights a week! ISLAND HOSPITALITY INC.
GREAT, CLASSIC PUB FOOD
FANTASTIC (& CRISPY!) FISH & CHIPS
THE PUCK
drops at DOC’S!
GO NUCKS GO!
Watch all the games on our BIG screens (and yes, OF COURSE we turn the sound UP!)
+
BIG RACK OF RIBS
= $20
DURING ALL PLAYOFF GAMES
CAESAR SUNDAYS ARE BACK!
DRINKS, WINE & BEER SPECIALS EVERY NIGHT
Bowen Island Residents APPRECIATION PARTY! At Doc’s, we will always invite Bowen residents to the front of the line. This is your Island, and we want Doc Morgan’s to be your place. Please join us for complimentary canapés, featured wines and draught beer.
Thursday, May 19, 2011 5 to 7 PM Babysitting services will be provided until 8 PM (courtesy of experienced child-care professionals).
(604)
947-4339