Bowen Island Gymnastics had the chance to welcome more than 100 gymnasts from Metro Vancouver and along the Sea to
to take part in the Bowen Island Invitational earlier this month The two-day event took place at Bowen Island Community School, and for many of the Island athletes it was their first time performing in a competition setting. You can read and see more about the Invitational on Pages 16 & 17. / Lisa Brougham photo
825 HUMMINGBIRDLANE
Immerse yourself in full sunshine and breathtaking views of the Salish Seafromthis south-facing waterfront property that’sfull of potential
It’srareonBowen Island to have access to a privateswimming beach but you, and only a handful ofother properties,dohere.
With multiple shallowentry points youcan swim and kayakpractically from your frontdoor.
West Vancouver - Sunshine Coast - Sea to Sky Country Candidate Q&A
Name: Patrick Weiler
Party: Liberal Party (incumbent)
Age: 38
Tell us who you are outside of politics: I’m passionate about protecting our environment and managing our natural resources. At home, I’m a loving partner, a dog dad, and a big Canucks fan.
How would your government cut Canada’s carbon emissions in the next term?
Cap emissions from the oil and gas sector, and increase the carbon price for big polluters. Incentivize Canadians to purchase EVs and do home retrofits to save money. Attract investment and create jobs in clean tech and invest in naturebased solutions.
How would your government make housing more affordable in the next term?
Work with municipalities to cut red tape and DCCs, re-introduce the MURB and other incentives to attract investment to double housing construction to 500k/year to meet demand. Finance prefabricated housing to build at scale, and cut GST on new homes under $1M.
How would your government protect Canada’s economy in Trump’s trade war?
We have imposed counter tariffs on key
US sectors, and are eliminating interprovincial trade barriers to grow our internal economy. We are supporting all workers that are affected, diversify our trading partners, and help businesses sell to new markets
How would your government advance Truth and Reconciliation with First Nations?
Implement the TRC calls to action, and support indigenous led healing projects. Work in partnership to close the infrastructure and service gap that indigenous peoples face. Continue to build a trusted relationship with the First Nations in my riding.
Bask in the sunrise and soak up the views from this privateand gorgeous Bowenhome. Sitting on an acreinDorman Bayand veryclose to Snug Cove, this much-loved and well-maintained home features two-to-three bedrooms, stunning viewseast across the water to Vancouver,and a beautiful design and style thatissought-after.Outsidehostsafenced garden, plenty of forest, and adetached and well-equipped 390 sf bungalow with 4-piece spa bathroom built in 2009 currently used as a verysuccessful licensed shorttermrental, but also perfect for extended family/guest visits. Within walking distance of popular swimming beach September MornBeach, and close to Dorman Point Park.
Name: Keith Roy Party: Conservative Party Age: 44
Tell us who you are outside of politics: Husband to Stephanie, Father to Kai, Realtor, Property Manager and International Keynote Speaker. I enjoy riding my bike, swimming in Whistler’s lakes and playing UNO with my 4 year old son.
How would your government cut Canada’s carbon emissions in the next term?
Technology not taxes is the best way to fight climate change and protect our environment. We will cut taxes and boost incentives for those companies that bring down emissions We will expand the clean technology and manufacturing tax credit.
How would your government make housing more affordable in the next term?
Remove GST from new homes under $1.3M. Remove government gatekeepers to speed up building permits. Tie immigration to housing completions. Tie federal infrastructure funding for municipalities to the number of houses built.
How would your government protect Canada’s economy in Trump’s trade war?
We need to be self reliant and sovereign. We will put Canada First with Shovel-Ready
This versatile family home sits just off the NinthTee of the Bowen Island Golf Course. The sunny south slope of Bowen offers its own microclimate -making this 0.4 ac property perfect for gardeners. Inside features an expansive open-plan LR/DR/Kitch/Fam Rm, with two bedrooms on the main (incl Primary) and two further bedrooms below.South-east views across Seymour Bay to Passage Island and West Vanbeyond. Wrap around decksoff the main, and averanda off the kitchen that spills out into the yard -certainly afocal point for your year round outdoor living. Plenty of open parking, and adouble garage. Within quick and easy walking distance of the Pro Shop, dinners at the Shed Restaurant, and swimming at Seymour Bay (possible future water taxi service to downtown)/Arbutus Bay beaches.
Zones pre-approved areas for rapid development of mines, data centres, pipelines, and more to expedite projects and boost economic growth here in Canada
How would your government advance Truth and Reconciliation with First Nations?
Endorse and implement the First Nations Resource Charge. Give Indigenous groups the option to replace Ottawa’s top-down control by ceding tax room on resource projects, allowing local communities to use the revenue as they choose
One of Bowen Island’smost important legacy properties. Completely one-of-a-kind,this living museum sits on fiveacres and is home to one of the largest apple collections in North America –with over 900 individual species on site, and over 1,100 apple trees in total -along with figs, pears,almonds, blueberries and more. Also home to award-winning Riley’sCidery, aBowen staple. The 3,900 sf residence sits proud above the orchard, with adistant ocean view and aguest suite below.The
VIEWPOINTS
EDITORIAL
Offtothe Polls
Well the bigday is just afew sleeps away as theFederal Election takes place this Monday It lookslikethis will be apopular oneasmore than sevenmillion people have alreadycast theirballots in advancedpollsaccordingto Elections Canada.Ifyou’renot among that group(likeme), polls on the island areopenat BowenIsland CommunitySchoolfrom7amto 7pmonApril 28. So be sure to drop by during the dayand takepartinchoosingthe first newly elected prime ministerwe’ll have hadin adecade.Ifyou’restill undecidedheadinginto the vote,you cantakea look at the SeatoSky candidateQ&A’s in the paperthisweektoget asenseofwho you mightlikeasyourMPfor thenextterm.
Meanwhile thank youtoeverybody who helped make this week’s Island Wide paper possible! Thelocal events arereallystartingto pick up,manyofthem aredetailedinstories this week butsome real gems aretuckedaway in the calendar too. Including,for example,the return of the Fix-It Fair this Saturday! This time around the eventisexpanding itsofferings by featuringanoutdoor gear sale.And of course on Sunday the baseball field will be rocking again with the startofanew Fastpitch season Seeyou outand aboutthis weekend!
-AlexKurial, Editor
THE WRITE STUFF. TheUndercurrent encourages reader participation in your communitynewspaper.You must include your full name and adaytime phone number(forverification only). The editor reservesthe righttoeditfor clarity,legality,brevity and taste. Please limit to under 500 words. HERE’S HOW:Tosubmita lettertothe editor,fax 604-947-0148 or mail it to PO Box 130,Bowen Island,BC, V0N1G0 oremaileditor@bowenislandundercurrent.com
#102–495 BowenTrunk Road, PO Box130, BowenIsland BC,V0N1G0
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All Advertising andnewscopycontent arecopyrightof the Undercurrent Newspaper.All editorial contentsubmittedtothe Undercurrent becomes the property of the publication TheUndercurrent is not responsible forunsolicited manuscripts,art work and photographs.
National NewsMedia Council.
TheUndercurrent is amember of the National NewsMedia Council of Canada, whichisanindependentorganization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour.Ifyou have concerns about editorial content, please email editor@ bowenislandundercurrent.com or call 604-947-2442. If youare not satisfied with the response and wishtofile a formal complaint, visit the websiteatmediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 foradditional information.
VIEWS
THE SOUTHERN STRAITS The West Vancouver Yacht Club held their annual Southern Straits Race over the Easter weekend. The sailing race features a long, medium and short course, all of which pass by Bowen’s southern shores and present a great chance for pictures. / Haig Farris photo
COMING INTO BLOOM Bill Granger’s garden in Deep Bay is home to this magnificent ‘Alexandrina’ Magnolia. Now that it’s opening up, Bill says it’s a good sign that sunny days are ahead. / Judi Gedye photo
RalphFleming
November 28, 1946 -April 3, 2025
Ralph wasborninLionsGateHospital anddied in Lions Gate Hospital. In between hisbirth and deathhelived afull life forover 78 years. Hisfamily cametoBCfromRabbit Lake, Saskatchewan,inthe early 1940’s. Hisparentsbought acorner lot in Lynn Valley and built theirhome, in theearly1950’s. He had an idyllic childhood climbing trees and swimming in thecanyon. At nineteen he sailed to Europe. He travelledaround WesternEurope and across North Africa on a motorcycle, with hissoon to be wife, Ellen. He returned to the NorthShorewith Ellen,their daughter Lisa and an Afghan pup. Later they bought alog homeonRoss Road, and had another child, Mark. The pup had pups and twocatsand abunny also joined the household. The marriageended in 1974.
Ralph wasoff on anew adventure. While working on Bowen he saw thedomefor sale, made an offer and it was accepted. In 1975 he, Lidia, an Afghan and twocats moved into thedome. He and Lidia married in 1978. They had twosons,Ruben andJoel, who grew up on Bowen with aseries of dogs catsand chickens. Most people here first metRalph as thefloor installer.Hewas also an artist, musician, ballplayer,kayak-er,and sailor.Heacted in several local productions, wasafounding member of theArts Council and Arts Pacific Gallery
Ralph loved to travel and did as often as he could. He drove all around NorthAmerica, travelled in Europe, Australia andNew Zealand, Asia[Israel and Hong Kong]. Sailed on acruiseto Barbados and celebrated his 65th birthday in Cuba. Wherever he went Ralph stood out from thecrowd.
Ralph loved hisfamily,fromhis numerous extended family to his more immediateone. He had four children, became agrandfather beforehe wasfifty and had seven grandchildren with one more on theway.
We aresograteful forthe carehereceived in Lions Gate Hospital. Thank you to allthe home caregivers over theyears, and nurses, doctors and social workers who looked after himinhis last few months. Please consider donating to any organization of your choice in his honour,orjust raisea glass.
ACelebration of life will be announced at alater date.
Option to completesaleearly,withpotential savingsonconstructionfinancing& transfer tax.
765SeymourBayDrive(Lot7)
•1,872 sf,2-storey, open-conceptliving.
•Multipledecks.
•3 bedrooms +den, 3.5bathrooms
•2-car carport.
Mother’s Day Illustrator Meetup
BOWEN ISLAND PUBLIC LIBRARY
Families areinfor acreativetreat thisMother’s Dayas illustrator and author Emma FitzGerald returnstoher childhood province for aspecial eventcelebratingstorytelling andart
On Sunday,May 11 at 1pm, children and youth of all ages and their caregivers areinvited to register to attend Meet an Illustrator: Family Read-Along& DrawingExercises with Emma FitzGerald —afree, interactive eventthatpromises to inspireimaginations both young and old.
PresentedbyFitzGerald and the BowenIsland Public Library, and held in the LibraryAnnex,this45-minuteevent will featurealiveread-alongand projectedillustrations from EveryBody’sDifferent on EveryBodyStreet, avibrant andinclusivechildren’sbookwritten by Sheree Fitchand broughttolife by FitzGerald’s whimsical art. Guests will have the chance to askquestions,explorethe artistic process,and learn howFitzGerald uses herdrawingstocelebratediversity and community
Following the reading, FitzGerald will guide families through ahands-on drawingexercisecalled “blind contour drawing” —afun, beginner-friendlyway to create portraits by focusing on shapes and observation rather than perfection.
OriginallyfromLesotho and raised on Vancouver’s North Shore, FitzGerald nowcalls the EastCoast of Canada home. Sheisbestknown for herHand Drawnbookseries, which documents cities likeHalifax,Vancouver andVictoria through detailed, on-location sketches.Her work blends storytelling, architecture,and art, and hasbeencelebrated acrossthe country.
Books, cards, and prints will be available for purchase afterthe event, and while the eventisfree, registration is encouraged to guaranteeaspot. Some limited drop-inspace maybeavailable.Registertoattend at bipl.ca/Emma
Whether you’re an aspiringartistorjustlooking for a meaningfulway to spend timetogether as afamily,this eventoffersaunique chance to meet aprofessional illustrator and explorethe worldofpicturebooks through an artist’s eyes
Name: Jäger M Rosenberg Party: NDP Age: 18
Tell us who you are outside of politics:
I’m someone who loves animals, enjoys traveling when I can, & values staying physically & mentally active. I’m always pushing myself to grow & stay engaged, while finding ways to help others & make a positive impact in my community.
How would your government cut Canada’s carbon emissions in the next term?
We’ll make big polluters pay without unfair costs to people, cap oil and gas emissions, end fossil fuel subsidies, invest in clean energy, electrify transit, and protect nature creating good jobs while fighting the climate crisis.
How would your government make housing more affordable in the next term?
Build affordable homes on public land, support first-
Name: Lauren Greenlaw Party: Green Party Age: 44
Tell us who you are outside of politics:
My background is in earth sciences and I am currently a Municipal Councilor in Squamish Six years ago we moved our young family to the unceded territories of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw out of a deep appreciation for the wild beauty of this place.
How would your government cut Canada’s carbon emissions in the next term?
The first step in cutting carbon emissions is to stop the federal government from giving approximately 30bn annually to the fossil fuel industry. We also need to hold big polluters accountable for their climate impacts.
How would your government make housing more affordable in the next term?
We need to put more public money into securing afford-
Name: Peyman Askari
Party: People’s Party
Age: 41
Tell us who you are outside of politics:
A straight-talking Canadian who came from Iran in ’89, earned a PhD in computer science, built a software company, and found his voice during the pandemic Passionate about freedom, land, and truth unafraid to challenge power and defend principle
How would your government cut Canada’s carbon emissions in the next term?
Canada went from an export-driven oil economy to subsidizing unprofitable green ventures We’ve bankrupted a resource-rich nation. The real question isn’t carbon – it’s how to unleash our economy and restore prosperity for the next generation.
How would your government make housing more
time homebuyers with low-interest government-backed mortgages, ban corporate landlords, stop renovictions, crack down on rent hikes & close tax loopholes for corporate landlords
How would your government protect Canada’s economy in Trump’s trade war?
We’ll fight back with dollar-for-dollar retaliatory tariffs, cut off critical minerals to the U.S., offer $10,000 rebates for Canadian-made electric vehicles & implement a ‘Build Canadian Buy Canadian’ strategy to reduce reliance on the U.S. & support workers.
How would your government advance Truth and Reconciliation with First Nations?
We’ll implement all 94 TRC Calls to Action; fully fund healing, language & culture programs; ensure clean water & housing; end discriminatory child welfare; & support Indigenous-led solutions in justice, health, education & governance.
able housing. We also need to reduce the hyper-commodification of housing through stronger regulations around international speculations and Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs).
How would your government protect Canada’s economy in Trump’s trade war?
By building a resilient local economy through supporting local businesses and agriculture and removing barriers to market. Incentivizing local businesses will help bring stability to our regional economy, allowing security in the face of turbulence
How would your government advance Truth and Reconciliation with First Nations?
By addressing the issues within our children and family services and penal system that are disproportionately impacting indigenous peoples We also need to facilitate the healing of the multigenerational trauma and support expansion of language and culture.
affordable in the next term?
We’d target 0% inflation and cut federal red tape to reduce housing’s role as an inflation hedge. We’d open Crown land with provinces to boost supply, and ease demand by placing a moratorium on immigration.
How would your government protect Canada’s economy in Trump’s trade war?
We’d get to the table and secure the best short-term deal possible, then build up our natural resources, rebuild manufacturing and work to bring back small businesses that fled to lower-tax jurisdictions.
How would your government advance Truth and Reconciliation with First Nations?
Reconciliation starts with honesty. When government violates rights and courts defer, the people get blamed We’d start by holding officials accountable beginning with cutting pensions for those who abused their power.
Candidates (L-R) Jäger
M Rosenberg, Lauren Greenlaw & Peyman
Askari The Federal Election is being held this Monday, April 28. Islanders can vote at Bowen Island Community School (1041 Mount Gardner Road) from 7 am to 7 pm. Q&A prepared by North Shore News staff.
www.tippys.ca
Donation opens doorsfor IPSstudents
ALEX KURIAL Editor
Island Pacific School is celebratinga newavenue to enrollmentfor prospective students.
The Bowen middle school wasthe recipient of alarge donation to their bursary fund this Spring While the donor is remaining anonymous, they are an Island resident who hasbeen involved with the IPS community. The news means the school will be able to further aidcurrent students andopen their prospectpooltoevenmorekids moving forward.
“This reallyopens things up for kids to be able to come to theschool. Ibenefited fromthisschool, my kids went to this school and they receivedbursaries, anditreally setthem up,” says head ofschool BradCarter.
“It’sareally important partof what we do hereto make this availableaswidely aswe can, and try to make the moneyconversation the second conversation we have.”
The first, Carter stresses, is whether IPS is the right fit for kids in the first place. “Kidsin these years, from roughly 10 to 16 yearsold,they become their own people for the firsttimein their lives… And it doesn’t happen overnight, it takes time.Sowereally want to have thekidsherefor four years. We think in there wecan helpthem navigate that.”
RUBY
Meet Ruby!
This sweetgirl came in to see us for her vaccines and was absolutely perfect—such abrave pup!
Ruby loves going for walks, sniffing everything, and getting all the attention (especially if treats are involved!).
We lovedhaving her in today—thanks for being such astar,Ruby
Forthat reason thenew bursary is available to students eachyearthey can attend IPS, from Grades 6-9. It’s also flexible following its starting point, allowing for moreassistance if circumstances change within afamilyorbeing able to allocate someof thebursary funds to other studentsifafinancial situation improves.
“It’s hardout there, and the areaaround here is an expensive partofthe world,” says Carter.“We want to do what we can to make this more affordable in some way.”
Carter pointstothe dedicated alumni involvement as oneofthe biggest indicators of the school’s success, including some whonow work at IPS. Students whose parents attendedthe schoolare also acommon sight inthe hallsyears later.
“We’ve gotsomething really special here and I’m really excited to be partofit. Working with this teaching team and being able to open the doors and see more kids,it’s such atreat.”
“Yousee these kids come in Grade6 and they’re havingsomuchfun,but they’re still kids.You watch akid go through that journey andthen allofasudden inJanuaryand February of Grade 9they’re startingto become their own people,” says Carter
The bursary is nowactive and available for application forthe upcoming 2025-26 school year.Current familiesorthosewho areinterested in having their kidsattend IPS should reachout to theschool for more information
OPENING WEEKEND
The2025 BowenIsland Fastpitch League getsunderwaythis Sunday with atriple headerofgames from Snug Cove Field. At Noon it’s the Firemen againstthe Brewers,followedbythe defendingchampion Diggers taking on the Cruisers at 2pm. TheShakers and Twins getgoing at 4pmtoroundout the day.Come check out the action and followalong eachgame with the field’s brand new scoreboardinthe outfield!/ Valentyna Gabinyetovaphoto
Dawn of Hearth Arts on Bowen concerts
BOWEN ISLAND THEATRE PLAYS HOST VENUE
SHARI ULRICH Contributor
Bowen Islanders have a darn good reason to stay on island this weekend!
On Saturday, April 26 at 7 pm, the very first show in the Hearth Arts on Bowen Series will feature Vancouver’s most revered musicians and Canada’s own “Queen of Soul” Dawn Pemberton at the Bowen Theatre. Dawn will be joined by her exceptional band to deliver a huge range of styles from gospel, soul, and funk – to jazz, world and beyond.
A recipient of the 2024 Canada Council for the Arts and Creative BC grants, and a multiple Juno nominee, she holds a Bachelors of Music in Jazz Studies from Capilano University. As well as being a sought-after vocalist, Dawn is a pianist, vocal teacher, and choir director, touring extensively across Canada and Europe.
Her debut album, Say Somethin’ won Best Urban Recording at the Western Canadian Music Awards.
Accolades aside, to know her is to love her, and to hear her sing is an incomparable experience. Her voice, musicality, and undeniable warmth will win you over within the first minute.
Between the fact that she has several longtime friends who live on Bowen and having heard me wax on passionately for months about our exceptional new theatre, Dawn is particularly excited about the her concert here.
You can get tickets at the Hearth Arts On Bowen website. Don’t delay till the last minute as there will likely be no tickets left for this exceptional artist playing at 7 pm at the Bowen Theatre this Saturday night (doors open at 6:30 pm).
And if that weren’t enough to make Bowen the place to be this weekend, you can bring your ticket to Dawn’s show to Tir-na-nOg Theatre on Friday night for a discounted ticket to see the legendary Martyn Joseph, hailing all the way from Wales for a heartfelt return to Bowen.
That show is at 7:30 pm, and you know you can Trust Me that this will be a brilliant weekend of music!
Men’s Health Gathering to explore community & relationships
BOWEN ISLAND PUBLIC LIBRARY
On Saturday, May 10, join Dr. Shahar Rabi, Andrew Leonard, Miles Rubin, Ricken Patel and the Bowen Island Public Library for a special event designed for men.
Tailored for those looking to build community, find direction, and grow personally, this gathering creates a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere for connection. From 1 to 2:30 pm, men from every background are welcome to come together, break the cycle of isolation, and spark genuine, empowering conversation.
The gathering is led by Dr. Shahar Rabi, a Clinical Counsellor, professor, and author with decades of experience in men’s work and trauma recovery. He’ll be joined by three community leaders: Bowen Island Mayor and mental health advocate Andrew Leonard, global activist Ricken Patel, and experienced clinical social worker Miles Rubin. Together, they’ll explore themes such as emotional expression, life purpose, vulnerability, and the value of deep human connection.
This drop-in event is free and informal, yet thoughtfully designed to help participants reflect, engage, and connect with others in a sincere and impactful way.
The first half of the event will feature a 45-minute panel discussion moderated by Dr. Rabi.
Eachpanelistbringsawealthoflifeexperienceandastrong commitment to mental health and community well-being. MayorAndrewLeonard,forinstance,notonlyleadslocalgov-
ernance on Bowen Island but also volunteers for suicide and crisis intervention.
Ricken Patel, known globally for his leadership with Avaaz, brings a broad perspective on activism, empathy, and resilience.
Meanwhile, Miles Rubin’s two decades of therapeutic work with youth and families gives him unique insights into how societal pressures shape men’s emotional lives.
The second half of the event will shift to small, facilitated group discussions, where attendees will have the opportunity to reflect more personally on the panel’s topics and engage in deeper conversations. These circles will be supported by guided prompts and gentle facilitation, creating a safe space where men can feel seen, heard, and valued perhaps for the first time in a long while.
This gathering isn’t just about one afternoon. It’s about planting seeds for ongoing community whether that’s a new friendship, a renewed sense of purpose, or even the formation of regular men’s circles for continued support.
In a time when many men face silent battles with loneliness, societal pressure, and emotional suppression, this event offers a rare chance to step into a space of healing and connection Whether you’ve done inner work like this before or are simply curious, you’re welcome here just as you are.
No registration is required. Just show up with an open heart and a willingness to connect. Find out more at bipl.ca/men
BOWENROT REPAIR
TheMen’sHealthTalkpanelwillconsistof(clockwise from top left) Shahar Rabi, Miles Rubin, Ricken Patel & Andrew Leonard. / Submitted photos
Recapturing the glory days of Cinema
BOWEN ISLAND FILM SOCIETY
The Bowen Island Film Society debuts Friday, May 2 at the new Community Centre Theatre.
The not-for-profit society has been created by a group of Islanders who want to share their love of vintage films in a venue that recreates a night at the movies as it was experienced years ago. Henry Campbell, James Nesbitt, Brad Bernstein, Erin Olson, Mary Lynn Machado, Elizabeth Nankin and Michael Nankin have joined forces to present a bi-monthly series of screenings that will include shorts, cartoons and newsreels before the feature film.
There will be discussions and hand-outs to dig deeper into the films and their times. The movies may have adult themes but, due to the times and the tastes in which they were created, will be kid-appropriate, if not always kid-interesting All movies will be pre-1970.
The society is dedicated to the idea that as we have moved from movies as a communal theatre-based experience to an at-home streaming experience, something has been lost. A theatre full of strangers who all laugh at the same time or are scared at the same time create bonds that strengthen the community. The society also feels that there are some great comedies, adventure films, crime dramas and a different kind of storytelling that modern films don’t deliver and should not be forgotten.
Another name for this series might be “Time Travel Cinema” and every effort will be made to evoke the year the film was released. Maybe even costumes!
The first screening will be a journey to 1937 with the film Captains Courageous, plus a few surprises. The society gratefully acknowledges the previous Bowen Film Society created by Cordell Wynne and friends.
Premiere screening: Friday, May 2. Doors open 6 pm Doors close and show starts promptly at 6:30. Show will be over at 9 pm. Tickets available on the Bowen Recreation website or at the door by donation (suggested $10).
PlacesofWorship WelcomeYou
BOWEN ISLANDUNITED CHURCH
www biuc ca | 1122 Miller Road 778-688-2061
Sunday Worship 10:30 am Rev Lorraine Ashdown
OFFICE HOURSWEDNESDAY10-4 OR BY APPOINTMENT
ST.GERARD’SROMAN CATHOLICCHURCH
Sunday Mass at 9.30 Contact Angela Powell 604-947-2515
FOOD BANK DROP-OFF
CATES HILL CHAPEL www.cateshillchapel.com
604-947-4260 (661Carter Rd.)
Sunday Worship10:00
SHIRAT HAYAM (Song of the Sea)
BOWEN’S JEWISH COMMUNITY Shabbat Gatherings Holidays
YoungBowen athletes(and their parents) were among those taking partinopening dayplayinthe U9 division of the North Shore Baseball Association. /AndreaLayzell photo
SPRING CLEAN-UP2025
HazardousWasteand Paint Recycling
May31st 2025 •10:00am-3:00pm
@Bowen Island RecyclingDepot Nofees to dropoff hazardouswaste or paint
*MAXIMUM 10 PERHOUSEHOLD
*Donot bring in containers or liquids that we cannot identify Paints and stains
Flammable Liquids
•Liquids only
Or container says
KeepAwayFrom Open Flame or Spark
•Paintthinners, othersolvents,camp fuelsor liquidadhesives with theflammable symbol Maxcontainer size: Kerosene9L Otherliquids 10L
Domestic Pesticides Only
•Consumerpesticides with thepoisonous(skull& crossbones) symbolAND “Pest ControlProduct” registrationnumber (REG #12345 PCP Act) In original containers only. Max container size: 10L
•Inapproved ULC original containersonly Maxcontainer size:25L Gasoline
Hazardous Waste NOT Accepted:
•Products that cannot be identified
•Products that areleaking or improperlysealed
•Empty containers
•Commercial, industrial, or agricultural products
•Cosmetics, health andbeauty aids
•Insect repellants, disinfectants,and petproducts
•Diesel, propane,and butanefuels
•Caulkingtubes
•Fertilizer
Paint Cans
•Donot bring in cans that have avery small amount.
•Openand combine your paint togethertofill cans.
•Allow emptycanstodry andput cans in the metal bins.
Foritems notfound on this list, please call
BC Recycling Hotline 604-732-9253
B.C. anglers push for chinook salmon fishing in Howe Sound
ALANNA KELLY Glacier Media
Sea to Sky anglers are hoping to catch government officials’ attention as they push to have regulations lifted that prevent the harvesting of chinook salmon in British Columbia’s Howe Sound.
Since April 2019, people have been banned from catching chinook in the south coast fishery.
Jason Assonitis has been a fishing guide in local waters for more than 30 years and angler Dave Brown, vice-chair of the Squamish-Lillooet Sport Fish Advisory Committee, has been advocating for change since 2019
Together, they want Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) to immediately accept a proposal put forward by the Sports Fishing Advisory Board to allow for the retention of hatchery chinook in portions of Howe Sound in 2026, from April 1 to June 15.
“We are asking for one hatchery marked salmon per day,” said Assonitis. “These hatchery fish are put in the ocean, put in the rivers, for harvest, for First Nations, recreational and commercial anglers.”
Brown noted the fish would also have to be between 62 and 80 centimetres to be harvested.
“There’s been additional research and data collection. But we just feel like no matter what gets put forward, we seem to get blocked politically or stonewalled,” said Brown.
A proposal has been submitted by the Sport Fishing Advisory Board every year since 2020, and each year it’s been rejected. Despite advocating for change and adjusting their proposal, the anglers say they are being met with pushback from both Fisheries and Oceans Canada and local First Nations year after year.
“Each year, it’s been turned down,” said Assonitis. “If we could just get a reason why the proposals are not being approved, that’d
be helpful.”
In an email to Glacier Media, DFO responded by stating it has consulted broadly on the use of Mark Selective Fisheries (MSF) as a fishery management tool.
“The department is considering advice from First Nations and stakeholders on how best to use MSF regulations in the future,” stated a DFO spokesperson.
According to DFO, several MSF pilots for recreational chinook fishing opened on April 1, 2024.
“These fisheries are designed to be low risk to wild chinook stocks, particularly Fraser River chinook stocks of concern while providing economic and recreational benefit to fishers,” said the spokesperson.
Assonitis said a study was done by DFO, with volunteers, including guides like himself. During April and May, they sampled fish for three days a week
“In 2024, in Howe Sound, the local boats sampled 335 legal chinook salmon and there were zero stocks of concern,” he said.
For Brown, he feels the closure is being done without data to support it.
“It’s more of a political decision that was made at the time by fisheries minister Jonathan Wilkinson and carried on from there,” said Brown.
Anglers in the area don’t want to catch stocks of concern (Upper Fraser chinook stocks), the pair say, and according to them, the samples show there is an “abundant” number of hatchery salmon in the area.
First Nation responds
Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) does not support the recreational retention of hatchery chinook in Átl’ka7tsem (Howe Sound).
Squamish Nation council member Wilson Williams said the Átl’ka7tsem and Squamish River population of chinook salmon is listed as data deficient by DFO and Squamish Nation does not have enough information to support a change from the current recreational regulations.
“Conservation of a fisheries resource and access to FSC (food, social, and ceremonial) fishing rights come before commercial and recreational rights,” said Williams.
Adding: “If there is an abundance in hatchery fish, it’s beholden on DFO to increase Squamish Nation FSC allocations before any increases to recreational access are made.”
Williams said the Squamish Nation’s current allocation does not meet the community’s FSC needs.
Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw said allowing the retention of hatchery salmon that have been marked can result in the mortality of wild chinook and hatchery chinook below the mentioned size limit.
Williams said this is due to handling stress, injuries, environmental conditions and fishing practices.
“Hatchery-raised chinook salmon over 80 cm total length would not be the only fish caught; the health of wild chinook would likely be negatively affected by opening this recreational fishery,” added Williams.
Meanwhile, southern resident killer whales are endangered and are facing critical threats, said Williams. Only 73 resident killer whales remain.
The whales, yéwyews in the Squamish language, rely primarily on chinook salmon for survival, she said.
Collecting fish DNA
Assonitis and Brown believe they have data to support opening fishing in the area.
“When we’re looking for sustainable opportunities, we can feel confident that the fish that we’re catching are not the ones that we want to protect,” said Assonitis. “As recreational anglers, we want to make sure that we strike a balance between conservation and harvest, and we want to make sure that we’re not impacting stocks of concern.”
Assonitis, owner of Bon Chovy Fishing Charters, said he was fascinated by salmon from a young age.
“It’s always been a passion and it’s knowing where your food comes from.”
He’s been volunteering his time to sample and collect DNA from the fish in the area.
“We are the last people that want to do any damage to these stocks of concern. So there is a way to balance harvest with conservation and avoid the stocks of concern... We know the data and the science is there.”
Hatchery fish have a clipped adipose fin so they’re easily identifiable. To collect the data for DFO, Assonitis has a scientific fishing licence to catch fish in the area so he can take a hole-punch size of DNA from a fish’s fin and put a tracking tag inside the fish before quickly releasing it.
“(DFO) can read all these tags and they’re trying to get an idea of survival challenges,” he said.
Assonitis said anglers are conservationists who want to see the stocks thrive.
“We are the last people that want to do any damage to these stocks of concern.”
Brown said a new proposal was presented with data from DFO showing there was “virtually no impact to the stocks of concern” but they have not been able to get approval.
The decision around fisheries is managed federally. Glacier Media reached out to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard Joanne Thompson but did not hear a response after a week.
‘People who are losing their livelihood’
The most sought-after sport fish is the chinook salmon, according to Brown.
“They’re the largest, they’re the hardest fighting,” he said. “It’s the real pinnacle of sport fishing, and what always has been the top one we want to go catch.”
In their most recent proposal, it states that chinook are the most important salmon species to the public fishery in southern B.C. and the angling community desperately needs modest chinook retention opportunities to survive.
“The sport fishing industry in British Columbia is close to a billion-dollar industry, so there’s definitely economic benefit,” said Brown.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 21
Plenty to celebrate at the Bowen Island Invitational
LISA BROUGHAM Bowen Island Gymnastics
Spring is a busy time for Bowen Island Gymnastics
We kicked off our competitive season on April 12 & 13 with our annual Bowen Island Gymnastics Invitational.
Our little island gymnastics club hosted 140 gymnasts over two days from seven different clubs from Pemberton, Whistler, North Vancouver, Vancouver, Surrey, White Rock and our own Bowen Island Gymnasts.
For many of our gymnasts it was their first gymnastics competition and we are so proud of their gymnastics performances.
Congratulations to all of our gymnasts and thank you to our parent and community volunteers that made this weekend a huge success.
Bowen Island Gymnastics would like to thank the following local businesses for their generous support: Bowen Island Building Centre (Main Awards Sponsor); Align Climate Solutions (Awards donation); Union Steamship Marina (Awards donation); Raffle Basket Donations: Bowen Island Flower Shop, Branch, Artisan Eats, Tell your Friends, Union Steamship Marina, Coca West Chocolate , Phoenix Books, Sangre De Fruta, Seabird
Next we will be going to the Richmond Oval for the Delta Invitational in early May then we are off to Ucluelet with a team of 25 gymnasts for Western Gymnaestrada.
Please check our website for upcoming 2025 Summer Gymnastics Camps and Classes coming soon!
See you in the gym Bowen!
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Friday, April 25
Trust Me Series Show
Martyn Joseph in concert at Tir-na-nOg Theatre. Show starts 7:30 pm Tickets at Phoenix Books & trustme.tickit.ca
Friday, April 25
Carmina Bowena in West Van Bowen choir sings at West Vancouver United Church at 7:30 pm. Tickets available at door or carminabowena.ca
Saturday, April 26
Birding by Ear Outing
Birdwatchers can often identify birds without seeing them using their ears instead of their eyes Join musicians/local naturalists Nova Pon and Christiaan Venter to develop your listening skills that will aid you in birdwatching. 10 am to Noon, please register at bowennatureclub@gmail.com
Saturday, April 26
French Connections at the Library
Drop in and join us to practice your conversational French, and get to know other French language learners on Bowen Island! Runs 10:30 to 11:30 am The focus is on French speakers with beginner and intermediate conversational skills. bipl.ca/French
Saturday, April 26
SK8 Day with Bowen Rec
Ramps, rails, boxes and more at Fire Hall #2. Let the shred-fest begin! All ages welcome, kids under 10 need an adult present. Helmets mandatory. From Noon to 2 pm.
Saturday, April 26
Fix-It Fair & Gear Sale
Bowen Island Trail Society and Regenerative Bowen Island are teaming up for Gear Up! - a Fix-It Fair and
gear sale at the Bowen Island Legion. Volunteer fixers will be repairing outdoor apparel and gear and tables are availabe to sell outdoor gear. Door prizes too! Runs from Noon to 4 pm If you’re interested in participating write to info@bowenislandtrailsociety.ca
Saturday, April 26
Garden Club Speaker
Physiotherapist Sandy Logan speaks about Safe Gardening Practices at Collins Hall. This presentation is a primer on how our anatomy changes over time including basic strategies for maintaining strength, flexibility and balance while we garden. Doors at 12:30 pm, event from 1 to 2:30 pm
Monday, April 28 (& other dates)
SKY Hangouts
Drop in at the Seniors Cottage on Cardena Drive. We will be offering a welcoming place to stop in for a drink & visit with friends Hangouts also April 28, 29, 30 & May 2, all 1 to 3 pm All hangouts feature a guest speaker
Monday, April 28
Meditation Monday
Happy Monday! Buddhist teachings and meditations to awaken the heart. Your journey to inner peace begins here! At Collins Hall from 7 to 8 pm, $12 drop-in. Find out more at meditateinvancouver.org/bowen-island
Monday, April 28
Rotary Speaker Series
Speaker is Margaret Butler, founder of the Komera organization which provides scholarships, leadership opportunities and health support for young people in rural Rwanda. At Artisan Eats at 7:30 pm, everybody welcome.
Friday, May 2
We arecurrently searching forastaffperson to join our team at the Hearth Gallerytoassist in administration,art sales,marketing and general operations.Agreat position to add to your resume!
Full time position: includes weekends and some evenings. June 2nd to MidAugust.
Application deadline: May12th at 4pm
Please forwardcovering letter and resume by email to hello@thehearthartsonbowen.ca
Canada Summer Jobs program:
Must be between 15 and 30 years of age,isaCanadian Citizen, permanentresident or person on whom refugee protection has been confirmed.The Hearth supports the EmploymentEquityAct.
Come watch Ladies Madrigal perform at Cates Hill Chapel. 7 pm start, tickets $25 at Pharmacy or door (7 & under free).
Saturday, May 3
Conversational Italian at the Library
Come explore Parliamo Insieme: a Conversational Italian Group. Drop in and join us to practice your Italian, and get to know other Italian speakers on Bowen Island! All ages of adults and youth welcome! 11 am to Noon. bipl.ca/Italian
Saturday, May 3
Judi Gedye Open House
Come chat about Island issues with Bowen Municipal Councillor Judith Gedye. At Collins Hall from 3 to 4 pm
WEDNESDAYS
Storytime at the Library
A free, drop-in program of stories and songs for 2-4 yearolds and their caregivers! 10:30 to 11 am. bipl.ca/storytime
THURSDAYS
Thursday Art Group
Join the Thursday Art Group (TAG) at Collins Hall to see what’s new. Meetings from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm For further information please contact shannonrondeau@shaw.ca
Babytime at the Library
A free, 30-minute drop-in program of songs, books, and rhymes for babies 0-24 months and their caregivers! Starts at 11:30 am Join us afterwards, at 12 pm, for a casual baby & caregiver social hour in the Annex bipl.ca/babytime
SATURDAYS
SKY Mahjong
Come and play Mahjong at the Seniors Cottage on Cardena Drive. 1 to 3 pm, RSVP info@skyonbowenisland.ca
DAWN PEMBERTON
DawnPembertonisa dynamic forceinthe Vancouver musicscene, knownfor her powerfulvoice that spans gospel,soul,jazz, funk,and world music.AmultipleJuno nominee, sheholds aB.Mus in Jazz Studies from Capilano University and is certified in SomaticVoicework™TheLoVetri Method. Herdebut album,Say Something, wonBestUrban Recording at theWestern Canadian Music Awards,solidifying her as Canada’s“queenofsoul.”
PerformanceDates:April 26th, 7pm
ANYASAUGSTAD/ FURIOUSGRACE DANCE THEATRE
Paper Mountains byAnya Saugstad/ Furious GraceDanceTheatre is aworkthat embodies themes of emergence, evolutionand growth.Wehavebeen asking ourselves throughout this work“what does it mean to burndownand regrow again?
PerformanceDates:May 10th, 7.30pm
IANPARKER
Join world-renownedpianist lanParkerfor acaptivatingmultimediaconcertthat will take you on amusical adventure!This exciting programfeatures avibrant mixofclassicalmasterpieces, folk-inspiredmelodies,and beloved favorites, allbrought to lifethrough therichsounds of piano, violin,and cello
PerformanceDates:June 1st, 3pm
THEATREOFFIRE
DEHCHO:RIVER JOURNEY.This performancecarries theaudienceonamusical journey along the Mackenzie River, from Virginia Falls in thesouthtothe shores of theArcticOcean.TwohostsDene poet Shaznay Waugh from Fort Simpsonand Gwich’in writerArlynCharlie fromTeetl’it Zheh (FortMcPherson) -express thetollthat climatechange is taking on theirland.
My dear friend, Paul Fast, age 93, believes in aging in place. He takes his walker every morning to the bridge in Crippen Park Perches on the railing, enjoying the hawks, ravens, heron, ducks, and engaging with the four-legged and the two-legged who stop by. Thanks to Cherie Westmoreland, who stopped to capture this moment with her camera. / Pauline Le Bel submission
Just Kick it like Tae Bo
NEW BOWEN REC CLASS BRINGS THE THROWBACK WORKOUT TO LIFE
ALEX KURIAL Editor
Programs are kicking into gear at the new Community Centre – quite literally in some cases.
In addition to the existing Kickboxing with Paola, Sheila Gelinas is now running a new class with Bowen Recreation called Tae Bo Bootcamp. The program is based on the workout routine developed by fitness enthusiast Billy Blanks which skyrocketed in popularity during the 1990s. Taekwondo and boxing (Tae Bo) are combined into a fast-paced mixture of martial arts and aerobics.
Participants can expect to stay active during a session, motivated by the exercises, Sheila herself, and the up-tempo music playing in the fitness studio. But the instructor says people shouldn’t be nervous about being able to keep up with the routine.
“I love Tae Bo because it never feels like I’m working out. I feel like I’m dancing, but getting a workout in at the same time,” says Gelinas. “The movements are never stagnant, it never feels boring, and you can modify it as you go… You can say today I will do it intense, tomorrow I only want to work on my legs. But you still get that movement where it feels like it doesn’t require a whole lot of effort.”
“For me that’s been the appeal, and I’ve been able to sustain it for as long as I have because of that,” she says
Gelinas has now been participating in or teaching Tae Bo classes since she became hooked on it while living in South Africa. “I wanted a workout I could do at home, so I went into a store looking for a step workout. Somebody said, why don’t you try this? So I bought the Billy Blanks Workout DVD and I started working on that, and I’ve been doing it for 18 years now,” she explains.
Tae Bo remained that consistent presence while Gelinas lived and travelled various places around the world Now on Bowen –and with a venue to host the activity – she wants to keep pursuing her passion with the community.
“I thought I’d love to share it with other people, it’s such a great workout,” says Gelinas on her motivation to suggest the idea to Bowen Rec While there wasn’t a great space to conduct the classes before, with the opening of the Community Centre this month – and its fitness studio – that problem was solved.
There’s two options to take part in the classes, either by starting your weekend with a bang at Saturday’s 10 am offering or mixing in some Monday motivation with a class at 5 pm. While preview workouts got started earlier this month, sessions officially begin this weekend on April 26 (Saturday) and April 28 (Monday). Registration and dropin details can be found on the Bowen Recreation website.
“I would love people to join this class because you will not regret it,” says Gelinas.
Coho & Pink Salmon can be
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14
Anglers can still fish for coho salmon and pink salmon after June 1 in the area.
“From a chinook salmon perspective, it’s been closed and it’s been decimating from an economic perspective,” said Assonitis.
He believes that Howe Sound is an exceptional candidate for this new proposed fishing area.
“It’s close to Vancouver, and it would mean a lot to the local communities, to marinas, tackle shops, families, there is a really good opportunity to harvest abundant chinook stocks,” he said.
In recent years, many anglers have sold their boats and are not fishing anymore.
JÄGER ROSENBERG
WEST VANCOUVER -SUNSHINE
COAST -SEA TO SKY COUNTRY
3-4PM Saturday May 3rd | Collins Hall
Amonthly open house sponsoredbyJudi Gedye, BIMcouncillorand Islands Trustee.
fished
“There are people who are losing their livelihood. There’s a lost culture too; most tourists are coming to British Columbia in that summertime period,” said Brown.
They believe the ocean conditions in the Howe Sound are thriving with herring anchovies, whales and sea lions.
“It’s a very healthy environment, much more healthy than we had 10 years ago,” he says.
Brown suggested that if people want to get involved or are passionate about fishing they can join the Public Fishery Alliance.
“We’re all trying to do our best, but we also want to be able to enjoy the sport we love,” said Brown.
ANNUAL MEETING YOU’RE INVITED!
Join us at our 2025Annual Meeting and learnhow your supportmakes adifference onBowen Island.
We areexcitedtoaward $74,645 in community grants, announcesomenew initiatives, and thank allthose whosupport theBowen Island Community Foundation.
We hopetoraise aglass with youin celebrationofcommunity!
Friday, May9,2025 6:30 pm CatesHill Chapel, 661 Carter Road
PleaseRSVPbyWednesday,April 30 info@bowenfoundation.com Lightsnacks and refreshmentsserved
image: Island,byBICF2024–26 Featured Artist FaeLogie. Cedar,sisal rope, hardware.
JasonAndrew Morton
October 9, 1970 - April14, 2025
Aremarkableperson, an inclusiveand influential educator, an outstanding father,and abeloved husband,Jason Andrew died suddenlyinthe midst of hisbattlewithcancer on Monday, April14, 2025. Ourdeepestgratitude goes outtohis team of doctorsatthe BC Cancer Agency. He leaves behind his wife Shelley, daughter Susan, and an enormously supportive extended family,all of whom he is sure to visitoften. He grew into theman he waswith his mother Louise,fatherBill (d.),sisterSusan (d.) and brother Bill at hisside.
Aservice in memory of Jasonwill take placeon Saturday, June 21 at 2:00pmatBoal Chapel and MemorialGardens in NorthVancouver
Donations in Jay’smemorycan be made to theBCCancer Foundation: donate.bccancerfoundation.com/goto/JAM
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